Belden Inc.

10/31/2024 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 10/31/2024 11:09

Quarterly Report for Quarter Ending September 29, 2024 (Form 10-Q)

bdc-20240929
UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
_________________________________________________
FORM 10-Q
_________________________________________________
(Mark One)
☑ QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15 (d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the quarterly period ended September 29, 2024
or
☐ TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the transition period from _____ to _____.
Commission File No. 001-12561
____________________________________
BELDEN INC.
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)
_____________________________________________
Delaware 36-3601505
(State or other jurisdiction of incorporation or organization) (I.R.S. Employer Identification No.)
1 North Brentwood Boulevard,15th Floor,St. Louis, Missouri63105
(Address of principal executive offices)
(314) 854-8000
Registrant's telephone number, including area code
_________________________________________________
Indicate by check mark whether the Registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Act during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the Registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days. Yes☑No ☐.
Indicate by check mark whether the Registrant has submitted electronically every Interactive Data File required to be submitted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit such files). Yes☑No ☐.
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, smaller reporting company, or an emerging growth company. See the definitions of "large accelerated filer," "accelerated filer," "smaller reporting company," and "emerging growth company" in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.
Large accelerated filer☑Accelerated filer ☐Non-accelerated filer ☐Smaller reporting company ☐ Emerging growth company ☐
If an emerging growth company, indicate by check mark if the registrant has elected not to use the extended transition period for complying with any new or revised financial accounting standards provided pursuant to Section 13(a) of the Exchange Act. ☐
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act). Yes ☐No ☑
Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:
Title of each class Trading Symbols Name of each exchange on which registered
Common stock, $0.01 par value BDC New York Stock Exchange
As of October 29, 2024,the Registrant had 40,336,643outstanding shares of common stock.
PART I FINANCIAL INFORMATION
Item 1. Financial Statements
BELDEN INC.
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
September 29, 2024 December 31, 2023
(Unaudited)
(In thousands)
ASSETS
Current assets:
Cash and cash equivalents $ 322,982 $ 597,044
Receivables, net 430,176 413,806
Inventories, net 368,435 366,987
Other current assets 76,706 79,142
Total current assets 1,198,299 1,456,979
Property, plant and equipment, less accumulated depreciation 477,304 451,069
Operating lease right-of-use assets 132,844 89,686
Goodwill 1,056,549 907,331
Intangible assets, less accumulated amortization 406,207 269,144
Deferred income taxes 17,290 15,739
Other long-lived assets 51,958 50,243
$ 3,340,451 $ 3,240,191
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY
Current liabilities:
Accounts payable $ 306,745 $ 343,215
Accrued liabilities 272,565 290,289
Total current liabilities 579,310 633,504
Long-term debt 1,218,965 1,204,211
Postretirement benefits 70,356 74,573
Deferred income taxes 88,272 49,472
Long-term operating lease liabilities 113,507 74,941
Other long-term liabilities 34,802 37,188
Stockholders' equity:
Common stock 503 503
Additional paid-in capital 833,449 818,663
Retained earnings 1,119,684 985,807
Accumulated other comprehensive loss (55,153) (41,279)
Treasury stock (663,272) (597,437)
Total Belden stockholders' equity 1,235,211 1,166,257
Noncontrolling interests 28 45
Total stockholders' equity 1,235,239 1,166,302
$ 3,340,451 $ 3,240,191
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.
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BELDEN INC.
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS AND COMPREHENSIVE INCOME
(Unaudited)
Three Months Ended Nine Months Ended
September 29, 2024 October 1, 2023 September 29, 2024 October 1, 2023
(In thousands, except per share data)
Revenues $ 654,926 $ 626,807 $ 1,794,937 $ 1,960,841
Cost of sales (410,922) (385,639) (1,122,531) (1,212,240)
Gross profit 244,004 241,168 672,406 748,601
Selling, general and administrative expenses (126,976) (118,079) (357,241) (366,288)
Research and development expenses (27,941) (30,190) (83,397) (90,544)
Amortization of intangibles (13,738) (9,526) (34,487) (30,262)
Gain on sale of assets - 12,056 - 12,056
Operating income 75,349 95,429 197,281 273,563
Interest expense, net (10,855) (8,580) (27,454) (25,593)
Non-operating pension benefit 286 328 747 1,462
Income before taxes 64,780 87,177 170,574 249,432
Income tax expense (11,091) (14,850) (30,542) (45,385)
Net income 53,689 72,327 140,032 204,047
Less: Net loss attributable to noncontrolling interest (3) (20) (17) (245)
Net income attributable to Belden stockholders $ 53,692 $ 72,347 $ 140,049 $ 204,292
Weighted average number of common shares and equivalents:
Basic 40,798 42,053 40,825 42,460
Diluted 41,417 42,625 41,371 43,129
Basic income per share attributable to Belden stockholders $ 1.32 $ 1.72 $ 3.43 $ 4.81
Diluted income per share attributable to Belden stockholders $ 1.30 $ 1.70 $ 3.39 $ 4.74
Comprehensive income attributable to Belden $ 23,760 $ 93,915 $ 126,175 $ 203,697
Common stock dividends declared per share $ 0.05 $ 0.05 $ 0.15 $ 0.15
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.
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BELDEN INC.
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED CASH FLOW STATEMENTS
(Unaudited)
Nine Months Ended
September 29, 2024 October 1, 2023
(In thousands)
Cash flows from operating activities:
Net income $ 140,032 $ 204,047
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash from operating activities:
Depreciation and amortization 84,039 73,974
Share-based compensation 22,079 14,843
Gain on sale of assets - (12,056)
Changes in operating assets and liabilities, net of the effects of currency exchange rate changes, acquired businesses and disposals:
Receivables 3,244 (48,949)
Inventories 8,918 16,211
Accounts payable (53,664) (42,456)
Accrued liabilities (24,410) (43,318)
Income taxes 1,220 548
Other assets (5,766) (6,706)
Other liabilities 1,665 3,855
Net cash provided by operating activities 177,357 159,993
Cash flows from investing activities:
Cash used for business acquisitions, net of cash acquired (295,591) (106,712)
Capital expenditures (70,759) (61,870)
Proceeds from disposal of tangible assets 106 13,785
Proceeds from disposal of businesses, net of cash sold - 9,300
Net cash used for investing activities (366,244) (145,497)
Cash flows from financing activities:
Payments under share repurchase program (77,954) (150,000)
Withholding tax payments for share-based payment awards (8,930) (17,309)
Cash dividends paid (6,154) (6,408)
Payments under financing lease obligations (694) (254)
Proceeds from issuance of common stock 8,917 6,568
Net cash used for financing activities (84,815) (167,403)
Effect of foreign currency exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents (360) (3,798)
Decrease in cash and cash equivalents (274,062) (156,705)
Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period 597,044 687,676
Cash and cash equivalents, end of period $ 322,982 $ 530,971
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.
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BELDEN INC.
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY STATEMENTS
(Unaudited)
Belden Inc. Stockholders
Additional Accumulated
Other 		Non-controlling
Common Stock Paid-In Retained Treasury Stock Comprehensive
Shares Amount Capital Earnings Shares Amount Income (Loss) Interests Total
(In thousands)
Balance at December 31, 2023 50,335 $ 503 $ 818,663 $ 985,807 (9,208) $ (597,437) $ (41,279) $ 45 $ 1,166,302
Net income (loss) - - - 37,313 - - - (4) 37,309
Other comprehensive income, net of tax - - - - - - 9,148 - 9,148
Common stock issuance - - 477 - 48 2,675 - - 3,152
Retirement Savings Plan stock contributions - - 641 - 22 1,187 - - 1,828
Exercise of stock options, net of tax withholding forfeitures - - (483) - 8 99 - - (384)
Conversion of restricted stock units into common stock, net of tax withholding forfeitures - - (10,991) - 138 3,454 - - (7,537)
Share repurchase program, net of excise tax - - - - (675) (58,270) - - (58,270)
Share-based compensation - - 6,397 - - - - - 6,397
Common stock dividends ($0.05 per share)
- - - (2,059) - - - - (2,059)
Balance at March 31, 2024 50,335 $ 503 $ 814,704 $ 1,021,061 (9,667) $ (648,292) $ (32,131) $ 41 $ 1,155,886
Net income (loss) - - - 49,044 - - - (10) 49,034
Other comprehensive income, net of tax - - - - - - 6,912 - 6,912
Retirement Savings Plan stock contributions - - 1,206 - 22 793 - - 1,999
Exercise of stock options, net of tax withholding forfeitures - - (194) - 4 97 - - (97)
Conversion of restricted stock units into common stock, net of tax withholding forfeitures - - (757) - 20 665 - - (92)
Adjustment to share repurchase excise tax - - - - - 42 - - 42
Share-based compensation - - 8,246 - - - - - 8,246
Common stock dividends ($0.05 per share)
- - - (2,053) - - - - (2,053)
Balance at June 30, 2024 50,335 $ 503 $ 823,205 $ 1,068,052 (9,621) $ (646,695) $ (25,219) $ 31 $ 1,219,877
Net income (loss) - - - 53,692 - - - (3) 53,689
Other comprehensive loss, net of tax - - - - - - (29,934) - (29,934)
Common stock issuance - - 2,613 - 88 3,152 - - 5,765
Retirement Savings Plan stock contributions - - 940 - 15 527 - - 1,467
Exercise of stock options, net of tax withholding forfeitures - - (735) - 13 (77) - - (812)
Conversion of restricted stock units into common stock, net of tax withholding forfeitures - - (10) - - 2 - - (8)
Share repurchase program, net of excise tax - - - - (181) (20,181) - - (20,181)
Share-based compensation - - 7,436 - - - - - 7,436
Common stock dividends ($0.05 per share)
- - - (2,060) - - - - (2,060)
Balance at September 29, 2024 50,335 $ 503 $ 833,449 $ 1,119,684 (9,686) $ (663,272) $ (55,153) $ 28 $ 1,235,239
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Belden Inc. Stockholders
Additional Accumulated
Other 		Non-controlling
Common Stock Paid-In Retained Treasury Stock Comprehensive
Shares Amount Capital Earnings Shares Amount Income (Loss) Interests Total
(In thousands)
Balance at December 31, 2022 50,335 $ 503 $ 825,669 $ 751,522 (7,502) $ (428,812) $ (5,871) $ 939 $ 1,143,950
Net income (loss) - - - 63,192 - - - (247) 62,945
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax - - - - - - (17,300) 2 (17,298)
Common stock issuance - - (420) - 37 2,099 - - 1,679
Retirement Savings Plan stock contributions - - 638 - 28 1,758 - - 2,396
Exercise of stock options, net of tax withholding forfeitures - - (4,547) - 47 1,951 - - (2,596)
Conversion of restricted stock units into common stock, net of tax withholding forfeitures - - (17,997) - 196 7,301 - - (10,696)
Share repurchase program, net of excise tax - - - - (594) (50,266) - - (50,266)
Share-based compensation - - 6,253 - - - - - 6,253
Common stock dividends ($0.05 per share)
- - - (2,150) - - - - (2,150)
Balance at April 2, 2023 50,335 $ 503 $ 809,596 $ 812,564 (7,788) $ (465,969) $ (23,171) $ 694 $ 1,134,217
Net income - - - 68,753 - - - 22 68,775
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax - - - - - - (4,863) 2 (4,861)
Sale and deconsolidation of subsidiary - - - - - - (139) (695) (834)
Retirement Savings Plan stock contributions - - 663 - 24 1,379 - - 2,042
Exercise of stock options, net of tax withholding forfeitures - - (2,698) - 27 767 - - (1,931)
Conversion of restricted stock units into common stock, net of tax withholding forfeitures - - (4,130) - 55 2,413 - - (1,717)
Share repurchase program, net of excise tax - - - - (394) (36,463) - - (36,463)
Share-based compensation - - 5,901 - - - - - 5,901
Common stock dividends ($0.05 per share)
- - - (2,138) - - - - (2,138)
Balance at July 2, 2023 50,335 $ 503 $ 809,332 $ 879,179 (8,076) $ (497,873) $ (28,173) $ 23 $ 1,162,991
Net income (loss) - - - 72,347 - - - (20) 72,327
Other comprehensive income, net of tax - - - - - - 21,568 - 21,568
Common stock issuance - - 448 - 79 4,441 - - 4,889
Retirement Savings Plan stock contributions - - 692 - 18 1,031 - - 1,723
Exercise of stock options, net of tax withholding forfeitures - - (620) - 8 311 - - (309)
Conversion of restricted stock units into common stock, net of tax withholding forfeitures - - (118) - 1 58 - - (60)
Share repurchase program, net of excise tax - - - - (690) (64,311) - - (64,311)
Share-based compensation - - 2,689 - - - - - 2,689
Common stock dividends ($0.05 per share)
- - - (2,104) - - - - (2,104)
Balance at October 1, 2023 50,335 $ 503 $ 812,423 $ 949,422 (8,660) $ (556,343) $ (6,605) $ 3 $ 1,199,403
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.
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BELDEN INC.
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(Unaudited)
Note 1: Summary of Significant Accounting Policies
Basis of Presentation
The accompanying Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements include Belden Inc. and all of its subsidiaries (the Company, us, we, or our). We eliminate all significant affiliate accounts and transactions in consolidation. The accompanying Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements presented as of any date other than December 31, 2023:
•Are prepared from the books and records without audit, and
•Are prepared in accordance with the instructions for Form 10-Q and do not include all of the information required by accounting principles generally accepted in the United States for complete statements, but
•Include all adjustments, consisting only of normal recurring adjustments, necessary for a fair presentation of the financial statements.
These Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements should be read in conjunction with the Consolidated Financial Statements and Supplementary Data contained in our 2023 Annual Report on Form 10-K.
Business Description
We are a leading global supplier of network infrastructure and digitization solutions built around two global businesses - Smart Infrastructure Solutions and Automation Solutions. As Belden continues to advance forward with solutions focused on data infrastructure, werenamed our two reportable segments during the three months ended September 29, 2024 from Enterprise Solutions and Industrial Automation Solutions to Smart Infrastructure Solutions and Automation Solutions, respectively. The composition of the segments did not change as a result of these name changes. Our mission is to build the foundation for a digital world that makes the digital journey simpler, smarter and secure.
Reporting Periods
Our fiscal year and fiscal fourth quarter both end on December 31. Our fiscal first quarter ends on the Sunday falling closest to 91 days after December 31, which was March 31, 2024, the 91st day of our fiscal year 2024. Our fiscal second and third quarters each have 91 days. The nine months ended September 29, 2024 and October 1, 2023 included 273 and274 days, respectively.
Fair Value Measurement
Accounting guidance for fair value measurements specifies a hierarchy of valuation techniques based upon whether the inputs to those valuation techniques reflect assumptions other market participants would use based upon market data obtained from independent sources or reflect our own assumptions of market participant valuation. The hierarchy is broken down into three levels based on the reliability of the inputs as follows:
•Level 1 - Quoted prices in active markets that are unadjusted and accessible at the measurement date for identical, unrestricted assets or liabilities;
•Level 2 - Quoted prices for identical assets and liabilities in markets that are not active, quoted prices for similar assets and liabilities in active markets, or financial instruments for which significant inputs are observable, either directly or indirectly; and
•Level 3 - Prices or valuations that require inputs that are both significant to the fair value measurement and unobservable.
As of and during the three and nine months ended September 29, 2024 and October 1, 2023, we utilized Level 1 inputs to determine the fair value of cash equivalents. We did not have any transfers between Level 1 and Level 2 fair value measurements during the nine months ended September 29, 2024 and October 1, 2023.
Cash and Cash Equivalents
We classify cash on hand and deposits in banks, including commercial paper, money market accounts, and other investments with an original maturity of three months or less, that we hold from time to time, as cash and cash equivalents. We periodically have cash equivalents consisting of short-term money market funds and other investments. As of September 29, 2024, we did not have any such cash equivalents on hand. The primary objective of our investment activities is to preserve our capital for the purpose of funding operations. We do not enter into investments for trading or speculative purposes.
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Contingent Liabilities
We have established liabilities for environmental and legal contingencies that are probable of occurrence and reasonably estimable, the amounts of which are currently not material. We accrue environmental remediation costs based on estimates of known environmental remediation exposures developed in consultation with our environmental consultants and legal counsel. We are, from time to time, subject to routine litigation incidental to our business. Historically, these lawsuits have primarily involved claims for damages arising out of the use of our products, allegations of patent or trademark infringement, and litigation and administrative proceedings involving employment matters and commercial disputes. Based on facts currently available, we believe the disposition of the claims that are pending or asserted will not have a material adverse effect on our financial position, results of operations, or cash flow. As of September 29, 2024, we were partyto standby letters of credit, surety bonds, and bank guaranties totaling $8.3 million, $6.0 million, and $5.3 million, respectively.
Revenue Recognition
We recognize revenue consistent with the principles as outlined in the following five step model: (1) identify the contract with the customer, (2) identify the performance obligations in the contract, (3) determine the transaction price, (4) allocate the transaction price to the performance obligations in the contract, and (5) recognize revenue when (or as) each performance obligation is satisfied. See Note 2.
Subsequent Events
We evaluated subsequent events after the balance sheet date through the financial statement issuance date for appropriate accounting and disclosure.
Noncontrolling Interest
A Belden subsidiary includes a noncontrolling interest as of and for the periods ended September 29, 2024and October 1, 2023. The results attributable to the noncontrolling interest holders are not material to our condensed consolidated financial statements, and arepresented as net income (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interests in the Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations.
Current Year Adoption of Accounting Pronouncements
None of the accounting pronouncements that became effective during 2024 had a material impact to our condensed consolidated financial statements or disclosures.
Pending Adoption of Recent Accounting Pronouncements
The Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) amended the guidance in Accounting Standards Codification (ASC) 280, Segment Reporting, to require public companies disclose significant segment expenses and other segment items on an annual and interim basis and to provide in interim periods all disclosures about a reportable segment's profit or loss and assets that are currently required annually. The guidance is effective for public entities for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2023, and interim periods within fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2024. Early adoption is permitted. The guidance is applied retrospectively to all periods presented in the financial statements, unless it is impracticable. We did not early adopt this pronouncement, and we expect the amended guidance to have a minimal impact on our disclosures.
In December 2023, the FASB issued ASU 2023-09, Income Taxes (Topic 740) Improvements to Income Tax Disclosures (ASU 2023-09) enhancing the transparency and decision usefulness of income tax disclosures. ASU 2023-09 addresses investor requests for more transparency about income tax information through improvements to income tax disclosures primarily related to the rate reconciliation and income taxes paid information. ASU 2023-09 is effective for annual periods beginning after December 15, 2024, with early adoption permitted. The amendments in ASU 2023-09 are applied on a prospective basis, though retrospective application is permitted. We did not early adopt this pronouncement and are in the process of evaluating its impact on our consolidated financial statements and related disclosures.
In March 2024, the SEC issued a final climate disclosure rule, which requires registrants to disclose climate-related information in registration statements and annual reports. The final rule also requires certain disclosures related to risk management and governance over climate-related risks, material climate targets and goals, and material Scope 1 and Scope 2 greenhouse gas emissions. For calendar year companies, the ruling requires certain disclosures in annual reports for the year ending December 31, 2025. On April 4, 2024, the SEC voluntarily stayed the final rule pending the completion of judicial review of cases pending in the Eighth Circuit. We are continuing to evaluate the impact of the final rule on our consolidated financial statements and disclosures.
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Note 2: Revenues
Revenues are recognized when control of the promised goods or services is transferred to our customers and in an amount that reflects the consideration we expect to be entitled to in exchange for those goods or services. Taxes collected from customers and remitted to governmental authorities are not included in our revenues. The following tables present our revenues disaggregated by major product category.
Broadband
Solutions 		Automation Solutions Smart Buildings Solutions Total
Revenues
Three Months Ended September 29, 2024 (In thousands)
Smart Infrastructure Solutions $ 174,467 $ - $ 145,180 $ 319,647
Automation Solutions - 335,279 - 335,279
Total $ 174,467 $ 335,279 $ 145,180 $ 654,926
Three Months Ended October 1, 2023
Smart Infrastructure Solutions $ 146,048 $ - $ 137,857 $ 283,905
Automation Solutions - 342,902 - 342,902
Total $ 146,048 $ 342,902 $ 137,857 $ 626,807
Nine Months Ended September 29, 2024
Smart Infrastructure Solutions $ 422,588 $ - $ 401,621 $ 824,209
Automation Solutions - 970,728 - 970,728
Total $ 422,588 $ 970,728 $ 401,621 $ 1,794,937
Nine Months Ended October 1, 2023
Smart Infrastructure Solutions $ 436,935 $ - $ 434,842 $ 871,777
Automation Solutions - 1,089,064 - 1,089,064
Total $ 436,935 $ 1,089,064 $ 434,842 $ 1,960,841
The following tables present our revenues disaggregated by geography, based on the location of the customer purchasing the product.
Americas EMEA APAC Total Revenues
Three Months Ended September 29, 2024 (In thousands)
Smart Infrastructure Solutions $ 243,759 $ 45,480 $ 30,408 $ 319,647
Automation Solutions 196,326 87,733 51,220 335,279
Total $ 440,085 $ 133,213 $ 81,628 $ 654,926
Three Months Ended October 1, 2023
Smart Infrastructure Solutions $ 199,002 $ 51,476 $ 33,427 $ 283,905
Automation Solutions 195,154 92,189 55,559 342,902
Total $ 394,156 $ 143,665 $ 88,986 $ 626,807
Nine Months Ended September 29, 2024
Smart Infrastructure Solutions $ 610,992 $ 133,547 $ 79,670 $ 824,209
Automation Solutions 578,101 248,606 144,021 970,728
Total $ 1,189,093 $ 382,153 $ 223,691 $ 1,794,937
Nine Months Ended October 1, 2023
Smart Infrastructure Solutions $ 659,360 $ 125,595 $ 86,822 $ 871,777
Automation Solutions 624,219 303,165 161,680 1,089,064
Total $ 1,283,579 $ 428,760 $ 248,502 $ 1,960,841
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We generate revenues primarily by selling products and delivering solutions that make the digital journey simpler, smarter, and secure. We also generate revenues from providing support and professional services. We sell our products to distributors, end-users, installers, and directly to original equipment manufacturers. At times, we enter into arrangements that involve the delivery of multiple performance obligations. For these arrangements, revenue is allocated to each performance obligation based on its relative standalone selling price and recognized when or as each performance obligation is satisfied. Generally, we determine relative standalone selling price using the prices charged separately to customers on a standalone basis. Typically, payments are due after control transfers.
Most of our performance obligations related to the sale of products are satisfied at a point in time when control of the product is transferred to the customer, which generally occurs when the product has been shipped or delivered from our facility to our customers, the customer has legal title to the product, and we have a present right to payment for the product. We also consider any customer acceptance clauses in determining when control has transferred to the customer and typically, these clauses are not substantive.
The amount of consideration we receive and revenue we recognize varies due to rebates, returns, and price adjustments. We estimate the expected rebates, returns, and price adjustments based on an analysis of historical experience, anticipated sales demand, and trends in product pricing. For example, our estimate of price adjustments is based on our historical price adjustments as a percentage of revenues and the average time period between the original sale and the issuance of the price adjustment. We adjust our estimate of revenue for variable consideration at the earlier of when the most likely amount of consideration we expect to receive changes or when the consideration becomesfixed. We adjust other current assets and cost of sales for the estimated level of returns. Adjustments to revenue for performance obligations satisfied in prior periods were not significant during the three and nine months ended September 29, 2024 and October 1, 2023. The following table presents estimated and accrued variable consideration:
September 29, 2024 December 31, 2023
(in thousands)
Accrued rebates included in accrued liabilities $ 41,719 $ 49,255
Accrued returns included in accrued liabilities 15,299 15,570
Price adjustments recognized against gross accounts receivable 29,461 26,005
Depending on the terms of an arrangement, we may defer the recognition of a portion of the consideration received because we have to satisfy a future performance obligation. Consideration allocated to support services under a support and maintenance contract is typically paid in advance and recognized ratably over the term of the service. Consideration allocated to professional services is recognized when or as the services are performed depending on the terms of the arrangement. Our contract terms for support, maintenance, and professional services typically require payment within one year or less of when the services will be provided. As of September 29, 2024, total deferred revenue was $29.1 million, and of this amount, $21.9 million is expected to be recognized within the next twelve months, and the remaining $7.2 million is long-term and is expected to be recognized over a period greater than twelve months. The following table presents deferred revenue activity during the three and nine months ended September 29, 2024and October 1, 2023, respectively:
2024 2023
(In thousands)
Beginning balance at January 1 $ 31,062 $ 33,243
New deferrals 6,280 4,359
Revenue recognized (7,392) (8,307)
Balance at the end of Q1 $ 29,950 $ 29,295
New deferrals 11,058 6,900
Revenue recognized (11,395) (6,528)
Balance at the end of Q2 $ 29,613 $ 29,667
New deferrals 14,714 9,146
Acquisitions 46 104
Revenue recognized (15,240) (11,224)
Balance at the end of Q3 $ 29,133 $ 27,693
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Service-type warranties represent $9.8 million of the deferred revenue balance at September 29, 2024, and of this amount $5.1 million is expected to be recognized in the next twelve months, and the remaining $4.7 million is long-term and will be recognized over a period greater than twelve months. As of September 29, 2024 and December 31, 2023, we did not have any material contract assets recorded in the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets.
We expense sales commissions as incurred when the duration of the related revenue arrangement is one year or less. We capitalize sales commissions when the original duration of the related revenue arrangement is longer than one year, and we amortize it over the related revenue arrangement period. Capitalized sales commissions as of September 29, 2024 and December 31, 2023 were not material. The following table presents sales commissions that are recorded within selling, general and administrative expenses:
Three Months Ended Nine Months ended
September 29, 2024 October 1, 2023 September 29, 2024 October 1, 2023
(In thousands)
Sales commissions $ 6,865 $ 4,729 $ 18,036 $ 16,819
Note 3: Acquisitions
On September 16, 2024, we acquired Voleatech GmbH ("Voleatech") with cash on hand for €5.0 million ($5.6 million), net of cash acquired. The acquisition includes a potential earn-out up to €3.0 million based upon certain targets over three years, which will be accounted for as compensation cost.Voleatech, based in Germany, is known for their VT AIR Next Gen Firewall and expands Belden's Firewall product portfolio and overall planning of security in OT (Operational Technology) networking. Voleatech is reported within the Automation Solutions segment andis not material to our financial position or results of operations.
On June 30, 2024, we acquired Precision Optical Technologies, Inc. ("Precision") with cash on hand for $289.6 million, net of cash acquired. Precision, based in New York, is a leading supplier of value-added optical transceivers with proprietary software, firmware configurations, and related components. Precision is reported within the Smart Infrastructure Solutions segment. The following table summarizes the estimated, preliminary fair values of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed for Precision as of the acquisition date (in thousands):
Receivables $ 18,562
Inventory 9,215
Other current assets 2,352
Property, plant and equipment 5,330
Intangible assets 162,000
Goodwill 144,690
Operating lease right-of-use assets 3,272
Total assets acquired $ 345,421
Accounts payable $ 11,452
Accrued liabilities 3,922
Deferred income taxes 37,507
Long-term operating lease liabilities 2,950
Total liabilities assumed $ 55,831
Net assets $ 289,590
The above purchase price allocation is preliminary and subject to revision as additional information about the fair value of individual assets and liabilities becomes available. The preliminary measurement of receivables, inventory, intangible assets, goodwill, deferred income taxes, and other assets and liabilities are subject to change. A change in the estimated fair value of the net assets acquired will change the amount of the purchase price allocated to goodwill. The preliminary fair value of acquired receivables is $18.6 million, which is equivalent to its gross contractual amount. A single estimate of fair value results from a complex series of judgments about future events and uncertainties and relies heavily on estimates and assumptions. The judgments we have used in estimating the preliminary fair values assigned to each class of acquired assets and assumed liabilities could materially affect the results of our operations.
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For purposes of the above allocation, we based our preliminary estimate of the fair values for intangible assets on valuation studies performed by a third party valuation firm. We used various valuation methods including discounted cash flows, lost income, excess earnings, and relief from royalty to estimate the preliminary fair value of the identifiable intangible assets (Level 3 valuation). Goodwill and other intangible assets reflected above were determined to meet the criteria for recognition apart from tangible assets acquired and liabilities assumed. The goodwill is primarily attributable to the expansion of Belden's solution selling capabilities, particularly the ability to offer more complete fiber infrastructure solutions. Our tax basis in the acquired goodwill is zero.
The intangible assets related to the acquisition consisted of the following:
Fair Value Amortization Period
(In thousands) (In years)
Intangible assets subject to amortization:
Developed technologies $ 24,700 5.0
Customer relationships 122,800 20.0
Trademarks 3,100 2.5
Non-compete agreements 11,400 5.0
Total intangible assets subject to amortization $ 162,000
Intangible assets not subject to amortization:
Goodwill $ 144,690 n/a
Total intangible assets not subject to amortization $ 144,690
Total intangible assets $ 306,690
Weighted average amortization period 16.3
The amortizable intangible assets reflected in the table above were determined by us to have finite lives. The useful life for the developed technology intangible asset was based on the estimated time that the technology provides us with a competitive advantage and thus approximates the period and pattern of consumption of the intangible asset. The useful life for the customer relationship intangible asset was based on our forecasts of estimated sales from recurring customers. The useful life for the trademarks was based on the period of time we expect to continue to go to market using the trademarks.
Our consolidated revenues and income before taxes for the three and nine months ended September 29, 2024 included $34.4 million and $1.2 million, respectively, from Precision. For the three and nine months ended September 29, 2024, income before taxes included $4.1 million of severance and other restructuring costs, $3.7 million of amortization of intangible assets, and $0.3 million of cost of sales related to the adjustment of acquired inventory to fair value for Precision.
The following table illustrates the unaudited pro forma effect on operating results as if the Precision acquisition had been completed as of January 1, 2023.
Three Months Ended Nine Months Ended
September 29, 2024 October 1, 2023 September 29, 2024 October 1, 2023
(In thousands, except per share data)
(Unaudited)
Revenues $ 654,926 $ 667,789 $ 1,865,778 $ 2,057,521
Net income attributable to Belden stockholders 57,021 74,122 140,744 200,609
Diluted income per share attributable to Belden stockholders $ 1.38 $ 1.74 $ 3.40 $ 4.65
The above unaudited pro forma financial information is presented for informational purposes only and does not purport to represent what our results of operations would have been had we completed the acquisition on the date assumed, nor is it necessarily indicative of the results that may be expected in future periods. Pro forma adjustments exclude cost savings from any synergies resulting from the acquisition.
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Note 4: Reportable Segments
We are organized around two global businesses: Smart Infrastructure Solutions and Automation Solutions. As Belden continues to advance forward with solutions focused on data infrastructure, werenamed our two reportable segments during the three months ended September 29, 2024 from Enterprise Solutions and Industrial Automation Solutions to Smart Infrastructure Solutions and Automation Solutions, respectively. The composition of the segments did not change as a result of these name changes.
Each of the global businesses represents a reportable segment. The key measures of segment profit or loss are Segment Revenues and Segment EBITDA. Segment Revenues represent non-affiliate revenues. Segment EBITDA excludes certain items, including depreciation expense; amortization of intangibles; asset impairment; severance, restructuring, and acquisition integration costs; adjustments related to acquisitions and divestitures; and other costs. We allocate corporate expenses to the segments for purposes of measuring Segment EBITDA. Corporate expenses are allocated on the basis of each segment's relative EBITDA prior to the allocation.
Our measure of segment assets does not include cash, goodwill, intangible assets, deferred tax assets, or corporate assets. All goodwill is allocated to reporting units of our segments for purposes of impairment testing. Inter-company revenues between our segments is not material.
Smart Infrastructure Solutions Automation Solutions Total Segments
(In thousands)
As of and for the three months ended September 29, 2024
Segment Revenues $ 319,647 $ 335,279 $ 654,926
Segment EBITDA 40,447 71,819 112,266
Depreciation expense 6,758 7,897 14,655
Amortization of intangibles 8,738 5,000 13,738
Amortization of software development intangible assets - 2,678 2,678
Severance, restructuring, and acquisition integration costs 4,619 644 5,263
Adjustments related to acquisitions and divestitures 263 298 561
Segment assets 686,960 772,740 1,459,700
As of and for the three months ended October 1, 2023
Segment Revenues $ 283,905 $ 342,902 $ 626,807
Segment EBITDA 37,693 77,244 114,937
Depreciation expense 6,632 6,810 13,442
Amortization of intangibles 4,468 5,058 9,526
Amortization of software development intangible assets - 1,963 1,963
Severance, restructuring, and acquisition integration costs 3,453 2,622 6,075
Adjustments related to acquisitions and divestitures 197 298 495
Segment assets 625,356 698,287 1,323,643
As of and for the nine months ended September 29, 2024
Segment revenues $ 824,209 $ 970,728 $ 1,794,937
Segment EBITDA 97,691 198,301 295,992
Depreciation expense 19,277 22,420 41,697
Amortization of intangibles 19,479 15,008 34,487
Amortization of software development intangible assets - 7,855 7,855
Severance, restructuring, and acquisition integration costs 8,518 4,950 13,468
Adjustments related to acquisitions and divestitures 263 894 1,157
Segment assets 686,960 772,740 1,459,700
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As of and for the nine months ended October 1, 2023
Segment Revenues $ 871,777 $ 1,089,064 $ 1,960,841
Segment EBITDA 118,854 229,662 348,516
Depreciation expense 18,779 19,699 38,478
Amortization of intangibles 15,171 15,091 30,262
Amortization of software development intangible assets - 5,235 5,235
Severance, restructuring, and acquisition integration costs 5,147 6,699 11,846
Adjustments related to acquisitions and divestitures 522 520 1,042
Segment assets 625,356 698,287 1,323,643
The following table is a reconciliation of the total of the reportable segments' Revenues and EBITDA to consolidated revenues and consolidated income before taxes, respectively.
Three Months Ended Nine Months Ended
September 29, 2024 October 1, 2023 September 29, 2024 October 1, 2023
(In thousands)
Total Segment and Consolidated Revenues $ 654,926 $ 626,807 $ 1,794,937 $ 1,960,841
Total Segment EBITDA $ 112,266 $ 114,937 $ 295,992 $ 348,516
Depreciation expense (14,655) (13,442) (41,697) (38,478)
Amortization of intangibles (13,738) (9,526) (34,487) (30,262)
Severance, restructuring, and acquisition integration costs (1) (5,263) (6,075) (13,468) (11,846)
Amortization of software development intangible assets (2,678) (1,963) (7,855) (5,235)
Adjustments related to acquisitions and divestitures (2) (561) (495) (1,157) (1,042)
Eliminations (22) (63) (47) (146)
Gain on sale of asset - 12,056 - 12,056
Consolidated operating income 75,349 95,429 197,281 273,563
Interest expense, net (10,855) (8,580) (27,454) (25,593)
Total non-operating pension benefit 286 328 747 1,462
Consolidated income before taxes $ 64,780 $ 87,177 $ 170,574 $ 249,432
(1) Includes costs associated with acquisitions and manufacturing footprint actions.
(2) Adjustments related to acquisitions and divestitures include fair value adjustments of acquired assets.
Note 5: Income per Share
The following table presents the basis for the income per share computations:
Three Months Ended Nine Months Ended
September 29, 2024 October 1, 2023 September 29, 2024 October 1, 2023
(In thousands)
Numerator:
Net income $ 53,689 $ 72,327 $ 140,032 $ 204,047
Less: Net loss attributable to noncontrolling interest (3) (20) (17) (245)
Net income attributable to Belden stockholders $ 53,692 $ 72,347 $ 140,049 $ 204,292
Denominator:
Weighted average shares outstanding, basic 40,798 42,053 40,825 42,460
Effect of dilutive common stock equivalents 619 572 546 669
Weighted average shares outstanding, diluted 41,417 42,625 41,371 43,129
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For both the three and ninemonths ended September 29, 2024, diluted weighted average shares outstanding do not include outstanding equity awards of 0.1 million because they are anti-dilutive. For the three and nine months ended October 1, 2023, diluted weighted average shares outstanding do not include outstanding equity awards of 0.1 million and 0.2 million, respectively, because they are anti-dilutive.
In addition, for the three and nine months ended September 29, 2024, diluted weighted average shares outstanding do not include outstanding equity awards of 0.2 million and 0.3 million, respectively, because the related performance conditions have not been satisfied. For the three and nine months ended October 1, 2023, diluted weighted average shares outstanding do not include outstanding equity awards of 0.2 million and 0.3 million, respectively, because the related performance conditions have not been satisfied.
For purposes of calculating basic earnings per share, unvested restricted stock units are notincluded in the calculation of basic weighted average shares outstanding until all necessary conditions have been satisfied and issuance of the shares underlying the restricted stock units is no longer contingent. Necessary conditions are not satisfied until the vesting date, at which time holders of our restricted stock units receive shares of our common stock. For purposes of calculating diluted earnings per share, unvested restricted stock units are included to the extent that they are dilutive. In determining whether unvested restricted stock units are dilutive, each issuance of restricted stock units is considered separately. Once a restricted stock unit has vested, it is included in the calculation of both basic and diluted weighted average shares outstanding.
Note 6: Credit Losses
We are exposed to credit losses primarily through sales of products and services. Our expected loss allowance methodology for accounts receivable is developed using historical collection experience, current and future economic and market conditions and a review of the current status of customers' trade accounts receivables. Due to the short-term nature of such receivables, the estimated amount of accounts receivable that may not be collected is based on aging of the accounts receivable balances and the financial condition of customers. Additionally, specific allowance amounts are established to record the appropriate provision for customers that have a higher probability of default. Our monitoring activities include timely account reconciliation, dispute resolution, payment confirmation, consideration of customers' financial condition and macroeconomic conditions. Balances are written off when determined to be uncollectible. Provisions and recoveries are included in selling, general and administrative expenses. The following table presents the activity in the trade receivables allowance for doubtful accounts for the three and nine months ended September 29, 2024 and October 1, 2023, respectively:
2024 2023
(In thousands)
Beginning balance at January 1 $ 23,114 $ 7,954
Current period provision 459 4,004
Recoveries collected (6) -
Write-offs (96) (3)
Fx impact (51) (25)
Q1 ending balance $ 23,420 $ 11,930
Current period provision 638 4,194
Acquisitions 50 19
Recoveries collected - (8)
Fx impact (44) 11
Write-offs (5) -
Q2 ending balance $ 24,059 $ 16,146
Current period provision 79 4,933
Fx impact 140 (72)
Write-offs (48) (31)
Recoveries collected (1) (824)
Q3 ending balance $ 24,229 $ 20,152
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Note 7: Inventories
The following table presents the major classes of inventories as of September 29, 2024 and December 31, 2023, respectively:
September 29, 2024 December 31, 2023
(In thousands)
Raw materials $ 202,242 $ 185,233
Work-in-process 44,515 41,197
Finished goods 193,543 208,425
Gross inventories 440,300 434,855
Excess and obsolete reserves (71,865) (67,868)
Net inventories $ 368,435 $ 366,987
Note 8: Leases
We have operating and finance leases for properties, including manufacturing facilities, warehouses, and office space; as well as vehicles and equipment. We make certain judgments in determining whether a contract contains a lease in accordance with ASU 2016-02. Our leases have remaining lease terms within 1 to 20 years; some of which include extension and termination options. We do not assume renewals in our determination of the lease term unless the renewals are deemed to be reasonably certain as of the commencement date of the lease. We have a few short-term operating leases with terms less than twelve months - these leases are not recorded on our balance sheet and the overall rent expense is not material.
We also have certain lease contracts that contain both lease and non-lease components. We have elected the practical expedient to account for these components together as a single, combined lease component. The rate implicit in most of our leases is not readily determinable. As a result, we utilize the incremental borrowing rate to determine the present value of the lease payments, which is unique to each leased asset, and is based upon the term of the lease, commencement date of the lease, local currency of the leased asset, and the credit rating of the legal entity leasing the asset.
Our lease agreements do not contain material residual value guarantees. Our variable lease expense was approximately $0.9 million and $2.7 million for the three and ninemonths ended September 29, 2024, respectively, and $0.8 million and $2.4 million for the three and nine months ended October 1, 2023, respectively.
The components of lease expense were as follows:
Three Months Ended Nine Months Ended
September 29, 2024 October 1, 2023 September 29, 2024 October 1, 2023
(In thousands)
Operating lease cost $ 6,893 $ 5,568 $ 20,686 $ 16,500
Finance lease cost
Amortization of right-of-use asset $ 188 $ 187 $ 572 $ 578
Interest on lease liabilities 167 75 385 232
Total finance lease cost $ 355 $ 262 $ 957 $ 810
Supplemental cash flow information related to leases was as follows:
Three Months Ended Nine Months Ended
September 29, 2024 October 1, 2023 September 29, 2024 October 1, 2023
(In thousands)
Cash paid for amounts included in the measurement of lease liabilities:
Operating cash flows from operating leases $ 4,423 $ 4,674 $ 15,926 $ 13,964
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Operating cash flows from finance leases were not material during the three and nine months ended September 29, 2024 and October 1, 2023.
Supplemental balance sheet information related to leases was as follows:
September 29, 2024 December 31, 2023
(In thousands)
Operating leases:
Total operating lease right-of-use assets
$ 132,844 $ 89,686
Accrued liabilities $ 20,984 $ 18,226
Long-term operating lease liabilities 113,507 74,941
Total operating lease liabilities $ 134,491 $ 93,167
Finance leases:
Other long-lived assets, at cost $ 8,294 $ 6,560
Accumulated depreciation (1,928) (1,347)
Other long-lived assets, net $ 6,366 $ 5,213
Accrued liabilities $ 1,057 $ 719
Other long-term liabilities 6,692 6,084
Total finance lease liabilities $ 7,749 $ 6,803
The increases in operating lease right-of-use assets and lease liabilities are primarily due to the recognition of a new lease that had balances of $33.8 million and $33.3 million, respectively, as of September 29, 2024.
September 29, 2024 December 31, 2023
Weighted Average Remaining Lease Term
Operating leases 10 years 6 years
Finance leases 7 years 9 years
Weighted Average Discount Rate
Operating leases 5.9 % 5.0 %
Finance leases 4.6 % 4.3 %
In addition, we guaranteed the lease payments for certain property leases of a former subsidiary with expiration dates extending up to 2035. These lease guarantees were retained by Belden and not transferred to the buyer of the former subsidiary. As of September 29, 2024, the fixed, remaining base rent payments were approximately $21 million. As of September 29, 2024 andDecember 31, 2023, we had a liability for expected, future payments of $9.6 million and $11.3 million, respectively. The liability is based on certain assumptions, such as receiving a level of sublease income, that we continually reassess on an ongoing basis. We will update the estimated liability balance for changes in assumptions as needed.
Note 9: Long-Lived Assets
Depreciation and Amortization Expense
We recognized depreciation expense of $14.7 million and $41.7 million in the three and nine months ended September 29, 2024, respectively, and $13.4 million and $38.5 million in the three and nine months ended October 1, 2023, respectively. We recognized amortization expense of $16.4 million and $42.3 million in the three and nine months ended September 29, 2024, respectively, and $11.5 million and $35.5 million in the three and nine months ended October 1, 2023, respectively.
Gain on Sale of Assets
During the three and nine months ended October 1, 2023, we sold our property in Ontario, Canada as part of a sale and leaseback transaction for $13.8 million, net of transaction costs and recognized a $12.1 million pre-tax gain on sale. This gain on sale was excluded from Segment EBITDA for our Automation Solutions segment.
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Note 10: Long-Term Debt and Other Borrowing Arrangements
The carrying values of our long-term debt were as follows:
September 29, 2024 December 31, 2023
(In thousands)
Revolving credit agreement due 2026 $ - $ -
Senior subordinated notes:
3.375% Senior subordinated notes due 2027
502,380 497,025
3.875% Senior subordinated notes due 2028
390,740 386,575
3.375% Senior subordinated notes due 2031
334,920 331,350
Total senior subordinated notes 1,228,040 1,214,950
Less unamortized debt issuance costs (9,075) (10,739)
Long-term debt $ 1,218,965 $ 1,204,211
Revolving Credit Agreement due 2026
We have a $300.0 million multi-currency asset-based revolving credit facility (the Revolver). The maturity date of the Revolver is June 2, 2026. The borrowing base under the Revolver includes eligible accounts receivable; inventory; and property, plant and equipment of certain of our subsidiaries in the United States, Canada, Germany, the United Kingdom and the Netherlands. Interest on outstanding borrowings is variable, based upon SOFR or other similar indices in foreign jurisdictions, plus a spread that ranges from 1.25%-1.75%, depending upon our leverage position. Outstanding borrowings in the U.S. and Canada may also, at our election, be priced on a base rate plus a spread that ranges from 0.25% - 0.75%, depending on our leverage position. We pay a commitment fee on the total commitments of 0.25%. In the event that we borrow more than 90% of our combined borrowing base or our borrowing base availability is less than $20.0 million, we are subject to a fixed charge coverage ratio covenant. As of September 29, 2024, we had no borrowings outstanding on the Revolver, and our available borrowing capacity was $291.4 million.
Senior Subordinated Notes
We have outstanding €450.0 million aggregate principal amount of 3.375% senior subordinated notes due 2027 (the 2027 Notes). The carrying value of the 2027 Notes as of September 29, 2024 is $502.4 million. The 2027 Notes are guaranteed on a senior subordinated basis by our current and future domestic subsidiaries. The 2027 Notes rank equal in right of payment with our senior subordinated notes due 2031 and 2028 and with any future subordinated debt, and they are subordinated to all of our senior debt and the senior debt of our subsidiary guarantors, including our Revolver. Interest is payable semiannually on January 15 and July 15 of each year.
We have outstanding €350.0 million aggregate principal amount of 3.875% senior subordinated notes due 2028 (the 2028 Notes). The carrying value of the 2028 Notes as of September 29, 2024 is $390.7 million. The 2028 Notes are guaranteed on a senior subordinated basis by our current and future domestic subsidiaries. The 2028 Notes rank equal in right of payment with our senior subordinated notes due 2031 and 2027 and with any future subordinated debt, and they are subordinated to all of our senior debt and the senior debt of our subsidiary guarantors, including our Revolver. Interest is payable semiannually on March 15 and September 15 of each year.
We have outstanding €300.0 million aggregate principal amount of 3.375% senior subordinated notes due 2031 (the 2031 Notes). The carrying value of the 2031 Notes as of September 29, 2024 is $334.9 million. The 2031 Notes are guaranteed on a senior subordinated basis by our current and future domestic subsidiaries. The 2031 Notes rank equal in right of payment with our senior subordinated notes due 2028 and 2027 and with any future subordinated debt, and they are subordinated to all of our senior debt and the senior debt of our subsidiary guarantors, including our Revolver. Interest is payable semiannually on January 15 and July 15 of each year.
Fair Value of Long-Term Debt
The fair value of our senior subordinated notes as of September 29, 2024 was approximately $1,190.0 million based on quoted prices of the debt instruments in inactive markets (Level 2 valuation). This amount represents the fair value of our senior subordinated notes with a carrying value of $1,228.0 million as of September 29, 2024.
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Note 11: Net Investment Hedge
All of our euro denominated notes were issued by Belden Inc., a USD functional currency entity. As of September 29, 2024, €567.8 million of our outstanding foreign denominated debt is designated as a net investment hedge on the foreign currency risk of our net investment in our euro foreign operations. The objective of the hedge is to protect the net investment in the foreign operation against adverse changes in the euro exchange rate. The transaction gain or loss is reported in the translation adjustment section of other comprehensive income. For the nine months ended September 29, 2024 and October 1, 2023, the transaction gain (loss) associated with the net investment hedge reported in other comprehensive income was $(6.7) million and $8.8 million, respectively.
Note 12: Income Taxes
For the three and nine months ended September 29, 2024, we recognized income tax expense of $11.1 million and $30.5 million, respectively, representing effective tax rates of 17.1% and 17.9%, respectively. For the three and ninemonths ended October 1, 2023, we recognized income tax expense of $14.9 million and $45.4 million, respectively, representing effective tax rates of 17.0% and 18.2%, respectively.
The effective tax rates were primarily impacted by the effect of our foreign operations, including statutory tax rates differences and foreign tax credits. The Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development is actively implementing changes to existing tax laws, including a global minimum tax of 15% which went into effect in 2024. This legislation has not materially impacted our provision for income taxes, but we will continually monitor and evaluate the potential impact on the countries in which we do business in future periods.
Note 13: Pension and Other Postretirement Obligations
The following table provides the components of net periodic benefit costs for our pension and other postretirement benefit plans:
Pension Obligations Other Postretirement Obligations
September 29, 2024 October 1, 2023 September 29, 2024 October 1, 2023
(In thousands)
Three Months Ended
Service cost $ 797 $ 522 $ 10 $ 3
Interest cost 3,723 3,838 235 253
Expected return on plan assets (4,147) (4,038) - -
Amortization of prior service cost 46 45 - -
Actuarial gains (27) (234) (116) (192)
Net periodic benefit cost $ 392 $ 133 $ 129 $ 64
Nine Months Ended
Service cost $ 2,284 $ 2,056 $ 30 $ 6
Interest cost 11,059 11,392 708 756
Expected return on plan assets (12,221) (12,476) - -
Amortization of prior service cost 135 132 - -
Actuarial gains (79) (692) (349) (574)
Net periodic benefit cost $ 1,178 $ 412 $ 389 $ 188
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Note 14: Comprehensive Income and Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)
The following table summarizes total comprehensive income:
Three Months Ended Nine Months Ended
September 29, 2024 October 1, 2023 September 29, 2024 October 1, 2023
(In thousands)
Net income $ 53,689 $ 72,327 $ 140,032 $ 204,047
Foreign currency translation adjustments, net of tax (29,859) 21,852 (13,653) 257
Adjustments to pension and postretirement liability, net of tax (73) (284) (221) (848)
Total comprehensive income 23,757 93,895 126,158 203,456
Less: Comprehensive loss attributable to noncontrolling interests (3) (20) (17) (241)
Comprehensive income attributable to Belden $ 23,760 $ 93,915 $ 126,175 $ 203,697
The tax impacts of the foreign currency translation adjustments and pension liability adjustments in the table above are not material. The accumulated balances related to each component of other comprehensive loss, net of tax, are as follows:
Foreign
Currency Translation Component 		Pension and
Other
Postretirement
Benefit Plans 		Accumulated Other
Comprehensive Loss
(In thousands)
Balance at December 31, 2023 $ (26,514) $ (14,765) $ (41,279)
Other comprehensive loss attributable to Belden before reclassifications (13,653) - (13,653)
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss - (221) (221)
Net current period other comprehensive loss attributable to Belden (13,653) (221) (13,874)
Balance at September 29, 2024 $ (40,167) $ (14,986) $ (55,153)
The following table summarizes the effects of reclassifications from accumulated other comprehensive loss for the nine months ended September 29, 2024:
Amounts
Reclassified from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss 		Affected Line Item in the Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income
(In thousands)
Amortization of pension and other postretirement benefit plan items:
Actuarial gains $ (428) (1)
Prior service cost 135 (1)
Total before tax (293)
Tax expense 72
Total net of tax $ (221)
(1) The amortization of these accumulated other comprehensive loss components are included in the computation of net periodic benefit costs (see Note 13).
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Note 15: Share Repurchase
We have a share repurchase program which allows us to purchase our common stock through open market repurchases, negotiated transactions, or other means, in accordance with applicable securities laws and other restrictions. This program is funded with cash on hand and cash flows from operating activities. During September 2024, our Board of Directors increased the authorizations under this program by $300.0 million.
During the three months ended September 29, 2024, we repurchased 0.2 million shares of our common stock for an aggregate cost of $20.1 million at an average price per share of $110.84. During the nine months ended September 29, 2024, we repurchased 0.9 million shares of our common stock for an aggregate cost of $78.0 million at an average price per share of $90.98. During the three months ended October 1, 2023, we repurchased 0.7 million shares of our common stock for an aggregate cost of $63.8 million at an average price per share of $92.46. During the nine months ended October 1, 2023, we repurchased 1.7 million shares of our common stock for an aggregate cost of $150.0 million at an average price per share of $89.42.
Subsequent to September 29, 2024, we repurchased 0.3 million shares of our common stock for an aggregate cost of $37.6 million at an average price per share of $116.90. As of the date of this filing, we had $357.3 million of authorizations remaining under the program. This share repurchase authorization does not have an expiration date.
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Item 2: Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations
Overview
Belden Inc. (the Company, us, we, or our) is a leading global supplier of network infrastructure and digitization solutions built around 2 global businesses - Smart Infrastructure Solutions and Automation Solutions. As Belden continues to advance forward with solutions focused on data infrastructure, werenamed our two reportable segments during the three months ended September 29, 2024 from Enterprise Solutions and Industrial Automation Solutions to Smart Infrastructure Solutions and Automation Solutions, respectively. The composition of the segments did not change as a result of these name changes. Our mission is to build the foundation for a digital world that makes the digital journey simpler, smarter and secure.
Belden is moving beyond connectivity, from what we make to what we make possible through a performance-driven portfolio, forward-thinking expertise and purpose-built solutions. We are aligned with attractive secular growth markets, positioned to provide comprehensive solutions that drive customer outcomes, focused on new product innovation and technology leadership, and committed to sustainable ESG practices. Our current business goals are to:
•Achieve mid-single-digit annual revenue growth;
•Deliver incremental Adjusted EBITDA margins between 25% to 30%;
•Generate free cash flow margin approaching 10%;
•Execute a disciplined capital allocation strategy while maintaining net leverage around 1.5x; and
•Drive Adjusted EPS to at least $8.00 by 2025 with annual growth of 10% to 12% thereafter.
Trends and Events
The following trends and events during 2024 have had varying effects on our financial condition, results of operations, and cash flows.
Foreign Currency
Our exposure to currency rate fluctuations primarily relates to exchange rate movements between the U.S. dollar and the euro, Canadian dollar, Hong Kong dollar, Chinese yuan, Mexican peso, Australian dollar, British pound, Indian rupee and Swiss franc. Generally, as the U.S. dollar strengthens against these foreign currencies, our revenues and earnings are negatively impacted as our foreign denominated revenues and earnings are translated into U.S. dollars at a lower rate. Conversely, as the U.S. dollar weakens against foreign currencies, our revenues and earnings are positively impacted. Approximately41% of our consolidated revenues during the quarter ended September 29, 2024 were to customers outside of the U.S.
In addition to the translation impact described above, currency rate fluctuations have an economic impact on our financial results. As the U.S. dollar strengthens or weakens against foreign currencies, it results in a relative price increase or decrease for certain of our products that are priced in U.S. dollars in a foreign location.
Inflation
During periods of inflation, if we are unable to raise prices timely and sufficiently to recover our material costs, our earnings could decline. Furthermore, inflation may impact labor, energy, and other costs. We monitor inflation pressures and proactively implement selling price increases or cost control measures as appropriate.
Commodity Prices
Our operating results can be affected by changes in prices of commodities, primarily copper and compounds, which are components in some of the products we sell. Generally, as the costs of inventory purchases increase due to higher commodity prices, we raise selling prices to customers to cover the increase in costs, resulting in higher sales revenue but a lower gross profit percentage. Conversely, a decrease in commodity prices would result in lower sales revenue but a higher gross profit percentage. Selling prices of our products are affected by many factors, including end market demand, capacity utilization, overall economic conditions, and commodity prices. There is no exact measure of the effect of changing commodity prices, as there are thousands of transactions in any given quarter, each of which has various factors involved in the individual pricing decisions. Therefore, all references to the effect of copper prices or other commodity prices are estimates.
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Channel Inventory
Our operating results also can be affected by the levels of Belden products purchased and held as inventory by our channel partners and customers. Our channel partners and customers purchase and hold the products they bought from us in their inventory in order to meet the service and on-time delivery requirements of their customers. Generally, as our channel partners and customers change the level of products they buy from us and hold in their inventory, it impacts our revenues. Comparisons of our results between periods can be impacted by changes in the levels of channel inventory. We use information provided to us by our channel partners and make certain assumptions based on our sales to them to determine the amount of products they bought from us and hold in their inventory. As such, all references to the effect of channel inventory changes are estimates.
Market Growth and Market Share
The markets in which we operate can generally be characterized as highly competitive and highly fragmented, with many players. We monitor available data regarding market growth, including independent market research reports, publicly available indices, and the financial results of our direct and indirect peer companies, in order to estimate the extent to which our served markets grew or contracted during a particular period. We generally expect that our unit sales volume will increase or decrease consistently with the market growth rate. Our strategic goal is to transition to a solutions provider and target faster growing geographies, applications, and trends within our end markets, in order to achieve growth that is higher than the general market growth rate. To the extent that we exceed the market growth rates, we consider it to be the result of capturing market share.
Voleatech GmbH Acquisition
On September 16, 2024, we acquired Voleatech for €5.0 million ($5.6 million), net of cash acquired. The acquisition includes a potential earn-out up to €3.0 million based upon certain targets over three years, which will be accounted for as compensation cost. Voleatech, based in Germany, is known for their VT AIR Next Gen Firewall and expands Belden's Firewall product portfolio and overall planning of security in OT networking. Voleatech is reported within the Automation Solutions segment. See Note 3.
Precision Optical TechnologiesAcquisition
On June 30, 2024, we acquired Precision for $289.6 million, net of cash acquired. Precision, based in New York, is a leading supplier of value-added optical transceivers with proprietary software, firmware configurations, and related components. Precision is reported within the Enterprise Solutions segment. See Note 3.
Share Repurchase Program
During the three months ended September 29, 2024, we repurchased 0.2 million shares of our common stock for an aggregate cost of $20.1 million at an average price per share of $110.84. During the nine months ended September 29, 2024, we repurchased 0.9 million shares of our common stock for an aggregate cost of $78.0 million at an average price per share of $90.98. See Note 15.
Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements
We have no off-balance sheet arrangements that have or are reasonably likely to have a current or future effect on our financial condition, results of operations, or cash flows that are or would be considered material to investors.
Critical Accounting Policies
During the nine months ended September 29, 2024:
•We did not change any of our existing critical accounting policies from those listed in our 2023 Annual Report on Form 10-K;
•No existing accounting policies became critical accounting policies because of an increase in the materiality of associated transactions or changes in the circumstances to which associated judgments and estimates relate; and
•There were no significant changes in the manner in which critical accounting policies were applied or in which related judgments and estimates were developed.
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Results of Operations
Consolidated Income before Taxes
Three Months Ended % Change Nine Months Ended % Change
September 29, 2024 October 1, 2023 September 29, 2024 October 1, 2023
(In thousands, except percentages)
Revenues $ 654,926 $ 626,807 4.5 % $ 1,794,937 $ 1,960,841 (8.5) %
Gross profit 244,004 241,168 1.2 % 672,406 748,601 (10.2) %
Selling, general and administrative expenses (126,976) (118,079) 7.5 % (357,241) (366,288) (2.5) %
Research and development expenses (27,941) (30,190) (7.4) % (83,397) (90,544) (7.9) %
Amortization of intangibles (13,738) (9,526) 44.2 % (34,487) (30,262) 14.0 %
Gain on sale of assets - 12,056 (100.0) % - 12,056 (100.0) %
Operating income 75,349 95,429 (21.0) % 197,281 273,563 (27.9) %
Interest expense, net (10,855) (8,580) 26.5 % (27,454) (25,593) 7.3 %
Non-operating pension benefit 286 328 (12.8) % 747 1,462 (48.9) %
Income before taxes 64,780 87,177 (25.7) % 170,574 249,432 (31.6) %
Revenues increased $28.1 million and decreased $165.9 million in the three and nine months ended September 29, 2024, respectively, from the comparable periods of 2023due to the following factors:
•Acquisitions contributed $34.5 million and $42.1 million in revenues, respectively.
•Copper pass-through pricing had an $10.2 million and $17.1 million favorable impact on revenues, respectively.
•Lower sales volume resulted in a $15.2 million and $218.9 million decline in revenues, respectively.
•Currency translation had a $1.4 million and $5.8 million unfavorable impact on revenues, respectively.
•Divestitures had a $0.0 million and $0.4 million unfavorable impact on revenues, respectively.
Gross profit increased $2.8 million and decreased $76.2 million in the three and nine months ended September 29, 2024, respectively, from the comparable periods of 2023 primarily due to the changes in revenues discussed above.
Selling, general and administrative expenses increased $8.9 million and decreased $9.0 million in the three and nine months ended September 29, 2024, respectively, from the comparable periods of 2023. The increase in the three months ended September 29, 2024 was primarily attributable to expenses from the operations of companies acquired in 2024. The decrease in the nine months ended September 29, 2024 was primarily attributable to the benefits realized from our productivity initiatives.
Research and development expenses decreased $2.2 million and $7.1 million in the three and nine months ended September 29, 2024, respectively, from the comparable periods of 2023 primarily due to the timing of projects.
Amortization of intangibles increased $4.2 million in both the three and nine months ended September 29, 2024 from the comparable periods of 2023 primarily due to acquisitions.
The $12.1 million pre-tax gain on sale of assets during the three and nine months ended October 1, 2023 represents the gain on certain real estate sold in Canada for $13.8 million. See Note 9.
Operating income decreased $20.1 million and $76.3 million in the three and nine months ended September 29, 2024, respectively, from the comparable periods of 2023 primarily due to the fluctuations in revenues; selling, general and administrative expenses; and the pre-tax gain on sale of assets discussed above.
Net interest expense increased $2.3 million and $1.9 million in the three and nine months ended September 29, 2024, respectively, from the comparable periods of 2023 due to fluctuations in interest income and foreign currency translation.
Income before taxes decreased $22.4 million and $78.9 million in the three and nine months ended September 29, 2024, respectively, from the comparable periods of 2023 primarily due to the changes in operating income discussed above.
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Income Taxes
Three Months Ended % Change Nine Months Ended % Change
September 29, 2024 October 1, 2023 September 29, 2024 October 1, 2023
(In thousands, except percentages)
Income before taxes $ 64,780 $ 87,177 (25.7) % $ 170,574 $ 249,432 (31.6) %
Income tax expense 11,091 14,850 (25.3) % 30,542 45,385 (32.7) %
Effective tax rate 17.1 % 17.0 % 17.9 % 18.2 %
For the three and nine months ended September 29, 2024, we recognized income tax expense of $11.1 million and $30.5 millionrepresenting effective tax rates of 17.1% and 17.9%, respectively. The effective tax rates were primarily impacted by the effect of our foreign operations, including statutory tax rates differences and foreign tax credits. See Note 12.
Consolidated Adjusted EBITDA
Three Months Ended % Change Nine Months Ended % Change
September 29, 2024 October 1, 2023 September 29, 2024 October 1, 2023
(In thousands, except percentages)
Revenues $ 654,926 $ 626,807 4.5 % $ 1,794,937 $ 1,960,841 (8.5) %
Adjusted EBITDA 112,530 115,202 (2.3) % 296,692 349,832 (15.2) %
as a percent of revenues 17.2 % 18.4 % 16.5 % 17.8 %
Adjusted EBITDA decreased $2.7 million in the three months ended September 29, 2024 from the comparable period of 2023 primarily due to an increase in incentive compensation, partially offset by earnings from acquisitions and benefits realized from our productivity improvement initiatives. Adjusted EBITDA decreased $53.1 million in the nine months ended September 29, 2024 from the comparable period of 2023 primarily due to the decline in revenues as discussed above, partially offset by favorable mix and benefits realized from our productivity improvement initiatives.
Use of Non-GAAP Financial Information
Adjusted EBITDA, Adjusted EBITDA margin, and free cash flow are non-GAAP financial measures. In addition to reporting financial results in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States, we provide non-GAAP operating results adjusted for certain items, including: asset impairments; accelerated depreciation expense due to plant consolidation activities; acquisition-related expenses, such as the adjustment of acquired inventory to fair value, and transaction costs; severance, restructuring, and acquisition integration costs; gains (losses) recognized on the disposal of businesses and assets; amortization of intangible assets; gains (losses) on debt extinguishment; certain gains (losses) from patent settlements; discontinued operations; and other costs. We adjust for the items listed above in all periods presented, unless the impact is clearly immaterial to our financial statements. When we calculate the tax effect of the adjustments, we include all current and deferred income tax expense commensurate with the adjusted measure of pre-tax profitability.
We utilize the adjusted results to review our ongoing operations without the effect of these adjustments and for comparison to budgeted operating results. We believe the adjusted results are useful to investors because they help them compare our results to previous periods and provide important insights into underlying trends in the business and how management oversees our business operations on a day-to-day basis. As an example, we adjust for acquisition-related expenses, such as amortization of intangibles and impacts of fair value adjustments because they generally are not related to the acquired business' core operating performance. As an additional example, we exclude the costs of restructuring programs, which can occur from time to time for our current businesses and/or recently acquired businesses. We exclude the costs in calculating adjusted results to allow us and investors to evaluate the performance of the business based upon its expected ongoing operating structure. We believe the adjusted measures, accompanied by the disclosure of the costs of these programs, provides valuable insight.
Adjusted results should be considered only in conjunction with results reported according to accounting principles generally accepted in the United States. The following tables reconcile our GAAP results to our non-GAAP financial measures:
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Three Months Ended Nine Months Ended
September 29, 2024 October 1, 2023 September 29, 2024 October 1, 2023
(In thousands, except percentages)
Revenues $ 654,926 $ 626,807 $ 1,794,937 $ 1,960,841
GAAP net income $ 53,689 $ 72,327 $ 140,032 $ 204,047
Depreciation expense 14,655 13,442 41,697 38,478
Amortization of intangible assets 13,738 9,526 34,487 30,262
Income tax expense 11,091 14,850 30,542 45,385
Interest expense, net 10,855 8,580 27,454 25,593
Severance, restructuring, and acquisition integration costs (1) 5,263 6,075 13,468 11,846
Amortization of software development intangible assets 2,678 1,963 7,855 5,235
Adjustments related to acquisitions and divestitures (2) 561 495 1,157 1,042
Gain on sale of assets - (12,056) - (12,056)
Adjusted EBITDA $ 112,530 $ 115,202 $ 296,692 $ 349,832
GAAP net income margin 8.2 % 11.5 % 7.8 % 10.4 %
Adjusted EBITDA margin 17.2 % 18.4 % 16.5 % 17.8 %
(1) Includes costs associated with acquisitions and manufacturing footprint actions.
(2) Adjustments related to acquisitions and divestitures include fair value adjustments of acquired assets.
Segment Results of Operations
For additional information regarding our segment measures, see Note 4 to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.
Smart Infrastructure Solutions
Three Months Ended % Change Nine Months Ended % Change
September 29, 2024 October 1, 2023 September 29, 2024 October 1, 2023
(In thousands, except percentages)
Segment Revenues $ 319,647 $ 283,905 12.6 % $ 824,209 $ 871,777 (5.5) %
Segment EBITDA 40,447 37,693 7.3 % 97,691 118,854 (17.8) %
as a percent of segment revenues 12.7 % 13.3 % 11.9 % 13.6 %
Smart Infrastructure Solutions revenues increased $35.7 million and decreased $47.6 million in the three and nine months ended September 29, 2024 from the comparable periods of 2023. The increase in revenues in the three months ended September 29, 2024 was primarily due to acquisitions, higher copper pass-through pricing, and favorable currency translation of $34.4 million, $4.4 million, and $0.3 million, respectively, partially offset by decreases in volume of $3.4 million. The decrease in revenues in the nine months ended September 29, 2024 was primarily due to decreases in volume and unfavorable currency translation of $95.4 million and $0.7 million, respectively, partially offset by acquisitions and higher copper pass-through pricing of $41.8 million and $6.7 million, respectively.
Smart Infrastructure Solutions EBITDA increased $2.8 million in the three months ended September 29, 2024 from the comparable period of 2023 primarily due to the the increase in revenues discussed above, partially offset by an increase in incentive compensation. Smart Infrastructure Solutions EBITDA decreased $21.2 million in the nine months ended September 29, 2024 from the comparable period of 2023 primarily due to the decline in revenues discussed above, partially offset by benefits realized from our productivity improvement initiatives.
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Automation Solutions
Three Months Ended % Change Nine Months Ended % Change
September 29, 2024 October 1, 2023 September 29, 2024 October 1, 2023
(In thousands, except percentages)
Segment Revenues $ 335,279 $ 342,902 (2.2) % $ 970,728 $ 1,089,064 (10.9) %
Segment EBITDA 71,819 77,244 (7.0) % 198,301 229,662 (13.7) %
as a percent of segment revenues 21.4 % 22.5 % 20.4 % 21.1 %
Automation Solutions revenues decreased $7.6 million and $118.3 million in the three and nine months ended September 29, 2024 from the comparable periods of 2023. The decrease in revenues in the three months ended September 29, 2024 was primarily due to decreases in volume and unfavorable currency translation of $11.8 million and $1.7 million, respectively, partially offset by higher copper pass-through pricing and acquisitions of $5.8 million and $0.1 million, respectively. The decrease in revenues in the nine months ended September 29, 2024 was primarily due to decreases in volume, unfavorable currency translation, and divestitures of $123.4 million, $5.1 million, and $0.4 million, respectively, partially offset by higher copper pass-through pricing and acquisitions of $10.4 million and $0.2 million, respectively.
Automation Solutions EBITDA decreased $5.4 million and $31.4 million in the three and nine months ended September 29, 2024 from the comparable periods of 2023 primarily as a result of the decrease in revenues discussed above, partially offset by benefits realized from our productivity improvement initiatives.
Liquidity and Capital Resources
Significant factors affecting our cash liquidity include (1) cash from operating activities, (2) disposals of businesses and tangible assets, (3) cash used for acquisitions, restructuring actions, capital expenditures, share repurchases, dividends, and senior subordinated note repurchases, and (4) our available credit facilities and other borrowing arrangements. We expect our operating activities to generate cash in 2024 and believe our sources of liquidity are sufficient to fund current working capital requirements, capital expenditures, contributions to our retirement plans, share repurchases, senior subordinated note repurchases, quarterly dividend payments, and our short-term operating strategies. However, we may require external financing in the event we complete a significant acquisition. Our ability to continue to fund our future needs from business operations could be affected by many factors, including, but not limited to: economic conditions worldwide, customer demand, competitive market forces, customer acceptance of our product mix, and commodities pricing.
The following table is derived from our Condensed Consolidated Cash Flow Statements:
Nine Months Ended
September 29, 2024 October 1, 2023
(In thousands)
Net cash provided by (used for):
Operating activities $ 177,357 $ 159,993
Investing activities (366,244) (145,497)
Financing activities (84,815) (167,403)
Effects of currency exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents (360) (3,798)
Decrease in cash and cash equivalents (274,062) (156,705)
Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period 597,044 687,676
Cash and cash equivalents, end of period $ 322,982 $ 530,971
Net cash provided by operating activities totaled $177.4 million in the nine months ended September 29, 2024 compared to $160.0 million in the year ago period. Despite a decrease in net income, operating cash flows increased $17.4 million compared to the prior year due to a $52.0 million improvement in operating assets and liabilities that was primarily driven by favorable changes in receivables. During the first nine months of 2023, receivables were a use of cash of $48.9 million compared to a source of cash of $3.2 million in 2024.
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Net cash used for investing activities totaled $366.2 million for the nine months ended September 29, 2024 compared to $145.5 million in the year ago period. Investing activities for the nine months ended September 29, 2024 included $295.6 million primarily for the acquisitions of Precision and Voleatech, capital expenditures of $70.8 million, and asset sales of $0.1 million. Investing activities for the nine months ended October 1, 2023 included $106.7 million primarily for the acquisitions of Sichert and Cloudrail, capital expenditures of $61.9 million, proceeds from asset sales of $13.8 million, and $9.3 million received from escrow for the disposal of a business.
Net cash used for financing activities totaled $84.8 million for the nine months ended September 29, 2024 compared to $167.4 million in the year ago period. Financing activities for the nine months ended September 29, 2024 included payments under our share repurchase program of $77.9 million, payments related to share based compensation activities of $8.9 million, cash dividend payments of $6.2 million, financing lease payments of $0.7 million, and proceeds from the issuance of common stock of $8.9 million. Financing activities for the nine months ended October 1, 2023 included payments under our share repurchase program of $150.0 million, payments related to share based compensation activities of $17.3 million, cash dividend payments of $6.4 million, financing lease payments of $0.3 million, and proceeds from the issuance of common stock of $6.6 million.
Our cash and cash equivalents balance was $323.0 million as of September 29, 2024. Of the total cash balance, $200.5 million was held outside of the U.S. in our foreign operations. Substantially all of the foreign cash and cash equivalents are readily convertible into U.S. dollars or other foreign currencies. Our strategic plan does not require the repatriation of foreign cash in order to fund our operations in the U.S., and it is our current intention to permanently reinvest the foreign cash outside of the U.S. If we were to repatriate the foreign cash to the U.S., we may be required to accrue and pay U.S. taxes in accordance with applicable U.S. tax rules and regulations as a result of the repatriation.
Our outstanding debt obligations as of September 29, 2024 consisted of $1,228.0 million of senior subordinated notes. Additional discussion regarding our various borrowing arrangements is included in Note 10 to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.
Forward-Looking Statements
Statements in this report other than historical facts are "forward-looking statements." Forward-looking statements include statements regarding future financial performance (including revenues, expenses, earnings, margins, cash flows, dividends, capital expenditures and financial condition), plans and objectives, and related assumptions. These forward-looking statements reflect management's current beliefs and expectations and are not guarantees of future performance. Actual results may differ materially from those suggested by any forward-looking statements based on a number of factors. These factors include, among others, those set forth in Part II, Item 1A and in other documents that we file with the SEC. We expressly disclaim any obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise, except as required by law.
Item 3: Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risks
The following table provides information about our financial instruments that are sensitive to changes in interest rates. The table presents principal amounts by expected maturity dates and fair values as of September 29, 2024.
Principal Amount by Expected Maturity Fair
2024 Thereafter Total Value
(In thousands, except interest rates)
€450.0 million fixed-rate senior subordinated notes due 2027 $ - $ 502,380 $ 502,380 $ 486,681
Average interest rate 3.375 %
€350.0 million fixed-rate senior subordinated notes due 2028 $ - $ 390,740 $ 390,740 $ 386,833
Average interest rate 3.875 %
€300.0 million fixed-rate senior subordinated notes due 2031 $ - $ 334,920 $ 334,920 $ 316,499
Average interest rate 3.375 %
Total $ 1,228,040 $ 1,190,013
Item 7A of our 2023 Annual Report on Form 10-K provides information as to the practices and instruments that we use to manage market risks. There were no material changes in our exposure to market risks since December 31, 2023.
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Item 4: Controls and Procedures
As of the end of the period covered by this report, we conducted an evaluation, under the supervision and with the participation of the principal executive officer and principal financial officer, of our disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934). Based on this evaluation, the principal executive officer and principal financial officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures were effective as of the end of the period covered by this report. There was no change in our internal control over financial reporting during our most recently completed fiscal quarter that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.
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PART II OTHER INFORMATION
Item 1: Legal Proceedings
We are a party to various legal proceedings and administrative actions that are incidental to our operations. In our opinion, the proceedings and actions in which we are involved should not, individually or in the aggregate, have a material adverse effect on our financial condition, operating results, or cash flows. However, since the trends and outcome of this litigation are inherently uncertain, we cannot give absolute assurance regarding the future resolution of such litigation, or that such litigation may not become material in the future.
Item 1A: Risk Factors
There have been no material changes with respect to risk factors as previously disclosed in our Form 10-K filed on February 13, 2024. There may be additional risks that impact our business that we currently do not recognize as, or that are not currently, material to our business.
Item 2: Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds
Set forth below is information regarding our stock repurchases for the three months ended September 29, 2024 (in thousands, except per share amounts).
Period Total Number
of Shares
Purchased 		Average Price
Paid per
Share 		Total Number of shares Repurchased as Part of Publicly Announced Plans or Programs (1) Approximate Dollar Value of Shares that May Yet be Purchased Under the Plans or Programs
Balance at June 30, 2024 $ 115,000
July 1, 2024 through August 4, 2024 - $ - - 115,000
August 5, 2024 through September 1, 2024 - - - 115,000
September 2, 2024 through September 29, 2024 181 110.84 181 394,911
Total 181 $ 110.84 181 $ 394,911
(1) We have a share repurchase program which allows us to purchase our common stock through open market repurchases, negotiated transactions, or other means, in accordance with applicable securities laws and other restrictions. This program is funded with cash on hand and cash flows from operating activities. The program does not have an expiration date and may be suspended at any time at the discretion of the Company. During September 2024, our Board of Directors increased the authorizations under this program by $300.0 million.During the three months ended September 29, 2024, we repurchased 0.2 million shares of our common stock for an aggregate cost of $20.1 million at an average price per share of $110.84.Subsequent to September 29, 2024, we repurchased 0.3 million shares of our common stock for an aggregate cost of $37.6 million at an average price per share of $116.90. As of the date of this filing, we had $357.3 million of authorizations remaining under the program. See Note 15.
Item 5: Other Information
Rule 10b5-1 Trading Plans
None of the Company's directors or officers adopted, modified, or terminated a Rule 10b5-1 trading arrangement or a non-Rule 10b5-1 trading arrangement during the three months ended September 29, 2024.
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Item 6: Exhibits
Exhibits
Exhibit 31.1
Certificate of the Chief Executive Officer pursuant to § 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
Exhibit 31.2
Certificate of the Chief Financial Officer pursuant to § 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
Exhibit 32.1
Certificate of the Chief Executive Officer pursuant to 18 U.S.C. § 1350, as adopted pursuant to § 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
Exhibit 32.2
Certificate of the Chief Financial Officer pursuant to 18 U.S.C. § 1350, as adopted pursuant to § 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
Exhibit 101.SCH Schema Document
Exhibit 101.CAL Calculation Linkbase Document
Exhibit 101.DEF Definition Linkbase Document
Exhibit 101.LAB Labels Linkbase Document
Exhibit 101.PRE Presentation Linkbase Document
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Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.
BELDEN INC.
Date: October 31, 2024 By: /s/ Ashish Chand
Ashish Chand
President and Chief Executive Officer
Date: October 31, 2024 By: /s/ Jeremy Parks
Jeremy Parks
Senior Vice President, Finance, and Chief Financial Officer
Date: October 31, 2024 By: /s/ Douglas R. Zink
Douglas R. Zink
Vice President and Chief Accounting Officer
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