Mueller Water Products, Inc. 10-K

Item 7A. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURE ABOUT MARKET RISK We are exposed to various market risks, including potential losses arising from adverse changes in market prices and rates, such as various commodity prices and foreign exchange rates. We do not enter into derivatives or other financial instruments for trading or speculative purposes. Our primary financial instruments are cash and cash equivalents. This includes cash in banks and highly rated, liquid money market investments. We believe these instruments are not subject to material potential near-term losses in future earnings from reasonably possible near-term changes in market rates or prices. Commodity Price Risk Our products are made using various purchased components and several basic raw materials, including brass ingot, scrap steel, sand and resin. We expect prices for these items to fluctuate based on marketplace demand. Our product margins and level of profitability may fluctuate whether or not we pass increases in purchased component and raw material costs on to our customers. Infrastructure experienced a 33% increase in the average cost per ton of scrap steel and a 35% increase in the average cost of brass ingot in 2021 compared to 2020. Technologies was also unfavorably affected by the 35% increase in the average cost of brass ingot. See “Item 1A. RISK FACTORS-The prices of our purchased components and raw materials can be volatile.” 34 Table of Contents Index to Financial Statements Currency Risk Our principal assets, liabilities and operations outside the United States are in Israel, Canada and China. These assets and liabilities are translated into United States dollars at currency exchange rates in effect at the end of each period, with the effect of such translation reflected in other comprehensive income (loss). Our stockholders’ equity will fluctuate depending upon the weakening or strengthening of the United States dollar against these non-United States currencies. Net sales and expenses of these subsidiaries are translated into United States dollars at the average currency exchange rate during the period.