Pentair Earnings 2018-12-31
PNR 10K Annual Report
| Balance Sheet | Income Statement | Cash Flow |
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UNITED STATES SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
FORM 10-K
þ | ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934 |
For the Fiscal Year Ended December 31, 2018
OR
¨ | TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934 |
Commission file number 001-11625
Pentair plc
(Exact name of Registrant as specified in its charter)
Ireland | 98-1141328 | |
(State or other jurisdiction of incorporation or organization) | (I.R.S. Employer Identification number) | |
Regal House, 70 London Road, Twickenham, London, TW13QS United Kingdom | ||
(Address of principal executive offices) | ||
Registrant’s telephone number, including area code: 44-74-9421-6154
Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:
Title of each class | Name of each exchange on which registered | |
Ordinary Shares, nominal value $0.01 per share | New York Stock Exchange | |
Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act: None
Indicate by check mark if the registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act. Yes þ No ¨
Indicate by check mark if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or Section 15(d) of the Act. Yes ¨ No þ
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the Registrant was required to file such reports) and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days. Yes þ No ¨
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically every Interactive Data File required to be submitted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the Registrant was required to submit such files). Yes þ No ¨
Indicate by check mark if disclosure of delinquent filers pursuant to Item 405 of Regulation S-K is not contained herein and will not be contained, to the best of registrant’s knowledge, in definitive proxy or information statements incorporated by reference in PART III of this Form 10-K or any amendment to this Form 10-K. Yes ¨ No þ
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, a smaller reporting company or an emerging growth company. See the definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer”, “smaller reporting company” and “emerging growth company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.
Large accelerated filer þ | Accelerated filer o | Non-accelerated filer o | Smaller reporting company o | Emerging growth company o | ||||
If an emerging growth company, indicate by check mark if the registrant has elected not to use the extended transition period for complying with any new or revised financial accounting standards provided pursuant to Section 13(a) of the Exchange Act. ¨
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Act). Yes ¨ No þ
Aggregate market value of voting and non-voting common equity held by non-affiliates of the Registrant, based on the closing price of $42.08 per share as reported on the New York Stock Exchange on June 29, 2018 (the last business day of Registrant’s most recently completed second quarter): $6,703,824,353.
The number of shares outstanding of Registrant’s only class of common stock on December 31, 2018 was 171,363,615.
DOCUMENTS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE
Parts of the Registrant’s definitive proxy statement for its annual general meeting to be held on May 7, 2019, are incorporated by reference in this Form 10-K in response to Part III, ITEM 10, 11, 12, 13 and 14.
Pentair plc
Annual Report on Form 10-K
For the Year Ended December 31, 2018
Page | ||||
PART I | ||||
ITEM 1. | ||||
ITEM 1A. | ||||
ITEM 1B. | ||||
ITEM 2. | ||||
ITEM 3. | ||||
ITEM 4. | ||||
PART II | ||||
ITEM 5. | ||||
ITEM 6. | ||||
ITEM 7. | ||||
ITEM 7A. | ||||
ITEM 8. | ||||
ITEM 9. | ||||
ITEM 9A. | ||||
ITEM 9B. | ||||
PART III | ||||
ITEM 10. | ||||
ITEM 11. | ||||
ITEM 12. | ||||
ITEM 13. | ||||
ITEM 14. | ||||
PART IV | ||||
ITEM 15. | ||||
ITEM 16. | ||||
PART I
ITEM 1. BUSINESS
GENERAL
At Pentair plc, we believe the health of our world depends on reliable access to clean water. We deliver a comprehensive range of smart, sustainable water solutions to homes, business and industry around the world. Our industry leading and proven portfolio of solutions enables our customers to access clean, safe water. Whether it’s improving, moving or enjoying water, we help manage the world’s most precious resource. Smart, Sustainable Water Solutions. For Life.
Pentair plc is comprised of three reportable business segments: Aquatic Systems, Filtration Solutions and Flow Technologies. See below for further discussion of each of these segments.
Pentair strategy
Our vision is to be the leading residential and commercial water treatment company. As a pure play water company, we are:
• | Focused on strategies to advance pool growth and accelerate residential and commercial water treatment; |
• | Accelerated by innovation and digital transformation; and |
• | Grounded in Win Right values and utilizing the Pentair Integrated Management System (“PIMS”) consisting of lean enterprise, growth and talent management to drive sustained and consistent performance. |
Unless the context otherwise indicates, references herein to “Pentair,” the “Company,” and such words as “we,” “us,” and “our” include Pentair plc and its consolidated subsidiaries. We are an Irish public limited company that was formed in 2014. We are the successor to Pentair Ltd., a Swiss corporation formed in 2012, and Pentair, Inc., a Minnesota corporation formed in 1966 and our wholly-owned subsidiary, under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange Act”). Although our jurisdiction of organization is Ireland, we manage our affairs so that we are centrally managed and controlled in the United Kingdom (the “U.K.”) and therefore have our tax residency in the U.K.
HISTORY AND DEVELOPMENT
On April 28, 2017, we completed the sale of the Valves & Controls business to Emerson Electric Co. for $3.15 billion in cash. The sale resulted in a gain of $181.1 million, net of tax. The results of the Valves & Controls business have been presented as discontinued operations. The Valves & Controls business was previously disclosed as a stand-alone reporting segment.
On April 30, 2018, Pentair completed the separation of its Electrical business from the rest of Pentair (the “Separation”) by means of a dividend in specie of the Electrical business, which was effected by the transfer of the Electrical business from Pentair to nVent Electric plc (“nVent”) and the issuance by nVent of ordinary shares directly to Pentair shareholders (the “Distribution”). On May 1, 2018, following the Separation and Distribution, nVent became an independent publicly traded company, trading on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol “NVT.” The Company did not retain any equity interest in nVent. nVent’s historical financial results are reflected in the Company’s consolidated financial statements as a discontinued operation. Refer to Note 2 for further discussion.
In connection with the Distribution of nVent, the Company and nVent entered into several agreements covering administrative and tax matters to provide or obtain services on a transitional basis, as needed, for varying periods after the Distribution. The administrative agreements cover various services such as information technology, human resources and finance. The Company expects all services to be substantially complete within one year after the Distribution.
Our registered principal office is located at Regal House, 70 London Road, Twickenham, London, TW13QS United Kingdom. Our management office in the United States (“U.S.”) is located at 5500 Wayzata Boulevard, Suite 900, Minneapolis, Minnesota.
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BUSINESS AND PRODUCTS
The following is a brief description of each of the Company’s reportable segments and business activities.
Aquatic Systems
The Aquatic Systems segment manufactures and sells a complete line of energy-efficient residential and commercial pool equipment and accessories including pumps, filters, heaters, lights, automatic controls, automatic cleaners, maintenance equipment and pool accessories. Applications for our Aquatic Systems products include residential and commercial pool maintenance, pool repair, renovation, service and construction and aquaculture solutions.
Brand names for Aquatic Systems include Kreepy Krauly, Pentair, Pentair Aquatic Eco-Systems, and Sta-Rite.
Customers
Aquatic Systems customers include businesses engaged in wholesale and retail distribution in the residential & commercial verticals. Customers in the residential & commercial verticals also include end-users and consumers. Pentair’s verticals include residential, commercial, and industrial businesses.
One customer of the Aquatic Systems segment, Pool Corporation, represented approximately 15% of our consolidated net sales in 2018.
Seasonality
We experience seasonal demand with several end customers and end-users within Aquatic Systems. End-user demand for pool equipment follows warm weather trends and is at season highs from April to August. The magnitude of the sales increase is mitigated by employing some advance sale “early buy” programs (generally including extended payment terms and/or additional discounts).
Competition
Aquatic Systems faces numerous domestic and international competitors, some of which have substantially greater resources directed to the verticals in which we compete. Competition focuses on brand names, product performance (including energy-efficient offerings and required specifications), quality, service and price. We compete by offering a wide variety of innovative and high-quality products, which are competitively priced. We believe our distribution channels and reputation for quality also provide us a competitive advantage.
Filtration Solutions
The Filtration Solutions segment designs, manufactures, markets and services innovative water solutions to meet filtration and separation challenges across residential, commercial, food & beverage and industrial applications.
Filtration Solutions offers a comprehensive product suite of components and systems that ranges from point-of-entry and point-of-use filtration, valves and automated controls for residential and commercial applications as well as advanced filtration, oil & gas separation, membrane technology, and energy recovery for food & beverage and industrial applications. Our equipment and solutions are found in water purification and sanitation systems, foodservice operations, food & beverage processing plants and in other applications across the globe.
The portfolio of products serves a range of industries, including use in the commercial, residential and industrial verticals. Brand names for Filtration Solutions offerings include Codeline, Everpure, Haffmans, Südmo and X-Flow.
Customers
Filtration Solutions customers include businesses engaged in wholesale and retail distribution in the residential, commercial, food & beverage and industrial verticals. Customers in the residential and commercial vertical also include end-users, consumers and original equipment manufacturers.
Seasonality
We experience seasonal demand with several end customers and end-users within Filtration Solutions. End-user demand for water filtration products generally follows warm weather trends and is at seasonal highs from April to July.
Competition
Filtration Solutions faces numerous domestic and international competitors, some of which have substantially greater resources directed to the verticals in which we compete. Competition focuses on brand names, product performance (including required specification), quality and price. We compete by offering a wide variety of innovative and high-quality products, which are competitively priced. We believe our distribution channels and reputation for quality also provide us a competitive advantage.
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Flow Technologies
The Flow Technologies segment manufactures and sells products ranging from light duty diaphragm pumps to high-flow turbine pumps and solid handling pumps while serving the global residential, commercial and industrial markets. These pumps are used in a range of applications, including residential and municipal wells, water treatment, wastewater solids handling, pressure boosting, fluid delivery, circulation and transfer, fire suppression, flood control, agricultural irrigation and crop spray.
Brand names for Flow Technologies include Aurora, Berkeley, Fairbanks-Nijhuis, Hydromatic, Hypro, Jung Pumpen, Pentair, Myers, Sta-Rite, and Shurflo.
Customers
Flow Technologies customers include businesses engaged in wholesale and retail distribution in the residential & commercial, food & beverage and industrial verticals. Customers also include end-users and consumers in the residential & commercial vertical.
Seasonality
We experience increased demand for residential water supply, infrastructure and agricultural products following warm weather trends, which are at season highs from April to August. The magnitude of the sales increase is mitigated by employing some advance sale “early buy” programs (generally including extended payment terms and/or additional discounts). Seasonal effects may vary from year to year and are impacted by weather patterns, particularly by temperatures, heavy flooding and droughts.
Competition
Flow Technologies faces numerous domestic and international competitors, some of which have substantially greater resources directed to the verticals in which we compete. Competition focuses on brand names, product performance (including energy-efficient offerings and required specifications), quality, service and price. We compete by offering a wide variety of innovative and high-quality products, which are competitively priced.
INFORMATION REGARDING ALL REPORTABLE SEGMENTS
Backlog of orders by segment
December 31 | |||||||||||
In millions | 2018 | 2017 | $ change | % change | |||||||
Aquatic Systems | $ | 80.3 | $ | 110.1 | $ | (29.8 | ) | (27.1 | )% | ||
Filtration Solutions | 96.2 | 145.7 | (49.5 | ) | (34.0 | )% | |||||
Flow Technologies | 156.0 | 151.1 | 4.9 | 3.2 | % | ||||||
Total | $ | 332.5 | $ | 406.9 | $ | (74.4 | ) | (18.3 | )% | ||
A substantial portion of our revenues result from orders received and products delivered in the same month. Our backlog typically has a short manufacturing cycle and products generally ship within 90 days of the date on which a customer places an order. However, a portion of our backlog, particularly from orders for major capital projects, can take more than one year depending on the size and type of order. We record as part of our backlog all orders from external customers, which represent firm commitments, and are supported by a purchase order or other legitimate contract. We expect the majority of our backlog at December 31, 2018 will be shipped in 2019.
Research and development
We conduct research and development activities primarily in our own facilities. These efforts consist primarily of the development of new products, product applications and manufacturing processes.
Raw materials
The principal materials we use in manufacturing our products are electric motors, mild steel, stainless steel, electronic components, plastics (resins, fiberglass, epoxies), copper and paint (powder and liquid). In addition to the purchase of raw materials, we purchase some finished goods for distribution through our sales channels.
We purchase the materials we use in various manufacturing processes on the open market and the majority is available through multiple sources which are in adequate supply. We have not experienced any significant work stoppages to date due to shortages of materials. We have certain long-term commitments, principally price commitments, for the purchase of various component parts and raw materials and believe that it is unlikely that any of these agreements would be terminated prematurely. Alternate sources of supply at competitive prices are available for most materials for which long-term commitments exist and we believe that the termination of any of these commitments would not have a material adverse effect on our financial position, results of operations or cash flows.
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Certain commodities, such as metals and resin, are subject to market and duty-driven price fluctuations. We manage these fluctuations through several mechanisms, including long-term agreements with price adjustment clauses for significant commodity market movements in certain circumstances. Prices for raw materials, such as metals and resins, may trend higher in the future.
Intellectual property
Patents, non-compete agreements, proprietary technologies, customer relationships, trademarks, trade names and brand names are important to our business. However, we do not regard our business as being materially dependent upon any single patent, non-compete agreement, proprietary technology, customer relationship, trademark, trade name or brand name.
Patents, patent applications and license agreements will expire or terminate over time by operation of law, in accordance with their terms or otherwise. We do not expect the termination of patents, patent applications or license agreements to have a material adverse effect on our financial position, results of operations or cash flows.
Employees
As of December 31, 2018, we employed approximately 10,000 people worldwide.
Captive insurance subsidiary
We insure certain general and product liability, property, workers’ compensation and automobile liability risks through our regulated wholly-owned captive insurance subsidiary, Penwald Insurance Company (“Penwald”). Reserves for policy claims are established based on actuarial projections of ultimate losses. Accruals with respect to liabilities insured by third parties, such as liabilities arising from acquired businesses, pre-Penwald liabilities and those of certain non-U.S. operations are established.
Matters pertaining to Penwald are discussed in ITEM 3 and ITEM 8, Note 1 of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements – Insurance subsidiary, included in this Form 10-K.
Available information
We make available free of charge (other than an investor’s own Internet access charges) through our Internet website (http://www.pentair.com) our Annual Report on Form 10-K, Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q, Current Reports on Form 8-K, and if applicable, amendments to those reports filed or furnished pursuant to Section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Exchange Act as soon as reasonably practicable after we electronically file such material with, or furnish it to, the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”). Reports of beneficial ownership filed by our directors and executive officers pursuant to Section 16(a) of the Exchange Act are also available on our website. We are not including the information contained on our website as part of or incorporating it by reference into, this Annual Report on Form 10-K.
ITEM 1A. RISK FACTORS
You should carefully consider all of the information in this document and the following risk factors before making an investment decision regarding our securities. Any of the following risks could materially and adversely affect our business, financial condition, results of operations, cash flows and the actual outcome of matters as to which forward-looking statements are made in this document.
Risks Relating to Our Business
General global economic and business conditions affect demand for our products.
We compete in various geographic regions and product markets around the world. Among these, the most significant are global industrial, commercial, and residential markets. We have experienced, and expect to continue to experience, fluctuations in revenues and results of operations due to economic and business cycles. Important factors for our businesses and the businesses of our customers include the overall strength of the economy and our customers’ confidence in the economy, industrial and governmental capital spending, the strength of the residential and commercial real estate markets, the residential housing market, the commercial business climate, unemployment rates, availability of consumer and commercial financing, interest rates, and energy and commodity prices. The businesses of many of our industrial customers are to varying degrees cyclical and have experienced periodic downturns. While we attempt to minimize our exposure to economic or market fluctuations by serving a balanced mix of end markets and geographic regions, any of the above factors, individually or in the aggregate, or a significant or sustained downturn in a specific end market or geographic region could reduce demand for our products and services, which could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.
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We compete in attractive markets with a high level of competition, which may result in pressure on our profit margins and limit our ability to maintain or increase the market share of our products.
The markets for our products and services are geographically diverse and highly competitive. We compete against large and well-established national and global companies, as well as regional and local companies and lower cost manufacturers. We compete based on technical expertise, intellectual property, reputation for quality and reliability, timeliness of delivery, previous installation history, contractual terms, service offerings, customer experience and service, and price. Some of our competitors, in particular smaller companies, attempt to compete based primarily on price, localized expertise and local relationships, especially with respect to products and applications that do not require a great deal of engineering or technical expertise. In addition, during economic downturns average selling prices tend to decrease as market participants compete more aggressively on price. If we are unable to continue to differentiate our products, services and solutions, or if we are forced to cut prices or to incur additional costs to remain competitive, it could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.
Volatility in currency exchange rates could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.
Sales outside of the U.S. for the year ended December 31, 2018 accounted for 37% of our net sales. Our financial statements reflect translation of items denominated in non-U.S. currencies to U.S. dollars. Therefore, if the U.S. dollar strengthens in relation to the principal non-U.S. currencies from which we derive revenue as compared to a prior period, our U.S. dollar reported revenue and income will effectively be decreased to the extent of the change in currency valuations, and vice-versa. Fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates, most notably the strengthening of the U.S. dollar against the euro, could have a material adverse effect on our reported revenue in future periods. In addition, currency variations could have a material adverse effect on margins on sales of our products in countries outside of the U.S. and margins on sales of products that include components obtained from suppliers located outside of the U.S.
Our future growth is dependent upon our ability to continue to adapt our products, services and organization to meet the demands of local markets in both developed and emerging economies and by developing or acquiring new technologies that achieve market acceptance with acceptable margins.
We operate in global markets that are characterized by customer demand that is often global in scope but localized in delivery. We compete with thousands of smaller regional and local companies that may be positioned to offer products produced at lower cost than ours, or to capitalize on highly localized relationships and knowledge that are difficult for us to replicate. Also, in several emerging markets potential customers prefer local suppliers, in some cases because of existing relationships and in other cases because of local legal restrictions or incentives that favor local businesses. Accordingly, our future success depends upon a number of factors, including our ability to adapt our products, services, organization, workforce and sales strategies to fit localities throughout the world, particularly in high growth emerging markets; identify emerging technological and other trends in our target end-markets; and develop or acquire competitive products and services and bring them to market quickly and cost-effectively. The failure to effectively adapt our products or services could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.
We may not be able to identify, finance and complete suitable acquisitions and investments, and any completed acquisitions and investments could be unsuccessful or consume significant resources.
Our business strategy includes acquiring businesses and making investments that complement our existing businesses. We continue to analyze and evaluate the acquisition of strategic businesses or product lines with the potential to strengthen our industry position or enhance our existing set of product and service offerings. We may not be able to identify suitable acquisition candidates, obtain financing or have sufficient cash necessary for acquisitions or successfully complete acquisitions in the future. Any acquisitions that we complete may not be successful. Acquisitions and investments may involve significant cash expenditures, debt incurrences, equity issuances, operating losses and expenses. Acquisitions involve numerous other risks, including:
• | diversion of management time and attention from daily operations; |
• | difficulties integrating acquired businesses, technologies and personnel into our business; |
• | difficulties in obtaining and verifying the financial statements and other business information of acquired businesses; |
• | inability to obtain required regulatory approvals; |
• | potential loss of key employees, key contractual relationships or key customers of acquired companies or of ours; |
• | assumption of the liabilities and exposure to unforeseen liabilities of acquired companies, including risks relating to the U.S. Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (the “FCPA”); and |
• | dilution of interests of holders of our shares through the issuance of equity securities or equity-linked securities. |
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It may be difficult for us to integrate acquired operations, including those from our recent acquisitions of Aquion, Inc. and Pelican Water Systems, efficiently into our business operations. Any acquisitions or investments may not be successful and may ultimately result in impairment charges and have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.
We may not achieve some or all of the expected benefits of our business initiatives.
During 2018, 2017 and 2016, we initiated and continued execution of certain business initiatives aimed at reducing our fixed cost structure and realigning our business. As a result, we have incurred substantial expense, including restructuring charges. We may not be able to achieve the operating efficiencies to reduce costs or realize benefits that were anticipated in connection with these initiatives. If we are unable to execute these initiatives as planned, we may not realize all or any of the anticipated benefits, which could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.
We are exposed to political, regulatory, economic, trade, and other risks that arise from operating a multinational business.
Sales outside of the U.S. for the year ended December 31, 2018 accounted for 37% of our net sales. Further, most of our businesses obtain some products, components and raw materials from non-U.S. suppliers. Accordingly, our business is subject to the political, regulatory, economic, trade, and other risks that are inherent in operating in numerous countries. These risks include:
• | changes in general economic and political conditions in countries where we operate, particularly in emerging markets; |
• | relatively more severe economic conditions in some international markets than in the U.S.; |
• | the imposition of tariffs, exchange controls or other trade restrictions; |
• | changes in tax treaties, laws or rulings that could have a material adverse impact on our effective tax rate; |
• | the difficulty of enforcing agreements and collecting receivables through non-U.S. legal systems; |
• | the difficulty of communicating and monitoring standards and directives across our global facilities; |
• | trade protection measures and import or export licensing requirements and restrictions; |
• | the possibility of terrorist action affecting us or our operations; |
• | the threat of nationalization and expropriation; |
• | difficulty in staffing and managing widespread operations in non-U.S. labor markets; |
• | limitations on repatriation of earnings; |
• | the difficulty of protecting intellectual property in non-U.S. countries; and |
• | changes in and required compliance with a variety of non-U.S. laws and regulations. |
In 2016, the United Kingdom voted in a referendum to exit the European Union (“Brexit”), which resulted in significant currency exchange rate fluctuations and volatility. Negotiations continue to determine the terms of Brexit. Given the lack of comparable precedent and the status of the negotiations, the implications of Brexit, or how such implications might affect our company, continue to remain unclear at this time. Brexit could, among other impacts, disrupt trade and the movement of goods, services and people between the United Kingdom and the European Union or other countries as well as create legal and global economic uncertainty.
Our success depends in part on our ability to anticipate and effectively manage these and other risks. We cannot assure that these and other factors will not have a material adverse effect on our international operations or on our business as a whole.
Changes in U.S. or foreign government administrative policy, including changes to existing trade agreements, could have a material adverse effect on us.
As a result of changes to U.S. or foreign government administrative policy, there may be changes to existing trade agreements, like the North American Free Trade Agreement (“NAFTA”) and its anticipated successor agreement, the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement (“USMCA”) which is still subject to approval by the U.S., Mexico and Canada, greater restrictions on free trade generally, and significant increases in tariffs on goods imported into the U.S., particularly tariffs on products manufactured in Mexico, China, or other U.S. trading countries where we have operations or manufacture or sell products, among other possible changes. If the USMCA is ratified by all three countries, many of its provisions will not take effect until 2020. While the USMCA is somewhat similar to NAFTA, it contains several new compliance obligations addressing such issues as rules of origin, labor standard, certificate of origin documentation and de minimis thresholds, as well as new policies on labor and environmental standards, intellectual property protections and some digital trade provisions. We are currently analyzing the expected impact of the USMCA. While certain aspects of the USMCA are expected to be positive, others, including potentially higher regulatory compliance costs, may have an adverse impact on our business. It remains unclear what the U.S.
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administration or foreign governments, including China, will or will not do with respect to tariffs, NAFTA, USMCA or other international trade agreements and policies. A trade war, other governmental action related to tariffs or international trade agreements, including NAFTA and USMCA, changes in U.S. social, political, regulatory and economic conditions or in laws and policies governing foreign trade, manufacturing, development and investment in the territories and countries where we currently manufacture and sell products, and any resulting negative sentiments towards the U.S. as a result of such changes, could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.
We may experience cost and other inflation.
In the past, we have experienced material cost and other inflation in a number of our businesses. We strive for productivity improvements and implement increases in selling prices to help mitigate cost increases in raw materials (especially metals and resins), energy and other costs including wages, pension, health care and insurance. We continue to implement operational initiatives in order to mitigate the impacts of this inflation and continuously reduce our costs. However, these actions may not be successful in managing our costs or increasing our productivity. Continued cost inflation or failure of our initiatives to generate cost savings or improve productivity could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.
Intellectual property challenges may hinder our ability to develop, engineer and market our products.
Patents, non-compete agreements, proprietary technologies, customer relationships, trademarks, trade names and brand names are important to our business. Intellectual property protection, however, may not preclude competitors from developing products similar to ours or from challenging our names or products. Our pending patent applications, and our pending copyright and trademark registration applications, may not be allowed or competitors may challenge the validity or scope of our patents, copyrights or trademarks. In addition, our patents, copyrights, trademarks and other intellectual property rights may not provide us a significant competitive advantage. Over the past few years, we have noticed an increasing tendency for participants in our markets to use challenges to intellectual property as a means to compete. Patent and trademark challenges increase our costs to develop, engineer and market our products. We may need to spend significant resources monitoring, enforcing and defending our intellectual property rights and we may or may not be able to detect infringement by third parties. If we fail to successfully enforce our intellectual property rights or register new patents, our competitive position could suffer, which could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.
We have significant goodwill and intangible assets and future impairment of our goodwill and intangible assets could have a material adverse effect on our results of operations.
We test goodwill and other indefinite-lived intangible assets for impairment on at least an annual basis, and more frequently if circumstances warrant. As of December 31, 2018 our goodwill and intangible assets were $2,349 million and represented 62% of our total assets. Declines in fair market value could result in future goodwill and intangible asset impairment charges.
A loss of, or material cancellation, reduction, or delay in purchases by, one or more of our largest customers could harm our business.
Our net sales to our largest customer represented approximately 15% of our consolidated net sales in 2018. While we do not have any other customers that accounted for 10% or more of our consolidated net sales in 2018, we have other customers that are key to the success of our business. Our concentration of sales to a relatively small number of larger customers makes our relationship with each of these customers important to our business. Our success is dependent on retaining these customers, which requires us to successfully manage relationships and anticipate the needs of our customers in the channels in which we sell our products. Our customers also may be impacted by economic conditions in the industries of those customers, which could result in reduced demand for our products. We cannot provide assurance that we will be able to retain our largest customers. In addition, some of our customers may shift their purchases to our competitors in the future. The loss of one or more of our largest customers, any material cancellation, reduction, or delay in purchases by these customers, or our inability to successfully develop relationships with additional customers could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.
A material disruption at any of our manufacturing facilities could cause us to be unable to meet customer demands or increase our costs.
If operations at any of our manufacturing facilities were to be disrupted as a result of significant equipment failures, natural disasters, earthquakes, power outages, fires, explosions, terrorism, adverse weather conditions, labor disputes or other reasons, we may be unable to fill customer orders and otherwise meet customer demand for our products, which could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations and cash flows. Interruptions in production, in particular at our manufacturing facilities, could increase our costs and reduce our sales. Any interruption in production capability could require us to make substantial capital expenditures to fill customer orders. We maintain property damage insurance that we believe to be adequate to provide for reconstruction of facilities and equipment, as well as business interruption insurance to mitigate losses resulting from any production interruption or shutdown caused by an insured loss. However, any recovery under our insurance policies may not offset the lost sales or increased costs that may be experienced
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during the disruption of operations, which could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.
Seasonality of sales and weather conditions could have a material adverse effect on our financial results.
We experience seasonal demand with end-customers and end-users within each of our business segments. Demand for pool equipment in the Aquatic Systems segment, water filtration products in the Filtration Solutions segment, and residential water supply, infrastructure and agricultural products in the Flow Technologies segment follows warm weather trends and is at seasonal highs from April to August. While we attempt to mitigate the magnitude of the sales spike in the Aquatic Systems and Flow Technologies segments by employing some advance sale “early buy” programs (generally including extended payment terms and/or additional discounts), we cannot provide any assurance that such programs will be successful. In addition, seasonal effects in the Flow Technologies segment may vary from year to year and be impacted by weather patterns, particularly by temperature, heavy flooding and droughts.
Covenants in our debt instruments may adversely affect us.
Our credit agreements and indentures contain customary financial covenants, including those that limit the amount of our debt, which may restrict the operations of our business and our ability to incur additional debt to finance acquisitions. Our ability to meet the financial covenants can be affected by events beyond our control, and we cannot provide assurance that we will meet those tests. A breach of any of these covenants could result in a default under our credit agreements or indentures. Upon the occurrence of an event of default under any of our credit facilities or indentures, the lenders or trustees could elect to declare all amounts outstanding thereunder to be immediately due and payable and, in the case of credit facility lenders, terminate all commitments to extend further credit. If the lenders or trustees accelerate the repayment of borrowings, we cannot provide assurance that we will have sufficient assets to repay our credit facilities and our other indebtedness. Furthermore, acceleration of any obligation under any of our material debt instruments will permit the holders of our other material debt to accelerate their obligations, which could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition.
We may increase our debt or raise additional capital or our credit ratings may be downgraded in the future, which could affect our financial condition, and may decrease our profitability.
As of December 31, 2018, we had $788 million of total debt outstanding. We may increase our debt or raise additional capital in the future, subject to restrictions in our debt agreements. If our cash flow from operations is less than we anticipate, if our cash requirements are more than we expect, or if we intend to finance acquisitions, we may require more financing. However, debt or equity financing may not be available to us on acceptable terms, if at all. If we incur additional debt or raise equity through the issuance of additional capital shares, the terms of the debt or capital shares issued may give the holders rights, preferences and privileges senior to those of holders of our ordinary shares, particularly in the event of liquidation. The terms of the debt may also impose additional and more stringent restrictions on our operations than we currently have. If we raise funds through the issuance of additional equity, the percentage ownership of existing shareholders in our company would decline. If we are unable to raise additional capital when needed, our financial condition could be adversely affected. Unfavorable changes in the ratings that rating agencies assign to our debt may ultimately negatively impact our access to the debt capital markets and increase the costs we incur to borrow funds. If ratings for our debt fall below investment grade, our access to the debt capital markets may become restricted. Additionally, our credit agreements generally include an increase in interest rates if the ratings for our debt are downgraded.
Our leverage could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition or results of operations.
Our ability to make payments on and to refinance our indebtedness, including our existing debt as well as any future debt that we may incur, will depend on our ability to generate cash in the future from operations, financings or asset sales. Our ability to generate cash is subject to general economic, financial, competitive, legislative, regulatory and other factors that are beyond our control. If we are not able to repay or refinance our debt as it becomes due, we may be forced to sell assets or take other disadvantageous actions, including (i) reducing financing in the future for working capital, capital expenditures and general corporate purposes or (ii) dedicating an unsustainable level of our cash flow from operations to the payment of principal and interest on our indebtedness. The lenders who hold such debt could also accelerate amounts due, which could potentially trigger a default or acceleration of any of our other debt.
Disruptions in the financial markets could adversely affect us, our customers and our suppliers by increasing funding costs or reducing availability of credit.
In the normal course of our business, we may access credit markets for general corporate purposes, which may include repayment of indebtedness, acquisitions, additions to working capital, repurchase of shares, capital expenditures and investments in our subsidiaries. Although we expect to have sufficient liquidity to meet our foreseeable needs, our access to and the cost of capital could be negatively impacted by disruptions in the credit markets, which have occurred in the past and made financing terms for borrowers unattractive or unavailable. These factors may make it more difficult or expensive for us to access credit markets if the need arises. In addition, these factors may make it more difficult for our suppliers to meet demand for their products or for prospective customers to commence new projects, as customers and suppliers may experience
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increased costs of debt financing or difficulties in obtaining debt financing. Disruptions in the financial markets have had adverse effects on other areas of the economy and have led to a slowdown in general economic activity that may continue to adversely affect our businesses. One or more of these factors could adversely affect our business, financial condition, results of operations or cash flows.
Our share price may fluctuate significantly.
We cannot predict the prices at which our shares may trade. The market price of our shares may fluctuate widely, depending on many factors, some of which may be beyond our control, including:
• | actual or anticipated fluctuations in our results of operations due to factors related to our business; |
• | success or failure of our business strategy; |
• | our quarterly or annual earnings, or those of other companies in our industry; |
• | our ability to obtain third-party financing as needed; |
• | announcements by us or our competitors of significant acquisitions or dispositions; |
• | changes in accounting standards, policies, guidance, interpretations or principles; |
• | changes in earnings estimates or guidance by us or securities analysts or our ability to meet those estimates or guidance; |
• | the operating and share price performance of other comparable companies; |
• | investor perception of us; |
• | overall market fluctuations; |
• | results from any material litigation, government investigations or environmental liabilities; |
• | natural or other environmental disasters; |
• | changes in laws and regulations affecting our business; and |
• | general economic conditions and other external factors. |
Stock markets in general have experienced volatility that has often been unrelated to the operating performance of a particular company. These broad market fluctuations could have a material adverse effect on our share price.
Risks Relating to Legal, Regulatory and Compliance Matters
Violations of the U.S. Foreign Corrupt Practices Act and similar anti-corruption laws outside the U.S. could have a material adverse effect on us.
The FCPA and similar anti-corruption laws in other jurisdictions generally prohibit companies and their intermediaries from making improper payments to government officials or other persons for the purpose of obtaining or retaining business. Recent years have seen a substantial increase in anti-bribery law enforcement activity, with more frequent and aggressive investigations and enforcement proceedings by both the U.S. Department of Justice and the SEC, increased enforcement activity by non-U.S. regulators and increases in criminal and civil proceedings brought against companies and individuals. Our policies mandate compliance with these anti-bribery laws. We operate in many parts of the world that are recognized as having governmental and commercial corruption and in certain circumstances, strict compliance with anti-bribery laws may conflict with local customs and practices. Because many of our customers and end users are involved in infrastructure construction and energy production, they are often subject to increased scrutiny by regulators. We cannot assure you that our internal control policies and procedures will always protect us from reckless or criminal acts committed by our employees or third-party intermediaries. In the event that we believe or have reason to believe that our employees or agents have or may have violated applicable anti-corruption laws, including the FCPA we may be required to investigate or have outside counsel investigate the relevant facts and circumstances, which can be expensive and require significant time and attention from senior management. Violations of these laws may require self-disclosure to government agencies and result in criminal or civil sanctions, which could disrupt our business and result in a material adverse effect on our reputation, business, financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.
Our failure to satisfy international trade compliance regulations, and changes in U.S. government sanctions, could have a material adverse effect on us.
Our global operations require importing and exporting goods and technology across international borders on a regular basis. Certain of the products we manufacture are “dual use” products, which are products that may have both civil and military applications, or may otherwise be involved in weapons proliferation, and are often subject to more stringent export controls.
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From time to time, we obtain or receive information alleging improper activity in connection with imports or exports. Our policy mandates strict compliance with U.S. and non-U.S. trade laws applicable to our products. However, even when we are in strict compliance with law and our policies, we may suffer reputational damage if certain of our products are sold through various intermediaries to entities operating in sanctioned countries. When we receive information alleging improper activity, our policy is to investigate that information and respond appropriately, including, if warranted, reporting our findings to relevant government authorities. Nonetheless, our policies and procedures may not always protect us from actions that would violate U.S. and/or non-U.S. laws. Any improper actions could subject us to civil or criminal penalties, including material monetary fines, or other adverse actions including denial of import or export privileges, and could damage our reputation and business prospects.
We are exposed to potential environmental laws, liabilities and litigation.
We are subject to U.S. federal, state, local and non-U.S. laws and regulations governing our environmental practices, public and worker health and safety, and the indoor and outdoor environment. Compliance with these environmental, health and safety regulations could require us to satisfy environmental liabilities, increase the cost of manufacturing our products or otherwise have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations and cash flows. Any violations of these laws by us could cause us to incur unanticipated liabilities. We are also required to comply with various environmental laws and maintain permits, some of which are subject to renewal from time to time, for many of our businesses and we could suffer if we are unable to renew existing permits or to obtain any additional permits that we may require. Compliance with environmental requirements also could require significant operating or capital expenditures or result in significant operational restrictions. We cannot assure you that we have been or will be at all times in compliance with environmental and health and safety laws. If we violate these laws, we could be fined, criminally charged or otherwise sanctioned by regulators.
We have been named as defendant, target or a potentially responsible party (“PRP”) in a number of environmental clean-ups relating to our current or former business units. We have disposed of a number of businesses in recent years and in certain cases, we have retained responsibility and potential liability for certain environmental obligations. We have received claims for indemnification from certain purchasers. We may be named as a PRP at other sites in the future for existing business units, as well as both divested and acquired businesses. In addition to clean-up actions brought by governmental authorities, private parties could bring personal injury or other claims due to the presence of, or exposure to, hazardous substances.
Certain environmental laws impose liability on current or previous owners or operators of real property for the cost of removal or remediation of hazardous substances at their properties or at properties at which they have disposed of hazardous substances. We have projects underway at several current and former manufacturing facilities to investigate and remediate environmental contamination resulting from our past operations or by other businesses that previously owned or used the properties. The cost of clean-up and other environmental liabilities can be difficult to accurately predict. In addition, environmental requirements change and tend to become more stringent over time. Our eventual environmental clean-up costs and liabilities could exceed the amount of our current reserves.
Our subsidiaries are party to asbestos-related product litigation that could adversely affect our financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.
Our subsidiaries, along with numerous other companies, are named as defendants in a substantial number of lawsuits based on alleged exposure to asbestos-containing materials, substantially all of which relate to our discontinued operations. These cases typically involve product liability claims based primarily on allegations of manufacture, sale or distribution of industrial products that either contained asbestos or were attached to or used with asbestos-containing components manufactured by third parties. Each case typically names between several dozen to more than a hundred corporate defendants. Historically, our subsidiaries have been identified as defendants in asbestos-related claims. Our strategy has been, and continues to be, to mount a vigorous defense aimed at having unsubstantiated suits dismissed, and, only where appropriate, settling claims before trial. As of December 31, 2018, there were approximately 600 claims pending against our subsidiaries, substantially all of which relate to our discontinued operations. We cannot predict with certainty the extent to which we will be successful in litigating or otherwise resolving lawsuits in the future and we continue to evaluate different strategies related to asbestos claims filed against us including entity restructuring and judicial relief. Unfavorable rulings, judgments or settlement terms could have a material adverse impact on our business and financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.
We are exposed to certain regulatory and financial risks related to climate change.
Climate change is receiving ever increasing attention worldwide. Many scientists, legislators and others attribute global warming to increased levels of greenhouse gases, which has led to significant legislative and regulatory efforts to limit greenhouse gas emissions. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (“EPA”) has published findings that emissions of carbon dioxide, methane, and other greenhouse gases (“GHGs”) present an endangerment to public health and the environment because emissions of such gases are, according to the EPA, contributing to the warming of the earth’s atmosphere and other climate changes. Based on these findings, the EPA has implemented regulations that require reporting of GHG emissions, or
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that limit emissions of GHGs from certain mobile or stationary sources. In addition, the U.S. Congress and federal and state regulatory agencies have considered other legislation and regulatory proposals to reduce emissions of GHGs, and many states have already taken legal measures to reduce emissions of GHGs, primarily through the development of GHG inventories, GHG permitting and/or regional GHG cap-and-trade programs. It is uncertain whether, when and in what form a federal mandatory carbon dioxide emissions reduction program, or other state programs, may be adopted. Similarly, certain countries have adopted the Kyoto Protocol and/or the Paris Accord, and these and other existing international initiatives or those under consideration could affect our international operations. To the extent our customers, particularly our energy and industrial customers, are subject to any of these or other similar proposed or newly enacted laws and regulations, we are exposed to risks that the additional costs by customers to comply with such laws and regulations could impact their ability or desire to continue to operate at similar levels in certain jurisdictions as historically seen or as currently anticipated, which could negatively impact their demand for our products and services. These actions could also increase costs associated with our operations, including costs for raw materials and transportation. It is uncertain what laws will be enacted and therefore we cannot predict the potential impact of such laws on our future financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.
Increased information technology security threats and computer crime pose a risk to our systems, networks, products and services, and we are exposed to potential regulatory, financial and reputational risks relating to the protection of our data.
We rely upon information technology systems and networks in connection with a variety of business activities, some of which are managed by third parties. As our business increasingly interfaces with employees, customers, dealers and suppliers using information technology systems and networks, we are subject to an increased risk to the secure operation of these systems and networks. The secure operation of these information technology systems and networks is critical to our business operations and strategy. Information technology security threats -- from user error to attacks designed to gain unauthorized access to our systems, networks and data -- are increasing in frequency and sophistication. These threats pose a risk to the security of our systems and networks and the confidentiality, availability and integrity of the data we process and maintain. Establishing systems and processes to address these threats may increase our costs. We have experienced data breaches, and, although we have determined such data breaches to be immaterial and such data breaches have not had a material adverse effect on our financial condition, results of operations or cash flows, there can be no assurance of similar results in the future. Should future attacks succeed in the theft of assets, exporting sensitive data or financial information or controlling sensitive systems or networks, it could expose us and our employees, customers, dealers and suppliers to the theft of assets, misuse of information or systems, the compromising of confidential information, manipulation and destruction of data, defective products, and production downtimes and operations disruptions. The occurrence of any of these events could have a material adverse effect on our reputation, business, financial condition, results of operations and cash flows. In addition, such breaches in security could result in litigation, regulatory action and potential liability and the costs and operational consequences of implementing further data protection measures.
Changes in data privacy laws and our ability to comply with them could have a material adverse effect on us.
We collect and store data that is sensitive to Pentair and its employees, customers, dealers and suppliers. A variety of state, national, foreign and international laws and regulations apply to the collection, use, retention, protection, security, disclosure, transfer and other processing of personal and other data. Many foreign data privacy regulations, including the General Data Protection Regulation (“GDPR”), which became effective in the European Union in 2018, are more stringent than those in the United States. These laws and regulations are rapidly evolving and changing, and could have an adverse effect on our operations. Companies’ obligations and requirements under these laws and regulations are subject to uncertainty in how they may be interpreted by government authorities. The costs of compliance with, and the other burdens imposed by, these and other laws or regulatory actions may increase our operational costs, and/or result in interruptions or delays in the availability of systems. In the case of non-compliance these laws, including the GDPR, regulators have the authority to levy significant fines. In addition, if there is a breach of privacy, we may be required to make notifications under data privacy regulations. The occurrence of any of these events could have a material adverse effect on our reputation, business, financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.
We may be negatively impacted by litigation and other claims.
We are currently, and may in the future, become subject to litigation and other claims. These legal proceedings are typically claims that relate to the conduct of our business and include, without limitation, claims relating to commercial or contractual disputes with suppliers, customers or parties to acquisitions and divestitures, intellectual property matters, environmental, safety and health matters, product liability, the use or installation of our products, consumer matters, and employment and labor matters. The outcome of such legal proceedings cannot be predicted with certainty and some may be disposed of unfavorably to us. We also may not have insurance that covers such claims. While we currently maintain what we believe to be suitable product liability insurance, we may not be able to maintain this insurance on acceptable terms and this insurance may not provide adequate protection against potential or previously existing liabilities. In addition, we self-insure a portion of product liability claims. Further, some of our business involves the sale of our products to customers that are constructing large and complex systems, facilities or other capital projects and while we generally try to limit our exposure liquidated damages,
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consequential damages and other damages in the contracts for these projects, we could be exposed to significant monetary damages and other liabilities in connection with the sale of our products for these projects for a variety of reasons. Successful claims or litigation against us for significant amounts could have a material adverse effect on our reputation, business, financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.
Risks Relating to the Separation of nVent Electric plc by Spin-off
We may be unable to achieve some or all of the benefits that we expect to achieve from the spin-off.
On April 30, 2018, we completed the separation of our Electrical business through the spin-off nVent Electric plc to our shareholders. Following the spin-off, we are a smaller and less diversified company with a narrower business focus and, as a result, we may be more vulnerable to changing market conditions. Although we believe that the spin-off of nVent Electric plc will provide financial, operational, managerial and other benefits to us and our shareholders, the spin-off may not provide the results on the scope or on the scale we anticipate, and we may not realize any or all of the intended benefits. In addition, we have and will continue to incur one-time costs and ongoing costs in connection with, or as a result of, the spin-off, including costs of operating as independent, publicly-traded companies that the two businesses are no longer able to share. Those costs may exceed our estimates or could negate some of the benefits we expect to realize. If we do not realize the intended benefits or if our costs exceed our estimates, we could suffer a material adverse effect on the business, financial condition, results of operations, cash flows and trading prices.
The spin-off transaction could result in substantial tax liability to us and our shareholders if the spin-off does not qualify as a tax-free transaction.
The spin-off was conditioned on our receipt of opinions of tax advisors and tax rulings from taxing authorities. However, these tax opinions will not be binding on taxing authorities. Accordingly, taxing authorities or the courts may reach conclusions with respect to the spin-off that are different from the conclusions reached in such opinions. Moreover, such opinions were based on certain statements and representations made by us, which, if incomplete or inaccurate in any material respect, could invalidate the opinions. If the spin-off and certain related transactions were determined to be taxable, we could be subject to a substantial tax liability that could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition, results of operations and cash flows. In addition, if the spin-off were taxable, each holder of our ordinary shares who received shares of nVent Electric plc in the spin-off would generally be treated as receiving a taxable distribution of property in an amount equal to the fair market value of the shares received.
We may be exposed to claims and liabilities as a result of the spin-off.
In connection with the spin-off, we and nVent Electric plc entered into a separation and distribution agreement and various other agreements, including a transition services agreement, a tax matters agreement and an employee matters agreement. These agreements provide for the performance of services by each company for the benefit of the other for a period of time after the spin-off and provide for specific indemnity and liability obligations. The indemnity rights we have against nVent under the agreements may not be sufficient to protect us. In addition, our indemnity obligations to nVent may be significant and these risks could negatively affect our financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.
Risks Relating to Our Jurisdiction of Incorporation in Ireland and Tax Residency in the U.K.
We are subject to changes in law and other factors that may not allow us to maintain a worldwide effective corporate tax rate that is competitive in our industry.
While we believe that we should be able to maintain a worldwide effective corporate tax rate that is competitive in our industry, we cannot give any assurance as to what our effective tax rate will be in the future because of, among other things, uncertainty regarding tax policies of the jurisdictions where we operate. Also, the tax laws of the U.S., the U.K., Ireland and other jurisdictions could change in the future, and such changes could cause a material change in our worldwide effective corporate tax rate. These changes include the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act enacted in the U.S. in December 2017, which made significant changes to certain U.S. tax laws relevant to us, including limitations on the deductibility of certain interest expense and employee compensation, limitations on various other deductions and credits, the imposition of taxes in respect of certain cross-border payments or transfers, the imposition of taxes on certain earnings of non-U.S. entities on a current basis, and changes in the timing of the recognition of income or its character. These items and regulations and guidance implementing the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act could materially adversely affect our financial condition, results of operations, cash flows or our effective tax rate in future reporting periods. In addition, legislative action could be taken by the U.S., the U.K., Ireland or the European Union which could override tax treaties or modify tax statutes or regulations upon which we expect to rely and adversely affect our effective tax rate. We cannot predict the outcome of any specific legislative proposals. If proposals were enacted that had the effect of disregarding our incorporation in Ireland or limiting our ability as an Irish company to maintain tax residency in the U.K. and take advantage of the tax treaties among the U.S., the U.K. and Ireland, we could be subject to increased taxation, which could materially adversely affect our financial condition, results of operations, cash flows or our effective tax rate in future reporting periods.
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A change in our tax residency could have a negative effect on our future profitability, and may trigger taxes on dividends or exit charges.
Under current Irish legislation, a company is regarded as resident for tax purposes in Ireland if it is centrally managed and controlled in Ireland, or, in certain circumstances, if it is incorporated in Ireland. Under current U.K. legislation, a company that is centrally managed and controlled in the U.K. is regarded as resident in the U.K. for taxation purposes unless it is treated as resident in another jurisdiction pursuant to any appropriate double tax treaty with the U.K. Other jurisdictions may also seek to assert taxing jurisdiction over Pentair.
Where a company is treated as tax resident under the domestic laws of both the U.K. and Ireland, article 4(3) of the Double Tax Convention between Ireland and the U.K. (the “residence tie-breaker”) currently provides that the company shall be treated as resident only in one of those two jurisdictions if its place of effective management is situated in that jurisdiction.
The Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development has proposed a number of measures relating to the tax treatment of multinationals, some of which are to be implemented by amending double tax treaties through a multilateral instrument (the “MLI”). The MLI has been signed and ratified by a number of countries, including Ireland and the U.K. The MLI allows signatories to opt into or out of certain changes: the effect for a given double tax convention depends on the options chosen by the two contracting states. Ireland and the U.K. have confirmed that they intend to change the residence tie-breaker so that a company will not cease being dual resident until there is a determination by the tax authorities of the two contracting states, instead of an objective application of the place of effective management test. The MLI has not yet entered into force effect in order to amend the residence tie-breaker.
Under Ireland’s domestic tax residency rules, Pentair should not be Irish resident until January 1, 2021 (provided that there is no change in ownership and no major change in the nature or conduct of the business of the company before that date, in which case the residence tie-breaker should apply from the date of the change of ownership). Accordingly, we do not expect the change to the residence tie-breaker to have effect until January 1, 2021 at the earliest.
It is possible that in the future, whether as a result of a change in law (including the entry into force and effect of the MLI) or the practice of any relevant tax authority or as a result of any change in the conduct of our affairs, we could become, or be regarded as having become, resident in a jurisdiction other than the U.K. If Pentair ceases to be resident in the U.K. and becomes resident in another jurisdiction, it may be subject to U.K. exit charges, and could become liable for additional tax charges in the other jurisdiction (including dividend withholding taxes or corporate income tax charges). If Pentair were to be treated as resident in more than one jurisdiction, it could be subject to taxation in multiple jurisdictions. If, for example, Pentair were considered to be a tax resident of Ireland, we could become liable for Irish corporation tax and any dividends paid by it could be subject to Irish dividend withholding tax.
Irish law differs from the laws in effect in the United States and may afford less protection to holders of our securities.
It may not be possible to enforce court judgments obtained in the U.S. against us in Ireland based on the civil liability provisions of the U.S. federal or state securities laws. In addition, there is some uncertainty as to whether the courts of Ireland would recognize or enforce judgments of U.S. courts obtained against us or our directors or officers based on the civil liabilities provisions of the U.S. federal or state securities laws or hear actions against us or those persons based on those laws. We have been advised that the U.S. currently does not have a treaty with Ireland providing for the reciprocal recognition and enforcement of judgments in civil and commercial matters. Therefore, a final judgment for the payment of money rendered by any U.S. federal or state court based on civil liability, whether or not based solely on U.S. federal or state securities laws, would not automatically be enforceable in Ireland.
As an Irish company, we are governed by the Irish Companies Act, which differs in some material respects from laws generally applicable to U.S. corporations and shareholders, including, among others, differences relating to interested director and officer transactions and shareholder lawsuits. Likewise, the duties of directors and officers of an Irish company generally are owed to the company only. Shareholders of Irish companies generally do not have a personal right of action against directors or officers of the company and may exercise such rights of action on behalf of the company only in limited circumstances. Accordingly, holders of our securities may have more difficulty protecting their interests than would holders of securities of a corporation incorporated in a jurisdiction of the U.S.
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Transfers of our ordinary shares may be subject to Irish stamp duty.
Transfers of our ordinary shares effected by means of the transfer of book entry interests in the Depository Trust Company (“DTC”) will not be subject to Irish stamp duty. However, if you hold your ordinary shares directly rather than beneficially through DTC, any transfer of your ordinary shares could be subject to Irish stamp duty (currently at the rate of 1 percent of the higher of the price paid or the market value of the shares acquired). Payment of Irish stamp duty is generally a legal obligation of the transferee.
We currently intend to pay, or cause one of our affiliates to pay, stamp duty in connection with share transfers made in the ordinary course of trading by a seller who holds shares directly to a buyer who holds the acquired shares beneficially. In other cases we may, in our absolute discretion, pay or cause one of our affiliates to pay any stamp duty. Our articles of association provide that, in the event of any such payment, we (i) may seek reimbursement from the buyer, (ii) will have a lien against the shares acquired by such buyer and any dividends paid on such shares and (iii) may set-off the amount of the stamp duty against future dividends on such shares. Parties to a share transfer may assume that any stamp duty arising in respect of a transaction in our shares has been paid unless one or both of such parties is otherwise notified by us.
Our ordinary shares, received by means of a gift or inheritance could be subject to Irish capital acquisitions tax.
Irish capital acquisitions tax (“CAT”) could apply to a gift or inheritance of our ordinary shares irrespective of the place of residence, ordinary residence or domicile of the parties. This is because our shares will be regarded as property situated in Ireland. The person who receives the gift or inheritance has primary liability for CAT. Gifts and inheritances passing between spouses are exempt from CAT. Children have a tax-free threshold of €320,000 per lifetime in respect of taxable gifts or inheritances received from their parents for periods on or after October 10, 2018.
ITEM 1B. UNRESOLVED STAFF COMMENTS
None.
ITEM 2. PROPERTIES
Our principal office is located in leased premises in London, U.K., and our management office in the U.S. is located in leased premises in Minneapolis, Minnesota.
Our operations are conducted in facilities throughout the world. These facilities house manufacturing and distribution operations, as well as sales and marketing, engineering and administrative offices. The following is a summary of our principal properties, including manufacturing, distribution, sales offices and service centers:
No. of Facilities | ||||||||
Location | Manufacturing | Distribution | Sales and Corporate Offices | Service Centers | ||||
Aquatic Systems | 22 U.S. cities and 12 foreign countries | 9 | 11 | 13 | 1 | |||
Filtration Solutions | 14 U.S. cities and 40 foreign countries | 19 | 9 | 26 | — | |||
Flow Technologies | 15 U.S. cities and 35 foreign countries | 20 | 12 | 8 | 10 | |||
Corporate | 3 U.S. cities and 4 foreign countries | — | — | 7 | — | |||
Total | 48 | 32 | 54 | 11 | ||||
We believe that our production facilities as well as the related machinery and equipment, are well maintained and suitable for their purpose and are adequate to support our businesses.
ITEM 3. LEGAL PROCEEDINGS
We have been, and in the future may be, made parties to a number of actions filed or have been, and in the future may be, given notice of potential claims relating to the conduct of our business, including those relating to commercial or contractual disputes with suppliers, customers or parties to acquisitions and divestitures, intellectual property matters, environmental, safety and health matters, product liability, the use or installation of our products, consumer matters, and employment and labor matters.
While we believe that a material impact on our consolidated financial position, results of operations or cash flows from any such future claims or potential claims is unlikely, given the inherent uncertainty of litigation, a remote possibility exists that a
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future adverse ruling or unfavorable development could result in future charges that could have a material adverse impact. We do and will continue to periodically reexamine our estimates of probable liabilities and any associated expenses and receivables and make appropriate adjustments to such estimates based on experience and developments in litigation. As a result, the current estimates of the potential impact on our consolidated financial position, results of operations and cash flows for the proceedings and claims described in the notes to our consolidated financial statements could change in the future.
Asbestos matters
Our subsidiaries and numerous other unaffiliated companies are named as defendants in personal injury lawsuits based on alleged exposure to asbestos-containing materials. These cases typically involve product liability claims based primarily on allegations of manufacture, sale or distribution of industrial products that either contained asbestos or were attached to or used with asbestos-containing components manufactured by third-parties. Each case typically names between several dozen to more than a hundred corporate defendants. Our historical strategy has been to mount a vigorous defense aimed at having unsubstantiated suits dismissed, and, where appropriate, settling suits before trial. Although a large percentage of litigated suits have been dismissed, we cannot predict the extent to which we will be successful in resolving lawsuits in the future.
As of December 31, 2018, there were approximately 600 claims outstanding against our subsidiaries. This amount is not adjusted for claims that are not actively being prosecuted, identified incorrect defendants, or duplicated other actions, which would ultimately reflect our current estimate of the number of viable claims made against us, our affiliates, or entities for which we assumed responsibility in connection with acquisitions or divestitures. In addition, the amount does not include certain claims pending against third parties for which we have been provided an indemnification.
Environmental matters
We have been named as defendant, target or a PRP in a number of environmental clean-ups relating to our current or former business units. We have disposed of a number of businesses in recent years and in certain cases, we have retained responsibility and potential liability for certain environmental obligations. We have received claims for indemnification from certain purchasers. We may be named as a PRP at other sites in the future for existing business units, as well as both divested and acquired businesses. In addition to cleanup actions brought by governmental authorities, private parties could bring personal injury or other claims due to the presence of, or exposure to, hazardous substances.
Certain environmental laws impose liability on current or previous owners or operators of real property for the cost of removal or remediation of hazardous substances at their properties or at properties at which they have disposed of hazardous substances. We have projects underway at several current and former manufacturing facilities to investigate and remediate environmental contamination resulting from our past operations or by other businesses that previously owned or used the properties.
Our accruals for environmental matters are recorded on a site-by-site basis when it is probable that a liability has been incurred and the amount of the liability can be reasonably estimated, based on current law and existing technologies. It can be difficult to estimate reliably the final costs of investigation and remediation due to various factors. In our opinion, the amounts accrued are appropriate based on facts and circumstances as currently known. As of December 31, 2018, our recorded reserves for environmental matters were not material. We do not anticipate our remaining environmental conditions will have a material adverse effect on our financial position, results of operations or cash flows. However, unknown conditions, new details about existing conditions or changes in environmental requirements may give rise to environmental liabilities that will exceed the amount of our current reserves and could have a material adverse effect in the future.
Product liability claims
We are subject to various product liability lawsuits and personal injury claims. A substantial number of these lawsuits and claims are insured and accrued for by Penwald, our captive insurance subsidiary. See discussion in ITEM 1 and ITEM 8, Note 1 of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements — Insurance subsidiary. Penwald records a liability for these claims based on actuarial projections of ultimate losses. For all other claims, accruals covering the claims are recorded, on an undiscounted basis, when it is probable that a liability has been incurred and the amount of the liability can be reasonably estimated based on existing information. The accruals are adjusted periodically as additional information becomes available. We have not experienced significant unfavorable trends in either the severity or frequency of product liability lawsuits or personal injury claims.
ITEM 4. MINE SAFETY DISCLOSURES
Not applicable.
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EXECUTIVE OFFICERS OF THE REGISTRANT
Current executive officers of Pentair plc, their ages, current position and their business experience during at least the past five years are as follows:
Name | Age | Current Position and Business Experience | |||
John L. Stauch | 54 | President and Chief Executive Officer since 2018; Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer 2007 — 2018; Chief Financial Officer of the Automation and Control Systems unit of Honeywell International Inc., 2005 — 2007; Vice President, Finance and Chief Financial Officer of the Sensing and Controls unit of Honeywell International Inc., 2004 — 2005; Vice President, Finance and Chief Financial Officer of the Automation & Control Products unit of Honeywell International Inc., 2002 — 2004; Chief Financial Officer and IT Director of PerkinElmer Optoelectronics, a unit of PerkinElmer, Inc., 2000 — 2002; Various executive, investor relations and managerial finance positions with Honeywell International Inc. and its predecessor AlliedSignal Inc., 1994 — 2000. | |||
Kelly A. Baker | 49 | Executive Vice President and Chief Human Resources Officer since 2017; Chief Human Resources Officer of Patterson Companies, Inc. 2016 — 2017; Vice President of Human Resources, U.S. Retail Organization and Marketing Function of General Mills 2014 — 2016; Vice President of Human Resources, Corporate & Global Business Solutions of General Mills 2009 — 2014; Vice President of Diversity & Inclusion of General Mills 2005 — 2009; Various Human Resources leadership positions at General Mills 1995 — 2005. | |||
Mark C. Borin | 51 | Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer since 2018; Senior Vice President and Chief Accounting Officer 2008 — 2018 and Treasurer 2015 — 2018; Partner in the audit practice of the public accounting firm KPMG LLP, 2000 — 2008; Various positions in the audit practice of KPMG LLP, 1989 — 2000. | |||
Karl R. Frykman | 58 | Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer since 2018; Senior Vice President and President, Water segment 2017 — 2018; President, Water Quality Systems Global Business Unit, 2007 — 2016; President of Aquatic Systems’ National Pool Tile group, 1998— 2007; Vice President of Operations for American Products, 1995 — 1998; Vice President of Anthony Pools, 1990 — 1995; Vice President of Poolsaver, 1988 — 1990. | |||
John H. Jacko | 61 | Executive Vice President and Chief Growth Officer since 2018; Senior Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer 2017 — 2018; Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer of Kennametal Corporation, 2007 — 2016; Senior Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer of Flowserve Corporation, 2002 — 2007; Vice President of Marketing and Customer Management of Flowserve Corporation, 2001 — 2002; Various business leadership positions of Honeywell Aerospace, 1995 — 2001. | |||
Karla C. Robertson | 48 | Executive Vice President, General Counsel and Secretary since 2018; General Counsel, Pentair plc Water segment 2017 — 2018; Executive Vice President, General Counsel and Corporate Secretary of SUPERVALU Inc. 2013 — 2017; Vice President, Employment, Compensation and Benefits Law of SUPERVALU Inc. 2012 — 2013; Director, Employment Law of SUPERVALU Inc. 2011 — 2012; Senior Counsel, Employment Law of SUPERVALU Inc. 2009 — 2011; Senior Employee Relations Counsel of Target Corporation 2006 — 2008; Associate, Faegre & Benson LLP 2000 — 2005; Judicial Clerk, United States District Court for the Southern District of Iowa, 1998 — 2000 | |||
Philip M. Rolchigo, Ph.D. | 57 | Executive Vice President and Chief Technology Officer since 2017; Vice President of Engineering and Technology Innovation 2007 — 2017; Business Development Director of GE Global Research Center 2006 — 2007; Director of Technology of GE Water & Process Technologies 2003 — 2006; Chief Technology Officer of Osmonics 2000 — 2003; Vice President of Research & Development of Osmonics 1998 — 2000; Chief Technology Officer of Membrex 1988 — 1998. | |||
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PART II
ITEM 5. MARKET FOR REGISTRANT’S COMMON EQUITY, RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS AND ISSUER PURCHASES OF EQUITY SECURITIES
Our ordinary shares are listed for trading on the New York Stock Exchange (“NYSE”) under the symbol “PNR.” As of December 31, 2018, there were 15,032 shareholders of record.
Pentair has paid 172 consecutive quarterly cash dividends, including most recently a dividend of $0.175 per share in the fourth quarter of 2018. In addition, the Board of Directors approved a plan to increase the dividend for 2019, which will mark the 43rd consecutive year we have increased dividends, as adjusted for the spin-off of nVent.
The timing, declaration and payment of future dividends to holders of our ordinary shares will depend upon many factors, including our financial condition and results of operations, the capital requirements of our businesses, industry practice and any other relevant factors.
Share Performance Graph
The following information under the caption “Share Performance Graph” in this ITEM 5 of this Annual Report on Form 10-K is not deemed to be “soliciting material” or to be “filed” with the SEC or subject to Regulation 14A or 14C under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange Act”), or to the liabilities of Section 18 of the Exchange Act and will not be deemed to be incorporated by reference into any filing under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, or the Exchange Act, except to the extent we specifically incorporate it by reference into such a filing.
The following graph sets forth the cumulative total shareholder return on our ordinary shares for the last five years, assuming the investment of $100 on December 31, 2013 and the reinvestment of all dividends since that date to December 31, 2018. The graph also contains for comparison purposes the S&P 500 Index and the S&P 500 Industrials Index, assuming the same investment level and reinvestment of dividends.
By virtue of our market capitalization, we are a component of the S&P 500 Index. On the basis of our size and diversity of businesses, we believe the S&P 500 Industrials Index is an appropriate published industry index for comparison purposes.
Base Period December | INDEXED RETURNS Years ended December 31 | ||||||||||||||||||
Company / Index | 2013 | 2014 | 2015 | 2016 | 2017 | 2018 | |||||||||||||
Pentair plc | $ | 100 | $ | 86.84 | $ | 66.16 | $ | 76.74 | $ | 98.74 | $ | 80.12 | |||||||
S&P 500 Index | 100 | 113.69 | 115.26 | 129.05 | 157.22 | 150.33 | |||||||||||||
S&P 500 Industrials Index | 100 | 112.36 | 115.62 | 127.31 | 156.04 | 151.29 | |||||||||||||
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Purchases of Equity Securities
The following table provides information with respect to purchases we made of our ordinary shares during the fourth quarter of 2018:
(a) | (b) | (c) | (d) | |||||||
Total number of shares purchased | Average price paid per share | Total number of shares purchased as part of publicly announced plans or programs | Dollar value of shares that may yet be purchased under the plans or programs | |||||||
October 1 – October 27 | 632 | $ | 41.29 | — | $ | 500,000,101 | ||||
October 28 – November 24 | 809,872 | 39.90 | 625,162 | 473,603,480 | ||||||
November 25 – December 31 | 1,833,155 | 40.15 | 1,832,049 | 400,000,120 | ||||||
Total | 2,643,659 | 2,457,211 | ||||||||
(a) | The purchases in this column include 632 shares for the period October 1 – October 27, 184,710 shares for the period October 28 – November 24, and 1,106 shares for the period November 25 – December 31 deemed surrendered to us by participants in our 2012 Stock and Incentive Plan (the “2012 Plan”) and earlier stock incentive plans that are now outstanding under the 2012 Plan (collectively the “Plans”) to satisfy the exercise price or withholding of tax obligations related to the exercise of stock options and vesting of restricted shares. |
(b) | The average price paid in this column includes shares repurchased as part of our publicly announced plans and shares deemed surrendered to us by participants in the Plans to satisfy the exercise price for the exercise price of stock options and withholding tax obligations due upon stock option exercises and vesting of restricted and performance shares. |
(c) | The number of shares in this column represents the number of shares repurchased as part of our publicly announced plans to repurchase our ordinary shares up to a maximum dollar limit authorized by the Board of Directors, discussed below. |
(d) | On May 8, 2018, our Board of Directors authorized the repurchase of our ordinary shares up to a maximum dollar limit of $750.0 million. The 2018 authorization expires on May 31, 2021. We have $400.0 million remaining availability for repurchases under the 2018 authorization. From time to time, we may enter into a Rule 10b5-1 trading plan for the purpose of repurchasing shares under this authorization. |
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ITEM 6. SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA
The following table sets forth our selected historical financial data for the five years ended December 31, 2018.
Years ended December 31 | |||||||||||||||
In millions, except per-share amounts | 2018 | 2017 | 2016 | 2015 | 2014 | ||||||||||
Consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive income | |||||||||||||||
Net sales | $ | 2,965.1 | $ | 2,845.7 | $ | 2,780.6 | $ | 2,812.4 | $ | 2,942.1 | |||||
Operating income | 436.7 | 378.3 | 354.4 | 304.7 | 226.8 | ||||||||||
Net income from continuing operations attributable to Pentair | 321.7 | 114.1 | 178.2 | 170.9 | 122.3 | ||||||||||
Per ordinary share | |||||||||||||||
Basic | |||||||||||||||
Earnings per ordinary share from continuing operations attributable to Pentair | $ | 1.83 | $ | 0.63 | $ | 0.98 | $ | 0.95 | $ | 0.64 | |||||
Weighted average ordinary shares | 175.8 | 181.7 | 181.3 | 180.3 | 190.6 | ||||||||||
Diluted | |||||||||||||||
Earnings per ordinary share from continuing operations attributable to Pentair | $ | 1.81 | $ | 0.62 | $ | 0.97 | $ | 0.94 | $ | 0.63 | |||||
Weighted average ordinary shares | 177.3 | 183.7 | 183.1 | 182.6 | 193.7 | ||||||||||
Cash dividends declared and paid per ordinary share | $ | 1.05 | $ | 1.38 | $ | 1.34 | $ | 1.28 | $ | 1.10 | |||||
Cash dividends declared and unpaid per ordinary share | 0.18 | 0.35 | 0.345 | 0.33 | 0.32 | ||||||||||
Consolidated balance sheets | |||||||||||||||
Total assets | $ | 3,806.5 | $ | 8,633.7 | $ | 11,534.8 | $ | 11,833.4 | $ | 10,643.8 | |||||
Total debt | 787.6 | 1,440.7 | 4,279.2 | 4,685.8 | 2,988.4 | ||||||||||
Total equity | 1,836.1 | 5,037.8 | 4,254.4 | 4,008.8 | 4,663.8 | ||||||||||
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ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
Forward-looking statements
This report contains statements that we believe to be “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. All statements, other than statements of historical fact are forward-looking statements. Without limitation, any statements preceded or followed by or that include the words “targets,” “plans,” “believes,” “expects,” “intends,” “will,” “likely,” “may,” “anticipates,” “estimates,” “projects,” “should,” “would,” “positioned,” “strategy,” “future” or words, phrases or terms of similar substance or the negative thereof, are forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and are subject to risks, uncertainties, assumptions and other factors, some of which are beyond our control, which could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. These factors include overall global economic and business conditions impacting our business, including the strength of housing and related markets; competition and pricing pressures in the markets we serve; volatility in currency exchange rates; failure of markets to accept new product introductions and enhancements; the ability to successfully identify, finance, complete and integrate acquisitions, including the Aquion, Inc. (“Aquion”) and Pelican Water Systems (“Pelican”) acquisitions; the ability to achieve the benefits of our restructuring plans and cost reduction initiatives; risks associated with operating foreign businesses; the impact of material cost and other inflation; our ability to comply with laws and regulations; the impact of changes in laws, regulations and administrative policy, including those that limit U.S. tax benefits or impact trade agreements and tariffs; the outcome of litigation and governmental proceedings; the ability to realize the anticipated benefits from the Separation (as defined below); and the ability to achieve our long-term strategic operating goals. Additional information concerning these and other factors is contained in our filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”), including this Annual Report on Form 10-K. All forward-looking statements speak only as of the date of this report. Pentair assumes no obligation, and disclaims any obligation, to update the information contained in this report.
Overview
Pentair plc and its consolidated subsidiaries (“we,” “us,” “our,” “Pentair” or the “Company”) is a pure play water industrial manufacturing company comprised of three reporting segments: Aquatic Systems, Filtration Solutions and Flow Technologies. We classify our operations into business segments based primarily on types of products offered and markets served. For the year ended December 31, 2018, the Aquatic Systems, Filtration Solutions and Flow Technologies segments represented approximately 35%, 34% and 31% of total revenues, respectively.
Although our jurisdiction of organization is Ireland, we manage our affairs so that we are centrally managed and controlled in the United Kingdom (the “U.K.”) and therefore have our tax residency in the U.K.
On April 28, 2017, we completed the sale of the Valves & Controls business to Emerson Electric Co. for $3.15 billion. The sale resulted in a gain of $181.1 million, net of tax. The results of the Valves & Controls business have been presented as discontinued operations for all periods presented. The Valves & Controls business was previously disclosed as a stand-alone reporting segment.
On April 30, 2018, we completed the separation of our Electrical business from the rest of Pentair (the “Separation”) by means of a dividend in specie of the Electrical business, which was effected by the transfer of the Electrical business from Pentair to nVent and the issuance by nVent of nVent ordinary shares directly to Pentair shareholders (the “Distribution”). We did not retain an equity interest in nVent. The results of the Electrical business have been presented as discontinued operations for all periods presented. The Electrical business was previously disclosed as a stand-alone reporting segment.
Key trends and uncertainties regarding our existing business
The following trends and uncertainties affected our financial performance in 2018 and 2017, and will likely impact our results in the future:
• | During 2018 and 2017, we continued execution of certain business restructuring initiatives aimed at reducing our fixed cost structure and realigned our business in contemplation of the Separation and Distribution of nVent. We expect these actions will contribute to margin growth in 2019. |
• | We have identified specific product and geographic market opportunities that we find attractive and continue to pursue, both within and outside the U.S. We are reinforcing our businesses to more effectively address these opportunities through research and development and additional sales and marketing resources. Unless we successfully penetrate these markets, our core sales growth will likely be limited or may decline. |
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• | We have experienced material and other cost inflation. We strive for productivity improvements, and we implement increases in selling prices to help mitigate this inflation. We expect the current economic environment will result in continuing price volatility for many of our raw materials, and we are uncertain as to the timing and impact of these market changes. |
• | Proposed regulations as part of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, enacted in the U.S. in December 2017, may place limitations on the deductibility of certain interest expense for U.S. tax purposes. These proposed regulations could materially adversely affect our financial condition, results of operations, cash flows or our effective tax rate in future reporting periods when enacted. |
In 2019, our operating objectives include the following:
• | Accelerating PIMS, with specific focus on the area of commercial excellence and acquisition integrations; |
• | Delivering our growth priorities through new products and global and market expansion, specifically in the areas of pool and residential and commercial water treatment especially through acquisitions and focus on China and Southeast Asia; |
• | Optimizing our technological capabilities to increasingly generate innovative new products and advance digital transformation; and |
• | Building a growth culture and delivering on our commitments while living our Win Right values. |
In January 2019, as part of Filtration Solutions, we entered into definitive agreements to acquire Aquion and Pelican for $160.0 million and $120.0 million in cash, respectively, and subject to certain customary adjustments. We completed the Aquion acquisition on February 13, 2019 and the Pelican acquisition on February 12, 2019. Aquion offers a diverse line of water conditioners, water filters, drinking-water purifiers, ozone and ultraviolet disinfection systems, reverse osmosis systems and acid neutralizers for the residential and commercial water treatment industry. Pelican provides residential whole home water treatment systems.
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CONSOLIDATED RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
The consolidated results of operations were as follows:
Years ended December 31 | % / point change | |||||||||||||
In millions | 2018 | 2017 | 2016 | 2018 vs 2017 | 2017 vs 2016 | |||||||||
Net sales | $ | 2,965.1 | $ | 2,845.7 | $ | 2,780.6 | 4.2 | % | 2.3 | % | ||||
Cost of goods sold | 1,917.4 | 1,858.2 | 1,821.5 | 3.2 | % | 2.0 | % | |||||||
Gross profit | 1,047.7 | 987.5 | 959.1 | 6.1 | % | 3.0 | % | |||||||
% of net sales | 35.3 | % | 34.7 | % | 34.5 | % | 0.6 | pts | 0.2 | pts | ||||
Selling, general and administrative | 534.3 | 536.0 | 531.4 | (0.3 | )% | 0.9 | % | |||||||
% of net sales | 18.0 | % | 18.8 | % | 19.1 | % | (0.8 | ) pts | (0.3 | ) pts | ||||
Research and development | 76.7 | 73.2 | 73.3 | 4.8 | % | (0.1 | )% | |||||||
% of net sales | 2.6 | % | 2.6 | % | 2.6 | % | — | — | ||||||
Operating income | 436.7 | 378.3 | 354.4 | 15.4 | % | 6.7 | % | |||||||
% of net sales | 14.7 | % | 13.3 | % | 12.7 | % | 1.4 | pts | 0.6 | pts | ||||
Loss on sale of businesses | 7.3 | 4.2 | 3.9 | N.M. | 7.7 | % | ||||||||
Loss on early extinguishment of debt | 17.1 | 101.4 | — | N.M. | N.M | |||||||||
Net interest expense | 32.6 | 87.3 | 140.1 | (62.7 | )% | (37.7 | )% | |||||||
Other (income) expense | (0.1 | ) | 12.6 | (10.5 | ) | N.M. | N.M | |||||||
Income from continuing operations before income taxes | 379.8 | 172.8 | 220.9 | N.M. | (21.8 | )% | ||||||||
Provision for income taxes | 58.1 | 58.7 | 42.7 | (1.0 | )% | 37.5 | % | |||||||
Effective tax rate | 15.3 | % | 34.0 | % | 19.3 | % | (18.7 | ) pts | 14.7 | pts | ||||
N.M. Not Meaningful
Net sales
The components of the consolidated net sales change were as follows:
2018 vs 2017 | 2017 vs 2016 | ||||
Volume | 3.6 | % | — | % | |
Price | 1.2 | 0.8 | |||
Core growth | 4.8 | 0.8 | |||
Acquisition (divestiture) | (1.2 | ) | 1.1 | ||
Currency | 0.6 | 0.4 | |||
Total | 4.2 | % | 2.3 | % | |
The 4.2 percent increase in consolidated net sales in 2018 from 2017 was primarily the result of:
• | core sales increases across all three reportable segments, primarily driven by increased sales in the residential and commercial businesses; |
• | selective increases in selling prices to mitigate inflationary cost increases; and |
• | favorable foreign currency effects during the year ended December 31, 2018. |
This increase was partially offset by:
• | sales declines due to the sale of certain businesses during the year ended December 31, 2018. |
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The 2.3 percent increase in consolidated net sales in 2017 from 2016 was primarily the result of:
• | increased sales in our industrial and residential & commercial businesses primarily in the U.S.; |
• | selective increases in selling prices to mitigate inflationary cost increases; |
• | increased sales related to business acquisitions that occurred in the fourth quarter of 2016 and the first quarter of 2017; and |
• | favorable foreign currency effects during the year ended December 31, 2017. |
This increase was partially offset by:
• | sales declines in our industrial business due to customer delays in capital spending; and |
• | large job adjustments to net sales of $9.7 million in 2017. |
Gross profit
The 0.6 percentage point increase in gross profit as a percentage of sales in 2018 from 2017 was primarily the result of:
• | selective increases in selling prices across all three reportable segments to mitigate inflationary cost increases; |
• | favorable mix in the Filtration Solutions segment; and |
• | higher contribution margin as a result of savings generated from our PIMS initiatives, including lean and supply management practices. |
This increase was partially offset by:
• | inflationary increases related to raw materials and labor costs. |
The 0.2 percentage point increase in gross profit as a percentage of sales in 2017 from 2016 was primarily the result of:
• | favorable material savings for certain raw materials and product mix offsetting inflation; |
• | selective increases in selling prices to mitigate inflationary cost increases; and |
• | higher contribution margin as a result of savings generated from our PIMS initiatives including lean and supply management practices. |
This increase was partially offset by:
• | inflationary increases related to raw materials and labor costs. |
Selling, general and administrative (“SG&A”)
The 0.8 percentage point decrease in SG&A expense as a percentage of sales in 2018 from 2017 and was driven by:
• | savings generated from restructuring and other lean initiatives; and |
• | higher sales resulting in increased leverage. |
This decrease was partially offset by:
• | restructuring costs of $40.6 million in 2018, compared to $28.2 million in 2017; |
• | the reversal of a $13.3 million indemnification liability in 2017 that did not recur in 2018; and |
• | investments in sales and marketing to drive growth. |
The 0.3 percentage point decrease in SG&A expense as a percentage of sales in 2017 from 2016 and was driven by the following:
• | a benefit from the reversal of a $13.3 million indemnification liability in 2017; and |
• | savings generated from back-office consolidation, reduction in personnel and other lean initiatives. |
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This decrease was partially offset by:
• | restructuring costs of $28.2 million in 2017, compared to $12.2 million in 2016; |
• | non-cash charges of $15.6 million in 2017 related to trade names and other impairments; and |
• | increased investments in sales and marketing to drive growth. |
Net interest expense
The 62.7 percent decrease in net interest expense in 2018 from 2017 was primarily the result of:
• | the impact of lower debt levels during 2018 compared to 2017. In June 2018, the proceeds from the Separation were utilized to repay the remaining $255.3 million aggregate principal amount of our 2.9% fixed rate senior notes due 2018 and for the early extinguishment of €363.4 million aggregate principal amount of our 2.45% senior notes due 2019. |
This decrease was partially offset by:
• | increased overall interest rates in effect on our outstanding variable rate debt during 2018 compared to 2017. |
The 37.7 percent decrease in net interest expense in 2017 from 2016 was primarily the result of:
• | the impact of lower debt levels during 2017 compared to 2016. In May 2017, a portion of the proceeds from the sale of the Valves & Controls business was utilized to repay all commercial paper and revolving long term debt and for the early extinguishment of $1,659.3 million aggregate principal amount of certain series of fixed rate outstanding notes. |
This decrease was partially offset by:
• | increased overall interest rates in effect on our variable rate outstanding debt during 2017 compared to 2016. |
Loss on early extinguishment of debt
In June 2018, we redeemed the remaining $255.3 million aggregate principal amount of our 2.9% fixed rate senior notes due 2018 and completed a cash tender offer in the amount of €363.4 million aggregate principal amount of our 2.45% senior notes due 2019. All costs associated with the repurchases of debt were recorded as a Loss on the early extinguishment of debt, including $16.0 million premium paid on early extinguishment and $1.1 million of unamortized deferred financing costs.
In May 2017, we repurchased aggregate principal of certain series of outstanding fixed rate debt totaling $1,659.3 million. Total costs of $101.4 million associated with the repurchases were recorded as Loss on early extinguishment of debt.
Provision for income taxes
The 18.7 percentage point decrease in the effective tax rate in 2018 from 2017 was primarily due to:
• | the mix of global earnings, including the impact of U.S. Tax Reform; and |
• | the impact of lower nondeductible interest expense allocated to continuing operations in 2018 compared to 2017. |
The 14.7 percentage point increase in the effective tax rate in 2017 from 2016 was primarily due to:
• | the mix of global earnings, including the impact of U.S. Tax Reform; and |
• | the unfavorable tax impact of restructuring costs in 2016 in jurisdictions with low tax benefits. |
SEGMENT RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
This summary that follows provides a discussion of the results of operations of each of our three reportable segments (Aquatic Systems, Filtration Solutions and Flow Technologies). Each of these segments is comprised of various product offerings that serve multiple end markets.
We evaluate performance based on sales and segment income and use a variety of ratios to measure performance of our reporting segments. Segment income represents equity income of unconsolidated subsidiaries and operating income exclusive of intangible amortization, certain acquisition related expenses, costs of restructuring activities, impairments and other unusual non-operating items.
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Aquatic Systems
The net sales and segment income for Aquatic Systems were as follows:
Years ended December 31 | % / point change | |||||||||||||
In millions | 2018 | 2017 | 2016 | 2018 vs 2017 | 2017 vs 2016 | |||||||||
Net sales | $ | 1,026.1 | $ | 939.6 | $ | 877.8 | 9.2 | % | 7.0 | % | ||||
Segment income | 277.6 | 254.1 | 217.4 | 9.2 | % | 16.9 | % | |||||||
% of net sales | 27.1 | % | 27.0 | % | 24.8 | % | 0.1 | pts | 2.2 | pts | ||||
Net sales
The components of the change in Aquatic Systems net sales were as follows:
2018 vs 2017 | 2017 vs 2016 | ||||
Volume | 8.2 | % | 5.2 | % | |
Price | 2.3 | 1.4 | |||
Core growth | 10.5 | 6.6 | |||
Acquisition (divestiture) | (1.2 | ) | 0.1 | ||
Currency | (0.1 | ) | 0.3 | ||
Total | 9.2 | % | 7.0 | % | |
The 9.2 percent increase in net sales for Aquatic Systems in 2018 from 2017 was primarily the result of:
• | core sales growth related to higher sales of certain pool products primarily serving North American residential housing; and |
• | selective increases in selling prices to mitigate inflationary cost increases. |
This increase was partially offset by:
• | sales declines due to the divestiture of certain businesses in 2018. |
The 7.0 percent increase in net sales for Aquatic Systems in 2017 from 2016 was primarily the result of:
• | core sales increases in the residential & commercial business primarily in the U.S.; |
• | selective increases in selling prices to mitigate inflationary cost increases; and |
• | favorable foreign currency effects. |
Segment income
The components of the change in Aquatic Systems segment income from the prior period were as follows:
2018 | 2017 | |||
Growth | 1.4 | pts | 0.8 | pts |
Acquisition | 0.4 | 0.4 | ||
Inflation | (2.9 | ) | (1.1 | ) |
Productivity/Price | 1.2 | 2.1 | ||
Total | 0.1 | pts | 2.2 | pts |
The 0.1 point increase in segment income for Aquatic Systems as a percentage of net sales in 2018 from 2017 was primarily the result of:
• | core sales growth contributions to income; |
• | selective increases in selling prices to mitigate inflationary cost increases; and |
• | cost savings generated from PIMS initiatives including lean and supply management practices. |
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This increase was partially offset by:
• | inflationary increases related to raw material and labor costs. |
The 2.2 point increase in segment income for Aquatic Systems as a percentage of net sales in 2017 from 2016 was primarily the result of:
• | price increases to mitigate inflationary cost increases; and |
• | cost savings generated from PIMS initiatives including lean and supply management practices. |
This increase was partially offset by:
• | inflationary increases related to raw materials and labor costs. |
Filtration Solutions
The net sales and segment income for Filtration Solutions were as follows:
Years ended December 31 | % / point change | |||||||||||||
In millions | 2018 | 2017 | 2016 | 2018 vs 2017 | 2017 vs 2016 | |||||||||
Net sales | $ | 1,001.0 | $ | 990.6 | $ | 976.3 | 1.0 | % | 1.5 | % | ||||
Segment income | 168.5 | 154.5 | 138.4 | 9.1 | % | 11.6 | % | |||||||
% of net sales | 16.8 | % | 15.6 | % | 14.2 | % | 1.2 | pts | 1.4 | pts | ||||
Net sales
The components of the change in Filtration Solutions net sales were as follows:
2018 vs 2017 | 2017 vs 2016 | ||||
Volume | 0.3 | % | (2.8 | )% | |
Price | 0.5 | 0.4 | |||
Core growth | 0.8 | (2.4 | ) | ||
Acquisition (divestiture) | (0.9 | ) | 2.9 | ||
Currency | 1.1 | 1.0 | |||
Total | 1.0 | % | 1.5 | % | |
The 1.0 percent increase in net sales for Filtration Solutions in 2018 from 2017 was primarily the result of:
• | increased sales volume in our commercial and industrial businesses; |
• | selective increases in selling prices to mitigate inflationary cost increases; and |
• | favorable foreign currency effects. |
This increase was partially offset by:
• | sales volume declines in our residential vertical; and |
• | sales declines due to the divestiture of certain businesses in 2018. |
The 1.5 percent increase in net sales for Filtration Solutions in 2017 from 2016 was primarily the result of:
• | increased sales related to a business acquisition that occurred in the first quarter of 2017; |
• | selective increases in selling prices to mitigate inflationary cost increases; |
• | sales increases in the U.S., China and Southeast Asia; and |
• | favorable foreign currency effects. |
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This increase was partially offset by:
• | sales volume declines. |
Segment income
The components of the change in Filtration Solutions segment income from the prior period were as follows:
2018 | 2017 | |||
Growth | 1.7 | pts | (0.8 | ) pts |
Acquisition | 0.1 | (0.1 | ) | |
Inflation | (2.5 | ) | (1.6 | ) |
Productivity/Price | 1.9 | 3.9 | ||
Total | 1.2 | pts | 1.4 | pts |
The 1.2 point increase in segment income for Filtration Solutions as a percentage of net sales in 2018 from 2017 was primarily the result of:
• | core growth contributions to income resulting in favorable mix; |
• | selective increases in selling prices to mitigate inflationary cost increases; and |
• | cost savings generated from PIMS initiatives including lean and supply management practices. |
This increase was partially offset by:
• | inflationary increases related to raw material and labor costs. |
The 1.4 point increase in segment income for Filtration Solutions as a percentage of net sales in 2017 from 2016 was primarily the result of:
• | selective increases in selling prices to mitigate inflation cost increases; and |
• | cost savings generated from back-office consolidation, reduction in personnel and other lean initiatives. |
This increase was partially offset by:
• | inflationary increases related to raw material and labor costs; and |
• | unfavorable mix due to volume declines year over year. |
Flow Technologies
The net sales and segment income for Flow Technologies were as follows:
Years ended December 31 | % / point change | |||||||||||||
In millions | 2018 | 2017 | 2016 | 2018 vs 2017 | 2017 vs 2016 | |||||||||
Net sales | $ | 936.7 | $ | 914.2 | $ | 923.5 | 2.5 | % | (1.0 | )% | ||||
Segment income | 145.6 | 140.6 | 141.6 | 3.6 | % | (0.7 | )% | |||||||
% of net sales | 15.5 | % | 15.4 | % | 15.3 | % | 0.1 | pts | 0.1 | pts | ||||
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Net sales
The components of the change in Flow Technologies net sales were as follows:
2018 vs 2017 | 2017 vs 2016 | ||||
Volume | 2.3 | % | (2.0 | )% | |
Price | 0.9 | 0.5 | |||
Core growth | 3.2 | (1.5 | ) | ||
Acquisition (divestiture) | (1.3 | ) | — | ||
Currency | 0.6 | 0.5 | |||
Total | 2.5 | % | (1.0 | )% | |
The 2.5 percent increase in Flow Technologies sales in 2018 from 2017 was primarily the result of:
• | core growth in our commercial and specialty businesses; |
• | selective increases in selling prices to mitigate inflationary cost increases; and |
• | favorable foreign currency effects during 2018; |
This increase was partially offset by:
• | sales declines due to the divestiture of certain businesses. |
The 1.0 percent decrease in Flow Technologies sales in 2017 from 2016 was primarily the result of:
• | volume declines in our commercial business; and |
• | large job adjustments to net sales of $9.7 million in 2017. |
This decrease was partially offset by:
• | selective increases in selling prices to mitigate inflationary cost increases; and |
• | favorable foreign currency effects. |
Segment income
The components of the change in Flow Technologies segment income from the prior period were as follows:
2018 | 2017 | |||
Growth | 0.8 | pts | (1.1 | ) pts |
Acquisition (divestiture) | (0.1 | ) | — | |
Inflation | (2.7 | ) | (0.9 | ) |
Productivity/Price | 2.1 | 2.1 | ||
Total | 0.1 | pts | 0.1 | pts |
The 0.1 point increase in segment income for Flow Technologies as a percentage of net sales in 2018 from 2017 was primarily the result of:
• | higher core sales in our commercial and specialty businesses, which resulted in increased leverage on fixed operating expenses; |
• | selective increases in selling prices to mitigate inflationary cost increases; and |
• | cost control and savings generated from lean initiatives. |
This increase was partially offset by:
• | inflationary increases related to raw material and labor costs. |
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The 0.1 point increase in segment income for Flow Technologies as a percentage of sales in 2017 from 2016 was primarily the result of:
• | selective increases in selling prices to mitigate inflationary cost increases; and |
• | cost control and savings generated from back-office consolidation, reduction in personnel and other lean initiatives. |
This increase was partially offset by:
• | sales volume declines from our commercial business; and |
• | inflationary increases related to raw materials and labor costs. |
LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES
We generally fund cash requirements for working capital, capital expenditures, equity investments, acquisitions, debt repayments, dividend payments and share repurchases from cash generated from operations, availability under existing committed revolving credit facilities and in certain instances, public and private debt and equity offerings. Our primary revolving credit facilities have generally been adequate for these purposes, although we have negotiated additional credit facilities or completed debt and equity offerings as needed to allow us to complete acquisitions. We generally issue commercial paper to fund our financing needs on a short-term basis and use our revolving credit facility as back-up liquidity to support commercial paper.
We are focusing on increasing our cash flow and repaying existing debt, while continuing to fund our research and development, marketing and capital investment initiatives. Our intent is to maintain investment grade credit ratings and a solid liquidity position.
We experience seasonal cash flows primarily due to seasonal demand in a number of markets. We generally borrow in the first quarter of our fiscal year for operational purposes, which usage reverses in the second quarter as the seasonality of our businesses peaks. End-user demand for pool and certain pumping equipment follows warm weather trends and is at seasonal highs from April to August. The magnitude of the sales spike is partially mitigated by employing some advance sale “early buy” programs (generally including extended payment terms and/or additional discounts). Demand for residential and agricultural water systems is also impacted by weather patterns, particularly by heavy flooding and droughts.
Operating activities
Cash provided by operating activities of continuing operations was $458.1 million in 2018, compared to $278.6 million in 2017 and $379.9 million in 2016.
The $458.1 million in net cash provided by operating activities of continuing operations in 2018 primarily reflects net income from continuing operations of $423.4 million, net of non-cash depreciation and amortization and the loss on early extinguishment of debt, further increased by a positive impact of $30.2 million as a result of changes in net working capital.
The $278.6 million in net cash provided by operating activities of continuing operations in 2017 primarily reflects net income from continuing operations of $302.7 million, net of non-cash depreciation and amortization and the loss on early extinguishment of debt, partially offset by a negative impact of $87.3 million as a result of changes in net working capital.
The $379.9 million in net cash provided by operating activities of continuing operations in 2016 primarily reflects net income from continuing operations of $266.6 million, net of non-cash depreciation and amortization and a positive impact of $192.4 million as a result of changes in net working capital.
Investing activities
Cash used for investing activities of continuing operations was $61.7 million in 2018, compared to $2,678.1 million of cash provided by investing activities of continuing operation in 2017 and $54.6 million of cash used for investing activities of continuing operations in 2016.
Net cash used for investing activities of continuing operations in 2018 primarily reflects capital expenditures of $48.2 million and cash paid for the settlement of a working capital adjustment related to the sale of the Valves & Controls business.
Net cash provided by investing activities of continuing operations in 2017 primarily reflects the sale of the Valves & Controls business, partially offset by capital expenditures of $39.1 million and cash paid of $45.9 million to acquire a business as part of Filtration Solutions.
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Net cash used for investing activities of continuing operations in 2016 primarily reflects capital expenditures of $43.3 million and cash paid of $25.0 million to acquire a business as part of Aquatic Systems.
Financing activities
Cash used for financing activities was $407.9 million in 2018, compared to $3,432.6 million and $600.1 million in 2017 and 2016, respectively.
As described below, in 2018, we utilized $993.6 million of cash distributed from the Separation to repay commercial paper and revolving long-term debt and for the early extinguishment of certain series of fixed rate debt. Additionally, we repurchased $500.0 million of shares and made dividend payments of $187.2 million during 2018.
In 2017, net cash used for financing activities primarily relates to the utilization of proceeds from the sale of the Valves & Controls business to repay our commercial paper and revolving long-term debt and for the early extinguishment of certain series of fixed rate debt. Additionally, we repurchased $200.0 million of shares and made dividend payments of $251.7 million during 2017.
In 2016, net cash used for financing activities was primarily due to net repayments of commercial paper and revolving long-term debt and payments of dividends of $243.6 million.
On April 25, 2018, Pentair, Pentair Investments Switzerland GmbH (“PISG”), Pentair Finance S.à r.l. (“PFSA”) and Pentair, Inc. entered into a credit agreement, providing for a five-year $800.0 million senior unsecured revolving credit facility (the “Senior Credit Facility”), with Pentair and PISG as guarantors and PFSA and Pentair, Inc. as borrowers. The Senior Credit Facility replaced PFSA’s existing credit facility under that certain Amended and Restated Credit Agreement, dated as of October 3, 2014. PFSA has the option to request to increase the Senior Credit Facility in an aggregate amount of up to $300.0 million, subject to customary conditions, including the commitment of the participating lenders. The Senior Credit Facility has a maturity date of April 25, 2023. Borrowings under the Senior Credit Facility bear interest at a rate equal to an adjusted base rate or the London Interbank Offered Rate, plus, in each case, an applicable margin. The applicable margin is based on, at PFSA’s election, Pentair’s leverage level or PFSA’s public credit rating.
PFSA is authorized to sell short-term commercial paper notes to the extent availability exists under the Senior Credit Facility. PFSA uses the Senior Credit Facility as back-up liquidity to support 100% of commercial paper outstanding. PFSA had $76.0 million of commercial paper outstanding as of December 31, 2018 and $34.0 million as of December 31, 2017, all of which was classified as long-term debt as we have the intent and the ability to refinance such obligations on a long-term basis under the Senior Credit Facility.
Our debt agreements contain various financial covenants, but the most restrictive covenants are contained in the Senior Credit Facility. The Senior Credit Facility contains covenants requiring us not to permit (i) the ratio of our consolidated debt (net of its consolidated unrestricted cash in excess of $5.0 million but not to exceed $250.0 million) to our consolidated net income (excluding, among other things, non-cash gains and losses) before interest, taxes, depreciation, amortization and non-cash share-based compensation expense (“EBITDA”) on the last day of any period of four consecutive fiscal quarters to exceed 3.75 to 1.00 (the “Leverage Ratio”) and (ii) the ratio of our EBITDA to our consolidated interest expense, for the same period to be less than 3.00 to 1.00 as of the end of each fiscal quarter. For purposes of the Leverage Ratio, the Senior Credit Facility provides for the calculation of EBITDA giving pro forma effect to certain acquisitions, divestitures and liquidations during the period to which such calculation relates. As of December 31, 2018, we were in compliance with all financial covenants in our debt agreements.
Total availability under the Senior Credit Facility was $697.8 million as of December 31, 2018.
In addition to the Senior Credit Facility, we have various other credit facilities with an aggregate availability of $21.1 million, of which there were no outstanding borrowings at December 31, 2018. Borrowings under these credit facilities bear interest at variable rates.
In June 2018, we used the $993.6 million of cash received from nVent as a result of the Distribution to pay down commercial paper and revolving credit facilities, redeem the remaining $255.3 million aggregate principal of our 2.9% fixed rate senior notes due 2018, and complete a cash tender offer in the amount of €363.4 million aggregate principal of our 2.45% senior notes due 2019. All costs associated with the repurchases of debt were recorded as a Loss on early extinguishment of debt in the Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income, including $16.0 million premium paid on early extinguishment and $1.1 million of unamortized deferred financing costs.
As of December 31, 2018, we had $48.8 million of cash held in certain countries in which the ability to repatriate is limited due to local regulations or significant potential tax consequences.
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We expect to continue to have cash requirements to support working capital needs and capital expenditures, to pay interest and service debt and to pay dividends to shareholders quarterly. We believe we have the ability and sufficient capacity to meet these cash requirements by using available cash and internally generated funds and to borrow under our committed and uncommitted credit facilities.
Authorized shares
Our authorized share capital consists of 426.0 million ordinary shares with a par value of $0.01 per share.
Share repurchases
In December 2014, the Board of Directors authorized the repurchase of our ordinary shares up to a maximum dollar limit of $1.0 billion (the “2014 Authorization”). On May 8, 2018, the Board of Directors authorized the repurchase of our ordinary
shares up to a maximum dollar limit of $750.0 million (the “2018 Authorization”), replacing the 2014 Authorization. The 2018
Authorization expires on May 31, 2021.
During the year ended December 31, 2017, we repurchased 3.0 million of our ordinary shares for $200.0 million under the 2014 Authorization.
During the year ended December 31, 2018, we repurchased 10.2 million of our shares for $500.0 million, of which 2.2 million shares, or $150.0 million, and 8.0 million shares, or $350.0 million, were repurchased pursuant to the 2014 and 2018 Authorizations, respectively.
As of December 31, 2018, we had $400.0 million available for share repurchases under the 2018 Authorization.
Dividends
On December 10, 2018, the Board of Directors declared a quarterly cash dividend of $0.18 that was paid on February 8, 2019 to shareholders of record at the close of business on January 25, 2019. Additionally, the Board of Directors approved a plan to increase the 2019 annual cash dividend to $0.72 from $0.70, adjusted for the Separation. The 2019 dividend is intended to be paid in four quarterly installments. As a result, the balance of dividends payable included in Other current liabilities on our Consolidated Balance Sheets was $30.8 million at December 31, 2018. Dividends paid per ordinary share were $1.05, $1.38 and $1.34 for the years ended December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016, respectively.
Under Irish law, the payment of future cash dividends and repurchases of shares may be paid only out of Pentair plc’s “distributable reserves” on its statutory balance sheet. Pentair plc is not permitted to pay dividends out of share capital, which includes share premiums. Distributable reserves may be created through the earnings of the Irish parent company and through a reduction in share capital approved by the Irish High Court. Distributable reserves are not linked to a GAAP reported amount (e.g., retained earnings). Our distributable reserve balance was $6.5 billion and $9.0 billion as of December 31, 2018 and 2017, respectively.
Contractual obligations
The following summarizes our significant contractual obligations that impact our liquidity:
Years ended December 31 | |||||||||||||||||||||
In millions | 2019 | 2020 | 2021 | 2022 | 2023 | Thereafter | Total | ||||||||||||||
Debt obligations | $ | 405.1 | $ | 74.0 | $ | 103.8 | $ | 88.3 | $ | 102.1 | $ | 19.4 | $ | 792.7 | |||||||
Interest obligations on fixed-rate debt | 21.9 | 11.5 | 6.3 | 3.7 | 0.9 | 1.8 | 46.1 | ||||||||||||||
Operating lease obligations, net of sublease rentals | 22.5 | 17.0 | 12.7 | 10.5 | 8.9 | 13.2 | 84.8 | ||||||||||||||
Purchase and marketing obligations | 20.6 | 4.6 | 3.0 | 3.2 | 2.4 | 4.8 | 38.6 | ||||||||||||||
Pension and other post-retirement plan contributions | 31.6 | 8.8 | 8.7 | 8.7 | 8.2 | 41.6 | 107.6 | ||||||||||||||
Total contractual obligations, net | $ | 501.7 | $ | 115.9 | $ | 134.5 | $ | 114.4 | $ | 122.5 | $ | 80.8 | $ | 1,069.8 | |||||||
The majority of the purchase obligations represent commitments for raw materials to be utilized in the normal course of business. For purposes of the above table, arrangements are considered purchase obligations if a contract specifies all significant terms, including fixed or minimum quantities to be purchased, a pricing structure and approximate timing of the transaction.
In addition to the summary of significant contractual obligations, we will incur annual interest expense on outstanding variable rate debt. As of December 31, 2018, variable interest rate debt was $102.2 million at a weighted average interest rate of 3.36%.
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The total gross liability for uncertain tax positions at December 31, 2018 was estimated to be $51.4 million. We record penalties and interest related to unrecognized tax benefits in Provision for income taxes and Interest expense, respectively, which is consistent with our past practices. As of December 31, 2018, we had recorded $0.5 million for the possible payment of penalties and $3.6 million related to the possible payment of interest.
Other financial measures
In addition to measuring our cash flow generation or usage based upon operating, investing and financing classifications included in the Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows, we also measure our free cash flow. We have a long-term goal to consistently generate free cash flow that equals or exceeds 100 percent conversion of adjusted net income. Free cash flow is a non-GAAP financial measure that we use to assess our cash flow performance. We believe free cash flow is an important measure of liquidity because it provides us and our investors a measurement of cash generated from operations that is available to pay dividends, make acquisitions, repay debt and repurchase shares. In addition, free cash flow is used as a criterion to measure and pay compensation-based incentives. Our measure of free cash flow may not be comparable to similarly titled measures reported by other companies.
The following table is a reconciliation of free cash flow:
Years ended December 31 | |||||||||
In millions | 2018 | 2017 | 2016 | ||||||
Net cash provided by operating activities of continuing operations | $ | 458.1 | $ | 278.6 | $ | 379.9 | |||
Capital expenditures of continuing operations | (48.2 | ) | (39.1 | ) | (43.3 | ) | |||
Proceeds from sale of property and equipment of continuing operations | 0.2 | 3.7 | 18.8 | ||||||
Free cash flow from continuing operations | $ | 410.1 | $ | 243.2 | $ | 355.4 | |||
Net cash provided by (used for) operating activities of discontinued operations | (19.0 | ) | 341.6 | 481.5 | |||||
Capital expenditures of discontinued operations | (7.4 | ) | (38.6 | ) | (94.9 | ) | |||
Proceeds from sale of property and equipment of discontinued operations | 2.3 | 4.5 | 27.8 | ||||||
Free cash flow | $ | 386.0 | $ | 550.7 | $ | 769.8 | |||
Off-balance sheet arrangements
At December 31, 2018, we had no off-balance sheet financing arrangements.
COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES
We have been, and in the future may be, made parties to a number of actions filed or have been, and in the future may be, given notice of potential claims relating to the conduct of our business, including those relating to commercial or contractual disputes with suppliers, customers or parties to acquisitions and divestitures, intellectual property matters, environmental, safety and health matters, product liability, the use or installation of our products, consumer matters, and employment and labor matters.
While we believe that a material impact on our consolidated financial position, results of operations or cash flows from any such future claims or potential claims is unlikely, given the inherent uncertainty of litigation, a remote possibility exists that a future adverse ruling or unfavorable development could result in future charges that could have a material impact. We do and will continue to periodically reexamine our estimates of probable liabilities and any associated expenses and receivables and make appropriate adjustments to such estimates based on experience and developments in litigation. As a result, the current estimates of the potential impact on our consolidated financial position, results of operations and cash flows for the proceedings and claims described in ITEM 8, Note 15 of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements could change in the future.
Product liability claims
We are subject to various product liability lawsuits and personal injury claims. A substantial number of these lawsuits and claims are insured and accrued for by Penwald, our captive insurance subsidiary. See discussion in ITEM 1 and ITEM 8, Note 1 of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements — Insurance subsidiary. Penwald records a liability for these claims based on actuarial projections of ultimate losses. For all other claims, accruals covering the claims are recorded, on an undiscounted basis, when it is probable that a liability has been incurred and the amount of the liability can be reasonably estimated based on existing information. The accruals are adjusted periodically as additional information becomes available. We have not experienced significant unfavorable trends in either the severity or frequency of product liability lawsuits or personal injury claims.
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Stand-by letters of credit, bank guarantees and bonds
In certain situations, Tyco International Ltd., Pentair Ltd.’s former parent company (“Tyco”), guaranteed performance by the flow control business of Pentair Ltd. (“Flow Control”) to third parties or provided financial guarantees for financial commitments of Flow Control. In situations where Flow Control and Tyco were unable to obtain a release from these guarantees in connection with the spin-off of Flow Control from Tyco, we will indemnify Tyco for any losses it suffers as a result of such guarantees.
In disposing of assets or businesses, we often provide representations, warranties and indemnities to cover various risks including unknown damage to the assets, environmental risks involved in the sale of real estate, liability to investigate and remediate environmental contamination at waste disposal sites and manufacturing facilities and unidentified tax liabilities and legal fees related to periods prior to disposition. We do not have the ability to reasonably estimate the potential liability due to the inchoate and unknown nature of these potential liabilities. However, we have no reason to believe that these uncertainties would have a material adverse effect on our financial position, results of operations or cash flows.
In the ordinary course of business, we are required to commit to bonds, letters of credit and bank guarantees that require payments to our customers for any non-performance. The outstanding face value of these instruments fluctuates with the value of our projects in process and in our backlog. In addition, we issue financial stand-by letters of credit primarily to secure our performance to third parties under self-insurance programs.
As of December 31, 2018 and 2017, the outstanding value of bonds, letters of credit and bank guarantees totaled $123.6 million and $129.2 million, respectively.
NEW ACCOUNTING STANDARDS
See ITEM 8, Note 1 of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements, included in this Form 10-K, for information pertaining to recently adopted accounting standards or accounting standards to be adopted in the future.
CRITICAL ACCOUNTING POLICIES
We have adopted various accounting policies to prepare the consolidated financial statements in accordance with GAAP. Our significant accounting policies are more fully described in ITEM 8, Note 1 of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements. Certain accounting policies require the application of significant judgment by management in selecting the appropriate assumptions for calculating financial estimates. By their nature, these judgments are subject to an inherent degree of uncertainty. These judgments are based on our historical experience, terms of existing contracts, our observance of trends in the industry and information available from other outside sources, as appropriate. We consider an accounting estimate to be critical if:
• | it requires us to make assumptions about matters that were uncertain at the time we were making the estimate; and |
• | changes in the estimate or different estimates that we could have selected would have had a material impact on our financial condition or results of operations. |
Our critical accounting estimates include the following:
Impairment of goodwill and indefinite-lived intangibles
Goodwill
Goodwill represents the excess of the cost of acquired businesses over the net of the fair value of identifiable tangible net assets and identifiable intangible assets purchased and liabilities assumed.
Goodwill is tested at least annually for impairment and is tested for impairment more frequently if events or changes in circumstances indicate that the asset might be impaired. We complete our annual goodwill impairment evaluation as of the first day of the fourth quarter. We last performed a two-step assessment of goodwill impairment as of October 1, 2017, referred to as a “step 1” approach. In the first step of the step 1 approach, the fair value of each reporting unit is compared with the carrying amount of the reporting unit, including goodwill. If the estimated fair value is less than the carrying amount of the reporting unit there is an indication that goodwill impairment exists and a second step must be completed in order to determine the amount of the goodwill impairment, if any, that should be recorded. In the second step of the step 1 approach, an impairment loss is recognized for any excess of the carrying amount of the reporting unit’s goodwill over the implied fair value of that goodwill. The implied fair value of goodwill is determined by allocating the fair value of the reporting unit in a manner similar to a purchase price allocation.
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The fair value of each reporting unit is determined using a discounted cash flow analysis and market approach. Projecting discounted future cash flows requires us to make significant estimates regarding future revenues and expenses, projected capital expenditures, changes in working capital and the appropriate discount rate. Use of the market approach consists of comparisons to comparable publicly-traded companies that are similar in size and industry. Actual results may differ from those used in our valuations. In developing our discounted cash flow analysis, assumptions about future revenues and expenses, capital expenditures and changes in working capital, are based on our annual operating plan and long-term business plan for each of our reporting units. These plans take into consideration numerous factors including historical experience, anticipated future economic conditions, changes in raw material prices and growth expectations for the industries and end markets we participate in. These assumptions are determined over a six year long-term planning period. The six year growth rates for revenues and operating profits vary for each reporting unit being evaluated.
Discount rate assumptions for each reporting unit take into consideration our assessment of risks inherent in the future cash flows of the respective reporting unit and our weighted-average cost of capital.
In estimating fair value using the market approach, we identify a group of comparable publicly-traded companies for each reporting unit that are similar in terms of size and product offering. These groups of comparable companies are used to develop multiples based on total market-based invested capital as a multiple of EBITDA. We determine our estimated values by applying these comparable EBITDA multiples to the operating results of our reporting units. The ultimate fair value of each reporting unit is determined considering the results of both valuation methods.
As of October 1, 2018, we performed a qualitative assessment, referred to as a “step 0” approach, and determined that it was more likely than not that the fair value of the reporting units exceeded their respective carrying amounts. As a result, the Company is not required to proceed to a “step 1” impairment assessment. Factors considered included the 2017 “step 1” analysis and the calculated excess fair value over carrying amount, financial performance, forecasts and trends, market capitalization, regulatory and environmental issues, macro-economic conditions, industry and market considerations, raw material and labor costs and management stability. We consider the extent to which each of the adverse events and circumstances identified affect the comparison of the respective reporting unit’s fair value with its carrying amount. We place more weight on the events and circumstances that most affect the respective reporting unit’s fair value or the carrying amount of its net assets. We consider positive and mitigating events and circumstances that may affect its determination of whether it is more likely than not that the fair value exceeds the carrying amount.
We completed our annual goodwill impairment evaluation as of the first day of the fourth quarter of 2018, 2017 and 2016 with no indications of impairment.
Identifiable intangible assets
Our primary identifiable intangible assets include: customer relationships, trade names, proprietary technology and patents. Identifiable intangibles with finite lives are amortized and those identifiable intangibles with indefinite lives are not amortized. Identifiable intangible assets that are subject to amortization are evaluated for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount may not be recoverable. Identifiable intangible assets not subject to amortization are tested for impairment annually or more frequently if events warrant. We complete our annual impairment test during the fourth quarter each year for those identifiable assets not subject to amortization.
The impairment test for trade names consists of a comparison of the fair value of the trade name with its carrying value. Fair value is measured using the relief-from-royalty method. This method assumes the trade name has value to the extent that the owner is relieved of the obligation to pay royalties for the benefits received from them. This method requires us to estimate the future revenue for the related brands, the appropriate royalty rate and the weighted average cost of capital. The non-recurring fair value measurement is a “Level 3” measurement under the fair value hierarchy.
There were no impairment charges recorded in 2018 for identifiable intangible assets.
An impairment charge of $8.8 million was recorded in 2017 related to certain trade names in Filtration Solutions and Flow Technologies as a result of lower forecasted sales volume or rebranding strategies implemented in the fourth quarter of 2017. The trade name impairment charges were recorded in Selling, general and administrative in our Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income.
There were no impairment charges recorded in 2016 for identifiable intangible assets.
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Pension and other post-retirement plans
We sponsor U.S. and non-U.S. defined-benefit pension and other post-retirement plans. The amounts recognized in our consolidated financial statements related to our defined-benefit pension and other post-retirement plans are determined from actuarial valuations. Inherent in these valuations are assumptions, including: expected return on plan assets, discount rates, rate of increase in future compensation levels and health care cost trend rates. These assumptions are updated annually and are disclosed in ITEM 8, Note 11 to the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements. Differences in actual experience or changes in assumptions may affect our pension and other post-retirement obligations and future expense.
We recognize changes in the fair value of plan assets and net actuarial gains or losses for pension and other post-retirement benefits annually in the fourth quarter each year (“mark-to-market adjustment”) and, if applicable, in any quarter in which an interim remeasurement is triggered. Net actuarial gains and losses occur when the actual experience differs from any of the various assumptions used to value our pension and other post-retirement plans or when assumptions change as they may each year. The primary factors contributing to actuarial gains and losses each year are (1) changes in the discount rate used to value pension and other post-retirement benefit obligations as of the measurement date and (2) differences between the expected and the actual return on plan assets. This accounting method also results in the potential for volatile and difficult to forecast mark-to-market adjustments. Mark-to-market adjustments resulted in pre-tax charges of $3.6 million and $8.5 million in 2018 and 2017, respectively, and pre-tax income of $12.0 million in 2016. The remaining components of pension expense, including service and interest costs and the expected return on plan assets, are recorded on a quarterly basis as ongoing pension expense.
Discount rates
The discount rate reflects the current rate at which the pension liabilities could be effectively settled at the end of the year based on our December 31 measurement date. The discount rate was determined by matching our expected benefit payments to payments from a stream of bonds rated AA or higher available in the marketplace, adjusted to eliminate the effects of call provisions. There are no known or anticipated changes in our discount rate assumptions that will impact our pension expense in 2019.
Expected rate of return
The expected rate of return is designed to be a long-term assumption that may be subject to considerable year-to-year variance from actual returns. In developing the expected long-term rate of return, we considered our historical returns, with consideration given to forecasted economic conditions, our asset allocations, input from external consultants and broader long-term market indices.
Loss contingencies
Accruals are recorded for various contingencies including legal proceedings, self-insurance and other claims that arise in the normal course of business. The accruals are based on judgment, the probability of losses and, where applicable, the consideration of opinions of internal and/or external legal counsel and actuarially determined estimates. Additionally, we record receivables from third party insurers when recovery has been determined to be probable.
Income taxes
In determining taxable income for financial statement purposes, we must make certain estimates and judgments. These estimates and judgments affect the calculation of certain tax liabilities and the determination of the recoverability of certain of the deferred tax assets, which arise from temporary differences between the tax and financial statement recognition of revenue and expense. In evaluating our ability to recover our deferred tax assets we consider all available positive and negative evidence including our past operating results, the existence of cumulative losses in the most recent years and our forecast of future taxable income. In estimating future taxable income, we develop assumptions including the amount of future pre-tax operating income, the reversal of temporary differences and the implementation of feasible and prudent tax planning strategies. These assumptions require significant judgment about the forecasts of future taxable income and are consistent with the plans and estimates we are using to manage the underlying businesses.
We currently have recorded valuation allowances that we will maintain until when, in the opinion of management, it is more likely than not that some portion or all of the deferred tax assets will be realized. Our income tax expense recorded in the future may be reduced to the extent of decreases in our valuation allowances. The realization of our remaining deferred tax assets is primarily dependent on future taxable income in the appropriate jurisdiction. Any reduction in future taxable income including but not limited to any future restructuring activities may require that we record an additional valuation allowance against our deferred tax assets. An increase in the valuation allowance could result in additional income tax expense in such period and could have a significant impact on our future earnings.
Changes in tax laws and rates could also affect recorded deferred tax assets and liabilities in the future. Management records the effect of a tax rate or law change on the Company’s deferred tax assets and liabilities in the period of enactment. Future tax rate or law changes could have a material effect on the Company’s financial condition, results of operations or cash flows.
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In addition, the calculation of our tax liabilities involves dealing with uncertainties in the application of complex tax regulations in a multitude of jurisdictions across our global operations. We perform reviews of our income tax positions on a quarterly basis and accrue for uncertain tax positions. We recognize potential liabilities and record tax liabilities for anticipated tax audit issues in the tax jurisdictions in which we operate based on our estimate of whether, and the extent to which, additional taxes will be due. These tax liabilities are reflected net of related tax loss carryforwards. As events change or resolution occurs, these liabilities are adjusted, such as in the case of audit settlements with taxing authorities. The ultimate resolution may result in a payment that is materially different from our current estimate of the tax liabilities. If our estimate of tax liabilities proves to be less than the ultimate assessment, an additional charge to expense would result. If payment of these amounts ultimately proves to be less than the recorded amounts, the reversal of the liabilities would result in tax benefits being recognized in the period when we determine the liabilities are no longer necessary.
ITEM 7A. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK
Market risk is the potential economic loss that may result from adverse changes in the fair value of financial instruments. We are exposed to various market risks, including changes in interest rates and foreign currency rates. Periodically, we use derivative financial instruments to manage or reduce the impact of changes in interest rates and foreign currency rates. Counterparties to all derivative contracts are major financial institutions. All instruments are entered into for other than trading purposes. The major accounting policies and utilization of these instruments is described more fully in ITEM 8, Note 1 of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.
Interest rate risk
Our debt portfolio as of December 31, 2018, was comprised of debt predominantly denominated in U.S. dollars. This debt portfolio is comprised of 88% fixed-rate debt and 12% variable-rate debt. Changes in interest rates have different impacts on the fixed and variable-rate portions of our debt portfolio. A change in interest rates on the fixed portion of the debt portfolio impacts the fair value, but has no impact on interest incurred or cash flows. A change in interest rates on the variable portion of the debt portfolio impacts the interest incurred and cash flows but does not impact the net financial instrument position.
Based on the fixed-rate debt included in our debt portfolio, as of December 31, 2018, a 100 basis point increase or decrease in interest rates would result in an $11.6 million decrease or a $12.0 million increase in fair value, respectively.
Based on the variable-rate debt included in our debt portfolio as of December 31, 2018, a 100 basis point increase or decrease in interest rates would result in a $1.0 million increase or decrease in interest incurred.
Foreign currency risk
We conduct business in various locations throughout the world and are subject to market risk due to changes in the value of foreign currencies in relation to our reporting currency, the U.S. dollar. Periodically, we use derivative financial instruments to manage these risks. The functional currencies of our foreign operating locations are generally the local currency in the country of domicile. We manage these operating activities at the local level and revenues, costs, assets and liabilities are generally denominated in local currencies, thereby mitigating the risk associated with changes in foreign exchange. However, our results of operations and assets and liabilities are reported in U.S. dollars and thus will fluctuate with changes in exchange rates between such local currencies and the U.S. dollar.
From time to time, we may enter into short duration foreign currency contracts to hedge foreign currency risks. As the majority of our foreign currency contracts have an original maturity date of less than one year, there is no material foreign currency risk. At December 31, 2018 and 2017, we had outstanding foreign currency derivative contracts with gross notional U.S. dollar equivalent amounts of $331.4 million and $481.4 million, respectively. Changes in the fair value of all derivatives are recognized immediately in income unless the derivative qualifies as a hedge of future cash flows. Gains and losses related to a hedge are deferred and recorded in the Consolidated Balance Sheets as a component of Accumulated other comprehensive loss and subsequently recognized in the Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income when the hedged item affects earnings.
At December 31, 2018, we had €136.6 million 2.45% Senior Notes due 2019 (the “2019 Euro Notes”) designated as a net investment hedge of our investments in certain international subsidiaries that use the Euro as their functional currency. The hedge is intended to reduce, but will not eliminate, the impact on our financial results of changes in the exchange rate between the Euro and the U.S. dollar. The currency risk related to the net investment hedge is measured by estimating the potential impact of a 10% change in the value of the U.S. dollar relative to the Euro. The rates used to perform this analysis were based on the market exchange rates in effect on December 31, 2018. A 10% appreciation of the U.S. dollar relative to the Euro would result in a $14.1 million net increase in Accumulated other comprehensive loss. Conversely, a 10% depreciation of the U.S. dollar relative to the Euro would result in a $17.2 million net decrease in Accumulated other comprehensive loss. However,
36
these increases and decreases in Other comprehensive income would be offset by decreases or increases in the hedged net investments on our balance sheet due to currency translation.
37
ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA
MANAGEMENT’S REPORT ON INTERNAL CONTROL OVER FINANCIAL REPORTING
Management of Pentair plc and its subsidiaries (the “Company”) is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting, as such term is defined in Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. The Company’s internal control over financial reporting is designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. The Company’s internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that (1) pertain to maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of the assets of the Company; (2) provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of the financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles and that receipts and expenditures of the Company are being made only in accordance with authorizations of management and directors of the Company; and (3) provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use or disposition of the Company’s assets that could have a material effect on the financial statements.
Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements. Also, projections of any evaluation of the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting to future periods are subject to the risk that the controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.
Management assessed the effectiveness of the Company’s internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2018. In making this assessment, management used the criteria for effective internal control over financial reporting described in Internal Control-Integrated Framework (2013) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission. Based on this assessment, management believes that, as of December 31, 2018, the Company’s internal control over financial reporting was effective based on those criteria.
Our independent registered public accounting firm, Deloitte & Touche LLP, has issued an attestation report on the Company’s internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2018. That attestation report is set forth immediately following this management report.
John L. Stauch | Mark C. Borin | |
President and Chief Executive Officer | Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer | |
38
REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM
To the Board of Directors and Shareholders of
Pentair plc
London, United Kingdom
Opinion on Internal Control over Financial Reporting
We have audited the internal control over financial reporting of Pentair plc and subsidiaries (the “Company”) as of December 31, 2018, based on criteria established in Internal Control — Integrated Framework (2013) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). In our opinion, the Company maintained, in all material respects, effective internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2018, based on the criteria established in Internal Control - Integrated Framework (2013) issued by COSO.
We have also audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) (PCAOB), the consolidated financial statements and financial statement schedule listed in the Index at Item 15 as of and for the year ended December 31, 2018, of the Company and our report dated February 19, 2019 expressed an unqualified opinion on those financial statements and financial statement schedule.
Basis for Opinion
The Company’s management is responsible for maintaining effective internal control over financial reporting and for its assessment of the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting, included in the accompanying Management’s Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Company’s internal control over financial reporting based on our audit. We are a public accounting firm registered with the PCAOB and are required to be independent with respect to the Company in accordance with the U.S. federal securities laws and the applicable rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission and the PCAOB.
We conducted our audit in accordance with the standards of the PCAOB. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether effective internal control over financial reporting was maintained in all material respects. Our audit included obtaining an understanding of internal control over financial reporting, assessing the risk that a material weakness exists, testing and evaluating the design and operating effectiveness of internal control based on the assessed risk, and performing such other procedures as we considered necessary in the circumstances. We believe that our audit provides a reasonable basis for our opinion.
Definition and Limitations of Internal Control over Financial Reporting
A company’s internal control over financial reporting is a process designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. A company’s internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that (1) pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of the assets of the company; (2) provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, and that receipts and expenditures of the company are being made only in accordance with authorizations of management and directors of the company; and (3) provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use, or disposition of the company’s assets that could have a material effect on the financial statements.
Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements. Also, projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.
/s/ Deloitte & Touche LLP
Minneapolis, Minnesota
February 19, 2019
39
REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM
To the Board of Directors and Shareholders of
Pentair plc
London, United Kingdom
Opinion on the Financial Statements
We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of Pentair plc and subsidiaries (the “Company”) as of December 31, 2018 and 2017, the related Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income, Changes in Equity, and Cash Flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2018, the related notes, and the schedule listed in the Index at Item 15 (collectively referred to as the “financial statements”). In our opinion, the financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of the Company as of December 31, 2018 and 2017, and the results of its operations and its cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2018, in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.
We have also audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) (PCAOB), the Company’s internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2018, based on criteria established in Internal Control-Integrated Framework (2013) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission and our report dated February 19, 2019 expressed an unqualified opinion on the Company’s internal control over financial reporting.
Basis for Opinion
These financial statements are the responsibility of the Company’s management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the financial statements based on our audits. We are a public accounting firm registered with the PCAOB and are required to be independent with respect to the Company in accordance with the U.S. federal securities laws and the applicable rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission and the PCAOB.
We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the PCAOB. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement, whether due to error or fraud. Our audits included performing procedures to assess the risks of material misstatement of the financial statements, whether due to error or fraud, and performing procedures that respond to those risks. Such procedures included examining, on a test basis, evidence regarding the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. Our audits also included evaluating the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall presentation of the financial statements. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.
/s/ Deloitte & Touche LLP
Minneapolis, Minnesota
February 19, 2019
We have served as the Company’s auditor since 1977.
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Pentair plc and Subsidiaries
Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income
Years ended December 31 | |||||||||
In millions, except per-share data | 2018 | 2017 | 2016 | ||||||
Net sales | $ | 2,965.1 | $ | 2,845.7 | $ | 2,780.6 | |||
Cost of goods sold | 1,917.4 | 1,858.2 | 1,821.5 | ||||||
Gross profit | 1,047.7 | 987.5 | 959.1 | ||||||
Selling, general and administrative | 534.3 | 536.0 | 531.4 | ||||||
Research and development | 76.7 | 73.2 | 73.3 | ||||||
Operating income | 436.7 | 378.3 | 354.4 | ||||||
Other (income) expense | |||||||||
Loss on sale of businesses | 7.3 | 4.2 | 3.9 | ||||||
Loss on early extinguishment of debt | 17.1 | 101.4 | — | ||||||
Net interest expense | 32.6 | 87.3 | 140.1 | ||||||
Other (income) expense | (0.1 | ) | 12.6 | (10.5 | ) | ||||
Income from continuing operations before income taxes | 379.8 | 172.8 | 220.9 | ||||||
Provision for income taxes | 58.1 | 58.7 | 42.7 | ||||||
Net income from continuing operations | 321.7 | 114.1 | 178.2 | ||||||
Income from discontinued operations, net of tax | 25.7 | 371.3 | 343.4 | ||||||
Gain from sale / impairment of discontinued operations, net of tax | — | 181.1 | 0.6 | ||||||
Net income | $ | 347.4 | $ | 666.5 | $ | 522.2 | |||
Comprehensive income, net of tax | |||||||||
Net income | $ | 347.4 | $ | 666.5 | $ | 522.2 | |||
Changes in cumulative translation adjustment (inclusive of divestiture of business reclassified to gain from sale of $374.2 for the year ended December 31, 2017) | 10.0 | 497.5 | (83.0 | ) | |||||
Changes in market value of derivative financial instruments, net of tax | 4.8 | (4.6 | ) | (8.3 | ) | ||||
Comprehensive income | $ | 362.2 | $ | 1,159.4 | $ | 430.9 | |||
Earnings per ordinary share | |||||||||
Basic | |||||||||
Continuing operations | $ | 1.83 | $ | 0.63 | $ | 0.98 | |||
Discontinued operations | 0.15 | 3.04 | 1.90 | ||||||
Basic earnings per ordinary share | $ | 1.98 | $ | 3.67 | $ | 2.88 | |||
Diluted | |||||||||
Continuing operations | $ | 1.81 | $ | 0.62 | $ | 0.97 | |||
Discontinued operations | 0.15 | 3.01 | 1.88 | ||||||
Diluted earnings per ordinary share | $ | 1.96 | $ | 3.63 | $ | 2.85 | |||
Weighted average ordinary shares outstanding | |||||||||
Basic | 175.8 | 181.7 | 181.3 | ||||||
Diluted | 177.3 | 183.7 | 183.1 | ||||||
See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.
41
Pentair plc and Subsidiaries
Consolidated Balance Sheets
December 31 | ||||||
In millions, except per-share data | 2018 | 2017 | ||||
Assets | ||||||
Current assets | ||||||
Cash and cash equivalents | $ | 74.3 | $ | 86.3 | ||
Accounts receivable, net of allowances of $14.0 and $14.2, respectively | 488.2 | 483.1 | ||||
Inventories | 387.5 | 356.9 | ||||
Other current assets | 89.4 | 114.5 | ||||
Current assets held for sale | — | 708.0 | ||||
Total current assets | 1,039.4 | 1,748.8 | ||||
Property, plant and equipment, net | 272.6 | 279.8 | ||||
Other assets | ||||||
Goodwill | 2,072.7 | 2,112.8 | ||||
Intangibles, net | 276.3 | 321.8 | ||||
Other non-current assets | 145.5 | 180.9 | ||||
Non-current assets held for sale | — | 3,989.6 | ||||
Total other assets | 2,494.5 | 6,605.1 | ||||
Total assets | $ | 3,806.5 | $ | 8,633.7 | ||
Liabilities and Equity | ||||||
Current liabilities | ||||||
Accounts payable | $ | 378.6 | $ | 321.5 | ||
Employee compensation and benefits | 111.7 | 115.8 | ||||
Other current liabilities | 328.4 | 401.3 | ||||
Current liabilities held for sale | — | 360.8 | ||||
Total current liabilities | 818.7 | 1,199.4 | ||||
Other liabilities | ||||||
Long-term debt | 787.6 | 1,440.7 | ||||
Pension and other post-retirement compensation and benefits | 90.0 | 96.4 | ||||
Deferred tax liabilities | 105.9 | 108.6 | ||||
Other non-current liabilities | 168.2 | 213.8 | ||||
Non-current liabilities held for sale | — | 537.0 | ||||
Total liabilities | 1,970.4 | 3,595.9 | ||||
Equity | ||||||
Ordinary shares $0.01 par value, 426.0 authorized, 171.4 and 180.3 issued at December 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017, respectively | 1.7 | 1.8 | ||||
Additional paid-in capital | 1,893.8 | 2,797.7 | ||||
Retained earnings | 169.2 | 2,481.7 | ||||
Accumulated other comprehensive loss | (228.6 | ) | (243.4 | ) | ||
Total equity | 1,836.1 | 5,037.8 | ||||
Total liabilities and equity | $ | 3,806.5 | $ | 8,633.7 | ||
See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.
42
Pentair plc and Subsidiaries
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows
Years ended December 31 | |||||||||
In millions | 2018 | 2017 | 2016 | ||||||
Operating activities | |||||||||
Net income | $ | 347.4 | $ | 666.5 | $ | 522.2 | |||
Income from discontinued operations, net of tax | (25.7 | ) | (371.3 | ) | (343.4 | ) | |||
Gain from sale / impairment of discontinued operations, net of tax | — | (181.1 | ) | (0.6 | ) | ||||
Adjustments to reconcile net income from continuing operations to net cash provided by operating activities of continuing operations | |||||||||
Equity income of unconsolidated subsidiaries | (8.4 | ) | (1.3 | ) | (4.3 | ) | |||
Depreciation | 49.7 | 50.8 | 53.0 | ||||||
Amortization | 34.9 | 36.4 | 35.4 | ||||||
Loss on sale of businesses | 7.3 | 4.2 | 3.9 | ||||||
Deferred income taxes | (4.1 | ) | (18.0 | ) | 1.2 | ||||
Share-based compensation | 20.9 | 39.6 | 34.2 | ||||||
Trade name and other impairment | 12.0 | 15.6 | — | ||||||
Loss on early extinguishment of debt | 17.1 | 101.4 | — | ||||||
Excess tax benefits from share-based compensation | — | — | (8.0 | ) | |||||
Changes in assets and liabilities, net of effects of business acquisitions | |||||||||
Accounts receivable | (15.3 | ) | (13.4 | ) | 16.6 | ||||
Inventories | (40.1 | ) | (20.5 | ) | 33.9 | ||||
Other current assets | 31.2 | (13.0 | ) | 2.1 | |||||
Accounts payable | 58.3 | 15.6 | 22.8 | ||||||
Employee compensation and benefits | (0.6 | ) | (1.4 | ) | 26.7 | ||||
Other current liabilities | (3.3 | ) | (54.6 | ) | 90.3 | ||||
Other non-current assets and liabilities | (23.2 | ) | 23.1 | (106.1 | ) | ||||
Net cash provided by operating activities of continuing operations | 458.1 | 278.6 | 379.9 | ||||||
Net cash provided by (used for) operating activities of discontinued operations | (19.0 | ) | 341.6 | 481.5 | |||||
Net cash provided by operating activities | 439.1 | 620.2 | 861.4 | ||||||
Investing activities | |||||||||
Capital expenditures | (48.2 | ) | (39.1 | ) | (43.3 | ) | |||
Proceeds from sale of property and equipment | 0.2 | 3.7 | 18.8 | ||||||
(Payments due to) proceeds from sale of businesses and other | (12.8 | ) | 2,759.4 | (5.1 | ) | ||||
Acquisitions, net of cash acquired | (0.9 | ) | (45.9 | ) | (25.0 | ) | |||
Net cash provided by (used for) investing activities of continuing operations | (61.7 | ) | 2,678.1 | (54.6 | ) | ||||
Net cash used for investing activities of discontinued operations | (7.1 | ) | (47.7 | ) | (67.2 | ) | |||
Net cash provided by (used for) investing activities | (68.8 | ) | 2,630.4 | (121.8 | ) | ||||
Financing activities | |||||||||
Net receipts (repayments) of commercial paper and revolving long-term debt | 39.7 | (913.1 | ) | (385.3 | ) | ||||
Repayment of long-term debt | (675.1 | ) | (2,009.3 | ) | (0.7 | ) | |||
Premium paid on early extinguishment of debt | (16.0 | ) | (94.9 | ) | — | ||||
Transfer of cash to nVent | (74.2 | ) | — | — | |||||
Distribution of cash from nVent | 993.6 | — | — | ||||||
Shares issued to employees, net of shares withheld | 13.3 | 37.2 | 20.7 | ||||||
Repurchases of ordinary shares | (500.0 | ) | (200.0 | ) | — | ||||
Dividends paid | (187.2 | ) | (251.7 | ) | (243.6 | ) | |||
Other | (2.0 | ) | (0.8 | ) | 8.8 | ||||
Net cash used for financing activities | (407.9 | ) | (3,432.6 | ) | (600.1 | ) | |||
Change in cash held for sale | 27.0 | (5.4 | ) | 1.1 | |||||
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents | (1.4 | ) | 56.8 | (27.3 | ) | ||||
Change in cash and cash equivalents | (12.0 | ) | (130.6 | ) | 113.3 | ||||
Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of year | 86.3 | 216.9 | 103.6 | ||||||
Cash and cash equivalents, end of year | $ | 74.3 | $ | 86.3 | $ | 216.9 | |||
Supplemental disclosure of cash flow information: | |||||||||
Cash paid for interest, net | $ | 43.7 | $ | 107.2 | $ | 143.4 | |||
Cash paid for income taxes, net | 92.9 | 362.1 | 145.1 | ||||||
See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.
43
Pentair plc and Subsidiaries
Consolidated Statements of Changes in Equity
In millions | Ordinary shares | Additional paid-in capital | Retained earnings | Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) | Total | ||||||||||||
Number | Amount | ||||||||||||||||
Balance - December 31, 2015 | 180.5 | $ | 1.8 | $ | 2,860.3 | $ | 1,791.7 | $ | (645.0 | ) | $ | 4,008.8 | |||||
Net income | — | — | — | 522.2 | — | 522.2 | |||||||||||
Other comprehensive loss, net of tax | — | — | — | — | (91.3 | ) | (91.3 | ) | |||||||||
Tax benefit of share-based compensation | — | — | 5.5 | — | — | 5.5 | |||||||||||
Dividends declared | — | — | — | (245.8 | ) | — | (245.8 | ) | |||||||||
Exercise of options, net of shares tendered for payment | 1.0 | — | 31.6 | — | — | 31.6 | |||||||||||
Issuance of restricted shares, net of cancellations | 0.5 | — | — | — | — | — | |||||||||||
Shares surrendered by employees to pay taxes | (0.2 | ) | — | (10.8 | ) | — | — | (10.8 | ) | ||||||||
Share-based compensation | — | — | 34.2 | — | — | 34.2 | |||||||||||
Balance - December 31, 2016 | 181.8 | $ | 1.8 | $ | 2,920.8 | $ | 2,068.1 | $ | (736.3 | ) | $ | 4,254.4 | |||||
Net income | — | — | — | 666.5 | — | 666.5 | |||||||||||
Other comprehensive income, net of tax | — | — | — | — | 492.9 | 492.9 | |||||||||||
Dividends declared | — | — | — | (252.9 | ) | — | (252.9 | ) | |||||||||
Share repurchase | (3.0 | ) | — | (200.0 | ) | — | — | (200.0 | ) | ||||||||
Exercise of options, net of shares tendered for payment | 1.2 | — | 45.6 | — | — | 45.6 | |||||||||||
Issuance of restricted shares, net of cancellations | 0.4 | — | — | — | — | — | |||||||||||
Shares surrendered by employees to pay taxes | (0.1 | ) | — | (8.3 | ) | — | — | (8.3 | ) | ||||||||
Share-based compensation | — | — | 39.6 | — | — | 39.6 | |||||||||||
Balance - December 31, 2017 | 180.3 | $ | 1.8 | $ | 2,797.7 | $ | 2,481.7 | $ | (243.4 | ) | $ | 5,037.8 | |||||
Net income | — | — | — | 347.4 | — | 347.4 | |||||||||||
Cumulative effect of accounting changes | — | — | — | (214.0 | ) | — | (214.0 | ) | |||||||||
Other comprehensive income, net of tax | — | — | — | — | 62.6 | 62.6 | |||||||||||
Distribution to nVent | — | — | (438.2 | ) | (2,291.0 | ) | (47.8 | ) | (2,777.0 | ) | |||||||
Dividends declared | — | — | — | (154.9 | ) | — | (154.9 | ) | |||||||||
Share repurchases | (10.2 | ) | (0.1 | ) | (499.9 | ) | — | — | (500.0 | ) | |||||||
Exercise of options, net of shares tendered for payment | 0.9 | — | 24.3 | — | — | 24.3 | |||||||||||
Issuance of restricted shares, net of cancellations | 0.5 | — | — | — | — | — | |||||||||||
Shares surrendered by employees to pay taxes | (0.1 | ) | — | (11.0 | ) | — | — | (11.0 | ) | ||||||||
Share-based compensation | — | — | |||||||||||||||