Form: 10-K

Annual report pursuant to Section 13 and 15(d)

February 26, 2019

Documents

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UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
 
FORM 10-K
 
 
ý
ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018
or
 
¨
TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the transition period from                      to                     .
Commission File Number: 001-36733
 
AXALTA COATING SYSTEMS LTD.
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)
 
Bermuda
 
2851
 
98-1073028
(State or other jurisdiction of
incorporation or organization)
 
(Primary Standard Industrial
Classification Code Number)
 
(I.R.S. Employer
Identification No.)
Two Commerce Square
2001 Market Street
Suite 3600
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19103
(855) 547-1461
(Address, including zip code, and telephone number, including area code, of the registrant’s principal executive offices)
 
Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:
Common Shares, $1.00 par value
 
 
 
New York Stock Exchange
(title of class)
 
 
 
(Exchange on which registered)
Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act: None
Indicate by check mark if the registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act Yes  ý    No  ¨
Indicate by check mark if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Act Yes  ¨    No  ý
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days.    Yes  ý No  ¨
Indicate by check mark whether the Registrant has submitted electronically every Interactive Data File required to be submitted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the Registrant was required to submit such files).   Yes  ý    No  ¨
Indicate by check mark if the disclosure of delinquent filers pursuant to Item 405 of Regulation S-K (§229.405 of this chapter) is not contained herein, and will not be contained, to the best of the registrant's knowledge, in definitive proxy or information statements incorporated by reference in Part III of this Form 10-K or any amendment to this Form 10-K. ý
Indicate by check mark whether the Company is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, or a smaller reporting company, or an emerging growth company. See definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer,” and “smaller reporting company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act. (Check one): Large accelerated filer ý Non-accelerated filer ¨ Accelerated filer ¨ Small reporting company ¨ Emerging growth company ¨
If an emerging growth company, indicate by check mark if the registrant has elected not to use the extended transition period for complying with any new or revised financial accounting standards provided pursuant to Section 13(a) of the Exchange Act ¨
Indicate by a check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act).    Yes  ¨    No  ý
As of June 30, 2018, the last day of the registrant's most recently completed second fiscal quarter, the aggregate market value of the registrant's common stock held by non-affiliates of the registrant was approximately $7,646.5 million (based on the closing sale price of the common stock on that date on the New York Stock Exchange).
As of February 19, 2019, there were 234,282,735 shares of the registrant’s common shares outstanding.
DOCUMENTS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE
Part III incorporates information by reference from the registrant's Proxy Statement for the 2019 Annual Meeting of the Shareholders. Such proxy statement will be filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission within 120 days of the close of the registrant's fiscal year ended December 31, 2018.
 
 
 
 
 

1

Table of Contents
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

2

PART I
ITEM 1. BUSINESS
Axalta Coating Systems Ltd. ("Axalta," the "Company," "we," "our" and "us"), is a leading global manufacturer, marketer and distributor of high performance coatings systems. We have over a 150-year heritage in the coatings industry and are known for manufacturing high-quality products with well-recognized brands supported by market-leading technology and customer service. Over the course of our history we have remained at the forefront of our industry by continually developing innovative coatings technologies designed to enhance the performance and appearance of our customers' products, while improving their productivity and profitability.

Axalta is a Bermuda exempted company incorporated at the direction of an affiliate of The Carlyle Group L.P. ("Carlyle") on August 24, 2012 for the purpose of consummating the acquisition of DuPont Performance Coatings ("DPC"), a business formerly owned by E. I. du Pont de Nemours and Company ("DuPont"), including certain assets of DPC and all of the capital stock and other equity interests of certain entities engaged in the DPC business (the "Acquisition"). Axalta, through its wholly-owned indirect subsidiaries, acquired DPC on February 1, 2013.

Axalta is a holding company with no business operations or assets other than primarily cash and cash equivalents. Our global operations are conducted by indirect wholly-owned subsidiaries and indirect majority-owned subsidiaries.

Our diverse global footprint of 50 manufacturing facilities, four technology centers, 47 customer training centers and more than 14,000 employees allows us to meet the needs of customers in over 130 countries. We serve our customer base through an extensive sales force and technical support organization, as well as through approximately 4,000 independent, locally-based distributors. Our scale and strong local presence are critical to our success, allowing us to leverage our technology portfolio and customer relationships globally while meeting customer demands locally. We operate our business in two operating segments, Performance Coatings and Transportation Coatings, serving four end-markets globally as highlighted below. See the discussion and reconciliation of Adjusted EBITDA to the closest U.S. GAAP numbers in Item 7 and Note 19 to our consolidated financial statements included elsewhere in this Annual Report on Form 10-K.
businesscharts2018v3.jpg
The table above reflects numbers for the year ended December 31, 2018. Adjusted EBITDA Margin is calculated as Adjusted EBITDA divided by Net sales.

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Net sales for our four end-markets and four regions for the year ended December 31, 2018 are highlighted below:
salesbyendmarketa09.jpgsalesbygeographya09.jpg
Note: Latin America includes Mexico. EMEA represents Europe, Middle East and Africa.
SEGMENT OVERVIEW
Performance Coatings
Through our Performance Coatings segment, we provide high-quality liquid and powder coatings solutions to a fragmented and local customer base, as well as a number of regional and global customers. We are one of only a few suppliers with the technology to provide precise color matching and highly durable coatings systems. The end-markets within this segment are refinish and industrial.
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Performance Coatings End-Markets
Refinish
Sales in the refinish end-market are driven by the number of vehicle collisions, owners’ propensity to repair their vehicles, the number of miles vehicle owners drive and the size of the car parc. Although refinish coatings typically represent only a small portion of the overall vehicle repair cost, they are critical to the vehicle owner’s satisfaction given their impact on appearance. As a result, body shop operators are most focused on coatings brands with a strong track record of performance and reliability. Body shops look for suppliers and brands with productivity enhancements, regulatory compliance, consistent quality, the presence of ongoing technical support and exact color match technologies. Color matching is a critical component of coatings supplier selection, since inexact matching adversely impacts vehicle appearance, and if repainting is required due to a poor match, it can significantly impact the speed and volume of repairs at a given shop.
We develop, market and supply a complete portfolio of innovative coatings systems and color matching technologies to facilitate faster automotive collision repairs relative to competing technologies. Our color matching technology provides Axalta-specific formulations that enable body shops to accurately match thousands of vehicle colors, regardless of vehicle brand, color, age or supplier of the original paint during production. It would be time consuming and costly for a new entrant to create such an extensive color inventory.

4

Industrial
The industrial end-market is comprised of liquid and powder coatings used in a broad array of end-market applications. Within the industrial end-market, we focus on the following:
•
General Industrial: coatings for a wide and diverse array of applications, including HVAC, shelving, appliances and electrical storage components, metal furniture, industrial components, sports equipment and playground equipment as well as ACE, fencing, valves and specialized coatings used for coating the interior of metal drums and packaging and coatings for the exterior of glass bottles.
•
Electrical Insulation Systems: coatings to insulate copper wire used in motors and transformers and coatings to insulate sheets forming magnetic circuits of motors and transformers, computer elements and other electrical components.
•
Architectural: exterior powder and liquid coatings typically used in the construction of extrusions for commercial structures, residential windows, doors and cladding.
•
Transportation: liquid and powder coatings for vehicle components, chassis and wheels to protect against corrosion, provide increased durability and impart appropriate aesthetics.
•
Oil & Gas: liquid and powder products to coat tanks, pipelines, valves and fittings protecting against chemicals, corrosion and extreme temperatures in the oil & gas industry.
•
Coil: coatings utilized in various applications such as metal building roof and wall panels, residential and commercial steel roofing, gutters, appliances, lighting, garage and entry doors, HVAC, office furniture and truck trailers.
•
Wood: coatings utilized in OEM and aftermarket industrial wood markets, including building products, cabinets, flooring and furniture.
Demand in this end-market is driven by a wide variety of macroeconomic factors, such as growth in GDP, new residential and commercial construction and industrial production. There has also been an increase in demand for products that enhance environmental sustainability, corrosion resistance, productivity, and color aesthetics. These global trends are bolstered by regional and industry specific trends. Customers select industrial coatings based on protection, durability and appearance.
Performance Coatings Products and Brands
We offer a comprehensive range of specially-formulated waterborne and solventborne products and systems used by the global automotive repair industry to refinish damaged vehicles. Our refinish products and systems include a range of coatings layers required to match the vehicle’s color and appearance, producing a repair surface indistinguishable from the adjacent surface.
We provide systems that enable body shops to match more than 200,000 color variations, using a database with more than four million formulations, in the global market. Our color technology is manifested in the pigment technology that goes into our tints, one of the most technologically advanced parts of the refinish coatings system, which makes up the majority of our products in a body shop. We have a large color library and a number of well-known, long-standing premium brands, including Cromax®, Standox®, Spies Hecker®, and our newest mainstream product, Syrox™, which was introduced in EMEA in 2016, as well as other regional and local brands.
Our color matching and retrieval systems allow customers to quickly match any color, preventing body shop technicians from having to repeat the color matching process, saving time and materials. The color matching process begins with a technician scanning a damaged vehicle with one of our advanced color matching tools, such as our Acquire Plus EFX™ hand-held spectrophotometer. The Acquire Plus EFX lens reads the color, evaluating both the unique flake and color characteristics of the specific vehicle. These characteristics may vary significantly, even for vehicles of the same make, model and original color, due to a variety of factors, including a vehicle’s age, plant at which it was assembled, weather conditions and operating history. The Acquire Plus EFX electronically connects with our ColorNet® database and generates for the paint technician the precise mix of tints and colors needed to recreate that specific color needed for the part being repaired. In addition to the Acquire Plus EFX, we offer customers several other color matching tools, including our VINdicator® database, which identifies vehicle color based on its vehicle identification number, and traditional color matching wheels and fan decks.

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We are also a leading global developer, manufacturer and supplier of functional and decorative liquid and powder coatings for a large number of diversified applications in the industrial end-market. We provide a full portfolio of products for applications including architectural cladding and fittings, automotive components, general industrial, job coaters, electrical insulation coatings, HVAC, appliances, aluminum extrusions, rebar and oil & gas pipelines. Through an acquisition completed in 2017, we have also become a leading manufacturer and supplier of wood coatings sold into the building product, cabinet, flooring and furniture end-markets in North America. Our liquid systems are used to provide insulation and corrosion protection for electrical conductors and components, provide chemical resistance for the interiors of metal packaging drums, protect automotive parts and serve as basecoats for alloy and steel wheels. Powder coatings products are often an environmentally responsible, higher transfer efficiency alternative to liquid coatings. These coatings are typically electrostatically sprayed using a specialized spray gun and cured to create a uniform, high-quality finish. In the oil & gas industry our powder and liquid products are used to protect components from corrosion and severe conditions such as extreme temperatures.
Our major industrial brands include Voltatex®, AquaEC™, ZENITH®, Durapon®, Hydropon® and Ceranamel® for liquid coatings and Alesta®, Nap-Gard®, Abcite® and Plascoat® for powder.
Performance Coatings Sales, Marketing and Distribution
We leverage a large global refinish sales and technical support team to effectively serve our broad refinish customer base of approximately 80,000 body shops. The majority of our products are supplied by our network of approximately 4,000 independent local distributors. In select regions, including parts of Europe, we also sell directly to customers. Distributors maintain an inventory of our products to fill orders from body shops in their market and assume credit risk and responsibility for logistics, delivery and billing. In certain countries, we utilize importers that buy directly from us and actively market our products to body shops. Our relationships with our top ten distributors are longstanding and continue to contribute to our success in the global refinish market.
Our large sales force manages relationships directly with our end-customers to drive demand for our products, which in turn are purchased through customers in our distributor network. Due to the local nature of the refinish industry, our sales force operates on a regional/country basis to provide clients with responsive customer service and local insight. As part of their coverage efforts, salespeople introduce new products to body shops and provide technical support and ongoing training. We have 47 customer training centers established globally, which helps to deepen our customer relationships.
bodyshopsa10.jpg
Our sales force also helps to drive shop productivity improvements and to install or upgrade body shop color matching and mixing equipment to improve shop profitability. Once a coating and color system is installed, a body shop almost exclusively uses its specific supplier’s products. The proprietary nature of a coatings supplier’s color systems, the substantial inventory needed to support a body shop and the body shop’s familiarity with an established brand lead to high levels of customer retention. Our customer retention rate levels have been and continue to be strong.
To effectively reach our customers in the industrial end-market we generally ship directly and leverage a dedicated sales force and technical service team that operates on a regional basis. We are one of only three truly global powder coatings producers that can satisfy the needs and specifications of a customer in multiple regions of the world, while maximizing productivity from the broad scale and scope of our operations.
Performance Coatings Customers
Within our Performance Coatings segment, we sell coatings to customers in more than 130 countries. Our top ten customers accounted for approximately 18% of our Performance Coatings net sales during the year ended December 31, 2018.
In our industrial and refinish end-markets we serve a broad, fragmented customer base. Our industrial end-market is comprised of a wide variety of industrial manufacturers, while our refinish end-market is comprised of approximately 80,000 body shops, including:
•
Independent Body Shops: Single location body shops that utilize premium, mainstream or economy brands based on the local market.

6

•
Multi-Shop Operators ("MSOs"): Body shops with more than one location focused on providing premium paint jobs with industry leading efficiency. MSOs use premium/mainstream coatings and state-of-the-art painting technology to increase shop productivity, allowing them to repair more vehicles faster.
•
Original Equipment Manufacturer Dealership Body Shops: High-productivity body shops, located in OEM car dealerships, that operate like MSOs and provide premium services to customers using premium/mainstream coatings.
Performance Coatings Competition
Our primary competitors in the refinish end-market include PPG, BASF and Akzo Nobel, but we also compete against regional players in local markets. Similarly, in the industrial end-market, we compete against multi-national suppliers, such as Akzo Nobel, PPG, Sherwin-Williams and a large number of local and regional players in local markets. We are one of the few performance coatings companies that can provide the customer service, technology, color design capability and product performance necessary to deliver exceptional value to our customers.
Transportation Coatings
Through our Transportation Coatings segment, we provide advanced coatings technologies to OEMs of light and commercial vehicles. These increasingly global customers require a high level of technical support coupled with cost-effective, environmentally responsible coatings systems that can be applied with a high degree of precision, consistency and speed.
transsalesbyendmarketa09.jpgtranssalesbygeographya09.jpg
Transportation Coatings End-Markets
Light Vehicle
Demand for light vehicle products is driven by the production of light vehicles in a particular region. Light vehicle OEMs select coatings providers on the basis of their global ability to deliver advanced technological solutions that improve exterior appearance and durability and provide long-term corrosion protection. Customers also look for suppliers that can enhance process efficiency to reduce overall manufacturing costs and provide on-site technical support. Rigorous environmental and durability testing as well as obtaining engineering approvals are also key criteria used by global light vehicle OEMs when selecting coatings providers. Globally integrated suppliers are important because they offer products with consistent standards across regions and are able to deliver high-quality products in sufficient quantity while meeting OEM service requirements. Our global scale, differentiated technology platform and customer focus, including on-site support, position us to be a global partner and solutions provider to the most discerning and demanding light vehicle OEMs. We are one of the few coatings producers that can provide OEMs with global product specifications, standardized color development, compatibility with an ever-increasing number of substrates, increasingly complex colors and environmentally responsible coatings while continuing to simplify and reduce steps in the coating application process.
Commercial Vehicle
Sales in the commercial vehicle end-market are generated from a variety of applications, including non-automotive transportation (e.g., HDT, bus and rail), motorcycles, marine and aviation, as well as related markets such as trailers, recreational vehicles and personal sport vehicles. This end-market is primarily driven by global commercial vehicle production, which is influenced by overall economic activity, government infrastructure spending, equipment replacement cycles and evolving environmental standards.

7

Commercial vehicle OEMs select coatings providers on the basis of their ability to consistently deliver advanced technological solutions that improve exterior appearance, protection and durability and provide extensive color libraries and matching capabilities at the lowest total cost-in-use, while meeting stringent environmental requirements. Particularly for HDT applications, truck owners demand a greater variety of custom colors and advanced product technologies to enable custom designs. Our strong market position and growth are driven by our ability to provide customers with our market-leading brand, Imron®, as well as leveraging our global product lines, regional knowledge and service. Additionally, to capture further growth we are launching a new suite of products to meet our customers’ evolving needs.
Transportation Coatings Products and Brands
We develop and supply a complete coatings product line for light vehicle OEMs for the original coating of new vehicles. Products are designed to enhance the styling and appearance of a vehicle’s exterior while providing protection from the elements, extending the life of the vehicle. Widely recognized in the industry for our advanced and patented technologies, our products not only increase productivity and profitability for OEMs but also produce attractive and durable finishes. Our light vehicle coatings portfolio is one of the broadest in the industry.
The coatings operation is a critical component of the vehicle assembly process, requiring a high degree of precision and speed. The paint shop process typically includes a dip process, three application zones and three high-temperature ovens that cure each coating layer at temperatures ranging from 320°F to 400°F (i.e., "high bake"). Our key products consist of the four main coatings layers: electrocoat (AquaEC™), primer (HyperDur™), basecoat (ChromaDyne™) and clearcoat (Lumeera™).
The coatings process accounts for a majority of the total energy consumed during the vehicle manufacturing process. As a result, we have developed Harmonized Coating TechnologiesTM, including 3-Wet, Eco-Concept and 2-Wet Monocoat, that help our OEM customers lower costs by reducing energy consumption while increasing productivity.
OEMs are also increasingly looking to reduce the weight of vehicles in response to increasing vehicle emissions and fuel consumption regulations. As a result, OEMs are constructing vehicle platforms using a variety of new materials in addition to steel and plastic, including aluminum, carbon fiber and other substrates, each of which requires specialized coatings formulations to create a uniform color and finish. We continue to innovate with our OEM customers in driving this trend, as evidenced by use of our coatings on their flagship vehicle platforms.
We also develop and supply a wide array of coatings systems for a broad range of commercial applications including HDT, bus, rail and ACE. These products simultaneously enhance aesthetic appearance and provide protection from the elements. We meet the demands of commercial vehicle customers with our extensive offering of over 75,000 different colors. In the HDT market, because the metal and composite components are painted simultaneously in an automatic process, most truck OEMs use low bake coatings to ensure that the plastic composite parts on a truck’s exterior do not deform during the process. Truck owners demand a wide variety of custom colors that are formulated using a combination of on-site mixing machines at the OEM or direct shipments of premixed high-volume colors from us. Our commercial vehicle brands include Imron®, Imron ExcelPro®, Imron Elite®, Centari®, Rival®, Corlar® epoxy undercoats and AquaEC™.
Transportation Coatings Sales, Marketing and Distribution
We have full-time technical representatives stationed at OEM facilities around the world. These on-site representatives provide customer support, monitor the painting process and track paint demand at each assembly plant. Monitoring OEM line performance in real-time allows our technical support teams to help improve paint department operating efficiency and provide performance feedback to our formulating chemists and paint manufacturing teams. Our customer technical support representatives also help OEMs manage their physical inventory by forecasting facility coatings demand based on the customer’s build schedule.
We sell and ship products directly to light vehicle OEM customers in each of our four regions coordinated via a global point of contact for each customer and assist OEMs with on-site customer support. Located in 14 countries, our manufacturing facilities provide a local presence that enables us to cultivate strong relationships, gain intimate customer knowledge, provide superior technical support to our key customers and maintain "just-in-time" product delivery capabilities critical to OEMs. Our local presence also allows us to quickly react to changing local dynamics, offer high-quality products and provide excellent customer service.
In the commercial vehicle end-market, we employ a dedicated sales and technical service team to support our diverse customer base, including a direct sales force supporting the HDT market. We ship our coatings directly to commercial vehicle OEMs and provide on-site technical service representatives that play an important role by helping optimize the painting process and by providing responsive customer support.

8

Transportation Coatings Customers
We provide our products to light and commercial vehicle customers at over 200 assembly plants worldwide, including nine of the top ten global automotive manufacturers. We have a stable customer base with several relationships dating back approximately 90 years and believe we are well positioned with the fastest growing OEMs in both the developed and emerging markets. Our top ten customers accounted for approximately 68% of our Transportation Coatings net sales during the year ended December 31, 2018.
Transportation Coatings Competition
We primarily compete against large multi-national suppliers such as PPG and BASF in the light and commercial vehicle end-markets. Additionally, we compete against certain regional players in Asia Pacific. With our state-of-the-art coatings solutions and local presence in key OEM markets, we are one of the few competitors in the industry that offers global manufacturers the combination of high-quality products, personalized, top-rate technical service and short lead-times for product delivery.
KEY RAW MATERIALS
We use thousands of different raw materials, which fall into seven broad categories: liquid resins, powder resins, pigments, solvents, monomers, isocyanates and additives. On average, our total raw material spend represents between 45% and 55% of our cost of sales. We purchase raw materials from a diverse group of suppliers, with our top ten suppliers representing approximately 30% of our 2018 spending on raw materials.
Approximately 65% of the raw materials we procure are derived from crude oil and natural gas. While prices for these raw materials fluctuate with energy prices, such fluctuations are somewhat mitigated by the fact that the majority of our raw materials are fourth to sixth generation derivatives of crude oil and natural gas. The dynamics of supply and demand play a much more critical role in our cost of raw materials than just the price of crude oil. Non-petrochemical based inputs such as minerals that are used to manufacture coating pigments are not significantly affected by volatility in crude oil prices but tend to be impacted by the supply-demand dynamics of their industry.
Historically, to manage raw material volatility, we have used a combination of price increases to customers and, in limited circumstances, contractual raw material recovery mechanisms. Since 2001, our variable cost of sales has remained stable between 35% and 43% of net sales.
RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT
Our focus on technology has allowed us to proactively provide customers with next-generation offerings that enhance product performance, improve productivity and satisfy increasingly strict environmental regulations. Since our entry into the coatings industry over 150 years ago, we believe we have consistently been at the forefront of coatings technology innovation. These innovations have played a fundamental role in our ability to maintain and grow our global market share as well as deliver substantial financial returns.
We believe that we are a technology leader well positioned to benefit from continued industry shifts in customer needs. Our markets are among the most demanding in the coatings industry with high levels of product performance that continuously evolves, with increasing expectations for productivity on customer lines and with environmentally responsible products. Our technology development is led by a highly experienced and educated workforce that is focused on new product development, color development, technical customer support and improving our manufacturing processes. As such, our technology development covers two critical interrelated aspects for us, including research and development as well as technical support and manufacturing. In total, as of December 31, 2018, we have approximately 1,400 employees dedicated to technology development. We operate four major technology centers throughout the world where we develop and align our technology investments with regional business needs complemented by over 30 regional laboratories which provide local connection to our global customer base. This includes our new Global Innovation Center located in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania which opened in 2018 for global research, product development and technology initiatives.
PATENTS, LICENSES AND TRADEMARKS
As of December 31, 2018, we had a portfolio of over 740 issued patents and more than 400 trademarks. We actively apply for and obtain U.S. and foreign patents and trademarks on new products and process innovations and as of December 31, 2018, 189 patent applications were pending throughout the world.
Our primary purpose in obtaining patents is to protect the results of our research for use in operations and licensing. We are also party to a substantial number of patent licenses and other technology agreements. We have a significant number of trademarks and trademark registrations in the United States and in other countries, as described below.

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We own or otherwise have rights to the trademarks, service marks, copyrights and trade names used in conjunction with the marketing and sale of our products and services. These trademarks include Abcite®, Alesta®, AquaEC™, AudurraTM, Centari®, Ceranamel®, ChallengerTM, ChemophanTM, ColorNet®, Corlar®, Cromax®, Cromax Mosaic®, Durapon 70®, DuxoneTM, Harmonized Coating Technologies®, Hydropon®, Imron®, Imron Elite®, Imron ExcelPro®, LutophenTM, Nap-Gard®, Nason®, Rival®, Spies Hecker®, Standox®, StollaquidTM, SyntopalTM, SyroxTM, Vermeera® and Voltatex®, which are protected under applicable intellectual property laws and are the property of us and our subsidiaries.
Although we consider that our patents, licenses and trademarks in the aggregate constitute a valuable asset, we do not regard our business as being materially dependent on any single or group of related patents, licenses or trademarks.
JOINT VENTURES
We are party to 12 joint ventures, five of which are focused on the industrial end-market. We are the majority shareholder, and/or exercise control in our nine consolidated joint ventures. Our fully consolidated joint venture-related net sales were $315.6 million, $296.0 million and $231.7 million for the years ended December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016, respectively. See Part I, Item 1A, "Risk Factors—Risks Related to our Business—Risks Related to Other Aspects of our Business—Our joint ventures may not operate according to our business strategy if our joint venture partners fail to fulfill their obligations."
EMPLOYEES
As of December 31, 2018, we had approximately 14,000 employees located throughout the world consisting of sales, technical, manufacturing operations, supply chain, administrative and customer service personnel.
As of December 31, 2018, approximately 38% of our employees globally were covered by organized labor agreements, including works councils, with fewer than 10 employees in the United States covered by organized labor agreements. We consider our employee relations to be good overall.
ENVIRONMENTAL, HEALTH AND SAFETY
We are committed to environmental stewardship and to health, safety and sustainability excellence in our global operations. As such, we operate in compliance with applicable laws and regulations governing the protection of the environment and health and safety of our employees and neighboring communities.
Safety is integrated into the way we do business. Our safety program is structured on the foundation that every employee is engaged and committed to improving safe operating practices and eliminating injuries. When health and safety incidents do occur, we strive to determine the causes and eliminate the potential for future similar incidents. In 2018, Axalta’s injury and illness performance resulted in a 0.38 OSHA Recordable Incident Rate, compared to the 2.0 OSHA Recordable Incident Rate for the General Chemical Industry (according to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics 2017 data).
Our Environment, Health, Safety (EHS) and Sustainability policies and standards are a key element of the foundation upon which we develop, market, manufacture, and distribute products and services to our global customers. In 2017 we established a Board-level committee responsible for our EHS and Sustainability policies, performance, strategy and compliance matters. We operate our manufacturing facilities using a common set of internal standards. These standards support a consistent approach to EHS and Sustainability performance improvement. We strive to assure that all our manufacturing and distribution facilities are operated in compliance in all known material respects to applicable environmental requirements.
Many of our manufacturing sites have a long history of industrial operations and government required remediation is or may be required at a number of these locations. Although we are indemnified by DuPont for certain environmental liabilities and we do not expect outstanding remediation obligations to have a material impact on our financial position, the ultimate cost of remediation is subject to a number of variables and difficult to accurately predict. We may also incur significant additional costs as a result of contamination that is discovered and/or government required remediation obligations that are imposed at these or other properties in the future.
During 2016, Axalta achieved and continues to maintain a global, multi-site certification for RC14001. This certification incorporates the elements of the American Chemistry Council’s Responsible Care Program including product safety and compliance, process safety and security, as well as the ISO 14001 certification specifically related to our environmental stewardship program. We anticipate all manufacturing locations will be covered by this certificate by 2020.

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WHERE YOU CAN FIND MORE INFORMATION
Our website address is www.axalta.com. We post, and shareholders may access without charge, our recent filings and any amendments thereto of our annual reports on Form 10-K, quarterly reports on Form 10-Q and proxy statements as soon as reasonably practicable after such reports are filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC"). We also post all financial press releases, including earnings releases, to our website. All other reports filed or furnished to the SEC on the SEC’s website, www.sec.gov, including current reports on Form 8-K, are available via direct link on our website. Reference to our and the SEC’s websites herein do not incorporate by reference any information contained on those websites and such information should not be considered part of this Form 10-K.

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ITEM 1A. RISK FACTORS
As a global manufacturer, marketer and distributor of high performance coatings systems, we operate in a business environment that includes risks. These risks are not unlike the risks we have faced in the recent past nor are they unlike risks faced by our competitors. If any of the events contemplated by the following discussion of risks should occur, our business, results of operations, financial condition and cash flows could suffer significantly. While the factors listed here are considered to be the more significant factors, they should not be considered to be a complete statement of all potential risks and uncertainties. Unlisted factors may present significant additional obstacles which may adversely affect our businesses and our results of operations.
Risks Related to our Business
Risks Related to Execution of our Strategic and Operating Plans
Our financial position, results of operations and cash flows could be materially adversely affected by difficult economic conditions, and/or significant volatility in the capital, credit and commodities markets.
Several of the end-markets we serve are cyclical, and macroeconomic and other factors beyond our control could reduce demand from these end-markets for our products, materially adversely affecting our business, financial condition and results of operations. Weak economic conditions could depress new car sales and/or production, reducing demand for our light vehicle OEM coatings and limit the growth of the car parc. These factors could, in turn, cause a related decline in demand for our automotive refinish coatings because, as the age of a vehicle increases, the propensity of car owners to pay for cosmetic repairs generally decreases. Also, during difficult economic times, car owners may refrain from seeking repairs for their damaged vehicles. Similarly, periods of reduced global economic activity could hinder global industrial output, which could decrease demand for our industrial and commercial coating products.
Our global business is adversely affected by decreases in the general level of economic activity, such as decreases in business and consumer spending, construction activity and industrial manufacturing. Disruptions in the United States, Europe or other economies, or weakening of emerging markets, such as Brazil or China, could adversely affect our sales, profitability and/or liquidity.
Further, a tightening of credit in financial markets could adversely affect the ability of our customers and suppliers to obtain financing for significant purchases and operations, could result in a decrease in or cancellation of orders for our products and services and could impact the ability of our customers to make payments owed to us. Similarly, a tightening of credit in financial markets could adversely affect our supplier base and increase the potential for one or more of our suppliers to experience financial distress or bankruptcy.
We may be unable to successfully execute on our growth initiatives, business strategies or operating plans.
We are executing on a number of growth initiatives, strategies and operating plans designed to enhance our business. For example, we are undertaking certain operational improvement initiatives with respect to realigning our manufacturing facilities in multiple regions. In 2018, we announced the closing of our Mechelen, Belgium manufacturing facility as part of our restructuring initiative. We anticipate completion of the restructuring and closure activities during the second half of 2020 and will continue this realignment in the coming years. We are also growing our sales force in emerging markets and end-markets where we are underrepresented. The anticipated benefits from these efforts are based on several assumptions that may prove to be inaccurate. A variety of risks could cause us not to realize some or all of the expected benefits. These risks include, among others, delays in the anticipated timing of activities related to such growth initiatives, strategies and operating plans; increased difficulty and cost in implementing these efforts; and the incurrence of other unexpected costs associated with operating the business. Further, our continued implementation of these programs may disrupt our operations and performance. As a result, we cannot assure you that we will realize these benefits. If, for any reason, the benefits we realize are less than our estimates or the implementation of these growth initiatives, strategies and operating plans adversely affect our operations or cost more or take longer to effectuate than we expect, or if our assumptions prove inaccurate, our results of operations may be materially adversely affected.
Increased competition may adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations.
We face substantial competition from many international, national, regional and local competitors of various sizes in the manufacturing, distribution and sale of our coatings and related products. Some of our competitors are larger than us and have greater financial resources than we do. Other competitors are smaller and may be able to offer more specialized products. We believe that technology, product quality, product innovation, breadth of product line, technical expertise, distribution, service, local presence and price are the key competitive factors for our business. Competition in any of these areas may reduce our net sales and adversely affect our earnings or cash flow by resulting in decreased sales volumes, reduced prices and increased costs of manufacturing, distributing and selling our products.

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Improved safety features on vehicles, insurance company influence, the introduction of new business models or new methods of travel, and weather conditions may reduce the demand for some of our products and could have a negative effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.
Vehicle manufacturers continue to develop new safety features such as collision avoidance technology and self-driving vehicles that may reduce vehicle collisions in the future, potentially negatively impacting demand for our refinish coatings. Insurance companies may influence vehicle owners to use body shops that do not use our products, which could also potentially negatively impact demand for our refinish coatings. In addition, through the introduction of new technologies, new business models or new methods of travel, such as ridesharing, the number of automotive OEM new-builds may decline, potentially reducing demand for our automotive OEM coatings. Furthermore, from time to time, weather conditions have an adverse effect on our sales of coatings and related products. For example, unusually mild weather during winter months may lead to fewer vehicle collisions, reducing market demand for our refinish coatings. Any resulting reduction in demand for our refinish coatings could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.
The loss of or reduced purchases by any of our largest customers, or the consolidation of MSOs, distributors and/or body shops, could adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations.
We have some customers that purchase a large amount of products from us and we are also reliant on distributors to assist us in selling our products. Our largest single customer accounted for approximately 6.3% of our 2018 net sales and our largest distributor accounted for approximately 4.0% of our 2018 net sales. Consolidation of any of our customers, including MSOs, distributors and body shops, could decrease our customer base and impact our results of operations if the resulting business seeks different sales terms or chooses to use one of our competitors for the consolidated business. The loss of any of our large customers or significant changes in their level of purchases, as a result of changes in business conditions, working capital levels, product requirements, consolidation or otherwise, could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.
We rely on our distributor network and third-party delivery services for the distribution and export of certain of our products. A significant disruption in these services or significant increases in prices for those services may disrupt our ability to export material or increase our costs.
We ship a significant portion of our products to our customers through our distributor network as well as independent third-party delivery companies. If any of our key distributors or third-party delivery providers experiences a significant disruption such that our products cannot be delivered in a timely fashion or such that we incur additional shipping costs that we could not pass on to our customers, our costs may increase and our relationships with certain of our customers may be adversely affected. In addition, if our distributors or third-party delivery providers increase prices and we are not able to pass along these increases to customers, find comparable alternatives or adjust our delivery network, our business, financial condition and results of operations could be adversely affected.
We take on credit risk exposure from our customers in the ordinary course of our business.
We routinely offer customers pre-bates, loans and other financial incentives to purchase our products. These arrangements generally obligate the customer to purchase products from us and/or repay us for products over time. In the event that a customer is unwilling or unable to fulfill its obligations under these arrangements, we may incur a financial loss. In addition, in the ordinary course of our business, we guarantee certain of our customers’ obligations to third parties. Any default by our customers on their obligations could force us to make payments to the applicable creditor. It is possible that customer defaults on obligations owed to us and on third-party obligations that we have guaranteed could be significant, which could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.
Price increases, business interruptions or declines in the supply of raw materials could have a significant impact on our ability to grow or sustain earnings.
Our manufacturing processes consume significant amounts of raw materials, the costs of which are subject to worldwide supply and demand as well as other factors beyond our control. We use a significant amount of raw materials derived from crude oil and natural gas. As a result, volatile oil and gas prices can cause significant variations in our raw materials costs, affecting our operating results. In rising raw material price environments, we may be unable to pass along these increased costs to our customers. In declining raw material price environments, customers may seek price concessions from us greater than any raw material cost savings we realize. If we are not able to fully offset the effects of higher raw materials costs, or if customers demand greater raw material price concessions than we obtain in low raw material cost environments, our financial results could deteriorate. In addition to the risks associated with raw materials prices, supplier capacity constraints, supplier production disruptions, including supply disruptions, increasing costs for energy, or the unavailability of certain raw materials could result in harm to our manufacturing capabilities or supply imbalances that may have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.

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Failure to develop and market new products and manage product life cycles could impact our competitive position and have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.
Our operating results are largely dependent on our development and management of our portfolio of current, new and developing products and services as well as our ability to bring those products and services to market. We plan to grow our business by focusing on developing and marketing our solutions to meet increasing demand for productivity. Our ability to execute this strategy and our other growth plans successfully could be adversely affected by difficulties or delays in product development, such as the inability to identify viable new products, successfully complete research and development, obtain relevant regulatory approvals, effectively manage our manufacturing process or costs, obtain intellectual property protection, or gain market acceptance of new products and services. Because of the lengthy and costly development process, technological challenges and intense competition, we cannot assure you that any of the products we are currently developing, or that we may develop in the future, will achieve substantial commercial success. For example, in addition to developing technologically advanced products, commercial success of those products will depend on customer acceptance and implementation of those products. A failure to develop commercially successful products or to develop additional uses for existing products could materially adversely affect our business, financial results or results of operations. Further, sales of our new products could replace sales of some of our current products, offsetting the benefit of even a successful product introduction.
Our information technology systems are subject to security risks.
We rely on information technology systems to conduct business. Information security risks have generally increased in recent years because of the proliferation of new technologies and the increased sophistication and activities of cyber attackers. In addition, by utilizing third parties to perform certain business and administrative functions, we may be exposed to greater risk of data security breaches. Our information technology systems may be susceptible to damage, disruptions or shutdowns due to power outages, hardware failures, computer viruses, attacks by computer hackers, telecommunication failures, user errors, catastrophes or other unforeseen events. Any such event relating to our systems (or the systems of third parties that we rely on), could result in theft, misuse, modification or destruction of information, including trade secrets and confidential business information, and cause business disruptions, reputational damage and third-party claims, any of which could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition or results of operations. Since the techniques used to obtain unauthorized access to systems or to otherwise sabotage them, change frequently and are often not recognized until launched against a target, we may be unable to anticipate these techniques or to implement adequate preventative measures. While we have designed and implemented controls to restrict access to our data and information technology infrastructure, it is still vulnerable to unauthorized access through cyber attacks, theft and other security breaches. These types of attacks have been attempted against our systems from time to time, with no material adverse impacts to date, and our protective measures may not be adequate to ensure that our operations will not be disrupted, should another such event occur in the future. Although we continually seek to improve our countermeasures to prevent such events, we may be unable to anticipate every scenario and it is possible that certain cyber threats or vulnerabilities will be undetected or unmitigated in time to prevent an attack on us and our customers.
Our ability to conduct our business might be negatively impacted if we experience difficulties with outsourcing and similar third-party relationships.
We outsource certain business and administrative functions and rely on third parties to perform certain services on our behalf. We may do so increasingly in the future. If we fail to develop and implement our outsourcing strategies, such strategies prove to be ineffective or fail to provide expected cost savings, or our third-party providers fail to perform as anticipated, we may experience operational difficulties, increased costs, reputational damage and a loss of business that may have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.

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Risks Related to our Global Operations
As a global business, we are subject to risks associated with our non-U.S. operations that are not present in the United States.
We conduct our business on a global basis, with approximately 66% of our 2018 net sales occurring outside the United States. We anticipate that international sales will continue to represent a substantial portion of our net sales and that our strategy for continued growth and profitability will entail further international expansion, particularly in emerging markets. Changes in local and regional economic conditions could affect product demand in our non-U.S. operations. Specifically, our financial results could be affected by changes in trade, monetary and fiscal policies, laws and regulations, or other activities of U.S. and non-U.S. governments, agencies and similar organizations. These conditions include, but are not limited to, changes in a country’s or region’s social, economic or political conditions, trade regulations affecting production, pricing and marketing of products, local labor conditions and regulations, reduced protection of intellectual property rights in some countries, changes in the regulatory or legal environment, restrictions on currency exchange activities, burdensome taxes and tariffs and other trade barriers, as well as the imposition of economic or other trade sanctions, each of which could impact our ability to do business in certain jurisdictions or with certain persons. For example, the U.S. government has taken actions or made proposals that are intended to address trade imbalances, specifically with China, among other countries, which include encouraging increased production in the United States. These actions and proposals have resulted or could result in increased customs duties and the renegotiation of some U.S. trade agreements. In addition, it is not known how the withdrawal by the United States from the Trans-Pacific Partnership trade agreement may also affect our business. As another example, new legislation known as the Worldwide Harmonized Light Vehicle Testing Procedure ("WLTP"), which requires all vehicles sold in Europe to comply with new fuel economy testing and carbon emissions standards, has and may continue to impact light vehicle production in Europe, which could result in reduced net sales and profitability. Our international operations also present risks associated with terrorism, political hostilities, war and other civil disturbances, the occurrence of which could lead to reduced net sales and profitability. Our international sales and operations are also sensitive to changes in foreign national priorities, including government budgets.
Our day-to-day operations outside the United States are subject to cultural and language barriers and the need to adopt different business practices in different geographic areas. In addition, we are required to create compensation programs, employment policies and other administrative programs that comply with the laws of multiple countries. We also must communicate and monitor standards and directives across our global operations. Our failure to successfully manage our geographically diverse operations could impair our ability to react quickly to changing business and market conditions and to enforce compliance with non-U.S. standards and procedures.
Any payment of distributions, loans or advances to and from our subsidiaries could be subject to restrictions on or taxation of, dividends or repatriation of earnings under applicable local law, monetary transfer restrictions, foreign currency exchange regulations in the jurisdictions in which our subsidiaries operate or other restrictions imposed by current or future agreements, including debt instruments, to which our non-U.S. subsidiaries may be a party. In particular, our operations in Brazil, China and India where we maintain local currency cash balances are subject to import authorization or pricing controls.
Currency risk may adversely affect our financial condition and cash flows.
We derive a significant portion of our net sales from outside the United States and conduct our business and incur costs in the local currency of most countries in which we operate. Because our financial statements are presented in U.S. dollars, we must translate our financial results as well as assets and liabilities into U.S. dollars for financial statement reporting purposes at exchange rates in effect during or at the end of each reporting period, as applicable. Therefore, increases or decreases in the value of the U.S. dollar against other currencies in countries where we operate will affect our results of operations and the value of balance sheet items denominated in foreign currencies. In particular, we are exposed to the Euro, the Brazilian real, the Chinese yuan, the British pound, the Australian dollar and the Russian ruble. For example, unfavorable movement in the Euro negatively impacted our results of operations in prior periods and future declines of the Euro could affect future periods. Furthermore, many of our local businesses import or buy raw materials in a currency other than their functional currency, which can impact the operating results for these operations if we are unable to mitigate the impact of the currency exchange fluctuations. We cannot accurately predict the effects of exchange rate fluctuations upon our future operating results because of the number of currencies involved, the variability of currency exposures and the potential volatility of currency exchange rates. Accordingly, fluctuations in foreign exchange rates may have an adverse effect on our financial condition and cash flows.

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Terrorist acts, conflicts, wars and natural disasters may materially adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations.
As a multinational company with a large international footprint, we are subject to increased risk of damage or disruption to us, our employees, facilities, partners, suppliers, distributors, resellers or customers due to terrorist acts, conflicts, wars, adverse weather conditions, natural disasters, power outages, pandemics or other public health crises and environmental incidents, wherever located around the world. The potential for future terrorist attacks and natural disasters, the national and international responses to terrorist attacks and natural disasters or perceived threats to national security and other actual or potential conflicts or wars may create economic and political uncertainties. In addition, as a multinational company with headquarters and significant operations located in the United States, actions against or by the United States could result in a decrease in demand for our products, make it difficult or impossible to deliver products to our customers or to receive components from our suppliers, create delays and inefficiencies in our supply chain and pose risks to our employees, resulting in the need to impose travel restrictions. A catastrophic loss of the use of all or a portion of one of our key manufacturing facilities due to accident, labor issues, weather conditions, acts of war, political unrest, geopolitical risk, terrorist activity, natural disaster or otherwise, whether short- or long-term, and any interruption in production capability could require us to make substantial capital expenditures to remedy the situation, which could negatively affect our business, financial condition and results of operations.
The United Kingdom’s withdrawal from the European Union may have a negative effect on global economic conditions, financial markets and our business.
In June 2016, a majority of voters in the United Kingdom elected to withdraw from the European Union ("EU") in a national referendum (commonly referred to as "Brexit"). In March 2017, the UK government initiated the exit process under Article 50 of the Treaty of the European Union, commencing a period of up to two years for the United Kingdom and the other EU member states to negotiate the terms of the withdrawal. The British government and the European Union have now negotiated a withdrawal agreement, and the European Union has approved that agreement, but the British Parliament has not yet approved it. Brexit has created significant uncertainty about the future relationship between the United Kingdom and the European Union, including with respect to the laws and regulations that will apply as the United Kingdom determines which European Union laws to replace or replicate in the event of a withdrawal. Failure to obtain parliamentary approval of the negotiated withdrawal agreement would mean that the United Kingdom would leave the European Union on March 29, 2019, potentially with no agreement (a so-called "hard Brexit"). We have substantial R&D and manufacturing operations in Europe and a significant portion of our business involves cross border transactions throughout the region. The consequences for the economies of the European Union members and of the United Kingdom exiting the European Union are unknown and unpredictable, especially in the case of a hard Brexit. Depending on the final terms of Brexit, we could face new regulatory costs and challenges and greater volatility in the Pound Sterling and the Euro. Any adjustments we make to our business and operations as a result of Brexit could result in significant time and expense to complete. In addition, these developments, or the perception that any of them could occur, have caused and may continue to cause significant volatility in the global financial markets as well as business conditions in Europe and beyond. This volatility may significantly reduce global market liquidity and restrict the ability of key market participants to operate in certain financial markets. Any of these factors could depress economic activity and restrict our access to capital, which could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations and reduce the price of our common shares.

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Risks Related to Legal and Regulatory Compliance and Litigation
Our failure to comply with the anti-corruption laws of the United States and various international jurisdictions could negatively impact our reputation and results of operations.
Doing business on a global basis requires us to comply with the laws and regulations of the U.S. government and those of various international and sub-national jurisdictions, and our failure to successfully comply with these rules and regulations may expose us to liabilities. These laws and regulations apply to companies, individual directors, officers, employees and agents, and may restrict our operations, trade practices, investment decisions and partnering activities. In particular, our international operations are subject to U.S. and foreign anti-corruption laws and regulations, such as the U.S. Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (the "FCPA"), the United Kingdom Bribery Act 2010 (the "Bribery Act") as well as anti-corruption laws of the various jurisdictions in which we operate. The FCPA, the Bribery Act and other laws prohibit us and our officers, directors, employees and agents acting on our behalf from corruptly offering, promising, authorizing or providing anything of value to foreign officials for the purposes of influencing official decisions or obtaining or retaining business or otherwise obtaining favorable treatment. As part of our business, we deal with state-owned business enterprises, the employees and representatives of which may be considered foreign officials for purposes of the FCPA or the Bribery Act. We are subject to the jurisdiction of various governments and regulatory agencies outside of the United States, which may bring our personnel into contact with foreign officials responsible for issuing or renewing permits, licenses or approvals or for enforcing other governmental regulations. In addition, some of the international locations in which we operate lack a developed legal system and have elevated levels of corruption. Our global operations expose us to the risk of violating, or being accused of violating, the foregoing or other anti-corruption laws. Such violations could be punishable by criminal fines, imprisonment, civil penalties, disgorgement of profits, injunctions and exclusion from government contracts, as well as other remedial measures. Investigations of alleged violations can be very expensive, disruptive and damaging to our reputation. Although we have implemented anti-corruption policies and procedures and introduced training since becoming an independent company, there can be no guarantee that these policies, procedures and training will effectively prevent violations by our employees or representatives in the future. Additionally, we face a risk that our distributors and other business partners may violate the FCPA, the Bribery Act or similar laws or regulations. Such violations could expose us to FCPA and Bribery Act liability and/or our reputation may potentially be harmed by their violations and resulting sanctions and fines.
Our international operations require us to comply with anti-terrorism laws and regulations and applicable trade embargoes.
We are subject to trade and economic sanctions laws and other restrictions on international trade. The U.S. and other governments and their agencies impose sanctions and embargoes on certain countries, their governments and designated parties. In the United States, the economic and trade sanctions programs are principally administered and enforced by the U.S. Treasury Department’s Office of Foreign Assets Control. If we fail to comply with these laws, we could be subject to civil or criminal penalties, other remedial measures and legal expenses, which could adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations. Although we have implemented trade-related policies and procedures and introduced training since becoming an independent company, we cannot assure you that such policies, procedures and training will effectively prevent violations in the future, particularly as the scope of certain laws may be unclear and may be subject to changing interpretations.
We cannot predict the nature, scope or effect of future regulatory requirements to which our international sales and manufacturing operations might be subject or the manner in which existing laws might be administered or interpreted. Future regulations could limit the countries in which some of our products may be manufactured or sold, or could restrict our access to, or increase the cost of obtaining, products from foreign sources. The occurrence of any of the foregoing could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.
We are subject to complex and evolving data privacy laws.
Our business is subject to complex and evolving U.S. and foreign laws and regulations regarding privacy, data protection and other matters. We could be liable for loss or misuse of our customers’ personal information and/or our employee’s personally-identifiable information if we fail to prevent or mitigate such misuse or breach. Although we have developed systems and processes that are designed to protect customer and employee information and prevent misuse of such information and other security breaches, failure to prevent or mitigate such misuse or breaches may affect our reputation and operating results negatively and may require significant management time and attention.

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As a result of our current and past operations and/or products, including operations and/or products related to our businesses prior to the Acquisition, we could incur significant environmental liabilities and costs.
We are subject to various laws and regulations around the world governing the protection of the environment and health and safety, including the discharge of pollutants to air and water and the management and disposal of hazardous substances. These laws and regulations not only govern our current operations and products, but also impose potential liability on us for our or our predecessors’ past operations. We could incur fines, penalties and other sanctions as a result of violations of such laws and regulations. In addition, as a result of our operations and/or products, including our past operations and/or products related to our businesses prior to the Acquisition, we could incur substantial costs, including costs relating to remediation and restoration activities and third-party claims for property damage or personal injury. The ultimate costs under environmental laws and the timing of these costs are difficult to accurately predict. Our accruals for costs and liabilities at sites where contamination is being investigated or remediated may not be adequate because the estimates on which the accruals are based depend on a number of factors including the nature of the matter, the complexity of the site, site geology, the nature and extent of contamination, the type of remedy, the outcome of discussions with regulatory agencies and, at multi-party sites, other Potentially Responsible Parties ("PRPs") and the number and financial viability of other PRPs. Additional contamination may also be identified, and/or additional cleanup obligations may be incurred, at these or other sites in the future. For example, periodic monitoring or investigation activities are ongoing at a number of our sites where contaminants have been detected or are suspected, and we may incur additional costs if more active or extensive remediation is required. In addition, in connection with the Acquisition, DuPont has, subject to certain exceptions and exclusions, agreed to indemnify us for certain liabilities relating to environmental remediation obligations and certain claims relating to the exposure to hazardous substances and products manufactured prior to our separation from DuPont. We could incur material additional costs if DuPont fails to meet its obligations, if the indemnification proves insufficient or if we otherwise are unable to recover costs associated with such liabilities. The costs of our current operations complying with complex environmental laws and regulations, as well as internal voluntary programs, are significant and will continue to be so for the foreseeable future as environmental regulations become more stringent. These laws and regulations also change frequently, and we may incur additional costs complying with stricter environmental requirements that are promulgated in the future. Concerns over global climate change as well as more frequent and severe weather events have also promoted a number of legal and regulatory measures as well as social initiatives intended to reduce greenhouse gas and other carbon emissions. We cannot predict the impact that changing climate conditions or more frequent and severe weather events, if any, will have on our business, results of operations or financial condition. Moreover, we cannot predict how legal, regulatory and social responses to concerns about global climate change will impact our business.
As a producer of coatings, we transport certain materials that are inherently hazardous due to their toxic nature.
In our business, we handle and transport hazardous materials. If mishandled or released into the environment, these materials could cause substantial property damage or personal injuries resulting in significant legal claims against us. In addition, evolving regulations concerning the handling and transportation of certain materials could result in increased future capital or operating costs.
Our results of operations could be adversely affected by litigation.
We face risks arising from various litigation matters that have been asserted against us or that may be asserted against us in the future, including, but not limited to, claims for product liability, patent and trademark infringement, antitrust, warranty, contract and third-party property damage or personal injury. For instance, we have noted a nationwide trend in purported class actions against chemical manufacturers generally seeking relief such as medical monitoring, property damages, off-site remediation and punitive damages arising from alleged environmental torts without claiming present personal injuries. We have also noted a trend in public and private nuisance suits being filed on behalf of states, counties, cities and utilities alleging harm to the general public. In addition, various factors or developments can lead to changes in current estimates of liabilities such as a final adverse judgment, significant settlement or changes in applicable law. A future adverse ruling or unfavorable development could result in future charges that could have a material adverse effect on us. An adverse outcome in any one or more of these matters could be material to our business, financial condition and results of operations. In particular, product liability claims, regardless of their merits, could be costly, divert management’s attention and adversely affect our reputation and demand for our products.
Risks Related to Human Resources
We may not be able to recruit and retain the experienced and skilled personnel we need to compete.
Our future success depends on our ability to attract, retain, develop and motivate highly skilled personnel. We must have talented personnel to succeed and competition for senior management in our industry is intense. Our ability to meet our performance goals depends upon the personal efforts and abilities of the principal members of our senior management who provide strategic direction, develop our business, manage our operations and maintain a cohesive and stable work environment. We cannot assure you that we will retain or successfully recruit senior executives, or that their services will remain available to us.

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We rely on qualified managers and skilled employees, such as scientists, with technical and manufacturing industry experience in order to operate our business successfully. From time to time, there may be a shortage of skilled labor, which may make it more difficult and expensive for us to attract and retain qualified employees. If we are unable to attract and retain sufficient numbers of qualified individuals or our costs to do so increase significantly, our operations could be materially adversely affected.
In 2018 we appointed a new Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer. There are inherent risks and uncertainties related to the transition in leadership which may cause our business, strategy or results to materially differ.
If we are required to make unexpected payments to any pension plans applicable to our employees, our financial condition may be adversely affected.
We have defined benefit pension plans in which many of our current and former employees outside the United States participate or have participated. Many of these plans are underfunded or unfunded and the liabilities in relation to these plans will need to be satisfied as they mature from our operating reserves. In jurisdictions where the defined benefit pension plans are intended to be funded with assets in a trust or other funding vehicle, the liabilities exceed the corresponding assets in many of the plans. Various factors, such as changes in actuarial estimates and assumptions (including as to life expectancy, discount rates and rate of return on assets) as well as actual return on assets, can increase the expenses and liabilities of the defined benefit pension plans. The assets and liabilities of the plans must be valued from time to time under applicable funding rules and as a result we may be required to increase the cash payments we make in relation to these defined benefit pension plans.
Our financial condition and results of operations may be adversely affected to the extent that we are required to make any additional payments to any relevant defined benefit pension plans in excess of the amounts assumed in our current projections and assumptions or report higher pension plan expenses under relevant accounting rules.
We are subject to work stoppages, union negotiations, labor disputes and other matters associated with our labor force, which may adversely impact our operations and cause us to incur incremental costs.
Many of our employees globally are in unions or otherwise covered by labor agreements, including works councils. As of December 31, 2018, less than 0.1% of our U.S. workforce was unionized and approximately 50% of our workforce outside the United States was unionized or otherwise covered by labor agreements. Consequently, we may be subject to potential union campaigns, work stoppages, union negotiations and other potential labor disputes. Additionally, negotiations with unions or works councils in connection with existing labor agreements may result in significant increases in our cost of labor, divert management’s attention away from operating our business or break down and result in the disruption of our operations. The occurrence of any of the preceding outcomes could impair our ability to manufacture our products and result in increased costs and/or decreased operating results. Further, we may be impacted by work stoppages at our suppliers or customers that are beyond our control.
Risks Related to Intellectual Property
Our inability to protect and enforce our intellectual property rights could adversely affect our financial results.
Intellectual property rights both in the United States and in foreign countries, including patents, trade secrets, confidential information, trademarks and trade names, are important to our business and will be critical to our ability to grow and succeed in the future. We make strategic decisions on whether to apply for intellectual property protection and what kind of protection to pursue based on a cost benefit analysis. While we endeavor to protect our intellectual property rights in certain jurisdictions in which our products are produced or used and in jurisdictions into which our products are imported, the decision to file for intellectual property protection is made on a case-by-case basis. Because of the differences in foreign trademark, patent and other laws concerning proprietary rights, our intellectual property rights may not receive the same degree of protection in foreign countries as they would in the United States. Our failure to obtain or maintain adequate protection of our intellectual property rights for any reason could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.
We have applied for patent protection relating to certain existing and proposed products, processes and services in certain jurisdictions. While we generally consider applying for patents in those countries where we intend to make, have made, use or sell patented products, we may not accurately assess all of the countries where patent protection will ultimately be desirable. If we fail to timely file a patent application in any such country, we may be precluded from doing so at a later date. Furthermore, we cannot assure you that our pending patent applications will not be challenged by third parties or that such applications will eventually be issued by the applicable patent offices as patents. We also cannot assure you that the patents issued as a result of our foreign patent applications will have the same scope of coverage as our U.S. patents. It is possible that only a limited number of the pending patent applications will result in issued patents, which may have a materially adverse effect on our business and results of operations.

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The patents we own could be challenged, invalidated or circumvented by others and may not be of sufficient scope or strength to provide us with any meaningful protection or commercial advantage. Furthermore, our existing patents are subject to challenges from third parties that may result in invalidations and will all eventually expire, after which we will not be able to prevent our competitors from using our previously patented technologies, which could materially adversely affect our competitive advantage stemming from those products and technologies. We also cannot assure you that competitors will not infringe our patents, or that we will have adequate resources to enforce our patents.
We also rely on unpatented proprietary technology. It is possible that others will independently develop the same or similar technology or otherwise obtain access to our unpatented technology. To protect our trade secrets and other proprietary information, we require certain employees, consultants, advisors and collaborators to enter into confidentiality agreements as we deem appropriate. We cannot assure you that we will be able to enter into these confidentiality agreements or that these agreements will provide meaningful protection for our trade secrets, know-how or other proprietary information in the event of any unauthorized use, misappropriation or disclosure of such trade secrets, know-how or other proprietary information. If we are unable to maintain the proprietary nature of our technologies, we could be materially adversely affected.
We rely on our trademarks, trade names and brand names to distinguish our products from the products of our competitors and have registered or applied to register many of these trademarks. We cannot assure you that our trademark applications will be approved. Third parties may also oppose our trademark applications, or otherwise challenge our use of the trademarks. In the event that our trademarks are successfully challenged, we could be forced to rebrand our products, which could result in loss of brand recognition, and could require us to devote resources to advertising and marketing new brands. Further, we cannot assure you that competitors will not infringe our trademarks, or that we will have adequate resources to enforce our trademarks. We also license third parties to use our trademarks. In an effort to preserve our trademark rights, we enter into license agreements with these third parties that govern the use of our trademarks and contain limitations on their use. Although we make efforts to police the use of our trademarks by our licensees, we cannot assure you that these efforts will be sufficient to ensure that our licensees abide by the terms of their licenses. In the event that our licensees fail to do so, our trademark rights could be diluted.
If we are sued for infringing intellectual property rights of third parties, it may be costly and time consuming, and an unfavorable outcome in any litigation could harm our business.
We cannot assure you that our activities will not, unintentionally or otherwise, infringe on the patents, trademarks or other intellectual property rights owned by others. We may spend significant time and effort and incur significant litigation costs if we are required to defend ourselves against intellectual property rights claims brought against us, regardless of whether the claims have merit. If we are found to have infringed on the patents, trademarks or other intellectual property rights of others, we may be subject to substantial claims for damages, which could materially impact our cash flow, business, financial condition and results of operations. We may also be required to cease development, use or sale of the relevant products or processes, or we may be required to obtain a license on the disputed rights, which may not be available on commercially reasonable terms, if at all.
Risks Related to Other Aspects of our Business
We may continue to engage in acquisitions and divestitures, and may encounter difficulties integrating acquired businesses with, or disposing of divested businesses from, our current operations and, as a result, we may not realize the anticipated benefits of these acquisitions and divestitures.
We may continue to seek to grow through strategic acquisitions, joint ventures or other arrangements. Our due diligence reviews in these transactions may not identify all of the material issues necessary to accurately estimate the cost or potential loss contingencies with respect to a particular transaction, including potential exposure to regulatory sanctions resulting from a counterparty’s previous activities. We may incur unanticipated costs or expenses, including post-closing asset impairment charges, expenses associated with eliminating duplicate facilities, litigation and other liabilities. We may also face regulatory scrutiny as a result of perceived concentration in certain markets, which could cause additional delay or prevent us from completing certain acquisitions that would be beneficial to our business. We may also encounter difficulties in integrating acquisitions with our operations, applying our internal controls processes to these acquisitions or in managing strategic investments. Additionally, we may not achieve the benefits we anticipate when we first enter into a transaction in the amount or on the timeframe anticipated. Any of the foregoing could adversely affect our business and results of operations. In addition, accounting requirements relating to business combinations, including the requirement to expense certain acquisition costs as incurred, may cause us to experience greater earnings volatility and generally lower earnings during periods in which we acquire new businesses. Furthermore, we may make strategic divestitures from time to time. These divestitures may result in continued financial involvement in the divested businesses, such as through indemnities, guarantees or other financial arrangements. These arrangements could result in financial obligations imposed upon us and could affect our future financial condition and results of operations. Acquisitions and divestitures may also require us to devote significant internal resources and could divert management's attention away from operating our business.

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Our joint ventures may not operate according to our business strategy if our joint venture partners fail to fulfill their obligations.
As part of our business, we have entered into certain joint venture arrangements, and may enter into additional joint venture arrangements in the future. The nature of a joint venture requires us to share control over significant decisions with unaffiliated third parties. Since we may not exercise control over our current or future joint ventures, we may not be able to require our joint ventures to take actions that we believe are necessary to implement our business strategy. Additionally, differences in views among joint venture participants may result in delayed decisions or failures to agree on major issues. If these differences cause the joint ventures to deviate from our business strategy, our results of operations could be materially adversely affected.
The insurance we maintain may not fully cover all potential exposures.
Our product liability, property, business interruption and casualty insurance coverages may not cover all risks associated with the operation of our business and may not be sufficient to offset the costs of any losses, lost sales or increased costs experienced during business interruptions. For some risks, we may elect not to obtain insurance. As a result of market conditions, premiums and deductibles for certain insurance policies can increase substantially and, in some instances, certain insurance policies may become unavailable or available only for reduced amounts of coverage. As a result, we may not be able to renew our insurance policies or procure other desirable insurance on commercially reasonable terms, if at all. Losses and liabilities from uninsured or underinsured events and delay in the payment of insurance proceeds could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.
DuPont’s potential breach of its obligations in connection with the Acquisition, including failure to comply with its indemnification obligations, may materially affect our business and operating results.
Although the Acquisition closed on February 1, 2013, DuPont still has performance obligations to us, including fulfilling indemnification requirements. We could incur material additional costs if DuPont fails to meet its obligations or if we otherwise are unable to recover costs associated with such liabilities.
We may be subject to changes in our tax rates and the adoption of tax legislation or exposure to additional tax liabilities that may adversely affect our results of operations.
We are subject to taxes in the U.S. and non-U.S. jurisdictions where our subsidiaries are organized. Due to economic and political conditions, tax rates in various jurisdictions may be subject to significant change. Our future effective tax rates could be affected by changes in the mix of earnings in countries with differing statutory tax rates, changes in the valuation of deferred tax assets and liabilities, changes in available tax credits or tax deductions and changes in tax laws or their interpretation, such as interpretations as to the legality of tax advantages granted under the EU state aid rules. Additionally, we and our subsidiaries are engaged in a number of intercompany transactions across multiple tax jurisdictions. Although we believe we have clearly reflected the economics of these transactions and the proper local transfer pricing documentation is in place, tax authorities may propose and sustain adjustments that could result in changes that may impact our mix of earnings in countries with differing statutory tax rates. Our tax returns and other tax matters are subject to examination by local tax authorities and governmental bodies. We regularly assess the likelihood of an adverse outcome resulting from these examinations to determine the adequacy of our provision for taxes. There can be no assurance as to the outcome of these examinations. If our effective tax rates were to increase, or if the ultimate determination of the taxes owed by us is for an amount in excess of amounts previously accrued, our operating results, cash flows and financial condition could be adversely affected.
On December 22, 2017, the U.S. Tax Cuts and Jobs Act ("U.S. TCJA") legislation was enacted into law, which significantly revised the U.S. Internal Revenue Code of 1986 ("the Code"), as amended. While our current tax accounting is complete based on legislative updates relating to the U.S. TCJA currently, further interpretive guidance of the U.S TCJA's provisions could result in further adjustments that could have an impact on our future results of operations, cash flows or financial positions. In addition, it is uncertain if and to what extent various states and localities will conform to the U.S. TCJA.

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If we are treated as a financial institution under FATCA, withholding tax may be imposed on payments on our common shares.
Sections 1471 through 1474 of the U.S. Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the “Code”), and applicable Treasury Regulations commonly referred to as “FATCA” may impose 30% withholding on “foreign passthru payments” made by a “foreign financial institution” (as defined in the Code) that has entered into an agreement with the U.S. Internal Revenue Service to perform certain diligence and reporting obligations with respect to the foreign financial institution’s U.S.-owned accounts. Such withholding on “foreign passthru payments” will apply from January 1, 2019 at the earliest. The applicable Treasury Regulations treat an entity as a “financial institution” if it is a holding company formed in connection with or availed of by a private equity fund or other similar investment vehicle established with an investment strategy of investing, reinvesting or trading in financial assets. The term “foreign passthru payment” is currently not defined. The United States has entered into an intergovernmental agreement (an “IGA”) with Bermuda, which modifies the FATCA withholding regime described above. It is not clear whether we would be treated as a financial institution subject to the diligence, reporting and withholding obligations under FATCA or the Bermuda IGA. Furthermore, it is not yet clear how the Bermuda IGA will address foreign passthru payments. Prospective investors should consult their tax advisors regarding the potential impact of FATCA, the Bermuda IGA and any non-U.S. legislation implementing FATCA, on their investment in our common shares.
We may be classified as a passive foreign investment company, which could result in adverse U.S. federal income tax consequences to U.S. holders of our common shares.
Based on the market price of our common shares and the composition of our income, assets and operations, we do not expect to be treated as a passive foreign investment company ("PFIC") for U.S. federal income tax purposes for the current taxable year or in the foreseeable future. However, the application of the PFIC rules is subject to uncertainty in several respects, and we cannot assure you the U.S. Internal Revenue Service will not take a contrary position. Furthermore, this is a factual determination that must be made annually after the close of each taxable year. If we are a PFIC for any taxable year during which a U.S. person holds our common shares, certain adverse U.S. federal income tax consequences could apply to such U.S. person.
Risks Related to our Indebtedness
Our substantial indebtedness could adversely affect our ability to raise additional capital to fund our operations, limit our ability to react to changes in the economy and our industry, expose us to interest rate risk to the extent of our variable rate debt and prevent us from meeting our obligations with respect to our indebtedness.
As of December 31, 2018, we had approximately $3.9 billion of indebtedness on a consolidated basis. As of December 31, 2018, we were in compliance with all of the covenants under our outstanding debt instruments.
Our substantial indebtedness could have important consequences to you. For example, it could:
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limit our ability to obtain additional financing to fund future working capital, capital expenditures, acquisitions, general corporate purposes or other purposes;
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require us to devote a substantial portion of our annual cash flow to the payment of interest on our indebtedness;
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expose us to the risk of increased interest rates as, over the term of our debt, the interest cost on a significant portion of our indebtedness is subject to changes in interest rates;
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hinder our ability to adjust rapidly to changing market conditions;
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limit our ability to secure adequate bank financing in the future with reasonable terms and conditions or at all; and
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increase our vulnerability to and limit our flexibility in planning for, or reacting to, a potential downturn in general economic conditions or in one or more of our businesses.
We are more leveraged than some of our competitors, which could adversely affect our business plans. A relatively greater portion of our cash flow is used to service debt and other financial obligations. This reduces the funds we have available for working capital, capital expenditures, acquisitions and other purposes and may make it more difficult for us to borrow in the future. Similarly, our relatively greater leverage increases our vulnerability to, and limits our flexibility in planning for, adverse economic and industry conditions and creates other competitive disadvantages compared with other companies with relatively less leverage.
In addition, the indentures governing the New Senior Notes and the agreements governing our Senior Secured Credit Facilities (as defined herein) contain affirmative and negative covenants that limit our and certain of our subsidiaries’ ability to engage in activities that may be in our long-term best interests. Our failure to comply with those covenants could result in an event of default that, if not cured or waived, could result in the acceleration of all of our debts.

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To service all of our indebtedness, we will require a significant amount of cash and our ability to generate cash depends on many factors beyond our control.
Our operations are conducted through our subsidiaries and our ability to make cash payments on our indebtedness will depend on the earnings and the distribution of funds from our subsidiaries. None of our subsidiaries, however, are obligated to make funds available to us for payment on our indebtedness. Our ability to make cash payments on and refinance our debt obligations, to fund planned capital expenditures and to meet other cash requirements will depend on our financial condition and operating performance, which are subject to prevailing economic and competitive conditions and to financial, business, legislative, regulatory and other factors beyond our control. We might not be able to maintain a level of cash flows from operating activities sufficient to permit us to pay the principal, premium, if any, and interest on our indebtedness.
Our business may not generate sufficient cash flow from operations and future borrowings may not be available under our Senior Secured Credit Facilities in an amount sufficient to enable us to pay our indebtedness, or to fund our other liquidity needs, including planned capital expenditures. In such circumstances, we may need to refinance all or a portion of our indebtedness on or before maturity. We may not be able to refinance any of our indebtedness on commercially reasonable terms or at all. If we cannot service our indebtedness, we may have to take actions such as selling assets, issuing additional equity or reducing or delaying capital expenditures, strategic acquisitions, investments and alliances. Such actions, if necessary, may not be effected on commercially reasonable terms or at all. The instruments governing our indebtedness restrict our ability to sell assets and our use of the proceeds from such sales, and we may not be able to consummate those dispositions or to obtain proceeds in an amount sufficient to meet any debt service obligations then due.
If we are unable to generate sufficient cash flow or are otherwise unable to obtain funds necessary to meet required payments of principal, premium, if any, and interest on our indebtedness, or if we otherwise fail to comply with the various covenants in the instruments governing our indebtedness, we could be in default under the terms of the agreements governing such indebtedness. In the event of such default, the holders of such indebtedness could elect to declare all the funds borrowed thereunder to be due and payable, together with accrued and unpaid interest, the lenders under our Revolving Credit Facility could elect to terminate their commitments thereunder, cease making further loans and institute foreclosure proceedings against our assets, and we could be forced into bankruptcy or liquidation. If our operating performance declines, we may in the future need to obtain waivers from the required lenders under the credit agreement governing our Senior Secured Credit Facilities or the indentures governing the New Senior Notes to avoid being in default. If we breach our covenants under our Senior Secured Credit Facilities or New Senior Notes or we are in default thereunder and seek a waiver, we may not be able to obtain a waiver from the required lenders. If this occurs, we would be in default under the credit agreement governing our Senior Secured Credit Facilities and our New Senior Notes, the lenders could exercise their rights, as described above, and we could be forced into bankruptcy or liquidation.
Despite our current level of indebtedness and restrictive covenants, we and our subsidiaries may incur additional indebtedness. This could further exacerbate the risks associated with our substantial financial leverage.
We and our subsidiaries may incur significant additional indebtedness under the agreements governing our indebtedness. Although the indentures governing the New Senior Notes and the credit agreement governing our Senior Secured Credit Facilities contain restrictions on the incurrence of additional indebtedness, these restrictions are subject to a number of thresholds, qualifications and exceptions, and the additional indebtedness incurred in compliance with these restrictions could be substantial. Additionally, these restrictions also will not prevent us from incurring obligations that, although preferential to our common shares in terms of payment, do not constitute indebtedness.
In addition, if new debt is added to our and/or our subsidiaries’ debt levels, the related risks that we now face as a result of our leverage would intensify. See Part II, Item 7, "Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations—Liquidity and Capital Resources—Financial Condition."
We are dependent upon our lenders for financing to execute our business strategy and meet our liquidity needs. If our lenders are unable or unwilling to fund borrowings under their credit commitments or we are unable to borrow, it could negatively impact our business.
We are dependent upon our lenders for financing to execute our business strategy and meet our liquidity needs. If our lenders are unable to fund borrowings under their credit commitments or we are unable to borrow from them for any reason, our business could be negatively impacted. During periods of volatile credit markets, there is risk that any lenders, even those with strong balance sheets and sound lending practices, could fail or refuse to honor their legal commitments and obligations under existing credit commitments, including, but not limited to, extending credit up to the maximum permitted by a credit facility, allowing access to additional credit features and otherwise accessing capital and/or honoring loan commitments. If our lenders are unable or unwilling to fund borrowings under their revolving credit commitments or we are unable to borrow from them, it could be difficult in such environments to obtain sufficient liquidity to meet our operational needs.

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Our ability to obtain additional capital on commercially reasonable terms may be limited.
Although we believe our cash and cash equivalents, together with cash we expect to generate from operations and unused capacity available under our Revolving Credit Facility, provide adequate resources to fund ongoing operating requirements, we may need to seek additional financing to compete effectively.
If we are unable to obtain capital on commercially reasonable terms, it could:
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reduce funds available to us for purposes such as working capital, capital expenditures, research and development, strategic acquisitions and other general corporate purposes;
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restrict our ability to introduce new products or exploit business opportunities;
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increase our vulnerability to economic downturns and competitive pressures in the markets in which we operate; and
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place us at a competitive disadvantage.
Difficult and volatile conditions in the capital, credit and commodities markets and in the overall economy could have a material adverse effect on our financial position, results of operations and cash flows.
Difficult global economic conditions, including concerns about sovereign debt and significant volatility in the capital, credit and commodities markets, could have a material adverse effect on our financial position, results of operations and cash flows. These global economic factors, combined with low levels of business and consumer confidence and high levels of unemployment in certain parts of the world, have precipitated a slow recovery from the global recession and concern about a return to recessionary conditions. The difficult conditions in these markets and the overall economy affect our business in a number of ways. For example:
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as a result of the volatility in commodity prices, we may encounter difficulty in achieving sustained market acceptance of past or future price increases, which could have a material adverse effect on our financial position, results of operations and cash flows;
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under difficult market conditions there can be no assurance that borrowings under our Revolving Credit Facility would be available or sufficient, and in such a case, we may not be able to successfully obtain additional financing on reasonable terms, or at all;
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in order to respond to market conditions, we may need to seek waivers from various provisions in the credit agreement governing our Senior Secured Credit Facilities or the indentures governing the New Senior Notes, and in such case, there can be no assurance that we can obtain such waivers at a reasonable cost, if at all;
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market conditions could cause the counterparties to the derivative financial instruments we may use to hedge our exposure to interest rate, commodity or currency fluctuations to experience financial difficulties and, as a result, our efforts to hedge these exposures could prove unsuccessful and, furthermore, our ability to engage in additional hedging activities may decrease or become more costly; and
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market conditions could result in our key customers experiencing financial difficulties and/or electing to limit spending, which in turn could result in decreased sales and earnings for us.
In general, downturns in economic conditions can cause fluctuations in demand for our and our customers’ products, product prices, volumes and margins. Future economic conditions may not be favorable to our industry and future growth in demand for our products, if any, may not be sufficient to alleviate any existing or future conditions of excess industry capacity. A decline in the demand for our products or a shift to lower-margin products due to deteriorating economic conditions could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition and results of operations and could also result in impairments of certain of our assets. We do not know if market conditions or the state of the overall economy will continue to improve in the near future. We cannot provide assurance that a continuation of current economic conditions or a further economic downturn in one or more of the geographic regions in which we sell our products would not have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.
Our debt obligations may limit our flexibility in managing our business.
The indentures governing our New Senior Notes and the credit agreement governing our Senior Secured Credit Facilities require us to comply with a number of customary financial and other covenants, such as maintaining leverage ratios in certain situations and maintaining insurance coverage. See Part II, Item 7, "Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations—Liquidity and Capital Resources—Financial Condition." These covenants may limit our flexibility in our operations, and breaches of these covenants could result in defaults under the instruments governing the applicable indebtedness even if we had satisfied our payment obligations. If we were to default on the indentures governing our New Senior Notes, the credit agreement governing our Senior Secured Credit Facilities or other debt instruments, our financial condition and liquidity would be adversely affected.

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We are subject to risks associated with the current interest rate environment and to the extent we use debt to fund our operations, changes in interest rates will affect our cost of debt.
LIBOR is the subject of recent proposals for reform. In July 2017, the head of the United Kingdom Financial Conduct Authority announced the desire to phase out the use of LIBOR by the end of 2021. There is currently no definitive information regarding the future utilization of LIBOR or of any particular replacement rate. As such, the potential effect of any such event on our cost of debt cannot yet be determined. LIBOR reforms may cause LIBOR to cease to exist, new methods of calculating LIBOR to be established or the establishment of an alternative reference rate(s). These consequences cannot be reliably predicted and any further changes or reforms to the determination or supervision of LIBOR may result in a sudden or prolonged increase or decrease in reported LIBOR, which could have an adverse impact on the value of any LIBOR-linked instruments and other financial obligations or extensions of credit held by or due to us and could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.
 
Risks Related to Ownership of our Common Shares
Axalta Coating Systems Ltd. is a holding company with no operations of its own. Because our operations are conducted almost entirely through our subsidiaries and joint ventures, we are largely dependent on our receipt of distributions and dividends or other payments from our subsidiaries and joint ventures for cash to fund all of our operations and expenses, including to make future dividend payments, if any.
Our operations are conducted almost entirely through our subsidiaries and our ability to generate cash to meet our debt service obligations or to make future dividend payments, if any, is highly dependent on the earnings and the receipt of funds from our subsidiaries in the form of dividends, loans or advances and through repayment of loans or advances from us. Payments to us by our subsidiaries and joint ventures will be contingent upon our subsidiaries’ or joint ventures’ earnings and other business considerations and may be subject to statutory or contractual restrictions. In addition, there may be significant tax and other legal restrictions on the ability of foreign subsidiaries or joint ventures to remit money to us.
The price of our common shares may fluctuate significantly, and you could lose all or part of your investment.
Volatility in the market price of our common shares may prevent you from being able to sell your common shares at or above the price you paid for your common shares. The market price of our common shares could fluctuate significantly for various reasons, including:
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our operating and financial performance and prospects;
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our quarterly or annual earnings or those of other companies in our industry;
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the public’s reaction to our press releases, our other public announcements and our filings with the SEC;
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changes in, or failure to meet, earnings estimates or recommendations by research analysts who track our common shares or the stock of other companies in our industry;
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the failure of research analysts to cover our common shares;
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strategic actions by us, our customers or our competitors, such as acquisitions, divestitures, restructurings or site closures, including asset closures, or market rumors regarding such actions;
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new laws or regulations or new interpretations of existing laws or regulations applicable to our business;
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changes in accounting standards, policies, guidance, interpretations or principles;
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the impact on our profitability temporarily caused by the time lag between when we experience cost increases until these increases flow through cost of sales because of our method of accounting for inventory, or the impact from our inability to pass on such price increases to our customers;
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material litigations or government investigations;
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changes in general conditions in the United States and global economies or financial markets, including those resulting from war, incidents of terrorism or responses to such events;
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risks and uncertainties relating to the change in our leadership;
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changes in key personnel;
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sales of common shares by us or members of our management team;
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the granting of restricted common shares, stock options and other equity awards;
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volume of trading in our common shares; and
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the realization of any risks described under this “Risk Factors” section.

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In addition, over the past several years, the stock markets have experienced significant price and volume fluctuations. This volatility has had a significant impact on the market price of securities issued by many companies, including companies in our industry. The changes frequently appear to occur without regard to the operating performance of the affected companies. Hence, the price of our common shares could fluctuate based upon factors that have little or nothing to do with our company, and these fluctuations could materially reduce our share price and cause you to lose all or part of your investment. Further, in the past, market fluctuations and price declines in a company’s stock have led to securities class action litigations. If such a suit were to arise, it could have a substantial cost and divert our resources regardless of the outcome.
If we fail to maintain proper and effective internal controls over financial reporting, our ability to produce accurate and timely financial statements could be impaired and investors’ views of us could be harmed.
The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 (the "Sarbanes-Oxley Act") requires, among other things, that we maintain effective internal control over financial reporting and disclosure controls and procedures. One key aspect of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act is that we must perform system and process evaluation and testing of our internal control over financial reporting to allow management and our independent registered public accounting firm to report on the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting, as required by Section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act, with auditor attestation of the effectiveness of our internal controls. If we are not able to comply with the requirements of Section 404 in a timely manner, or if we or our independent registered public accounting firm identify deficiencies in our internal control over financial reporting that are deemed to be material weaknesses, the market price of our common shares could decline and we could be subject to sanctions or investigations by the New York Stock Exchange ("NYSE"), the SEC or other regulatory authorities, which would require additional financial and management resources.
Our ability to successfully implement our business plan and comply with the Sarbanes-Oxley Act requires us to be able to prepare timely and accurate financial statements, among other requirements. Any delay in the implementation of, or disruption in the transition to, new or enhanced systems, procedures or controls, may cause our operations to suffer and we may be unable to conclude that our internal control over financial reporting is effective and to obtain an unqualified report on internal controls from our auditors. Moreover, we cannot be certain that these measures would ensure that we implement and maintain adequate controls over our financial processes and reporting in the future. Even if we were to conclude, and our independent registered public accounting firm were to concur, that our internal control over financial reporting provided reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America ("U.S. GAAP"), because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect fraud or misstatements. This, in turn, could have an adverse impact on the market price for our common shares, and could adversely affect our ability to access the capital markets.
We do not intend to pay dividends on our common shares and, consequently, your ability to achieve a return on your investment will depend on appreciation in the price of our common shares.
We do not intend to declare and pay dividends on our common shares for the foreseeable future. Therefore, you are not likely to receive any dividends on your common shares for the foreseeable future and the success of an investment in our common shares will depend upon any future appreciation in their value. There is no guarantee that our common shares will appreciate in value or even maintain the price at which our shareholders have purchased their shares. The payment of future dividends, however, will be at the discretion of our Board of Directors and will depend on, among other things, our earnings, financial condition, capital requirements, level of indebtedness, statutory and contractual restrictions applying to the payment of dividends and other considerations that our Board of Directors deems relevant. The credit agreement governing our Senior Secured Credit Facilities and the indentures governing the New Senior Notes also limit our ability to pay dividends. In addition, Bermuda law imposes requirements that may restrict our ability to pay dividends to holders of our common shares. As a consequence of these limitations and restrictions, we may not be able to make, or may have to reduce or eliminate, the payment of dividends on our common shares.
Future sales of our common shares in the public market could lower our share price, and any additional capital raised by us through the sale of equity or convertible debt securities may dilute your ownership in us and may adversely affect the market price of our common shares.
We and our shareholders may sell additional common shares in subsequent offerings. We may also issue additional common shares or convertible debt securities. As of February 19, 2019, we had 1,000,000,000 common shares authorized and 234,282,735 common shares outstanding.
We cannot predict the size of future issuances or sales of our common shares or the effect, if any, that future issuances and sales of our common shares will have on the market price of our common shares. Sales of substantial amounts of our common shares (including sales that may occur pursuant to the registration rights of Berkshire, sales by members of management and shares that may be issued in connection with an acquisition), or the perception that such sales could occur, may adversely affect prevailing market prices for our common shares. See Part III, Item 13, “Certain Relationships and Related Transactions and Director Independence.”

26

We are a Bermuda company and it may be difficult for you to enforce judgments against us or our directors and executive officers.
We are a Bermuda exempted company. As a result, the rights of our shareholders are governed by Bermuda law and our memorandum of association and bye-laws. The rights of shareholders under Bermuda law may differ from the rights of shareholders of companies incorporated in another jurisdiction, and a substantial portion of our assets are located outside the United States. As a result, it may be difficult for investors to effect service of process on those persons in the United States or to enforce in the United States judgments obtained in U.S. courts against us or those persons based on the civil liability provisions of the U.S. securities laws. It is doubtful whether courts in Bermuda will enforce judgments obtained in other jurisdictions, including the United States, against us or our directors or officers under the securities laws of those jurisdictions or entertain actions in Bermuda against us or our directors or officers under the securities laws of other jurisdictions.
Bermuda law differs from the laws in effect in the United States and may afford less protection to our shareholders.
We are organized under the laws of Bermuda. As a result, our corporate affairs are governed by the Companies Act 1981 (the "Companies Act"), which differs in some material respects from laws typically applicable to U.S. corporations and shareholders, including the provisions relating to interested directors, amalgamations, mergers and acquisitions, takeovers, shareholder lawsuits and indemnification of directors. Generally, the duties of directors and officers of a Bermuda company are owed to the company only. Shareholders of Bermuda companies typically do not have rights to take action against directors or officers of the company and may only do so in limited circumstances. Shareholder class actions are not available under Bermuda law. The circumstances in which shareholder derivative actions may be available under Bermuda law are substantially more proscribed and less clear than they would be to shareholders of U.S. corporations. The Bermuda courts, however, would ordinarily be expected to permit a shareholder to commence an action in the name of a company to remedy a wrong to the company where the act complained of is alleged to be beyond the corporate power of the company or illegal, or would result in the violation of the company’s memorandum of association or bye-laws. Furthermore, consideration would be given by a Bermuda court to acts that are alleged to constitute a fraud against the minority shareholders or, for instance, where an act requires the approval of a greater percentage of the company’s shareholders than those who actually approved it.
When the affairs of a company are being conducted in a manner that is oppressive or prejudicial to the interests of some shareholders, one or more shareholders may apply to the Supreme Court of Bermuda, which may make such order as it sees fit, including an order regulating the conduct of the company’s affairs in the future or ordering the purchase of the shares of any shareholders by other shareholders or by the company. Additionally, under our bye-laws and as permitted by Bermuda law, each shareholder has waived any claim or right of action against our directors or officers for any action taken by directors or officers in the performance of their duties, except for actions involving fraud or dishonesty. In addition, the rights of our shareholders and the fiduciary responsibilities of our directors under Bermuda law are not as clearly established as under statutes or judicial precedent in existence in jurisdictions in the United States, particularly the State of Delaware. Therefore, our shareholders may have more difficulty protecting their interests than would shareholders of a corporation incorporated in a jurisdiction within the United States.
We have anti-takeover provisions in our bye-laws that may discourage a change of control.
Our bye-laws contain provisions that could make it more difficult for a third party to acquire us without the consent of our Board of Directors. These provisions provide for:
•
a classified Board of Directors with staggered three-year terms; although on May 2, 2018, our shareholders approved the elimination of our classified board structure over a three-year transition period;
•
directors only to be removed for cause;
•
restrictions on the time period in which directors may be nominated; and
•
our Board of Directors to determine the powers, preferences and rights of our preference shares and to issue the preference shares without shareholder approval.
These anti-takeover defenses could discourage, delay or prevent a transaction involving a change in control of our company and may prevent our shareholders from receiving the benefit from any premium to the market price of our common shares offered by a bidder in a takeover context. Even in the absence of a takeover attempt, the existence of these provisions may adversely affect the prevailing market price of our common shares if the provisions are viewed as discouraging takeover attempts in the future. These provisions could also discourage proxy contests, make it more difficult for you and other shareholders to elect directors of your choosing and cause us to take corporate actions other than those you desire.

27

ITEM 1B. UNRESOLVED STAFF COMMENTS
None.
ITEM 2. PROPERTIES
Our corporate headquarters is located in Philadelphia, PA. Our extensive geographic footprint is comprised of 50 manufacturing facilities (including 13 manufacturing sites operated by our joint ventures), four major technology centers and 47 customer training centers supporting our global operations. The table below presents summary information regarding our facilities as of December 31, 2018.
Type of Facility/Country
  
Location
  
Segment
Manufacturing Facilities
  
 
  
 
North America
  
 
  
 
Canada
  
Ajax
  
Transportation
 
 
Cornwall
 
Performance
United States of America
  
Front Royal, VA
  
Performance; Transportation
 
  
Ft. Madison, IA
  
Performance; Transportation
 
  
Houston, TX
  
Performance
 
 
High Point, NC
 
Performance
 
  
Hilliard, OH
  
Performance; Transportation
 
 
Jacksonville, TX
 
Performance
 
  
Mt. Clemens, MI
  
Performance; Transportation
 
 
Orrville, OH
 
Performance
 
 
Sacramento, CA
 
Performance
 
 
Fridley, MN
 
Performance
 
 
 
 
 
Latin America
  
 
  
 
Argentina
 
Buenos Aires
 
Performance; Transportation
Brazil
  
Guarulhos
  
Performance; Transportation
Mexico
  
Monterrey
  
Performance
 
  
Ocoyoacac
  
Performance; Transportation
 
  
Tlalnepantla
  
Performance; Transportation
 
 
 
 
 
EMEA
  
 
  
 
Austria
  
Guntramsdorf
  
Performance; Transportation
Belgium
  
Mechelen
  
Performance; Transportation
France
  
Montbrison
  
Performance
Germany
  
Wuppertal
  
Performance; Transportation
 
  
Landshut
  
Performance
Netherlands
 
Zuidland
 
Performance
Sweden
  
Vastervik
  
Performance
Switzerland
  
Bulle
  
Performance
Turkey
  
Gebze
  
Performance; Transportation
United Kingdom
  
Darlington
  
Performance
 
 
Farnham
 
Performance
 
 
Huthwaite
 
Performance
 
 
Tewksbury
 
Performance
 
 
West Bromwich
 
Performance
Asia Pacific
  
 
  
 
China
  
Changchun
  
Performance; Transportation
 
  
Jiading
  
Performance; Transportation
India
  
Savli
  
Performance; Transportation
Malaysia
  
Kuala Lumpur
  
Performance
 
 
Shah Alam
 
Performance
Thailand
 
Bangplee
 
Performance

28

 
 
 
 
 
Type of Facility/Country
  
Location
  
Segment
Joint Venture Manufacturing
Facilities
  
 
  
 
China
  
Chengdu
  
Performance
 
  
Dongguan
  
Performance
 
  
Huangshan
  
Performance
 
  
Qingpu
  
Performance
 
  
Shangdong
  
Performance
Colombia
  
Cartagena de Indias
  
Performance
Indonesia
  
Cikarang
  
Performance
Taiwan
  
Taipei
  
Transportation
Guatemala
  
Amatitlan
  
Performance
United States of America
 
Madison, AL
 
Performance
 
 
Riverside, CA
 
Performance
 
 
 
 
 
Joint Venture Partner Manufacturing Facilities
  
 
  
 
South Africa
  
Port Elizabeth
  
Transportation
Russia
  
Moscow
  
Transportation
 
 
 
 
 
Technology Centers
  
 
  
 
China
  
Shanghai
  
Performance; Transportation
Germany
  
Wuppertal
  
Performance; Transportation
United States of America
  
Mt. Clemens, MI
  
Performance; Transportation
 
  
Philadelphia, PA
  
Performance; Transportation
 
 
 
 
 
Customer Training Centers
  
Location by Region
  
Number of Facilities
 
  
North America
  
8
 
  
Latin America
  
7
 
  
EMEA
  
18
 
  
Asia Pacific
  
14
ITEM 3. LEGAL PROCEEDINGS
We are from time to time party to legal proceedings that arise in the ordinary course of business. We are not involved in any litigation other than that which has arisen in the ordinary course of business. We do not expect that any currently pending lawsuits will have a material effect on us as discussed in Note 6 to the consolidated financial statements included elsewhere in this Annual Report on Form 10-K.
ITEM 4. MINE SAFETY DISCLOSURES
Not applicable.


29

PART II
ITEM 5. MARKET FOR THE REGISTRANT’S COMMON EQUITY, RELATED SHAREHOLDER MATTERS AND ISSUER PURCHASES OF EQUITY SECURITIES
Share Price and Dividends
Our common shares are traded on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol "AXTA."
As of February 19, 2019, there were 12 registered holders of record of Axalta’s common stock as shown on the records of the Company’s transfer agent. A substantially greater number of holders of Axalta common stock are “street name” or beneficial holders, whose shares of record are held by banks, brokers and other financial institutions. Since our incorporation in August 2012, we have not paid dividends on our common shares, and we do not currently intend to pay dividends in the foreseeable future. The declaration and payment of any dividends in the future will be determined by our Board of Directors, in its discretion, and will depend on a number of factors, including our earnings, capital requirements, overall financial condition and contractual restrictions, including covenants in the agreements governing our New Senior Notes and Senior Secured Credit Facilities, which may limit our ability to pay dividends.
Recent Sales of Unregistered Securities
None.
Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities
The following table summarizes the Company's share repurchase activity through its share repurchase program for the three months ended December 31, 2018:
(in thousands, except per share data)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Month
 
Total Number of Shares Purchased
 
Average Price Paid per Share
 
Total Number of Shares Purchased as Part of Publicly Announced Programs (1)
 
Approximate Dollar Value of Shares That May Yet Be Purchased Under Our Share Repurchase Agreement(1)
October 2018
 
915.0

 
$
27.60

 
915.0

 
$
441,517.6

November 2018
 
1,797.3

 
24.97

 
1,797.3

 
396,636.5

December 2018
 
1,310.5

 
23.03

 
1,310.5

 
366,455.5

Total
 
4,022.8

 
$
24.94

 
4,022.8

 
$
366,455.5

(1) Shares were repurchased through the $675.0 million share repurchase program announced in March 2017. We repurchased $100.3 million of our common shares during the three months ended December 31, 2018 and $208.2 million in prior periods. At December 31, 2018, the Company had remaining authorization to repurchase $366.5 million of shares. There is no expiration date on the share repurchase program.

30

Stock Performance
The line graph illustrated below compares the cumulative total shareholder value return of our common shares since our initial public offering with the cumulative total returns of an overall stock market index, the Standard & Poor's Composite 500 Index ("S&P 500"), and our peer group index, Standard & Poor's 500 Chemicals Index ("S&P 500 Chemicals"). This graph assumes an investment of $100 in our common shares and each index (with all dividends reinvested) on November 12, 2014, the date on which our common shares began trading on the NYSE.
a201810kperformancegrapha01.jpg

31

ITEM 6. SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA
The following table sets forth selected consolidated financial data and other information of Axalta and should be read in conjunction with “Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” and our audited consolidated financial statements and the related notes included elsewhere in this Form 10-K. The selected consolidated financial data for the years ended December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016 and as of December 31, 2018 and 2017 are derived from our audited financial statements included elsewhere in this Form 10-K. The selected consolidated financial data for the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014 and as of December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014 are derived from our audited financial statements not included in this Form 10-K.
 
 
Year Ended December 31,
(In millions, except per share data)
 
2018
 
2017
 
2016
 
2015
 
2014
Statements of Operations Data:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Net sales
 
$
4,669.7

 
$
4,352.9

 
$
4,068.8

 
$
4,083.9

 
$
4,356.6

Other revenue
 
26.3

 
24.1

 
23.9

 
26.1

 
29.8

Total revenue
 
4,696.0

 
4,377.0

 
4,092.7

 
4,110.0

 
4,386.4

Cost of goods sold
 
3,106.3

 
2,780.5

 
2,528.8

 
2,603.5

 
2,899.2

Selling, general and administrative expenses (1)
 
959.1

 
995.4

 
959.8

 
908.8

 
990.1

Venezuela asset impairment and deconsolidation charge
 
—

 
70.9

 
57.9

 
—

 
—

Research and development expenses
 
73.1

 
65.3

 
57.7

 
51.6

 
49.5

Amortization of acquired intangibles
 
115.4

 
101.2

 
83.4

 
80.7

 
83.8

Income from operations
 
442.1

 
363.7

 
405.1

 
465.4

 
363.8

Interest expense, net
 
159.6

 
147.0

 
178.2

 
196.5

 
217.7

Other expense, net
 
15.0

 
27.1

 
144.2

 
111.0

 
114.4

Income before taxes
 
267.5

 
189.6

 
82.7

 
157.9

 
31.7

Provision for income taxes
 
54.2

 
141.9

 
38.1

 
62.1

 
0.1

Net income
 
213.3

 
47.7

 
44.6

 
95.8

 
31.6

Less: Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests
 
6.2

 
11.0

 
5.8

 
4.2

 
7.3

Net income attributable to controlling interests
 
$
207.1

 
$
36.7

 
$
38.8

 
$
91.6

 
$
24.3

Per share data:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Net income per share:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Basic net income per share
 
$
0.87

 
$
0.15

 
$
0.16

 
$
0.39

 
$
0.11

Diluted net income per share
 
$
0.85

 
$
0.15

 
$
0.16

 
$
0.38

 
$
0.11

Basic weighted average shares outstanding
 
239.0

 
240.4

 
238.1

 
233.8

 
229.3

Diluted weighted average shares outstanding
 
242.9

 
246.1

 
244.4

 
239.7

 
230.3

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Other Financial Data:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Cash flows from:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Operating activities
 
$
496.1

 
$
540.0

 
$
559.3

 
$
409.8

 
$
251.4

Investing activities
 
(216.1
)
 
(689.6
)
 
(257.0
)
 
(166.2
)
 
(173.8
)
Financing activities
 
(341.3
)
 
367.3

 
(232.6
)
 
(84.7
)
 
(123.2
)
Depreciation and amortization
 
369.1

 
347.5

 
322.1

 
307.7

 
308.7

Purchases of property, plant and equipment
 
(143.4
)
 
(125.0
)
 
(136.2
)
 
(138.1
)
 
(188.4
)
 
 
December 31,
(In millions)
 
2018
 
2017
 
2016
 
2015
 
2014
Balance sheet data:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Cash and cash equivalents
 
$
693.6

 
$
769.8

 
$
535.4

 
$
485.0

 
$
382.1

Working capital (2)
 
1,269.0

 
1,233.4

 
977.9

 
955.2

 
854.7

Total assets
 
6,675.7

 
6,832.2

 
5,866.2

 
5,839.8

 
6,152.4

Indebtedness
 
3,864.0

 
3,915.6

 
3,263.9

 
3,441.5

 
3,614.3

Total liabilities
 
5,365.2

 
5,424.4

 
4,619.6

 
4,706.5

 
5,046.3

Total shareholders’ equity
 
1,310.5

 
1,407.8

 
1,246.6

 
1,133.3

 
1,106.1

Cash dividends declared per common share
 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

(1)
Selling, general and administrative expense for the years ended December 31, 2018, 2017, 2016 and 2015 include costs primarily associated with our Axalta Way cost-savings initiatives of $82.8 million, $63.8 million, $77.6 million and $64.4 million, respectively. Selling, general and administrative expense for the year ended December 31, 2014 include costs primarily associated with transition-related and cost-savings initiatives of $127.1 million.
(2)
Working capital is defined as current assets less current liabilities.

32

ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
The following discussion and analysis of our financial condition and results of operations should be read in conjunction with our consolidated financial statements and the notes thereto included elsewhere in this Annual Report on Form 10-K, as well as the information presented under Part II, Item 6, "Selected Financial Data" of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.
FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS
Many statements made in the following discussion and analysis of our financial condition and results of operations and elsewhere in this Annual Report on Form 10-K that are not statements of historical fact, including statements about our beliefs and expectations, are "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of federal securities laws and should be evaluated as such. Forward-looking statements include information regarding industry outlook as well as possible or assumed future results of operations, including descriptions of our business plan, strategies and capital structure. These statements often include words such as "anticipate," "expect," "suggests," "plan," "believe," "intend," "estimates," "targets," "projects," "should," "could," "would," "may," "will," "forecast" and other similar expressions. We base these forward-looking statements or projections on our current expectations, plans and assumptions that we have made in light of our experience in the industry, as well as our perceptions of historical trends, current conditions, expected future developments and other factors we believe are appropriate under the circumstances and at such time. As you read and consider this Annual Report on Form 10-K, you should understand that these statements are not guarantees of performance or results. The forward-looking statements and projections are subject to and involve risks, uncertainties and assumptions, including, but not limited to, the risks and uncertainties described in "Non-GAAP Financial Measures" and "Forward-Looking Statements," as well as "Risk Factors" and you should not place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements or projections. Although we believe that these forward-looking statements and projections are based on reasonable assumptions at the time they are made, you should be aware that many factors could affect our actual financial results or results of operations and could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed in the forward-looking statements and projections. Factors that may materially affect such forward-looking statements and projections include:
•
adverse developments in economic conditions and, particularly, in conditions in the automotive and transportation industries;
•
volatility in the capital, credit and commodities markets;
•
our inability to successfully execute on our growth strategy;
•
increased competition;
•
reduced demand for some of our products as a result of improved safety features on vehicles, insurance company influence, new business models or new methods of travel
•
risks of the loss or change in purchasing levels of any of our significant customers or the consolidation of MSOs, distributors and/or body shops;
•
our reliance on our distributor network and third-party delivery services for the distribution and export of certain of our products;
•
credit risk exposure from our customers;
•
price increases or business interruptions in our supply of raw materials;
•
failure to develop and market new products and manage product life cycles;
•
business disruptions, security threats and security breaches, including security risks to our information technology systems;
•
risks associated with our outsourcing strategies;
•
risks associated with our non-U.S. operations;
•
currency-related risks;
•
terrorist acts, conflicts, wars and natural disasters that may materially adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations;
•
risks associated with the United Kingdom’s withdrawal from the European Union;
•
failure to comply with the anti-corruption laws of the United States and various international jurisdictions;

33

•
failure to comply with anti-terrorism laws and regulations and applicable trade embargoes;
•
risks associated with protecting data privacy;
•
significant environmental liabilities and costs as a result of our current and past operations or products, including operations or products related to our business prior to the Acquisition;
•
transporting certain materials that are inherently hazardous due to their toxic nature;
•
litigation and other commitments and contingencies;
•
ability to recruit and retain the experienced and skilled personnel we need to compete;
•
unexpected liabilities under any pension plans applicable to our employees;
•
work stoppages, union negotiations, labor disputes and other matters associated with our labor force;
•
our ability to protect and enforce intellectual property rights;
•
intellectual property infringement suits against us by third parties;
•
our ability to realize the anticipated benefits of any acquisitions and divestitures;
•
our joint ventures’ ability to operate according to our business strategy should our joint venture partners fail to fulfill their obligations;
•
risk that the insurance we maintain may not fully cover all potential exposures;
•
risks associated with changes in tax rates or regulations, including unexpected impacts of the new U.S. TCJA legislation, which may differ with further regulatory guidance and changes in our current interpretations and assumptions;
•
our substantial indebtedness;
•
our ability to obtain additional capital on commercially reasonable terms may be limited;
•
any statements of belief and any statements of assumptions underlying any of the foregoing;
•
other factors disclosed in this Annual Report on Form 10-K and our other filings with the SEC; and
•
other factors beyond our control.
These cautionary statements should not be construed by you to be exhaustive and are made only as of the date of this Annual Report on Form 10-K. We undertake no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.
OVERVIEW
We are a leading global manufacturer, marketer and distributor of high performance coatings systems. We have over a 150-year heritage in the coatings industry and are known for manufacturing high-quality products with well-recognized brands supported by market-leading technologies and customer service. Our diverse global footprint of 50 manufacturing facilities, four technology centers, 47 customer training centers and approximately 14,000 employees allows us to meet the needs of customers in over 130 countries. We serve our customers through an extensive sales force and technical support organization, as well as through approximately 4,000 independent, locally based distributors.
We operate our business in two operating segments, Performance Coatings and Transportation Coatings. Our segments are based on the type and concentration of customers served, service requirements, methods of distribution and major product lines.
Through our Performance Coatings segment, we provide high-quality liquid and powder coatings solutions to a fragmented and local customer base. We are one of only a few suppliers with the technology to provide precise color matching and highly durable coatings systems. The end-markets within this segment are refinish and industrial.
Through our Transportation Coatings segment we provide advanced coating technologies to OEMs of light and commercial vehicles. These increasingly global customers require a high level of technical support coupled with cost-effective, environmentally responsible, coatings systems that can be applied with a high degree of precision, consistency and speed. The end-markets within this segment are light vehicle and commercial vehicle.

34

BUSINESS HIGHLIGHTS
General Business Highlights
Our net sales increased 7.3% for the year ended December 31, 2018 compared to the year ended December 31, 2017, driven by volume growth of 4.1%, primarily within our Performance Coatings segment. Acquisitions contributed to 3.5% of the volume increase. Average selling prices increased net sales by 2.6% resulting from both end-markets within the Performance Coatings segment which were slightly offset by pricing concessions within the Transportation Coatings segment. Favorable currency translation contributed to a further increase of net sales of 0.6% due primarily to the impacts of the strengthening Euro and Chinese Renminbi compared to the U.S. Dollar. The following trends have impacted our segment and end-market sales performance:
•
Performance Coatings: Net sales increased 13.1% compared to 2017 driven primarily by stronger volumes in our industrial end-market, including the impacts of acquisitions, as well as increases in average selling prices across both end-markets.
•
Transportation Coatings: Net sales decreased by 2.0% compared to 2017 driven primarily by lower average selling prices within the light vehicle end-market, partially offset by increased organic sales volumes in our commercial vehicle end-market.
Our business serves four end-markets globally as follows:
 (In millions)
 
Year Ended December 31,
 
2018 vs 2017
 
2017 vs 2016
 
 
2018
 
2017
 
2016
 
% change
 
% change
Performance Coatings
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Refinish
 
$
1,754.2

 
$
1,645.2

 
$
1,679.7

 
6.6
 %
 
(2.1
)%
Industrial
 
1,271.5

 
1,029.9

 
718.8

 
23.5
 %
 
43.3
 %
Total Net sales Performance Coatings
 
3,025.7

 
2,675.1

 
2,398.5

 
13.1
 %
 
11.5
 %
Transportation Coatings
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Light Vehicle
 
1,290.2

 
1,322.8

 
1,337.7

 
(2.5
)%
 
(1.1
)%
Commercial Vehicle
 
353.8

 
355.0

 
332.6

 
(0.3
)%
 
6.7
 %
Total Net sales Transportation Coatings
 
1,644.0

 
1,677.8

 
1,670.3

 
(2.0
)%
 
0.4
 %
Total Net sales
 
$
4,669.7

 
$
4,352.9

 
$
4,068.8

 
7.3
 %
 
7.0
 %
Acquisitions Highlights
During the year ended December 31, 2018, we successfully completed seven strategic acquisitions ("2018 Acquisitions"), including two based in Asia Pacific, two based in North America, and three based in Europe, all of which benefited our Performance Coatings segment. See further detail at Note 3 to the consolidated financial statements included elsewhere in this Annual Report on Form 10-K. Our 2018 aggregate spending for these 2018 Acquisitions was $79.9 million.
In addition, during the year ended December 31, 2018, pursuant to the stock purchase agreement for a joint venture acquired during the year ended December 31, 2016, we purchased an additional 24.5% interest for $26.9 million, increasing our total ownership percentage to 75.5%. 
Belgium Manufacturing Facility Closure
During the year ended December 31, 2018, we approved a restructuring plan involving the closure of our manufacturing facility at our Mechelen, Belgium site and transfer of production capabilities to other Axalta facilities. In connection with the announced closure and transfer of production to other Axalta facilities, we currently expect to incur aggregate pre-tax charges of approximately $120-130 million, subject to future changes in estimates. Completion of the transfer and start-up of production at other Axalta manufacturing facilities is estimated to require capital expenditures of approximately $65-75 million. Components of the pre-tax charges include severance costs and non-cash accelerated depreciation costs associated with the reduced useful lives of the impacted manufacturing assets.
Severance costs specifically associated with the announced closure amounted to $70.6 million for the year ended December 31, 2018. At the date of assessment, the useful lives of the manufacturing assets totaling $55.8 million (€47.7 million) were truncated. The impact to pre-tax earnings from incremental accelerated depreciation for the year ended December 31, 2018 was $10.3 million and was recorded to cost of goods sold. We estimate that, at the midpoint of the range, future pre-tax charges will be incurred in fiscal years 2019 and 2020 of approximately $30 million and $10 million, respectively. No impairments to the associated long-lived assets are expected. We expect the charges to result in annual pre-tax savings of approximately $30 million which are expected to begin to be realized during the second half of 2020.

35

Capital and Liquidity Highlights
During the year ended December 31, 2018, we completed the Sixth and Seventh Amendments of our Senior Secured Credit Facilities and the Seventh Supplemental Indenture of our Senior Notes. The Sixth Amendment repriced the 2024 Dollar Term Loans and increased the aggregate principal balance by $475.0 million to $2,430.0 million. Proceeds from the Sixth Amendment, along with cash on the balance sheet, were used to extinguish the existing 2023 Euro Term Loans. The Seventh Amendment and Seventh Supplemental Indenture updated the applicable guarantor structures and limitations in order to permit the Company and its subsidiaries to effect certain corporate transactions. They had no impact on principal balances or interest rates. For additional information, refer to Note 17 to the consolidated financial statements included elsewhere in this Annual Report on Form 10-K and our Liquidity and Capital Resources discussion within this Item 7.
During the year ended December 31, 2018, we executed interest rate and cross-currency swaps to convert $475.0 million of the 2024 Dollar Term Loans principal into Euro fixed-rate debt at an interest rate of 1.44%, which matures in 2023. The combined effect of the refinancing and the swaps are expected to result in annual cash interest savings of approximately $14 million. In the fourth quarter of 2018, we settled three existing cross-currency swaps previously executed in 2018 and executed three new cross-currency swaps that resulted in cash proceeds of $22.5 million. The interest rate and cross-currency swaps are designated as cash flow and net investment hedges, respectively.
Other Highlights
During the year ended December 31, 2018, we repurchased 9.1 million shares for total consideration of $253.8 million as we continue to execute against our share repurchase program.
Factors Affecting Our Operating Results
The following discussion sets forth certain components of our statements of operations as well as factors that impact those items.
Net sales
We generate revenue from the sale of our products across all major geographic areas. Our net sales include total sales less estimates for returns and price allowances. Price allowances include discounts for prompt payment as well as volume-based incentives. Our overall net sales are generally impacted by the following factors:
•
fluctuations in overall economic activity within the geographic markets in which we operate;
•
underlying growth in one or more of our end-markets, either worldwide or in particular geographies in which we operate;
•
the type of products used within existing customer applications, or the development of new applications requiring products similar to ours;
•
changes in product sales prices (including volume discounts and cash discounts for prompt payment);
•
changes in the level of competition faced by our products, including price competition and the launch of new products by competitors;
•
our ability to successfully develop and launch new products and applications;
•
changes in buying habits of our customers (including our distributors); and
•
fluctuations in foreign exchange rates.
While the factors described above impact net sales in each of our operating segments, the impact of these factors on our operating segments can differ, as described below. For more information about risks relating to our business, see Part I, Item 1A, "Risk Factors—Risks Related to our Business."
Other revenue
Other revenue consists primarily of consulting and other service revenue and royalty income.
Cost of goods sold ("cost of sales")
Our cost of sales consists principally of the following:
•
Production materials costs. We purchase a significant amount of the materials used in production on a global lowest-cost basis.

36

•
Employee costs. These include the compensation and benefit costs, including share-based compensation expense, for employees involved in our manufacturing operations and on-site technical support services. These costs generally increase on an aggregate basis as production volumes increase and may decline as a percent of net sales as a result of economies of scale associated with higher production volumes.
•
Depreciation expense. Property, plant and equipment are stated at cost and depreciated or amortized on a straight-line basis over their estimated useful lives. Property, plant and equipment acquired through the Acquisition were recorded at their estimated fair value on the acquisition date resulting in a new cost basis for accounting purposes.
•
Other. Our remaining cost of sales consists of freight costs, warehousing expenses, purchasing costs, costs associated with closing or idling of production facilities, functional costs supporting manufacturing, product claims and other general manufacturing expenses, such as expenses for utilities and energy consumption.
The main factors that influence our cost of goods sold as a percentage of net sales include:
•
changes in the price of raw materials;
•
production volumes;
•
the implementation of cost control measures aimed at improving productivity, including reduction of fixed production costs, refinements in inventory management and the coordination of purchasing within each subsidiary and at the business level; and
•
fluctuations in foreign exchange rates.
Selling, general and administrative expenses ("SG&A")
Our selling, general and administrative expense consists of all expenditures incurred in connection with the sales and marketing of our products, as well as technical support for our customers and administrative overhead costs, including:
•
compensation and benefit costs for management, sales personnel and administrative staff, including share-based compensation expense. Expenses relating to our sales personnel increase or decrease principally with changes in sales volume due to the need to increase or decrease sales personnel to meet changes in demand. Expenses relating to administrative personnel generally do not increase or decrease directly with changes in sales volume; and
•
depreciation, advertising and other selling expenses, such as expenses incurred in connection with travel and communications.
Changes in selling, general and administrative expense as a percentage of net sales have historically been impacted by a number of factors, including:
•
changes in sales volume, as higher volumes enable us to spread the fixed portion of our administrative expense over higher sales;
•
changes in our customer base, as new customers may require different levels of sales and marketing attention;
•
new product launches in existing and new markets, as these launches typically involve a more intense sales activity before they are integrated into customer applications;
•
customer credit issues requiring increases to the allowance for doubtful accounts; and
•
fluctuations in foreign exchange rates.
Research and development expenses
Research and development expenses represent costs incurred to develop new products, services, processes and technologies or to generate improvements to existing products or processes.
Interest expense, net
Interest expense, net consists primarily of interest expense on institutional borrowings and other financing obligations and changes in fair value of interest rate derivative instruments, net of capitalized interest expense. Interest expense, net also includes the amortization of debt issuance costs and debt discounts associated with our Senior Secured Credit Facilities and other indebtedness.
Other expense, net
Other expense, net represents costs incurred, net of income, on various non-operational items including costs incurred in conjunction with our debt refinancing and extinguishment transactions, interest income, as well as foreign exchange gains and losses and non-operational impairment losses unrelated to our core business.

37

Provision for income taxes
We and our subsidiaries are subject to income tax in the various jurisdictions in which we operate. While the extent of our future tax liability is uncertain, changes to the debt and equity capitalization of our subsidiaries, and the realignment of the functions performed, and risks assumed by the various subsidiaries are among the factors that will determine the future book and taxable income of the respective subsidiary and the Company as a whole.
NON-GAAP FINANCIAL MEASURES
Reconciliation of Net Income to EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA
To supplement our financial information presented in accordance with U.S. GAAP, we use the following non-GAAP financial measures to clarify and enhance an understanding of past performance: EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA. We believe that the presentation of these financial measures enhances an investor’s understanding of our financial performance. We further believe that these financial measures are useful financial metrics to assess our operating performance from period-to-period by excluding certain items that we believe are not representative of our core business. We define our core business as those operations relating to the Company's ongoing performance and the concept is used to make resource allocation and performance evaluation decisions. We use these financial measures for business planning purposes and in measuring our performance relative to that of our competitors. We utilize Adjusted EBITDA as the primary measure of segment performance.
EBITDA consists of net income before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization. Adjusted EBITDA consists of EBITDA adjusted for (i) non-cash items included within net income, (ii) items the Company does not believe are indicative of ongoing operating performance or (iii) nonrecurring, unusual or infrequent items that have not occurred within the last two years or we believe are not reasonably likely to recur within the next two years. We believe that making such adjustments provides investors meaningful information to understand our operating results and ability to analyze financial and business trends on a period-to-period basis.
We believe these financial measures are commonly used by investors to evaluate our performance and that of our competitors. However, our use of the terms EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA may vary from that of others in our industry. These financial measures should not be considered as alternatives to income before income taxes, net income, earnings per share or any other performance measures derived in accordance with U.S. GAAP as measures of operating performance.
EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA have important limitations as analytical tools and you should not consider them in isolation or as substitutes for analysis of our results as reported under U.S. GAAP. Some of these limitations are:
•
EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA:
•
do not reflect the significant interest expense on our debt, including the Senior Secured Credit Facilities and the New Senior Notes; and
•
eliminate the impact of income taxes on our results of operations;
•
although depreciation and amortization are non-cash charges, the assets being depreciated and amortized will often have to be replaced in the future, and EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA do not reflect any expenditures for such replacements; and
•
other companies in our industry may calculate EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA differently than we do, limiting their usefulness as comparative measures.
We compensate for these limitations by using EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA along with other comparative tools, together with U.S. GAAP measurements, to assist in the evaluation of operating performance. Such U.S. GAAP measurements include income before income taxes, net income, earnings per share and other performance measures.
In evaluating these financial measures, you should be aware that in the future we may incur expenses similar to those eliminated in this presentation. Our presentation of EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA should not be construed as an inference that our future results will be unaffected by the excluded items noted above.

38

The following table reconciles net income to the EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA measures discussed above for the periods presented:
 
 
Year Ended December 31,
 
 
2018
 
2017
 
2016
Net income
 
$
213.3

 
$
47.7

 
$
44.6

Interest expense, net
 
159.6

 
147.0

 
178.2

Provision for income taxes
 
54.2

 
141.9

 
38.1

Depreciation and amortization
 
369.1

 
347.5

 
322.1

EBITDA
 
796.2

 
684.1

 
583.0

Debt extinguishment and refinancing related costs (a)
 
9.5

 
13.4

 
97.6

Foreign exchange remeasurement losses (b)
 
9.2

 
7.4

 
30.6

Long-term employee benefit plan adjustments (c)
 
(1.9
)
 
1.4

 
1.5

Termination benefits and other employee related costs (d)
 
81.7

 
35.3

 
61.8

Consulting and advisory fees (e)
 
—

 
(0.1
)
 
10.4

Transition-related costs (f)
 
(0.2
)
 
7.7

 
—

Offering and transactional costs (g)
 
1.2

 
18.4

 
6.0

Stock-based compensation (h)
 
37.3

 
38.5

 
41.1

Other adjustments (i)
 
5.2

 
3.6

 
5.0

Dividends in respect of noncontrolling interest (j)
 
(1.0
)
 
(3.0
)
 
(3.0
)
Deconsolidation and site closure related impacts (k)
 
—

 
78.5

 
68.4

Adjusted EBITDA
 
$
937.2

 
$
885.2

 
$
902.4

(a)
During the years ended December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016 we refinanced and restructured our term loans and senior notes, which resulted in losses of $9.5 million, $13.0 million and $88.0 million, respectively. In addition, during the years ended December 31, 2017 and 2016 we prepaid outstanding principal on our term loans, resulting in non-cash losses on extinguishment of $0.4 million and $9.6 million, respectively. We do not consider these items to be indicative of our ongoing operating performance.
 
 
(b)
Eliminates foreign exchange gains and losses resulting from the remeasurement of assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies, net of the impacts of our foreign currency instruments used to hedge our balance sheet exposures. Exchange effects attributable to the remeasurement of our Venezuelan subsidiary represented losses of $1.8 million and $23.5 million for the years ended December 31, 2017 and 2016, respectively.
 
 
(c)
Eliminates the non-cash, non-service components of long-term employee benefit plans.
 
 
(d)
Represents expenses and associated changes to estimates related to employee termination benefits and other employee-related costs, which includes Axalta CEO recruitment fees. Employee termination benefits are associated with Axalta Way initiatives. These amounts are not considered indicative of our ongoing operating performance.
 
 
(e)
Represents fees paid to consultants, and associated true-ups to estimates, for professional services primarily related to our Axalta Way initiatives, which are not considered indicative of our ongoing operating performance.
 
 
(f)
Represents integration costs and associated changes to estimates related to the 2017 acquisition of the Industrial Wood business that was a carve-out business from Valspar. We do not consider these items to be indicative of our ongoing operating performance.
 
 
(g)
Represents acquisition-related expenses, including changes in the fair value of contingent consideration, as well as $10.0 million of costs associated with contemplated merger activities during the three months ended December 31, 2017 and costs associated with the 2016 secondary offerings of our common shares by Carlyle, all of which are not considered indicative of our ongoing operating performance.
 
 
(h)
Represents non-cash costs associated with stock-based compensation.
 
 
(i)
Represents certain non-operational or non-cash gains and losses unrelated to our core business and which we do not consider indicative of ongoing operations, including indemnity losses associated with the Acquisition, gains and losses from the sale and disposal of property, plant and equipment, gains and losses from the remaining foreign currency derivative instruments and from non-cash fair value inventory adjustments associated with our business combinations.
 
 
(j)
Represents the payment of dividends to our joint venture partners by our consolidated entities that are not 100% owned, which are reflected to show the cash operating performance of these entities on Axalta's financial statements.
 
 
(k)
During the year ended December 31, 2017, we recorded a loss in conjunction with the deconsolidation of our Venezuelan subsidiary of $70.9 million. During the year ended December 31, 2016 we recorded non-cash impairments at our Venezuelan subsidiary of $68.4 million associated with our operational long-lived assets and a real estate investment (See Note 21 to the consolidated financial statements included elsewhere in this Annual Report on Form 10-K). Additionally, during the year ended December 31, 2017, we recorded non-cash impairment charges related to certain manufacturing facilities previously announced for closure of $7.6 million. We do not consider these to be indicative of our ongoing operating performance.

39

RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
The following discussion should be read in conjunction with the information contained in the accompanying financial statements and related notes included elsewhere in this Annual Report on Form 10-K. Our historical results of operations summarized and analyzed below may not necessarily reflect what will occur in the future.
Net sales
 
 
Years Ended December 31,
 
2018 vs 2017
 
Years Ended December 31,
 
2017 vs 2016
 
 
2018
 
2017
 
$ Change
 
% Change
 
2017
 
2016
 
$ Change
 
% Change
Net sales
 
$
4,669.7

 
$
4,352.9

 
$
316.8

 
7.3
%
 
$
4,352.9

 
$
4,068.8

 
$
284.1

 
7.0
 %
Volume effect
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
0.6
%
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
0.2
 %
Impact of acquisitions
 
 
 
 
 


 
3.5
%
 
 
 
 
 


 
7.4
 %
Price/Mix effect
 
 
 
 
 


 
2.6
%
 
 
 
 
 


 
(1.0
)%
Exchange rate effect
 
 
 
 
 


 
0.6
%
 
 
 
 
 


 
0.4
 %
2018 Compared to 2017
Net sales increased due to the following:
n Impacts of acquisitions within our Performance Coatings segment
n Higher average selling prices across both end-markets within our Performance Coatings segment, partially offset by lower average selling prices in our Transportation Coatings segment
n Increase in organic sales volumes primarily attributable to increases in our industrial end-market, which was partially offset by declines in our refinish end-market
n Favorable foreign currency translation due primarily to the impacts of the strengthening Euro and Chinese Renminbi compared to the U.S. Dollar
2017 Compared to 2016
Net sales increased due to the following:
n Impacts of acquisitions within our Performance Coatings segment
n Favorable foreign currency translation due primarily to the impacts of the strengthening Euro compared to the U.S. Dollar which were slightly offset by the weakening of certain currencies within Latin America and Asia against the U.S. dollar
n Increases in organic sales volumes in our commercial vehicle and industrial end-markets, largely offset by our refinish end-market, particularly within Latin America and North America
Partially offset by:
n Lower average selling prices across both end-markets within our Transportation Coatings segment
Other revenue
 
 
Years Ended December 31,
 
2018 vs 2017
 
Years Ended December 31,
 
2017 vs 2016
 
 
2018
 
2017
 
$ Change
 
% Change
 
2017
 
2016
 
$ Change
 
% Change
Other revenue
 
$
26.3

 
$
24.1

 
$
2.2

 
9.1
%
 
$
24.1

 
$
23.9

 
$
0.2

 
0.8
%
2018 Compared to 2017
Other revenue increased due to the following:
n Increases in service revenues, primarily within our European light vehicle end-market, and favorable impacts of foreign currency of 2.6%, primarily related to the strengthening Euro compared to the U.S. Dollar
2017 Compared to 2016
Other revenue increased due to the following:
n Favorable impacts of foreign currency of 1.4%, primarily related to the strengthening Euro compared to the U.S. Dollar

40

Cost of sales
 
 
Years Ended December 31,
 
2018 vs 2017
 
Years Ended December 31,
 
2017 vs 2016
 
 
2018
 
2017
 
$ Change
 
% Change
 
2017
 
2016
 
$ Change
 
% Change
Cost of sales
 
$
3,106.3

 
$
2,780.5

 
$
325.8

 
11.7
%
 
$
2,780.5

 
$
2,528.8

 
$
251.7

 
10.0
%
Impact of ASU 2014-09 (1)
 
67.3

 
—

 
 
 
 
 
—

 
—

 
 
 
 
Cost of sales, excluding impact of ASU 2014-09
 
$
3,039.0

 
$
2,780.5

 
$
258.5

 
9.3
%
 
$
2,780.5

 
$
2,528.8

 
$
251.7

 
10.0
%
% of net sales, excluding impact of ASU 2014-09
 
65.1
%
 
63.9
%
 
 
 
 
 
63.9
%
 
62.2
%
 
 
 
 
(1) See Note 2 to the consolidated financial statements included elsewhere in this Annual Report on Form 10-K
2018 Compared to 2017
Cost of sales, excluding the impact of ASU 2014-09, increased due to the following:
n Increased raw material costs across both segments
n Higher sales volumes, inclusive of impacts of acquisitions of 4.1%
n Increased incremental accelerated depreciation expense of $6.0 million, from $4.3 million during the year ended December 31, 2017 to $10.3 million in 2018
n Unfavorable impacts of foreign currency of 0.7%, primarily related to the strengthening Euro and Chinese Renminbi compared to the U.S. Dollar
Cost of sales, excluding the impacts of ASU 2014-09, as a percentage of net sales increased due to the following:
n Increased raw material costs which surpassed our price recapture in net sales
2017 Compared to 2016
Cost of sales increased due to the following:
n Higher sales volumes, inclusive of impacts of acquisitions of 7.6%
n Increased raw material costs
n Unfavorable impacts of foreign currency of 0.5% primarily related to the strengthening Euro compared to the U.S. Dollar offset partially by the weakening of certain currencies within Latin America and Asia compared to the U.S. Dollar
Cost of sales as a percentage of net sales increased due to the following:
n Lower average selling prices and raw material inflation
Selling, general and administrative expenses
 
 
Years Ended December 31,
 
2018 vs 2017
 
Years Ended December 31,
 
2017 vs 2016
 
 
2018
 
2017
 
$ Change
 
% Change
 
2017
 
2016
 
$ Change
 
% Change
SG&A
 
$
959.1

 
$
995.4

 
$
(36.3
)
 
(3.6
)%
 
$
995.4

 
$
959.8

 
$
35.6

 
3.7
%
Impact of ASU 2014-09 (1)
 
(64.0
)
 
—

 
 
 
 
 
—

 
—

 
 
 
 
SG&A, excluding impact of ASU 2014-09
 
$
1,023.1

 
$
995.4

 
$
27.7

 
2.8
 %
 
$
995.4

 
$
959.8

 
$
35.6

 
3.7
%
% of net sales, excluding impact of ASU 2014-09
 
21.9
%
 
22.9
%
 
 
 
 
 
22.9
%
 
23.6
%
 
 
 
 
(1) See Note 2 to the consolidated financial statements included elsewhere in this Annual Report on Form 10-K
2018 Compared to 2017
Selling, general and administrative expenses, excluding the impact of ASU 2014-09, increased due to the following:
n Axalta Way cost savings initiatives and acquisition related costs of $82.8 million, inclusive of $70.6 million of severance costs from the announced closure of our Mechelen, Belgium manufacturing facility, as compared to $63.8 million for the year ended December 31, 2017, resulting in a $19.0 million increase over the comparable period
n Incremental impact from our acquisitions of $5.9 million
n Unfavorable impacts of foreign currency of 1.0%, primarily related to the strengthening of the Euro and Chinese Renminbi against the U.S. Dollar
Partially offset by:
n Reductions in costs due to operational efficiencies associated with our cost savings initiatives

41

2017 Compared to 2016
Selling, general and administrative expenses increased due to the following:
n Impacts of acquisitions of $48.6 million as well as our focus on opportunities to expand our market presence and invest in commercial capabilities
n Unfavorable impacts of foreign currency of 0.6%, primarily related to the strengthening of the Euro against the U.S. Dollar
Partially offset by:
n Decreases in costs associated with our Axalta Way cost savings initiatives
n Decreases in our costs savings initiatives and acquisition-related costs which were $63.8 million for the year ended December 31, 2017 as compared to $77.6 million of costs for the year ended December 31, 2016, resulting in an $13.8 million decrease over the comparable period
Venezuela asset impairment
 
 
Years Ended December 31,
 
2018 vs 2017
 
Years Ended December 31,
 
2017 vs 2016
 
 
2018
 
2017
 
$ Change
 
% Change
 
2017
 
2016
 
$ Change
 
% Change
Venezuela asset impairment and deconsolidation charge
 
$
—

 
$
70.9

 
$
(70.9
)
 
(100.0
)%
 
$
70.9

 
$
57.9

 
$
13.0

 
22.5
%
2018 Compared to 2017
During the year ended December 31, 2017, we recorded a loss in conjunction with the deconsolidation of our Venezuelan subsidiary. There were no corresponding losses recorded during the year ended December 31, 2018.
2017 Compared to 2016
During the year ended December 31, 2017, we recorded a loss in conjunction with the deconsolidation of our Venezuelan subsidiary. During the year ended December 31, 2016, we recorded an asset impairment charge relating to our long-lived assets within our Venezuelan subsidiary. See further discussion in Note 21 to the consolidated financial statements included elsewhere in this Annual Report on Form 10-K.
Research and development expenses
 
 
Years Ended December 31,
 
2018 vs 2017
 
Years Ended December 31,
 
2017 vs 2016
 
 
2018
 
2017
 
$ Change
 
% Change
 
2017
 
2016
 
$ Change
 
% Change
Research and development expenses
 
$
73.1

 
$
65.3

 
$
7.8

 
11.9
%
 
$
65.3

 
$
57.7

 
$
7.6

 
13.2
%
2018 Compared to 2017
Research and development expenses increased due to the following:
n Impacts of acquisitions of $5.4 million due to ongoing research and development activities at the acquired businesses
n Unfavorable impacts of foreign currency of 1.2%, primarily related to the strengthening of the Euro and Chinese Renminbi against the U.S. Dollar
2017 Compared to 2016
Research and development expenses increased due to the following:
n Impacts of acquisitions of $9.1 million
n Unfavorable impacts of foreign currency of 1.9%, primarily related to the strengthening of the Euro and certain currencies in Latin America against the U.S. dollar
Partially offset by:
n Decreases resulting from the impacts of our cost savings initiatives

42

Amortization of acquired intangibles
 
 
Years Ended December 31,
 
2018 vs 2017
 
Years Ended December 31,
 
2017 vs 2016
 
 
2018
 
2017
 
$ Change
 
% Change
 
2017
 
2016
 
$ Change
 
% Change
Amortization of acquired intangibles
 
$
115.4

 
$
101.2

 
$
14.2

 
14.0
%
 
$
101.2

 
$
83.4

 
$
17.8

 
21.3
%
2018 Compared to 2017
Amortization of acquired intangibles increased due to the following:
n Definite-lived intangible assets from our recent acquisitions
n Unfavorable impacts of foreign currency of 0.2%, primarily related to the strengthening of the Euro and Chinese Renminbi against the U.S. Dollar
2017 Compared to 2016
Amortization of acquired intangibles increased due to the following:
n Definite-lived intangible assets from our recent acquisitions
n Impairment related to abandoned in-process research and development intangible assets of $1.7 million
Interest expense, net
 
 
Years Ended December 31,
 
2018 vs 2017
 
Year Ended December 31,
 
2017 vs 2016
 
 
2018
 
2017
 
$ Change
 
% Change
 
2017
 
2016
 
$ Change
 
% Change
Interest expense, net
 
$
159.6

 
$
147.0

 
$
12.6

 
8.6
%
 
$
147.0

 
$
178.2

 
$
(31.2
)
 
(17.5
)%
2018 Compared to 2017
Interest expense, net increased due to the following:
n Strengthening of the Euro compared to the U.S. Dollar of 4.7%
n Increases in average interest rates due to LIBOR increases on our variable rate debt over the comparable period and higher average principal balances resulting from the incremental indebtedness used to finance the Industrial Wood acquisition which were outstanding for only part of the year ended December 31, 2017, compared to the entire period for the year ended December 31, 2018
Partially offset by:
n Favorable impacts of our derivative instruments and our refinancings of $14.0 million
2017 Compared to 2016
Interest expense, net decreased due to the following:
n Refinancing of our indebtedness during 2016 and 2017 which reduced the overall interest rates of our debt portfolio
Partially offset by:
n Increases resulting from the incremental indebtedness used to finance the Industrial Wood Acquisition

43

Other expense, net
 
 
Years Ended December 31,
 
2018 vs 2017
 
Years Ended December 31,
 
2017 vs 2016
 
 
2018
 
2017
 
$ Change
 
% Change
 
2017
 
2016
 
$ Change
 
% Change
Other expense, net
 
$
15.0

 
$
27.1

 
$
(12.1
)
 
(44.6
)%
 
$
27.1

 
$
144.2

 
$
(117.1
)
 
(81.2
)%
2018 Compared to 2017
Other expense, net decreased due to the following:
n The absence of impairments of $7.6 million for certain manufacturing facilities previously announced for closure incurred during the year ended December 31, 2017
n A reduction in debt extinguishment and refinancing related costs of $3.9 million with $9.5 million incurred during the year ended December 31, 2018 compared to $13.4 million incurred during the year ended December 31, 2017
2017 Compared to 2016
Other expense, net decreased due to the following:
n Decrease in debt extinguishment and refinancing related costs incurred during the year ended December 31, 2016 which resulted in an $84.2 million decrease over the comparable period
n A reduction in foreign exchange losses, net from $30.6 million during the year ended December 31, 2016 to $7.4 million for the year ended December 31, 2017, resulting in a $23.2 million decrease over the comparable period, driven by our Venezuela subsidiary
n Decrease in impairments of $2.9 million to $7.6 million during the year ended December 31, 2017 associated with impairments related to the manufacturing facilities closures, compared to impairments of $10.5 million related to our real estate investment in Venezuela incurred during the year ended December 31, 2016.
Provision for income taxes
 
 
Years Ended December 31,
 
 
2018
 
2017
 
2016
Income before income taxes
 
$
267.5

 
$
189.6

 
$
82.7

Provision for income taxes
 
54.2

 
141.9

 
38.1

Statutory U.S. Federal income tax rate
 
21.0
 %
 
35.0
%
 
35.0
%
Effective tax rate
 
20.3
 %
 
74.8
%
 
46.1
%
Effective tax rate vs. statutory U.S. Federal income tax rate
 
(0.7
)%
 
39.8
%
 
11.1
%
 
 
(Favorable) Unfavorable Impact
Items impacting the effective tax rate vs. statutory U.S. federal income tax rate
 
2018
 
2017
 
2016
Earnings generated in jurisdictions where the statutory rate is lower than the U.S. Federal rate (1)
 
$
(24.8
)
 
$
(56.2
)
 
$
(45.6
)
Changes in valuation allowance
 
(37.5
)
 
45.3

 
9.6

Foreign exchange gain (loss), net
 
24.7

 
(17.7
)
 
3.1

Stock-based compensation excess tax benefits
 
(6.6
)
 
(13.1
)
 
(13.4
)
Non-deductible expenses and interest
 
8.6

 
14.4

 
11.4

Increase in unrecognized tax benefits (2)
 
18.9

 
3.1

 
7.1

U.S. tax reform (3)
 
(12.5
)
 
107.8

 
—

Pre-tax deconsolidation charge - Venezuelan subsidiary
 
—

 
24.8

 
—

Pre-tax impairment charges - Venezuelan subsidiary
 
—

 
—

 
23.8

(1) Primarily related to earnings in Bermuda, Germany, Luxembourg, and Switzerland.
(2) The 2018 unrecognized tax benefit is primarily associated with the financial impacts surrounding the announced closure of our manufacturing facility at our Mechelen, Belgium site.
(3) Primarily related to the revaluation of our deferred tax assets and impact on certain tax attributes. See Note 10 to the consolidated financial statements included elsewhere in this Annual Report on Form 10-K for additional information.

44

SEGMENT RESULTS
The Company's products and operations are managed and reported in two operating segments: Performance Coatings and Transportation Coatings. See Note 19 to the consolidated financial statements included elsewhere in this Annual Report on Form 10-K for additional information.
Performance Coatings Segment
 
 
Years Ended December 31,
 
2018 vs 2017
 
Years Ended December 31,
 
2017 vs 2016
 
 
2018
 
2017
 
$ Change
 
% Change
 
2017
 
2016
 
$ Change
 
% Change
Net sales
 
$
3,025.7

 
$
2,675.1

 
$
350.6

 
13.1
%
 
$
2,675.1

 
$
2,398.5

 
$
276.6

 
11.5
 %
Volume effect
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
1.2
%
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
(1.3
)%
Impact of acquisitions
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
5.7
%
 
 
 
 
 


 
12.0
 %
Price/Mix effect
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
5.1
%
 
 
 
 
 


 
0.5
 %
Exchange rate effect
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
1.1
%
 
 
 
 
 


 
0.3
 %
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Adjusted EBITDA
 
$
668.3

 
$
564.2

 
$
104.1

 
18.5
%
 
$
564.2

 
$
549.7

 
$
14.5

 
2.6
 %
Adjusted EBITDA Margin
 
22.1
%
 
21.1
%
 
 
 
 
 
21.1
%
 
22.9
%
 
 
 
 
2018 Compared to 2017
Net sales increased due to the following:
n Benefits from acquisitions across both end-markets
n Organic volume increases, which were comprised of industrial end-market increases, partially offset by decreases in our refinish end-market
n Favorable currency translation primarily related to the strengthening of the Euro and Chinese Renminbi compared to the U.S. Dollar
n Higher average selling prices across all regions and end-markets
Adjusted EBITDA increased due to the following:
n Increases in sales volumes, including the impacts of our recent acquisitions
n Higher average selling prices across all regions and end-markets
n Favorable currency translation primarily related to the strengthening of the Euro and Chinese Renminbi compared to the U.S. Dollar
Partially offset by:
n Higher raw material costs across all regions and end-markets
2017 Compared to 2016
Net sales increased due to the following:
n Sales volumes benefits from acquisitions
n Higher average selling prices
n Favorable currency translation primarily related to the strengthening of the Euro compared to the U.S. Dollar
Partially offset by:
n Organic volume decreases, which were comprised of industrial end-market increases more than offset by decreases in our refinish end-market driven by distributor working capital adjustments in North America, as well as the absence of our now deconsolidated Venezuelan operations
Adjusted EBITDA increased due to the following:
n Impacts of acquisitions
n Higher average selling prices
Partially offset by:
n Higher variable costs across all regions and end-markets

45

Transportation Coatings Segment
 
 
Years Ended December 31,
 
2018 vs 2017
 
Years Ended December 31,
 
2017 vs 2016
 
 
2018
 
2017
 
$ Change
 
% Change
 
2017
 
2016
 
$ Change
 
% Change
Net sales
 
$
1,644.0

 
$
1,677.8

 
$
(33.8
)
 
(2.0
)%
 
$
1,677.8

 
$
1,670.3

 
$
7.5

 
0.4
 %
Volume effect
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
(0.4
)%
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
2.3
 %
Impact of acquisitions
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
—
 %
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
0.7
 %
Price/Mix effect
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
(1.5
)%
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
(3.1
)%
Exchange rate effect
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
(0.1
)%
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
0.5
 %
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Adjusted EBITDA
 
$
268.9

 
$
321.0

 
$
(52.1
)
 
(16.2
)%
 
$
321.0

 
$
352.7

 
$
(31.7
)
 
(9.0
)%
Adjusted EBITDA Margin
 
16.4
%
 
19.1
%
 
 
 
 
 
19.1
%
 
21.1
%
 
 
 
 
2018 Compared to 2017
Net sales decreased due to the following:
n Lower average selling prices across both end-markets, primarily driven by the light vehicle end-market in China
n Volume decreases primarily in our light vehicle end-market
Partially offset by:
n Increases in sales volumes in our North America and Latin America commercial vehicle end-markets
Adjusted EBITDA decreased due to the following:
n Higher raw materials costs
n Lower average selling prices across both end-markets, primarily driven by the light vehicle end-market in China
n Unfavorable impacts of currency exchange related to the weakening of certain currencies in Latin America compared to the U.S. Dollar
Partially offset by:
n Increases in sales volumes in our North America and Latin America commercial vehicle end-markets
2017 Compared to 2016
Net sales increased due to the following:
n Increases in organic sales volumes in both end-markets
n Impacts of acquisitions
n Favorable impacts of currency exchange related to strengthening of the Euro and certain currencies in Latin America compared to the U.S. Dollar
Partially offset by:
n Lower average selling prices across both end-markets
Adjusted EBITDA decreased due to the following:
n Lower average selling prices and higher variable costs in our light vehicle end-market
Partially offset by:
n Volume growth across both end-markets
LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES
Our primary sources of liquidity are cash on hand, cash flow from operations and available borrowing capacity under our Senior Secured Credit Facilities.
At December 31, 2018, availability under the Revolving Credit Facility was $355.2 million, net of $44.8 million of letters of credit outstanding. All such availability may be utilized without violating any covenants under the credit agreement governing such facility or the indentures governing the New Senior Notes. At December 31, 2018, we had $17.9 million of outstanding borrowings under other lines of credit. Our remaining available borrowing capacity under other lines of credit in certain non-U.S. jurisdictions totaled $9.7 million.

46

We or our affiliates, at any time and from time to time, may purchase shares of our common stock, the New Senior Notes or other indebtedness. Any such purchases may be made through the open market or privately negotiated transactions with third parties or pursuant to one or more redemption, tender or exchange offers or otherwise, upon such terms and at such prices, as well as with such consideration, as we, or any of our affiliates, may determine.
Cash Flows
Years ended December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016
 
 
Year Ended December 31,
(In millions)
 
2018
 
2017
 
2016
Net cash provided by (used for):
 
 
 
 
 
 
Operating activities:
 
 
 
 
 
 
Net income
 
$
213.3

 
$
47.7

 
$
44.6

Depreciation and amortization
 
369.1

 
347.5

 
322.1

Amortization of deferred financing costs and original issue discount
 
8.0

 
8.0

 
17.8

Debt extinguishment and refinancing related costs
 
9.5

 
13.4

 
97.6

Deferred income taxes
 
6.1

 
91.7

 
(15.9
)
Realized and unrealized foreign exchange losses (gains), net
 
17.3

 
(3.6
)
 
35.5

Stock-based compensation
 
37.3

 
38.5

 
41.1

Asset impairments
 
—

 
7.6

 
68.4

Loss on deconsolidation of Venezuela
 
—

 
70.9

 
—

Interest income on swaps designated as net investment hedges
 
(9.4
)
 
—

 
—

Other non-cash, net
 
(0.9
)
 
4.4

 
(1.9
)
Net income adjusted for non-cash items
 
650.3

 
626.1

 
609.3

Changes in operating assets and liabilities
 
(154.2
)
 
(86.1
)
 
(50.0
)
Operating activities
 
496.1

 
540.0

 
559.3

Investing activities
 
(216.1
)
 
(689.6
)
 
(257.0
)
Financing activities
 
(341.3
)
 
367.3

 
(232.6
)
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash
 
(15.2
)
 
17.1

 
(19.3
)
Net (decrease) increase in cash
 
$
(76.5
)
 
$
234.8

 
$
50.4

Year Ended December 31, 2018
Net Cash Provided by Operating Activities
Net cash provided by operating activities for the year ended December 31, 2018 was $496.1 million. Net income adjusted for non-cash items (depreciation, amortization and other non-cash items) generated cash of $650.3 million. This was partially offset by uses of working capital of $154.2 million. The most significant drivers of the uses of working capital were increases in prepaid expenses and other assets of $157.3 million, inventory of $48.1 million and accounts receivables of $22.3 million, and a decrease in other accrued liabilities of $8.4 million. These outflows were primarily driven by customer incentive payments, increased inventory builds to support ongoing operational demands and incremental net sales during the year ended December 31, 2018. Partially offsetting these outflows were increases in other liabilities and accounts payable of $32.4 million and $49.5 million, respectfully.
Net Cash Used for Investing Activities
Net cash used for investing activities for the year ended December 31, 2018 was $216.1 million. This use was driven by purchases of property, plant and equipment of $143.4 million, business acquisitions of $82.8 million (net of cash acquired), and an investment in a non-controlling interest of $26.9 million. These outflows were partially offset by interest and settlement proceeds on swaps designated as net investment hedges of $22.5 million and $9.4 million, respectively, as well as $5.1 million of other investing activities, net.

47

Net Cash Used for Financing Activities
Net cash used for financing activities for the year ended December 31, 2018 was $341.3 million. This outflow was driven by payments of $556.0 million on short-term and long-term borrowings inclusive of the repayment of the 2023 Euro Term Loans, purchases of treasury stock totaling $253.8 million, and payments of $17.8 million consisting of financing-related costs, deferred acquisition-related consideration associated with historical acquisitions, and dividends to noncontrolling interests of consolidated joint ventures. These outflows were partially offset by net proceeds of $468.9 million relating to the refinancing of our 2024 Dollar Term Loans and proceeds from stock option exercises of $17.4 million.
Other Impacts on Cash
Currency exchange impacts on cash for the year ended December 31, 2018 were unfavorable by $15.2 million, which was driven primarily by the Euro, Chinese Renminbi and certain currencies within Latin America.
Year Ended December 31, 2017
Net Cash Provided by Operating Activities
Net cash provided by operating activities for the year ended December 31, 2017 was $540.0 million. Net income adjusted for non-cash items (depreciation, amortization and other non-cash items) generated cash of $626.1 million. This was partially offset by uses of working capital of $86.1 million. The most significant drivers in working capital were increases in accounts receivables of $15.2 million, inventory of $19.9 million and other assets of $84.9 million. These were primarily caused by incremental net sales, increased inventory builds to support ongoing operational demands and upfront customer incentive payments during the year ended December 31, 2017. Other uses were due to a reduction in other liabilities of $12.6 million related to payments of normal operating activities, offset by increases in accounts payable of $39.8 million and other accrued liabilities of $6.7 million.
Net Cash Used for Investing Activities
Net cash used for investing activities for the year ended December 31, 2017 was $689.6 million. This use was driven by business acquisitions of $564.4 million (net of cash acquired), purchases of property, plant and equipment of $125.0 million, reduction of cash due to the deconsolidation of our Venezuelan operations of $4.3 million, and net cash provided for other investing activities of $4.1 million.
Net Cash Provided by Financing Activities
Net cash provided by financing activities for the year ended December 31, 2017 was $367.3 million. This inflow was driven by net proceeds from borrowings of $483.6 million primarily relating to the refinancing of our Dollar Term Loans and proceeds of $24.8 million from cash received from stock option exercises. These proceeds were partially offset by purchases of treasury stock for $58.4 million and other payments of $82.7 million consisting of financing-related costs, pay-down of short-term and long-term borrowings, deferred acquisition-related consideration and dividends to noncontrolling interests of consolidated joint ventures.
Other Impacts on Cash
Favorable currency exchange impacts on cash for the year ended December 31, 2017 were $17.1 million, which were driven primarily by the strengthening of the Euro compared to the U.S. dollar.
Year ended December 31, 2016
Net Cash Provided by Operating Activities
Net cash provided by operating activities for the year ended December 31, 2016 was $559.3 million. Net income adjusted for non-cash items (depreciation, amortization and other non-cash items) generated cash of $609.3 million. This was partially offset by net increases in operating assets and liabilities of $50.0 million. The most significant drivers in working capital were increases in accounts receivables and other assets of $132.3 million due primarily to incremental net sales and upfront customer payments, offset by net increases in current and non-current liabilities of $84.0 million primarily related to cost savings initiatives and timing of operating activities, which includes increases in accounts payable of $32.3 million.
Net Cash Used for Investing Activities
Net cash used for investing activities for the year ended December 31, 2016 was $257.0 million. This use was primarily driven by purchases of property, plant and equipment of $136.2 million and acquisitions of $114.8 million (net of cash acquired), and $6.0 million of other investing activities that includes $3.9 million of asset acquisitions.

48

Net Cash Used for Financing Activities
Net cash used for financing activities for the year ended December 31, 2016 was $232.6 million. This use was driven by payments of $1,755.7 million relating to the redemption of our 2021 Dollar and Euro Senior Notes, the net paydown and early repayments of our 2020 Term Loans, and quarterly principal payments as required under the Credit Agreement. These payments were offset by proceeds of $1,604.3 million relating to the issuance of our new 2024 Dollar and Euro Senior Notes and our new 2025 Euro Senior Notes, as well as the increase in principal on our 2023 Euro Term Loans as a part of the refinancing. The issuance and refinancing of our new indebtedness required us to pay financing costs of $86.3 million, which included a premium for early redemption of our 2021 Dollar and Euro Senior Notes of $56.6 million.
In addition, we had cash received from stock options exercised for $16.7 million, which is offset by repayments of short-term borrowings of $8.6 million, dividends paid to noncontrolling interests of $3.0 million, and $0.2 million of other financing activities.
Other Impacts on Cash
Unfavorable currency exchange impacts on cash for the year ended December 31, 2016 were $19.3 million primarily driven by the weakening of the U.S. dollar associated with our Venezuelan subsidiary which contributed $14.0 million.
Financial Condition
We had cash and cash equivalents at December 31, 2018 and 2017 of $693.6 million and $769.8 million, respectively. Of these balances, $417.1 million and $398.9 million were maintained in non-U.S. jurisdictions as of December 31, 2018 and 2017, respectively. We believe our organizational structure allows us the necessary flexibility to move funds throughout our subsidiaries to meet our operational working capital needs.
Our business may not generate sufficient cash flow from operations and future borrowings may not be available under our Senior Secured Credit Facilities in an amount sufficient to enable us to pay our indebtedness, or to fund our other liquidity needs, including planned capital expenditures. In such circumstances, we may need to refinance all or a portion of our indebtedness on or before maturity. We may not be able to refinance any of our indebtedness on commercially reasonable terms or at all. If we cannot service our indebtedness, we may have to take actions such as selling assets, seeking additional equity or reducing or delaying capital expenditures, strategic acquisitions, investments and alliances. Our primary sources of liquidity are cash on hand, cash flow from operations and available borrowing capacity under our Senior Secured Credit Facilities. Based on our forecasts, we believe that cash flow from operations, available cash on hand and available borrowing capacity under our Senior Secured Credit Facilities and existing lines of credit will be adequate to service debt, fund our cost saving initiatives, meet liquidity needs and fund necessary capital expenditures for the next twelve months.
Our ability to make scheduled payments of principal or interest on, or to refinance, our indebtedness or to fund working capital requirements, capital expenditures and other current obligations will depend on our ability to generate cash from operations. Such cash generation is subject to general economic, financial, competitive, legislative, regulatory and other factors that are beyond our control.
If required, our ability to raise additional financing and our borrowing costs may be impacted by short and long-term debt ratings assigned by independent rating agencies, which are based, in significant part, on our performance as measured by certain credit metrics such as interest coverage and leverage ratios. Our highly leveraged nature may limit our ability to procure additional financing in the future.

49

The following table details our borrowings outstanding at the periods indicated:
 
 
December 31,
(In millions)
 
2018
 
2017
2024 Dollar Term Loans
 
$
2,411.8

 
$
1,960.0

2023 Euro Term Loans
 
—

 
472.5

2024 Dollar Senior Notes
 
500.0

 
500.0

2024 Euro Senior Notes
 
383.3

 
399.7

2025 Euro Senior Notes
 
514.9

 
536.9

Short-term and other borrowings
 
103.8

 
94.8

Unamortized original issue discount
 
(12.6
)
 
(9.1
)
Deferred financing costs, net
 
(37.2
)
 
(39.2
)
 
 
$
3,864.0

 
$
3,915.6

Less:
 
 
 
 
Short term borrowings
 
$
17.9

 
$
12.9

Current portion of long-term borrowings
 
24.3

 
24.8

Long-term debt
 
$
3,821.8

 
$
3,877.9

Our indebtedness, including the Senior Secured Credit Facilities and New Senior Notes, is more fully described in Note 17 to the consolidated financial statements included elsewhere in this Annual Report on Form 10-K.
We continue to maintain sufficient liquidity to meet our requirements, including our leverage and associated interest as well as our working capital needs. Availability under the Revolving Credit Facility was $355.2 million and $364.5 million at December 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017, respectively, all of which may be borrowed by us without violating any covenants under the credit agreement governing such facility or the indentures governing the New Senior Notes.
In April 2018, we entered into the Sixth Amendment, which repriced the 2024 Dollar Term Loans and increased the aggregate principal balance of our 2024 Dollar Term Loans by $475.0 million to $2,430.0 million. Proceeds from the Sixth Amendment, along with cash on the balance sheet, were used to extinguish the existing 2023 Euro Term Loans.
Concurrent with the refinancing, we executed interest rate and cross-currency swaps to convert $475.0 million of the 2024 Dollar Term Loans principal into Euro fixed-rate debt at an interest rate of 1.44%, which matures in 2023. The combined effect of the refinancing and the swaps are expected to result in annual cash interest savings of approximately $14 million.
The following table details our borrowings outstanding, average effective interest rates and the associated interest expense, inclusive of the amortization of debt issuance costs, debt discounts and the impact of derivative instruments for the years ended December 31, 2018 and 2017, respectively:
 
Year Ended December 31,
 
 
2018
 
2017
(In millions)
 
Principal
 
Average Effective
Interest Rate
 
Interest
Expense
 
Principal
 
Average Effective
Interest Rate
 
Interest
Expense
Term Loans
 
$
2,411.8

 
3.8
%
 
$
91.5

 
$
2,432.5

 
3.5
%
 
$
80.0

Revolving Credit Facility
 
—

 
N/A

 
1.9

 
—

 
N/A

 
1.9

Senior Notes
 
1,398.2

 
4.5
%
 
64.3

 
1,436.6

 
4.5
%
 
62.2

Short-term and other borrowings
 
103.8

 
Various

 
1.9

 
94.8

 
Various

 
2.9

Total
 
$
3,913.8

 
 
 
$
159.6

 
$
3,963.9

 
 
 
$
147.0


50

Contractual Obligations
The following table summarizes our contractual obligations at December 31, 2018:
 
 
Contractual Obligations Due In:
(In millions)
 
Total
 
2019
 
2020-2021
 
2022-2023
 
Thereafter
Debt, including current portion (1)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Senior Secured Credit Facilities, consisting of the following:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
2024 Dollar Term Loans
 
$
2,411.8

 
$
24.3

 
$
48.6

 
$
48.6

 
$
2,290.3

Senior Notes, consisting of the following:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
2024 Dollar Senior Notes
 
500.0

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
500.0

2024 Euro Senior Notes
 
383.3

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
383.3

2025 Euro Senior Notes
 
514.9

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
514.9

Other borrowings
 
46.4

 
17.9

 
1.0

 
27.5

 
—

Interest payments (2)
 
908.4

 
161.2

 
318.9

 
311.4

 
116.9

Sale-leaseback financing (3)
 
104.6

 
5.3

 
10.8

 
11.4

 
77.1

Operating leases
 
116.5

 
34.6

 
40.6

 
24.7

 
16.6

Pension contributions (4)
 
6.7

 
6.7

 
—

 
—

 
—

Purchase obligations (5)
 
184.0

 
104.3

 
52.0

 
17.8

 
9.9

Uncertain tax positions, including interest and penalties (6)
 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

Total
 
$
5,176.6

 
$
354.3

 
$
471.9

 
$
441.4

 
$
3,909.0

(1)
During the year ended December 31, 2018, we repriced our 2024 Dollar Term Loans and increased the aggregate principal balance by $475.0 million, for which the proceeds were used, along with cash on the balance sheet, to extinguish the existing 2023 Euro Term Loan (see Note 17 to the consolidated financial statements included elsewhere in this Annual Report on Form 10-K). Amounts assume that the Senior Secured Credit Facilities and New Senior Notes are repaid upon maturity, and the Revolving Credit Facility remains undrawn, which may or may not reflect future events.
(2)
Interest payments are based on principal amounts of our Senior Secured Credit Facilities and New Senior Notes at December 31, 2018 including commitment fees on the unused portion of the Revolving Credit Facility. Future interest payments assume December 31, 2018 variable rates will prevail throughout all future periods and do not consider the effect of our derivative instruments. See Note 17 and Note 18 to the consolidated financial statements included elsewhere in this Annual Report on Form 10-K for disclosures of our interest rates and derivatives, respectively.
(3)
We currently have three lease arrangements that are treated as sale-leaseback financing transactions, for which we reflect the total cash rental costs to be paid over the terms of these leases within the table above.
(4)
We expect to make contributions to our defined benefit pension plans beyond 2019; however, the amount of any contributions is dependent on the future economic environment and investment returns, and we are unable to reasonably estimate the pension contributions beyond 2019.
(5)
Purchase obligations include various commitments, including contractual commitments to acquire ownership interests in a joint venture as a result of business acquisitions completed in 2016. At December 31, 2018, we were committed to pay $27.0 million in 2019 related to the purchase of the remaining interest in a 75.5% owned joint venture. In addition, we have $9.9 million in interest rate caps which will be paid through 2021 and $30.0 million in commitments to prepay rebates to certain customers in 2019, which will be earned or repaid in future periods.
(6)
At December 31, 2018, we had approximately $40.1 million of gross uncertain tax positions, including interest and penalties that could result in potential payments. Due to the high degree of uncertainty regarding future timing of cash flows associated with these liabilities, we are unable to estimate the years in which settlement will occur with the respective taxing authorities.
Off Balance Sheet Arrangements
See Note 6 "Commitments and Contingencies" to the consolidated financial statements included elsewhere in this Annual Report on Form 10-K for disclosure of our guarantees of certain customers’ obligations to third parties.
Recent Accounting Guidance
See Note 1 "Basis of Presentation and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies" to the consolidated financial statements included elsewhere in this Annual Report on Form 10-K for a summary of recent accounting guidance.

51

CRITICAL ACCOUNTING POLICIES AND ESTIMATES
Our discussion and analysis of results of operations and financial condition are based upon our consolidated financial statements. These financial statements have been prepared in accordance with U.S. GAAP unless otherwise noted. The preparation of these financial statements requires us to make estimates and judgments that affect the amounts reported in the financial statements. We base our estimates and judgments on historical experiences and assumptions believed to be reasonable under the circumstances and re-evaluate them on an ongoing basis. Actual results could differ from our estimates under different assumptions or conditions. Our significant accounting policies, which may be affected by our estimates and assumptions, are more fully described in Note 1 to the consolidated financial statements included elsewhere in this Annual Report on Form 10-K.
An accounting policy is deemed to be critical if it requires an accounting estimate to be made based on assumptions about matters that are highly uncertain at the time the estimate is made, and if different estimates that reasonably could have been used, or changes in the accounting estimates that are reasonably likely to occur periodically, could materially impact the financial statements. Management believes the following critical accounting policies reflect its most significant estimates and assumptions used in the preparation of the financial statements.
Accounting for Business Combinations
We account for business combinations under the acquisition method of accounting. This method requires the recording of acquired assets, including separately identifiable intangible assets, and assumed liabilities at their acquisition date fair values. The excess of the purchase price over the fair value of assets acquired and liabilities assumed is recorded as goodwill. Determining the fair value of assets acquired and liabilities assumed requires management’s judgment and often involves the use of significant estimates and assumptions, including assumptions with respect to future cash inflows and outflows, discount rates, royalty rates, customer attrition rates, technology migration rates, asset lives and market multiples, among other items.
The fair values of intangible assets are estimated using an income approach, either the excess earnings method (customer relationships) or the relief from royalty method (technology and trademarks). Under the excess earnings method, an intangible asset’s fair value is equal to the present value of the incremental after-tax cash flows attributable solely to the intangible asset over its remaining useful life. With respect to customer relationships, fair values are calculated using the excess earnings method and customer attrition is a key input used to determine the applicable after-tax cash flows. Under the relief from royalty method, fair value is measured by estimating future revenue associated with the intangible asset over its useful life and applying a royalty rate to the revenue estimate. These intangible assets enable us to secure markets for our products, develop new products to meet the evolving business needs and competitively produce our existing products.
The fair values of real properties acquired are based on the consideration of their highest and best use in the market. The fair values of property, plant and equipment, other than real properties, are based on the consideration that unless otherwise identified, they will continue to be used "as is" and as part of the ongoing business. In contemplation of the in-use premise and the nature of the assets, the fair value is developed primarily using a cost approach.
The determination of the fair value of assets acquired and liabilities assumed involves assessing factors such as the expected future cash flows associated with individual assets and liabilities and appropriate discount rates at the date of the acquisition.
The fair value of noncontrolling interests, when applicable, are estimated by applying an income approach and is based on significant inputs that are not observable in the market and thus represents a fair value measurement categorized within Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy. Key assumptions in the valuation of noncontrolling interest included a discount rate, a terminal value based on a range of long-term sustainable growth rates and adjustments because of the lack of control that market participants would consider when measuring the fair value of the noncontrolling interests.
The fair value of the contingent consideration liabilities is estimated by applying an income approach using the Black-Scholes option pricing model. The fair value measurements are based on significant inputs that are not observable in the market and thus represents a fair value measurement categorized within Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy. Key assumptions in the valuation of contingent consideration liabilities included discount rates, expected terms, volatility rates and operating results as applicable based on the targets identified in the respective acquisition agreements.
The results of operations for businesses acquired are included in the financial statements from the date of the acquisition. See Note 3 to the consolidated financial statements included elsewhere in this Annual Report on Form 10-K for further detail on the related accounting.
Asset Impairments
Factors that could result in future impairment charges or changes in useful lives, among others, include changes in worldwide economic conditions, changes in technology, changes in competitive conditions and customer preferences, and fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates. These risk factors are discussed in Part I, Item 1A, "Risk Factors," included elsewhere in this Annual Report on Form 10-K.

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Goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets
As discussed in Note 1 to the consolidated financial statements included elsewhere in this Annual Report on Form 10-K, the Company tests goodwill and identifiable intangible assets with indefinite lives for impairment at least annually as of October 1st. We initially test goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets for impairment by performing a qualitative evaluation. The qualitative evaluation is an assessment of factors, including reporting unit or asset specific operating results and cost factors, as well as industry, market and macroeconomic conditions, to determine whether it is more likely than not (more than 50%) that the fair values of a reporting unit or asset are less than the respective carrying amounts, including goodwill. If based on this qualitative assessment we determine that an impairment is more likely than not, or if we elect not to perform a qualitative assessment, we would be required to perform a quantitative impairment test. For the quantitative impairment test, we compare the fair value of each reporting unit or indefinite-lived asset to its carrying value and if the fair value exceeds its carrying value, no impairment exists, and no further testing is required. If the fair value of the reporting unit or indefinite-lived asset is less than the carrying value, the difference is recorded as an impairment loss. Fair values under the quantitative test are estimated using a combination of discounted projected future earnings or cash flow methods, that are based on projections of the amounts and timing of future revenue and cash flows, and multiples of earnings in estimating fair value. In conjunction with our impairment assessments of indefinite-lived intangible assets, we also review the reasonableness of the indefinite useful lives associated with these assets, in which we evaluate whether indicators exist that future cash flows associated with these assets could be realized over a finite period.
For the 2018 impairment tests of our goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets, management concluded that the fair values exceeded the respective carrying values and no impairments existed. In addition, during 2017 we changed certain indefinite-lived intangible assets to definite-lived intangible assets, as discussed further in Note 4 to the consolidated financial statements included elsewhere in this Annual Report on Form 10-K.
The inputs utilized in a quantitative analysis are classified as Level 3 inputs within the fair value hierarchy as defined in ASC 820, Fair Value Measurement. The process of evaluating the potential impairment of goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets is subjective because it requires the use of estimates and assumptions as to our future cash flows, discount rates commensurate with the risks involved in the assets, future economic and market conditions, as well as other key assumptions. We believe that the amounts recorded in the financial statements related to goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets are based on the best estimates and judgments of the appropriate Axalta management, although actual outcomes could differ from our estimates.
Goodwill is allocated to, and evaluated for impairment at, the reporting unit level, which is defined as an operating segment or one level below an operating segment. We have two operating segments - Performance Coatings and Transportation Coatings - that also serve as our reportable segments. We have goodwill allocated to each of our four reporting units. At December 31, 2018, our $1,230.8 million in total goodwill is allocated to reportable segments as follows: $1,151.5 million in Performance Coatings and $79.3 million in Transportation Coatings.
Other intangible assets
Definite-lived intangible assets, such as technology, trademarks, customer relationships and non-compete agreements are amortized over their estimated useful lives, generally for periods ranging from 2 to 25 years. The reasonableness of the useful lives of these assets is continually evaluated. Once these assets are fully amortized, they are removed from the balance sheet.
The in-process research and development projects we acquired in conjunction with the Acquisition are considered indefinite-lived intangible assets until the abandonment or completion of the associated research and development efforts. Upon completion of the research and development process, the carrying values of acquired in process research and development projects are reclassified as definite-lived assets and are amortized over their useful lives. If the project is abandoned, we record the write-off as a loss in the statement of operations.
Long-Lived Assets
Long-lived assets, which includes property, plant and equipment, and definite-lived intangible assets, are assessed for impairment at the asset group level whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate the carrying amount of the asset group may not be recoverable. The impairment testing involves comparing the carrying amount of the asset group to the forecasted undiscounted future cash flows generated by that asset group (i.e. a recoverability test). In the event the carrying amount of the asset group exceeds the undiscounted future cash flows generated by that asset group and the carrying amount is not considered recoverable, an impairment exists. An impairment loss is measured as the excess of the asset group’s carrying amount over its fair value. An impairment loss is recognized in the statement of operations in the period that the impairment occurs.
Assets are grouped at the lowest level for which identifiable cash flows are largely independent of the cash flows of other assets.

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Stock-Based Compensation
Compensation expense related to service-based, non-qualified stock options is equivalent to the grant-date fair value of the awards determined under the Black-Scholes option pricing model and is recognized as compensation expense over the service period utilizing the graded vesting attribution method.
Compensation expense related to the restricted stock awards and restricted stock units is equal to the grant-date fair value of the awards determined by the closing share price on the date of the grant. The related expense is recognized as compensation expense over the service period utilizing the graded vesting attribution method.
Compensation expense related to performance stock awards and performance share units is equivalent to the grant-date fair value of the awards determined using a valuation methodology (Monte Carlo simulation model) to account for the market conditions linked to these awards. These awards are tied to the Company’s total shareholder return ("TSR") relative to the TSR of a selected industry peer group or S&P 500. Each award covers a three-year performance cycle with a three-year service period vesting requirement. Awards will cliff vest upon meeting the applicable TSR thresholds and the three-year service requirement. The actual number of shares awarded is adjusted to between zero and 200% of the target award amount based upon achievement of pre-determined objectives relative to a peer group. TSR relative to peers is considered a market condition under applicable authoritative guidance. The related expense is recognized as compensation expense over the service period utilizing the graded vesting attribution method.
We recognize compensation expense net of forfeitures, which we have elected to record at the time of occurrence.
See Note 8 to the consolidated financial statements included elsewhere in this Annual Report on Form 10-K for further detail on stock-based compensation.
Retirement Benefits
The amounts recognized in the audited financial statements related to pension benefits are determined from actuarial valuations. Inherent in these valuations are assumptions including expected return on plan assets, discount rates at which liabilities could have been settled, rate of increase in future compensations levels, and mortality rates. These assumptions are updated annually and are disclosed in Note 7 to the consolidated financial statements included elsewhere in this Annual Report on Form 10-K. In accordance with U.S. GAAP, actual results that differed from the assumptions are accumulated and amortized over future periods and therefore, affect expense recognized in future periods.
For the majority of our defined benefit pension obligations, we utilize prevailing long-term high quality corporate bond indices applicable to the respective country at each measurement date. In countries where established corporate bond markets do not exist, we utilize other index movement and duration analysis to determine discount rates. The calculation separately discounts benefit payments using the spot rates from a long-term, high-quality corporate bond yield curve.
The estimated impact of either a 100 basis point increase or decrease of the discount rate to the net periodic benefit cost for 2019 would result in an increase of approximately $0.1 million or $0.5 million, respectively. The estimated impact of a 100 basis point increase or decrease of the expected return on asset assumption on the net periodic benefit cost for 2019 would result in a decrease or increase of approximately $2.8 million, respectively.
Income taxes
The provision for income taxes was determined using the asset and liability approach of accounting for income taxes. Under this approach, deferred taxes represent the future tax consequences expected to occur when the reported amounts of assets and liabilities are recovered or paid. The provision for income taxes represents income taxes paid or payable for the current year plus the change in deferred taxes during the period. Deferred taxes result from differences between the financial and tax basis of our assets and liabilities and are adjusted for changes in tax rates and tax laws when changes are enacted. Valuation allowances are recorded to reduce deferred tax assets when it is more likely than not that a tax benefit will not be realized. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are measured using enacted tax rates applicable in the years in which they are expected to be recovered or settled. The effect on deferred tax assets and liabilities of a change in tax law is recognized in income in the period that includes the enactment date.
At December 31, 2018, we had a net deferred tax asset balance of $44.0 million, after valuation allowances of $159.0 million. At December 31, 2017, we had a net deferred tax asset balance of $45.5 million, after valuation allowances of $214.2 million. Such assets arise because of temporary differences between the financial reporting and tax bases of assets and liabilities, as well as from net operating loss, interest and tax credit carryforwards. The Company records a valuation allowance if, based upon the weight of the available evidence, it is more likely than not that some or all of the deferred tax assets will not be realized. The Company must generate approximately $323.2 million of taxable income to fully realize its consolidated net deferred tax assets as of December 31, 2018.

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We evaluate the recoverability of deferred tax assets on a jurisdictional basis by assessing the adequacy of future expected taxable income from all sources, including the reversal of taxable temporary differences, forecasted core business earnings and available tax planning strategies. Of our net deferred tax asset balance as of December 31, 2018, $114.5 million, net of valuation allowances of $24.2 million, relates to our operations within the U.S. In instances where we are in a three-year cumulative loss, we assess all positive and negative factors including any potential aberrational items which may be included within our taxable results. The aberrational items which have impacted our results include transition-related costs associated with the separation from our predecessor coupled with significant taxable losses associated with the exercises of pre-IPO stock options that were deep in the money at the time they were exercised, as well as debt extinguishment, refinancing and acquisition related costs. We believe, and have assumed, these types of losses are not indicative of our core earnings for purposes of assessing the appropriateness of a valuation allowance. Assumptions around sources of taxable income inherently rely heavily on estimates. We use our historical experience and our short and long-range business forecasts to provide insight. While the Company believes that its judgments and estimations regarding deferred tax assets are appropriate, significant differences in actual experience may require the Company to adjust its valuation allowance and could materially affect the Company’s future financial results.
On December 22, 2017, the U.S. TCJA legislation was enacted into law and contained several key tax provisions that affected us, including the reduction of the U.S. corporate income tax rate to 21% effective January 1, 2018, among others. In December 2017, the SEC staff issued Staff Accounting Bulletin 118, Income Tax Accounting Implications of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act ("SAB 118"), which allowed us to record provisional amounts during a measurement period not to extend beyond one year of the enactment date. December 22, 2018 marked the end of the measurement period for purposes of SAB 118 and we have completed our accounting for the income tax effects of the U.S. TCJA, which is discussed in more detail in Note 10 to the consolidated financial statements.
We provide for income and foreign withholding taxes, where applicable, on unremitted earnings of all subsidiaries and related companies to the extent that such earnings are not deemed to be permanently invested. At December 31, 2018 and 2017, deferred income taxes of approximately $7.4 million have been provided on such subsidiary earnings, respectively. At December 31, 2018, and 2017, we have not recorded a deferred tax liability related to withholding taxes of approximately $4.0 million and $4.2 million, respectively, on unremitted earnings of subsidiaries that are permanently invested.
The breadth of our operations and the global complexity of tax regulations require assessments of uncertainties and judgments in estimating taxes we will ultimately pay. The final taxes paid are dependent upon many factors, including negotiations with taxing authorities in various jurisdictions, outcomes of tax litigation and resolution of disputes arising from federal, state and international tax audits in the normal course of business. A liability for unrecognized tax benefits is recorded when management concludes that the likelihood of sustaining such positions upon examination by taxing authorities is less than "more likely than not." Interest and penalties accrued related to unrecognized tax benefits are included in the provision for income taxes. At December 31, 2018 and 2017, the Company had gross unrecognized tax benefits, excluding interest and penalties, for both domestic and foreign operations of $37.0 million and $17.2 million, respectively.
See Note 10 to the consolidated financial statements included elsewhere in this Annual Report on Form 10-K for further detail on our accounting for income taxes.
Derivatives and Hedging
For derivatives designated as cash flow hedges, we measure hedge effectiveness by formally assessing, at least quarterly, the probable high correlation of the expected future cash flows of the hedged item and the derivative hedging instrument. If the hedging relationship ceases to be highly effective or it becomes probable that an expected transaction will no longer occur, future gains or losses on the derivative instrument are recorded in the statement of operations.
We account for interest rate swaps and certain of our interest rate caps related to our existing long-term borrowings as cash flow hedges. The changes in the fair values of these derivatives are recorded in other comprehensive income and are reclassified to interest expense in the period in which earnings are impacted by the hedged items or in the period that the transaction no longer qualifies as a cash flow hedge.
We account for cross currency swaps related to exchange rate impacts between the U.S. Dollar and Euro as net investment hedges. The changes in the fair value of these derivatives are recorded in other comprehensive income as unrealized currency translation adjustments, while the accrued and settled interest is recorded as interest expense, net in the statement of operations. Interest and settlement proceeds are recorded within cash flows from investing activities in the statement of cash flows.
If no hedging relationship is designated, derivatives are marked to market through the statement of operations. Cash flows from derivatives are recognized in the statement of cash flows in a manner consistent with the underlying transactions.
See Note 18 to the consolidated financial statements included elsewhere in this Annual Report on Form 10-K for further detail on our derivatives and hedging instruments.

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Foreign Currency Translation
Our reporting currency is the U.S. Dollar. Due primarily to our legal entity organization structure, global cash management and raw material sourcing strategies, we determined that the functional currency of certain subsidiaries operating outside of the United States is generally the local currency of the respective subsidiaries. Assets and liabilities of these operations are translated into U.S. Dollars at end-of-period exchange rates; income and expenses are translated using the average exchange rates for the reporting period. Resulting cumulative translation adjustments are recorded as a component of shareholders’ equity in the consolidated balance sheet.
Gains and losses from transactions denominated in foreign currencies other than an entities’ functional currency are included in the consolidated statement of operations in other expense, net.
During the year ended December 31, 2018, our subsidiary in Argentina was determined to be U.S. Dollar functional currency. This determination was made upon conclusion that the Argentinian Peso was hyper-inflationary.
Sales deductions
In our refinish end-market, our product sales are typically supplied through a network of distributors. Control transfers and revenue is recognized when our products are delivered to our distribution customers. Variable consideration in the form of price, less discounts and rebates, are estimated and recorded, as a reduction to net sales, upon the sale of our products based on our ability to make a reasonable estimate of the amounts expected to be received or incurred. The estimates of variable consideration involve significant assumptions based on the best estimates of inventory held by distributors, applicable pricing, as well as the use of historical actuals for sales, discounts and rebates, which may result in changes in estimates in the future.
The timing of payments associated with the above arrangements may differ from the timing associated with the satisfaction of our performance obligations. The period between the satisfaction of the performance obligation and the receipt of payment is dependent on terms and conditions specific to the customers. For transactions in which we expect, at contract inception, the period between the transfer of our products or services to our customer and when the customer pays for that good or service to be greater than one year, we adjust the promised amount of consideration for the effects of any significant financing components.
See Note 2 to the consolidated financial statements included elsewhere in this Annual Report on Form 10-K for further detail on our revenue.
Allowance for doubtful accounts
We maintain an allowance for doubtful accounts that reduces receivables to amounts that are expected to be collected. In estimating the allowance, management considers factors such as current overall geographic and industry-specific economic conditions, statutory requirements, accounts receivable turnover, historical and anticipated customer performance, historical experience with write-offs as a standalone company and the level of past-due amounts. Changes in these conditions may result in additional allowances. After all attempts to collect a receivable have failed and local legal requirements are met, the receivable is written off against the allowance.
Contingencies
Contingencies, by their nature, relate to uncertainties that require management to exercise judgment both in assessing the likelihood that a liability has been incurred as well as in estimating the amount of potential loss. The most important contingencies impacting our financial statements are those related to environmental remediation, pending or threatened litigation against the Company and the resolution of matters related to open tax years.
Environmental remediation costs are accrued when it is probable that a liability has been incurred and the amount can be reasonably estimated. Estimates of environmental reserves require evaluating government regulation, available technology, site-specific information and remediation alternatives. We accrue an amount equal to our best estimate of the costs to remediate based upon the available information. The extent of environmental impacts may not be fully known, and the processes and costs of remediation may change as new information is obtained or technology for remediation is improved. Our process for estimating the expected cost for remediation considers the information available, technology that can be utilized and estimates of the extent of environmental damage. Adjustments to our estimates are made periodically as additional information received as remediation progresses.

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We are subject to legal proceedings and claims arising out of our business operations. We routinely assess the likelihood of any adverse outcomes to these matters, as well as ranges of probable losses. A determination of the amount of the reserves required, if any, for these contingencies is made after analysis of each known claim. We have an active risk management program consisting of numerous insurance policies secured from many carriers. These policies often provide coverage that is intended to minimize the financial impact, if any, of the legal proceedings. The required reserves may change in the future due to new developments in each matter.
For more information on these matters, see Note 6 and Note 10 to the consolidated financial statements included elsewhere in this Annual Report on Form 10-K.

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ITEM 7A. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK
We are exposed to changes in interest rates and foreign currency exchange rates because we finance certain operations through fixed and variable rate debt instruments and denominate our transactions in a variety of foreign currencies. We are also exposed to changes in the prices of certain commodities that we use in production. Changes in these rates and commodity prices may have an impact on future cash flow and earnings.
We manage these risks through normal operating and financing activities and, when deemed appropriate, through the use of derivative financial instruments. We do not enter into derivative financial instruments for trading or speculative purposes.
By using derivative instruments, we are subject to credit and market risk. The fair market value of the derivative instruments is determined by using valuation models whose inputs are derived using market observable inputs, including interest rate yield curves, as well as foreign exchange and commodity spot and forward rates, and reflects the asset or liability position as of the end of each reporting period. When the fair value of a derivative contract is positive, the counterparty owes us, thus creating a receivable risk for us. We are exposed to counterparty credit risk in the event of non-performance by counterparties to our derivative agreements. We minimize counterparty credit (or repayment) risk by entering into transactions with major financial institutions of investment grade credit rating.
Our exposure to market risk is not hedged in a manner that completely eliminates the effects of changing market conditions on earnings or cash flow.
Interest rate risk 
We are subject to interest rate market risk in connection with our borrowings. A one-eighth percent change in the applicable interest rate for borrowings under the Senior Secured Credit Facilities (assuming the Revolving Credit Facility is undrawn) would have an annual impact of approximately $1.4 million on cash interest expense considering the impact of our hedging positions currently in place.
We selectively use derivative instruments to reduce market risk associated with changes in interest rates. The use of derivatives is intended for hedging purposes only and we do not enter into derivative instruments for speculative purposes.
During the year ended December 31, 2017, we entered into four 1.5% interest rate caps with aggregate notional amounts totaling $850.0 million to hedge the variable interest rate exposures on our 2024 Dollar Term Loans. Three of these interest rate caps, comprising $600.0 million of the notional value, expire December 31, 2019 and had a deferred premium of $8.6 million at inception. The fourth interest rate cap, comprising the remaining $250.0 million of the notional value, expires December 31, 2021 and had a deferred premium of $8.1 million at inception. All deferred premiums are paid quarterly over the term of the respective interest rate caps. These interest rate caps are marked to market at each reporting date and any unrealized gains or losses are included in accumulated other comprehensive (loss) income ("AOCI") and reclassified to interest expense in the same period or periods during which the hedged transactions affect earnings.
During the year ended December 31, 2018, we entered into three interest rate swaps and three fixed for fixed cross-currency swaps, both with aggregate notional amounts totaling $475.0 million, to hedge interest rate exposures related to variable rate borrowings and variability of exchange rate impacts between the U.S. Dollar and Euro, under the Senior Secured Credit Facilities. Under the terms of the interest rate swap agreements, the Company is required to pay the counter-parties a stream of fixed interest payments at a rate of 2.72% and, in turn, receives variable interest payments based on 3-month LIBOR from the counter-parties. Under the terms of the cross-currency swap agreements, the Company notionally exchanged $475.0 million at a weighted average interest rate of 4.47% for €416.6 million at a weighted average interest rate of 1.44%. The interest rate swaps and the cross-currency swaps are designated as cash flow and net investment hedges, respectively, and expire on March 31, 2023. The interest rate swaps are marked to market at each reporting date and any unrealized gains or losses are included in AOCI and reclassified to interest expense in the same period or periods during which the hedged transactions affect earnings. The cross-currency swaps are marked to market at each reporting date and any unrealized gains or losses are included in unrealized currency translation adjustments, within AOCI, while the accrued and settled interest is recorded as interest expense, net in the statement of operations.
Foreign exchange rates risk 
We are exposed to foreign currency exchange risk by virtue of the translation of our international operations from local currencies into the U.S. Dollar. The majority of our net sales for the years ended December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016 were from operations outside the United States. At December 31, 2018 and 2017, the accumulated other comprehensive loss account on the consolidated balance sheets included a cumulative translation loss of $299.4 million and $208.8 million, respectively. A hypothetical 10% increase in the value of the U.S. Dollar relative to all foreign currencies would have increased the cumulative translation loss by $178.2 million. This sensitivity analysis is inherently limited as it assumes that rates of multiple foreign currencies are moving in the same direction relative to the value of the U.S. Dollar.
Uncertainty in the global market conditions has resulted in, and may continue to cause, significant volatility in foreign currency exchange rates which could increase these risks.

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In the majority of our jurisdictions, we earn revenue and incur costs in the local currency of such jurisdiction. We earn significant revenues and incur significant costs in foreign currencies including the Euro, Mexican peso, Brazilian real and the Chinese yuan/renminbi. As a result, movements in exchange rates could cause our revenues and expenses to materially fluctuate, impacting our future profitability and cash flows. Our purchases of raw materials in Latin America, EMEA and Asia Pacific and future business operations and opportunities, including the continued expansion of our business outside North America, may further increase the risk that cash flows resulting from these activities may be adversely affected by changes in currency exchange rates. If and when appropriate, we intend to manage these risks through foreign currency hedges and/or by utilizing local currency funding of these expansions. We do not intend to hold financial instruments for trading or speculative purposes.
Additionally, in order to fund the purchase price for certain assets of DPC and the capital stock and other equity interests of certain non-U.S. entities, a combination of equity contributions and intercompany loans were utilized to capitalize certain non-U.S. subsidiaries. In certain instances, the intercompany loans are denominated in currencies other than the functional currency of the affected subsidiaries. Where intercompany loans are not a component of permanently invested capital of the affected subsidiaries, increases or decreases in the value of the subsidiaries’ functional currency against other currencies will affect our results of operations. We use these intercompany loans to offset the exposure to profitability and cash flows created by external loans denominated in currencies that are different from the function currency of the issuing entities, including our 2024 and 2025 Euro Senior Notes, which are denominated in Euros.
Commodity price risk 
We are subject to changes in our cost of sales caused by movements in underlying commodity prices (primarily oil and natural gas). Between 45% and 55% of our cost of sales is represented by raw materials. A substantial portion of the purchased raw materials include monomers, pigments, resins and solvents. Our price fluctuations generally follow industry indices. We historically have not entered into long-term purchase contracts related to the purchase of raw materials. If and when appropriate, we intend to manage these risks using purchase contracts with our suppliers.
Treasury policy
Our treasury policy seeks to ensure that adequate financial resources are available for the development of our businesses while managing our currency and interest rate risks. Our policy is to not engage in speculative transactions. Our policies with respect to the major areas of our treasury activity are set forth above.


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ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA

Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
To the Board of Directors and Shareholders of Axalta Coating Systems Ltd.
Opinions on the Financial Statements and Internal Control over Financial Reporting
We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of Axalta Coating Systems Ltd. and its subsidiaries (the “Company”) as of December 31, 2018 and 2017, and the related consolidated statements of operations, comprehensive income (loss), changes in shareholders’ equity, and cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2018, including the related notes and schedule of valuation and qualifying accounts for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2018 appearing under item 15(a)(2) (collectively referred to as the “consolidated financial statements”). We also have audited the Company's internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2018, based on criteria established in Internal Control - Integrated Framework (2013) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO).
In our opinion, the consolidated financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of the Company as of December 31, 2018 and 2017, and the results of its operations and its cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2018 in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. Also in our opinion, the Company maintained, in all material respects, effective internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2018, based on criteria established in Internal Control - Integrated Framework (2013) issued by the COSO.
Change in Accounting Principle
As discussed in Notes 1 and 2 to the consolidated financial statements, the Company changed the manner in which it accounts for revenue from contracts with customers in 2018.
Basis for Opinions
The Company's management is responsible for these consolidated financial statements, for maintaining effective internal control over financial reporting, and for its assessment of the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting, included in Management’s Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting appearing under Item 9A. Our responsibility is to express opinions on the Company’s consolidated financial statements and on the Company's internal control over financial reporting based on our audits. We are a public accounting firm registered with the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) (PCAOB) and are required to be independent with respect to the Company in accordance with the U.S. federal securities laws and the applicable rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission and the PCAOB.
We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the PCAOB. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audits to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the consolidated financial statements are free of material misstatement, whether due to error or fraud, and whether effective internal control over financial reporting was maintained in all material respects.
Our audits of the consolidated financial statements included performing procedures to assess the risks of material misstatement of the consolidated financial statements, whether due to error or fraud, and performing procedures that respond to those risks. Such procedures included examining, on a test basis, evidence regarding the amounts and disclosures in the consolidated financial statements. Our audits also included evaluating the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall presentation of the consolidated financial statements. Our audit of internal control over financial reporting included obtaining an understanding of internal control over financial reporting, assessing the risk that a material weakness exists, and testing and evaluating the design and operating effectiveness of internal control based on the assessed risk. Our audits also included performing such other procedures as we considered necessary in the circumstances. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinions.

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Definition and Limitations of Internal Control over Financial Reporting
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 (i) pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of the assets of the company; (ii) 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 (iii) 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.

/s/ PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
February 26, 2019
We have served as the Company’s auditor since 2011.  

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AXALTA COATING SYSTEMS LTD.
Consolidated Statements of Operations
(In millions, except per share data)
    
 
 
Year Ended December 31,
 
 
2018
 
2017
 
2016
Net sales
 
$
4,669.7

 
$
4,352.9

 
$
4,068.8

Other revenue
 
26.3

 
24.1

 
23.9

Total revenue
 
4,696.0

 
4,377.0

 
4,092.7

Cost of goods sold
 
3,106.3

 
2,780.5

 
2,528.8

Selling, general and administrative expenses
 
959.1

 
995.4

 
959.8

Venezuela asset impairment and deconsolidation charge
 
—

 
70.9

 
57.9

Research and development expenses
 
73.1

 
65.3

 
57.7

Amortization of acquired intangibles
 
115.4

 
101.2

 
83.4

Income from operations
 
442.1

 
363.7

 
405.1

Interest expense, net
 
159.6

 
147.0

 
178.2

Other expense, net
 
15.0

 
27.1

 
144.2

Income before income taxes
 
267.5

 
189.6

 
82.7

Provision for income taxes
 
54.2

 
141.9

 
38.1

Net income
 
213.3

 
47.7

 
44.6

Less: Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests
 
6.2

 
11.0

 
5.8

Net income attributable to controlling interests
 
$
207.1

 
$
36.7

 
$
38.8

Basic net income per share
 
$
0.87

 
$
0.15

 
$
0.16

Diluted net income per share
 
$
0.85

 
$
0.15

 
$
0.16


The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.


62

AXALTA COATING SYSTEMS LTD.
Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss)
(In millions)
 
 
Year Ended December 31,
 
 
2018
 
2017
 
2016
Net income
 
$
213.3

 
$
47.7

 
$
44.6

Other comprehensive (loss) income, before tax:
 
 
 
 
 
 
Foreign currency translation adjustments
 
(94.1
)
 
85.6

 
(59.5
)
Unrealized gain on securities
 
—

 
0.4

 
0.3

Unrealized gain on derivatives
 
2.4

 
0.9

 
2.0

Unrealized (loss) gain on pension and other benefit plan obligations
 
(6.4
)
 
31.3

 
(28.9
)
Other comprehensive (loss) income, before tax
 
(98.1
)
 
118.2

 
(86.1
)
Income tax (benefit) provision related to items of other comprehensive income
 
(0.3
)
 
6.6

 
(4.9
)
Other comprehensive (loss) income, net of tax
 
(97.8
)
 
111.6

 
(81.2
)
Comprehensive income (loss)
 
115.5

 
159.3

 
(36.6
)
Less: Comprehensive income attributable to noncontrolling interests
 
2.7

 
13.2

 
5.7

Comprehensive income (loss) attributable to controlling interests
 
$
112.8

 
$
146.1

 
$
(42.3
)

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.

63

AXALTA COATING SYSTEMS LTD.
Consolidated Balance Sheets
(In millions, except per share data)
 
 
December 31,
 
 
2018
 
2017
Assets
 
 
 
 
Current assets:
 
 
 
 
Cash and cash equivalents
 
$
693.6

 
$
769.8

Restricted cash
 
2.8

 
3.1

Accounts and notes receivable, net
 
860.8

 
870.2

Inventories
 
613.0

 
608.6

Prepaid expenses and other current assets
 
139.4

 
63.9

Total current assets
 
$
2,309.6

 
$
2,315.6

Property, plant and equipment, net
 
1,298.2

 
1,388.6

Goodwill
 
1,230.8

 
1,271.2

Identifiable intangibles, net
 
1,348.0

 
1,428.2

Other assets
 
489.1

 
428.6

Total assets
 
$
6,675.7

 
$
6,832.2

Liabilities, Shareholders’ Equity
 

 

Current liabilities:
 

 

Accounts payable
 
$
522.8

 
$
554.9

Current portion of borrowings
 
42.2

 
37.7

Other accrued liabilities
 
475.6

 
489.6

Total current liabilities
 
$
1,040.6

 
$
1,082.2

Long-term borrowings
 
3,821.8

 
3,877.9

Accrued pensions
 
261.9

 
279.1

Deferred income taxes
 
140.8

 
152.9

Other liabilities
 
100.1

 
32.3

Total liabilities
 
$
5,365.2

 
$
5,424.4

Commitments and contingent liabilities (Note 6)
 

 

Shareholders’ equity
 

 

Common shares, $1.00 par, 1,000.0 shares authorized, 246.7 and 243.9 shares issued at December 31, 2018 and 2017, respectively
 
$
245.3

 
$
242.4

Capital in excess of par
 
1,409.5

 
1,354.5

Retained earnings (Accumulated deficit)
 
198.6

 
(21.4
)
Treasury shares, at cost, 11.1 and 2.0 shares at December 31, 2018 and 2017, respectively
 
(312.2
)
 
(58.4
)
Accumulated other comprehensive loss
 
(336.1
)
 
(241.0
)
Total Axalta shareholders’ equity
 
$
1,205.1

 
$
1,276.1

Noncontrolling interests
 
105.4

 
131.7

Total shareholders’ equity
 
$
1,310.5

 
$
1,407.8

Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity
 
$
6,675.7

 
$
6,832.2


The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.

64

AXALTA COATING SYSTEMS LTD.
Consolidated Statement of Changes in Shareholders’ Equity
(In millions)
 
Common Stock
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Number of Shares
 
Par/Stated Value
 
Capital In
Excess Of
Par
 
Retained earnings (Accumulated deficit)
 
Treasury Shares, at cost
 
Accumulated
Other
Comprehensive
Loss
 
Non-controlling
Interests
 
Total
Balance December 31, 2015
237.9

 
$
237.0

 
$
1,238.8

 
$
(140.8
)
 
$
—

 
$
(269.3
)
 
$
67.5

 
$
1,133.2

Comprehensive income (loss):
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Net income
—

 
—

 
—

 
38.8

 
—

 
—

 
5.8

 
44.6

Net unrealized gain on securities, net of tax of $0.0 million
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
0.3

 
—

 
0.3

Net realized and unrealized loss on derivatives, net of tax of $0.8 million
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
1.2

 
—

 
1.2

Long-term employee benefit plans, net of tax benefit of $5.7 million
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
(23.2
)
 
—

 
(23.2
)
Foreign currency translation, net of tax of $0.0 million
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
(59.4
)
 
(0.1
)
 
(59.5
)
Total comprehensive income (loss)
—

 
—

 
—

 
38.8

 
—

 
(81.1
)
 
5.7

 
(36.6
)
Cumulative effect of an accounting change
—

 
—

 
—

 
43.9

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
43.9

Recognition of stock-based compensation
—

 
—

 
41.1

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
41.1

Shares issued under compensation plans
2.6

 
2.3

 
14.4

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
16.7

Noncontrolling interests of acquired subsidiaries
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
51.3

 
51.3

Dividends declared to noncontrolling interests
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
(3.0
)
 
(3.0
)
Balance December 31, 2016
240.5

 
$
239.3

 
$
1,294.3

 
$
(58.1
)
 
$
—

 
$
(350.4
)
 
$
121.5

 
$
1,246.6

Comprehensive income:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Net income
—

 
—

 
—

 
36.7

 
—

 
—

 
11.0

 
47.7

Net unrealized gain on securities, net of tax of $0.0 million
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
0.4

 
—

 
0.4

Net realized and unrealized gain on derivatives, net of tax of $0.5 million
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
0.4

 
—

 
0.4

Long-term employee benefit plans, net of tax of $6.1 million
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
25.2

 
—

 
25.2

Foreign currency translation, net of tax of $0.0 million
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
83.4

 
2.2

 
85.6

Total comprehensive income
—

 
—

 
—

 
36.7

 
—

 
109.4

 
13.2

 
159.3

Recognition of stock-based compensation
—

 
—

 
38.5

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
38.5

Shares issued under compensation plans
3.4

 
3.1

 
21.7

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
24.8

Treasury share repurchases
(2.0
)
 
—

 
—

 
—

 
(58.4
)
 
—

 
—

 
(58.4
)
Dividends declared to noncontrolling interests
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
(3.0
)
 
(3.0
)
Balance December 31, 2017
241.9

 
$
242.4

 
$
1,354.5

 
$
(21.4
)
 
$
(58.4
)
 
$
(241.0
)
 
$
131.7

 
$
1,407.8

Comprehensive income (loss):
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Net income
—

 
—

 
—

 
207.1

 
—

 
—

 
6.2

 
213.3

Net realized and unrealized gain on derivatives, net of tax of $1.1 million
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
1.3

 
—

 
1.3

Long-term employee benefit plans, net of tax benefit of $1.4 million
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
(5.0
)
 
—

 
(5.0
)
Foreign currency translation, net of tax of $0.0 million
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
(90.6
)
 
(3.5
)
 
(94.1
)
Total comprehensive income (loss)
—

 
—

 
—

 
207.1

 
—

 
(94.3
)
 
2.7

 
115.5

Cumulative effect of an accounting change
—

 
—

 
—

 
12.9

 
—

 
(0.8
)
 
0.1

 
12.2

Recognition of stock-based compensation
—

 
—

 
37.3

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
37.3

Shares issued under compensation plans
2.8

 
2.9

 
14.8

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
17.7

Noncontrolling interests of acquired subsidiaries
—

 
—

 
2.9

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
(28.1
)
 
(25.2
)
Treasury share repurchases
(9.1
)
 
—

 
—

 
—

 
(253.8
)
 
—

 
—

 
(253.8
)
Dividends declared to noncontrolling interests
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
(1.0
)
 
(1.0
)
Balance December 31, 2018
235.6

 
$
245.3

 
$
1,409.5

 
$
198.6

 
$
(312.2
)
 
$
(336.1
)
 
$
105.4

 
$
1,310.5

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.

65

AXALTA COATING SYSTEMS LTD.
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows
(In millions)
 
 
Year Ended December 31,
 
 
2018
 
2017
 
2016
Operating activities:
 
 
 
 
 
 
Net income
 
$
213.3

 
$
47.7

 
$
44.6

Adjustment to reconcile net income to cash provided by operating activities:
 

 

 
 
Depreciation and amortization

369.1


347.5


322.1

Amortization of deferred financing costs and original issue discount

8.0


8.0


17.8

Debt extinguishment and refinancing related costs

9.5


13.4


97.6

Deferred income taxes

6.1


91.7


(15.9
)
Realized and unrealized foreign exchange losses (gains), net

17.3


(3.6
)

35.5

Stock-based compensation

37.3


38.5


41.1

Asset impairments

—


7.6


68.4

Loss on deconsolidation of Venezuela

—


70.9


—

Interest income on swaps designated as net investment hedges

(9.4
)

—


—

Other non-cash, net

(0.9
)

4.4


(1.9
)
Changes in operating assets and liabilities:
 

 

 
 
Trade accounts and notes receivable
 
(22.3
)
 
(15.2
)
 
(67.8
)
Inventories
 
(48.1
)
 
(19.9
)
 
(1.7
)
Prepaid expenses and other assets
 
(157.3
)
 
(84.9
)
 
(64.5
)
Accounts payable
 
49.5

 
39.8

 
32.3

Other accrued liabilities
 
(8.4
)
 
6.7

 
58.7

Other liabilities
 
32.4

 
(12.6
)
 
(7.0
)
Cash provided by operating activities
 
$
496.1

 
$
540.0

 
$
559.3

Investing activities:
 

 

 
 
Acquisitions, net of cash acquired
 
$
(82.8
)
 
$
(564.4
)
 
$
(114.8
)
Investment in non-controlling interest
 
(26.9
)
 
—

 
—

Purchase of property, plant and equipment
 
(143.4
)
 
(125.0
)
 
(136.2
)
Interest proceeds on swaps designated as net investment hedges
 
9.4

 
—

 
—

Proceeds from settlement of swaps designated as net investment hedges
 
22.5

 
—

 
—

Other investing activities, net
 
5.1

 
(0.2
)
 
(6.0
)
Cash used for investing activities
 
$
(216.1
)
 
$
(689.6
)
 
$
(257.0
)
Financing activities:
 

 

 
 
Proceeds from long-term borrowings
 
468.9

 
483.6

 
1,604.3

Payments on short-term borrowings
 
(44.7
)
 
(14.1
)
 
(8.6
)
Payments on long-term borrowings
 
(511.3
)
 
(50.0
)
 
(1,755.7
)
Financing-related costs
 
(10.8
)
 
(10.4
)
 
(86.3
)
Dividends paid to noncontrolling interests
 
(1.0
)
 
(3.0
)
 
(3.0
)
Purchase of treasury stock
 
(253.8
)
 
(58.4
)
 
—

Proceeds from option exercises
 
17.4

 
24.8

 
16.7

Deferred acquisition-related consideration
 
(6.0
)
 
(5.2
)
 
—

Cash (used for) provided by financing activities
 
$
(341.3
)
 
$
367.3

 
$
(232.6
)
(Decrease) increase in cash and cash equivalents
 
$
(61.3
)
 
$
217.7

 
$
69.7

Effect of exchange rate changes on cash
 
(15.2
)
 
17.1

 
(19.3
)
Cash at beginning of period
 
$
772.9

 
$
538.1

 
$
487.7

Cash at end of period
 
$
696.4

 
$
772.9

 
$
538.1


 

 

 
 
Cash at end of period reconciliation:
 

 

 
 
Cash and cash equivalents
 
$
693.6

 
$
769.8

 
$
535.4

Restricted cash
 
2.8

 
3.1

 
2.7

Cash at end of period
 
$
696.4

 
$
772.9

 
$
538.1


 

 

 
 
Supplemental cash flow information:
 

 

 
 
Cash paid during the year for:
 

 

 
 
Interest, net of amounts capitalized
 
$
152.4

 
$
130.1

 
$
169.4

Income taxes, net of refunds
 
57.4

 
61.7

 
39.2

Non-cash investing activities:
 


 


 
 
Accrued capital expenditures
 
$
10.1

 
$
30.2

 
$
28.7

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.

66

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(In millions, unless otherwise noted)


(1)     BASIS OF PRESENTATION AND SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
Basis of Presentation
The accompanying consolidated balance sheets of Axalta Coating Systems Ltd. (“Axalta,” the “Company,” “we,” “our” and “us”), at December 31, 2018 and 2017 and the related consolidated statements of operations, consolidated statements of comprehensive income (loss), consolidated statements of cash flows and consolidated statements of changes in shareholders' equity for the years ended December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016 included herein have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“GAAP”) and are audited. In the opinion of management, these statements include all adjustments, consisting only of normal, recurring adjustments, necessary for a fair statement of the financial position of Axalta.
Venezuela Deconsolidation
During the year ended December 31, 2017, we deconsolidated our Venezuelan subsidiary from our consolidated financial statements and began accounting for our investment in our 100% owned Venezuelan subsidiary using the cost method of accounting. See Note 21 for additional information.
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies
Principles of Consolidation
The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Axalta and its subsidiaries, and entities in which a controlling interest is maintained. For those consolidated subsidiaries in which the Company’s ownership is less than 100%, the outside shareholders’ interests are shown as noncontrolling interests. Investments in companies in which Axalta, directly or indirectly, owns 20% to 50% of the voting stock and has the ability to exercise significant influence over operating and financial policies of the investee are accounted for using the equity method of accounting. As a result, Axalta’s share of the earnings or losses of such equity affiliates is included in the accompanying consolidated statements of operations and our share of these companies’ stockholders’ equity is included in the accompanying consolidated balance sheet. Certain of our joint ventures are accounted for on a one-month lag basis, the effect of which is not material. We eliminated all intercompany accounts and transactions in the preparation of the accompanying consolidated financial statements.
Use of Estimates
The preparation of financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires us to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of sales and expenses during the period. The estimates and assumptions include, but are not limited to, receivable and inventory valuations, fixed asset valuations, valuations of goodwill and identifiable intangible assets, including analysis of impairment, valuations of long-term employee benefit obligations, income taxes, environmental matters, litigation, stock-based compensation, restructuring and allocations of costs. Our estimates are based on historical experience, facts and circumstances available at the time and various other assumptions that are believed to be reasonable. Actual results could differ materially from those estimates.
Accounting for Business Combinations
We account for business combinations under the acquisition method of accounting. This method requires the recording of acquired assets, including separately identifiable intangible assets and assumed liabilities at their acquisition date fair values. The method records any excess purchase price over the fair value of acquired net assets as goodwill. Included in the determination of the purchase price is the fair value of contingent consideration, if applicable, based on the terms and applicable targets described within the acquisition agreements (e.g., projected revenues or EBITDA). Subsequent to the acquisition date, the fair value of the liability, if determined to be payable in cash, is revalued at each balance sheet date with adjustments recorded within earnings.
The determination of the fair value of assets acquired, liabilities assumed and noncontrolling interests involves assessments of factors such as the expected future cash flows associated with individual assets and liabilities and appropriate discount rates at the closing date of the acquisition. When necessary, we consult with external advisors to help determine fair value. For non-observable market values determined using Level 3 assumptions, we determine fair value using acceptable valuation principles, including most commonly the excess earnings method for customer relationships, relief from royalty method for technology and trademarks, cost method for inventory and a combination of cost and market methods for property, plant and equipment, as applicable.
We included the results of operations from the acquisition date in the financial statements for all businesses acquired.

67

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(In millions, unless otherwise noted)

Revenue Recognition
See Note 2 for disclosure of our revenue recognition accounting policy.
Cash and Cash Equivalents
Cash equivalents represent highly liquid investments considered readily convertible to known amounts of cash within three months or less from time of purchase. They are carried at cost plus accrued interest, which approximates fair value because of the short-term maturity of these instruments. Cash balances may exceed government insured limits in certain jurisdictions.
Restricted cash on our consolidated balance sheets primarily represents certain customer guarantees.
Fair Value Measurements
GAAP defines a fair value hierarchy that prioritizes the inputs to valuation techniques used to measure fair value. The hierarchy gives the highest priority to unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities (Level 1 measurements) and the lowest priority to unobservable inputs (Level 3 measurements). A financial instrument’s level within the fair value hierarchy is based on the lowest level of any input that is significant to the fair value measurement.
The following valuation techniques are used to measure fair value for assets and liabilities:
Level 1—Quoted market prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities;
Level 2—Significant other observable inputs (e.g., quoted prices for similar items in active markets, quoted prices for identical or similar items in markets that are not active, inputs other than quoted prices that are observable such as interest rate and yield curves, and market-corroborated inputs); and
Level 3—Unobservable inputs for the asset or liability, which are valued based on management’s estimates of assumptions that market participants would use in pricing the asset or liability.
Derivatives and Hedging
The Company from time to time utilizes derivatives to manage exposures to currency exchange rates and interest rate risk. The fair values of all derivatives are recognized as assets or liabilities at the balance sheet date. Changes in the fair value of these instruments are reported in income or AOCI, depending on the use of the derivative and whether it qualifies for hedge accounting treatment and is designated as such.
Gains and losses on derivatives that qualify and are designated as cash flow hedging instruments are recorded in AOCI, to the extent the hedges are effective, until the underlying transactions are recognized in income.
Gains and losses on derivatives that qualify and are designated as net investment hedges are recorded in AOCI, to the extent the hedges are effective, until the underlying transactions are recognized in income.
Gains and losses on derivatives qualifying and designated as fair value hedging instruments, as well as the offsetting losses and gains on the hedged items, are reported in income in the same accounting period. Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments are marked-to-market at the end of each accounting period with the results included in income.
Cash flows from derivatives are recognized in the consolidated statements of cash flows in a manner consistent with the underlying transactions.
Receivables and Allowance for Doubtful Accounts
Receivables are carried at amounts that approximate fair value. Receivables are recognized net of an allowance for doubtful accounts receivable. The allowance for doubtful accounts receivable reflects the best estimate of losses inherent in the accounts receivable portfolio determined on the basis of historical experience, specific allowances for known troubled accounts and other available evidence. Accounts receivable are written down or off when a portion or all of such account receivable is determined to be uncollectible.

68

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(In millions, unless otherwise noted)

Inventories
Inventories are valued at the lower of cost or net realizable value with cost being determined on the weighted average cost method. Elements of cost in inventories include:
•
raw materials,
•
direct labor, and
•
manufacturing and indirect overhead.
Stores and supplies are valued at the lower of cost or net realizable value; cost is generally determined by the weighted average cost method. Inventories deemed to have costs greater than their respective market values are reduced to net realizable value with a loss recorded in income in the period recognized.
Property, Plant and Equipment
Property, plant and equipment acquired in an acquisition are recorded at fair value as of the acquisition date and are depreciated over the estimated useful life using the straight-line method. Subsequent additions to property, plant and equipment, including the fair value of any asset retirement obligations upon initial recognition of the liability, are recorded at cost and are depreciated over the estimated useful life using the straight-line method. See Note 14 for a range of estimated useful lives used for each property, plant and equipment class.
Software included in property, plant and equipment represents the costs of software developed or obtained for internal use. Software costs are amortized on a straight-line basis over their estimated useful lives. Upgrades and enhancements are capitalized if they result in added functionality, which enables the software to perform tasks it was previously incapable of performing. Software maintenance and training costs are expensed in the period in which they are incurred.
Goodwill and Other Identifiable Intangible Assets
Goodwill represents the excess of purchase price over the fair values of underlying net assets acquired in a business combination. Goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets are tested for impairment on an annual basis as of October 1st; however, these tests are performed more frequently if events or changes in circumstances indicate that the asset may be impaired. The fair value methodology is based on prices of similar assets or other valuation methodologies including discounted cash flow techniques.
When testing goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets for impairment, we first have an option to assess qualitative factors to determine whether the existence of events or circumstances leads to a determination that it is more likely than not (more than 50%) that an impairment exists. Such qualitative factors may include the following: macroeconomic conditions; industry and market considerations; cost factors; overall financial performance; and other relevant entity-specific events. If based on this qualitative assessment we determine that an impairment is more likely than not, or if we elect not to perform a qualitative assessment, we would be required to perform a quantitative impairment test.
In 2018, we tested goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets for impairment by performing a qualitative analysis and determined that it was not more likely than not that the fair values of our reporting units and assets was less than the respective carrying amounts. If based on this qualitative assessment, we determined that an impairment was more likely than not, we would have conducted the simplified goodwill impairment test in accordance with ASU 2017-04. Under the simplified test, we compare the fair value of each reporting unit to its carrying value. If the fair value of the reporting unit exceeds its carrying value, no impairment exists and no further testing is required. If the fair value of the reporting unit is less than the carrying value, an impairment charge is recognized for the amount by which the carrying amount exceeds the reporting unit’s fair value; however, the loss recognized should not exceed the total amount of goodwill allocated to that reporting unit.
Definite-lived intangible assets, such as technology, trademarks, customer relationships and non-compete agreements are amortized over their estimated useful lives, generally for periods ranging from 2 to 25 years. The reasonableness of the useful lives of these assets is regularly evaluated. Once these assets are fully amortized, they are removed from the balance sheet. We evaluate these assets for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of these assets might not be recoverable.

69

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(In millions, unless otherwise noted)

Impairment of Long-Lived Assets
The carrying value of long-lived assets to be held and used is evaluated when events or changes in circumstances indicate the carrying value may not be recoverable. The carrying value of a long-lived asset is considered impaired when the total projected undiscounted cash flows from the asset is less than its carrying value. In that event, a loss is recognized based on the amount by which the carrying value exceeds the fair value of the long-lived asset. The fair value methodology used is an estimate of fair market value and is based on prices of similar assets or other valuation methodologies including present value techniques. Long-lived assets to be disposed of other than by sale are classified as held for use until their disposal. Long-lived assets to be disposed of by sale are classified as held for sale and are reported at the lower of carrying amount or fair market value less cost to sell. Depreciation is discontinued for long-lived assets classified as held for sale.
Research and Development
Research and development costs incurred in the normal course of business consist primarily of employee-related costs and are expensed as incurred. In process research and development projects acquired in a business combination are recorded as intangible assets at their fair value as of the acquisition date, using Level 3 assumptions. Subsequent costs related to acquired in process research and development projects are expensed as incurred. In process research and development intangible assets are considered indefinite-lived until the abandonment or completion of the associated research and development efforts. These indefinite-lived intangible assets are tested for impairment consistent with the impairment testing performed on other indefinite-lived intangible assets discussed above. Upon completion of the research and development process, the carrying value of acquired in process research and development projects is reclassified as a finite-lived asset and is amortized over its useful life.
Environmental Liabilities and Expenditures
Accruals for environmental matters are recorded when it is probable that a liability has been incurred and the amount of the liability can be reasonably estimated. Accrued environmental liabilities are not discounted. Claims for recovery from third parties, if any, are reflected separately as an asset. We record recoveries at the earlier of when the gain is probable and reasonably estimable or realized. For the years ending December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016, we have not recognized income associated with recoveries from third parties.
Costs related to environmental remediation are charged to expense in the period incurred. Other environmental costs are also charged to expense in the period incurred, unless they increase the value of the property or reduce or prevent contamination from future operations, in which case, they are capitalized and depreciated.
Litigation
We accrue for liabilities related to litigation matters when available information indicates that the liability is probable, and the amount can be reasonably estimated. Legal costs such as outside counsel fees and expenses are charged to expense in the period incurred.
Income Taxes
Deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognized for the future tax consequences attributable to differences between the financial statement carrying amounts of assets and liabilities and their respective tax basis. Deferred tax assets are also recognized for tax losses, interest and tax credit carryforwards. Valuation allowances are recorded to reduce deferred tax assets when it is more likely than not that a tax benefit will not be realized. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are measured using enacted tax rates applicable in the years in which they are expected to be recovered or settled. The effect on deferred tax assets and liabilities of a change in tax law is recognized in income in the period that includes the enactment date.
Where we do not intend to indefinitely reinvest earnings of our subsidiaries, we provide for income taxes and withholding taxes, where applicable, on unremitted earnings. We do not provide for income taxes on unremitted earnings of our subsidiaries that are intended to be indefinitely reinvested.
We recognize the benefit of an income tax position only if it is "more likely than not" that the tax position will be sustained. The tax benefits recognized are measured based on the largest benefit that has a greater than 50% likelihood of being realized. Additionally, we recognize interest and penalties accrued related to unrecognized tax benefits as a component of provision for income taxes. The current portion of unrecognized tax benefits is included in "Other accrued liabilities" and the long-term portion is included in "Other liabilities" in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets.

70

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(In millions, unless otherwise noted)

Foreign Currency Translation
The reporting currency is the U.S. Dollar. In most cases, our non-U.S. based subsidiaries use their local currency as the functional currency for their respective business operations. Assets and liabilities of these operations are translated into U.S. Dollars at end-of-period exchange rates; income and expenses are translated using the average exchange rates for the reporting period. Resulting cumulative translation adjustments are recorded as a component of shareholders’ equity in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets in AOCI.
Gains and losses from transactions denominated in currencies other than the functional currencies are included in the consolidated statements of operations in other expense, net.
Employee Benefits
Defined benefit plans specify an amount of pension benefit that an employee will receive upon retirement, usually dependent on factors such as age, years of service and compensation. The obligation in respect of defined benefit plans is calculated separately for each plan by estimating the amount of the future benefits that employees earn in return for their service in the current and prior periods. These benefits are then discounted to determine the present value of the obligations and are then adjusted for the impact of any unamortized prior service costs. The discount rate used is based upon market indicators in the region (generally, the yield on bonds that are denominated in the currency in which the benefits will be paid) and that have maturity dates approximating the terms of the obligations. The calculations are performed by qualified actuaries using the projected unit credit method. The obligation of defined benefit plans recorded on our consolidated balance sheets is net of the current fair value of assets. See Note 7 for further information.
Stock-Based Compensation
Our stock-based compensation is comprised of Axalta stock options, restricted stock awards, restricted stock units, performance stock awards and performance share units and are measured at fair value on the grant date or date of modification, as applicable. We recognize compensation expense on a graded-vesting attribution basis over the requisite service period, inclusive of impacts of any current period modifications of previously granted awards. Compensation expense is recorded net of forfeitures, which we have elected to record in the period they occur.
Earnings per Common Share
Basic earnings per common share is computed by dividing net income attributable to Axalta’s common shareholders by the weighted average number of shares outstanding during the period. Diluted earnings per common share is computed by dividing net income attributable to Axalta’s common shareholders by the weighted average number of shares outstanding during the period increased by the number of additional shares that would have been outstanding related to potentially dilutive securities; anti-dilutive securities are excluded from the calculation. These potentially dilutive securities are calculated under the treasury stock method and consist of stock options, restricted stock awards, restricted stock units, performance stock awards and performance share units.

71

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(In millions, unless otherwise noted)

Recently Adopted Accounting Guidance
On January 1, 2018, we adopted ASU 2014-09, “Revenue from Contracts with Customers,” and all related amendments comprising ASC 606 (the “new revenue standard”), electing to use the modified retrospective method. We also elected to apply certain practical expedients, including the application of the modified retrospective method to open contracts at December 31, 2017. Comparative information has not been recast and continues to be reported under historical U.S. GAAP in effect to those applicable periods. The following table summarizes the cumulative effect made to our consolidated balance sheet as a result of the adoption to this standard.
 
 
December 31, 2017
 
Adjustments due to ASU 2014-09
 
January 1, 2018
Assets
 
 
 
 
 
 
Inventories
 
$
608.6

 
$
(22.7
)
 
$
585.9

Prepaid expenses and other current assets (1)
 
63.9

 
41.7

 
105.6

Other assets (2)
 
428.6

 
(1.9
)
 
426.7

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Liabilities
 
 
 
 
 
 
Other accrued liabilities (3)
 
$
489.6

 
$
1.9

 
$
491.5

Deferred income taxes
 
152.9

 
3.0

 
155.9

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Equity
 
 
 
 
 
 
Retained earnings (Accumulated deficit)
 
$
(21.4
)
 
$
12.1

 
$
(9.3
)
Noncontrolling interests
 
131.7

 
0.1

 
131.8

(1)
Includes the impact to contract assets resulting from the modified retrospective adoption of the new revenue standard.
(2)
Includes the impact to deferred income taxes resulting from the modified retrospective adoption of the new revenue standard.
(3)
Includes the impact of estimated variable consideration on certain arrangements in our refinish end-market.
The impacts to the balance sheet as of the adoption date represent the acceleration of revenue for certain arrangements, primarily within our light vehicle end-market, for which we determined our performance obligation has been satisfied. Specifically, we concluded that the transfer of control to the customer, as defined under the new revenue standard, occurs at a date prior to consumption. Additionally, certain costs historically reported in selling, general and administrative expenses under historical U.S. GAAP related to on-site technical support services that are not considered material in the context of our contracts with certain customers are now reported within cost of goods sold on the consolidated statements of operations, as they represent costs incurred in satisfaction of performance obligations. See Note 2 for further discussion.
On January 1, 2018 we retrospectively adopted ASU 2017-07,"Compensation—Retirement Benefits," which requires that an employer report the service cost component of net periodic pension costs in the same line item or items as other compensation costs arising from services rendered by the pertinent employees during the period. It also requires the other components of net periodic pension costs to be presented in the statement of operations separately from the service cost component and outside a subtotal of income from operations. Adoption resulted in a reclassification on the consolidated statements of operations of a benefit of $1.4 million for the year ended December 31, 2017, from income from operations to other expense, net.
On January 1, 2018, we adopted ASU 2016-01, "Financial Instruments - Overall: Recognition and Measurement of Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities," which requires equity investments in unconsolidated entities, excluding those accounted for using the equity method of accounting, to be remeasured at exit price fair value, with changes recorded in the statement of operations. This standard was adopted using the modified retrospective application resulting in a cumulative adjustment to retained earnings of $0.8 million at January 1, 2018. See Note 20 for more information.

72

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(In millions, unless otherwise noted)

Of the accounting standards we have adopted in 2018, the below standards did not have a material impact:
ASU
 
 
 
Effective Date
2017-12
 
Derivatives and Hedging
 
January 1, 2018
2017-09
 
Compensation—Stock Compensation
 
January 1, 2018
2017-04
 
Simplifying the Test for Goodwill Impairment
 
January 1, 2018
2017-01
 
Clarifying the Definition of a Business
 
January 1, 2018
2016-15
 
Statement of Cash Flows
 
January 1, 2018

Accounting Guidance Issued But Not Yet Adopted
In February 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-02, "Leases," which, together with amendments comprising ASC 842, requires lessees to identify arrangements that should be accounted for as leases and generally recognize, for operating and finance leases with terms exceeding twelve months, a right-of-use asset (or "ROU") and lease liability on the balance sheet. In addition to this main provision, this standard included a number of additional changes to lease accounting. This standard is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2018, including interim periods within those fiscal years. Early adoption is permitted prior to this date. A modified retrospective transition approach is required, applying the new standard to all leases existing at the date of initial application. An entity may choose to use either the adoption date or the beginning of the earliest comparative period presented in the financial statements as its date of initial application. We have elected to adopt the new standard on January 1, 2019 and use the effective date as our date of initial application. As a result, historical financial information will not be updated, and the disclosures required under the new standard will not be provided as of and for periods before January 1, 2019.
The new standard provides a number of optional practical expedients in transition. We expect to elect the package of practical expedients, which permits us not to reassess under the new standard our prior conclusions about lease identification, lease classification and initial direct costs. We also expect to elect the practical expedient pertaining to land easements which permits entities to forgo the evaluation of existing land easement arrangements in transition to determine if they contain a lease. We do not expect to elect the use-of-hindsight practical expedient. The new standard also provides practical expedients for an entity’s ongoing accounting. We currently expect to elect the short-term lease recognition exemption for all leases that qualify, meaning we will not recognize ROU assets or lease liabilities, and this includes not recognizing ROU assets or lease liabilities for existing short-term leases (leases with a term of less than 12 months from lease commencement) of those assets in transition. We also currently expect to elect the practical expedient to not separate lease and non-lease components for all asset classes.
The Company is in process of implementing an outsourced software solution to support the ongoing accounting requirements that this standard will have on our consolidated financial statements. We are finalizing the implementation steps including evaluating completeness and accuracy of lease data entered into the software solution to assess the effect of the new guidance on our financial statements and assessing our procedural and policy requirements and impacts to our internal controls. While the Company is still evaluating the impacts of implementing the ASU, we expect to recognize a material increase to total assets and total liabilities on our consolidated balance sheets due to the recognition of ROU assets and corresponding lease liabilities. Additionally, we will record a one-time impact to retained earnings on our consolidated balance sheets and consolidated statement of changes in shareholders’ equity related to the net difference of derecognition of existing assets and debt obligations associated with our leases currently accounted for as sale-leaseback financings, for which the ASU requires accounting for as a lease at the date of initial application. The Company does not expect the adoption of the ASU to have a material effect on the Company’s results of operations. We are currently evaluating the expanded disclosures necessary to be in compliance with this standard, including expanded disclosures regarding qualitative and quantitative information about our leases, the significant judgments made in applying the lease guidance, and the amounts recognized in the financial statements related to those leases.
(2)    REVENUE
We recognize revenue at the point our contractual performance obligations with our customers are satisfied. This occurs at the point in time when control of our products transfers to the customer based on considerations of right to payment, transfer of legal title, physical possession, risks and rewards of ownership and customer acceptance. For the majority of our revenue, control transfers upon shipment of our products to our customers. Our remaining revenue is recorded upon delivery or consumption for our product sales or as incurred for services provided and royalties earned.

73

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(In millions, unless otherwise noted)

Revenue is measured as the amount of consideration we expect to receive in exchange for our products or services. Our contracts, including those subject to standard terms and conditions under multi-year agreements, are largely short-term in nature and each customer purchase order typically represents a contract with the delivery of coatings representing the only separate performance obligation.
For certain customer arrangements within our light vehicle, industrial and commercial vehicle end-markets, revenue is recognized upon shipment, as this is the point in time we have concluded that control of our product has transferred to our customer based on our considerations of the indicators of control in the contracts, including right of use and risk and reward of ownership. For consignment arrangements, revenue is recognized upon actual consumption by our customers, as this represents the point in time that control is determined to have transferred to the customer based on the contractual arrangement.
In our refinish end-market, our product sales are typically supplied through a network of distributors. Control transfers and revenue is recognized when our products are delivered to our distribution customers. Variable consideration in the form of price, less discounts and rebates, are estimated and recorded, as a reduction to net sales, upon the sale of our products based on our ability to make a reasonable estimate of the amounts expected to be received or incurred. The estimates of variable consideration involve significant assumptions based on the best estimates of inventory held by distributors, applicable pricing, as well as the use of historical actuals for sales, discounts and rebates, which may result in changes in estimates in the future.
The timing of payments associated with the above arrangements may differ from the timing associated with the satisfaction of our performance obligations. The period between the satisfaction of the performance obligation and the receipt of payment is dependent on terms and conditions specific to the customers. For transactions in which we expect, at contract inception, the period between the transfer of our products or services to our customer and when the customer pays for that good or service to be greater than one year, we adjust the promised amount of consideration for the effects of any significant financing components.
All costs incurred directly in satisfaction of our performance obligations associated with revenue are reported in cost of goods sold on the statements of operations. We also provide certain customers with incremental up-front consideration, including Business Incentive Plan assets ("BIPs"), which is capitalized as a component of other assets and amortized over the estimated life of the contractual arrangement as a reduction of net sales. We do not receive a distinct service or good in return for these BIPs, but rather receive volume commitments and/or sole supplier status from our customers over the life of the contractual arrangements, which approximates a five-year weighted average useful life. The termination clauses in these contractual arrangements include standard clawback provisions that enable us to collect monetary damages in the event of a customer’s failure to meet its commitments under the relevant contract. At December 31, 2018 and 2017, the total carrying value of BIPs were $190.8 million and $173.0 million, respectively, and are presented within other assets on the consolidated balance sheets. For the years ended December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016 $65.5 million, $65.0 million and $53.5 million, respectively, was amortized and reflected as reductions of net sales in the consolidated statements of operations. The total carrying value of BIPs exclude other upfront incentives made in conjunction with long-term customer commitments of $56.0 million and zero at December 31, 2018 and 2017, respectively, which will be repaid in future periods.
We accrue for sales returns and other allowances based on our historical experience, as well as expectations based on current information relevant to our customers. We include the amounts billed to customers for shipping and handling fees in net sales and include costs incurred for the delivery of goods as cost of goods sold in the statement of operations.
Recognition of licensing and royalty income occurs at the point in time when agreed upon performance obligations are satisfied, the amount is fixed or determinable, and collectability is reasonably assured.
Consideration for products in which control has transferred to our customers that is conditional on something other than the passage of time is recorded as a contract asset within prepaid expenses and other current assets on the balance sheet. The contract asset balances at December 31, 2018 and January 1, 2018 were $47.2 million and $41.7 million, respectively.
The arrangements discussed above that have changed under the new revenue standard have resulted in a difference in timing of revenue recognition and classification of associated costs compared with historical U.S. GAAP. In addition to the application of the modified retrospective method to open contracts at the date of adoption (discussed in Note 1), we have applied certain other policy elections upon adoption of the new revenue standard beginning January 1, 2018, including accounting for shipping and handling costs as contract fulfillment costs, as well as excluding from the transaction price any taxes imposed on and collected from customers in revenue producing transactions. Other practical expedients associated with the new revenue standard were assessed by management and concluded to be not applicable, including the application of a portfolio approach, costs to obtain a contract, existence of significant financing components, contract modifications and right to invoice.

74

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(In millions, unless otherwise noted)

The following tables summarizes the impact to our consolidated statements of operations and balance sheets in accordance with the new revenue standard:
 
 
For the year ended December 31, 2018
 
 
As reported
 
Prior to ASU 2014-09
 
Increases / (Decreases)
Net sales
 
$
4,669.7

 
$
4,662.6

 
$
7.1

Cost of goods sold
 
3,106.3

 
3,039.0

 
67.3

Selling, general and administrative expenses
 
959.1

 
1,023.1

 
(64.0
)
Provision for income taxes
 
54.2

 
53.2

 
1.0

Net income
 
$
213.3

 
$
210.5

 
$
2.8

Less: Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests
 
6.2

 
6.1

 
0.1

Net income attributable to controlling interests
 
$
207.1

 
$
204.4

 
$
2.7

 
 
At December 31, 2018
 
 
As reported
 
Prior to ASU 2014-09
 
Increases / (Decreases)
Assets
 
 
 
 
 
 
Inventories
 
$
613.0

 
$
638.0

 
$
(25.0
)
Prepaid expenses and other current assets
 
139.4

 
92.2

 
47.2

Other assets
 
489.1

 
491.7

 
(2.6
)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Liabilities
 
 
 
 
 
 
Other accrued liabilities
 
$
475.6

 
$
473.7

 
$
1.9

Deferred income taxes
 
140.8

 
137.5

 
3.3

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Equity
 
 
 
 
 
 
Retained earnings
 
$
198.6

 
$
183.8

 
$
14.8

Accumulated other comprehensive loss
 
(336.1
)
 
(335.5
)
 
(0.6
)
Noncontrolling interests
 
105.4

 
105.2

 
0.2


Revenue Streams
Our revenue streams are disaggregated based on the types of products and services offered in contracts with our customers, which are depicted in each of our four end-markets.
•
Refinish - We develop, market and supply a complete portfolio of innovative coatings systems and color matching technologies to facilitate faster automotive collision repairs relative to competing technologies. Our refinish products and systems include a range of coatings layers required to match the vehicle’s color and appearance, producing a repair surface indistinguishable from the adjacent surface.
•
Industrial - The industrial end-market is comprised of liquid and powder coatings used in a broad array of end-market applications. We are also a leading global developer, manufacturer and supplier of functional and decorative liquid and powder coatings for a large number of diversified applications in the industrial end-market. We provide a full portfolio of products for applications including architectural cladding and fittings, automotive coatings, general industrial, job coaters, electrical insulation coatings, HVAC, appliances, industrial wood, coil, rebar and oil & gas pipelines.
•
Light Vehicle - Light vehicle OEMs select coatings providers on the basis of their global ability to deliver advanced technological solutions that improve exterior appearance and durability and provide long-term corrosion protection. Customers also look for suppliers that can enhance process efficiency to reduce overall manufacturing costs and provide on-site technical support.

75

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(In millions, unless otherwise noted)

•
Commercial Vehicle - Sales in the commercial vehicle end-market are generated from a variety of applications including non-automotive transportation (e.g., heavy duty truck, bus and rail) and Agricultural, Construction and Earthmoving, as well as related markets such as trailers, recreational vehicles and personal sport vehicles. This end-market is primarily driven by global commercial vehicle production, which is influenced by overall economic activity, government infrastructure spending, equipment replacement cycles and evolving environmental standards. Commercial vehicle OEMs select coatings providers on the basis of their ability to consistently deliver advanced technological solutions that improve exterior appearance, protection and durability and provide extensive color libraries and matching capabilities at the lowest total cost-in-use, while meeting stringent environmental requirements.
We also have other revenue streams which include immaterial revenues relative to the net sales of our four end-markets, comprised of sales of royalties and services, primarily within our light vehicle and refinish end-markets.
See Note 19 for net sales by end-market.
(3)    ACQUISITIONS
Acquisition of Industrial Wood Business
On June 1, 2017, the Company completed its acquisition from The Valspar Corporation ("Valspar") of certain assets constituting its North American Industrial Wood Coatings business (the "Industrial Wood" business), for a purchase price of $420.0 million, subject to working capital adjustments. Axalta and Valspar finalized the working capital adjustments to the purchase price which resulted in an increase of $10.3 million to $430.3 million (the "Industrial Wood Acquisition"). The Industrial Wood Acquisition was funded through the refinancing of our Dollar Term Loans discussed further at Note 17.
The Industrial Wood business is one of the leading providers of coatings for OEM and aftermarket industrial wood markets, including building products, cabinets, flooring and furniture, in North America. The Industrial Wood Acquisition was recorded as a business combination under ASC 805, Business Combinations, with identifiable assets acquired and liabilities assumed recorded at their estimated fair values as of the acquisition date.
After preliminary working capital adjustments, the Company paid an aggregate purchase price of $430.3 million, which was comprised of the following:
 
 
June 1, 2017 (As Initially Reported)
 
Measurement Period Adjustments
 
June 1, 2017
(As Adjusted)
Accounts and notes receivable—trade
 
$
23.3

 
$
—

 
$
23.3

Inventories
 
24.9

 
(0.2
)
 
24.7

Prepaid expenses and other current assets
 
0.2

 
—

 
0.2

Property, plant and equipment
 
23.0

 
0.1

 
23.1

Identifiable intangibles
 
254.2

 
4.9

 
259.1

Accounts payable
 
(22.4
)
 
0.2

 
(22.2
)
Other accrued liabilities
 
(5.1
)
 
0.4

 
(4.7
)
Net assets acquired before goodwill on acquisition
 
$
298.1

 
$
5.4

 
$
303.5

Goodwill on acquisition
 
132.6

 
(5.8
)
 
126.8

Net assets acquired
 
$
430.7

 
$
(0.4
)
 
$
430.3


Goodwill was recognized as the excess of the purchase price over the net identifiable assets recognized. The goodwill is primarily attributed to our assembled workforce and the anticipated future economic benefits and is recorded within our industrial end-market in our Performance Coatings segment. The goodwill recognized at December 31, 2018 that is expected to be deductible for income tax purposes is $126.8 million.
The Company incurred and expensed acquisition-related transaction costs on the Industrial Wood Acquisition of $5.3 million, included within selling, general and administrative expense on the consolidated statements of operations for the year ended December 31, 2017.
The fair value associated with identifiable intangible assets was $259.1 million, comprised of $34.6 million in technology (inclusive of in-process research and development), $8.0 million in trademarks, $203.0 million in customer relationships and $13.5 million associated with favorable contractual arrangements which have been determined to have a fair value. The definite-lived intangible assets will be amortized over an average term of approximately 19 years.

76

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(In millions, unless otherwise noted)

Supplemental Pro Forma Information
The Company's net sales and income before income taxes for the year ended December 31, 2017 include net sales of $146.1 million and pre-tax income of $2.4 million related to the Industrial Wood business. The following supplemental pro forma information represents the results of operations as if the Company had acquired Industrial Wood on January 1, 2016:
 
 
For the years ended
 (in millions, except per share data)
 
December 31, 2017
 
December 31, 2016
Net sales
 
$
4,454.2

 
$
4,293.1

Net income
 
$
55.0

 
$
45.9

Net income attributable to controlling interests
 
$
44.0

 
$
40.1

Net income per share (Basic)
 
$
0.18

 
$
0.17

Net income per share (Diluted)
 
$
0.18

 
$
0.16


The 2017 supplemental pro forma net income was adjusted to exclude $5.3 million ($3.3 million, net of pro forma income tax impact) of acquisition-related costs incurred in 2017 and $2.8 million ($1.8 million, net of pro forma income tax impact) of non-recurring expense related to the fair market value adjustment to acquisition date inventory. The unaudited pro forma consolidated information does not necessarily reflect the actual results that would have occurred had the acquisition taken place on January 1, 2016, nor is it meant to be indicative of future results of operations of the combined companies under the ownership and operation of the Company.
Other Acquisitions
During the year ended December 31, 2018, we successfully completed seven strategic acquisitions, including two based in Asia Pacific, two based in North America, and three based in Europe all of which operate within our Performance Coatings segment ("2018 Acquisitions"). Our aggregate spending for these acquisitions for the year ended December 31, 2018 was $79.9 million. The overall impacts to our consolidated financial statements were not considered to be material, either individually or in the aggregate. The fair value associated with identifiable intangible assets from the 2018 Acquisitions was $64.6 million, comprised primarily of technology and customer relationship assets, which will be amortized over a weighted average term of approximately nine years.
At December 31, 2018, for the 2018 Acquisitions treated as business combinations we have not finalized the related purchase accounting and the amounts recorded represent preliminary values. We expect to finalize our purchase accounting during the respective measurement periods which will be no later than one year following the closing dates.
In addition, during the year ended December 31, 2018, pursuant to the stock purchase agreement for a joint venture acquired during the year ended December 31, 2016, we purchased an additional 24.5% interest for $26.9 million, increasing our total ownership percentage to 75.5%. 
(4)    GOODWILL AND IDENTIFIABLE INTANGIBLE ASSETS
Goodwill
The following table shows changes in the carrying amount of goodwill from December 31, 2016 to December 31, 2018 by reportable segment:
 
 
Performance
Coatings
 
Transportation
Coatings
 
Total
December 31, 2016
 
$
889.4

 
$
74.7

 
$
964.1

Goodwill from acquisitions
 
207.2

 
—

 
207.2

Purchase accounting adjustments
 
(15.2
)
 
—

 
(15.2
)
Foreign currency translation
 
107.8

 
7.3

 
115.1

December 31, 2017
 
$
1,189.2

 
$
82.0

 
$
1,271.2

Goodwill from acquisitions
 
2.9

 
—

 
2.9

Purchase accounting adjustments
 
(0.2
)
 
—

 
(0.2
)
Foreign currency translation
 
(40.4
)
 
(2.7
)
 
(43.1
)
December 31, 2018
 
$
1,151.5

 
$
79.3

 
$
1,230.8



77

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(In millions, unless otherwise noted)

Identifiable Intangible Assets
The following table summarizes the gross carrying amounts and accumulated amortization of identifiable intangible assets by major class:
December 31, 2018
 
Gross Carrying
Amount
 
Accumulated
Amortization
 
Net Book
Value
 
Weighted average
amortization periods (years)
Technology
 
$
545.7

 
$
(260.7
)
 
$
285.0

 
10.4
Trademarks—indefinite-lived
 
269.0

 
—

 
269.0

 
Indefinite
Trademarks—definite-lived
 
100.6

 
(24.0
)
 
76.6

 
15.8
Customer relationships
 
929.9

 
(222.9
)
 
707.0

 
19.1
Other
 
15.7

 
(5.3
)
 
10.4

 
5.1
Total
 
$
1,860.9

 
$
(512.9
)
 
$
1,348.0

 
 
December 31, 2017
 
Gross Carrying
Amount
 
Accumulated
Amortization
 
Net Book
Value
 
Weighted average
amortization periods (years)
Technology
 
$
498.0

 
$
(213.6
)
 
$
284.4

 
10.5
Trademarks—indefinite-lived
 
277.2

 
—

 
277.2

 
Indefinite
Trademarks—definite-lived
 
102.6

 
(17.7
)
 
84.9

 
15.9
Customer relationships
 
945.1

 
(176.8
)
 
768.3

 
19.0
Other
 
16.6

 
(3.2
)
 
13.4

 
4.8
Total
 
$
1,839.5

 
$
(411.3
)
 
$
1,428.2

 
 

During the year ended December 31, 2017, we changed certain indefinite-lived trademark intangibles to definite-lived intangible assets. The change was made as a result of decisions regarding our anticipated future use of these trademarks. During this period, we commenced amortizing the assets on a straight-line basis over a 20-year useful life.
In-process research and development projects, classified within technology assets were $2.3 million at December 31, 2018 and 2017, respectively.
The estimated amortization expense related to the fair value of acquired intangible assets for each of the succeeding five years is:
2019
 
$
114.2

2020
 
$
113.9

2021
 
$
113.3

2022
 
$
111.1

2023
 
$
71.3


(5)    RESTRUCTURING
In accordance with the applicable guidance for ASC 712, Nonretirement Postemployment Benefits, we accounted for termination benefits and recognized liabilities when the loss was considered probable that employees were entitled to benefits and the amounts could be reasonably estimated.
We have incurred costs in connection with involuntary termination benefits associated with our corporate-related initiatives and cost-saving opportunities associated with our Fit For Growth and Axalta Way initiatives. These amounts are recorded within selling, general and administrative expenses in the consolidated statements of operations. The payments associated with these actions are expected to be completed within 12 to 24 months from the balance sheet date.

78

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(In millions, unless otherwise noted)

The following table summarizes the activity related to the restructuring reserves and expenses for the years ended December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016:
Balance at January 1, 2016
 
$
41.3

Expense recorded
 
58.5

Payments made
 
(31.0
)
Foreign currency translation
 
(2.7
)
Balance at December 31, 2016
 
$
66.1

Expense recorded
 
36.2

Payments made
 
(36.1
)
Foreign currency translation
 
6.8

Venezuela deconsolidation impact
 
(1.5
)
Balance at December 31, 2017
 
$
71.5

Expense recorded
 
79.8

Payments made
 
(46.4
)
Foreign currency translation
 
(2.2
)
Balance at December 31, 2018
 
$
102.7


Restructuring charges incurred during 2018 and 2017 included actions to reduce operational costs through activities to rationalize our manufacturing footprint, including the impacts from the announced closure of our Mechelen, Belgium manufacturing facility announced during the year ended December 31, 2018. We are projecting to incur aggregate pre-tax charges of approximately $120-130 million, subject to future changes in estimates, in connection with the announced closure and transfer of production to other Axalta facilities. Components of the pre-tax charges include estimated non-cash accelerated depreciation costs of approximately $50-60 million associated with the reduced useful lives of the impacted manufacturing assets. Also included in these projections were $70.6 million in severance costs incurred during the year ended December 31, 2018, as previously communicated. No impairments to the associated long-lived assets were recorded. Manufacturing assets were also assessed, including assessment of assets totaling $55.8 million (€47.7 million) at our Mechelen, Belgium manufacturing facility, and as a result, useful lives of the assets were truncated.
The impacts to pre-tax earnings from incremental accelerated depreciation resulting from our manufacturing footprint assessments, including our Mechelen, Belgium site, for the years ended December 31, 2018 and 2017 were $10.3 million and $4.3 million, respectively, and were recorded to cost of goods sold. During the year ended December 31, 2017, we also recorded impairment losses of $7.6 million associated with these manufacturing facilities based on market price estimates recorded within other expense, net.
(6)    COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES
Leases - Sales Leaseback Obligations
We have three lease arrangements that are treated as sale-leaseback financing transactions. The lessors' building costs are depreciated over an estimated useful life beginning at the commencement of the rental terms, at which point such lease assets recorded in property, plant and equipment had a corresponding offset within long-term borrowings. The table below reflects the total remaining cash payments related to all transactions during the rental term at December 31, 2018:
 
 
Sale-leaseback obligations
2019
 
$
5.3

2020
 
5.4

2021
 
5.4

2022
 
5.7

2023
 
5.7

Thereafter
 
77.1

Total minimum payments
 
$
104.6



79

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(In millions, unless otherwise noted)

Leases - Other
We use various leased facilities and equipment in our operations. The terms for these leased assets vary depending on the lease agreement. Net rental expense under operating leases were $49.7 million, $52.7 million and $48.0 million for the years ended December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016, respectively.
At December 31, 2018, future minimum payments under non-cancelable operating leases were as follows:
 
 
Operating
Leases
2019
 
$
34.6

2020
 
23.5

2021
 
17.1

2022
 
13.2

2023
 
11.5

Thereafter
 
16.6

Total minimum payments
 
$
116.5


Guarantees
We guarantee certain of our customers’ obligations to third parties, whereby any default by our customers on their obligations could force us to make payments to the applicable creditors. At December 31, 2018 and 2017, we had outstanding bank guarantees of $12.7 million and $15.2 million, respectively, which expire between 2019 and 2022. We monitor the obligations to evaluate whether we have a liability at the balance sheet date, for which none existed as of December 31, 2018 and 2017.
Other
We are subject to various pending lawsuits, legal proceedings and other claims in the ordinary course of business, including civil, regulatory and environmental matters. These litigation matters may involve third-party indemnification obligations and/or insurance covering all or part of any potential damage against us. All of these matters are subject to many uncertainties and, accordingly, we cannot determine the ultimate outcome of the proceedings and other claims at this time, although management does not believe that such proceedings, individually or in the aggregate, will have a material adverse effect on the consolidated financial statements of Axalta. The potential effects, if any, on such consolidated financial statements will be recorded in the period in which these matters are probable and estimable.

80

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(In millions, unless otherwise noted)

(7)    LONG-TERM EMPLOYEE BENEFITS
Defined Benefit Pensions
Axalta has defined benefit plans that cover certain employees worldwide, with over 85% of the projected benefit obligation within the European region as of December 31, 2018.
Obligations and Funded Status
The measurement date used to determine defined benefit obligations was December 31. The following table sets forth the changes to the projected benefit obligations ("PBO") and plan assets for the years ended December 31, 2018 and 2017 and the funded status and amounts recognized in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets at December 31, 2018 and 2017 for our defined benefit pension plans:
 
 
Year Ended December 31,
 
 
2018
 
2017
Change in benefit obligation:
 
 
 
 
Projected benefit obligation at beginning of year
 
$
636.9

 
$
547.6

Service cost
 
8.8

 
9.0

Interest cost
 
13.1

 
13.8

Participant contributions
 
1.3

 
1.3

Actuarial gains, net
 
(3.3
)
 
(13.8
)
Plan curtailments, settlements and special termination benefits
 
(19.4
)
 
(12.9
)
Benefits paid
 
(25.6
)
 
(23.3
)
Business combinations and other adjustments
 
0.7

 
51.2

Foreign currency translation
 
(28.8
)
 
64.0

Projected benefit obligation at end of year
 
$
583.7

 
$
636.9

Change in plan assets:
 
 
 
 
Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year
 
$
365.0

 
$
288.7

Actual return on plan assets
 
(1.4
)
 
22.2

Employer contributions
 
24.6

 
27.4

Participant contributions
 
1.3

 
1.3

Benefits paid
 
(25.6
)
 
(23.3
)
Settlements
 
(12.5
)
 
(13.9
)
Business combinations and other adjustments
 
(0.1
)
 
32.4

Foreign currency translation
 
(19.0
)
 
30.2

Fair value of plan assets at end of year
 
$
332.3

 
$
365.0

Funded status, net
 
$
(251.4
)
 
$
(271.9
)
Amounts recognized in the consolidated balance sheets consist of:
 
 
 
 
Other assets
 
$
22.0

 
$
19.2

Other accrued liabilities
 
(11.5
)
 
(12.0
)
Accrued pensions
 
(261.9
)
 
(279.1
)
Net amount recognized
 
$
(251.4
)
 
$
(271.9
)

The PBO is the actuarial present value of benefits attributable to employee service rendered to date, including the effects of estimated future pay increases. The accumulated benefit obligation ("ABO") is the actuarial present value of benefits attributable to employee service rendered to date but does not include the effects of estimated future pay increases.

81

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(In millions, unless otherwise noted)

The following table reflects the ABO for all defined benefit pension plans as of December 31, 2018 and 2017. Further, the table reflects the aggregate PBO, ABO and fair value of plan assets for pension plans with PBO in excess of plan assets and for pension plans with ABO in excess of plan assets.
 
 
Year Ended December 31,
 
 
2018
 
2017
ABO
 
$
559.9

 
$
605.4

Plans with PBO in excess of plan assets:
 
 
 
 
PBO
 
$
375.6

 
$
401.2

ABO
 
$
352.0

 
$
370.0

Fair value plan assets
 
$
102.2

 
$
110.1

Plans with ABO in excess of plan assets:
 
 
 
 
PBO
 
$
370.2

 
$
393.3

ABO
 
$
349.1

 
$
364.9

Fair value plan assets
 
$
99.3

 
$
104.7


The pre-tax amounts not yet reflected in net periodic benefit cost and included in AOCI include the following related to defined benefit plans:
 
 
Year Ended December 31,
 
 
2018
 
2017
Accumulated net actuarial losses
 
$
(51.8
)
 
$
(46.4
)
Accumulated prior service credit
 
1.6

 
2.6

Total
 
$
(50.2
)
 
$
(43.8
)

The accumulated net actuarial losses for pensions relate primarily to differences between the actual net periodic expense and the expected net periodic expense resulting from differences in the significant assumptions, including return on assets, discount rates and compensation trends, used in these estimates. For individual plans in which the accumulated net actuarial gains or losses exceed 10% of the higher of the fair value of plan assets or the PBO at the beginning of the year, amortization of such excess has been included in net periodic benefit costs. The amortization period is the average remaining service period of active employees expected to receive benefits unless a plan is mostly inactive in which case the amortization period is the average remaining life expectancy of the plan participants. Accumulated prior service credit is amortized over the future service periods of those employees who are active at the dates of the plan amendments and who are expected to receive benefits.
The estimated pre-tax amounts that are expected to be amortized from AOCI into net periodic benefit cost during 2019 for the defined benefit plans is as follows:
 
 
2019
Amortization of net actuarial losses, net
 
$
(2.0
)
Amortization of prior service credit, net
 
0.1

Total
 
$
(1.9
)


82

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(In millions, unless otherwise noted)

Components of Net Periodic Benefit Cost
The following table sets forth the pre-tax components of net periodic benefit costs for our defined benefit plans for the years ended December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016.
 
 
Year Ended December 31,
 
 
2018
 
2017
 
2016
Components of net periodic benefit cost and amounts recognized in comprehensive (income) loss:
 
 
 
 
 
 
Net periodic benefit cost:
 
 
 
 
 
 
Service cost
 
$
8.8

 
$
9.0

 
$
10.7

Interest cost
 
13.1

 
13.8

 
15.1

Expected return on plan assets
 
(16.1
)
 
(15.0
)
 
(12.6
)
Amortization of actuarial loss, net
 
1.3

 
1.4

 
0.4

Amortization of prior service credit
 
(0.1
)
 
—

 
—

Curtailment gain
 
(0.7
)
 
—

 
(1.1
)
Settlement (gain) loss
 
0.6

 
0.2

 
(0.5
)
Special termination benefit loss
 
—

 
1.0

 
0.2

Net periodic benefit cost
 
$
6.9

 
$
10.4

 
$
12.2

Changes in plan assets and benefit obligations recognized in other comprehensive (income) loss:
 
 
 
 
 
 
Net actuarial (gain) loss, net
 
$
6.7

 
$
(20.6
)
 
$
27.7

Amortization of actuarial loss, net
 
(1.3
)
 
(1.4
)
 
(0.4
)
Prior service (credit) cost
 
0.8

 
(1.2
)
 
—

Amortization of prior service credit
 
0.1

 
—

 
—

Curtailment gain
 
0.7

 
—

 
1.1

Settlement gain (loss)
 
(0.6
)
 
(0.2
)
 
0.5

Other adjustments
 
—

 
(7.9
)
 
—

Total (gain) loss recognized in other comprehensive (income) loss
 
$
6.4

 
$
(31.3
)
 
$
28.9

Total recognized in net periodic benefit cost and comprehensive (income) loss
 
$
13.3

 
$
(20.9
)
 
$
41.1


Included in the other adjustments recognized in other comprehensive (income) loss for the year ended December 31, 2017 was a pension plan adjustment related to the deconsolidation of our Venezuelan subsidiary and the corresponding write-off of the accumulated actuarial loss on our Venezuela pension plan. This resulted in a decrease of $8.5 million in AOCI ($5.9 million, net of tax), as discussed further in Note 21.
Assumptions
We used the following assumptions in determining the benefit obligations and net periodic benefit cost of our defined benefit plans:
 
 
2018
 
2017
 
2016
Weighted-average assumptions:
 
 
 
 
 
 
Discount rate to determine benefit obligation
 
2.27
%
 
2.13
%
 
2.52
%
Discount rate to determine net cost
 
2.13
%
 
2.52
%
 
3.05
%
Rate of future compensation increases to determine benefit obligation
 
2.68
%
 
2.69
%
 
3.07
%
Rate of future compensation increases to determine net cost
 
2.69
%
 
3.07
%
 
3.03
%
Rate of return on plan assets to determine net cost
 
4.47
%
 
4.73
%
 
4.75
%
The rate of future compensation increases to determine benefit obligation in 2016 includes the impacts of inflationary assumptions of our now deconsolidated Venezuelan subsidiary, which are absent in the 2017-2018 assumptions.

83

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(In millions, unless otherwise noted)

The discount rates used reflect the expected future cash flow based on plan provisions, participant data and the currencies in which the expected future cash flows will occur. For the majority of our defined benefit pension obligations, we utilize prevailing long-term high quality corporate bond indices applicable to the respective country at the measurement date. In countries where established corporate bond markets do not exist, we utilize other index movement and duration analysis to determine discount rates. The long-term rate of return on plan assets assumptions reflect economic assumptions applicable to each country and assumptions related to the preliminary assessments regarding the type of investments to be held by the respective plans.
Estimated future benefit payments
The following reflects the total benefit payments expected to be paid for defined benefits:
Year ended December 31,
 
Benefits
2019
 
$
28.5

2020
 
$
31.2

2021
 
$
29.8

2022
 
$
30.8

2023
 
$
30.7

2024—2028
 
$
184.4

Plan Assets
The defined benefit pension plans for our subsidiaries represent single-employer plans and the related plan assets are invested within separate trusts. Each of the single-employer plans is managed in accordance with the requirements of local laws and regulations governing defined benefit pension plans for the exclusive purpose of providing pension benefits to participants and their beneficiaries. Pension plan assets are typically held in a trust by financial institutions. Our asset allocation targets established are intended to achieve the plan’s investment strategies.
Equity securities include varying market capitalization levels. U.S. equity securities are primarily large-cap companies. Fixed income investments include corporate issued, government issued, and asset backed securities. Corporate debt securities include a range of credit risk and industry diversification. Other investments include real estate and private market securities such as insurance contracts, interests in private equity, and venture capital partnerships. Pension trust liabilities relate to an over funding by DuPont into a pension trust managed by Axalta in conjunction with the Acquisition. The assets continue to be invested and managed by Axalta until required regulatory approvals are received, at which time the over-funded assets will be transferred back to the trust managed by DuPont. Assets measured using NAV as a practical expedient include debt asset backed securities and hedge funds. Debt asset backed securities primarily consist of collateralized debt obligations. The market values for these assets are based on the net asset values multiplied by the number of shares owned.
Fair value calculations may not be indicative of net realizable value or reflective of future fair values. Furthermore, although we believe the valuation methods are appropriate and consistent with other market participants, the use of different methodologies or assumptions to determine the fair value of certain financial instruments could result in a different fair value measurement at the reporting date.
The Company’s investment strategy in pension plan assets is to generate earnings over an extended time to help fund the cost of benefits while maintaining an adequate level of diversification for a prudent level of risk. The table below summarizes the weighted average actual and target pension plan asset allocations at December 31st for all funded Axalta defined benefit plans.
Asset Category
 
2018
 
2017
 
Target Allocation
Equity securities
 
15-20%
 
25-30%
 
15-20%
Debt securities
 
25-30%
 
20-25%
 
25-30%
Real estate
 
0-5%
 
0-5%
 
0-5%
Other
 
45-50%
 
45-50%
 
45-50%


84

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(In millions, unless otherwise noted)

The table below presents the fair values of the defined benefit pension plan assets by level within the fair value hierarchy, as described in Note 1, at December 31, 2018 and 2017, respectively.
 
 
Fair value measurements at
 
 
12/31/2018
 
 
Total
 
Level 1
 
Level 2
 
Level 3
Asset Category:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Cash and cash equivalents
 
$
4.5

 
$
4.4

 
$
0.1

 
$
—

U.S. equity securities
 
23.7

 
23.4

 
—

 
0.3

Non-U.S. equity securities
 
42.9

 
39.9

 
1.0

 
2.0

Debt securities—government issued
 
70.9

 
41.1

 
23.3

 
6.5

Debt securities—corporate issued
 
29.1

 
19.7

 
7.0

 
2.4

Private market securities and other
 
129.6

 
1.2

 
1.5

 
126.9

Real estate investments
 
13.6

 
—

 
—

 
13.6

Total
 
$
314.3

 
$
129.7

 
$
32.9

 
$
151.7

Debt asset backed securities at NAV
 
11.0

 
 
 
 
 
 
Hedge funds at NAV
 
8.5

 
 
 
 
 
 
Pension trust liability
 
(1.5
)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
$
332.3

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Fair value measurements at
 
 
12/31/2017
 
 
Total
 
Level 1
 
Level 2
 
Level 3
Asset Category:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Cash and cash equivalents
 
$
3.7

 
$
3.7

 
$
—

 
$
—

U.S. equity securities
 
33.3

 
33.0

 
—

 
0.3

Non-U.S. equity securities
 
76.4

 
73.4

 
1.2

 
1.8

Debt—government issued
 
44.6

 
33.1

 
7.3

 
4.2

Debt—corporate issued
 
32.8

 
17.2

 
13.1

 
2.5

Private market securities and other
 
141.2

 
2.7

 
2.8

 
135.7

Real estate investments
 
13.5

 
—

 
—

 
13.5

Total
 
$
345.5

 
$
163.1

 
$
24.4

 
$
158.0

Debt asset backed securities at NAV
 
10.9

 
 
 
 
 
 
Hedge funds at NAV
 
8.6

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
$
365.0

 
 
 
 
 
 


85

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(In millions, unless otherwise noted)

Level 3 assets are primarily insurance contracts pledged on behalf of employees with benefits in certain countries, ownership interests in investment partnerships, trusts that own private market securities, real estate investments, and other debt and equity investments. The fair values of our insurance contracts are determined based on the cash surrender value or the present value of the expected future benefits to be paid under the contract, discounted at a rate consistent with the related benefit obligation. Our real estate investments are primarily comprised of investments in commercial property funds externally valued using third party pricing methodologies, which are not actively traded on public exchanges. Debt and equity securities consist primarily of small investments in other investments that are valued at different frequencies based on the value of the underlying investments. The table below presents a roll forward of activity for these assets for the years ended December 31, 2018 and 2017.
 
 
Level 3 assets
 
 
Total
 
Private
market
securities
 
Debt and equity
 
Real
estate investments
Ending balance at December 31, 2016
 
$
77.5

 
$
64.1

 
$
2.2

 
$
11.2

Realized (loss)
 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

Change in unrealized gain
 
9.9

 
8.3

 
0.4

 
1.2

Purchases, sales, issues and settlements
 
70.6

 
63.3

 
6.2

 
1.1

Transfers in/(out) of Level 3
 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

Ending balance at December 31, 2017
 
$
158.0

 
$
135.7

 
$
8.8

 
$
13.5

Realized (loss)
 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

Change in unrealized gain
 
(4.2
)
 
(4.4
)
 
(0.2
)
 
0.4

Purchases, sales, issues and settlements
 
(2.1
)
 
(4.4
)
 
2.6

 
(0.3
)
Transfers in/(out) of Level 3
 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

Ending balance at December 31, 2018
 
$
151.7

 
$
126.9

 
$
11.2

 
$
13.6


Assumptions and Sensitivities
The discount rate is determined as of each measurement date, based on a review of yield rates associated with long-term, high-quality corporate bonds. The calculation separately discounts benefit payments using the spot rates from a long-term, high-quality corporate bond yield curve.
The long-term rate of return assumption represents the expected average rate of earnings on the funds invested to provide for the benefits included in the benefit obligations. The long-term rate of return assumption is determined based on a number of factors, including historical market index returns, the anticipated long-term asset allocation of the plans, historical plan return data, plan expenses and the potential to outperform market index returns. For 2019, the expected long-term rate of return is 4.21%.
Anticipated Contributions to Defined Benefit Plan
For funded pension plans, our funding policy is to fund amounts for pension plans sufficient to meet minimum requirements set forth in applicable benefit laws and local tax laws. Based on the same assumptions used to measure our benefit obligations at December 31, 2018, we expect to contribute $6.7 million to our defined benefit plans during 2019. No plan assets are expected to be returned to the Company in 2019.
Defined Contribution Plans
The Company sponsors defined contribution plans in both its U.S. and non-U.S. subsidiaries, under which salaried and certain hourly employees may defer a portion of their compensation. Eligible participants may contribute to the plan up to the allowable amount as determined by the plan of their regular compensation before taxes. All contributions and Company matches are invested at the direction of the employee. Company matching contributions vest immediately and aggregated to $43.8 million, $45.1 million and $43.3 million for the years ended December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016, respectively.

86

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(In millions, unless otherwise noted)

(8)    STOCK-BASED COMPENSATION
During the years ended December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016, we recognized $37.3 million, $38.5 million and $41.1 million, respectively, in stock-based compensation expense, which was allocated between costs of goods sold and selling, general and administrative expenses on the consolidated statements of operations. We recognized tax benefits on stock-based compensation of $6.7 million, $12.1 million and $14.0 million for the years ended December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016, respectively.
Description of Equity Incentive Plan
In 2013, Axalta’s Board of Directors approved the Axalta Coating Systems Ltd. 2013 Incentive Award Plan (the "2013 Plan") which reserved shares of common stock of the Company for issuance to employees, directors and consultants. The 2013 Plan provided for the issuance of stock options, restricted stock or other stock-based awards. No further awards may be granted pursuant to the 2013 Plan.
In 2014, Axalta's Board of Directors approved the Axalta Coating Systems Ltd. 2014 Incentive Award Plan, as amended and restated (the "2014 Plan"), which reserved additional shares of common stock of the Company for issuance to employees, directors and consultants. The 2014 Plan provides for the issuance of stock options, restricted stock or other stock-based awards. All awards granted pursuant to the 2014 Plan must be authorized by the Board of Directors of Axalta or a designated committee thereof. Our Board of Directors has generally delegated responsibility for administering the 2014 Plan to our Compensation Committee.
The terms of the stock options may vary with each grant and are determined by the Compensation Committee within the guidelines of the 2013 and 2014 Plans. Option life cannot exceed ten years and the Company may settle option exercises by issuing new shares, treasury shares or shares purchased on the open market.
Stock Options
The Black-Scholes option pricing model was used to estimate fair values of the options as of the date of the grant. The weighted average fair values of options granted in 2018, 2017 and 2016 were $6.78, $7.69 and $5.69 per share, respectively. Options granted have a 3-year vesting period. Principal weighted average assumptions used in applying the Black-Scholes model were as follows:
 
 
2018 Grants
 
2017 Grants
 
2016 Grants
Expected Term
 
6.0 years

 
6.0 years

 
6.0 years

Volatility
 
20.27
%
 
21.75
%
 
21.63
%
Dividend Yield
 
—

 
—

 
—

Discount Rate
 
2.66
%
 
2.03
%
 
1.45
%
The expected term assumptions used for the grants mentioned in the above table were determined using the simplified method. We do not anticipate paying cash dividends in the foreseeable future and, therefore, use an expected dividend yield of zero. Volatility for outstanding grants was based upon our industry peer group since we have a limited history as a public company. The discount rate was derived from the U.S. Treasury yield curve.
A summary of stock option award activity as of and for the year ended December 31, 2018 is presented below:
 
 
Awards
(in millions)
 
Weighted-
Average
Exercise
Price
 
Aggregate
Intrinsic
Value
 (in millions)
 
Weighted
Average
Remaining
Contractual
Life (years)
Outstanding at December 31, 2017
 
8.1

 
$
16.54

 
 
 
 
Granted
 
1.1

 
$
29.74

 
 
 
 
Exercised
 
(1.7
)
 
$
10.52

 
 
 
 
Forfeited
 
(0.3
)
 
$
29.59

 
 
 
 
Outstanding at December 31, 2018
 
7.2

 
$
19.32

 
 
 
 
Vested and expected to vest at December 31, 2018
 
7.2

 
$
19.32

 
$
48.0

 
5.76
Exercisable at December 31, 2018
 
5.6

 
$
16.80

 
$
48.0

 
5.08


87

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(In millions, unless otherwise noted)

Cash received by the Company upon exercise of options in 2018 was $17.4 million. Tax benefits on these exercises were $6.6 million. For the years ended December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016, the intrinsic value of options exercised was $33.6 million, $42.2 million and $42.5 million, respectively.
The fair value of shares vested during 2018, 2017 and 2016 was $6.8 million, $5.2 million and $3.4 million, respectively.
At December 31, 2018, there was $3.6 million of unrecognized compensation cost relating to outstanding unvested stock options expected to be recognized over the weighted average period of 1.4 years.
Restricted Stock Awards and Restricted Stock Units
During the year ended December 31, 2018, we issued 1.1 million shares of restricted stock awards and restricted stock units. A majority of these awards vests ratably over three years. The other awards granted cliff vest over one, two, three or four year periods.
A summary of restricted stock and restricted stock unit award activity as of December 31, 2018 is presented below:
 
 
Awards
(in millions)
 
Weighted-Average
Fair Value
Outstanding at December 31, 2017
 
1.9

 
$
29.32

Granted
 
1.1

 
$
29.61

Vested
 
(1.2
)
 
$
29.84

Forfeited
 
(0.2
)
 
$
29.33

Outstanding at December 31, 2018
 
1.6

 
$
29.12


At December 31, 2018, there was $19.3 million of unamortized expense relating to unvested restricted stock awards and restricted stock units that is expected to be amortized over a weighted average period of 1.6 years.
The intrinsic value of awards vested during 2018, 2017 and 2016 was $36.2 million, $30.1 million and $5.5 million, respectively. The total fair value of awards vested during 2018, 2017 and 2016 was $35.3 million, $29.4 million and $6.2 million, respectively.
Performance Stock Awards and Performance Share Units
During the year ended December 31, 2018, the Company granted performance stock awards and performance share units (collectively referred to as "PSAs") to certain employees of the Company as part of their annual equity compensation award.
PSAs are tied to the Company’s total shareholder return ("TSR") relative to the TSR of a selected industry peer group or S&P 500. Each award vests over a period of three years and covers a performance cycle of three years starting at the beginning of the fiscal year in which the shares were granted.  Awards will cliff vest upon meeting the applicable TSR thresholds and the service requirement of three years. The actual number of shares awarded is adjusted to between zero and 200% of the target award amount based upon achievement of pre-determined objectives. TSR relative to peers is considered a market condition under applicable authoritative guidance. 
A summary of PSA activity as of December 31, 2018 is presented below:
 
 
Awards
(in millions)
 
Weighted-Average
Fair Value
Outstanding at December 31, 2017
 
0.6

 
$
31.17

Granted
 
0.3

 
$
33.81

Vested
 
—

 
$
—

Forfeited
 
(0.1
)
 
$
33.65

Outstanding at December 31, 2018
 
0.8

 
$
31.82


At December 31, 2018, there was $10.5 million of unamortized expense relating to unvested PSAs that is expected to be amortized over a weighted average period of 1.7 years.

88

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(In millions, unless otherwise noted)

(9)    OTHER EXPENSE, NET
 
 
Year Ended December 31,
 
 
2018
 
2017
 
2016
Foreign exchange losses, net
 
$
9.2

 
$
7.4

 
$
30.6

Impairments
 
—

 
7.6

 
10.5

Debt extinguishment and refinancing related costs
 
9.5

 
13.4

 
97.6

Other miscellaneous (income) expense, net
 
(3.7
)
 
(1.3
)
 
5.5

Total
 
$
15.0

 
$
27.1

 
$
144.2


Prior to deconsolidation, during the years ended December 31, 2017 and 2016, our Venezuelan subsidiary, which is a U.S. dollar functional entity, contributed $1.8 million and $23.5 million to the foreign exchange losses, respectively.
During the years ended December 31, 2017 and 2016, we recorded non-operational impairment losses of $7.6 million and $10.5 million, respectively. These impairment losses related to actions to reduce operational costs through activities to rationalize our manufacturing footprint resulting in write-downs of manufacturing facilities identified for closure, as well as a write-down of the carrying value of a real estate investment, which were based on market price estimates.
Debt extinguishment and refinancing related costs include third-party fees incurred and the loss on extinguishment associated with the write-off of unamortized deferred financing costs and original issue discounts in conjunction with the restructuring and refinancing of the Term Loans and Senior Notes during the years ended December 31, 2018 and 2017, as discussed further in Note 17.
(10)    INCOME TAXES
On December 22, 2017, the U.S. TCJA legislation, as defined herein, was enacted into law, which significantly revised the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended. The U.S. TCJA included, among other items, (1) permanent reduction of the corporate tax rate from a top marginal rate of 35% to a flat rate of 21%; (2) limitations on the tax deduction for net interest expense to 30% of adjusted earnings; (3) a one-time transition tax on certain unrepatriated earnings of foreign subsidiaries; (4) a shift of the U.S. taxation of multinational corporations from a tax on worldwide income to a territorial system (along with certain rules designed to prevent erosion of the U.S. income tax base); and (5) modifying or repealing many other business deductions and credits (including modifications to annual foreign tax credit limitations).
For the year-ended December 31, 2017 we recorded a provisional non-cash net tax charge of $107.8 million related to the impacts of the U.S. TCJA. This provisional tax charge included a one-time $81.1 million remeasurement of the net U.S. deferred tax assets to the lower enacted U.S. corporate tax rate of 21%, the establishment of a valuation allowance of $26.1 million on certain interest and foreign tax credit carryforwards and $0.6 million of withholding tax on unremitted earnings. December 22, 2018 marked the end of the measurement period for purposes of SAB 118. As such, the Company has completed the analysis based on legislative updates relating to the U.S. TCJA currently available and recorded an additional tax benefit of $12.5 million for the year ended December 31, 2018. While we have completed our accounting of the income tax effects of the U.S. TCJA under SAB 118, the related tax impacts may differ, possibly materially, due to changes in interpretations and assumptions that we have made, additional guidance that may be issued by regulatory bodies, and actions and related accounting policy decisions we may take as a result of the new legislation. 
Domestic and Foreign Components of Income Before Income Taxes
 
 
Year Ended December 31,
 
 
2018
 
2017
 
2016
Domestic
 
$
194.8

 
$
41.8

 
$
27.9

Foreign
 
72.7

 
147.8

 
54.8

Total
 
$
267.5

 
$
189.6

 
$
82.7



89

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(In millions, unless otherwise noted)

Provision (Benefit) for Income Taxes
 
 
Year Ended December 31, 2018
 
Year Ended December 31, 2017
 
Year Ended December 31, 2016
 
 
Current  
 
Deferred  
 
Total  
 
Current  
 
Deferred  
 
Total  
 
Current  
 
Deferred  
 
Total  
U.S. federal
 
$
7.2

 
$
6.8

 
$
14.0

 
$
4.6

 
$
102.8

 
$
107.4

 
$
0.9

 
$
(1.3
)
 
$
(0.4
)
U.S. state and local
 
2.7

 
12.8

 
15.5

 
1.7

 
0.4

 
2.1

 
3.7

 
8.2

 
11.9

Foreign
 
38.2

 
(13.5
)
 
24.7

 
43.9

 
(11.5
)
 
32.4

 
49.4

 
(22.8
)
 
26.6

Total
 
$
48.1

 
$
6.1

 
$
54.2

 
$
50.2

 
$
91.7

 
$
141.9

 
$
54.0

 
$
(15.9
)
 
$
38.1

Reconciliation to U.S. Statutory Rate
 
 
Year Ended December 31,
 
 
2018
 
2017
 
2016
Statutory U.S. federal income tax rate (1)
 
$
56.2

 
21.0
 %
 
$
66.4

 
35.0
 %
 
$
29.0

 
35.0
 %
Foreign income taxed at rates other than U.S. statutory rate
 
(24.8
)
 
(9.3
)
 
(56.2
)
 
(29.6
)
 
(45.6
)
 
(55.1
)
Changes in valuation allowances
 
(37.5
)
 
(14.0
)
 
45.3

 
23.9

 
9.6

 
11.6

Foreign exchange gain (loss), net
 
24.7

 
9.2

 
(17.7
)
 
(9.3
)
 
3.1

 
3.7

Unrecognized tax benefits
 
18.9

 
7.1

 
3.1

 
1.6

 
7.1

 
8.6

Foreign taxes
 
6.7

 
2.5

 
4.1

 
2.2

 
4.5

 
5.4

Non-deductible interest
 
4.8

 
1.8

 
9.8

 
5.2

 
6.7

 
8.1

Non-deductible expenses
 
3.8

 
1.4

 
4.6

 
2.4

 
4.7

 
5.7

Tax credits
 
(6.6
)
 
(2.4
)
 
(4.2
)
 
(2.2
)
 
(6.7
)
 
(8.1
)
Excess tax benefits relating to stock-based compensation
 
(6.6
)
 
(2.4
)
 
(13.1
)
 
(6.9
)
 
(13.4
)
 
(16.2
)
U.S. tax reform (2)
 
(12.5
)
 
(4.7
)
 
107.8

 
56.8

 
—

 
—

Venezuela deconsolidation and impairment
 
—

 
—

 
(2.0
)
 
(1.0
)
 
23.8

 
28.8

U.S. state and local taxes, net
 
1.8

 
0.7

 
1.3

 
0.7

 
7.8

 
9.4

Other - net (3)
 
25.3

 
9.4

 
(7.3
)
 
(4.0
)
 
7.5

 
9.2

Total income tax provision / effective tax rate
 
$
54.2

 
20.3
 %
 
$
141.9

 
74.8
 %
 
$
38.1

 
46.1
 %
(1)
The U.S. statutory rate has been used as management believes it is more meaningful to the Company.
(2)
Tax effect of the U.S. TCJA recorded under SAB 118.
(3)
In 2018, the Company recorded a tax charge of $17.6 million related to the remeasurement of net deferred tax assets in Netherlands due to the corporate tax rate reduction enacted into law, which is fully offset by a tax benefit of $17.6 million for the decrease to the valuation allowance.

90

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(In millions, unless otherwise noted)

Deferred Tax Balances
 
 
Year Ended December 31,
 
 
2018
 
2017
Deferred tax asset
 
 
 
 
Tax loss, credit and interest carryforwards
 
$
238.5

 
$
265.3

Compensation and employee benefits
 
80.1

 
86.0

Accruals and other reserves
 
25.5

 
33.9

Research and development capitalization
 
7.7

 
8.9

Equity investment and other securities
 
20.1

 
26.4

Other
 
3.0

 
10.9

Total deferred tax assets
 
$
374.9

 
431.4

Less: valuation allowance
 
(159.0
)
 
$
(214.2
)
Total deferred tax assets, net of valuation allowance
 
$
215.9

 
$
217.2

Deferred tax liabilities
 
 
 
 
Goodwill and intangibles
 
(17.4
)
 
(15.2
)
Property, plant and equipment
 
(144.7
)
 
(146.9
)
Unremitted earnings
 
(7.4
)
 
(7.4
)
Long-term debt
 
(2.4
)
 
(2.2
)
Total deferred tax liabilities
 
$
(171.9
)
 
$
(171.7
)
Net deferred tax asset
 
$
44.0

 
$
45.5

 
 
 
 
 
Non-current assets
 
184.8

 
198.4

Non-current liability
 
(140.8
)
 
(152.9
)
Net deferred tax asset
 
$
44.0

 
$
45.5


Tax loss, tax credit and interest carryforwards
 
Year Ended December 31,
 
 
2018
 
2017
Tax loss carryforwards (tax effected) (1)
 
 
 
 
Expire within 10 years
 
$
53.3

 
$
92.3

Expire after 10 years or indefinite carryforward
 
121.6

 
124.0

Tax credit carryforwards
 
 
 
 
Expire within 10 years
 
17.3

 
20.5

Expire after 10 years or indefinite carryforward
 
20.9

 
16.1

Interest carryforwards
 
 
 
 
Expire within 10 years
 
2.2

 
—

Expire after 10 years or indefinite carryforward
 
23.2

 
12.4

Total tax loss, tax credit and interest carryforwards
 
$
238.5

 
265.3


(1)
Net of unrecognized tax benefits
Utilization of our tax loss, tax credit and interest carryforwards may be subject to annual limitations due to the ownership change limitations provided by the Internal Revenue Code and similar state and foreign provisions. Such annual limitations could result in the expiration of the tax loss, tax credit and interest carryforwards before their utilization.

91

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(In millions, unless otherwise noted)

Valuation allowance
 
Year Ended December 31,
 
 
2018
 
2017
Non-U.S.
 
133.8

 
188.1

U.S. 
 
25.2

 
26.1

Total valuation allowance
 
159.0

 
214.2

Valuation allowances relate primarily to the tax loss and tax credit carryforwards, as well as equity investment in foreign jurisdictions, where the Company does not believe the associated net deferred tax assets will be realized, due to expiration, limitation or insufficient future taxable income. The non-U.S. valuation allowance primarily relates to tax loss carryforwards from operations in Luxembourg and Netherlands, of $113.6 million and $155.7 million at December 31, 2018 and 2017, respectively. The U.S. valuation allowance relates to certain U.S. foreign tax credit carryforwards that were impacted by the enactment of the U.S. TCJA and other state net deferred tax assets.


92

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(In millions, unless otherwise noted)

Total Gross Unrecognized Tax Benefits
 
 
Year Ended December 31,
 
 
2018
 
2017
 
2016
Total gross unrecognized tax benefits at January 1
 
$17.2
 
$12.3
 
$4.7
Increases related to positions taken on items from prior years
 
3.4

 
1.9

 
—

Decreases related to positions taken on items from prior years
 
(1.8
)
 
—

 
(0.2
)
Increases related to positions taken in the current year (1)
 
18.2

 
3.0

 
7.8

Total gross unrecognized tax benefits at December 31
 
$37.0
 
$17.2
 
$12.3
Total accrual for interest and penalties associated with unrecognized tax benefits (2)
 
3.1

 
1.2

 
1.1

Total gross unrecognized tax benefits at December 31, including interest and penalties
 
$40.1
 
$18.4
 
$13.4
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Total unrecognized tax benefits that, if recognized, would impact the effective tax rate
 
25.2

 
9.7

 
8.5

Interest and penalties included as components of the "Provision (benefit) for income taxes"
 
1.9

 
0.1

 
0.3


(1)
Of the $18.2 million 2018 increase related to positions taken in the current year, $10.6 million is the unrecognized tax benefit related to the announced closure of our manufacturing facility at our Mechelen, Belgium site.
(2)
Accrued interest and penalties are included within the related tax liability line in the balance sheet.
The Company is subject to income tax in approximately 45 jurisdictions outside the U.S. The Company’s significant operations outside the U.S. are located in Belgium, China, Germany, Mexico and Switzerland. The statute of limitations varies by jurisdiction with 2008 being the oldest tax year still open in the material jurisdictions. Certain of our German subsidiaries are under tax examination for calendar years 2010 to 2013. The Company is also under audit in other jurisdictions outside of Germany for tax years under responsibility of the predecessor, as well as tax periods under the Company's ownership. Pursuant to the acquisition agreement, all tax liabilities related to tax years prior to 2013 will be indemnified by DuPont. The result of all open examinations may lead to ordinary course adjustments or proposed adjustments to our taxes or our net operating losses with respect to years under examination as well as subsequent periods that could be material.
Due to the high degree of uncertainty regarding future timing of cash flows associated with these liabilities, we are unable to estimate the years in which settlement will occur with the respective taxing authorities.
(11)    NET INCOME PER COMMON SHARE
Basic net income per common share excludes the dilutive impact of potentially dilutive securities and is computed by dividing net income by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding for the period. Diluted net income per common share includes the effect of potential dilution from the hypothetical exercise of outstanding stock options and vesting of restricted shares and performance shares. A reconciliation of our basic and diluted net income per common share is as follows:
 
 
Year Ended December 31,
(In millions, except per share data)
 
2018
 
2017
 
2016
Net income to common shareholders
 
$
207.1

 
$
36.7

 
$
38.8

Basic weighted average shares outstanding
 
239.0

 
240.4

 
238.1

Diluted weighted average shares outstanding
 
242.9

 
246.1

 
244.4

Net income per common share:
 
 
 
 
 
 
Basic net income per share
 
$
0.87

 
$
0.15

 
$
0.16

Diluted net income per share
 
$
0.85

 
$
0.15

 
$
0.16


The number of anti-dilutive shares that have been excluded in the computation of diluted net income per share for the years ended December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016 were 2.6 million, 1.8 million and 1.3 million, respectively.

93

(12)    ACCOUNTS AND NOTES RECEIVABLE, NET
 
 
Year Ended December 31,
 
 
2018
 
2017
Accounts receivable—trade, net (1)
 
$
739.9

 
$
748.2

Notes receivable
 
36.1

 
29.4

Other
 
84.8

 
92.6

Total
 
$
860.8

 
$
870.2

(1) Allowance for doubtful accounts was $15.4 million and $15.9 million at December 31, 2018 and 2017, respectively.
Bad debt expense of $2.3 million, $3.5 million and $3.4 million was included within selling, general and administrative expenses for the years ended December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016, respectively.
(13)    INVENTORIES
 
 
Year Ended December 31,
 
 
2018
 
2017
Finished products
 
$
334.0

 
$
347.5

Semi-finished products
 
108.0

 
95.5

Raw materials
 
149.9

 
144.8

Stores and supplies
 
21.1

 
20.8

Total
 
$
613.0

 
$
608.6


(14) PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENT, NET
 
 
 
 
 
 
Year Ended December 31,
 
 
Useful Lives (years)
 
2018
 
2017
Land
 
 
 
 
 
$
85.7

 
$
87.6

Buildings and improvements
 
5
-
25
 
522.4

 
516.3

Machinery and equipment
 
3
-
25
 
1,333.2

 
1,244.0

Software
 
5
-
7
 
159.5

 
155.3

Other
 
3
-
20
 
45.7

 
41.7

Construction in progress
 
 
 
 
 
72.3

 
148.7

Total
 
 
 
 
 
$
2,218.8

 
$
2,193.6

Accumulated depreciation
 
 
 
 
 
(920.6
)
 
(805.0
)
Property, plant and equipment, net
 
 
 
 
 
$
1,298.2

 
$
1,388.6


Depreciation expense was $183.4 million, $176.6 million and $176.8 million for the years ended December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016, respectively.
We capitalized interest of $4.0 million, $3.7 million and $4.3 million for the years ended December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016, respectively.

94

(15)    OTHER ASSETS
 
 
Year Ended December 31,
 
 
2018
 
2017
Available for sale securities
 
$
1.7

 
$
5.2

Deferred income taxes—non-current
 
184.8

 
198.4

Business incentive plan assets
 
190.8

 
173.0

Other assets (1)
 
111.8

 
52.0

Total
 
$
489.1

 
$
428.6


(1)
Include other upfront incentives made in conjunction with long-term customer commitments of $49.8 million and zero at December 31, 2018 and 2017, respectively, which will be repaid in future periods.
(16)    ACCOUNTS PAYABLE AND OTHER ACCRUED LIABILITIES
 
 
Year Ended December 31,
 
 
2018
 
2017
Accounts Payable
 
 
 
 
Trade payables
 
$
477.8

 
$
510.7

Non-income taxes
 
21.4

 
27.0

Other
 
23.6

 
17.2

Total
 
$
522.8

 
$
554.9

 
 
 
 
 
Other Accrued Liabilities
 
 
 
 
Compensation and other employee-related costs
 
$
163.2

 
$
153.3

Restructuring
 
60.3

 
71.5

Discounts, rebates, and warranties
 
157.8

 
138.8

Income taxes payable
 
15.2

 
22.2

Other
 
79.1

 
103.8

Total
 
$
475.6

 
$
489.6

 
(17)    BORROWINGS
Borrowings are summarized as follows:
 
 
Year Ended December 31,
 
 
2018
 
2017
2024 Dollar Term Loans
 
$
2,411.8

 
$
1,960.0

2023 Euro Term Loans
 
—

 
472.5

2024 Dollar Senior Notes
 
500.0

 
500.0

2024 Euro Senior Notes
 
383.3

 
399.7

2025 Euro Senior Notes
 
514.9

 
536.9

Short-term and other borrowings
 
103.8

 
94.8

Unamortized original issue discount
 
(12.6
)
 
(9.1
)
Unamortized deferred financing costs
 
(37.2
)
 
(39.2
)
 
 
$
3,864.0

 
$
3,915.6

Less:
 
 
 
 
Short-term borrowings
 
$
17.9

 
$
12.9

Current portion of long-term borrowings
 
24.3

 
24.8

Long-term debt
 
$
3,821.8

 
$
3,877.9



95

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(In millions, unless otherwise noted)

Senior Secured Credit Facilities, as amended
On December 15, 2016 (the "Fourth Amendment Effective Date"), Axalta Coating Systems Dutch Holdings B B.V. ("Dutch B
B.V.") and its indirect 100% owned subsidiary, Axalta Coating Systems U.S. Holdings, Inc. ("Axalta US Holdings") executed the fourth amendment (the "Fourth Amendment") to the credit agreement (the “Credit Agreement”) governing our Senior Secured Credit Facilities. The Fourth Amendment (i) converted all of the outstanding U.S. Dollar term loans ($1,775.3 million) (the “2020 Dollar Term Loans”) into a new tranche of term loans issued at par with principal of $1,545.0 million (the "2023 Dollar Term Loans"), (ii) converted all of the outstanding Euro term loans (€199.0 million) (the “2020 Euro Term Loans” and, together with the 2020 Dollar Term Loans, the “2020 Term Loans”) into a new tranche of term loans issued at par with principal of €400.0 million (the "2023 Euro Term Loans" and, together with the 2023 Dollar Term Loans, the "2023 Term Loans").
On June 1, 2017 (the "Fifth Amendment Effective Date"), Dutch B B.V. and Axalta US Holdings executed the fifth amendment to the Credit Agreement (the "Fifth Amendment"). The Fifth Amendment converted all of the outstanding 2023 Dollar Term Loans ($1,541.1 million) into a new tranche of term loans with principal of $2,000.0 million (the "2024 Dollar Term Loans"). The 2024 Dollar Term Loans were issued at 99.875% of par, or a $2.5 million discount.
On April 11, 2018 (the "Sixth Amendment Effective Date"), Dutch B B.V. and Axalta US Holdings executed the sixth amendment to the Credit Agreement (the "Sixth Amendment"). The Sixth Amendment repriced the 2024 Dollar Term Loans and increased the aggregate principal balance by $475.0 million to $2,430.0 million. The increased principal balance of the 2024 Dollar Term Loans under the Sixth Amendment was issued at 99.75% of par or a $6.0 million discount. Proceeds from the Sixth Amendment, along with cash on the balance sheet, were used to extinguish the existing 2023 Euro Term Loans. The 2024 Dollar Term Loans together with the Revolving Credit Facility, as defined herein, are referred to as the "Senior Secured Credit Facilities."
On October 31, 2018 (the "Seventh Amendment Effective Date"), Dutch B B.V. and Axalta US Holdings, the Company, and certain other subsidiaries of the Company as guarantors entered into the seventh amendment to the Credit Agreement (the "Seventh Amendment"). The Seventh Amendment amended the Credit Agreement to, among other things, (i) allow for the Company and certain wholly owned subsidiaries of the Company to be added as guarantors under the Credit Agreement, (ii) provide that (A) the covenants in the Credit Agreement generally apply to the Company and its restricted subsidiaries and (B) upon election at any time thereafter, a successor holdings guarantor may be designated and, upon the effectiveness of the guarantee of such successor parent guarantor, the covenants in the Credit Agreement will generally apply to such successor holdings guarantor and its restricted subsidiaries, (iii) otherwise amend the Credit Agreement in order to effect certain corporate transactions as part of a potential internal reorganization of certain of the Company's subsidiaries (the "Proposed Restructuring") and certain potential future reorganizations involving the Company and (iv) update guarantee limitations for certain of the guarantors.
Interest was and is payable quarterly on the 2023 Term Loans and the 2024 Dollar Term Loans.
The 2024 Dollar Term Loans are subject to a floor of zero plus an applicable rate of 1.75% per annum for Eurocurrency Rate Loans as defined in the Credit Agreement and 0.75% per annum for Base Rate Loans as defined in the Credit Agreement.
Prior to the Sixth Amendment, interest on the 2024 Dollar Term Loans was subject to a floor of zero, plus an applicable rate. The applicable rate for such 2024 Dollar Term Loans was 2.00% per annum for Eurocurrency Rate Loans as defined in the Credit Agreement and 1.00% per annum for Base Rate Loans as defined in the Credit Agreement.
Prior to the Fifth Amendment, interest on the 2023 Dollar Term Loans was subject to a floor of 0.75%, plus an applicable rate after the Fourth Amendment Effective Date. The applicable rate for such 2023 Dollar Term Loans was 2.50% per annum for Eurocurrency Rate Loans as defined in the Credit Agreement and 1.50% per annum for Base Rate Loans as defined in the Credit Agreement. The 2023 Euro Term Loans were also subject to a floor of 0.75%, plus an applicable rate after the Fourth Amendment Effective Date of 2.25% per annum for Eurocurrency Rate Loans. The 2023 Euro Term Loans may not have been Base Rate Loans.

96

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(In millions, unless otherwise noted)

Prior to the Fourth Amendment, interest on the 2020 Dollar Term Loans was subject to a floor of 1.00%, plus an applicable rate after February 3, 2014 (the effective date of the second amendment to the Credit Agreement). The applicable rate for such 2020 Dollar Term Loans was 3.00% per annum for Eurocurrency Rate Loans and 2.00% per annum for Base Rate Loans. The 2020 Euro Term Loans were also subject to a floor of 1.00%, plus an applicable rate. The applicable rate for such 2020 Euro Term Loans was 3.25% per annum for Eurocurrency Rate Loans. The 2020 Euro Term Loans were not to be Base Rate Loans. The applicable rate for both Eurocurrency Rate Loans as well as Base Rate Loans was subject to a further 25 basis point reduction if the Total Net Leverage Ratio as defined in the Credit Agreement governing the Senior Secured Credit Facilities was less than or equal to 4.50:1.00. During the third quarter of 2014, our Total Net Leverage Ratio was less than 4.50:1.00. Consequently, the applicable rates were changed to 2.75% for the 2020 Dollar Term Loans and 3.00% for the 2020 Euro Term Loans through the Fourth Amendment Effective Date.
Any indebtedness under the Senior Secured Credit Facilities may be voluntarily prepaid in whole or in part, in minimum amounts, subject to the provisions set forth in the Credit Agreement. Such indebtedness is subject to mandatory prepayments amounting to the proceeds of asset sales over $75.0 million annually, proceeds from certain debt issuances not otherwise permitted under the Credit Agreement and 50% (subject to a step-down to 25.0% or 0% if the First Lien Leverage Ratio falls below 4.25:1.00 or 3.50:1.00, respectively) of Excess Cash Flow.
The Senior Secured Credit Facilities are secured by substantially all assets of the Company and the other guarantors. The 2024 Dollar Term Loans mature on June 1, 2024. Principal is paid quarterly based on 1% per annum of the original principal amount outstanding on the most recent amendment date with the unpaid balance due at maturity.
We are subject to customary negative covenants in addition to the First Lien Leverage Ratio financial covenant for purposes of determining any Excess Cash Flow mandatory payment. Further, the Senior Secured Credit Facilities, among other things, include customary restrictions (subject to certain exceptions) on the Company's ability to incur certain indebtedness, grant certain liens, make certain investments, declare or pay certain dividends, or repurchase shares of the Company's common stock. As of December 31, 2018, the Company is in compliance with all covenants under the Senior Secured Credit Facilities.
Revolving Credit Facility
On August 1, 2016 (the "Third Amendment Effective Date"), Dutch B B.V. and Axalta US Holdings executed the third amendment to the Credit Agreement (the "Third Amendment"). The Third Amendment impacted the revolving credit facility under the Senior Secured Credit Facilities (the "Revolving Credit Facility") by (i) extending the maturity of the Revolving Credit Facility to five years from the Third Amendment Effective Date, or August 1, 2021, provided that such date will be accelerated to the date that is 91 days prior to the maturity of the term loans borrowed under the Credit Agreement if the maturity of such term loans precedes the maturity of the Revolving Credit Facility, (ii) decreasing the applicable interest margins, and (iii) amending the financial covenant applicable to the Revolving Credit Facility to be applicable only when greater than 30% (previously 25%) of the Revolving Credit Facility (including letters of credit not cash collateralized to at least 103%) is outstanding at the end of the fiscal quarter. If such conditions are met, the First Lien Net Leverage Ratio (as defined by the Credit Agreement) at the end of the quarter is required to be greater than 5.50:1.00. At December 31, 2018, the financial covenant is not applicable as there were no borrowings.
Under the Third Amendment, interest on any outstanding borrowings under the Revolving Credit Facility is subject to a floor of zero for Adjusted Eurocurrency Rate Loans (as defined in the Credit Agreement) plus an applicable rate of 2.75% (previously 3.50%) subject to an additional step-down to 2.50% or 2.25%, if the First Lien Net Leverage Ratio falls below 3.00:1.00 or 2.50:1.00, respectively. For Base Rate Loans, the interest is subject to a floor of the greater of the federal funds rate plus 0.50%, the Prime Lending Rate or an Adjusted Eurocurrency Rate plus 1%, plus an applicable rate of 1.75% (previously 2.50%), subject to an additional step-down to 1.50% or 1.25%, if the First Lien Net Leverage Ratio falls below 3.00:1.00 and 2.50:1.00, respectively.
Under circumstances described in the Credit Agreement, we may increase available revolving or term facility borrowings by up to $400.0 million plus an additional amount subject to the Company not exceeding a maximum first lien leverage ratio described in the Credit Agreement.
There have been no borrowings outstanding on the Revolving Credit Facility since the issuance of the Senior Secured Credit Facilities. At December 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017, letters of credit issued under the Revolving Credit Facility totaled $44.8 million and $35.5 million, respectively, which reduced the availability under the Revolving Credit Facility. Availability under the Revolving Credit Facility was $355.2 million and $364.5 million at December 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017, respectively.

97

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(In millions, unless otherwise noted)

Significant Transactions
During the year ended December 31, 2018, in connection with the Sixth Amendment discussed above, we recorded a loss on extinguishment and other financing-related costs of $8.4 million, of which $2.9 million related to the 2023 Euro Term Loan and $5.5 million related to the 2024 Dollar Term Loans. The loss was comprised of the write off of unamortized deferred financing costs and original issue discounts of $3.1 million and $0.7 million, respectively, and other fees directly associated with the Sixth Amendment of $4.6 million. In addition, in connection with the Seventh Amendment discussed above, we recorded a loss of $0.7 million.
During the year ended December 31, 2017, in connection with the Fifth Amendment discussed above, we recorded a loss on extinguishment of $13.0 million. In addition, we voluntarily prepaid $30.0 million in principal of the outstanding 2024 Dollar Term Loans, resulting in a loss of $0.4 million, consisting of the write-off of unamortized deferred financing costs and original issue discounts.
During the year ended December 31, 2016, in connection with the Third Amendment discussed above, we recorded a loss on extinguishment of $2.3 million. In addition, in connection with the Fourth Amendment discussed above, we recorded a $10.4 million loss on extinguishment and other financing-related costs for the year ended December 31, 2016. The loss was comprised of the write-off of unamortized deferred financing costs and original issue discounts attributable to the 2020 Term Loans of $4.7 million and $1.5 million, respectively, and other fees directly associated with the Fourth Amendment of $4.2 million.
Prior to the Fourth Amendment, in April and October of 2016, we voluntarily prepaid $100.0 million and $150.0 million in principal of the outstanding 2020 Dollar Term Loans, respectively, and €200.0 million in principal of the outstanding 2020 Euro Term Loans. As a result, we recorded losses on extinguishment for the year ended December 31, 2016 of $9.6 million, consisting of the write-off of $9.1 million and $0.5 million of unamortized deferred financing costs and original issue discounts, respectively.
Significant Terms of the 2021 Senior Notes
On February 1, 2013, Dutch B B.V, as the “Dutch Issuer”, an indirect, wholly owned subsidiary of the Company, and Axalta US Holdings, as the “U.S. Issuer” (collectively the "Issuers") issued $750.0 million aggregate principal amount of 7.375% senior unsecured notes due 2021 (the "2021 Dollar Senior Notes") and related guarantees thereof. Additionally, the Issuers issued €250.0 million aggregate principal amount of 5.750% senior secured notes due 2021 (the "2021 Euro Senior Notes" and, together with the Dollar Senior Notes, the "2021 Senior Notes") and related guarantees thereof. The 2021 Senior Notes were unconditionally guaranteed on a senior basis by Dutch A B.V. and certain of the Issuers’ subsidiaries.
Issuance of New Senior Notes and Redemption of 2021 Senior Notes
On August 16, 2016, Axalta Coating Systems, LLC ("U.S. Issuer"), issued $500.0 million in aggregate principal amount of 4.875% senior unsecured notes (the “2024 Dollar Senior Notes”) and €335.0 million in aggregate principal amount of 4.250% senior unsecured notes (the “2024 Euro Senior Notes”), each due August 2024 (collectively, the “2024 Senior Notes” and with the 2025 Euro Senior Notes, as defined herein, “New Senior Notes”, each of which is described in detail below), for the primary purpose of redeeming the 2021 Dollar Senior Notes (the “August 2016 Refinancing”). Consistent with the terms of the 2021 Dollar Senior Notes, we extinguished the principal at a redemption price equal to 105.531%.
In connection with the August 2016 Refinancing, we recorded a $56.9 million loss on extinguishment and other financing-related costs for the year ended December 31, 2016. The loss was comprised of the redemption premium of $41.5 million, write-off of unamortized deferred financing costs attributable to the 2021 Dollar Senior Notes of $13.0 million and other fees directly associated with the transaction of $2.4 million.
On September 27, 2016, the Dutch Issuer issued €450.0 million in aggregate principal amount of 3.750% Euro senior unsecured notes due January 2025 (the “2025 Euro Senior Notes”) for the primary purpose of redeeming the 2021 Euro Senior Notes and the partial prepayment of the 2020 Euro Term Loans (the “September 2016 Refinancing”). Consistent with the original terms of the 2021 Euro Senior Notes, we extinguished the principal at a redemption price equal to 104.313%.
In connection with the September 2016 Refinancing, we recorded an $18.4 million loss on extinguishment and other financing-related costs for the year ended December 31, 2016. The loss was comprised of the redemption premium of $12.1 million, write-off of unamortized deferred financing costs attributable to the 2021 Euro Senior Notes of $5.6 million and other fees directly associated with the transaction of $0.7 million.

98

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(In millions, unless otherwise noted)

The indentures governing the New Senior Notes contain covenants that restrict the ability of the Issuers and their subsidiaries to, among other things, incur additional debt, make certain payments including payment of dividends or repurchase equity interest of the Issuers, make loans or acquisitions or capital contributions and certain investments, incur certain liens, sell assets, merge or consolidate or liquidate other entities, and enter into transactions with affiliates.
On October 26, 2018, the U.S. Issuer and the party thereto entered into a seventh supplemental indenture (the “2024 Seventh Supplemental Indenture”) to the 2024 Senior Notes. In addition, on October 26, 2018, the Dutch Issuer and the new guarantors party thereto entered into a seventh supplemental indenture (the “2025 Seventh Supplemental Indenture” and, together with the 2024 Seventh Supplemental Indenture, the “October 2018 Supplemental Indentures”) to the 2025 Euro Senior Notes. The October 2018 Supplemental Indentures permit the Company and its subsidiaries to effect certain corporate transactions as part of a potential internal reorganization of certain of the Company's subsidiaries (the "Proposed Restructuring") and certain potential future reorganizations involving the Company. Each of the October 2018 Supplemental Indentures amended the applicable indenture in order to, among other things, (i) add the Company and certain wholly owned subsidiaries of the Company as guarantors of the applicable New Senior Notes, (ii) provide that (A) the covenants of the applicable Indenture generally apply to the Company and its restricted subsidiaries and (B) upon an election by the relevant Issuer at any time thereafter, a successor parent guarantor may be designated and, upon the effectiveness of the guarantee of such successor parent guarantor, the covenants of the applicable Indenture will generally apply to such successor parent guarantor and its restricted subsidiaries, (iii) otherwise amend the applicable Indenture in order to effect the Proposed Restructuring (as defined below) and (iv) update guarantee limitations for certain of the guarantors.

In connection with the October 2018 Supplemental Indentures above, the Company became the parent guarantor of the New Senior Notes. Additionally, we recorded a loss of $0.4 million compromised of fees directly associated with the indentures. No deferred financing costs or original issue discounts were written off as a result of the October 2018 Supplemental Indentures.
i) 2024 Dollar Senior Notes
The 2024 Dollar Senior Notes were issued at 99.951% of par, or $2.0 million discount, and are due August 15, 2024. The 2024 Dollar Senior Notes bear interest at 4.875% and are payable semi-annually on February 15th and August 15th. We have the option to redeem all or part of the 2024 Dollar Senior Notes at the following redemption prices (expressed as percentages of principal amount) on or after August 15th of the years indicated:
Period
 
2024 Dollar Notes Percentage
2019
 
103.656
%
2020
 
102.438
%
2021
 
101.219
%
2022 and thereafter
 
100.000
%

Notwithstanding the foregoing, at any time and from time to time prior to August 15, 2019, we may at our option redeem in the aggregate up to 40% of the original aggregate principal amount of the 2024 Dollar Senior Notes with the net cash proceeds of one or more Equity Offerings (as defined in the indenture governing the 2024 Dollar Senior Notes) at a redemption price of 104.875% plus accrued and unpaid interest, if any, to the redemption date. At least 50% of the original aggregate principal of the notes must remain outstanding after each such redemption.
Upon the occurrence of certain events constituting a change of control, holders of the 2024 Dollar Senior Notes have the right to require us to repurchase all or any part of the 2024 Dollar Senior Notes at a purchase price equal to 101% of the principal amount plus accrued and unpaid interest, if any, to the repurchase date.
The 2024 Dollar Senior Notes, subject to local law limitations, are jointly and severally guaranteed on a senior unsecured basis by each of the Company’s existing and future direct and indirect subsidiaries that is a borrower under or that guarantees the Senior Secured Credit Facilities. Under certain circumstances, the guarantors may be released from their guarantees without the consent of the holders of the applicable series of notes.
The indebtedness issued through the 2024 Dollar Senior Notes is senior unsecured indebtedness of the U.S. Issuer, is senior in right of payment to all future subordinated indebtedness of the U.S. Issuer and guarantors and is equal in right of payment to all existing and future senior indebtedness of the U.S. Issuer and guarantors. The 2024 Dollar Senior Notes are effectively subordinated to any secured indebtedness of the U.S. Issuer and guarantors (including indebtedness outstanding under the Senior Secured Credit Facilities) to the extent of the value of the assets securing such indebtedness.

99

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(In millions, unless otherwise noted)

(ii) 2024 Euro Senior Notes
The 2024 Euro Senior Notes were issued at par and are due August 15, 2024. The 2024 Euro Senior Notes bear interest at 4.250% and are payable semi-annually on February 15th and August 15th. We have the option to redeem all or part of the 2024 Euro Senior Notes at the following redemption prices (expressed as percentages of principal amount) on or after August 15th of the years indicated:
Period
 
2024 Euro Notes Percentage
2019
 
103.188
%
2020
 
102.125
%
2021
 
101.063
%
2022 and thereafter
 
100.000
%

Notwithstanding the foregoing, at any time and from time to time prior to August 15, 2019, we may at our option redeem in the aggregate up to 40% of the original aggregate principal amount of the 2024 Euro Senior Notes with the net cash proceeds of one or more Equity Offerings (as defined in the indenture governing the 2024 Euro Senior Notes) at a redemption price of 104.250% plus accrued and unpaid interest, if any, to the redemption date. At least 50% of the original aggregate principal of the notes must remain outstanding after each such redemption.
Upon the occurrence of certain events constituting a change of control, holders of the 2024 Euro Senior Notes have the right to require us to repurchase all or any part of the 2024 Euro Senior Notes at a purchase price equal to 101% of the principal amount plus accrued and unpaid interest, if any, to the repurchase date.
The 2024 Euro Senior Notes, subject to local law limitations, will initially be jointly and severally guaranteed on a senior unsecured basis by each of the Company’s existing and future direct and indirect subsidiaries that is a borrower under or that guarantees the Senior Secured Credit Facilities. Under certain circumstances, the guarantors may be released from their guarantees without the consent of the holders of the applicable series of notes.
The indebtedness issued through the 2024 Euro Senior Notes is senior unsecured indebtedness of the U.S. Issuer, is senior in right of payment to all future subordinated indebtedness of the U.S. Issuer and guarantors and is equal in right of payment to all existing and future senior indebtedness of the U.S. Issuer and guarantors. The 2024 Euro Senior Notes are effectively subordinated to any secured indebtedness of the U.S. Issuer and guarantors (including indebtedness outstanding under the Senior Secured Credit Facilities) to the extent of the value of the assets securing such indebtedness.
(iii) 2025 Euro Senior Notes
The 2025 Euro Senior Notes were issued at par and are due January 15, 2025. The 2025 Euro Senior Notes bear interest at 3.750% and are payable semi-annually on January 15th and July 15th. We have the option to redeem all or part of the 2025 Euro Senior Notes at the following redemption prices (expressed as percentages of principal amount) on or after January 15th of the years indicated:
Period
 
2025 Euro Notes Percentage
2019
 
102.813
%
2020
 
101.875
%
2021
 
100.938
%
2022 and thereafter
 
100.000
%

Notwithstanding the foregoing, at any time and from time to time prior to January 15, 2020, we may at our option redeem in the aggregate up to 40% of the original aggregate principal amount of the 2025 Euro Senior Notes with the net cash proceeds of one or more Equity Offerings (as defined in the indenture governing the 2025 Euro Senior Notes) at a redemption price of 103.750% plus accrued and unpaid interest, if any, to the redemption date. At least 50% of the original aggregate principal of the notes must remain outstanding after each such redemption.
Upon the occurrence of certain events constituting a change of control, holders of the 2025 Euro Senior Notes have the right to require us to repurchase all or any part of the 2025 Euro Senior Notes at a purchase price equal to 101% of the principal amount plus accrued and unpaid interest, if any, to the repurchase date.

100

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(In millions, unless otherwise noted)

The 2025 Euro Senior Notes, subject to local law limitations, are jointly and severally guaranteed on a senior unsecured basis by the Company and each of its subsidiaries that is a borrower under or that guarantees the Senior Secured Credit Facilities (other than the Dutch Issuer). Under certain circumstances, the guarantors may be released from their guarantees without the consent of the holders of the applicable series of notes.
The indebtedness issued through the 2025 Euro Senior Notes is senior unsecured indebtedness of the Dutch Issuer, is senior in right of payment to all future subordinated indebtedness of the Dutch Issuer and guarantors and is equal in right of payment to all existing and future senior indebtedness of the Dutch Issuer and guarantors. The 2025 Euro Senior Notes are effectively subordinated to any secured indebtedness of the Dutch Issuer and guarantors (including indebtedness outstanding under the Senior Secured Credit Facilities) to the extent of the value of the assets securing such indebtedness.
Future repayments
Below is a schedule of required future repayments of all borrowings outstanding at December 31, 2018.
2019
 
$
42.2

2020
 
26.0

2021
 
25.3

2022
 
52.7

2023
 
25.4

Thereafter
 
3,722.2

 
 
$
3,893.8


The table above excludes $20.0 million of debt associated with our sale-leaseback financings that will not be settled with cash.
(18)    FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS, HEDGING ACTIVITIES AND FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS
Fair value of financial instruments
Equity securities with readily determinable fair values - Balances of equity securities are recorded within other assets, with any changes in fair value recorded within other expense, net. The fair values of available for sale securities are based upon Level 1 inputs when the securities are actively traded with quoted market prices.

Long-term borrowings - The estimated fair values of these notes are based on recent trades, as reported by a third-party pricing service. Due to the infrequency of trades, these inputs are considered to be Level 2 inputs.

Derivative instruments - The Company’s interest rate caps, interest rate swaps and cross-currency swaps are valued using broker quotations, or market transactions in either the listed or over-the-counter markets. As such, these derivative instruments are considered to be Level 2 inputs.
Fair value of contingent consideration
The fair value of contingent consideration associated with acquisitions completed in current and prior years are valued at each balance sheet date, until amounts become payable, with adjustments recorded within selling, general and administrative expenses on the consolidated statement of operations. During the year ended December 31, 2017, the Company recorded gains of $3.0 million associated with the changes to fair value. The Company paid the remaining $8.9 million contingent consideration in the year ended December 31, 2018. Due to the significant unobservable inputs used in the valuations, these liabilities are categorized within Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy.

101

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(In millions, unless otherwise noted)

The table below presents the fair values of our financial instruments measured on a recurring basis by level within the fair value hierarchy at December 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017.
 
 
December 31, 2018
 
December 31, 2017
 
 
Level 1
 
Level 2
 
Level 3
 
Total
 
Level 1
 
Level 2
 
Level 3
 
Total
Assets:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Prepaid expenses and other current assets:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Interest rate caps (1)
 
$
—

 
$
4.5

 
$
—

 
$
4.5

 
$
—

 
$
—

 
$
—

 
$
—

Cross-currency swaps (2)
 
—

 
14.1

 
—

 
14.1

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

Foreign currency forward contracts(3)
 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

Other assets:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Interest rate caps (1)
 
—

 
1.4

 
—

 
1.4

 
—

 
1.2

 
—

 
1.2

Interest rate swaps (1)
 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

Cross-currency swaps (2)
 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

Investment in equity securities
 
0.7

 
—

 
—

 
0.7

 
4.3

 
—

 
—

 
4.3

Liabilities:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Other accrued liabilities:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Interest rate caps (1)
 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
2.6

 
—

 
2.6

Foreign currency forward contracts(3)
 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
0.7

 
—

 
0.7

Other liabilities:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Interest rate swaps (1)
 
—

 
2.9

 
—

 
2.9

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

Cross-currency swaps (2)
 
—

 
8.8

 
—

 
8.8

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

Contingent consideration
 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
8.9

 
8.9

Long-term borrowings: (4)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
2024 Dollar Senior Notes
 
—

 
474.9

 
—

 
474.9

 
—

 
524.4

 
—

 
524.4

2024 Euro Senior Notes
 
—

 
381.1

 
—

 
381.1

 
—

 
427.7

 
—

 
427.7

2025 Euro Senior Notes
 
—

 
497.5

 
—

 
497.5

 
—

 
571.8

 
—

 
571.8

2024 Dollar Term Loans
 
—

 
2,276.1

 
—

 
2,276.1

 
—

 
1,967.4

 
—

 
1,967.4

2023 Euro Term Loans
 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
475.5

 
—

 
475.5

(1) Cash flow hedge
(2) Net investment hedge
(3) Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments
(4) Amounts not reflected on the Consolidated Balance Sheet
We selectively use derivative instruments to reduce market risk associated with changes in foreign currency exchange rates and interest rates. The use of derivatives is intended for hedging purposes only, and we do not enter into derivative instruments for speculative purposes. A description of each type of derivative used to manage risk is included in the following paragraphs.
Derivative Instruments Qualifying and Designated as Cash Flow and Net Investment Hedges
Interest Rate Caps Designated as Cash Flow Hedges
During the year ended December 31, 2017, we entered into four 1.5% interest rate caps with aggregate notional amounts totaling $850.0 million to hedge the variable interest rate exposures on our 2024 Dollar Term Loans. Three of these interest rate caps, comprising $600.0 million of the notional value, expire December 31, 2019 and had a deferred premium of $8.6 million at inception. The fourth interest rate cap, comprising the remaining $250.0 million of the notional value, expires December 31, 2021 and had a deferred premium of $8.1 million at inception. All deferred premiums are paid quarterly over the term of the respective interest rate caps. These interest rate caps are marked to market at each reporting date and any unrealized gains or losses are included in AOCI and reclassified to interest expense in the same period or periods during which the hedged transactions affect earnings.

102

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(In millions, unless otherwise noted)

Interest Rate Swaps Designated as Cash Flow Hedges
During the three months ended June 30, 2018, we entered into three interest rate swaps with aggregate notional amounts totaling $475.0 million to hedge interest rate exposures related to variable rate borrowings under the Senior Secured Credit Facilities. Under the terms of the interest rate swap agreements, the Company is required to pay the counter-parties a stream of fixed interest payments at a rate of 2.72% and in turn, receives variable interest payments based on 3-month LIBOR from the counter-parties. The interest rate swaps are designated as cash flow hedges and expire on March 31, 2023. These interest rate swaps are marked to market at each reporting date and any unrealized gains or losses are included in AOCI and reclassified to interest expense in the same period or periods during which the hedged transactions affect earnings.
Cross-Currency Swaps Designated as Net Investment Hedges
During the three months ended June 30, 2018, we entered into three fixed-for-fixed cross-currency swaps with aggregate notional amounts totaling $475.0 million to hedge the variability of exchange rate impacts between the U.S. Dollar and Euro. Under the terms of the cross-currency swap agreements, we notionally exchanged $475.0 million at a weighted average interest rate of 4.47% for €387.2 million at a weighted average interest rate of 1.95%. The cross-currency swaps were designated as net investment hedges and were set to expire on March 31, 2023. These cross-currency swaps were marked to market at each reporting date and any unrealized gains or losses are included in unrealized currency translation adjustments, within AOCI.
During the three months ended December 31, 2018, we settled three fixed-for-fixed cross-currency swaps previously executed in 2018 resulting in cash proceeds of $22.5 million. Concurrently, we notionally exchanged $475.0 million at a weighted average interest rate of 4.47% for €416.6 million at a weighted average interest rate of 1.44%. The cross-currency swaps are designated as net investment hedges and expire on March 31, 2023. These cross-currency swaps are marked to market at each reporting date and any unrealized gains or losses are included in unrealized currency translation adjustments, within AOCI.
The following table presents the location and fair values using Level 2 inputs of derivative instruments that qualify and have been designated as cash flow and net investment hedges included in accumulated other comprehensive (loss) income:
 
 
Year Ended December 31,
 
 
2018
 
2017
Accumulated other comprehensive (loss) income:
 
 
 
 
Interest rate caps (cash flow hedges)
 
$
(3.4
)
 
$
2.0

Interest rate swaps (cash flow hedges)
 
3.0

 
—

Cross-currency swaps (net investment hedges)
 
(27.7
)
 
—

Total accumulated other comprehensive (loss) income
 
$
(28.1
)
 
$
2.0


Gains and losses on the derivative representing hedge components excluded from the assessment of effectiveness are recognized over the life of the hedge on a systematic and rational basis.
The following tables set forth the locations and amounts recognized during the year ended December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016 for these cash flow and net investment hedges.
 
 
 
 
For the Year Ended December 31,
 
 
 
 
2018
 
2017
 
2016
Derivatives in Cash Flow and Net Investment Hedges
 
Location of (Gain) Loss Recognized in Income on Derivatives
 
Net Amount of (Gain) Loss Recognized in OCI on Derivatives
 
Amount of (Gain) Loss Recognized in Income
 
Net Amount of (Gain) Loss Recognized in OCI on Derivatives
 
Amount of (Gain) Loss Recognized in Income
 
Net Amount of (Gain) Loss Recognized in OCI on Derivatives
 
Amount of (Gain) Loss Recognized in Income
Interest rate caps
 
Interest expense, net
 
$
(7.3
)
 
$
(1.9
)
 
$
1.8

 
$
(2.7
)
 
$
2.0

 
$
7.1

Interest rate swaps
 
Interest expense, net
 
4.3

 
1.3

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

Cross-currency swaps
 
Interest expense, net
 
(37.1
)
 
(9.4
)
 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—


Over the next 12 months, we expect gains of $0.1 million pertaining to cash flow hedges to be reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income into earnings, related to our interest rate caps and interest rate swaps.


103

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(In millions, unless otherwise noted)

Derivative Instruments Not Designated as Cash Flow Hedges
We periodically enter into foreign currency forward and option contracts to reduce market risk and hedge our balance sheet exposures and cash flows for subsidiaries with exposures denominated in currencies different from the functional currency of the relevant subsidiary. These contracts have not been designated as hedges and all gains and losses are marked to market through other (income) expense, net in the consolidated statement of operations.
During the year ended December 31, 2013, we purchased a €300.0 million 1.5% interest rate cap on our Euro Term Loans for a premium of $3.1 million. The interest rate cap was not designated as a hedge and the changes in the fair value of the derivative instrument were recorded in current period earnings in interest expense. The hedge matured on September 29, 2017.
During the year ended December 31, 2017, we purchased a 1.25% interest rate cap with a notional amount of €388.0 million to hedge the variable interest rate exposures on our 2023 Euro Term Loans. We paid a premium equal to $0.6 million for the interest rate cap which is effective beginning September 30, 2017 through December 31, 2019. Changes in the fair value of the derivative instrument are recorded in current period earnings and are included in interest expense.
Fair value gains and losses of derivative contracts, as determined using Level 2 inputs, that have not been designated for hedge accounting treatment are recorded in earnings as follows:
Derivatives Not Designated as
Hedging Instruments under
ASC 815
 
Location of (Gain) Loss
Recognized in Income on
Derivatives
 
Year Ended December 31,
 
 
2018
 
2017
 
2016
Foreign currency forward contracts
 
Other expense, net
 
$
(7.9
)
 
$
11.2

 
$
4.3

Interest rate cap
 
Interest expense, net
 
—

 
0.6

 
—

 
 
 
 
$
(7.9
)
 
$
11.8

 
$
4.3


(19)    SEGMENTS
The Company identifies an operating segment as a component: (i) that engages in business activities from which it may earn revenues and incur expenses; (ii) whose operating results are regularly reviewed by the Chief Operating Decision Maker ("CODM") to make decisions about resources to be allocated to the segment and assess its performance; and (iii) that has available discrete financial information.
We have two operating segments, which are also our reportable segments: Performance Coatings and Transportation Coatings. The CODM reviews financial information at the operating segment level to allocate resources and to assess the operating results and financial performance for each operating segment. Our CODM is identified as the Chief Executive Officer because he has final authority over performance assessment and resource allocation decisions. Our segments are based on the type and concentration of customers served, service requirements, methods of distribution and major product lines.
Through our Performance Coatings segment, we provide high-quality liquid and powder coatings solutions to a fragmented and local customer base. We are one of only a few suppliers with the technology to provide precise color matching and highly durable coatings systems. The end-markets within this segment are refinish and industrial.
Through our Transportation Coatings segment, we provide advanced coating technologies to OEMs of light and commercial vehicles. These increasingly global customers require a high level of technical support coupled with cost-effective, environmentally responsible coatings systems that can be applied with a high degree of precision, consistency and speed. The end-markets within this segment are light vehicle and commercial vehicle.

104

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(In millions, unless otherwise noted)

Our business serves four end-markets globally as follows:
 
 
Year Ended December 31,
 
 
2018
 
2017
 
2016
Performance Coatings
 
 
 
 
 
 
Refinish
 
$
1,754.2

 
$
1,645.2

 
$
1,679.7

Industrial
 
1,271.5

 
1,029.9

 
718.8

Total Net sales Performance Coatings
 
$
3,025.7

 
$
2,675.1

 
$
2,398.5

Transportation Coatings
 
 
 
 
 
 
Light Vehicle
 
$
1,290.2

 
$
1,322.8

 
$
1,337.7

Commercial Vehicle
 
353.8

 
355.0

 
332.6

Total Net sales Transportation Coatings
 
$
1,644.0

 
$
1,677.8

 
$
1,670.3

Total Net sales
 
$
4,669.7

 
$
4,352.9

 
$
4,068.8


Asset information is not reviewed or included with our internal management reporting. Therefore, the Company has not disclosed asset information for each reportable segment.
 
 
Performance
Coatings
 
Transportation
Coatings
 
Total
For the Year ended December 31, 2018
 
 
 
 
 
 
Net sales (1)
 
$
3,025.7

 
$
1,644.0

 
$
4,669.7

Equity in earnings in unconsolidated affiliates
 
0.4

 
(0.1
)
 
0.3

Adjusted EBITDA (2)
 
668.3

 
268.9

 
937.2

Investment in unconsolidated affiliates
 
2.7

 
12.7

 
15.4

 
 
Performance
Coatings
 
Transportation
Coatings
 
Total
For the Year ended December 31, 2017
 
 
 
 
 
 
Net sales (1)
 
$
2,675.1

 
$
1,677.8

 
$
4,352.9

Equity in earnings (losses) in unconsolidated affiliates
 
0.3

 
0.7

 
1.0

Adjusted EBITDA (2)
 
564.2

 
321.0

 
885.2

Investment in unconsolidated affiliates
 
2.9

 
12.6

 
15.5

 
 
Performance
Coatings
 
Transportation
Coatings
 
Total
For the Year ended December 31, 2016
 
 
 
 
 
 
Net sales (1)
 
$
2,398.5

 
$
1,670.3

 
$
4,068.8

Equity in earnings in unconsolidated affiliates
 
(0.2
)
 
0.4

 
0.2

Adjusted EBITDA (2)
 
549.7

 
352.7

 
902.4

Investment in unconsolidated affiliates
 
2.5

 
11.1

 
13.6

(1)
The Company has no intercompany sales between segments.
(2)
The primary measure of segment operating performance is Adjusted EBITDA, which is defined as net income before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization and select other items impacting operating results. These other items impacting operating results are items that management has concluded are (i) non-cash items included within net income, (ii) items the Company does not believe are indicative of ongoing operating performance or (iii) nonrecurring, unusual or infrequent items that have not occurred within the last two years or we believe are not reasonably likely to recur within the next two years. Adjusted EBITDA is a key metric that is used by management to evaluate business performance in comparison to budgets, forecasts and prior year financial results, providing a measure that management believes reflects the Company’s core operating performance, which represents EBITDA adjusted for the select items referred to above. Reconciliation of Adjusted EBITDA to income before income taxes follows:

105

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(In millions, unless otherwise noted)

 
 
Year Ended December 31,
 
 
2018
 
2017
 
2016
Income before income taxes
 
$
267.5

 
$
189.6

 
$
82.7

Interest expense, net
 
159.6

 
147.0

 
178.2

Depreciation and amortization
 
369.1

 
347.5

 
322.1

EBITDA
 
$
796.2

 
$
684.1

 
$
583.0

Debt extinguishment and refinancing related costs (a)
 
9.5

 
13.4

 
97.6

Foreign exchange remeasurement losses (b)
 
9.2

 
7.4

 
30.6

Long-term employee benefit plan adjustments (c)
 
(1.9
)
 
1.4

 
1.5

Termination benefits and other employee related costs (d)
 
81.7

 
35.3

 
61.8

Consulting and advisory fees (e)
 
—

 
(0.1
)
 
10.4

Transition-related costs (f)
 
(0.2
)
 
7.7

 
—

Offering and transactional costs (g)
 
1.2

 
18.4

 
6.0

Stock-based compensation (h)
 
37.3

 
38.5

 
41.1

Other adjustments (i)
 
5.2

 
3.6

 
5.0

Dividends in respect of noncontrolling interest (j)
 
(1.0
)
 
(3.0
)
 
(3.0
)
Deconsolidation and site closure related impacts (k)
 
—

 
78.5

 
68.4

Adjusted EBITDA
 
$
937.2

 
$
885.2

 
$
902.4

(a)
During the years ended December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016 we refinanced and restructured our term loans and senior notes, which resulted in losses of $9.5 million, $13.0 million and $88.0 million, respectively. In addition, during the years ended December 31, 2017 and 2016 we prepaid outstanding principal on our term loans, resulting in non-cash losses on extinguishment of $0.4 million and $9.6 million, respectively. We do not consider these items to be indicative of our ongoing operating performance.
 
 
(b)
Eliminates foreign exchange gains and losses resulting from the remeasurement of assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies, net of the impacts of our foreign currency instruments used to hedge our balance sheet exposures. Exchange effects attributable to the remeasurement of our Venezuelan subsidiary represented losses of $1.8 million and $23.5 million for the years ended December 31, 2017 and 2016, respectively.
 
 
(c)
Eliminates the non-cash, non-service components of long-term employee benefit plans.
 
 
(d)
Represents expenses and associated changes to estimates related to employee termination benefits and other employee-related costs, which includes Axalta CEO recruitment fees. Employee termination benefits are associated with Axalta Way initiatives. These amounts are not considered indicative of our ongoing operating performance.
 
 
(e)
Represents fees paid to consultants, and associated true-ups to estimates, for professional services primarily related to our Axalta Way initiatives, which are not considered indicative of our ongoing operating performance.
 
 
(f)
Represents integration costs and associated changes to estimates related to the 2017 acquisition of the Industrial Wood business that was a carve-out business from Valspar. We do not consider these items to be indicative of our ongoing operating performance.
 
 
(g)
Represents acquisition-related expenses, including changes in the fair value of contingent consideration, as well as $10.0 million of costs associated with contemplated merger activities during the three months ended December 31, 2017 and costs associated with the 2016 secondary offerings of our common shares by Carlyle, all of which are not considered indicative of our ongoing operating performance.
 
 
(h)
Represents non-cash costs associated with stock-based compensation.
 
 
(i)
Represents certain non-operational or non-cash gains and losses unrelated to our core business and which we do not consider indicative of ongoing operations, including indemnity losses associated with the Acquisition, gains and losses from the sale and disposal of property, plant and equipment, gains and losses from the remaining foreign currency derivative instruments and from non-cash fair value inventory adjustments associated with our business combinations.
 
 
(j)
Represents the payment of dividends to our joint venture partners by our consolidated entities that are not 100% owned, which are reflected to show the cash operating performance of these entities on Axalta's financial statements.
 
 
(k)
During the year ended December 31, 2017, we recorded a loss in conjunction with the deconsolidation of our Venezuelan subsidiary of $70.9 million. During the year ended December 31, 2016 we recorded non-cash impairments at our Venezuelan subsidiary of $68.4 million associated with our operational long-lived assets and a real estate investment (See Note 21). Additionally, during the year ended December 31, 2017, we recorded non-cash impairment charges related to certain manufacturing facilities previously announced for closure of $7.6 million. We do not consider these to be indicative of our ongoing operating performance.


106

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(In millions, unless otherwise noted)

Geographic Area Information:
The information within the following tables provides disaggregated information related to our net sales and long-lived assets.
Net sales by region were as follows:
 
 
Year Ended December 31,
 
 
2018
 
2017
 
2016
North America
 
$
1,783.6

 
$
1,607.7

 
$
1,426.7

EMEA
 
1,658.1

 
1,538.3

 
1,455.3

Asia Pacific
 
758.2

 
748.1

 
723.9

Latin America (a)
 
469.8

 
458.8

 
462.9

Total (b)
 
$
4,669.7

 
$
4,352.9

 
$
4,068.8

Net long-lived assets by region were as follows:
 
 
Year Ended December 31,
 
 
2018
 
2017
North America
 
$
477.4

 
$
457.9

EMEA
 
439.1

 
507.4

Asia Pacific
 
246.1

 
258.9

Latin America (a)
 
135.6

 
164.4

Total (c)
 
$
1,298.2

 
$
1,388.6

(a)
Includes Mexico
(b)
Net Sales are attributed to countries based on location of the customer. Sales to external customers in China represented approximately 11%, 12% and 13% of the total for the years ended December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016, respectively. Sales to external customers in Germany represented approximately 8%, 8% and 9% of the total for the years ended December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016, respectively. Mexico represented 6% of the total for the years ended December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016. Canada, which is included in the North America region, represents approximately 4% of total net sales for the years ended December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016, respectively.
(c)
Long-lived assets consist of property, plant and equipment, net. Germany long-lived assets amounted to approximately $243.6 million and $279.0 million in the years ended December 31, 2018 and 2017, respectively. China long-lived assets amounted to $203.8 million and $217.2 million in the years ended December 31, 2018 and 2017, respectively. Brazil long-lived assets amounted to approximately $58.0 million and $78.6 million in the years ended December 31, 2018 and 2017, respectively. Canada long-lived assets, which are included in the North America region, amounted to approximately $25.1 million and 25.8 million in the years ended December 31, 2018 and 2017, respectively.
(20)    ACCUMULATED OTHER COMPREHENSIVE LOSS
 
 
Unrealized
Currency
Translation
Adjustments
 
Pension Plan
Adjustments
 
Unrealized
Gain on
Securities
 
Unrealized
Gain (Loss) on
Derivatives
 
Accumulated
Other
Comprehensive
Loss
Balance, December 31, 2017
 
$
(208.8
)
 
$
(31.4
)
 
$
0.8

 
$
(1.6
)
 
$
(241.0
)
Cumulative effect of an accounting change
 
—

 
—

 
(0.8
)
 
—

 
(0.8
)
Balance at January 1, 2018
 
$
(208.8
)
 
$
(31.4
)
 
$
—

 
$
(1.6
)
 
$
(241.8
)
Current year deferrals to AOCI
 
(90.6
)
 
(5.8
)
 
—

 
1.7

 
(94.7
)
Reclassifications from AOCI to Net income
 
—

 
0.8

 
—

 
(0.4
)
 
0.4

Net Change
 
$
(90.6
)
 
$
(5.0
)
 
$
—

 
$
1.3

 
$
(94.3
)
Balance, December 31, 2018
 
$
(299.4
)
 
$
(36.4
)
 
$
—

 
$
(0.3
)
 
$
(336.1
)

The cumulative income tax benefit related to the adjustments for pension benefits at December 31, 2018 was $14.4 million. The cumulative income tax expense related to the adjustments for unrealized gain on derivatives at December 31, 2018 was $0.5 million.

107

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(In millions, unless otherwise noted)

 
 
Unrealized
Currency
Translation
Adjustments
 
Pension Plan
Adjustments
 
Unrealized
Gain on
Securities
 
Unrealized
Gain (Loss) on
Derivatives
 
Accumulated
Other
Comprehensive
Loss
Balance, December 31, 2016
 
$
(292.2
)
 
$
(56.6
)
 
$
0.4

 
$
(2.0
)
 
$
(350.4
)
Current year deferrals to AOCI
 
83.4

 
17.1

 
0.4

 
(1.6
)
 
99.3

Reclassifications from AOCI to Net income
 
—

 
8.1

 
—

 
2.0

 
10.1

Net Change
 
$
83.4

 
$
25.2

 
$
0.4

 
$
0.4

 
$
109.4

Balance, December 31, 2017
 
$
(208.8
)
 
$
(31.4
)
 
$
0.8

 
$
(1.6
)
 
$
(241.0
)

Included in the reclassification from AOCI to net income was a pension plan adjustment related to the deconsolidation of our Venezuelan subsidiary and the corresponding write-off of the accumulated actuarial loss on our Venezuela pension plan. This resulted in a decrease of $5.9 million in AOCI, inclusive of $2.6 million of tax benefits, and is discussed further in Note 21.
The cumulative income tax benefit related to the adjustments for pension benefits at December 31, 2017 was $13.0 million. The cumulative income tax benefit related to the adjustments for unrealized gain on derivatives at December 31, 2017 was $0.6 million.
 
 
Unrealized
Currency
Translation
Adjustments
 
Pension Plan
Adjustments
 
Unrealized
Gain on
Securities
 
Unrealized
Gain (Loss) on
Derivatives
 
Accumulated
Other
Comprehensive
Loss
Balance, December 31, 2015
 
$
(232.8
)
 
$
(33.4
)
 
$
0.1

 
$
(3.2
)
 
$
(269.3
)
Current year deferrals to AOCI
 
(59.4
)
 
(22.3
)
 
0.3

 
(2.5
)
 
(83.9
)
Reclassifications from AOCI to Net income
 
—

 
(0.9
)
 
—

 
3.7

 
2.8

Net Change
 
$
(59.4
)
 
$
(23.2
)
 
$
0.3

 
$
1.2

 
$
(81.1
)
Balance, December 31, 2016
 
$
(292.2
)
 
$
(56.6
)
 
$
0.4

 
$
(2.0
)
 
$
(350.4
)

The cumulative income tax benefit related to pension plan adjustments at December 31, 2016 was $19.1 million. The cumulative income tax benefit related to the adjustments for unrealized gain on derivatives at December 31, 2016 were $1.1 million.
(21)    VENEZUELA
Due to the challenging economic conditions and political unrest in Venezuela, which have resulted in increasingly restrictive foreign exchange control regulations and reduced access to U.S. dollars through official currency exchange markets, during the year ended December 31, 2017, we concluded there was an other-than-temporary lack of exchangeability between the Venezuelan bolivar and the U.S. dollar. This lack of exchangeability restricted our Venezuelan subsidiary's ability to pay dividends or settle intercompany obligations, which severely limited our ability to realize the benefits from earnings of our Venezuelan operations and access the resulting liquidity provided by those earnings.
Based on this lack of exchangeability, the continued political unrest, the recent drop in demand for our business and the losses incurred, we concluded that we no longer met the accounting criteria of control in order to continue consolidating our Venezuelan operations and accounted for our investments in our Venezuelan subsidiary under the cost method of accounting. As a result of this change, we recorded a loss of $70.9 million on our consolidated statement of operations during the year ended December 31, 2017. This loss was comprised of the subsidiary's net assets for $30.0 million, counterparty intercompany receivables with our Venezuela subsidiary for $35.0 million and unrealized actuarial losses associated with pension plans in accumulated other comprehensive income of $5.9 million. The value of the cost investment and all previous intercompany balances were recorded at zero as of December 31, 2017 and remain as such as of December 31, 2018. Further, our consolidated balance sheet and statement of operations excludes the results of our Venezuelan operations. We will recognize income only to the extent that we are paid for inventory we sell or receive cash dividends from our Venezuelan legal entity.
Prior to deconsolidation, for the years ended December 31, 2017 and 2016, our Venezuelan subsidiary's net sales represented $2.5 million and $50.8 million of our consolidated net sales, respectively. For the years ended December 31, 2017 and 2016, our Venezuelan subsidiary represented a loss of $2.8 million and $36.5 million of our consolidated income from operations, respectively. For the years ended December 31, 2017 and 2016 our Venezuelan subsidiary represented net losses of $5.8 million and $68.5 million of our consolidated net income, respectively.

108

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(In millions, unless otherwise noted)

During the year ended December 31, 2016, the Company recorded an impairment charge on operating assets of $57.9 million, comprised of a $49.3 million write-down to customer relationship intangibles and an $8.6 million write-down to the net book value of our property, plant and equipment. The impairment charge was recorded within income from operations on the consolidated statement of operations, with $30.6 million and $27.3 million allocated to our Performance Coatings and Transportation Coatings operating segments, respectively.
In addition, during the year ended December 31, 2016, we recorded non-operational impairment losses of $10.5 million, at our Venezuelan subsidiary to write down the carrying value of a real estate investment to its fair value. The method used to determine fair values for the assets included using Level 2 inputs in the form of a sale and purchase agreement for the certain manufacturing assets and observable market quotes from local real estate broker service firms for the Venezuela real estate investment.
(22)    QUARTERLY FINANCIAL INFORMATION (UNAUDITED)
The following is a summary of the quarterly results of operations for the years ended December 31, 2018 and 2017, respectively (in millions, except per share data):
2018
 
March 31
 
June 30
 
September 30(1)
 
December 31
 
Full Year
Total revenue
 
$
1,172.0

 
$
1,212.2

 
$
1,146.0

 
$
1,165.8

 
$
4,696.0

Cost of goods sold
 
776.0

 
793.8

 
759.1

 
777.4

 
3,106.3

Income from operations
 
120.0

 
146.5

 
47.8

 
127.8

 
442.1

Net income (loss)
 
71.0

 
77.1

 
(11.6
)
 
76.8

 
213.3

Net income (loss) attributable to controlling interests
 
69.9

 
74.9

 
(13.1
)
 
75.4

 
207.1

Basic net income (loss) per share
 
$
0.29

 
$
0.31

 
$
(0.05
)
 
$
0.32

 
$
0.87

Diluted net income (loss) per share
 
$
0.28

 
$
0.31

 
$
(0.05
)
 
$
0.32

 
$
0.85

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
2017
 
March 31
 
June 30(2)
 
September 30
 
December 31(3)
 
Full Year
Total revenue
 
$
1,013.7

 
$
1,094.6

 
$
1,096.3

 
$
1,172.4

 
$
4,377.0

Cost of goods sold
 
641.4

 
690.0

 
702.5

 
746.6

 
2,780.5

Income from operations
 
110.4

 
47.5

 
103.9

 
101.9

 
363.7

Net income (loss)
 
65.9

 
(18.9
)
 
56.3

 
(55.6
)
 
47.7

Net income (loss) attributable to controlling interests
 
64.1

 
(20.8
)
 
54.9

 
(61.5
)
 
36.7

Basic net income (loss) per share
 
$
0.27

 
$
(0.09
)
 
$
0.23

 
$
(0.26
)
 
$
0.15

Diluted net income (loss) per share
 
$
0.26

 
$
(0.09
)
 
$
0.22

 
$
(0.26
)
 
$
0.15

(1) During the three months ended September 30, 2018, the Company announced the closure of the Mechelen, Belgium manufacturing facility and recorded severance costs of $70.6 million. See further discussion in Note 5.
(2) During the three months ended June 30, 2017, the Company recorded a loss in conjunction with the deconsolidation of its Venezuelan subsidiary of $70.9 million, based on its evaluation of the carrying value associated with our real estate investment in Venezuela. See further discussion in Note 21.
(3) During the three months ended December 31, 2017, the Company recorded a provisional net tax charge of $107.8 million ($112.5 million of net loss attributable to controlling interests) associated with the U.S. Tax Cuts and Jobs Act legislation, resulting primarily from the write-down of net deferred tax assets to the lower enacted U.S. corporate tax rate of 21.0%. The provisionally estimated net tax charge reflects Axalta's estimate of the new legislation’s impact, which may differ with further regulatory guidance and changes in our interpretations and assumptions.

109

ITEM 9. CHANGES IN AND DISAGREEMENTS WITH ACCOUNTANTS ON ACCOUNTING AND FINANCIAL DISCLOSURE
None.
ITEM 9A. CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES
Evaluation of disclosure controls and procedures
As required by Rules 13a-15(b) or 15d-15(b) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (the "Exchange Act"), the Company carried out an evaluation, under the supervision and with the participation of management, including its Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, of the effectiveness of the design and operation of the Company's disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) or 15d-15(e) under Exchange Act) as of the end of the period covered by this Annual Report on Form 10-K. There are inherent limitations to the effectiveness of any system of disclosure controls and procedures. No matter how well designed and operated, disclosure controls and procedures can provide only reasonable, rather than absolute, assurance of achieving the desired control objectives. Based on the foregoing, the Company's Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer concluded that the Company's disclosure controls and procedures were effective at a reasonable assurance level as of December 31, 2018.
Management's report on internal control over financial reporting
Management 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 Exchange Act).
Management assessed the effectiveness of the Company’s internal control over financial reporting based on the criteria set forth by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (“COSO”) in Internal Control—Integrated Framework (2013). Based on this assessment, management concluded that, as of December 31, 2018, the Company's internal control over financial reporting was effective.
The effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting has been audited by PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, an independent registered public accounting firm, as stated in its report which is included herein.
Changes in internal control over financial reporting
There were no changes in the Company’s internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the quarter ended December 31, 2018 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, the Company’s internal control over financial reporting.
ITEM 9B. OTHER INFORMATION
None.

110

PART III
ITEM 10. DIRECTORS, EXECUTIVE OFFICERS AND CORPORATE GOVERNANCE
The information about the Company’s directors required by Item 10 and not otherwise set forth below is contained under the caption "Proposal No. 1: Election of Directors" in Axalta’s definitive Proxy Statement for the 2019 Annual General Meeting of Members (the "Proxy Statement") which the Company anticipates filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission, pursuant to Regulation 14A, not later than 120 days after the end of the Company’s fiscal year, and is incorporated herein by reference.
Information regarding the Company’s Audit Committee, code of ethics, and compliance with Section 16(a) of the Exchange Act is included in the Proxy Statement under the captions "Corporate Governance Matters and Committees of the Board of Directors", and "Section 16(a) Beneficial Ownership Reporting Compliance", respectively and is incorporated herein by reference.
The executive officers of the Company are appointed by the Board of Directors. The information required by this item is set forth below. 
The following table provides information regarding our executive officers:
Name
 
Age*
 
Position
Robert W. Bryant
 
50
 
Chief Executive Officer and President
Steven R. Markevich
 
59
 
Executive Vice President and President, Transportation Coatings and Greater China
Joseph F. McDougall
 
48
 
Executive Vice President and President, Global Refinish and EMEA
Michael A. Cash
 
57
 
Senior Vice President and President, Industrial Coatings
Sean M. Lannon
 
40
 
Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer
*As of February 26, 2019
Robert W. Bryant
Mr. Bryant has served as our Chief Executive Officer and President since October 7, 2018. Prior to that Mr. Bryant served as our Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer from February 2013 until October 2018. Previously, Mr. Bryant served as the Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of Roll Global LLC. Before joining Roll Global in 2007, he was the Executive Vice President of Strategy, New Business Development, and Information Technology at Grupo Industrial Saltillo, S.A.B. de C.V. Prior to joining Grupo Industrial Saltillo in 2004, Mr. Bryant was President of Bryant & Company, which he founded in 2001. Prior positions included serving as Managing Principal with Texas Pacific Group’s Newbridge Latin America, L.P., a Senior Associate with Booz Allen & Hamilton Inc. and an Assistant Investment Officer with the International Finance Corporation (IFC). Mr. Bryant began his career at Credit Suisse First Boston in the Mergers & Acquisitions Group. Mr. Bryant graduated summa cum laude and Phi Beta Kappa with a B.A. in Economics from the University of Florida and received his M.B.A. from the Harvard Business School.
Steven R. Markevich
Mr. Markevich has served as our Executive Vice President and President, Transportation Coatings and Greater China since September 30, 2015. Prior to that Mr. Markevich served as our Senior Vice President and President, Transportation from July 2015 until September 30, 2015, and Senior Vice President and President, OEM from June 2013 until July 2015. Previously, Mr. Markevich was Chief Executive Officer of GKN Driveline from October 2012 to June 2013. Prior to that role, from July 2010 to October 2012, he was President, GKN Sinter Metals, responsible for global operations. From October 2007 to July 2010, Mr. Markevich was President, North American Operations for GKN Sinter Metals, and began his tenure with GKN in 2007 as Vice President, Sales & Marketing. At Siegel-Robert Automotive, he led the company’s commercial strategy, sales, account and program management initiatives. While at Guardian Automotive, Mr. Markevich served in numerous leadership roles and was responsible for all senior level customer relationships. His career began at Deloitte & Touche consulting and the National Steel Corporation. Mr. Markevich holds a finance degree from the University of Michigan’s Ross School of Business and is a Certified Public Accountant as well as being certified in Production & Inventory Management (CPIM). He has completed the Global Senior Leadership Program at UCLA and holds memberships in the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE), Original Equipment Suppliers Association (OESA) and American Powder Metallurgy Institute International (APMI).

111

Joseph F. McDougall
Mr. McDougall has served as our Executive Vice President and President, Global Refinish and EMEA since January 2018.  Mr. McDougall assumed responsibility for our EMEA region in January 2018, our global Refinish business in October 2017, and Global Branding in 2016.  Prior to his current role he served as our Senior Vice President and Chief Human Resources Officer since joining Axalta in May 2013 through October 2017, and also had responsibility for Corporate Affairs from 2014-2018.  From 2008 through May 2013, Mr. McDougall was Vice President, Human Resources, Communications and Six Sigma for Honeywell Performance Materials and Technologies. He served in a number of positions at Honeywell prior to this most recent position including Vice President, Human Resources for its Air Transport Division from 2007-2008, Director of Human Resources for Honeywell Corporate from 2004-2007, and Director of Compensation, Benefits and HRIS for Honeywell’s Specialty Materials Group from 2003-2004. Prior to joining Honeywell, Mr. McDougall served in human resources leadership roles at the Goodson Newspaper Group and Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital at Hamilton. He started his career as a human resources and benefits consultant. Mr. McDougall holds a B.A. from Rider University and graduated Beta Gamma Sigma with an M.B.A. from The Pennsylvania State University.
Michael A. Cash
Mr. Cash has served as our Senior Vice President and President, Industrial Coatings since August 2013. Prior to joining Axalta, Mr. Cash was Managing Director, Powder Coatings - Asia Pacific Region at AkzoNobel Coatings from 2011 to 2013.  He previously led AkzoNobel’s powder business throughout the Americas from 2005 to 2011. Mr. Cash also held a number of positions at The Sherwin-Williams Company including Vice President, Automotive International, Vice President of Automotive Marketing and Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of its joint venture with Herberts GmbH, which was then a Hoechst company. Earlier in his career, Mr. Cash was Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of Carstar Automotive, a U.S. autobody repair franchise. Mr. Cash received his B.A. in Business Administration from Miami University (Ohio).
Sean M. Lannon
Mr. Lannon has served as our Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer since October 12, 2018. Prior to that Mr. Lannon served as Vice President, Corporate Finance and Global Controller of Axalta since 2016, and was Vice President and Global Controller from 2013 until that promotion. Previously, Mr. Lannon served as the Vice President, Global Controller of Trinseo. Prior to joining Trinseo in 2011, he was the Senior Manager, Financial Reporting at Endo Pharmaceuticals. Mr. Lannon began his career at PricewaterhouseCoopers where he spent more than nine years within the organization’s Assurance Practice. Mr. Lannon graduated summa cum laude with a B.A. in Accounting from Philadelphia University.
Information regarding the Company’s Audit Committee, code of ethics, and compliance with Section 16(a) of the Exchange Act is included in the Proxy Statement under the captions "Corporate Governance Matters and Committees of the Board of Directors", and "Section 16(a) Beneficial Ownership Reporting Compliance", respectively and is incorporated herein by reference.
ITEM 11. EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION
The information required by Item 11 is contained in the Proxy Statement under the captions "Compensation Discussion and Analysis", "Executive Compensation" and "Compensation Committee Report" and is incorporated herein by reference.
ITEM 12. SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT AND RELATED SHAREHOLDER MATTERS
The information required by Item 12 is contained in the Proxy Statement under the captions "Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management" and "Equity Compensation Plan Information" and is incorporated herein by reference.
ITEM 13. CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED TRANSACTIONS AND DIRECTOR INDEPENDENCE
The information required by Item 13 is contained in the Proxy Statement under the captions "Director Independence" and "Certain Relationships and Related Transactions" and is incorporated herein by reference.
ITEM 14. PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTANT FEES AND SERVICES
The information required by Item 14 is contained in the Proxy Statement under the caption "Proposal No. 2: Appointment of PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP as the Company's Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm and Auditor" and is incorporated herein by reference.

112

PART IV
ITEM 15. EXHIBITS AND FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULES
(a)(1)    The Company's 2018 Consolidated Financial Statements and Reports of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm are included in Part II, Item 8 of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.
(a)(2)    The following Consolidated Financial Statement Schedule for the years ended December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016 should be read in conjunction with the previously referenced financial statements:
SCHEDULE II - VALUATION AND QUALIFYING ACCOUNTS 
Allowance for Doubtful Accounts for the years ended December 31:
(in millions)
 
Balance at Beginning of Year
 
Additions
 
Deductions (1)
 
Balance at End of Year
2018
 
$
15.9

 
2.3

 
(2.8
)
 
$
15.4

2017
 
$
13.7

 
3.5

 
(1.3
)
 
$
15.9

2016
 
$
10.7

 
3.4

 
(0.4
)
 
$
13.7

(1)
Deductions include uncollectible accounts written off and foreign currency translation impact.
Deferred tax asset valuation allowances for the years ended December 31:
(in millions)
 
Balance at Beginning of Year
 
Additions (1)
 
Deductions (1)
 
Balance at End of Year
2018
 
$
214.2

 
11.9

 
(67.1
)
 
$
159.0

2017
 
$
135.4

 
78.8

 
—

 
$
214.2

2016
 
$
127.8

 
9.6

 
(2.0
)
 
$
135.4

(1)
Additions and deductions include charges to goodwill and foreign currency translation impact.
(a)(3)    The following exhibits are filed as a part of, or incorporated by reference into, this Form 10-K.
EXHIBIT NO.
DESCRIPTION OF EXHIBITS
 
 
2.1*
 
 
2.2*
 
 
3.1*
 
 
3.2*
 
 
3.3*

 
 
4.1*
 
 

113

4.2*
 
 
4.3*
 
 
4.4*

 
 
4.5*

 
 
10.1*
 
 
10.2*
 
 
10.3*
 
 
10.4*
 
 
10.5*
 
 

114

10.6*
 
 
10.7*

 
 
10.8*

 
 
10.9*
 
 
10.10*
 
 
10.11*
 
 
10.12*
 
 
10.13*
 
 
10.14*
 
 
10.15*
 
 
10.16*
 
 

115

10.17*
 
 
10.18*
 
 
10.19*
 
 
10.20*
 
 
10.21*
 
 
10.22*
 
 
10.23*
 
 
10.24*
 
 
10.25*
 
 
10.26*
 
 
10.27*
 
 

116

10.28*
 
 
10.29*
 
 
10.30*
 
 
10.31*
 
 
10.32*
 
 
10.33*
 
 
10.34*
 
 
10.35*
 
 
10.36*
 
 
10.37*
 
 
10.38*
 
 

117

10.39*
 
 
10.40*
 
 
10.41*
 
 
10.42*
 
 
10.43*
 
 
10.44*
 
 
10.45*
 
 
10.46*
 
 
10.47*
 
 
10.48*
 
 
10.49*
 
 
10.50*
 
 
10.51*
 
 
10.52*
 
 
10.53*
 
 
10.54*
 
 

118

10.55*
 
 
10.56*
 
 
10.57*
 
 
10.58*
 
 
10.59*

 
 
10.60*

 
 
10.61*

 
 
10.62*

 
 
10.63*

 
 
10.64*

 
 
10.65*

 
 
10.66*

 
 
10.67*

 
 
10.68*

 
 
10.69*
 
 

119

10.70*

 
 
10.71*

 
 
10.72*

 
 
10.73
 
 
10.74

 
 
21.1
 
 
23.1
 
 
31.1
 
 
31.2
 
 
32.1††
 
 
32.2††
 
 
101†
INS - XBRL Instance Document. The document does not appear in the interactive data file because its XBRL tags are embedded within the inline XBRL document
 
 
101†
SCH - XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document
 
 
101†
CAL - XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document
 
 
101†
DEF - XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document
 
 
101†
LAB - XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document
 
 
101†
PRE - XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document
 
 
*
Previously filed.
 
 
†
In accordance with Rule 406T of Regulation S-T, the information in these exhibits is furnished and deemed not filed or part of a registration statement or prospectus for purposes of sections 11 or 12 of the Securities Act of 1933, is deemed not filed for purposes of section 18 of the Exchange Act of 1934, and otherwise is not subject to liability under these sections.
 
 
††
In accordance with Item 601(b)(32)(ii) of Regulation S-K and SEC Release No. 33-8238 and 34-47986, Final Rule: Management’s Reports on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting and Certification of Disclosure in Exchange Act Periodic Reports, the certifications furnished in Exhibits 32.1 and 32.2 hereto are deemed to accompany this Form 10-K and will not be deemed "filed" for purposes of section 18 of the Exchange Act. Such certifications will not be deemed to be incorporated by reference into any filings under the Securities Act or the Exchange Act, except to the extent that the registrant specifically incorporates it by reference.
ITEM 16. FORM 10-K SUMMARY
None.

120

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 on February 26, 2019.
AXALTA COATING SYSTEMS LTD.
 
 
By:
 
/s/ Robert W. Bryant
 
 
Robert W. Bryant
 
 
Chief Executive Officer and President
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned duly authorized. 
Signature
  
Title
 
Date
 
 
 
 
 
/s/ Robert W. Bryant
  
Chief Executive Officer and President
 
February 26, 2019
Robert W. Bryant
  
(Principal Executive Officer)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
/s/ Sean M. Lannon
  
Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer
 
February 26, 2019
Sean M. Lannon
  
(Principal Financial Officer and Principal Accounting Officer)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
/s/ Charles W. Shaver
  
Chairman of the Board
 
February 26, 2019
Charles W. Shaver
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
/s/ Mark Garrett
  
Director
 
February 26, 2019
Mark Garrett
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
/s/ Deborah J. Kissire
  
Director
 
February 26, 2019
Deborah J. Kissire
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
/s/ Andreas C. Kramvis
  
Director
 
February 26, 2019
Andreas C. Kramvis
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
/s/ Elizabeth C. Lempres
  
Director
 
February 26, 2019
Elizabeth C. Lempres
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
/s/ Robert M. McLaughlin
  
Director
 
February 26, 2019
Robert M. McLaughlin
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
/s/ Lori J. Ryerkerk
  
Director
 
February 26, 2019
Lori J. Ryerkerk
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
/s/ Samuel L. Smolik
  
Director
 
February 26, 2019
Samuel L. Smolik
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

121