Item 7. Management’s Discussion and Analysis
Item 7. Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations
Presentation of Information
Unless the context requires otherwise, references to "Adient plc" or "Adient" refer to Adient plc and its consolidated subsidiaries. The information presented herein are based on management’s perspective of Adient’s results of operations.
Forward-Looking Statements
Adient has made statements in this section and other parts of this Annual Report on Form 10-K that are management’s perspective of forward-looking information and, therefore, are subject to risks and uncertainties. All statements in this Form 10-K other than statements of historical fact are statements that are, or could be, deemed "forward-looking statements", within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. In this Form 10-K, statements regarding Adient's future financial position, sales, costs, earnings, cash flows, other measures of results of operations, capital expenditures or debt levels and plans, objectives, outlook, targets, guidance or goals are forward-looking statements. Words such as "future," "may," "will," "would," "could," "can," "expect," "intend," "estimate," "anticipate," "believe," "should," "forecast," "predict," "project" or "plan" or terms of similar meaning are also generally intended to identify forward-looking statements. Adient cautions that
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these statements are subject to numerous important risks, uncertainties, assumptions and other factors, some of which are beyond Adient’s control, that could cause Adient’s actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements, including, among others, risks related to: the effects of local and national economic, credit and capital market conditions (including the persistence of high interest rates and volatile currency exchange rates) on the global economy, work stoppages, including due to strikes (such as the UAW strike in the U.S. that commenced in September 2023), supply chain disruptions and similar events, wage inflationary pressures due to labor shortages and new labor negotiations, volatile energy markets, Adient’s ability and timing of customer recoveries for increased input costs, the availability of raw materials and component products (including components required by our customers for the manufacture of vehicles), geopolitical uncertainties such as the Ukraine and Middle East conflicts and the impact on the regional and global economies and additional pressure on supply chain and vehicle production, the ability of Adient to execute its restructuring plans and achieve the desired benefit, automotive vehicle production levels, mix and schedules, as well as our concentration of exposure to certain automotive manufacturers, the ability of Adient to effectively launch new business at forecast and profitable levels, the ability of Adient to meet debt service requirements and, terms of future financing, the impact of global tax reform legislation, uncertainties in U.S. administrative policy regarding trade agreements, tariffs and other international trade relations, shifts in market shares among vehicles, vehicle segments or away from vehicles on which Adient has significant content, changes in consumer demand, global climate change and related emphasis on ESG matters by various stakeholders, and the ability of Adient to achieve its ESG-related goals, cancellation of or changes to commercial arrangements, and the ability of Adient to identify, recruit and retain key leadership. Potential investors and others should consider these factors in evaluating the forward-looking statements and should not place undue reliance on such statements. Additional information regarding these and other risks related to Adient’s business that could cause actual results to differ materially from what is contained in the forward-looking statements is included in the section entitled "Risk Factors," contained in Part I, Item 1A, which are incorporated herein by reference. The following discussion should be read in conjunction with the consolidated financial statements and notes thereto included in Part II, Item 8 of this Form 10-K. All information presented herein is based on Adient's fiscal calendar. Unless otherwise stated, references to particular years, quarters, months or periods refer to Adient's fiscal years ended in September and the associated quarters, months and periods of those fiscal years. The forward-looking statements included in this Form 10-K are made only as of the date of this report, unless otherwise specified, and, except as required by law, Adient assumes no obligation, and disclaims any obligation, to update such statements to reflect events or circumstances occurring after the date of this Form 10-K.
Overview
Adient is a global leader in the automotive seating supply industry with relationships with the largest global auto manufacturers. Adient's technologies extend into virtually every area of automotive seating solutions, including complete seating systems, frames, mechanisms, foam, head restraints, armrests and trim covers. Adient is an independent seat supplier with global scale and the capability to design, develop, engineer, manufacture and deliver complete seat systems and components in every major automotive producing region in the world.
Adient designs, manufactures and markets a full range of seating systems and components for passenger cars, commercial vehicles and light trucks, including vans, pick-up trucks and sport/crossover utility vehicles. Adient operates more than 200 wholly- and majority-owned manufacturing or assembly facilities, with operations in 29 countries. Additionally, Adient has partially-owned affiliates in China, Asia, Europe and North America. Through its global footprint and vertical integration, Adient leverages its capabilities to drive growth in the automotive seating industry.
Adient manages its business on a geographic basis and operates in the following three reportable segments for financial reporting purposes: 1) Americas, which is inclusive of North America and South America; 2) Europe, the Middle East and Africa (“EMEA”) and 3) Asia Pacific/China (“Asia”).
Adient evaluates the performance of its reportable segments using an adjusted EBITDA metric defined as income before income taxes and noncontrolling interests, excluding net financing charges, restructuring and impairment costs, restructuring related-costs, net mark-to-market adjustments on pension and postretirement plans, transaction gains/losses, purchase accounting amortization, depreciation, stock-based compensation and other non-recurring items (“Adjusted EBITDA”). Also, certain corporate-related costs are not allocated to the segments. The reportable segments are consistent with how management views the markets served by Adient and reflect the financial information that is reviewed by its chief operating decision maker. Refer to Note 17, "Segment Information," of the notes to the consolidated financial statements for additional information on Adient's reportable segments.
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Factors Affecting Adient’s Operating Environment
Adient, along with the automotive industry, has experienced significant volatility over the past few years relative to supply chain constraints causing disruptions to customer production schedules, inflationary pressures on raw materials and energy prices, wage inflation caused by constrained labor availability, impacts from geopolitical uncertainties such as the Russia/Ukraine conflict, higher interest rates and foreign currency fluctuations. Although supply chain conditions have steadily improved and certain inflationary pressures have moderated throughout fiscal year 2023, Adient continues to face uncertainties associated with a fragile supply chain environment, rising interest rates and wage inflationary pressures (as evidenced by the UAW strike in the U.S. that started in September 2023), among other macroeconomic factors. Refer to the consolidated results of operations and segment analysis discussion below for additional information on the impacts of these items on Adient's results.
Global Automotive Industry
Adient conducts its business globally in the automotive industry, which is highly competitive and sensitive to economic, political and social factors in the various regions. During fiscal 2023, global light vehicle production increased 7.6% year over year driven by improved production volumes in all regions along with a moderation of supply chain disruptions and certain inflationary factors. The global automotive industry is expecting modest volume growth in the coming year, continues to operate within a fragile supply chain environment and will likely continue to experience inflationary pressures such as wage inflation (as evidenced by the UAW strike in the U.S. that started in September 2023), geopolitical uncertainties, higher interest rates and foreign currency volatility.
Light vehicle production levels by geographic region are provided below:
Light Vehicle Production
(units in millions) 2023 Change 2022 Change 2021
Global 87.8 7.6 % 81.6 2.6 % 79.5
North America 15.5 9.9 % 14.1 3.7 % 13.6
South America 3.0 7.1 % 2.8 3.7 % 2.7
Europe 17.5 12.2 % 15.6 -9.8 % 17.3
China 27.3 2.2 % 26.7 7.2 % 24.9
Asia, excluding China, and Other 24.5 9.4 % 22.4 6.7 % 21.0
Source: S&P Global, October 2023
Financial Results Summary
Significant aspects of Adient's financial results for fiscal 2023 are summarized below. Adient's financial results for fiscal 2021 include the strategic transactions in China which had a significant impact on the fiscal 2021 financial results. Refer to Note 3, “Acquisitions and Divestitures,” in Part II, Item 8 of this Form 10-K for more information on these transactions.
• Adient recorded net sales of $15,395 million for fiscal 2023, representing an increase of $1,274 million when compared to fiscal 2022. The increase in net sales is attributable to higher overall production volumes in all operating segments and favorable pricing, partially offset by the unfavorable impact of foreign currencies and unfavorable material economics recoveries.
• Gross profit was $1,033 million, or 6.7% of net sales for fiscal 2023 compared to $807 million, or 5.7% of net sales for fiscal 2022. Profitability, including gross profit as a percentage of net sales, was higher due to higher production volumes and favorable pricing, insurance recoveries and favorable business performance, partially offset by unfavorable impacts of material economics.
• Equity income was $84 million for fiscal 2023, which compares to equity income of $75 million for fiscal 2022. The increase is primarily attributable to higher overall production volumes at Adient's partially-owned affiliates in all regions, partially offset by the impact of KEIPER supply agreement modifications executed over the past two fiscal years, and the unfavorable impact of foreign currencies.
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• Net income attributable to Adient was $205 million for fiscal 2023, compared to a loss of $120 million for fiscal 2022. The net income in fiscal 2023 is primarily attributable to higher overall production volumes, favorable pricing and business performance, one-time insurance recoveries, one-time income tax benefit related to the release of certain tax valuation allowances, lower selling, general and administrative expenses, lower net financing charges, and higher equity income, partially offset by unfavorable material economics, higher other pension expense, higher restructuring cost, higher income attributable to noncontrolling interests, and the unfavorable impact of foreign currencies.
Consolidated Results of Operations
Year Ended
September 30,
(in millions) 2023 Change 2022 Change 2021
Net sales $ 15,395 9% $ 14,121 3% $ 13,680
Cost of sales 14,362 8% 13,314 4% 12,854
Gross profit 1,033 28% 807 (2)% 826
Selling, general and administrative expenses 554 (7)% 598 11% 537
Restructuring and impairment costs 40 60% 25 19% 21
Equity income (loss) 84 12% 75 (95)% 1,484
Earnings (loss) before interest and income taxes 523 >100% 259 (85)% 1,726
Net financing charges 195 (9)% 215 (31)% 311
Other pension expense (income) 33 >100% (10) 58% (24)
Income (loss) before income taxes 295 >100% 54 (96)% 1,439
Income tax provision (benefit) — n/a 94 (62)% 249
Net income (loss) 295 >100% (40) >(100%) 1,190
Income (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interests 90 13% 80 (2)% 82
Net income (loss) attributable to Adient $ 205 >100% $ (120) >(100%) $ 1,108
Net Sales
Year Ended
September 30,
(in millions) 2023 Change 2022 Change 2021
Net sales $ 15,395 9% $ 14,121 3% $ 13,680
Net sales increased by $1,274 million, or 9%, in fiscal 2023 as compared to fiscal 2022 due to higher overall production volumes in all operating segments ($1,558 million) and net favorable pricing adjustments ($141 million), partially offset by the unfavorable impact of foreign currencies ($301 million) and unfavorable material economics recoveries ($124 million).
Net sales increased by $441 million, or 3%, in fiscal 2022 as compared to fiscal 2021 primarily due to operational footprint changes primarily related to the consolidation of CQADNT in China ($620 million), favorable material economics recoveries ($312 million), and higher overall production volumes despite certain unplanned production stoppages resulting from semiconductor chip shortages and other supply chain disruptions, and despite the impact of the Russia/Ukraine conflict on EMEA production volumes and localized COVID-19 lockdowns in China ($90 million), partially offset by the unfavorable impact of foreign currencies ($568 million) and unfavorable net pricing adjustments ($13 million).
Refer to the segment analysis below for a discussion of segment net sales.
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Cost of Sales / Gross Profit
Year Ended
September 30,
(in millions) 2023 Change 2022 Change 2021
Cost of sales $ 14,362 8% $ 13,314 4% $ 12,854
Gross profit 1,033 28% 807 (2)% 826
% of sales 6.7 % 5.7 % 6.0 %
Cost of sales increased by $1,048 million, or 8%, and gross profit increased by $226 million in fiscal 2023 as compared to fiscal 2022. The year-over-year increase in cost of sales was due to higher production volumes ($1,312 million), increased utilities and labor costs along with operating inefficiencies associated with supply chain issues ($104 million), and the impact of prior year gains associated with retrospective recoveries of Brazil indirect tax credits ($29 million), partially offset by the favorable impact of foreign currencies ($282 million), favorable supplier pricing ($69 million), non-recurring current year net benefits largely associated with insurance recoveries ($29 million), the favorable impact of the KEIPER supply agreement modifications ($11 million), and lower depreciation expense ($6 million). Gross profit was favorably impacted by higher overall production volumes, net favorable pricing adjustments, and non-recurring net benefits largely associated with insurance recoveries, partially offset by higher utilities and labor costs, and unfavorable net material economics.
Cost of sales increased by $460 million, or 4%, and gross profit decreased by $19 million in fiscal 2022 as compared to fiscal 2021. The year-over-year increase in cost of sales was due primarily to operational footprint changes related to the consolidation of CQADNT in China ($527 million), higher input costs including higher energy cost in EMEA as a result of the Russia/Ukraine conflict ($327 million), higher overall production volumes ($136 million), operational inefficiencies resulting from unplanned production stoppages including higher freight ($74 million), net impact of gains associated with retrospective recoveries of Brazil indirect tax credits ($5 million), and higher depreciation and amortization expense ($6 million), partially offset by the favorable impact of foreign currencies ($542 million), and favorable supplier pricing including the impact of a modified pricing agreement with KEIPER ($71 million). Gross profit was unfavorably impacted by foreign currencies, higher input costs, and inefficiencies caused by unplanned production stoppages, partially offset by operational footprint changes primarily related to the consolidation of CQADNT in China.
Refer to the segment analysis below for a discussion of segment profitability.
Selling, General and Administrative Expenses
Year Ended
September 30,
(in millions) 2023 Change 2022 Change 2021
Selling, general and administrative expenses $ 554 (7)% $ 598 11% $ 537
% of sales 3.6 % 4.2 % 3.9 %
Selling, general and administrative expenses (“SG&A”) in fiscal 2023 decreased by $44 million, or 7%, as compared to fiscal 2022. The-year-over year decrease in SG&A is attributable to the favorable impact of foreign currencies ($12 million), one-time gain on sale of a restructured facility ($10 million), lower transaction costs ($5 million), non-recurring unfavorable prior year costs ($17 million), lower overall engineering and other administrative spending ($15 million), and lower depreciation and amortization expense ($4 million), partially offset by higher compensation expense including stock-based and performance-based incentive compensation costs due in part to the non-recurrence of prior year austerity measures ($19 million).
SG&A in fiscal 2022 increased by $61 million as compared to fiscal 2021. The year-over-year increase in SG&A is attributable to higher overall engineering and other administrative spending in the current year ($36 million), the impact of the fiscal 2021 acquisitions and consolidations of CQADNT and LFADNT ($35 million), the impact of a non-recurring contract related settlement with a customer ($14 million), higher depreciation expense ($7 million), and higher amortization expense attributable to the acquired intangible assets ($7 million). These were offset by lower compensation expense including stock-based and performance-based incentive compensation costs ($12 million), the favorable impact of foreign currencies ($17 million), and lower transaction costs ($11 million).
Refer to the segment analysis below for a discussion of segment profitability.
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Restructuring and Impairment Costs
Year Ended
September 30,
(in millions) 2023 Change 2022 Change 2021
Restructuring and impairment costs $ 40 60% $ 25 19% $ 21
Restructuring and impairment costs were higher by $15 million in fiscal 2023 as compared to fiscal 2022 due primarily to higher levels of restructuring actions taken in EMEA.
Restructuring and impairment charges increased by $4 million in fiscal 2022 as compared to fiscal 2021 due primarily to one-time non-cash impairment charges related to the withdrawal from and sale of Adient’s operations in Russia and other assets held for sale in EMEA.
Refer to Note 3, "Acquisitions and Divestitures," of the notes to the consolidated financial statements for information related to Adient’s withdrawal from and sale of operations in Russia and assets held for sale.
Equity Income
Year Ended
September 30,
(in millions) 2023 Change 2022 Change 2021
Equity income (loss) $ 84 12% $ 75 (95)% $ 1,484
Equity income was $84 million in fiscal 2023 compared to $75 million in fiscal 2022. The increase is primarily attributable to higher production volumes and favorable operating performance at Adient's partially-owned affiliates ($28 million), one-time gain on divestiture of investment at an affiliate ($4 million), and lower non-cash impairment charges recorded on certain of Adient's investments in non-consolidated affiliates ($2 million), partially offset by the impact of the KEIPER supply agreement modifications executed over the past two fiscal years ($17 million), the unfavorable impact of foreign currencies ($7 million), and restructuring-related activities at certain affiliates ($1 million).
Equity income was $75 million in fiscal 2022 compared to $1,484 million in fiscal 2021. The decrease is primarily attributable to the significant fiscal 2021 gains on divestitures of Adient's interests in certain China joint ventures (YFAS, SJA and others) as well as the fiscal 2021 acquisition of controlling interest in CQADNT and resulting lower equity in fiscal 2022 ($1,376 million), fiscal 2022 non-cash impairment charges recorded on certain of Adient's investments in non-consolidated affiliates in South Africa and China ($10 million), the impact of KEIPER supply agreement modifications ($17 million), the unfavorable impact of foreign currencies ($3 million), higher restructuring charges primarily at Adient's affiliates in China ($5 million), and fiscal 2022 operational interruptions and production stoppages resulting from supply chain disruptions and localized COVID-19 lockdowns in China ($1 million), partially offset by lower purchase accounting amortization ($3 million).
Refer to Note 3, "Acquisitions and Divestitures," and Note 18, "Nonconsolidated Partially-Owned Affiliates," of the notes to the consolidated financial statements for more information.
Net Financing Charges
Year Ended
September 30,
(in millions) 2023 Change 2022 Change 2021
Net financing charges $ 195 (9)% $ 215 (31)% $ 311
Net financing charges decreased by $20 million in fiscal 2023 as compared to fiscal 2022 due to higher premiums paid to tender outstanding debt in the prior year and higher accelerated expensing of deferred financing costs in the prior year.
Net financing charges decreased in fiscal 2022 as compared to fiscal 2021 as a result of lower levels of outstanding debt, higher amounts of premiums paid to tender outstanding debt and higher levels of accelerated expense of deferred financing costs in fiscal 2021 associated with the pay-down of debt.
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Refer to Note 9, "Debt and Financing Arrangements," of the notes to the consolidated financial statements for information related to the components of Adient's net financing charges.
Other Pension Expense (Income)
Year Ended
September 30,
(in millions) 2023 Change 2022 Change 2021
Other pension expense (income) $ 33 >100% $ (10) 58% $ (24)
Other pension expense (income) consists of mark-to-market adjustments of Adient's retirement plans and non-service components of Adient's net periodic pension costs. Other pension expense was higher by $43 million in fiscal 2023 as compared to fiscal 2022 due primarily to a $19 million current year mark-to-market loss (compared to a $8 million gain in fiscal 2022), an $8 million curtailment loss primarily associated with employee termination benefit plans in the Americas segment, and higher pension interest expense. The lower fiscal 2022 (income) compared to fiscal 2021 is due primarily to a lower pension mark-to-market gain ($8 million) and a lower expected return on plan assets ($4 million). Refer to Note 14, "Retirement Plans," of the notes to the consolidated financial statements for information related to the components of Adient's net periodic pension costs.
Income Tax Provision
Year Ended
September 30,
(in millions) 2023 Change 2022 Change 2021
Income tax provision (benefit) $ — n/a $ 94 (62)% $ 249
The fiscal 2023 income tax expense of $0 million was lower than the Irish statutory rate of 12.5% primarily due to the release of valuation allowances in Mexico, partially offset by the inability to recognize a tax benefit for losses in jurisdictions with valuation allowances, the repatriation of foreign earnings, and foreign tax rate differentials.
Adient reviews the realizability of its deferred tax assets on a quarterly basis, or whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that a review is required. In determining the requirement for a valuation allowance, the historical and projected financial results of the legal entity or combined group recording the net deferred tax asset are considered, along with any other positive or negative evidence. All of the factors that Adient considers in evaluating whether and when to establish or release all or a portion of the deferred tax asset valuation allowance involve significant judgment. Since future financial results may differ from previous estimates, periodic adjustments to Adient's valuation allowances may be necessary.
Given current earnings and anticipated future earnings at certain subsidiaries, Adient believes that there is a reasonable possibility that sufficient positive evidence may become available that would allow the release of all, or a portion of, valuation allowances at certain subsidiaries within the next twelve months. A release of valuation allowances, if any, would result in the recognition of certain deferred tax assets which could generate a material income tax benefit for the period in which such release is recorded.
As a result of Adient's fiscal 2023 analysis of the realizability of its worldwide deferred tax assets, and after considering tax planning initiatives and other positive and negative evidence, Adient determined it was more likely than not that certain deferred tax assets in Mexico would be realizable and recorded an income tax benefit of $114 million to release valuation allowances. In addition, Adient determined it was necessary to release valuation allowances and establish valuation allowances in other jurisdictions that did not have a material impact on Adient’s financial statements. Adient continues to record valuation allowances on certain deferred tax assets in Germany, Hungary, Luxembourg, Mexico, Poland, Spain, the United Kingdom, the U.S. and other jurisdictions as it remains more likely than not that they will not be realized.
The fiscal 2022 income tax expense of $94 million was higher than the Irish statutory rate of 12.5% primarily due to the inability to recognize a tax benefit for losses in jurisdictions with valuation allowances, the establishment of valuation allowances in certain jurisdictions, and the repatriation of foreign earnings, partially offset by tax benefits related to the release of valuation allowances in certain jurisdictions.
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As a result of Adient's fiscal 2022 analysis of the realizability of its worldwide deferred tax assets, and after considering tax planning initiatives and other positive and negative evidence, Adient determined it was more likely than not that certain deferred tax assets in Canada, Japan, and other jurisdictions would not be realized and recorded income tax expense of $12 million, $3 million and $3 million, respectively, to establish valuation allowances. Additionally, Adient determined it was more likely than not that deferred tax assets in the Czech Republic and other jurisdictions would be realizable and recorded income tax benefit of $11 million and $2 million, respectively, to release valuation allowances.
The fiscal 2021 income tax expense of $249 million was higher than the Irish statutory rate of 12.5% primarily due to the inability to recognize a tax benefit for losses in jurisdictions with valuation allowances, the establishment of valuation allowances in certain jurisdictions, and the repatriation of foreign earnings, partially offset by tax benefits from audit settlements, the write-off of deferred tax liabilities related to withholding taxes, and withholding taxes on the 2021 Yanfeng Transaction at a rate lower than the Irish statutory rate of 12.5%.
As a result of Adient's fiscal 2021 analysis of the realizability of its worldwide deferred tax assets, and after considering tax planning initiatives and other positive and negative evidence, Adient determined it was more likely than not that certain deferred tax assets in the Czech Republic, Korea, Mexico, and other jurisdictions would not be realized and recorded income tax expense of $5 million, $5 million, $8 million, and $4 million, respectively, to establish valuation allowances.
Adient is subject to income taxes in Ireland, the U.S. and other non-U.S. jurisdictions. Judgment is required in determining its worldwide provision for income taxes and recording the related assets and liabilities. In the ordinary course of Adient's business, there are many transactions and calculations where the ultimate tax determination is uncertain. Adient's income tax returns for various fiscal years remain under audit by the respective tax authorities. Although the outcome of tax audits is always uncertain, management believes that it has appropriate support for the positions taken on its tax returns and that its annual tax provisions included amounts sufficient to pay assessments, if any, which may be proposed by the taxing authorities. Nonetheless, the amounts ultimately paid, if any, upon resolution of the issues raised by the taxing authorities may differ materially from the amounts accrued for each year.
Adient does not generally provide for additional income taxes which would become payable upon repatriation of undistributed earnings of wholly owned foreign subsidiaries. Adient's intent is for such earnings to be reinvested by the subsidiaries or to be repatriated only when it would be tax efficient.
Income Attributable to Noncontrolling Interests
Year Ended
September 30,
(in millions) 2023 Change 2022 Change 2021
Income attributable to noncontrolling interests $ 90 13% $ 80 (2)% $ 82
The $10 million increase in income attributable to noncontrolling interests in fiscal 2023 as compared to fiscal 2022 is primarily attributable to higher production volumes at affiliates in various jurisdictions.
The $2 million decrease in income attributable to noncontrolling interests for fiscal 2022 is attributable to lower income due to operational inefficiencies resulting from unplanned production stoppages including higher freight at affiliates in various jurisdictions.
Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Adient
Year Ended
September 30,
(in millions) 2023 Change 2022 Change 2021
Net income (loss) attributable to Adient $ 205 >100% $ (120) >(100%) $ 1,108
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Net income attributable to Adient was $205 million in fiscal 2023, compared to $120 million of net loss attributable to Adient in fiscal 2022. The higher net income in fiscal 2023 is primarily attributable to higher overall production volumes, favorable pricing and business performance, one-time insurance recoveries, one-time income tax benefit related to the release of certain tax valuation allowances, lower SG&A expenses, lower net financing charges, and higher equity income, partially offset by unfavorable material economics, higher other pension expense, higher restructuring cost, higher income attributable to noncontrolling interests, and the unfavorable impact of foreign currencies.
Net loss attributable to Adient was $120 million for fiscal 2022, compared to net income attributable to Adient of $1,108 million for fiscal 2021. The fiscal 2022 net loss attributable to Adient is primarily due to lower equity income attributable to fiscal 2021 one-time gains on divestitures of Adient's interests in certain China joint ventures as described above, fiscal 2022 operational inefficiencies resulting from unplanned production stoppages including higher freight and other supply chain disruptions, the impact of the Russia/Ukraine conflict on EMEA production volumes and higher energy costs, the impact of localized COVID-19 lockdowns in China, and higher overall engineering and other administrative spending, partially offset by the favorable impact of operational footprint changes primarily related to the consolidation of CQADNT in China, favorable material economics recoveries, lower net financing charges, and lower income tax expense.
Comprehensive Income Attributable to Adient
Year Ended
September 30,
(in millions) 2023 Change 2022 Change 2021
Comprehensive income (loss) attributable to Adient $ 208 >100% $ (338) >(100%) $ 1,146
Comprehensive income attributable to Adient was $208 million in fiscal 2023 compared to $338 million of comprehensive loss in fiscal 2022. The increase of $546 million is due primarily to higher net income ($335 million), the favorable impact of foreign currency translation adjustments resulting from the overall weakening of U.S. dollar against certain other major currencies ($233 million) and the impact of realized and unrealized gains on derivatives ($21 million), partially offset by higher comprehensive income attributable to noncontrolling interests ($42 million).
Comprehensive loss attributable to Adient was $338 million for fiscal 2022 compared to comprehensive income attributable to Adient for fiscal 2021 of $1,146 million. The comprehensive loss in fiscal 2022 is attributable to lower net income due to fiscal 2021 one-time gains on the divestitures of Adient’s interest in certain China joint ventures ($1,230 million), the unfavorable impact in foreign currency translation adjustments resulting from overall strengthening of U.S. dollar against virtually all other currencies ($266 million), less favorable impact in realized and unrealized losses on derivatives ($20 million), partially offset by the decrease in comprehensive income attributable to noncontrolling interests ($32 million).
Segment Analysis
Adient manages its business on a geographic basis and operates in the following three reportable segments for financial reporting purposes: 1) Americas, which is inclusive of North America and South America; 2) EMEA and 3) Asia.
Adient evaluates the performance of its reportable segments using an adjusted EBITDA metric defined as income before income taxes and noncontrolling interests, excluding net financing charges, restructuring and impairment costs, restructuring related-costs, net mark-to-market adjustments on pension and postretirement plans, transaction gains/losses, purchase accounting amortization, depreciation, stock-based compensation and other non-recurring items. Also, certain corporate-related
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costs are not allocated to the segments. The reportable segments are consistent with how management views the markets served by Adient and reflect the financial information that is reviewed by its chief operating decision maker.
Year Ended
September 30,
(in millions) 2023 2022 2021
Net Sales
Americas $ 7,220 $ 6,557 $ 6,164
EMEA 5,195 4,764 5,564
Asia 3,085 2,926 2,123
Eliminations (105) (126) (171)
Total net sales $ 15,395 $ 14,121 $ 13,680
Year Ended
September 30,
(in millions) 2023 2022 2021
Adjusted EBITDA
Americas $ 336 $ 242 $ 232
EMEA 232 138 277
Asia 464 383 486
Corporate-related costs (1)
(94) (88) (78)
Restructuring and impairment costs (2)
(40) (25) (21)
Purchase accounting amortization (3)
(52) (54) (50)
Restructuring related activities (4)
2 (6) (9)
Gain on business divestitures, primarily related to the Yanfeng transaction (5)
— — 1,188
Depreciation (290) (298) (285)
Stock based compensation (34) (29) (36)
Other items (6)
(1) (4) 22
Earnings (loss) before interest and income taxes 523 259 1,726
Net financing charges (195) (215) (311)
Other pension income (expense) (33) 10 24
Income (loss) before income taxes $ 295 $ 54 $ 1,439
Notes:
(1) Corporate-related costs not allocated to the segments include executive office, communications, corporate development, legal and corporate finance.
(2) Reflects restructuring charges for costs that are directly attributable to restructuring activities and meet the definition of restructuring under ASC 420 and non-recurring impairment charges. During fiscal 2022, an impairment charge of $4 million related to the withdrawal from and sale of its operations in Russia, and a held-for-sale impairment charge of $6 million were recorded in EMEA. Included in restructuring charges in fiscal 2021 is $10 million of held for sale and other non-cash impairment charges in EMEA. Refer to Note 15, "Restructuring and Impairment Costs," of the notes to the consolidated financial statements for more information.
(3) Reflects amortization of intangible assets including those related to partially owned affiliates recorded within equity income.
(4) Reflects restructuring related charges for costs that are directly attributable to restructuring activities, but do not meet the definition of restructuring under ASC 420 along with restructuring costs at partially owned affiliates recorded within equity income. Fiscal 2023 includes a $10 million gain on the sale of a restructured facility in Americas.
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(5) Fiscal 2021 includes a $5 million loss on sale of non-core assets in Asia, a gain associated with the 2021 Yanfeng Transaction of $1,160 million, and a gain of $33 million on the sale of Adient's interest in SJA. All of these impacts have been recorded within the equity income line in the consolidated statements of income.
(6) Fiscal 2023 reflects $3 million and $3 million of non-cash impairment related to certain of Adient's investments in nonconsolidated partially-owned affiliates in Asia and EMEA, respectively, and $3 million of transaction costs, partially offset by $4 million of one-time divestiture gain at an affiliate, and $4 million of a gain associated with the retrospective recovery of indirect tax credits in Brazil. Fiscal 2022 includes $3 million and $7 million of non-cash impairments of certain of Adient's investments in nonconsolidated partially-owned affiliates in Asia and EMEA, respectively, $8 million of transaction costs, a $14 million charge related to a non-recurring contract related settlement, $1 million of allowance for doubtful accounts resulting from the withdrawal from and sale of operations in Russia, and $2 million of loss on finalization of asset sale in Turkey, partially offset by a gain of $32 million associated with the retrospective recovery of indirect tax credits in Brazil. Fiscal 2021 reflects a gain of $38 million associated with the retrospective recovery of indirect tax credits in Brazil (of which $36 million relates to recoveries covering the past 20 years and is adjusted out of Americas' segment results), and a $5 million gain on previously held interest at YFAS in an affiliate, partially offset by $19 million of transaction costs.
Americas
Year Ended
September 30,
(in millions) 2023 Change 2022 Change 2021
Net sales $ 7,220 10% $ 6,557 6% $ 6,164
Adjusted EBITDA $ 336 39% $ 242 4% $ 232
Net sales increased in fiscal 2023 by $663 million primarily as a result of higher current year production volumes ($669 million) and favorable net pricing adjustments ($73 million), partially offset by the unfavorable impact of material economics recoveries ($79 million).
Adjusted EBITDA increased in fiscal 2023 by $94 million due to higher current year production volumes ($93 million), net material margin improvements including the impact of the KEIPER supply agreement modifications ($79 million), non-recurring net benefits associated with insurance recoveries ($13 million), and higher equity income ($1 million), partially offset by higher labor, utility and launch costs ($58 million), unfavorable material economics, net of recoveries ($17 million), higher administrative and engineering expense due in part to the non-recurrence of prior year austerity measures ($8 million), and the unfavorable impact of foreign currencies ($9 million).
Net sales increased in fiscal 2022 by $393 million as a result of higher production volumes despite certain unplanned production stoppages primarily resulting from semiconductor chip shortages and other supply chain disruptions ($278 million), the favorable impact of material economics recoveries ($179 million), and the favorable impact of foreign currencies ($2 million), partially offset by unfavorable net pricing adjustments ($45 million) and the impact of operational footprint changes ($21 million).
Adjusted EBITDA increased in fiscal 2022 by $10 million due to operational performance improvements ($62 million), lower administrative and engineering expense ($20 million), the favorable impact of KEIPER supply agreement modifications ($14 million), higher fiscal 2022 production volumes ($12 million), the favorable impact of foreign currencies ($8 million), and higher equity income ($3 million), partially offset by higher freight costs ($55 million), lower levels of net pricing adjustments ($34 million), unfavorable material economics, net of recoveries ($15 million), and the impact of operational footprint changes ($5 million).
EMEA
Year Ended
September 30,
(in millions) 2023 Change 2022 Change 2021
Net sales $ 5,195 9% $ 4,764 (14)% $ 5,564
Adjusted EBITDA $ 232 68% $ 138 (50)% $ 277
Adient plc | Form 10-K | 40
Net sales increased in fiscal 2023 by $431 million primarily as a result of higher current year production volumes ($511 million), and net favorable pricing adjustments ($87 million), partially offset by the unfavorable impact of foreign currency ($124 million) and the unfavorable impact of material economics recoveries ($43 million).
Adjusted EBITDA increased in fiscal 2023 by $94 million due primarily to net material margin improvements ($117 million), higher current year production volumes ($81 million), non-recurring net benefits associated with insurance recoveries ($17 million), the favorable impact of foreign currencies ($22 million), higher equity income ($4 million), and lower administrative and engineering expense ($6 million), partially offset by unfavorable material economics, net of recoveries ($111 million) and higher input costs including freight, labor and utilities ($42 million).
Net sales decreased in fiscal 2022 by $800 million primarily as a result of operational interruptions due to certain unplanned production stoppages resulting from semiconductor chip shortages and other supply chain disruptions along with the negative impact of the Russia/Ukraine conflict on EMEA production volumes ($362 million), the unfavorable impact of foreign currency ($466 million), the impact of operational footprint changes ($129 million), partially offset by the favorable impact of material economics recoveries ($115 million), and favorable net pricing adjustments ($42 million).
Adjusted EBITDA decreased in fiscal 2022 by $139 million due primarily to lower fiscal 2022 production volumes as explained above ($88 million), increased utilities, labor and freight costs along with other operating inefficiencies associated with lower volumes ($71 million), the impact of operational footprint changes ($27 million), the unfavorable impact of foreign currencies ($20 million), and higher administrative and engineering expense ($1 million), partially offset by favorable net pricing adjustments ($66 million), and favorable material economics, net of recoveries ($2 million).
Asia
Year Ended
September 30,
(in millions) 2023 Change 2022 Change 2021
Net sales $ 3,085 5% $ 2,926 38% $ 2,123
Adjusted EBITDA $ 464 21% $ 383 (21)% $ 486
Net sales increased in fiscal 2023 by $159 million due to higher production volume and mix ($360 million), partially offset by the unfavorable impact of foreign currencies ($180 million), net unfavorable pricing adjustments ($19 million), and the unfavorable impact of material economics recoveries ($2 million).
Adjusted EBITDA increased in 2023 by $81 million due primarily to favorable volume and mix ($72 million), net material margin improvements including the impact of the KEIPER supply agreement modifications and including certain favorable pricing adjustments in China that are non-recurring ($25 million), higher equity income at partially-owned affiliates ($13 million), favorable operating performance ($17 million), and favorable impact of material economics, net of recoveries ($4 million), partially offset by the unfavorable impact of foreign currencies ($26 million), the impact of the KEIPER supply agreement modifications on equity income ($18 million), and higher administrative and engineering expense ($6 million).
Net sales increased in fiscal 2022 by $803 million due to the impact of operational footprint changes in China primarily related to the consolidation of CQADNT ($770 million), favorable volume and mix ($153 million), and the favorable impact of material economics recoveries ($18 million), partially offset by the unfavorable impact of foreign currencies ($128 million), and unfavorable net pricing adjustments ($10 million).
Adjusted EBITDA decreased in fiscal 2022 by $103 million due primarily to operational footprint changes including the impact of the 2021 Yanfeng Transaction ($75 million), operating inefficiencies including freight and labor economics, and launch timing ($27 million), lower equity income due to the impact of KEIPER supply agreement modifications ($17 million), the unfavorable impact of foreign currencies ($15 million), higher administrative and engineering expense ($6 million), lower equity income due to lower volumes primarily at Adient's affiliates in China attributable to the COVID-19 lockdowns ($4 million), and the unfavorable impact of material economics, net of recoveries ($2 million), partially offset by favorable volume and mix despite the impact of localized COVID-19 lockdowns in China during the second quarter of fiscal 2022 ($30 million), and favorable net pricing adjustments which includes $9 million of a non-recurring settlement in China ($13 million).
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Liquidity and Capital Resources
Adient's primary liquidity needs are to fund general business requirements, including working capital, capital expenditures, restructuring costs and debt service requirements. Adient's principal sources of liquidity are cash flows from operating activities, the revolving credit facility and other debt issuances, and existing cash balances. Adient actively manages its working capital and associated cash requirements and continually seeks more effective uses of cash. During fiscal 2023, Adient also announced a share repurchase authorization (up to $600 million) with no expiration date, wherein Adient expects to take a measured approach as to the timing and amount of share repurchases as part of its assessment of the most effective use of cash. Working capital is highly influenced by the timing of cash flows associated with sales and purchases, and therefore can be difficult to manage at times. See below and refer to Note 9, "Debt and Financing Arrangements," of the notes to consolidated financial statements for discussion of financing arrangements. Refer to Note 3, "Acquisitions and Divestitures," for more information on strategic transactions that have provided significant liquidity that allowed for additional voluntary debt pay down in fiscal 2022 and 2021. Following the first quarter of fiscal 2019 dividend payout, Adient suspended future dividends. Adient believes that its current financials resources will be sufficient to fund its liquidity requirements for at least the next twelve months.
Indebtedness
Adient US LLC (“Adient US”), a wholly owned subsidiary of Adient, together with certain of Adient's other subsidiaries, maintains an asset-based revolving credit facility (the “ABL Credit Facility”), which provides for a revolving line of credit up to $1,250 million, including a North American subfacility of up to $950 million and a European subfacility of up to $300 million, subject to borrowing base capacity and certain other restrictions, including a minimum fixed charge coverage ratio. The ABL Credit Facility, as amended in November 2022, is set to mature on November 2, 2027, subject to certain springing maturity provisions. Adient paid $7 million in debt issuance costs for the amended ABL Credit Facility and will pay a commitment fee of 0.25% to 0.375% on the unused portion of the commitments under the asset-based revolving credit facility based on average global availability. Letters of credit are limited to the lesser of (x) $150 million and (y) the aggregate unused amount of commitments under the ABL Credit Facility then in effect. Subject to certain conditions, the ABL Credit Facility may be expanded by up to $250 million in additional commitments. Loans under the ABL Credit Facility may be denominated, at the option of Adient, in U.S. dollars, Euros, Pounds Sterling or Swedish Kroner. It also provides flexibility for future amendments to the ABL Facility to incorporate certain sustainability-based pricing provisions. The ABL Credit Agreement is secured on a first-priority lien on all accounts receivable, inventory and bank accounts (and funds on deposit therein) and a second-priority lien on all of the tangible and intangible assets of certain Adient subsidiaries. Interest is payable on the ABL Credit Facility at a fluctuating rate of interest determined by reference to Term SOFR, in the case of amounts outstanding in dollars, EURIBOR, in the case of amounts outstanding in euros, STIBOR, in the case of amounts outstanding in Swedish krona and SONIA, in the case of amounts outstanding in pounds sterling, in each case, plus an applicable margin of 1.50% to 2.00%. As of September 30, 2023, Adient had not drawn down on the ABL Credit Facility and had availability under this facility of approximately $900 million (net of $12 million of letters of credit).
In addition, Adient US and Adient Global Holdings S.à r.l., a wholly-owned subsidiary of Adient, maintain a senior secured term loan facility (the “Term Loan B Agreement”) that had an outstanding balance of $988 million as of September 30, 2022. During fiscal 2023, Adient prepaid $350 million of the Term Loan B Agreement principal, and wrote off $2 million of previously deferred financing costs to net financing charges. As of September 30, 2023, the remaining balance of this debt was $635 million, maintained fully at Adient Global Holdings S.à r.l., which is due at final maturity on April 8, 2028. Interest on the Term Loan B Agreement accrues at the Eurodollar rate plus an applicable margin equal to 3.25%. The Term Loan B Agreement also permits Adient to incur incremental term loans in an aggregate amount not to exceed the greater of $750 million and an unlimited amount subject to a pro forma first lien secured net leverage ratio of not greater than 1.75 to 1.00 and certain other conditions. In April 2023, the Term Loan B Agreement was amended to replace the LIBOR base rate with Term SOFR.
The ABL Credit Facility and Term Loan B Agreement contain covenants that are usual and customary for facilities and debt instruments of this type and that, among other things, restrict the ability of Adient and its restricted subsidiaries to: create certain liens and enter into sale and lease-back transactions; create, assume, incur or guarantee certain indebtedness; pay dividends or make other distributions on, or repurchase or redeem, Adient’s capital stock or certain other debt; make other restricted payments; and consolidate or merge with, or convey, transfer or lease all or substantially all of Adient’s and its restricted subsidiaries’ assets, to another person. These covenants are subject to a number of other limitations and exceptions set forth in the agreements. The agreements also provide for customary events of default, including, but not limited to, cross-default clauses with other debt arrangements, failure to pay principal and interest, failure to comply with covenants, agreements or conditions, and certain events of bankruptcy or insolvency involving Adient and its significant subsidiaries.
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During fiscal 2023, Adient Global Holdings Ltd. (“AGH”), a wholly-owned subsidiary of Adient, issued (i) $500 million (net proceeds of $494 million) in aggregate principal amount of 7% senior secured notes due 2028 and (ii) $500 million (net proceeds of $494 million) in aggregate principal amount of 8.250% senior unsecured notes due 2031. Interest on both of these notes will be paid on April 15 and October 15 each year, beginning on October 15, 2023. These notes contain covenants that are usual and customary. The total net proceeds of $988 million along with cash on hand were used primarily to redeem $350 million of the senior secured term loan facility under the Term Loan B Agreement as described above, and repurchase €700 million ($743 million) of the 3.50% unsecured notes due 2024 as described below. Adient paid $16 million in debt issuance costs for these new debt issuances.
AGH previously maintained $900 million aggregate principal amount of 4.875% USD-denominated unsecured notes due 2026. Adient redeemed $103 million and $2 million during fiscal 2020 and 2021, respectively, resulting in a remaining balance of $795 million as of September 30, 2023 and 2022.
AGH also previously maintained €1.0 billion aggregate principal amount of 3.50% unsecured notes due in August 2024. During fiscal 2022, Adient repurchased €177 million ($198 million) of the 3.50% unsecured notes due 2024 at a premium of €3 million ($4 million) plus €3 million ($3 million) of accrued and unpaid interest, and expensed €1 million ($1 million) of previously deferred financing costs to net financing charges, resulting in a remaining balance of €823 million ($809 million) as of September 30, 2022. During fiscal 2023, Adient repurchased an additional €700 million ($743 million) of the 3.50% unsecured notes due 2024 at a premium of €7 million ($7 million) plus €3 million ($3 million) of accrued and unpaid interest, and expensed €2 million ($2 million) of previously deferred financing costs to net financing charges. As of September 30, 2023, the remaining balance of this debt was €123 million ($130 million) and is classified as current portion of long-term debt on the consolidated statement of financial position.
Adient Germany Ltd. & Co. KG, a wholly owned subsidiary of Adient, previously maintained €135 million ($156 million) in an unsecured term loan from the European Investment Bank (EIB) due in 2022. The loan bore interest at the 6-month EURIBOR rate plus 158 basis points. During fiscal 2021, Adient repaid $36 million of the EIB loan, triggered in part by the redemption of debt and the sale of the fabrics business in the prior year. Adient fully repaid the remaining balance of the EIB loan in May 2022 upon its maturity.
In April 2020, Adient US issued $600 million (net proceeds of $591 million) aggregate principal amount of 9.00% Senior First Lien Notes due 2025. In fiscal 2022, Adient repurchased the full $600 million of 9.00% Senior First Lien Notes due 2025 at a premium of $34 million plus $19 million of accrued and unpaid interest, and expensed $7 million of previously deferred financing costs to net financing charges.
Sources of Cash Flows
Year Ended
September 30,
(in millions) 2023 2022 2021
Cash provided (used) by operating activities $ 667 $ 274 $ 260
Cash provided (used) by investing activities (229) 484 347
Cash provided (used) by financing activities (271) (1,273) (770)
Capital expenditures (252) (227) (260)
Cash flows from operating activities
Fiscal 2023 compared to Fiscal 2022: The increase in cash flows from operating activities is primarily due to the higher net income attributable to Adient in fiscal 2023 and favorable overall changes to working capital year-over-year due to lower levels of inventory and higher levels of current liabilities. See the working capital section below for further information on changes in working capital.
Fiscal 2022 compared to Fiscal 2021: The increase in operating cash flows is primarily due to favorable changes of trade working capital, specifically lower levels of inventory and restructuring spending, and higher levels of accounts payable, partially offset by higher levels of accounts receivable (net of $137 million of favorable impact from accounts receivable factoring programs). Operating cash flows were also positively impacted by lower interest payments, but were negatively impacted by lapsed non-income related tax deferral programs and lower levels of dividends from nonconsolidated partially-owned affiliates.
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Cash flows from investing activities
Fiscal 2023 compared to Fiscal 2022: The increase in cash used by investing activities is primarily related to the non-recurrence of the prior year cash inflows associated with business divestitures including the $651 million of proceeds received related to the 2021 Yanfeng Transaction, $46 million in proceeds received from the sale of the assets in Turkey, and the collection of $41 million of deferred proceeds from the sale of Adient's interest in YFAI as part of the 2020 Yanfeng Transaction. Refer to Note 3, "Acquisitions and Divestitures," of the notes to the consolidated financial statements for additional information.
Fiscal 2022 compared to Fiscal 2021: The increase in cash provided by investing activities is primarily attributable to the $652 million of proceeds received related to the 2021 Yanfeng Transaction, the $46 million in proceeds received from the sale of the assets in Turkey, and the collection of $41 million of deferred proceeds from the sale of Adient's interest in YFAI as part of the 2020 Yanfeng Transaction and lower capital expenditures, partially offset by the $30 million settlement of the derivative contracts related to the cash proceeds of the 2021 Yanfeng Transaction. Refer to Note 3, “Acquisitions and Divestitures,” and Note 10, “Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities,” of the notes to the consolidated financial statements for additional information.
Cash flows from financing activities
Fiscal 2023 compared to Fiscal 2022: The decrease in cash used by financing activities is attributable to prior year financing activities. This includes repayment of long-term debt of $744 million (including $34 million of premiums), amounts paid to acquire the noncontrolling interest of CQADNT ($153 million), and higher dividend payments to noncontrolling interests. These are partially offset by current year debt refinancing activities totaling $102 million and common stock repurchases of $65 million.
Fiscal 2022 compared to Fiscal 2021: The increase in cash used by financing activities is attributable to the repayment of long-term debt, including premiums paid, of $987 million, amounts paid to acquire the noncontrolling interest of CQADNT ($153 million), along with higher dividend payments to noncontrolling interests primarily in connection with the acquisition of CQANDT. Refer to Note 9, “Debt and Financing Arrangements,” and Note 3, “Acquisitions and Divestitures,” of the notes to the consolidated financial statements for additional information.
Capital expenditures
Fiscal 2023 compared to Fiscal 2022: A $25 million increase in capital expenditures is primarily associated with new program launches particularly in EMEA and Asia, and additional investments in continuous improvement initiatives in all regions.
Fiscal 2022 compared to Fiscal 2021: Capital expenditures decreased year-over-year based on timing of program spend on product launches and continued tightening of overall spending.
Working capital
(in millions) September 30, 2023 September 30, 2022
Current assets $ 4,316 $ 4,163
Current liabilities 3,738 3,501
Working capital $ 578 $ 662
Working capital decreased by $84 million due to decreases in inventories and increases in accounts payable and current portion of long-term debt, partially offset by increases in cash and other current assets. All such activity was in line with higher sales and related production volumes in fiscal 2023 or due to contractual related maturities.
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Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements
Adient enters into supply chain financing programs in domestic and certain foreign jurisdictions to either sell or discount accounts receivable without recourse to third-party institutions. Sales or discounts of accounts receivable are reflected as a reduction of accounts receivable on the consolidated statements of financial position and the proceeds are included in cash flows from operating activities in the consolidated statements of cash flows. As of September 30, 2023 and 2022, $170 million and $269 million have been funded under these programs, respectively.
Contractual Obligations
A summary of Adient's significant contractual obligations as of September 30, 2023:
(in millions) Total 2024 2025-2026 2027-2028 Beyond 2029
Long-term debt $ 2,564 $ 132 $ 797 $ 1,135 $ 500
Interest on long-term debt 875 175 340 236 124
Operating leases 286 88 104 49 45
Purchase obligations (1)
376 251 10 36 79
Pension contributions 100 20 18 16 46
Total contractual cash obligations $ 4,201 $ 666 $ 1,269 $ 1,472 $ 794
(1) Primarily consists of commitments for production materials and other supply items, as well as $102 million of committed capital expenditures.
Effects of Inflation and Changing Prices
The effects of inflation have historically not been significant to Adient's results of operations. Generally, Adient has been able to implement operating efficiencies to sufficiently offset cost increases, which over time have been moderate. The automotive industry has recently experienced a period of significant volatility in commodity and other input costs, including steel, petrochemical, freight, energy and labor costs. This price volatility may continue into the future as demand increases and/or supply is constrained. Price volatility has resulted in an overall increase of input costs for Adient that may not be, or may only be partially, offset through customer negotiations. During fiscal 2024, commodity prices and availability could fluctuate throughout the year and significantly affect Adient's results of operations.
Critical Accounting Estimates and Policies
Adient prepares its consolidated financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (U.S. GAAP). This requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect reported amounts and related disclosures. Actual results could differ from those estimates. The following policies are considered by management to be the most critical in understanding the judgments that are involved in the preparation of Adient's consolidated financial statements and the uncertainties that could impact results of operations, financial position and cash flows.
Revenue Recognition
Adient records revenue when persuasive evidence of an arrangement exists, delivery occurs or services are rendered, the sales price or fee is fixed or determinable and collectability is reasonably assured. Adient delivers products and records revenue pursuant to commercial agreements with its customers generally in the form of an approved purchase order, including the effects of contractual customer price productivity. Adient does negotiate discrete price changes with its customers, which are generally the result of unique commercial issues between Adient and its customers. Adient records amounts associated with discrete price changes as a reduction to revenue when specific facts and circumstances indicate that a price reduction is probable and the amounts are reasonably estimable. Adient records amounts associated with discrete price changes as an increase to revenue upon execution of a legally enforceable contractual agreement and when collectability is reasonably assured. Refer to Note 1, "Organization and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies," and Note 2, "Revenue Recognition," of the notes to the consolidated financial statements for more information.
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Impairment of Goodwill, Other Long-lived Assets and Investments in Partially Owned Affiliates
Goodwill reflects the cost of an acquisition in excess of the fair values assigned to identifiable net assets acquired. Adient reviews goodwill for impairment during the fourth fiscal quarter or more frequently if events or changes in circumstances indicate the asset might be impaired. Adient performs impairment reviews for its reporting units, which have been determined to be Adient's reportable segments, using a fair value method based on management's judgments and assumptions or third-party valuations. The fair value of a reporting unit refers to the price that would be received to sell the unit as a whole in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date. In estimating the fair value, Adient uses the income approach in which discounted cash flow analyses are used to derive estimates of fair value of each reporting unit. Multiples of earnings based on the average of historical, published multiples of earnings of comparable entities with similar operations and economic characteristics are also used in developing estimated fair values. The inputs utilized in the analyses are classified as Level 3 inputs within the fair value hierarchy as defined in ASC 820, "Fair Value Measurement." These calculations contain uncertainties as they require management to make assumptions about market comparables, future cash flows and appropriate discount rates (based on weighted average cost of capital ranging from 17.0% to 20.5% at September 30, 2023) to reflect the risk inherent in the future cash flows and to derive a reasonable enterprise value and related premium.
The estimated future cash flows reflect management's latest assumptions of the financial projections based on current and anticipated competitive landscape, including estimates of revenue based on production volumes over the foreseeable future and long-term growth rates, and operating margins based on historical trends and future cost containment activities. The financial projections considered the impact of the various issues causing the volatility in the automotive industry such as wage inflationary pressures and higher interest rates. As a result of the tests, there was no goodwill impairment recorded during the fourth quarter of fiscal 2023. A change in any of these estimates and assumptions could produce significantly lower fair values of Adient’s reporting units, which could have a material impact on its results of operations. Refer to Note 6, "Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets," of the notes to the consolidated financial statements for additional information.
Adient reviews long-lived assets, including property, plant and equipment and other intangible assets with definite lives, for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the asset's carrying amount may not be recoverable. Adient conducts its long-lived asset impairment analyses in accordance with ASC 360-10-15, "Impairment or Disposal of Long-Lived Assets." ASC 360-10-15 requires Adient to group assets and liabilities at the lowest level for which identifiable cash flows are largely independent of the cash flows of other assets and liabilities and evaluate the asset group against the sum of the undiscounted future cash flows. If the undiscounted cash flows do not indicate the carrying amount of the asset is recoverable, an impairment charge is measured as the amount by which the carrying amount of the asset group exceeds its fair value based on discounted cash flow analysis or appraisals. Intangible assets with definite lives continue to be amortized over their estimated useful lives and are subject to impairment testing as part of their asset group if events or changes in circumstances indicate that the asset might be impaired. A considerable amount of management judgment and assumptions are required in performing the impairment tests. No triggering events were identified during fiscal 2023 and 2022.
Adient monitors its investments in partially-owned affiliates for indicators of other-than-temporary declines in value on an ongoing basis. If Adient determines that an other-than-temporary decline in value has occurred, it recognizes an impairment loss, which is measured as the difference between the recorded book value and the fair value of the investment. Fair value is generally determined using an income approach based on discounted cash flows or negotiated transaction values. During fiscal 2023, Adient concluded that indicators of other-than-temporary impairment were present related to two nonconsolidated partially-owned affiliates, and recorded a $6 million ($3 million in Asia and $3 million in EMEA) non-cash impairment as a result. During fiscal 2022, Adient entered into agreements, whereby Adient would sell its interests in two joint ventures in China held directly by Adient, each of which represented 25% of their total issued and outstanding equity interests, for $3 million. As a result, Adient concluded that indicators of other-than-temporary impairment were present related to the investments in these joint ventures, and recorded a non-cash impairment charge of $3 million. Also during fiscal 2022, Adient concluded that indicators of other-than-temporary impairment were present related to a partially-owned affiliate in South Africa as Adient pursued a sale of a portion of its interest in the joint venture and recorded a non-cash impairment charge of $6 million. Refer to Note 18, "Nonconsolidated Partially-Owned Affiliates," of the notes to the consolidated financial statements for additional information.
Employee Benefit Plans
Adient provides a range of pension benefits to its employees and retired employees. These benefits are Adient's direct obligation and have been recorded within Adient's consolidated financial statements. Plan assets and obligations are measured annually, or more frequently if there is a remeasurement event, based on Adient's measurement date utilizing various actuarial assumptions such as discount rates, assumed rates of return, compensation increases, turnover rates and health care cost trend
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rates as of that date. Adient reviews its actuarial assumptions on an annual basis and makes modifications to the assumptions based on current rates and trends when appropriate.
Adient utilizes a mark-to-market approach for recognizing pension benefit expenses, including measuring the market related value of plan assets at fair value and recognizing actuarial gains and losses in the fourth quarter of each fiscal year or at the date of a remeasurement event.
U.S. GAAP requires that companies recognize in the statement of financial position a liability for defined benefit pension and postretirement plans that are underfunded or unfunded, or an asset for defined benefit pension and postretirement plans that are overfunded. U.S. GAAP also requires that companies measure the benefit obligations and fair value of plan assets that determine a benefit plan's funded status as of the date of the employer's fiscal year end.
Adient considers the expected benefit payments on a plan-by-plan basis when setting assumed discount rates. As a result, Adient uses different discount rates for each plan depending on the plan jurisdiction, the demographics of participants and the expected timing of benefit payments. For the U.S. pension plans, Adient uses a discount rate provided by an independent third party calculated based on an appropriate mix of high quality bonds. For the non-U.S. pension, Adient consistently uses the relevant country specific benchmark indices for determining the various discount rates. Adient's discount rate on U.S. pension plans was 5.87% and 5.51% at September 30, 2023 and 2022, respectively. Adient's weighted average discount rate on non-U.S. plans was 5.60% and 4.98% at September 30, 2023 and 2022, respectively.
In estimating the expected return on plan assets, Adient considers the historical returns on plan assets, adjusted for forward-looking considerations, inflation assumptions and the impact of the active management of the plans' invested assets. Reflecting the relatively long-term nature of the plans' obligations, approximately 60% of the plans' assets are invested in fixed income securities and 15% in equity securities, with the remainder primarily invested in alternative investments. For fiscal years 2023 and 2022, Adient's expected long-term return on U.S. pension plan assets used to determine net periodic benefit cost was 6.75% and 6.75% respectively. The actual rate of return on U.S. pension plans was above 6.75% in fiscal 2023 and was below 6.75% in fiscal 2022. For fiscal years 2023 and 2022, Adient's weighted average expected long-term return on non-U.S. pension plan assets was 4.53% and 3.20%, respectively. The actual rate of return on non-U.S. pension plans was below 4.53% in fiscal 2023 and was above 3.20% in fiscal 2022.
For fiscal 2024, Adient estimates the long-term rate of return will approximate 6.75% and 4.95% for U.S. pension and non-U.S. pension plans, respectively. Any differences between actual investment results and the expected long-term asset returns will be reflected in net periodic benefit costs in the fourth quarter of each fiscal year. If Adient's actual returns on plan assets are less than Adient's expectations, additional contributions may be required.
In fiscal 2023, total Adient contributions to the defined benefit pension plans were $17 million. Adient expects to contribute at least $20 million in cash to its defined benefit pension plans in fiscal 2024.
Based on information provided by its independent actuaries and other relevant sources, Adient believes that the assumptions used are reasonable; however, changes in these assumptions could impact Adient's financial position, results of operations or cash flows.
The following table illustrates estimated increases (decreases) in projected benefit obligation (“PBO”) and net periodic benefit cost excluding changes in mark-to-market adjustments and settlement charges (“NPBC”) as of September 30, 2023 and for fiscal 2023 assuming a decrease of 100 basis points in the discount rate and expected return on plan assets.
Pension Benefits
U.S. Plans Non-U.S. Plans
(in millions) Change in PBO Change in NPBC Change in PBO Change in NPBC
100 basis point decrease in discount rate $ 1 $ — $ 40 $ (2)
100 basis point decrease in expected return on plan assets N/A — N/A 3
Refer to Note 14, "Retirement Plans," of the notes to consolidated financial statements for more information on Adient's pension plans.
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Income Taxes
Deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognized for the future tax consequences attributable to differences between financial statement carrying amounts of existing assets and liabilities and their respective tax bases and operating loss and other loss carryforwards. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are measured 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. Adient records a valuation allowance that primarily represents operating and other loss carryforwards for which realization is uncertain. Management judgment is required in determining Adient's provision for income taxes, deferred tax assets and liabilities, and the valuation allowance recorded against Adient's net deferred tax assets.
Adient reviews the realizability of its deferred tax assets on a quarterly basis, or whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that a review is required. In determining the requirement for a valuation allowance, the historical and projected financial results of the legal entity or combined group recording the net deferred tax asset are considered, along with any other positive or negative evidence. Since future financial results may differ from previous estimates, periodic adjustments to Adient's valuation allowances may be necessary.
Adient is subject to income taxes in Ireland, the U.S. and other non-U.S. jurisdictions. Judgment is required in determining its worldwide provision for income taxes and recording the related assets and liabilities. In the ordinary course of Adient's business, there are many transactions and calculations where the ultimate tax determination is uncertain. Adient's income tax returns for various fiscal years remain under audit by the respective tax authorities. Although the outcome of tax audits is always uncertain, management believes that it has appropriate support for the positions taken on its tax returns and that its annual tax provisions included amounts sufficient to pay assessments, if any, which may be proposed by the taxing authorities. Nonetheless, the amounts ultimately paid, if any, upon resolution of the issues raised by the taxing authorities may differ materially from the amounts accrued for each year.
Adient does not generally provide for additional income taxes which would become payable upon repatriation of undistributed earnings of wholly owned foreign subsidiaries. Adient's intent is for such earnings to be reinvested by the subsidiaries or to be repatriated only when it would be tax efficient.
Refer to Note 16, "Income Taxes," of the notes to consolidated financial statements for Adient's income tax disclosures.
Restructuring Costs
Adient accrues costs in connection with its restructuring actions. These accruals include estimates primarily related to employee headcount, local statutory benefits, and other employee termination costs. Actual costs may vary from these estimates. These accruals are reviewed on a quarterly basis and changes to restructuring actions are appropriately recognized when identified. Refer to Note 15, “Restructuring and Impairment Costs,” of the notes to consolidated financial statements for more information.
During fiscal 2023, Adient committed to a restructuring plan (“2023 Plan”) of $39 million. Adient also recorded additional charges totaling $1 million related to prior year plans. The restructuring actions relate to cost reduction initiatives and consist primarily of workforce reductions in EMEA. Adient estimated that upon completion of the restructuring actions, the fiscal 2023 restructuring plan would reduce annual operating costs by approximately $30 million, which was primarily the result of lower costs of sales and selling, general and administrative expenses due to reduced employee-related costs, of which approximately 15% would result in net savings. The restructuring actions are expected to be substantially completed by fiscal 2025.
During fiscal 2022, Adient committed to a restructuring plan (“2022 Plan”) of $25 million that was offset by $10 million of prior year underspend. The restructuring actions relate to cost reduction initiatives and consist primarily of workforce reductions in EMEA and Americas. Adient estimated that upon completion of the restructuring actions, the fiscal 2022 restructuring plan would reduce annual operating costs by approximately $30 million, which was primarily the result of lower costs of sales and selling, general and administrative expenses due to reduced employee-related costs, of which approximately 30% would result in net savings. The restructuring actions were substantially completed by fiscal 2023.
During fiscal 2021, Adient committed to a restructuring plan (“2021 Plan”) of $27 million that was offset by $16 million of prior year underspend. Of the restructuring costs recorded, $23 million related to the EMEA segment, $3 million related to the Americas segment, and $1 million related to the Asia segment. The restructuring actions related to cost reduction initiatives and consist primarily of workforce reductions and lease contract terminations. Adient estimated that upon completion of the restructuring actions, the fiscal 2021 restructuring plan would reduce annual operating costs by approximately $23 million, which was primarily the result of lower costs of sales and selling, general and administrative expenses due to reduced
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employee-related costs, of which approximately 20%-30% would result in net savings. The restructuring actions were substantially completed by fiscal 2023.
New Accounting Pronouncements
See Note 1, “Organization and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies,” of the notes to consolidated financial statements for a discussion of new accounting pronouncements.
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