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Significant Accounting Policies and Accounting Developments
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2024
Accounting Policies [Abstract]  
Significant Accounting Policies and Accounting Developments SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES AND ACCOUNTING DEVELOPMENTS
We are principally engaged in the worldwide design, manufacture, distribution and service of industrial flow management equipment. We provide long lead time, custom and other highly engineered pumps; standardized, general-purpose pumps; mechanical seals; engineered and industrial valves; related automation products; and services and solutions primarily for oil and gas, chemical, power generation, water management and other general industries requiring flow management products and services. Equipment manufactured and serviced by us is predominantly used in industries that deal with difficult-to-handle and corrosive fluids, as well as environments with extreme temperatures, pressure, horsepower and speed. Our business is affected by economic conditions in the United States ("U.S.") and other countries where our products are sold and serviced, by the cyclical nature and competitive environment of our industries served, by the relationship of the U.S. dollar to other currencies and by the demand for and pricing of our customers’ end products.
Russia and Ukraine Conflict - In response to the Russia-Ukraine conflict, several countries, including the United States, have imposed economic sanctions and export controls on certain industry sectors and parties in Russia. As a result of this conflict, including the aforementioned sanctions and overall instability in the region, in March 2022 we permanently ceased all Company operations in Russia.
In the first quarter of 2022, we recorded a $20.2 million pre-tax charge ($21.0 million after-tax) to reserve the asset positions of our Russian subsidiary (excluding cash) as of March 31, 2022, to record contra-revenue for previously recognized revenue and estimated cancellation fees on open contracts that were previously accounted for under the percentage of completion ("POC") method and subsequently canceled, to establish a reserve for the estimated cost to exit the operations of our Russian subsidiary and to record a reserve for our estimated financial exposure on contracts that have been or are anticipated to be canceled.
In addition, we reevaluated our financial exposure as of December 31, 2022 and recorded an incremental $13.6 million pre-tax charge ($9.8 million after-tax) in the fourth quarter of 2022 for additional contract cancellation fees, to reserve our residual financial exposure due to increased Russia sanctions imposed during the latter part of 2022 and our decision to cancel backlog as a result of the additional sanctions.
We continue to monitor the situation involving Russia and Ukraine and its impact on the rest of our global business. This includes the macroeconomic impact, including with respect to global supply chain issues and inflationary pressures. We reevaluated our financial exposure and made a $2 million adjustment during the period ended March 31, 2024 to reduce the existing reserves. We made no further adjustments through December 31, 2024. To date, impacts have not been material to our business and we do not currently expect that any incremental impact in future quarters, including any financial impacts caused by our cancellation of customer contracts and ceasing of operations in Russia, will be material to the Company.
The following table presents the above impacts of the Russia pre-tax charge for the year ended December 31, 2022:
Year Ended December 31, 2022
(Amounts in thousands)
Flowserve Pumps Division
Flow Control DivisionConsolidated Total
Sales$(9,330)$— $(9,330)
Cost of sales ("COS")7,442 1,418 8,860 
Gross loss(16,772)(1,418)(18,190)
Selling, general and administrative expense ("SG&A")13,977 1,720 15,697 
Operating loss$(30,749)$(3,138)$(33,887)
Terminated Acquisition — On February 9, 2023, the Company entered into a definitive agreement to acquire all of the outstanding equity of Velan Inc., a manufacturer of highly engineered industrial valves. In October 2023, we received
notice that the required French foreign investment screening approval was not obtained. As a result, the transaction was terminated. According to the terms of the agreement, no termination fee was paid by either party. Acquisition related expenses incurred during 2023 associated with the transaction were $7.3 million.
NAF AB Divestiture — Effective May 4, 2024, we divested NAF AB, a previously wholly owned subsidiary and control valves business within our Flow Control Division ("FCD") segment, including the NAF AB facility located in Linkoping, Sweden. The sale included cash paid to the buyer of $2.6 million and resulted in both a pre-tax and after-tax loss of $13.0 million recorded in loss on sale of business in the consolidated statements of income in the period ended June 30, 2024. In 2024, through the date of disposition, we recorded revenues of approximately $3.0 million and an immaterial amount of operating income.
Principles of Consolidation — The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of our company and our wholly and majority owned subsidiaries. In addition, we consolidate any variable interest entities for which we are deemed to be the primary beneficiary. Noncontrolling interests of non-affiliated parties have been recognized for all majority-owned consolidated subsidiaries. Intercompany profits/losses, transactions and balances among consolidated entities have been eliminated from our consolidated financial statements.
In the ordinary course of our operations worldwide, we have entered into joint ventures and interests (collectively referred to as “affiliates”) to provide greater flexibility in delivering our products and services, gain access to markets and geographical locations and reduce exposure and diversify risk. Investments in affiliate companies with a noncontrolling ownership interests between 20% and 50%, are unconsolidated and are accounted for using the equity method, which approximates our equity interest in their underlying equivalent net book value under accounting principles generally accepted in the U.S. ("U.S. GAAP"). All equity method investments are reviewed for impairment whenever events and conditions indicate that a decrease in the value of an investment has occurred that is other than temporary. If impaired, an impairment loss representing the difference between our carrying value and fair value is recorded and the investment is written down to a new carrying value. Investment in affiliate companies where we own less than 20% are accounted for by the cost method, whereby income is only recognized in the event of dividend receipt. Investments accounted for by the cost method are tested for impairment if an impairment indicator is present.
Use of Estimates — The process of preparing financial statements in conformity with U.S. GAAP requires us to make estimates and assumptions that affect reported amounts of certain assets, liabilities, revenues and expenses. We believe our estimates and assumptions are reasonable; however, actual results may differ materially from such estimates. The most significant estimates and assumptions are used in determining:
Timing and amount of revenue recognition;
Deferred taxes, tax valuation allowances and tax reserves;
Reserves for contingent loss;
Pension and postretirement benefits;
Valuation of goodwill, indefinite-lived intangible assets and other long-lived assets; and
Assets and liabilities acquired in a business combination.
Revenue Recognition — The majority of our revenues relate to customer orders that typically contain a single commitment of goods or services which have lead times under a year. More complex contracts with our customers typically have longer lead times and multiple commitments of goods and services, including any combination of designing, developing, manufacturing, modifying, installing and commissioning of flow management equipment and providing services and parts related to the performance of such products. We recognize revenue when (or as) we satisfy a performance obligation by transferring control to a customer. Transfer of control is evaluated based on the customer’s ability to direct the use of and obtain substantially all of the benefits of a performance obligation. Revenue is recognized either over time or at a point in time, depending on the specific facts and circumstances for each contract, including the terms and conditions of the contract as agreed with the customer and the nature of the products or services to be provided. Service-related revenues do not typically represent a significant portion of the contracts with our customers and do not meet the thresholds requiring separate disclosure.
Our primary method for recognizing revenue over time is the POC method, whereby progress towards completion is measured by applying an input measure based on costs incurred to date relative to total estimated costs at completion. If
control of the products and/or services does not transfer over time, then control transfers at a point in time. We determine the point in time that control transfers to a customer based on the evaluation of specific indicators, such as title transfer, risk of loss transfer, customer acceptance and physical possession. For a detailed discussion related to revenue recognition refer to Note 3, "Revenue Recognition."
Cash and Cash Equivalents — We place temporary cash investments with financial institutions and, by policy, invest in those institutions and instruments that have minimal credit risk and market risk. These investments, with an original maturity of three months or less when purchased, are classified as cash equivalents. They are highly liquid and principal values are not subject to significant risk of change due to interest rate fluctuations.
Accounts Receivable, Allowance for Expected Credit Losses and Credit Risk — Trade accounts receivables are recorded at the invoiced amount and do not bear interest. We establish an allowance for expected credit losses on an aging schedule and according to historical losses as determined from our billings and collections history. Additionally, we consider factors that are specific to our customers’ credit risk such as financial difficulties, liquidity issues, insolvency, and country and political risk. We also consider both the current and forecasted direction of macroeconomic conditions at the reporting date in estimating expected credit losses. Receivables are written off against the allowance in the period when the receivable is deemed to be uncollectible and further collection efforts have ceased. Subsequent recoveries of amounts previously written off are reflected as a reduction to credit impairment losses in the income statement.
Credit risks are mitigated by the diversity of our customer base across many different geographic regions and industries and by performing creditworthiness analyses on our customers. Additionally, we mitigate credit risk through letters of credit and advance payments received from our customers. We do not believe that we have any other significant concentrations of credit risk.
Inventories and Related Reserves — Inventories are stated at the lower of cost or net realizable value. Cost is determined by the first-in, first-out method. Reserves for excess and obsolete inventories are based upon our assessment of market conditions for our products determined by historical usage and estimated future demand. Due to the long life cycles of our products, we carry spare parts inventories that have historically low usage rates and provide reserves for such inventory based on demonstrated usage and aging criteria.
Income Taxes, Deferred Taxes, Tax Valuation Allowances and Tax Reserves — We account for income taxes under the asset and liability method. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognized for the future tax consequences attributable to differences between the financial statement carrying amounts of existing assets and liabilities and their respective tax bases and operating loss and tax credit carryforwards. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are calculated using enacted tax rates expected to apply to taxable income in the years in which those temporary differences are expected to be recovered or settled. The effect on deferred tax assets and liabilities of a change in tax rates is recognized in the period that includes the enactment date. We record valuation allowances to reduce the carrying value of deferred tax assets to amounts that we expect are more likely than not to be realized. We assess existing deferred tax assets, net operating losses and tax credits by jurisdiction and expectations of our ability to utilize these tax attributes through a review of past, current and estimated future taxable income and establishment of tax planning strategies.
We provide deferred taxes for the temporary differences associated with our investment in foreign subsidiaries that have a financial reporting basis that exceeds tax basis, unless we can assert permanent reinvestment in foreign jurisdictions. Financial reporting basis and tax basis differences in investments in foreign subsidiaries consist of both unremitted earnings and losses, as well as foreign currency translation adjustments.
The amount of income taxes we pay is subject to ongoing audits by federal, state, and foreign tax authorities, which often result in proposed assessments. We establish reserves for open tax years for uncertain tax positions that may be subject to challenge by various tax authorities. The consolidated tax provision and related accruals include the impact of such reasonably estimable losses and related interest and penalties as deemed appropriate.
We recognize the tax benefit from an uncertain tax position only if it is more likely than not that the tax position will be sustained on examination by the taxing authorities. The determination is based on the technical merits of the position and presumes that each uncertain tax position will be examined by the relevant taxing authority that has full knowledge of all relevant information. The tax benefits recognized in the financial statements from such a position are measured based on the largest benefit that has a greater than fifty percent likelihood of being realized upon ultimate settlement.
Legal and Environmental Contingencies — Legal and environmental reserves are recorded based upon a case-by-case analysis of the relevant facts and circumstances and an assessment of potential legal obligations and costs. Amounts relating to legal and environmental liabilities are recorded when it is probable that a loss has been incurred and such loss is reasonably estimable. Assessments of legal and environmental costs are based on information obtained from our independent and in-house experts and our loss experience in similar situations. Estimates are updated as applicable when new information regarding the facts and circumstances of each matter becomes available. Legal fees associated with legal and environmental liabilities are expensed as incurred.
We are a defendant in a number of lawsuits that seek to recover damages for personal injury allegedly resulting from exposure to asbestos-containing products formerly manufactured and/or distributed by heritage companies of the Company. We have estimated that the liability for pending and future claims not yet asserted, and which are probable and estimable, could be experienced through 2054, which represents the expected end of our asbestos liability exposure with no further ongoing claims expected beyond that date. This estimate is based on the Company's historical claim experience and estimates of the number and resolution cost of potential future claims that may be filed based on anticipated levels of unique plaintiff asbestos-related claims in the U.S. tort system against all defendants, the diminished volatility and consistency of observable claims data, the period of time that has elapsed since we stopped manufacturing products that contained encapsulated asbestos and an expected downward trend in claims due to the average age of our claimants. This estimate is not discounted. In light of the uncertainties and variables inherent in the long-term projection of the total asbestos liability, as part of our ongoing review of asbestos claims, each year we will reassess the projected liability of unasserted asbestos claims to be filed through 2054, and we will continually reassess the time horizon over which a reasonable estimate of unasserted claims can be projected.
We assess the sufficiency of the estimated liability for pending and future claims on an ongoing basis by evaluating actual experience regarding claims filed, settled and dismissed, and amounts paid in settlements. In addition to claims and settlement experience, we consider additional quantitative and qualitative factors such as changes in legislation, the legal environment and the Company's defense strategy. In connection with our ongoing review of asbestos-related claims, we have also reviewed the amount of potential insurance coverage for such claims, taking into account the remaining limits of such coverage, the number and amount of claims on our insurance from co-insured parties, ongoing litigation against the Company’s insurers, potential remaining recoveries from insolvent insurers, the impact of previous insurance settlements and coverage available from solvent insurers not party to the coverage litigation. We review ongoing insurance coverage available for a significant amount of the potential future asbestos-related claims and in the future could secure additional insurance coverage as deemed necessary.
The study from the Company's actuary, based on data as of June 30, 2024, provided for a range of possible future liability from approximately $93.2 million to $143.7 million. The Company does not believe any amount within the range of potential outcomes represents a better estimate than another given the many factors and assumptions inherent in the projections and therefore the Company has recorded the liability at the actuarial central estimate of approximately $110.3 million as of December 31, 2024. In addition, the Company has recorded estimated insurance receivables of approximately $35.8 million as of December 31, 2024. The amounts recorded for the asbestos-related liability and the related insurance receivables are based on facts known at the time and a number of assumptions. However, projecting future events, such as the number of new claims to be filed each year, the length of time it takes to defend, resolve, or otherwise dispose of such claims, coverage issues among insurers and the continuing solvency of various insurance companies, as well as the numerous uncertainties surrounding asbestos litigation in the United States, could cause the actual liability and insurance recoveries for us to be higher or lower than those projected or recorded. Additionally, we have claims pending against certain insurers that, if resolved more favorably than reflected in the recorded receivables, would result in discrete gains in the applicable year. Changes recorded in the estimated liability and estimated insurance recovery based on projections of asbestos litigation and corresponding insurance coverage, result in the recognition of additional expense or income. For a discussion pertaining to the activity related to asbestos claims refer to Note 16, "Legal Matters and Contingencies."
Warranty Accruals — Warranty obligations are based upon product failure rates, materials usage, service delivery costs, an analysis of all identified or expected claims and an estimate of the cost to resolve such claims. The estimates of expected claims are generally a factor of historical claims and known product issues. Warranty obligations based on these factors are adjusted based on historical sales trends for the preceding 24 months.
Insurance Accruals — Insurance accruals are recorded for wholly or partially self-insured risks such as medical benefits and workers’ compensation and are based upon an analysis of our claim loss history, insurance deductibles, policy
limits and other relevant factors that are updated annually and are included in accrued liabilities in our consolidated balance sheets. The estimates are based upon information received from actuaries, insurance company adjusters, independent claims administrators or other independent sources. Receivables from insurance carriers are estimated using our historical experience with insurance recovery rates and estimates of future recoveries, which include estimates of coverage and financial viability of our insurance carriers. Estimated receivables are included in accounts receivable, net and other assets, net, as applicable, in our consolidated balance sheets.
Pension and Postretirement Obligations — Determination of pension and postretirement benefits obligations is based on estimates made by management in consultation with independent actuaries and investment advisors. Inherent in these valuations are assumptions including discount rates, expected rates of return on plan assets, retirement rates, mortality rates and rates of compensation increase and other factors all of which are reviewed annually and updated if necessary. Current market conditions, including changes in rates of return, interest rates and medical inflation rates, are considered in selecting these assumptions.
Actuarial gains and losses and prior service costs are recognized in accumulated other comprehensive loss as they arise and we amortize these costs into net pension expense over the remaining expected service period.
Property, Plant and Equipment and Depreciation — Property, plant and equipment are stated at historical cost, less accumulated depreciation. If asset retirement obligations exist, they are capitalized as part of the carrying amount of the asset and depreciated over the remaining useful life of the asset. The useful lives of leasehold improvements are the lesser of the remaining lease term or the useful life of the improvement. When assets are retired or otherwise disposed of, their costs and related accumulated depreciation are removed from the accounts and any resulting gains or losses are included in income from operations for the period. Depreciation is computed by the straight-line method based on the estimated useful lives of the depreciable assets, or in the case of assets under finance leases, over the related lease term. Generally, the estimated useful lives of the assets are:

Buildings and improvements
10 to 40 years
Machinery, equipment and tooling
3 to 14 years
Software, furniture and fixtures and other
3 to 7 years

Costs related to routine repairs and maintenance are expensed as incurred.
Leases — We have operating and finance leases for certain manufacturing facilities, offices, service and quick response centers, machinery, equipment and automobiles. Our leases have remaining lease terms of up to 28 years. The terms and conditions of our leases may include options to extend or terminate the lease which are considered and included in the lease term when these options are reasonably certain of exercise.
We determine if a contract is, or contains, a lease at inception by evaluating whether the contract conveys the right to control the use of an identified asset. For all classes of leased assets, we account for any non-lease components in the contract together with the related lease component in the same unit of account. For lease contracts containing more than one lease component, we allocate the contract consideration to each of the lease components on the basis of relative standalone prices in order to identify the lease payments for each lease component.
Right-of-use ("ROU") assets and lease liabilities are recognized in our consolidated balance sheets at the commencement date based on the present value of remaining lease payments over the lease term. Additionally, ROU assets include any lease payments made at or before the commencement date, as well as any initial direct costs incurred, and are reduced by any lease incentives received. In determining the discount rate used to measure the right-of-use asset and lease liability, we utilize the Company’s incremental borrowing rate and consider the term of the lease, as well as the geographic location of the leased asset. Our incremental borrowing country-specific rate is determined based on information available at the commencement date of the lease.
Operating leases are included in operating lease right-of-use assets, net and operating lease liabilities in our consolidated balance sheets. Finance leases are included in property, plant and equipment, debt due within one year and long-term debt due after one year in our consolidated balance sheets.
For all classes of leased assets, we have applied an accounting policy election to exclude short-term leases from recognition in our consolidated balance sheets. A short-term lease has a lease term of 12 months or less at the commencement date and does not include a purchase option that is reasonably certain of exercise. We recognize short-term lease expense in our consolidated income statements on a straight-line basis over the lease term. Our short-term lease expense and short-term lease commitments as of December 31, 2024 are immaterial.
We have certain lease contracts with terms and conditions that provide for variability in the payment amount based on changes in facts or circumstances occurring after the commencement date. These variable lease payments are recognized in our consolidated income statements as the obligation is incurred.
We have certain lease contracts where we provide a guarantee to the lessor that the value of an underlying asset will be at least a specified amount at the end of the lease. Estimated amounts expected to be paid for residual value guarantees are included in lease liabilities and ROU assets.
Supplier Finance Programs — We partner with two banks to offer our suppliers the option of participating in a supplier financing program and receive payment early. Under the program agreement, we must reimburse each bank for approved and valid invoices in accordance with the originally agreed upon terms with the supplier. We have no obligation for fees; subscription, service, commissions or otherwise with either bank. We also have no obligation for pledged assets or other forms of guarantee and may terminate either program agreement with appropriate notice. As of December 31, 2024, $8.6 million remained outstanding with the supply chain financing partner banks and recorded within accounts payable on our consolidated balance sheet.
The rollforward of our outstanding obligations confirmed as valid under the supplier finance programs for the year ended December 31, 2024 is as follows:
(Amounts in thousands)2024
Obligations outstanding at the beginning of the year
$13,527 
Invoices confirmed
61,198 
Confirmed invoices settled
66,154 
Obligations outstanding at the end of the year$8,571 
Internally Developed Software — We capitalize certain costs associated with the development of internal-use software. Generally, these costs are related to significant software development projects and are amortized over their estimated useful life, typically three to seven years, upon implementation of the software. We also capitalize certain costs incurred during the application development stage of implementation of cloud computing arrangements. Amounts capitalized for cloud arrangements are amortized on a straight-line basis over a period of three to seven years and are reported as a component of other long-term assets.
Intangible Assets — Intangible assets, excluding trademarks (which are considered to have an indefinite life), consist primarily of engineering drawings, patents, existing customer relationships, software, distribution networks, acquired backlog, and other items that are being amortized over their estimated useful lives generally ranging from one to 40 years. These assets are reviewed for impairment whenever events and circumstances indicate impairment may have occurred.
Valuation of Goodwill, Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets and Other Long-Lived Assets — The value of goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets is tested for impairment as of December 31 each year or whenever events or circumstances indicate such assets may be impaired. The identification of our goodwill reporting units begins at the operating segment level and considered whether components one level below the operating segment levels should be identified as reporting units for the purpose of testing goodwill for impairment based on certain conditions. These conditions included, among other factors, (i) the extent to which a component represents a business and (ii) the aggregation of economically similar components within the operating segments based on the similarity of the nature of the products and services, the nature of the production processes, the methods of distribution and the types of industries served. This resulted in two reporting units that are consistent with our operating and reportable segments, FPD and FCD, as no components exist one level below the operating segment levels for which discrete financial information is available for review by segment management.
Accounting Standards Codification ("ASC") 350 allows an optional qualitative assessment, prior to a quantitative assessment test, to determine whether it is more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit exceeds its carrying
amount. For goodwill, we generally do not attempt a qualitative assessment and proceed directly to the quantitative assessment, except in instances where we have completed an acquisition shortly before our annual impairment assessment. If the carrying value of a reporting unit exceeds its fair value, the goodwill of that reporting unit is impaired and an impairment loss is recorded equal to the excess of the carrying value over its fair value. We estimate the fair value of our reporting units based on an income approach, whereby we calculate the fair value of a reporting unit based on the present value of estimated future cash flows. A discounted cash flow analysis requires us to make various judgmental assumptions about future sales, operating margins, growth rates and discount rate, which are based on our budgets, business plans, economic projections, anticipated future cash flows and market participants.
Based on our year-end annual analysis, we did not record an impairment of goodwill in 2024, 2023 or 2022. The FPD reporting unit is primarily focused on highly custom engineered pumps, pre-configured industrial pumps, pump systems, mechanical seals, auxiliary systems and replacement parts and related services. As of December 31, 2024 our FPD reporting unit had approximately $766 million of goodwill and an estimated fair value that exceeded its carrying value. The FCD reporting unit is primarily focused on a broad portfolio of engineered-to-order and configured-to-order isolation valves, control valves, valve automation products and related equipment. As of December 31, 2024 our FCD reporting unit had approximately $521 million of goodwill and an estimated fair value that exceeded its carrying value. The key factors considered in determining the estimated fair value of our reporting units included the annual operating plan and forecasted operating results, successful execution of our current continuous improvement and identified strategic initiatives, cost of capital, continued stabilization and mid to long-term improvement of the macro-economic conditions of the industries we serve, and a relatively stable global gross domestic product. Although we have concluded that there is no impairment on the goodwill associated with our reporting units as of December 31, 2024, we will continue to closely monitor performance and related market conditions for future indicators of potential impairment and reassess accordingly.
We also considered our market capitalization in our evaluation of the fair value of our goodwill. Our market capitalization as of December 31, 2024 was favorable compared with 2023 and did not indicate a potential impairment of our goodwill as of December 31, 2024.
Impairment losses for indefinite-lived intangible assets are recognized whenever the estimated fair value is less than the carrying value. Fair values are calculated for trademarks using a "relief from royalty" method, which estimates the fair value of a trademark by determining the present value of estimated royalty payments that are avoided as a result of owning the trademark. This method includes judgmental assumptions about sales growth and discount rates that have a significant impact on the fair value and are substantially consistent with the assumptions used to determine the fair value of our reporting unit discussed above. We did not record a material impairment of our trademarks in 2024, 2023 or 2022.
The recoverable value of other long-lived assets, including property, plant and equipment and finite-lived intangible assets, is reviewed when indicators of potential impairments are present. The recoverable value is based upon an assessment of the estimated future cash flows related to those assets, utilizing assumptions similar to those for goodwill. Additional considerations related to our long-lived assets include expected maintenance and improvements, changes in expected uses and ongoing operating performance and utilization.
Deferred Loan Costs — Deferred loan costs, consisting of fees and other expenses associated with debt financing, are amortized over the term of the associated debt using the effective interest method. Additional amortization is recorded in periods where optional prepayments on debt are made.
Fair Values of Financial Instruments — Our financial instruments are presented at fair value in our consolidated balance sheets, with the exception of our long-term debt. Fair value is defined as the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date. Where available, fair value is based on observable market prices or parameters or derived from such prices or parameters. Where observable prices or inputs are not available, valuation models may be applied.
Assets and liabilities recorded at fair value in our consolidated balance sheets are categorized based upon the level of judgment associated with the inputs used to measure their fair values. Hierarchical levels, as defined by ASC 820, "Fair Value Measurements and Disclosures," are directly related to the amount of subjectivity associated with the inputs to fair valuation of these assets and liabilities. An asset or a liability’s categorization within the fair value hierarchy is based on the lowest level of significant input to its valuation. Hierarchical levels are as follows:
Level I — Inputs are unadjusted, quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities at the measurement date.
Level II — Inputs (other than quoted prices included in Level I) are either directly or indirectly observable for the asset or liability through correlation with market data at the measurement date and for the duration of the instrument’s anticipated life.
Level III — Inputs reflect management’s best estimate of what market participants would use in pricing the asset or liability at the measurement date. Consideration is given to the risk inherent in the valuation technique and the risk inherent in the inputs to the model.
Recurring fair value measurements are limited to investments in derivative instruments. The fair value measurements of our derivative instruments are determined using models that maximize the use of the observable market inputs including interest rate curves and both forward and spot prices for currencies, and are classified as Level II under the fair value hierarchy. The fair values of our derivative instruments are included in Note 9, "Derivatives and Hedging Activities."
Derivatives and Hedging Activities — We have a foreign currency derivatives and hedging policy outlining the conditions under which we can enter into financial derivative transactions. We do not use derivative instruments for trading or speculative purposes. All derivative instruments are recognized on the balance sheet at their fair values.
We employ a foreign currency economic hedging strategy to mitigate certain financial risks resulting from foreign currency exchange rate movements that impact foreign currency denominated receivables and payables, firm committed transactions and forecasted sales and purchases. The changes in the fair values are recognized immediately in other income (expense), net in the consolidated statements of income. See Note 9, "Derivatives and Hedging Activities," for further discussion of forward exchange contracts.
We are exposed to risk from credit-related losses resulting from nonperformance by counterparties to our financial instruments. We perform credit evaluations of our counterparties and expect all counterparties to meet their obligations. If necessary, we would adjust the values of our derivative contracts for our or our counterparties’ credit risks.
Foreign Currency Translation — Assets and liabilities of our foreign subsidiaries are translated to U.S. dollars at exchange rates prevailing at the balance sheet date, while income and expenses are translated at average rates for each month. Translation gains and losses are reported as a component of accumulated other comprehensive loss. Transactional currency gains and losses arising from transactions in currencies other than our sites’ functional currencies are included in our consolidated results of operations.
Transaction and translation gains and losses arising from intercompany balances are reported as a component of accumulated other comprehensive loss when the underlying transaction stems from a long-term equity investment or from debt designated as not due in the foreseeable future. Otherwise, we recognize transaction gains and losses arising from intercompany transactions in our consolidated statements of income.
Stock-Based Compensation — Stock-based compensation is measured at the grant-date fair value. The exercise price of stock option awards and the value of restricted shares, restricted share units and performance-based unit awards (collectively referred to as "Restricted Shares") are set at the closing price of our common stock on the New York Stock Exchange on the date of grant, which is the date such grants are authorized by our Board of Directors. Restricted share units and performance-based units refer to restricted awards that do not have voting rights and accrue dividends, and are forfeited if vesting does not occur.
The intrinsic value of Restricted Shares, which is typically the product of share price at the date of grant and the number of Restricted Shares granted, is amortized on a straight-line basis to compensation expense over the periods in which the restrictions lapse based on the expected number of shares that will vest. We account for forfeitures as they occur resulting in the reversal of cumulative expense previously recognized.
Earnings Per Share — We use the two-class method of calculating Earnings Per Share ("EPS"), which determines earnings per share for each class of common stock and participating security as if all earnings for the period had been distributed. Unvested restricted share awards that earn non-forfeitable dividend rights qualify as participating securities and, accordingly, are included in the basic computation as such. Our unvested Restricted Shares participate on an equal basis with common shares; therefore, there is no difference in undistributed earnings allocated to each participating security.
Research and Development Expense — Research and development costs are charged to expense when incurred. Aggregate research and development costs included in SG&A were $69.9 million, $48.7 million and $39.9 million in 2024, 2023 and 2022, respectively. Costs incurred for research and development primarily include salaries and benefits and consumable supplies, as well as rent, professional fees, utilities and the depreciation of property and equipment used in research and development activities.

Shipping and Handling Costs — Amounts billed to customers for reimbursement of shipping and handling costs are recorded as revenue when the related revenue is recognized and shipping and handling costs are recognized in COS. All other shipping and handling costs are recognized in COS in the period in which they are incurred.

Business Combination — The total purchase consideration for an acquisition is measured as the fair value of the assets transferred, equity instruments issued, and liabilities assumed at the acquisition date. Costs that are directly attributable to the acquisition are expensed as incurred and included in general and administrative expense in our consolidated statements of income. Identifiable assets (including intangible assets) and liabilities assumed (including contingent liabilities) are measured initially at their fair values at the acquisition date. We recognize goodwill if the fair value of the total purchase consideration is in excess of the net fair value of the identifiable assets acquired and the liabilities assumed. Determining the fair value of assets acquired and liabilities assumed requires us to use significant judgment and estimates including the selection of valuation methodologies, cost of capital, future cash flows, and discount rates. Our estimates of fair value are based on assumptions believed to be reasonable, but which are inherently uncertain and unpredictable and, as a result, actual results may differ from estimates. During the measurement period, not to exceed one year from the date of acquisition, we may record adjustments to the assets acquired and liabilities assumed, with a corresponding offset to goodwill. We include the results of operations of the acquired business in the consolidated financial statements beginning on the acquisition date.
Our business combinations may include earn-out considerations as part of the purchase price that are liability-classified. The fair value of the earn-out consideration is estimated as of the acquisition date based on our estimates and assumptions. The fair value measurement may include inputs that are Level I, II or III under the fair value hierarchy, depending on their nature. Should actual results increase or decrease as compared to the assumption used in our analysis, the fair value of the earn-out consideration obligations will increase or decrease, as applicable. Changes in the fair value of the earn-out consideration are recorded within operating expenses.
Accounting Developments
Pronouncements Implemented
In March 2023, the FASB issued ASU No. 2023-01, "Leases (Topic 842): Common Control Arrangements." The amendments permit leasehold improvements to be amortized over the useful life of the asset when the lessee controls the use of the underlying asset, and the lease is between common control entities. The amendments further allow entities to account for leasehold improvements as a transfer of assets between entities under common control through an equity adjustment when the lessee is no longer in control of the underlying asset. The amendments are effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2023, including interim periods within those fiscal years. The adoption of this ASU did not have a material impact on our consolidated balance sheets, consolidated statements of income or consolidated statements of cash flows.
In March 2023, the FASB issued ASU No. 2023-02, "Equity Method and Joint Ventures (Topic 323): Accounting for Investments in Tax Credit Structures Using the Proportional Amortization Method." The amendments allow companies to account for all of their tax equity investments using the proportional amortization method if certain conditions are met. Companies can elect to apply the proportional amortization method on a tax-credit-program-by-tax-credit-program basis rather than unilaterally or on an individual investment basis. The amendments are effective on either a modified retrospective or retrospective basis for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2023, including interim periods within those fiscal years, depending on whether the company elects to evaluate its investments for which it still expects to receive income tax credits or other income tax benefits as of the beginning of the period of adoption or at the beginning of the earliest period presented. The adoption of this ASU did not have a material impact on our consolidated balance sheets, consolidated statements of income or consolidated statements of cash flows.
In November 2023, the FASB issued ASU No. 2023-07, "Segment Reporting (Topic 280) - Improvements to Reportable Segment Disclosures." The amendments enhance the disclosure requirements of significant segment expenses and other segment items. The amendments are effective for annual periods beginning after December 15, 2023 and interim periods within fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2024. The amendments are to be applied retrospectively to all prior periods presented in the financial statements. Upon transition, the segment expense categories and amounts disclosed in the prior periods should be based on the significant segment expense categories identified and disclosed in the period of adoption. Early adoption is permitted. Our adoption of this ASU effective January 1, 2024, applied retroactively as required, did not have an impact on our consolidated balance sheets, consolidated statements of income or consolidated statements of cash flows. Refer to Note 20, "Business Segment Information," for further implementation Topic 280.
Pronouncements Not Yet Implemented
In August 2023, the FASB issued ASU No. 2023-05, "Business Combinations - Joint Venture Formations (Subtopic 805-60): Recognition and Initial Measurement." The amendments require that newly formed joint ventures measure the net assets and liabilities contributed at fair value. Subsequent measurement is in accordance with the requirements for acquirers of a business in Sections 805-10-35, 805-20-35, and 805-30-35, and other generally accepted accounting principles. The amendments are effective prospectively for all joint venture formations with a formation date on or after January 1, 2025, but companies may elect to apply the amendments retrospectively to joint ventures formed prior to January 1, 2025, if it has sufficient information. Early adoption is permitted in any interim or annual period in which financial statements have not yet been issued (or made available for issuance), either prospectively or retrospectively. We do not expect the impact of this ASU to be material.
In December 2023, the FASB issued ASU No. 2023-08, "Intangibles - Goodwill and Other - Crypto Assets (Subtopic 350-60)." The amendments require that assets that qualify as a crypto asset, in accordance with the new guidance, must be recorded and subsequently valued at fair value at each reporting period, recognizing changes within net income of the same period. The amendments also require that companies present crypto assets measured at fair value separately from other intangible assets on the balance sheet with changes related to the remeasurement of crypto assets reported separately from changes in carrying amounts of other intangible assets in the income statement. Specific disclosure is required around the activity of crypto assets during the reporting period. The amendments are effective for all entities for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2024, including interim periods within those fiscal years. Early adoption is permitted. We do not own crypto assets, and therefore, do not expect the impact of this ASU to be material.
In December 2023, the FASB issued ASU No. 2023-09, "Income Taxes (Topic 740)." The amendments require that entities on an annual basis disclose specific categories in the rate reconciliation, provide additional information for
reconciling items that meet a quantitative threshold, and disclose specific information about income taxes paid. The amendments eliminate previously required disclosures around changes in unrecognized tax benefits and cumulative amounts of certain temporary differences. The amendments are effective prospectively for annual periods beginning after December 15, 2024. Early adoption is permitted. The amendments may be applied prospectively or retrospectively. We are evaluating the impact of this ASU on our disclosures.
In November 2024, the FASB issued ASU No. 2024-03, "Income Statement - Reporting Comprehensive Income - Expense Disaggregation Disclosures (Subtopic 220-40)." The amendments require disclosure of amounts, in the notes to financial statements, of purchases of inventory, employee compensation, depreciation, intangible asset amortization, and depletion for each income statement line item that contains those expenses. Specified expenses, gains and losses that are already disclosed under existing U.S. GAAP are also required to be included in the disaggregated income statement expense line item disclosure. The amendments also require disclosure of the total amount of selling expenses and the entity's definition of selling expenses. The amendments are effective for annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2026. ASU No. 2025-01 on the same topic issued in January 2025 further clarifies the effective date for interim periods. The amendments are effective for interim reporting periods within annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2027. Early adoption is permitted. The amendments may be applied prospectively or retrospectively. We are evaluating the impact of this ASU on our disclosures.