ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
This Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations should be read in conjunction with our consolidated financial statements and the accompanying notes contained in this Annual Report. Our discussion and analysis of fiscal year 2025 compared to fiscal year 2024 is included herein. Our discussion and analysis of fiscal year 2024 compared to fiscal year 2023 can be found in Part II, Item 7, Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations, in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended August 31, 2024, which was filed with the SEC on October 17, 2024.
OVERVIEW
CMC has grown into an innovative solutions provider helping build a stronger, safer and more sustainable world. Today, through an extensive manufacturing network principally located in the U.S. and Central Europe, the Company offers products and technologies to meet the critical reinforcement needs of the global construction sector. CMC’s solutions support early-stage
construction across a wide variety of applications, including infrastructure, non-residential, residential, industrial and energy generation and transmission. Our operations are conducted through three reportable segments: North America Steel Group, Emerging Businesses Group and Europe Steel Group. See Part I, Item 1, Business, of this Annual Report for further information regarding our business and reportable segments.
Key Performance Indicators
When evaluating our results, we compare net sales, in the aggregate and for each of our reportable segments, in the current period to net sales in the corresponding period. For the North America Steel Group and the Europe Steel Group segments, we focus on changes in average selling price per ton and tons shipped compared to the corresponding period for each of our vertically integrated product categories as these are the two variables that typically have the greatest impact on our net sales for those reportable segments. Of the products evaluated by changes in average selling price per ton and tons shipped within the North America Steel Group and Europe Steel Group segments, raw materials include ferrous and nonferrous scrap, steel products include rebar, merchant bar, light structural and other special sections and other steel products, such as billets and wire rod, and downstream products include fabricated reb ar, steel fence posts and wire mesh. Evaluations of average selling price per ton and tons shipped for downstream products exclude post-tension cable, whic h is not measured on a per ton basis.
Adjusted EBITDA is used by management to compare and evaluate the period-over-period underlying business operational performance of our reportable segments. Adjusted EBITDA is the sum of the Company's earnings before interest expense, income taxes, depreciation and amortization expense, impairment expense and unrealized gains and losses on undesignated commodity hedges. During the fourth quarter of 2025, the Company modified its method of calculating adjusted EBITDA to exclude the impact of unrealized gains and losses on undesignated commodity derivatives. This change was primarily driven by heightened volatility in copper forward markets, which introduced significant non-cash fluctuations unrelated to core operations. By removing this volatility, the revised metric provides a more representative view of operating performance and cash-generating capability. We evaluated the impact of this change on prior-period disclosures and have recast adjusted EBITDA for all periods presented in this Annual Report to conform to the new presentation. We did not revise the comparative analysis of results of operations for 2024 compared to 2023, as the change in methodology did not materially affect the comparability of adjusted EBITDA in earlier periods.
Although there are many factors that can impact a segment’s adjusted EBITDA and, therefore, our overall earnings or losses, changes in metal margins of our steel products and downstream products period-over-period in the North America Steel Group and Europe Steel Group segments are a consistent area of focus for our Company and industry. Metal margin is a metric used by management to monitor the results of our vertically integrated organization. For our steel products, metal margin is the difference between the average selling price per ton of rebar, merchant bar and other steel products and the cost of ferrous scrap per ton utilized by our steel mills to produce these products. The metal margin for the North America Steel Group and Europe Steel Group segments' downstream products is the difference between the average selling price per ton of our downstream products and the scrap input costs to produce these products. An increase or decrease in input costs can impact profitability of steel products and downstream products when there is no corresponding change in selling prices. The majority of the North America Steel Group and Europe Steel Group segments' downstream products selling pric es per ton are fixed at the beginning of a project and these projects last one to two years on average. The selling price generally remains fixed over the life of a project; therefore, changes in input costs over the life of the project can significantly impact profitability.
BUSINESS CONDITIONS AND DEVELOPMENTS
CP&P Acquisition
On September 17, 2025, we entered into the CP&P Purchase Agreement, pursuant to which we will acquire all of the issued and outstanding equity securities of CP&P (the "CP&P Acquisition"). Pursuant to the terms and conditions of the CP&P Purchase Agreement, at the closing of the CP&P Acquisition, we will pay a cash purchase price of $675.0 million, which is subject to a customary purchase price adjustment as described in the CP&P Purchase Agreement. The transaction will be funded with cash on hand and is not contingent on any financing arrangements. We expect the CP&P Acquisition to close in December 2025, subject to customary regulatory review and closing conditions . The CP&P Acquisition aligns with our strategy to pursue inorganic growth by expanding CMC’s portfolio of early-stage construction solutions through the addition of precast capabilities.
Foley Acquisition
On October 15, 2025, we entered into the Foley Purchase Agreement, pursuant to which we will acquire all of the issued and outstanding equity securities of entities that own Foley (the "Foley Acquisition"). Pursuant to the terms and conditions of the Foley Purchase Agreement, at the closing of the Foley Acquisition, we will pay a cash purchase price of approximately $1.84 billion, which is subject to customary purchase price adjustments as described in the Foley Purchase Agreement. We expect to finance the purchase price of the Foley Acquisition and related fees and expenses with cash on hand, through one or more capital markets transactions (subject to market conditions and other factors), through borrowings under the Credit Agreement or Backstop Facility (as defined below), and, only to the extent necessary, borrowings under the Bridge Facility (as defined below). We expect the Foley Acquisition to close by the end of calendar 2025, subject to customary regulatory review and closing conditions. The Foley Acquisition aligns with our strategy to pursue inorganic growth by adding scale, margin strength and regional leadership to our precast platform.
Transform, Advance and Grow Initiative
In 2024, we launched our Transform, Advance and Grow ("TAG") operational and commercial excellence program as a cornerstone of our long-term strategic growth plan. Through a disciplined and structured approach, the TAG program is designed to deliver meaningful and sustained enhancements to our margins, cash flow generation and return on capital. The TAG program has already delivered significant results through ongoing initiatives focused on melt shop and rolling mill yield, scrap cost optimization, logistics optimization and reduced alloy consumption.
Capital Expenditures
During the fourth quarter of 2023, our third micro mill was placed into service, and we continued to increase production levels toward targeted run-rates for this mill during 2025. The new facility, located in Mesa, Arizona, allows us to meet underlying West Coast and Pacific Northwest demand for steel products. Designed to produce both rebar and merchant bar, this micro mill is one of the first in the world to produce merchant bar quality products through a continuous production process. Rebar production and merchant bar production commenced during the fourth quarter of 2023 and second quarter of 2024, respectively.
We are currently constructing our fourth micro mill, located in Berkeley County, West Virginia. This facility is strategically located to serve the Northeast, Mid-Atlantic and Mid-Western U.S. markets and will be supported by our exi sting network of downstream fabrication plants. Site improvements, foundation work and substantial portions of supporting infrastructure for the micro mill are complete. Construction of structural components for multiple process buildings and equipment is ongoing. We expect to begin melt shop production at this micro mill during 2026.
In 2023, we entered into an agreement with the West Virginia Economic Development Authority (the "WVEDA") to permanently finance a portion of the costs to construct our fourth micro mill in Berkeley County, West Virginia. As of the date of this Annual Report, we have received $55.0 million in total government assistance from the WVEDA for meeting certain investment thresholds, including $50.0 million received during 2025. These amounts were recognized in the North America Steel Group segment as a reduction to property, plant and equipment, net, in the consolidated balance sheet as of August 31, 2025. We expect our total investment in the micro mill to be between $550.0 million and $600.0 million, net of $75.0 million in total government assistance expected to be received from the WVEDA. The construction of the micro mill is also expected to qualify for a net federal tax credit under the Inflation Reduction Act of approximately $80 million. See Note 1, Nature of Operations and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies, in Part II, Item 8 of this Annual Report, for more information.
Series 2025 Bonds
In May 2025, we announced the issuance of $150.0 million in original aggregate principal amount of tax-exempt bonds (the "Series 2025 Bonds") by the WVEDA. The Series 2025 Bonds were issued at par. The proceeds of the Series 2025 Bonds were loaned to the Company pursuant to a loan agreement with the WVEDA and partially offset the construction costs for facilities located in Berkeley County, West Virginia. We will make semiannual interest payments on the outstanding principal of the Series 2025 Bonds on April 15 and October 15 of each year, with the first such interest payment made in October 2025. Issuance costs of $2.9 million were recorded as a reduction of long-term debt in the consolidated balance sheet as of August 31, 2025.
Macroeconomic Trends and Uncertainties
We are subject to risks and exposures from the evolving macroeconomic environment, including uncertainty and volatility in financial markets, efforts of governments to stimulate or stabilize the economy and other changes in economic conditions, such as an increase in trade tensions and related tariffs with U.S. trading partners. On February 10, 2025, President Trump issued an Executive Order to restore and expand Section 232's 25% tariffs on steel imports from all sources, effective March 12, 2025, ending country and product exemptions, and broadening the application of the tariffs to fabricated steel products. Effective June 4, 2025, the tariffs on steel imports were increased to 50% for all countries other than the U.K., which continues to be subject to 25% tariffs.
Although the elimination of Section 232 tariff exemptions is expected to provide a favorable backdrop to the domestic long steel market, there remains uncertainty regarding the duration and scope of this and other potential executive actions related to tariffs. If the Section 232 or other import tariffs, quotas or duties are relaxed, repealed, challenged legally or expire; if other countries are exempted, or if relatively higher U.S. steel prices make it attractive for foreign steelmakers to export their steel products to the U.S., despite the presence of import tariffs, quotas or duties, a resurgence of substantial imports of foreign steel could occur. This would put downward pressure on U.S. steel prices.
Recent developments illustrate how these risks may materialize. Countries such as Algeria, Bulgaria, Egypt, and Vietnam have also increased their steel exports, particularly of rebar, to the U.S. Excessive imports of steel into the U.S. have exerted, and may continue to exert, downward pressure on U.S. steel prices, which negatively affects our ability to increase our sales, margins and profitability. Further, excess capacity has also led to greater protectionism as is evident in raw material and finished product border tariffs put in place by China, Brazil and other countries. In response to these pressures, a petition was filed with the U.S. International Trade Commission ("ITC") in June 2025, alleging that exporters of steel concrete reinforcing bar from Algeria, Bulgaria, Egypt and Vietnam are dumping material into the U.S. market at prices below fair value. The petition seeks the imposition of significant antidumping duties on rebar imports from these countries. In July 2025, the ITC determined that the petition has merit and referred the case to the Department of Commerce for further investigation.
To date, heightened uncertainty has contributed to delays in the awarding of projects. From a longer-term perspective on demand, we see tariffs as a single component of a broader program that includes changes to tax, regulatory, energy and trade policy aimed at stimulating domestic investment, which could meaningfully benefit construction activity. With regard to operating costs, we anticipate the impact of tariffs to be modest, as we source primarily from domestic suppliers. We also anticipate the impact on capital costs to be modest.
One Big Beautiful Bill Act
On July 4, 2025, the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (the "OBBBA") was enacted into law, introducing significant amendments to U.S. tax legislation with varying effective dates. Key provisions that impact CMC include the expansion of bonus depreciation, accelerated expensing of research and development costs and revisions to international tax regimes. CMC has incorporated these amendments into its fiscal 2025 tax provision, as applicable, and there was no material impact to our income tax expense or effective tax rate. The Company continues to evaluate the legislation.
See Part I, Item 1A, Risk Factors, in this Annual Report for further discussion related to the above business conditions and developments.
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS SUMMARY
Year Ended August 31,
(in thousands, except per share data)
Net sales
Net earnings
Diluted earnings per share
Net sales during 2025 decreased $127.5 million, or 2%, compared to 2024. See discussions below, labeled North America Steel Group, Emerging Businesses Group and Europe Steel Group within the Segment Operating Data section, for further information on our net sales results.
During 2025, we reported net earnings of $84.7 million, a decrease of $400.8 million, or 83%, compared to 2024. The year-over-year decrease in net earnings was primarily due to an expense of approximately $274 million, net of estimated tax, associated with a contingent litigation-related loss. Additionally, lower earnings from the North America Steel Group, driven by compression in steel and downstream products metal margins, contributed to the decrease in consolidated net earnings. These impacts were partially offset by higher earnings from the Europe Steel Group, primarily due to an increase in both steel products shipment volumes and steel products metal margin, as well as a $9.3 million increase in government assistance received in 2025 versus 2024.
Selling, General and Administrative Expenses
SG&A expenses increased $31.8 million, or 5%, in 2025 compared to 2024. The year-over-year increase was primarily driven by $35.2 million of increased employee-related expenses, including labor, commissions and benefits. These increases were concentrated in Corporate and Other and the Emerging Businesses Group. Also contributing to the increase were higher information technology and supply costs, which rose $9.1 million year-over-year, due to investments in cloud-based software and other technology-related expenses. These increases were partially offset by a $2.8 million reduction in SG&A expenses in 2025 compared to 2024, due to foreign currency impacts from both non-functional currency transactions and forward contracts. The remaining change was attributable to multiple factors, none of which were material.
Interest Expense
Interest expense remained relatively consistent in 2025 compared to 2024, as higher capitalized interest attributable to micro mill construction offset the impact of an increased long-term debt balance, driven by the issuance of the Series 2025 Bonds in May 2025, along with higher interest expense related to finance leases.
Litigation Expense
Litigation expense related to the PSG litigation of $362.3 million was recorded during 2025. The amount recorded includes interest accrued on the judgment amount. For more information about the contingent litigation-related loss, see Note 17, Commitments and Contingencies, in Part II, Item 8 of this Annual Report.
Income Taxes
Our effective income tax rate for 2025 wa s 21.3% compared to 23.6 % for 2024. The year-over-year decrease was primarily driven by a reduction in pre-tax earnings, reflecting the contingent litigation-related loss recorded during 2025 in connection with the PSG litigation. S ee Note 12, Income Tax, in Part II, Item 8 of this Annual Report for further discussion of our effective tax rate. For more information about the contingent litigation-related loss, see Note 17, Commitments and Contingencies, in Part II, Item 8 of this Annual Report.
SEGMENT OPERATING DATA
All amounts are computed and presented in a manner that is consistent with how we internally disaggregate financial information for the purpose of making operating decisions. See Note 19, Segment Information, in Part II, Item 8 of this Annual Report for further information on how we evaluate financial performance of our segments. The operational data by product category presented in the North America Steel Group and Europe Steel Group tables below is calculated using average values for each period presented.
North America Steel Group
Year Ended August 31,
(in thousands, except per ton amounts)
Net sales to external customers
Adjusted EBITDA
External tons shipped
Raw materials
Rebar
Merchant bar and other
Steel products
Downstream products
Average selling price per ton
Raw materials
Steel products
Downstream products
Cost of ferrous scrap utilized per ton
Steel products metal margin per ton
Net sales to external customers in our North America Steel Group segment decreased $225.9 million, or 4%, in 2025 compared to 2024. The decrease in net sales to external customers was primarily due to a decrease in the average selling price per ton for steel products and downstream products of 5% and 9%, respectively, year-over-year, as well as lower shipment volumes for raw materials and downstream products. This decrease was partially offset by increased tons shipped of steel products, supported by resilient construction activity and demand in our end-use markets.
Adjusted EBITDA decreased $201.9 million , or 21%, in 2025 compared to 2024. The reduction in average selling prices per ton for steel and downstream products outpaced the 4% year-over-year decrease in the cost of ferrous scrap utilized per ton, the largest single driver of cost of goods sold for both steel and downstream products, resulting in metal margin compression compared to 2024. The impact of the decrease in steel and downstream products metal margins per ton was partially offset by improved steel products shipment volumes year-over-year.
Emerging Businesses Group
Year Ended August 31,
(in thousands)
Net sales to external customers
Adjusted EBITDA
Net sales to external customers in our Emerging Businesses Group segment increased $30.1 million, or 4%, in 2025 compared to 2024. The increase was primarily due to a $15.6 million increase in net sales to external customers of our proprietary performance reinforcing steel products, including Galvabar, ChromX and Cryosteel, and a $14.1 million increase in net sales to external customers by CMC Construction Services, reflecting robust demand in our target markets.
Adjusted EBITDA increased $8.2 million, or 6%, in 2025 compared to 2024. The year-over-year increase in adjusted EBITDA was primarily driven by a $22.6 million increase in adjusted EBITDA in our performance reinforcing steel offerings, resulting from both increased shipments and improved margin. This increase more than offset the $4.9 million year-over-year decline in adjusted EBITDA from our Tensar division, which was impacted by challenging conditions in the Eastern Hemisphere and delays in certain key projects, and the $4.2 million year-over-year decline in adjusted EBITDA from CMC Impact Metals, which was impacted by lower tons shipped due to persistently weak demand across truck, trailer and armor-related markets. Additionally, we incurred approximately $3 million of startup costs associated with CMC Bridge Systems in 2025.
Europe Steel Group
Year Ended August 31,
(in thousands, except per ton amounts)
Net sales to external customers
Adjusted EBITDA
External tons shipped
Rebar
Merchant bar and other
Steel products
Average selling price per ton
Steel products
Cost of ferrous scrap utilized per ton
Steel products metal margin per ton
Net sales to external customers in our Europe Steel Group segment increased $69.8 million, or 8%, in 2025 compared to 2024. This increase was primarily due to a 10% year-over-year increase in steel products shipment volumes, reflecting a modest recovery in construction and industrial activity across key European markets following the slowdown that persisted in 2024. The increase also reflects lower import levels into Poland in 2025 compared to 2024, which supported heightened domestic demand for our products. Higher volumes were partially offset by a 2% reduction in steel products average selling price per ton in 2025 compared to 2024, driven by continued competitive pricing pressure. On average, the U.S. dollar weakened against the Polish zloty in 2025 compared to 2024, resulting in a foreign currency translation benefit of approximately $40 million on net sales to external customers.
Adjusted EBITDA increased $46.8 million, or 208%, in 2025 compared to 2024, primarily driven by the increase in steel products shipment volumes described above. Also contributing to the improvement in adjusted EBITDA was an expansion in steel products metal margin of $10 per ton, or 4%, in 2025 compared to 2024, due to the reduction in the cost of ferrous scrap utilized per ton outpacing the decline in steel products average selling prices per ton described above. Results in 2025 also benefited from government assistance programs established to offset rising costs of electricity and natural gas, due to the indirect costs of rising carbon emission rights included in energy costs. The government assistance recognized under these programs during 2025 was $78.7 million, compared to $69.4 million in 2024. The effect of foreign currency translation on adjusted EBITDA was immaterial in 2025.
Corporate and Other
Year Ended August 31,
(in thousands)
Adjusted EBITDA loss
Corporate and Other adjusted EBITDA loss increased by $381.0 million in 2025 compared to 2024 primarily due to a $362.3 million contingent litigation-related loss recorded in connection with the PSG litigation. Increased investment in information technology, as discussed above, also contributed to the year-over-year increase in adjusted EBITDA loss. For more information about the contingent litigation-related loss, see Note 17, Commitments and Contingencies, in Part II, Item 8 of this Annual Report.
LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES
Sources of Liquidity and Capital Resources
Our cash flows from operating activities are our principal sources of liquidity and result primarily from sales of products offered by the vertically integrated operations in our North America Steel Group and the Europe Steel Group segments, products and solutions offered by our Emerging Businesses Group segment and related materials and services that support these offerings, as described in Part I, Item 1, Business, of this Annual Report. Historically, our U.S. operations have generated the majority of our cash. At August 31, 2025, cash and cash equivalents of $41.9 million were held by our non-U.S. subsidiaries.
We have a diverse and generally stable customer base, and regularly maintain a substantial amount of accounts receivable. We actively monitor our accounts receivable and, based on market conditions and customers' financial condition, record allowances when we believe accounts are uncollectible. We use credit insurance internationally to mitigate the risk of customer insolvency. We estimate that the amount of credit-insured or financially assured receivables was approximately 15% of total receivables as of August 31, 2025.
We use futures and forward contracts to mitigate the risks from fluctuations in commodity prices, foreign currency exchange rates, interest rates and natural gas, electricity and other energy prices. See Note 10, Derivatives, in Part II, Item 8 of this Annual Report for further information.
The table below reflects our sources, facilities and availability of liquidity at August 31, 2025. See Note 8, Credit Arrangements, in Part II, Item 8 of this Annual Report for additional information.
(in thousands)
Total Facility
Availability
Cash and cash equivalents
Notes due from 2030 to 2032
Revolver
Series 2022 Bonds, due 2047
Series 2025 Bonds, due 2032 (2)
Poland credit facilities
Poland accounts receivable facility
(1) We believe we have access to additional financing and refinancing, if needed, although we can make no assurances as to the form or terms of such financing.
(2) The Series 2025 Bonds accrue interest at a fixed rate of 4.625%, payable semiannually, for an initial period ending with a mandatory tender for purchase on May 15, 2032, at a purchase price equal to 100% of the principal amount. The Series 2025 Bonds mature in 2055. See Note 8, Credit Arrangements, in Part II, Item 8 of this Annual Report for additional information regarding the Series 2025 Bonds.
We continually review our capital resources to determine whether we can meet our short and long-term goals. For at least the next twelve months, we anticipate our current cash balances, cash flows from operations and available sources of liquidity will be sufficient to maintain operations, make necessary capital expenditures, pay for litigation-related expenses, invest in the development of our fourth micro mill, pay dividends and opportunistically repurchase shares. Additionally, we expect our long-term liquidity position will be sufficient to meet our long-term liquidity needs with cash flows from oper ations and financing arrangements. However, in the event of changes in business conditions or other developments, including a sustained market deterioration, unanticipated regulatory or legal developments, significant acquisitions, competitive pressures, or to the extent our liquidity needs prove to be greater than expected or cash generated from operations is less than anticipated, we may need additional liquidity. To the extent we elect to finance our long-term liquidity needs, we believe that the potential financing capital available to us in the future will be sufficient.
We aim to execute a capital allocation strategy that prioritizes both value-accretive growth and competitive cash returns to stockholders. We estimate that our 2026 capital spending will be approximately $600 million, driven by the construction costs for facilities located in Berkeley Country, West Virginia. We regularly assess our capital spending based on current and expected results and the amount is subject to change.
During 2025, 2024 and 2023, we repurchased $198.8 million, $182.9 million and $101.4 million, respectively, of shares of CMC common stock. Under the share repurchase program, we had remaining authorization to repurchase $205.0 million of
shares of CMC common stock as of August 31, 2025. See Note 15, Capital Stock, in Part II, Item 8, of this Annual Report for more information on the share repurchase program.
In March 2024, our Board authorized a $0.02 increase to the quarterly cash dividend, raising it to $0.18 per share of CMC common stock. This increased dividend was paid during the third and fourth quarters of 2024 and throughout the year ended August 31, 2025. By comparison, a quarterly cash dividend of $0.16 per share of CMC common stock was paid during the first and second quarters of 2024. On October 15, 2025, our Board declared CMC's 244th quarterly cash divide nd. The dividend was declared at $0.18 per sh are of CMC common stock, and is payable on November 13, 2025 to stockholders of record as of the close of business on October 30, 2025. During 2025, 2024 and 2023, we paid $81.4 million, $78.9 million and $74.9 million, respectively, of cash dividends to our stockholders.
Our credit arrangements require compliance with certain non-financial and financial covenants, including an interest coverage ratio and a debt to capitalization ratio. At August 31, 2025, we believe we were in compliance with all covenants contained in our credit arrangements.
As of August 31, 2025 and 2024, we had no off-balance sheet arrangements that may have a current or future material effect on our financial condition, revenues or expenses, results of operations, liquidity, capital expenditures or capital resources.
As described above under "Business Conditions and Developments," each of the CP&P and Foley Acquisitions are currently pending. The aggregate purchase price of the CP&P and Foley Acquisitions is $2.5 billion. We expect to fund the CP&P Acquisition with cash on hand. In connection with the Foley Acquisition, the Company entered into a commitment letter, dated October 15, 2025 (the "Commitment Letter"), with Bank of America, N.A. ("Bank of America"), BofA Securities, Inc. and Citigroup Global Markets Inc. ("Citi"), pursuant to which, subject to the terms and conditions set forth therein, Bank of America and Citi agreed to provide to the Company (i) a 364-day senior unsecured bridge facility in an aggregate principal amount of up to $1.85 billion (the "Bridge Loan Facility") and (ii) a senior secured revolving credit facility in an aggregate principal amount of $600.0 million (the "Backstop Facility"). We expect to finance the Foley Acquisition with cash on hand, through one or more capital markets transactions (subject to market conditions and other factors), through borrowings under our Credit Agreement or Backstop Facility and, only to the extent necessary, borrowings under the Bridge Facility. See Note 20, Subsequent Events, in Part II, Item 8 of this Annual Report for information regarding the Commitment Letter.
As described in Note 17, Commitments and Contingencies, in Part II, Item 8 of this Annual Report, on November 5, 2024, a jury returned a verdict in favor of PSG in the amount of $110.0 million, which the Northern District Court, in entering its judgment on the verdict, subsequently trebled as a matter of law. PSG will also be entitled to petition for and recover its attorneys' fees, costs and post-judgment interest. We are confident that we conducted our business appropriately and intend to vigorously pursue all reasonably available avenues to have the verdict and judgment overturned. Nonetheless, unless the verdict and judgment are overturned or the judgment is significantly reduced, the losses incurred in connection with this litigation would have a material adverse effect on our liquidity and financial condition.
Cash Flows
Changes in Operating Assets and Liabilities
During the year ended August 31, 2025, changes in operating assets and liabilities resulted in a $55.6 million reduction in cash from operating activities, compared to 2024, primarily due to a $104.3 million year-over-year decrease in cash provided by accounts receivable. The change in cash flows related to accounts receivable was driven by the timing of collections, due in part to strong sales at the end of 2025 compared to the end of 2024. Cash flows from inventories decreased $19.2 million year-over-year, driven primarily by significant inventory reductions in 2024 within our Europe Steel Group segment, which did not recur in 2025. These reductions were partially offset by a $72.2 million decrease in cash used by accounts payable, mainly driven by higher payroll related accruals at the end of 2025.
Capital Investments
For the year ended August 31, 2025, capital expenditures increased $78.6 million year-over-year, primarily driven by the construction of our fourth micro mill. This was partially offset by $50.0 million in government assistance received in 2025 pursuant to an agreement with the WVEDA. See Note 1, Nature of Operations and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies, in Part II, Item 8 of this Annual Report for more information about the government assistance received during 2025 in connection with the construction of our fourth micro mill.
S eries 2025 Bonds
For the year ended August 31, 2025, we received net proceeds of $147.7 million from the issuance of tax-exempt bonds (the "Series 2025 Bonds"). See Note 8, Credit Arrangements, in Part II, Item 8 of this Annual Report for more information regarding the Series 2025 Bonds.
Share Repurchases
For the year ended August 31, 2025 we repurchased $198.8 million of CMC common stock under our share repurchase program, an increase of $15.9 million compared to 2024. See Note 15, Capital Stock, in Part II, Item 8 of this Annual Report, for more information on the share repurchase program.
Contractual Obligations and Commitments
Our material cash commitments from known contractual and other obligations primarily consist of obligations for long-term debt and related interest, leases for properties and equipment, construction of our fourth micro mill and other purchase obligations as part of normal operations. See Note 8, Credit Arrangements, in Part II, Item 8 of this Annual Report for more information regarding scheduled maturities of our long-term debt. See Note 7, Leases, in Part II, Item 8 of this Annual Report for additional information on leases. Interest payable on our long-term debt was $49.7 million due in the twelve months following August 31, 2025 and $342.3 million due thereafter. Additionally, we have a U.S. federal repatriation tax obligation resulting from the repatriation tax provisions of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act ("TCJA"), of which the remaining $6.9 million is due in the twelve months following August 31, 2025.
As of August 31, 2025, our undiscounted purchase obligations were approximately $720 million due in the next twelve months and $370 million due thereafter under purchase orders and "take or pay" arrangements. These purchase obligations include all enforceable, legally binding agreements to purchase goods or services that specify all significant terms, regardless of the duration of the agreement, and exclude agreements with variable terms for which we are unable to estimate the minimum amounts. The "take or pay" arrangements are multi-year commitments with minimum annual purchase requirements and are entered into primarily for purchases of commodities used in operations such as electrodes and natural gas.
Of the purchase obligations due within the twelve months following August 31, 2025, approximately 24% were for consumable production inputs, such as alloys, 23% were for the construction of our fourth micro mill, 15% were for commodities and 14% were for capital expenditures in connection with normal business operations. Of the purchase obligations due thereafter, 55% were for commodities, 15% were for the construction of our fourth micro mill and 14% were for investments in information technology. The remainder of the purchase obligations are for goods and services in the normal course of business.
We provide certain eligible employees benefits pursuant to our nonqualified BRP equal to amounts that would have been available under our tax qualified plans under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974, as amended ("ERISA"), but for limitations of ERISA, tax laws and regulations. We did not include estimated payments related to the BRP in the above description of contractual obligations and commitments. Refer to Note 14, Employees' Retirement Plans, in Part II, Item 8 of this Annual Report for more information on the BRP.
Other Commercial Commitments
We maintain stand-by letters of credit to provide support for certain transactions that governmental agencies, our insurance providers and suppliers require. At August 31, 2025, we had committed $38.5 million under these arrangements, of which $1.0 million reduced availability under the Revolver (as defined in Note 8, Credit Arrangements, in Part II, Item 8 of this Annual Report).
CONTINGENCIES
In the ordinary course of conducting our business, we become involved in litigation, administrative proceedings and governmental investigations, including environmental matters. We have in the past, and may in the future, incur settlements, fines, penalties or judgments in connection with some of these matters. Liabilities and costs associated with litigation-related loss contingencies require estimates and judgments based on our knowledge of the facts and circumstances surrounding each matter and the advice of our legal counsel. We record liabilities for litigation-related losses when a loss is probable, and we can reasonably estimate the amount of the loss. In the year ended August 31, 2025 , the Company reported $362.3 million of litigation expense in the consolidated statement of earnings, which amount represents the Company's estimate based on its understanding of the PSG judgment, PSG's attorneys' fees and other related costs, including post-judgment interest. This amount was classified as a current liability in the consolidated balance sheet as of August 31, 2025 because the timing of the potential payment is uncertain. We evaluate the measurement of recorded liabilities each reporting period based on the current facts and circumstances specific to each matter. The ultimate losses incurred upon final resolution of litigation-related loss contingencies may differ materially from the estimated liability recorded at a particular balance sheet date. Changes in estimates are recorded in earnings in the period in which such changes occur. See Note 17, Commitments and Contingencies, in Part II, Item 8 of this Annual Report for more information on pending litigation and other matters.
Environmental and Other Matters
The information set forth in Note 17, Commitments and Contingencies, in Part II, Item 8 of this Annual Report is hereby incorporated by reference.
General
We are subject to federal, state and local pollution control laws and regulations in all locations where we have operating facilities. We anticipate that compliance with these laws and regulations will involve continuing capital expenditures and operating costs.
Metals recycling was our original business, and it has been one of our core businesses for over a century. In the present era of conservation of natural resources and ecological concerns, we are committed to sound ecological and business conduct. Certain governmental regulations regarding environmental concerns, however well-intentioned, may expose us and our industry to potentially significant risks. We believe that recycled materials are commodities that are diverted by recyclers, such as us, from the solid waste streams because of their inherent value and thus should be treated like products rather than wastes. They are identified, purchased, sorted, processed and sold by us in accordance with carefully established industry specifications.
We incurred environmental expenses of $58.4 million, $54.9 million and $49.3 million for 2025, 2024 and 2023, respectively. The expenses included the cost of disposal, environmental personnel at various divisions, permit and license fees, accruals and payments for studies, tests, assessments, remediation, consultant fees, baghouse dust removal and various other expenses. In addition, during 2025, we spent $4.7 million in capital expenditures related to costs directly associated with environmental compliance. Our accrued environmental liabilities were $3.4 million as of August 31, 2025 and 2024, of which $1.9 million were classified as other noncurrent liabilities within the consolidated balance sheets as of August 31, 2025 and 2024.
Solid and Hazardous Waste
We currently own or lease, and in the past we have owned or leased, properties for use in our operations. Although we have used operating and disposal practices that were industry standard at the time, wastes may have been disposed of or released on or under the properties, or on or under locations where such wastes have been taken for disposal, in a manner that is now understood to pose a contamination threat. We are currently involved in the investigation and remediation of several such properties, and we have been named as a PRP by governmental entities at a number of contaminated sites.
Superfund
Based on currently available information, which is in many cases preliminary and incomplete, we had immaterial amounts accrued as of both August 31, 2025 and 2024, in connection with CERCLA sites. We have accrued for these liabilities based upon our best estimates. The amounts paid and the expenses incurred on these sites for 2025, 2024 and 2023 were not material. Historically, the amounts that we have ultimately paid for such remediation activities have not been material.
We believe that adequate provisions have been made in the consolidated financial statements for the potential impact of these contingencies, and that the outcomes of the suits and proceedings described above, and other miscellaneous litigation and proceedings now pending, will not have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations or financial condition.
CRITICAL ACCOUNTING POLICIES AND ESTIMATES
The preceding discussion and analysis of our 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 the consolidated financial statements requires us to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, revenue and expenses and related disclosure of contingent liabilities. We evaluate the appropriateness of these estimates and assumptions, including those related to revenue recognition, income taxes, inventory cost, acquisitions, goodwill and other intangible assets, long-lived assets, derivative financial instruments and contingencies, on an ongoing basis. Estimates and assumptions are based on historical experience and on various other assumptions that we believe to be reasonable under the circumstances, the results of which form the basis for making judgments about the carrying value of assets and liabilities that are not readily apparent from other sources. Accordingly, actual results in future periods could differ materially from these estimates. Judgments and estimates related to critical accounting policies used in the preparation of the consolidated financial statements include the following:
Revenue Recognition
Revenue from contracts where the Company provides fabrication and installation services is recognized over time using an input method based on costs incurred compared to total estimated costs. Revenue from contracts where the Company does not provide installation services is recognized over time using an output method based on tons shipped compared to total estimated tons. Significant judgment is required to evaluate total estimated costs used in the input method and total estimated tons in the output method. If total estimated costs on any contract are greater than the net contract revenues, the Company recognizes the entire estimated loss in the period the loss becomes known. The cumulative effect of revisions to estimates related to net contract revenues, costs to complete or total planned quantity is recorded in the period in which such revisions are identified. The Company does not exercise significant judgment in determining the transaction price. See Note 4, Revenue Recognition, in Part II, Item 8 of this Annual Report for further details.
In come Taxes
We periodically assess the likelihood of realizing our deferred tax assets and maintain a valuation allowance to reduce certain deferred tax assets to amounts that we believe are more likely than not to be realized. We base our judgment of the recoverability of our deferred tax assets primarily on historical earnings, our estimate of current and expected future earnings, prudent and feasible tax planning strategies and current and future ownership changes. At August 31, 2025 and 2024, we had valuation allowances of $253.2 million and $256.8 million, respectively, against our deferred tax assets. Of these amounts, $12.1 million and $10.0 million at August 31, 2025 and 2024, respectively, relate to net operating loss and credit carryforwards in certain state jurisdictions that are subject to estimation. The remaining valuation allowance primarily relates to net operating loss carryforwards in certain foreign jurisdictions, which the Company does not expect to realize.
Inventories
We state inventories at the lower of cost or net realizable value, which is defined as estimated selling prices in the ordinary course of business, less reasonably predictable costs of completion, disposal and transportation. Adjustments to inventory may be due to changes in price levels, assumptions about market conditions, obsolescence, damage, physical deterioration and other causes. Any adjustments required to reduce the carrying value of inventory to net realizable value are recorded as a charge to cost of goods sold within the consolidated statements of earnings. As of August 31, 2025, the inventory valuation reserve was immaterial.
Acquisitions
The Company accounts for business combinations under the acquisition method of accounting, which requires assets acquired and liabilities assumed to be recorded at their estimated fair value at the date of acquisition. The fair value is estimated by the Company using valuation techniques and Level 3 inputs, including expected future cash flows and discount rates. The excess of purchase price over the fair value amounts assigned to the assets acquired and liabilities assumed, if any, is recorded as goodwill. Determining the fair value of assets acquired and liabilities assumed involves the use of significant estimates and assumptions. See Note 2, Changes in Business, in Part II, Item 8 of this Annual Report for more information about the Company's prior acquisitions. See Note 20, Subsequent Events, in Part II, Item 8 of this Annual Report for information regarding the Company's pending acquisitions.
Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets
Goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets are tested for impairment annually as of the first day of the Company’s fourth quarter (the "annual impairment test date"), and between annual tests whenever events or circumstances indicate that the carrying value of a reporting unit, including goodwill, or of an indefinite-lived intangible asset exceeds its fair value. Goodwill is tested at the reporting unit level, which represents an operating segment or one level below an operating segment. When evaluating goodwill and other indefinite-lived intangible assets for impairment, the Company may first assess qualitative factors in determining whether it is more likely than not that the respective fair value is less than its carrying amount. The qualitative evaluation is an assessment of multiple factors, including the current operating environment, historical and future financial performance and industry and market considerations. The Company may elect to bypass this qualitative assessment for some or all of its reporting units or other indefinite-lived intangible assets and perform a quantitative test, based on management's judgment. If the Company chooses to bypass the qualitative assessment, it performs a quantitative test by comparing the fair value of the reporting units or indefinite-lived intangible assets to their respective carrying amounts and records an impairment charge if the carrying amount exceeds the fair value; however, the loss recognized, if any, will not exceed the total amount of the intangible asset or the goodwill allocated to a reporting unit.
When assessing the recoverability of goodwill using a quantitative approach we use an income and a market approach to calculate the fair value of the reporting unit. To calculate the fair value of a reporting unit using the income approach, management uses a discounted cash flow model, which includes a number of significant assumptions and estimates regarding future cash flows such as discount rates, volumes, prices, capital expenditures and the impact of current market conditions. The market approach estimates fair value based on market multiples of earnings derived from comparable publicly traded companies with similar operating and investment characteristics as the reporting unit. The estimates used during a quantitative approach to test goodwill could be materially impacted by adverse changes in market conditions.
For 2025 and 2024, the annual goodwill impairment analyses did not result in impairment charges. As of the 2025 annual impairment test date, the Company had goodwill of $386.5 million related to three reporting units within the North America Steel Group segment, five reporting units within the Emerging Businesses Group segment and one reporting unit within the Europe Steel Group segment. Seven reporting units, which, as of the 2025 annual impairment test date, comprised $45.7 million of goodwill within the North America Steel Group segment, $70.3 million of goodwill within the Emerging Businesses Group segment and $4.3 million of goodwill within the Europe Steel Group segment, were assessed for impairment using a qualitative approach. Management determined it was more likely than not that the fair values of the reporting units which were assessed using a qualitative approach exceeded their respective carrying values.
The remaining two reporting units, one within the North America Steel Group segment and one within the Emerging Businesses Group segment, were tested for impairment using a quantitative approach. The fair value of the reporting unit within the North America Steel Group segment with $71.7 million of goodwill as of the 2025 annual impairment test date exceeded its carrying value by greater than 50%. The fair value of the reporting unit within the Emerging Businesses Group segment with $194.5 million of goodwill as of the 2025 annual impairment test date exceeded its carrying value by greater than 15%. The difference in the value of goodwill between the 2025 annual impairment test date and August 31, 2025 was due to foreign currency translation adjustments.
As of the 2025 annual impairment test date, the Company had $57.9 million of other indefinite-lived intangible assets within the Emerging Businesses Group segment, of which $54.7 million were tested for impairment using a quantitative approach. To perform the quantitative impairment tests, the Company used an income approach to calculate the fair value of each intangible asset using a relief from royalty method. Significant inputs to measure the fair value of the indefinite-lived intangible assets included projected revenue growth rates, royalty rates and discount rates. The fair values of the indefinite-lived intangible assets exceeded their carrying values by approximately 10%. The difference in the value of indefinite-lived intangible assets between the 2025 annual impairment test date and August 31, 2025 was due to foreign currency translation adjustments. Based on the
Company’s annual impairment testing of the indefinite-lived intangible assets, no impairment charges were recognized. Further, based on the results of impairment tests performed in 2025, management does not believe that it is reasonably likely that our reporting units or indefinite-lived intangible assets will fail their respective impairment tests in the near term. See Note 6, Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets, in Part II, Item 8 of this Annual Report for additional information.
Long-Lived Assets
We evaluate the carrying value of property, plant and equipment and finite-lived intangible assets whenever a change in circumstances indicates that the net carrying value may not be recoverable from the entity-specific undiscounted future cash flows expected to result from our use of and eventual disposition of a long-lived asset or asset group. Events or circumstances that could trigger an impairment review of a long-lived asset or asset group include, but are not limited to: (i) a significant decrease in the market price of the asset, (ii) a significant adverse change in the extent or manner that the asset is used or in its physical condition, (iii) a significant adverse change in legal factors or in the business climate that could affect the value of the asset, (iv) an accumulation of costs significantly in excess of original expectation for the acquisition or construction of the asset, (v) a current period operating or cash flow loss combined with a history of operating or cash flow losses or a forecast of continuing losses associated with the use of the asset and (vi) a more-likely-than-not expectation that the asset will be sold or disposed of significantly before the end of its previously estimated useful life. If an impairment exists, the net carrying values are reduced to fair values. We estimate the fair values of these long-lived assets by performing a discounted future cash flow analysis for the remaining useful life of the asset, or the remaining useful life of the primary asset in the case of an asset group. An individual asset within an asset group is not impaired below its estimated fair value.
Our operations are capital intensive. The estimates of undiscounted future cash flows used during an impairment review of a long-lived asset or asset group require judgments and assumptions of future cash flows that are expected to arise as a direct result of the use and eventual disposition of the asset or asset group. If these assets were for sale, our estimates of their values could be significantly different because of market conditions, specific transaction terms and a buyer's perspective on future cash flows. During 2025, the Company recorded an immaterial impairment charge related to specific equipment; however, no broader events or circumstances triggered a recoverability assessment for property, plant and equipment.
Derivative Financial Instruments
Our global operations and product lines expose us to risks from fluctuations in metal commodity prices, foreign currency exchange rates, interest rates and natural gas, electricity and other energy prices. To limit the impact of these exposures, we enter into derivative instruments. We do not enter into derivative financial instruments for speculative purposes. We evaluate the fair value of our derivative financial instruments using an established fair value hierarchy as stated in Note 1, Nature of Operations and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies, in Part II, Item 8 of this Annual Report.
The Company has three Level 3 commodity derivatives which are bilateral agreements with a counterparty. The fair value estimates of the Level 3 commodity derivatives are based on an internally developed discounted cash flow model primarily utilizing unobservable inputs for which there is little or no market data. The company determined the Level 3 fair value inputs as provided for under ASC 820 utilizing information obtained from relevant published indexes and external sources along with management’s own assumptions. Fluctuations in the information used to forecast future energy rates may cause volatility in the fair value estimate and in the unrealized gains and losses in other comprehensive income. See Note 11, Fair Value, in Part II, Item 8 of this Annual Report for more information on the Level 3 commodity derivatives.
Contingencies
In the ordinary course of conducting our business, we become involved in litigation, administrative proceedings and governmental investigations, including environmental matters. We may incur settlements, fines, penalties or judgments in connection with some of these matters. While we are unable to estimate the ultimate dollar amount of exposure or loss in connection with these matters, we make accruals when a loss is probable and the amount can be reasonably estimated. The amounts we accrue could vary substantially from amounts we pay due to several factors including the following: evolving remediation technology, changing regulations, possible third-party contributions, the inherent uncertainties of the estimation process and the uncertainties involved in litigation. We believe that we have adequately provided for these contingencies as needed in our consolidated financial statements. See Note 17, Commitments and Contingencies, in Part II, Item 8 of this Annual Report for more information on pending litigation and other matters.
Other Accounting Policies and New Accounting Pronouncements
See Note 1, Nature of Operations and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies, in Part II, Item 8 of this Annual Report.
FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS
This Annual Report contains "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the federal securities laws. The statements in this report that are not historical statements are forward-looking statements and address activities, events or developments that may occur in the future, including (without limitation) such matters as activities related to the proposed acquisitions of CP&P and Foley and the timing thereof, the ability to obtain regulatory approvals and meet other closing conditions for the proposed acquisitions, the expected benefits of the proposed acquisitions, general economic conditions, key macro-economic drivers that impact our business, the effects of ongoing trade actions, the effects of continued pressure on the liquidity of our customers, potential synergies and growth provided by acquisitions and strategic investments, demand for our products, shipment volumes, metal margins, the ability to operate our steel mills at full capacity, particularly during periods of domestic mill start-ups, the future availability and cost of supplies of raw materials and energy for our operations, growth rates in certain reportable segments, product margins within our Emerging Businesses Group segment, share repurchases, legal proceedings, construction activity, international trade, the impact of geopolitical conditions, capital expenditures, tax credits, our liquidity and our ability to satisfy future liquidity requirements, estimated contractual obligations, the expected capabilities and benefits of new facilities, the anticipated benefits and timeline for execution of our growth plan and initiatives, including our TAG operational and commercial excellence program, and our expectations or beliefs concerning future events. These forward-looking statements can generally be identified by phrases such as we or our management "expects," "anticipates," "believes," "estimates," "future," "intends," "may," "plans to," "ought," "could," "will," "should," "likely," "appears," "projects," "forecasts," "outlook" or other similar words or phrases, as well as by discussions of strategy, plans or intentions.
Our forward-looking statements are based on management's expectations and beliefs as of the time this Annual Report is filed with the SEC or, with respect to any document incorporated by reference, as of the time such document was prepared. Although we believe that our expectations are reasonable, we can give no assurance that these expectations will prove to have been correct, and actual results may vary materially. Except as required by law, we undertake no obligation to update, amend or clarify any forward-looking statements to reflect changed assumptions, the occurrence of anticipated or unanticipated events, new information or circumstances or any other changes. Important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from our expectations include those described in Part I, Item 1A, Risk Factors and Part II, Item 7, Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations of this Annual Report as well as the following:
• changes in economic conditions which affect demand for our products or construction activity generally, and the impact of such changes on the highly cyclical steel industry;
• rapid and significant changes in the price of metals, potentially impairing our inventory values due to declines in commodity prices or reducing the profitability of downstream contracts within our vertically integrated steel operations due to rising commodity pricing;
• excess capacity in our industry, particularly in China, and product availability from competing steel mills and other steel suppliers including import quantities and pricing;
• the impact of additional steelmaking capacity expected to come online from a number of ongoing EAF projects in the U.S.;
• the impact of geopolitical conditions, including political turmoil and volatility, regional conflicts, terrorism and war on the global economy, inflation, energy supplies and raw materials;
• increased attention to ESG matters, including any targets or other ESG, environmental justice or regulatory initiatives;
• operating and startup risks, as well as market risks associated with the commissioning of new projects could prevent us from realizing anticipated benefits and could result in a loss of all or a substantial part of our investments;
• impacts from global public health crises on the economy, demand for our products, global supply chain and on our operations;
• compliance with and changes in existing and future laws, regulations and other legal requirements and judicial decisions that govern our business, including increased environmental regulations associated with climate change and greenhouse gas emissions;
• involvement in various environmental matters that may result in fines, penalties or judgments;
• evolving remediation technology, changing regulations, possible third-party contributions, the inherent uncertainties of the estimation process and other factors that may impact amounts accrued for environmental liabilities;
• potential limitations in our or our customers' abilities to access credit and non-compliance with their contractual obligations, including payment obligations;
• activity in repurchasing shares of our common stock under our share repurchase program;
• financial and non-financial covenants and restrictions on the operation of our business contained in agreements governing our debt;
• our ability to successfully identify, consummate and integrate acquisitions and realize any or all of the anticipated synergies or other benefits of acquisitions;
• the effects that acquisitions may have on our financial leverage;
• risks associated with acquisitions generally, such as the inability to obtain, or delays in obtaining, required approvals under applicable antitrust legislation and other regulatory and third-party consents and approvals;
• lower than expected future levels of revenues and higher than expected future costs;
• failure or inability to implement growth strategies in a timely manner;
• the impact of goodwill or other indefinite-lived intangible asset impairment charges;
• the impact of long-lived asset impairment charges;
• currency fluctuations;
• global factors, such as trade measures, military conflicts and political uncertainties, including changes to current trade regulations, such as Section 232 trade tariffs and quotas, tax legislation and other regulations which might adversely impact our business;
• availability and pricing of electricity, electrodes and natural gas for mill operations;
• our ability to hire and retain key executives and other employees;
• competition from other materials or from competitors that have a lower cost structure or access to greater financial resources;
• information technology interruptions and breaches in security;
• our ability to make necessary capital expenditures;
• availability and pricing of raw materials and other items over which we exert little influence, including scrap metal, energy and insurance;
• unexpected equipment failures;
• losses or limited potential gains due to hedging transactions;
• litigation claims and settlements, court decisions, regulatory rulings and legal compliance risks, including those related to the PSG litigation and other legal proceedings discussed in Note 17, Commitments and Contingencies, in Part II, Item 8, and in Part I, Item 3, Legal Proceedings of this Annual Report;
• risk of injury or death to employees, customers or other visitors to our operations; and
• civil unrest, protests and riots.
Refer to the "Risk Factors" disclosed in Part I, Item 1A, Risk Factors in this Annual Report for information regarding additional risks which would cause actual results to be significantly different from those expressed or implied by these forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties, assumptions and other important
factors that c ould cause actual results, performance or our achievements, or industry results, to differ materially from historical results, any future results, or performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Accordingly, readers of this Annual Report are cautioned not to place undue reliance on any forward-looking statements.
