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Crocs, Inc. (CROX) FY 2023 MD&A

Verbatim Item 7 Management's Discussion and Analysis from Crocs, Inc.'s 10-K for fiscal year 2023. Filing date: 2024-02-15. Report date: 2023-12-31. Accession: 0001334036-24-000025.

This page reproduces the company's own Item 7 MD&A text from the linked SEC filing. It is filer text, not grepcent analysis, scoring, or investment advice.

Extracted structurally from real Item 7 body heading to real Item 7A/8 boundary. Confidence: high.

Company profile: CROX · All MD&A years: index · Previous year: FY 2022 · Next year: FY 2024

ITEM 7. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations

Business Overview

Crocs, Inc. and its consolidated subsidiaries (collectively, the “Company,” “we,” “us,” or “our”) are engaged in the design, development, worldwide marketing, distribution, and sale of casual lifestyle footwear and accessories for women, men, and children. We strive to be the world leader in innovative casual footwear for women, men, and children, combining comfort and style with a value that consumers want. The vast majority of shoes within the Crocs Brand’s collection contain Croslite™ material, a proprietary, molded footwear technology, delivering extraordinary comfort with each step. The broad appeal of our footwear has allowed us to market our products through a wide range of distribution channels. We currently sell our products in more than 80 countries, through two distribution channels: wholesale and direct-to-consumer. Our wholesale channel includes domestic and international multi-brand retailers, mono-branded partner stores, e-tailers, and distributors; our direct-to-consumer channel includes company-operated retail stores, company-operated e-commerce sites, and third-party marketplaces.

Known or Anticipated Trends

Based on our recent operating results and our assessment of the current operating environment, we anticipate certain trends will continue to impact our future operating results:

•We are operating in an environment where consumers are feeling the effects of elevated interest rates and inflation, and as a result, they are spending more cautiously. In addition, geopolitical tensions remain across the globe, among other things. We are focused on making the right decisions for the health of our brands, maintaining tight inventory control, and investing in strategic initiatives to support durable long-term growth.

•The Crocs Brand continues to deliver strong revenue growth after building clog, sandal, and brand relevance across the globe over the last several years. Our strong product and marketing efforts continue to deliver newness and excitement to current brand fans. Asia, which is a strategic initiative for the Crocs Brand, continues to show growth, particularly in China.

•We acquired HEYDUDE in February 2022. Since the closing of the Acquisition, we have acquired new customers, gained share in strategic wholesale accounts, and improved brand awareness. We have also started to expand the HEYDUDE Brand internationally, specifically in Europe, where we have begun testing in a few direct markets, including the United Kingdom, Germany, and the Netherlands, as well as a few distributor markets. In 2023, we experienced some headwinds from non-comparable sales due to rapid expansion to U.S. strategic customers in 2022 and more cautious order patterns from several of our wholesale partners in the current year based on the overall macro-economic outlook. Additionally, to prioritize long-term marketplace health, we made a conscious decision in the third quarter of 2023 to stop price matching against grey market sellers on Amazon. While this has had, and we expect it to have, a negative impact on revenues initially, we believe this move will protect the brand and better position us in the market for full year 2024.

•We ended the year in a strong liquidity position with $149.3 million in cash and cash equivalents and up to $570.4 million in available borrowing capacity as of December 31, 2023. In the year ended December 31, 2023, we paid down $665.8 million of net borrowings, reducing total borrowings to $1.66 billion as of December 31, 2023.

Use of Non-GAAP Financial Measures

In addition to financial measures presented on the basis of accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“U.S. GAAP”), we present certain information related to our current period results of operations through “constant currency,” which is a non-GAAP financial measure and should be viewed as a supplement to our results of operations and presentation of reportable segments under U.S. GAAP. Constant currency represents current period results that have been retranslated using prior year average foreign exchange rates for the comparative period to enhance the visibility of the underlying business trends excluding the impact of foreign currency exchange rates on reported amounts.

Management uses constant currency to assist in comparing business trends from period to period on a consistent basis in communications with the Board, stockholders, analysts, and investors concerning our financial performance. We believe constant currency is useful to investors and other users of our consolidated financial statements as an additional tool to evaluate operating performance and trends. Investors should not consider constant currency in isolation from, or as a substitute for, financial information prepared in accordance with U.S. GAAP.

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2023 Financial and Operational Highlights

Revenues were $3,962.3 million for the year ended December 31, 2023, an 11.5% increase compared to the year ended December 31, 2022. The increase in 2023 revenues compared to 2022 revenues was due to the net effects of: (i) higher average selling prices, which increased revenues by $261.1 million, or 7.3%; (ii) higher sales volume, which increased revenues by $164.4 million, or 4.6%, partially due to operating HEYDUDE for a full year in 2023 compared to 2022; and (iii) unfavorable changes in exchange rates, which decreased revenues by $18.1 million, or 0.5%.

The following were significant developments affecting our businesses during the year ended December 31, 2023:

•We grew Crocs Brand revenues 13.3%, despite foreign currency headwinds, compared to the same period in 2022.

•We sold 119.6 million pairs of shoes worldwide for the Crocs Brand, an increase from 115.6 million pairs in 2022. We sold 33.0 million pairs of shoes for the HEYDUDE Brand.

•Gross margin was 55.8% compared to 52.3% in 2022, an increase of 350 basis points. Gross margin for the Crocs Brand was 60.0%, an increase of 370 basis points from last year, primarily as a result of higher air freight costs in the prior year to combat supply chain disruptions that did not recur in the current year, lower inbound freight costs as the supply chain normalized, and higher ASP (as defined below). Product mix partially offset these increases. Gross margin for the HEYDUDE Brand was 44.0%, an increase of 320 basis points compared to the Partial Period. The gross margin in the prior year was inclusive of an approximately 690 basis points unfavorable impact from a non-cash step-up of acquired HEYDUDE inventory to fair value that did not recur in the current year.

•Selling, general & administrative expenses (“SG&A”) was $1,163.9 million, an increase of $154.4 million, or 15.3%, compared to 2022, primarily as a result of investments in talent and marketing as we continue to grow the business. As a percent of revenues, SG&A increased 100 basis points to 29.4% of revenues.

•Income from operations was $1,036.8 million for the year ended December 31, 2023 compared to income from operations of $850.8 million for the year ended December 31, 2022. Our operating margin improved to 26.2%, compared to 23.9% in 2022.

•Net income was $792.6 million compared to $540.2 million in 2022. Diluted net income per common share was $12.79 for the year ended December 31, 2023, compared to a diluted net income per common share of $8.71 for the year ended December 31, 2022. These amounts include an income tax expense of $83.7 million and $178.3 million in 2023 and 2022, respectively, as described in more detail under Income tax expense below.

Results of Operations

Comparison of the Years Ended December 31, 2023 and 2022

A discussion of our comparison between 2023 and 2022 is presented below. A discussion of the changes in our results of operations between the years ended December 31, 2022 and December 31, 2021 has been omitted from this Annual Report on Form 10-K but may be found in Item 7. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations of our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2022, filed with the SEC on February 16, 2023, which is available free of charge on the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov and our corporate website (www.crocs.com).

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Year Ended December 31,$ Change% Change
Favorable (Unfavorable)
202320222023-20222023-2022
(in thousands, except per share data, margin, and average selling price data)
Revenues$3,962,347$3,554,985$407,36211.5%
Cost of sales1,752,3371,694,703(57,634)(3.4)%
Gross profit2,210,0101,860,282349,72818.8%
Selling, general and administrative expenses1,163,9401,009,526(154,414)(15.3)%
Asset impairments9,287(9,287)(100.0)%
Income from operations1,036,783850,756186,02721.9%
Foreign currency gains (losses), net(1,240)3,228(4,468)(138.4)%
Interest income2,4061,0201,386135.9%
Interest expense(161,351)(136,158)(25,193)(18.5)%
Other expense, net(326)(338)123.6%
Income before income taxes876,272718,508157,76422.0%
Income tax expense83,706178,34994,64353.1%
Net income$792,566$540,159$252,40746.7%
Net income per common share:
Basic$12.91$8.82$4.0946.4%
Diluted$12.79$8.71$4.0846.8%
Gross margin (1)55.8%52.3%350bp6.7%
Operating margin (1)26.2%23.9%230bp9.6%
Selling, general and administrative expenses as a percentage of revenues (1)29.4%28.4%(100)bp(3.5)%
Footwear unit sales:
Crocs Brand119,577115,5584,0193.5%
HEYDUDE Brand (3)32,96930,5192,4508.0%
Average footwear selling price - nominal basis (2):
Crocs Brand$24.92$22.72$2.209.7%
HEYDUDE Brand (3)$28.80$29.35$(0.55)(1.9)%

(1) Changes for gross margin, operating margin, and SG&A as a percentage of revenues are shown in basis points (“bp”).

(2) Average footwear selling price is calculated as footwear and charms revenues divided by footwear units.

(3) We acquired HEYDUDE on February 17, 2022 and, as a result, added the HEYDUDE Brand as a new reportable operating segment. Therefore, the amounts shown above for the year ended December 31, 2022 represent results during the Partial Period.

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Revenues by Channel

Year Ended December 31,% ChangeConstantCurrency % Change (1)
Favorable (Unfavorable)
202320222023-20222023-2022
(in thousands)
Crocs Brand:
Wholesale$1,493,537$1,377,3028.4%9.3%
Direct-to-consumer1,519,4171,281,82318.5%19.0%
Total Crocs Brand3,012,9542,659,12513.3%14.0%
HEYDUDE Brand (2):
Wholesale566,937574,140(1.3)%(1.3)%
Direct-to-consumer382,456321,72018.9%18.9%
Total HEYDUDE Brand949,393895,8606.0%6.0%
Total consolidated revenues (2)$3,962,347$3,554,98511.5%12.0%

(1) Reflects year over year change as if the current period results were in constant currency, which is a non-GAAP financial measure. See “Use of Non-GAAP Financial Measures” for more information.

(2) We acquired HEYDUDE on February 17, 2022 and, as a result, added the HEYDUDE Brand as a new reportable operating segment. Therefore, the amounts shown above for the year ended December 31, 2022 represent results during the Partial Period.

Revenues. In the year ended December 31, 2023, revenues increased $407.4 million, or 11.5%, compared to 2022. Higher average selling price on a constant currency basis (“ASP”) increased revenues by $261.1 million, or 7.3%, primarily due to higher ASP in the Crocs Brand, mostly due to favorable product mix, increased pricing, lower discounting, and channel mix, partially offset by lower ASP in the HEYDUDE Brand as a result of more discounting than the prior year. Higher volume of $164.4 million, or 4.6%, also increased revenues, despite the termination of our relationship with a significant distributor in our Crocs Brand segment in the second quarter of 2023 after finding evidence of product diversion to the gray market outside of the distributor’s approved territories. Net unfavorable foreign currency fluctuations, most significantly unfavorability in the Chinese Yuan, Argentine Peso, and Japanese Yen, decreased revenues by $18.1 million, or 0.5%.

Gross margin. Gross margin was 55.8% compared to 52.3% in 2022. Gross margin for the Crocs Brand was 60.0% compared to 56.3% in 2022. The increase was due in part to lower freight costs of 430 basis points, primarily as a result of higher air freight costs in the prior year to combat supply chain disruptions, and higher ASP of 90 basis points, as described above. These increases were partially offset by unfavorable product mix of 120 basis points. Gross margin for the HEYDUDE Brand was 44.0% compared to 40.8% in the Partial Period. The gross margin for the Partial Period included a 690 basis points unfavorable impact from a non-cash step-up of acquired HEYDUDE inventory to fair value that did not recur in the current year. The gross margin during the year ended December 31, 2023 represents a 370 basis point impact due to higher distribution costs and a 230 basis point impact due to lower ASP, as described above. Gross margin for 2023 also reflects a 150 basis point impact due to favorable purchasing power, which is defined as purchasing foreign goods in the U.S. Dollar but recognizing the cost in foreign currencies.

In the years ended December 31, 2023 and 2022, cost of sales included $515.3 million and $457.0 million, respectively, of distribution expenses primarily related to receiving, inspecting, warehousing, and packaging product in owned and third-party warehouses, combined with transportation costs associated with delivering products from distribution centers to wholesale partners, retail stores, and end customers.

Selling, general and administrative expenses. SG&A as a percent of revenue increased to 29.4% during the year ended December 31, 2023 compared to 2022, as SG&A expenses increased $154.4 million, or 15.3%. This increase was partly driven by operating HEYDUDE for a full year in 2023 compared to the Partial Period in 2022. There were also higher compensation costs of $65.0 million, primarily associated with an investment in talent, and higher marketing costs of $56.6 million. Additionally, there was an increase in certain variable costs associated with higher revenues of $20.9 million, an increase in facilities costs of $14.2 million, and an increase in information technology costs of $11.0 million. The overall increase in SG&A expenses was partially offset by net decreases in other costs, due in part to prior year costs associated with the shutdown of our direct operations in Russia that did not recur in the current year, of $13.3 million.

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Asset impairment charges. During the year ended December 31, 2023, we incurred $9.3 million in impairment charges to the right-of-use asset and leasehold improvement assets for our former headquarters. During the year ended December 31, 2022, we incurred no impairment charges.

Foreign currency gains (losses), net. Foreign currency gains (losses), net, consists of unrealized and realized foreign currency gains and losses from the remeasurement and settlement of monetary assets and liabilities denominated in non-functional currencies as well as realized and unrealized gains and losses on certain foreign currency derivative instruments. During the year ended December 31, 2023, we recognized realized and unrealized net foreign currency losses of $1.2 million compared to net gains of $3.2 million during the year ended December 31, 2022.

Interest expense. Interest expense during the year ended December 31, 2023 increased $25.2 million, or 18.5%, primarily due to having borrowings on the Term Loan B Facility for a full year in 2023, as well as higher weighted average interest rates on both the Term Loan B Facility and the Revolving Facility.

Income tax expense. During the year ended December 31, 2023, we recognized an income tax expense of $83.7 million on pre-tax book income of $876.3 million, representing an effective tax rate of 9.6%, compared to an income tax expense of $178.3 million on pre-tax book income of $718.5 million in 2022, which represented an effective tax rate of 24.8%. The current year effective tax rate is lower primarily due to the current year foreign net income tax benefit as a result of intra-entity transfers of certain intellectual property rights and the current year release of valuation allowances. Our effective tax rate has varied dramatically in recent years due to the intra-entity intellectual property rights transfer, differences in our profitability levels and relative operating earnings across multiple jurisdictions, and by changes in the valuation allowance.

During the three months ended December 31, 2023, we completed intra-entity transfers of certain intellectual property rights primarily to align with current and future international operations. Each transfer resulted in a step-up in tax basis of intellectual property rights and a correlated increase in foreign deferred tax assets based on the fair value of the transferred intellectual property rights. Foreign deferred tax assets increased by $611.4 million, inclusive of the reversal of certain deferred tax liabilities. This benefit was offset by an increase in uncertain tax positions of $318.6 million, and an incremental valuation allowance of $164.0 million for amounts not more-likely-than-not to be realized based on available objective evidence. As such, a net change in deferred tax asset of $128.9 million was recognized along with a corresponding foreign income tax benefit.

Our valuation allowances are primarily the result of uncertainties regarding the future realization of tax attributes recorded in various jurisdictions. The measurement of deferred tax assets is reduced by a valuation allowance if, based upon available evidence, it is more likely than not that the deferred tax assets will not be realized. We have evaluated the realizability of our deferred tax assets in each jurisdiction by assessing the adequacy of expected taxable income, including the reversal of existing temporary differences, historical and projected operating results and the availability of prudent and feasible tax planning strategies. In assessing our valuation allowance as of December 31, 2023, we considered all available evidence, including the magnitude of recent and current operating results, the duration of statutory carryforward periods, our historical experience utilizing tax attributes prior to their expiration dates, the historical volatility of operating results of these jurisdictions and our assessment regarding the sustainability of their profitability. The weight we give to any particular item is, in part, dependent upon the degree to which it can be objectively verified. Separate from the intra-entity transfers of intellectual property rights the company released immaterial valuation allowances in various jurisdictions. Valuation allowances recorded against deferred tax assets increased by a net $155.4 million.

The 2023 impact of changes in valuation allowances to the effective tax rate was an unfavorable impact of $156.3 million, equating to a 17.8% unfavorable impact. There is also a $0.9 million favorable change in the valuation allowance related to cumulative translation adjustments. We maintain valuation allowances of approximately $183.5 million as of December 31, 2023, which may be reduced in the future depending upon the achieved profitability of certain jurisdictions as well as the magnitude of the profitability.

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Reportable Operating Segments

The following table sets forth information related to our reportable operating segments for the years ended December 31, 2023 and 2022.

Year Ended December 31,% ChangeConstantCurrency % Change (1)
Favorable (Unfavorable)
202320222023-20222023-2022
(in thousands)
Revenues:
Crocs Brand revenues (2)$3,012,954$2,659,12513.3%14.0%
HEYDUDE Brand revenues (3)949,393895,8606.0%6.0%
Total consolidated revenues$3,962,347$3,554,98511.5%12.0%
Income from operations:
Crocs Brand income from operations (2)$1,079,330$852,02526.7%25.7%
HEYDUDE Brand income from operations (3)212,386211,3610.5%0.5%
Enterprise corporate (3)(254,933)(212,630)(19.9)%(19.9)%
Total consolidated income from operations1,036,783850,75621.9%20.9%
Foreign currency gains (losses), net(1,240)3,228(138.4)%
Interest income2,4061,020135.9%
Interest expense(161,351)(136,158)(18.5)%
Other income (expense), net(326)(338)3.6%
Income before income taxes$876,272$718,50822.0%

(1) Reflects year over year change as if the current period results were in constant currency, which is a non-GAAP financial measure. See “Use of Non-GAAP Financial Measures” for more information.

(2) Our business has continued to evolve in the period following the consummation of the Acquisition, as we have grown the brand and staffed and developed our leadership team at HEYDUDE. In the fourth quarter of 2023, to reflect changes in the way management evaluates performance, makes operating decisions, and allocates resources, we updated our reportable operating segments to be (i) Crocs Brand and (ii) HEYDUDE Brand. Each of the reportable operating segments derives its revenues from the sale of footwear, apparel, and accessories to external customers. Each segment’s performance is evaluated based on segment results without allocating Enterprise corporate expenses, which include global corporate costs associated with both brands such as legal, information technology, human resources, and finance. Segment profit and losses include adjustments to eliminate inter-segment sales. Reconciling items between segment income from operations and income from operations consist of unallocated Enterprise corporate and other expenses, as well as inter-segment eliminations. Our ‘North America,’ ‘Asia Pacific,’ and ‘EMEALA’ segments as well as revenues and expenses related to Crocs ‘Brand corporate’ have been consolidated to the ‘Crocs Brand.’ As a result of these changes, the previously reported amounts for revenues and income from operations for the year ended December 31, 2022 have been recast to conform to current period presentation.

(3)    We acquired HEYDUDE on February 17, 2022 and added the HEYDUDE Brand as a new reportable operating segment. Therefore, the amounts shown above for the year ended December 31, 2022 represent results during the Partial Period.

Crocs Brand

Revenues. The Crocs Brand segment grew revenues for the year ended December 31, 2023 compared to 2022, primarily as a result of higher ASPs, mostly due to product mix, increased pricing, and lower discounting. Higher volume, despite the termination of our relationship with a significant distributor in the second quarter of 2023 after finding evidence of product diversion to the gray market outside of the distributor’s approved territories, also contributed to the increase in revenues. The overall increase in revenues was partially offset by net unfavorable currency fluctuations driven by the Chinese Yuan, Argentine Peso, and Japanese Yen.

Income from Operations. During the year ended December 31, 2023, income from operations for our Crocs Brand segment was $1,079.3 million, an increase of $227.3 million, or 26.7% from 2022. Gross margin was 60.0% for the year ended December 31, 2023, an increase of 370 basis points compared to 2022. The increase in gross margin was partially due to lower freight costs, primarily as a result of higher air freight costs in the prior year to combat supply chain disruptions, and higher ASP, as discussed above. Product mix partially offset the overall increase to gross margin.

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During the year ended December 31, 2023, SG&A for our Crocs Brand segment increased by $82.2 million, or 12.7%, compared to 2022. This was mainly driven by an increase in marketing costs and certain variable costs associated with higher revenues. The overall increase in SG&A was partially offset by prior year costs associated with the shutdown of our direct operations in Russia that did not recur in the current year.

HEYDUDE Brand

Revenues. During the year ended December 31, 2023, HEYDUDE revenues increased compared to the Partial Period in 2022, primarily due to higher volume, driven in part by operating HEYDUDE for a full year in 2023 compared to 2022. Lower ASPs, driven by increased discounting, and unfavorable channel mix partially offset the overall increase in revenues.

Income from Operations. Income from operations during the year ended December 31, 2023 was $212.4 million, an increase of $1.0 million, or 0.5%, compared to the Partial Period in 2022. Gross margin was 44.0% for the year ended December 31, 2023, an increase of 320 basis points. The increase in gross margin is largely due to a prior year unfavorable impact from a non-cash step-up of acquired HEYDUDE inventory to fair value, which did not recur in the current year. Gross margin for the year current year includes the unfavorable impact of increased distribution costs as well as lower ASP. These impacts were partially offset by favorable purchasing power.

During the year ended December 31, 2023, SG&A for the HEYDUDE Brand segment increased by $51.2 million, or 33.1%, partially due to operating HEYDUDE for a full year in 2023 compared to 2022. The increase is also due to an investment in marketing and talent as well as higher facilities costs, due in part to the opening of additional retail stores during year.

Enterprise Corporate

During the year ended December 31, 2023, total net costs within ‘Enterprise corporate’ increased $42.3 million, or 19.9%, compared to the same period in 2022. This was primarily due to increases in compensation costs, professional services, information technology costs, and a $9.3 million impairment of the right-of-use asset and leasehold improvement assets for our former corporate headquarters. These increases were offset in part by lower costs in 2023 associated with the prior year HEYDUDE acquisition and integration.

Store Locations and Digital Sales Percentage

The table below illustrates the overall change in the number of our company-operated retail locations by reportable operating segment:

December 31, 2022OpenedClosedDecember 31, 2023
Company-operated retail locations:
Crocs Brand3402011349
HEYDUDE Brand5914
Total3452911363

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Digital sales, which includes sales through our company-owned website, third-party marketplaces, and e-tailers (which are reported in our wholesale channel), as a percent of total revenues, by reportable operating segment were:

Year Ended December 31,
20232022
Digital sales as a percent of total revenues:
Crocs Brand36.6%37.6%
HEYDUDE Brand (1)41.8%38.5%
Total37.9%37.8%

(1) We acquired HEYDUDE on February 17, 2022. Therefore, the amounts shown above for the year ended December 31, 2022 represent results during the Partial Period.

Direct-to-consumer (“DTC”) comparable sales are as follows:

Constant Currency (1)
Year Ended December 31,
20232022
Direct-to-consumer comparable sales: (2)
Crocs Brand15.5%15.0%
HEYDUDE Brand (3)3.6%N/A

(1) Reflects period over period change on a constant currency basis, which is a non-GAAP financial measure. See the “Use of Non-GAAP Financial Measures” section for additional information.

(2) Comparable store status, as included in the DTC comparable sales figures above, is determined on a monthly basis. Comparable store sales include the revenues of stores that have been in operation for more than twelve months. Stores in which selling square footage has changed more than 15% as a result of a remodel, expansion, or reduction are excluded until the thirteenth month in which they have comparable prior year sales. Temporarily closed stores are excluded from the comparable store sales calculation during the month of closure and in the same month in the following year. Location closures in excess of three months are excluded until the thirteenth month post re-opening. E-commerce comparable revenues are based on same site sales period over period.

(3) We acquired HEYDUDE on February 17, 2022 and, as a result, added the HEYDUDE Brand as a new operating segment. As such, in the year ended December 31, 2022, we did not disclose DTC comparable sales for the HEYDUDE Brand.

Liquidity and Capital Resources

Our liquidity position as of December 31, 2023 was:

December 31, 2023
(in thousands)
Cash and cash equivalents$149,288
Available borrowings570,362

As of December 31, 2023, we had $149.3 million in cash and cash equivalents and up to $570.4 million of available borrowings, including $558.7 million remaining borrowing availability under the Revolving Facility (as defined below) and $11.7 million of remaining borrowing availability under the Asia revolving facilities. As of December 31, 2023, the Term Loan B Facility (as in effect prior to the February 2024 Amendment) (as defined below) was fully drawn, and there was no available borrowing capacity. We believe that our cash flows from operations, our cash and cash equivalents on hand, and available borrowings under our Revolving Facility and other financing agreements will be sufficient to meet our ongoing liquidity needs and capital expenditure requirements for at least the next twelve months.

Additional future financing may be necessary to fund our operations and there can be no assurance that, if needed, we will be able to secure additional debt or equity financing on terms acceptable to us or at all. Although we believe we have adequate sources of liquidity over the long term, the success of our operations, the global economic outlook, and the pace of sustainable growth in our markets could each impact our business and liquidity.

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Repatriation of Cash

As a global business, we have cash balances in various countries and amounts are denominated in various currencies. Fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates impact our results of operations and cash positions. Future fluctuations in foreign currencies may have a material impact on our cash flows and capital resources. Cash balances held in foreign countries may have additional restrictions and covenants associated with them which could adversely impact our liquidity and our ability to timely access and transfer cash balances between entities.

All of the cash held outside of the U.S. could be repatriated to the U.S. as of December 31, 2023 without incurring additional U.S. federal income taxes. In some countries, repatriation of certain foreign balances is restricted by local laws. These limitations may affect our ability to fully utilize our cash resources for needs in the U.S. or other countries and could adversely affect our liquidity. As of December 31, 2023, we held $90.7 million of our total $149.3 million in cash in international locations. This cash is primarily used for the ongoing operations of the business in the locations in which the cash is held. Of the $90.7 million, $2.9 million could potentially be restricted by local laws.

Senior Revolving Credit Facility

In July 2019, the Company and certain of its subsidiaries (the “Borrowers”) entered into a Second Amended and Restated Credit Agreement (as amended, the “Credit Agreement”), with the lenders named therein and PNC Bank, National Association, as a lender and administrative agent for the lenders. Since that time, we have amended the Credit Agreement, which, as amended to date, provides for a revolving credit facility of $750.0 million, which can be increased by an additional $250.0 million subject to certain conditions (the “Revolving Facility”). Borrowings under the Credit Agreement bear interest at a variable interest rate based on (A) a Base Rate (defined as the highest of (i) the Overnight Bank Funding Rate (as defined in the Credit Agreement), plus 0.25%, (ii) the Prime Rate (as defined in the Credit Agreement), and (iii) the Daily Simple SOFR (as defined in the Credit Agreement), plus 1.00%), plus an applicable margin ranging from 0.25% to 0.875% based on our leverage ratio or 1.35% to 1.975% for the Daily Simple SOFR based on the leverage ratio, or (B) the Term SOFR Rate (as defined in the Credit Agreement), plus an applicable margin ranging from 1.35% to 1.975% based on our leverage ratio for one-month interest periods and 1.40% to 2.025% based on our leverage ratio for three-month interest periods. Borrowings under the Credit Agreement are secured by all of the assets of the Borrowers and guaranteed by certain other subsidiaries of the Borrowers.

The Credit Agreement requires us to maintain a minimum interest coverage ratio of 3.00 to 1.00 and a maximum leverage ratio of (i) 4.00 to 1.00 from the quarter ended March 31, 2022 through, and including, the quarter ended December 31, 2023, (ii) 3.75 to 1.00 for the quarter ending March 31, 2024, (iii) 3.50 to 1.00 for the quarter ending June 30, 2024, and (iv) 3.25 to 1.00 for the quarter ending September 30, 2024 and thereafter (subject to adjustment in certain circumstances). The Credit Agreement permits, among other things, (i) stock repurchases subject to certain restrictions, including after giving effect to such stock repurchases, the maximum leverage ratio does not exceed certain levels; and (ii) certain acquisitions so long as there is borrowing availability under the Credit Agreement of at least $40.0 million. As of December 31, 2023, we were in compliance with all financial covenants under the Credit Agreement.

As of December 31, 2023, the total commitments available from the lenders under the Revolving Facility were $750.0 million. At December 31, 2023, we had $190.0 million outstanding borrowings and $1.3 million in outstanding letters of credit under the Revolving Facility, which reduces amounts available for borrowing under the Revolving Facility. As of December 31, 2023 and 2022, we had $558.7 million and $748.7 million, respectively, of available borrowing capacity under the Revolving Facility, which matures November 2027.

Term Loan B Facility

On February 17, 2022, the Company entered into a credit agreement (the “Original Term Loan B Credit Agreement”) with Citibank, N.A., as administrative agent and lender, to among other things, finance a portion of the cash consideration for the Acquisition, which was amended on August 8, 2023 (the “August 2023 Amendment”) and on February 13, 2024 (the “February 2024 Amendment”). The Original Term Loan B Credit Agreement, as amended by the August 2023 Amendment and the February 2024 Amendment is referred to herein as the “Term Loan B Credit Agreement.”

The Original Term Loan B Credit Agreement provided for an aggregate term loan B facility in the principal amount of $2.0 billion. Prior to the February 2024 Amendment, the outstanding principal balance was $820.0 million. Among other things, the February 2024 Amendment provided for a new $820 million tranche of term loans (the “2024 Refinancing Term Loans” and, such facility, the “Term Loan B Facility”) to refinance the then-outstanding principal balance. The 2024 Refinancing Term Loans are secured by substantially all of the Company’s and each subsidiary guarantor’s assets on a pari passu basis with their obligations arising from the Term Loan B Credit Agreement and is scheduled to mature on February 17,

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2029, subject to certain exceptions set forth in the Term Loan B Credit Agreement. Additionally, subject to certain conditions, including, without limitation, satisfying certain leverage ratios, the Company may, at any time, on one or more occasions, add one or more new classes of term facilities and/or increase the principal amount of the loans of any existing class by requesting one or more incremental term facilities.

Pursuant to the reduced interest rate margins applicable to the 2024 Refinancing Term Loans, each term loan borrowing which is an alternate base rate borrowing bears interest at a rate per annum equal to the Alternate Base Rate (as defined in the Term Loan B Credit Agreement), plus 1.25%. Each term loan borrowing which is a term SOFR borrowing bears interest at a rate per annum equal to the Adjusted Term SOFR Rate (as defined in the Term Loan B Credit Agreement) plus 2.25%.

Outstanding principal under the Term Loan B Facility is payable on the last business day of each March, June, September, and December, in a quarterly aggregate principal amount of $5.0 million. Quarterly aggregate principal payments began on June 30, 2022, with the remaining principal amount due on February 17, 2029, the maturity date. As of December 31, 2023, we had $820.0 million in outstanding principal and the Term Loan B Facility (as in effect prior to the February 2024 Amendment) was fully drawn with no remaining borrowing capacity.

The Term Loan B Credit Agreement also contains customary affirmative and negative covenants, incurrence financial covenants, representations and warranties, events of default and other provisions. As of December 31, 2023, we were in compliance with all financial covenants under the Term Loan B Credit Agreement.

Asia Revolving Credit Facilities

During the year ended December 31, 2023, we had two revolving credit facilities in Asia, the revolving credit facility with China Merchants Bank Company Limited, Shanghai Branch (the “CMBC Facility”), which matured in January 2023 and provided up to 10.0 million RMB, or $1.5 million at current exchange rates as of January 2023, and the revolving credit facility with Citibank (China) Company Limited, Shanghai Branch (the “Citibank Facility”), which provides up to an equivalent of $15.0 million. For RMB loans under the CMBC Facility, interest was based on a National Interbank Funding Center 1-year prime rate, plus 65 basis points. For USD loans under the Citibank Facility, interest is mutually agreed upon prior to utilization of a loan.

As of December 31, 2023, we had borrowings outstanding of $3.3 million on the Citibank Facility, which became due in January 2024. As of December 31, 2022, we had no outstanding borrowings on the CMBC Facility, and we had borrowings outstanding of $4.3 million on the Citibank Facility.

Senior Notes Issuances

In March 2021, the Company completed the issuance and sale of $350.0 million aggregate principal amount of 4.250% Senior Notes due March 15, 2029 (the “2029 Notes”), pursuant to the indenture related thereto (as amended and/or supplemented to date, the “2029 Notes Indenture”). Additionally, in August 2021, the Company completed the issuance and sale of $350.0 million aggregate principal amount of 4.125% Senior Notes due August 15, 2031 (the “2031 Notes”), pursuant to the indenture related thereto (as amended and/or supplemented to date, “the 2031 Notes Indenture” and, together with the 2029 Notes Indenture, the “Indentures” and, each, an “Indenture”). Interest on each of the 2029 Notes and the 2031 Notes (collectively, the “Notes”) is payable semi-annually.

The Company will have the option to redeem all or any portion of the 2029 Notes, at once or over time, at any time on or after March 15, 2024, at a redemption price equal to 100% of the principal amount thereof, plus a premium declining ratably on an annual basis to par and accrued and unpaid interest, if any, to, but excluding, the date of redemption. The Company will also have the option to redeem some or all of the 2029 Notes at any time before March 15, 2024 at a redemption price of 100% of the principal amount to be redeemed, plus a “make-whole” premium and accrued and unpaid interest, if any, to, but excluding, the date of redemption. In addition, at any time before March 15, 2024, the Company may redeem up to 40% of the aggregate principal amount of the 2029 Notes at a redemption price of 104.250% of the principal amount with the proceeds from certain equity issuances, plus accrued and unpaid interest, if any, to, but excluding, the date of redemption.

The Company will have the option to redeem all or any portion of the 2031 Notes, at once or over time, at any time on or after August 15, 2026, at a redemption price equal to 100% of the principal amount thereof, plus a premium declining ratably on an annual basis to par and accrued and unpaid interest, if any, to, but excluding, the date of redemption. The Company will also have the option to redeem some or all of the 2031 Notes at any time before August 15, 2026 at a redemption price of 100% of the principal amount to be redeemed, plus a “make-whole” premium and accrued and unpaid interest, if any, to, but excluding, the date of redemption. In addition, at any time before August 15, 2024, the Company may redeem up to 40% of the aggregate

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principal amount of the 2031 Notes at a redemption price of 104.125% of the principal amount with the proceeds from certain equity issuances, plus accrued and unpaid interest, if any, to, but excluding, the date of redemption.

The Notes rank pari passu in right of payment with all of the Company’s existing and future senior debt, including the Credit Agreement, and are senior in right of payment to any of the Company’s future debt that is, by its term, expressly subordinated in right of payment to the Notes. The Notes are unconditionally guaranteed by each of the Company’s restricted subsidiaries that is a borrower or guarantor under the Credit Agreement and by each of the Company’s wholly-owned restricted subsidiaries that guarantees any debt of the Company or any guarantor under any syndicated credit facility or capital markets debt in an aggregate principal amount in excess of $25.0 million.

The Indentures contain covenants that, among other things, limit the ability of the Company and its restricted subsidiaries to incur additional debt or issue certain preferred stock; pay dividends or repurchase or redeem capital stock or make other restricted payments; declare or pay dividends or other payments; incur liens; enter into certain types of transactions with the Company’s affiliates; and consolidate or merge with or into other companies. As of December 31, 2023, we were in compliance with all financial covenants under the Notes.

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows

Our consolidated statements of cash flows are summarized as follows:

Year Ended December 31,$ Change% Change
20232022Favorable (Unfavorable)
(in thousands)
Cash provided by operating activities$930,444$603,142$327,30254.3%
Cash used in investing activities(115,671)(2,151,091)2,035,42094.6%
Cash provided by (used in) financing activities(859,639)1,529,659(2,389,298)(156.2)%
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash, cash equivalents, and restricted cash3,078(3,750)6,828182.1%
Net change in cash, cash equivalents, and restricted cash$(41,788)$(22,040)$(19,748)(89.6)%

Operating Activities. Our primary source of liquidity is cash provided by operating activities, consisting of net income adjusted for non-cash items and changes in working capital. Cash provided by operating activities increased $327.3 million for the year ended December 31, 2023 compared to the year ended December 31, 2022. This change was driven by a net increase in operating assets and liabilities of $458.2 million, primarily due to income taxes and inventories, partially offset by the impact of higher net income adjusted for non-cash items of $130.9 million.

Investing Activities. There was a $2,035.4 million decrease in cash used in investing activities for the year ended December 31, 2023 compared to the year ended December 31, 2022. The decrease is primarily due to $2.05 billion paid in cash consideration for the Acquisition, net of cash acquired in the year ended December 31, 2022, that did not recur in the current year. Refer to Note 3 — Acquisition of HEYDUDE in the accompanying notes to the consolidated financial statements included in Part II - Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data of this Annual Report on Form 10-K. Additionally, there was an $11.4 million increase in the purchases of property and equipment related, primarily to the expansion of our distribution centers in North America.

Financing Activities. Cash provided by financing activities decreased by $2,389.3 million in the year ended December 31, 2023 compared to the year ended December 31, 2022. The decrease was primarily due to a decrease of $1,912.0 million in proceeds from borrowings, which includes borrowings under the Term Loan B Facility of $2.0 billion used to finance the Acquisition in part during the year ended December 31, 2022 that did not recur in the current year. Additionally, there was an increase in cash used by financing activities of $175.0 million in repurchases of common stock and $5.6 million in repurchases of common stock for tax withholding. There was also a $348.4 million increase in repayments of borrowings and a $0.2 million increase in other cash used in financing activities. The overall decrease was partially offset by a $51.9 million decrease in deferred debt issuance costs.

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Stock Repurchases

On April 23, 2021, the Board approved and authorized a program to repurchase up to $1.0 billion of our common stock. Additionally, on September 23, 2021, the Board approved an increase of $1.0 billion to our share repurchase authorization. The number, price, structure, and timing of the repurchases are at our sole discretion and may be made depending on market conditions, liquidity needs, restrictions under the agreements governing our indebtedness, and other factors. The Board of Directors may suspend, modify, or terminate the program at any time without prior notice. Share repurchases may be made in the open market or in privately negotiated transactions. The repurchase authorization does not have an expiration date and does not obligate us to acquire any amount of our common stock. Under Delaware state law, these shares are not retired, and we have the right to resell any of the shares repurchased.

During the year ended December 31, 2023, we repurchased 1.7 million shares of our common stock at a cost of $175.0 million, including commissions. During the year ended December 31, 2022, we did not repurchase any shares of our common stock.

As of December 31, 2023, we had remaining authorization to repurchase approximately $875.0 million of our common stock, subject to restrictions under our Indentures, Credit Agreement, and Term Loan B Credit Agreement.

See Note 11 — Equity in the accompanying notes to the consolidated financial statements included in Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data of this Annual Report on Form 10-K for more information on our repurchases and repurchase authorizations.

Contractual Obligations

We believe we have sufficient liquidity to fund our operations and meet our short-term and long-term obligations. Our material future cash obligations as of December 31, 2023 include the following:

Less than 1 YearThereafterTotal
(approximately, in thousands)
Debt-related:
Debt obligations (1)$23,300$1,641,000$1,664,300
Interest on debt obligations (2)96,900375,300472,200
Purchase commitments (3)344,300344,300
Lease-related (4):
Lease obligations71,500334,400405,900
Total$536,000$2,350,700$2,886,700

(1) Net of $49.0 million of unamortized issuance costs.

(2) Represents future interest payment obligations, which are estimated by assuming the amounts outstanding under our Term Loan B Facility (as in effect prior to the February 2024 Amendment), Notes, Revolving Facility, and Citibank Facility and the interest rates in effect as of December 31, 2023, will remain constant into the future. This is only an estimate, as actual amounts borrowed and rates may vary over time for certain borrowing instruments, as described in Note 10 — Borrowings.

(3) Represents purchase commitments to our third-party manufacturers, primarily for materials and supplies used in the manufacture of our products. We expect to fulfill our commitments under these agreements in the next twelve months in the normal course of business and are only liable for the portion of the purchase obligations that have been purchased by the third-party manufacturer or manufactured by the vendor, with the remainder cancellable without penalty. Refer to Note 16 — Commitments and Contingencies in the accompanying notes to the consolidated financial statements included in Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data of this Annual Report on Form 10-K for more information.

(4) Our operating lease obligations consist of leases for real estate, which includes retail, warehouse, distribution center, and office spaces and represent the minimum cash commitment under contract to various third parties for operating lease obligations. For more information on our lease obligations and obligations for leases not yet commenced, refer to Note 7 — Leases in the accompanying notes to the consolidated financial statements included in Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data of this Annual Report on Form 10-K for more information.

We had no material off-balance sheet arrangements as of December 31, 2023, other than certain purchase commitments, as described in the footnote (2) above.

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Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates

General

Our discussion and analysis of financial condition and results of operations, outside of discussions regarding constant currency, is based on the consolidated financial statements, which have been prepared in accordance with GAAP. The preparation of these financial statements requires us to make estimates and judgments that affect the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, and contingencies as of the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting periods. We evaluate our assumptions and estimates on an on-going basis.

An accounting policy is considered to be critical if it is important to our results of operations, financial condition, and cash flows, and requires significant judgment and estimates on the part of management in its application. Our estimates are often based on historical experience, complex judgments, assessments of probability, and assumptions that management believes to be reasonable, but that are inherently uncertain and unpredictable. We believe that the following discussion represents those accounting policies that are the most critical to the reporting of our financial condition and results of operations. For a discussion of our significant accounting policies, see Note 1 — Basis of Presentation and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies in the accompanying notes to the consolidated financial statements included in Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.

Impairment of Goodwill and Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets

Our goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets, which primarily consist of the HEYDUDE trademark, are not amortized. We evaluate the carrying value of our goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets at least annually or when an interim triggering event has occurred indicating potential impairment. Our annual test is performed as of the first day of our fiscal fourth quarter. Our impairment evaluations represent a critical accounting policy as they require significant judgments and assumptions that we believe to be reasonable but that are inherently uncertain and unpredictable.

We perform our goodwill impairment testing for each reporting unit that has goodwill. During the years ended December 31, 2023 and 2022, we had two reporting units, comprised of a reporting unit within the HEYDUDE Brand segment and a reporting unit within the Crocs Brand segment. During the year ended December 31, 2021, we had one reporting unit in our Crocs Brand segment. We perform our indefinite-lived intangible impairment testing at the asset level.

When performing our annual test for impairment, we may assess goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets for potential impairment using either a qualitative or quantitative assessment. The qualitative assessment may evaluate factors such as macroeconomic conditions, industry and market considerations, and overall financial performance, among other factors. If we determine that it is more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit or an indefinite-lived intangible asset is less than its carrying value, a quantitative assessment is performed. For the quantitative assessment, we compare the estimated fair value of a reporting unit with its carrying value, including the goodwill assigned to the reporting unit. If carrying value of the reporting unit exceeds its estimated fair value, an impairment charge is recorded.

For the year ended December 31, 2023, we performed a qualitative and quantitative assessment for the HEYDUDE Brand reporting unit goodwill, and we performed a quantitative assessment for the HEYDUDE Brand indefinite-lived intangible asset. Both quantitative assessments were performed with the assistance of third-party valuation specialists. We performed the quantitative assessment for the HEYDUDE Brand reporting unit goodwill using the discounted cash flow method and the guideline public company method. For the impairment testing of the indefinite-lived trademark, we used the Multi-Period Excess Earnings approach. The primary assumptions developed by management and used in the quantitative assessments of the HEYDUDE Brand reporting unit and indefinite-lived trademark included future revenue growth rates and market-based discount rates. The estimated fair values of the HEYDUDE Brand reporting unit goodwill and indefinite-lived trademark exceeded their carrying values.

For the year ended December 31, 2022, we performed a quantitative assessment for the HEYDUDE Brand reporting unit goodwill and the HEYDUDE Brand indefinite-lived intangible assets, each of which indicated the estimated fair values exceeded their carrying values.

Changes in the assumptions used to estimate the fair value of our goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets could result in impairment charges in future periods as the key assumptions are inherently uncertain, require significant judgment and are subject to change based on, among others, industry and geopolitical conditions, our ability to navigate changing macroeconomic conditions and trends as well as the timing and success of strategic initiatives. Certain factors, such as failure to

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achieve forecasted revenue growth rates or increases in the discount rates, have the potential to create variances in the estimated fair values of our goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets that could result in impairment charges.

Additionally, for the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022, and 2021, we performed a qualitative assessment for the goodwill in our Crocs Brand segment, which indicated that it was more likely than not that the estimated fair value exceeded its carrying value.

We did not record any impairment charges in the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022, or 2021 based on the results of our goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets impairment testing. Refer to Note 1 — Basis of Presentation and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies and Note 5 — Goodwill and Intangible Assets, Net in the accompanying notes to the consolidated financial statements included in Part II - Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data of this Annual Report on Form 10-K for further information related to our goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets.

Impairment of Long-Lived Assets

Property and equipment, right-of-use assets, and definite-lived intangible assets, such as customer relationships and capitalized software, are evaluated for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that their carrying values may not be fully recoverable. This represents a critical accounting policy as our impairment evaluations include significant judgments and assumptions that we believe to be reasonable but that are inherently uncertain and unpredictable. Testing of long-lived assets for impairment is at the level of an asset group, which is the lowest level for which identifiable cash flows are largely independent of the cash flows of other assets and liabilities. In our retail business, the asset group for impairment testing is each individual retail store. For customer relationships, impairment testing is performed at the customer group level. In evaluating long-lived assets for recoverability, we use our best estimate of future cash flows expected to result from the use of the asset and its eventual disposition, where applicable. To the extent that estimated future undiscounted net cash flows attributable to the asset are less than its carrying value, an impairment loss is recognized equal to the difference between the carrying value of such asset and its fair value. Assets to be disposed of and for which there is a committed plan of disposal are reported at the lower of carrying value or fair value, less costs to sell.

In determining future cash flows, we take various factors into account, including the remaining useful life of each asset group, forecasted growth rates, pricing, working capital, capital expenditures, and other cash needs specific to the asset group. Additional considerations when assessing impairment include changes in our strategic operational and financial decisions, global and regional economic conditions, demand for our product and other corporate initiatives which may eliminate or significantly decrease the realization of future benefits from our long-lived assets. Since the determination of future cash flows is an estimate of future performance, future impairments may arise in the event that future cash flows do not meet expectations.

In 2023, we recorded non-cash impairments of $9.3 million related to our former corporate headquarters. In 2022 and 2021, we did not record impairments to reduce the net carrying value of certain long-lived assets. See Note 8 — Fair Value Measurements in the accompanying notes to the consolidated financial statements included in Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data of this Annual Report on Form 10-K for further information related to long-lived asset impairments.

Revenues and Reserves for Sales Returns and Allowances

While our revenue recognition does not involve significant judgment, it does represent a key accounting policy as it is important to our results of operations. Revenues are recognized in the amount expected to be received in exchange for when control of the products transfers to customers. Revenues are reported net of various promotions, which range from contractually-fixed percentage price reductions to sales returns, discounts, rebates, and other incentives that may vary in amount, must be estimated, and are reported as a reduction in revenues. An area of judgment affecting our reported revenues and net income involves estimating reserves for sales returns and allowances, which represent a portion of revenues not expected to be realized. Revenues in our direct-to-consumer channels are reduced by an estimate of returns. We may also accept returns from our wholesale customers, on an exception basis, to ensure that our products are merchandised in the proper assortments and may provide markdown allowances at our sole discretion to key wholesalers and distributors to facilitate sales of slower moving products. Wholesale revenues are reduced by estimates of returns and allowances.

Our estimated sales returns and allowances are based on customer return history and actual outstanding returns yet to be received. Changes to our estimates for customer returns and allowances may be caused by many factors, including, but not limited to whether customers accept our new styles, customer inventory levels, shipping delays or errors, known or suspected product defects, the seasonal nature of our products, and macroeconomic factors affecting our customers. Historically, actual amounts of customer returns, allowances, discounts, and rebates have not differed significantly from our estimates. A

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hypothetical 1% increase in our reserves for returns and allowances as of December 31, 2023 would have had an insignificant impact on our 2023 revenues.

See Schedule II in Part IV - Item 15. Exhibits, Financial Statement Schedule to the accompanying consolidated financial statements of this Annual Report on Form 10-K for an analysis of the activity in our reserves for uncollectible accounts receivable, sales returns, allowances, and discounts.

Income Taxes

Intellectual Property Income Tax Implications

During 2023, we completed intra-entity transfers of certain intellectual property (“IP”) rights primarily to align with current and future international operations. These transactions were executed using transfer pricing guidelines issued by the relevant taxing authorities. Significant estimates and assumptions were required to compute the valuation of these transactions. These estimates and assumptions include, but are not limited to, estimated future revenue growth and discount rates, which by their nature are inherently uncertain and, therefore, may ultimately differ materially from our actual results. Foreign deferred tax assets increased by $611.4 million, inclusive of the reversal of certain deferred tax liabilities. This benefit was offset by an increase in uncertain tax positions of $318.6 million, and an incremental valuation allowance of $164.0 million for amounts not more-likely-than-not to be realized based on available objective evidence. As such, a net change in deferred tax asset of $128.9 million was recognized along with a corresponding foreign income tax benefit.

In 2020 and in 2021, we also completed transactions that created an amortizable step-up in tax basis of the intangible asset and a corresponding increase in foreign deferred tax assets based on the fair value of that IP. These transactions were also executed using transfer pricing guidelines issued by the relevant taxing authorities. Significant estimates and assumptions were required to compute the valuation of these transactions. These estimates and assumptions include, but are not limited to, estimated future revenue growth and discount rates, which by their nature are inherently uncertain and, therefore, may ultimately differ materially from our actual results. As of December 31, 2021, the related net deferred tax asset was $490.2 million, net of a reserve for uncertain tax positions of $206.0 million. As of December 31, 2022, the related net deferred tax asset was $438.5 million, net of a reserve for uncertain tax positions of $194.4 million. As of December 31, 2023, the related net deferred tax asset was $427.1 million, net of a reserve for uncertain tax positions of $200.5 million.

In order to support and sustain the amortizable tax basis for these transactions (and associated deferred tax asset, net of uncertain tax position), we must demonstrate economic ownership, including the appropriate authority and expertise to manage the IP owned and serviced in the Netherlands and Singapore. The determination of economic substance is a judgment that has to be evaluated by management on a continual basis requiring understanding and expertise of local laws of each associated tax jurisdiction. The Netherlands and Singapore subsidiaries serve as the primary corporate headquarters outside of the U.S. and already perform significant functions in support of the economic ownership of the IP. In 2023, we undertook many additional activities to align business operations that support the economic substance of the IP.

We have also recorded certain tax reserves to address potential differences involving our income tax positions. These potential tax liabilities result from the varying application of statutes, rules, regulations and interpretations by different taxing jurisdictions. While our tax position is not uncertain, because of the significant estimates used in the value of certain intellectual property rights, our tax reserves contain assumptions based on past experiences and judgments about the interpretation of statutes, rules and regulations by taxing jurisdictions. It is possible that the costs of the ultimate tax liability or benefit from these matters may be materially more or less than the amount that we estimated.

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Income Tax Accounting

We account for income taxes using the asset and liability method, which requires the recognition of deferred tax assets and liabilities for the expected future tax consequences of temporary differences between the carrying amounts and the tax bases of other assets and liabilities. We provide for income taxes at the current and future enacted tax rates and laws applicable in each taxing jurisdiction. We account for the tax effects of GILTI as a component of income tax expense in the period the tax arises, to the extent applicable. We use a two-step approach for recognizing and measuring tax benefits taken or expected to be taken in a tax return and disclosures regarding uncertainties in income tax positions. The impact of an uncertain tax position that is more likely than not to be sustained upon examination by the relevant taxing authority must be recognized at the largest amount that is more likely than not to be sustained. No portion of an uncertain tax position will be recognized if the position has less than a 50% likelihood of being sustained. Interest expense is recognized on the full amount of deferred benefits for uncertain tax positions. While the validity of any tax position is a matter of tax law, the body of statutory, regulatory and interpretive guidance on the application of the law is complex and often ambiguous. We recognize interest and penalties related to unrecognized tax benefits within the ‘Income tax expense (benefit)’ line in the accompanying consolidated statements of operations. Accrued interest and penalties are included within the related tax liability line in the consolidated balance sheets.

We evaluate our ability to realize the tax benefits associated with deferred tax assets by analyzing our forecasted taxable income using both historical and projected future operating results, the reversal of existing temporary differences, taxable income in prior carry back years (if permitted) and the availability of tax planning strategies. A valuation allowance is required unless management determines that it is more likely than not that we will ultimately realize the tax benefit associated with a deferred tax asset. We determine on a regular basis the amount of undistributed earnings that will be indefinitely reinvested in our non-U.S. operations. This assessment is based on the cash flow projections and operational and fiscal objectives of each of our U.S. and foreign subsidiaries. Foreign withholding taxes have not been provided on cumulative undistributed foreign earnings of the non-U.S. subsidiaries as of December 31, 2023, which are considered to be indefinitely reinvested outside of the U.S.

See Note 14 — Income Taxes in the accompanying notes to the consolidated financial statements included in Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data of this Annual Report on Form 10-K for further information related to income taxes.

Recent Accounting Pronouncements

See Note 2 — Recent Accounting Pronouncements in the accompanying notes to the consolidated financial statements included in Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data of this Annual Report on Form 10-K for a description of recently adopted accounting pronouncements and issued accounting pronouncements that we believe may have an impact on our consolidated financial statements when adopted.

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