ITEM 1B.
UNRESOLVED STAFF COMMENTS
None.
Our principal executive offices are located in Benton Harbor, Michigan. On December 31, 2014, our principal manufacturing operations were carried on at 42 locations in 14 countries worldwide. We occupied a total of approximately 83 million square feet devoted to manufacturing, service, sales and administrative offices, warehouse and distribution space. Over 37 million square feet of such space is occupied under lease. Whirlpool properties include facilities which are suitable and adequate for the manufacture and distribution of Whirlpool’s products. The company’s major production sites by operating segment are as follows:
ITEM 3.
ITEM 3.
LEGAL PROCEEDINGS
Information regarding legal proceedings can be found in Note 7 to the Consolidated Financial Statements and is incorporated herein by reference.
ITEM 4.
ITEM 4.
MINE SAFETY DISCLOSURES
Not applicable.
PART II
ITEM 5.
ITEM 5.
MARKET FOR REGISTRANT’S COMMON EQUITY, RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS
AND ISSUER PURCHASES OF EQUITY SECURITIES
Whirlpool’s common stock is traded on the New York Stock Exchange and the Chicago Stock Exchange. As of February 20, 2015, the number of holders of record of Whirlpool common stock was approximately 11,160.
Quarterly market and dividend information can be found in Note 15 (unaudited) to the Consolidated Financial Statements.
On April 14, 2014, our Board of Directors authorized a new share repurchase program of up to $500 million. Share repurchases are made from time to time on the open market as conditions warrant. The program does not obligate us to repurchase any of our shares. We repurchased 165,900 shares at an aggregate purchase price of approximately $25 million through December 31, 2014. At December 31, 2014, there were approximately $475 million in remaining funds authorized under this program.
ITEM 6.
ITEM 6.
SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA
FIVE-YEAR SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA
(1)	Total debt includes notes payable and current and long-term debt.
(2)	Total Whirlpool stockholders’ equity divided by average number of shares on a diluted basis.
(3)	Earnings (loss) before income taxes, as a percent of net sales.
(4)	Net earnings available to Whirlpool, as a percent of net sales.
(5)	Net earnings available to Whirlpool, divided by average Whirlpool stockholders’ equity.
(6)	Net earnings available to Whirlpool, divided by average total assets.
(7)	Total debt divided by total debt and total stockholders’ equity.
(8)	Closing stock price divided by diluted net earnings available to Whirlpool.
(9)	Stock appreciation plus reinvested dividends, divided by share price at the beginning of the period.
ITEM 7.
ITEM 7.
MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
This Management Discussion and Analysis should be read in connection with the Consolidated Financial Statements, Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements and Selected Financial Data included in this Form 10-K. Certain references to particular information in the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements are made to assist readers.
ABOUT WHIRLPOOL
Whirlpool Corporation (“Whirlpool”) is the number one major appliance manufacturer in the world with net sales of approximately $20 billion and net earnings available to Whirlpool of $650 million in 2014. We are a leading producer of major home appliances in North America, Latin America and Europe, and have a significant presence throughout China and India. We have received worldwide recognition for accomplishments in a variety of business and social efforts, including leadership, diversity, innovative product design, business ethics, social responsibility and community involvement. We conduct our business through four reportable segments, which we define based on geography. Our reportable segments consist of North America, Latin America, EMEA (Europe, Middle East and Africa) and Asia. Our customer base includes large, sophisticated trade customers who have many choices and demand competitive products, services and prices. The major home appliance industry operates in an intensely competitive environment, reflecting the impact of both new and established global competitors, including Asian and European manufacturers.
The charts below summarize the balance of net sales by reportable segment for 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively:
We monitor country-specific economic factors such as gross domestic product, unemployment, consumer confidence, retail trends, housing starts and completions, sales of existing homes and mortgage interest rates as key indicators of industry demand. In addition to profitability, we also focus on country, brand, product and channel sales when assessing and forecasting financial results.
Our leading portfolio of brands includes Whirlpool, Maytag, KitchenAid, Embraco, Brastemp, Consul and Indesit, each of which generates annual revenues in excess of $1 billion. Our global branded consumer products strategy is to introduce innovative new products, increase brand customer loyalty, expand our presence outside the United States, enhance our trade management platform, improve total cost and quality by expanding and leveraging our global operating platform and, where appropriate, make strategic acquisitions and investments.
As we grow revenues in our core products, our strategy is to extend our business by offering products and services that are dependent on and related to our core business and expand into adjacent products, such as Affresh cleaners and Gladiator GarageWorks, through businesses that leverage our core competencies and business infrastructure.
MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS - (CONTINUED)
OVERVIEW
Whirlpool delivered a strong year of business operating performance as evidenced by record revenues and strong margins, while driving product introductions, ongoing productivity and delivering restructuring benefits. We have continued to build a global platform that will drive future growth and strong value creation, further accelerated through the completion of two acquisitions during 2014 in China and Europe. We have great opportunities for growth as demand in the U.S. continued to recover and we are very well positioned to capitalize when growth returns to emerging markets such as Brazil, China, India and Russia. We continue to accelerate our investments in product and brand innovation which will benefit our end consumers, while driving revenue growth in those areas that expand and extend our core appliance business.
We believe that continued execution of our business priorities and a focus on long-term growth will allow the Company to adapt to changes in the macroeconomic environment and maintain our position as the world's leading global manufacturer and marketer of major home appliances.
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
The following table summarizes the consolidated results of operations:
nm: not meaningful
Consolidated Net Sales
The following tables summarize units sold and consolidated net sales by operating segment:
MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS - (CONTINUED)
Consolidated net sales increased 5.9% compared to 2013 primarily due to favorable product price/mix, higher unit shipments and the benefit of the acquisitions partially offset by the unfavorable impact of foreign currency and lower BEFIEX credits. Excluding the impact of foreign currency and BEFIEX credits, consolidated net sales increased 8.4% compared to 2013. Consolidated net sales for 2013 increased 3.4% compared to 2012 primarily due to higher unit shipments and BEFIEX credits, partially offset by the unfavorable impact of foreign currency and changes in product price/mix. Excluding the impact of foreign currency and BEFIEX credits, consolidated net sales for 2013 increased 4.4% compared to 2012.
We provide the percentage change in net sales, excluding the impact of foreign currency and BEFIEX credits, as a supplement to the change in net sales as determined by U.S. generally accepted accounting principles ("GAAP") to provide stockholders with a clearer basis to assess Whirlpool's results over time. This measure is considered a non-GAAP financial measure and is calculated by translating the current period net sales excluding BEFIEX credits, in functional currency, to U.S. dollars using the prior-year period's exchange rate compared to the prior-year period net sales excluding BEFIEX credits.
Significant regional trends were as follows:
•
North America net sales increased 4.5% compared to 2013 primarily due to a 3.8% increase in units sold and favorable product price/mix, partially offset by foreign currency. North America net sales for 2013 increased 5.7% compared to 2012 primarily due to a 6.6% increase in units sold, partially offset by changes in product mix and foreign currency.
•
Latin America net sales decreased 4.9% compared to 2013 primarily due to a 4.5% decrease in units sold from the impact of the World Cup and presidential elections in 2014, lower BEFIEX credits and unfavorable foreign currency, partially offset by favorable product price/mix. Excluding the impact of foreign currency and BEFIEX credits, Latin America net sales increased 2.5% in 2014. Latin America net sales for 2013 decreased 0.5% compared to 2012 primarily due to the unfavorable impact of foreign currency, partially offset by a 6.2% increase in units sold and higher BEFIEX credits. Excluding the impact of foreign currency and BEFIEX credits, Latin America net sales increased 4.1% in 2013.
We recognized approximately $14 million, $109 million and $37 million of BEFIEX credits in 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively. As of December 31, 2014, approximately $48 million of future cash monetization remained for court awarded fees, which is not expected to be payable for several years. For additional information regarding BEFIEX credits, see Notes 7 and 12 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements.
•
EMEA net sales increased 29.1% compared to 2013, primarily due to a 32.2% increase in units sold primarily due to the acquisition of Indesit, partially offset by unfavorable product price/mix and foreign currency. Excluding the impact of foreign currency, net sales increased 29.6%. In 2013 EMEA net sales increased 5.2% compared to 2012, primarily due to the favorable impact of foreign currency and a 3.1% increase in units sold. Excluding the impact of foreign currency, net sales increased 1.8%.
•
Asia net sales increased 1.2% compared to 2013 primarily due to the acquisition of Hefei Sanyo, partially offset by foreign currency, product transition costs and unfavorable product price/mix. Excluding the impact of foreign currency, Asia net sales increased 4.1%. Asia net sales for 2013 decreased 4.8% compared to 2012 primarily due to the unfavorable impact of foreign currency and a 2.7% decrease in units sold, partially offset by favorable product price/mix. Excluding the impact of foreign currency, Asia net sales decreased 1.1%.
Gross Margin
The table below summarizes gross margin percentages by region:
The consolidated gross margin percentage decreased 50 basis points to 17.1% compared to 2013, primarily due to higher material costs, expenses related to the acquisitions, foreign currency and lower BEFIEX credits, partially offset by productivity and restructuring benefits.
MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS - (CONTINUED)
Significant regional trends were as follows:
•
North America gross margin decreased compared to 2013 primarily due to the impact of product transitions, partially offset by productivity. North America gross margin for 2013 increased compared to 2012 primarily due to productivity and cost and capacity reduction initiatives, partially offset by a 2012 curtailment gain in a postretirement benefit plan that did not recur in 2013.
•
Latin America gross margin decreased compared to 2013 primarily due to lower BEFIEX credits, higher material costs and unfavorable foreign currency, partially offset by higher product price/mix. During 2013, Latin America gross margin increased compared to 2012 primarily due to favorable product price/mix, productivity and BEFIEX credits, partially offset by higher material costs.
•
EMEA gross margin increased compared to 2013 primarily due to increased productivity, the acquisition of Indesit, and restructuring benefits, partially offset by unfavorable product price/mix and foreign currency. During 2013, EMEA gross margin increased compared to 2012 primarily due to increased productivity and benefits from restructuring initiatives, partially offset by higher material costs.
•
Asia gross margin decreased in 2014 when compared to the prior year, primarily due to expenses related to the acquisition of Hefei Sanyo in 2014, foreign currency and unfavorable material costs, partially offset by favorable product price/mix, productivity and the benefits of the acquisition. Asia gross margin increased in 2013 when compared to the prior year primarily due to favorable product price/mix and productivity, partially offset by the unfavorable impacts of higher material costs and foreign currency.
Selling, General and Administrative
The following table summarizes selling, general and administrative expenses as a percentage of sales by region:
Consolidated selling, general and administrative expenses in 2014 reflect acquisition-related costs and investment expenses compared to 2013 and have increased as a percent of consolidated net sales due to those expenses. Selling, general and administrative expenses as a percent of consolidated net sales in 2013 remained flat compared to 2012, primarily due to leverage on increased sales.
Restructuring
During the fourth quarter 2011, the Company committed to restructuring plans (the "2011 Plan") to expand our operating margins and improve our earnings through substantial cost and capacity reductions, primarily within our North America and EMEA operating segments. All actions related to the 2011 Plan have been announced and are now substantially complete. Over $40 million in costs related to actions authorized under the 2011 Plan were recognized during 2014.
During 2014, the Company announced the following restructuring plans: (a) the closure of a microwave oven manufacturing facility and other organizational efficiency actions in EMEA and Latin America, and (b) organizational integration activities in China, in anticipation of the Hefei Sanyo transaction. These plans resulted in charges of approximately $90 million in 2014, with completion expected by the end of 2015, related to employee termination costs, non-cash asset impairment costs, and facility exit costs.
We incurred restructuring charges of $136 million, $196 million, and $237 million for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively.
MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS - (CONTINUED)
For the full year 2015, we may incur up to $300 million of restructuring charges, which will result in substantial cost reductions. Additional information about restructuring activities can be found in Note 11 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements.
Interest and Sundry Income (Expense)
Interest and sundry income (expense) decreased $13 million compared to 2013, primarily driven by lower charges related to Embraco antitrust matters and a Brazilian government settlement occurring in 2013. During 2013, interest and sundry income (expense) increased $43 million compared to 2012, primarily driven by charges related to Embraco antitrust matters, a Brazilian government settlement and acquisition-related investment expenses.
For additional information about the Embraco antitrust matters, the Brazilian collection dispute, and the Brazilian government settlement, see Note 7 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements. For additional information about the acquisitions of Hefei Sanyo and Indesit, see Note 2 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements.
Interest Expense
Interest expense decreased $12 million compared to 2013, primarily due to lower interest rates which were offset by higher average debt levels. The increase in average debt is related to the funding and assumed debt related to our two acquisitions in 2014 (See Note 2 to the Consolidated Financial Statements). During 2013, interest expense decreased $22 million compared to 2012, primarily due to lower interest rates.
Income Taxes
Income tax expense was $189 million, $68 million, and $133 million in 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively. The increase in tax expense in 2014 compared to 2013 is primarily due to the absence of the United States energy tax credits that were recognized in 2013.
The decrease in tax expense in 2013 compared to 2012 is primarily due to United States energy tax credits recognized, partially offset by higher pre-tax earnings. The "American Taxpayer Relief Act of 2012," signed in January 2013, reinstated the energy tax credit for 2012 and 2013, and resulted in a tax credit benefit related to the production of qualifying appliances in 2012 and 2013 in the combined amount of $126 million, all of which was recognized in 2013. For additional information about our consolidated tax provision, see Note 12 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements.
The following table summarizes the difference between income tax expense at the United States statutory rate of 35% and the income tax expense at effective worldwide tax rates for the respective periods:
MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS - (CONTINUED)
FORWARD-LOOKING PERSPECTIVE
We currently estimate earnings per diluted share and industry demand for 2015 to be within the following ranges:
For the full-year 2015, we expect to generate free cash flow between $700 million and $800 million, including restructuring cash outlays of up to $250 million, capital spending of $800 million to $850 million and U.S. pension contributions of approximately $80 million.
The table below reconciles projected 2015 cash provided by operating activities determined in accordance with GAAP to free cash flow, a non-GAAP measure. Management believes that free cash flow provides stockholders with a relevant measure of liquidity and a useful basis for assessing Whirlpool’s ability to fund its activities and obligations. There are limitations to using non-GAAP financial measures, including the difficulty associated with comparing companies that use similarly named non-GAAP measures whose calculations may differ from our calculations. We define free cash flow as cash provided by continuing operations less capital expenditures and including proceeds from the sale of assets/businesses, and changes in restricted cash. The change in restricted cash relates to the private placement funds paid by Whirlpool to acquire majority control of Hefei Sanyo and which are used to fund capital and technical resources to enhance Hefei Sanyo’s research and development and working capital.
The projections above are based on many estimates and are inherently subject to change based on future decisions made by management and the Board of Directors of Whirlpool, and significant economic, competitive and other uncertainties and contingencies.
FINANCIAL CONDITION AND LIQUIDITY
Our objective is to finance our business through operating cash flow and the appropriate mix of long-term and short-term debt. By diversifying the maturity structure, we avoid concentrations of debt, reducing liquidity risk. We have varying needs for short-term working capital financing as a result of the nature of our business. We regularly review our capital structure and liquidity priorities, which include funding the business through capital and engineering spending to support innovation and productivity initiatives, funding our pension plan and term debt liabilities, providing return to shareholders and potential acquisitions.
On October 14, 2014, we completed our acquisition from Fineldo S.p.A. and certain members of the Merloni family (the "Family") a number of shares that, when combined with a prior purchase, totaled 66.8% of the voting stock of Indesit for an aggregate purchase price, including the prior purchase, of €758 million (approximately $965 million at the dates of purchase), without adjustment. The Company funded the aggregate purchase price for the shares constituting a majority interest that we purchased in October 2014 through the issuance of an aggregate principal amount of $650 million in senior notes on November 4, 2014. Whirlpool launched a mandatory tender offer for all remaining outstanding shares of Indesit in accordance with Italian law which was completed on November 28, 2014 at a cost of €344 million (approximately $429 million at the date of purchase).
MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS - (CONTINUED)
On December 3, 2014 we acquired the remaining shares for €32 million (approximately $40 million at the date of the purchase) to obtain 100% ownership. Additional information about the transaction can be found in Note 2 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements.
In addition, we assumed $99 million of bank guarantees through our acquisition of Indesit as of December 31, 2014.
On October 24, 2014, Whirlpool’s wholly-owned Chinese subsidiary completed its acquisition of a 51% equity stake in Hefei Sanyo, through two transactions, for an aggregate purchase price of RMB 3.4 billion (approximately $551 million at the dates of purchase). The Company funded the total consideration for the shares with cash on hand. The cash paid for the private placement portion of the transaction is considered restricted cash, which will be used to fund capital and technical resources to enhance Hefei Sanyo’s research and development and working capital. Additional information about the transaction can be found in Note 2 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements.
Our short term potential uses of liquidity include funding our ongoing capital spending, restructuring activities, funding pension plans and returns to shareholders. We also have $234 million of term debt maturing in the next twelve months.
We monitor the credit ratings and market indicators of credit risk of our lending, depository, and derivative counterparty banks regularly. In addition, we diversify our deposits and investments in short term cash equivalents to limit the concentration of exposure by counterparty.
We continue to review customer conditions across the Eurozone. As of December 31, 2014, we had €78 million (approximately $94 million as of December 31, 2014) in outstanding trade receivables and short-term and long-term notes due to us associated with Alno AG, a long-standing European customer. Approximately €39 million (approximately $47 million as of December 31, 2014) of the outstanding receivables were overdue as of December 31, 2014. In the fourth quarter of 2014, Whirlpool and Alno entered into an agreement to revise the previous standstill agreement to amend the payment terms of the overdue trade receivables. The new agreement cured the violation of the prior agreement and Alno’s full overdue balance remains due in full by the end of the first quarter of 2016. Our exposure includes not only the outstanding receivables but also the potential risks of an Alno bankruptcy and impacts to our distribution process. Alno is proceeding to secure additional financing to improve its financial position.
In March 2014, Whirlpool sold approximately 7.4 million shares held in Alno AG for approximately $5 million. This transaction resulted in the conversion of our investment from the equity method of accounting to an available for sale investment due to our less than 20% overall investment in Alno AG.
As of December 31, 2014, we had $1.0 billion of cash and equivalents on hand, of which $0.9 billion was held outside of the United States. Our intent is to permanently reinvest these funds outside of the United States and our current plans do not demonstrate a need to repatriate these funds to fund our U.S. operations. However, if these funds were repatriated, we would then be required to accrue and pay applicable U.S. taxes (subject to an adjustment for foreign tax credits) and withholding taxes payable to various countries.
Sources and Uses of Cash
We met our cash needs during 2014 through cash flows from operations, cash and equivalents, and financing arrangements. Our cash and equivalents at December 31, 2014 decreased $354 million compared to the same period in 2013. Significant drivers of changes in our cash and equivalents balance during 2014 are discussed below:
Cash Flow Summary
MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS - (CONTINUED)
Cash Flows from Operating Activities
The increase in cash provided by operating activities during 2014 reflects strong cash earnings and working capital improvements partially offset by $125 million to fund our United States qualified pension plans.
The timing of cash flows from operations varies significantly within a quarter primarily due to changes in production levels, sales patterns, promotional programs, funding requirements as well as receivable and payment terms. Dependent on timing of cash flows, the location of cash balances, as well as the liquidity requirements of each country, external sources of funding are used to support working capital requirements throughout the year. Due to the variables discussed above, cash flow from operations during the year may significantly exceed our quarter and year-end balances.
We offer our suppliers access to third party payables processors. Independent of Whirlpool, the processors allow suppliers to sell their receivables to financial institutions at the discretion of only the supplier and the financial institution. We have no economic interest in the sale of these receivables and no direct financial relationship with the financial institutions concerning these services. All of our obligations, including amounts due, remain to our suppliers as stated in our supplier agreements. As of December 31, 2014 and 2013, approximately $1.6 billion and $1.3 billion, respectively, are outstanding under the programs with participating financial institutions.
Cash Flows from Investing Activities
Cash used in investing activities of $2.5 billion during 2014 increased $1.9 billion from 2013, primarily driven by the acquisitions of Hefei Sanyo and Indesit and higher capital investment to support new product innovations. Cash used in investing activities of $582 million during 2013 increased $88 million from 2012, primarily driven by higher capital investment to support new product innovations.
Cash Flows from Financing Activities
Cash provided by financing activities during 2014 increased compared to 2013 primarily due to the funding required to complete the acquisitions of Hefei Sanyo and Indesit, partially offset by lower share repurchase activity. Cash used in financing activities during 2013 increased compared to 2012 primarily due to the resumption of our share repurchase program and higher cash dividends, partially offset by increased proceeds from the issuance of common stock associated with stock option exercises.
Financing Arrangements
On September 26, 2014, we entered into a Second Amended and Restated Long-Term Credit Agreement (the “Long-Term Facility”). The Long-Term Facility amends, restates and extends the borrowers’ prior five-year credit facility, which was scheduled to mature on June 28, 2016. The Long-Term Facility increases the existing $1.7 billion facility to an aggregate amount of $2.0 billion, with an option to increase the total amount to up to $2.5 billion by exercise of an accordion feature. The Long-Term Facility has a maturity date of September 26, 2019. The Long-Term Facility includes a letter of credit sublimit of $200 million. The Long-Term Facility decreases the interest and fee rates payable with respect to the Long-Term Facility based on our debt rating as follows: (1) the spread over LIBOR is 1.250%; (2) the spread over prime is 0.250%; and (3) the unused commitment fee is 0.15%, as of the effective date of the Long-Term Facility. We had no borrowings outstanding under the Long-Term Facility at December 31, 2014 or the prior five-year credit facility at December 31, 2013.
On September 26, 2014, we entered into a Short-Term Credit Agreement (the “364-Day Facility” and together with the Long-Term Facility, the “Facilities”). The 364-Day Facility is a revolving credit facility in an aggregate amount of $1.0 billion. The 364-Day Facility has a maturity date of September 25, 2015. The interest and fee rates payable with respect to the 364-Day Facility based on our debt rating are as follows: (1) the spread over LIBOR is 1.250%; (2) the spread over prime is 0.250%; and (3) the unused commitment fee is 0.125%, as of the effective date of the 364-Day Facility. We had no borrowings outstanding under the 364-Day Facility at December 31, 2014.
The Facilities contain customary covenants and warranties including, among other things, a rolling twelve month maximum leverage ratio limited to 3.25 to 1.0 for each fiscal quarter and a rolling twelve month interest coverage ratio required to be greater than or equal to 3.0 to 1.0 for each fiscal quarter. In addition, the covenants limit our ability to (or to permit any subsidiaries to), subject to various exceptions and limitations: (i) merge with other companies; (ii) create liens on our property; (iii) incur debt or off-balance sheet obligations at the subsidiary level; (iv) enter into transactions with affiliates, except on an arms-length basis; (v) enter into agreements restricting the payment of subsidiary dividends or restricting the making of loans or repayment of debt by subsidiaries; and (vi) enter into agreements restricting the creation of liens on our assets. We were in compliance with financial covenant requirements at December 31, 2014 and December 31, 2013.
We have paid lenders under the Facilities an up-front fee of approximately $3 million.
MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS - (CONTINUED)
We have committed credit facilities in Brazil, which provide borrowings up to 1.1 billion Brazilian reais (approximately $429 million as of December 31, 2014) maturing at various times from 2015 to 2017. The credit facilities contain no financial covenants and we had no borrowings outstanding under these credit facilities at December 31, 2014 and 2013.
In the fourth quarter of 2014, we acquired a committed credit facility in Italy as a result of the Indesit acquisition, which provides borrowings up to €350 million (approximately $424 million as of December 31, 2014) maturing July 29, 2016. As described in the credit agreement included as an exhibit to this Form 10-K, the credit facility contains covenants which state the guarantor, Indesit, will not permit (1) the ratio of Consolidated Net Borrowings as of any Year-End Determination Date to Consolidated earnings before income taxes, depreciation and amortization, for the twelve month period ended on such Year-End Determination Date to exceed 3.00 to 1; (2) the ratio of Consolidated Net Borrowings as of any Semi Annual Determination Date to Consolidated EBITDA for the twelve month period ended on such Semi Annual Determination Date to exceed 4.00 to 1; and (3) the ratio of Consolidated EBITDA to Consolidated Net Interest for the twelve month period ending on any Determination Date to be less than 3.5 to 1. We were in compliance with financial covenant requirements at December 31, 2014. We had no borrowings outstanding under this credit facility at December 31, 2014.
On February 25, 2014, we completed a debt offering of $250 million principal amount of 1.35% notes due in 2017, $250 million principal amount of 2.40% notes due in 2019, and $300 million principal amount of 4.00% notes due in 2024. On May 1, 2014, $500 million of 8.60% notes matured and were repaid. On August 15, 2014, $100 million of 6.45% notes matured and were repaid.
On November 4, 2014, we completed a debt offering of $300 million principal amount of 1.65% notes due in 2017 and $350 million principal amount of 3.70% notes due in 2025. These notes contain covenants that limit our ability to incur certain liens or enter into certain sale and lease-back transactions. In addition, if we experience a specific kind of change of control, we are required to make an offer to purchase all of the notes at a purchase price of 101% of the principal amount thereof, plus accrued and unpaid interest.
During 2013 we completed a debt offering comprised of $250 million principal amount of 3.70% notes due in 2023 and $250 million principal amount of 5.15% notes due in 2043. These notes contain covenants that limit our ability to incur certain liens or enter into certain sale and lease-back transactions. In addition, if we experience a specific kind of change of control, we are required to make an offer to purchase all of the notes at a purchase price of 101% of the principal amount thereof, plus accrued and unpaid interest.
For additional information about our financing arrangements, see Note 6 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements.
401(k) Defined Contribution Plan
During January 2012, we began contributing company stock to fund the company match and automatic company contributions, equal to up to 7% of employees' eligible pay, in our 401(k) defined contribution plan covering all U.S. employees. We contributed $49 million of company stock to our 401(k) defined contribution plan during 2012. We resumed funding the company match and automatic contribution in cash during the fourth quarter 2012.
Repurchase Program
On April 14, 2014, our Board of Directors authorized a new share repurchase program of up to $500 million. Share repurchases are made from time to time on the open market as conditions warrant. The program does not obligate us to repurchase any of our shares. We repurchased 165,900 shares at an aggregate purchase price of approximately $25 million through December 31, 2014. At December 31, 2014, there were approximately $475 million in remaining funds authorized under this program.
MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS - (CONTINUED)
CONTRACTUAL OBLIGATIONS AND FORWARD-LOOKING CASH REQUIREMENTS
The following table summarizes our expected cash outflows resulting from financial contracts and commitments:
(1)
Interest payments related to long-term debt are included in the table above. For additional information about our financing arrangements, see Note 6 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements.
(2)
Purchase obligations include our “take-or-pay” contracts with materials vendors and minimum payment obligations to other suppliers.
(3)
Represents payments agreed to under a Brazil government settlement program. See Note 7 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information.
(4)
Represents the minimum contributions required by law estimated based on current interest rates, asset return assumptions, legislative requirements and other actuarial assumptions at December 31, 2014. Management may elect to contribute amounts in addition to those required by law. See Note 13 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information.
(5)
Represents required contributions to our foreign funded pension plans only. See Note 13 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information.
(6)
Represents our portion of expected benefit payments under our retiree healthcare plans.
(7)
For additional information regarding legal settlements, see Note 7 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements.
(8)
This table does not include short-term credit facility and commercial paper borrowings. For additional information about short-term borrowings, see Note 6 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements. This table does not include future anticipated income tax settlements; see Note 12 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements.
HEFEI SANYO ACQUISITION
On August 12, 2013, Whirlpool's wholly-owned subsidiary, Whirlpool China, reached agreements to acquire a 51% equity stake in a leading home appliances manufacturer, Hefei Sanyo, a joint stock company whose shares are listed and traded on the Shanghai Stock Exchange. This transaction was completed on October 24, 2014. Hefei Sanyo has been renamed to "Whirlpool China Co., Ltd." The aggregate purchase price was RMB 3.4 billion (approximately $551 million at the dates of purchase). The Company funded the total consideration for the shares with cash on hand. The cash paid for the private placement portion of the transaction is considered restricted cash, which will be used to fund capital and technical resources to enhance Hefei Sanyo’s research and development and working capital.
We expect the acquisition will accelerate Whirlpool’s profitable growth in the Chinese appliance market. During 2014, Whirlpool began integrating the manufacturing, administrative, supply chain and technology operations of Hefei Sanyo. The results of Hefei Sanyo’s operations have been included in the Consolidated Financial Statements beginning October 24, 2014.
Hefei Sanyo has an established and broad distribution network that includes more than 30,000 outlets throughout China. Their significant presence in rural areas complements Whirlpool’s presence in China’s higher-tier cities. With this acquisition, Whirlpool also gains manufacturing scale and a competitive cost structure in the city of Hefei. The ability to consolidate operations offers strong synergies as Whirlpool will provide extensive technical, marketing and product development, combined with Hefei Sanyo’s sales execution and operational strengths, to support the next phase of development in the advancement of Hefei Sanyo as an important global production and research and development center for the home appliance sector.
Further discussion of this transaction can be found in Note 2 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements.
MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS - (CONTINUED)
INDESIT ACQUISITION
On December 3, 2014, Whirlpool purchased all remaining shares of Indesit (aside from a minority interest that was purchased in the third quarter of 2014) and Indesit delisted from the Electronic Stock Market organized and managed by Borsa Italiana S.p.A. Total consideration paid for Indesit was $1.4 billion in aggregate net of cash acquired. The Company funded the aggregate purchase price for the shares constituting a majority interest that we purchased in October 2014 through borrowings under our credit facility, and repaid a portion of such borrowings through the issuance of an aggregate principal amount of $650 million in senior notes on November 4, 2014. We funded the aggregate purchase price for the tender offer and remaining shares through borrowings under our credit facility and through borrowings under our commercial paper programs, and intend to repay such borrowings in the future through public debt financing.
The acquisition builds our market position and will enable sustainable growth in EMEA. During 2015, Whirlpool expects to integrate the manufacturing, administrative, supply chain and technology operations of Indesit. The results of Indesit’s operations have been included in the Consolidated Financial Statements beginning October 14, 2014.
Further discussion of this transaction can be found in Note 2 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements.
OFF-BALANCE SHEET ARRANGEMENTS
We have guarantee arrangements in a Brazilian subsidiary. As a standard business practice in Brazil, the subsidiary guarantees customer lines of credit at commercial banks to support purchases, following its normal credit policies. If a customer were to default on its line of credit with the bank, our subsidiary would be required to satisfy the obligation with the bank and the receivable would revert back to the subsidiary. As of December 31, 2014 and 2013, the guaranteed amounts totaled $492 million and $485 million, respectively. Our subsidiary insures against credit risk for these guarantees, under normal operating conditions, through policies purchased from high-quality underwriters. In addition, we assumed $1.2 billion of corporate guarantees through our acquisition of Indesit as of December 31, 2014. We had no losses associated with these guarantees in 2014 or 2013.
We have guaranteed a $45 million five year revolving credit facility between certain financial institutions and a not-for-profit entity in connection with a community and economic development project (“Harbor Shores”). The credit facility, which originated in 2008, was amended in 2014 by Harbor Shores and reduced to $45 million, was refinanced in December 2012 and we renewed our guarantee through 2017. The fair value of the guarantee was nominal. The purpose of Harbor Shores is to stimulate employment and growth in the areas of Benton Harbor and St. Joseph, Michigan. In the event of default, we must satisfy the guarantee of the credit facility up to the amount borrowed at the date of default.
In the ordinary course of business, we enter into agreements with financial institutions to issue bank guarantees, letters of credit and surety bonds. These agreements are primarily associated with unresolved tax matters in Brazil, as is customary under local regulations, and governmental obligations related to certain employee benefit arrangements. As of December 31, 2014 and 2013, we had approximately $401 million and $404 million outstanding under these agreements, respectively.
CRITICAL ACCOUNTING POLICIES AND ESTIMATES
The preparation of financial statements in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles in the United States (GAAP) requires management to make certain estimates and assumptions. We periodically evaluate these estimates and assumptions, which are based on historical experience, changes in the business environment and other factors that management believes to be reasonable under the circumstances. Actual results may differ materially from these estimates.
Pension and Other Postretirement Benefits
Accounting for pensions and other postretirement benefits involves estimating the costs of future benefits and attributing the cost over the employee’s expected period of employment. The determination of our obligation and expense for these costs requires the use of certain assumptions. Those assumptions include the discount rate, expected long-term rate of return on plan assets, life expectancy, and health care cost trend rates. These assumptions are subject to change based on interest rates on high quality bonds, stock and bond markets and medical cost inflation, respectively. Actual results that differ from our assumptions are accumulated and amortized over future periods and therefore, generally affect our recognized expense and accrued liability in such future periods. While we believe that our assumptions are appropriate given current economic conditions and actual experience, significant differences in results or significant changes in our assumptions may materially affect our pension and other postretirement benefit obligations and related future expense.
MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS - (CONTINUED)
Our pension and other postretirement benefit obligations at December 31, 2014 and preliminary retirement benefit costs for 2015 were prepared using the assumptions that were determined at December 31, 2014. The following table summarizes the sensitivity of our December 31, 2014 retirement obligations and 2015 retirement benefit costs of our United States plans to changes in the key assumptions used to determine those results:
*
Projected benefit obligation (PBO) for pension plans and accumulated postretirement benefit obligation (APBO) for other postretirement benefit plans.
These sensitivities may not be appropriate to use for other years’ financial results. Furthermore, the impact of assumption changes outside of the ranges shown above may not be approximated by using the above results. For additional information about our pension and other postretirement benefit obligations, see Note 13 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements.
Income Taxes
We estimate our income taxes in each of the taxing jurisdictions in which we operate. This involves estimating actual current tax expense together with assessing any temporary differences resulting from the different treatment of certain items, such as the timing for recognizing expenses, for tax and accounting purposes. These differences may result in deferred tax assets or liabilities, which are included in our Consolidated Balance Sheets. We are required to assess the likelihood that deferred tax assets, which include net operating loss carryforwards, foreign tax credits and deductible temporary differences, are expected to be realizable in future years. Realization of our net operating loss and foreign tax credit deferred tax assets is supported by specific tax planning strategies and, where possible, considers projections of future profitability. If recovery is not more likely than not, we provide a valuation allowance based on estimates of future taxable income in the various taxing jurisdictions, and the amount of deferred taxes that are ultimately realizable. If future taxable income is lower than expected or if tax planning strategies are not available as anticipated, we may record additional valuation allowances through income tax expense in the period such determination is made. Likewise, if we determine that we are able to realize our deferred tax assets in the future in excess of net recorded amounts, an adjustment to the deferred tax asset will benefit income tax expense in the period such determination is made.
As of December 31, 2014 and 2013, we had total deferred tax assets of $3.2 billion and $3.0 billion, respectively, net of valuation allowances of $308 million and $186 million, respectively. Our income tax benefit or expense has fluctuated considerably over the last five years from a tax benefit of $436 million in 2011 to the current year tax expense of $189 million and has been influenced primarily by U.S. energy tax credits, audit settlements and adjustments, tax planning strategies, enacted legislation, and dispersion of global income. Future changes in the effective tax rate will be subject to several factors including, remaining BEFIEX credits, business profitability, tax planning strategies, and enacted tax laws.
In addition, we operate within multiple taxing jurisdictions and are subject to audit in these jurisdictions. These audits can involve complex issues, which may require an extended period of time to resolve. For additional information about income taxes, see Notes 1, 7 and 12 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements.
BEFIEX Credits
In previous years, our Brazilian operations earned tax credits under the Brazilian government’s export incentive program (BEFIEX). These credits reduced Brazilian federal excise taxes on domestic sales, resulting in an increase in the operations’ recorded net sales. As of December 31, 2014, all BEFIEX credits that were available to be monetized had been monetized. For additional information regarding BEFIEX credits, see Note 7 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements.
MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS - (CONTINUED)
Warranty Obligations
The estimation of warranty obligations is determined in the same period that revenue from the sale of the related products is recognized. The warranty obligation is based on historical experience and represents our best estimate of expected costs at the time products are sold. Warranty accruals are adjusted for known or anticipated warranty claims as new information becomes available. New product launches require a greater use of judgment in developing estimates until historical experience becomes available. Future events and circumstances could materially change our estimates and require adjustments to the warranty obligations. For additional information about warranty obligations, see Note 7 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements.
Goodwill and Intangibles
Certain business acquisitions have resulted in the recording of goodwill and trademark assets. Upon acquisition, the purchase price is first allocated to identifiable assets and liabilities, including trademark assets, based on estimated fair value, with any remaining purchase price recorded as goodwill. Most trademarks and goodwill are considered indefinite lived intangible assets and as such are not amortized. At December 31, 2014, we had goodwill of $2.8 billion. Goodwill increased by $1.1 billion in 2014 due to the acquisitions of Hefei Sanyo and Indesit. There have been no changes to our reporting units or allocations of goodwill by reporting units except for goodwill resulting from the acquisitions. We have trademark assets in our North America, EMEA and Asia operating segments with a carrying value of approximately $1.5 billion, $629 million, and $42 million respectively, as of December 31, 2014.
We perform our annual impairment assessment for goodwill and other indefinite-lived intangible assets as of October 1st and more frequently if indicators of impairment exist.
Goodwill Valuations
We evaluate goodwill using a qualitative assessment to determine whether it is more likely than not that the fair value of any reporting unit is less than its carrying amount. If we determine that the fair value of the reporting unit may be less than its carrying amount, we evaluate goodwill using a two-step impairment test. Otherwise, we conclude that no impairment is indicated and we do not perform the two-step impairment test. In 2014, this assessment was performed for the NAR and LAR operating segments, as impairment indicators do not exist for goodwill acquired in 2014.
In conducting a qualitative assessment, the Company analyzes a variety of events or factors that may influence the fair value of the reporting unit, including, but not limited to: the results of prior quantitative tests performed; changes in the carrying amount of the reporting unit; actual and projected operating results; relevant market data for both the company and its peer companies; industry outlooks; macroeconomic conditions; liquidity; changes in key personnel; and the Company's competitive position. Significant judgment is used to evaluate the totality of these events and factors to make the determination of whether it is more likely than not that the fair value of the reporting unit is less than its carrying value.
If the qualitative assessment concludes that the two-step impairment test is necessary, we first compare the book value of a reporting unit, including goodwill, with its fair value. The fair value is estimated based on a market approach and a discounted cash flow analysis, also known as the income approach, and is reconciled back to the current market capitalization for Whirlpool to ensure that the implied control premium is reasonable. If the book value of a reporting unit exceeds its fair value, we perform the second step to estimate an implied fair value of the reporting unit’s goodwill by allocating the fair value of the reporting unit to all of the assets and liabilities other than goodwill (including any unrecognized intangible assets). The difference between the total fair value of the reporting unit and the fair value of all the assets and liabilities other than goodwill is the implied fair value of that goodwill. The amount of impairment loss is equal to the excess of the book value of the goodwill over the implied fair value of that goodwill.
Evaluating Goodwill - Results and Significant Assumptions
Based on the favorable results of the qualitative assessment conducted on October 1, 2014, there was no goodwill impairment charge recorded in 2014.
MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS - (CONTINUED)
For our North America reporting unit, our qualitative assessment included a review of the events and factors outlined above. Our last quantitative test was performed in 2011. Significant weight was provided to the following factors, as we determined that these items have the most significant impact on the fair value of this reporting unit.
•
Operating profit margins remain strong for the third consecutive year at 10.1% in 2014 compared to 10.5% and 8.8% in 2013 and 2012, respectively. Margins have been driven by higher net sales, ongoing cost productivity, the benefit of cost and capacity-reduction initiatives, as well as our continued ability to deliver innovative and consumer relevant products to the marketplace. The improvement in operating margins compared to the prior quantitative assessment performed in 2011 provides significant positive evidence for the qualitative assessment.
•
We experienced a 125 basis point decrease in the discount rate from our last quantitative assessment performed in 2011, primarily driven by a decrease in the risk free rate and a decline in our company specific risk premium. The decrease in the company specific risk premium is driven largely by the structural improvement in our operating model delivered through successful execution of our cost and capacity reductions and implementation of previously announced cost-based price increases since 2011. The decrease in the discount rate provides significant positive evidence for the qualitative assessment.
The implied increases to the fair value of our North America reporting unit noted above are further supported by an increase in our overall market capitalization of approximately $11 billion, or approximately 280%, as of October 1, 2014, compared to the prior quantitative assessment in 2011. This increase is largely attributable to the improved operating performance of the North America reporting unit.
Intangible Valuations
We evaluate certain indefinite-lived intangibles using a qualitative assessment to determine whether it is more likely than not that the fair value of the indefinite lived intangible asset is less than its carrying amount. If we determine that the fair value may be less than its carrying amount, the fair value of the trademark is estimated and compared to its carrying value to determine if an impairment exists. Otherwise, we conclude that no impairment is indicated and we do not perform the quantitative test.
When the qualitative assessment is not utilized and a quantitative test is performed, we estimate the fair value of these intangible assets using the relief-from-royalty method, which requires assumptions related to projected revenues from our annual long-range plan; assumed royalty rates that could be payable if we did not own the trademark; and a discount rate based on our weighted average cost of capital. We recognize an impairment loss when the estimated fair value of the indefinite-lived intangible asset is less than its carrying value.
Evaluating Trademarks - Results and Significant Assumptions
We performed a qualitative assessment for one trademark, with a value of approximately $18 million. Our prior quantitative test performed in 2011 indicated that the fair value for this trademark exceeded its respective carrying value by approximately 400%. Based on the qualitative assessment conducted on October 1, 2014, we concluded that it was more likely than not that the fair value of this trademark was greater than its respective carrying value, therefore no impairment was recorded.
Based on the results of our impairment test performed as of October 1, 2014, impairment of two trademarks was determined to exist, primarily driven by a change in our brand strategy in EMEA as a result of the acquisition of Indesit and resulted in a charge of approximately $12 million. The fair values of all other trademarks tested exceed their carrying values by more than 10% with the exception of one North American trademark. The fair value of this trademark exceeded its carrying value of approximately $1 billion by 5%. The fair value of this trademark was lower in 2014, as a result of extended transitions to deliver product innovation in North America. We invested significantly in this trademark in 2014 and are on track to deliver these new products in 2015.
In performing the quantitative test, significant assumptions used in our relief from royalty model as of October 1, 2014 included revenue growth rates, assumed royalty rates and the discount rate, which are discussed further below.
•
Revenue growth rates relate to projected revenues from our annual long range plan and vary from brand to brand. Adverse changes in the operating environment for the appliance industry or our inability to grow revenues at the forecasted rates may result in a future impairment charge. We performed a sensitivity analysis on our estimated fair value noting that a 10% reduction of forecasted revenues would result in an impairment of approximately $56 million.
MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS - (CONTINUED)
•
In determining royalty rates for the valuation of our trademarks, we considered factors that affect the intrinsic royalty rates that would hypothetically be paid for the use of the trademark. The most significant factors in determining the intrinsic royalty rates include the overall role and importance of the trademarks in the particular industry, the profitability of the products utilizing the trademarks, and the position of the trademarked products in a given market segment. Based on this analysis, we determined royalty rates of 2% to 3% for our value brands, 3.5% to 4% for our mass market brands and 6% for our super premium brand. We performed a sensitivity analysis on our estimated fair value noting that a 100 basis point reduction of the royalty rates for each brand would result in an impairment of approximately $175 million.
•
In developing discount rates for the valuation of our trademarks, we used the industry average weighted average cost of capital as the base, adjusted for the higher relative level of risks associated with doing business in other countries, as applicable, as well as the higher relative levels of risks associated with intangible assets. Based on this analysis, we determined discount rates ranging from 8.5% to 10.25%. We performed a sensitivity analysis on our estimated fair value noting that an increase in the discount rates used for the valuation of 100 basis points would result in an impairment of approximately $100 million.
Many of the factors used in assessing fair value are outside the control of management and it is reasonably likely that assumptions and estimates can change in future periods. These changes can result in future impairments.
For additional information about goodwill and intangible valuations, see Note 3 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements.
ISSUED BUT NOT YET EFFECTIVE ACCOUNTING PRONOUNCEMENTS
In May 2014, the FASB issued ASU No. 2014-09, "Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606)", which supersedes the revenue recognition requirements in ASC 605, Revenue Recognition. This ASU is based on the principle that revenue is recognized to depict the transfer of goods or services to customers in an amount that reflects the consideration to which the entity expects to be entitled in exchange for those goods or services. The ASU also requires additional disclosure about the nature, amount, timing and uncertainty of revenue and cash flows arising from customer contracts, including significant judgments and changes in judgments and assets recognized from costs incurred to obtain or fulfill a contract. This pronouncement is effective for annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2016, including interim periods within that reporting period and is to be applied using one of two retrospective application methods, with early application not permitted. We have not yet determined the potential effects on the Consolidated Condensed Financial Statements, if any.
All other issued but not yet effective accounting pronouncements are not expected to have a material effect on our Consolidated Financial Statements.
OTHER MATTERS
Embraco Antitrust Matters
Beginning in February 2009, our compressor business headquartered in Brazil ("Embraco") was notified of antitrust investigations of the global compressor industry by government authorities in various jurisdictions.
Embraco has resolved government investigations in various jurisdictions as well as all related civil lawsuits in the United States. Embraco also has resolved certain other claims and certain claims remain pending. Additional lawsuits could be filed.
At December 31, 2014, $25 million remains accrued, with installment payments of $21 million, plus interest, remaining to be made to government authorities at various times through 2015. We continue to defend these actions and take other steps to minimize our potential exposure. The final outcome and impact of these matters, and any related claims and investigations that may be brought in the future are subject to many variables, and cannot be predicted. We establish accruals only for those matters where we determine that a loss is probable and the amount of loss can be reasonably estimated. While it is currently not possible to reasonably estimate the aggregate amount of costs which we may incur in connection with these matters, such costs could have a material adverse effect on our financial position, liquidity, or results of operations in any particular reporting period.
BEFIEX Credits and Other Tax Matters
In previous years, our Brazilian operations earned tax credits under the Brazilian government’s export incentive program (BEFIEX). These credits reduced Brazilian federal excise taxes on domestic sales, resulting in an increase in the operations’ recorded net sales, as the credits are monetized. We monetized $14 million, $109 million and $37 million of export credits in 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively. We began recognizing BEFIEX credits in accordance with prior favorable court decisions allowing for the credits to be recognized. We recognized export credits as they were monetized.
MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS - (CONTINUED)
In December 2013, the Brazilian government reinstituted the monetary adjustment index applicable to BEFIEX credits that existed prior to July 2009, when the Brazilian government required companies to apply a different monetary adjustment index to BEFIEX credits. As of December 31, 2014, no BEFIEX credits deemed to be available prior to this action remained to be monetized. Whether use of the reinstituted index should be given retroactive effect for the July 2009 to December 2013 period is currently being reviewed by the Brazilian courts. If the reinstituted index is given retroactive effect, we would be entitled to recognize additional credits. The outcome and timing of the Brazilian court decisions remains uncertain.
Our Brazilian operations have received governmental assessments related to claims for income and social contribution taxes associated with BEFIEX credits monetized from 2000 through 2002 and 2007 through 2011. We do not believe BEFIEX export credits are subject to income or social contribution taxes. We are disputing these tax matters in various courts and intend to vigorously defend our positions. We have not provided for income or social contribution taxes on these export credits, and based on the opinions of tax and legal advisors, we have not accrued any amount related to these assessments as of December 31, 2014. The total amount of outstanding tax assessments received for income and social contribution taxes relating to the BEFIEX credits, including interest and penalties, is approximately 1.4 billion Brazilian reais (approximately $533 million as of December 31, 2014).
Relying on existing Brazilian legal precedent, in 2003 and 2004, we recognized tax credits in an aggregate amount of $26 million, adjusted for currency, on the purchase of raw materials used in production (“IPI tax credits”). The Brazilian tax authority subsequently challenged the recording of IPI tax credits. No credits have been recognized since 2004. In 2009, we entered into a Brazilian government program which provided extended payment terms and reduced penalties and interest to encourage tax payers to resolve this and certain other disputed tax credit amounts. As permitted by the program, we elected to settle certain debts through the use of other existing tax credits and recorded charges of approximately $34 million in 2009 associated with these matters. In July 2012, the Brazilian revenue authority notified us that a portion of our proposed settlement was rejected and we received tax assessments of 204 million Brazilian reais (approximately $78 million as of December 31, 2014), reflecting interest and penalties to date. We are disputing these assessments and we intend to vigorously defend our position. Based on the opinion of our tax and legal advisors, we have not recorded an additional reserve related to these matters.
In 2001, Brazil adopted a law making the profits of controlled foreign corporations of Brazilian entities subject to income and social contribution tax regardless of whether the profits were repatriated ("CFC Tax"). Our Brazilian subsidiary, along with other corporations, challenged tax assessments on foreign profits on constitutionality and other grounds. In April 2013, the Brazilian Supreme Court ruled in our case, finding that the law is constitutional, but remanding the case to a lower court for consideration of other arguments raised in our appeal, including the existence of tax treaties with jurisdictions in which controlled foreign corporations are domiciled. As of December 31, 2014, our potential exposure for income and social contribution taxes relating to profits of controlled foreign corporations, including interest and penalties and net of expected foreign tax credits, is approximately 178 million Brazilian reais (approximately $67 million as of December 31, 2014). We believe these assessments are without merit and we intend to continue to vigorously dispute them. Based on the opinion of our tax and legal advisors, we have not accrued any amount related to these assessments as of December 31, 2014.
In December 2013, we entered into a Brazilian government program to settle long standing disputes. Participation in the program removed uncertainty related to 16 assessments that were previously under dispute and significantly reduces potential penalties and interest associated with these matters. Our participation will result in total payments including principal, interest, and penalties of 75 million Brazilian reais (approximately $28 million as of December 31, 2014), paid in 30 monthly installments from December 2013.
In addition to the IPI tax credit and CFC Tax matters noted above, we are currently disputing other assessments issued by the Brazilian tax authorities related to non-income and income tax matters, including for the monetization of BEFIEX credits and other BEFIEX matters, which are at various stages of review in numerous administrative and judicial proceedings. In accordance with our accounting policies, we routinely assess these matters and, when necessary, record our best estimate of a loss. We believe these tax assessments are without merit and are vigorously defending our positions.
Litigation is inherently unpredictable and the conclusion of these matters may take many years to ultimately resolve, during which time the amounts related to these assessments will continue to be increased by monetary adjustments at the Selic rate, which is the benchmark rate set by the Brazilian Central Bank. Accordingly, it is possible that an unfavorable outcome in these proceedings could have a material adverse effect on our financial position, liquidity, or results of operations in any particular reporting period.
MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS - (CONTINUED)
Other Litigation
We are currently defending against numerous lawsuits pending in federal and state courts in the United States relating to certain of our front load washing machines. Some of these lawsuits have been certified for treatment as class actions. The complaints in these lawsuits generally allege violations of state consumer fraud acts, unjust enrichment, product liability claims and breach of warranty. The complaints generally seek compensatory, consequential and punitive damages. We believe these suits are without merit and are vigorously defending them. Given the preliminary stage of many of these proceedings, the Company cannot reasonably estimate a possible range of loss, if any, at this time. The resolution of one or more of these matters could have a material adverse effect on our Consolidated Financial Statements.
In addition, we are currently defending a number of other lawsuits in federal and state courts in the United States related to the manufacturing and sale of our products which include class action allegations. These lawsuits allege claims which include breach of contract, breach of warranty, product liability claims, fraud, violation of federal and state consumer protection acts and negligence. We do not have insurance coverage for class action lawsuits. We are also involved in various other legal actions in the United States and other jurisdictions around the world arising in the normal course of business, for which insurance coverage may or may not be available depending on the nature of the action. We dispute the merits of these suits and actions, and intend to vigorously defend them. Management believes, based upon its current knowledge, after taking into consideration legal counsel's evaluation of such suits and actions, and after taking into account current litigation accruals, that the outcome of these matters currently pending against Whirlpool should not have a material adverse effect, if any, on our Consolidated Financial Statements.
Other Matters
In 2013, the French Competition Authority commenced an investigation of appliance manufacturers and retailers in France. The investigation includes 11 manufacturers, including the Whirlpool and Indesit operations in France. Although it is currently not possible to assess the impact, if any, this matter may have on our Consolidated Financial Statements, the resolution of this matter could have a material adverse effect on our financial position, liquidity, or results of operations in any particular reporting period.
MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS - (CONTINUED)
FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS
The Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 provides a safe harbor for forward-looking statements made by us or on our behalf. Certain statements contained in this annual report, including those within the forward-looking perspective section within this Management's Discussion and Analysis, and other written and oral statements made from time to time by us or on our behalf do not relate strictly to historical or current facts and may contain forward-looking statements that reflect our current views with respect to future events and financial performance. As such, they are considered “forward-looking statements” which provide current expectations or forecasts of future events. Such statements can be identified by the use of terminology such as “may,” “could,” “will,” “should,” “possible,” “plan,” “predict,” “forecast,” “potential,” “anticipate,” “estimate,” “expect,” “project,” “intend,” “believe,” “may impact,” “on track,” and similar words or expressions. Our forward-looking statements generally relate to our growth strategies, financial results, product development, and sales efforts. These forward-looking statements should be considered with the understanding that such statements involve a variety of risks and uncertainties, known and unknown, and may be affected by inaccurate assumptions. Consequently, no forward-looking statement can be guaranteed and actual results may vary materially.
This document contains forward-looking statements about Whirlpool Corporation and its consolidated subsidiaries (“Whirlpool”) that speak only as of this date. Whirlpool disclaims any obligation to update these statements. Forward-looking statements in this document may include, but are not limited to, statements regarding expected earnings per share, cash flow, productivity and raw material prices. Many risks, contingencies and uncertainties could cause actual results to differ materially from Whirlpool's forward-looking statements. Among these factors are: (1) intense competition in the home appliance industry reflecting the impact of both new and established global competitors, including Asian and European manufacturers; (2) acquisition and investment-related risk, including risk associated with our acquisitions of Hefei Sanyo and Indesit, and risk associated with our increased presence in emerging markets; (3) Whirlpool's ability to continue its relationship with significant trade customers and the ability of these trade customers to maintain or increase market share; (4) risks related to our international operations, including changes in foreign regulations, regulatory compliance and disruptions arising from natural disasters or terrorist attacks; (5) fluctuations in the cost of key materials (including steel, plastic, resins, copper and aluminum) and components and the ability of Whirlpool to offset cost increases; (6) the ability of Whirlpool to manage foreign currency fluctuations; (7) litigation, tax, and legal compliance risk and costs, especially costs which may be materially different from the amount we expect to incur or have accrued for; (8) the effects and costs of governmental investigations or related actions by third parties; (9) changes in the legal and regulatory environment including environmental and health and safety regulations; (10) Whirlpool's ability to maintain its reputation and brand image; (11) the ability of Whirlpool to achieve its business plans, productivity improvements, cost control, price increases, leveraging of its global operating platform, and acceleration of the rate of innovation; (12) information technology system failures and data security breaches; (13) product liability and product recall costs; (14) inventory and other asset risk; (15) changes in economic conditions which affect demand for our products, including the strength of the building industry and the level of interest rates; (16) the ability of suppliers of critical parts, components and manufacturing equipment to deliver sufficient quantities to Whirlpool in a timely and cost-effective manner; (17) the uncertain global economy; (18) our ability to attract, develop and retain executives and other qualified employees; (19) the impact of labor relations; (20) Whirlpool's ability to obtain and protect intellectual property rights; and (21) health care cost trends, regulatory changes and variations between results and estimates that could increase future funding obligations for pension and postretirement benefit plans.
We undertake no obligation to update any forward-looking statement, and investors are advised to review disclosures in our filings with the SEC. It is not possible to foresee or identify all factors that could cause actual results to differ from expected or historic results. Therefore, investors should not consider the foregoing factors to be an exhaustive statement of all risks, uncertainties, or factors that could potentially cause actual results to differ from forward-looking statements.
Additional information concerning these and other factors can be found in “Risk Factors” in Item 1A of this report.
MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS - (CONTINUED)
ITEM 7A.
ITEM 7A.
QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK
MARKET RISK
We have in place an enterprise risk management process that involves systematic risk identification and mitigation covering the categories of enterprise, strategic, financial, operation and compliance and reporting risk. The enterprise risk management process receives Board of Directors and Management oversight, drives risk mitigation decision-making and is fully integrated into our internal audit planning and execution cycle.
We are exposed to market risk from changes in foreign currency exchange rates, domestic and foreign interest rates, and commodity prices, which can affect our operating results and overall financial condition. We manage exposure to these risks through our operating and financing activities and, when deemed appropriate, through the use of derivatives. Derivatives are viewed as risk management tools and are not used for speculation or for trading purposes. Derivatives are generally contracted with a diversified group of investment grade counterparties to reduce exposure to nonperformance on such instruments.
We use foreign currency forward contracts, currency options and currency swaps to hedge the price risk associated with firmly committed and forecasted cross-border payments and receipts related to ongoing business and operational financing activities. Foreign currency contracts are sensitive to changes in foreign currency exchange rates. At December 31, 2014, a 10% favorable or unfavorable exchange rate movement in each currency in our portfolio of foreign currency contracts would have resulted in an incremental unrealized gain or loss of approximately $65-$80 million. Consistent with the use of these contracts to neutralize the effect of exchange rate fluctuations, such unrealized losses or gains would be offset by corresponding gains or losses, respectively, in the re-measurement of the underlying exposures.
We enter into commodity swap contracts to hedge the price risk associated with firmly committed and forecasted commodities purchases, the prices of which are not fixed directly through supply contracts. As of December 31, 2014, a 10% favorable or unfavorable shift in commodity prices would have resulted in an incremental gain or loss of approximately $40 million, respectively, related to these contracts.
ITEM 8.
ITEM 8.
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA
WHIRLPOOL CORPORATION
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME
Year Ended December 31,
(Millions of dollars, except per share data)
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these Consolidated Financial Statements.
WHIRLPOOL CORPORATION
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME
Year Ended December 31,
(Millions of dollars)
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these Consolidated Financial Statements.
WHIRLPOOL CORPORATION
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
At December 31,
(Millions of dollars)
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these Consolidated Financial Statements.
WHIRLPOOL CORPORATION
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
Year Ended December 31,
(Millions of dollars)
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these Consolidated Financial Statements.
WHIRLPOOL CORPORATION
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY
Year ended December 31,
(Millions of dollars)
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these Consolidated Financial Statements.
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(1) SUMMARY OF PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTING POLICIES
General Information
Whirlpool Corporation, a Delaware corporation, is the world's leading manufacturer and marketer of major home appliances. Whirlpool manufactures products in 14 countries and markets products in nearly every country around the world under brand names such as Whirlpool, KitchenAid, Maytag, Consul, Brastemp, Amana, Bauknecht, Jenn-Air and Indesit. Whirlpool’s reportable segments consist of North America, Latin America, EMEA (Europe, Middle East and Africa) and Asia.
Principles of Consolidation
Our Consolidated Financial Statements include all majority-owned subsidiaries. All intercompany transactions have been eliminated upon consolidation. We do not consolidate the financial statements of any company in which we have an ownership interest of 50% or less unless that company is deemed to be a variable interest entity ("VIE") of which we are the primary beneficiary. Certain VIEs are consolidated when the company is the primary beneficiary of these entities and has the ability to directly impact the activities of these entities.
Reclassifications
We reclassified certain prior period amounts in our Consolidated Financial Statements to be consistent with current period presentation. The effect of these reclassifications is not material.
Use of Estimates
We are required to make estimates and assumptions that affect the amounts reported in the Consolidated Financial Statements and accompanying notes. Actual results could differ materially from those estimates.
Revenue Recognition
Sales are recorded when title passes to the customer as determined by the shipping terms. For the majority of our sales, title is transferred to the customer as soon as products are shipped. For a portion of our sales, title is transferred to the customer upon receipt of products at the customer’s location. Allowances for estimated returns are made on sales of certain products based on historical return rates for the products involved.
Accounts Receivable and Allowance for Doubtful Accounts
We carry accounts receivable at sales value less an allowance for doubtful accounts. We periodically evaluate accounts receivable and establish an allowance for doubtful accounts based on a combination of specific customer circumstances, credit conditions and the history of write-offs and collections. We evaluate items on an individual basis when determining accounts receivable write-offs. In general, our policy is to not charge interest on trade receivables after the invoice becomes past due. A receivable is considered past due if payment has not been received within agreed upon invoice terms.
Securitization of Financing Receivables / Variable Interest Entities
Indesit, acquired by Whirlpool in the fourth quarter of 2014, has maintained a securitization program since 2010. The securitization involves the without-recourse sale of trade receivables by Indesit. The receivables are acquired by special purpose entities ("SPEs") which are financed by the issuance of securities whose repayment is guaranteed by the cash flows generated by the receivables sold.
At December 31, 2014, liabilities related to the securitization were comprised of senior securities issued on the asset-backed security market and totaled $88 million. At the same date, financial receivables represented by junior securities total $53 million, cash not yet collected on receivables sold was $38 million and cash held by the SPEs (reflected in other current assets due to its restricted use for debt repayment) was $5 million. At December 31, 2014, $35 million from the securitization is included in Whirlpool’s notes payable balance.
The SPEs related to the securitization are designed to create and pass along debt proceeds and related debt expenses to Indesit, its interest holder. Additionally, Indesit has the ability to directly impact the activities of these entities. Therefore, these entities are considered variable interest entities and Indesit is considered the primary beneficiary of these entities. Accordingly, the results of these entities have been consolidated into Whirlpool’s financial results at December 31, 2014.
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - (CONTINUED)
Whirlpool stopped the sale of receivables related to the securitization beginning in December 2014. We anticipate exiting this debt securitization by the end of the first quarter of 2015.
Freight and Warehousing Costs
We classify freight and warehousing costs within cost of products sold in our Consolidated Statements of Income.
Cash and Equivalents
All highly liquid debt instruments purchased with an initial maturity of three months or less are considered cash equivalents.
Restricted Cash
Restricted cash relates to the private placement funds paid by Whirlpool to acquire a portion of the shares needed to acquire majority control of Hefei Sanyo in October 2014. The restricted cash is used to fund capital and technical resources to enhance Hefei Sanyo’s research and development and working capital. As of December 31, 2014, restricted cash was approximately $237 million of which approximately $50 million is recorded in other current assets, with the remaining portion recorded in other non-current assets.
Fair Value Measurements
We measure fair value based on an exit price, representing the amount that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants. As such, fair value is a market-based measurement that should be determined based on assumptions that market participants would use in pricing an asset or liability. As a basis for considering such assumptions, a three-tiered fair value hierarchy is established, which prioritizes the inputs used in measuring fair value as follows: (Level 1) observable inputs such as quoted prices in active markets; (Level 2) inputs, other than the quoted prices in active markets that are observable, either directly or indirectly; and (Level 3) unobservable inputs in which there is little or no market data, which require the reporting entity to develop its own assumptions. We had no Level 3 assets or liabilities at December 31, 2014 and 2013, with the exception of those disclosed in Note 13.
We measured fair value for money market funds and available for sale investments using quoted market prices in active markets for identical or comparable assets. We measured fair value for derivative contracts, all of which have counterparties with high credit ratings, based on model driven valuations using significant inputs derived from observable market data.
Inventories
Inventories are stated at first-in, first-out (“FIFO”) cost, except United States production inventories, which are stated at last-in, first-out (“LIFO”) cost, and Latin America, Asia and certain EMEA inventories, which are stated at average cost. Costs do not exceed net realizable values. See Note 5 for additional information about inventories.
Property
Property is stated at cost, net of accumulated depreciation. For production machinery and equipment, we record depreciation based on units produced, unless units produced drop below a minimum threshold at which point depreciation is recorded using the straight-line method, excluding property acquired from Hefei Sanyo and Indesit acquisitions. For nonproduction assets and assets acquired from Hefei Sanyo and Indesit, as of December 31, 2014 we depreciate costs based on the straight-line method. Depreciation expense for property, including accelerated depreciation classified as restructuring expense in our Consolidated Statements of Income, was $527 million, $515 million and $521 million in 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively.
The following table summarizes our property as of December 31, 2014 and 2013:
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - (CONTINUED)
We classify gains and losses associated with asset dispositions in the same line item as the underlying depreciation of the disposed asset in the Consolidated Statements of Income. We retired approximately $503 million and $282 million of machinery and equipment no longer in use during 2014 and 2013, respectively. Net gains and losses recognized in cost of products sold were not material for 2014, 2013 and 2012.
We record impairment losses on long-lived assets, excluding goodwill and intangibles, when events and circumstances indicate the assets may be impaired and the estimated future cash flows generated by those assets are less than their carrying amounts. There were no significant impairments recorded during 2014, 2013 and 2012.
Goodwill and Other Intangibles
We evaluate goodwill using a qualitative assessment to determine whether it is more likely than not that the fair value of any reporting unit is less than its carrying amount. If we determine that the fair value of the reporting unit may be less than its carrying amount, we evaluate goodwill using a two-step impairment test. Otherwise, we conclude that no impairment is indicated and we do not perform the two-step impairment test.
If the qualitative assessment concludes that the two-step impairment test is necessary, we first compare the book value of a reporting unit, including goodwill, with its fair value. The fair value is estimated based on a market approach and a discounted cash flow analysis, also known as the income approach, and is reconciled back to the current market capitalization for Whirlpool to ensure that the implied control premium is reasonable. If the book value of a reporting unit exceeds its fair value, we perform the second step to estimate an implied fair value of the reporting unit’s goodwill by allocating the fair value of the reporting unit to all of the assets and liabilities other than goodwill (including any unrecognized intangible assets). The difference between the total fair value of the reporting unit and the fair value of all the assets and liabilities other than goodwill is the implied fair value of that goodwill. The amount of impairment loss is equal to the excess of the book value of the goodwill over the implied fair value of that goodwill.
We evaluate certain indefinite-lived intangibles using a qualitative assessment to determine whether it is more likely than not that the fair value of the indefinite lived intangible asset is less than its carrying amount. If we determine that the fair value may be less than its carrying amount, the fair value of the trademark is estimated and compared to its carrying value to determine if an impairment exists. Otherwise, we conclude that no impairment is indicated and we do not perform the quantitative test.
When the qualitative assessment is not utilized and a quantitative test is performed, we estimate the fair value of these intangible assets using the relief-from-royalty method, which requires assumptions related to projected revenues from our annual long-range plan; assumed royalty rates that could be payable if we did not own the trademark; and a discount rate based on our weighted average cost of capital. We recognize an impairment loss when the estimated fair value of the indefinite-lived intangible asset is less than its carrying value.
Definite lived intangible assets are amortized over their estimated useful life. See Note 3 for additional information about goodwill and intangible assets.
Accounts Payable Outsourcing
We offer our suppliers access to third party payable processors. Independent of Whirlpool, the processors allow suppliers to sell their receivables to financial institutions at the sole discretion of both the supplier and the financial institution. In China, as a common practice we pay suppliers with banker’s acceptance drafts. Banker’s acceptance drafts allow suppliers to sell their receivables to financial institutions at the sole discretion of both the supplier and the financial institution. We have no economic interest in the sale of these receivables and no direct financial relationship with the financial institutions concerning these services. All of our obligations, including amounts due, remain to our suppliers as stated in our supplier agreements. As of December 31, 2014 and 2013, approximately $1.6 billion and $1.3 billion, respectively, have been sold by suppliers to participating financial institutions.
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - (CONTINUED)
Derivative Financial Instruments
We use derivative instruments designated as cash flow and fair value hedges to manage our exposure to the volatility in material costs, foreign currency and interest rates on certain debt instruments. Changes in the fair value of derivative assets or liabilities (i.e., gains or losses) are recognized depending upon the type of hedging relationship and whether a hedge has been designated. For those derivative instruments that qualify for hedge accounting, we designate the hedging instrument, based upon the exposure being hedged, as a cash flow hedge, fair value hedge, or a hedge of a net investment in a foreign operation. For a derivative instrument designated as a fair value hedge, the gain or loss on the derivative is recognized in earnings in the period of change in fair value together with the offsetting gain or loss on the hedged item. For a derivative instrument designated as a cash flow hedge, the effective portion of the derivative’s gain or loss is initially reported as a component of Other Comprehensive Income and is subsequently recognized in earnings when the hedged exposure affects earnings. For a derivative instrument designated as a hedge of a net investment in a foreign operation, the effective portion of the derivative’s gain or loss is reported in Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) as part of the cumulative translation adjustment. Changes in fair value of derivative instruments that do not qualify for hedge accounting are recognized immediately in current net earnings. See Note 8 for additional information about hedges and derivative financial instruments.
Foreign Currency Translation and Transactions
Foreign currency denominated assets and liabilities are translated into United States dollars at exchange rates existing at the respective balance sheet dates. Translation adjustments resulting from fluctuations in exchange rates are recorded as a separate component of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) within stockholders’ equity. The results of operations of foreign subsidiaries are translated at the average exchange rates during the respective periods. Gains and losses resulting from foreign currency transactions are included in net earnings.
Research and Development Costs
Research and development costs are charged to expense and totaled $563 million, $582 million and $553 million in 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively.
Advertising Costs
Advertising costs are charged to expense when the advertisement is first communicated and totaled $269 million, $304 million and $273 million in 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively.
Income Taxes
We account for income taxes using the asset and liability method. Under this method, deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognized for the future tax consequences of temporary differences between the financial statement and tax bases of assets and liabilities using enacted rates. The effect of a change in tax rates on deferred tax assets is recognized in income in the period of enactment date.
We recognize, in other current and noncurrent liabilities, in the Consolidated Balance Sheets, effects of an uncertain income tax position when it is more likely than not, based on technical merits, that the position will be sustained upon examination. We accrue for other tax contingencies when it is probable that a liability to a taxing authority has been incurred and the amount of the contingency can be reasonably estimated.
Provision is made for taxes on undistributed earnings of foreign subsidiaries and related companies to the extent that such earnings are not deemed to be permanently invested. See Note 12 for additional information about income taxes.
Stock Based Compensation
We recognize stock based compensation expense based on the grant date fair value of the award over the period during which an employee is required to provide service in exchange for the award (generally the vesting period). The fair value of stock options is determined using the Black-Scholes option-pricing model, which incorporates assumptions regarding the risk-free interest rate, expected volatility, expected option life and dividend yield. Stock options are granted with an exercise price equal to the stock price on the date of grant. The fair value of restricted stock units and performance stock units is generally based on the closing market price of Whirlpool common stock on the grant date. See Note 10 for additional information about stock based compensation.
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - (CONTINUED)
BEFIEX Credits
In previous years, our Brazilian operations earned tax credits under the Brazilian government’s export incentive program (BEFIEX). These credits reduce Brazilian federal excise taxes on domestic sales, resulting in an increase in the operations’ recorded net sales. We recognized export credits as they were monetized. See Note 7 and Note 12 for additional information regarding BEFIEX credits.
New Accounting Pronouncements
In July 2013, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) issued Accounting Standards Update (“ASU”) No. 2013-11, “Presentation of an Unrecognized Tax Benefit When a Net Operating Loss Carryforward, a Similar Tax Loss, or a Tax Credit Carryforward Exists.” This new guidance is effective prospectively for annual reporting periods beginning on or after December 15, 2013 and interim periods therein. ASU 2013-11 provides guidance on the presentation of unrecognized tax benefits, reflecting the manner in which an entity would settle, at the reporting date, any additional income taxes that would result from the disallowance of a tax position when net operating loss carryforwards, similar tax losses, or tax credit carryforwards exist. We adopted the provisions of this amendment during the first quarter of 2014, which resulted in a reclassification between other non-current liabilities and non-current deferred income tax assets of approximately $53 million. The adoption did not change existing recognition and measurement requirements in our Consolidated Financial Statements.
In May 2014, the FASB issued ASU No. 2014-09, "Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606)", which supersedes the revenue recognition requirements in ASC 605, Revenue Recognition. This ASU is based on the principle that revenue is recognized to depict the transfer of goods or services to customers in an amount that reflects the consideration to which the entity expects to be entitled in exchange for those goods or services. The ASU also requires additional disclosure about the nature, amount, timing and uncertainty of revenue and cash flows arising from customer contracts, including significant judgments and changes in judgments and assets recognized from costs incurred to obtain or fulfill a contract. This pronouncement is effective for annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2016, including interim periods within that reporting period and is to be applied using one of two retrospective application methods, with early application not permitted. We have not yet determined the potential effects from this pronouncement on the Consolidated Financial Statements, if any.
All other issued but not yet effective accounting pronouncements are not expected to have a material impact on our Consolidated Financial Statements.
(2) ACQUISITIONS
Hefei Rongshida Sanyo Electric Co., Ltd.
On October 24, 2014, Whirlpool's wholly-owned subsidiary, Whirlpool (China) Investment Co., Ltd., (“Whirlpool China”), completed its acquisition of a 51% equity stake in Hefei Sanyo, a joint stock company whose shares are listed and traded on the Shanghai Stock Exchange.
Pursuant to a Share Purchase Agreement among Whirlpool China, SANYO Electric Co., Ltd. (“Sanyo Japan”), and SANYO Electric (China) Co., Ltd. (“Sanyo China”, and together with Sanyo Japan, the “Sellers”), on October 20, 2014, Whirlpool China completed its purchase of the 157 million shares (or 29.51%) of Hefei Sanyo currently held by the Sellers (such transaction, the “Share Purchase”) for RMB 1.4 billion (approximately $230 million at the date of purchase).
On October 24, 2014, pursuant to a Share Subscription Agreement (the “Share Subscription Agreement”) between Whirlpool China and Hefei Sanyo, Whirlpool China completed its subscription for 234 million shares (which, together with shares purchased pursuant to the Share Purchase Agreement, aggregated 51%) of Hefei Sanyo pursuant to a private placement (such transaction, the “Share Subscription”) for RMB 2.0 billion (approximately $321 million at the date of purchase). Pursuant to the Share Subscription Agreement and as required by the law of the People’s Republic of China, Whirlpool China will be prevented from selling any shares of Hefei Sanyo for 36 months from the date of acquisition.
The aggregate purchase price for the Share Purchase and the Share Subscription was RMB 3.4 billion (approximately $551 million at the dates of purchase). The purchase price for the Share Purchase was payable in USD based on the exchange rate as of August 9, 2013. The Company funded the total consideration for the shares with cash on hand. The cash paid for the Share Subscription is considered restricted cash, which will be used to fund capital and technical resources to enhance Hefei Sanyo’s research and development and working capital.
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - (CONTINUED)
Indesit Company S.p.A.
On July 10, 2014, we entered into share purchase agreements with (i) Fineldo S.p.A. (“Fineldo”, and the share purchase agreement with Fineldo, the “Fineldo SPA”), a company incorporated under the laws of Italy, concerning the purchase and sale of 42.7% of the issued share capital (the “Fineldo Shares”) of Indesit, a joint stock company incorporated under the laws of Italy whose shares are listed on the stock market organized and managed by Borsa Italiana S.p.A., (ii) Ms. Franca Carloni, Mr. Aristide Merloni, Mr. Andrea Merloni, Ms. Maria Paola Merloni, Ms. Antonella Merloni, Ms. Ester Merloni, Fines S.p.A. and, following approval by the Court of Ancona, Mr. Vittorio Merloni (the “Family SPA”), collectively concerning the purchase and sale of 13.2% of Indesit’s issued share capital (the “Family Shares”), and (iii) Ms. Claudia Merloni (the “Claudia Merloni SPA” and, together with the Fineldo SPA and the Family SPA, the “Stock Purchase Agreements”) concerning the purchase and sale of 4.4% of Indesit’s issued share capital (the “Claudia Merloni Shares”).
On October 14, 2014, we completed our acquisition of the Fineldo Shares under the Fineldo SPA and our acquisition of the Family Shares under the Family SPA. We completed our acquisition of the Claudia Merloni Shares under the Claudia Merloni SPA on July 17, 2014. In the aggregate, pursuant to the Stock Purchase Agreements, we acquired 60.4% of Indesit’s issued share capital. This represents 66.8% of Indesit’s issued and outstanding stock. The aggregate purchase price for the Fineldo Shares was €537 million (approximately $680 million at the date of purchase). The aggregate purchase price for the Family Shares was €166 million (approximately $210 million at the date of purchase). The aggregate purchase price for the Claudia Merloni Shares was €55 million (approximately $75 million at the date of purchase). The Company funded the aggregate purchase price for the Fineldo Shares and Family Shares through borrowings under our credit facility, and repaid a portion of such borrowings through the issuance of an aggregate principal amount of $650 million in senior notes on November 4, 2014.
On November 26, 2014, we announced in Italy the final results for the mandatory tender offer for the remaining outstanding shares of Indesit. Settlement and closing of the mandatory tender offer occurred on November 28, 2014. We received tenders for a number of shares equal to 91.4% of the total shares available for purchase in the mandatory tender offer, increasing our aggregate ownership interest in Indesit’s issued share capital to 97.1%. The aggregate purchase price for the shares purchased at settlement of the mandatory tender offer was €344 million (approximately $429 million as of the date of purchase).
On December 3, 2014, Whirlpool purchased all remaining shares of Indesit and Indesit delisted from the Electronic Stock Market organized and managed by Borsa Italiana S.p.A. Total consideration paid for Indesit was $1.4 billion in aggregate net of cash acquired.
We funded the aggregate purchase price for the tender offer and remaining shares through borrowings under our credit facility and through borrowings under our commercial paper programs, and intend to repay such borrowings in the future through public debt financing.
Purchase Price Allocations
The Company is in the process of finalizing independent appraisals for the purpose of allocating the purchase price to the individual assets acquired and liabilities assumed in the Hefei Sanyo and Indesit acquisitions. This is expected to result in adjustments to the carrying values of recorded assets and liabilities, refinement of amounts recorded for certain intangible assets, revisions of the useful lives of intangible assets, some of which will have indefinite lives not subject to amortization, and the determination of any residual amount that will be allocated to goodwill. The preliminary allocation of the purchase prices included in the current period balance sheet is based on the best estimates of management and is subject to revision based on final determination of asset fair values and useful lives. The related depreciation and amortization expense from the acquired assets is also subject to such revisions on a prospective basis.
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - (CONTINUED)
The following table presents the preliminary allocation of purchase price related to the Hefei Sanyo and Indesit acquisitions, as of their respective dates of acquisition:
(1) We purchased a 51% controlling interest in Hefei Sanyo's net assets described in the table; the non-controlling interest was valued at $801 million, the market value of the stock price of the shares purchased on the date of acquisition
Goodwill, which is not deductible for tax purposes, has been allocated to the Asia and EMEA operating segments on the basis that the cost efficiencies identified will primarily benefit these segments of the business based on the preliminary allocation of the purchase price of the respective acquisitions. Any changes to the initial estimates of the fair values of the assets and liabilities will be allocated to residual goodwill.
The Company has preliminarily estimated the fair value of Hefei Sanyo and Indesit's identifiable intangible assets as follows:
The customer relationship intangibles of Hefei Sanyo were mainly allocated to its traditional trade distributors, which have an estimated useful life of up to 16 years based on low historical and projected customer attrition rates among its retailers. The majority of the intangible asset valuation for Indesit relates to the Indesit and Hotpoint brands (Whirlpool ownership of the Hotpoint brand in EMEA and Asia Pacific regions is not affiliated with the Hotpoint brand sold in the Americas), which are indefinite lived intangibles. The Company’s preliminary assessment as to trademarks having an indefinite life was based on a number of factors, including competitive environment, market share, brand history and product life cycles. The patents and other intangibles have an estimated useful life that varies based on the estimate of the expected life of the technology and the products associated with the technology. The estimated useful lives of the finite-lived intangible assets will be amortized using a straight-line method of amortization.
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - (CONTINUED)
Pro Forma Results of Operations
The results of Hefei Sanyo and Indesit’s operations have been included in the Consolidated Financial Statements beginning October 24, 2014 and October 14, 2014, respectively. Within Whirlpool's Consolidated Statement of Income for 2014, Hefei Sanyo and Indesit represented $994 million of net sales and $15 million of net earnings, which excludes certain non-recurring acquisition-related costs and investment expenses.
The following table provides pro forma results of operations for the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013, as if Hefei Sanyo and Indesit had been acquired as of January 1, 2013. The pro forma results include certain purchase accounting adjustments such as the estimated changes in depreciation and amortization expense on acquired tangible and intangible assets as well as interest expense on borrowings used to finance the acquisitions. Additionally, the pro forma results include adjustments to convert Hefei Sanyo and Indesit’s historical results from local accounting standards to U.S. GAAP. Pro forma results do not include any anticipated cost savings or other effects of the planned integration of these acquisitions. Accordingly, such amounts are not necessarily indicative of the results that would have occurred if the acquisition had occurred on the dates indicated or that may result in the future.
Certain non-recurring acquisition-related costs and investment expenses of $30 million and $60 million were recorded by Whirlpool during 2014 related to the acquisitions of Hefei Sanyo and Indesit, respectively. Of these costs, $55 million were recorded in interest and sundry income (expense), with the remaining being recorded in selling, general and administrative. In 2013, we incurred $21 million of non-recurring acquisition-related costs and investment expenses, all of which related to Hefei Sanyo. Of these costs, $15 million were recorded in interest and sundry income (expense), with the remaining being recorded in selling, general and administrative. These costs have been eliminated from the pro forma information presented above in both periods.
(3) GOODWILL AND OTHER INTANGIBLES
We evaluate goodwill and indefinite lived intangibles for impairment annually on October 1.
Goodwill
We performed our assessment as of October 1, 2014, and determined there was no impairment of goodwill. The total net carrying amount of goodwill was $2.8 billion at December 31, 2014, with $1.7 billion in our North America operating segment, $639 million in our EMEA operating segment, $449 million in our Asia operating segment and $4 million in our Latin America operating segment. At December 31, 2013 the total net carrying amount of goodwill was $1.7 billion, with $1.7 billion in our North America operating segment and $4 million in our Latin America operating segment.
The increase in carrying value of EMEA and Asia goodwill is driven by the Hefei Sanyo and Indesit acquisitions in 2014, net of foreign currency impact of $2 million and $28 million, respectively. Further discussion of these transactions can be found in our MD&A under "Hefei Sanyo Acquisition," “Indesit Acquisition” and in Note 2.
Other Intangible Assets
Based on the results of our annual assessment as of October 1, 2014, we determined that there were no impairments to our intangibles, with the exception of two European trademarks which had a pre-impairment carrying value of $30 million, where we recognized a $12 million impairment charge within selling, general and administrative expense during the fourth quarter 2014.
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - (CONTINUED)
The following table summarizes other intangible assets at December 31, 2014 and 2013:
(1) Customer relationships have an estimated useful life of 4 to 19 years.
(2) Patents and other intangibles have an estimated useful life of 4 to 15 years.
The following table summarizes our future estimated amortization expense by year:
(4) FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS
Assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis at December 31, 2014 and 2013 are as follows:
(1) Money market funds are comprised primarily of government obligations and other first tier obligations.
In March 2014, we sold approximately 7.4 million shares held in Alno AG, a long-standing European customer, for approximately $5 million. This transaction resulted in the conversion of our investment from the equity method of accounting to an available for sale investment due to our less than 20% overall investment in Alno AG.
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - (CONTINUED)
(5) INVENTORIES
The following table summarizes our inventories at December 31, 2014 and 2013:
LIFO inventories represented 35% and 39% of total inventories at December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively.
(6) FINANCING ARRANGEMENTS
Long-Term Debt
The following table summarizes our long-term debt at December 31, 2014 and 2013:
The following table summarizes the contractual maturities of our long-term debt, including current maturities, at December 31, 2014:
The fair value of long-term debt (including current maturities) was $3.8 billion and $2.6 billion at December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively, and was estimated using a discounted cash flow analysis based on incremental borrowing rates for similar types of borrowing arrangements.
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - (CONTINUED)
We have committed credit facilities in Brazil, which provide borrowings up to 1.1 billion Brazilian reais (approximately $429 million as of December 31, 2014) maturing at various times from 2015 to 2017. The credit facilities contain no financial covenants and we had no borrowings outstanding under these credit facilities at December 31, 2014 and 2013.
On September 26, 2014, we entered into a Short-Term Credit Agreement (the “364-Day Facility” and together with the Long-Term Facility, the “Facilities”). The 364-Day Facility is a revolving credit facility in an aggregate amount of $1.0 billion. The 364-Day Facility has a maturity date of September 25, 2015. The interest and fee rates payable with respect to the 364-Day Facility based on our debt rating are as follows: (1) the spread over LIBOR is 1.250%; (2) the spread over prime is 0.250%; and (3) the unused commitment fee is 0.125%, as of the effective date of the 364-Day Facility. We had no borrowings outstanding under the 364-Day Facility at December 31, 2014.
On September 26, 2014, we entered into a Second Amended and Restated Long-Term Credit Agreement (the “Long-Term Facility”). The Long-Term Facility amends, restates and extends the Company's prior five-year credit facility, which was scheduled to mature on June 28, 2016. The Long-Term Facility increases the existing $1.7 billion facility to an aggregate amount of $2.0 billion, with an option to increase the total amount to up to $2.5 billion by exercise of an accordion feature. The Long-Term Facility has a maturity date of September 26, 2019. The Long-Term Facility includes a letter of credit sublimit of $200 million. The Long-Term Facility decreases the interest and fee rates payable with respect to the Long-Term Facility based on our debt rating as follows: (1) the spread over LIBOR is 1.250%; (2) the spread over prime is 0.250%; and (3) the unused commitment fee is 0.15%, as of the effective date of the Long-Term Facility. We had no borrowings outstanding under the Long-Term Facility at December 31, 2014.
The Facilities contain customary covenants and warranties including, among other things, a rolling twelve month maximum leverage ratio limited to 3.25 to 1.0 for each fiscal quarter and a rolling twelve month interest coverage ratio required to be greater than or equal to 3.0 to 1.0 for each fiscal quarter. In addition, the covenants limit our ability to (or to permit any subsidiaries to), subject to various exceptions and limitations: (i) merge with other companies; (ii) create liens on our property; (iii) incur debt or off-balance sheet obligations at the subsidiary level; (iv) enter into transactions with affiliates, except on an arms-length basis; (v) enter into agreements restricting the payment of subsidiary dividends or restricting the making of loans or repayment of debt by subsidiaries; and (vi) enter into agreements restricting the creation of liens on our assets. We were in compliance with financial covenant requirements at December 31, 2014 and December 31, 2013.
We have paid lenders under the Facilities an up-front fee of approximately $3 million.
In the fourth quarter of 2014, we acquired a committed credit facility as part of the acquisition of Indesit. At December 31, 2014 the facility provides borrowings up to €350 million (approximately $424 million as of December 31, 2014) maturing July 29, 2016. As described in the credit agreement included as an exhibit to this Form 10-K, the credit facility contains covenants which state the guarantor, Indesit, will not permit (1) the ratio of Consolidated Net Borrowings as of any Year-End Determination Date to Consolidated EBITDA for the twelve month period ended on such Year-End Determination Date to exceed 3.00 to 1; (2) the ratio of Consolidated Net Borrowings as of any Semi Annual Determination Date to Consolidated EBITDA for the twelve month period ended on such Semi Annual Determination Date to exceed 4.00 to 1; and (3) the ratio of Consolidated EBITDA to Consolidated Net Interest for the twelve month period ending on any Determination Date to be less than 3.5 to 1. We were in compliance with financial covenant requirements at December 31, 2014. We had no borrowings outstanding under this credit facility at December 31, 2014.
In the fourth quarter of 2014, we assumed €300 million principal amount of 4.5% guaranteed notes from the Indesit acquisition, subscribed for by institutional investors, that are listed in Luxembourg and are due on April 26, 2018. The notes were recorded at fair value in purchase price accounting to €327 million (approximately $393 million).
On February 25, 2014, we completed a debt offering of $250 million principal amount of 1.35% notes due in 2017, $250 million principal amount of 2.40% notes due in 2019, and $300 million principal amount of 4.00% notes due in 2024. On May 1, 2014, $500 million of 8.60% notes matured and were repaid. On August 15, 2014, $100 million of 6.45% notes matured and were repaid.
On November 4, 2014, we completed a debt offering of $300 million principal amount of 1.65% notes due in 2017 and $350 million principal amount of 3.70% notes due in 2025. These notes contain covenants that limit our ability to incur certain liens or enter into certain sale and lease-back transactions. In addition, if we experience a specific kind of change of control, we are required to make an offer to purchase all of the notes at a purchase price of 101% of the principal amount thereof, plus accrued and unpaid interest.
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - (CONTINUED)
On February 27, 2013, we completed a debt offering of $250 million principal amount of 3.70% notes due in 2023 and $250 million principal amount of 5.15% notes due in 2043. These notes contain covenants that limit our ability to incur certain liens or enter into certain sale and lease-back transactions. In addition, if we experience a specific kind of change of control, we are required to make an offer to purchase all of the notes at a purchase price of 101% of the principal amount thereof, plus accrued and unpaid interest. In March 2013, $500 million of 5.50% notes matured and were repaid.
Notes Payable
Notes payable, which consist of short-term borrowings payable to banks, debt securitization or commercial paper, are generally used to fund working capital requirements. The fair value of our notes payable approximates the carrying amount due to the short maturity of these obligations. The following table summarizes the carrying value of notes payable at December 31, 2014 and 2013:
In the fourth quarter of 2014, we financed the acquisition of Indesit with commercial paper and short-term notes, which increased our balance of notes payable at December 31, 2014.
(7) COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES
OTHER MATTERS
Embraco Antitrust Matters
Beginning in February 2009, our compressor business headquartered in Brazil ("Embraco") was notified of antitrust investigations of the global compressor industry by government authorities in various jurisdictions.
Embraco has resolved government investigations in various jurisdictions as well as all related civil lawsuits in the United States. Embraco also has resolved certain other claims and certain claims remain pending. Additional lawsuits could be filed.
At December 31, 2014, $25 million remains accrued, with installment payments of $21 million, plus interest, remaining to be made to government authorities at various times through 2015. We continue to defend these actions and take other steps to minimize our potential exposure. The final outcome and impact of these matters, and any related claims and investigations that may be brought in the future are subject to many variables, and cannot be predicted. We establish accruals only for those matters where we determine that a loss is probable and the amount of loss can be reasonably estimated. While it is currently not possible to reasonably estimate the aggregate amount of costs which we may incur in connection with these matters, such costs could have a material adverse effect on our financial position, liquidity, or results of operations in any particular reporting period.
Brazilian Collection Dispute
We reached an agreement in June 2011 to settle all claims arising from our long-standing dispute in Brazil with Banco Safra S.A. Such settlement was subsequently approved by a Brazilian court in July 2011. Pursuant to the settlement, our subsidiary agreed to pay Banco Safra S.A. 959 million Brazilian reais, in two installments, the first of 469 million reais (equivalent to $301 million) was made in July 2011, and the second of 490 million reais (equivalent to $275 million) was made during January 2012.
BEFIEX Credits and Other Brazil Tax Matters
In previous years, our Brazilian operations earned tax credits under the Brazilian government’s export incentive program (BEFIEX). These credits reduced Brazilian federal excise taxes on domestic sales, resulting in an increase in the operations’ recorded net sales, as the credits are monetized. We monetized $14 million, $109 million and $37 million of export credits in 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively. We began recognizing BEFIEX credits in accordance with prior favorable court decisions allowing for the credits to be recognized. We recognized export credits as they were monetized.
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - (CONTINUED)
In December 2013, the Brazilian government reinstituted the monetary adjustment index applicable to BEFIEX credits that existed prior to July 2009, when the Brazilian government required companies to apply a different monetary adjustment index to BEFIEX credits. As of December 31, 2014, no BEFIEX credits deemed to be available prior to this action remained to be monetized. Whether use of the reinstituted index should be given retroactive effect for the July 2009 to December 2013 period is currently being reviewed by the Brazilian courts. If the reinstituted index is given retroactive effect, we would be entitled to recognize additional credits. The outcome and timing of the Brazilian court decisions remains uncertain.
Our Brazilian operations have received governmental assessments related to claims for income and social contribution taxes associated with BEFIEX credits monetized from 2000 through 2002 and 2007 through 2011. We do not believe BEFIEX export credits are subject to income or social contribution taxes. We are disputing these tax matters in various courts and intend to vigorously defend our positions. We have not provided for income or social contribution taxes on these export credits, and based on the opinions of tax and legal advisors, we have not accrued any amount related to these assessments as of December 31, 2014. The total amount of outstanding tax assessments received for income and social contribution taxes relating to the BEFIEX credits, including interest and penalties, is approximately 1.4 billion Brazilian reais (approximately $533 million as of December 31, 2014).
Relying on existing Brazilian legal precedent, in 2003 and 2004, we recognized tax credits in an aggregate amount of $26 million, adjusted for currency, on the purchase of raw materials used in production (“IPI tax credits”). The Brazilian tax authority subsequently challenged the recording of IPI tax credits. No credits have been recognized since 2004. In 2009, we entered into a Brazilian government program which provided extended payment terms and reduced penalties and interest to encourage tax payers to resolve this and certain other disputed tax credit amounts. As permitted by the program, we elected to settle certain debts through the use of other existing tax credits and recorded charges of approximately $34 million in 2009 associated with these matters. In July 2012, the Brazilian revenue authority notified us that a portion of our proposed settlement was rejected and we received tax assessments of 204 million Brazilian reais (approximately $78 million as of December 31, 2014), reflecting interest and penalties to date. We are disputing these assessments and we intend to vigorously defend our position. Based on the opinion of our tax and legal advisors, we have not recorded an additional reserve related to these matters.
In 2001, Brazil adopted a law making the profits of controlled foreign corporations of Brazilian entities subject to income and social contribution tax regardless of whether the profits were repatriated ("CFC Tax"). Our Brazilian subsidiary, along with other corporations, challenged tax assessments on foreign profits on constitutionality and other grounds. In April 2013, the Brazilian Supreme Court ruled in our case, finding that the law is constitutional, but remanding the case to a lower court for consideration of other arguments raised in our appeal, including the existence of tax treaties with jurisdictions in which controlled foreign corporations are domiciled. As of December 31, 2014, our potential exposure for income and social contribution taxes relating to profits of controlled foreign corporations, including interest and penalties and net of expected foreign tax credits, is approximately 178 million Brazilian reais (approximately $67 million as of December 31, 2014). We believe these assessments are without merit and we intend to continue to vigorously dispute them. Based on the opinion of our tax and legal advisors, we have not accrued any amount related to these assessments as of December 31, 2014.
In December 2013, we entered into a Brazilian government program to settle long standing disputes. Participation in the program removed uncertainty related to 16 assessments that were previously under dispute and significantly reduces potential penalties and interest associated with these matters. Our participation will result in total payments including principal, interest, and penalties of 75 million Brazilian reais (approximately $28 million as of December 31, 2014), paid in 30 monthly installments from December 2013.
In addition to the IPI tax credit and CFC Tax matters noted above, we are currently disputing other assessments issued by the Brazilian tax authorities related to non-income and income tax matters, including for the monetization of BEFIEX credits and other BEFIEX matters, which are at various stages of review in numerous administrative and judicial proceedings. In accordance with our accounting policies, we routinely assess these matters and, when necessary, record our best estimate of a loss. We believe these tax assessments are without merit and are vigorously defending our positions.
Litigation is inherently unpredictable and the conclusion of these matters may take many years to ultimately resolve, during which time the amounts related to these assessments will continue to be increased by monetary adjustments at the Selic rate, which is the benchmark rate set by the Brazilian Central Bank. Accordingly, it is possible that an unfavorable outcome in these proceedings could have a material adverse effect on our financial position, liquidity, or results of operations in any particular reporting period.
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - (CONTINUED)
Other Litigation
We are currently defending against numerous lawsuits pending in federal and state courts in the United States relating to certain of our front load washing machines. Some of these lawsuits have been certified for treatment as class actions. The complaints in these lawsuits generally allege violations of state consumer fraud acts, unjust enrichment, product liability claims and breach of warranty. The complaints generally seek compensatory, consequential and punitive damages. We believe these suits are without merit and are vigorously defending them. Given the preliminary stage of many of these proceedings, the Company cannot reasonably estimate a possible range of loss, if any, at this time. The resolution of one or more of these matters could have a material adverse effect on our Consolidated Financial Statements.
In addition, we are currently defending a number of other lawsuits in federal and state courts in the United States related to the manufacturing and sale of our products which include class action allegations. These lawsuits allege claims which include breach of contract, breach of warranty, product liability claims, fraud, violation of federal and state consumer protection acts and negligence. We do not have insurance coverage for class action lawsuits. We are also involved in various other legal actions in the United States and other jurisdictions around the world arising in the normal course of business, for which insurance coverage may or may not be available depending on the nature of the action. We dispute the merits of these suits and actions, and intend to vigorously defend them. Management believes, based upon its current knowledge, after taking into consideration legal counsel's evaluation of such suits and actions, and after taking into account current litigation accruals, that the outcome of these matters currently pending against Whirlpool should not have a material adverse effect, if any, on our Consolidated Financial Statements.
Other Matters
In 2013, the French Competition Authority commenced an investigation of appliance manufacturers and retailers in France. The investigation includes 11 manufacturers, including the Whirlpool and Indesit operations in France. Although it is currently not possible to assess the impact, if any, this matter may have on our Consolidated Financial Statements, the resolution of this matter could have a material adverse effect on our financial position, liquidity, or results of operations in any particular reporting period.
Product Warranty Reserves
Product warranty reserves are included in other current and other noncurrent liabilities in our Consolidated Balance Sheets. The following table summarizes the changes in total product warranty reserves for the periods presented:
(1) $61 million is included within issuances/accruals during 2014 related to acquisitions
We regularly engage in investigations of potential quality and safety issues as part of our ongoing effort to deliver quality products to customers. We are currently investigating a limited number of potential quality and safety issues. As necessary, we undertake to effect repair or replacement of appliances in the event that an investigation leads to the conclusion that such action is warranted.
Guarantees
We have guarantee arrangements in a Brazilian subsidiary. As a standard business practice in Brazil, the subsidiary guarantees customer lines of credit at commercial banks to support purchases following its normal credit policies. If a customer were to default on its line of credit with the bank, our subsidiary would be required to satisfy the obligation with the bank and the receivable would revert back to the subsidiary. At December 31, 2014 and December 31, 2013, the guaranteed amounts totaled $492 million and $485 million, respectively. Our subsidiary insures against credit risk for these guarantees, under normal operating conditions, through policies purchased from high-quality underwriters. We had no losses associated with these guarantees in 2014 or 2013.
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - (CONTINUED)
We provide guarantees of indebtedness and lines of credit for various consolidated subsidiaries. The maximum amount of credit facilities available under these lines for consolidated subsidiaries totaled $1.4 billion at December 31, 2014 and $1.3 billion at December 31, 2013. Our total outstanding bank indebtedness under guarantees was nominal at December 31, 2014 and December 31, 2013, respectively. In addition, we assumed $1.2 billion of corporate guarantees through our acquisition of Indesit as of December 31, 2014.
We have guaranteed a $45 million five year revolving credit facility between certain financial institutions and a not-for-profit entity in connection with a community and economic development project (“Harbor Shores”). The credit facility, which originated in 2008, was amended in 2014 by Harbor Shores and reduced to $45 million, was refinanced in December 2012 and we renewed our guarantee through 2017. The fair value of the guarantee was nominal. The purpose of Harbor Shores is to stimulate employment and growth in the areas of Benton Harbor and St. Joseph, Michigan. In the event of default, we must satisfy the guarantee of the credit facility up to the amount borrowed at the date of default.
Operating Lease Commitments
At December 31, 2014, we had noncancelable operating lease commitments totaling $868 million. The annual future minimum lease payments are summarized by year in the table below:
Rent expense was $228 million, $217 million and $229 million for 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively.
Purchase Obligations
Our expected cash outflows resulting from non-cancellable purchase obligations are summarized by year in the table below:
(8) HEDGES AND DERIVATIVE FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS
Derivative instruments are accounted for at fair value based on market rates. Derivatives where we elect hedge accounting are designated as either cash flow or fair value hedges. Derivatives that are not accounted for based on hedge accounting are marked to market through earnings. The accounting for changes in the fair value of a derivative depends on the intended use and designation of the derivative instrument. Hedging ineffectiveness and a net earnings impact occur when the change in the fair value of the hedge does not offset the change in the fair value of the hedged item. The ineffective portion of the gain or loss is recognized in earnings.
Using derivative instruments means assuming counterparty credit risk. Counterparty credit risk relates to the loss we could incur if a counterparty were to default on a derivative contract. We generally deal with investment grade counterparties and monitor the overall credit risk and exposure to individual counterparties. We do not anticipate nonperformance by any counterparties. The amount of counterparty credit exposure is limited to the unrealized gains, if any, on such derivative contracts. We do not require nor do we post collateral or security on such contracts.
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - (CONTINUED)
Hedging Strategy
In the normal course of business, we manage risks relating to our ongoing business operations including those arising from changes in foreign exchange rates, interest rates and commodity prices. Fluctuations in these rates and prices can affect our operating results and financial condition. We use a variety of strategies, including the use of derivative instruments, to manage these risks. We do not enter into derivative financial instruments for trading or speculative purposes.
Foreign Currency Exchange Rate Risk
We incur expenses associated with the procurement and production of products in a limited number of countries, while we sell in the local currencies of a large number of countries. Our primary foreign currency exchange exposures result from cross-currency sales of products. As a result, we enter into foreign exchange contracts to hedge certain firm commitments and forecasted transactions to acquire products and services that are denominated in foreign currencies.
We enter into certain undesignated non-functional currency asset and liability hedges that relate primarily to short-term payables, receivables and intercompany loans. These forecasted cross-currency cash flows relate primarily to foreign currency denominated expenditures and intercompany financing agreements, royalty agreements and dividends. When we hedge a foreign currency denominated payable or receivable with a derivative, the effect of changes in the foreign exchange rates are reflected currently in interest and sundry income (expense) for both the payable/receivable and the derivative. Therefore, as a result of the economic hedge, we do not elect hedge accounting.
Commodity Price Risk
We enter into commodity derivative contracts on various commodities to manage the price risk associated with forecasted purchases of materials used in our manufacturing process. The objective of these hedges is to reduce the variability of cash flows associated with the forecasted purchase of commodities.
Interest Rate Risk
We may enter into interest rate swap agreements to manage interest rate risk exposure. Our interest rate swap agreements, if any, effectively modify our exposure to interest rate risk, primarily through converting certain of our floating rate debt to a fixed rate basis, and certain fixed rate debt to a floating rate basis. These agreements involve either the receipt or payment of floating rate amounts in exchange for fixed rate interest payments or receipts, respectively, over the life of the agreements without an exchange of the underlying principal amounts. We also may utilize a cross-currency interest rate swap agreement to manage our exposure relating to certain intercompany debt denominated in one foreign currency that will be repaid in another foreign currency. At December 31, 2014 and 2013 there were no outstanding swap agreements.
We may enter into treasury rate lock agreements to effectively modify our exposure to interest rate risk by locking-in interest rates on probable long-term debt issuances.
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - (CONTINUED)
The following tables summarize our outstanding derivative contracts and their effects on our Consolidated Balance Sheets at December 31, 2014 and 2013:
(1)Derivatives accounted for as hedges are considered cash flow (CF) hedges
The increase in the notional amount of derivatives is due to derivatives acquired through the acquisition of Indesit.
The pre-tax effects of derivative instruments on our Consolidated Statements of Income and Comprehensive Income for OCI in table for the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013 are as follows:
(1) Gains and losses reclassified from accumulated OCI and recognized in income are recorded in (a) cost of products sold; or (b) interest expense.
(2) Mark to market gains and losses recognized in income are recorded in interest and sundry income (expense).
For cash flow hedges, the amount of ineffectiveness recognized in interest and sundry income (expense) was nominal during 2014 and 2013. There were no fair value hedges in 2014 and 2013. The net amount of unrealized gain or loss on derivative instruments included in accumulated OCI related to contracts maturing and expected to be realized during the next twelve months is nominal at December 31, 2014.
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - (CONTINUED)
(9) STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY
Comprehensive Income
Comprehensive income primarily includes (1) our reported net earnings, (2) foreign currency translation, (3) changes in the effective portion of our open derivative contracts designated as cash flow hedges, (4) changes in our unrecognized pension and other postretirement benefits and (5) changes in fair value of our available for sale marketable securities.
The following table shows the components of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) available to Whirlpool at December 31, 2012, 2013, and 2014, and the activity for the years then ended:
Net Earnings per Share
Diluted net earnings per share of common stock include the dilutive effect of stock options and other share-based compensation plans. Basic and diluted net earnings per share of common stock were calculated as follows:
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - (CONTINUED)
Dividends
Dividends per share paid to shareholders were $2.88, $2.38 and $2.00 during 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively.
Repurchase Program
On April 14, 2014, our Board of Directors authorized a new share repurchase program of up to $500 million. Share repurchases are made from time to time on the open market as conditions warrant. The program does not obligate us to repurchase any of our shares. During the twelve months ended December 31, 2014, we repurchased 165,900 shares at an aggregate purchase price of approximately $25 million under this program. At December 31, 2014, there were approximately $475 million in remaining funds authorized under this program.
(10) SHARE-BASED INCENTIVE PLANS
We sponsor several share-based employee incentive plans. Share-based compensation expense for grants awarded under these plans was $47 million, $50 million and $49 million in 2014, 2013, and 2012, respectively. Related income tax benefits recognized in earnings were $16 million, $17 million and $17 million in 2014, 2013, and 2012, respectively.
At December 31, 2014, unrecognized compensation cost related to non-vested stock option and stock unit awards totaled $49 million. The cost of these non-vested awards is expected to be recognized over a weighted-average remaining vesting period of 29 months.
Share-Based Employee Incentive Plans
On April 16, 2013, our stockholders approved the Amended and Restated 2010 Omnibus Stock and Incentive Plan (“2010 OSIP”). This plan was previously adopted by our Board of Directors on February 19, 2013 and provides for the issuance of stock options, performance stock units, performance shares, restricted stock and restricted stock units. No new awards may be granted under the 2010 OSIP after the tenth anniversary of the date that the stockholders approved the plan. However, the term and exercise of awards granted before then may extend beyond that date. At December 31, 2014, approximately 7.6 million shares remain available for issuance under the 2010 OSIP.
Stock Options
Eligible employees may receive stock options as a portion of their total compensation. Such options generally become exercisable over a 3-year period, expire 10 years from the date of grant and are subject to forfeiture upon termination of employment, other than by death, disability or retirement. We use the Black-Scholes option-pricing model to measure the fair value of stock options granted to employees. Granted options have exercise prices equal to the market price of Whirlpool common stock on the grant date. The principal assumptions used in valuing options include: (1) risk-free interest rate-an estimate based on the yield of United States zero coupon securities with a maturity equal to the expected life of the option; (2) expected volatility-an estimate based on the historical volatility of Whirlpool common stock for a period equal to the expected life of the option; and (3) expected option life-an estimate based on historical experience. Stock options are expensed on a straight-line basis, net of estimated forfeitures. Based on the results of the model, the weighted-average grant date fair value of stock options granted for 2014, 2013, and 2012 were $42.09, $33.92 and $19.54, respectively, using the following assumptions:
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - (CONTINUED)
Stock Option Activity
The following table summarizes stock option activity during 2014:
The total intrinsic value of stock options exercised was $36 million, $53 million, and $32 million for 2014, 2013, and 2012, respectively. The related tax benefits were $13 million, $19 million and $12 million for 2014, 2013, and 2012, respectively. Cash received from the exercise of stock options was $38 million, $95 million, and $43 million for 2014, 2013, and 2012, respectively.
The table below summarizes additional information related to stock options outstanding at December 31, 2014:
Stock Units
Eligible employees may receive restricted stock units or performance stock units as a portion of their total compensation.
Restricted stock units are typically granted to selected management employees on an annual basis and vest over three years. Periodically, restricted stock units may be granted to selected executives based on special recognition or retention circumstances and generally vest from three years to seven years. Some previously granted awards accrue dividend equivalents on outstanding units (in the form of additional stock units) based on dividends declared on Whirlpool common stock. These awards convert to unrestricted common stock at the conclusion of the vesting period.
Performance stock units are granted to executives on an annual basis and generally vest over a three year period, converting to unrestricted common stock at the conclusion of the vesting period. The final award may equal 0% to 200% of a target based on pre-established Whirlpool financial performance measures.
We measure compensation cost for stock units based on the closing market price of Whirlpool common stock at the grant date, with adjustments for performance stock units to reflect the final award granted. The weighted average grant date fair values of awards granted during 2014, 2013, and 2012 were $133.31, $107.85 and $69.32, respectively. The total fair value of stock units vested during 2014, 2013, and 2012 was $25 million, $35 million and $19 million, respectively.
The following table summarizes stock unit activity during 2014:
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - (CONTINUED)
Nonemployee Director Equity Awards
Each nonemployee director receives an annual grant of Whirlpool common stock, with the number of shares to be issued to the director determined by dividing $120,000 by the closing price of Whirlpool common stock on the date of the annual meeting of our stockholders. Nonemployee directors receive a one-time grant of 1,000 shares of Whirlpool common stock made at the time they first join the Board.
(11) RESTRUCTURING CHARGES
During the fourth quarter 2011, the Company committed to restructuring plans (the "2011 Plan") to expand our operating margins and improve our earnings through substantial cost and capacity reductions, primarily within our North America and EMEA operating segments. All actions related to the 2011 Plan have been announced and are now substantially complete. Over $40 million in costs related to actions authorized under the 2011 Plan were recognized during 2014.
During 2014, the Company announced the following restructuring plans: (a) the closure of a microwave oven manufacturing facility and other organizational efficiency actions in EMEA and Latin America, and (b) organizational integration activities in China, in anticipation of the Hefei Sanyo transaction. These plans resulted in charges of approximately $90 million in 2014, with completion expected by the end of 2015, related to employee termination costs, non-cash asset impairment costs, and facility exit costs.
The following tables summarize the changes to our restructuring liability for the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013:
(1) A $40 million restructuring liability was acquired in the acquisition of Indesit in the fourth quarter of 2014 related to an ongoing plan previously initiated by Indesit management. As of December 31, 2014, the acquired restructuring liability is $17 million.
The following table summarizes 2014 restructuring charges by operating segment:
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - (CONTINUED)
(12) INCOME TAXES
The income tax expense was $189 million, $68 million, and $133 million in 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively. The following table summarizes the difference between income tax expense at the United States statutory rate of 35% and the income tax expense at effective worldwide tax rates for the respective periods:
Current and Deferred Tax Provision
The following table summarizes our income tax (benefit) provision for 2014, 2013 and 2012:
United States Government Tax Incentives
On January 2, 2013, The American Taxpayer Relief Act of 2012 (the “Act”) was signed into law. The Act extends certain provisions included in the Tax Relief, Unemployment Insurance Reauthorization, and Job Creation Act of 2010 to ensure that conservation and efficiency are a central component to the United States energy strategy. Among the provisions extended are manufacturers’ tax credits for the accelerated U.S. production of super-efficient clothes washers, refrigerators and dishwashers that meet or exceed certain Energy Star thresholds for energy and water conservation levels as set by the U.S. Department of Energy (“Energy Credit”). The tax credits apply to eligible production during the 2012 and 2013 calendar years provided the production of qualifying product in any individual year exceeds a rolling two year baseline of production. We continue to invest in innovation and energy efficient products that meet these standards for our customers. This provision was not extended to include calendar 2014.
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - (CONTINUED)
United States Tax on Foreign Dividends
We have historically reinvested all unremitted earnings of our foreign subsidiaries and affiliates. We plan to distribute approximately $24 million of foreign earnings over the next several years. This distribution is forecasted to result in tax benefits which have not been recorded because of their contingent nature. There has been no deferred tax liability provided on the remaining amount of unremitted earnings of $4.9 billion at December 31, 2014. As of December 31, 2014, we had $1.0 billion of cash and equivalents on hand, of which $0.9 billion was held outside of the United States. Our intent is to permanently reinvest these funds outside of the United States and our current plans do not demonstrate a need to repatriate these funds to fund our U.S. operations. However, if these funds were repatriated, then we would be required to accrue and pay applicable United States taxes (subject to an adjustment for foreign tax credits) and withholding taxes payable to various countries. It is not practicable to estimate the amount of the deferred tax liability associated with these unremitted earnings due to the complexity of its hypothetical calculation.
Valuation Allowances
At December 31, 2014, we had net operating loss carryforwards of $3.2 billion, $1.2 billion of which were United States state net operating loss carryforwards. Of the total net operating loss carryforwards, $1.8 billion do not expire, with substantially all of the remaining carryforwards expiring in various years through 2034. As of December 31, 2014, we had $249 million of foreign tax credit carryforwards and $1.0 billion of United States general business credit carryforwards available to offset future payments of federal income taxes, expiring between 2017 and 2034.
We routinely review the future realization of deferred tax assets based on projected future reversal of taxable temporary differences, available tax planning strategies and projected future taxable income. We have recorded a valuation allowance to reflect the net estimated amount of certain deferred tax assets associated with net operating loss and other deferred tax assets we believe will be realized. Our recorded valuation allowance of $308 million at December 31, 2014 consists of $288 million of net operating loss carryforward deferred tax assets and $20 million of other deferred tax assets. We believe that it is more likely than not that we will realize the benefit of existing deferred tax assets, net of valuation allowances mentioned above.
Settlement of Global Tax Audits
We are in various stages of audits by certain governmental tax authorities. We establish liabilities for the difference between tax return provisions and the benefits recognized in our financial statements. Such amounts represent a reasonable provision for taxes ultimately expected to be paid, and may need to be adjusted over time as more information becomes known. We are no longer subject to any significant United States federal tax examinations for the years before 2008, or any state, local or foreign income tax examinations by tax authorities for years before 2004.
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - (CONTINUED)
Deferred Tax Liabilities and Assets
Deferred income taxes reflect the net tax effects of temporary differences between the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities used for financial reporting purposes and the amounts used for income tax purposes. The following table summarizes the significant components of our deferred tax liabilities and assets at December 31, 2014 and 2013:
Unrecognized Tax Benefits
The following table represents a reconciliation of the beginning and ending amount of unrecognized tax benefits that if recognized would impact the effective tax rate, excluding federal benefits of state and local tax positions, and interest and penalties:
In connection with our acquisitions of Hefei Sanyo and Indesit, the Company assumed $71 million of uncertain tax position liabilities, including $31 million of interest and penalties. The acquisition of Hefei Sanyo resulted in an assumed uncertain tax position of $61 million that was reflected in the opening balance sheet, while the acquisition of Indesit resulted in an assumed uncertain tax position of $10 million.
It is reasonably possible that certain unrecognized tax benefits of $20 million could be settled with various related jurisdictions during the next 12 months.
Interest and penalties associated with unrecognized tax benefits resulted in a net benefit of $6 million, $12 million and $4 million in 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively. We have accrued a total of $63 million and $39 million at December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively.
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - (CONTINUED)
(13) PENSION AND OTHER POSTRETIREMENT BENEFIT PLANS
We have funded and unfunded defined benefit pension plans that cover certain employees in North America, Europe, Asia and Brazil. The United States plans are frozen for the majority of participants. The formula for United States salaried employees covered under the qualified defined benefit plan was based on years of service and final average salary, while the formula for United States hourly employees covered under the defined benefit plans was based on specific dollar amounts for each year of service. There were multiple formulas for employees covered under the qualified and nonqualified defined benefit plans sponsored by Maytag, including a cash balance formula. In addition, we sponsor an unfunded Supplemental Executive Retirement Plan. This plan is nonqualified and provides certain key employees defined pension benefits that supplement those provided by the company’s other retirement plans.
A defined contribution plan is being provided to all United States employees subsequent to the pension plan freezes and is not classified within the net periodic benefit cost. The company provides annual match and automatic company contributions, in cash or company stock, of up to 7% of employees’ eligible pay. Our contributions during 2014, 2013 and 2012 were $71 million, $68 million and $64 million, respectively.
We provide postretirement health care benefits for eligible retired employees in the United States, Canada and Brazil. For our United States plan, which comprises the majority of our obligation, eligible retirees include those who were full-time employees with 10 years of service who attained age 55 while in service with us and those union retirees who met the eligibility requirements of their collective bargaining agreements. In general, the postretirement health and welfare benefit plans include cost-sharing provisions that limit our exposure for recent and future retirees and are contributory, with participants’ contributions adjusted annually. The plans are unfunded. We reserve the right to modify these benefits in the future.
Defined Benefit - Pensions and Postretirement Benefit Plans
Obligations and Funded Status at End of Year
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - (CONTINUED)
Change in Benefit Obligation
(1) Pension obligation acquired through acquisition of Indesit
During the fourth quarter 2013, we transferred $105 million of ancillary benefits, as allowed under ERISA, out of our United States qualified pension plans and into our United States retiree health and welfare benefit plan. The transfer had no impact on our Consolidated Financial Statements as of December 31, 2013.
During the second quarter 2011, we modified retiree medical benefits for certain retirees to be consistent with those benefits provided by the Whirlpool Corporation Group Benefit Plan. We accounted for these changes as a plan amendment in 2011, resulting in a reduction in the postretirement benefit obligation of $138 million with an offset to accumulated other comprehensive loss, net of tax. In response, a group of retirees has initiated legal proceedings against Whirlpool asserting the above benefits are vested. We believe the outcome of the legal proceedings against Whirlpool will not have a material adverse effect on our Consolidated Financial Statements.
Change in Plan Assets
(1) Pension assets acquired through acquisition of Indesit
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - (CONTINUED)
Components of Net Periodic Benefit Cost
On October 27, 2011 we announced the closure of our manufacturing facilities in Fort Smith, Arkansas and on August 28, 2009, we announced the closure of our manufacturing facility in Evansville, Indiana. Both closures triggered a curtailment in our United States retiree health and welfare benefit plan, resulting in curtailment gains of $52 million in 2012. The curtailment gains were recognized in our Consolidated Statements of Income as a component of cost of products sold with an offset to accumulated other comprehensive loss, net of tax.
Other Changes in Plan Assets and Benefit Obligations Recognized in Other Comprehensive Loss (Pre-Tax) in 2014
Estimated Pre-Tax Amounts that will be amortized from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss into Net Periodic Pension Cost in 2015
Assumptions
Weighted-Average Assumptions used to Determine Benefit Obligation at End of Year
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - (CONTINUED)
Weighted-Average Assumptions used to Determine Net Periodic Cost
Discount Rate
For our United States pension and postretirement benefit plans, the discount rate was selected using a hypothetical portfolio of high quality bonds outstanding at December 31 that would provide the necessary cash flows to match our projected benefit payments. For our foreign pension and postretirement benefit plans, the discount rate was selected using high quality bond yields for the respective country or region covered by the plan.
Expected Return on Plan Assets
In the United States, the expected rate of return on plan assets was determined by using the historical asset returns for publicly traded equity and fixed income securities tracked since 1926 and the historical returns for private equity. The historical equity returns were adjusted downward to reflect future expectations. The expected returns are weighted by the targeted asset allocations. The resulting weighted-average return was rounded to the nearest quarter of one percent.
For foreign pension plans, the expected rate of return on plan assets was primarily determined by observing historical returns in the local fixed income and equity markets and computing the weighted average returns with the weights being the asset allocation of each plan.
Estimated Impact of One Percentage-Point Change in Assumed Health Care Cost Trend Rate
A one percentage point change in assumed health care cost trend rates would have the following effects on our health care plan:
Cash Flows
Funding Policy
Our funding policy is to contribute to our United States pension plans amounts sufficient to meet the minimum funding requirement as defined by employee benefit and tax laws, plus additional amounts which we may determine to be appropriate. In certain countries other than the United States, the funding of pension plans is not common practice. Contributions to our United States pension plans may be made in the form of cash or company stock. We pay for retiree medical benefits as they are incurred.
Expected Employer Contributions to Funded Plans
(1) Contributions include $80 million of minimum contributions required by law.
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - (CONTINUED)
Expected Benefit Payments
Plan Assets
Our overall investment strategy is to achieve an appropriate mix of investments for long-term growth and for near-term benefit payments with a wide diversification of asset types, fund strategies, and investment fund managers. The target allocation for plan assets is generally 41% equity and 59% fixed income, with exceptions for foreign pension plans. For our U.S. plan, the target allocation for equity securities is approximately 51% allocated to United States large-cap, 27% to international equity, 14% to United States mid and small-cap companies and 8% in venture capital. The target allocation for fixed income is allocated with 75% to corporate bonds and 25% to United States treasury and other government securities. The fixed income securities duration is intended to match that of our United States pension liabilities.
Plan assets are reported at fair value based on an exit price, representing the amount that would be received to sell an asset in an orderly transaction between market participants. As such, fair value is a market-based measurement that should be determined based on assumptions that market participants would use in pricing an asset. As a basis for considering such assumptions, a three-tiered fair value hierarchy is established, which prioritizes the inputs used in measuring fair value as follows: (Level 1) observable inputs such as quoted prices in active markets; (Level 2) inputs, other than the quoted prices in active markets that are observable, either directly or indirectly; and (Level 3) unobservable inputs in which there is little or no market data, which require the reporting entity to develop its own assumptions. We manage the process and approve the results of a third party pricing service to value the majority of our securities and to determine the appropriate level in the fair value hierarchy.
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - (CONTINUED)
The fair values of our pension plan assets at December 31, 2014 and 2013, by asset category were as follows:
(a)
Valued using pricing vendors who use proprietary models to estimate the price a dealer would pay to buy a security using significant observable inputs, such as interest rates, yield curves, and credit risk.
(b)
Valued using the closing stock price on a national securities exchange, which reflects the last reported sales price on the last business day of the year.
(c)
Valued using the net asset value (NAV) of the fund, which is based on the fair value of underlying securities. The fund primarily invests in a diversified portfolio of equity securities issued by non-U.S. companies.
(d)
Valued using the NAV of the fund, which is based on the fair value of underlying securities.
(e)
Valued at estimated fair value based on the proportionate share of the limited partnership's fair value, as determined by the general partner.
(f)
Valued using the NAV of the fund, which is based on the fair value of underlying assets.
Fair Value Measurements Using Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3)
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - (CONTINUED)
Additional Information
The projected benefit obligation and fair value of plan assets for pension plans with a projected benefit obligation in excess of plan assets at December 31, 2014 and 2013 were as follows:
The projected benefit obligation, accumulated benefit obligation and fair value of plan assets for pension plans with an accumulated benefit obligation in excess of plan assets at December 31, 2014 and 2013 were as follows:
(14) OPERATING SEGMENT INFORMATION
Operating segments are defined as components of an enterprise about which separate financial information is available that is evaluated on a regular basis by the chief operating decision maker, or decision making group, in deciding how to allocate resources to an individual segment and in assessing performance.
We identify such segments based upon geographical regions of operations because each operating segment manufactures home appliances and related components, but serves strategically different markets. The chief operating decision maker evaluates performance based upon each segment’s operating income, which is defined as income before interest and sundry income (expense), interest expense, income taxes, noncontrolling interests, intangible asset impairment and restructuring costs. Total assets by segment are those assets directly associated with the respective operating activities. The “Other/Eliminations” column primarily includes corporate expenses, assets and eliminations, as well as restructuring costs and intangible asset impairments, if any. Intersegment sales are eliminated within each region except compressor sales out of Latin America, which are included in Other/Eliminations.
We conduct business in two countries, the United States and Brazil, which individually comprised over 10% of consolidated net sales or long-lived assets within the last three years. The following table summarizes net sales and long-lived assets by geographic area:
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - (CONTINUED)
As described above, our chief operating decision maker reviews each operating segment’s performance based upon operating income which excludes restructuring costs and intangible asset impairment, if any. Intangible asset impairment and restructuring costs are included in operating profit on a consolidated basis and included in the Other/Eliminations column in the table below:
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - (CONTINUED)
(15) QUARTERLY RESULTS OF OPERATIONS (UNAUDITED)
(1) The quarterly earnings per share amounts will not necessarily add to the earnings per share computed for the year due to the method used in calculating per share data
(2) Composite price as reported by the New York Stock Exchange
ITEM 9.
ITEM 9.
CHANGES IN AND DISAGREEMENTS WITH ACCOUNTANTS ON ACCOUNTING AND
FINANCIAL DISCLOSURE
None.
ITEM 9A.
ITEM 9A.
CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES
Disclosure controls and procedures. Whirlpool maintains disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rule 13a-15(e) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the "Securities Exchange Act")) that are designed to provide reasonable assurance that information required to be disclosed in our filings under the Securities Exchange Act is recorded, processed, summarized, and reported within the periods specified in the rules and forms of the SEC and that such information is accumulated and communicated to Whirlpool’s management, including its Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, as appropriate, to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.
Prior to filing this report, we completed an evaluation under the supervision and with the participation of Whirlpool management, including the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, of the effectiveness of the design and operation of our disclosure controls and procedures as of December 31, 2014. Based on this evaluation, the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures were effective at the reasonable assurance level as of December 31, 2014.
Management’s annual report on internal control over financial reporting. Pursuant to Section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 and the rules and regulations adopted pursuant thereto, we included a report of management’s assessment of the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting as part of this report. Management’s report is included on page 80 of this report under the caption entitled “Management’s Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting”.
Our internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2014 has been audited by Ernst & Young LLP, an independent registered public accounting firm, as stated in their report, which is included on page 82 of this report under the caption entitled “Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm” and is incorporated herein by reference.
Changes in internal control over financial reporting. In the fourth quarter of 2014, we completed our acquisitions of Hefei Sanyo and Indesit. We are in the process of integrating Hefei Sanyo and Indesit operations and consider Hefei Sanyo and Indesit material to the Consolidated Condensed Financial Statements and believe that the internal controls and procedures have a material effect on our internal control over financial reporting. Whirlpool has extended its Section 404 compliance program under the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 and the applicable rules and regulations under such Act to include Hefei Sanyo and Indesit.
There were no other changes in our internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the fourth quarter that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.
ITEM 9B.
ITEM 9B.
OTHER INFORMATION
There was no information required to be disclosed in a report on Form 8-K during the fourth quarter that was not previously reported.
PART III
ITEM 10.
ITEM 10.
DIRECTORS, EXECUTIVE OFFICERS AND CORPORATE GOVERNANCE
Information regarding our executive officers is included in ITEM 1 of PART I of this report.
Information regarding the background of the directors, matters related to the Audit Committee, and Section 16(a) compliance can be found under the captions “Directors and Nominees for Election as Directors,” “Board of Directors and Corporate Governance- Audit Committee,” and “Section 16(a) Beneficial Ownership Reporting Compliance” in our Proxy Statement, which is incorporated herein by reference.
There have been no material changes to the procedures through which stockholders may recommend nominees to our Board of Directors since March 3, 2014, which is the date of our last proxy statement.
We have adopted a code of ethics that applies to all of our employees, officers and directors, including our principal executive officer, principal financial officer and principal accounting officer. The text of our code of ethics is posted on our website: www.whirlpoolcorp.com - scroll to the bottom of the main page and click on “Policies,” then on “Code of Ethics.” Whirlpool intends to disclose future amendments to, or waivers from, certain provisions of the code of ethics for executive officers and directors on the website within four business days following the date of such amendment or waiver. Stockholders may request a free copy of the code of ethics from:
Investor Relations
Whirlpool Corporation
2000 North M-63
Mail Drop 2609
Benton Harbor, MI 49022-2692
Telephone: (269) 923-2641
Whirlpool has also adopted Corporate Governance Guidelines and written charters for its Audit, Finance, Human Resources and Corporate Governance and Nominating Committees, all of which are posted on our website: www.whirlpoolcorp.com-scroll to the bottom of the main page and click on “Policies.” Stockholders may request a free copy of the charters and guidelines from the address or telephone number set forth above.
Information regarding compensation of our executive officers and directors can be found under the captions “Nonemployee Director Compensation,” “Compensation Discussion and Analysis,” “Executive Compensation Tables,” and “Human Resources Committee Interlocks and Insider Participation” in the Proxy Statement, which is incorporated herein by reference. See also the information under the caption “Human Resources Committee Report” in our Proxy Statement, which is incorporated herein by reference; however, such information is only “furnished” hereunder and not deemed “soliciting material” or “filed” with the SEC or subject to Regulation 14A or 14C or to the liabilities of Section 18 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934.
ITEM 12.
ITEM 12.
SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT AND
RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS
Information regarding the security ownership of any person that we know to beneficially own more than 5% of Whirlpool stock and by each Whirlpool director, each Whirlpool named executive officer, and all directors and executive officers as a group, can be found under the captions “Security Ownership” and “Beneficial Ownership” in the Proxy Statement, which is incorporated herein by reference. Information relating to securities authorized under equity compensation plans can be found under the caption “Equity Compensation Plan Information” in the Proxy Statement, which is incorporated herein by reference.
ITEM 13.
ITEM 13.
CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED TRANSACTIONS, AND DIRECTOR
INDEPENDENCE
Information regarding certain relationships and related transactions (if any) and the independence of Whirlpool’s directors, can be found under the captions “Related Person Transactions” and “Board of Directors and Corporate Governance-Director Independence” in the Proxy Statement, which is incorporated herein by reference.
ITEM 14.
ITEM 14.
PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTING FEES AND SERVICES
Information regarding our auditors and the Audit Committee’s pre-approval policies can be found under the caption “Matters Relating to Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm” in the Proxy Statement, which is incorporated herein by reference.
PART IV
ITEM 15.
ITEM 15.
EXHIBITS, FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULES
(a) The following documents are filed as a part of this report:
1. Financial statements
Consolidated Statements of Income
Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income
Consolidated Balance Sheets
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows
Consolidated Statements of Changes in Stockholders' Equity
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
Report by Management on the Consolidated Financial Statements
Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
Individual financial statements of the registrant’s affiliated foreign companies, accounted for by the equity method, have been omitted since no such company individually constitutes a significant subsidiary.
2. Financial Statement Schedules - “Schedule II-Valuation and Qualifying Accounts” is contained on page 83 of this report. Certain schedules for which provisions are made in the applicable accounting regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission are not required under the related instructions or are inapplicable, and therefore have been omitted.
(b) The exhibits listed in the “Exhibit Index” attached to this report.
SIGNATURES
Pursuant to the requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.
WHIRLPOOL CORPORATION
(Registrant)
By:
/S/ Larry M. Venturelli
February 26, 2015
Larry M. Venturelli
Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, this report has been signed below by the following persons on behalf of the registrant and in the capacities and on the date indicated.
Signature
Title
/S/ JEFF M. FETTIG
Director, Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer
(Principal Executive Officer)
Jeff M. Fettig
/S/ MICHAEL A. TODMAN
Director and Vice Chairman
Michael A. Todman
/S/ LARRY M. VENTURELLI
Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer
(Principal Financial Officer)
Larry M. Venturelli
/S/ CHRISTOPHER J. KUEHN
Vice President and Corporate Controller
(Principal Accounting Officer)
Christopher J. Kuehn
SAMUEL R. ALLEN*
Director
Samuel R. Allen
GARY T. DICAMILLO*
Director
Gary T. DiCamillo
DIANE M. DIETZ*
Director
Diane M. Dietz
GERALDINE T. ELLIOT*
Director
Geraldine T. Elliott
MICHAEL F. JOHNSTON*
Director
Michael F. Johnston
WILLIAM T. KERR*
Director
William T. Kerr
JOHN D. LIU*
Director
John D. Liu
HARISH MANWANI*
Director
Harish Manwani
WILLIAM D. PEREZ*
Director
William D. Perez
MICHAEL D. WHITE*
Director
Michael D. White
Report by Management on the Consolidated Financial Statements
The management of Whirlpool Corporation has prepared the accompanying financial statements. The financial statements have been audited by Ernst & Young LLP, an independent registered public accounting firm, whose report, based upon their audits, expresses the opinion that these financial statements present fairly the consolidated financial position, statements of income and cash flows of Whirlpool and its subsidiaries in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States. Their audits are conducted in conformity with the auditing standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States).
The financial statements were prepared from the Company’s accounting records, books and accounts which, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect all material transactions. The Company maintains a system of internal controls designed to provide reasonable assurance that the Company’s books and records, and the Company’s assets are maintained and accounted for, in accordance with management’s authorizations. The Company’s accounting records, compliance with policies and internal controls are regularly reviewed by an internal audit staff.
The audit committee of the Board of Directors of the Company is composed of five independent directors who, in the opinion of the board, meet the relevant financial experience, literacy, and expertise requirements. The audit committee provides independent and objective oversight of the Company’s accounting functions and internal controls and monitors (1) the objectivity of the Company’s financial statements, (2) the Company’s compliance with legal and regulatory requirements, (3) the independent registered public accounting firm’s qualifications and independence, and (4) the performance of the Company’s internal audit function and independent registered public accounting firm. In performing these functions, the committee has the responsibility to review and discuss the annual audited financial statements and quarterly financial statements and related reports with management and the independent registered public accounting firm, including the Company’s disclosures under “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations,” to monitor the adequacy of financial disclosure. The committee also has the responsibility to retain and terminate the Company’s independent registered public accounting firm and exercise the committee’s sole authority to review and approve all audit engagement fees and terms and pre-approve the nature, extent, and cost of all non-audit services provided by the independent registered public accounting firm.
Management’s Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting
The management of Whirlpool Corporation is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting as defined in Rules 13a - 15(f) and 15d - 15(f) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Whirlpool’s internal control system is designed to provide reasonable assurance to Whirlpool’s management and board of directors regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation and fair presentation of published financial statements.
All internal control systems, no matter how well designed, have inherent limitations. Therefore, even those systems determined to be effective can provide only reasonable assurance with respect to financial statement preparation and presentation.
The management of Whirlpool assessed the effectiveness of Whirlpool’s internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2014. In making this assessment, it used the criteria set forth by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO) in Internal Control-Integrated Framework (2013 Framework). Based on the assessment and those criteria, management believes that Whirlpool maintained effective internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2014.
Management's assessment of internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2014 excludes the internal control over financial reporting related to Hefei Rongshida Sanyo Electric Co., Ltd. ("Hefei Sanyo") and Indesit Company S.p.A. ("Indesit") (both acquired in the fourth quarter of 2014), which are included in the 2014 consolidated financial statements of Whirlpool Corporation. As of December 31, 2014, Hefei Sanyo and Indesit together constitute $5.6 billion and $2.9 billion of total and net assets, respectively. Additionally, they represent net sales and net earnings of $994 million and $15 million, respectively, which excludes certain non-recurring acquisition-related costs and investment expenses.
Whirlpool’s independent registered public accounting firm has issued an audit report on its assessment of Whirlpool’s internal control over financial reporting. This report appears on page 82.
Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
The Stockholders and Board of Directors
Whirlpool Corporation
We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of Whirlpool Corporation as of December 31, 2014 and 2013, and the related consolidated statements of income, comprehensive income, changes in stockholders’ equity and cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2014. Our audits also included the financial statement schedule listed in the index at Item 15(a). These financial statements and schedule are the responsibility of the Company’s management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these financial statements and schedule based on our audits.
We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. An audit also includes assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.
In our opinion, the financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the consolidated financial position of Whirlpool Corporation at December 31, 2014 and 2013, and the consolidated results of its operations and its cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2014, in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles. Also in our opinion, the related financial statement schedule, when considered in relation to the basic financial statements taken as a whole, presents fairly, in all material respects, the information set forth therein.
We also have audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States), Whirlpool Corporation’s internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2014, based on criteria established in Internal Control-Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (2013 Framework) and our report dated February 26, 2015 expressed an unqualified opinion thereon.
/S/ ERNST & YOUNG LLP
Chicago, Illinois
February 26, 2015
Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
The Stockholders and Board of Directors
Whirlpool Corporation
We have audited Whirlpool Corporation’s internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2014, based on criteria established in Internal Control-Integrated Framework (2013 Framework) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (the COSO criteria). Whirlpool Corporation’s management is responsible for maintaining effective internal control over financial reporting, and for its assessment of the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting included in the accompanying Management’s Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the company’s internal control over financial reporting based on our audit.
We conducted our audit in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether effective internal control over financial reporting was maintained in all material respects. Our audit included obtaining an understanding of internal control over financial reporting, assessing the risk that a material weakness exists, testing and evaluating the design and operating effectiveness of internal control based on the assessed risk, and performing such other procedures as we considered necessary in the circumstances. We believe that our audit provides a reasonable basis for our opinion.
A company’s internal control over financial reporting is a process designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. A company’s internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that (1) pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of the assets of the company; (2) provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, and that receipts and expenditures of the company are being made only in accordance with authorizations of management and directors of the company; and (3) provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use or disposition of the company’s assets that could have a material effect on the financial statements.
Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements. Also, projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.
As indicated in the accompanying Management's Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting, management’s assessment of and conclusion on the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting did not include the internal controls of the acquired Hefei Rongshida Sanyo Electric Co., Ltd. ("Hefei Sanyo") business or the acquired Indesit Company S.p.A. ("Indesit") business which are included in the 2014 consolidated financial statements of Whirlpool Corporation and Hefei Sanyo and Indesit constituted $5.6 billion and $2.9 billion of total and net assets, respectively, as of December 31, 2014 and $994 million and $15 million of net sales and net earnings, respectively, for the year then ended. Our audit of internal control over financial reporting of Whirlpool Corporation also did not include an evaluation of the internal control over financial reporting of Hefei Rongshida Sanyo Electric Co., Ltd. or Indesit Company S.p.A.
In our opinion, Whirlpool Corporation maintained, in all material respects, effective internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2014, based on the COSO criteria.
We also have audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States), the consolidated balance sheets of Whirlpool Corporation as of December 31, 2014 and 2013, and the related consolidated statements of income, comprehensive income, changes in stockholders’ equity, and cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2014, and our report dated February 26, 2015 expressed an unqualified opinion thereon.
/S/ ERNST & YOUNG LLP
Chicago, Illinois
February 26, 2015
SCHEDULE II-VALUATION AND QUALIFYING ACCOUNTS
WHIRLPOOL CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
Years Ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012
(Millions of dollars)
Note A-The amounts represent accounts charged off, less translation adjustments and transfers. Recoveries were nominal for 2014, 2013 and 2012.
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ANNUAL REPORT ON FORM 10-K
ITEMS 15(a)(3) and 15(c)
EXHIBIT INDEX
YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2014
The following exhibits are submitted herewith or incorporated herein by reference in response to Items 15(a)(3) and 15(c). Each exhibit that is considered a management contract or compensatory plan or arrangement required to be filed pursuant to Item 15(a)(3) of Form 10-K is identified by a “(Z).”
E-1
E-2
E-3
E-4
Number and Description of Exhibit
101.CAL
XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document
101.LAB
XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document
101.PRE
XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document
101.DEF
XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document
E-5