KOSS Koss Corp - 10-K

ITEM 1A.    RISK FACTORS

We are subject to various risks that may adversely affect our business, prospects, financial condition, and results of operations, including, but not limited to, those set forth below. These are the risks and uncertainties we believe are most important for you to consider, however, there may be other risks that are currently deemed immaterial or not currently known to us that could materially impact the business. If any of the following risks, or those unidentified, develop into actual events, the Company’s business, reputation, results of operations, financial condition and stock price can be materially and adversely affected. The risks discussed below include forward-looking statements, and our actual results may differ substantially from those discussed in these forward-looking statements.

Macroeconomic and Political Risks

The Company's operations and results are influenced by both global and regional economic environments, and less than favorable economic conditions may have a material adverse impact on the Company's business, operating results, and financial position.

The Company sales outside the U.S. represent nearly 30% of total net sales for the fiscal year ended Jne 30, 2025. Moreover, the Company relies almost exclusively on contract manufacturing facilities based in the People’s Republic of China to produce its goods, underscoring the critical importance of this region to its overall operations. As a result, the Company’s business, financial condition, and results of operations may be adversely affected by unfavorable global, national, and regional economic conditions and political developments. Inflationary pressures, sustained higher interest rates, and increased energy and labor costs have reduced consumer discretionary spending and may continue to impact demand for the Company’s products. In addition, supply chain disruptions, fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates, and the imposition of new tariffs or trade restrictions could increase our costs and reduce profitability.

The Company’s operations may be affected by political developments, international trade disputes and restrictions, natural disasters, public health concerns, and other disruptions to business activities.

Political developments, international trade or other disputes, natural disasters, public health concerns, and various business disruptions may have a significant adverse impact on the Company, as well as its customers, employees, contract manufacturers, logistics providers, and distributors.

Uncertainty associated with the current U.S. presidential administration and changes in government policies that have and will continue to occur may operations, cost structure, and competitive environment. For example, the recent changes to corporate tax laws and rates, environmental regulations, international trade agreements and newly enacted tariffs could increase operating costs or reduce access to key markets. Furthermore, political polarization within the United States and the possibility of policy reversals or delayed legislative action may contribute to economic volatility and reduce business and consumer confidence.

Primarily all of the Company’s contract manufacturing facilities are located in China and we do not currently have arrangements with contract manufacturers in other countries that may be acceptable substitutes. Significant increases in wages or wage taxes paid by contract manufacturing facilities may increase the cost of goods manufactured in China which could have a material adverse effect on the Company’s profit margins and profitability. Additionally, restrictions on international trade, the imposition of tariffs, sanctions and other controls on imports or exports of goods, technology or data, can materially adversely impact the Company’s business and supply chain. Further restrictive measures, which could be announced with little or no warning, could limit the Company’s ability to source materials and product from China at acceptable prices or at all and necessitate a change to the Company’s supply chain which would be disruptive, time-consuming and expensive. We cannot predict what actions may ultimately be taken with respect to tariffs, export controls, countermeasures, or other trade measures between the U.S. and China or other countries and what products may be subject to such actions. To the extent such actions inhibit our transactions with contract manufacturing facilities and suppliers in China, our business may be materially adversely affected. See further discussion below under “ The Company is dependent on the proper functioning of our contract manufacturers, our supply chain, and our distribution networks. Any disruptions could adversely affect our business, financial condition or results of operations ” and “ A shift in U.S. and China trade relations, policies and imposed tariffs could adversely affect the Company’s business, financial condition and results of operations.”

Geopolitical tensions, armed conflicts and acts of terrorism could adversely affect our business, financial condition, and results of operations.

Ongoing and escalating geopolitical conflicts, including the Russia - Ukraine war, instability in the Middle East, and heightened tensions between the United States and China, create significant uncertainty in the global economic and regulatory environment. These conflicts may lead to supply chain disruptions, restrictions on the movement of goods, changes in trade policies, and imposition of new tariffs, sanctions, or export controls. For example, the conflict in Russia and Ukraine and the related sanctions and trade restrictions on Russia have caused and are expected to continue to cause, global political, economic and social instability, volatility in

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commodity prices and energy prices, increased cyberattacks and disruptions to the global economy . In accordance with Executive Order 14071 signed on April 6, 2022 soon after the war began, the Company suspended sales to Russia. Also, as a result of the humanitarian crisis in Ukraine created by the war and the population seeking refuge in other countries, sales to Ukraine have been impacted. There were no sales to Russia during the fiscal years ended June 30, 2025 and 2024, however, sales to Ukraine resumed in the fiscal year ended June 30, 2024 with more expected in the future. Prior to the imposition of the sanctions against Russia, fiscal year 2022 sales to Russia approximated 2% of the Company’s total sales.

Recent years have seen escalating conflicts in the Middle East, involving attacks by militant groups, responses from national defense forces, and retaliatory actions across borders. Such military engagements often bring international involvement, with foreign powers providing support, participating in defense operations, and sometimes engaging in evacuations. These developments underscore the increasing complexity and risk within the global geopolitical landscape. The conflicts have exacerbated regional instability, impacted global shipping lanes and increased energy and raw material costs.

Tensions between the U.S. and China could result in additional tariffs beyond what were recently imposed, retaliatory trade measures, or regulatory restrictions that increase the cost of manufacturing and sourcing materials. These risks may limit the Company’s ability to procure critical products and components, extend lead times, increase transportation and input costs, and adversely impact competitiveness in key markets. In addition, the uncertain and rapidly evolving nature of these geopolitical developments makes it difficult to predict the full extent of their impact on the Company’s operations, financial condition, and results of operations.

Our business, financial condition and results of operations may be adversely impacted by the effects of inflation.

Persistent inflationary pressures and elevated interest rates have the potential to adversely affect the Company’s business, financial condition and results of operations, particularly if we are unable to achieve commensurate increases in the prices we charge our customers. The Company continues to experience inflationary cost pressures in commodities, packaging materials, wages and higher energy and transportation costs, thus potentially impacting the ability to meet customer demand. The Company attempts to mitigate th ese increases through pricing strategies, as well as working with a dedicated freight forwarding partner to minimize freight rate increases. Inflation may impact customer demand for the Company’s products resulting from a slowdown in consumer spending as disposable income decreases due to rising interest rates, the price of essential items, availability of credit and dwindling savings. Other risk factors further exacerbated by inflation include supply chain disruptions, increased oil and energy costs, risks of international operations and the recruitment and retention of talent.

Risks Related to our International Operations

We may be subject to risks related to doing business in, and having counterparties based in, foreign countries.

We engage in operations, and enter into agreements with counterparties located outside the U.S., which exposes us to political, governmental, and economic instability and foreign currency exchange rate fluctuations. Any disruption caused by these factors could harm our business, results of operations, financial condition, liquidity, and prospects. Risks associated with potential operations, commitments, and investments outside of the U.S. include but are not limited to risks of:

 global and local economic, social and political conditions and uncertainty;

 currency exchange restrictions and currency fluctuations;

 export and import duties;

 additional tariffs imposed on exports from the U.S. to other countries, potentially impacting pricing to customers in those countries;

 war, such as the invasion of Ukraine by Russia, military conflicts in the Middle East or terrorist attack;

 local outbreak of disease or pandemic;

 renegotiation or nullification of existing contracts or international trade arrangements;

 labor market conditions and workers’ rights affecting our manufacturing operations or those of our customers;

 macro-economic conditions impacting key markets and sources of supply;

 changing laws and policies affecting trade, taxation, financial regulation, immigration, and investment;

 compliance with laws and regulations that differ among jurisdictions, including those covering taxes, intellectual property ownership and infringement, imports and exports, anti-corruption, and anti-bribery, antitrust and competition, data privacy, and environment, health, and safety; and

 general hazards associated with the assertion of sovereignty over areas in which operations are conducted, transactions occur, or counterparties are located.

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A shift in U.S. and China trade relations, policies and imposed tariffs could adversely affect the Company’s business, financial condition and results of operations.

The Company’s operations and financial results are subject to risks arising from evolving U.S.-China trade relations. In April 2025, the U.S. government imposed tariffs of up to 145% on certain imports from China, significantly increasing the Company’s costs of goods sourced from China. On May 12, 2025, the U.S. and China reached a temporary 90 - day trade truce, reducing these tariffs to approximately 30%, including a 10% baseline reciprocal tariff and a 20% surcharge on specific categories. The truce, effective May 14 through August 12, 2025, resulted in a suspension of the elevated China - specific tariff rates, with China reciprocally reducing tariffs on U.S. exports. On August 12, 2025, the US and China extended a tariff truce for another 90 days, pushing negotiations into the fall.

The long - term trajectory of trade policy remains uncertain. Failure to extend the agreement could result in the reinstatement of triple - digit percentage tariffs on imports from China, materially increasing the Company’s cost of goods sold and potentially disrupting supply chains. In addition, legal challenges to the tariffs are ongoing in U.S. courts, creating further uncertainty about the scope and enforceability of these measures.

Continued volatility in trade relations between the U.S. and China, including the potential for reinstated tariffs or new trade restrictions, could adversely impact the Company’s sourcing, pricing, and profitability. The Company is actively monitoring these developments and assessing mitigation strategies, including alternative sourcing arrangements, however, no assurance can be given that such strategies will fully offset the impact of adverse trade policy changes.

Fluctuations in currency exchange rates could affect the Company’s financial results and operations, including with respect to pricing of products and overall demand for the Company’s products.

The Company receives a material portion of its sales and profits from business in Europe. To the extent that the value of the U.S. dollar increases relative to currencies in those jurisdictions, it increases the cost of the Company’s products in those jurisdictions, which could create negative pressure on the foreign demand for the Company’s products. The Company is paid by its international customers in U.S. dollars. Volatility in the exchange rates between the foreign currencies and the U.S. dollar could result in increased prices, a decrease in the overall demand for the Company’s products or lead customers to purchase lower-priced, lower profit products and, as such, could have an adverse effect on the Company’s business, financial condition and results of operations.

Operational and Financial Risks

The Company is dependent on the proper functioning of our contract manufacturers, our supply chain, and our distribution networks. Any disruptions could adversely affect our business, financial condition or results of operations.

The Company relies on our third-party supply chain and distribution networks and the availability of necessary components to produce a considerable number of our products. A reduction or interruption in supply, including interruptions due to possible future pandemic- related restrictions, geopolitical unrest, labor shortages or strikes, or a failure to procure adequate components, may lead to delays in manufacturing or increases in costs.

Over 90% of the Company’s products are sourced from contract manufacturing facilities in the People’s Republic of China and Taiwan. There has been increasing geopolitical tension between China and Taiwan that may affect future shipments from Taiwan-based suppliers. Any other adverse changes in the social, political, regulatory or economic conditions in the countries could materially increase the cost of the products we buy from our foreign suppliers or delay shipments of products. There has also been increasing geopolitical tension between China and the United States. Sustained uncertainty about, or worsening of, economic relations and further escalation of trade tensions between the United States and China, or any other country in which the Company conducts business, could result in retaliatory trade restrictions that restrict our ability to source products from China or continue business in such other country. Any alterations to our business strategy or operations made in order to adapt to or comply with any such changes would be time-consuming and expensive, and the Company may not be able to pass along most increases in tariffs and freight charges to the Company’s customers, which would also directly affect profits.

Our dependence on foreign suppliers for our products also necessitates ordering products further in advance than we would if manufactured domestically, thus increasing investments in inventory. Delays in receiving and shipping products due to interruptions in its supply chain would pose a risk of lower sales to the Company and the potential for price volatility, negatively impacting profits. Recovery of a single facility through replacement of a supplier in the event of a disaster or suspension of supply could take an estimated six to twelve months.

We have experienced, and may again in the future experience supplier price increases, supply chain and shipping interruptions and constraints, volatility in demand for our products caused by sudden and significant changes in production levels by our suppliers, and disruptions in our manufacturing and supply arrangements caused by the loss or disruption of essential manufacturing and supply

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elements such as raw materials or other product components, transportation, work force, or force majeure events. Our inability to mitigate any of these disruptions may lead to a material adverse impact on our business, financial condition and results of operations.

The current hostilities in Eastern Europe and the resulting economic sanctions imposed by the government have impacted the global economy. While we have no operations in Russia or Ukraine, we are unable to sell to certain of our customers in Russia as a result of this event. The continuation of the military conflict in Eastern Europe, as well as the tension in the Middle East, could lead to increased supply chain disruptions, inflationary pressures and volatility in global markets that could negatively impact our operations. The economies of Europe have also been impacted by these conflicts as a direct result of disruptions in transportation and the supply of energy, high food prices and tight credit. These factors can have a direct impact on the consumer’s ability to access and purchase the Company’s products.

The Company continuously monitors its supply chain in order to modify business plans as may be necessary. This could include increasing the investment in inventory, being alert to potential short supply situations, assisting suppliers with acquisition of critical components and utilizing alternative sources and/or air freight . However, these measures may entail additional costs to the Company and cannot guarantee that the Company will not be adversely affected by supply chain disruptions. Any disruption to any link in the Company’s supply or distribution chain can have a negative impact on results.

Failure to attract and retain customers to sell the Company’s products could adversely affect sales volume and future profitability.

The Company markets a line of products used by consumers to listen to music. The Company distributes these products through large domestic distributors and some retail channels in the U.S. and independent distributors throughout the rest of the world. The Company is dependent upon its ability to attract and retain a base of customers to sell the Company’s line of products. The Company has broad distribution across many channels including specialty stores, mass merchants, electronics stores and computer retailers. The Company may not be able to maintain customers or model selections and therefore may experience a reduction in its sales revenue until a model is restored to the mix or a lost customer is replaced by a new customer. The loss of business of one or more principal customers or a change in the sales volume from a particular customer could have a material adverse effect on the Company’s sales volume and profitability.

A shift in customer specifications to lower priced items can reduce profit margins, negatively impacting profitability.

The Company sells lines of products with suggested retail prices ranging from less than $10 up to $1,000. The gross margin for each of these models varies in terms of percentages. The Company finds the low-priced portion of the market most competitive and therefore most subject to pressure on gross margin percentages, which tends to lower profit contributions. Therefore, a shift in customer specifications and preferences toward lower priced items could lead to lower gross margins and lower profit contributions per unit of sale. Due to the range of products that the Company sells, the product sales mix can produce a variation in profit margins. Some distributors sell a limited range of products that yield lower profit margins than others. Most notably, the budget-priced stereo headphone segment of the market (below $10 retail), which is distributed through mass market retailers, computer stores, and office supply stores and to school systems, tends to yield the lowest gross margins. An increase in business with these types of accounts, if coupled with a simultaneous reduction in sales to customers with higher gross margins, would reduce profit margins and profitability.

If we are unable to continue to develop innovative and popular products, our brand image may be harmed and demand for our products may decrease.

Consumer electronics are subject to constantly and rapidly changing consumer preferences based on industry trends and performance features, including technological advancement. Our success depends largely on our ability to lead, anticipate, gauge and respond to these changing consumer preferences and trends in a timely manner, while preserving and strengthening the perception and authenticity of our brand. We must continue to develop high performance products that provide better design and performance attributes than the products of our competitors at similar price points. Market acceptance of new designs and products is subject to uncertainty, and we cannot assure you that our efforts will be successful. Market acceptance for new products may also require substantial marketing efforts and expenditures to increase consumer demand, which could constrain our management, financial and operational resources. If new designs and products we introduce do not gain broad market acceptance or demand for our existing products wanes, our sales, brand image, business and financial condition could be adversely affected.

We may not be able to compete effectively, which could cause our net sales and market share to decline.

The consumer electronics industry is highly competitive, and characterized by frequent introduction of new competitors, as well as increased competition from established companies expanding their product portfolio, aggressive price cutting and resulting downward pressure on gross margins and rapid consolidation of the market resulting in larger competitors. We face competition from consumer electronics brands that have historically dominated the stereo headphone market, in addition to sport brands, lifestyle companies and consumer electronics giants that also source or produce headphone products. These competitors may have significant competitive advantages, including greater financial, engineering, distribution and marketing resources, longer operating histories, better brand

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recognition among certain groups of consumers, and greater economies of scale. In addition, these competitors often have long-term relationships with many larger retailers that are potentially more important to those retailers. As a result, these competitors may be better equipped to influence consumer preferences or otherwise increase their market share by:

 quickly adapting to changes in consumer preferences;

 readily taking advantage of acquisition and other opportunities;

 discounting excess inventory;

 devoting greater resources to the marketing and sale of their products, including significant advertising, media placement and product endorsement;

 adopting aggressive pricing policies; and

 engaging in length y and costly intellectual property and other legal disputes.

Additionally, the industry in which we compete generally has low barriers to entry that allow the introduction of new products or new competitors at a fast pace. If we are unable to protect our brand image and authenticity, while carefully balancing our growth, we may be unable to effectively compete with these new market entrants or new products. The inability to compete effectively against new and existing competitors could have an adverse effect on our net sales and results of operations, preventing us from achieving future growth.

If we are unable to obtain intellectual property rights and/or enforce those rights against third parties who are violating those rights, our business could suffer.

We rely on various intellectual property rights, including patents, trademarks, trade secrets and trade dress to protect our brand name, reputation, product appearance and technology. If we fail to obtain, maintain, or in some cases enforce our intellectual property rights, our competitors may be able to copy our designs, or use our brand name, trademarks, or technology. As a result, if we are unable to successfully protect our intellectual property rights, or resolve any conflicts effectively, our results of operations may be harmed. Regardless of the merits of the claims, litigation may be expensive, time-consuming, and disruptive to our operations and distracting to management. If resolved against us, such legal proceedings could result in excessive verdicts, injunctive relief or other equitable relief that may affect how we operate our business. Similarly, if we settle such legal proceedings, it may negatively affect how we operate our business. I n connection with its ongoing intellectual property enforcement program, which includes lawsuits alleging infringement of patents relating to its wireless audio technology, the Company has granted licenses covering certain Company patents. Other similar complaints filed remain outstanding. As all litigation is uncertain, there can be no assurance that any of this remaining or future litigation will be decided in our favor.

We may be adversely affected by the financial condition of our retailers and distributors.

We depend on, and expect to continue to depend on, sales to several significant distributors and retailers. Some of them may experience financial difficulties because of current or future adverse economic conditions. A retailer or distributor experiencing such difficulties generally will not purchase and sell as many of our products as it would under normal circumstances and may cancel orders. In addition, a retailer or distributor experiencing financial difficulties generally increases our exposure to uncollectible receivables. We extend credit to our retailers and distributors based on our assessment of their financial condition, generally without requiring collateral, and sometimes are not able to obtain information regarding their current financial status. Failure of these retailers or distributors to remain current on their obligations to us could result in losses that exceed the reserves we set aside in anticipation of this risk. We are also exposed to the risk of our customers declaring bankruptcy, exposing us to claims of preferential payment claims. Any loss, cancellation or reduction of purchases by these distributors or retailers may have a material adverse effect on our business.

Direct-to-Consumer sales through the Amazon marketplace account for a significant amount of our net sales and the loss of, or reduced purchases from, this sales channel could have a material adverse effect on our operating results.

Our largest concentration of sales in fiscal year 2025 came from our DTC sales via the Amazon portal and accounted for more than 19% and 17% of our net sales in fiscal years 2025 and 2024, respectively. We do not have long-term contracts to conduct sales through the Amazon portal or for sales to any of our customers, and all of our customers generally purchase from us on a purchase order basis. As a result, Amazon or any other customer generally may, with no notice or penalty, cease ordering and selling our products, or materially reduce their orders. If certain customers, individually or in aggregate, choose to no longer sell our products, slow their rate of purchase of our products or decrease the number of unique products they purchase, our results of operations would be adversely affected.

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Our products may experience quality problems from time to time that can result in decreased sales and operating margin and harm to our reputation.

We offer products that can be affected by design and manufacturing defects. Defects can also exist in components used for our products. Component defects could make the Company’s products unsafe and create a risk of property damage and personal injury. There can be no assurance that the Company will be able to detect all issues and defects in the products it offers. Failure to do so can result in widespread technical and performance issues affecting the Company’s products. In addition, the Company can be exposed to product liability claims, recalls, product replacements or modifications, write-offs of inventory, property, plant, and equipment, and/or intangible assets, and significant warranty and other expenses, including litigation costs and regulatory fines. Quality problems can also adversely affect the experience for users of the Company’s products, and result in harm to the Company’s reputation, loss of competitive advantage, poor market acceptance, reduced demand for products, delay in new product introductions and lost sales.

An information systems interruption, cyberattack or breach in security could adversely affect our business.

We rely on accounting, financial, and operational management information systems to conduct our operations. Any disruption in these systems could adversely affect our ability to conduct our business. Furthermore, as part of our normal business activities, we collect and store common confidential information about customers, employees, vendors, and suppliers. This information is entitled to protection under a number of regulatory regimes. Any failure to maintain the security of the data, including the penetration of our network security and the misappropriation of confidential and personal information, could result in business disruption, damage to our reputation, financial obligations to third parties, fines, penalties, regulatory proceedings and private litigation with potentially large costs, and also result in deterioration in customers confidence in us and other competitive disadvantages, and thus could have a material adverse impact on our financial condition and results of operations.

Cyberattacks are a growing geopolitical risk, becoming larger, more frequent, more sophisticated and more relentless as technology has evolved, resulting in privacy, security, and compliance concerns. They are a significant threat to individual organizations and national security. High-profile security breaches at other companies and in government agencies have increased in recent years, and security industry experts and government officials have warned about the risks of hackers and cyberattacks targeting businesses. While we devote resources to security measures to protect our systems and data, these measures cannot provide absolute security. These types of attacks can also have an impact on the entire supply and distribution chain for the Company’s product line. Given connectivity through the internet, the Company can only be as strong as the weakest link, whether that is a financial service provider, third party distributor, reseller, transportation service provider, contract manufacturer, customer or consumer.

Changes in tax laws and unanticipated tax liabilities could adversely affect our effective income tax rate and profitability.

The Company is subject to income taxes in the United States. The Company’s effective income tax rate and profitability could be adversely affected in the future by several factors, including changes in tax laws, regulations, administrative guidance or interpretations at the federal, state, or international level and changes in the valuation of deferred tax assets and liabilities.

‎ On July 4, 2025, President Trump signed into law the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (the “OBBB Act”), a sweeping tax and spending law that makes permanent many provisions of the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (the “TCJA”), while introducing new tax policies and restructuring others. While certain provisions may reduce the Company’s tax liability, such as modifications to corporate tax rates, deductions, credits, treatment of foreign income, and expensing rules , others may introduce new complexity and audit risk. The Company will continue to monitor the potential impact of the OBBB Act. Because tax laws are dynamic and often retroactive or uncertain in interpretation, projected tax liabilities may differ significantly from eventual obligations. The net impact remains uncertain, and misapplication of the new rules could lead to materially adverse outcomes.

The Company regularly assesses all of these tax-related matters to determine the adequacy of its tax provision. If current tax strategies are ineffective or not in compliance with domestic and international tax laws, the Company’s financial position, operating results, and cash flows could be adversely affected.

Risks Related to our Stock

Our stock price has been, and may in the future, be subject to significant fluctuations and volatility.

The market price of our stock is subject to price volatility. Additionally, over the years, the Company, the technology industry, and the stock market as a whole have experienced dramatic and extreme stock price and volume fluctuations that have affected stock prices in ways that may have been driven primarily by social media hype rather than companies’ operating performance and prospects. Factors such as the depth and liquidity of the market for our common stock, investor perceptions of us and our business, actions by institutional shareholders, strategic actions by us, litigation, changes in accounting standards, policies, guidance, interpretations and principles, additions or departures of key personnel, a decline in demand for our products and our results of operations, financial performance and future prospects may cause the market price and demand for our common stock to fluctuate substantially, which may

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limit or prevent investors from realizing the liquidity of their shares. During the fiscal year ended June 30, 2025, the sales price of our common stock fluctuated between a reported high sales price of $18.73 on July 3, 2024 and a reported low sales price of $4.00 on April 9, 2025. The trading volume in shares of our common stock can also vary widely. For example, during the most recent fiscal year, daily trading volume ranged from a low of 11,400 shares on May 1, 2025 to a high of 70,055,500 on July 3, 2024. Our market capitalization, as implied by various trading prices, can reflect valuations that diverge significantly from those seen prior to volatility and, to the extent these valuations reflect trading dynamics unrelated to our financial performance or prospects, purchasers of our common stock could incur substantial losses if there are declines in market prices driven by a return to earlier valuations. As a result of this volatility, investors may experience losses on their investment in our common stock.

A “short squeeze” due to a sudden increase in demand for shares of our common stock that largely exceeds supply could lead to extreme price volatility in shares of our common stock.

In the past, securities of certain companies have experienced significant and extreme volatility in stock price due to a sudden increase in demand for stock resulting in aggregate short positions in the stock exceeding the number of shares available for purchase, forcing investors with short exposure to pay a premium to repurchase shares for delivery to share lenders. This is known as a “short squeeze.” These short squeezes can lead to the price per share of those companies to trade at a significantly inflated rate that is disconnected from the underlying value of the company. Trading by short sellers may increase the likelihood that our common stock will be the target of a short squeeze. A short squeeze could lead to volatile price movements in shares of our common stock that are unrelated or disproportionate to our operating performance or prospects and, once investors purchase the shares of our common stock necessary to cover their short positions, the price of our common stock may rapidly decline. Stockholders that purchase shares of our common stock during a short squeeze may lose a significant portion of their investment.

The Koss family, including certain members of our management, owns a significant percentage of our stock and, as a result, the trading price for our shares may be depressed and it can take actions that may be adverse to the interests of our stockholders.

Michael Koss, our President and Chief Executive Officer, beneficially owned 3,858,410 shares of our common stock as of August 1, 2025, representing 40.8% of shares outstanding on such date, including shares held by a voting trust over which Mr. Koss holds sole voting and dispositive power. This significant concentration of share ownership may adversely affect the trading price for our common stock because investors may perceive disadvantages in owning stock in companies with a large stockholder, since such a stockholder can significantly influence all matters requiring approval by our stockholders, including the election and removal of directors and any proposed merger, consolidation or sale of all or substantially all of our assets. In addition, due to his significant ownership stake and his service as our Principal Executive Officer and Chairman of the Board of Directors, Michael Koss directs the management of our business and affairs. This concentration of ownership could have the effect of delaying, deferring or preventing a change in control, or impeding a merger or consolidation, takeover or other business combination that could be favorable to our other stockholders.

Future sales of a substantial amount of our common stock in the public markets by our insiders, or the perception that these sales may occur, may cause the market price of our common stock to decline.

Our employees, directors and officers, and their affiliates collectively hold substantial amounts of shares of our common stock and have vested options for the purchase of our common stock. Sales of a substantial number of such shares by these stockholders, or the perception that such sales will occur, may cause the market price of our common stock to decline. Other than restrictions on trading that arise under securities laws (or pursuant to our Insider Trading and Tipping Policy that is intended to facilitate compliance with securities laws), including the prohibition on trading in securities by or on behalf of a person who is aware of nonpublic material information, we have no restrictions on the right of our employees, directors and officers, and their affiliates, to sell their unrestricted shares of common stock.

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ITEM 1B.    UNRESO LVED STAFF COMMENTS

No t applicable.

ITEM 1C.   CYBER SECURITY

Risk Management and Strategy

The Company maintains policies and processes for assessing, identifying, and managing material risk from cybersecurity threats, and has integrated these processes into the overall risk management processes. The Company has programs in place intended to address and mitigate the cybersecurity risks that could adversely impact customers and/or reputation and lead to financial losses from remediation actions, loss of business, production downtimes and operational delays. These programs include regular monitoring of outside threats, continuous updating of software to mitigate risk, implementation of a formal policy related to employees that access corporate systems from personal devices, a simplification of infrastructure to minimize servers and migration of business-critical systems, including the Company’s ERP system, to Tier-1 cloud service providers. Enhancements have also been made to endpoint protection and remote access protocols, including enhanced encryption, two-factor authentication (2FA) and real-time threat monitoring.

Annual vulnerability assessments and penetration testing, as well as periodic web application and internal network scanning, are performed by third party service providers as directed by the Company’s Managed Service Provider (“MSP”). The results of these tests are shared with the CFO by the MSP. We have processes in place to evaluate the potential risks from cybersecurity threats associated with our use of third-party service providers that have access to our data, including a review process for such providers’ cybersecurity practices, risk assessments, contractual requirement and system monitoring. The Company also partners with a breach protection platform to provide ongoing, self-guided cybersecurity training to its employees to reduce risk from phishing, social engineering and password-related attacks.

The Company has not been impacted by any previous cybersecurity incidents that would materially affect business operations, customer relationships or financial conditions.

Governance

Cybersecurity remains a critical component of corporate governance at the Company. The Company’s MSP is responsible for identifying and assessing risks on an ongoing basis to ensure that the Company’s policies and procedures are functioning as designed to protect the Company’s information systems from potential cybersecurity threats. Management is provided regular updates on the Company’s cybersecurity programs, training metrics, system health status and material cybersecurity risk and mitigation strategies, along with any necessary enhancements to those programs. Cybersecurity policies and processes are reviewed annually with the Board of Directors, which serves in an oversight role as a whole. In addition, the Audit Committee and the Board consider risk-related matters on an ongoing basis in connection with deliberations regarding specific transactions and issues and would be notified immediately of any cybersecurity incidents.

ITEM 7.    MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS.

The purpose of this discussion and analysis is to enhance the understanding and evaluation of the financial position, results of operations, cash flows, indebtedness, and other key financial information of the Company for fiscal years 2025 and 2024. Unless otherwise indicated, comparisons of financial information reflect the fiscal year ended June 30, 2025 versus the fiscal year ended June 30, 2024. Our MD&A should be read in conjunction with the Consolidated Financial Statements and related Notes included in Item 8, Financial Statements and Supplementary Data, of this Annual Report on Form 10-K. See also the “Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Statements” on page 4 of this Report.

Overview

John C. Koss and the Company have been recognized as the creator of the personal listening industry. The Company initially developed the first Koss SP 3 stereo headphones in 1958 and has been an innovator in the field ever since. We market a complete line of high-fidelity headphones, wireless Bluetooth® headphones, wireless Bluetooth® speakers, computer headsets, telecommunications headsets, and active noise canceling headphones. Koss operates as one business segment, as its only business line is the design, manufacture and sale of stereo headphones and related personal listening accessories.

The Company’s products are sold domestically and internationally through a variety of retailers and distributors, as well as directly to other manufacturers to include with their own products. Changes in sales volume are driven primarily by the addition or loss of customers, a customer adding or removing a product from its inventory, or changes in economic conditions. Sales levels are less impacted by seasonality or the traditional holiday shopping season.

Although certain of the Company’s products could be viewed as essential by consumers for use with mobile phones and other portable electronic devices, many other models represent a more discretionary spend. The results of the Company’s operations are therefore susceptible to consumer confidence and adverse macroeconomic factors such as newly imposed tariffs, inflation, slower growth or recession, higher interest rates, and wage and commodity inflation. In addition, the economic sanctions imposed as a result of the Russia/Ukraine conflict have impacted certain of our customers in those markets and the surrounding regions.

Fiscal Year 2025 Summary

 Net sales grew 2.9% to $12,624,170, mainly as a result of a 48% increase in sales to our European distributors, a 16.5% increase in Direct-to-Consumer (DTC) sales. The growth was somewhat offset by lower sales to domestic distributors claiming excess inventory of prior year models of non-Koss electronics combined with a drop in sales to the Education market due to a delay in an order while awaiting budget approval. Overall domestic sales fell 8.4% while Export sales grew quite significantly at 48%.

 Gross profit as a percentage of sales increased by 3.7 percentage points over the prior fiscal year from 34.1% to 37.8%. A favorable sales mix, with a higher mix of higher margin sales to certain domestic distributors and DTC coupled with sales to Europe that generated higher than normal margins due to new product sales. The prior year’s adverse impact of the continued sell-through of inventory brought in at higher freight rates also contributed to the favorable gross margin for the 2025 fiscal year.

 Selling, general and administrative expenses increased 7.5% over the prior fiscal year principally due to the increase in new product compliance testing and certification. Legal fees and expenses also increased in support of the Compan y’s patent defense litigation and the settlement of an ADA lawsuit related to the Koss.com website.

 Total tax expense of $17,482 was recorded for the year ended June 30, 2025 driven by minimum required payments and in increase in the uncertain tax position (UTP) related to research and development credits taken in the prior year and the appropriate tax and penalties that would be incurred should there be a denial of the credits During the prior year, a federal tax benefit of $73,604 was recorded as a result of the return-to-provision adjustment identified during the third quarter of fiscal year 2024.

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Consolidated Results

The following table presents selected consolidated financial data for each of the past two fiscal years:

Consolidated Performance Summary

Net sales

Net sales increase (decrease) % from prior year period

Gross profit

Gross profit as % of net sales

Selling, general and administrative expenses

Selling, general and administrative expenses as % of net sales

Interest income

Loss before income tax provision (benefit)

Loss before income tax provision (benefit) as % of net sales

Income tax provision (benefit)

Income tax provision (benefit) as % of loss before income tax provision (benefit)

2025 Results of Operations Compared with 2024

Net sales for the year ending June 30, 2025 were $12,624,170, a 2.9% increase compared to $12,265,069 in the prior fiscal year, primarily behind a 48% increase in sales to Europe and a 16.5% increase in DTC sales.

Growth in net export sales of $1,185,738, or 48%, for the fiscal year 2025 is predominantly driven by the significant increase in sales to two of the Company’s largest European distributors, which consisted of nearly $1,400,000 new product sales. Sales to the Asian markets were up almost 52%, assisting Europe with the overall increase.

For the year ended June 30, 2025, domestic sales declined by 8.4%, or $826,637. Sales to our domestic distributors were down 27.3% behind weak commitments to stocking inventory and there was a $531,000 drop in sales to the Education market due to a delay in the finalization of a significant order while awaiting budget approval. E-tailer and Music and Books sales also declined $441,035 compared to the prior year. DTC and certain domestic distributors saw a combined sales increase of $860,019 for the year ended June 30, 2025, partially offsetting the overall decline. DTC sales represent 24% of the Company’s total sales and the noteworthy increase appears to be driven by new product launches, continued page optimizations and increased online advertising efforts.

Gross profit as a percentage of net sales for the year ended June 30, 2025 was 37.8% versus 34.1% for the prior fiscal year. Gross margins vary by customer, product, and markets and, as a result, any shifts in the mix can impact the overall gross margin. A favorable mix of higher margin sales to certain of our domestic distributors and DTC sales was coupled with a higher mix of sales to Europe which included a significant amount of sales of new product at higher margins. This was slightly offset by the adverse impact of newly imposed tariffs included in inventory sold in the last quarter of fiscal year 2025 along with a write-off of some obsolete inventory. The negative impact of the sell-through of inventory brought in at higher freight rates in the prior year also contributed to the increase in gross margins year over year. Freight rates increased slightly throughout the year due mainly to strong demand, capacity constraints and disruptions in major ports. Rates are expected to settle back down in the first part of the coming fiscal year as the Peak Season Surcharge (PSS) imposed in the fourth quarter of fiscal year 2025 was cancelled. The Company renewed its partnership agreement with a dedicated freight forwarder, which will continue to provide access to lower freight rates even if market rates should go up, and a lane was added to a bonded warehouse which may be utilized to defer tariff spend. The cost of additional loading, unloading and storage at this new facility will be offset by the delayed payments to the Custom Border Patrol for product stored there until final delivery to the Company. The first shipment to the bonded warehouse occurred in August 2025, deferring the tariffs until the product arrives at the Company’s plant in Milwaukee, WI. The Company continues to stay abreast of current events that might impact future freight rates and will act accordingly to ensure availability of goods. The impact of broader economic factors such as newly imposed tariffs, inflation and shifts in consumer behavior could result in overcapacity in the market and rising freight costs. The Company continues to monitor the situation.

Selling, general and administrative expenses rose by approximately $453,000, or 7.5%, for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2025. New product compliance testing and certifications were the main driver of the increase, combined with higher online marketing spend. Legal costs incurred for a Supreme Court appeal in the Company’s continued patent litigation, along with legal fees incurred and a settlement paid related to an ADA lawsuit brought against the Koss.com website, also contributed to the year over year increase. A reduction in stock-based compensation expense partially offset the increases as any remaining unvested stock options granted with the Koss Corporation 2012 Omnibus Incentive Plan (the “2012 Plan”) are nearly fully vested.

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Interest income of $879,774 and $847,644 was recorded during the fiscal years ended June 30 2025 and 2024, respectively, due almost entirely to interest earned on the U.S. Treasury investments held during the years in order to earn a return on the Company’s excess cash while maintaining a low risk profile.

Total tax expense of $17,482 was recorded for the year ended June 30, 2025. Federal tax expense of $5,570 was recorded for the uncertain tax position related to research and development (R&D) credits taken in a prior year and state tax expense of $11,912 related mostly to minimum estimated state tax payments due. In the prior year, a net income tax benefit of $73,604 was reported for the year, which included a federal income tax benefit of $81,278 recorded as a result of the return-to-provision (RTP) adjustments recorded in the period identified. The RTP adjustments were identified as part of the preparation and submission of the fiscal year 2023 tax returns during the third quarter fiscal year 2024. State income tax expense of $7,674, which represented only the required minimum estimated tax payments due, partially offset the benefit. The effective tax rate was 2.1% for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2025 compared to 7.2% for the previous fiscal year.

The Company’s taxable losses for the years ended June 30, 2025 and 2024 increased the federal tax loss carryforward by approximately $1,150,000 and $1,270,000, respectively, resulting in an expected carryforward of approximately $34,00,000 by the end of the current fiscal year. The current fiscal year adjustment to the net operating loss carryforward increased the deferred tax asset to approximately $8,700,000 as of June 30, 2025, and the future realization of this continues to be uncertain. The valuation allowance was increased to fully offset the net deferred tax asset as there is sufficient negative evidence to support the maintaining of a full valuation allowance as, excluding unusual, infrequent items, a three-year cumulative tax loss occurred.

As previously reported, the Company maintains a program focused on enforcing its intellectual property and, in particular, certain of its patent portfolio. The Company has enforced its intellectual property by filing complaints against certain parties alleging infringement on the Company’s patents relating to its wireless headphone technology. The Company has, in the past, recovered certain of the fees and costs that were involved with the underlying efforts to enforce this portfolio and, if the program continues to be successful with the remaining complaints, the Company may receive additional royalties, offers to purchase its intellectual property, or other remedies advantageous to its competitive position. There is no guarantee, however, of a positive outcome from these efforts, which could ultimately be time-consuming and unsuccessful. Additionally, the Company may owe all or a portion of any future proceeds arising from the enforcement program to third parties.

The Company believes that its financial position remains strong. The Company had $2.8 million of cash and cash equivalents, $12.9 million of short-term investments and available credit facilities of $5.0 million on June 30, 2025.

U.S. tariff policy has undergone significant changes under President Donald Trump’s administration, leading to heightened global trade tensions and economic repercussions. In April 2025, the U.S. government imposed tariffs of up to 145% on certain imports from China, significantly increasing the Company’s expected duty costs for goods sourced from China. On May 12, 2025, the U.S. and China reached a temporary 90 - day trade truce, reducing these tariffs to approximately 30%. During fiscal year 2025, inflation remained elevated with Personal Consumption Expenditures (PCE) inflation up 2.6% compared to a year ago. The Federal Reserve has maintained higher interest rates, even amid persisting tariff-driven price pressures. Energy prices have seen some mild relief, although their deflationary impact is modest compared to tariff-induced inflation. As such, rising costs and tariff uncertainty continue to impact consumer confidence with cuts to discretionary spending, switching to lower-priced brands and delaying large purchases which, in turn, impact the Company’s sales volumes. Inflationary cost increases have resulted in higher costs of commodities, packaging materials, and wages, along with higher energy and transportation costs. These increases have been partially mitigated by somewhat higher pricing on new product launches, and the Company continues to work with a dedicated freight forwarding partner to minimize freight rate increases. Other risk factors further exacerbated by inflation include supply chain disruptions, risks of international operations, tight labor markets, and the challenges in recruitment and retention of talent.

The Company relies on our third-party supply chain, primarily in southern China, and distribution networks and the availability of necessary components to produce a considerable number of our products. A reduction or interruption in supply, including interruptions due to pandemic related restrictions, geopolitical unrest, labor shortages or strikes, newly imposed tariffs, or a failure to procure adequate components, may lead to delays in manufacturing or increases in costs.

The global supply chain remains fragile despite pockets of stabilization and improved predictability. Freight rates have risen due to strong U.S. import demand and rerouting around the Red Sea and Suez Canal. While the Company rarely uses the Suez route and does not expect material impact, elevated costs and transit delays are affecting resellers who rely on carriers traversing that corridor. Freight rates may ease during the new fiscal year, but espionage, tariff uncertainly and capacity stress continue to pose risks. The Company continues to closely monitor developments in the tension in Eastern Europe and the Middle East, and the supply chain team remains ready to increase inventory investment as needed. This includes being alert to potential short supply situations, assisting suppliers with acquisition of critical components and utilizing alternative sources and/or air freight.

Following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, global financial and credit markets around the world saw heightened volatility. In response to the invasion, the United States, United Kingdom, and European Union, along with others, imposed sweeping

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sanctions and export controls targeting Russia’s financial sector, energy, technology, sovereign debt and key individuals. In January 2025, additional sanctions were authorized by the U.S. on Russia’s energy sector, imposing a petroleum services ban and secondary sanctions on operators, insurers, oil producers and certain vessels. The proposed “Sanctioning Russia Act of 2025” aims to impose secondary tariffs and sanctions on countries that continue to fund Russia’s war in Ukraine and Trump has threatened additional action against Russia if they don’t agree to a ceasefire with Ukraine. In accordance with Executive Order 14071 signed on April 6, 2022, the Company suspended sales to Russia and during the years ended June 30, 2025 and 2024, there were no sales to customers in Russia.

Liquidity and Capital Resources

Cash Flows

The following table summarizes our cash flows from operating, investing and financing activities for each of the past two fiscal years:

Total cash provided by (used in):

Operating activities

Investing activities

Financing activities

Net (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents

Operating Activities

During the fiscal year ended June 30, 2025, cash used in operating activities of the Company consisted of approximately $375,000 of payments to the Custom Border Patrol for the newly imposed tariffs on product shipped from China. This was partially offset by IRS refunds of $262,000 relating to employer payroll taxes incorrectly paid in prior years on the gains from the disqualifying dispositions of incentive stock options. Cash used in operating activities of the Company during the prior fiscal year related mostly to bonus payouts of $403,000 and funding of $362,000 relating to reimbursement of employee payroll taxes incorrectly withheld on the gains from the disqualifying dispositions of incentive stock options. Cash outflow was partially offset by tighter inventory buying practices and interest received on investments.

Investing Activities

Net cash used by investing activities for fiscal year 2025 was mostly related to capital expenditures comprised of a new roof section replacement for $346,000 and other leasehold improvements of approximately $75,000. The Company also paid life insurance premiums of $71,000 on company-owned life insurance policies for two of its executives. Proceeds of $14,303,000 from the maturity of U.S. Treasury securities were received during the year, of which $14,059,000 was reinvested in new similar securities at a discount of $197,000. For the fiscal year ended June 30, 2024, cash used by investing activities was related to capital expenditures, including the replacement of a roof section of the building and HVAC upgrades for approximately $330,000 and premiums of $82,000 on company-owned life insurance policies for two of its executives. Proceeds of $14,331,000 were received during the prior fiscal year from the maturity of U.S. Treasury securities which were mostly reinvested to purchase $14,286,000 of similar securities at a $300,000 discount.

Financing Activities

The cash generated from financing activities in the fiscal years ended June 30, 2025 and 2024 was solely a result of stock option exercises. In the fiscal year ended 2025, exercises of stock options for 156,643 shares generated $305,908 of cash while stock option exercises for 65,000 shares in the previous fiscal year generated $134,975 of cash.

As of June 30, 2025 and 2024, the Company had no outstanding borrowings on its bank line of credit facility under the Credit Agreement (described below under “Credit Facility").

Short Term Liquidity

The Company anticipates funding its normal recurring trade payables, accrued expenses, ongoing R&D costs, inventory purchases, related tariffs and any potential interest payments, if it utilizes its line of credit facility, through existing working capital, funds provided by operating activities and interest earned on investments. Payment terms for the majority of the Company’s international customers, as well as custom and OEM customers, are cash in advance whereby funds are received before a shipment is even made. The Company believes its existing cash, cash equivalents, investments in short-term U.S. Treasury securities, cash provided by operating activities and borrowings under its credit facility, if any, will be sufficient to meet its anticipated working capital, and capital expenditure requirements during the next twelve months. There can be no assurance, however, that the Company’s business will continue to generate cash flow at current levels. If the Company is unable to generate sufficient cash flow from operations, then it may

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be required to sell assets, reduce capital expenditure, or draw on its credit facilities. Management is focused on increasing sales, especially in the U.S. distributor market, DTC, and the export markets, increasing new product introductions, increasing the generation of cash from operations, and improving the Company’s overall earnings to help improve the Company’s liquidity. The Company regularly evaluates new product offerings, inventory levels, and capital expenditure to ensure that it is effectively allocating resources in line with current market conditions.

Long Term Liquidity

The Company’s future capital requirements, to a certain extent, are also subject to general conditions in or affecting the electronics industry and are subject to general economic, political, financial, competitive, legislative, and regulatory factors that are beyond its control. Moreover, to the extent that existing cash, cash equivalents, cash from operations, and cash from its credit facilities are insufficient to fund its future activities, the Company may need to raise additional funds through public or private equity or debt financing, subject to the limitations specified in the Credit Agreement (as defined below). In addition, the Company may also need to seek additional equity funding or debt financing if it becomes a party to any agreement or letter of intent for potential investments in, or acquisitions of, businesses, services, or technologies.

Credit Facility

On May 14, 2019, the Company entered into a secured credit facility (“Credit Agreement”) with Town Bank (“Lender”). The Credit Agreement provides for a $5,000,000 revolving secured credit facility as well as letters of credit for the benefit of the Company of up to a sublimit of $1,000,000. There are no unused line fees in the credit facility. On January 28, 2021, the Credit Agreement was amended to change the interest rate to Wall Street Journal Prime less 1.50%. An amendment effective October 31, 2024 extended the maturity date to October 31, 2026. The Company and the Lender also entered into a General Business Security Agreement dated May 14, 2019 under which the Company granted the Lender a security interest in substantially all of the Company’s assets in connection with the Company’s obligations under the Credit Agreement. The Credit Agreement contains certain affirmative and negative covenants customary for financings of this type. The negative covenants include restrictions on other indebtedness, liens, fundamental changes, certain investments, disposition of assets, mergers and liquidations, among other restrictions. The Company is currently in compliance with all covenants related to the Credit Agreement. As of June 30, 2025 and 2024, there were no outstanding borrowings on the facility.

Stock Repurchase Program

In April 1995, the Board of Directors approved a stock repurchase program authorizing the Company to purchase, from time to time, up to $2,000,000 of its common stock for its own account. Subsequently, the Board of Directors periodically approved increases in the amount authorized for repurchase under the program. As of June 30, 2025, the Board had authorized the repurchase of an aggregate of $45,500,000 of common stock under the stock repurchase program, of which $43,360,247 had been expended. No stock repurchases were made under the program during the years ended June 30, 2025 or 2024.

As of June 30, 2025, the amount of common stock subject to repurchase by the Company under the Board of Director’s prior authorization remained $2,139,753 at the discretion of the Chief Executive Officer of the Company. Future stock purchases under this program are dependent on management’s assessment of value versus market price, may occur either on the open market or through privately negotiated transactions and may be financed through the Company’s cash flow or by borrowing.

Contractual Obligation

The Company leases the 126,000 square foot facility from Koss Holdings, LLC, which is controlled by five equal ownership interests in trusts held by the five beneficiaries of the former Chairman’s revocable trust and includes current stockholders of the Company. On May 24, 2022, the lease was renewed for a period of five years, ending June 30, 2028, and is being accounted for as an operating lease. The lease extension maintained the rent at a fixed rate of $380,000 per year. The Company has the option to renew the lease for an additional five years beginning July 1, 2028 and ending June 30, 2033 under the same terms and conditions except that the annual rent will increase to $397,000. The negotiated increase in rent slated for 2028 will be the first increase in rent since 1996. The Company is responsible for all property maintenance, insurance, taxes, and other normal expenses related to ownership. The facility is in good repair and, in the opinion of management, is suitable and adequate for the Company’s business purposes.

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Critical Accounting Estimates

Our discussion and analysis of financial condition and results of operations is based upon our Consolidated Financial Statements, which have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States. The preparation of these Consolidated Financial Statements requires us to make estimates and judgments that affect the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, revenues and expenses, and related disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities. We have made estimates and we continually evaluate our estimates and judgments, including those related to doubtful accounts, product returns, excess inventories, warranties, impairment of long-lived assets, deferred compensation, income taxes and other contingencies. We base our estimates on historical experience and assumptions that we believe to be reasonable under the circumstances, taking into consideration certain possible adverse impacts from inflation, recently enacted tariffs, the economic sanctions imposed on the international community as a result of the continued conflicts in Eastern Europe and the Middle East, and any changes to the global economic situation as a consequence of future pandemics. Actual results may differ from these estimates.

Below are the estimates that we believe are critical to the understanding of the Company’s results of operations and financial condition. Other accounting policies are described in Note 1, “Significant Accounting Policies” to the Consolidated Financial Statements included in this Annual Report on Form 10-K.

Revenue Recognition

Revenues from product sales are recognized when the customer obtains control of the product, which typically occurs upon shipment from the Company’s facility. There are a very limited number of customers for which control does not pass until they have received the products at their facility. Revenue from product sales is adjusted for estimated warranty obligations and variable consideration, which are detailed below. The Company uses a five-step analysis to determine how revenue is recognized. The underlying principle is to recognize revenue when promised goods or services transfer to the customer. The amount of revenue recognized is to reflect the consideration expected to be received for those goods or services. See Note 3 to the Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information on revenue recognition.

Accounts Receivable

The Company performs ongoing credit evaluations of its customers and adjusts credit limits based upon payment history and the customer’s current credit worthiness, as determined by the review of the customer’s current credit information. The Company continuously monitors collections and payments from customers and maintains an allowance for estimated credit losses. Accounts receivable are stated net of an allowance for doubtful accounts. The Company establishes an allowance based upon the current expected credit loss impairment model. The Company applies a historical loss rate based upon historic write-offs, adjusted for current conditions and reasonable and supportable forecasts of future losses as necessary. The Company may also record a specific reserve for individual accounts if they become aware of specific customer circumstances such as bankruptcy or deterioration in operational results or financial position. These specific reserves are re-evaluated and adjusted as additional information is received that impacts the amount reserved. However, the ultimate collectability of the unsecured receivable is dependent upon the financial condition of an individual customer, which could change rapidly and without warning.

Inventories

The Company values its inventories using standard cost which approximates the lower of first in first out (“FIFO”) cost or net realizable value. Valuing inventories at the lower of cost or net realizable value requires the use of estimates and judgment. The Company continues to use the same techniques to value inventories that it has in the past. Our customers may cancel their orders or change purchase volumes. This, or certain additional actions or market developments, could create excess inventory levels, which would impact the valuation of our inventories. Any actions taken by our customers or market developments that could impact the value of our inventory are considered when determining the lower of cost or net realizable value valuations. The Company regularly reviews inventory quantities on hand and records a provision for excess and obsolete inventory based primarily on historical and projected usage and production requirements. If the Company is not able to achieve its expectations of the net realizable value of the inventory at its current value, the Company would have to adjust its reserves accordingly. When a reserve is established, it creates a new cost basis, which is not increased in the future.

Product Warranty Obligations

The Company offers a lifetime warranty to consumers in the United States and certain other countries. This lifetime warranty creates a future performance obligation. There are also certain foreign distributors that receive warranty repair parts and replacement headphones to satisfy warranty obligations in those countries. The Company defers revenue to recognize the future obligations related to these warranties. The deferred revenue is based on historical analysis of warranty claims relative to sales. This deferred revenue reflects the Company’s best estimates of the amount of warranty returns and repairs it will experience during those future periods. If

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future warranty activity varies from the estimates, the Company will adjust the estimated deferred revenue, which would affect net sales and operating results in the period that such adjustment becomes known.

Deferred Compensation

The Company’s deferred compensation liability is for a current officer and is calculated based on various assumptions that may include compensation, years of service, expected retirement date, discount rates and mortality tables. The related expense is calculated using the net present value of the expected payments and is included in selling, general and administrative expenses in the Consolidated Statements of Operations. Management makes estimates of life expectancy and discount rates using information available from several sources. In addition, management estimates the expected retirement date for the current officer as that impacts the timing for expected future payments. See Note 10 to the Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information on deferred compensation.

Stock-Based Compensation

The Company has a stock-based employee compensation plan, which is described more fully in Note 12 to the Consolidated Financial Statements. The Company accounts for stock-based compensation in accordance with ASC 718 "Compensation - Stock Compensation". Under the fair value recognition provisions of this statement, share-based compensation cost is measured at the grant date based on the fair value of the award and is recognized as expense over the vesting period. The expected term of the options and volatility are estimated using historical experience for the options by vesting period. The risk-free interest rate is calculated based on the expected life of the options. The Company does not estimate forfeitures as they are recognized when they occur.

Income Taxes

We estimate a provision for income taxes based on the effective tax rate expected to be applicable for the fiscal year. If the actual results are different from these estimates, adjustments to the effective tax rate may be required in the period such determination is made. Additionally, discrete items are treated separately from the effective rate analysis and are recorded separately as an income tax provision or benefit at the time they are recognized.

Deferred income taxes are accounted for under the asset and liability method whereby deferred income tax assets and liabilities are recognized for the future tax consequences attributable to differences between the financial statement carrying amounts of existing assets and liabilities and their respective tax bases. Deferred income tax assets and liabilities are measured using statutory tax rates. Deferred income tax provisions are based on changes in the deferred tax assets and liabilities from period to period. Additionally, we analyze our ability to recognize the net deferred income tax assets created in each jurisdiction in which we operate to determine if valuation allowances are necessary based on the “more likely than not” criteria.

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ITEM 7A.    QUANTITATIVE AND QU ALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK

Not applicable .