Public companies are required to disclose risks that can affect the business and impact the stock. These disclosures are known as “Risk Factors”. Companies disclose these risks in their yearly (Form 10-K), quarterly earnings (Form 10-Q), or “foreign private issuer” reports (Form 20-F). Risk factors show the challenges a company faces. Investors can consider the worst-case scenarios before making an investment. TipRanks’ Risk Analysis categorizes risks based on proprietary classification algorithms and machine learning.

Bel Fuse disclosed 28 risk factors in its most recent earnings report. Bel Fuse reported the most risks in the “Finance & Corporate” category.

Risk Overview Q3, 2024

Risk Distribution

32% Finance & Corporate

18% Production

14% Tech & Innovation

14% Macro & Political

11% Legal & Regulatory

11% Ability to Sell

Finance & Corporate - Financial and accounting risks. Risks related to the execution of corporate activity and strategy

This chart displays the stock's most recent risk distribution according to category. TipRanks has identified 6 major categories: Finance & corporate, legal & regulatory, macro & political, production, tech & innovation, and ability to sell.

Risk Change Over Time

2020

S&P500 Average

Sector Average

Risks removed

Risks added

Risks changed

Bel Fuse Risk Factors

New Risk (0)

Risk Changed (0)

Risk Removed (0)

No changes from previous report

The chart shows the number of risks a company has disclosed. You can compare this to the sector average or S&P 500 average.

The quarters shown in the chart are according to the calendar year (January to December). Businesses set their own financial calendar, known as a fiscal year. For example, Walmart ends their financial year at the end of January to accommodate the holiday season.

Risk Highlights Q3, 2024

Main Risk Category

Finance & Corporate

With 9 Risks

Finance & Corporate

With 9 Risks

Number of Disclosed Risks

From last report

S&P 500 Average: 31

From last report

S&P 500 Average: 31

Recent Changes

3Risks added

0Risks removed

0Risks changed

Since Sep 2024

3Risks added

0Risks removed

0Risks changed

Since Sep 2024

Number of Risk Changed

No changes from last report

S&P 500 Average: 3

No changes from last report

S&P 500 Average: 3

See the risk highlights of Bel Fuse in the last period.

Risk Word Cloud

The most common phrases about risk factors from the most recent report. Larger texts indicate more widely used phrases.

Risk Factors Full Breakdown - Total Risks 28

Finance & Corporate

Total Risks: 9/28 (32%)Below Sector Average

Share Price & Shareholder Rights2 | 7.1%

Share Price & Shareholder Rights - Risk 1

As a result of protective provisions in the Company's Restated Certificate of Incorporation, as amended, the voting power of holders of Class A common shares whose voting rights are not suspended (including officers, directors and principal shareholders) may be increased at future meetings of the Company's shareholders.

The Company's Restated Certificate of Incorporation, as amended, provides that if a shareholder, other than shareholders subject to specific exceptions, acquires (after the date of the Company's 1998 recapitalization) 10% or more of the outstanding Class A common stock and does not own an equal or greater percentage of all then outstanding shares of both Class A and Class B common stock (all of which common stock must have been acquired after the date of the 1998 recapitalization), such shareholder must, within 90 days of the trigger date, purchase Class B common shares, in an amount and at a price determined in accordance with a formula described in the Company's Restated Certificate of Incorporation, as amended, or forfeit its right to vote its Class A common shares. As of February 29, 2024, to the Company's knowledge, there was one shareholder of the Company's common stock with ownership in excess of 10% of Class A outstanding shares with no ownership of the Company's Class B common stock and with no basis for exception from the operation of the above-mentioned provisions. In order to vote its shares at Bel's next shareholders' meeting, this shareholder must either purchase the required number of Class B common shares or sell or otherwise transfer Class A common shares until its Class A holdings are under 10%. As of February 29, 2024, to the Company's knowledge, this shareholder owned 16.7% of the Company's Class A common stock and had not taken steps to either purchase the required number of Class B common shares or sell or otherwise transfer Class A common shares until its Class A holdings fall below 10%. Unless and until this situation is satisfied in a manner permitted by the Company's Restated Certificate of Incorporation, as amended, the subject shareholder will not be permitted to vote its shares of common stock. To the extent that the voting rights of particular holders of Class A common stock are suspended as of times when the Company's shareholders vote due to the above-mentioned provisions, such suspension will have the effect of increasing the voting power of those holders of Class A common shares whose voting rights are not suspended. As of February 29, 2024, Daniel Bernstein, the Company's Chief Executive Officer, beneficially owned 382,032 Class A common shares (or 21.4%) of the outstanding Class A common shares whose voting rights were not suspended, and all directors and current executive officers as a group (which includes Daniel Bernstein) beneficially owned 396,175 Class A common shares (or 22.2%) of the outstanding Class A common shares whose voting rights were not suspended.

Share Price & Shareholder Rights - Risk 2

Our stock price, like that of many companies, has been and may continue to be volatile.

The market price of our common stock may fluctuate as a result of variations in our quarterly operating results and other factors beyond our control. These fluctuations may be exaggerated if the trading volume of our common stock is low. The market price of our common stock may rise and fall in response to a variety of other factors, including: - announcements of technological or competitive developments; - general market or economic conditions; - the continuing and uncertain future impact of the COVID pandemic on our operations and supply chain;- market or economic conditions specific to particular geographical areas in which we operate; - acquisitions or strategic alliances by us or our competitors;- our ability to achieve our anticipated cost savings from announced restructuring programs; - the gain or loss of a significant customer or order; - changes in the amount or frequency of our payments of dividends or repurchases of our common stock; or - changes in estimates of our financial performance or changes in recommendations by securities analysts regarding us or our industry. In addition, equity securities of many companies have experienced significant price and volume fluctuations even in periods when the capital markets generally are not distressed. These price and volume fluctuations often have been unrelated to the operating performance of the affected companies.

Accounting & Financial Operations2 | 7.1%

Accounting & Financial Operations - Risk 1

There are several factors which can cause our margins to suffer.

Our margins could be substantially impacted by the following factors. - Declines in Selling Prices: The average selling prices for our products tend to decrease over their life cycles, and customers put pressure on suppliers to lower prices even when production costs are increasing. Further, increased competition from low-cost suppliers around the world has put additional pressures on pricing. Any drop in demand for our products or increase in supply of competitive products could also cause a significant drop in our average sales prices. - Increases in Material Costs: While we continually strive to negotiate better pricing for components and raw materials, there are many factors that could lead to higher material costs, or premiums incurred for expedited orders, including an increase in industry demand for or supplier shortages of certain components, or inflationary pressures. Further, commodity prices, especially those pertaining to gold, copper and silver, can be volatile. Fluctuations in these prices and other commodity prices associated with Bel's raw materials will have a corresponding impact on our profit margins. - Increases in Labor Costs: Wage rates, particularly in the PRC, Mexico and Slovakia where the majority of our manufacturing associates are located, have been gradually increasing in recent years as government-mandated increases in the minimum wage rate in these jurisdictions cause an increase in our overall pay scale. Labor costs can also be impacted by fluctuations in the exchange rates in which local wages are paid as compared to the U.S. dollar. Profit margins will be materially and adversely impacted if we are not able to reduce our costs of production, introduce technological innovations as sales prices decline, or pass through cost increases to customers.

Accounting & Financial Operations - Risk 2

Our backlog figures may not be reliable indicators.

Many of the orders that comprise our backlog may be delayed, accelerated or canceled by customers without penalty. Customers may on occasion double order from multiple sources to ensure timely delivery when lead times are particularly long. Customers often cancel orders when business is weak and inventories are excessive. Additional factors that could cause the Company to fail to ship orders comprising our backlog include unanticipated supply difficulties, changes in customer demand and new customer designs. Throughout 2023, Bel has faced macroeconomic and excessive levels of inventory within the supply channel and these conditions expected to continue through at least the first half of 2024. Due to the foregoing factors, we cannot be certain that the amount of our backlog equals or exceeds the level of orders that will ultimately be delivered, and backlog may not be a reliable indicator of the timing of future sales. Our results of operations could be adversely impacted if customers cancel a material portion of orders in our backlog.

Debt & Financing2 | 7.1%

Debt & Financing - Risk 1

We may not be able to generate sufficient cash to service all of our indebtedness and may be forced to take other actions to satisfy our obligations under our indebtedness, which may not be successful.

Our ability to make scheduled payments on or refinance our debt obligations depends on our financial condition and operating performance, which are subject to prevailing economic and competitive conditions and to certain financial, business, legislative, regulatory and other factors beyond our control. We may be unable to maintain a level of cash flows from operating activities sufficient to permit us to pay the principal, premium, if any, and interest on our indebtedness. If our cash flows and capital resources are insufficient to fund our debt service obligations, we could face substantial liquidity problems and could be forced to reduce or delay acquisitions, investments and capital expenditures or to dispose of material assets or operations, seek additional debt or equity capital or restructure or refinance our indebtedness. We may not be able to effect any such alternative measures on commercially reasonable terms or at all and, even if successful, those alternative actions may not allow us to meet our scheduled debt service obligations. Our credit agreement restricts our ability to dispose of assets and use the proceeds from those dispositions and may also restrict our ability to raise debt or equity capital to be used to repay other indebtedness when it becomes due. We may not be able to consummate those dispositions or to obtain proceeds in an amount sufficient to meet any debt service obligations then due. Our inability to generate sufficient cash flows to satisfy our debt obligations, or to refinance our indebtedness on commercially reasonable terms or at all, would materially and adversely affect our consolidated financial position and consolidated results of operations. If we cannot make scheduled payments on our debt, we will be in default, the lenders under the credit agreement could terminate their commitments to loan money, the lenders could foreclose against the assets securing their borrowings and we could be forced into bankruptcy or liquidation.

Debt & Financing - Risk 2

Our level of indebtedness could negatively impact our access to the capital markets and our ability to satisfy financial covenants under our existing credit agreement.

Our U.S. debt service requirements are significant in relation to our U.S. revenue and cash flow. This leverage exposes us to risk in the event of downturns in our business, in our industry or in the economy generally, and may impair our operating flexibility and our ability to compete effectively. Our current credit agreement requires us to maintain certain covenant ratios. If we do not continue to satisfy these required ratios or receive waivers from our lenders, we will be in default under the credit agreement, which could result in an accelerated maturity of our debt obligations. We cannot assure investors that we will be able to access private or public debt or equity on satisfactory terms, or at all. Any equity financing that could be arranged may dilute existing shareholders and any debt financing that could be arranged may result in the imposition of more stringent financial and operating covenants.

Corporate Activity and Growth3 | 10.7%

Corporate Activity and Growth - Risk 1

Added

The Enercon Purchase Agreement includes a number of closing conditions and, if these conditions are not satisfied, the Enercon Purchase Agreement may be terminated in accordance with its terms and the acquisition may not be completed. We may fail to consummate the proposed Enercon acquisition, may not consummate the proposed acquisition on expected terms, or may not achieve the expected benefits.

In September 2024, we entered into the definitive Enercon Purchase Agreement with the Sellers to acquire an 80% stake in Enercon upfront at the closing, with the intent to purchase the remaining 20% interest in Enercon by early 2027 based on a put-call mechanism to be set forth in shareholders' agreement to be entered into at closing. It is currently anticipated that the acquisition of the 80% interest pursuant to the Enercon Purchase Agreement will be completed in the fourth quarter of 2024. However, completion of the proposed Enercon acquisition is subject to satisfaction of customary closing conditions, including applicable regulatory approvals. Until all such closing conditions are satisfied or waived, the possible timing and likelihood of completion of the proposed Enercon acquisition are uncertain, and, accordingly, there can be no assurance that the Enercon acquisition will be completed on the expected terms, on the anticipated timing or at all. The Enercon Purchase Agreement may also be terminated prior to the consummation of the transaction by the mutual written consent of Bel and the Sellers and in certain other circumstances, including a termination right by either Bel or the Sellers, subject to certain terms and conditions, if the Closing has not occurred on or prior to the date six months following execution of the Enercon Purchase Agreement. We may experience unanticipated difficulties, delays, and expenditures relating to the proposed Enercon acquisition. Any delay in consummation of the Enercon acquisition may result in greater transaction costs and professional fees incurred by us. In addition, even if the proposed acquisition of the majority 80% stake in Enercon is completed pursuant to the Enercon Purchase Agreement, there can be no assurances that we will complete the acquisition of the remaining 20% interest in Enercon by early 2027 as intended. Our efforts to complete the Enercon acquisition could cause substantial disruptions in our business. A substantial amount of our management's attention is being directed towards the completion of the Enercon acquisition and such distraction could affect our management's ability to service our existing business, pursue other business opportunities or could otherwise adversely affect our business. The announcement, pendency, and efforts to implement the acquisition may disrupt our and Enercon's plans, operations and relationships with customers, suppliers, distributors, business partners and regulators, and can cause potential difficulties in employee retention. If consummated, the success of the Enercon acquisition will depend, in significant part, on our ability to successfully integrate the acquired business, establish and maintain good relationships with new and existing customers, suppliers, and other business partners, grow the revenue of the consolidated company and realize the anticipated strategic benefits and synergies. The combination of businesses is a complex, costly and time-consuming process. As a result, we expect to devote significant management attention and resources prior to closing to prepare for integration, and we expect to devote significant management attention and resources post-closing to integrate the business practices and operations. The integration process may disrupt the businesses and, if implemented ineffectively, would impair the realization of the full expected benefits. The anticipated opportunities in terms of potential growth and expansion offered by, and the anticipated benefits of, the Enercon acquisition may not be realized fully or at all, or may take longer to realize than we expect. Actual operating, strategic and revenue opportunities, if achieved at all, may be less significant than we expect or may take longer to achieve than anticipated. If we are not able to achieve these objectives and realize the anticipated benefits and synergies expected from the Enercon acquisition within a reasonable time, our business, financial condition and operating results may be materially adversely affected.

Corporate Activity and Growth - Risk 2

Our acquisitions may not produce the anticipated results.

A significant portion of our growth has been attributable to acquisitions. We cannot assure that we will identify or successfully complete transactions with suitable acquisition candidates in the future. If an acquired business fails to operate as anticipated or cannot be successfully integrated with our other businesses, our results of operations, enterprise value, market value and prospects could all be materially and adversely affected. Integration of new acquisitions into our consolidated operations may result in lower average operating results for the group as a whole, and may divert management's focus from the ongoing operations of the Company during the integration period. Our strategy also focuses on the reduction of selling, general and administrative expenses through the integration or elimination of redundant sales facilities and administrative functions at acquired companies. If we are unable to achieve our expectations with respect to our acquisitions, such inability could have a material and adverse effect on our results of operations. If the acquisitions fail to perform up to our expectations, or if there is a weakening of economic conditions, we could be required to record impairment charges on the goodwill associated with our acquisitions.

Corporate Activity and Growth - Risk 3

We may not achieve all of the expected benefits from our restructuring programs.

In 2022, we announced restructuring plans related to four facility consolidations as further described in "Overview - Key Factors Affecting our Business - Restructuring" in Item 7 of this Annual Report. Management has estimated that these initiatives will result in restructuring costs of approximately $13.4 million ($6.3 million of which was incurred through December 31, 2023), incremental capital expenditures of approximately $5 million and once complete, annualized cost savings of approximately $6.9 million. Additionally, in connection with a new restructuring initiative implemented in the fourth quarter of 2023 involving the transition of certain manufacturing from our Glen Rock, Pennsylvania facility to other existing Bel sites as further described in "Overview – Key Factors Affecting our Business – Restructuring" in Item 7 of this Annual Report, management estimated that the initiative will result in restructuring costs of approximately $0.5 million ($0.4 million of which was incurred through December 31, 2023) and once complete, annualized cost savings of approximately $1.0 million. We made certain assumptions in estimating the anticipated savings we expect to achieve related to these initiatives, which include the estimated savings from the elimination of certain headcount and the consolidation of facilities. These assumptions may turn out to be incorrect due to a variety of factors. In addition, our ability to realize the expected benefits from these programs is subject to significant business, economic and competitive uncertainties and contingencies, many of which are beyond our control. If we are unsuccessful in implementing these programs or if we do not achieve our expected results, our results of operations and cash flows could be adversely affected or our business operations could be disrupted. As mentioned above, the amounts set forth in the foregoing including anticipated restructuring costs, incremental capital expenditure spend and annualized cost savings are the Company's current estimates based on information presently available to the Company, assumptions and circumstances as they exist in each case at the time of filing of this Annual Report on Form 10-K, and are subject to change. See "Cautionary Notice Regarding Forward-Looking Information."

Production

Total Risks: 5/28 (18%)Above Sector Average

Manufacturing1 | 3.6%

Manufacturing - Risk 1

We have substantial manufacturing operations located in the PRC, which exposes us to significant risks that could materially and adversely affect our business, operations, consolidated financial condition and consolidated results of operations.

The majority of Bel's Magnetic Solutions manufacturing capacity and supplier base is located in the PRC, as is a portion of Bel's Power Solutions and Protection group. As of December 31, 2023, 50% of our associates, 74% of our owned or leased manufacturing facilities (by square footage) and 24% of our Company's tangible assets were all located in the PRC. Our Company's presence and operations in the PRC expose us to significant risks that could materially and adversely affect our Company and our business, operations, financial position and results of operations. For example, our significant operational presence in the PRC exposes us to foreign currency exchange risk. Our PRC-based manufacturing associates' salaries, and other labor and overhead costs, associated with our PRC operations are paid in the Chinese renminbi. As a result, the cost of our operations and our consolidated operating results may be adversely impacted by the effects of fluctuations in the applicable exchange rate for the renminbi as compared to the U.S dollar. Our significant labor force based within the PRC subjects us to risks associated with staffing and managing this substantial complement of factory workers and other associates who are important to our Company's operations and success. As noted above, factory workers in the PRC are represented by government-sponsored unions, and are participants in a cyclical labor market that may become subject to shortages including as a result of PRC government policies. See "We may experience labor unrest" and "We may experience labor shortages" above. Wage rates in the PRC have been increasing in recent years as PRC government-mandated increases in the minimum wage rate have caused an increase in our overall pay scale for our PRC workers. The PRC government has broad authority and discretion to regulate the economy, manufacturing, industry, and the technology sector, among other areas generally. As a result, our activities and operations in the PRC as well as those of our PRC-based suppliers are subject to extensive local government regulation. Additionally, the PRC government has implemented policies from time to time to regulate economic expansion. It exercises significant control over its economic growth through the allocation of resources, setting monetary policy and providing preferential treatment to particular industries or companies. Any additional new regulations or the amendment of previously implemented regulations could require us to change our business plans, increase our costs, or limit our ability to manufacture and sell products domestically and/or otherwise restrict or curtail our operations in the PRC. To the extent our suppliers in the PRC are negatively impacted by new or amended regulations, any such negative implications could adversely impact our supply chain, including in the form of increased costs, disruptions, shortages or unavailability of product or component parts, and/or other deleterious consequences, which could materially adversely affect our business and operating results. Our significant manufacturing operations in the PRC may expose us to other risks. Risks inherent in our PRC operations include the following: - changes in import, export, transportation regulations and tariffs, and risks associated with boycotts and embargoes;- changes in, or impositions of, legislative or regulatory requirements or restrictions, including tax and trade laws in the U.S. and in the PRC, and government action to restrict our ability to sell to customers where sales of products may require export licenses;- transportation delays and other supply chain issues;- changes in tax regulations in the U.S. and/or the PRC, including restrictions and/or taxes applicable to the transfer or repatriation of funds;- international political relationships, including the relationship between the U.S. and the PRC;- epidemics and illnesses (including COVID, any new variants that may emerge, and any future health crises) within the PRC that affect the areas in which we operate and manufacture our products;- economic, social and political instability;- longer accounts receivable collection cycles and difficulties in collecting accounts receivable;- less effective protection of intellectual property and contractual arrangements, and risks associated with enforcing contracts and legal rights and remedies generally;- uncertainties associated with the PRC legal system, which is based on civil law, can involve protected proceedings involving substantial judicial discretion, and is based in part on PRC government policies and internal rules, some of which are not published on a timely basis, or at all, and may have retroactive effect;- risks arising out of any changes in governmental and economic policy and the potential for adverse developments arising out of any political or economic instability related to Hong Kong or Taiwan;- the potential for political unrest, expropriation, nationalization, revolution, war or acts of terrorism; and - risks associated with the concentration of a substantial portion of our manufacturing capacity and supplier base in the PRC. In addition to the risks associated with our PRC operations described above, the global nature of our operations generally subjects us to additional risks. We conduct operations in 14 countries, and outside of the United States (and the PRC), our largest manufacturing operations and associate populations are located within Mexico, Slovakia, the Dominican Republic, India and the United Kingdom. Please see the Risk Factor appearing below under the caption, "The global nature of our operations exposes us to numerous risks that could materially adversely affect our consolidated financial condition and consolidated results of operations."

Employment / Personnel3 | 10.7%

Employment / Personnel - Risk 1

A loss of the services of the Company's executive officers or other skilled associates could negatively impact our operations and results.

The success of the Company's operations is largely dependent upon the performance of its executive officers, managers, engineers and salespeople. Many of these individuals have a significant number of years of experience within the Company and/or the industry in which we compete and would be extremely difficult to replace. The loss of the services of any of these associates may materially and adversely impact our results of operations if we are unable to replace them in a timely manner.

Employment / Personnel - Risk 2

We may experience labor unrest.

As we periodically implement transfers of certain of our operations, we may experience strikes or other types of labor unrest as a result of lay-offs or termination of employees in higher labor cost countries. Our manufacturing facilities in the United Kingdom and Mexico are represented by labor unions and substantially all of our factory workers in the PRC are represented by government-sponsored unions.

Employment / Personnel - Risk 3

We may experience labor shortages.

Government, economic, social and labor policies in the PRC may cause shortages of factory labor in areas where we have some of our products manufactured. Further, availability of labor in the PRC is cyclical and is significantly affected by the migration of workers in relation to the annual Lunar New Year holiday. If we are required to manufacture more of these products outside of the PRC as a result of such shortages, our margins will likely be materially adversely affected.

Costs1 | 3.6%

Costs - Risk 1

A shortage of availability or an increase in the cost of raw materials, components and other resources may adversely impact our ability to procure these items at cost effective prices and thus may negatively impact profit margins. Additionally, inflationary pressures could result in higher input costs and materially adversely affect our financial results.

Our results of operations may be materially adversely impacted by difficulties in obtaining raw materials, supplies, power, labor, natural resources and any other items needed for the production of our products, as well as by the effects of quality deviations in raw materials and the effects of significant fluctuations in the prices of existing inventories and purchase commitments for these materials. Many of these materials and components are produced by a limited number of suppliers and their availability to us may be constrained by supplier capacity. Any material disruption could materially adversely affect our financial results. In addition, inflationary pressures could result in higher input costs, including those related to our raw materials, labor, freight, utilities, healthcare and other expenses. Our future operating results will depend, in part, on our continued ability to manage these fluctuations through pricing actions, cost savings initiatives and sourcing decisions, and any negative impact of inflation could materially adversely affect our financial results. See "Overview - Key Factors Affecting our Business" in Item 7 of this Annual Report on Form 10-K for a discussion of how pricing and availability of materials is currently impacting our business.

Tech & Innovation

Total Risks: 4/28 (14%)Below Sector Average

Innovation / R&D1 | 3.6%

Innovation / R&D - Risk 1

We are dependent on our ability to develop new products.

Our future operating results are dependent, in part, on our ability to develop, produce and market new and more technologically advanced products. There are numerous risks inherent in this process, including the risks that we will be unable to anticipate the direction of technological change or that we will be unable to timely develop and bring to market new products and applications to meet customers' changing needs.

Trade Secrets2 | 7.1%

Trade Secrets - Risk 1

We may be sued by third parties for alleged infringement of their proprietary rights and we may incur defense costs and possibly royalty obligations or lose the right to use technology important to our business.

From time to time, we receive claims by third parties asserting that our products violate their intellectual property rights. Any intellectual property claims, with or without merit, could be time consuming and expensive to litigate or settle and could divert management attention from administering our business. A third party asserting infringement claims against us or our customers with respect to our current or future products may materially and adversely affect us by, for example, causing us to enter into costly royalty arrangements or forcing us to incur settlement or litigation costs.

Trade Secrets - Risk 2

Our intellectual property rights may not be adequately protected under the current state of the law.

Our efforts to protect our intellectual property rights through patent, copyright, trademark and trade secret laws in the United States and in other countries may not prevent misappropriation, and our failure or inability to protect our proprietary rights could materially adversely affect our business, financial condition, operating results and future prospects. A third party could, without authorization, copy or otherwise appropriate our proprietary information. Our agreements with employees and others who participate in development activities could be breached, we may not have adequate remedies for any breach, and our trade secrets may otherwise become known or independently developed by competitors.

Cyber Security1 | 3.6%

Cyber Security - Risk 1

Cybersecurity risk and the failure to maintain the integrity of our operational or security systems or infrastructure, or those of third parties with which we do business, could have a material adverse effect on our business, consolidated financial condition and consolidated results of operations.

Cybersecurity threats, including but not limited to malware, phishing, credential harvesting, ransomware and other attacks, are rapidly evolving and are becoming increasingly sophisticated, making it difficult to detect and prevent such threats from impacting the Company. Our Company has seen an increased volume of cybersecurity threats and ransomware attempts in 2023 and expects to continue to experience cybersecurity threats from time to time, which pose a risk to the security of our systems and networks and the confidentiality, availability and integrity of our data. Disruptions or failures in the physical infrastructure or operating systems that support our businesses and customers, or cybersecurity attacks or security breaches of our networks, systems or applications, could result in the loss of customers and business opportunities, legal liability, regulatory fines, penalties or intervention, other litigation, regulatory and legal risks and the costs associated therewith, reputational damage, reimbursement or other compensatory costs, remediation costs, increased cybersecurity protection costs, additional compliance costs, increased insurance premiums, and lost revenues, damage to the Company's competitiveness, stock price, and long-term shareholder value, any of which could materially adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations. While we attempt to mitigate these risks, our systems, networks, products, solutions and services remain potentially vulnerable to advanced and persistent threats. We also maintain and have access to sensitive, confidential or personal data or information in certain of our businesses that is subject to privacy and security laws and regulations. Despite our efforts to protect such sensitive, confidential or personal data or information, our facilities and systems and those of our customers and third-party service providers may be vulnerable to security breaches, theft, fraud, misplaced or lost data, "Acts of God", programming and/or human errors that could lead to the compromising of sensitive, confidential or personal data or information, improper use of our systems, software solutions or networks, unauthorized access, use, disclosure, modification or destruction of information, defective products, production downtimes and operational disruptions, which in turn could adversely affect our consolidated financial condition and consolidated results of operations.

Macro & Political

Total Risks: 4/28 (14%)Above Sector Average

International Operations2 | 7.1%

International Operations - Risk 1

The global nature of our operations exposes us to numerous risks that could materially adversely affect our consolidated financial condition and consolidated results of operations.

We manufacture in 7 countries, and our products are distributed in those countries as well as in other parts of the world. A large portion of our manufacturing operations are located outside of the United States and a large portion of our sales are generated outside of the United States. Operations outside of the United States, particularly operations in developing regions, are subject to various risks that may not be present or as significant for our U.S. operations. Economic uncertainty in some of the geographic regions in which we operate, including developing regions, could result in the disruption of commerce and negatively impact cash flows from our operations in those areas. Risks inherent in our international operations include: - COVID-related closures and other pandemic-related uncertainties in the countries in which we operate;- Import and export regulations that could erode profit margins or restrict exports;- Foreign exchange controls and tax rates;- Foreign currency exchange rate fluctuations, including devaluations;- Changes in regional and local economic conditions, including local inflationary pressures;- Difficulty of enforcing agreements and collecting receivables through certain foreign legal systems;- Variations in protection of intellectual property and other legal rights;- More expansive legal rights of foreign unions or works councils;- Changes in labor conditions and difficulties in staffing and managing international operations;- Inability or regulatory limitations on our ability to move goods across borders;- Changes in laws and regulations, including the laws and policies of the United States affecting trade, tariffs and foreign investment;- Restrictive governmental actions such as those on transfer or repatriation of funds and trade protection matters, including antidumping duties, tariffs, trade wars, embargoes and prohibitions or restrictions on acquisitions or joint ventures;- Social plans that prohibit or increase the cost of certain restructuring actions;- The potential for nationalization of enterprises or facilities; and - Unsettled political conditions and possible terrorist attacks against U.S. or other interests. As a multi-national company, we are faced with increased complexities due to recent changes to the U.S. corporate tax code relating to our unremitted foreign earnings, potential revisions to international tax law treaties, and renegotiated trade deals. In addition, other events, such as the ongoing discussion and negotiations concerning varying levels of tariffs on product imported from the PRC, also create a level of uncertainty. If we are unable to anticipate and effectively manage these and other risks, it could have a material and adverse effect on our business, our consolidated results of operations and consolidated financial condition. The recent political tensions and armed conflict involving Russia and Ukraine continues to evolve and we are closely monitoring this dynamic situation. The Company has indefinitely ceased all shipments of product to customers in Russia. The Company's operations in Slovakia have not been, and are not currently expected to be, impacted by the political instability of the Russia-Ukraine conflict as our facility is not in close proximity to the Ukraine border. We do not currently anticipate any material impact to the Company's financial results. For additional information regarding risks associated with our operations in the PRC, see the discussion set forth above under the caption, "We have substantial manufacturing operations located in the PRC, which exposes us to significant risks that could materially and adversely affect our business, operations, consolidated financial condition and consolidated results of operations."

International Operations - Risk 2

Added

We may face risks related to conducting business in Israel following the Enercon acquisition, as conditions in Israel may materially and adversely affect Enercon's business and as a result the business of consolidated Bel.

If we successfully complete the acquisition of a majority stake in Enercon, we may be subject to, and possibly adversely affected by, risks related to conducting business in Israel. Enercon, the target of our proposed Enercon acquisition in which we will acquire an upfront 80% stake at the closing expected to occur in fourth quarter of 2024 and intend to acquire the remaining 20% interest by early 2027, is based in Netanya, Israel with additional facilities in New Hampshire, U.S. and Haryana, India. Enercon has approximately 300 employees located in Israel. Companies based in or operating in, or having a significant number of employees located in Israel, may be more susceptible to political and economic instability. Political, economic and military conditions in Israel may directly affect their business. Since the establishment of the State of Israel in 1948, a number of armed conflicts have occurred between Israel and its neighbors. In October 2023, Hamas conducted several terrorist attacks in Israel resulting in ongoing war across the country, forcing the closure of many businesses in Israel for several days. In addition, there continue to be hostilities between Israel and Hezbollah in Lebanon and Hamas in the Gaza Strip, both of which resulted in rockets being fired into Israel, causing casualties and disruption of economic activities. In early 2023, there were a number of changes proposed to the political system in Israel by the current government which, if implemented as planned, could lead to large-scale protests and additional uncertainty, negatively impacting the operating environment in Israel. Uprisings in various countries in the Middle East over the last few years have also affected the political stability of those countries and have led to a decline in the regional security situation. Such instability may also lead to deterioration in the political and trade relationships that exist between Israel and these countries. Any armed conflicts, terrorist activities or political instability involving Israel or other countries in the region, as well as any interruption or curtailment of trade between Israel and its present trading partners, could adversely affect the business, results of operations, financial condition, cash flows and prospects of Enercon, and of consolidated Bel following the closing of the Enercon acquisition. In addition, any of these events or circumstances involving Israel or the region prior to the closing of the Enercon acquisition may delay or prevent the closing of the proposed Enercon acquisition. A number of countries, principally in the Middle East, still restrict doing business with Israel and Israeli companies, and additional countries may impose restrictions on doing business with Israel and Israeli companies if hostilities in Israel or political instability in the region continue or intensify. In addition, there have been increased efforts by activists to cause companies and consumers to boycott Israeli goods based on policies promulgated by the Israeli Government. Such boycotts, particularly if they become more widespread, may adversely impact Enercon's business or our business. The operations of the Enercon business could also be disrupted by the absence for significant periods of one or more key employees or a significant number of other employees because of military service. Enercon's employees in Israel may be obligated to perform military reserve duty, and in certain emergency circumstances, employees may be called to immediate and unlimited active duty in the Israeli armed forces.

Natural and Human Disruptions2 | 7.1%

Natural and Human Disruptions - Risk 1

Our global operations and demand for our products face risks related to health epidemics such as the coronavirus.

Any outbreaks of contagious diseases and other adverse public health developments in countries where we operate could have a material and adverse effect on our business, consolidated financial condition and consolidated results of operations. Over the past three years, our business was impacted by temporary facility closures, shelter-in-place orders and challenges related to travel restrictions imposed by the local governmental authorities as a result of COVID. Our suppliers, customers and our customers' contract manufacturers have experienced similar challenges from time to time throughout the pandemic. As the status of the COVID pandemic and its effects continue to evolve, additional Bel facilities could become negatively impacted. COVID remains a potential supply continuity risk due to the unknown nature of future outbreaks including as a result of the emergence of further COVID virus variants. The extent to which COVID will impact our business and our consolidated financial results will depend on future developments which are highly uncertain and cannot be predicted at the time of the filing of this Annual Report on Form 10-K. See "Overview - Key Factors Affecting our Business - Potential Future Impacts of COVID" in Item 7 of this Annual Report on Form 10-K for a discussion of current and potential future impacts of COVID upon our business.

Natural and Human Disruptions - Risk 2

ESG issues, including those related to climate change and sustainability, may have an adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations and could damage our reputation.

Companies across all industries are facing increasing scrutiny relating to their ESG policies. Increased focus and activism related to ESG may hinder our access to capital, as investors may reconsider their capital investment as a result of their assessment of our ESG practices. In particular, investors, customers and other stakeholders are increasingly focusing on environmental issues, including climate change, water use, waste and other sustainability concerns. Changing customer or consumer preferences may also result in increased demands regarding components and materials including packaging materials, including with respect to their environmental impact on sustainability. These demands could impact the profitability products, cause us to incur additional costs, to make changes to our operations, or to make additional commitments, set targets or establish additional goals and take actions to meet them, which could expose us to market, operational and execution costs or risks. In addition, governmental and non-governmental organizations, investors, customers, consumers, our employees and other stakeholders have placed increasing importance on ESG matters, and depending on their assessment of our ESG practices, certain investors may reconsider their investment in the Company. Concern over climate change, waste, consumption or use of materials including packaging materials, may result in new or increased legal and regulatory requirements to reduce or mitigate impacts to the environment. Increased regulatory requirements, including in relation to various aspects of ESG including the SEC's recent disclosure proposal on climate change, or environmental causes may result in increased compliance or input costs of energy, raw materials or compliance with emissions standards, which may cause disruptions in the manufacture of our products or an increase in operating costs. We may undertake additional costs to control, assess and report on ESG metrics as the nature, scope and complexity of ESG reporting, diligence and disclosure requirements expand. Our ability to achieve any stated goal, target, or objective is subject to numerous factors and conditions, many of which are outside of our control. Any failure to achieve our ESG goals or ambitions or a perception (whether or not valid) of our failure to act responsibly with respect to the environment or to effectively respond to new, or changes in, legal or regulatory requirements concerning environmental or other ESG matters, or increased operating or manufacturing costs due to increased regulation or environmental causes could adversely affect our business and reputation. If we do not adapt to or comply with new regulations, or fail to meet ESG goals or ambitions or evolving investor, industry or stakeholder expectations and standards, or if we are perceived to have not responded appropriately to the growing concern for ESG issues, customers may choose to stop purchasing our products or purchase products from another company or a competitor, and our reputation, business or financial condition may be adversely affected.

Legal & Regulatory

Total Risks: 3/28 (11%)Below Sector Average

Taxation & Government Incentives1 | 3.6%

Taxation & Government Incentives - Risk 1

We are subject to taxation in multiple jurisdictions. As a result, any adverse development in the tax laws of any of these jurisdictions or any disagreement with our tax positions could have a material adverse effect on our business, consolidated financial condition or consolidated results of operations.

We are subject to taxation in, and to the tax laws and regulations of, multiple jurisdictions as a result of the international scope of our operations and our corporate and financing structure. We are also subject to transfer pricing laws with respect to our intercompany transactions, including those relating to the flow of funds among our companies. Adverse developments in fiscal or tax laws, regulations or policies, or any change in position regarding the application, administration or interpretation thereof, in any applicable jurisdiction, could have a material adverse effect on our business, consolidated financial condition or consolidated results of our operations. In addition, the tax authorities in any applicable jurisdiction, including the United States, may disagree with the positions we have taken or intend to take regarding the tax treatment or characterization of any of our transactions. If any applicable tax authorities, including U.S. tax authorities, were to successfully challenge the tax treatment or characterization of any of our transactions, it could have a material adverse effect on our business, consolidated financial condition or consolidated results of our operations.

Environmental / Social2 | 7.1%

Environmental / Social - Risk 1

Our results of operations may be materially and adversely impacted by environmental and other regulations.

Our manufacturing operations, products and/or product packaging are subject to environmental laws and regulations governing air emissions; wastewater discharges; the handling, disposal and remediation of hazardous substances, wastes and certain chemicals used or generated in our manufacturing processes; employee health and safety labeling or other notifications with respect to the content or other aspects of our processes, products or packaging; restrictions on the use of certain materials in or on design aspects of our products or product packaging; and, responsibility for disposal of products or product packaging. Discussions and proposals related to gas emissions and climate change have increasingly become the subject of substantial attention; additional regulation in this area could have the effect of restricting our business operations or increasing our operating costs. More stringent environmental regulations may be enacted in the future, and we cannot presently determine the modifications, if any, in our operations that any such future regulations might require, or the cost of compliance with these regulations.

Environmental / Social - Risk 2

Expanding and evolving data privacy laws and regulations could impact our business and expose us to increased liability.

Our global business is subject to complex and changing laws and regulations including but not limited to privacy, data security and data localization. Evolving foreign events may adversely affect our revenues and could subject us to new regulatory costs and challenges (such as the transfer of personal data between the EU and the United Kingdom), in addition to other adverse effects that we are unable to effectively anticipate. This may impose significant requirements on how we collect, process and transfer personal data, as well as significant financial penalties for non-compliance. Any inability to adequately address privacy concerns, even if unfounded, or to comply with the more complex privacy or data protection laws, regulations and privacy standards, could lead to significant financial penalties, which may result in a material and adverse effect on our consolidated results of operations.

Ability to Sell

Total Risks: 3/28 (11%)Below Sector Average

Competition1 | 3.6%

Competition - Risk 1

We conduct business in a highly competitive industry.

Our business operates in a globally competitive industry, with relatively low barriers to entry. We compete principally on the basis of product performance, quality, reliability, depth of product line, customer service, technological innovation, design, delivery time and price. The industry in which we operate has become increasingly concentrated and globalized in recent years and our major competitors, many of which are larger than Bel, have significant financial resources and technological capabilities.

Demand2 | 7.1%

Demand - Risk 1

Added

Demand in Enercon's end markets can be cyclical, impacting the demand for its products, and Enercon's business could be materially adversely affected by reductions in defense spending.

Enercon, in which we intend to acquire a majority stake pursuant to the Enercon Purchase Agreement, is a leading supplier of highly customized power conversion and networking solutions to aerospace and defense markets globally. For full fiscal year 2024, an estimated 93% and 7% of Enercon's projected revenue is attributable to the defense and aerospace end markets, respectively. Demand in Enercon's end-use markets can be sensitive to general economic conditions, competitive influences, and fluctuations in inventory levels throughout the supply chain. Enercon's sales are sensitive to the market conditions present in the industries in which the ultimate consumers of its products operate, which in some cases have been highly cyclical and subject to substantial downturns. As a result of the high correlation to government spending on defense and budgeting, Enercon has experienced, and in the future, it may experience, significant fluctuations in sales and results of operations with respect to a substantial portion of our total product offering, and such fluctuations could be material and adverse to our overall financial condition, results of operations and liquidity. Because certain of Enercon's products are used in a variety of land, air and sea defense applications, Enercon derives a substantial portion of its revenue from the defense industry. For full fiscal year 2024, an estimated 93% of Enercon's projected revenue is derived from customers in the defense industry. Although many of the programs under which Enercon sells products to prime U.S. and Israeli government contractors extend several years, they are subject to annual funding through governmental appropriations. While spending authorizations for defense-related programs by the U.S. and Israeli governments have increased in recent years, these spending levels may not be sustainable and could significantly decline. Future levels of expenditures, authorizations, and appropriations for programs Enercon supports may decrease or shift to programs in areas where Enercon does not currently provide services. Changes in spending authorizations, appropriations, and budgetary priorities could also occur due to a shift in the number, and intensity, of potential and ongoing conflicts, shifts in spending priorities from national defense as a result of competing demands for government funds, or other factors. Enercon's business prospects, financial condition or operating results could be materially harmed among other causes by the following: 1) budgetary constraints affecting U.S. and/or Israeli government spending generally, or specific departments or agencies in particular, and changes in available funding; 2) changes in government programs or requirements; and 3) a prolonged government shutdown and other potential delays in the appropriations process.

Demand - Risk 2

The loss of certain substantial customers could materially and adversely affect us.

During the year ended December 31, 2023, while there were no direct customers whose sales exceeded 10% of our 2023 consolidated net sales, approximately11.6% of the Company's total net sales were sold to one ultimate end-user through various intermediary contract manufacturers. While Bel sells a diversified portfolio of products to this ultimate end-user, we believe that the loss of this end user could have a material adverse effect on our consolidated financial position and consolidated results of operations. We have experienced significant concentrations of customers in prior years. See Note 14, "Segments" for additional disclosures related to our significant customers. Furthermore, factors that negatively impact the businesses of our major customers could materially and adversely affect us even if the customer represents less than 10% of our 2023 consolidated net sales.

See a full breakdown of risk according to category and subcategory. The list starts with the category with the most risk. Click on subcategories to read relevant extracts from the most recent report.

FAQ

What are “Risk Factors”?

Risk factors are any situations or occurrences that could make investing in a company risky.

The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) requires that publicly traded companies disclose their most significant risk factors. This is so that potential investors can consider any risks before they make an investment.

They also offer companies protection, as a company can use risk factors as liability protection. This could happen if a company underperforms and investors take legal action as a result.

It is worth noting that smaller companies, that is those with a public float of under $75 million on the last business day, do not have to include risk factors in their 10-K and 10-Q forms, although some may choose to do so.

How do companies disclose their risk factors?

Publicly traded companies initially disclose their risk factors to the SEC through their S-1 filings as part of the IPO process.

Additionally, companies must provide a complete list of risk factors in their Annual Reports (Form 10-K) or (Form 20-F) for “foreign private issuers”.

Quarterly Reports also include a section on risk factors (Form 10-Q) where companies are only required to update any changes since the previous report.

According to the SEC, risk factors should be reported concisely, logically and in “plain English” so investors can understand them.

How can I use TipRanks risk factors in my stock research?

Use the Risk Factors tab to get data about the risk factors of any company in which you are considering investing.

You can easily see the most significant risks a company is facing. Additionally, you can find out which risk factors a company has added, removed or adjusted since its previous disclosure. You can also see how a company’s risk factors compare to others in its sector.

Without reading company reports or participating in conference calls, you would most likely not have access to this sort of information, which is usually not included in press releases or other public announcements.

A simplified analysis of risk factors is unique to TipRanks.

What are all the risk factor categories?

TipRanks has identified 6 major categories of risk factors and a number of subcategories for each. You can see how these categories are broken down in the list below.

1. Financial & Corporate

Accounting & Financial Operations - risks related to accounting loss, value of intangible assets, financial statements, value of intangible assets, financial reporting, estimates, guidance, company profitability, dividends, fluctuating results.
Share Price & Shareholder Rights – risks related to things that impact share prices and the rights of shareholders, including analyst ratings, major shareholder activity, trade volatility, liquidity of shares, anti-takeover provisions, international listing, dual listing.
Debt & Financing – risks related to debt, funding, financing and interest rates, financial investments.
Corporate Activity and Growth – risks related to restructuring, M&As, joint ventures, execution of corporate strategy, strategic alliances.

2. Legal & Regulatory

Litigation and Legal Liabilities – risks related to litigation/ lawsuits against the company.
Regulation – risks related to compliance, GDPR, and new legislation.
Environmental / Social – risks related to environmental regulation and to data privacy.
Taxation & Government Incentives – risks related to taxation and changes in government incentives.

3. Production

Costs – risks related to costs of production including commodity prices, future contracts, inventory.
Supply Chain – risks related to the company’s suppliers.
Manufacturing – risks related to the company’s manufacturing process including product quality and product recalls.
Human Capital – risks related to recruitment, training and retention of key employees, employee relationships & unions labor disputes, pension, and post retirement benefits, medical, health and welfare benefits, employee misconduct, employee litigation.

4. Technology & Innovation

Innovation / R&D – risks related to innovation and new product development.
Technology – risks related to the company’s reliance on technology.
Cyber Security – risks related to securing the company’s digital assets and from cyber attacks.
Trade Secrets & Patents – risks related to the company’s ability to protect its intellectual property and to infringement claims against the company as well as piracy and unlicensed copying.

5. Ability to Sell

Demand – risks related to the demand of the company’s goods and services including seasonality, reliance on key customers.
Competition – risks related to the company’s competition including substitutes.
Sales & Marketing – risks related to sales, marketing, and distribution channels, pricing, and market penetration.
Brand & Reputation – risks related to the company’s brand and reputation.

6. Macro & Political

Economy & Political Environment – risks related to changes in economic and political conditions.
Natural and Human Disruptions – risks related to catastrophes, floods, storms, terror, earthquakes, coronavirus pandemic/COVID-19.
International Operations – risks related to the global nature of the company.
Capital Markets – risks related to exchange rates and trade, cryptocurrency.

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