10-K

CRITICAL ACCOUNTING POLICIES AND ESTIMATES

Our financial statements include all of our majority-owned subsidiaries, except for certain subsidiaries that were deconsolidated during the period from May 31, 2010 through December 31, 2014. We reconsolidated such subsidiaries as of January 1, 2015 (refer to Note A[2] to the Consolidated Financial Statements for further information). Investments in less-than-majority-owned joint ventures for which we have the ability to exercise significant influence over are accounted for under the equity method. Preparation of our financial statements requires the use of estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of our assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. We continually evaluate these estimates, including those related to our allowances for doubtful accounts; inventories; allowances for recoverable taxes; uncertain tax positions; useful lives of property, plant and equipment; goodwill and other intangible assets; environmental, warranties and other contingent liabilities; income tax valuation allowances; pension plans; and the fair value of financial instruments. We base our estimates on historical experience, our most recent facts, and other assumptions that we believe to be reasonable under the circumstances. These estimates form the basis for making judgments about the carrying values of our assets and liabilities. Actual results, which are shaped by actual market conditions, may differ materially from our estimates.

We have identified below the accounting policies and estimates that are the most critical to our financial statements.

REVENUE RECOGNITION

Revenues are recognized when realized or realizable, and when earned. In general, this is when title and risk of loss pass to the customer. Further, revenues are realizable when we have persuasive evidence of a sales arrangement, the product has been shipped or the services have been provided to the customer, the sales price is fixed or determinable and collectibility is reasonably assured. We reduce our revenues for estimated customer returns and allowances, certain rebates, sales incentives and promotions in the same period the related sales are recorded.

We also record revenues generated under long-term construction contracts, mainly in connection with the installation of specialized roofing and flooring systems, and related services. In general, we account for long-term construction contracts under the percentage-of-completion method, and therefore record contract revenues and related costs as our contracts progress. This method recognizes the economic results of contract performance on a timelier basis than does the completed-contract method; however, application of this method requires reasonably dependable estimates of progress toward completion, as well as other dependable estimates. When reasonably dependable estimates cannot be made, or if other factors make estimates doubtful, the completed-contract method is applied. Under the completed-contract method, billings and costs are accumulated in the balance sheet as the contract progresses, but no revenue is recognized until the contract is complete or substantially complete.

TRANSLATION OF FOREIGN CURRENCY FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND FOREIGN CURRENCY TRANSACTIONS

Our reporting currency is the U.S. dollar. However, the functional currency for each of our foreign subsidiaries is its principal operating currency. We translate the amounts included in our Consolidated Statements of Income from our foreign subsidiaries into U.S. dollars at weighted-average exchange rates, which we believe are representative of the actual exchange rates on the dates of the transactions. Our foreign subsidiaries’ assets and liabilities are translated into U.S. dollars from local currency at the actual exchange rates as of the end of each reporting period, and we record the resulting foreign exchange translation adjustments in our Consolidated Balance Sheets as a component of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss). If the U.S. dollar strengthens, we reflect the resulting losses as a component of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss). Conversely, if the U.S. dollar weakens, foreign exchange translation gains result, which favorably impact accumulated other comprehensive income (loss). Translation adjustments may be included in net earnings in the event of a sale or liquidation of certain of our underlying foreign investments. If we determine that the functional currency of any of our foreign subsidiaries should be the U.S. dollar, our financial statements will be affected. Should this occur, we will adjust our reporting to appropriately account for any such changes.

As appropriate, we use permanently invested intercompany loans as a source of capital to reduce exposure to foreign currency fluctuations at our foreign subsidiaries. These loans, on a consolidated basis, are treated as being analogous to equity for accounting purposes. Therefore, foreign exchange gains or losses on these intercompany loans are recorded in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss).

GOODWILL

We test our goodwill balances at least annually, or more frequently as impairment indicators arise, at the reporting unit level. Our annual impairment assessment date has been designated as the first day of our fourth fiscal quarter. Our reporting units have been identified at the component level, which is the operating segment level or one level below our operating segments.

We follow the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) guidance found in Accounting Standards Codification (“ASC”) 350 that simplifies how an entity tests goodwill for impairment. It provides an option to first assess qualitative factors to determine whether it is more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit is less than its carrying amount, and whether it is necessary to perform the two-step goodwill impairment test.

We assess qualitative factors in each of our reporting units that carry goodwill. Among other relevant events and circumstances that affect the fair value of our reporting units, we assess individual factors such as:

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a significant adverse change in legal factors or the business climate;

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an adverse action or assessment by a regulator;

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unanticipated competition;

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a loss of key personnel; and

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a more-likely-than-not expectation that a reporting unit or a significant portion of a reporting unit will be sold or otherwise disposed of.

We assess these qualitative factors to determine whether it is necessary to perform the two-step quantitative goodwill impairment test. The traditional two-step quantitative process is required only if we conclude that it is more likely than not that a reporting unit’s fair value is less than its carrying amount. However, we have an unconditional option to bypass a qualitative assessment and proceed directly to performing the traditional two-step quantitative analysis.

In applying the first step of the quantitative test, we compare the fair value of a reporting unit to its carrying value. Calculating the fair value of a reporting unit requires our use of estimates and assumptions. We use significant judgment in determining the most appropriate method to establish the fair value of a reporting unit. We estimate the fair value of a reporting unit by employing various valuation techniques, depending on the availability and reliability of comparable market value indicators, and employ methods and assumptions that include the application of third-party market value indicators and the computation of discounted future cash flows for a reporting unit’s annual projected earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (“EBITDA”).

We evaluate discounted future cash flows for a reporting unit’s projected EBITDA. Under this approach, we calculate the fair value of a reporting unit based on the present value of estimated future cash flows. If the fair value of the reporting unit exceeds the carrying value of the net assets of the reporting unit, goodwill is not impaired. An indication that goodwill may be impaired results when the carrying value of the net assets of a reporting unit exceeds the fair value of the reporting unit. At that point, the second step of the impairment test is performed, which requires a fair value estimate of each tangible and intangible asset in order to determine the implied fair value of the reporting unit’s goodwill. If the carrying value of a reporting unit’s goodwill exceeds its implied fair value, then we record an impairment loss equal to the difference.

In applying the discounted cash flow methodology, we rely on a number of factors, including future business plans, actual and forecasted operating results, and market data. The significant assumptions employed under this method include discount rates; revenue growth rates, including assumed terminal growth rates; and operating margins used to project future cash flows for a reporting unit. The discount rates utilized reflect market-based estimates of capital costs and discount rates adjusted for management’s assessment of a market participant’s view with respect to other risks associated with the projected cash flows of the individual reporting unit. Our estimates are based upon assumptions we believe to be reasonable, but which by nature are uncertain and unpredictable. We believe we incorporate ample sensitivity ranges into our analysis of goodwill impairment testing for a reporting unit, such that actual experience would need to be materially out of the range of expected assumptions in order for an impairment to remain undetected.

During the second quarter of fiscal 2017, we identified certain factors that we considered important in assessing the requirement to perform an interim impairment evaluation for our Kirker reporting unit. First, Kirker’s three-month operating results for the second quarter of fiscal 2017 were significantly below historical and expected operating results and downward adjustments were recently made regarding our expectations for Kirker’s performance. Also during that quarter, Kirker experienced market share losses at several key customers, including the loss of its largest customer, which accounted for over 15% of Kirker’s fiscal 2016 sales. In addition, some problematic customer relationship issues surfaced during the second quarter of fiscal 2017, which resulted in a personnel change in a key leadership position at Kirker. After considering the totality of these recent events, we determined that an interim step one goodwill impairment assessment was required, as

well as an impairment assessment for our intangible and other long-lived assets. Accordingly, during our fiscal 2017 second quarter we recorded a loss totaling $188.3 million for the impairment of goodwill and intangibles at our Kirker reporting unit. Refer to Note B, “Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets,” for further discussion.

Our annual goodwill impairment analysis for fiscal 2017, which was performed as of March 1, 2017, did not result in any additional indicators of impairment. Should the future earnings and cash flows at our reporting units decline and/or discount rates increase, future impairment charges to goodwill and other intangible assets may be required.

OTHER LONG-LIVED ASSETS

We assess identifiable, amortizable intangibles and other long-lived assets for impairment whenever events or changes in facts and circumstances indicate the possibility that the carrying values of these assets may not be recoverable over their estimated remaining useful lives. Factors considered important in our assessment, which might trigger an impairment evaluation, include the following:

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significant under-performance relative to historical or projected future operating results;

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significant changes in the manner of our use of the acquired assets;

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significant changes in the strategy for our overall business; and

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significant negative industry or economic trends.

Measuring a potential impairment of amortizable intangibles and other long-lived assets requires the use of various estimates and assumptions, including the determination of which cash flows are directly related to the assets being evaluated, the respective useful lives over which those cash flows will occur and potential residual values, if any. If we determine that the carrying values of these assets may not be recoverable based upon the existence of one or more of the above-described indicators or other factors, any impairment amounts would be measured based on the projected net cash flows expected from these assets, including any net cash flows related to eventual disposition activities. The determination of any impairment losses would be based on the best information available, including internal estimates of discounted cash flows; market participant assumptions; quoted market prices, when available; and independent appraisals, as appropriate, to determine fair values. Cash flow estimates would be based on our historical experience and our internal business plans, with appropriate discount rates applied.

During the third quarter of fiscal 2017, we identified certain factors that we considered important in assessing the requirement to perform an interim impairment evaluation for our Restore indefinite tradename asset. First, sales of our Restore product line during the three-month period ended February 28, 2017 were below historical and expected operating results and significant downward adjustments were recently made to sales projections for Restore products. In the quarter ended February 28, 2017, we became aware that it was highly likely that Restore’s largest customer would discontinue sales of the Restore product line in its retail stores, which was evidenced by this customer’s significant reduction in future orders based on its historical order pattern. We determined that this was significant to consider for the purposes of impairment testing, as sales of Restore products to this customer accounted for over 60% of total sales of Restore products for fiscal 2016. After considering the magnitude of the loss in sales volume from this key customer, we determined that it was necessary to perform an interim assessment for our Restore intangible assets. Accordingly, for the third quarter of fiscal 2017, we recorded

a loss totaling $4.9 million for the impairment of the Restore tradename. Refer to Note B, “Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets,” for further discussion.

Additionally, we test all indefinite-lived intangible assets for impairment at least annually during our fiscal fourth quarter. We follow the guidance provided by ASC 350 that simplifies how an entity tests indefinite-lived intangible assets for impairment. It provides an option to first assess qualitative factors to determine whether it is more likely than not that the fair value of an indefinite-lived intangible asset is less than its carrying amount. Our fiscal 2017 annual impairment tests of each of our indefinite-lived intangible assets did not result in any additional impairment loss.

INCOME TAXES

Our provision for income taxes is calculated using the asset and liability method, which requires the recognition of deferred income taxes. Deferred income taxes reflect the net tax effect of temporary differences between the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities for financial reporting purposes and the amounts used for income tax purposes and certain changes in valuation allowances. We provide valuation allowances against deferred tax assets if, based on available evidence, it is more likely than not that some portion or all of the deferred tax assets will not be realized.

In determining the adequacy of valuation allowances, we consider cumulative and anticipated amounts of domestic and international earnings or losses of the appropriate character, anticipated amounts of foreign source income, as well as the anticipated taxable income resulting from the reversal of future taxable temporary differences. We intend to maintain any recorded valuation allowances until sufficient positive evidence (for example, cumulative positive foreign earnings or capital gain income) exists to support a reversal of the tax valuation allowances.

Further, at each interim reporting period, we estimate an effective income tax rate that is expected to be applicable for the full year. Significant judgment is involved regarding the application of global income tax laws and regulations and when projecting the jurisdictional mix of income. Additionally, interpretation of tax laws, court decisions or other guidance provided by taxing authorities influences our estimate of the effective income tax rates. As a result, our actual effective income tax rates and related income tax liabilities may differ materially from our estimated effective tax rates and related income tax liabilities. Any resulting differences are recorded in the period they become known.

CONTINGENCIES

We are party to various claims and lawsuits arising in the normal course of business. Although we cannot precisely predict the amount of any liability that may ultimately arise with respect to any of these matters, we record provisions when we consider the liability probable and estimable. Our provisions are based on historical experience and legal advice, reviewed quarterly and adjusted according to developments. In general, our accruals, including our accruals for environmental, warranty and tax liabilities, discussed further below, represent the best estimate of a range of probable losses. Estimating probable losses requires the analysis of multiple factors that often depend on judgments about potential actions by third parties, such as regulators, courts, and state and federal legislatures. Changes in the amounts of our loss provisions, which can be material, affect our Consolidated Statements of Income. To the extent there is a reasonable possibility that potential losses could exceed the amounts already accrued, we believe that the amount of

any such additional loss would be immaterial to our results of operations, liquidity and consolidated financial position. We evaluate our accruals at the end of each quarter, or sometimes more frequently, based on available facts, and may revise our estimates in the future based on any new information becoming available.

Our environmental-related accruals are similarly established and/or adjusted as more information becomes available upon which costs can be reasonably estimated. Actual costs may vary from these estimates because of the inherent uncertainties involved, including the identification of new sites and the development of new information about contamination. Certain sites are still being investigated; therefore, we have been unable to fully evaluate the ultimate costs for those sites. As a result, accruals have not been estimated for certain of these sites and costs may ultimately exceed existing estimated accruals for other sites. We have received indemnities for potential environmental issues from purchasers of certain of our properties and businesses and from sellers of some of the properties or businesses we have acquired. If the indemnifying party fails to, or becomes unable to, fulfill its obligations under those agreements, we may incur environmental costs in addition to any amounts accrued, which may have a material adverse effect on our financial condition, results of operations or cash flows.

We offer warranties on many of our products, as well as long term warranty programs at certain of our businesses, and thus have established corresponding warranty liabilities. Warranty expense is impacted by variations in local construction practices, installation conditions, and geographic and climate differences. Although we believe that appropriate liabilities have been recorded for our warranty expense, actual results may differ materially from our estimates.

Additionally, our operations are subject to various federal, state, local and foreign tax laws and regulations that govern, among other things, taxes on worldwide income. The calculation of our income tax expense is based on the best information available, including the application of currently enacted income tax laws and regulations, and involves our significant judgment. The actual income tax liability for each jurisdiction in any year can ultimately be determined, in some instances, several years after the financial statements have been published.

We also maintain accruals for estimated income tax exposures for many different jurisdictions. Tax exposures are settled primarily through the resolution of audits within each tax jurisdiction or the closing of a statute of limitation. Tax exposures and actual income tax liabilities can also be affected by changes in applicable tax laws, retroactive tax law changes, or other factors, which may cause us to believe revisions of past estimates are appropriate. Although we believe that appropriate liabilities have been recorded for our income tax expense and income tax exposures, actual results may differ materially from our estimates.

ALLOWANCE FOR DOUBTFUL ACCOUNTS RECEIVABLE

INVENTORIES

Inventories are stated at the lower of cost or net realizable value, cost being determined on a first-in, first-out (FIFO) basis and net realizable value being determined on the basis of replacement cost. Inventory costs include raw materials, labor and manufacturing overhead. We review the net realizable value of our inventory in detail on an on-going basis, with consideration given to various factors, which include our estimated reserves for excess, obsolete, slow moving or distressed inventories. If actual market conditions differ from our projections, and our estimates prove to be inaccurate, write-downs of inventory values and adjustments to cost of sales may be required. Historically, our inventory reserves have approximated actual experience.

MARKETABLE SECURITIES

Marketable securities, included in other current and long-term assets, are composed of available-for-sale securities and are reported at fair value. Realized gains and losses on sales of investments are recognized in net income on the specific identification basis. Changes in fair values of securities that are considered temporary are recorded as unrealized gains and losses, net of applicable taxes, in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) within stockholders’ equity. Other-than-temporary declines in market value from original cost are reflected in investment income, net in the period in which the unrealized losses are deemed other than temporary. In order to determine whether an other-than-temporary decline in market

value has occurred, the duration of the decline in value and our ability to hold the investment to recovery are considered in conjunction with an evaluation of the strength of the underlying collateral and the extent to which the investment’s amortized cost or cost, as appropriate, exceeds its related market value.

PENSION AND POSTRETIREMENT PLANS

We sponsor qualified defined benefit pension plans and various other nonqualified postretirement plans. The qualified defined benefit pension plans are funded with trust assets invested in a diversified portfolio of debt and equity securities and other investments. Among other factors, changes in interest rates, investment returns and the market value of plan assets can (i) affect the level of plan funding, (ii) cause volatility in the net periodic pension cost, and (iii) increase our future contribution requirements. A significant decrease in investment returns or the market value of plan assets or a significant decrease in interest rates could increase our net periodic pension costs and adversely affect our results of operations. A significant increase in our contribution requirements with respect to our qualified defined benefit pension plans could have an adverse impact on our cash flow.

Changes in our key plan assumptions would impact net periodic benefit expense and the projected benefit obligation for our defined benefit and various postretirement benefit plans. Based upon May 31, 2017 information, the following tables reflect the impact of a 1% change in the key assumptions applied to our defined benefit pension plans in the U.S. and internationally:


	U.S.				International
(In millions)	1% Increase		1% Decrease		1% Increase		1% Decrease
Discount Rate
Increase (decrease) in expense in FY 2017	$	(4.6)	$	5.6	$	(0.9)	$	2.5
Increase (decrease) in obligation as of May 31, 2017	$	(49.3)	$	58.6	$	(28.4)	$	36.6
Expected Return on Plan Assets
Increase (decrease) in expense in FY 2017	$	(3.2)	$	3.2	$	(1.6)	$	1.6
Increase (decrease) in obligation as of May 31, 2017		N/A		N/A		N/A		N/A
Compensation Increase
Increase (decrease) in expense in FY 2017	$	5.6	$	(5.0)	$	0.7	$	(1.1)
Increase (decrease) in obligation as of May 31, 2017	$	25.2	$	(22.8)	$	6.7	$	(5.9)
Based upon May 31, 2017 information, the following table reflects the impact of a 1% change in the key assumptions applied to our various postretirement health care plans:
	U.S.				International
(In millions)	1% Increase		1% Decrease		1% Increase		1% Decrease
Discount Rate
Increase (decrease) in expense in FY 2017	$	-	$	-	$	(0.4)	$	0.6
Increase (decrease) in obligation as of May 31, 2017	$	(0.5)	$	0.5	$	(4.7)	$	6.2
Healthcare Cost Trend Rate
Increase (decrease) in expense in FY 2017	$	-	$	-	$	0.5	$	(0.4)
Increase (decrease) in obligation as of May 31, 2017	$	0.2	$	(0.2)	$	6.4	$	(5.0)

BUSINESS SEGMENT INFORMATION

We changed the composition of our operating and reportable segments in order to reflect management’s view of the operating results for each segment during the quarter ended August 31, 2016. Under our new composition, we made the determination to move a group of businesses serving the industrial flooring, concrete repair and specialty waterproofing markets out of our specialty reportable segment into our Performance Coatings Group operating segment, which better aligns with our management structure and reports through our industrial reportable segment. For the fiscal year ended May 31, 2016, this group of businesses represented less than 1% of our consolidated net sales, income before income taxes and identifiable assets. Information for all periods presented has been recast to reflect this change.

We operate a portfolio of businesses and product lines that manufacture and sell a variety of specialty paints, protective coatings and roofing systems, sealants and adhesives. We manage our portfolio by organizing our businesses and product lines into three reportable segments: the industrial reportable segment, the specialty reportable segment and the consumer reportable segment. Within each reportable segment, we aggregate operating segments or product lines that consist of individual companies or groups of companies and product lines, which generally address common markets, share similar economic characteristics, utilize similar technologies and can share manufacturing or distribution capabilities. Our seven operating segments represent components of our business for which separate financial information is available that is utilized on a regular basis by our chief operating decision maker in determining how to allocate the assets of the company and evaluate performance. These seven operating segments are each managed by an operating segment manager, who is responsible for the day-to-day operating decisions and performance evaluation of the operating segment’s underlying businesses. We evaluate the profit performance of our segments primarily based on income before income taxes, but also look to earnings (loss) before interest and taxes (“EBIT”) as a performance evaluation measure because interest expense is essentially related to acquisitions, as opposed to segment operations.

comprises three separate operating segments — Tremco Group, tremco illbruck Group and Performance Coatings Group. Products and services within this reportable segment include construction chemicals, roofing systems, weatherproofing and other sealants, and polymer flooring.

Our specialty reportable segment products are sold throughout North America and a few international locations, primarily in Europe. Our specialty product lines are sold directly to contractors, distributors and end-users, such as industrial manufacturing facilities, public institutions and other commercial customers. The specialty reportable segment is a single operating segment, which offers products that include industrial cleaners, restoration services equipment, colorants, exterior finishes, edible coatings and specialty glazes for pharmaceutical and food industries, and other specialty OEM coatings.

Our consumer reportable segment manufactures and markets professional use and do-it-yourself (“DIY”) products for a variety of mainly consumer applications, including home improvement and personal leisure activities. Our consumer segment’s major manufacturing and distribution operations are located primarily in North America, along with a few locations in Europe and other parts of the world. Our consumer reportable segment products are primarily sold directly to mass merchandisers, home improvement centers, hardware stores, paint stores, craft shops, cosmetic companies and through distributors. This reportable segment comprises three operating segments — Rust-Oleum Group, DAP Group and SPG-Consumer Group. Products within this reportable segment include specialty, hobby and professional paints; nail enamels; caulks; adhesives; silicone sealants and wood stains.

In addition to our three reportable segments, there is a category of certain business activities and expenses, referred to as corporate/other, that does not constitute an operating segment. This category includes our corporate headquarters and related administrative expenses, results of our captive insurance companies, gains or losses on the sales of certain assets and other expenses not directly associated with any reportable segment. Assets related to the corporate/other category consist primarily of investments, prepaid expenses and headquarters’ property and equipment. These corporate and other assets and expenses reconcile reportable segment data to total consolidated income before income taxes, interest expense and earnings before interest and taxes.

We reflect income from our joint ventures on the equity method, and receive royalties from our licensees.

The following table reflects the results of our reportable segments consistent with our management philosophy, and represents the information we utilize, in conjunction with various strategic, operational and other financial performance criteria, in evaluating the performance of our portfolio of product lines. Information for all periods presented has been recast to reflect the current-year change in the composition of our reportable segments.

SEGMENT INFORMATION

(In thousands)


Year Ended May 31,	2017			2016			2015
Net Sales
Industrial	$	2,564,202		$	2,491,647		$	2,581,424
Specialty		713,589			684,564			409,297
Consumer		1,680,384			1,637,438			1,603,829
Total	$	4,958,175		$	4,813,649		$	4,594,550
Income Before Income Taxes ^(a)
Industrial Segment
Income Before Income Taxes ^(a)	$	243,335		$	257,180		$	251,903
Interest (Expense), Net ^(b)		(7,985	)		(6,071	)		(8,282)
EBIT ^(c)	$	251,320		$	263,251		$	260,185
Specialty Segment
Income Before Income Taxes ^(a)	$	107,904		$	107,546		$	63,434
Interest Income (Expense), Net ^(b)		526			814			626
EBIT ^(c)	$	107,378		$	106,732		$	62,808
Consumer Segment
Income Before Income Taxes ^(a)	$	58,726		$	268,218		$	274,001
Interest Income (Expense), Net ^(b)		(323	)		40			34
EBIT ^(c)	$	59,049		$	268,178		$	273,967
Corporate/Other
(Expense) Before Income Taxes ^(a)	$	(165,632	)	$	(149,478	)	$	(136,085)
Interest (Expense), Net ^(b)		(75,188	)		(76,101	)		(61,416)
EBIT ^(c)	$	(90,444	)	$	(73,377	)	$	(74,669)
Consolidated
Income Before Income Taxes ^(a)	$	244,333		$	483,466		$	453,253
Interest (Expense), Net ^(b)		(82,970	)		(81,318	)		(69,038)
EBIT ^(c)	$	327,303		$	564,784		$	522,291

(a)	The presentation includes a reconciliation of Income (Loss) Before Income Taxes, a measure defined by Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (“GAAP”) in the U.S., to EBIT.

(b)	Interest (expense), net includes the combination of interest expense and investment expense (income), net.

(c)

EBIT is a non-GAAP measure, and is defined as earnings (loss) before interest and taxes. We evaluate the profit performance of our segments based on income before income taxes, but also look to EBIT as a performance evaluation measure because interest expense is essentially related to acquisitions, as opposed to segment operations. We believe EBIT is useful to investors for this purpose as well, using EBIT as a metric in their investment decisions. EBIT should not be considered an alternative to, or more meaningful than, income before income taxes as determined in accordance with GAAP, since EBIT omits the impact of interest in determining operating performance, which represent items necessary to our continued operations, given our level of indebtedness. Nonetheless, EBIT is a key measure expected by and useful to our fixed income investors, rating agencies and the banking community, all of whom believe, and we concur, that this measure is critical to the capital markets’ analysis of our segments’ core operating performance. We also evaluate EBIT because it is clear that movements in EBIT impact our ability to attract financing. Our underwriters and bankers consistently require inclusion of this measure in offering memoranda in conjunction with any debt underwriting or bank financing. EBIT may not be indicative of our historical operating results, nor is it meant to be predictive of potential future results.

RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

Fiscal 2017 Compared with Fiscal 2016

Net Sales Consolidated net sales of $4.96 billion for fiscal 2017 grew by approximately 3.0% from net sales of $4.81 billion for fiscal 2016. Organic sales improved 1.6%, while acquisitions added 3.1%. Consolidated net sales for fiscal 2017 were offset by an unfavorable foreign exchange impact of 1.7%, primarily due to the devaluation of the British Pound.

Industrial segment net sales grew by 2.9% to $2.56 billion during fiscal 2017 versus net sales of $2.49 billion during fiscal 2016. Growth in this segment was primarily the result of recent acquisitions, which contributed 2.9% to net sales. Organic growth in sales was 2.0%, which was entirely offset by unfavorable foreign exchange, which impacted net sales by 2.0% during fiscal 2017.

Specialty segment net sales for fiscal 2017 grew by 4.2% to $713.6 million, from $684.6 million during fiscal 2016, primarily due to acquisition growth of 3.1% and organic growth of 2.8%. Foreign currency negatively impacted specialty segment net sales for fiscal 2017 by 1.7%.

Consumer segment net sales for fiscal 2017 grew by 2.6% to $1.68 billion, from $1.64 billion during fiscal 2016, due to acquisition growth of 3.4% and organic growth of 0.6%. Unfavorable foreign currency impacted net sales in the consumer segment by 1.4% during fiscal 2017 versus the same period a year ago.

Gross Profit Margin Our consolidated gross profit margin improved slightly to 43.7% of net sales for fiscal 2017 from a consolidated gross profit margin of 43.4% for fiscal 2016. Items favorably impacting our fiscal 2017 gross profit margin versus fiscal 2016 included overall lower manufacturing costs for 0.3% and an approximate impact of 0.4% from price increases recently implemented, particularly in certain international markets where margins had been unfavorably impacted by the strengthening U.S. dollar. Items unfavorably impacting our fiscal 2017 gross profit margin versus fiscal 2016 included the impact of recent acquisitions and associated inventory step-up expense for 0.3%, with the remaining 0.1% impact resulting from unfavorable foreign exchange.

Selling, General and Administrative Expenses (“SG&A”) Our consolidated SG&A expense increased by approximately $122.6 million during fiscal 2017 versus fiscal 2016, and increased to 33.1% of net sales from 31.6% of net sales for fiscal 2016. The main source of the increase was the number of recently acquired companies during the last year, which added approximately $36.2 million to SG&A expense during fiscal 2017. During the second quarter of fiscal 2017, we made the decision to exit the Flowcrete polymer flooring business located in the Middle East. In connection with the decision to exit that business, we determined it was appropriate to reassess the collectibility of accounts receivable, and accordingly, we incurred a loss of $11.4 million for increased bad debt reserves. We also incurred higher severance expense versus the prior year for approximately $23.1 million, which includes $3.6 million in relation to the closing of a European manufacturing facility. Additionally, during fiscal 2017, SG&A increased due to higher compensation, commissions, distribution expense and professional services expense. Warranty expense for the year ended May 31, 2017 increased by approximately $4.2 million from the amount recorded during fiscal 2016, and it is typical that warranty expense will fluctuate from period to period. Partially offsetting those increased expenses was the impact of approximately $0.3 million of unfavorable transactional foreign exchange during fiscal 2017 versus approximately $7.5 million of expense during fiscal 2016. Additionally, SG&A expense during fiscal 2016 was reduced by a $14.5 million reversal of a contingent consideration obligation.

Our industrial segment SG&A increased by approximately $43.8 million for fiscal 2017 versus fiscal 2016, and increased as a percentage of net sales, as well. Recent acquisitions increased SG&A expense during fiscal 2017 in this segment by approximately $19.5 million. During the second quarter of fiscal 2017, we made the decision to exit the Flowcrete polymer flooring business located in the Middle East. In connection with the decision to exit that business, we reassessed the collectibility of accounts receivable, and accordingly, we incurred a loss of $11.4 million for increased bad debt reserves. Additionally, during fiscal 2017, there were increases in compensation, professional services expense and warranty expense. We incurred approximately $16.1 million of higher severance expense during fiscal 2017 versus fiscal 2016. Partially offsetting these increased expenses was the impact of approximately $0.9 million of favorable transactional foreign exchange during fiscal 2017 versus the unfavorable impact of $3.0 million during fiscal 2016.

Our specialty segment SG&A was approximately $7.7 million higher during fiscal 2017 versus fiscal 2016, and was slightly lower as a percentage of net sales. Reflected in the increased expense was higher employee compensation and benefits expense versus fiscal 2016, partially offset by a favorable impact from translational foreign exchange. Recent acquisitions increased SG&A expense during fiscal 2017 in this segment by approximately $5.6 million. Additionally, we incurred severance expense for approximately $3.6 million in relation to the closing of a European manufacturing facility.

Our consumer segment SG&A increased by approximately $54.0 million during fiscal 2017 versus fiscal 2016, and was higher as a percentage of net sales, reflecting higher distribution expense. Recent acquisitions increased SG&A expense during fiscal 2017 in this segment by approximately $11.1 million. Additionally, during fiscal 2017, there was higher compensation and employee benefits expense, higher freight expense, as well as increased professional services expense, some of which related to recent acquisitions, versus fiscal 2016. Additionally, severance expense was approximately $5.0 million higher in fiscal 2017 versus fiscal 2016. Lastly, SG&A expense during fiscal 2016 was reduced by a $14.5 million reversal of a contingent consideration obligation.

SG&A expenses in our corporate/other category of $90.4 million during fiscal 2017 increased by $17.0 million from $73.4 million recorded during fiscal 2016, resulting principally from higher pension expense and acquisition costs incurred during fiscal 2017 versus fiscal 2016.

We recorded total net periodic pension and postretirement benefit costs of $59.1 million and $47.6 million for fiscal 2017 and 2016, respectively. The $11.5 million increase in pension expense resulted from higher service and interest cost of $3.7 million during fiscal 2017 versus fiscal 2016. Additionally, there was an unfavorable impact of approximately $5.8 million and $0.8 million resulting from larger actuarial losses and plan settlements, respectively, recognized during fiscal 2017 versus fiscal 2016. Lastly, during fiscal 2017, the expected return on plan assets was approximately $1.2 million lower than during fiscal 2016.

We expect that pension and postretirement expense will fluctuate on a year-to-year basis, depending primarily upon the investment performance of plan assets and potential changes in interest rates, which may have a material impact on our consolidated financial results in the future. A decrease of 1% in the discount rate or the expected return on plan assets assumptions would result in $8.7 million and $4.8 million higher expense, respectively. The assumptions and estimates used to determine the discount rate and expected return on plan assets are more fully described in Note L, “Pension Plans,” and Note M, “Postretirement Benefits,” to our Consolidated Financial Statements. Further discussion and analysis of the sensitivity surrounding our most critical assumptions under our pension and postretirement plans is discussed on page 21 of this report under, “Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates — Pension and Postretirement Plans.”

Goodwill and Other Intangible Asset Impairments As described in Note B, “Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets,” to the consolidated financial statements, we recorded impairment charges related to a reduction of the carrying value of goodwill and other intangible assets totaling $193.2 million during the year ended May 31, 2017. For additional information, refer to Note B to the consolidated financial statements and the Critical Accounting Policies discussed herein.

Interest Expense Interest expense was $97.0 million for fiscal 2017 versus $91.7 million for fiscal 2016. Higher average borrowings, related to recent acquisitions, increased interest expense during fiscal 2017 by approximately $3.2 million versus fiscal 2016. Excluding acquisition-related borrowings, lower average borrowings year-over-year decreased interest expense by approximately $5.0 million. Higher interest rates, which averaged 4.27% overall for fiscal 2017 compared with 4.11% for fiscal 2016, increased interest expense by approximately $7.1 million during fiscal 2017 versus fiscal 2016.

Investment (Income), Net Net investment income of approximately $14.0 million for fiscal 2017 compares to net investment income of $10.4 million during fiscal 2016. Dividend and interest income totaled $6.2 million and $7.7 million for fiscal 2017 and 2016, respectively. Net realized gains on the sales of investments totaled $8.2 million during fiscal 2017, while those gains were $6.5 million during fiscal 2016. Impairments recognized on securities that management has determined are other-than-temporary declines in value approximated $0.4 million and $3.8 million during fiscal 2017 and 2016, respectively.

Other Expense (Income), Net Other expense of $1.7 million for fiscal 2017 compared with other income of $1.3 million for fiscal 2016. Other expense (income), net includes net royalty expense of approximately $2.7 million for fiscal 2017, while fiscal 2016 net royalty expense was $2.0 million. Also included in this balance is our equity in earnings of unconsolidated affiliates totaling approximately $1.0 million and $2.1 million for fiscal 2017 and 2016, respectively. Additionally, during the fourth quarter of fiscal 2016, we incurred a legal settlement charge of approximately $9.3 million, which was in relation to certain deck coating products. Lastly, during fiscal 2016 we acquired the remaining 51% interest in our Chinese joint venture, Carboline Dalian Paint Production Co., Ltd (“Carboline Dalian”), which increased our ownership to 100%. During the fourth quarter of fiscal 2016, we retained an independent, third-party valuation firm to assist us in determining the fair value of Carboline Dalian, and as proscribed by ASC 805, we recorded a remeasurement gain for approximately $8.0 million during fiscal 2016.

Income Before Income Taxes (“IBT”) Our consolidated pretax income for fiscal 2017 of $244.3 million compares with $483.5 million for fiscal 2016.

Our industrial segment had pretax income of $243.3 million, or 9.5% of net sales, for fiscal 2017, versus pretax income of $257.2 million, or 10.3% of net sales, for fiscal 2016. Our specialty segment had pretax income of $107.9 million, or 15.1% of net sales, for fiscal 2017, versus pretax income of $107.5 million, or 15.7% of net sales, for fiscal 2016. During the first half of fiscal 2018, an edible coatings patent will be expiring in the U.S., and as a result, we currently anticipate the impact of the patent expiration on fiscal 2018 IBT to approximate at least $10.0 million. Our consumer segment pretax income of $58.7 million for fiscal 2017 compares with fiscal 2016 pretax income of $268.2 million, primarily as a result of fiscal 2017 goodwill and other intangible asset impairment charges totaling $193.2 million, as discussed previously.

Income Tax Rate The effective income tax rate was 24.4% for fiscal 2017 compared to an effective income tax rate of 26.1% for fiscal 2016. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily due to a discrete benefit resulting from the adoption of ASU 2016-09, “Improvements to Employee Share-Based Payment Accounting” in the first quarter of fiscal 2017. Refer to Note A(20) - “Other Recent Accounting Pronouncements” for additional discussion regarding adoption of the standard. This benefit was partially offset by a decrease in the domestic manufacturing deduction and the unfavorable impact due to increases in valuation allowances, as compared to fiscal 2016.

Net Income Net income of $184.7 million for the year ended May 31, 2017 compares to net income of $357.5 million for the year ended May 31, 2016. During fiscal 2017 and 2016, we had net income attributable to noncontrolling interests of $2.9 million and $2.7 million, respectively. Net income attributable to RPM International Inc. stockholders for fiscal 2017 was $181.8 million, or 3.7% of consolidated net sales, which compared to net income of $354.7 million, or 7.4% of consolidated net sales for fiscal 2016.

Diluted earnings per share of common stock for the year ended May 31, 2017 of $1.36 compares with diluted earnings per share of common stock of $2.63 for year ended May 31, 2016.

Fiscal 2016 Compared with Fiscal 2015

Net Sales Consolidated net sales of $4.81 billion for fiscal 2016 grew by approximately 4.8% from net sales of $4.59 billion for fiscal 2015. Organic sales improved 2.8%, while acquisitions added 6.7%. Our SPHC businesses, all of which are included in our specialty segment, were reconsolidated as of January 1, 2015. Therefore, year-to-date results through December 2015 for the SPHC group are reflected in fiscal 2016 acquisition growth. Consolidated net sales for fiscal 2016 were offset by an unfavorable foreign exchange impact of 4.7%.

Industrial segment net sales declined by 3.5%, to $2.49 billion for fiscal 2016 versus net sales of $2.58 billion during fiscal 2015. The decline was due to unfavorable foreign exchange, which impacted net sales by 6.6% during fiscal 2016. Many of our international businesses continued to feel the impact of the strengthening of the U.S. dollar against most foreign currencies throughout fiscal 2016. Additionally, there was a continued slowdown during fiscal 2016 in net sales for our industrial segment businesses serving the energy sector. The impact of these unfavorable items was partially offset by organic growth in net sales of 2.5%, which included growth throughout fiscal 2016 in our North American-based industrial companies serving the commercial construction market. Lastly, recent acquisitions contributed 0.6% to net sales during fiscal 2016.

Specialty segment net sales for fiscal 2016 grew by 67.3% to $684.6 million, primarily due to acquisition growth of 67.6%, which includes the reconsolidated SPHC businesses and a few other small product line acquisitions during the year. Organic growth in net sales provided 2.1% to the specialty segment during fiscal 2016, while foreign currency negatively impacted net sales for fiscal 2016 by 2.4%.

Consumer segment net sales for fiscal 2016 grew by 2.1% to $1.64 billion from $1.60 billion during fiscal 2015, primarily reflecting organic growth in sales of 3.3%, which relate to new product introductions and strategic product placements early in the year. The consumer segment benefited from continued strength in the U.S. housing market and sales growth at many of our major retail customers. Despite an overall decline in demand in the nail enamel market year-over-year, we saw growth during the last quarter of fiscal 2016. Acquisitions provided 0.9% growth in net sales for fiscal 2016 in the consumer segment. Foreign currency negatively impacted consumer segment net sales for fiscal 2016 by 2.1%.

Gross Profit Margin Our consolidated gross profit margin improved to 43.4% of net sales for fiscal 2016 from a consolidated gross profit margin of 42.3% for fiscal 2015. The fiscal 2016 improvement reflects a favorable impact from selling price increases of approximately 0.4% and lower manufacturing costs of approximately 1.1% during fiscal 2016 versus fiscal 2015. Unfavorable foreign exchange impacted fiscal 2016 gross profit margin by approximately 0.4%. Foreign exchange had a significant impact upon the costs of sales, since several of our foreign operations pay their suppliers in U.S. dollars. Additionally, although certain petroleum-based raw materials have eased lately, the costs of the raw materials we use are under generally upward pressure, and over the longer term we expect raw materials costs to increase, due to escalating energy and related feedstock costs, increased levels of global demand, and improved levels of supplier pricing discipline.

SG&A Our consolidated SG&A expense increased by approximately $98.0 million during fiscal 2016 versus fiscal 2015, and increased to 31.6% of net sales from 31.0% of net sales for fiscal 2015. SG&A for fiscal 2016 reflects overall added expenses recorded by our recently acquired businesses, mainly our recent reconsolidation of SPHC and its subsidiaries, all of which are included in our specialty segment. SG&A expense for fiscal 2016 and 2015 was favorably impacted by the reversal of certain contingent consideration obligations relating to recent acquisitions, and totaled $14.5 million and $29.7 million, respectively. During fiscal 2016, there was also higher employee compensation expense, including commissions on higher sales, as well as increases in advertising, promotional and professional services expense. Warranty expense for fiscal 2016 decreased by $3.8 million from the amount recorded during fiscal 2015, and it is typical that warranty expense will fluctuate from period to period.

Our industrial segment SG&A expense was approximately $19.9 million lower during fiscal 2016 versus fiscal 2015, but slightly higher as a percentage of net sales. This reflects the strengthening of the U.S. dollar versus nearly all foreign currencies, which unfavorably impacted fiscal 2016 industrial segment sales by 6.6%.

Our specialty segment SG&A expense was approximately $92.8 million higher during fiscal 2016 versus fiscal 2015, and higher as a percentage of net sales, primarily reflecting the recent reconsolidation of SPHC and its subsidiaries, as well as a few small product line acquisitions.

Our consumer segment SG&A expense was $26.4 million higher during fiscal 2016 versus fiscal 2015, and it was also slightly higher as a percentage of net sales, reflecting higher advertising and promotional expense during fiscal 2016 versus fiscal 2015. Consumer segment SG&A expense for fiscal 2016 and 2015 was favorably impacted by the reversal of certain contingent consideration obligations relating to recent acquisitions, and totaled $14.5 million and $29.7 million, respectively.

SG&A expenses in our corporate/other category of $73.4 million during fiscal 2016 was slightly lower versus $74.7 million during fiscal 2015, reflecting favorable experience in benefit costs.

We recorded total net periodic pension and postretirement benefit costs of $47.6 million and $48.2 million for fiscal 2016 and 2015, respectively. The $0.6 million decrease in pension expense was primarily the result of lower service and interest cost of $2.8 million during fiscal 2016 versus fiscal 2015 combined with a favorable impact of $0.4 million from larger returns on higher plan asset levels during fiscal 2016. The reduction in service and interest cost also impacted deferred actuarial losses to be amortized in future periods. Partially offsetting those reductions in costs was an unfavorable impact of approximately $2.6 million resulting from larger actuarial losses recognized during fiscal 2016 versus fiscal 2015. During fiscal 2016, we elected to change our approach in estimating the service and interest cost components of net periodic benefit expense by applying the split discount rate approach, which reduced pension expense for fiscal 2016 by approximately $6.4 million.

Interest Expense Interest expense was $91.7 million for fiscal 2016 versus $87.6 million for fiscal 2015. Included in interest expense in fiscal 2015 was a $4.0 million make-whole payment related to the early redemption of our 6.7% Senior Notes. Higher average borrowings increased interest expense during fiscal 2016 by approximately $4.6 million versus fiscal 2015. Our average borrowings were higher due to recent acquisitions, primarily from our $450.0 million payment to the 524(g) trust for the reconsolidation of SPHC, which was paid in December 2014. The payment was funded from our New Revolving Credit Facility and AR Program, part of which was ultimately replaced with a 30-year bond issued in May 2015. Despite the decrease

in interest rates, which averaged 4.11% overall for fiscal 2016 compared with 4.26% for fiscal 2015, interest expense increased by approximately $3.5 million due to the overall higher average borrowings outstanding during fiscal 2016 versus fiscal 2015.

Investment (Income), Net Net investment income of approximately $10.4 million for fiscal 2016 compares to net investment income of $18.6 million during fiscal 2015. Dividend and interest income totaled $7.7 million and $9.9 million during fiscal 2016 and 2015, respectively. Net realized gains on the sales of investments totaled $6.5 million during fiscal 2016, while those gains were $8.7 million during fiscal 2015. Impairments recognized on securities that management has determined are other-than-temporary declines in value totaled $3.8 million during fiscal 2016, compared with $0.02 million of such losses recorded during fiscal 2015.

Other Expense (Income), Net Other expense of $1.3 million for fiscal 2016 compared with other income of $3.9 million for fiscal 2015. Items reflected in this balance include net royalty expense of $2.0 million for fiscal 2016 and net royalty income of $1.9 million during fiscal 2015. Also included in this balance is our equity in earnings of unconsolidated affiliates totaling approximately $2.1 million and $2.0 million for fiscal 2016 and 2015, respectively. Additionally, during the fourth quarter of fiscal 2016, we incurred a legal settlement charge of approximately $9.3 million, which was in relation to certain deck coating products. Lastly, during fiscal 2016 we acquired the remaining 51% interest in our Chinese joint venture, Carboline Dalian Paint Production Co., Ltd (“Carboline Dalian”), which increased our ownership to 100%. During the fourth quarter of fiscal 2016, we retained an independent, third-party valuation firm to assist us in determining the fair value of Carboline Dalian. Under ASC 805, a step up to fair value is required when an equity interest changes from a non-controlling interest to a controlling interest. Based on the step up from our 49% to a 100% interest in Carboline Dalian, we recorded a remeasurement gain for approximately $8.0 million during fiscal 2016.

IBT Our consolidated pretax income for fiscal 2016 of $483.5 million compares with $453.3 million for fiscal 2015.

Our industrial segment had IBT of $257.2 million, or 10.3% of industrial net sales, for fiscal 2016, versus IBT of $251.9 million, or 9.8% of industrial net sales, for fiscal 2015. Our industrial segment experienced the continuing impact of unfavorable foreign exchange. Our specialty segment had IBT of $107.5 million, or 15.7% of net sales, during fiscal 2016, versus IBT of $63.4 million, or 15.5% of net sales, for fiscal 2015. Our consumer segment IBT increased to $268.2 million, or 16.4% of net sales for fiscal 2016, compared with $274.0 million, or 17.1% of net sales, for fiscal 2015.

Income Tax Rate The effective income tax rate was 26.1% for fiscal 2016 compared to an effective income tax rate of 49.6% for fiscal 2015. The decrease in the effective tax rate from fiscal 2015 to fiscal 2016 was primarily attributable to a fiscal 2015 deferred income tax charge of $106.2 million for the estimated tax cost associated with unremitted foreign earnings not considered to be permanently reinvested. The comparable provision amount in fiscal 2016 is a benefit of $3.7 million.

Net Income Net income of $357.5 million for fiscal 2016 compares to net income of $228.3 million for fiscal 2015. During fiscal 2016, we elected to change our approach in estimating the service and interest cost components of net periodic benefit cost by applying the split discount rate approach, which resulted in an increase in net income of approximately $4.7 million. During fiscal 2016, we recognized net income attributable to noncontrolling interests of $2.7 million versus net loss attributable to noncontrolling interests of $11.2 million during fiscal 2015. The loss from noncontrolling interests during fiscal 2015 resulted from the $106.2 million tax charge for the potential repatriation of foreign earnings. Net income attributable to RPM International Inc. stockholders for fiscal 2016 was $354.7 million, which compared to net income of $239.5 million for fiscal 2015.

Diluted earnings per share of common stock for fiscal 2016 of $2.63 compares with diluted earnings per share of common stock of $1.78 for fiscal 2015. As discussed above, we changed our approach in estimating the service and interest cost components of net periodic benefit expense, which resulted in an increase in diluted earnings per share of $0.03 during fiscal 2016.

LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES

Operating Activities

Fiscal 2017 Compared with Fiscal 2016

Approximately $386.1 million of cash was provided by operating activities during fiscal 2017, compared with $474.7 million during fiscal 2016.

The net change in cash from operations includes the change in net income, which decreased by $172.8 million during fiscal 2017 versus fiscal 2016. Current-year net income included the goodwill and other intangible asset impairment charges of $193.2 million ($132.2 million after tax), as well as $12.3 million in charges related to the decision to exit the Flowcrete polymer flooring business in the Middle East and $4.2 million in charges related to the closure of a European manufacturing facility. Changes in working capital accounts and all other accruals used approximately $147.1 million more cash flow during fiscal 2017 versus fiscal 2016.

The change in accounts receivable during fiscal 2017 used approximately $18.9 million less cash than during fiscal 2016. Days sales outstanding (“DSO”) at May 31, 2017 decreased to 56.6 days from 57.7 days sales outstanding at May 31, 2016.

During fiscal 2017, we spent approximately $53.0 million more cash for inventory purchases compared to our spending during fiscal 2016. This resulted from the combination of timing of purchases by retail customers, the building of additional inventory to service customers’ needs and also geographic expansion. Days of inventory outstanding at May 31, 2017 increased to 85.5 days from 79.2 days of inventory outstanding at May 31, 2016.

The change in accounts payable during fiscal 2017 provided approximately $22.2 million more cash than fiscal 2016, resulting principally from the timing of certain payments. Accrued compensation and benefits used approximately $22.3 million more cash during fiscal 2017 versus fiscal 2016, due to higher bonus payouts made during fiscal 2017 versus fiscal 2016. Other accruals and prepaids, including those for other short-term and long-term items and changes in accrued loss reserves, used $101.8 million more cash during fiscal 2017 versus fiscal 2016, primarily from the timing of pension plan contributions and upfront funds used for long-term customer contracts.

Fiscal 2016 Compared with Fiscal 2015

Approximately $474.7 million of cash was provided by operating activities during fiscal 2016, compared with $330.4 million of cash provided by operating activities during fiscal 2015. Net income increased by $129.1 million during fiscal 2016 versus fiscal 2015, primarily reflecting the $106.2 million tax charge taken during fiscal 2015 for the estimated future tax cost of repatriating undistributed foreign earnings. Other items impacting the net change in cash from operations were items adjusting net income for non-cash expenses and income, which increased by $53.7 million during fiscal 2016 versus fiscal 2015. Changes in working capital accounts and all other accruals provided approximately $68.9 million more cash flow during fiscal 2016 than fiscal 2015.

The change in accounts receivable during fiscal 2016 used approximately $65.6 million less cash than fiscal 2015, which resulted primarily from the timing of sales and collections on accounts receivable during fiscal 2015. During fiscal 2016, we also experienced an increase in foreign sales and receivables from our expansion into places such as the Middle East and Far East, which typically have longer collection periods, versus fiscal 2015. Days sales outstanding at May 31, 2016 decreased to 57.7 days from 60.0 days sales outstanding at May 31, 2015. Inventory balances used $13.6 million less cash during fiscal 2016 versus fiscal 2015, which resulted from the timing of purchases by retail customers. Days of inventory outstanding at May 31, 2016 increased to 79.2 days from 78.4 days of inventory outstanding at May 31, 2015. The change in accounts payable during fiscal 2016 versus fiscal 2015 used approximately $10.2 million less cash, resulting from a change in the timing of certain payments. Accrued compensation and benefits provided approximately $19.0 million more cash during fiscal 2016 versus fiscal 2015, due to higher bonus accruals made during fiscal 2016 versus fiscal 2015. Other accruals and prepaids, including those for other short-term and long-term items and changes, used $64.8 million more cash during fiscal 2016 versus fiscal 2015, primarily from the timing of pension plan contributions and upfront funds used for long-term customer contracts.

Cash provided from operations, along with the use of available credit lines, as required, remain our primary sources of liquidity.

Investing Activities

Capital expenditures, other than for ordinary repairs and replacements, are made to accommodate our continued growth to achieve production and distribution efficiencies, expand capacity, introduce new technology, improve environmental health and safety capabilities, improve information systems, and enhance our administration capabilities. During fiscal 2017, we paid $254.2 million for acquisitions, net of cash acquired, versus $52.0 million during fiscal 2016. Capital expenditures of $126.1 million during fiscal 2017 compared with depreciation of $71.9 million. During fiscal 2016, capital expenditures of $117.2 million compared with depreciation of $66.7 million. During fiscal 2015, capital expenditures of $85.4 million compared with depreciation of $62.2 million. We increased our current production capacity in our consumer segment during fiscal 2017, specifically with regard to our DAP operating segment, to meet our needs based on anticipated growth rates. Besides those capacity additions, we have increased our capital spending in fiscal 2017 in an effort to more aggressively invest in our internal growth initiatives, especially in overseas markets. We anticipate that additional shifts at our production facilities, coupled with the capacity added through acquisition activity and our planned increase in future capital spending levels, will enable us to meet increased demand into fiscal 2018 and beyond.

Our captive insurance companies invest their excess cash in marketable securities in the ordinary course of conducting their operations, and this activity will continue. Differences in the amounts related to these activities on a year-over-year basis are primarily attributable to differences in the timing and performance of their investments balanced against amounts required to satisfy claims. At May 31, 2017, the fair value of our investments in marketable securities totaled $164.5 million, of which investments with a fair value of $60.0 million were in an unrealized loss position. At May 31, 2016, the fair value of our investments in marketable securities totaled $147.0 million, of which investments with a fair value of $89.4 million were in an unrealized loss position. The fair value of our portfolio of marketable securities is based on quoted market prices for identical, or similar, instruments in active or non-active markets or model-derived-valuations with observable inputs. We have no marketable securities whose fair value is subject to unobservable inputs. Total pretax unrealized losses recorded in accumulated other comprehensive income at May 31, 2017 and May 31, 2016 were $3.5 million and $10.2 million, respectively.

We regularly review our marketable securities in unrealized loss positions in order to determine whether or not we have the ability and intent to hold these investments. That determination is based upon the severity and duration of the decline, in addition to our evaluation of the cash flow requirements of our businesses. Unrealized losses at May 31, 2017 were generally related to the normal volatility in valuations over the past several months for a portion of our portfolio of investments in marketable securities. The unrealized losses generally relate to investments whose fair values at May 31, 2017 were less than 15% below their original cost or that have been in a loss position for less than six consecutive months. From time to time, we may experience significant volatility in general economic and market conditions. If we were to experience unrealized losses that were to continue for longer periods of time, or arise to more significant levels of unrealized losses within our portfolio of investments in marketable securities in the future, we may recognize additional other-than-temporary impairment losses. Such potential losses could have a material impact on our results of operations in any given reporting period. As such, we continue to closely evaluate the status of our investments and our ability and intent to hold these investments.

As of May 31, 2017, approximately $278.8 million of our consolidated cash and cash equivalents were held at various foreign subsidiaries, compared with approximately $243.8 million as of May 31, 2016. Undistributed earnings held at our foreign subsidiaries that are considered permanently reinvested will be used, for instance, to expand operations organically or for acquisitions in foreign jurisdictions. Further, our operations in the U.S. generate sufficient cash flow to satisfy U.S. operating requirements. Refer to Note F, “Income Taxes,” to the Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information regarding unremitted foreign earnings.

Financing Activities

Our available liquidity, including our cash and cash equivalents and amounts available under our committed credit facilities, stood at $1.15 billion at May 31, 2017, compared with $1.06 billion at May 31, 2016. Our debt-to-capital ratio was 59.3% at May 31, 2017, compared with 54.4% at May 31, 2016.

5.250% Notes due 2045 and 3.750% Notes due 2027

The 2045 Notes mature on June 1, 2045. Interest on the 2027 Notes accrues from March 2, 2017 and is payable semiannually in arrears on March 15th and September 15th of each year, beginning September 15, 2017, at a rate of 3.750% per year. The 2027 Notes mature on March 15, 2027. The indenture governing this indebtedness includes cross-acceleration provisions. Under certain circumstances, where an event of default under our other instruments results in acceleration of the indebtedness under such instruments, holders of the indebtedness under the indenture are entitled to declare amounts outstanding immediately due and payable.

Revolving Credit Agreement

During fiscal 2015, we entered into an $800.0 million unsecured syndicated revolving credit facility (the “New Revolving Credit Facility”), which expires on December 5, 2019. The New Revolving Credit Facility replaced our prior $600.0 million revolving credit facility.

The New Revolving Credit Facility includes sublimits for the issuance of swingline loans, which are comparatively short-term loans used for working capital purposes and letters of credit. The aggregate maximum principal amount of the commitments under the New Revolving Credit Facility may be expanded upon our request, subject to certain conditions, up to $1.0 billion. The New Revolving Credit Facility is available to refinance existing indebtedness, to finance working capital and capital expenditures, to satisfy all or a portion of our obligations relating to the plan of reorganization for our SPHC subsidiary, and for general corporate purposes.

The New Revolving Credit Facility requires us to comply with various customary affirmative and negative covenants, including a leverage covenant and interest coverage ratio, which are calculated in accordance with the terms as defined by the credit agreement. Under the terms of the leverage covenant, we may not permit our consolidated indebtedness as of any fiscal quarter end to exceed 65% of the sum of such indebtedness and our consolidated shareholders’ equity on such date. The minimum required consolidated interest coverage ratio for EBITDA to interest expense is 3.50 to 1. The interest coverage ratio is calculated at the end of each fiscal quarter for the four fiscal quarters then ended using an EBITDA as defined in the credit agreement.

As of May 31, 2017, we were in compliance with all financial covenants contained in our New Revolving Credit Facility, including the leverage and interest coverage ratio covenants. At that date, our leverage ratio was 58.1%, while our interest coverage ratio was 9.2 to 1. Our available liquidity under our New Revolving Credit Facility stood at $599.1 million at May 31, 2017.

Our access to funds under our New Revolving Credit Facility is dependent on the ability of the financial institutions that are parties to the New Revolving Credit Facility to meet their funding commitments. Those financial institutions may not be able to meet their funding commitments if they experience shortages of capital and liquidity or if they experience excessive volumes of borrowing requests within a short period of time. Moreover, the obligations of the financial institutions under our New Revolving Credit Facility are several and not joint and, as a result, a funding default by one or more institutions does not need to be made up by the others.

Consolidated Balance Sheets. The Trust was funded with $450 million in cash and a promissory note, bearing no interest and maturing on or before December 23, 2018 (the “Bankruptcy Note”). There is one remaining trust payment due. The net present value of the Bankruptcy Note, or $120.4 million, is classified as other long-term liabilities in our consolidated financial statements at May 31, 2017. A portion of the payments due under the Bankruptcy Note is secured by a right to the equity of SPHC, Republic and Bondex. The Bankruptcy Plan, and Bankruptcy Note, provide for the following additional contributions to the Trust:

•

On or before December 23, 2016, an additional $102.5 million in cash, RPM stock or a combination thereof (at our discretion in this and all subsequent cases) was required to be deposited into the Trust (and on December 23, 2016, $102.5 million in cash was deposited into the Trust);

•

On or before December 23, 2017, an additional $120 million in cash, RPM stock or a combination thereof will be deposited into the Trust (and on May 25, 2017, this payment obligation was fully settled with a $119.1 million cash deposit into the Trust, reflecting a 1.25% discount rate for early payment); and

•

On or before December 23, 2018, a final payment of $125 million in cash, RPM stock or a combination thereof will be deposited into the Trust.

Total current and future contributions to the Trust are deductible for U.S. income tax purposes.

Accounts Receivable Securitization Program

On May 9, 2017, we entered into a new, three-year, $200.0 million accounts receivable securitization facility (the “AR Program”). The maximum availability under the AR Program is $200.0 million. Availability is further subject to changes in the credit ratings of our customers, customer concentration levels or certain characteristics of the accounts receivable being transferred and, therefore, at certain times, we may not be able to fully access the $200.0 million of funding available under the AR Program.

As of May 31, 2017, there was no outstanding balance under the AR Program, which compares with the maximum availability on that date of $200.0 million. The interest rate under the Purchase Agreement is based on the Alternate Base Rate, LIBOR Market Index Rate, one-month LIBOR or LIBOR for a specified tranche period, as selected by us, plus in each case, a margin of 0.70%. In addition, we are obligated to pay a monthly unused commitment fee based on the daily amount of unused commitments under the Agreement, which fee ranges from 0.30% to 0.50% based on usage. The AR Program contains various customary affirmative and negative covenants and also contains customary default and termination provisions.

Our failure to comply with the covenants described above and other covenants contained in the Revolving Credit Facility could result in an event of default under that agreement, entitling the lenders to, among other things, declare the entire amount outstanding under the Revolving Credit Facility to be due and payable. The instruments governing our other outstanding indebtedness generally include cross-default provisions that provide that under certain circumstances, an event of default that results in acceleration of our indebtedness under the Revolving Credit Facility will entitle the holders of such other indebtedness to declare amounts outstanding immediately due and payable.

2.25% Convertible Senior Notes due 2020

On December 9, 2013, we issued $205 million of 2.25% convertible senior notes due 2020 (the “Convertible Notes”). We pay interest on the Convertible Notes semi-annually on June 15th and December 15th of each year.

The Convertible Notes will be convertible under certain circumstances and during certain periods at an initial conversion rate of 18.8905 shares of RPM common stock per $1,000 principal amount of notes (representing an initial conversion price of approximately $52.94 per share of common stock), subject to adjustment in certain circumstances. In April 2017, we declared a dividend in excess of $0.24 per share, and consequently, the adjusted conversion rate at May 31, 2017 was 19.049431. The initial conversion price represents a conversion premium of approximately 37% over the last reported sale price of RPM common stock of $38.64 on December 3, 2013. Prior to June 15, 2020, the Convertible Notes may be converted only upon specified events, and, thereafter, at any time. Upon conversion, the Convertible Notes may be settled, at RPM’s election, in cash, shares of RPM’s common stock, or a combination of cash and shares of RPM’s common stock.

We account for the liability and equity components of the Convertible Notes separately, and in a manner that will reflect our nonconvertible debt borrowing rate when interest cost is recognized in subsequent periods. The effective interest rate on the liability component is 3.92%. Contractual interest was $4.6 million for both fiscal 2017 and 2016, and amortization of the debt discount was $2.9 million and $2.8 million for fiscal 2017 and 2016, respectively. At May 31, 2017, the remaining period over which the debt discount will be amortized was 3.5 years, the unamortized debt discount was $11.2 million, and the carrying amount of the equity component was $20.7 million.

The following table summarizes our financial obligations and their expected maturities at May 31, 2017 and the effect such obligations are expected to have on our liquidity and cash flow in the periods indicated.

Contractual Obligations


	Total Contractual		Payments Due In
(In thousands)	Payment Stream		2018		2019-20		2021-22		After 2022
Long-term debt obligations	$	2,090,082	$	253,645	$	650,731	$	193,266	$	992,440
Capital lease obligations		1,109		220		395		180		314
Operating lease obligations		225,082		55,616		72,804		37,364		59,298
Other long-term liabilities ⁽¹⁾:
Interest payments on long-term debt obligations		750,383		89,525		131,620		86,813		442,425
Promissory note payments on 524(g) Trust		125,000				125,000
Contributions to pension and postretirement plans ⁽²⁾		369,800		8,900		65,800		134,100		161,000
Total	$	3,561,456	$	407,906	$	1,046,350	$	451,723	$	1,655,477

(1)

Excluded from other long-term liabilities are our gross long-term liabilities for unrecognized tax benefits, which totaled $17.3 million at May 31, 2017. Currently, we cannot predict with reasonable reliability the timing of cash settlements to the respective taxing authorities related to these liabilities.

(2)

These amounts represent our estimated cash contributions to be made in the periods indicated for our pension and postretirement plans, assuming no actuarial gains or losses, assumption changes or plan changes occur in any period. The projection results assume the required minimum contribution will be contributed.

The U.S. dollar fluctuated throughout the year, and was stronger against other major currencies where we conduct operations at the fiscal year end versus the previous year end, causing an unfavorable change in the accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) (refer to Note I to the Consolidated Financial Statements) component of stockholders’ equity of $(17.2) million this year versus an unfavorable change of $(59.6) million last year. The change in fiscal 2017 was in addition to favorable net changes of $41.5 million and $3.7 million related to adjustments required for minimum pension and other postretirement liabilities and unrealized gains on securities, respectively.

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

We do not have any off-balance sheet financings, other than the minimum operating lease commitments included in the above Contractual Obligations table and further described in Note K, “Leases,” to the Consolidated Financial Statements. We have no subsidiaries that are not included in our financial statements, nor do we have any interests in, or relationships with, any special purpose entities that are not reflected in our financial statements.

QUALITATIVE AND QUANTITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK

We are exposed to market risk from changes in interest rates and foreign currency exchange rates because we fund our operations through long- and short-term borrowings and denominate our business transactions in a variety of foreign currencies. We utilize a sensitivity analysis to measure the potential loss in earnings based on a hypothetical 1% increase in interest rates and a 10% change in foreign currency rates. A summary of our primary market risk exposures follows.

Interest Rate Risk

Our primary interest rate risk exposure results from our floating rate debt, including various revolving and other lines of credit (refer to Note E, “Borrowings,” to the Consolidated Financial Statements). At May 31, 2017, approximately 9.62% of our debt was subject to floating interest rates.

If interest rates were to increase 100 bps from May 31, 2017 and, assuming no changes in debt from the May 31, 2017 levels, the additional annual interest expense would amount to approximately $2.0 million on a pretax basis. A similar increase in interest rates in fiscal 2016 would have resulted in approximately $2.0 million in additional interest expense.

All derivative instruments are recognized on the balance sheet and measured at fair value. Changes in the fair values of derivative instruments that do not qualify as hedges and/ or any ineffective portion of hedges are recognized as a gain or loss in our Consolidated Statement of Income in the current period. Changes in the fair value of derivative instruments used effectively as fair value hedges are recognized in earnings (losses), along with the change in the value of the hedged item. Such derivative transactions are accounted for in accordance with Accounting Standards Codification (“ASC”) 815, “Derivatives and Hedging.” We do not hold or issue derivative instruments for speculative purposes.

Foreign Currency Risk

Our foreign sales and results of operations are subject to the impact of foreign currency fluctuations (refer to Note A, “Summary of Significant Accounting Policies,” to the Consolidated Financial Statements). Because our Consolidated Financial Statements are presented in U.S. dollars, increases or decreases in the value of the U.S. dollar relative to other currencies in which we transact business could materially adversely affect our net revenues, net income and the carrying values of our assets located outside the U.S. Global economic uncertainty continues to exist. Strengthening of the U.S. dollar

relative to other currencies may adversely affect our operating results. However, our foreign debt is denominated in the respective foreign currency, thereby eliminating any related translation impact on earnings.

If the U.S. dollar were to strengthen, our foreign results of operations would be unfavorably impacted, but the effect is not expected to be material. A 10% change in foreign currency exchange rates would not have resulted in a material impact to net income for the years ended May 31, 2017 and 2016. We do not currently use financial derivative instruments for trading purposes, nor do we engage in foreign currency, commodity or interest rate speculation.

FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

The foregoing discussion includes forward-looking statements relating to our business. These forward-looking statements, or other statements made by us, are made based on our expectations and beliefs concerning future events impacting us and are subject to uncertainties and factors (including those specified below), which are difficult to predict and, in many instances, are beyond our control. As a result, our actual results could differ materially from those expressed in or implied by any such forward-looking statements. These uncertainties and factors include (a) global markets and general economic conditions, including uncertainties surrounding the volatility in financial markets, the availability of capital and the effect of changes in interest rates, and the viability of banks and other financial institutions; (b) the prices, supply and capacity of raw materials, including assorted pigments, resins, solvents, and other natural gas- and oil-based materials; packaging, including plastic containers; and transportation services, including fuel surcharges; (c) continued growth in demand for our products; (d) legal, environmental and litigation risks inherent in our construction and chemicals businesses and risks related to the adequacy of our insurance coverage for such matters; (e) the effect of changes in interest rates; (f) the effect of fluctuations in currency exchange rates upon our foreign operations; (g) the effect of non-currency risks of investing in and conducting operations in foreign countries, including those relating to domestic and international political, social, economic and regulatory factors; (h) risks and uncertainties associated with our ongoing acquisition and divestiture activities; (i) risks related to the adequacy of our contingent liability reserves; and (j) other risks detailed in our filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including the risk factors set forth in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended May 31, 2017, as the same may be updated from time to time. We do not undertake any obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements to reflect future events, information or circumstances that arise after the filing date of this document.

Consolidated Financial Statements

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

(In thousands, except per share amounts)


May 31,	2017		2016
Assets
Current Assets
Cash and cash equivalents	$	350,497	$	265,152
Trade accounts receivable (less allowances of $44,138 and $24,600, respectively)		995,330		963,092
Inventories		788,197		685,818
Prepaid expenses and other current assets		263,412		221,286
Total current assets		2,397,436		2,135,348
Property, Plant and Equipment, at Cost		1,484,579		1,344,830
Allowance for depreciation		(741,893)		(715,377)
Property, plant and equipment, net		742,686		629,453
Other Assets
Goodwill		1,143,913		1,219,630
Other intangible assets, net of amortization		573,092		575,401
Deferred income taxes		19,793		19,771
Other		213,529		185,366
Total other assets		1,950,327		2,000,168
Total Assets	$	5,090,449	$	4,764,969
Liabilities and Stockholders’ Equity
Current Liabilities
Accounts payable	$	534,718	$	500,506
Current portion of long-term debt		253,645		4,713
Accrued compensation and benefits		181,084		183,768
Accrued losses		31,735		35,290
Other accrued liabilities		234,212		277,914
Total current liabilities		1,235,394		1,002,191
Long-Term Liabilities
Long-term debt, less current maturities		1,836,437		1,635,260
Other long-term liabilities		482,491		702,979
Deferred income taxes		97,427		49,791
Total long-term liabilities		2,416,355		2,388,030
Commitments and contingencies (Note N)
Stockholders’ Equity
Preferred stock, par value $0.01; authorized 50,000 shares; none issued
Common stock, par value $0.01; authorized 300,000 shares; issued 141,242 and outstanding 133,563 as of May 2017; issued 140,195 and outstanding 132,944 as of May 2016		1,336		1,329
Paid-in capital		954,491		921,956
Treasury stock, at cost		(218,222)		(196,274)
Accumulated other comprehensive (loss)		(473,986)		(502,047)
Retained earnings		1,172,442		1,147,371
Total RPM International Inc. stockholders’ equity		1,436,061		1,372,335
Noncontrolling Interest		2,639		2,413
Total equity		1,438,700		1,374,748
Total Liabilities and Stockholders’ Equity	$	5,090,449	$	4,764,969

The accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements are an integral part of these statements.

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

(In thousands)


Year Ended May 31,	2017			2016			2015
Cash Flows From Operating Activities:
Net income	$	184,671		$	357,458		$	228,328
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:
Depreciation		71,870			66,732			62,188
Amortization		44,903			44,307			36,988
Goodwill and other intangible asset impairments		193,198
Adjustments to contingent consideration obligations		3,000			(14,500	)		(29,665)
Other asset impairment charge					4,471			818
Other-than-temporary impairments on marketable securities		420			3,811			22
Deferred income taxes		24,049			9,399			97,502
Stock-based compensation expense		32,541			31,287			31,741
Other non-cash interest expense		9,986			9,750			5,624
Gain on remeasurement of joint venture ownership					(7,972	)
Realized (gains) on sales of marketable securities		(8,174	)		(6,457	)		(8,692)
Other		280			(15	)		(1,954)
Changes in assets and liabilities, net of effect from purchases and sales of businesses:
(Increase) in receivables		(5,690	)		(24,582	)		(90,230)
(Increase) in inventory		(70,726	)		(17,733	)		(31,348)
(Increase) in prepaid expenses and other current and long-term assets		(38,130	)		(25,617	)		(4,590)
Increase (decrease) in accounts payable		16,247			(5,958	)		(16,249)
(Decrease) increase in accrued compensation and benefits		(4,577	)		17,681			(1,297)
(Decrease) increase in accrued loss reserves		(3,422	)		13,514			(7,218)
(Decrease) increase in other accrued liabilities		(64,322	)		8,011			51,761
Other		3			11,119			6,719
Cash Provided By Operating Activities		386,127			474,706			330,448
Cash Flows From Investing Activities:
Capital expenditures		(126,109	)		(117,183	)		(85,363)
Acquisition of businesses, net of cash acquired		(254,200	)		(51,992	)		(467,573)
Purchase of marketable securities		(38,062	)		(32,280	)		(61,511)
Proceeds from sales of marketable securities		76,588			32,631			48,971
Proceeds from sales of assets and businesses					866			4,079
Other		2,118			2,092			1,944
Cash (Used For) Investing Activities		(339,665	)		(165,866	)		(559,453)
Cash Flows From Financing Activities:
Additions to long-term and short-term debt		597,633			142,130			460,560
Reductions of long-term and short-term debt		(154,348	)		(147,155	)		(162,318)
Cash dividends		(156,752	)		(144,350	)		(136,179)
Shares of common stock repurchased and returned for taxes		(21,948	)		(71,346	)		(39,528)
Payments of acquisition-related contingent consideration		(4,284	)		(2,088	)		(22,179)
Exercise of stock options and awards, including tax benefit					18,540			8,560
Payments for 524(g) trust		(221,638	)
Other		(2,692)			(1,836	)		1,277
Cash Provided By (Used For) Financing Activities		35,971			(206,105	)		110,193
Effect of Exchange Rate Changes on Cash and Cash Equivalents		2,912			(12,294	)		(39,345)
Net Change in Cash and Cash Equivalents		85,345			90,441			(158,157)
Cash and Cash Equivalents at Beginning of Period		265,152			174,711			332,868
Cash and Cash Equivalents at End of Period	$	350,497		$	265,152		$	174,711
Supplemental Disclosures of Cash Flows Information:
Cash paid during the year for:
Interest	$	78,685		$	73,087		$	79,371
Income taxes	$	71,236		$	63,208		$	27,486

The accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements are an integral part of these statements.

NOTE A — SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

1) Consolidation, Noncontrolling Interests and Basis of Presentation

Our financial statements include all of our majority-owned subsidiaries, except for certain subsidiaries that were deconsolidated for the period from May 31, 2010 through December 31, 2014 (refer to Note A[2]). We account for our investments in less-than-majority-owned joint ventures, for which we have the ability to exercise significant influence, under the equity method. Effects of transactions between related companies are eliminated in consolidation.

Noncontrolling interests are presented in our Consolidated Financial Statements as if parent company investors (controlling interests) and other minority investors (noncontrolling interests) in partially owned subsidiaries have similar economic interests in a single entity. As a result, investments in noncontrolling interests are reported as equity in our Consolidated Financial Statements. Additionally, our Consolidated Financial Statements include 100% of a controlled subsidiary’s earnings, rather than only our share. Transactions between the parent company and noncontrolling interests are reported in equity as transactions between stockholders, provided that these transactions do not create a change in control.

Our business is dependent on external weather factors.

Historically, we have experienced strong sales and net income in our first, second and fourth fiscal quarters comprising the three-month periods ending August 31, November 30 and May 31, respectively, with weaker performance in our third fiscal quarter (December through February).

Certain prior-year amounts have been reclassified to conform with current-year presentation. See Note A(20), “Other Recent Accounting Pronouncements,” for discussion relating to the reclassification of deferred debt issuance costs. Also, see Note O, “Segment Information,” for discussion surrounding the change in composition of operating and reportable segments during fiscal 2017.

2) Specialty Products Holding Corp. (“SPHC”)

Prior to May 31, 2010, Bondex International, Inc. (“Bondex”) and its parent, SPHC, were defendants in various asbestos-related bodily injury lawsuits filed in various state courts. These cases generally sought unspecified damages for asbestos-related diseases based on alleged exposures to asbestos-containing products. On May 31, 2010, Bondex and SPHC, filed voluntary petitions in the United States Bankruptcy Court for the District of Delaware (the “Bankruptcy Court”) to reorganize under chapter 11 of the Bankruptcy Code. SPHC and Bondex took this action in an effort to permanently and comprehensively resolve all pending and future asbestos-related liability claims associated with Bondex and SPHC.

Similarly, Republic Powdered Metals, Inc. (“Republic”) and NMBFiL, Inc. (“NMBFiL”), both of which are indirect wholly owned subsidiaries of RPM International Inc. (“RPM”), filed to reorganize under chapter 11 of the Bankruptcy Code in August 2014 to resolve all their pending and future asbestos-related liability claims. Both Republic and NMBFiL remained consolidated subsidiaries of RPM, considering the short-term nature of the bankruptcy and that RPM maintained control of them from a participating rights perspective.

On December 10, 2014 the Bankruptcy Plan was confirmed, and, effective as of December 23, 2014, Bondex, SPHC, Republic and NMBFiL emerged from bankruptcy. In accordance with the Bankruptcy Plan, the Trust was established and funded

with first installments. Pursuant to the Bankruptcy Plan, the Trust assumed all liability and responsibility for current and future asbestos personal injury claims of Bondex, SPHC, Republic and NMBFiL, and such entities will have no further liability or responsibility for, and will (along with affiliates) be permanently protected from, such asbestos claims. See Note E, “Borrowings,” for further discussion of the details regarding the timing and funding of contributions to the Trust.

Effective with the filing of the Notice of Entry of Order confirming the Bankruptcy Plan, which required the funding of the Trust, we regained control of SPHC and its subsidiaries, and accordingly, we have accounted for the event as a business combination. The funding of the Trust represents the total consideration transferred in the transaction, or $772.6 million. The opening balance sheets are based upon closing balances as of December 31, 2014 and results of operations have been included in our Consolidated Financial Statements beginning on January 1, 2015 (the “Accounting Effective Date”) forward, as we concluded that the activity occurring between the date control was obtained (December 23, 2014) and the Accounting Effective Date was not significant.

The fair values of SPHC and its subsidiaries were determined as of January 1, 2015. Additionally, the fair value of RPM Holdco, of which SPHC owns 21.39% of the outstanding common stock, was determined in order to account for our increase in ownership of the noncontrolling interest as an equity transaction. The total consideration was allocated on a relative fair value basis between the noncontrolling interest in RPM Holdco, or approximately $208.4 million, and the net assets of SPHC, or approximately $564.2 million. The difference between the fair value of the noncontrolling interest in RPM Holdco and the carrying value of the noncontrolling interest was recorded as an equity transaction. The portion of the transaction accounted for as a business combination resulted in goodwill of $118.7 million and intangible assets of $176.0 million. The acquired intangible assets totaling $176.0 million comprise the following: $118.7 million of customer and distributor relationships, $2.0 million of definite-lived tradenames, $52.7 million of indefinite-lived tradenames and $2.6 million of formulas. Income tax assets of $271.7 million were recorded in connection with the deductibility of current and future contributions to the Trust. Additionally, deferred tax liabilities of $72.3 million were recorded for the excess of the fair value book basis of certain assets over the corresponding tax basis. The fair values of net tangible assets, intangible assets and the noncontrolling interest were based upon valuations, which required our significant use of estimates and assumptions.

3) Use of Estimates

The preparation of financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires us to make estimates and assumptions that affect reported amounts of assets and liabilities, disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements, and reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates.

4) Acquisitions/Divestitures

We account for business combinations and asset acquisitions using the acquisition method of accounting and, accordingly, the assets and liabilities of the acquired entities are recorded at their estimated fair values at the acquisition date.

During the fiscal year ended May 31, 2017, we completed acquisitions within each of our three reportable segments. Two of the current-year acquisitions report through our consumer

reportable segment, which include the following: the foam division of a corporation based in St. Louis, Missouri, which sells consumer polyurethane foam in the consumer do-it-yourself market as well as the professional industrial market; and a decorative and specialty coatings company located in the Netherlands. There were also several acquisitions during fiscal 2017 that report through our industrial reportable segment, which include the following: a manufacturer of commercial waterproofing products based in Australia; a specialist civil engineering and construction organization focusing on bridges, roads and major structures based in Mount Airy, North Carolina; a manufacturer of specialty high performance coatings serving the global oil and gas pipeline market headquartered in Langley, British Columbia, Canada; a manufacturer of foam tapes used in construction and industrial applications based in the U.K.; a company based in Richmond, Missouri, which manufactures resins, intermediates, hardeners and curing agents for use in epoxy and polyurethane materials; and a manufacturer of specialty chemicals and equipment for infrastructure construction and repair headquartered in Conyers, Georgia. Lastly, we acquired a product line that reports through our specialty reportable segment, which was a manufacturer of professional equipment and chemicals for cleaning and restoring carpet, upholstery and hard flooring surfaces based in Chandler, Arizona.

During the fiscal year ended May 31, 2016, we completed seven acquisitions. Two of the prior-year acquisitions report through our consumer reportable segment, which included the following: the assets associated with nail enamel filling lines and related equipment, based in Newburgh, New York; and a manufacturer of concrete care coatings and sealants for the

retail market based in Auburndale, Florida. There were also two product line acquisitions during fiscal 2016 that report through our industrial reportable segment, which included the following: a manufacturer of construction adhesives, sealants and tapes based on Calgary, Alberta, Canada; and a manufacturer of extruded silicone sheets for the North American commercial construction and OEM markets based in Harbor Springs, Michigan. Lastly, there were three acquisitions of product lines during fiscal 2016 that report through our specialty reportable segment, which included the following: a distributor of a full line of fuel additives based in Battle Creek, Michigan; a plastic molding supplier and manufacturer of fans and radiators for the auto aftermarket based in Fife, Washington; and a manufacturer of high-strength egg white products and specialized stabilizers for meringue toppings and desserts based in LaGrange, Illinois. During fiscal 2016, we also executed the divestiture of one small product line.

During fiscal 2016, we also acquired the remaining 51% of our Chinese joint venture, as further described in Note A(17) below.

The purchase price for each acquisition has been allocated to the estimated fair values of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed as of the date of acquisition. While the valuations of consideration transferred and total assets acquired and liabilities assumed are substantially complete, measurement period adjustments may be recorded in the future as we finalize certain fair value estimates. The primary areas that remain preliminary relate to the fair values of deferred income taxes for acquisitions completed during fiscal 2017. Acquisitions are aggregated by year of purchase in the following table:


	Fiscal 2017 Acquisitions				Fiscal 2016 Acquisitions
(In thousands)	Weighted-Average Intangible Asset Amortization Life (In Years)		Total		Weighted-Average Intangible Asset Amortization Life (In Years)		Total
Current assets			$	78,565			$	20,094
Property, plant and equipment				59,630				4,771
Goodwill		N/A		75,361		N/A		29,762
Tradenames - indefinite lives		N/A		12,251		N/A		-
Other intangible assets		14		83,447		9		18,441
Other long-term assets				460				27
Total Assets Acquired			$	309,714			$	73,095
Liabilities assumed				(51,344)				(21,379)
Net Assets Acquired			$	258,370⁽¹⁾			$	51,716⁽²⁾

(1)	Figure includes cash acquired of $4.2 million.

(2)	Figure includes cash acquired of $6.5 million.

Our Consolidated Financial Statements reflect the results of operations of acquired businesses as of their respective dates of acquisition. Pro-forma results of operations for the years ended May 31, 2017 and May 31, 2016 were not materially different from reported results and, consequently, are not presented.

5) Foreign Currency

The functional currency for each of our foreign subsidiaries is its principal operating currency. Accordingly, for the periods presented, assets and liabilities have been translated using exchange rates at year end, while income and expense for the periods have been translated using a weighted-average exchange rate.

The resulting translation adjustments have been recorded in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss), a component of stockholders’ equity, and will be included in net earnings only upon the sale or liquidation of the underlying foreign investment, neither of which is contemplated at this time. Transaction gains and losses increased during the last three

fiscal years due to the strengthening of the U.S. dollar, resulting in net transactional foreign exchange losses for fiscal 2017, 2016 and 2015 of approximately $6.4 million, $24.4 million and $22.3 million, respectively.

6) Cash and Cash Equivalents

We consider all highly liquid debt instruments purchased with a maturity of three months or less to be cash equivalents. We do not believe we are exposed to any significant credit risk on cash and cash equivalents. The carrying amounts of cash and cash equivalents approximate fair value.

7) Property, Plant & Equipment


May 31,	2017		2016

(In thousands)

Land	$	82,184	$	60,223

Buildings and leasehold improvements		427,304		363,036

Machinery and equipment		975,091		921,571
Total property, plant and equipment, at cost		1,484,579		1,344,830

Less: allowance for depreciation and amortization		741,893		715,377
Property, plant and equipment, net	$	742,686	$	629,453

We review long-lived assets for impairment when circumstances indicate that the carrying values of these assets may not be recoverable. For assets that are to be held and used, an impairment charge is recognized when the estimated undiscounted future cash flows associated with the asset or group of assets are less than their carrying value. If impairment exists, an adjustment is made to write the asset down to its fair value, and a loss is recorded for the difference between the carrying value and the fair value. Fair values are determined based on quoted market values, discounted cash flows, internal appraisals or external appraisals, as applicable. Assets to be disposed of are carried at the lower of their carrying value or estimated net realizable value.

Depreciation is computed primarily using the straight-line method over the following ranges of useful lives:


Land improvements		1 to 50 years
Buildings and improvements		1 to 80 years
Machinery and equipment		1 to 30 years

Total depreciation expense for each fiscal period includes the charges to income that result from the amortization of assets recorded under capital leases.

8) Revenue Recognition

Revenues are recognized when realized or realizable, and when earned. In general, this is when title and risk of loss pass to the customer. Further, revenues are realizable when we have persuasive evidence of a sales arrangement, the product has been shipped or the services have been provided to the customer, the sales price is fixed or determinable, and collectibility is reasonably assured. We reduce our revenues for estimated customer returns and allowances, certain rebates, sales incentives, and promotions in the same period the related sales are recorded.

We also record revenues generated under long-term construction contracts, mainly in connection with the installation of specialized roofing and flooring systems, and related services. Certain long-term construction contracts are accounted for under the percentage-of-completion method, and therefore we record contract revenues and related costs as our contracts progress. This method recognizes the economic results of contract performance on a timelier basis than does the completed-contract method; however, application of this method requires reasonably dependable estimates of progress toward completion, as well as other dependable estimates. When reasonably dependable estimates cannot be made, or if other factors make estimates doubtful, the completed-contract method is applied. Under the completed-contract method, billings and costs are accumulated on the balance sheet as the contract progresses, but no revenue is recognized until the contract is complete or substantially complete.

9) Shipping Costs

Shipping costs paid to third-party shippers for transporting products to customers are included in SG&A expenses. For the years ended May 31, 2017, 2016 and 2015, shipping costs were $148.9 million, $145.3 million and $142.9 million, respectively.

10) Allowance for Doubtful Accounts Receivable

An allowance for anticipated uncollectible trade receivable amounts is established using a combination of specifically identified accounts to be reserved and a reserve covering trends in collectibility. These estimates are based on an analysis of trends in collectibility and past experience, but are primarily made up of individual account balances identified as doubtful based on specific facts and conditions. Receivable losses are charged against the allowance when we confirm uncollectibility. Actual collections of trade receivables could differ from our estimates due to changes in future economic or industry conditions or specific customer’s financial conditions. For the periods ended May 31, 2017, 2016 and 2015, bad debt expense approximated $16.0 million, $8.7 million and $4.9 million, respectively. The increase in bad debt expense during fiscal 2017 was primarily the result of our reassessment of the collectibility of accounts receivable, particularly in emerging markets.

11) Inventories


May 31,	2017		2016
(In thousands)

Raw material and supplies	$	248,426	$	227,900

Finished goods		539,771		457,918
Total Inventory	$	788,197	$	685,818

12) Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets

We account for goodwill and other intangible assets in accordance with the provisions of ASC 350 and account for business combinations using the acquisition method of accounting and accordingly, the assets and liabilities of the entities acquired are recorded at their estimated fair values at the acquisition date. Goodwill represents the excess of the purchase price paid over the fair value of net assets acquired, including the amount assigned to identifiable intangible assets.

We performed the required annual goodwill impairment assessments as of the first day of our fourth fiscal quarter at the reporting unit level. Our reporting units have been identified at the component level, which is the operating segment level or one level below. First, we assess qualitative factors to determine whether it is more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit is less than its carrying amount. The traditional two-step quantitative process is required only if we conclude that it is more likely than not that a reporting unit’s fair value is less than its carrying amount. However, we have an unconditional option to bypass a qualitative assessment and proceed directly to performing the traditional two-step quantitative analysis. We applied both the qualitative and traditional two-step quantitative processes during our annual goodwill impairment assessment performed during the fourth quarters of fiscal 2017, 2016 and 2015.

The traditional two-step quantitative goodwill impairment assessment involves estimating the fair value of a reporting unit and comparing it with its carrying amount. If the carrying amount of the reporting unit exceeds its fair value, additional steps are followed to determine and recognize, if appropriate, an impairment loss. Calculating the fair value of the reporting units requires our significant use of estimates and assumptions. We estimate the fair values of our reporting units by applying a combination of third-party market-value indicators, when observable market data is available, and discounted future cash flows to each of our reporting unit’s projected EBITDA. In applying this methodology, we rely on a number of factors, including actual and forecasted operating results and market data.

As a result of the assessments performed for fiscal 2016 and 2015, there were no goodwill impairments, including no reporting units that were at risk of failing step one of the traditional two-step quantitative analysis, except for our Kirker reporting unit, which had an estimated fair value that exceeded its carrying value by approximately 8% at May 31, 2016.

As described further in Note B, “Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets,” during the second quarter of fiscal 2017, we identified certain factors that we considered important in assessing the requirement to perform an interim impairment evaluation for our Kirker reporting unit. First, Kirker’s three-month operating results for the period ended November 30, 2016 were significantly below historical and expected operating results and downward adjustments were made regarding our expectations for Kirker’s performance. Second, Kirker experienced market share losses at several key customers, including the loss of its largest customer, which accounted for over 15% of Kirker’s fiscal 2016 sales. Third, some problematic customer relationship issues surfaced, which resulted in a personnel change in a key leadership position at Kirker. After considering the totality of these events, we determined that an interim step one goodwill impairment assessment was required, as well as an impairment assessment for our intangible and other long-lived assets. Accordingly, during our second fiscal quarter we recorded a loss totaling $188.3 million for the impairment of goodwill and intangibles at our Kirker reporting unit. After recording the goodwill impairment loss, no goodwill remained at the Kirker reporting unit at November 30, 2016. As a result of the required annual assessments performed during the fourth quarter of fiscal 2017, there were no additional goodwill impairments, including no other reporting units that were at risk of failing step one of the traditional two-step quantitative analysis.

Additionally, we test all indefinite-lived intangible assets for impairment annually. We perform the required annual impairment assessments as of the first day of our fourth fiscal quarter. We may elect to first assess qualitative factors to determine whether it is more likely than not that the fair value of an indefinite-lived intangible asset is less than its carrying amount before applying traditional quantitative tests. We applied both qualitative and quantitative processes during our annual indefinite-lived intangible asset impairment assessments performed during the fourth quarters of fiscal 2017, 2016 and 2015.

The annual impairment assessment involves estimating the fair value of each indefinite-lived asset and comparing it with its carrying amount. If the carrying amount of the intangible asset exceeds its fair value, we record an impairment loss equal to the difference. Calculating the fair value of the indefinite-lived assets requires our significant use of estimates and assumptions. We estimate the fair values of our intangible assets by applying a relief-from-royalty calculation, which includes discounted future cash flows related to each of our intangible asset’s projected revenues. In applying this methodology, we rely on a number of factors, including actual and forecasted revenues and market data. As a result of the assessments performed for fiscal 2016 and 2015, there were no impairments. Results of intangible

asset impairment assessments performed during fiscal 2017 are outlined below.

As further described in Note B, “Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets,” during the quarter ended February 28, 2017, we identified certain factors that we considered important in assessing the requirement to perform an interim impairment evaluation for our Restore indefinite tradename asset. First, sales of our Restore product line during the three-month period ended February 28, 2017 were below historical and expected operating results and significant downward adjustments were recently made to sales projections for Restore products. In the quarter ended February 28, 2017, we became aware that it was highly likely that Restore’s largest customer would discontinue sales of the Restore product line in its retail stores, which was evidenced by this customer’s significant reduction in future orders based on its historical order pattern. We determined that this was significant to consider for the purposes of impairment testing, as sales of Restore products to this customer accounted for over 60% of total sales of Restore products for fiscal 2016. After considering the magnitude of the loss in sales volume from this key customer, we determined that it was necessary to perform an interim assessment for our Restore intangible assets. Accordingly, during the third quarter of fiscal 2017, we recorded a preliminary loss totaling $4.9 million for the impairment of the Restore tradename. After performing the required annual assessments of indefinite-lived intangible assets during the fourth quarter of fiscal 2017, we finalized the Restore tradename valuation with no adjustment and there were no additional impairments.

Should the future earnings and cash flows at our reporting units decline and/or discount rates increase, future impairment charges to goodwill and other intangible assets may be required.

13) Advertising Costs

Advertising costs are charged to operations when incurred and are included in SG&A expenses. For the years ended May 31, 2017, 2016 and 2015, advertising costs were $52.3 million, $49.7 million and $40.8 million, respectively.

14) Research and Development

Research and development costs are charged to operations when incurred and are included in SG&A expenses. The amounts charged to expense for the years ended May 31, 2017, 2016 and 2015 were $64.9 million, $61.5 million and $56.7 million, respectively.

15) Stock-Based Compensation

Stock-based compensation represents the cost related to stock-based awards granted to our employees and directors, which may include restricted stock and stock appreciation rights (“SARs”). We measure stock-based compensation cost at the date of grant, based on the estimated fair value of the award. We recognize the cost as expense on a straight-line basis (net of estimated forfeitures) over the related vesting period. Refer to Note H, “Stock-Based Compensation,” for further information.

16) Investment (Income), Net

Investment (income), net, consists of the following components:


Year Ended May 31,	2017		2016		2015
(In thousands)
Interest (income)	$	(4,620)	$	(5,975)	$	(8,304)
(Gain) on sale of marketable securities		(8,174)		(6,457)		(8,692)
Other-than-temporary impairment on securities		420		3,811		22
Dividend (income)		(1,610)		(1,744)		(1,603)
Investment (income), net	$	(13,984)	$	(10,365)	$	(18,577)

17) Other Expense (Income), Net

Other expense (income), net, consists of the following components:


Year Ended May 31,	2017		2016		2015
(In thousands)
Royalty expense (income), net	$	2,680	$	2,039	$	(1,843)
Loss on litigation settlement		-		9,300		-
(Gain) on remeasurement of joint venture ownership		-		(7,972)		-
(Income) loss related to unconsolidated equity affiliates		(1,013)		(2,080)		(2,023)
Other expense (income), net	$	1,667	$	1,287	$	(3,866)

Loss on Litigation Settlement

A consolidated class-action complaint is pending against Rust-Oleum Corporation (“Rust-Oleum”) seeking to have a class certified and alleging breach of warranty, breach of contract and other claims regarding certain deck coating products of Rust-Oleum. In May 2016, the parties executed a term sheet outlining the agreed-upon terms of settlement. During fiscal 2017, the court granted final approval of the settlement. Rust-Oleum has deposited $9.3 million into a settlement fund in satisfaction of the claims.

Gain on Remeasurment of Joint Venture Ownership

In May 2016, we acquired the remaining 51% interest in our Chinese joint venture, Carboline Dalian Paint Production Co., Ltd (“Carboline Dalian”), which increased our ownership to 100%. Based on the step up from our 49% to a 100% interest in Carboline Dalian, we recorded a remeasurement gain for approximately $8.0 million during fiscal 2016.

18) Income Taxes

The provision for income taxes is calculated using the asset and liability method. Under the asset and liability method, deferred income taxes are recognized for the tax effect of temporary differences between the financial statement carrying amount of assets and liabilities and the amounts used for income tax purposes and for certain changes in valuation allowances. Valuation allowances are recorded to reduce certain deferred tax assets when, in our estimation, it is more likely than not that a tax benefit will not be realized.

19) Earnings Per Share of Common Stock

Earnings per share (EPS) is computed using the two-class method. The two-class method determines EPS for each class of common stock and participating securities according to dividends and dividend equivalents and their respective participation rights in undistributed earnings. Our unvested share-based payment awards that contain rights to receive non-forfeitable dividends are considered participating securities. Basic EPS of common stock is computed by dividing net income by the weighted-average number of shares of common stock outstanding for the period. Diluted EPS of common stock is computed on the basis of the weighted-average number of shares of common stock, plus the effect of dilutive potential shares of common stock outstanding during the period using the treasury stock method. Dilutive potential shares of common stock include outstanding SARS, restricted stock awards and convertible notes. See Note J, “Earnings Per Share of Common Stock,” for additional information.

20) Other Recent Accounting Pronouncements

In May 2014, the FASB issued Accounting Standards Update (“ASU”) 2014-09, “Revenue from Contracts with Customers,” which establishes a comprehensive revenue recognition standard that will supersede nearly all existing revenue recognition guidance under GAAP. The new standard prescribes a five-step model for recognizing revenue, which will require significant judgment in its application. The new standard requires disclosures regarding the nature, amount, timing and uncertainty of revenue and cash flows arising from contracts with customers.

Under the original issuance, the new standard would have applied to annual periods beginning after December 15, 2016, including interim periods therein. However, in August 2015, the FASB issued ASU 2015-14, which extends the standard effective date by one year and includes an option to apply the standard on the original effective date. The provisions of this ASU may be applied retrospectively to each prior reporting period presented, or on a modified retrospective basis by recognizing a cumulative catch-up transition amount at the date of initial application. We have not yet selected which transition method we will apply upon adoption of the standard as of June 1, 2018.

Given the scope of work required to implement the recognition and disclosure requirements under the new standard, we began our assessment process during fiscal 2016. Our progress to date has been significant, including a preliminary identification of areas which will require changes to policies, processes, systems or internal controls. We expect revenue recognition for our broad portfolio of products and services to remain largely unchanged. However, the guidance is expected to change the timing of revenue recognition in certain areas, including our accounting for long-term construction contracts. While these impacts are not expected to be material to our overall Consolidated Financial Statements, we do anticipate that the new disclosure requirements surrounding revenue recognition will be significant. We continue to assess all potential impacts of the guidance and given the stage of our adoption procedures as well as our normal ongoing business dynamics, our preliminary conclusions and assessments of the potential impacts on each of our different business units’ revenue streams are subject to change.

In April 2015, the FASB issued ASU 2015-03 “Interest-Imputation of Interest,” which changes the presentation of debt issuance costs in financial statements and specifies that debt issuance costs related to a note shall be reported in the balance sheet as a direct deduction from the face amount of the note. The guidance does not change the current requirements surrounding the recognition and measurement of debt issuance costs, and the amortization of debt issuance costs will continue to be reported as interest expense. The guidance is effective for years and interim periods within those fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2015. Early adoption is allowed for all entities and the new guidance shall be applied to all prior periods retrospectively. Our adoption of this guidance did not have a significant impact on our consolidated financial position and results of operations, although it has changed the financial statement classification of the deferred debt cost. As of May 31, 2016, we had $3.0 million and $8.2 million of current and long-term net deferred debt costs, respectively, which had been reflected in our Consolidated Balance Sheets in prepaid expenses and other current assets, and other long-term assets, respectively. Upon adoption of the new guidance, the net deferred debt costs were reclassified as an offset to the carrying amount of the respective debt on the Consolidated Balance Sheets.

In September 2015, the FASB issued ASU No. 2015-16, “Simplifying the Accounting for Measurement-Period Adjustments,” which simplifies the treatment of adjustments to provisional amounts recognized in the period for items in a business combination for which the accounting is incomplete at the end of the reporting period. The amendments in this ASU were effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2015 and for interim periods therein. We began applying the provisions of this ASU as of June 1, 2016. Adoption of this ASU did not have a material impact on our Consolidated Financial Statements.

In February 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-02, “Leases (Topic 842),” which increases lease transparency and comparability among organizations. Under the new standard, lessees will be required to recognize all assets and liabilities arising from leases on the balance sheet, with the exception of leases with a term of 12 months or less, which permits a lessee to make an accounting policy election by class of underlying asset not to recognize lease assets and liabilities. ASU 2016-02 is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2018, including interim periods within those fiscal years, and early adoption is permitted. The new standard requires the recognition and measurement of leases at the beginning of the earliest period presented using a modified retrospective approach, which includes a number of optional practical expedients that entities may elect to apply. We are currently evaluating the impact this guidance will have on our Consolidated Financial Statements. At a minimum, total assets and total liabilities will increase in the period the ASU is adopted. At May 31, 2017, our total undiscounted future minimum payments outstanding for operating lease obligations approximated $225.0 million.

In March 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-09, “Improvements to Employee Share-Based Payment Accounting,” which makes a number of changes meant to simplify and improve accounting for share-based payments. The new guidance includes amendments to share-based accounting for income taxes, the related classification in the statement of cash flows and share award forfeiture accounting. ASU 2016-09 is effective for public companies for annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2016, and interim periods within those reporting periods. Early adoption is permitted. We elected to early adopt ASU 2016-09 in the first quarter of fiscal 2017. The primary impact of our adoption was the recognition of excess tax benefits related to equity compensation in our provision for income taxes rather than paid-in capital, which is a change required to be applied on a prospective basis in accordance with the new guidance. Accordingly, we recorded income tax benefits in the consolidated statement of income of $12.1 million during the fiscal year ended May 31, 2017 for excess tax benefits related to equity compensation. The corresponding cash flows are reflected in operating activities instead of financing activities, as was previously required.

Additionally, under ASU 2016-09, we have elected to continue to estimate equity award forfeitures expected to occur to determine the amount of compensation cost to be recognized in each period. Additional amendments to the accounting for income taxes and minimum statutory withholding tax requirements had no impact on our results of operations. The presentation requirements for cash flows related to employee taxes paid for withheld shares also had no impact to any of the periods presented in our consolidated statements of cash flows since such cash flows have historically been presented as a financing activity.

In August 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-15, “Classification of Certain Cash Receipts and Cash Payments,” which makes a number of changes meant to add or clarify guidance on the classification of certain cash receipts and payments in the statement of cash flows. The new guidance is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2017, including interim periods within those fiscal years, with early adoption permitted. Upon adoption, entities must apply the guidance retrospectively to all periods presented. We are currently evaluating the impact this guidance will have on our Consolidated Financial Statements.

In January 2017, the FASB issued ASU 2017-01, “Business Combinations: Clarifying the Definition of a Business,” with the objective of adding guidance to assist entities in evaluating whether transactions should be accounted for as acquisitions (disposals) of assets or of businesses. The guidance is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2017, including interim periods within those fiscal years, with early adoption permitted. We are currently reviewing the impact this revised guidance will have on our Consolidated Financial Statements.

In January 2017, the FASB issued ASU 2017-04, “Simplifying the Test for Goodwill Impairment,” to eliminate step two from the goodwill impairment test in order to simplify the subsequent measurement of goodwill. The guidance is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2019. Early application is permitted for interim or annual goodwill impairment tests performed on testing dates after January 1, 2017. Adoption of this guidance is not expected to have a material impact on our Consolidated Financial Statements.

In March 2017, the FASB issued ASU 2017-07, “Improving the Presentation of Net Periodic Pension Cost and Net Periodic Postretirement Benefit Cost,” which requires that an employer report the service cost component in the same line item or items as other compensation costs arising from services rendered by the pertinent employees during the period. The other components of net benefit cost are required to be presented in the income statement separately from the service cost component and outside a subtotal of income from operations, if one is presented. The guidance is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2017, including interim periods within those fiscal years. We are currently reviewing the impact this guidance will have on our Consolidated Financial Statements.

NOTE B — GOODWILL AND OTHER INTANGIBLE ASSETS

The changes in the carrying amount of goodwill, by reportable segment, for the years ended May 31, 2017 and 2016, are as follows:


(In thousands)	Industrial Segment			Specialty Segment		Consumer Segment		Total
Balance as of June 1, 2015	$	476,700		$	165,934	$	573,054	$	1,215,688
Acquisitions		18,834			7,168		3,760		29,762
Translation adjustments		(20,125	)		(1,388)		(4,307)		(25,820)
Balance as of May 31, 2016		475,409			171,714		572,507		1,219,630
Acquisitions		41,268			3,273		30,820		75,361
Impairments							(141,394)		(141,394)
Translation adjustments		(342	)		(1,009)		(8,333)		(9,684)
Balance as of May 31, 2017	$	516,335		$	173,978	$	453,600	$	1,143,913

Total accumulated impairment losses were $156.3 million and $14.9 million at May 31, 2017 and 2016. Of the accumulated balance, $141.4 million was recorded during the fiscal year ended May 31, 2017 by our consumer segment, and $14.9 million was recorded during the fiscal year ended May 31, 2009 by our industrial reportable segment.

The aggregate intangible asset amortization expense for the fiscal years ended May 31, 2017, 2016 and 2015 was $41.9 million, $40.5 million and $32.9 million, respectively. For the next five fiscal years, we estimate annual intangible asset amortization expense related to our existing intangible assets to approximate the following: 2018 — $40.3 million, 2019 — $38.1 million, 2020 — $35.8 million, 2021 — $33.0 million and 2022 — $32.2 million.

The gross amount of other intangible asset accumulated impairment losses at May 31, 2016 totaled $0.6 million, all of which was recorded during the fiscal year ended May 31, 2009 by our industrial reportable segment. For the May 31, 2017, we recorded other intangible asset impairment losses of approximately $53.0 million, all of which was recorded by our consumer reportable segment.

As previously reported, we had monitored the performance of our Kirker nail enamel business throughout fiscal 2016. During the third quarter of fiscal 2016, we reported that performance shortfalls for Kirker were attributable to a delay in new business. We performed our annual goodwill impairment analysis during the fourth quarter of fiscal 2016, which resulted in an excess of fair value over carrying value of 8% for our Kirker reporting unit. During our first quarter ended August 31, 2016, we reported that while Kirker’s first quarter results were below the comparable prior year period, their performance was in line with expectations, and our assessment of the Kirker business did not indicate the presence of any goodwill impairment triggering events.

which accounted for over 15% of Kirker’s fiscal 2016 sales. In addition, some problematic customer relationship issues surfaced during the quarter ended November 30, 2016, which resulted in a personnel change in a key leadership position at Kirker. After considering the totality of these recent events, we determined that an interim step one goodwill impairment assessment was required, as well as an impairment assessment for our intangible and other long-lived assets. Our testing resulted in the preliminary impairment charges reflected above for goodwill and other intangible assets.

Our goodwill impairment assessment included estimating the fair value of our Kirker reporting unit and comparing it with its carrying amount at November 30, 2016. Since the carrying amount of Kirker exceeded its fair value, additional steps were required to determine and recognize a preliminary impairment loss. Calculating the fair value of a reporting unit requires our significant use of estimates and assumptions, which are generally considered Level 3 inputs based on our review of the fair value hierarchy. We estimated the fair value of our Kirker reporting unit by applying a discounted future cash flow calculation to Kirker’s projected earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (“EBITDA”). In applying this methodology, we relied on a number of factors, including actual and forecasted operating results and market data for the nail enamel industry. Discounted cash flow calculations represent a common measure used to value and buy or sell businesses in our industry. The discounted cash flow used in the goodwill impairment test for Kirker assumed discrete period revenue growth through fiscal 2021 that was reflective of recent downward revisions to previous expectations for future growth from market opportunities related to contracting with certain retailers to fill nail polish for their respective private label brands as well as downward revisions to growth expectations for the Kirker liquid nail polish business below the expected liquid nail polish growth rates for the markets in which Kirker operates. In the terminal year we assumed a long-term earnings growth rate of 3.0% that we believe is appropriate given the current industry specific expectations. As of the valuation date, we utilized a weighted-average cost of capital of 8.0%, which we believe is appropriate as it reflects the relative risk, the time

value of money, and is consistent with Kirker’s peer group. After recording the goodwill impairment charge of $140.5 million, no goodwill remained on the Kirker balance sheets as of November 30, 3016.

Our other intangible asset impairment assessment involved estimating the fair value of each of Kirker’s amortizable intangibles and other long-lived assets as well as the indefinite-lived tradename asset and comparing it with its carrying amount. Measuring a potential impairment of amortizable intangibles and other long-lived assets requires the use of various estimates and assumptions, including the determination of which cash flows are directly related to the assets being evaluated, the respective useful lives over which those cash flows will occur and potential residual values, if any. As the results of our testing indicated that the carrying values of certain of these assets would not be recoverable, as outlined in further detail in the table above, we recorded other intangible asset impairments of approximately $46.0 million during the fiscal year ended May 31, 2017.

Calculating the fair value of the Kirker indefinite-lived tradename required our significant use of estimates and assumptions. We estimated the fair value of Kirker’s indefinite-lived tradename by applying a relief-from-royalty calculation, which included discounted future cash flows related to its projected revenues. In applying this methodology, we relied on a number of factors, including actual and forecasted revenues and market data for the nail enamel industry. As the carrying amount of the tradename exceeded its fair value, we recorded an impairment loss of approximately $2.1 million during the fiscal year ended May 31, 2017.

Certain assets and liabilities are subject to nonrecurring fair value measurements, which typically are remeasured at fair value as a result of impairment charges. As a result of the impairment testing described above, the fair value of Kirker’s identifiable intangible assets and indefinite-lived tradename were recalculated, and the resulting fair value approximated $5.8 million. Based upon our review of the fair value hierarchy,

the inputs used in these fair value measurements were considered Level 3 inputs.

During the third quarter of fiscal 2017, we identified certain factors that we considered important in assessing the requirement to perform an interim impairment evaluation for our Restore indefinite tradename asset. First, sales of our Restore product line during the quarter ended February 28, 2017 were below historical and expected operating results and significant downward adjustments were recently made to sales projections for Restore products. In the quarter ended February 28, 2017, we became aware that it was highly likely that Restore’s largest customer would discontinue sales of the Restore product line in its retail stores, which was evidenced by this customer’s significant reduction in future orders based on its historical order pattern. We determined that this was significant to consider for the purposes of impairment testing, as sales of Restore products to this customer accounted for over 60% of total sales of Restore products for fiscal 2016. After considering the magnitude of the loss in sales volume from this key customer, we determined that it was necessary to perform an interim assessment for the other intangible assets and indefinite-lived tradename related to the Restore product line.

Our impairment assessment involved estimating the fair value of the indefinite-lived tradename and comparing it with its carrying amount. Calculating the fair value of the Restore indefinite-lived tradename required our significant use of estimates and assumptions. We estimated the fair value of the Restore indefinite-lived tradename by applying a relief-from-royalty calculation, which included discounted future cash flows related to its projected revenues. In applying this methodology, we relied on a number of factors, including actual and forecasted revenues for sales of the Restore product line. As the carrying amount of the tradename exceeded its fair value, we recorded an impairment charge of $4.9 million during the fiscal year ended May 31, 2017. Additionally, a further assessment of the remaining useful life of the Restore tradename was performed, which resulted in a change to its remaining economic useful life, from an indefinite-life to a 10-year amortizable life.

NOTE C — MARKETABLE SECURITIES

The following tables summarize marketable securities held at May 31, 2017 and 2016 by asset type:


	Available-For-Sale Securities
(In thousands)	Amortized Cost		Gross Unrealized Gains		Gross Unrealized Losses		Fair Value (Net Carrying Amount)
May 31, 2017
Equity securities:
Stocks - domestic	$	2,391	$	76	$	-	$	2,467
Mutual funds - foreign		35,169		2,470		(204)		37,435
Mutual funds - domestic		102,671		2,084		(3,118)		101,637
Total equity securities		140,231		4,630		(3,322)		141,539
Fixed maturity:
U.S. treasury and other government		22,176		120		(177)		22,119
Corporate bonds		706		97		(6)		797
Total fixed maturity securities		22,882		217		(183)		22,916
Total	$	163,113	$	4,847	$	(3,505)	$	164,455

Summarized below are the securities we held at May 31, 2017 and May 31, 2016 that were in an unrealized loss position and that were included in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss), aggregated by the length of time the investments had been in that position:

NOTE D — FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS

Financial instruments recorded in the balance sheet include cash and cash equivalents, trade accounts receivable, marketable securities, notes and accounts payable, and debt.

An allowance for anticipated uncollectible trade receivable amounts is established using a combination of specifically identified accounts to be reserved, and a reserve covering trends in collectibility. These estimates are based on an analysis of trends in collectibility and past experience, but are primarily made up of individual account balances identified as doubtful based on specific facts and conditions. Receivable losses are charged against the allowance when we confirm uncollectibility.

All derivative instruments are recognized in our Consolidated Balance Sheets and measured at fair value. Changes in the fair values of derivative instruments that do not qualify as hedges and/or any ineffective portion of hedges are recognized as a gain or (loss) in our Consolidated Statements of Income in the current period. Changes in the fair value of derivative instruments used effectively as cash flow hedges are recognized in other comprehensive income (loss), along with the change in

the value of the hedged item. We do not hold or issue derivative instruments for speculative purposes.

The valuation techniques utilized for establishing the fair values of assets and liabilities are based on observable and unobservable inputs. Observable inputs reflect readily obtainable data from independent sources, while unobservable inputs reflect management’s market assumptions. The fair value hierarchy has three levels based on the reliability of the inputs used to determine fair value, as follows:

Level 1 Inputs — Quoted prices for identical instruments in active markets.

Level 2 Inputs — Quoted prices for similar instruments in active markets; quoted prices for identical or similar instruments in markets that are not active; and model-derived valuations whose inputs are observable or whose significant value drivers are observable.

Level 3 Inputs — Instruments with primarily unobservable value drivers.

The following tables present our assets and liabilities that are measured at fair value on a recurring basis and are categorized using the fair value hierarchy.


(In thousands)	Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets (Level 1)			Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2)				Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3)			Fair Value at May 31, 2017
U.S. Treasury and other government		$	-		$	22,119			$	-		$	22,119
Corporate bonds						797							797
Stocks - domestic			2,467										2,467
Mutual funds - foreign						37,435							37,435
Mutual funds - domestic						101,637							101,637
Contingent consideration										(17,979)			(17,979	)
Total		$	2,467		$	161,988			$	(17,979)		$	146,476

(In thousands)	Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets (Level 1)			Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2)				Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3)			Fair Value at May 31, 2016
U.S. Treasury and other government		$	-		$	21,838			$	-		$	21,838
Corporate bonds						1,024							1,024
Stocks - foreign			5,243										5,243
Stocks - domestic			30,637										30,637
Mutual funds - foreign						32,348							32,348
Mutual funds - domestic						55,866							55,866
Foreign currency forward contract						(159	)						(159	)
Contingent consideration										(11,771)			(11,771	)
Total		$	35,880		$	110,917			$	(11,771)		$	135,026

Our marketable securities are primarily composed of available-for-sale securities, and are valued using a market approach. The availability of inputs observable in the market varies from instrument to instrument and depends on a variety of factors including the type of instrument, whether the instrument is actively traded, and other characteristics particular to the transaction. For most of our financial instruments, pricing inputs are readily observable in the market, the valuation methodology used is widely accepted by market participants, and the valuation does not require significant management discretion. For other financial instruments, pricing inputs are less observable in the market and may require management judgment.

At May 31, 2016, we had a foreign currency forward contract with a fair value of approximately $0.2 million, which is classified in other accrued liabilities in our Consolidated Balance Sheets. The balance for this foreign currency forward contract was not significant at May 31, 2017. Our foreign currency forward contract, which has not been designated as a hedge,

was designed to reduce our exposure to the changes in the cash flows of intercompany foreign-currency-denominated loans related to changes in foreign currency exchange rates by fixing the functional currency cash flows. The foreign exchange rates included in the forward contract are based upon observable market data, but are not quoted market prices, and therefore, the forward currency forward contract is considered a Level 2 liability on the fair value hierarchy.

The contingent consideration represents the estimated fair value of the additional variable cash consideration payable in connection with recent acquisitions that is contingent upon the achievement of certain performance milestones. We estimated the fair value using expected future cash flows over the period in which the obligation is expected to be settled, and applied a discount rate that appropriately captures a market participant’s view of the risk associated with the obligation, which are considered to be Level 3 inputs. During fiscal 2017, we accrued approximately $7.4 million for additional contingent payments related to new acquisitions, which included the estimated

The aggregate maturities of long-term debt for the five years subsequent to May 31, 2017 are as follows: 2018 — $253.6 million; 2019 — none; 2020 — $650.8 million; 2021 — $193.3 million; 2022 — none and thereafter $992.4 million. Additionally, at May 31, 2017, we had unused lines of credit totaling $799.1 million.

Our available liquidity, including our cash and cash equivalents and amounts available under our committed credit facilities, stood at $1.15 billion at May 31, 2017. Our debt-to-capital ratio was 59.3% at May 31, 2017, compared with 54.4% at May 31, 2016.

5.250% Notes due 2045 and 3.750% Notes due 2027

On March 2, 2017, we issued $50.0 million aggregate principal amount of 5.250% Notes due 2045 (the “2045 Notes”) and $400.0 million aggregate principal amount of 3.750% Notes due 2027 (the “2027 Notes”). The 2045 Notes are a further issuance of the $250 million aggregate principal amount of 5.250% Notes due 2045 initially issued by us on May 29, 2015. Interest on the 2045 Notes accrues from December 1, 2016 and is payable semiannually in arrears on June 1st and December 1st of each year, beginning June 1, 2017, at a rate of 5.250% per year. The 2045 Notes mature on June 1, 2045. Interest on the 2027 Notes accrues from March 2, 2017 and is payable semiannually in arrears on March 15th and September 15th of each year, beginning September 15, 2017, at a rate of 3.750% per year. The 2027 Notes mature on March 15, 2027. The indenture governing this indebtedness includes cross-acceleration provisions. Under certain circumstances, where an event of default under our other instruments results in acceleration of the indebtedness under such instruments, holders of the indebtedness under the indenture are entitled to declare amounts outstanding immediately due and payable.

Revolving Credit Agreement

meet their funding commitments if they experience shortages of capital and liquidity or if they experience excessive volumes of borrowing requests within a short period of time. Moreover, the obligations of the financial institutions under our New Revolving Credit Facility are several and not joint and, as a result, a funding default by one or more institutions does not need to be made up by the others.

As previously reported, during fiscal 2015, a plan of reorganization was confirmed (the “Bankruptcy Plan”) and, effective as of December 23, 2014, Bondex, SPHC, Republic and NMBFiL emerged from bankruptcy. Accordingly, trusts were established under Section 524(g) of the United States Bankruptcy Code (together, the “Trust”) and were funded with first installments. Borrowings under our New Revolving Credit Facility were used to fund the initial trust payment of $450 million, which is classified as long-term debt in our Consolidated Balance Sheets. The Trust was funded with $450 million in cash and a promissory note, bearing no interest and maturing on or before December 23, 2018 (the “Bankruptcy Note”). There is one remaining trust payment due. The net present value of the Bankruptcy Note, or $120.4 million, is classified as other long-term liabilities in our consolidated financial statements at May 31, 2017. A portion of the payments due under the Bankruptcy Note is secured by a right to the equity of SPHC, Republic and Bondex. The Bankruptcy Plan, and Bankruptcy Note, provide for the following additional contributions to the Trust:

•	On or before December 23, 2016, an additional $102.5 million in cash, RPM stock or a combination thereof (at our discretion in this and all subsequent cases) was required to be deposited into the Trust (and on December 23, 2016, $102.5 million in cash was deposited into the Trust);

•

•	On or before December 23, 2018, a final payment of $125 million in cash, RPM stock or a combination thereof will be deposited into the Trust.

Total current and future contributions to the Trust are deductible for U.S. income tax purposes.

Accounts Receivable Securitization Program

On May 9, 2017, we entered into a new, three-year, $200.0 million accounts receivable securitization facility (the “AR Program”). The maximum availability under the AR Program is $200.0 million. Availability is further subject to changes in the credit ratings of our customers, customer concentration levels or certain characteristics of the accounts receivable being transferred and therefore at certain times we may not be able to fully access the $200.0 million of funding available under the AR Program.

Our failure to comply with the covenants described above and other covenants contained in the New Revolving Credit Facility could result in an event of default under that agreement, entitling the lenders to, among other things, declare the entire amount outstanding under the Revolving Credit Facility to be due and payable. The instruments governing our other outstanding indebtedness generally include cross-default provisions that provide that under certain circumstances, an event of default that results in acceleration of our indebtedness under the Revolving Credit Facility will entitle the holders of such other indebtedness to declare amounts outstanding immediately due and payable.

2.25% Convertible Senior Notes due 2020

years, the unamortized debt discount was $11.2 million, and the carrying amount of the equity component was $20.7 million.

NOTE F — INCOME TAXES

The provision for income taxes is calculated in accordance with ASC 740, which requires the recognition of deferred income taxes using the asset and liability method.

Income (loss) before income taxes as shown in the Consolidated Statements of Income is summarized below for the periods indicated. Certain foreign operations are branches of RPM International Inc.’s subsidiaries and are therefore subject to income taxes in both the United States and the respective foreign jurisdictions. Accordingly, the provision (benefit) for income taxes by jurisdiction and the income (loss) before income taxes by jurisdiction may not be directly related.


Year Ended May 31,	2017		2016			2015
(In thousands)
United States	$	133,356	$	310,695		$	273,278
Foreign		110,977		172,771			179,975
Income Before Income Taxes	$	244,333	$	483,466		$	453,253
Provision (benefit) for income taxes consists of the following for the periods indicated:
Year Ended May 31,	2017		2016			2015
(In thousands)
Current:
U.S. Federal	$	3,024	$	75,200		$	77,374
State and local		5,115		6,230			4,876
Foreign		27,474		35,179			45,173
Total Current		35,613		116,609			127,423
Deferred:
U.S. Federal		15,553		17,625			97,112
State and local		1,928		1,907			1,494
Foreign		6,568		(10,133	)		(1,104)
Total Deferred		24,049		9,399			97,502
Provision for Income Taxes	$	59,662	$	126,008		$	224,925

The significant components of deferred income tax assets and liabilities as of May 31, 2017 and 2016 were as follows:

At May 31, 2017, we had U.S. federal foreign tax credit carryforwards of approximately $33.4 million, which expire in various years ending in 2027. Additionally, at May 31, 2017, we had approximately $68.8 million of state net operating loss carryforwards that expire at various dates beginning in 2018 and foreign net operating loss carryforwards of approximately $170.0 million, of which approximately $22.2 million will expire at various dates beginning in 2018 and approximately $147.8 million that have an indefinite carryforward period. Also, as of May 31, 2017, we had foreign capital loss carryforwards of approximately $14.2 million that can be carried forward indefinitely. These net operating loss, capital loss and foreign tax credit carryforwards may be used to offset a portion of future taxable income and, thereby, reduce or eliminate our U.S. federal, state or foreign income taxes otherwise payable.

When evaluating the realizability of deferred income tax assets, we consider, among other items, whether a jurisdiction has experienced cumulative pretax losses and whether a jurisdiction will generate the appropriate character of income to recognize a deferred income tax asset. More specifically, if a jurisdiction experiences cumulative pretax losses for a period of three years, including the current fiscal year, or if a jurisdiction does not have sufficient income of the appropriate character in the relevant carryback or projected carryforward periods, we generally conclude that it is more likely than not that the respective deferred tax asset will not be realized unless factors such as expected operational changes, availability of prudent and feasible tax planning strategies, reversal of taxable temporary differences or other information exists that would lead us to conclude otherwise. If, after we have evaluated these factors, the deferred income tax assets are not expected to be realized within the carryforward or carryback periods allowed for that jurisdiction, we would conclude that a valuation allowance is required. To the extent that the deferred income tax asset is expected to be utilized within the carryback or carryforward periods, we would conclude that a valuation allowance would not be required.

In applying the above, we determined, based on the available evidence that future taxable income from certain of our foreign subsidiaries will be sufficient to recognize corresponding deferred tax asset that were previously subject to valuation allowances. As a result, during this fiscal year, we recorded income tax expense of $0.9 million in connection with a net increase in valuation allowances associated with the estimated utilization of foreign net operating loss carryforwards and other foreign deferred tax assets. For the year ended May 31, 2016, we recorded net reduction in valuation allowances associated with the estimated utilization of foreign net operating loss carryforwards of $5.8 million. This benefit was partially offset by $2.4 million of additions to valuation allowances for other foreign deferred tax assets. For the year ended May 31, 2015, we determined that future U.S. taxable income along with anticipated foreign source income, will be sufficient to recognize foreign tax and other credit carryforwards of approximately $12.0 million that were previously subject to valuation allowances. The benefit was partially offset by approximately $1.5 million of other incremental adjustments to the valuation allowances. Further, we believe it is uncertain whether future taxable income of certain of our foreign subsidiaries and future taxable income of the appropriate character will be sufficient to recognize the remaining corresponding deferred tax assets. Accordingly, we intend to maintain the recorded valuation allowances until sufficient positive evidence exists to support a reversal of the tax valuation allowances.

Total valuation allowances of approximately $63.7 million and $60.1 million have been recorded as of May 31, 2017 and 2016, respectively. The recorded valuation allowances relate to foreign capital loss carryforwards, certain foreign net operating losses, net foreign deferred tax assets and unrealized losses on securities.

The following table reconciles income tax expense (benefit) computed by applying the U.S. statutory federal income tax rate against income (loss) before income taxes to the provision (benefit) for income taxes:


Year Ended May 31,	2017			2016			2015
(In thousands)
Income tax expense at the U.S. statutory federal income tax rate	$	85,517		$	169,213		$	158,638
Impact of foreign operations		(20,156	)		(29,969	)		(32,706)
State and local income taxes, net of federal income tax benefit		4,734			4,310			4,140
Tax benefits from the domestic manufacturing deduction		(2,537	)		(8,030	)		-
Nondeductible business expense		2,394			2,224			1,782
Valuation allowance		933			(3,357	)		(10,455)
Unremitted foreign earnings		(621	)		(3,712	)		106,227
Non-taxable gain from joint venture remeasurement		-			(2,790	)		-
Tax Benefits from Employee Share-Based Payments		(12,078	)
Other		1,476			(1,881	)		(2,701)
Provision for Income Tax Expense	$	59,662		$	126,008		$	224,925
Effective Income Tax Rate		24.4	%		26.1	%		49.6%

Uncertain income tax positions are accounted for in accordance with ASC 740. The following table summarizes the activity related to unrecognized tax benefits:


(In millions)	2017		2016		2015
Balance at June 1		$13.7		$12.9		$15.7
Additions based on tax positions related to current year		0.2		0.3		-
Additions for tax positions of prior years		2.9		2.6		0.9
Reductions for tax positions of prior years		(3.2)		(1.4)		(1.5)
Foreign currency translation		(0.4)		(0.7)		(2.2)
Balance at May 31		$13.2		$13.7		$12.9

The total amount of unrecognized tax benefits that would impact the effective tax rate, if recognized, was $4.6 million at May 31, 2017, $2.5 million at May 31, 2016 and $3.9 million at May 31, 2015. We do not anticipate any significant changes to the above total unrecognized tax benefits within the next 12 months.

We recognize interest and penalties related to unrecognized tax benefits in income tax expense. At May 31, 2017, 2016 and 2015, the accrual for interest and penalties was $3.1 million, $2.8 million and $3.8 million, respectively. Unrecognized tax benefits, including interest and penalties, have been classified as other long-term liabilities unless expected to be paid in one year.

We, or our subsidiaries, file income tax returns in the U.S. and in various state, local and foreign jurisdictions. The Internal Revenue Service (“IRS”) has notified us of an examination of our 2015 federal income tax return and the statutory audit period has expired for all years through 2013. Further, with limited

exceptions, we, or our subsidiaries, are generally subject to state and local or non-U.S. income tax examinations by tax authorities for the fiscal years 2010 through 2016.

We are currently under examination, or have been notified of an upcoming tax examination for various non-U.S. and domestic state and local jurisdictions. Although it is possible that certain tax examinations could be resolved during the next 12 months, the timing and outcomes are uncertain.

At May 31, 2016, we determined that it was possible that we could repatriate approximately $377.3 million of unremitted foreign earnings in the foreseeable future. Accordingly, as of May 31, 2016, we recorded a deferred income tax liability of $98.5 million, which represented our estimate of the U.S. income and foreign withholding tax associated with the $377.3 million of undistributed foreign earnings not considered permanently reinvested. As of May 31, 2017, the amount of undistributed earnings that may be repatriated is $324.1 million and the corresponding deferred tax liability has been reduced to $94.4 million. This reduction in the amount of unremitted foreign earnings that are not considered permanently reinvested is primarily due to foreign currency revaluations and actual distributions of foreign earnings during the year. The reduction to the deferred tax liability related to foreign currency revaluation was approximately $3.5 million, which was recorded in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss).

We have not provided for U.S. income taxes or foreign withholding taxes on the remaining $1.4 billion of foreign undistributed earnings because such earnings have been retained and reinvested by the foreign subsidiaries as of May 31, 2017. Accordingly, no provision has been made for U.S. income taxes or foreign withholding taxes, which may become payable if the remaining undistributed earnings of foreign subsidiaries were distributed to the U.S. Due to the uncertainties and complexities involved in the various options for repatriation of foreign earnings, it is not practical to calculate the deferred taxes associated with the remaining foreign earnings.

NOTE G — COMMON STOCK

On January 8, 2008, we announced our authorization of a stock repurchase program under which we may repurchase shares of RPM International Inc. common stock at management’s discretion for general corporate purposes. Our current intent is to limit our repurchases to approximately one to two million shares per year, which would include amounts required to offset dilution created by stock issued in connection with our equity-based compensation plans and other repurchases. As a result of this authorization, we may repurchase shares from time to time in the open market or in private transactions at various times and in amounts and for prices that our management deems appropriate, subject to insider trading rules and other securities law restrictions. The timing of our purchases will depend upon prevailing market conditions, alternative uses of capital and other factors. We may limit or terminate the repurchase program at any time. During the fiscal year ended May 31, 2017, we did not repurchase any shares of our common stock under this program. During the fiscal year ended May 31, 2016, we repurchased 800,000 shares of our common stock at a cost of approximately $35.1 million, or an average cost of $43.88 per share, under this program. During the fiscal year ended May 31, 2015, we repurchased 595,106 shares of our common stock at a cost of approximately $27.6 million, or an average cost of $46.36 per share, under this program.

NOTE H — STOCK-BASED COMPENSATION

Stock-based compensation represents the cost related to stock-based awards granted to our employees and directors; these awards include restricted stock, restricted stock units and SARs. We grant stock-based incentive awards to our employees and/

or our directors under various share-based compensation plans. Plans that are active or provide for stock option grants or share-based payment awards include the Amended and Restated 2004 Omnibus Equity and Incentive Plan (the “2004 Omnibus Plan”) and the 2014 Omnibus Equity and Incentive Plan (the “2014 Omnibus Plan”), which includes provisions for grants of restricted stock, restricted stock units, performance stock, performance stock units and SARs. Other plans, which provide for restricted stock grants only, include the 2003 Restricted Stock Plan for Directors (the “2003 Plan”) and the 2007 Restricted Stock Plan (the “2007 Plan”).

We measure stock-based compensation cost at the date of grant, based on the estimated fair value of the award. We recognize the cost as expense on a straight-line basis (net of estimated forfeitures) over the related vesting period.

The following table represents total stock-based compensation expense included in our Consolidated Statements of Income:


Year Ended May 31,	2017		2016		2015
(In thousands)
Selling, general and administrative expense	$	32,541	$	31,287	$	31,741
Income tax (benefit)		(10,159)		(9,184)		(10,027)
Total stock-based compensation cost	$	22,382	$	22,103	$	21,714

SARs

SARs are awards that allow our employees to receive shares of our common stock at a fixed price. We grant SARs at an exercise price equal to the stock price on the date of the grant. The fair value of SARs granted is estimated as of the date of grant using a Black-Scholes option-pricing model. The Black-Scholes option-pricing model was developed for use in estimating the fair value of traded options that have no vesting restrictions and are fully transferable. The risk-free rate for periods within the contractual life of the option is based on the U.S. Treasury yield curve in effect at the time of grant. The expected life of options granted is derived from the input of the option-pricing model and represents the period of time that options granted are expected to be outstanding. Expected volatility rates are based on historical volatility of shares of our common stock.

The following is a summary of our weighted-average assumptions related to SARs grants made during the last three fiscal years:


Year Ended May 31,	2017		2016		2015
Risk-free interest rate		1.5%		2.2%		2.3%
Expected life of option		7.0 yrs		7.0 yrs		7.5 yrs
Expected dividend yield		2.2%		2.2%		2.2%
Expected volatility rate		25.7%		25.6%		25.7%

The 2014 Omnibus Plan was approved by our stockholders on October 9, 2014. The 2014 Omnibus Plan provides us with the flexibility to grant a wide variety of stock and stock-based awards, as well as dollar-denominated performance-based awards, and is intended to be the primary stock-based award program for covered employees. This plan replaces the 2004 Omnibus Plan, which expired under its own terms on October 7, 2014. A wide variety of stock and stock-based awards, as well as dollar-denominated performance-based awards, may be granted under these plans. SARs are issued at fair value at the date of grant, have up to ten-year terms and have graded-vesting terms over four years. Compensation cost for these awards is recognized on a straight-line basis over the related vesting period. Currently all SARs outstanding are to be settled with stock. As of May 31, 2017, there were 3,055,000 SARs outstanding.

The following table summarizes option and share-based payment activity (including SARs) under these plans during the fiscal year ended May 31, 2017:


	2017
Share-Based Payments	Weighted Average Exercise Price						Number of Shares Under Option
(Shares in thousands)
Balance at June 1, 2016		$	31.88					3,213
Options granted			50.99					600
Options exercised			19.21					(758)

Balance at May 31, 2017			38.77					3,055

Exercisable at May 31, 2017		$	31.38					1,615

SARs	2017			2016					2015
(In millions, except per share amounts)
Weighted-average grant-date fair value per SAR		$	10.90		$	10.73				$	10.63
Intrinsic value of options exercised		$	26.5		$	22.3				$	7.5
Tax benefit from options exercised		$	9.7		$	8.1				$	2.5
Fair value of SARS vested		$	4.6		$	4.0				$	3.3

At May 31, 2017, the aggregate intrinsic value and weighted-average remaining contractual life of options outstanding was $47.2 million and 6.8 years respectively, while the aggregate intrinsic value and weighted-average remaining contractual life of options exercisable was $36.9 million and 5.6 years, respectively.

At May 31, 2017, the total unamortized stock-based compensation expense related to SARs that were previously granted was $10.1 million, which is expected to be recognized over 3.25 years. We anticipate that approximately 1.4 million shares at a weighted-average exercise price of $47.06 and a weighted-average remaining contractual term of 8.2 years will ultimately vest under these plans.

Restricted Stock Plans

We also grant stock-based awards, which may be made in the form of restricted stock, restricted stock units, performance stock and performance stock units. These awards are granted to eligible employees or directors, and entitle the holder to shares of our common stock as the award vests. The fair value of the awards is determined and fixed based on the stock price at the date of grant. A description of our restricted stock plans follows.

Under the 2004 Omnibus Plan, a total of 12,000,000 shares of our common stock were subject to awards. Of the 12,000,000 shares of common stock issuable under the 2004 Omnibus Plan, up to 6,000,000 shares were subject to “full-value” awards such as restricted stock, restricted stock unit, performance stock and performance stock unit awards.

Under the 2014 Omnibus Plan, a total of 6,000,000 shares of our common stock may be subject to awards. Of those issuable shares, up to 3,000,000 shares of common stock may be subject to “full-value” awards similar to those issued under the 2014 Omnibus Plan.

The following table summarizes the share-based performance-earned restricted stock (“PERS”) activity during the fiscal year ended May 31, 2017:


	Weighted-Average Grant-Date
(Shares in thousands)	Fair Value			2017
Balance at June 1, 2016		$	41.80		1,417
Shares granted			50.84		486
Shares forfeited			43.51		(13)
Shares vested			35.48		(476)

Balance at May 31, 2017		$	47.02		1,414

The weighted-average grant-date fair value was $50.84, $45.79 and $44.28 for the fiscal years ended May 31, 2017, 2016 and 2015, respectively. The restricted stock cliff vest after three years. Nonvested restricted shares of common stock under the 2004 Omnibus Plan are eligible for dividend payments. At May 31, 2017, unamortized deferred compensation expense remaining totaled $27.1 million, of which $1.6 million and $25.5 million was associated with the 2004 and 2014 plans, respectively. The remaining amount is being amortized over the applicable vesting period for each participant.

On October 7, 2010, our Compensation Committee approved contingent awards of Performance Contingent Restricted Stock, (“PCRS”), for certain executives. During October 2010, 680,000 shares were granted at a weighted-average grant-date price of $20.73. Additional grants were made in July 2011, June 2012 and July 2012, totaling 115,000 shares, 10,000 shares and 50,000 shares, respectively, and were granted at a weighted-average grant-date price of $22.16, $25.76 and $25.87, respectively. The awards are contingent upon the level of attainment of performance goals for the three-year and five-year periods from June 1, 2010 ending May 31, 2013, and from June 1, 2010 ending May 31, 2015, respectively. Compensation cost for these awards is recognized on a straight-line basis over the related performance period, with consideration given to the probability of attaining the performance goals.

On July 31, 2015, our Compensation Committee approved contingent awards of PCRS, (the “2015 PCRS”), for certain executives. During July 2015, 329,000 shares were granted at a weighted-average grant-date price of $46.87. The awards are contingent upon the level of attainment of performance goals for the three-year performance period from June 1, 2015 ending May 31, 2018. Vesting of 67% of the 2015 PCRS relates to an increase in EBIT for the period, and vesting of the remaining 33% relates to an increase in EBIT margin for the period. Compensation cost for these awards is recognized on a straight-line basis over the related performance period, with consideration given to the probability of attaining the performance goals. As of May 31, 2017, there were 324,000 2015 PCRS shares outstanding and $2.6 million unamortized stock-based compensation expense assuming attaining 46% of the goal.

The 2003 Plan was approved on October 10, 2003 by our stockholders, and was established primarily for the purpose of recruiting and retaining directors, and to align the interests of directors with the interests of our stockholders. Only directors who are not our employees are eligible to participate. Under the 2003 Plan, up to 500,000 shares of our common stock may be awarded, with awards cliff vesting over a three-year period. The following table summarizes the share-based activity under the 2003 Plan during fiscal 2017:


(Shares in thousands)	Weighted-Average Grant-Date Fair Value		2017
Balance at June 1, 2016	$	41.51		86
Shares granted to Directors		50.61		24
Shares vested		39.23		(40)
Balance at May 31, 2017	$	45.92		70

The weighted-average grant-date fair value was $50.61, $43.71 and $43.89 for the fiscal years ended May 31, 2017, 2016 and 2015, respectively. Unamortized deferred compensation expense relating to restricted stock grants for directors of $1.5 million at May 31, 2017, is being amortized over the applicable remaining vesting period for each director. Nonvested restricted shares of common stock under the 2003 Plan are eligible for dividend payments. As of May 31, 2017, there were 77,350 shares available for future grant.

During fiscal 2017, a total of 48,041 shares were awarded under the 2007 Plan and the 2014 Omnibus Plan to certain employees as supplemental retirement benefits, generally subject to forfeiture. The shares vest upon the latter of attainment of age 55 and the fifth anniversary of the May 31st immediately preceding the date of the grant. The following table sets forth such awards for the year ended May 31, 2017:


(Shares in thousands)	Weighted-Average Grant-Date Fair Value		2017
Balance at June 1, 2016	$	23.27		793
Shares granted		50.99		48
Shares exercised		21.06		(39)
Balance at May 31, 2017	$	25.04		802

The weighted-average grant-date fair value was $50.99, $46.63 and $44.60 for the fiscal years ended May 31, 2017, 2016 and 2015, respectively. As of May 31, 2017, no shares remain available for future grant under the 2007 Plan, and future issuances of shares as supplemental retirement benefits are intended to be made under the 2014 Omnibus Plan. At May 31, 2017, unamortized stock-based compensation expense of $4.9 million, $0.5 million and $25.5 million relating to the 2007 Plan, the Restricted Stock Units and the 2014 Omnibus Plan, respectively, are being amortized over the applicable vesting period associated with each participant.

The following table summarizes the activity for all nonvested restricted shares during the year ended May 31, 2017:


(Shares in thousands)	Weighted-Average Grant-Date Fair Value		Number of Shares
Balance at June 1, 2016	$	39.07		2,356
Granted		50.84		558
Vested		33.75		(602)
Forfeited		43.51		(12)
Balance at May 31, 2017	$	43.32		2,300

The remaining weighted-average contractual term of nonvested restricted shares at May 31, 2017 is the same as the period over which the remaining cost of the awards will be recognized, which is approximately 3.3 years. The fair value of the nonvested restricted share awards have been calculated using the market value of the shares on the date of issuance. For the years ended May 31, 2017, 2016 and 2015, the weighted-average grant-date fair value for restricted share grants was $50.84, $46.17 and $44.29, respectively. The total fair value of shares that vested during the years ended May 31, 2017, 2016 and 2015 was $20.3 million, $34.2 million and $14.7 million, respectively. We anticipate that approximately 1.9 million shares at a weighted-average grant-date fair value of $43.32 and a weighted-average remaining contractual term of 3.3 years will ultimately vest, based upon the unique terms and participants of each plan. Approximately 263,857 shares of restricted stock were vested at May 31, 2017, with 310,238 restricted shares vested as of May 31, 2016. The total intrinsic value of restricted shares converted during the years ended May 31, 2017, 2016 and 2015 was $9.0 million, $32.3 million and $13.9 million, respectively.

Total unrecognized compensation cost related to all nonvested awards of restricted shares of common stock was $37.7 million as of May 31, 2017. That cost is expected to be recognized over a weighted-average period of 3.3 years. We did not receive any cash from employees as a result of employee vesting and release of restricted shares for the year ended May 31, 2017.

NOTE I — ACCUMULATED OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS)

Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) consists of the following components:


(In thousands)	Foreign Currency Translation Adjustments				Pension And Other Postretirement Benefit Liability Adjustments Net of Tax				Unrealized Gain (Loss) On Derivatives, Net of Tax				Unrealized Gain (Loss) On Securities, Net of Tax				Total
Balance at June 1, 2014		$	(14,895	)		$	(153,648	)		$	285			$	11,376			$	(156,882)
Reclassification adjustments for gains included in net income, net of tax benefit of $2,307											(125	)			(4,209	)			(4,334)
Increase in equity ownership - SPHC							(9,600	)											(9,600)
Other comprehensive income			(216,755	)			(10,817	)			(341	)			(3,884	)			(231,797)
Deferred taxes							5,733				181				2,564				8,478
Balance at May 31, 2015			(231,650	)			(168,332	)			-				5,847				(394,135)
Reclassification adjustments for gains included in net income, net of tax benefit of $946											-				(1,847	)			(1,847)
Other comprehensive income			(65,580	)			(62,520	)			-				(9,995	)			(138,095)
Deferred taxes			5,997				22,646				-				3,387				32,030
Balance at May 31, 2016			(291,233	)			(208,206	)			-				(2,608	)			(502,047)
Reclassification adjustments for gains included in net income, net of tax benefit of $401											-				(1,847	)			(1,847)
Other comprehensive income			(20,358	)			66,264				16				7,849				53,771
Deferred taxes			3,176				(24,782	)			-				(2,257	)			(23,863)
Balance at May 31, 2017		$	(308,415	)		$	(166,724	)		$	16			$	1,137			$	(473,986)

NOTE J — EARNINGS PER SHARE

The following table sets forth the reconciliation of the numerator and denominator of basic and diluted earnings per share for the years ended May 31, 2017, 2016 and 2015:


Year Ended May 31,	2017				2016				2015

(In thousands, except per share amounts)
Numerator for earnings per share:
Net income attributable to RPM International Inc. stockholders		$	181,823			$	354,725			$	239,484
Less: Allocation of earnings and dividends to participating securities			(2,795	)			(5,770	)			(4,954)
Net income available to common shareholders - basic			179,028				348,955				234,530
Add: Undistributed earnings reallocated to unvested shareholders			2								18
Reverse: Allocation of earnings and dividends to participating securities							5,770
Add: Income effect of contingently issuable shares			5,457				5,430				5,374
Net income available to common shareholders - diluted		$	184,487			$	360,155			$	239,922
Denominator for basic and diluted earnings per share:
Basic weighted average common shares ⁽¹⁾			130,662				129,383				129,933
Average diluted options			598				3,445				1,082
Net issuable common share equivalents ⁽²⁾			3,905				3,888				3,878
Total shares for diluted earnings per share ⁽¹⁾			135,165				136,716				134,893
Earnings Per Share of Common Stock Attributable to RPM International Inc. Stockholders:
Basic Earnings Per Share of Common Stock		$	1.37			$	2.70			$	1.81
Diluted Earnings Per Share of Common Stock		$	1.36			$	2.63			$	1.78

(1)

Basic and diluted earnings per share are calculated using the two-class method for the years ended May 31, 2017 and 2015. For the year ended May 31, 2016, basic and diluted earnings per share are calculated under the two-class method and the treasury method, respectively, as those methods resulted in the most dilutive earnings per share.

(2)

Represents the number of shares that would be issued if our contingently convertible notes were converted. We include these shares in the calculation of diluted EPS as the conversion of the notes may be settled, at our election, in cash, shares of our common stock, or a combination of cash and shares of our common stock.

The changes in benefit obligations and plan assets, as well as the funded status of our pension plans at May 31, 2017 and 2016, were as follows:

The fair value of the assets held by our pension plans has increased at May 31, 2017 since our previous measurement date at May 31, 2016, due primarily to gains in the stock market and our plan contributions. Plan liabilities have increased slightly due to a decrease in interest rates. We have decreased our recorded liability for the net underfunded status of our pension plans. Additionally, the assumptions to value lump sums were updated to incorporate future expectations of the IRS mortality and interest rates. Due to slightly lower discount rates, increased

asset values and a change in estimate for lump sum valuations, we expect pension expense in fiscal 2018 to be below our fiscal 2017 expense level by approximately $8.0 million. Any future declines in the value of our pension plan assets or increases in our plan liabilities could require us to increase our recorded liability for the net underfunded status of our pension plans and could also require accelerated and higher cash contributions to our pension plans.

Amounts recognized in the Consolidated Balance Sheets for the years ended May 31, 2017 and 2016 are as follows:


	U.S. Plans					Non-U.S. Plans
(In thousands)	2017			2016		2017			2016
Noncurrent assets	$	-		$	-	$	998		$	4,297
Current liabilities		(7	)		(15)		(512	)		(468)
Noncurrent liabilities		(154,460	)		(274,815)		(16,442	)		(21,429)
Net Amount Recognized	$	(154,467)		$	(274,830)	$	(15,956)		$	(17,600)

The following table summarizes the relationship between our plans’ benefit obligations and assets:


	U.S. Plans
			2017				2016
(In thousands)		Benefit Obligation		Plan Assets		Benefit Obligation		Plan Assets
Plans with projected benefit obligations in excess of plan assets		$	591,948	$	437,481	$	589,046	$	314,216
Plans with accumulated benefit obligations in excess of plan assets			489,918		437,481		483,944		314,216
Plans with assets in excess of projected benefit obligations			-		-		-		-
Plans with assets in excess of accumulated benefit obligations			-		-		-		-
	Non-U.S. Plans
			2017				2016
(In thousands)		Benefit Obligation		Plan Assets		Benefit Obligation		Plan Assets
Plans with projected benefit obligations in excess of plan assets		$	147,560	$	130,605	$	141,627	$	119,730
Plans with accumulated benefit obligations in excess of plan assets			44,797		31,653		46,464		31,868
Plans with assets in excess of projected benefit obligations			48,324		49,323		45,437		49,734
Plans with assets in excess of accumulated benefit obligations			138,241		148,275		128,930		137,596

The following table presents the pretax net actuarial loss and prior service (costs) recognized in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) not affecting retained earnings:


	U.S. Plans					Non-U.S. Plans
(In thousands)	2017			2016		2017			2016
Net actuarial loss	$	(205,942	)	$	(271,456)	$	(41,000	)	$	(43,272)
Prior service (costs) credits		(252	)		(469)		185			9
Total recognized in accumulated other comprehensive income not affecting retained earnings	$	(206,194	)	$	(271,925)	$	(40,815	)	$	(43,263)
The following table includes the changes recognized in other comprehensive income:
	U.S. Plans					Non-U.S. Plans
(In thousands)	2017			2016		2017			2016
Changes in plan assets and benefit obligations recognized in other comprehensive income:
Prior service cost	$	-		$	-	$	(196	)	$	(349)
Net loss (gain) arising during the year		(43,353	)		75,474		2,515			7,731
Effect of exchange rates on amounts included in AOCI							(1,736	)		(1,953)
Amounts recognized as a component of net periodic benefit cost:
Amortization or curtailment recognition of prior service (cost)		(217	)		(234)		24			(7)
Amortization or settlement recognition of net (loss)		(22,160	)		(16,846)		(3,054	)		(1,823)
Total recognized in other comprehensive loss (income)	$	(65,730	)	$	58,394	$	(2,447	)	$	3,599

The following table presents the amounts in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) as of May 31, 2017 that have not yet been recognized in net periodic pension cost, but will be recognized in our Consolidated Statements of Income during the fiscal year ending May 31, 2018:

The following weighted-average assumptions were used to determine our year-end benefit obligations and net periodic pension cost under the plans:

The following tables illustrate the weighted-average actual and target allocation of plan assets:

The following tables present our pension plan assets as categorized using the fair value hierarchy at May 31, 2017 and 2016:


	U.S. Plans
(In thousands)	Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets (Level 1)			Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2)			Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3)			Fair Value at May 31, 2017
U.S. Treasury and other government		$	-		$	7,923		$	-		$	7,923
State and municipal bonds						628						628
Foreign bonds						1,623						1,623
Mortgage-backed securities						20,211						20,211
Corporate bonds						17,976						17,976
Stocks - large cap			20,999									20,999
Stocks - mid cap			8,128									8,128
Stocks - small cap			16,423									16,423
Stocks - international			2,639									2,639
Mutual funds - equity						247,037						247,037
Mutual funds - fixed						34,014						34,014
Cash and cash equivalents			59,674									59,674
Limited partnerships									206			206
Total		$	107,863		$	329,412		$	206		$	437,481

	Non-U.S. Plans
(In thousands)	Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets (Level 1)			Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2)			Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3)			Fair Value at May 31, 2017
Pooled equities		$	-		$	82,626		$	-		$	82,626
Pooled fixed income						65,649						65,649
Foreign bonds						252						252
Insurance contracts									30,181			30,181
Mutual funds						1,181						1,181
Cash and cash equivalents			39									39
Total		$	39		$	149,708		$	30,181		$	179,928

	U.S. Plans
(In thousands)	Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets (Level 1)			Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2)			Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3)			Fair Value at May 31, 2016
U.S. Treasury and other government		$	-		$	9,533		$	-		$	9,533
State and municipal bonds						532						532
Foreign bonds						1,095						1,095
Mortgage-backed securities						12,289						12,289
Corporate bonds						21,035						21,035
Stocks - large cap			28,686									28,686
Stocks - mid cap			12,350									12,350
Stocks - small cap			24,361									24,361
Stocks - international			3,538									3,538
Mutual funds - equity						165,784						165,784
Mutual funds - fixed						27,611						27,611
Cash and cash equivalents			7,108									7,108
Limited partnerships									294			294
Total		$	76,043		$	237,879		$	294		$	314,216

The following table includes the activity that occurred during the years ended May 31, 2017 and 2016 for our Level 3 assets:

The primary objective for the investments of the Retirement Plan is to provide for long-term growth of capital without undue exposure to risk. This objective is accomplished by utilizing a strategy of equities, fixed income securities and cash equivalents in a mix that is conducive to participation in a rising market, while allowing for adequate protection in a falling market. Our Investment Committee oversees the investment allocation process, which includes the selection and evaluation of investment managers, the determination of investment objectives and risk guidelines, and the monitoring of actual investment performance. In order to manage investment risk properly, Plan policy prohibits short selling, securities lending, financial futures, options and other specialized investments except for certain alternative investments specifically approved by the Investment Committee. The Investment Committee reviews, on a quarterly basis, reports of actual Plan investment performance provided by independent third parties, in addition to its review of the Plan investment policy on an annual basis. The investment objectives are similar for our plans outside of the U.S., subject to local regulations.

The goals of the investment strategy for pension assets include: The total return of the funds shall, over an extended period of time, surpass an index composed of the MSCI World Stock Index (equity), the Barclays Aggregate Bond Index (fixed income), and 30-day Treasury Bills (cash), weighted appropriately to match the asset allocation of the plans. The equity portion of the funds shall surpass the MSCI World Stock Index over a full market cycle, while the fixed income portion shall surpass Barclays Aggregate Bond Index over a full market cycle. The purpose of the core fixed income fund is to increase return in the form of cash flow, provide a hedge against inflation and to reduce the volatility of the fund overall. Therefore, the primary objective

of the core fixed income portion is to match the Barclays Aggregate Bond Index. The purpose of including opportunistic fixed income assets such as, but not limited to, global and high yield securities in the portfolio is to enhance the overall risk-return characteristics of the Fund.

In addition to the defined benefit pension plans discussed above, we also sponsor employee savings plans under Section 401(k) of the Internal Revenue Code, which cover most of our employees in the U.S. We record expense for defined contribution plans for any employer matching contributions made in conjunction with services rendered by employees. The majority of our plans provide for matching contributions made in conjunction with services rendered by employees. Matching contributions are invested in the same manner that the participants invest their own contributions. Matching contributions charged to income were $17.4 million, $16.3 million and $14.9 million for the years ending May 31, 2017, 2016 and 2015, respectively.

We expect to pay the following estimated pension benefit payments in the next five years (in millions): $49.9 in 2018, $51.6 in 2019, $55.7 in 2020, $53.6 million in 2021 and $55.7 in 2022. In the five years thereafter (2023-2027) we expect to pay $293.1 million.

NOTE M — POSTRETIREMENT BENEFITS

We sponsor several unfunded-health-care-benefit plans for certain of our retired employees as well as post-retirement life insurance for certain key former employees. Eligibility for these benefits is based upon various requirements. The following table illustrates the effect on operations of these plans for the three years ended May 31, 2017:

The changes in benefit obligations of the plans at May 31, 2017 and 2016 were as follows:


	U.S. Plans						Non-U.S. Plans
(In thousands)	2017			2016			2017			2016
Accumulated postretirement benefit obligation at beginning of year	$	7,653		$	7,640		$	25,420		$	24,646
Service cost								1,097			1,061
Interest cost		229			235			854			832
Benefit payments		(2,383	)		(251	)		(529	)		(464)
Actuarial (gains) losses		393			29			1,766			536
Currency exchange rate changes								(740	)		(1,191)
Accumulated and accrued postretirement benefit obligation at end of year	$	5,892		$	7,653		$	27,868		$	25,420

In determining the postretirement benefit amounts outlined above, measurement dates as of May 31 for each period were applied.

Amounts recognized in the Consolidated Balance Sheets for the years ended May 31, 2017 and 2016 are as follows:


	U.S. Plans				Non-U.S. Plans
(In thousands)	2017		2016		2017		2016
Current liabilities	$	(411)	$	(455)	$	(522)	$	(482)
Noncurrent liabilities		(5,481)		(7,198)		(27,346)		(24,938)
Net Amount Recognized	$	(5,892)	$	(7,653)	$	(27,868)	$	(25,420)

The following table presents the pretax net actuarial gain (loss) and prior service credits recognized in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) not affecting retained earnings:


	U.S. Plans					Non-U.S. Plans
(In thousands)	2017			2016		2017			2016
Net actuarial gain (loss)	$	(299	)	$	94	$	(7,354)		$	(5,986)
Prior service credits		1,107			1,341
Total recognized in accumulated other comprehensive income not affecting retained earnings	$	808		$	1,435	$	(7,354	)	$	(5,986	)

The following table includes the changes recognized in other comprehensive income:
	U.S. Plans					Non-U.S. Plans
(In thousands)	2017			2016		2017			2016
Changes in plan assets and benefit obligations recognized in other comprehensive income:
Prior service cost	$	-		$	-	$	-		$	-
Net loss (gain) arising during the year		393			29		1,766			536
Effect of exchange rates on amounts included in AOCI							(168	)		(290	)
Amounts recognized as a component of net periodic benefit cost:
Amortization or curtailment recognition of prior service credit (cost)		234			247
Amortization or settlement recognition of net gain (loss)		-			-		(230	)		(229	)
Total recognized in other comprehensive loss (income)	$	627		$	276	$	1,368		$	17

The following weighted-average assumptions were used to determine our year-end benefit obligations and net periodic postretirement benefit costs under the plans:
	U.S. Plans					Non-U.S. Plans
Year-End Benefit Obligations	2017			2016		2017			2016
Discount rate		3.61%			3.76%		3.61%			3.92%
Current healthcare cost trend rate		14.75%			10.37%		5.85%			5.98%
Ultimate healthcare cost trend rate		4.36%			4.36%		4.20%			4.20%
Year ultimate healthcare cost trend rate will be realized		2037			2037		2030			2030


			U.S. Plans						Non-U.S. Plans
Net Periodic Postretirement Cost	2017		2016		2015		2017		2016		2015
Discount rate		3.76%		3.95%		4.00%		3.92%		4.00%		4.40%
Healthcare cost trend rate		10.37%		11.34%		12.28%		5.98%		6.06%		6.31%
Ultimate healthcare cost trend rate		4.36%		4.50%		4.50%		4.20%		4.20%		4.20%
Year ultimate healthcare cost trend rate will be realized		2037		2029		2029		2030		2030		2030

Increasing or decreasing current healthcare cost trend rates by 1% would affect our accumulated postretirement benefit obligation and net postretirement expense by the following amounts for the years ended May 31, 2017 and 2016:

We expect to pay approximately $0.9 million to $1.3 million in estimated postretirement benefits in each of the next five years. In the five years thereafter (2023-2027) we expect to pay a cumulative total of $7.6 million.

We provide, through our wholly owned insurance subsidiaries, certain insurance coverage, primarily product liability coverage, to our other subsidiaries. Excess coverage is provided by third-party insurers. Our product liability accruals provide for these potential losses as well as other uninsured claims. Product liability accruals are established based upon actuarial calculations of potential liability using industry experience, actual historical experience and actuarial assumptions developed for similar types of product liability claims, including development factors and lag times. To the extent there is a reasonable possibility that potential losses could exceed the amounts already accrued, we believe that the amount of any such additional loss would be immaterial to our results of operations, liquidity and consolidated financial position.

We also offer warranties on many of our products, as well as long-term warranty programs at certain of our businesses, and have established product warranty liabilities. We review these liabilities for adequacy on a quarterly basis and adjust them as necessary. The primary factors that could affect these liabilities may include changes in performance rates as well as costs of replacement. Provision for estimated warranty costs is recorded at the time of sale and periodically adjusted, as required, to reflect actual experience. It is probable that we will incur future losses related to warranty claims we have received but that have not been fully investigated and related to claims not yet received. While our warranty liabilities represent our best estimates at May 31, 2017, we can provide no assurances that we will not experience material claims in the future or that we will not incur significant costs to resolve such claims beyond the amounts accrued or beyond what we may recover from our suppliers. Product warranty expense is recorded within selling, general and administrative expense.

Also, due to the nature of our businesses, the amount of claims paid can fluctuate from one period to the next. While our warranty liabilities represent our best estimates of our expected losses at any given time, from time-to-time we may revise our estimates based on our experience relating to factors such as weather conditions, specific circumstances surrounding product installations and other factors.

The following table includes the changes in our accrued warranty balances:


Year Ended May 31,	2017			2016			2015
(In thousands)
Beginning Balance	$	13,314		$	11,663		$	14,741
Deductions ⁽¹⁾		(18,269	)		(18,061	)		(29,543)
Provision charged to SG&A expense		23,862			19,653			23,487
Acquisitions, including SPHC reconsolidation		242			59			2,978
Ending Balance	$	19,149		$	13,314		$	11,663

(1)	Primarily claims paid during the year.

In addition, like other companies participating in similar lines of business, some of our subsidiaries are involved in several proceedings relating to environmental matters. It is our policy to accrue remediation costs when it is probable that such efforts will be required and the related costs can be reasonably estimated. These liabilities are undiscounted and are not material to our financial statements during any of the periods presented.

We were notified by the SEC on June 24, 2014, that we are the subject of a formal investigation pertaining to the timing of our disclosure and accrual of loss reserves in fiscal 2013 with respect to the previously disclosed U.S. Department Of Justice (the “DOJ”) and the U.S. General Services Administration (the “GSA”) Office of Inspector General investigation into compliance issues relating to Tremco Roofing Division’s GSA contracts. As previously disclosed, our audit committee completed an investigation into the facts and circumstances surrounding the timing of our disclosure and accrual of loss reserves with respect to the GSA and DOJ investigation, and determined that it was appropriate to restate our financial results for the first, second and third quarters of fiscal 2013. These restatements had no impact on our audited financial statements for the fiscal years ended May 31, 2013 or 2014. The audit committee’s investigation concluded that there was no intentional misconduct on the part of any of our officers.

In connection with the foregoing, on September 9, 2016, the SEC filed an enforcement action against us and our General Counsel. We have cooperated with the SEC’s investigation and believe the allegations in the complaint mischaracterize both our and our General Counsel’s actions in connection with the matters related to our quarterly results in fiscal 2013 and are without merit. We intend to contest the allegations in the complaint vigorously, and both we and our General Counsel filed motions to dismiss the complaint on February 24, 2017.

The action by the SEC could result in sanctions against us and/ or our General Counsel and could impose substantial additional costs and distractions, regardless of its outcome. We have determined that it is probable that we will incur a loss relating to this matter and have estimated a range of potential loss. We have accrued at the low end of the range of loss, as no amount within the range is more likely to occur, and no amount within the estimated range of loss would have a material impact on our consolidated financial condition, results of operations or cash flows.

In December 2014, we received notice of a claim seeking damages against one of our industrial segment subsidiaries alleging failure of a coating system application on a parking garage in Dubai, UAE. During the year ended May 31, 2017, the case settled for an immaterial amount.

A consolidated class-action complaint is pending against Rust-Oleum Corporation (“Rust-Oleum”) seeking to have a class certified and alleging breach of warranty, breach of contract and other claims regarding certain deck coating products of Rust-Oleum. In October 2016, the parties executed a settlement agreement. The court has granted final approval of the settlement. Rust-Oleum has deposited $9.3 million into a settlement fund in satisfaction of the claims. We recorded the amount of the settlement in accrued losses in our Consolidated Balance Sheets and reflected the amount in other expense (income), net, in our Consolidated Statements of Income as of and for the fiscal year ended May 31, 2016.

NOTE O — SEGMENT INFORMATION

are each managed by an operating segment manager, who is responsible for the day-to-day operating decisions and performance evaluation of the operating segment’s underlying businesses. We evaluate the profit performance of our segments primarily based on income before income taxes, but also look to earnings (loss) before interest and taxes (“EBIT”) as a performance evaluation measure because interest expense is essentially related to acquisitions, as opposed to segment operations.

Our industrial reportable segment products are sold throughout North America and also account for the majority of our international sales. Our industrial product lines are sold directly to contractors, distributors and end-users, such as industrial manufacturing facilities, public institutions and other commercial customers. The industrial reportable segment comprises three separate operating segments — Tremco Group, tremco illbruck Group and Performance Coatings Group. Products and services within this reportable segment include construction chemicals, roofing systems, weatherproofing and other sealants, and polymer flooring.

We reflect income from our joint ventures on the equity method, and receive royalties from our licensees.

The following tables reflect the results of our reportable segments consistent with our management philosophy, and represent the information we utilize, in conjunction with various strategic, operational and other financial performance criteria, in evaluating the performance of our portfolio of businesses. Information for all periods presented has been recast to reflect the current-year change in the composition of our reportable segments.


Year Ended May 31,	2017		2016		2015
(In thousands)
Net Sales (based on shipping location) ^(a)
United States	$	3,269,400	$	3,155,810	$	2,856,723
Foreign
Canada		321,696		310,817		337,869
Europe		908,799		928,519		941,820
Other Foreign		458,280		418,503		458,138
Total Foreign		1,688,775		1,657,839		1,737,827
Total	$	4,958,175	$	4,813,649	$	4,594,550
Long-Lived Assets ^(b)
United States	$	1,738,180	$	1,756,012	$	1,693,288
Foreign
Canada		137,211		111,524		114,717
Europe		349,979		271,796		293,685
United Kingdom		199,415		257,935		273,118
Other Foreign		248,435		212,583		202,721
Total Foreign		935,040		853,838		884,241
Total	$	2,673,220	$	2,609,850	$	2,577,529

(a)	It is not practicable to obtain the information needed to disclose revenues attributable to each of our product lines.

(b)	Long-lived assets include all non-current assets, excluding non-current deferred income taxes.

NOTE P — QUARTERLY INFORMATION (UNAUDITED)

The following is a summary of the quarterly results of operations for the years ended May 31, 2017 and 2016:


	For Quarter Ended
(In thousands, except per share amounts)	August 31		November 30 ^(a)		February 28		May 31
2017
Net Sales	$	1,252,063	$	1,190,770	$	1,022,496	$	1,492,846
Gross Profit	$	552,042	$	521,681	$	428,573	$	663,392
Net Income Attributable to RPM International Inc. Stockholders	$	112,769	$	(70,926)	$	11,928	$	128,052
Basic Earnings Per Share	$	0.85	$	(0.54)	$	0.09	$	0.96
Diluted Earnings Per Share	$	0.83	$	(0.54)	$	0.09	$	0.94
Dividends Per Share	$	0.275	$	0.300	$	0.300	$	0.300
(In thousands, except per share amounts)	August 31		November 30		February 29		May 31
2016
Net Sales	$	1,242,526	$	1,155,984	$	988,555	$	1,426,584
Gross Profit	$	532,958	$	493,934	$	412,962	$	647,194
Net Income Attributable to RPM International Inc. Stockholders	$	99,815	$	83,433	$	18,582	$	152,895
Basic Earnings Per Share	$	0.76	$	0.63	$	0.14	$	1.16
Diluted Earnings Per Share	$	0.74	$	0.62	$	0.14	$	1.13
Dividends Per Share	$	0.260	$	0.275	$	0.275	$	0.275

(a)

Reflects the pretax goodwill and intangible asset impairment losses of $188.3 million related to our Kirker reporting unit. Refer to Note B, “Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets,” for further information. Also reflects $12.3 million pretax charge relating to the Flowcrete decision to exit the Middle East.

Quarterly earnings per share may not total to the yearly earnings per share due to the weighted-average number of shares outstanding in each quarter.

Shares of our common stock are traded on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol RPM. The high and low sales prices for the shares of common stock, and the cash dividends paid on the common stock, for each quarter of the two most recent fiscal years are set forth in the table below.

Cash dividends are payable quarterly, upon authorization of the Board of Directors. Regular payment dates are approximately the last day of July, October, January and April.

The number of holders of record of our common stock as of June 29, 2017 was approximately 21,576, in addition to 94,721 beneficial holders.

Management’s Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting

The management of RPM International Inc. is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting for the Company, as such term is defined in Rule 13a-15(f) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. RPM’s internal control system was designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of the Consolidated Financial Statements.

Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements and even when determined to be effective, can only provide reasonable assurance with respect to financial statement preparation and presentation. Also, projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may be inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.

Management assessed the effectiveness of RPM’s internal control over financial reporting as of May 31, 2017. In making this assessment, management used the criteria set forth by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission in Internal Control-Integrated Framework (2013 Framework). Based on this assessment, management concluded that, as of May 31, 2017, RPM’s internal control over financial reporting is effective.

The independent registered public accounting firm Deloitte & Touche LLP, has also audited the Company’s internal control over financial reporting as of May 31, 2017 and their report thereon is included on page 67 of this report.



Frank C. Sullivan		Russell L. Gordon
Chairman and Chief Executive Officer		Vice President and Chief Financial Officer

July 24, 2017

We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of RPM International Inc. and subsidiaries (the “Company”) as of May 31, 2017 and 2016, and the related consolidated statements of income, comprehensive income, cash flows, and stockholders’ equity for the years then ended. These financial statements are the responsibility of the Company’s management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these consolidated financial statements based on our audits.

We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. An audit also includes assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.

In our opinion, such consolidated financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of RPM International Inc. and subsidiaries as of May 31, 2017 and 2016, and the results of their operations and their cash flows for the years then ended in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.

We have also audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States), the Company’s internal control over financial reporting as of May 31, 2017, based on the criteria established in Internal Control - Integrated Framework (2013) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission and our report dated July 24, 2017, expressed an unqualified opinion on the Company’s internal control over financial reporting based on our audit.

We have audited the accompanying consolidated statement of income, comprehensive income, stockholders’ equity and cash flows of RPM International Inc. and Subsidiaries for the period ended May 31, 2015. These financial statements are the responsibility of the Company’s management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these financial statements based on our audits.

In our opinion, the financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the consolidated results of operations and cash flows of RPM International Inc. and Subsidiaries for the period ended May 31, 2015, in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles.

TO THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS AND STOCKHOLDERS OF RPM INTERNATIONAL INC.

We have audited the internal control over financial reporting of RPM International Inc. and subsidiaries (the “Company”) as of May 31, 2017, based on criteria established in Internal Control—Integrated Framework (2013) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission. The Company’s management is responsible for maintaining effective internal control over financial reporting and for its assessment of the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting, included in the accompanying Management’s Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Company’s internal control over financial reporting based on our audit.

We conducted our audit in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether effective internal control over financial reporting was maintained in all material respects. Our audit included obtaining an understanding of internal control over financial reporting, assessing the risk that a material weakness exists, testing and evaluating the design and operating effectiveness of internal control based on the assessed risk, and performing such other procedures as we considered necessary in the circumstances. We believe that our audit provides a reasonable basis for our opinion.

A company’s internal control over financial reporting is a process designed by, or under the supervision of, the company’s principal executive and principal financial officers, or persons performing similar functions, and effected by the company’s board of directors, management, and other personnel to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. A company’s internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that (1) pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of the assets of the company; (2) provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, and that receipts and expenditures of the company are being made only in accordance with authorizations of management and directors of the company; and (3) provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use, or disposition of the company’s assets that could have a material effect on the financial statements.

Because of the inherent limitations of internal control over financial reporting, including the possibility of collusion or improper management override of controls, material misstatements due to error or fraud may not be prevented or detected on a timely basis. Also, projections of any evaluation of the effectiveness of the internal control over financial reporting to future periods are subject to the risk that the controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.

In our opinion, the Company maintained, in all material respects, effective internal control over financial reporting as of May 31, 2017, based on the criteria established in Internal Control—Integrated Framework (2013) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission.

We have also audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States), the consolidated financial statements as of and for the year ended May 31, 2017, of the Company and our report dated July 24, 2017, expressed an unqualified opinion on those financial statements.

LOGO

Cleveland, Ohio

July 24, 2017

World Headquarters

RPM International Inc.

2628 Pearl Road

P.O. Box 777 Medina, OH 44258


Telephone:		330-273-5090 or 800-776-4488
Fax:		330-225-8743
Website:		www.rpminc.com
E-mail:		info@rpminc.com

Annual Meeting

RPM stockholders are invited to attend RPM’s Annual Meeting, which will be held at 2:00 p.m. EDT on Thursday, October 5, 2017 at the Holiday Inn, 15471 Royalton Road, Strongsville, Ohio. Directions can be found on the RPM website.

Form 10-K and Other Financial Information

Investors may obtain, at no charge, a copy of the RPM Annual Report to the Securities and Exchange Commission on Form 10-K, a corporate video and other investor information by contacting Kathie M. Rogers, Manager of Investor Relations, at RPM, 800-776-4488.

Form 10-K, other public financial reports and news releases may also be obtained electronically through the website, www.rpminc.com.

Corporate Governance

Copies of the RPM Board of Directors Corporate Governance Guidelines, as well as the Committee Charters and RPM’s Governance Documents, are available on the company’s website at www.rpminc.com, under “About RPM/Corporate Governance.” Copies of these materials are also available, without charge, upon written request to the Secretary of RPM.

Institutional Investor and Security Analyst Inquiries

Security analysts and investment professionals with questions regarding RPM should contact Barry M. Slifstein, Vice President - Investor Relations, at 330-273-5090 or bslifstein@rpminc.com.

Dividend Payments

Common stock cash dividends are payable quarterly, upon authorization of the Board of Directors. Regular payment dates are typically the 31st of July, October and January and the 30th of April. RPM has increased the cash dividend payments to its stockholders for 43 consecutive years.

Stock Exchange Listing

RPM International Inc. is listed on the New York Stock Exchange under the ticker symbol “RPM.”

LOGO

Stock Transfer Agent, Registrar and Dividend Disbursing Agent

Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. maintains RPM’s stockholder records and is responsible for disbursing dividend checks. Questions concerning your account, change of address, transfer of ownership, lost certificates, safekeeping of stock certificates, dividend payments, direct deposit of dividends and other related items should be directed to:

Wells Fargo Shareowner Services

P.O. Box 64854

St. Paul, MN 55164-0854


Telephone:		800-988-5238 or
		651-450-4064 (outside the United States)
Fax:		651-450-4085
Website:		www.shareowneronline.com

Certified/Overnight Mail:

Wells Fargo Shareowner Services

1110 Centre Pointe Curve, Suite 101

Mendota Heights, MN 55120-4100

Internet Account Access

Stockholders of record may access their accounts via the internet to view their account holdings, change address, complete certain transactions and get answers to other stock-related inquires through Wells Fargo Shareowner Online at www.shareowneronline.com.

Direct Stock Purchase and Dividend Reinvestment Plan

RPM offers a direct stock purchase and dividend reinvestment plan administered by Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. The plan allows new investors to purchase RPM common stock directly, and existing stockholders to increase their holdings. There is no commission cost for shares purchased. The minimum initial investment is $200. Additional cash investments must be at least $25 and not more than $5,000 per month. For more details on the plan or questions concerning existing Dividend Reinvestment accounts, please contact Wells Fargo Shareholder Services (see above).

Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

Deloitte & Touche LLP, Cleveland, Ohio

Counsel

Calfee, Halter & Griswold LLP, Cleveland, Ohio

The RPM App

For up-to-date investment information on RPM, download the RPM app for Apple and Android devices. Scan this QR code or visit your app market.

LOGO


Year Ended May 31,	2017		2016		2015
Net Income	$	184,671	$	357,458	$	228,328
Other Comprehensive Income, Before Tax:
Foreign Currency Translation Adjustments		(20,402)		(65,607)		(222,255)
Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Liabilities
Net (Loss) Gain Arising During the Period		38,679		(83,770)		(34,949)
Prior Service Cost Arising During the Period		196		349		-
Less: Amortization of Prior Service Cost Included in Net Periodic Pension Cost		(41)		(6)		86
Less: Amortization of Net Loss and Settlement Recognition		25,444		18,898		16,149
Effect of Exchange Rates on Amounts Included for Pensions		1,986		2,009		8,842
Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Liability Adjustments		66,264		(62,520)		(9,872)
Unrealized Gains on Available-For-Sale Securities
Unrealized Holding (Losses) Gains During the Period		8,250		(9,049)		(2,025)
Less: Reclassification Adjustments for (Gains) Included in Net Income		(2,248)		(2,793)		(6,068)
Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Securities		6,002		(11,842)		(8,093)
Unrealized (Loss) on Derivatives		16		-		(946)
Other Comprehensive (Loss) Income, Before Tax		51,880		(139,969)		(241,166)
Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Related to Components of Other Comprehensive Income		(23,863)		32,030		8,927
Other Comprehensive (Loss) Income, After Tax		28,017		(107,939)		(232,239)
Comprehensive (Loss) Income		212,688		249,519		(3,911)
Less: Comprehensive (Loss) Income Attributable to Noncontrolling Interests		2,804		2,706		(15,742)
Comprehensive Income Attributable to RPM International Inc. Stockholders	$	209,884	$	246,813	$	11,831


	Common Stock
	Number of Shares		Par/Stated Value		Paid-In Capital
Balance at June 1, 2014		133,273	$	1,333	$	790,102
Net income		-		-		-
Other comprehensive income		-		-		-
Dividends paid		-		-		-
Other noncontrolling interest activity		-		-		-
Increase in equity ownership of SPHC		-		-		41,724
Shares repurchased		(595)		(6)		6
Stock option exercises		59		1		8,560
Stock compensation expense, shares granted less shares returned for taxes		466		4		31,735
Balance at May 31, 2015		133,203		1,332		872,127
Net income		-		-		-
Other comprehensive income		-		-		-
Dividends paid		-		-		-
Other noncontrolling interest activity		-		-		-
Shares repurchased		(800)		(8)		8
Stock option exercises		-		-		18,540
Stock compensation expense, shares granted less shares returned for taxes		541		5		31,281
Balance at May 31, 2016		132,944		1,329		921,956
Net income		-		-		-
Other comprehensive income		-		-		-
Dividends paid		-		-		-
Other noncontrolling interest activity		-		-		-
Stock compensation expense, shares granted less shares returned for taxes		619		7		32,535
Balance at May 31, 2017		133,563	$	1,336	$	954,491


Treasury Stock		Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income/(Loss)		Retained Earnings		Total RPM International Inc. Equity		Non-Controlling Interests		Total Equity
$	(85,400)	$	(156,882)	$	833,691	$	1,382,844	$	195,750	$	1,578,594
	-		-		239,484		239,484		(11,156)		228,328
	-		(227,653)		-		(227,653)		(4,586)		(232,239)
	-		-		(136,179)		(136,179)		-		(136,179)
	-		-		-		-		(668)		(668)
	-		(9,600)		-		32,124		(177,267)		(145,143)
	(27,588)		-		-		(27,588)		-		(27,588)
	-		-		-		8,561		-		8,561
	(11,940)		-		-		19,799		-		19,799
	(124,928)		(394,135)		936,996		1,291,392		2,073		1,293,465
	-		-		354,725		354,725		2,733		357,458
	-		(107,912)		-		(107,912)		(27)		(107,939)
	-		-		(144,350)		(144,350)		-		(144,350)
	-		-		-		-		(2,366)		(2,366)
	(35,098)		-		-		(35,098)		-		(35,098)
	-		-		-		18,540		-		18,540
	(36,248)		-		-		(4,962)		-		(4,962)
	(196,274)		(502,047)		1,147,371		1,372,335		2,413		1,374,748
	-		-		181,823		181,823		2,848		184,671
	-		28,061		-		28,061		(44)		28,017
	-		-		(156,752)		(156,752)		-		(156,752)
	-		-		-		-		(2,578)		(2,578)
	(21,948)		-		-		10,594		-		10,594
$	(218,222)	$	(473,986)	$	1,172,442	$	1,436,061	$	2,639	$	1,438,700


(In thousands)	Amortization Period (In Years)		Gross Carrying Amount		Accumulated Amortization		Accumulated Impairment Charge		Net Other Intangible Assets
As of May 31, 2017
Amortized intangible assets
Formulae		5 to 33	$	230,140	$	(128,825)	$	(15,463)	$	85,852
Customer-related intangibles		5 to 33		370,255		(122,772)		(30,363)		217,120
Trademarks/names		5 to 40		36,461		(15,480)				20,981
Other		2 to 20		37,743		(21,288)		(198)		16,257
Total Amortized Intangibles				674,599		(288,365)		(46,024)		340,210
Indefinite-lived intangible assets
Trademarks/names				240,456				(7,574)		232,882
Total Other Intangible Assets			$	915,055	$	(288,365)	$	(53,598)	$	573,092
As of May 31, 2016
Amortized intangible assets
Formulae		3 to 33	$	234,483	$	(140,376)	$	-	$	94,107
Customer-related intangibles		3 to 33		331,008		(114,469)				216,539
Trademarks/names		5 to 40		30,742		(15,817)				14,925
Other		2 to 20		47,744		(27,745)				19,999
Total Amortized Intangibles				643,977		(298,407)		-		345,570
Indefinite-lived intangible assets
Trademarks/names				230,431				(600)		229,831
Total Other Intangible Assets			$	874,408	$	(298,407)	$	(600)	$	575,401



	Available-For-Sale Securities
(In thousands)	Amortized Cost		Gross Unrealized Gains		Gross Unrealized Losses		Fair Value (Net Carrying Amount)
May 31, 2016
Equity securities:
Stocks - foreign	$	5,051	$	439	$	(247)	$	5,243
Stocks - domestic		27,717		3,831		(911)		30,637
Mutual funds - foreign		35,903		802		(4,357)		32,348
Mutual funds - domestic		60,354		99		(4,587)		55,866
Total equity securities		129,025		5,171		(10,102)		124,094
Fixed maturity:
U.S. treasury and other government		21,704		214		(80)		21,838
Corporate bonds		887		137		-		1,024
Total fixed maturity securities		22,591		351		(80)		22,862
Total	$	151,616	$	5,522	$	(10,182)	$	146,956


	May 31, 2017				May 31, 2016
(In thousands)	Fair Value		Gross Unrealized Losses		Fair Value		Gross Unrealized Losses
Total investments with unrealized losses	$	59,987		$ (3,505)	$	89,360		$ (10,182)
Unrealized losses with a loss position for less than 12 months		40,854		(2,983)		41,762		(4,856)
Unrealized losses with a loss position for more than 12 months		19,133		(522)		47,598		(5,326)


(In thousands)	Amortized Cost		Fair Value
Due:
Less than one year		$ 4,618	$	4,617
One year through five years		13,894		13,824
Six years through ten years		3,149		3,152
After ten years		1,221		1,323
		$ 22,882	$	22,916


	At May 31, 2017
(In thousands)	Carrying Value		Fair Value
Cash and cash equivalents	$	350,497	$	350,497

Marketable equity securities		141,539		141,539

Marketable debt securities		22,916		22,916

Long-term debt, including current portion		2,090,082		2,243,167

	At May 31, 2016

(In thousands)	Carrying Value		Fair Value

Cash and cash equivalents	$	265,152	$	265,152

Marketable equity securities		124,094		124,094

Marketable debt securities		22,862		22,862

Long-term debt, including current portion		1,639,973		1,769,601


	U.S. Plans			Non-U.S. Plans
Net Periodic Pension Cost	2017	2016	2015	2017	2016	2015
Discount rate	3.85%	4.25%	4.30%	3.13%	3.26%	3.82%
Expected return on plan assets	7.89%	7.90%	8.25%	4.50%	4.49%	5.18%
Rate of compensation increase	3.80%	3.80%	3.81%	2.81%	2.81%	3.30%


U.S. Plans
	Target Allocation		Actual Asset Allocation
(Dollars in millions)	as of May 31, 2017		2017		2016
Equity securities		55%	$	295.2	$	234.7
Fixed income securities		25%		82.4		72.1
Cash ⁽¹⁾				59.7		7.1
Other		20%		0.2		0.3
Total assets		100%	$	437.5	$	314.2


		Actual Return on Plan Assets For:
(In thousands)	Balance at Beginning of Period	Assets Still Held at Reporting Date		Assets Sold During Year		Purchases, Sales and Settlements, net ⁽¹⁾			Balance at End of Period
Year ended May 31, 2017	$ 30,673		1,096		-		(1,382	)		$	30,387
Year ended May 31, 2016	31,669		191		9		(1,196	)			30,673


Fiscal 2017	High		Low		Dividends paid per share	Fiscal 2016	High		Low		Dividends paid per share
First Quarter	$	55.71	$	46.53	0.275	First Quarter	$	51.27	$	40.11	0.260
Second Quarter	$	55.92	$	46.25	0.300	Second Quarter	$	47.48	$	40.15	0.275
Third Quarter	$	55.33	$	50.79	0.300	Third Quarter	$	47.79	$	36.77	0.275
Fourth Quarter	$	56.39	$	50.18	0.300	Fourth Quarter	$	51.60	$	41.03	0.275


The paper in this annual report is certified to the Forest Stewardship Council^® (FSC^®) standards. It was tracked through the FSC chain of custody, which means the forest, paper manufacturer, merchant and printer are all FSC certified. The FSC certification is indicative of the highest social and environmental standards for paper use. More information is available at www.us.fsc.org.