AMERICAN AXLE & MANU
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AMERICAN AXLE & MANUFACTURING : Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations (MD&A) (form 10-K)
| 02/14/2020 | 12:14pm |
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COMPANY OVERVIEW
We are a global Tier 1 supplier to the automotive industry. We design, engineer
and manufacture driveline and metal forming products that are making the next
generation of vehicles smarter, lighter, safer and more efficient. We employ
over 20,000 associates, operating at nearly 80 facilities in 17 countries, to
support our customers on global and regional platforms with a focus on
operational excellence, quality and technology leadership.
In the first quarter of 2019, we initiated a new global restructuring program
(the 2019 Program) to further streamline our business by consolidating our four
existing segments into three segments. The activity occurred through the
disaggregation of our former Powertrain segment, with a portion moving into our
Driveline segment and a portion moving into our Metal Forming segment. The
primary objectives of this consolidation are to further the integration of MPG,
align AAM's product and process technologies, and to achieve efficiencies within
our corporate and business unit support teams to reduce cost in our business.
In the fourth quarter of 2019, we completed the sale of the
our Casting segment (the Casting Sale). The Casting Sale did not include the
entities that conduct AAM's casting operations in
now included in our Driveline segment. The Casting Sale did not qualify for
classification as discontinued operations, as it did not represent a strategic
shift in our business that has had, or will have, a major effect on our
operations and financial results.
We are a primary supplier of driveline components to General Motors Company (GM)
for its full-size rear-wheel drive (RWD) light trucks, sport utility vehicles
(SUV), and crossover vehicles manufactured in
significant portion of
(4WD/AWD) axle requirements for these vehicle platforms. We also supply
various products from our Metal Forming segment. Sales to
37% of our consolidated net sales in 2019, 41% in 2018, and 47% in 2017.
We also supply driveline system products to
full-size pickup trucks and its derivatives, the AWD Jeep Cherokee, and a
passenger car driveshaft program. In addition, we sell various products to
from our Metal Forming segment. Sales to
consolidated net sales in 2019, 13% in 2018 and 14% in 2017.
INDUSTRY TRENDS
There are a number of significant trends affecting the markets in which we
compete. Intense competition, volatility in the price of raw materials,
including steel, other metallic materials and resources used in electronic
components, and significant pricing pressures remain. At the same time, there is
a focus on investing in future products that will incorporate the latest
technology and meet changing customer demands. The continued advancement of
technology and product innovation, as well as the capability to source programs
on a global basis, are critical to attracting and retaining business in our
global markets.
INCREASE IN DEMAND FOR ELECTRIFICATION AND ELECTRONIC INTEGRATION The
electrification of vehicles continues to expand, driven by government
regulations related to emissions, such as the Corporate Average Fuel Economy
standards, as well as consumer demand for greater vehicle performance, enhanced
functionality, increased electronic content and vehicle connectivity, and
affordable convenience options. We are responding, in part, through the
development of our e-AAM™ hybrid and electric driveline systems, and related
subsystems and components, which allow us to meet our customers' needs for high
performance vehicles with improved fuel economy and reduced emissions. To date,
our e-AAM™ hybrid and electric driveline systems have been awarded multiple
contracts, and began production during 2018.
As electronic components become an increasingly larger focus for OEMs and
suppliers, the industry will likely continue to see the addition of new market
entrants from non-traditional automotive companies, including increased
competition from technology companies. An area of focus will be the product
development cycle and bridging the gap between the shorter development cycles of
IT hardware and software and the longer development cycles of traditional
powertrain components. Our EcoTrac® Disconnecting AWD system, VecTrac™ Torque
Vectoring Technology and TracRite® Differential Technology, are examples of
AAM's enhanced capabilities in electronic integration.
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EVOLUTION OF THE AUTOMOTIVE INDUSTRY AS DEMAND FOR CAR-SHARING, RIDE-SHARING AND
AUTONOMOUS VEHICLES INCREASES In addition to selling vehicles, OEMs are
increasingly focused on offering their own car-sharing rental businesses and
ride-sharing services. Car-sharing typically allows consumers to rent a car for
a short period of time, while ride-sharing matches people to available carpools
or other services that provide on-demand mobility. With continued urbanization,
population growth, increased government regulations to ease congestion and
generational shifts in preferences, it is expected that the markets for these
services will continue to grow, which could cause a change in the type of
vehicles utilized. As such, many OEMs are exploring and expanding their own
car-sharing and ride-sharing efforts.
Another trend developing is the expectation that autonomous, self-driving cars
will become more common with continued advancements in technology. Autonomous
vehicles present many possible benefits, such as a reduction in deadly traffic
collisions caused by human error and reduced traffic congestion, but there are
also foreseeable challenges such as liability for damage and software safety and
reliability. The increased integration of electronics and vehicle connectivity
that will likely be required in autonomous vehicle developments will provide an
opportunity for suppliers, such as AAM, with advanced capabilities in this area
to be competitive in this expanding market.
GLOBAL AUTOMOTIVE PRODUCTION AND INDUSTRY CONSOLIDATION As our customers design
their products for global markets, they will continue to require global support
from their suppliers. For this reason, it is critical that suppliers maintain a
global presence in these markets in order to compete for new contracts. We have
engineering offices around the world to support our global locations and provide
technical solutions to our customers on a regional basis.
The cyclical nature of the automotive industry, volatile commodity prices, the
shifting demands of consumer preference, regulatory requirements and trade
agreements require OEMs and suppliers to remain agile with regard to product
development and global capability. A critical objective for OEMs and suppliers
is the ability to meet these global demands while effectively managing costs.
OEMs and suppliers are preparing for these challenges through merger and
acquisition activity, development of strategic partnerships and reduction of
vehicle platform complexity. In order to effectively drive technology
development, recognize cost synergies, and increase global footprint, the
industry may continue to see consolidation in the supply base as companies
recognize and respond to the need for scalability. Our acquisition of MPG in
2017 was a critical step in achieving the aforementioned objectives.
INCREASED DEMAND FOR FUEL EFFICIENCY AND EMISSIONS REDUCTIONS There has been an
increased demand for technologies designed to help reduce emissions, increase
fuel economy and minimize the environmental impact of vehicles. As a result,
OEMs and suppliers are competing to develop and market new and alternative
technologies, such as electric vehicles, hybrid vehicles, fuel cells, higher
speed transmissions, and downsized, fuel-efficient engines. At the same time,
OEMs and suppliers are improving products to increase fuel economy and reduce
emissions through lightweighting and efficiency initiatives.
We are responding with ongoing research and development (R&D) activities that
focus on fuel economy, emissions reductions and environmental improvements by
integrating electronics and technology. Through the development of our EcoTrac®
Disconnecting AWD system, e-AAM™ hybrid and electric driveline systems,
QuantumTM lightweight axle technology, high-efficiency axles, PowerLite® axles
and PowerDense® gears, high strength connecting rod technology, refined
vibration control systems, and forged axle tubes, we have significantly advanced
our efforts to improve fuel efficiency, safety, and ride and handling
performance while reducing emissions and mass. These efforts have led to new
business awards and further position us to compete in the global marketplace.
In addition to AAM's organic growth in technology and processes, our
acquisitions of MPG and certain operations of
well as our investment in our Liuzhou AAM joint venture, have provided us with
complementary technologies, expanded our product portfolio, significantly
diversified our global customer base, and strengthened our long-term financial
profile through greater scale. The synergies achieved through our strategic
initiatives have enhanced AAM's ability to compete in today's technological and
regulatory environment, while remaining cost competitive through increased scale
and integration.
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The discussion of our Results of Operations and Liquidity and Capital Resources
for 2018, as compared to 2017, can be found within "Part II - Item 7.
Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of
Operations" in our 2018 Annual Report on Form 10-K filed with the
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
NET SALES Net sales were
million
reflects the impact of lower full-sized truck sales resulting from the
in-sourcing by our largest customer of a portion of a replacement program that
launched in the second half of 2018, and a reduction of approximately
million
2019. Net sales in 2019 were also impacted by customer downtime as a result of
program changeovers in 2019, and lower volumes on certain crossover vehicle
programs that we support, as well as a decrease of approximately
associated with the effect of metal market pass-throughs to our customers and
the impact of foreign exchange related to translation adjustments. These factors
were partially offset by the impact of program launches associated with our new
business backlog.
COST OF GOODS SOLD Cost of goods sold was
to
compared to 2018, primarily reflects the impact of lower global automotive
production volumes, a decrease of approximately
impact of the
related to metal market pass-through costs and the impact of foreign exchange.
This was partially offset by the impact of costs associated with program
launches from our new business backlog.
Materials costs as a percentage of total cost of goods sold were approximately
56% in 2019 and 59% in 2018.
GROSS PROFIT Gross profit was
million
Gross profit and gross margin were impacted by the factors discussed in
Sales
SELLING, GENERAL AND ADMINISTRATIVE EXPENSES (SG&A) SG&A (including R&D) was
percentage of net sales was 5.6% in 2019 and 5.3% in 2018. R&D spending was
in 2019, as compared to 2018, was primarily attributable to lower
compensation-related expense due, in part, to our restructuring initiatives.
AMORTIZATION OF INTANGIBLE ASSETS Amortization expense for the year ended
ended
compared to 2018 was primarily attributable to the customer platforms and
relationships associated with the
ceased to be amortized upon being classified as held-for-sale in
IMPAIRMENT CHARGES In the third quarter of 2019, we entered into a definitive
agreement to sell the
recorded a pre-tax impairment charge of
value of this business to fair value less cost to sell upon reclassifying the
assets and liabilities to held-for-sale. See Note 2 - Sale of Business for
further detail.
As a result of our annual goodwill impairment test in the fourth quarter of
2019, we determined that the carrying value of our Metal Forming segment was
greater than its fair value. As such, we recorded a goodwill impairment charge
of
annual goodwill impairment test in the fourth quarter of 2018, we determined
that the carrying values of our Casting and former Powertrain segments were
greater than their respective fair values. As such, we recorded a total goodwill
impairment charge of
Note 5 -
RESTRUCTURING AND ACQUISITION-RELATED COSTS Restructuring and
acquisition-related costs were
As part of our restructuring actions, we incurred severance charges of
approximately
primarily of plant exit costs, of
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approximately
of approximately
primarily of plant exit costs and professional fees, of approximately
million
In 2019, we initiated a new global restructuring program (the 2019 Program) to
further streamline our business by consolidating our four existing segments into
three segments. This activity occurred through the disaggregation of our former
Powertrain segment, with a portion moving into our Driveline segment and a
portion moving into our Metal Forming segment. The primary objectives of this
consolidation are to further the integration of MPG, align AAM's product and
process technologies, and to achieve efficiencies within our corporate and
business unit support teams to reduce cost in our business. We incurred
approximately
We expect to incur approximately
restructuring charges in 2020, substantially all of which are under the 2019
Program.
During 2018, we initiated actions to exit operations at manufacturing facilities
in our Driveline, Metal Forming and former Powertrain segments. As a result of
these actions, we were required to assess the associated long-lived assets for
impairment. Based on our analysis, assets that were not to be redeployed to
other AAM facilities were determined to be fully impaired resulting in total
charges of
In 2019, we completed the acquisition of Mitec, and in 2017, we completed our
acquisitions of MPG and USM Mexico. During 2019, we incurred
acquisition-related costs and
with the acquisition of MPG. This compares to
acquisition-related costs,
and
acquisition of MPG, for the year ended
Acquisition-related costs primarily consist of advisory, legal, accounting,
valuation and certain other professional or consulting fees incurred.
Integration expenses primarily reflect costs incurred for information technology
infrastructure and enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems, and consulting
fees incurred in conjunction with the acquisitions. We expect to incur
additional integration charges of approximately
2020 as we finalize the integration of ERP systems at legacy MPG locations.
(GAIN) LOSS ON SALE OF BUSINESS In
and recorded a loss on sale of business of
the (Gain) loss on sale of business line item of our Consolidated Statement of
Operations for the year ended
for further detail.
In
our former Powertrain segment for approximately
recorded a
sale of business line item of our Consolidated Statement of Operations for the
year ended
OPERATING INCOME (LOSS) Operating loss was
income of
compared to 1.5% in 2018. The changes in operating income (loss) and operating
margin in 2019, as compared to 2018, were due to the factors discussed in
Sales
Charges, Restructuring and Acquisition-Related Costs and (Gain) Loss on Sale of
Business above.
INTEREST EXPENSE Interest expense was
in 2018. The weighted-average interest rate of our total debt outstanding was
5.8% in both 2019 and 2018. We expect our interest expense in 2020 to be
approximately
INTEREST INCOME Interest income was
2018. Interest income includes interest earned on cash and cash equivalents,
realized and unrealized gains and losses on our short-term investments during
the period, and the impact of the interest rate differential on our
fixed-to-fixed cross-currency swap.
OTHER INCOME (EXPENSE) Following are the components of Other Income (Expense)
for 2019 and 2018:
Debt refinancing and redemption costs In
certain subsidiaries of Holdings entered into the First Amendment to the Credit
Agreement. The First Amendment, among other things,
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established
Amended Credit Agreement with a maturity date of
Facility due 2024), reduced the availability under the Revolving Credit Facility
from
Revolving Credit Facility from
applicable margin with respect to interest rates under the Term Loan A Facility
due 2024 and interest rates and commitment fees under the Revolving Credit
Facility. The applicable margin and the maturity date for the Term Loan B
Facility remained unchanged. The proceeds of
of the outstanding loans under the existing Term Loan A Facility and a portion
of the outstanding Term Loan B Facility, resulting in no additional
indebtedness. We expensed
issuance costs related to the existing Term Loan A Facility and a portion of the
unamortized debt issuance costs related to our Term Loan B Facility that we had
been amortizing over the expected life of the borrowings.
In
to make a payment on our Term Loan B Facility, which included a principal
payment of
approximately
debt issuance costs that we had been amortizing over the expected life of the
borrowing.
In
7.75% Notes due 2019. This resulted in a principal payment of
for the write-off of the unamortized debt issuance costs that we had been
amortizing over the expected life of the borrowing, and approximately
million
In
This resulted in a principal payment of
million
approximately
debt issuance costs that we had been amortizing over the expected life of the
borrowing, and approximately
In
This resulted in a principal payment of
million
million
issuance costs that we had been amortizing over the expected life of the
borrowing and
In
tender offer, we retired
the remaining
quarter of 2018. As a result of the tender and subsequent redemption, we
expensed
issuance costs that we had been amortizing over the expected life of the
borrowing and
Gain on bargain purchase of a business In the fourth quarter of 2019, we
completed the acquisition of Mitec, under which we acquired
assets for a purchase price of
available cash. We recognized a gain on bargain purchase of
associated with this acquisition.
Gain on settlement of capital lease In the second quarter of 2018, we reached a
settlement agreement related to a capital lease obligation that we had
recognized as a result of the acquisition of MPG. This settlement resulted in a
gain of
Pension settlement charge In 2019, we offered a voluntary one-time lump sum
payment option to certain eligible terminated vested participants in our
pension plans that, if accepted, would settle our pension obligations to them.
This resulted in a non-cash settlement charge of
quarter of 2019 related to the accelerated recognition of certain deferred
losses.
Other, net Other, net, which includes the net effect of foreign exchange gains
and losses, our proportionate share of earnings from equity in unconsolidated
subsidiaries, and all components of net periodic pension and postretirement
benefit costs other than service costs and certain settlement charges, was
expense of
The increased expense in other, net in 2019, as compared to 2018, was primarily
the result of increased net foreign currency remeasurement losses of
approximately
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INCOME TAX EXPENSE (BENEFIT) Income tax was a benefit of
as compared to a benefit of
was 9.2% in 2019 as compared to 50.1% in 2018.
In 2019, our income tax benefit varied from the tax benefit computed at the
federal statutory rate primarily as a result of the goodwill impairment charge,
which resulted in no income tax benefit, as well as the incremental tax expense
associated with the global intangible low-taxed income inclusion under the Tax
Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017 (the 2017 Act), and our inability to realize an income
tax benefit for losses incurred in certain foreign and state jurisdictions.
These items were partially offset by the impact of favorable foreign tax rates
and income tax credits. In addition, as part of the 2017 Act, a one-time
transition tax (Transition Tax) was imposed on certain foreign earnings for
which
Internal Revenue Service issued final regulations on
the Transition Tax, which changed the manner in which we are required to compute
the Transition Tax when it is recognized over a two-year period. The application
of the final regulations resulted in a
has been recorded in 2019, the period in which the final regulations were
issued.
In 2018, our income tax benefit is higher than the tax benefit computed at the
rates, and the impact of income tax credits, partially offset by our inability
to realize an income tax benefit for losses incurred in certain foreign and
state jurisdictions. In addition, during 2018, we finalized an advance pricing
agreement in a foreign jurisdiction and settled various other matters, which
resulted in an income tax benefit and a reduction of our liability for
unrecognized tax benefits and related interest and penalties of approximately
in 2018 as a result of the goodwill impairment charge, partially offset by a
discrete tax expense related to the sale of the aftermarket business associated
with our former Powertrain segment.
NET INCOME (LOSS) ATTRIBUTABLE TO AAM AND EARNINGS (LOSS) PER SHARE (EPS) Net
income (loss) attributable to AAM was a loss of
compared to a loss of
2019 as compared to a diluted loss of
and EPS were primarily impacted by the factors discussed above.
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SEGMENT REPORTING
In the first quarter of 2019, we reorganized our business to disaggregate our
former Powertrain segment, with a portion moving to our Driveline segment and a
portion moving to our Metal Forming segment. The Powertrain amounts previously
reported for the years ended
to Driveline and Metal Forming accordingly.
Additionally, in the fourth quarter of 2019, we completed the Casting Sale. The
Casting Sale did not include the entities that conduct AAM's casting operations
in
Casting Sale did not qualify for classification as discontinued operations, as
it did not represent a strategic shift in our business that has had, or will
have, a major effect on our operations and financial results. As such, we
continue to present Casting as a segment in the tables below, which is now
comprised entirely of the
sale. The amounts previously reported in our Casting segment for the retained
operations in
for the years presented.
As a result of these activities, our business is now organized into Driveline
and Metal Forming segments, with each representing a reportable segment under
ASC 280 Segment Reporting. The results of each segment are regularly reviewed by
the chief operating decision maker to assess the performance of the segment and
make decisions regarding the allocation of resources.
Our product offerings by segment are as follows:
• Driveline products consist primarily of front and rear axles, driveshafts,
differential assemblies, clutch modules, balance shaft systems,
disconnecting driveline technology, and electric and hybrid driveline
products and systems for light trucks, sport utility vehicles (SUVs),
crossover vehicles, passenger cars and commercial vehicles;
• Metal Forming products consist primarily of axle and transmission shafts,
ring and pinion gears, differential gears and assemblies, connecting rods
and variable valve timing products for Original Equipment Manufacturers
and Tier 1 automotive suppliers; and
• Prior to the Casting Sale, the Casting segment produced both thin wall
castings and high strength ductile iron castings, as well as transmission
pump bodies, steering knuckles, control arms, brake anchors and calipers,
and ball joint housings for the global light vehicle, commercial and
industrial markets.
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The following tables outline our sales and Segment Adjusted EBITDA for each of
our reportable segments for the years ended
millions):
Year Ended December 31, 2019
Driveline Metal Forming Casting Total
Sales
Less: Intersegment sales 100.5 391.7 41.5 533.7
Net external sales
Segment adjusted EBITDA
Year Ended December 31, 2018
Driveline Metal Forming Casting Total
Sales
Less: Intersegment sales 89.8 428.3 39.3 557.4
Net external sales
Segment adjusted EBITDA
Year Ended December 31, 2017
Driveline Metal Forming Casting Total
Sales
Less: Intersegment sales 65.9 417.7 29.2 512.8
Net external sales
Segment adjusted EBITDA
The change in Driveline sales for the year ended
to the year ended
full-size truck sales resulting from the in-sourcing by our largest customer of
a portion of a replacement program that launched in the second half of 2018, and
a reduction of approximately
work stoppage. Net sales in 2019 were also impacted by customer downtime as a
result of program changeovers in 2019, and lower volumes on certain crossover
vehicle programs that we support, as well as a decrease of approximately
million
customers and the impact of foreign exchange related to translation adjustments.
These factors were partially offset by the impact of program launches associated
with our new business backlog.
The increase in Driveline sales for the year ended
compared to the year ended
related to crossover vehicles and increased production volumes from program
launches associated with our new business backlog. This was partially offset by
the impact of lower full-size truck sales resulting from the in-sourcing by our
largest customer of a portion of a replacement program that launched in the
second half of 2018, and a reduction in production volumes for certain North
American light truck programs we support as we prepared for program changeovers
in 2018. Driveline sales for the year
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ended
also impacted by an increase related to metal market pass-throughs to our
customers of approximately
The change in sales in our Metal Forming segment for the year ended
2019
automotive production volumes, as well as a reduction in intersegment sales to
our Driveline segment due to the factors discussed for Driveline above. Metal
Forming sales for the year ended
by approximately
pass-throughs to our customers and the impact of foreign exchange related to
translation adjustments, and by approximately
work stoppage.
The increase in sales in our Metal Forming segment for the year ended
31, 2018
the inclusion of twelve months of MPG sales in 2018, as compared to nine months
of MPG sales in 2017, as the acquisition was completed in
increase in sales in 2018, as compared to 2017, also reflects an increase in
metal market pass-throughs to our customers and the impact of foreign exchange
related to translation adjustments totaling approximately
The change in sales in our Casting segment for the year ended
as compared to the year ended
production volumes in the automotive, commercial and industrial markets, and the
impact of AAM completing the sale of the
2019
million
The increase in sales in our Casting segment for the year ended
2018
twelve months of MPG sales in 2018, as compared to nine months of MPG sales in
2017, and an increase of approximately
to our customers.
We use Segment Adjusted EBITDA as the measure of earnings to assess the
performance of each segment and determine the resources to be allocated to the
segments. Segment Adjusted EBITDA is defined as EBITDA for our reportable
segments excluding the impact of restructuring and acquisition-related costs,
debt refinancing and redemption costs, gain (loss) on the sale of a business,
impairment charges, pension settlements, and non-recurring items.
For the year ended
2018
primarily attributable to lower global automotive production volumes and the
impact of the
impacted by a change in product mix due to customer downtime as a result of
program changeovers in 2019.
For the year ended
2017
primarily attributable to increased material and freight costs, as well as an
increase in project expense of approximately
with increased levels of global launch activity in 2018.
The change in Metal Forming Segment Adjusted EBITDA for the year ended
31, 2019
attributable to lower global automotive production volumes, as well as an
increase in net manufacturing costs, including higher material, freight and
tariff costs, of approximately
Segment Adjusted EBITDA for the year ended
year ended
partially offset by increased material and freight costs.
The change in Casting Segment Adjusted EBITDA for the year ended
2019
production volumes, offset by the impact of price increases to customers. The
increase in Casting Segment Adjusted EBITDA for the year ended
2018
acquisition of MPG, which was partially offset by increased labor costs in an
effort to address workforce shortages at certain locations.
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Reconciliation of Non-GAAP and GAAP Information
In addition to results reported in accordance with accounting principles
generally accepted in
provided certain non-GAAP financial measures such as EBITDA and Total Segment
Adjusted EBITDA. Such information is reconciled to its closest GAAP measure in
accordance with
We define EBITDA to be earnings before interest expense, income taxes,
depreciation and amortization. Total Segment Adjusted EBITDA is defined as
EBITDA excluding the impact of restructuring and acquisition-related costs, debt
refinancing and redemption costs, gain (loss) on the sale of a business,
impairment charges, pension settlements, and non-recurring items. We believe
that EBITDA and Total Segment Adjusted EBITDA are meaningful measures of
performance as they are commonly utilized by management and investors to analyze
operating performance and entity valuation. Our management, the investment
community and the banking institutions routinely use EBITDA and Total Segment
Adjusted EBITDA, together with other measures, to measure our operating
performance relative to other Tier 1 automotive suppliers and to assess the
relative mix of Adjusted EBITDA by segment. We also believe that Total Segment
Adjusted EBITDA is a meaningful measure as it is used for operational planning
and decision-making purposes. These non-GAAP financial measures are not and
should not be considered a substitute for any GAAP measure. Additionally,
non-GAAP financial measures as presented by AAM may not be comparable to
similarly titled measures reported by other companies.
Year Ended December 31,
2019 2018 2017
Net income (loss)
Interest expense 217.3 216.3 195.6
Income tax expense (benefit) (48.9 ) (57.1 ) 2.5
Depreciation and amortization 536.9 528.8 428.5
EBITDA
Restructuring and acquisition-related costs 57.8 78.9 110.7
Debt refinancing and redemption costs 8.4 19.4 3.5
(Gain) loss on sale of business 21.3 (15.5 ) -
Impairment charges 665.0 485.5 -
Pension settlement 9.8 - 3.2
Non-recurring items:
Gain on bargain purchase of business (10.8 ) -
Gain on settlement of capital lease - (15.6 ) -
Acquisition-related fair value inventory adjustment - - 24.9
Impact of change in accounting principle - - (3.7 )
Other non-recurring items (2.4 ) - -
Total Segment Adjusted EBITDA
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LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES
Our primary liquidity needs are to fund debt service obligations, capital
expenditures and working capital requirements, in addition to advancing our
strategic initiatives. We believe that operating cash flow, available cash and
cash equivalent balances and available committed borrowing capacity under our
Senior Secured Credit Facilities will be sufficient to meet these needs.
OPERATING ACTIVITIES Net cash provided by operating activities was
million
impacted cash provided by operating activities:
Inventories We experienced an increase in cash flow from operating activities of
31, 2018
balance from
the result of increased levels of inventories as of
preparation for program changeovers and new launch activity that occurred in the
second half of 2018. As of
program changeovers and new launch activity have transitioned into production,
and as a result of inventory reduction initiatives in 2019.
Accounts payable and accrued expenses We experienced a decrease in cash flow
from operating activities of
accounts payable and accrued expenses balance from
31, 2019
balance from
attributable primarily to accounts payable and was the result of increased
levels of accounts payable as of
changeovers and new launch activity that occurred in the second half of 2018. As
of
associated with the decrease in inventories discussed above, as well as the
timing of payments to suppliers.
Restructuring and acquisition-related costs We incurred
million
2019 and 2018, respectively, and a significant portion of these charges were
cash charges. In 2020, we expect restructuring and acquisition-related payments
to be between
Pension and other postretirement benefits (OPEB) Our cash payments for OPEB, net
of
compares to our annual postretirement cost of
million
obligations in 2020, net of
Due to the availability of our pre-funded pension balances (previous
contributions in excess of prior required pension contributions) related to
certain of our
requirements in 2020 to be approximately
Interest paid Interest paid in 2019 was
million
Income taxes Income taxes paid in 2019 totaled
finalizing audits by the relevant tax authorities, it is not possible to
estimate the timing or impact of changes, if any, to previously recorded
uncertain tax positions. As of
recorded a liability for unrecognized income tax benefits and related interest
and penalties of
During the next 12 months, we may finalize an advance pricing agreement in a
foreign jurisdiction, which would result in a cash payment to the relevant tax
authorities and a reduction of our liability for unrecognized tax benefits and
related interest and penalties. Although it is difficult to estimate with
certainty the amount of our tax liabilities for the years that remain subject to
audit, we do not expect the settlements will be materially different from what
we have recorded in unrecognized tax benefits. We will continue to monitor the
progress and conclusions of current and future audits and other communications
with tax authorities, and will adjust our estimated liability as necessary.
INVESTING ACTIVITIES Capital expenditures were
million
of sales, which includes support for our global
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program launches in 2020 and 2021 within our new and incremental business
backlog, as well as program capacity increases and future launches of
replacement programs.
In the fourth quarter of 2019, we completed the sale of our
operations. As a result of this sale, we received net cash proceeds of
million
finalize the post-closing adjustments in the first quarter of 2020.
Also in 2019, we completed the acquisition of Mitec for approximately
million
investment in the Liuzhou AAM joint venture that was formed in 2018.
In 2018, we completed the sale of the aftermarket business associated with our
former Powertrain segment. As a result of this sale, we received net proceeds of
approximately
FINANCING ACTIVITIES Net cash used in financing activities was
2019, compared to net cash used in financing activities of
2018. Total debt outstanding, net of debt issuance costs, was
at year-end 2019 and
outstanding, net of issuance costs, at year-end 2019, as compared to year-end
2018, was primarily due to the factors noted below.
Senior Secured Credit Facilities In
subsidiaries of Holdings entered into the First Amendment (First Amendment) to
the Credit Agreement (as amended by the First Amendment, the Amended Credit
Agreement). The First Amendment, among other things, established
incremental term loan A commitments under the Amended Credit Agreement with a
maturity date of
availability under the Revolving Credit Facility from
million
to interest rates under the Term Loan A Facility due 2024 and interest rates and
commitment fees under the Revolving Credit Facility. The applicable margin and
the maturity date for the Term Loan B Facility remain unchanged. The proceeds of
Term Loan A Facility and a portion of the outstanding Term Loan B Facility,
resulting in no additional indebtedness. This also satisfies all payment
requirements under the Term Loan B Facility until maturity in 2024. In 2019, we
expensed
related to the existing Term Loan A Facility and a portion of the unamortized
debt issuance costs related to our Term Loan B Facility that we had been
amortizing over the expected life of the borrowings.
In
to make a payment on our Term Loan B Facility, which included a principal
payment of
approximately
costs that we had been amortizing over the expected life of the borrowing.
At
Facility. This availability reflects a reduction of
letters of credit issued against the facility. The proceeds of the Revolving
Credit Facility are used for general corporate purposes.
The Senior Secured Credit Facilities provide back-up liquidity for our foreign
credit facilities. We intend to use the availability of long-term financing
under the Senior Secured Credit Facilities to refinance any current maturities
related to such debt agreements that are not otherwise refinanced on a long-term
basis in their local markets, except where otherwise reclassified to Current
portion of long-term debt on our Consolidated Balance Sheet.
Redemption of 7.75% Notes Due 2019 In the second quarter of 2019, we voluntarily
redeemed the remaining balance outstanding under our 7.75% Notes due 2019. This
resulted in a principal payment of
interest. We also expensed approximately
unamortized debt issuance costs that we had been amortizing over the expected
life of the borrowing, and approximately
premium.
In the fourth quarter of 2018, we voluntarily redeemed a portion of our 7.75%
Notes due 2019. This resulted in a principal payment of
million
write-off of a portion of the unamortized debt issuance costs that we had been
amortizing over the expected life of the borrowing, and approximately
million
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Redemption of 6.625% Notes Due 2022 In the second quarter of 2018, we
voluntarily redeemed a portion of our 6.625% Notes due 2022. This resulted in a
principal payment of
interest. During 2018, we expensed
of the remaining unamortized debt issuance costs that we had been amortizing
over the expected life of the borrowing and
premium.
6.25% Notes Due 2026 In the first quarter of 2018, we issued
aggregate principal amount of 6.25% senior notes due 2026 (the 6.25% Notes due
2026). Proceeds from the 6.25% Notes due 2026 were used primarily to fund the
tender offer for the 6.25% senior notes due 2021 (the 6.25% Notes due 2021)
described below. We paid debt issuance costs of
to the 6.25% Notes due 2026.
Tender Offer of 6.25% Notes Due 2021 Also during the first quarter of 2018, we
made a tender offer for our 6.25% Notes due 2021. Under this tender offer, we
retired the
for the write-off of the remaining unamortized debt issuance costs that we had
been amortizing over the expected life of the borrowing and
tender premiums.
Settlement of Capital Lease Obligation In the second quarter of 2018, we reached
a settlement agreement related to a capital lease obligation that we had
recognized as a result of the acquisition of MPG. In the third quarter of 2018,
we paid
quarter of 2018, we paid the remaining
agreement.
Foreign Credit Facilities We utilize local currency credit facilities to finance
the operations of certain foreign subsidiaries. At
million
million
Subsequent Event In
of the 6.625% Notes due 2022 to voluntarily redeem a portion of our 6.625% Notes
due 2022 in the first quarter of 2020. This will result in a principal payment
of
approximately
costs that we had been amortizing over the expected life of the borrowing, and
approximately
million
and repurchase of shares of AAM stock to satisfy employee tax withholding
obligations due upon the vesting of performance shares and restricted stock
units.
Credit ratings To access public debt capital markets, the Company relies on
credit rating agencies to assign short-term and long-term credit ratings to our
securities as an indicator of credit quality for fixed income investors. A
credit rating agency may change or withdraw its ratings based on its assessment
of our current and future ability to meet interest and principal repayment
obligations. Credit ratings affect our cost of borrowing under our Revolving
Credit Facility and may affect our access to debt capital markets and other
costs to fund our business. The credit ratings and outlook currently assigned to
our securities by the rating agencies are as follows:
Corporate Senior Senior
Family Unsecured Secured
Rating Notes Rating Notes Rating Outlook
Standard & Poor's BB- B BB Stable
Moody's Investors Services B1 B2 Ba2 Stable
Dividend program We have not declared or paid any cash dividends on our common
stock in 2019 or 2018.
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Contractual obligations The following table summarizes payments due on our
contractual obligations as of
Payments due by period
Total <1yr 1-3 yrs 3-5 yrs >5 yrs
(in millions)
Current and long-term debt
Interest obligations
1,020.0 205.8 388.6 309.3 116.3
Finance lease obligations 7.8 3.2 4.4 0.2 -
Operating leases (1) 151.4 28.2 39.8 24.1 59.3
Purchase obligations (2) 131.9 118.7 13.2 - -
Other long-term liabilities (3) 568.7 57.9 111.0 111.4 288.4
Total
(1) Operating leases include all lease payments through the end of the
contractual lease terms, which includes elections for repurchase options
which we are reasonably certain to exercise. These commitments include
machinery and equipment, commercial office and production facilities,
vehicles and other assets.
(2) Purchase obligations represent our obligated purchase commitments for
capital expenditures and related project expense.
(3) Other long-term liabilities primarily represent our estimated pension and
other postretirement benefit obligations, net of
actuarially determined through 2029.
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CYCLICALITY AND SEASONALITY
Our operations are cyclical because they are directly related to worldwide
automotive production, which is itself cyclical and dependent on general
economic conditions and other factors. Our business is moderately seasonal as
our major OEM customers historically have an extended shutdown of operations
(typically 1-2 weeks) in conjunction with their model year changeover and an
approximate one-week shutdown in December. Our major OEM customers also
occasionally have longer shutdowns of operations (up to 6 weeks) for program
changeovers. Accordingly, our quarterly results may reflect these trends.
LEGAL PROCEEDINGS
We are involved in, or potentially subject to, various legal proceedings or
claims incidental to our business. These include, but are not limited to,
matters arising out of product warranties, tax or contractual matters, and
environmental obligations. Although the outcome of these matters cannot be
predicted with certainty, we do not believe that any of these matters,
individually or in the aggregate, will have a material adverse effect on our
financial condition, results of operations or cash flows.
We are subject to various federal, state, local and foreign environmental and
occupational safety and health laws, regulations and ordinances, including those
regulating air emissions, water discharge, waste management and environmental
cleanup. We closely monitor our environmental conditions to ensure that we are
in compliance with applicable laws, regulations and ordinances. We have made,
and anticipate continuing to make, capital and other expenditures (including
recurring administrative costs) to comply with environmental requirements at our
current and former facilities. Such expenditures were not significant in 2019,
2018 and 2017.
EFFECT OF NEW ACCOUNTING STANDARDS
See Note 1 - Organization and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies in Item
8, "Financial Statements and Supplementary Data" for discussion of new
accounting standards and the effect on AAM.
CRITICAL ACCOUNTING ESTIMATES
In order to prepare consolidated financial statements in conformity with GAAP,
we are required to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported
amounts and disclosures in our consolidated financial statements. These
estimates are subject to an inherent degree of uncertainty and actual results
could differ from our estimates.
Other items in our consolidated financial statements require estimation. In our
judgment, they are not as critical as those disclosed below. We have discussed
and reviewed our critical accounting estimates disclosure with the Audit
Committee of our Board of Directors.
GOODWILL We record goodwill when the purchase price of acquired businesses
exceeds the value of their identifiable net tangible and intangible assets
acquired. We periodically evaluate goodwill for impairment in accordance with
the accounting guidance for goodwill and other indefinite-lived intangibles that
are not amortized. We review our goodwill for impairment annually during the
fourth quarter. In addition, we review goodwill for impairment whenever adverse
events or changes in circumstances indicate a possible impairment.
This review is performed at the reporting unit level, and involves a comparison
of the fair value of the reporting unit with its carrying amount, including
goodwill. If the fair value of the reporting unit exceeds its carrying amount,
goodwill of the reporting unit is not considered impaired. If the carrying
amount of the reporting unit exceeds its fair value, an impairment loss is
recognized in an amount equal to the excess carrying value over fair value.
In performing goodwill impairment testing, we utilize a third-party valuation
specialist to assist management in determining the fair value of our reporting
units. Fair value of each reporting unit is estimated based on a combination of
discounted cash flows and the use of pricing multiples derived from an analysis
of comparable public companies multiplied against historical and/or anticipated
financial metrics of each reporting unit. These calculations contain
uncertainties as they require management to make assumptions including, but not
limited to, market comparables, future cash flows of the reporting units, and
appropriate discount and long-term growth rates.
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Subsequent to our acquisition of MPG in 2017, our business was organized into
four segments: Driveline, Metal Forming, Powertrain, and Casting. Under the
goodwill guidance, we determined that each of our segments represented a
reporting unit. The determination of our reporting units and impairment
indicators also require us to make significant judgments.
In the first quarter of 2019, we initiated a global restructuring program (the
2019 Program) to further streamline our business by consolidating our four
existing segments into three segments. Under this program, the goodwill that was
previously attributable to our former Powertrain reporting unit was reallocated
to the Driveline and Metal Forming reporting units based on the relative fair
value of the respective portions that became attributable to those reporting
units. The initiation of the 2019 Program and the reorganization of our business
represented a triggering event in the first quarter of 2019 to test goodwill for
impairment prior to reallocating the former Powertrain goodwill to Driveline and
Metal Forming. No impairment was identified as a result of completing this
goodwill impairment test.
Additionally, in the fourth quarter of 2019, we completed the sale of the
operations of our Casting business. This sale did not include the entities that
conduct AAM's casting operations in
in our Driveline reporting unit.
As a result of these activities, as of
organized into Driveline and Metal Forming reporting units, which were evaluated
for impairment as part of our fourth quarter 2019 test. During this test, we
determined that the carrying value of our Metal Forming reporting unit was
greater than its fair value. As such, we recorded a non-cash goodwill impairment
charge of
-
Also during our annual goodwill impairment test in the fourth quarter of 2019,
we determined that the fair value of our Driveline reporting unit exceeded its
carrying value by approximately 7% and the carrying value of our Metal Forming
reporting unit approximated fair value after the impairment charge. A decline in
the actual cash flows of Driveline or Metal Forming in future periods, as
compared to the projected cash flows used in the valuation, could result in the
carrying value of the reporting units exceeding their respective fair values.
Further, a change in market comparables, discount rate or long-term growth rate,
as a result of a change in economic conditions or otherwise, could result in the
carrying values of the reporting units exceeding their respective fair values.
As a result of our annual goodwill impairment test in the fourth quarter of
2018, we determined that the carrying values of our Casting and former
Powertrain reporting units were greater than their respective fair values. As
such, we recorded non-cash goodwill impairment charges of
associated with Casting and
reporting unit in 2018.
IMPAIRMENT OF LONG-LIVED ASSETS Long-lived assets, excluding goodwill, to be
held and used are reviewed for impairment whenever adverse events or changes in
circumstances indicate a possible impairment. Recoverability of each "held for
use" asset group affected by impairment indicators is determined by comparing
the forecasted undiscounted cash flows of the operations to which the assets
relate to their carrying amount. If the carrying amount of an asset group
exceeds the undiscounted cash flows and is therefore not recoverable, the assets
in this group are written down to their estimated fair value. We estimate fair
value based on market prices, when available, or on a discounted cash flow
analysis. Long-lived assets held for sale are recorded at the lower of their
carrying amount or fair value less cost to sell. Significant judgments and
estimates used by management when evaluating long-lived assets for impairment
include:
• An assessment as to whether an adverse event or circumstance has triggered
the need for an impairment review;
• Determination of asset groups, the primary asset within each group, and the
primary asset's average estimated useful life;
• Undiscounted future cash flows generated by the assets; and
• Determination of fair value when an impairment is deemed to exist, which may
require assumptions related to future general economic conditions, future
expected production volumes, product pricing and cost estimates, working
capital and capital investment requirements, discount rates and estimated
liquidation values.
Upon reclassification of the
third quarter of 2019, we recorded a pre-tax impairment charge of
to reduce the carrying value of this business to fair value less cost to sell.
See Note 2 - Sale of Business for further detail.
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The goodwill impairment charges recognized in 2019 and 2018 as described above
represented triggering events for testing the recoverability of other long-lived
assets, including property, plant and equipment and amortizable intangible
assets associated with our Metal Forming segment in 2019 and our Casting and
former Powertrain segments in 2018. No impairments of long-lived assets were
identified as a result of these recoverability tests.
PENSION AND OTHER POSTRETIREMENT BENEFITS In calculating our assets, liabilities
and expenses related to pension and OPEB, key assumptions include the discount
rate, expected long-term rates of return on plan assets, mortality projections
and rates of increase in health care costs.
The discount rates used in the valuation of our
obligations were based on an actuarial review of a hypothetical portfolio of
long-term, high quality corporate bonds matched against the expected payment
stream for each of our plans. In 2019, the weighted-average discount rates
determined on that basis were 3.40% for the valuation of our pension benefit
obligations and 3.35% for the valuation of our OPEB obligations. The discount
rate used in the valuation of our
based on hypothetical yield curves developed from corporate bond yield
information within each regional market. In 2019, the weighted-average discount
rates determined on that basis were 2.05% for our
weighted-average long-term rates of return on our plan assets were 7.25% for our
We developed these rates of return assumptions based on future capital market
expectations for the asset classes represented within our portfolio and a review
of long-term historical returns. The asset allocation for our plans was
developed in consideration of the demographics of the plan participants and
expected payment stream of the liability. Our investment policy allocates
approximately 30-55% of the
on the plan, with the remainder invested in fixed income securities, hedge fund
investments and cash. The rates of increase in health care costs are based on
current market conditions, inflationary expectations and historical information.
All of our assumptions were developed in consultation with our actuarial service
providers. While we believe that we have selected reasonable assumptions for the
valuation of our pension and OPEB obligations at year-end 2019, actual trends
could result in materially different valuations.
The effect on our pension plans of a 0.5% decrease in both the discount rate and
expected return on assets is shown below as of
date.
Expected
Discount Return on
Rate Assets
(in millions)
Decline in funded status
Increase in 2019 expense
No changes in benefit levels or in the amortization of gains or losses have been
assumed.
For 2020, we assumed a weighted-average annual increase in the per-capita cost
of covered health care benefits of 6.50% for OPEB. The rate is assumed to
decrease gradually to 5.0% by 2026 and remain at that level thereafter. A 0.5%
decrease in the discount rate for our OPEB would have decreased total expense in
2019 and increased the postretirement obligation, net of
increase in the assumed health care trend rate would have increased total
service and interest cost in 2019 and the postretirement obligation, net of
cost sharing, at
respectively.
AAM and
on the length of service an employee had with AAM and
cost sharing payments and present it as an asset on our Consolidated Balance
Sheet. As of
sharing. If, in the future,
our OPEB obligations could be different than our current estimates.
36
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PRODUCT WARRANTY We record a liability and related charge to cost of goods sold
for estimated warranty obligations at the dates our products are sold or when
specific warranty issues are identified. Product warranties not expected to be
paid within one year are recorded as a noncurrent liability on our Consolidated
Balance Sheet. Our estimated warranty obligations for products sold are based on
significant management estimates, with input from our warranty, sales,
engineering, quality and legal departments. For products and customers with
actual warranty payment experience, we estimate warranty costs principally based
on past claims history. For certain products and customers, actual warranty
payment experience does not exist or is not mature. In these cases, we estimate
our costs based on the contractual arrangements with our customers, existing
customers' warranty program terms and internal and external warranty data, which
includes a determination of our responsibility for potential warranty issues or
claims and estimates of repair costs. We actively study trends of our warranty
claims and take action to improve product quality and minimize warranty claims.
We continuously evaluate these estimates and our customers' administration of
their warranty programs. We closely monitor actual warranty claim data and
adjust the liability, as necessary, on a quarterly basis.
In addition to our ordinary warranty provisions with our customers, we may be
responsible for certain costs associated with product recalls and field actions,
which are recorded at the time our obligation is probable and can be reasonably
estimated.
Our warranty accrual was
as of
warranty accrual to reflect revised estimates regarding our projected future
warranty obligations. Actual experience could differ from the amounts estimated
requiring adjustments to these liabilities in future periods. It is possible
that changes in our assumptions or future warranty issues could materially
affect our financial position and results of operations.
VALUATION OF DEFERRED TAX ASSETS AND OTHER TAX LIABILITIES Because we operate in
many different geographic locations, including several foreign, state and local
tax jurisdictions, the evaluation of our ability to use all recognized deferred
tax assets is complex. In accordance with the accounting guidance for income
taxes, we review the likelihood that we will realize the benefit of deferred tax
assets and estimate whether recoverability of our deferred tax assets is "more
likely than not," based on forecasts of taxable income in the related tax
jurisdictions. In determining the requirement for a valuation allowance, the
historical results, projected future operating results based upon approved
business plans, eligible carry forward periods, and tax planning opportunities
are considered, along with other relevant positive and negative evidence. If,
based upon available evidence, it is more likely than not the deferred tax
assets will not be realized, a valuation allowance is recorded.
As of
million
valuation allowance was
If, in the future, we generate taxable income on a sustained basis in foreign
and
allowances, our current estimate of the recoverability of our deferred tax
assets could change and result in the future reversal of some or all of the
valuation allowance. While we believe we have made appropriate valuations of our
deferred tax assets, unforeseen changes in tax legislation, regulatory
activities, audit results, operating results, financing strategies, organization
structure and other related matters may result in material changes in our
deferred tax asset valuation allowances or our tax liabilities.
We record uncertain tax positions on the basis of a two-step process whereby:
(1) we determine whether it is "more likely than not" that the tax positions
will be sustained based on the technical merits of the position: and (2) for
those positions that meet the "more likely than not" recognition threshold, we
recognize the largest amount of tax benefit that is greater than 50% likely to
be realized upon ultimate settlement with the related tax authority. We record
interest and penalties on uncertain tax positions in income tax expense
(benefit).
37
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As of
benefits and related interest and penalties of
respectively. During the next 12 months, we may finalize an advance pricing
agreement in a foreign jurisdiction, which would result in a cash payment to the
relevant tax authorities and a reduction of our liability for unrecognized tax
benefits and related interest and penalties. Although it is difficult to
estimate with certainty the amount of any audit settlement, we do not expect any
potential settlement to be materially different from what we have recorded in
unrecognized tax benefits. Based on the status of ongoing tax audits, and the
protocol of finalizing audits by the relevant tax authorities, it is not
possible to estimate the impact of changes, if any, to previously recorded
uncertain tax positions. We will continue to monitor the progress and
conclusions of all ongoing audits and other communications with tax authorities
and will adjust our estimated liability as necessary.
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Forward-Looking Statements
In this MD&A and elsewhere in this Form 10-K (Annual Report), we make statements
concerning our expectations, beliefs, plans, objectives, goals, strategies, and
future events or performance. Such statements are "forward-looking" statements
within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and
relate to trends and events that may affect our future financial position and
operating results. The terms such as "will," "may," "could," "would," "plan,"
"believe," "expect," "anticipate," "intend," "project," "target," and similar
words or expressions, as well as statements in future tense, are intended to
identify forward-looking statements.
Forward-looking statements should not be read as a guarantee of future
performance or results, and will not necessarily be accurate indications of the
times at, or by, which such performance or results will be achieved.
Forward-looking statements are based on information available at the time those
statements are made and/or management's good faith belief as of that time with
respect to future events and are subject to risks and may differ materially from
those expressed in or suggested by the forward-looking statements. Important
factors that could cause such differences include, but are not limited to:
• reduced purchases of our products by General Motors Company (GM),
LLC
• our ability to respond to changes in technology, increased competition or
pricing pressures;
• our ability to develop and produce new products that reflect market demand;
• lower-than-anticipated market acceptance of new or existing products;
• our ability to attract new customers and programs for new products;
• reduced demand for our customers' products (particularly light trucks and
sport utility vehicles (SUVs) produced by
• risks inherent in our global operations (including tariffs and the
potential consequences thereof to us, our suppliers, and our customers and
their suppliers, adverse changes in trade agreements, such as
USMCA, immigration policies, political stability, taxes and other law
changes, currency rate fluctuations, and potential disruptions of
production and supply, including those as a result of public health
crises, such as pandemic or epidemic illness, or otherwise);
• a significant disruption in operations at one or more of our key
manufacturing facilities;
• negative or unexpected tax consequences;
• risks related to a failure of our information technology systems and
networks, and risks associated with current and emerging technology
threats and damage from computer viruses, unauthorized access, cyber
attack and other similar disruptions;
• global economic conditions;
• an impairment of our goodwill, other intangible assets, or long-lived
assets if our business or market conditions indicate that the carrying
values of those assets exceed their fair values;
• liabilities arising from warranty claims, product recall or field actions,
product liability and legal proceedings to which we are or may become a
party, or the impact of product recall or field actions on our customers;
• our ability or our customers' and suppliers' ability to successfully
launch new product programs on a timely basis;
• our ability to maintain satisfactory labor relations and avoid work stoppages;
• our suppliers', our customers' and their suppliers' ability to maintain
satisfactory labor relations and avoid work stoppages;
• supply shortages or price increases in raw material and/or freight,
utilities or other operating supplies for us or our customers as a result
of natural disasters or otherwise;
• our ability to achieve the level of cost reductions required to sustain
global cost competitiveness;
• our ability to realize the expected revenues from our new and incremental
business backlog;
• price volatility in, or reduced availability of, fuel;
• our ability to protect our intellectual property and successfully defend
against assertions made against us;
• availability of financing for working capital, capital expenditures,
research and development (R&D) or other general corporate purposes
including acquisitions, as well as our ability to comply with financial
covenants;
• our customers' and suppliers' availability of financing for working
capital, capital expenditures, R&D or other general corporate purposes;
• risks of noncompliance with environmental laws and regulations or risks of
environmental issues that could result in unforeseen costs at our
facilities or reputational damage;
• adverse changes in laws, government regulations or market conditions
affecting our products or our customers' products;
• our ability or our customers' and suppliers' ability to comply with
regulatory requirements and the potential costs of such compliance;
• changes in liabilities arising from pension and other postretirement
benefit obligations;
• our ability to attract and retain key associates; and
• other unanticipated events and conditions that may hinder our ability to
compete.
It is not possible to foresee or identify all such factors and we make no
commitment to update any forward-looking statement or to disclose any facts,
events or circumstances after the date hereof that may affect the accuracy of
any forward-looking statement.
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