10-Q 1 itw-20160331x10q.htm 10-Q 10-Q


UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
_______________________________________________________

FORM 10-Q
(Mark One)
     [X]
QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE
 
SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
 
 
 
For the quarterly period ended March 31, 2016
 
 
 
OR
 
 
[  ]
TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE
 
SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
 
 
 
For the transition period from _______________ to _______________
 

Commission File Number: 1-4797

ILLINOIS TOOL WORKS INC.
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

Delaware
36-1258310
(State or other jurisdiction of incorporation or organization)
(I.R.S. Employer Identification Number)
 
 
155 Harlem Avenue, Glenview, IL
60025
(Address of principal executive offices)
(Zip Code)

(Registrant’s telephone number, including area code) 847-724-7500

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days.
Yes [X]                        No [ ]

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Web site, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files).
Yes [X]                        No [   ]

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, or a smaller reporting company. See the definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer” and “smaller reporting company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.
Large accelerated filer X                                                                                                Accelerated filer  ___
Non-accelerated filer  ___ (Do not check if a smaller reporting company)                                                                                                                     Smaller reporting company  ___

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act).
Yes [   ]                        No [X]

The number of shares of registrant’s common stock, $0.01 par value, outstanding at March 31, 2016: 359,370,351.







2



Part I – Financial Information

Item 1 – Financial Statements

Illinois Tool Works Inc. and Subsidiaries
Statement of Income (Unaudited)

 
Three Months Ended
 
March 31,
In millions except per share amounts
2016
 
2015
Operating Revenue
$
3,274

 
$
3,342

Cost of revenue
1,896

 
1,970

Selling, administrative, and research and development expenses
597

 
616

Amortization and impairment of intangible assets
59

 
59

Operating Income
722

 
697

Interest expense
(58
)
 
(54
)
Other income (expense)
4

 
21

Income Before Taxes
668

 
664

Income Taxes
200

 
206

Net Income
$
468

 
$
458

 
 
 
 
Net Income Per Share:
 
 
 
Basic
$
1.29

 
$
1.22

Diluted
$
1.29

 
$
1.21

 
 
 
 
Cash Dividends Per Share:
 
 
 
Paid
$
0.55

 
$
0.485

Declared
$
0.55

 
$
0.485

 
 
 
 
Shares of Common Stock Outstanding During the Period:
 
 
 
Average
362.0

 
376.6

Average assuming dilution
363.9

 
379.2


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

3



Illinois Tool Works Inc. and Subsidiaries
Statement of Comprehensive Income (Unaudited)

 
Three Months Ended
 
March 31,
In millions
2016
 
2015
Net Income
$
468

 
$
458

Other Comprehensive Income (Loss):
 
 
 
Foreign currency translation adjustments, net of tax
164

 
(577
)
Pension and other postretirement benefit adjustments, net of tax
8

 
9

Comprehensive Income (Loss)
$
640

 
$
(110
)

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


4



Illinois Tool Works Inc. and Subsidiaries
Statement of Financial Position (Unaudited)

In millions
March 31, 2016
 
December 31, 2015
Assets
 
 
 
Current Assets:
 
 
 
Cash and equivalents
$
2,448

 
$
3,090

Trade receivables
2,394

 
2,203

Inventories
1,134

 
1,086

Prepaid expenses and other current assets
265

 
341

Total current assets
6,241

 
6,720

 
 
 
 
Net plant and equipment
1,598

 
1,577

Goodwill
4,504

 
4,439

Intangible assets
1,501

 
1,560

Deferred income taxes
505

 
346

Other assets
1,088

 
1,087

 
$
15,437

 
$
15,729

 
 
 
 
Liabilities and Stockholders' Equity
 

 
 

Current Liabilities:
 

 
 

Short-term debt
$
650

 
$
526

Accounts payable
525

 
449

Accrued expenses
1,086

 
1,136

Cash dividends payable
198

 
200

Income taxes payable
257

 
57

Total current liabilities
2,716

 
2,368

 
 
 
 
Noncurrent Liabilities:
 

 
 

Long-term debt
6,353

 
6,896

Deferred income taxes
151

 
256

Other liabilities
995

 
981

Total noncurrent liabilities
7,499

 
8,133

 
 
 
 
Stockholders’ Equity:
 

 
 

Common stock
6

 
6

Additional paid-in-capital
1,141

 
1,135

Income reinvested in the business
18,586

 
18,316

Common stock held in treasury
(13,183
)
 
(12,729
)
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)
(1,332
)
 
(1,504
)
Noncontrolling interest
4

 
4

Total stockholders’ equity
5,222

 
5,228

 
$
15,437

 
$
15,729


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

5



Illinois Tool Works Inc. and Subsidiaries
Statement of Cash Flows (Unaudited)
 
Three Months Ended
 
March 31,
In millions
2016
 
2015
Cash Provided by (Used for) Operating Activities:
 
 
 
Net income
$
468

 
$
458

Adjustments to reconcile net income to cash provided by (used for) operating activities:
 

 
 

Depreciation
58

 
59

Amortization and impairment of intangible assets
59

 
59

Change in deferred income taxes
(213
)
 
11

Provision for uncollectible accounts
3

 
2

(Income) loss from investments
(2
)
 
1

(Gain) loss on sale of plant and equipment
1

 

(Gain) loss on sale of operations and affiliates

 
(16
)
Stock-based compensation expense
9

 
14

Other non-cash items, net
4

 
15

Change in assets and liabilities, net of acquisitions and divestitures:
 

 
 

(Increase) decrease in-
 

 
 

Trade receivables
(155
)
 
(173
)
Inventories
(29
)
 
(58
)
Prepaid expenses and other assets
(21
)
 
17

Increase (decrease) in-
 

 
 

Accounts payable
45

 
62

Accrued expenses and other liabilities
(67
)
 
(131
)
Income taxes
318

 
123

Other, net
1

 
(1
)
Net cash provided by (used for) operating activities
479

 
442

Cash Provided by (Used for) Investing Activities:
 

 
 

Acquisition of businesses (excluding cash and equivalents) and additional interest in affiliates
(2
)
 
(2
)
Additions to plant and equipment
(57
)
 
(83
)
Proceeds from investments
6

 
1

Proceeds from sale of plant and equipment
2

 
8

Proceeds from sales of operations and affiliates
1

 
28

Other, net

 
(10
)
Net cash provided by (used for) investing activities
(50
)
 
(58
)
Cash Provided by (Used for) Financing Activities:
 

 
 

Cash dividends paid
(200
)
 
(186
)
Issuance of common stock
39

 
31

Repurchases of common stock
(480
)
 
(1,479
)
Net proceeds from (repayments of) debt with original maturities of three months or less
(525
)
 
233

Excess tax benefits from stock-based compensation
13

 
16

Other, net
(10
)
 
(12
)
Net cash provided by (used for) financing activities
(1,163
)
 
(1,397
)
Effect of Exchange Rate Changes on Cash and Equivalents
92

 
(305
)
Cash and Equivalents:
 

 
 

Increase (decrease) during the period
(642
)
 
(1,318
)
Beginning of period
3,090

 
3,990

End of period
$
2,448

 
$
2,672

Supplementary Cash and Non-Cash Information:
 
 
 
Cash Paid During the Period for Interest
$
65

 
$
65

Cash Paid During the Period for Income Taxes, Net of Refunds
$
70

 
$
42


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

6



Illinois Tool Works Inc. and Subsidiaries
Notes to Financial Statements (Unaudited)

(1)    Financial Statements

The unaudited financial statements included herein have been prepared by Illinois Tool Works Inc. and Subsidiaries (the “Company”). In the opinion of management, the interim financial statements reflect all adjustments of a normal recurring nature necessary for a fair statement of the results for interim periods. It is suggested that these financial statements be read in conjunction with the financial statements and notes to financial statements included in the Company’s 2015 Annual Report on Form 10-K. Certain reclassifications of prior year data have been made to conform with current year reporting.

In May 2014, the Financial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB") issued authoritative guidance to change the criteria for revenue recognition. The core principle of the new standard is that revenue should be recognized to depict the transfer of promised goods or services to customers in an amount that reflects the consideration to which the entity expects to be entitled in exchange for those goods or services. In addition, several new revenue recognition disclosures will be required. This guidance is effective for the Company beginning January 1, 2018. The Company is currently assessing the potential impact the guidance will have upon adoption.

In February 2016, the FASB issued authoritative guidance to change the criteria for recognizing leasing transactions. Under the new guidance, a lessee will be required to recognize a lease liability and lease asset for all leases, including operating leases, with a lease term greater than twelve months in the statement of financial position. Subsequent measurement, including presentation of expenses and cash flows, will depend on the classification of the lease as either a financing or operating lease. In addition, several new disclosures will be required. This guidance is effective for the Company beginning January 1, 2019. The Company is currently assessing the potential impact the guidance will have upon adoption.

In March 2016, the FASB issued authoritative guidance that includes several changes to simplify the accounting for stock-based compensation, including the accounting for income taxes, forfeitures, statutory tax withholding requirements and cash flow statement classification. The new guidance will require recognition of the income tax effects associated with the vesting or settlement of stock-based awards in income tax expense rather than additional paid-in-capital. The income tax effects will also be presented as an operating cash flow in the statement of cash flows rather than a financing activity. This guidance is effective for the Company beginning January 1, 2017, with early adoption permitted. The Company is currently assessing the potential impact the guidance will have upon adoption.

(2)    Income Taxes

The Company and its subsidiaries file tax returns in the U.S. and various state, local and foreign jurisdictions. These tax returns are routinely audited by the tax authorities in these jurisdictions including the Internal Revenue Service ("IRS"), Her Majesty's Revenue and Customs, German Fiscal Authority, French Fiscal Authority, and Australian Tax Office, and a number of these audits are currently ongoing, which may increase the amount of the unrecognized tax benefits in future periods. Due to the ongoing audits, the Company believes it is reasonably possible that within the next twelve months the amount of the Company's unrecognized tax benefits may be decreased by approximately $122 million related predominantly to various intercompany transactions. The Company has recorded its best estimate of the potential exposure for these issues.

On February 18, 2014, the Company received a Notice of Deficiency (“NOD”) from the IRS asserting that a non-taxable return of capital received from a subsidiary was a taxable dividend distribution. The NOD assesses additional taxes of $70 million for the 2006 tax year, plus interest and penalties. In May 2014, the Company petitioned the United States Tax Court to challenge the NOD. The Company's petition was subsequently denied and the case will proceed to court with trial set for the third quarter of 2016. Although the outcome of this process cannot be predicted with certainty, the Company believes it will be successful in defending its positions. Accordingly, no reserve has been recorded related to this matter.











7



(3)    Inventories

Inventories as of March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015 were as follows:
In millions 
March 31, 2016
 
December 31, 2015
Raw material
$
418

 
$
415

Work-in-process
145

 
130

Finished goods
653

 
622

LIFO reserve
(82
)
 
(81
)
Total inventories
$
1,134

 
$
1,086


(4)    Pension and Other Postretirement Benefits

Pension and other postretirement benefit costs for the three months ended March 31, 2016 and 2015, were as follows:

 
Three Months Ended
 
March 31,
 
Pension
 
Other Postretirement Benefits
In millions
2016
 
2015
 
2016
 
2015
Components of net periodic benefit cost:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Service cost
$
16

 
$
18

 
$
2

 
$
3

Interest cost
23

 
23

 
6

 
6

Expected return on plan assets
(37
)
 
(38
)
 
(6
)
 
(6
)
Amortization of actuarial (gain) loss
11

 
15

 

 

Net periodic benefit (income) cost
$
13

 
$
18

 
$
2

 
$
3


The Company expects to contribute approximately $73 million to its pension plans and $5 million to its other postretirement plans in 2016. As of March 31, 2016, contributions of $5 million to pension plans and $1 million to other postretirement plans have been made.

(5)    Debt

Short-term debt as of December 31, 2015 included commercial paper of $498 million. There was no commercial paper outstanding as of March 31, 2016. In addition, in the first quarter of 2016, the Company reclassified $649 million related to the 0.90% notes due February 25, 2017 from Long-term debt to Short-term debt.

The approximate fair value and related carrying value of the Company's total long-term debt, including current maturities of long-term debt presented as short-term debt, as of March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015 were as follows:

In millions
March 31, 2016
 
December 31, 2015
Fair value
$
7,603

 
$
7,153

Carrying value
7,003

 
6,897

 
The approximate fair values of the Company's long-term debt, including current maturities, were based on a Level 2 valuation model, using observable inputs which included market rates for comparable instruments for the respective periods.



8



(6)    Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)

The following table summarizes changes in Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) for the three months ended March 31, 2016 and 2015:

 
Three Months Ended
 
March 31,
In millions
2016
 
2015
Beginning balance
$
(1,504
)
 
$
(658
)
 
 
 
 
Foreign currency translation adjustments during the period
124

 
(527
)
Foreign currency translation adjustments reclassified to income
1

 

Income taxes
39

 
(50
)
Foreign currency translation adjustments, net of tax
164

 
(577
)
 
 
 
 
Pension and other postretirement benefit adjustments during the period
1

 
(2
)
Pension and other postretirement benefit adjustments reclassified to income
11

 
15

Income taxes
(4
)
 
(4
)
Pension and other postretirement benefit adjustments, net of tax
8

 
9

 
 
 
 
Ending balance
$
(1,332
)
 
$
(1,226
)


Pension and other postretirement benefit adjustments reclassified to income relate to the amortization of actuarial losses. Refer to the Pension and Other Postretirement Benefits note for additional information.

The Company designated the €1.0 billion of Euro notes issued in May 2015 and the €1.0 billion of Euro notes issued in May 2014 as hedges of a portion of its net investment in Euro-denominated foreign operations to reduce foreign currency risk associated with the investment in these operations. The carrying values of the Euro notes were $1.1 billion and $1.1 billion, respectively, as of March 31, 2016. Changes in the value of this debt resulting from fluctuations in the Euro to U.S. dollar exchange rate have been recorded as foreign currency translation adjustments within Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss). The unrealized pre-tax gain recorded in Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) related to the net investment hedge was $204 million and $308 million as of March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015, respectively.

The ending balance of Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) as of March 31, 2016 and 2015 consisted of cumulative translation adjustment losses, net of tax, of $961 million and $842 million, respectively, and unrecognized pension and other postretirement benefits costs, net of tax, of $371 million and $384 million, respectively.

(7)    Segment Information

The Company has seven reportable segments: Automotive OEM; Food Equipment; Test & Measurement and Electronics; Welding; Polymers & Fluids; Construction Products; and Specialty Products. See Item 2 - Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations for information regarding operating revenue and operating income for the Company's segments.


9



Item 2 - Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations

INTRODUCTION

Illinois Tool Works Inc. (the "Company" or "ITW") is a global manufacturer of a diversified range of industrial products and equipment with 84 divisions in 57 countries. As of December 31, 2015, the Company employed approximately 48,000 persons.

The Company's operations are organized and managed based on similar product offerings and similar end markets, and are reported to senior management as the following seven segments: Automotive OEM; Food Equipment; Test & Measurement and Electronics; Welding; Polymers & Fluids; Construction Products; and Specialty Products.

Due to the large number of diverse businesses and the Company's decentralized operating structure, the Company does not require its businesses to provide detailed information on operating results. Instead, the Company's corporate management collects data on several key measurements: operating revenue, operating income, operating margin, overhead costs, number of months on hand in inventory, days sales outstanding in accounts receivable, past due receivables and return on invested capital. These key measures are monitored by management and significant changes in operating results versus current trends in end markets and variances from forecasts are discussed with operating unit management.

THE ITW BUSINESS MODEL

The powerful and highly differentiated ITW Business Model is the Company’s core source of value creation. This business model is the Company’s competitive advantage and defines how ITW creates value for its shareholders and comprises three unique elements:

ITW’s 80/20 management process is the operating system that is applied in every ITW business. Initially introduced as a manufacturing efficiency tool in the 1980’s, ITW has continually refined, improved and expanded 80/20 into a proprietary, holistic business management process that generates significant value for the Company. Through the application of data-driven insights generated by 80/20 practice, ITW focuses on its largest and best opportunities (the “80”) and eliminates complexity associated with the less profitable opportunities (the “20”). 80/20 enables ITW businesses to consistently deliver world-class operational excellence in regards to product availability, quality, and innovation, while generating superior financial performance;

Customer-back innovation has fueled decades of profitable growth at ITW. The Company’s unique innovation approach is built on the insight gathered from the 80/20 management process. Working from the customer back, ITW businesses position themselves as the go-to problem solver for their “80” customers. ITW’s innovation efforts are focused on understanding customer needs, particularly those in “80” markets with solid long-term growth fundamentals, and then creating unique solutions to address those needs. These customer insights and learnings drive innovation at ITW and have contributed to a portfolio of more than 16,000 granted and pending patents;

ITW’s decentralized, entrepreneurial culture allows ITW businesses to be fast, focused, and responsive. ITW businesses have significant flexibility within the framework of the ITW Business Model to customize their approach in order to best serve their customers. ITW colleagues are clear about what is expected of them with regard to ITW’s business model, strategy, and values. This leads to a focused and simple organizational structure that, combined with outstanding execution, delivers operational excellence adapted to their specific customers and end markets.

ENTERPRISE STRATEGY

In 2013, ITW began the process of transitioning the Company onto its current strategic path to fully leverage the compelling performance potential of the ITW Business Model. Since then, ITW has made considerable progress, as evidenced by the Company’s strong financial performance over the past three years.

The roots of ITW’s Enterprise Strategy began in 2011-2012, when the Company undertook a complete review of its performance. ITW gathered deep insights from its businesses that were delivering consistent above-market growth with best-in-class margins and returns, and defined a strategy to replicate that performance throughout the Company.

Based on this rigorous and thorough evaluation, ITW determined two paths to deliver world-class financial performance and compelling long-term returns for its shareholders. One, ITW needed to shift the Company's primary growth engine to organic; and two, the Company needed to leverage the ITW Business Model to deliver best-in-class margins and returns.


10



Shift the Company’s Core Growth Engine to Organic

In order to pivot to fully focus on organic growth, the Company needed to first accomplish several preparatory steps. These key initiatives were a major focus of the Company in 2012-2015, which included portfolio management, business structure simplification and strategic sourcing.

The first step, portfolio management, was to construct and maintain a business portfolio capable of delivering consistent above-market organic growth. As part of this initiative to realign the portfolio, ITW exited businesses that were operating in commoditized market spaces and prioritized sustainable differentiation as a must-have requirement for all ITW businesses. This process included both divesting entire businesses and exiting commoditized product lines and customers inside otherwise highly differentiated ITW divisions.

As a result of this work, ITW’s business portfolio now has significantly higher organic growth potential. ITW segments and divisions now possess attractive and differentiated product lines and end markets as they continue to improve margins and generate price/cost increases. This was achieved through product line simplification which focuses on eliminating the complexity and overhead costs associated with smaller product lines and customers, and focuses businesses on supporting and growing their largest customers and product lines. Most of this initiative is complete and ITW businesses are demonstrating notably improved financial performance; the Company expects the remaining product line simplification work to largely be accomplished in 2016.

The second step, business structure simplification, was to scale-up ITW’s operating structure to support increased engineering, marketing, and sales resources, and to improve global reach and competitiveness, all of which were critical to ITW’s ability to drive accelerated organic growth. ITW now has 84 scaled-up divisions with significantly enhanced focus on growth investments, core customers and products, and customer-back innovation.

With the portfolio realignment and scale-up work largely complete, the Company is now able to shift its focus to preparing for, and accelerating, organic growth.

As a third preparatory step, ITW is currently in the process of reapplying 80/20 to optimize its newly scaled-up divisions for growth. This process involves first using 80/20 to build a foundation of operational excellence, and then applying 80/20-driven insights to identify the best opportunities to drive organic growth.

Once the business is operationally excellent and has identified the right growth opportunities, the final step is to accelerate organic growth. The process of preparing for accelerated organic growth generally takes 18 to 24 months.

Based on the financial performance of the divisions that are further along in this process, the Company believes that this framework is capable of delivering above market organic growth in all ITW segments. Many ITW divisions are ready to grow and growing above their respective markets, while the rest of the Company’s divisions are at various phases of preparing to grow. ITW management is fully aligned on this plan and very focused on executing it. By the end of 2016, the Company expects approximately 85 percent of its businesses to be ready to grow.

Leverage the ITW Business Model to Deliver Best-in-Class Margins and Returns

The Company’s work to deliver best-in-class margins and returns is focused on two key areas of ongoing activity. The first is strategic sourcing, where the Company seeks to benefit from its size and scale in procurement processes. Sourcing is now a core strategic and operational capability and this improved competitiveness supports ITW’s organic growth framework. The Company’s 80/20-enabled sourcing organization has delivered an average of 1 percent reduction in spend each year in 2013-2015 and is on track to do the same in 2016 and 2017.

The second element of the margins and returns area of focus is to better leverage the full power of the ITW Business Model through a much more consistent and focused approach to 80/20 best practice implementation across the Company. ITW has clearly defined what excellence in the practice of ITW’s 80/20 management process looks like and the result is significant opportunity to create meaningful incremental improvement in margins and returns as evidenced by the Company’s improvement in both operating margin and after-tax return on invested capital. These 80/20 initiatives can result in restructuring initiatives that reduce costs and improve profitability and returns.



11



TERMS USED BY ITW

Management uses the following terms to describe the financial results of operations of the Company:

Organic business - acquired businesses that have been included in the Company's results of operations for more than 12 months on a constant currency basis.
Operating leverage - the estimated effect of the organic revenue volume changes on organic operating income, assuming variable margins remain the same as the prior period.
Price/cost - represents the estimated net impact of increases or decreases in the cost of materials used in the Company's products versus changes in the selling price to the Company's customers.
Product line simplification (PLS) - focuses businesses on eliminating the complexity and overhead costs associated with smaller product lines and customers, and focuses businesses on supporting and growing their largest customers and product lines; in the short-term, PLS may result in a decrease in revenue and overhead costs while improving operating margin. In the long-term, PLS is expected to result in growth in revenue, profitability, and returns.

Unless otherwise stated, the changes in financial results in the consolidated results of operations and the results of operations by segment represent the current year period versus the comparable period in the prior year. The following discussion of operating results should be read in conjunction with Item 7 - Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations in the Company's 2015 Annual Report on Form 10-K.

CONSOLIDATED RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

In the first quarter, the Company delivered solid financial results primarily attributable to the continued successful execution of enterprise initiatives despite challenging end market conditions and foreign currency translation headwinds.

The Company’s consolidated results of operations for the first quarter of 2016 and 2015 were as follows:

 
Three Months Ended
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Dollars in millions
March 31,
 
Components of Increase (Decrease)
 
2016
 
2015
 
Inc (Dec)
 
Organic
Acq/Div
Restructuring
Impairment
Foreign Currency
Total
Operating revenue
$
3,274

 
$
3,342

 
(2.0
)%
 
0.7
%
(0.1
)%
%
 %
(2.6
)%
(2.0
)%
Operating income
$
722

 
$
697

 
3.7
 %
 
6.2
%
(0.1
)%
0.6
%
(0.4
)%
(2.6
)%
3.7
 %
Operating margin %
22.1
%
 
20.9
%
 
120 bps

 
110 bps


10 bps



120 bps


Operating revenue decreased 2.0% primarily due to the unfavorable effect of foreign currency translation.
Organic revenue grew 0.7% as consumer-facing businesses increased 3.3%, representing approximately 60% of total revenues, partially offset by a decline of 3.1% in the industrial-facing businesses.
Construction Products, Automotive OEM, Food Equipment and Specialty Products had solid worldwide organic revenue growth primarily due to higher end market demand, penetration gains and product innovation. Organic revenue declined in the Welding and Test & Measurement and Electronics segments primarily as a result of lower demand in the oil and gas end markets and the impact of a challenging capital spending environment.
PLS activities associated with the portfolio management component of the Company's Enterprise Strategy reduced organic revenue growth by approximately one percentage point.
North American organic revenue increased 1.8% as growth in the Construction Products, Automotive OEM, Food Equipment and Specialty Products segments was partially offset by a decline in the Welding and Test & Measurement and Electronics segments.
Europe, Middle East and Africa organic revenue increased 0.5%. Growth in the Automotive OEM and Food Equipment segments was partially offset by a decline in the Welding and Test & Measurement and Electronics segments.
Asia Pacific organic revenue decreased 1.8% primarily due to a decline in the Welding and Test & Measurement and Electronics segments, partially offset by growth in the Construction Products segment.
Operating income of $722 million increased 3.7%. Excluding the negative impact from foreign currency translation of 2.6%, operating income would have increased 6.3%.

12



First quarter record operating margin of 22.1% increased 120 basis points primarily due to the benefit of the Company's enterprise initiatives that contributed 130 basis points, favorable price/cost and positive operating leverage each contributed 20 basis points, partially offset by additional investment in the business and overhead inflation.
Diluted earnings per share (EPS) of $1.29 increased 6.6%. Excluding the negative impact of foreign currency of $0.04 per diluted share, EPS would have increased 9.9%.
Free cash flow was $422 million in the first quarter of 2016. Refer to the Cash Flow section of Liquidity and Capital Resources for a reconciliation of this non-GAAP measure.
The Company repurchased approximately 5.3 million shares of its common stock in the first quarter of 2016 for approximately $500 million.
Total cash dividends of $200 million were paid in the first quarter of 2016.
First quarter record adjusted after-tax return on average invested capital was 21.2%, an increase of 180 basis points. Refer to the Adjusted After-Tax Return on Average Invested Capital section of Liquidity and Capital Resources for a reconciliation of this non-GAAP measure.

RESULTS OF OPERATIONS BY SEGMENT

Total operating revenue and operating income for the first quarter of 2016 and 2015 were as follows:

 
Three Months Ended March 31,
Dollars in millions
Operating Revenue
 
Operating Income
 
2016
 
2015
 
2016
 
2015
Automotive OEM
$
656

 
$
653

 
$
173

 
$
163

Food Equipment
499

 
495

 
122

 
112

Test & Measurement and Electronics
464

 
483

 
72

 
71

Welding
389

 
433

 
93

 
117

Polymers & Fluids
418

 
441

 
84

 
88

Construction Products
384

 
381

 
81

 
63

Specialty Products
468

 
462

 
122

 
104

Intersegment revenues
(4
)
 
(6
)
 

 

Unallocated

 

 
(25
)
 
(21
)
Total
$
3,274

 
$
3,342

 
$
722

 
$
697


AUTOMOTIVE OEM

This segment is a global, niche supplier to top tier OEMs, providing unique innovation to address pain points for sophisticated customers with complex problems. Businesses in this segment produce components and fasteners for automotive-related applications. This segment primarily serves the automotive original equipment manufacturers and tiers market. Products in this segment include:

plastic and metal components, fasteners and assemblies for automobiles, light trucks and other industrial uses.

The results of operations for the Automotive OEM segment for the first quarter of 2016 and 2015 were as follows:

 
Three Months Ended
 
 
 
 
 
 
Dollars in millions
March 31,
 
Components of Increase (Decrease)
 
2016
 
2015
 
Inc (Dec)
 
Organic
Acquisition/Divestiture
Restructuring
Foreign Currency
Total
Operating revenue
$
656

 
$
653

 
0.4
%
 
2.7
%
%
 %
(2.3
)%
0.4
%
Operating income
$
173

 
$
163

 
5.7
%
 
8.0
%
%
(0.2
)%
(2.1
)%
5.7
%
Operating margin %
26.4
%
 
25.0
%
 
140 bps

 
130 bps



10 bps

140 bps


Operating revenue increased due to organic revenue growth, partially offset by the unfavorable effect of foreign currency translation.

13



Worldwide automotive organic revenue grew 2.7% as a result of penetration gains, exceeding worldwide auto build growth of 1%.
North American organic revenue grew 4.1%, in line with auto builds for the Detroit 3 where the company has higher content, versus total North America auto build growth of 5%.
European organic revenue growth of 3.3% exceeded auto builds which grew 2%.
Asia Pacific organic revenue increased 0.8%. China organic revenue growth of 5.8% exceeded Chinese auto builds of 4%. Auto builds of foreign automotive manufacturers in China, where the Company has higher content, declined 1%.
Operating margin was 26.4%. The increase of 140 basis points was primarily driven by the net benefits from the Company's enterprise initiatives and cost management of 80 basis points, positive operating leverage of 30 basis points and favorable price/cost of 20 basis points.

FOOD EQUIPMENT

This segment is a highly focused and branded industry-leader in commercial food equipment differentiated by innovation and integrated service offerings. This segment primarily serves the food institutional/restaurant, food service and food retail markets. Products in this segment include:

warewashing equipment;
cooking equipment, including ovens, ranges and broilers;
refrigeration equipment, including refrigerators, freezers and prep tables;
food processing equipment, including slicers, mixers and scales;
kitchen exhaust, ventilation and pollution control systems; and
food equipment service, maintenance and repair.

The results of operations for the Food Equipment segment for the first quarter of 2016 and 2015 were as follows:

 
Three Months Ended
 
 
 
 
 
 
Dollars in millions
March 31,
 
Components of Increase (Decrease)
 
2016
 
2015
 
Inc (Dec)
 
Organic
Acquisition/Divestiture
Restructuring
Foreign Currency
Total
Operating revenue
$
499

 
$
495

 
0.8
%
 
3.2
%
%
 %
(2.4
)%
0.8
%
Operating income
$
122

 
$
112

 
9.3
%
 
11.7
%
%
(0.3
)%
(2.1
)%
9.3
%
Operating margin %
24.5
%
 
22.6
%
 
190 bps

 
180 bps



10 bps

190 bps


Operating revenue increased due to organic revenue growth, partially offset by the unfavorable effect of foreign currency translation.
Organic revenue increased 3.2% as equipment and service organic revenue grew 4.0% and 2.2%, respectively.
North American organic revenue increased 4.6%. North American equipment revenue increased 5.2% primarily due to strong end market demand in the refrigeration and cooking businesses. Service revenue in North America increased 3.7%.
International organic revenue increased 1.4%. International equipment organic revenue increased 2.6% primarily due to growth in Europe and Asia, partially offset by a decline in Brazil. International service organic revenue was essentially flat.
Operating margin was 24.5%. The 190 basis point improvement was primarily driven by positive operating leverage of 70 basis points, the net benefits of the Company's enterprise initiatives and cost management of 60 basis points and favorable price/cost of 50 basis points.


14



TEST & MEASUREMENT AND ELECTRONICS

This segment is a branded and innovative producer of test and measurement and electronic manufacturing and maintenance, repair, and operations, or "MRO" solutions that improve efficiency and quality for customers in diverse end markets. Businesses in this segment produce equipment, consumables, and related software for testing and measuring of materials and structures, as well as equipment and consumables used in the production of electronic subassemblies and microelectronics. This segment primarily serves the electronics, general industrial, industrial capital goods, automotive original equipment manufacturers and tiers, and consumer durables markets. Products in this segment include:

equipment, consumables, and related software for testing and measuring of materials, structures, gases and fluids;
electronic assembly equipment and related consumable solder materials;
electronic components and component packaging;
static control equipment and consumables used for contamination control in clean room environments; and
pressure sensitive adhesives and components for telecommunications, electronics, medical and transportation applications.

The results of operations for the Test & Measurement and Electronics segment for the first quarter of 2016 and 2015 were as follows:

 
Three Months Ended
 
 
 
 
 
 
Dollars in millions
March 31,
 
Components of Increase (Decrease)
 
2016
 
2015
 
Inc (Dec)
 
Organic
Acquisition/Divestiture
Restructuring
Foreign Currency
Total
Operating revenue
$
464

 
$
483

 
(3.9
)%
 
(1.9
)%
%
%
(2.0
)%
(3.9
)%
Operating income
$
72

 
$
71

 
1.6
 %
 
3.5
 %
%
0.5
%
(2.4
)%
1.6
 %
Operating margin %
15.5
%
 
14.7
%
 
80 bps

 
80 bps




80 bps


Operating revenue decreased 3.9% due to the unfavorable effect of foreign currency translation and the decrease in organic revenue.
Organic revenue decreased 1.9%.
Organic revenue for the worldwide test and measurement businesses decreased 2.6% primarily due to the impact of a weak capital spending environment in North America and Europe.
Worldwide electronics organic revenue decreased 1.2% primarily due to a decline in the other electronics businesses, which was driven by PLS activities in the pressure sensitive adhesives businesses in Asia Pacific, partially offset by growth in the electronics assembly businesses in North America.
Operating margin was 15.5%, an increase of 80 basis points. The net benefits resulting from the Company's enterprise initiatives and cost management of 110 basis points and favorable price/cost of 30 basis points were partially offset by negative operating leverage of 60 basis points.

WELDING

This segment is a branded value-added equipment and specialty consumable manufacturer with innovative and leading technology. Businesses in this segment produce arc welding equipment, consumables and accessories for a wide array of industrial and commercial applications. This segment primarily serves the general industrial market, which includes fabrication, shipbuilding and other general industrial markets, and energy, MRO, construction, and industrial capital goods markets. Products in this segment include:

arc welding equipment;
metal arc welding consumables and related accessories; and
metal jacketing and other insulation products.


15



The results of operations for the Welding segment for the first quarter of 2016 and 2015 were as follows:

 
Three Months Ended
 
 
 
 
 
 
Dollars in millions
March 31,
 
Components of Increase (Decrease)
 
2016
 
2015
 
Inc (Dec)
 
Organic
Restructuring
Impairment
Foreign Currency
Total
Operating revenue
$
389

 
$
433

 
(10.0
)%
 
(8.5
)%
 %
 %
(1.5
)%
(10.0
)%
Operating income
$
93

 
$
117

 
(20.0
)%
 
(14.3
)%
(2.7
)%
(2.6
)%
(0.4
)%
(20.0
)%
Operating margin %
23.9
%
 
26.9
%
 
(300) bps

 
(170) bps

(80) bps

(70) bps

20 bps

(300) bps


Operating revenue decreased due to the decline in organic revenue and the unfavorable effect of foreign currency translation.
Worldwide organic revenue decreased 8.5% due to the impact of a soft capital spending environment and lower demand in the oil and gas end markets.
North American organic revenue declined 6.6% primarily due to decreases across the oil and gas and industrial end markets.
International organic revenue decreased 14.9% primarily due to weak oil and gas end markets in Asia Pacific and Europe.
Operating margin was 23.9%. The decline of 300 basis points was primarily due to negative operating leverage of 150 basis points, lower variable margins due to product mix from lower sales of higher margin equipment, higher restructuring expenses and the unfavorable impact of intangible asset impairment, partially offset by the net benefits of the Company's enterprise initiatives and cost management of 80 basis points.

POLYMERS & FLUIDS

This segment is a highly branded supplier to niche markets that require value-added, differentiated products. Businesses in this segment produce adhesives, sealants, lubrication and cutting fluids, and fluids and polymers for auto aftermarket maintenance and appearance. This segment primarily serves the automotive aftermarket, general industrial, MRO, and construction markets. Products in this segment include:

adhesives for industrial, construction and consumer purposes;
chemical fluids which clean or add lubrication to machines;
epoxy and resin-based coating products for industrial applications;
hand wipes and cleaners for industrial applications;
fluids, polymers and other supplies for auto aftermarket maintenance and appearance;
fillers and putties for auto body repair; and
polyester coatings and patch and repair products for the marine industry.

The results of operations for the Polymers & Fluids segment for the first quarter of 2016 and 2015 were as follows:

 
Three Months Ended
 
 
 
 
 
 
Dollars in millions
March 31,
 
Components of Increase (Decrease)
 
2016
 
2015
 
Inc (Dec)
 
Organic
Acquisition/Divestiture
Restructuring
Foreign Currency
Total
Operating revenue
$
418

 
$
441

 
(5.1
)%
 
0.6
 %
(0.9
)%
%
(4.8
)%
(5.1
)%
Operating income
$
84

 
$
88

 
(4.2
)%
 
(0.7
)%
(1.0
)%
1.2
%
(3.7
)%
(4.2
)%
Operating margin %
20.2
%
 
20.0
%
 
20 bps

 
(20) bps


20 bps

20 bps

20 bps


Operating revenue decreased primarily due to the unfavorable effect of foreign currency translation.
Organic revenue increased primarily due to stronger demand in North American end markets.
Organic revenue for the worldwide automotive aftermarket businesses increased 1.6%, primarily in North America. Worldwide fluids businesses increased 0.3%, as an increase in North America was partially offset by a decrease in Europe. Organic revenue for the worldwide polymers businesses decreased 0.9% primarily driven by revenue declines in North America.

16



Operating margin was 20.2%. The 20 basis point improvement was primarily driven by the net benefits of the Company's enterprise initiatives and cost management of 70 basis points, favorable operating leverage of 20 basis points and lower restructuring expenses, partially offset by a first quarter 2015 discrete claim recovery of 90 basis points.

CONSTRUCTION PRODUCTS

This segment is a branded supplier of innovative engineered fastening systems and solutions. This segment primarily serves the residential construction, renovation/remodel construction and commercial construction markets. Products in this segment include:

fasteners and related fastening tools for wood and metal applications;
anchors, fasteners and related tools for concrete applications;
metal plate truss components and related equipment and software; and
packaged hardware, fasteners, anchors and other products for retail.

The results of operations for the Construction Products segment for the first quarter of 2016 and 2015 were as follows:

 
Three Months Ended
 
 
 
 
 
 
Dollars in millions
March 31,
 
Components of Increase (Decrease)
 
2016
 
2015
 
Inc (Dec)
 
Organic
Acquisition/Divestiture
Restructuring
Foreign Currency
Total
Operating revenue
$
384

 
$
381

 
0.8
%
 
4.9
%
(0.1
)%
%
(4.0
)%
0.8
%
Operating income
$
81

 
$
63

 
27.7
%
 
25.2
%
 %
7.6
%
(5.1
)%
27.7
%
Operating margin %
21.0
%
 
16.6
%
 
440 bps

 
320 bps


120 bps


440 bps


Operating revenue increased primarily due to organic revenue growth, partially offset by the unfavorable effect of foreign currency translation.
Organic revenue increased 4.9% driven by growth in all major regions.
North American organic revenue increased 10.6% primarily due to an increase in demand in renovation/remodel of 21.6%, commercial of 8.1% and residential of 2.3%.
International organic revenue increased 1.2%. Asia Pacific organic revenue increased 2.1% primarily due to growth in Australia and New Zealand. European organic revenue increased 0.4%.
Operating margin of 21.0% improved 440 basis points. The improvement was primarily driven by positive operating leverage of 130 basis points, favorable price/cost of 120 basis points, lower restructuring expenses and the net benefits of the Company's enterprise initiatives and cost management of 70 basis points.

SPECIALTY PRODUCTS

This segment is focused on diversified niche market opportunities that deliver strong operating results with substantial patent protection producing beverage packaging equipment and consumables, product coding and marking equipment and consumables, and appliance components and fasteners. This segment primarily serves the food and beverage, consumer durables, general industrial, printing and publishing and industrial capital goods markets. Products in this segment include:

line integration, conveyor systems and line automation for the food and beverage industries;
plastic consumables that multi-pack cans and bottles and related equipment;
foil, film and related equipment used to decorate consumer products;
product coding and marking equipment and related consumables;
plastic and metal fasteners and components for appliances;
airport ground support equipment; and
components for medical devices.


17



The results of operations for the Specialty Products segment for the first quarter of 2016 and 2015 were as follows:

 
Three Months Ended
 
 
 
 
 
 
Dollars in millions
March 31,
 
Components of Increase (Decrease)
 
2016
 
2015
 
Inc (Dec)
 
Organic
Acquisition/Divestiture
Restructuring
Foreign Currency
Total
Operating revenue
$
468

 
$
462

 
1.4
%
 
3.3
%
%
%
(1.9
)%
1.4
%
Operating income
$
122

 
$
104

 
16.9
%
 
16.7
%
%
2.1
%
(1.9
)%
16.9
%
Operating margin %
26.1
%
 
22.6
%
 
350 bps

 
290 bps


60 bps


350 bps


Operating revenue increased due to organic revenue growth, partially offset by the unfavorable effect of foreign currency translation.
Organic revenue increased 3.3% due to strength in the consumer packaging businesses, primarily in North America.
North American and International organic revenue increased 5.2% and 0.2%, respectively.
Operating margin was 26.1%. The increase of 350 basis points was primarily driven by the net benefits of the Company's enterprise initiatives and cost management of 220 basis points, positive operating leverage of 80 basis points and lower restructuring expenses.

OTHER FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS

Interest expense was $58 million in 2016, an increase from $54 million in 2015, primarily due to Euro notes issued in May 2015.
Other income (expense) was income of $4 million in 2016 compared to income of $21 million in the prior year. The decrease was primarily due to a $15 million gain on the sale of a business in the first quarter of 2015 and lower interest income in 2016, partially offset by a decrease in an equity investment loss.
The effective tax rate for the first quarter of 2016 was 30.0% compared to 31.0% in 2015.

NEW ACCOUNTING PRONOUNCEMENTS

In May 2014, the Financial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB") issued authoritative guidance to change the criteria for revenue recognition. The core principle of the new standard is that revenue should be recognized to depict the transfer of promised goods or services to customers in an amount that reflects the consideration to which the entity expects to be entitled in exchange for those goods or services. In addition, several new revenue recognition disclosures will be required. This guidance is effective for the Company beginning January 1, 2018. The Company is currently assessing the potential impact the guidance will have upon adoption.

In February 2016, the FASB issued authoritative guidance to change the criteria for recognizing leasing transactions. Under the new guidance, a lessee will be required to recognize a lease liability and lease asset for all leases, including operating leases, with a lease term greater than twelve months in the statement of financial position. Subsequent measurement, including presentation of expenses and cash flows, will depend on the classification of the lease as either a financing or operating lease. In addition, several new disclosures will be required. This guidance is effective for the Company beginning January 1, 2019. The Company is currently assessing the potential impact the guidance will have upon adoption.

In March 2016, the FASB issued authoritative guidance that includes several changes to simplify the accounting for stock-based compensation, including the accounting for income taxes, forfeitures, statutory tax withholding requirements and cash flow statement classification. The new guidance will require recognition of the income tax effects associated with the vesting or settlement of stock-based awards in income tax expense rather than additional paid-in-capital. The income tax effects will also be presented as an operating cash flow in the statement of cash flows rather than a financing activity. This guidance is effective for the Company beginning January 1, 2017, with early adoption permitted. The Company is currently assessing the potential impact the guidance will have upon adoption.


18



LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES

The Company’s primary sources of liquidity are free cash flow and short-term credit facilities. In addition, the Company had $2.4 billion of cash on hand at March 31, 2016 and also maintains strong access to public debt markets. Management believes that these sources are sufficient to service debt and to finance the Company's capital allocation priorities, which include:

internal investments to support organic growth and sustain core businesses;
payment of an attractive dividend to shareholders; and
external investments in selective strategic acquisitions that support organic growth focus and an active share repurchase program.

The Company believes that, based on its revenue, operating margin, current free cash flow, and credit ratings, it could readily obtain additional financing if necessary.

Cash Flow

The Company uses free cash flow to measure cash flow generated by operations that is available for dividends, share repurchases, acquisitions and debt repayment. The Company believes this non-GAAP financial measure is useful to investors in evaluating the Company's financial performance and measures the Company's ability to generate cash internally to fund Company initiatives. Free cash flow represents net cash provided by operating activities less additions to plant and equipment. Free cash flow is a measurement that is not the same as net cash flow from operating activities per the statement of cash flows and may not be consistent with similarly titled measures used by other companies. Summarized cash flow information for the first quarter of 2016 and 2015 was as follows:

 
Three Months Ended
 
March 31,
In millions
2016
 
2015
Net cash provided by operating activities
$
479

 
$
442

Additions to plant and equipment
(57
)
 
(83
)
Free cash flow
$
422

 
$
359

 
 
 
 
Cash dividends paid
$
(200
)
 
$
(186
)
Repurchases of common stock
(480
)
 
(1,479
)
Acquisition of businesses (excluding cash and equivalents) and additional interest in affiliates
(2
)
 
(2
)
Net proceeds from (repayment of) debt
(525
)
 
233

Other
51

 
62

Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and equivalents
92

 
(305
)
Net increase (decrease) in cash and equivalents
$
(642
)
 
$
(1,318
)

Stock Repurchase Programs

On August 2, 2013, the Company's Board of Directors authorized a stock repurchase program which provided for the buyback of up to $6.0 billion of the Company's common stock over an open-ended period of time (the “2013 Program”). Under the 2013 Program, the Company repurchased approximately 14.9 million shares of its common stock at an average price of $96.84 in the first quarter of 2015. The 2013 Program was completed in the first quarter of 2015.

On February 13, 2015, the Company's Board of Directors authorized a new stock repurchase program which provides for the buyback of up to $6.0 billion of the Company's common stock over an open-ended period of time (the “2015 Program”). Under the 2015 Program, the Company repurchased approximately 1.6 million shares of its common stock at an average price of $97.19 in the first quarter of 2015, approximately 1.9 million shares of its common stock at an average price of $97.19 in the second quarter of 2015, approximately 2.6 million shares of its common stock at an average price of $84.45 in the third quarter of 2015 and approximately 5.3 million shares of its common stock at an average price of $94.07 in the first quarter of 2016. As of March 31, 2016, there were approximately $4.9 billion of authorized repurchases remaining under the 2015 Program.


19



Adjusted After-Tax Return on Average Invested Capital

The Company uses adjusted after-tax return on average invested capital ("ROIC") to measure the effectiveness of its operations’ use of invested capital to generate profits. ROIC is a non-GAAP financial measure that the Company believes is a meaningful metric to investors in evaluating the Company’s financial performance and may be different than the method used by other companies to calculate ROIC. Adjusted average invested capital represents the net assets of the Company, excluding cash and equivalents and outstanding debt, which are excluded as they do not represent capital investment in the Company's operations, as well as the Company's equity investment in the Wilsonart business (formerly the Decorative Surfaces segment). Average invested capital is calculated using balances at the start of the period and at the end of each quarter.

ROIC for the first quarter of 2016 and 2015 was as follows:

 
Three Months Ended

March 31,
Dollars in millions
2016
 
2015
Operating income
$
722

 
$
697

Tax rate
30.0
%
 
31.0
%
Income taxes
(216
)
 
(216
)
Operating income after taxes
$
506

 
$
481

 
 
 
 
Invested capital:
 
 
 
Trade receivables
$
2,394

 
$
2,367

Inventories
1,134

 
1,187

Net plant and equipment
1,598

 
1,624

Goodwill and intangible assets
6,005

 
6,231

Accounts payable and accrued expenses
(1,611
)
 
(1,752
)
Other, net
257

 
169

Total invested capital
$
9,777

 
$
9,826

 
 
 
 
Average invested capital
$
9,668

 
$
10,039

Adjustment for Wilsonart (formerly the Decorative Surfaces segment)
(111
)
 
(130
)
Adjusted average invested capital
$
9,557

 
$
9,909

Adjusted return on average invested capital
21.2
%
 
19.4
%

ROIC increased 180 basis points for the quarter ended March 31, 2016 compared to 2015 as a result of a 5.2% improvement in after-tax operating income and a 3.6% decrease in adjusted average invested capital.


20




Working Capital

Management uses working capital as a measurement of the short-term liquidity of the Company. Net working capital as of March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015 is summarized as follows:

Dollars in millions
March 31, 2016
 
December 31, 2015
 
Increase/
(Decrease)
Current assets:
 
 
 
 
 
Cash and equivalents
$
2,448

 
$
3,090

 
$
(642
)
Trade receivables
2,394

 
2,203

 
191

Inventories
1,134

 
1,086

 
48

Other
265

 
341

 
(76
)
Total current assets
6,241

 
6,720

 
(479
)
Current liabilities:
 
 
 
 
 
Short-term debt
650

 
526

 
124

Accounts payable and accrued expenses
1,611

 
1,585

 
26

Other
455

 
257

 
198

Total current liabilities
2,716

 
2,368

 
348

Net working capital
$
3,525

 
$
4,352

 
$
(827
)

The decrease in net working capital as of March 31, 2016 was primarily driven by lower cash and equivalents which were used to fund share repurchases.

Cash and equivalents totaled approximately $2.4 billion as of March 31, 2016 and $3.1 billion as of December 31, 2015, primarily all of which was held by international subsidiaries. The reduction in cash on hand was primarily driven by the share repurchases discussed above. Cash and equivalents held internationally may be subject to U.S. income taxes and foreign withholding taxes if repatriated to the U.S. Cash and equivalents balances held internationally are typically used for international operating needs, reinvested to fund expansion of existing international businesses, used to fund new international acquisitions, or used to repay debt held internationally. In the U.S., the Company utilizes cash flows from domestic operations to fund domestic cash needs, which primarily consist of dividend payments, share repurchases, acquisitions, servicing of domestic debt obligations and general corporate needs. The Company also uses its commercial paper program, which is backed by long-term credit facilities, for short-term liquidity needs. The Company believes cash generated domestically and liquidity provided by the Company's commercial paper program will continue to be sufficient to fund cash requirements in the U.S.

Debt

Total debt as of March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015 was as follows:
In millions
March 31, 2016
 
December 31, 2015
Short-term debt
$
650

 
$
526

Long-term debt
6,353

 
6,896

Total debt
$
7,003

 
$
7,422


Short-term debt as of December 31, 2015 included commercial paper of $498 million. There was no commercial paper outstanding as of March 31, 2016. In addition, in the first quarter of 2016, the Company reclassified $649 million related to the 0.90% notes due February 25, 2017 from Long-term debt to Short-term debt.

Total Debt to EBITDA

The Company uses the ratio of total debt to EBITDA to measure its ability to repay its outstanding debt obligations. The Company believes that total debt to EBITDA is a meaningful metric to investors in evaluating the Company’s long term financial liquidity and may be different than the method used by other companies to calculate total debt to EBITDA. EBITDA and the ratio of total debt to EBITDA are non-GAAP financial measures. The ratio of total debt to EBITDA represents total debt divided by net income before interest expense, other income (expense), income taxes, depreciation and amortization and impairment of intangible assets on a trailing twelve month basis.

21




Total debt to EBITDA for the trailing twelve month periods ended March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015 was as follows:

Dollars in millions
March 31, 2016
 
December 31, 2015
Total debt
$
7,003

 
$
7,422

 
 
 
 
Net income
$
1,909

 
$
1,899

Add:
 
 
 
Interest expense
230

 
226

Other income
(61
)
 
(78
)
Income taxes
814

 
820

Depreciation
243

 
244

Amortization and impairment of intangible assets
233

 
233

EBITDA
$
3,368

 
$
3,344

Total debt to EBITDA ratio
2.1

 
2.2


Stockholders’ Equity

The changes to stockholders’ equity during 2016 were as follows:

In millions
 
Total stockholders’ equity, December 31, 2015
$
5,228

Net income
468

Cash dividends declared
(198
)
Repurchases of common stock
(500
)
Stock option and restricted stock activity
51

Foreign currency translation adjustments, net of tax
164

Other
9

Total stockholders’ equity, March 31, 2016
$
5,222


FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

This document contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements may be identified by the use of words such as "believe," "expect," "plans," "intends," "may," "strategy," "prospects," "estimate," "project," "target," "anticipate," "guidance," "forecast," and other similar words, including, without limitation, statements regarding the expected acquisition or disposition of businesses, economic conditions in various geographic regions, the timing and amount of share repurchases, the Company's Enterprise Strategy and its ability to manage its strategic business initiatives and the timing and amount of benefits therefrom, the adequacy of internally generated funds and credit facilities to service debt and finance the Company's capital allocation priorities, the sufficiency of U.S. generated cash to fund cash requirements in the U.S., the cost and availability of additional financing, the Company's portion of future benefit payments related to pension and postretirement benefits, the availability of raw materials and energy, the expiration of any one of the Company's patents, the cost of compliance with environmental regulations, the likelihood of future or intangible asset impairment charges, the impact of failure of the Company's employees to comply with applicable laws and regulations, the impact of foreign currency fluctuations, the outcome of outstanding legal proceedings, the impact of adopting new accounting pronouncements, and the estimated timing and amount related to the resolution of tax matters. These statements are subject to certain risks, uncertainties, and other factors, which could cause actual results to differ materially from those anticipated. Important risks that may influence future results include (1) weaknesses or downturns in the markets served by the Company, (2) changes or deterioration in international and domestic political and economic conditions, (3) the timing and amount of benefits from the Company’s enterprise initiatives and their impact on organic revenue growth, (4) market conditions and availability of financing to fund the Company's share repurchases, (5) the risk of intentional acts of the Company's employees, agents or business partners that violate anti-corruption and other laws, (6) the unfavorable impact of foreign currency fluctuations, (7) a delay in, or reduction in, introducing new products into the Company’s product lines or failure to protect the Company's intellectual property, (8) negative effects of divestitures, including retained liabilities and unknown

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contingent liabilities, (9) potential negative impact of impairments to goodwill and other intangible assets on the Company’s profitability and return on invested capital, (10) increases in funding costs or decreases in credit availability due to market conditions or changes to the Company's credit ratings, (11) raw material price increases and supply shortages, (12) unfavorable tax law changes and tax authority rulings, (13) financial market risks to the Company’s obligations under its defined benefit pension plans, (14) potential adverse outcomes in legal proceedings, (15) negative effects of service interruptions, data corruption, cyber-based attacks or network security breaches and (16) the potential negative impact of acquisitions on the Company’s profitability and returns. A more detailed description of these risks is contained in the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2015 and updated in Part II - Other Information - Item 1A - Risk Factors below. These risks are not all inclusive and given these and other possible risks and uncertainties, investors should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements as a prediction of actual results.

Any forward-looking statements made by the Company speak only as of the date on which they are made. The Company is under no obligation to, and expressly disclaims any obligation to, update or alter its forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, subsequent events or otherwise.

The Company practices fair disclosure for all interested parties. Investors should be aware that while the Company regularly communicates with securities analysts and other investment professionals, it is against the Company's policy to disclose to them any material non-public information or other confidential commercial information. Shareholders should not assume that the Company agrees with any statement or report issued by any analyst irrespective of the content of the statement or report.

Item 4 – Controls and Procedures

The Company carried out an evaluation, under the supervision and with the participation of the Company’s Chairman & Chief Executive Officer and Senior Vice President & Chief Financial Officer of the effectiveness of the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rule 13a–15(e)) as of March 31, 2016. Based on such evaluation, the Company’s Chairman & Chief Executive Officer and Senior Vice President & Chief Financial Officer have concluded that, as of March 31, 2016, the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures were effective.

In connection with the evaluation by management, including the Company's Chairman & Chief Executive Officer and Senior Vice President & Chief Financial Officer, no changes in the Company's internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Exchange Act Rule 13a-15(f)) during the quarter ended March 31, 2016 were identified that have materially affected or are reasonably likely to materially affect the Company's internal control over financial reporting.

Part II – Other Information

Item 1A - Risk Factors

The Company's business, financial condition, results of operations and cash flows are subject to various risks which could cause actual results to vary materially from recent results or from anticipated future results. The following is an update to the Company’s risk factors and should be read in conjunction with the risk factors previously disclosed in Part I - Item 1A - Risk Factors in the Company's 2015 Annual Report on Form 10-K.

The Company's acquisition of businesses could negatively impact its profitability and returns. Acquisitions, including the Company’s recently announced agreement to acquire the Engineered Fasteners and Components business from ZF TRW, involve a number of risks and financial, accounting, managerial and operational challenges, including the following, any of which could adversely affect the Company's profitability and returns:
The acquired business could under-perform relative to the Company’s expectations and the price paid for it, or not perform in accordance with the Company’s anticipated timetable.
The acquired business could cause the Company's financial results to differ from expectations in any given fiscal period, or over the long term.
Acquisition-related earnings charges could adversely impact operating results.
The acquired business could place unanticipated demands on the Company's management, operational resources and financial and internal control systems.
The Company may assume unknown liabilities, known contingent liabilities that become realized or known liabilities that prove greater than anticipated, internal control deficiencies or exposure to regulatory sanctions resulting from the acquired business’s activities. The realization of any of these liabilities or deficiencies may increase the Company's expenses, adversely affect its financial position or cause noncompliance with its financial reporting obligations.

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As a result of acquisitions, the Company has in the past recorded significant goodwill and other identifiable intangible assets on its balance sheet. If the Company is not able to realize the value of these assets, it may recognize charges relating to the impairment of these assets.

Item 2 – Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

On February 13, 2015, the Company's Board of Directors authorized a stock repurchase program which provides for the repurchase of up to $6.0 billion of the Company's common stock over an open-ended period of time (the “2015 Program”). As of March 31, 2016, there were approximately $4.9 billion of authorized repurchases remaining under the 2015 Program.

Share repurchase activity under the Company's share repurchase program for the first quarter of 2016 was as follows:

In millions except per share amounts
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Period
 
Total Number of Shares Purchased
 
Average Price Paid Per Share
 
Total Number of Shares Purchased as Part of Publicly Announced Program
 
Maximum Value of Shares That May Yet Be Purchased Under Program
January 2016
 
0.4

 
$
88.31

 
0.4

 
$
5,414

February 2016
 
2.8

 
$
91.39

 
2.8

 
$
5,155

March 2016
 
2.1

 
$
98.65

 
2.1

 
$
4,946

Total
 
5.3

 
 
 
5.3

 
 


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Item 6 – Exhibits
Exhibit Index
Exhibit Number
 
Exhibit Description
10.1
 
Terms of Option Grant pursuant to the Illinois Tool Works Inc. 2015 Long-Term Incentive Plan filed as Exhibit 99.1 to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K filed on February 9, 2016.
 
 
 
10.2
 
Terms of Restricted Stock Unit Grant pursuant to the Illinois Tool Works Inc. 2015 Long-Term Incentive Plan filed as Exhibit 99.2 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on February 9, 2016.
 
 
 
10.3
 
Terms of Performance Restricted Stock Unit Grant Pursuant to the Illinois Tool Works Inc. 2015 Long-Term Incentive Plan filed as Exhibit 99.3 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on February 9, 2016.
 
 
 
10.4
 
Terms of Long-Term Incentive Cash Grant pursuant to the Illinois Tool Works Inc. 2015 Long-Term Incentive Plan filed as Exhibit 99.4 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on February 9, 2016.
 
 
 
31
 
Rule 13a-14(a) Certification.
 
 
 
32
 
Section 1350 Certification.
 
 
 
101
 
The following financial and related information from the Illinois Tool Works Inc. Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended March 31, 2016 is formatted in Extensible Business Reporting Language (XBRL) and submitted electronically herewith: (i) Statement of Income, (ii) Statement of Comprehensive Income, (iii) Statement of Financial Position, (iv) Statement of Cash Flows and (v) related Notes to Financial Statements.


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SIGNATURES

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.

 
 
 
 
 
 
ILLINOIS TOOL WORKS INC.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Dated:
May 5, 2016
By:
/s/ Randall J. Scheuneman
 
 
 
Randall J. Scheuneman
 
 
 
Vice President & Chief Accounting Officer
 
 
 
(Principal Accounting Officer and Duly Authorized Officer)

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