[Financial Performance Summary](index=1&type=section&id=Financial%20Performance%20Summary) Lincoln Electric reported sales and net income declines in Q2 and H1 2024, maintaining stable adjusted operating margins amidst financing activities [Second Quarter 2024 Performance](index=1&type=section&id=Second%20Quarter%202024%20Performance) Q2 2024 Financial Performance | Financial Metric | Q2 2024 | Q2 2023 | Change | | :--- | :--- | :--- | :--- | | Net Sales | $1,022.0 million | $1,060.6 million | -3.7% | | Net Income | $101.7 million | $137.3 million | -25.9% | | Diluted EPS | $1.77 | $2.36 | -25.0% | | Adjusted Net Income | $134.3 million | $142.2 million | -5.6% | | Adjusted EPS | $2.34 | $2.44 | -4.1% | | Operating Income Margin | 14.6% | 16.8% | -220 bps | | Adjusted Operating Income Margin | 17.4% | 17.4% | 0 bps | - The **3.7%** decrease in Q2 sales was driven by a **4.4%** decline in organic sales, which was partially offset by a **1.2%** benefit from acquisitions[3](index=3&type=chunk) - Management attributed the solid profit and earnings results to effective cost management and execution of strategic initiatives while navigating a challenging part of the cycle[4](index=4&type=chunk) - The company returned **$91 million** to shareholders during the quarter through dividends and share repurchases[7](index=7&type=chunk) [Six Months 2024 Performance](index=1&type=section&id=Six%20Months%202024%20Performance) H1 2024 Financial Performance | Financial Metric | H1 2024 | H1 2023 | Change | | :--- | :--- | :--- | :--- | | Net Sales | $2,002.9 million | $2,099.9 million | -4.6% | | Net Income | $225.1 million | $259.3 million | -13.2% | | Diluted EPS | $3.91 | $4.44 | -11.9% | | Adjusted Net Income | $262.9 million | $266.5 million | -1.3% | | Adjusted EPS | $4.57 | $4.57 | 0.0% | | Operating Income Margin | 15.7% | 16.3% | -60 bps | | Adjusted Operating Income Margin | 17.4% | 16.8% | +60 bps | - The **4.6%** sales decrease for the first six months was primarily due to a **5.3%** decline in organic sales[6](index=6&type=chunk) [Financing Activities](index=2&type=section&id=Financing%20Activities) - On June 20, 2024, the company agreed to issue **$550 million** in new senior unsecured private placement notes with maturities ranging from 5 to 10 years[8](index=8&type=chunk) - Proceeds from the notes were used to repay a **$400 million** term loan. Once fully issued, total debt will be **$1.25 billion** with a weighted average effective interest rate of **4.08%**[8](index=8&type=chunk) - The company also entered into a new **$1 billion** revolving credit facility, with initial interest at SOFR plus **1.10%**[8](index=8&type=chunk) [Consolidated Financial Statements](index=4&type=section&id=Consolidated%20Financial%20Statements) Consolidated financial statements show decreased net sales and income for Q2 and H1 2024, impacted by charges, with stable balance sheet and reduced operating cash flow [Consolidated Statements of Income](index=4&type=section&id=Consolidated%20Statements%20of%20Income) Q2 2024 Consolidated Statements of Income | Metric (Q2) | 2024 | 2023 | % Change | | :--- | :--- | :--- | :--- | | Net Sales | $1,021.7 million | $1,060.6 million | -3.7% | | Gross Profit | $383.8 million | $373.4 million | +2.8% | | Operating Income | $148.8 million | $178.0 million | -16.4% | | Net Income | $101.7 million | $137.3 million | -25.9% | H1 2024 Consolidated Statements of Income | Metric (Six Months) | 2024 | 2023 | % Change | | :--- | :--- | :--- | :--- | | Net Sales | $2,002.9 million | $2,099.9 million | -4.6% | | Gross Profit | $752.2 million | $728.8 million | +3.2% | | Operating Income | $313.9 million | $342.4 million | -8.3% | | Net Income | $225.1 million | $259.3 million | -13.2% | - Rationalization and asset impairment charges significantly increased to **$26.5 million** in Q2 2024 from **$2.7 million** in Q2 2023, negatively impacting operating income[14](index=14&type=chunk) [Balance Sheet Highlights](index=5&type=section&id=Balance%20Sheet%20Highlights) Selected Balance Sheet Data | Selected Balance Sheet Data | June 30, 2024 | Dec 31, 2023 | | :--- | :--- | :--- | | Cash and cash equivalents | $272.7 million | $393.8 million | | Total assets | $3,415.2 million | $3,377.3 million | | Total debt | $1,104.7 million | $1,105.2 million | | Total equity | $1,312.9 million | $1,308.9 million | | Total debt / invested capital | 45.7% | 45.8% | - Average operating working capital as a percentage of Net sales increased to **18.0%** at the end of Q2 2024 from **17.1%** at the end of 2023[16](index=16&type=chunk)[17](index=17&type=chunk) [Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows](index=8&type=section&id=Condensed%20Consolidated%20Statements%20of%20Cash%20Flows) Q2 2024 Cash Flow Activities | Cash Flow Activity (Q2) | 2024 | 2023 | | :--- | :--- | :--- | | Net Cash from Operating Activities | $170.7 million | $198.8 million | | Net Cash used by Investing Activities | ($174.8 million) | ($60.3 million) | | Net Cash used by Financing Activities | ($93.1 million) | ($115.6 million) | | Decrease in Cash | ($102.3 million) | $21.7 million (Increase) | H1 2024 Cash Flow Activities | Cash Flow Activity (Six Months) | 2024 | 2023 | | :--- | :--- | :--- | | Net Cash from Operating Activities | $304.0 million | $322.8 million | | Net Cash used by Investing Activities | ($200.7 million) | ($76.3 million) | | Net Cash used by Financing Activities | ($218.5 million) | ($226.9 million) | | Decrease in Cash | ($121.1 million) | $23.3 million (Increase) | - For the first six months of 2024, the company spent **$160.8 million** on share repurchases and **$81.7 million** on cash dividends[29](index=29&type=chunk) [Segment Performance](index=10&type=section&id=Segment%20Performance) Segment performance varied in Q2 2024, with Americas Welding maintaining strong margins despite sales decline, International Welding facing significant drops, and Harris Products Group showing sales growth [Segment Highlights](index=10&type=section&id=Segment%20Highlights) Q2 2024 Segment Performance | Q2 2024 Segment Performance | Americas Welding | International Welding | Harris Products | | :--- | :--- | :--- | :--- | | Net Sales | $648.9 million | $238.8 million | $134.0 million | | % Change YoY | -4.1% | -5.8% | +2.9% | | Adjusted EBIT | $136.7 million | $25.7 million | $24.9 million | | Adjusted EBIT Margin | 19.9% | 10.4% | 18.2% | H1 2024 Segment Performance | Six Months 2024 Segment Performance | Americas Welding | International Welding | Harris Products | | :--- | :--- | :--- | :--- | | Net Sales | $1,273.0 million | $474.5 million | $255.3 million | | % Change YoY | -4.7% | -6.2% | -1.2% | | Adjusted EBIT | $272.8 million | $53.5 million | $44.8 million | | Adjusted EBIT Margin | 20.3% | 10.9% | 17.1% | - International Welding's Q2 reported EBIT was a loss of **$(5.5) million**, primarily due to **$26.3 million** in rationalization charges and a **$5.0 million** loss on asset disposal related to the disposition of its Russian entity[31](index=31&type=chunk)[33](index=33&type=chunk) [Change in Net Sales by Segment](index=12&type=section&id=Change%20in%20Net%20Sales%20by%20Segment) Q2 2024 Net Sales Change by Segment | Q2 2024 % Change in Net Sales vs. Q2 2023 | Volume | Acquisitions | Price | Foreign Exchange | Total | | :--- | :--- | :--- | :--- | :--- | :--- | | Americas Welding | (6.7)% | 1.8% | 1.0% | (0.2)% | (4.1)% | | International Welding | (3.8)% | 0.0% | (1.2)% | (0.8)% | (5.8)% | | The Harris Products Group | (1.9)% | — | 5.2% | (0.3)% | 2.9% | | **Consolidated** | **(5.4)%** | **1.2%** | **1.0%** | **(0.4)%** | **(3.7)%** | - Consolidated sales decline in Q2 was driven by a **5.4%** decrease in volume, partially offset by positive contributions from acquisitions (**1.2%**) and pricing (**1.0%**)[41](index=41&type=chunk) - The Harris Products Group was the only segment to post sales growth in Q2, driven by a strong **5.2%** price increase that more than offset a **1.9%** volume decline[41](index=41&type=chunk) [Non-GAAP Financial Measures Reconciliation](index=6&type=section&id=Non-GAAP%20Financial%20Measures%20Reconciliation) The company provides detailed reconciliations of GAAP to non-GAAP measures, showing Q2 2024 adjusted EPS at **$2.34**, adjusted operating margin flat at **17.4%**, and adjusted ROIC improved to **23.7%** [Reconciliation of Operating Income, Net Income, and EPS](index=6&type=section&id=Reconciliation%20of%20Operating%20Income%2C%20Net%20Income%2C%20and%20EPS) Q2 2024 Reconciliation of Operating Income, Net Income, and EPS | Q2 2024 Reconciliation | Reported (GAAP) | Special Items (pre-tax) | Adjusted (Non-GAAP) | | :--- | :--- | :--- | :--- | | Operating Income | $148.8 million | $28.8 million | $177.6 million | | Net Income | $101.7 million | $32.6 million (after-tax) | $134.3 million | | Diluted EPS | $1.77 | $0.57 | $2.34 | - Q2 2024 pre-tax special items included **$26.5 million** in rationalization charges, **$2.2 million** in acquisition costs, and a **$5.0 million** loss on asset disposal[19](index=19&type=chunk) - The adjusted effective tax rate for Q2 2024 was **21.2%**, compared to the reported rate of **25.6%**[19](index=19&type=chunk) [Reconciliation of Return on Invested Capital (ROIC)](index=7&type=section&id=Reconciliation%20of%20Return%20on%20Invested%20Capital%20%28ROIC%29) Return on Invested Capital (TTM) | Return on Invested Capital (TTM) | June 30, 2024 | June 30, 2023 | | :--- | :--- | :--- | | Reported ROIC | 22.3% | 22.0% | | Adjusted ROIC | 23.7% | 22.9% | - Adjusted net operating profit after taxes (NOPAT) for the twelve months ending June 30, 2024 was **$573.4 million**, an increase from **$530.5 million** in the prior year period[24](index=24&type=chunk) [Other Information](index=2&type=section&id=Other%20Information) This section provides standard corporate information, including Lincoln Electric's business description and legal disclaimers regarding forward-looking statements and non-GAAP measures [About Lincoln Electric](index=2&type=section&id=About%20Lincoln%20Electric) - Lincoln Electric is described as the world leader in the engineering, design, and manufacturing of advanced arc welding solutions, automated joining, assembly and cutting systems[10](index=10&type=chunk) - The company operates **71** manufacturing and automation system integration locations across **21** countries and serves customers in over **160** countries[10](index=10&type=chunk) [Forward-Looking Statements](index=3&type=section&id=Forward-Looking%20Statements) - The press release contains forward-looking statements that involve risks and uncertainties, and actual results may differ materially from expectations[12](index=12&type=chunk) - Key risk factors cited include general economic conditions, interest rates, currency exchange rates, tariff rates, and geopolitical events such as the Russia-Ukraine conflict[12](index=12&type=chunk)

Cyclical downturns can be a good time to look for quality names looking at depressed near-term results, and that would seem to apply to Lincoln Electric (NASDAQ:LECO). This leading player in welding and factory automation has seen basically all of its major markets slip into contraction and with higher rates, economic uncertainty, and nervousness around the election all in play, a recovery may not be in the works until sometime in 2025. Down almost 30% from its high, Lincoln is up about 10% since my last up ...

Lincoln Electric Holdings, Inc. (LECO) shares have lost 20.9% in the past three months compared with the industry's 10% decline. This mainly reflects escalating freight and material costs. Low volumes in the Harris Products Group add to the woes. Image Source: Zacks Investment Research High Costs, Weakness in Harris Products Group Ail Lincoln Electric is witnessing inflationary headwinds from escalating labor and raw material costs that impacted its margins. In addition, continued risks of possible supply-c ...

Lincoln Electric Holdings, Inc. (LECO) reported record first-quarter 2024 adjusted earnings of $2.23 per share, beating the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $2.15. Gains from effective cost management helped offset the impact of lower revenues, resulting in a 4.7% year-over-year increase in earnings.Including one-time items, the bottom line was $2.14 per share compared with $2.09 in the year-ago quarter.Total revenues declined 5.6% year over year to $981 million. The top line missed the Zacks Consensus Estimate ...

or ☐ TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934 For the transition period from _____________ to _____________ Table of Contents UNITED STATES SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION Washington, D.C. 20549 FORM 10-Q ☒ QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934 For the quarterly period ended March 31, 2024 Commission File Number: 0-1402 LINCOLN ELECTRIC HOLDINGS, INC. (Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter) Oh ...

For the quarter ended March 2024, Lincoln Electric Holdings (LECO) reported revenue of $981.2 million, down 5.6% over the same period last year. EPS came in at $2.23, compared to $2.13 in the year-ago quarter.The reported revenue compares to the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $1.04 billion, representing a surprise of -5.36%. The company delivered an EPS surprise of +3.72%, with the consensus EPS estimate being $2.15.While investors scrutinize revenue and earnings changes year-over-year and how they compare wit ...

Lincoln Electric Holdings (LECO) came out with quarterly earnings of $2.23 per share, beating the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $2.15 per share. This compares to earnings of $2.13 per share a year ago. These figures are adjusted for non-recurring items.This quarterly report represents an earnings surprise of 3.72%. A quarter ago, it was expected that this manufacturer of specialized welding products and other equipment would post earnings of $2.19 per share when it actually produced earnings of $2.45, deliver ...

Exhibit 99.1 Investor Relations: Amanda Butler (216) 383-2534 Amanda_Butler@lincolnelectric.com LINCOLN ELECTRIC REPORTS FIRST QUARTER 2024 RESULTS First Quarter 2024 Highlights CLEVELAND, Thursday, April 25, 2024 - Lincoln Electric Holdings, Inc. (the "Company") (Nasdaq: LECO) today reported first quarter 2024 net income of $123.4 million, or diluted earnings per share (EPS) of $2.14, which includes special item after-tax net charges of $5.2 million, or $0.09 EPS. This compares with prior year period net i ...

Taking full advantage of the stock market and investing with confidence are common goals for new and old investors, and Zacks Premium offers many different ways to do both.The popular research service can help you become a smarter, more self-assured investor, giving you access to daily updates of the Zacks Rank and Zacks Industry Rank, the Zacks #1 Rank List, Equity Research reports, and Premium stock screens.It also includes access to the Zacks Style Scores.What are the Zacks Style Scores?The Zacks Style S ...

Part I [Business Overview](index=2&type=section&id=Item%201.%20Business) Lincoln Electric is a global leader in arc welding products and automated systems, operating through three segments and serving diverse industrial markets - The company is a world leader in arc welding products, automated systems, and cutting equipment, with a leading global position in brazing and soldering alloys[6](index=6&type=chunk) - The business operates through three segments: **Americas Welding**, **International Welding**, and **The Harris Products Group**[10](index=10&type=chunk) - Major end-user markets include general fabrication, energy, heavy industries, automotive/transportation, and construction/infrastructure[12](index=12&type=chunk) - Competition is based on brand preference, product quality, and service, with the company's highly trained technical sales force providing a competitive advantage[13](index=13&type=chunk)[14](index=14&type=chunk) - As of December 31, 2023, the company employed approximately **12,000** people worldwide[20](index=20&type=chunk) [Risk Factors](index=7&type=section&id=Item%201A.%20Risk%20Factors) The company faces significant economic, operational, strategic, and legal risks, including sensitivity to economic cycles, supply chain disruptions, intense competition, and asbestos litigation - **Economic Risks:** Operating results are sensitive to economic cycles, inflation, interest rates, and global supply chain disruptions, including ongoing risks from the Russia-Ukraine conflict[38](index=38&type=chunk)[39](index=39&type=chunk) - **Operational Risks:** Risks include volatility in raw material and energy costs, disruptions from global events, and significant cybersecurity threats to information systems[44](index=44&type=chunk)[45](index=45&type=chunk)[47](index=47&type=chunk) - **Business Strategy Risks:** Challenges include integrating acquisitions, developing new products, protecting intellectual property, and intense global competition, including from low-cost foreign imports[51](index=51&type=chunk)[54](index=54&type=chunk)[58](index=58&type=chunk) - **Legal and Compliance Risks:** The company is a co-defendant in approximately **1,387** asbestos-induced illness lawsuits as of December 31, 2023, and faces product liability, tax law, and environmental regulation risks[62](index=62&type=chunk)[66](index=66&type=chunk)[70](index=70&type=chunk)[73](index=73&type=chunk) [Cybersecurity](index=20&type=section&id=Item%201C.%20Cybersecurity) The company integrates cybersecurity into its ERM process, employing assessments and training, with Board oversight and an experienced CIO managing these critical risks - Cybersecurity risk management is integrated into the company's Enterprise Risk Management (ERM) process and is considered a **critical risk**[81](index=81&type=chunk) - The company employs third-party assessments, penetration testing, and biannual employee training to manage and mitigate cybersecurity risks[82](index=82&type=chunk)[83](index=83&type=chunk) - The Board's Audit Committee oversees cybersecurity risks, receiving regular updates from the Chief Information Officer (CIO), with the full Board receiving an annual update[86](index=86&type=chunk) - To date, no cybersecurity incidents have had a **material impact** on the business or operations[84](index=84&type=chunk) [Information About Our Executive Officers](index=22&type=section&id=Item%201D.%20Information%20About%20Our%20Executive%20Officers) This section lists the company's executive officers, including their age and professional history, highlighting key leadership roles Executive Officers as of January/February 2024 | Name | Age | Position | | :--- | :--- | :--- | | Christopher L. Mapes | 62 | Executive Chairman of the Board | | Steven B. Hedlund | 57 | President and Chief Executive Officer | | Gabriel Bruno | 56 | Executive Vice President, Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer | | Jennifer I. Ansberry | 50 | Executive Vice President, General Counsel and Secretary | | Michele R. Kuhrt | 57 | Executive Vice President, Chief Human Resources Officer | | Lisa A. Dietrich | 51 | Executive Vice President, Chief Information Officer | [Properties](index=24&type=section&id=Item%202.%20Properties) The company's corporate headquarters are in Cleveland, Ohio, with 71 manufacturing and automation facilities globally across 21 countries, most of which are owned - Corporate headquarters and principal U.S. manufacturing facilities are in Cleveland, Ohio, with approximately **3.0 million square feet** of space[92](index=92&type=chunk) - The company has **71** manufacturing and automation system integration facilities across **21** countries[94](index=94&type=chunk) - Significant manufacturing locations are listed by operating segment, including facilities in the United States, Brazil, Canada, Mexico, China, Germany, Italy, and the United Kingdom[94](index=94&type=chunk) - In March 2022, the company ceased operations in Russia in response to the invasion of Ukraine[94](index=94&type=chunk) [Legal Proceedings](index=26&type=section&id=Item%203.%20Legal%20Proceedings) The company is involved in various legal proceedings, primarily asbestos-related lawsuits, with a strong record of successful defense and dismissals for thousands of claims - As of December 31, 2023, the company was a co-defendant in approximately **1,387** asbestos-induced illness lawsuits, a net decrease of **22** claims from the prior report[97](index=97&type=chunk) - Since January 1, 1995, **56,986** asbestos-related claims have been dismissed, **23** tried to defense verdicts, and **1,015** decided in the company's favor on summary judgment motions[97](index=97&type=chunk) Part II [Market for Common Equity, Stockholder Matters, and Equity Purchases](index=26&type=section&id=Item%205.%20Market%20for%20Registrant%27s%20Common%20Equity%2C%20Related%20Stockholder%20Matters%20and%20Issuer%20Purchases%20of%20Equity%20Securities) The company's common shares trade on NASDAQ under 'LECO,' with 2,214 record holders and significant share repurchases in Q4 2023 - The company's common shares are traded on The NASDAQ Global Select Market under the symbol **"LECO"**[99](index=99&type=chunk) Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities (Q4 2023) | Period | Total Shares Purchased | Average Price Paid Per Share | Shares Purchased as Part of Publicly Announced Plans | Maximum Shares that May Yet be Purchased | | :--- | :--- | :--- | :--- | :--- | | Oct 1 - 31, 2023 | 100,749 | $179.12 | 98,253 | 8,107,766 | | Nov 1 - 30, 2023 | 132,659 | $188.51 | 132,617 | 7,975,149 | | Dec 1 - 31, 2023 | 120,132 | $209.13 | 116,629 | 7,858,520 | | **Total** | **353,540** | **$192.84** | **347,499** | | - On February 12, 2020, the Board authorized a share repurchase program for up to **10 million** shares, with **2.1 million** shares purchased through December 31, 2023[100](index=100&type=chunk) [Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations](index=27&type=section&id=Item%207.%20Management%27s%20Discussion%20and%20Analysis%20of%20Financial%20Condition%20and%20Results%20of%20Operations) The company reported strong 2023 financial performance with Net Sales of **$4.19 billion** and Net Income of **$545.2 million**, driven by acquisitions and volume growth, alongside robust operating cash flow and a healthy balance sheet [Results of Operations](index=30&type=section&id=Results%20of%20Operations) In 2023, Net Sales grew **11.4%** to **$4.19 billion**, driven by acquisitions and volume, leading to improved gross margin and significant increases in operating income and net income Consolidated Results of Operations (Year Ended Dec 31) | Metric | 2023 | 2022 | % Change | | :--- | :--- | :--- | :--- | | Net Sales | $4,191.6M | $3,761.2M | 11.4% | | Gross Profit | $1,465.4M | $1,280.8M | 14.4% | | Gross Profit % | 35.0% | 34.1% | +0.9 ppt | | Operating Income | $717.8M | $612.3M | 17.2% | | Net Income | $545.2M | $472.2M | 15.5% | | Diluted EPS | $9.37 | $8.04 | 16.5% | Change in Net Sales (2023 vs. 2022) | Component | % Change | | :--- | :--- | | Volume | 2.3% | | Acquisitions | 7.4% | | Price | 1.7% | | Foreign Exchange | 0.1% | | **Total Net Sales Change** | **11.4%** | [Segment Results](index=32&type=section&id=Segment%20Results) In 2023, Americas Welding and International Welding segments reported strong Net Sales growth, while The Harris Products Group declined; all segments achieved higher Adjusted EBIT margins Net Sales % Change by Segment (2023 vs. 2022) | Segment | Volume | Acquisitions | Price | FX | Total Change | | :--- | :--- | :--- | :--- | :--- | :--- | | Americas Welding | 4.8% | 9.7% | 1.6% | (0.1)% | 16.0% | | International Welding | 1.3% | 5.7% | 1.5% | 0.5% | 9.0% | | The Harris Products Group | (7.1)% | 0.0% | 2.4% | 0.5% | (4.2)% | Adjusted EBIT by Segment (Year Ended Dec 31) | Segment | 2023 Adjusted EBIT | 2022 Adjusted EBIT | % Change | 2023 Margin | 2022 Margin | | :--- | :--- | :--- | :--- | :--- | :--- | | Americas Welding | $538.3M | $462.8M | 16.3% | 19.3% | 19.2% | | International Welding | $136.5M | $120.2M | 13.6% | 12.7% | 12.2% | | The Harris Products Group | $74.1M | $64.0M | 15.8% | 14.6% | 12.1% | [Liquidity and Capital Resources](index=37&type=section&id=Liquidity%20and%20Capital%20Resources) The company significantly improved liquidity in 2023, with operating cash flow increasing to **$667.5 million**, reduced investing outflows, and managed debt effectively, anticipating **$90-110 million** in 2024 capital expenditures Key Cash Flow Measures (Year Ended Dec 31) | Metric | 2023 | 2022 | | :--- | :--- | :--- | | Cash provided by operating activities | $667.5M | $383.4M | | Cash used by investing activities | ($74.7M) | ($504.7M) | | Cash (used by) provided by financing activities | ($412.4M) | $133.7M | | Increase in Cash and cash equivalents | $196.6M | $4.2M | - The increase in operating cash flow was primarily due to increased earnings and improved working capital[141](index=141&type=chunk) - Total debt outstanding was **$1.105 billion** at year-end 2023, down from **$1.204 billion** at year-end 2022[146](index=146&type=chunk) - Anticipated capital expenditures for 2024 are projected to be between **$90 million** and **$110 million**[141](index=141&type=chunk) - In January 2024, the company paid a cash dividend of **$0.71 per share**, an **11% increase** in the payout rate[140](index=140&type=chunk) [Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates](index=46&type=section&id=Critical%20Accounting%20Policies%20and%20Estimates) The company's financial statements rely on critical accounting policies and estimates, including legal and tax contingencies, deferred income taxes, inventory valuation, impairment testing, business acquisitions, and revenue recognition - **Legal and Tax Contingencies:** Management estimates probable costs for litigation, including asbestos claims, and maintains liabilities for uncertain tax positions[171](index=171&type=chunk)[173](index=173&type=chunk) - **Deferred Income Taxes:** The company assesses the realizability of deferred tax assets by projecting future taxable income, recording a **$36.9 million** valuation allowance at year-end 2023[176](index=176&type=chunk)[178](index=178&type=chunk) - **Inventories:** A substantial portion of U.S. inventories (**37%** of total) is valued using the **LIFO method**, requiring estimates of year-end inventory levels and costs[179](index=179&type=chunk) - **Goodwill and Intangibles:** Annual impairment tests for goodwill and indefinite-lived intangibles involve estimating fair values using discounted cash flow models based on future growth and discount rate assumptions[182](index=182&type=chunk)[184](index=184&type=chunk) - **Revenue Recognition:** Most revenue is recognized at a point in time, but customized automation projects are accounted for over time, requiring estimates of total costs to complete[187](index=187&type=chunk) [Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk](index=52&type=section&id=Item%207A.%20Quantitative%20and%20Qualitative%20Disclosures%20About%20Market%20Risk) The company manages market risks from foreign currency, commodity prices, and interest rates using derivatives, with sensitivity analysis indicating manageable impacts from hypothetical changes - Primary financial market risks include fluctuations in currency exchange rates, commodity prices, and interest rates[190](index=190&type=chunk) - **Foreign Currency Risk:** Forward contracts hedge transactions and intercompany loans; a hypothetical **10%** change in exchange rates on non-designated hedges would impact pre-tax income by **$25.3 million**, offset by underlying balance sheet exposure[194](index=194&type=chunk)[196](index=196&type=chunk) - **Interest Rate Risk:** Interest rate swaps manage variability; a hypothetical **100 basis point** increase in variable rates would increase annual Interest Expense by approximately **$2.5 million**[198](index=198&type=chunk) - **Commodity Price Risk:** Hedging arrangements manage price risk for commodity purchases, with a notional amount of **200,000 pounds** at year-end 2023[197](index=197&type=chunk) [Controls and Procedures](index=56&type=section&id=Item%209A.%20Controls%20and%20Procedures) Management and the independent auditor concluded that the company's disclosure controls and internal control over financial reporting were effective as of December 31, 2023 - Management, including the CEO and CFO, concluded that the company's disclosure controls and procedures were **effective** as of December 31, 2023[203](index=203&type=chunk) - Management concluded that the company's internal control over financial reporting was **effective** as of December 31, 2023, based on the **2013 COSO framework**[204](index=204&type=chunk) - The effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting was audited by Ernst & Young LLP, which issued an **unqualified opinion**[205](index=205&type=chunk) Part III [Items 10-14](index=58&type=section&id=Items%2010-14) Information for Items 10 through 14, covering directors, executive compensation, and related matters, is incorporated by reference from the company's 2024 definitive proxy statement - Information for Items **10, 11, 12, 13, and 14** is incorporated by reference from the registrant's **2024 definitive proxy statement**[209](index=209&type=chunk)[210](index=210&type=chunk)[211](index=211&type=chunk)[212](index=212&type=chunk)[213](index=213&type=chunk) Part IV [Exhibits and Financial Statement Schedules](index=58&type=section&id=Item%2015.%20Exhibits%20and%20Financial%20Statement%20Schedules) This section lists the financial statements, schedules, and exhibits included in the Form 10-K, covering consolidated financial data, auditor reports, and key corporate documents - This section lists the financial statements filed with the report, including Consolidated Statements of Income, Comprehensive Income, Balance Sheets, Equity, and Cash Flows for the years ended **December 31, 2023, 2022, and 2021**[214](index=214&type=chunk) - Financial Statement Schedule II – Valuation and Qualifying Accounts is also included[215](index=215&type=chunk) - A comprehensive list of exhibits is provided, including credit agreements, note purchase agreements, equity and compensation plans, and executive officer certifications[217](index=217&type=chunk)[220](index=220&type=chunk)[221](index=221&type=chunk)[222](index=222&type=chunk) Financial Statements and Supplementary Data [Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm](index=65&type=section&id=Report%20of%20Independent%20Registered%20Public%20Accounting%20Firm) Ernst & Young LLP issued unqualified opinions on the company's consolidated financial statements and internal control over financial reporting, identifying goodwill impairment evaluation as a Critical Audit Matter - The auditor, Ernst & Young LLP, issued an **unqualified opinion** on the consolidated financial statements and the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting[230](index=230&type=chunk)[238](index=238&type=chunk) - A **Critical Audit Matter** was identified related to the goodwill impairment evaluation for a reporting unit in the Americas Welding segment, due to the complex and judgmental nature of estimating fair value sensitive to assumptions like weighted average cost of capital and terminal growth rate[235](index=235&type=chunk) [Consolidated Financial Statements](index=69&type=section&id=Consolidated%20Financial%20Statements) The consolidated financial statements show consistent growth in Net Sales and Net Income, with Total Assets reaching **$3.38 billion** and robust operating cash flow of **$667.5 million** in 2023 Consolidated Income Statement Highlights (in thousands) | Metric | 2023 | 2022 | 2021 | | :--- | :--- | :--- | :--- | | Net Sales | $4,191,636 | $3,761,211 | $3,234,180 | | Operating Income | $717,849 | $612,336 | $461,669 | | Net Income | $545,248 | $472,224 | $276,580 | | Diluted EPS | $9.37 | $8.04 | $4.60 | Consolidated Balance Sheet Highlights (in thousands) | Metric | Dec 31, 2023 | Dec 31, 2022 | | :--- | :--- | :--- | | Total Current Assets | $1,693,111 | $1,557,790 | | Total Assets | $3,377,297 | $3,180,546 | | Total Current Liabilities | $754,610 | $852,897 | | Total Liabilities | $2,068,445 | $2,146,505 | | Total Equity | $1,308,852 | $1,034,041 | Consolidated Cash Flow Highlights (in thousands) | Metric | 2023 | 2022 | 2021 | | :--- | :--- | :--- | :--- | | Net Cash from Operating Activities | $667,542 | $383,386 | $365,063 | | Net Cash from Investing Activities | ($74,729) | ($504,691) | ($205,356) | | Net Cash from Financing Activities | ($412,392) | $133,725 | ($221,940) | [Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements](index=74&type=section&id=Notes%20to%20Consolidated%20Financial%20Statements) The notes provide detailed explanations of accounting policies and financial data, covering acquisitions, goodwill, debt, pensions, and income taxes - **Acquisitions (Note 4):** The company acquired **Powermig** in Brazil for **$29.6 million** in May 2023, and **Fori Automation** for **$427 million** in December 2022, expanding automation capabilities and automotive market presence[312](index=312&type=chunk)[313](index=313&type=chunk) - **Goodwill (Note 5):** As of December 31, 2023, goodwill totaled **$694.5 million**, with **$497.6 million** allocated to the Americas Welding segment, primarily due to the Powermig and Fori acquisitions[324](index=324&type=chunk) - **Debt (Note 9):** Total debt was **$1.105 billion** at year-end 2023, primarily Senior Unsecured Notes (**$702.8 million** net) and a **$400 million** Term Loan, with the company in compliance with all debt covenants[343](index=343&type=chunk) - **Pensions (Note 11):** The company maintains defined benefit and contribution plans; U.S. defined benefit plans had an **$8.4 million** deficit, and non-U.S. plans had a **$34.8 million** deficit at year-end 2023[366](index=366&type=chunk) - **Income Taxes (Note 13):** The effective tax rate for 2023 was **20.6%**, with gross deferred tax assets of **$172.7 million** and a valuation allowance of **$36.9 million** recorded[385](index=385&type=chunk)[388](index=388&type=chunk)