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EPAM(EPAM) - 2024 Q4 - Annual Report

Market and Economic Risks - The company operates significantly in emerging markets, which exposes it to greater economic, financial, and banking risks compared to developed markets[96]. - A majority of the company's revenues are generated in North America and Western Europe, while most personnel and delivery centers are located in emerging markets, increasing foreign exchange risks[96]. - The company faces risks related to compliance with a variety of legal requirements across different jurisdictions, which could adversely affect operations and financial condition[99]. - Changes in U.S. policies regarding offshore outsourcing could impact the company's ability to deploy employees and conduct business effectively[104]. - The company’s operations may be negatively impacted by geopolitical events, natural disasters, and other disruptions, affecting client spending decisions[146]. Financial and Revenue Risks - The company does not have long-term commitments from clients, making future revenues uncertain and dependent on securing new engagements[109]. - Delays in client payments or contract terminations could lead to increased cash collection times and bad debt expenses, adversely affecting financial results[110]. - A downturn in any of the targeted industries or a slowdown in outsourcing trends could materially affect demand for the company's services and negatively impact financial results[112]. - The company’s effective tax rate may be adversely affected by changes in tax laws and regulations across multiple jurisdictions, impacting overall profitability[147]. - The company believes its current cash and cash flow are sufficient for the next twelve months, but may require additional capital for future investments or acquisitions[144]. Competitive Landscape and Market Position - The competitive landscape is intensifying, particularly with the development of generative AI capabilities, which may lead to pricing pressures and loss of market share[97]. - The company must adapt to rapidly changing technologies and industry standards to remain competitive; failure to do so could lead to loss of clients[118]. - Company revenues are highly dependent on five key industry verticals: Financial Services, Software & Hi-Tech, Business Information & Media, Consumer Goods, Retail & Travel, and Life Sciences & Healthcare[111]. Operational and Compliance Risks - The company faces risks related to pricing structures, which are influenced by internal forecasts and global economic conditions, potentially leading to unprofitable contracts[114]. - Significant resource commitments are required before realizing revenues, and delays in the sales cycle could adversely affect revenue timing and growth[116]. - The company relies on visas for personnel to work at client sites, and any changes in visa regulations could delay project timelines and affect service delivery[105]. - The corporate reputation is crucial for client engagement and retention, and any damage to reputation could adversely affect business and investor confidence[123]. Intellectual Property and Legal Risks - The company relies on a combination of intellectual property protections, but effectiveness may vary by country, exposing it to risks of unauthorized use[125]. - Intellectual property infringement claims could divert management attention and result in significant costs, impacting the company's ability to provide existing services[128]. - The existence and ownership of intellectual property rights related to generative AI technologies are under review, posing potential legal liabilities for the company[130]. - Any adverse outcomes from litigation or claims could materially affect the company's business, financial condition, and results of operations[131]. Cybersecurity and Information Security Risks - The company has experienced cybersecurity incidents and anticipates ongoing threats, with increasingly sophisticated attacks making detection and defense more challenging[134]. - The cost of information security measures and compliance with privacy regulations significantly reduces profitability, potentially leading to client loss and reputational harm[138]. - The company is subject to GDPR and other privacy laws, which impose significant restrictions and can result in substantial financial penalties for non-compliance[139]. - The company must continuously enhance its information security measures to protect sensitive data, which involves significant costs and resources[137]. - The company’s ability to monitor third-party suppliers' information security systems is limited, increasing vulnerability to potential breaches[135]. Financial Volatility and Risk Management - The company’s stock price has shown substantial volatility due to variations in financial results and external market conditions, impacting future operating results[142]. - The company faces counterparty default risk in its hedging program, which could lead to significant losses if a counterparty defaults[145].