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Fortrea Holdings Inc. (FTRE) FY 2023 MD&A

Verbatim Item 7 Management's Discussion and Analysis from Fortrea Holdings Inc.'s 10-K for fiscal year 2023. Filing date: 2024-03-13. Report date: 2023-12-31. Accession: 0001965040-24-000010.

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: FTRE · All MD&A years: index · Next year: FY 2024

ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS (in millions)

The following discussion and analysis is intended to provide a summary of significant factors relevant to the financial performance and condition of Fortrea Holdings Inc., which we refer to in this discussion and analysis as “Fortrea,” the “Company,” “our” and “we”. Prior to the spin-off (the “Spin” or “the Separation”), Fortrea existed and functioned as part of Laboratory Corporation of America Holdings, which we refer to in this discussion and analysis as “Labcorp” or “Former Parent.” The following discussion and analysis of our financial condition and results of operations should be read in conjunction with our audited consolidated and combined financial statements and corresponding notes and other financial information included elsewhere in this Annual Report on Form 10-K. This discussion contains forward-looking statements that are based upon current expectations and are subject to uncertainty and changes in circumstances. Our actual results could differ materially from the results contemplated by these forward-looking statements due to a number of factors, including those discussed below and elsewhere in this Annual Report on Form 10-K, particularly in Part I. Item 1A. “Risk Factors.” Actual results may differ materially from these expectations. See “Cautionary Statement Concerning Forward-Looking Statements.”

Company Overview

Fortrea, a Delaware corporation incorporated on January 31, 2023, is a leading global contract research organization (“CRO”) providing biopharmaceutical product and medical device development services, patient access solutions and other enabling services to pharmaceutical, biotechnology and medical device customers. The Company offers customers highly flexible delivery models that include Full Service, Functional Service Provider (“FSP”), and Hybrid Service structures. We have a rich history of providing clinical development services for over 30 years across more than 20 therapeutic areas, first as Covance and later as Labcorp Drug Development. On June 30, 2023, we completed the Spin from Labcorp. We leverage our global scale, clinical data insights, technology innovation, industry network and decades of experience as a standalone company and as a business unit prior to the Spin to deliver tailored solutions to our customers. With what we believe is a distinctive market offering, Fortrea meets growing global demand for clinical development services.

Our team of approximately 18,000 employees conducts operations in about 90 countries and delivers comprehensive phase I – IV clinical trial management, clinical pharmacology, differentiated technology enabled trial solutions and post-approval services for our customers. Our offering is scaled to deliver focused and agile solutions to customers globally, streamlining the biopharmaceutical product, and medical device development process. Additionally, we utilize enabling technologies to optimize processes and evolve with a dynamic marketplace.

Industry Outlook

For information about the industry outlook and markets that we operate in, refer to Part I, Item I, “Market Opportunity”.

Separation from Labcorp

On June 30, 2023, we completed the Spin from Labcorp through a pro-rata distribution of one share of Fortrea common stock for every share of Labcorp common stock held at the close of business on the record date of June 20, 2023. Fortrea began to trade as a separate public company (NASDAQ: FTRE) on July 3, 2023.

Subsequent Event

On March 9, 2024, the Company, together with its wholly-owned subsidiary, Fortrea Inc. (“Seller”), entered into an Asset Purchase Agreement (the “Purchase Agreement”) with Endeavor Buyer LLC, an affiliate of Arsenal Capital Partners, pursuant to which the Seller has agreed to sell assets relating to its Enabling Services Segment (the “Transaction”), including the sale of equity interests of Fortrea Patient Access Inc. and its subsidiaries and Endpoint Clinical, Inc. and its subsidiaries. The purchase price for the Transaction is $345.0, subject to customary purchase price adjustments, with $295.0 to be paid at closing and $50.0 to be paid upon achievement of certain transition-related milestones. The Transaction is targeted to close in the second quarter of 2024, subject to customary closing conditions and government approvals, as well as the parties entering into certain services and operating agreements.

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Incremental Independent Public Company Expenses

The consolidated and combined statements of operations include costs for certain centralized functions and programs provided and administered by Labcorp that were allocated to us in the periods presented prior to the Spin. These centralized functions and programs include, but are not limited to, legal, tax, treasury, risk management, sales expenses, IT, human resources, finance, supply chain, executive leadership and stock-based compensation.

These expenses were allocated to us based on direct usage when identifiable or, when not directly identifiable, on the basis of proportional net revenues or headcount or other reasonable driver, as applicable. We consider the basis on which the expenses have been allocated to reasonably reflect the utilization of services provided to, or the benefit received by, us during the periods presented. However, the allocations may not reflect the expenses we would have incurred as an independent company for the periods presented. Actual costs that may have been incurred if we had been a standalone company would depend on a number of factors, including the organizational structure, whether functions were outsourced or performed by employees, and strategic decisions made in areas such as IT and infrastructure. For a period following the Separation, however, some of these functions will be provided by Labcorp under transition services agreements.

The actual costs of services represented by these allocations may vary significantly from the amounts allocated to us in the accompanying financial statements.

Backlog and Net New Business

Our backlog consists of anticipated future revenue from business awards that either have not started, or that are in process and have not been completed. Our backlog also reflects any cancellation or adjustment activity related to these awards. The average duration of our contracts will fluctuate from period to period based on the contracts comprising our backlog at any given time. The majority of our contracts contain early termination provisions that typically require notice periods ranging from 30 to 90 days. We adjust backlog for foreign currency fluctuations and exclude from backlog revenue that has been recognized as revenue in our statements of operations. Our backlog was $7.4 billion as of December 31, 2023.

We do not believe that, as a sole measure, our backlog is a consistent indicator of future revenue because it has been, and likely will continue to be, affected by a number of factors, including the variable size and duration of projects, many of which are performed over several years, and changes to the scope of work during the course of projects. Additionally, projects may be canceled or delayed by the customer or regulatory authorities. We generally do not have a contractual right to the full amount of the contract award reflected in our backlog. If a customer cancels a contract, we generally will be reimbursed for the costs we have incurred. For more information about risks related to our backlog see “Risk Factors—Risks Relating to Our Business—Our backlog might not be indicative of our future revenues, and we might not realize all of the anticipated future revenue reflected in our backlog.”

The following Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations is intended to help you understand our results of operations for the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021.

Results of Operations for the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021

The following tables present the financial measures that management considers to be the most significant indicators of the Company's performance.

Revenues

Years Ended December 31,
2023202220212023/2022 change2022/2021 change
Clinical Services$2,839.5$2,825.4$2,763.50.5%2.2%
Enabling Services269.5270.7294.0(0.4)%(7.9)%
Total$3,109.0$3,096.1$3,057.50.4%1.3%

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The Company’s revenues for the year ended December 31, 2023, were $3,109.0, an increase of 0.4% over revenues of $3,096.1 in the corresponding period in 2022. The increase in revenues was due to organic growth of 0.3% and favorable foreign currency translation of 0.1%. The Company defines organic growth as the increase in revenue excluding the year over year impact of acquisitions, divestitures, and currency. The 0.3% increase in organic revenues was primarily driven by an increase in pass through revenues offset by lower service revenues driven by the mix and quantity of new business wins during the year prior to the Spin and by the impact of a prior year FSP cancellation.

The Clinical Services segment’s revenues for the year ended December 31, 2023 were $2,839.5, an increase of 0.5% compared to revenues of $2,825.4 in the corresponding period in 2022. The increase in revenues was driven by an increase in pass through revenues offset by lower service revenues resulting from by the mix and quantity of new business wins during the year prior to the Spin and by the impact of a prior year FSP cancellation.

The Enabling Services segment’s revenues for the year ended December 31, 2023 were $269.5, a decrease of 0.4% compared to revenues of $270.7 in the corresponding period in 2022. The change in revenues was due to lower call center volume offset by strong enhancement revenue on existing projects.

The Company’s revenues for the year ended December 31, 2022, were $3,096.1, an increase of 1.3% over revenues of $3,057.5 in the corresponding period in 2021. The increase in revenues was due to organic growth of 3.9% and unfavorable foreign currency translation of 2.6%. The 3.9% increase in organic revenues was primarily driven by strong net new business awards in 2021 for the Clinical Services segment offset by lower call center volume within the Enabling Services segment.

The Clinical Services segment’s revenues for the year ended December 31, 2022 were $2,825.4, an increase of 2.2% compared to revenues of $2,763.5 in the corresponding period in 2021. The increase in revenues was driven by an increase in net new business awards and an increase in pass through revenues offset by lower service revenues resulting from the impact of a FSP cancellation.

The Enabling Services segment’s revenues for the year ended December 31, 2022 were $270.7, a decrease of 7.9% compared to revenues of $294.0 in the corresponding period in 2021. The decrease in revenues was due to lower call center volume.

Direct Costs, Exclusive of Depreciation and Amortization

Years Ended December 31,
2023202220212023/2022 change2022/2021 change
Direct costs$2,588.6$2,447.4$2,453.15.8%(0.2%)
Direct costs as a % of revenues83.3%79.0%80.2%

Direct costs consist primarily of payroll and related benefits for project-related employees, pass through costs, transition services agreement direct costs, information technology costs, and other direct costs.

Direct costs increased 5.8% in 2023 as compared with 2022 and increased as a percentage of revenues to 83.3% in 2023 as compared to 79.0% in 2022. The increase in direct costs was primarily due to higher pass through costs, transition services agreement costs and personnel costs partially offset by the removal of Former Parent corporate allocations and carve-out adjustments Fortrea received prior to the Spin. Pass through costs are paid by the customer resulting in revenue fully offset by these direct costs.

Direct costs decreased 0.2% in 2022 as compared with 2021 and decreased as a percentage of revenues to 79.0% in 2022 as compared to 80.2% in 2021. This decrease in direct costs was primarily due to a decrease in incentive-based compensation expense based on company performance.

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Selling, General and Administrative Expenses, Exclusive of Depreciation and Amortization

Years Ended December 31,
2023202220212023/2022 change2022/2021 change
Selling, general and administrative expenses$336.6$279.8$303.120.3%(7.7%)
SG&A as a % of revenues10.8%9.0%9.9%

Selling, general and administrative expenses consist primarily of administrative payroll and related benefits, advertising and promotional expenses, credit loss provision, professional fees, administrative travel, facility charges and certain IT costs, and other administrative expenses.

Selling, general and administrative expenses increased 20.3% in 2023 compared to 2022. The change in selling, general and administrative expenses was primarily due to an increase in personnel costs, credit loss provisions, transition service agreement costs and professional fees partially offset by elimination of prior year Former Parent corporate allocations and carve-out adjustments Fortrea received prior to the Spin.

Selling, general and administrative expenses decreased 7.7% in 2022 compared to 2021. The decrease in selling, general and administrative expenses was primarily due to a decrease in incentive-based compensation expense based on company performance.

Goodwill and Other Asset Impairments

Years Ended December 31,
2023202220212023/2022 change2022/2021 change
Goodwill and other asset impairments$$9.8$(100.0%)100.0%

During 2022, the Company recorded intangible asset impairment charges of $9.8. The Company concluded that the fair value was less than carrying value for one of its acquired technology related assets and recorded an asset impairment.

Depreciation Expense

Years Ended December 31,
2023202220212023/2022 change2022/2021 change
Depreciation expense$32.6$27.0$26.320.7%2.7%

The increase in depreciation expense for 2023, as compared to 2022, was due to the increase of property, plant and equipment, primarily IT assets, as part of the Spin. The increase in depreciation expense for 2022, as compared to 2021, was primarily due to purchases of property, plant and equipment.

Amortization Expense

Years Ended December 31,
2023202220212023/2022 change2022/2021 change
Amortization of intangibles and other assets$63.8$65.7$140.0(2.9)%(53.1%)

The decrease in amortization of intangibles and other assets in 2023, as compared to 2022, is primarily the result of the impairment of technology assets that occurred in the fourth quarter of 2022.

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The decrease in amortization of intangibles and other assets in 2022, as compared to 2021, is primarily the result of a $67.3 decrease in amortization expense related to trade names. The trade names were fully amortized during 2021 as a result of the Company’s rebranding initiative. Accelerated amortization of $57.6 was recognized for the year ended December 31, 2021.

Restructuring and Other Charges

Years Ended December 31,
2023202220212023/2022 change2022/2021 change
Restructuring and other charges$24.3$30.5$20.7(20.3%)47.3%

During the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021, the Company recorded net restructuring charges of $24.3, $30.5, and $20.7, respectively, which are reflected within Restructuring and other charges in the consolidated and combined statements of operations. These charges are associated with Company actions to reduce overcapacity, align resources, and restructure certain operations and included eliminating redundant positions and aligning resources for cost improvement and to meet customer requirements. The charges were comprised of severance and other personnel costs and lease and other facility-related costs associated with general cost improvement and headcount reduction initiatives at various locations around the world.

Interest Expense

Years Ended December 31,
2023202220212023/2022 change2022/2021 change
Interest expense$69.8$0.2$0.234,800.0%%

The increase in interest expense for year ended December 31, 2023, as compared with the corresponding period in 2022, is primarily due to the incurrence of indebtedness, consisting of borrowings under senior secured term loan facilities and senior secured notes.

Foreign Exchange Gain (Loss)

Years Ended December 31,
2023202220212023/2022 change2022/2021 change
Foreign exchange gain (loss)$0.9$(0.9)$20.2200.0%104.5%

The change in foreign exchange gain (loss) for the year ended December 31, 2023, as compared to the year ended December 31, 2022, was primarily due to $3.6 in hedging gains from the Company’s hedging program offset by the relative weakening of the US Dollar against most major foreign currencies resulting in $0.5 in foreign exchange losses and by $2.2 of allocated hedging losses from the Former Parent hedging program for 2023.

The change in foreign exchange gain (loss) for the year ended December 31, 2022, as compared to the year ended December 31, 2021, was primarily due to the relative strengthening of the US Dollar against most major foreign currencies resulting in $5.9 in foreign exchange gains offset by $6.8 in allocated hedging losses from the Former Parent hedging program for 2022.

For the year ended December 31, 2021, foreign exchange gains were $26.1 offset by $5.9 of allocated hedging losses from the Former Parent hedging program.

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Income Tax Expense

Years Ended December 31,
202320222021
Income tax expense$4.5$44.1$38.4
Income tax expense as a % of income before tax406.3%18.6%28.2%

For the year ended December 31, 2023, the Company’s effective tax rate was 406.3% compared to 18.6% for the year ended December 31, 2022. The effective tax rate for the year ended December 31, 2023 was higher than the Company’s statutory tax rate primarily due to U.S. tax on foreign income inclusions, the base erosion and anti-abuse tax (“BEAT”) and non-deductible compensation expenses, partially offset by the U.S. R&D credit and certain state tax benefits. The effective tax rate for the twelve months ended December 31, 2022 was lower than the Company’s statutory tax rate primarily due to U.S. taxes on foreign earnings and domestic tax credits, partially offset by state taxes and additional tax deductions.

For the year ended December 31, 2022, the Company's effective tax rate was 18.6% compared to 28.2% for the year ended December 31, 2021. This fluctuation was primarily related to changes in tax rates during 2021, the geographic mix of earnings and the additional R&D tax credits realized during 2022.

Operating Results by Segment

Years Ended December 31,
2023202220212023/2022 change2022/2021 change
Clinical Services operating income$243.0$413.4$339.5(41.2%)21.8%
Enabling Services operating income11.424.439.0(53.3)%(37.4)%
Segment operating income254.4437.8378.5(41.9%)15.7%

Clinical Services operating income was $243.0 for the year ended December 31, 2023, a decrease of 41.2% over operating income of $413.4 for the year ended December 31, 2022. The decrease in operating income was primarily due to lower service revenues driven by the mix and quantity of new business wins in the year prior to the Spin, the impact of a prior year FSP cancellation, and a provision for credit losses.

Enabling Services operating income was $11.4 for the year ended December 31, 2023, a decrease of 53.3% from operating income of $24.4 for the year ended December 31, 2022. The decrease was primarily driven by investments related to servicing a recent award along with lower call center volume.

Clinical Services operating income was $413.4 for the year ended December 31, 2022, an increase of 21.8% over operating income of $339.5 for the year ended December 31, 2021. The increase in operating income was primarily due to revenue growth of 2.2% and the decrease in incentive-based compensation expense and continued efforts to optimize the operating model.

Enabling Services operating income was $24.4 for the year ended December 31, 2022, a decrease of 37.4% from operating income of $39.0 for the year ended December 31, 2021. The decrease was primarily due to a decrease in revenue of 7.9% and the loss of operating leverage on the lower revenue base.

Liquidity, Capital Resources and Financial Position

The Company manages cash flow to fund and invest in operational growth, capital expenditures, and credit facility repayments. In connection with the Spin, we have incurred indebtedness in an aggregate principal amount of $1,640.0, which consists of borrowings under senior secured term loan facilities and senior secured notes. We have also entered into a senior secured revolving credit facility, which consists of a five-year facility in the principal amount of up to $450.0 as further discussed in Note 10, Debt to the consolidated and combined financial statements.

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We have also entered into an accounts receivable purchase program (“ARPP”), which establishes a receivables factoring facility that permits the Company to sell up to $80.0 in customer receivables to a financial institution based on the availability of certain eligible receivables and the satisfaction of certain conditions. As of December 31, 2023, the Company had no outstanding factored customer receivables.

We believe our existing cash and cash flows generated from operations, plus existing credit facilities, will be sufficient to cover the needs of our current and planned operations for at least the next 12 months. From time to time, we routinely evaluate strategic opportunities, including, but not limited to, potential acquisitions, joint ventures or investments in complementary businesses. We may also access capital markets through the issuance of debt or equity, which we may use in connection with the acquisition of complimentary businesses or other significant assets, or for other strategic opportunities, or general corporate purposes.

Cash Flows for the Year Ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021

In summary the Company's cash flows were as follows:

For the Year ended December 31,
202320222021
Net cash provided by operating activities$167.4$87.5$169.8
Net cash used for investing activities(31.8)(54.0)(26.2)
Net cash used for financing activities(139.0)(8.7)(128.5)
Effect of exchange rate on changes in cash and cash equivalents(7.4)(0.8)
Net change in cash and cash equivalents$(3.4)$17.4$14.3

Cash and Cash Equivalents

Cash and cash equivalents at December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021 totaled $108.6, $112.0 and $94.6, respectively. Cash and cash equivalents consist of highly liquid instruments, such as commercial paper, time deposits, and other money market instruments, which have maturities when purchased of three months or less.

Cash Flows from Operating Activities

During the year ended December 31, 2023, the Company's operations provided $167.4 of cash as compared to $87.5 in 2022. Net cash provided by operating activities increased by $79.9 for the year ended December 31, 2023 as compared to the year ended December 31, 2022. Cash flows from operating activities benefited from moderation in growth of unbilled services and deferred revenue, along with lower cash used for accrued expenses, including lower incentive payouts earlier in the year, partially offset by a decrease in net income.

During the year ended December 31, 2022, the Company's operations provided $87.5 of cash as compared to $169.8 in 2021. Net cash provided by operating activities decreased by $82.3 for the year ended December 31, 2022 as compared to the year ended December 31, 2021. Cash flows from operating activities benefited from higher net income due to the growth of the business offset by a decrease in amortization of trade name intangibles, decreases in the accrued expenses and other due primarily to the decrease in incentive compensation accruals from lower business performance.

Cash Flows from Investing Activities

Net cash used for investing activities for the year ended December 31, 2023 was $31.8 as compared to net cash used for investing activities of $54.0 for the year ended December 31, 2022. The $22.2 decrease in net cash used for investing activities for the year ended December 31, 2023, was primarily due to a year over year decrease in capital expenditures. Capital expenditures were $40.3 and $54.4 for the years ended December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively. Capital expenditures in 2023 were 1.3% of revenues, primarily in connection with projects to support growth in the Company's core businesses. The Company intends to continue to pursue selective investments in key therapeutic areas, business areas and geographies to drive growth and to improve efficiency of the Company's operations. Such expenditures are expected to be funded by cash flow from operations.

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Net cash used for investing activities for the year ended December 31, 2022 was $54.0 as compared to net cash used for investing activities of $26.2 for the year ended December 31, 2021. The $27.8 increase in net cash used for investing activities for the year ended December 31, 2021 was primarily due to a year over year increase in capital expenditures. Capital expenditures were $54.4 and $26.5 for the years ended December 31, 2022 and 2021, respectively. Capital expenditures in 2022 were 1.8% of revenues, primarily in connection with projects to support growth in the Company's core businesses.

Cash Flows from Financing Activities

Net cash used for financing activities for the year ended December 31, 2023 was $139.0 compared to cash used for financing activities of $8.7 for the year ended December 31, 2022. Cash provided by financing activities related to proceeds from term loans and senior note offerings was offset primarily by the net transfers to Former Parent in connection with the Spin. Information regarding the net transfer is provided in Note 2, “Summary of Significant Accounting Policies” and Note 18, “Related Party Transactions” to the audited consolidated and combined financial statements.

Net cash used for financing activities for the year ended December 31, 2022 was $8.7 compared to cash used for financing activities of $128.5 for the year ended December 31, 2021. The cash used for financing activities primarily related to the net transfers to Former Parent.

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

The Company does not have transactions or relationships with “special purpose” entities, and the Company does not have any off-balance sheet financing other than normal operating leases and letters of credit.

Material Cash Requirements

In the normal course of business, we enter into contracts and commitments that oblige us to make payments in the future. Information regarding such obligations is provided in Note 7, “Leases”, Note 10, “Debt”, Note 13, “Income Taxes” and Note 17, “Pension and Postretirement Plans” to the audited consolidated and combined financial statements.

Critical Accounting Estimates

The preparation of financial statements in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reported periods. While the Company believes these estimates are reasonable and consistent, they are by their very nature estimates of amounts that will depend on future events. Accordingly, actual results could differ from these estimates. The Company’s critical accounting policies arise in conjunction with revenue recognition, business combinations, income taxes, and goodwill and indefinite-lived assets.

Revenue Recognition

The Company provides comprehensive phase I through phase IV services to global pharmaceutical, biotechnology, and medical device companies worldwide. A majority of the Company’s revenues are earned under contracts that are long term in nature, ranging in duration from a few months to many years. The majority of the Company's contracts contain a single performance obligation, as the Company provides a significant service of integrating all obligations in the contract and the obligations are highly interdependent and interrelated with one another. For contracts that include multiple performance obligations, the Company allocates the contract value to the goods and services based on a customer price list, if available. If a price list is not available, the Company will estimate the transaction price using either market prices or an “expected cost plus margin” approach. The total contract value is estimated at the beginning of the contract, and is equal to the amount expected to be billed to the customer. Other payments and billing adjustments may also factor into the calculation of total contract value, such as the reimbursement of out-of-pocket costs and volume-based rebates. These contracts generally take the form of

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fixed-price, fee-for-service or software-as-a-service arrangements subject to pricing adjustments based on changes in scope.

Fixed-price contracts are typically recognized as revenue over time based on a proportional-performance basis, using either input or output methods that are specific to the service provided. In an output method, revenue is determined by dividing the actual units of output achieved by the total units of output required under the contract and multiplying that percentage by the total contract value. When using an input method, revenue is recognized by dividing the actual costs incurred by the total estimated cost expected to complete the contract, and multiplying that percentage by the total contract value. Contract costs principally include direct labor and reimbursable out-of-pocket costs. The estimate of total costs expected to complete the contract requires significant judgment and estimates are based on various assumptions of events that often span several years. These estimates are reviewed periodically and any adjustments are recognized on a cumulative catch-up basis in the period they become known. During the year ended December 31, 2023, reductions of approximately $60.1 in the Company’s revenues related to performance obligations partially satisfied in previous periods. During the years ended December 31, 2022 and 2021, revenue of $72.3 and $80.3, respectively, was recognized from performance obligations that were partially satisfied in a previous period. Substantially all of these adjustments were associated with changes in scope or price for full service clinical studies. The gross and net amounts of revenue recognized solely from changes in estimates were not material.

Fee-for-service contracts are typically priced based on transaction volume or time and materials. For volume based contracts the contract value is entirely variable and revenue is recognized as the specific product or service is completed. For services billed based on time and materials, revenue is recognized using the right to invoice practical expedient.

Software-as-a-service (“SaaS”) arrangements represent a single obligation to provide continuous access to a hosted software platform. As each day of providing access to the platform is substantially the same, and the customer simultaneously receives and consumes the benefits as access is provided, the Company recognizes revenue using an output method based on time elapsed, which is on a straight-line basis over the course of the contracted SaaS hosting period.

Contracts are often modified to account for changes in contract specifications and requirements. Generally, when contract modifications create new performance obligations, the modification is considered to be a separate contract and revenue is recognized prospectively. When contract modifications change existing performance obligations, the impact on the existing transaction price and measure of progress for the performance obligation to which it relates is generally recognized as an adjustment to revenue (either as an increase in or a reduction of revenue) on a cumulative catch-up basis.

Most contracts are terminable with or without cause by the customer, either immediately or upon notice. These contracts often require payment to the Company of expenses to wind-down the study or project, fees earned to date and, in some cases, a termination fee or a payment to the Company of some portion of the fees or profits that could have been earned by the Company under the contract if it had not been terminated early. Termination fees are included in revenues when services are performed and realization is assured.

Allowance for Credit Losses

The Company maintains current receivable amounts with most of its customers. Fluctuations in accounts receivable, net are attributable to a variety of factors including, but not limited to, the timing of cash receipts from customers, the Company’s assessment of collectability and corresponding provision for bad debt expense and the inception, transition, modification or termination of customer relationships. The Company regularly monitors and assesses its risk of not collecting amounts owed by customers. This evaluation is based upon an analysis of current and past due amounts, along with relevant history and facts particular to the customer and the evaluation of the recoverability of amounts due. The Company records its allowance for credit losses based on the results of this analysis. The analysis requires the Company to make significant estimates and, as such, changes in facts and circumstances could result in material changes in the allowance for credit losses.

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Income Taxes

Prior to the Spin, the Company was included in the combined U.S. federal, state, and foreign income tax returns of Labcorp, where eligible. For periods after the Spin, the Company will be filing income tax returns as a separate company. The income tax provisions, and related deferred tax assets and liabilities reflected in our consolidated and combined financial statements have been calculated based on the go-forward status of the Company as separate from Labcorp. The Company accounts for income taxes utilizing the asset and liability method. Under this method, the Company has recognized $3.2 of deferred tax assets and $148.8 of liabilities as of December 31, 2023, for the future tax consequences attributable to differences between the financial statement carrying amounts of existing assets and liabilities and their respective tax bases and for tax loss carryforwards. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are measured using enacted tax rates expected to apply to taxable income in the years in which those temporary differences are expected to be recovered or settled. Tax effects are released from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income using either the specific identification approach or the portfolio approach based on the nature of the underlying item. We elected to not consider the estimated impact of potential future Corporate Alternative Minimum Tax liabilities for purposes of assessing valuation allowances on the Company’s deferred tax balances. The effect on deferred tax assets and liabilities of a change in tax rates is recognized in income in the period that includes the enactment date.

The Company does not recognize a tax benefit, unless the Company concludes that it is more likely than not that the benefit will be sustained on audit by the taxing authority based solely on the technical merits of the associated tax position. If the recognition threshold is met, the Company recognizes a tax benefit measured at the largest amount of the tax benefit that the Company believes is greater than 50% likely to be realized. The Company records interest and penalties in income tax expense.

We are subject to income taxes in the U.S. and various foreign jurisdictions. The Company is not currently subject to U.S. federal income tax audits by the Internal Revenue Service (“IRS”) as it has not filed a U.S. federal income tax return yet. We are no longer subject to U.S. state income tax audits prior to 2017. There are no ongoing foreign income tax audits. While we believe we have adequately provided for all tax positions, amounts assessed by taxing authorities could be greater than what we have accrued for in our financial statements. Accordingly, additional income tax provisions on federal, state and foreign income tax-related matters could be recorded in the future as revised estimates are made or the underlying matters are settled or otherwise resolved. Since the timing of resolution of income tax audits are uncertain, it is difficult to predict with certainty the range of reasonably possible significant increases or decreases in the liability related to uncertain tax positions that may occur within the next twelve months.

We have designated the undistributed earnings of our foreign subsidiaries as indefinitely reinvested with exception to certain withholding taxes accrued that are associated with potential maturity of intercompany notes related to the Separation. Our foreign earnings are computed under U.S. federal tax earnings and profits (“E&P”) principles. The determination of the amount of such unrecognized deferred tax liability is not practicable. We will continue to evaluate our assertion with respect to being permanently reinvested on our earnings of foreign subsidiaries, taking into consideration all enacted tax laws and other relevant facts.

Goodwill

The Company has recorded $2,029.3 and $1,997.3 of goodwill as of December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively. The Company assesses goodwill for impairment at least annually or whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of such assets may not be recoverable.

The annual impairment test for goodwill includes an option to perform a qualitative assessment of whether it is more likely than not that a reporting unit's fair value is less than its carrying value. Reporting units are businesses with discrete financial information that is available and reviewed by management. If the Company determines that it is more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit is less than its carrying value, then the Company performs the quantitative goodwill impairment test. The Company may also choose to bypass the qualitative assessment for any reporting unit in its goodwill assessment and proceed directly to performing the quantitative

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assessment. The Company recognizes an impairment charge for the amount by which the reporting unit's carrying amount exceeds its fair value.

In the qualitative assessment, the Company considers relevant events and circumstances for each reporting unit, including (i) current year results, (ii) financial performance versus management’s annual and five-year strategic plans, (iii) changes in the reporting unit carrying value since prior year, (iv) industry and market conditions in which the reporting unit operates, (v) macroeconomic conditions, including discount rate changes, and (vi) changes in products or services offered by the reporting unit. If applicable, performance in recent years is compared to forecasts included in prior quantitative valuations. Based on the results of the qualitative assessment, if the Company concludes that it is not more likely than not that the fair value of the reporting unit is less than its carrying values of the reporting unit, then no quantitative assessment is performed.

The quantitative assessment includes the estimation of the fair value of each reporting unit as compared to the carrying value of the reporting unit. The Company estimates the fair value of a reporting unit using both income-based and market-based valuation methods. The income-based approach is based on the reporting unit's forecasted future cash flows that are discounted to the present value using the reporting unit's weighted average cost of capital. For the market-based approach, the Company utilizes a number of factors such as publicly available information regarding the market capitalization of the Company as well as operating results, business plans, market multiples, and present value techniques. Based upon the range of estimated values developed from the income and market-based methods, the Company determines the estimated fair value for the reporting unit. If the estimated fair value of the reporting unit exceeds the carrying value, the goodwill is not impaired and no further review is required.

The income-based fair value methodology requires management's assumptions and judgments regarding economic conditions in the markets in which the Company operates and conditions in the capital markets, many of which are outside of management's control. At the reporting unit level, fair value estimation requires management's assumptions and judgments regarding the effects of overall economic conditions on the specific reporting unit, along with assessment of the reporting unit's strategies and forecasts of future cash flows. Forecasts of individual reporting unit cash flows involve management's estimates and assumptions regarding:

•Annual cash flows, on a debt-free basis, arising from future revenues and profitability, changes in working capital, capital spending and income taxes for at least a five-year forecast period.

•A terminal growth rate for years beyond the forecast period. The terminal growth rate is selected based on consideration of growth rates used in the forecast period, historical performance of the reporting unit and economic conditions.

•A discount rate that reflects the risks inherent in realizing the forecasted cash flows. A discount rate considers the risk-free rate of return on long-term treasury securities, the risk premium associated with investing in equity securities of comparable companies, the beta obtained from the comparable companies and the cost of debt for investment grade issuers. In addition, the discount rate may consider any Company-specific risk in achieving the prospective financial information.

Under the market-based fair value methodology, judgment is required in evaluating market multiples and recent transactions. Management believes that the assumptions used for its impairment tests are representative of those that would be used by market participants performing similar valuations of the reporting units.

Management performed its annual goodwill impairment testing as of the beginning of the fourth quarter of 2023. Based upon the results of the qualitative and quantitative assessments, the Company concluded that the fair values of each of its reporting units, as of October 1, 2023, were greater than the carrying values.

Although the Company believes that the current assumptions and estimates used in its goodwill analysis are reasonable, supportable, and appropriate, continued efforts to maintain or improve the performance of these businesses could be impacted by unfavorable or unforeseen changes which could impact the existing assumptions used in the impairment analysis. Various factors could reasonably be expected to unfavorably impact existing assumptions: primarily delays in new customer bookings and the related delay in revenue from new customers, increases in customer termination activity or increases in operating costs. Accordingly, there can be no assurance

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that the estimates and assumptions made for the purposes of the goodwill impairment and intangible asset analysis will prove to be accurate predictions of future performance.

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