Otter Tail (OTTR) Risk Analysis

328 Followers

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.

Otter Tail disclosed 35 risk factors in its most recent earnings report. Otter Tail reported the most risks in the “Legal & Regulatory” category.

Risk Overview Q4, 2024

Risk Distribution

23% Legal & Regulatory

23% Production

17% Ability to Sell

17% Macro & Political

14% Finance & Corporate

6% Tech & Innovation

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

2022

S&P500 Average

Sector Average

Risks removed

Risks added

Risks changed

Otter Tail 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 Q4, 2024

Main Risk Category

Legal & Regulatory

With 8 Risks

Legal & Regulatory

With 8 Risks

Number of Disclosed Risks

-2

From last report

S&P 500 Average: 32

-2

From last report

S&P 500 Average: 32

Recent Changes

3Risks added

4Risks removed

7Risks changed

Since Dec 2024

3Risks added

4Risks removed

7Risks changed

Since Dec 2024

Number of Risk Changed

From last report

S&P 500 Average: 4

From last report

S&P 500 Average: 4

See the risk highlights of Otter Tail 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 35

Legal & Regulatory

Total Risks: 8/35 (23%)Above Sector Average

Regulation3 | 8.6%

Regulation - Risk 1

Our utility business is significantly impacted by government legislation and regulation.

OTP is subject to federal and state legislation and comprehensive regulation by federal and state regulatory agencies, including the public utility commissions in each of the three states in which OTP operates, and by the FERC. Our financial condition, operating results and liquidity are significantly impacted by and dependent upon our ability to recover the costs associated with providing utility service and earn a return on our utility capital investments. There is no assurance that each state utility commission will judge our utility costs to have been prudently incurred or that rates will produce full recovery of such costs. In addition, changes in the federal or state regulatory framework could impair our ability to recover utility costs historically collected from our customers. Diverging public policy priorities across the jurisdictions we serve and a lack of inter-jurisdictional consensus may impact our ability to recover the cost of and return on our capital investments and our operating costs; it may impact our future capital investment opportunities; and may result in inefficiencies which could negatively impact our financial position, operating results and liquidity. In addition to the recovery of our utility costs, our profitability is impacted by our authorized ROE, which can be impacted by macroeconomic factors such as interest rates. There can be no assurance that each state utility commission or the FERC will authorize a rate of return which allows us to achieve our financial goals. An adverse decision by one or more regulatory authorities or any prolonged delay in rendering a decision in a rate or other proceeding could adversely impact our financial condition, operating results and liquidity. Inflationary cost pressures have increased the cost of constructing our utility assets and operating our utility business. There can be no assurance that our state regulatory commissions will authorize recovery of rising costs. Regulatory commissions may also limit future capital investments, or the rate of return allowed on such investments in response to inflationary cost pressures and customer bill impacts. Such limitations could negatively impact our financial position, operating results and liquidity.

Regulation - Risk 2

Violations of extensive legal and regulatory compliance requirements could have a negative impact on our business and results of operations.

We are subject to an extensive legal and regulatory framework imposed under federal and state laws and regulatory agencies, including the FERC and the North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC). We could be subject to potential financial penalties for compliance violations. Our transmission systems and electric generation facilities are subject to the NERC mandatory reliability standards, including cybersecurity standards. If a serious reliability incident were to occur, it could have a material effect on our operations or financial results. Some states have the authority to impose substantial penalties in the event of non-compliance. We attempt to mitigate the risk of regulatory penalties through formal training. However, there is no guarantee our compliance program will be sufficient to ensure against violations. These laws and regulations significantly influence our operations and may affect our ability to recover costs from our customers. We are required to have numerous permits, licenses, approvals and certificates from the agencies and other organizations that regulate our business. We believe we have obtained the necessary approvals for our existing operations and that our business is conducted in accordance with applicable laws and regulatory requirements; however, we are unable to predict the impact on our operating results from the future regulatory activities of any of these agencies and other organizations. Changes in regulations or the imposition of additional regulations could have a material adverse impact on our financial condition, operating results and liquidity.

Regulation - Risk 3

Joint ownership of coal-fired generation facilities could impact our ability to manage changing regulations and economic conditions.

We own our coal-fired generation facilities jointly with other co-owners with varying ownership interests in such facilities. Our ability to make determinations to best navigate changing environmental regulations and economic conditions may be impacted by our rights and obligations under the co-ownership and related agreements, and our ability to reconcile a divergence in the interests of OTP and the co-owners of these generation facilities. Such a divergence could impair our ability to effectively manage these changing conditions to meet our strategic objectives, and could adversely impact our financial condition, operating results and liquidity.

Litigation & Legal Liabilities1 | 2.9%

Litigation & Legal Liabilities - Risk 1

Added

Claims, litigation, government investigations and other proceedings may adversely affect our business, operating results and liquidity.

We are periodically subject to actual and threatened claims, litigation, investigations and other proceedings, including proceedings by governments and regulatory authorities, involving utilities regulation, competition and antitrust, product quality matters, and liability claims. Any of these proceedings, including the currently ongoing proceedings related to our Plastics segment businesses, could have an adverse effect on our financial condition, operating results and liquidity. It is possible that a resolution of one or more proceedings, including as a result of a settlement, could involve damages, sanctions, consent decrees or orders requiring us to make substantial future payments, prevent us from offering certain products or services, require us to change our business practices in a manner materially adverse to our business, otherwise disrupt our business, divert management resources, damage our reputation or otherwise have a material effect on our operations. The outcomes of these matters are inherently unpredictable and subject to significant uncertainties, and we are unable to determine the likelihood of an outcome or estimate a range of reasonably possible losses, if any, arising from the proceedings at this time.

Taxation & Government Incentives1 | 2.9%

Taxation & Government Incentives - Risk 1

Changes in tax laws could materially affect our financial condition and operating results.

Our provision for income taxes and tax obligations are impacted by various tax laws and regulations, including the availability of various tax credits, IRS tax policies such as tax normalization and, at times, the ability to carryforward net operating losses and tax credits. Changes in tax laws, regulations and interpretations could have an adverse effect on our financial condition and operating results. Tax law changes that reduce or eliminate production or investment tax credits (ITCs), or the ability to transfer or sell these credits, or a failure to meet the compliance requirements to receive these credits, may impact the economics of constructing certain electric generation resources, which may impact our planned investments, and could adversely affect our financial condition and operating results.

Environmental / Social3 | 8.6%

Environmental / Social - Risk 1

Our operations are subject to environmental, health and safety laws and regulations.

We are subject to numerous federal, state and local environmental, health and safety laws and regulations governing, among other things, discharges to air and water, natural resources, hazardous waste and toxic substances, the cleanup of contaminated sites, and health and safety matters. Our failure to comply with applicable laws and regulations could result in civil or criminal fines or penalties, enforcement actions, and regulatory or judicial orders enjoining or curtailing operations or requiring corrective measures, which could materially and adversely affect our business. Compliance with these laws and regulations is a significant factor in our business. We have incurred and expect to continue to incur capital expenditures and operating costs to comply with applicable current and future laws and regulations. Our businesses continue to be subject to additional and changing environmental, health and safety laws and regulations, and we could incur additional costs complying with requirements that are promulgated in the future. New laws or regulations or changes to existing laws and regulations in the future may result in disruptions to our business, changes in customer preferences or changes in customer demand, which could adversely impact our financial condition, operating results and liquidity. Recently, various federal and state agencies have heightened their scrutiny of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), which are manufactured chemicals used in a variety of consumer and industrial products. Regulators have recently proposed additional chemicals be designated as hazardous substances, including a proposal to designate perfluorooctanesulfonic acid and perfluorooctanoic acid, two of the most common PFAS chemicals, as hazardous substances, which could have wide-ranging impacts on companies across various industries, including ours. At this time, we cannot predict the outcome or the severity of the impact, if any, of future laws or regulations enacted to address PFAS.

Environmental / Social - Risk 2

Changed

Environmental regulation could require us to incur substantial capital expenditures, increased operating costs or make it no longer economically viable to operate some of our facilities.

We are subject to federal, state and local environmental laws and regulations relating to air quality, water quality, waste management, natural resources and health safety. These laws and regulations regulate the modification and operation of existing facilities, the construction and operation of new facilities and the proper storage, handling, cleanup and disposal of hazardous waste and toxic substances. Compliance with these legal requirements may require us to commit significant resources and funds toward environmental monitoring, installation and operation of pollution control equipment, payment of emission fees and securing environmental permits. Obtaining environmental permits can entail significant expense and cause substantial construction delays. Failure to comply with environmental laws and regulations, even if caused by factors beyond our control, may result in civil or criminal liabilities, penalties and fines. Coyote Station, one of OTP's jointly owned coal-fired power plants, is subject to assessment under the second planning period of the RHR as part of the state of North Dakota's RHR SIP. In December 2024, the EPA partially disapproved the North Dakota SIP related to Coyote Station and now must promulgate a Federal Implementation Plan. The federal plan may include emission controls required to satisfy the requirements of the RHR. We cannot predict with certainty the final resolution of regional haze compliance in North Dakota and specifically the impact, if any, on the operations of Coyote Station. However, significant emission control investments could be required which may have a material impact on our operating results, financial condition and liquidity. Alternatively, such investments may prove to be uneconomic and result in the early closure, sale of, or withdrawal from, our interest in Coyote Station. Existing environmental laws or regulations may be revised, and new laws or regulations may be adopted or become applicable to us. The multiple jurisdictions that govern our electric utility business may not agree as to the appropriate resource mix, which may lead to costs incurred to comply with one jurisdiction that are not recoverable across all jurisdictions served by the same assets. Revised or additional regulations which result in increased compliance costs or additional operating restrictions, particularly if those costs are not fully recoverable from customers, could have a material effect on our financial condition, operating results and liquidity, making the operation of some of our facilities no longer economically viable.

Environmental / Social - Risk 3

Changed

Actions to address climate change and greenhouse gas emissions could materially impact us.

Current and future federal, state, regional and international legislation and regulations to address global climate change and reduce GHG emissions, including measures such as mandated levels of renewable generation, mandatory reductions in CO2 emission levels, taxes on CO2 emissions, or cap-and-trade regimes, could require us to incur significant costs, which could negatively impact our financial condition, operating results and liquidity if such costs cannot be recovered through rates granted by rate-making authorities or through increased market prices for electricity. In May 2024, the EPA finalized new regulations under Section 111 of the Clean Air Act to regulate GHG emissions from existing and new fossil fuel-based power plants. The new regulations require existing coal-fired power plants to achieve certain CO2 emissions reduction levels, with the amount of reduction dependent upon the remaining operating life of the facility. The new regulation has the potential to materially impact the operations of our coal-fired power plants, which could have a material impact on our operating results, financial condition and liquidity. In addition to complying with legislation and regulation, we could be subject to litigation related to climate change. If we were subjected to such litigation, the costs of such litigation could be significant and an adverse outcome could require substantial capital expenditures, changes in operations and possible payment of penalties or damages, which could affect our financial condition, operating results and liquidity if the costs are not recoverable in rates or covered by insurance.

Production

Total Risks: 8/35 (23%)Below Sector Average

Manufacturing2 | 5.7%

Manufacturing - Risk 1

Our generation, transmission and distribution facilities are subject to operational risks, which include circumstances that could result in injuries, loss of life, property damage and fires.

The operation of our generation, transmission and distribution facilities involves many risks including equipment failures, accidents and workforce safety matters, environmental damage, property damage, operator error and the occurrence of catastrophic events such as fires, explosions and floods. Diminished availability or performance of those facilities could result in facility shutdowns, reduced customer satisfaction, reputational harm and regulatory inquiries and fines. Accidents, fires, explosions, catastrophic failures, general system damage or dysfunction, intentional acts of destruction and other unplanned events related to our infrastructure would increase repair costs and may expose us to liability for personal injury, loss of life and property damage. Fires alleged to have been caused by our transmission, distribution or generation infrastructure, or that allegedly result from our contractors' operating or maintenance practices, could also expose us to claims for fire suppression and clean-up costs, evacuation costs, fines and penalties, and liability for economic damages, personal injury, loss of life, property damage and environmental pollution, whether based on claims of negligence, trespass or otherwise. We maintain insurance coverage for such operating and event risks, but insurance coverage is subject to the terms and limitations of the available policies and may not be sufficient in amount to cover our ultimate liability. We may be unable to fully recover costs in excess of insurance through customer rates or regulatory mechanisms. If the amount of insurance is insufficient or otherwise unavailable, and if we are unable to fully recover in rates the costs of uninsured losses, our financial condition, operating results and liquidity could be materially affected.

Manufacturing - Risk 2

Our business may be adversely affected if we are not able to maintain our manufacturing, engineering and technological expertise.

The markets for our manufacturing businesses are characterized by changing technology and evolving process development. The continued success of our businesses will depend on our ability to: - maintain technological leadership in our industry;- implement new and expand on current robotics, automation and tooling technologies; and - anticipate or respond to changes in manufacturing processes in a cost-effective and timely manner. We may be unable to develop the capabilities required by our customers in the future. The emergence of new technologies, industry standards or customer requirements may render our equipment, inventory or processes obsolete or noncompetitive. We may be required to acquire new technologies and equipment to remain competitive. The acquisition and implementation of new technologies and equipment may require us to incur significant expense and capital investment, which could reduce our margins and affect our operating results. Failure to anticipate and adapt to customers' changing technological needs and requirements and to maintain manufacturing, engineering and technological expertise may have material adverse effects on our financial condition, operating results and liquidity.

Employment / Personnel2 | 5.7%

Employment / Personnel - Risk 1

The inability to attract and retain a qualified workforce could have an adverse effect on our operations.

The success of our business is heavily dependent on the leadership of our executive officers and key employees for implementation of our strategy. In addition, all of our businesses rely on a qualified workforce, including technical employees who possess certain specialized knowledge and skills. The inability to attract and retain a skilled and stable workforce at necessary staffing levels, whether due to decreases in hiring rates, increases in employee retirements, increases in terminations, or any combination thereof, may negatively affect our ability to service our customers, manufacture products or successfully manage our business and achieve our objectives.

Employment / Personnel - Risk 2

Our pension and other postretirement benefit plans are subject to investment and interest rate risks.

The financial obligations and related costs of our pension and other postretirement benefit plans are affected by numerous factors. Assumptions related to future costs, investment returns, actuarial estimates and interest rates have a significant effect on our funding obligations and the cost recognized related to these plans. If our pension plan assets do not achieve our estimated long-term rate of return or if our other estimates prove to be inaccurate, our operating results, financial condition and liquidity may be adversely impacted. In addition, our funding requirements could be impacted by changes to the Pension Protection Act.

Supply Chain1 | 2.9%

Supply Chain - Risk 1

Our plastics operations are highly dependent on a limited number of vendors and a limited supply of PVC resin and other materials.

We rely on a limited number of vendors to supply the PVC resin used in our plastics businesses. In 2024, we sourced all of our PVC resin needs from four vendors. In addition, the supply of PVC resin may be limited primarily due to manufacturing capacity and the limited availability of raw material components. Most U.S. resin production plants are located in the Gulf Coast region. This could increase the risk of a shortage of resin in the event of a hurricane, other extreme weather events and other natural disasters in that region. The loss of a key vendor or any interruption or delay in the availability or supply of PVC resin could disrupt our ability to deliver our plastic products, cause customers to cancel orders or require us to incur additional expenses to obtain PVC resin from alternative sources, if such sources were available. Although PVC resin is the most significant raw material input in our PVC pipe manufacturing process, we also use certain other materials, such as stabilizers, gaskets, lumber, banding and others in the process of manufacturing and shipping our PVC pipe products. We generally source these materials from a limited number of suppliers and any significant supply chain constraints or disruptions related to these materials could also disrupt our ability to manufacture or ship products and could result in increased costs.

Costs3 | 8.6%

Costs - Risk 1

Changes in PVC resin prices could negatively affect our plastics business.

The cost of PVC resin is based on global supply and demand conditions, which can create volatile pricing. Changes in PVC resin cost prices can negatively affect PVC pipe prices and profit margins on PVC pipe sales.

Costs - Risk 2

The price and availability of raw materials could adversely impact our operating results.

The companies in our Manufacturing segment use a variety of raw materials in the products they manufacture including, among others, steel, aluminum, and polystyrene and other plastics resins. The price and availability of the raw materials used in our manufacturing processes are based on global supply and demand conditions, which can create volatile pricing and supply disruptions as conditions change. Federal trade policies, including imposed tariffs, can also impact prices for these raw materials. If we are unable to pass cost increases through to our customers or are unable to procure adequate or timely raw material inputs for use in our manufacturing processes, our financial condition, operating results and liquidity could be negatively impacted. Additionally, a certain amount of residual material (scrap) is a by-product of the manufacturing and production processes used by our manufacturing companies. Declines in commodity prices for these scrap materials due to weakened demand or excess supply can negatively impact the profitability of our manufacturing companies as it reduces their ability to mitigate the cost associated with excess material.

Costs - Risk 3

Added

We may be unable to fully recover costs of our co-owned coal-fired generating facilities.

Changes in regulatory, operational or economic factors could result in the early closure or sale of or withdrawal from our interest in a coal-fired generating facility. In the event of an early closure, a significant asset impairment charge could be required, and we would be obligated to pay for our share of the costs of closure of the generating facility. In the event of a sale of our interest in a generating facility, we may be unable to negotiate the sale on favorable terms, which could result in the recognition of a loss on the sale. There can be no assurance that we would be authorized by any of our state utility commissions to recover any costs or losses associated with the early closure or sale of our interest in a generating facility. Our IRP, approved in Minnesota by the MPUC in May 2024, directs OTP to commence activities to no longer serve Minnesota customers with capacity or energy from Coyote Station as early as 2029. The discontinuation of service to Minnesota customers from Coyote Station could result in stranded costs, which may significantly impact our operating results, financial condition and liquidity.

Ability to Sell

Total Risks: 6/35 (17%)Above Sector Average

Competition2 | 5.7%

Competition - Risk 1

Changed

We compete against other manufacturers of PVC pipe and manufacturers of alternative products.

Competition in the plastic pipe industry arises from other PVC pipe manufacturers and the fungible nature of the product. Certain of the companies we compete with have a broader geographical reach, integration with PVC resin producers, greater manufacturing capacity and national relationships with key distribution partners. In addition to competing with other plastic pipe manufacturers, our products also complete against similar products serving the same end markets, including ductile iron, HDPE, steel and concrete pipe. Our inability to compete effectively on product price, customer service and product performance may adversely affect the financial performance of our plastics businesses.

Competition - Risk 2

Competition from domestic and foreign manufacturers could affect the revenues and earnings of our manufacturing businesses.

Our manufacturing businesses are subject to intense competition from domestic and foreign manufacturers, many of whom have broader product lines, greater distribution capabilities, greater capital resources, larger marketing, research and development personnel and facilities, and other capabilities. Our ability to compete on product performance, competitive pricing, technological innovation and customer service is critical to our ongoing success. If we are unable to compete in these and potentially other areas, our business and financial condition, operating results and liquidity could be adversely impacted.

Demand2 | 5.7%

Demand - Risk 1

The loss of or significant reduction in revenue from any of our key customers could have an adverse effect on our operating results.

In 2024, a single customer provided more than 10% of our consolidated operating revenues, and each of our segments have customers which accounted for over 10% of the segment's operating revenues. In 2024, two customers combined to account for 19% of Electric segment revenues, two customers combined to account for 36% of Manufacturing segment operating revenues and two customers combined to account for 52% of Plastics segment operating revenues, with one of those customers providing more than 10% of our consolidated operating revenues. The loss of any one of these customers or a significant decline in sales to these customers, would have a significant negative impact on the segment's financial condition and operating results, and could have a significant negative impact on the Company's consolidated financial condition, operating results and liquidity.

Demand - Risk 2

Changed

External factors beyond our control could cause fluctuations in demand for and pricing of our PVC pipe products.

Our PVC pipe products, sold through distributors and wholesalers, are primarily used in municipal and rural water projects, wastewater projects, storm drainage systems and reclamation systems. External factors beyond our control can cause volatility in demand for our products and sales prices impacting our operating margins. These factors can magnify the impact of economic cycles on our business and results of operations. Examples of external factors include: - general economic conditions including housing and construction markets which can be cyclical;- increases in interest rates;- severe weather and natural disasters;- governmental regulation in the United States; and - funding shortages for municipal water and wastewater projects. Sales prices for PVC pipe began to significantly increase in 2021, reaching a peak level in mid-2022. Pipe prices have since retreated from the high point but remain elevated compared to historic levels. Elevated pipe prices led to a significant expansion in our operating margins and cash generation. We expect sales prices for PVC pipe to continue to decline, which will cause a decline in operating margins and cash generation prospectively. The pace and magnitude of the decline in product pricing could materially impact our operating results and liquidity.

Sales & Marketing2 | 5.7%

Sales & Marketing - Risk 1

Added

We are impacted by our customers' strategies, operational decisions and conditions in the end markets they serve.

Our manufacturing businesses derive a large amount of their revenues from customers in the following industry sectors: recreational vehicle/powersports, lawn and garden, construction, agriculture, industrial, energy and horticulture. Factors affecting any of these industries in general could adversely affect our operating results, as growth in our operating revenues is largely dependent on the growth of our customers' businesses in their respective industries. These factors include: - our customers' failure to successfully market their products, gain or retain widespread commercial acceptance of their products or compete effectively in their industries;- loss of market share for our customers' products, which may lead our customers to reduce or discontinue purchasing our products and components and to reduce prices, thereby exerting pricing pressure on us;- economic conditions in the markets in which our customers operate, the United States in particular, including recessionary periods such as a global economic downturn;- our customers' decisions to bring the production of components in-house that have traditionally been outsourced to us; and - seasonality of demand for our customers' products, which may cause our manufacturing capacity to be underutilized for periods of time;- product design changes or manufacturing process changes that may reduce or eliminate demand for the components we supply. We expect future sales will continue to depend on the success of our customers. If economic conditions or demand for our customers' products deteriorates, we may experience a material adverse effect on our financial condition, operating results and liquidity.

Sales & Marketing - Risk 2

We are subject to risks associated with the procurement and transportation of fuel to our coal and natural gas-powered generation facilities.

We rely on a limited number of suppliers to provide coal and a limited number of service providers to transport coal and natural gas to our facilities. A counterparty's failure to perform their obligations may arise due to liquidity challenges or insolvency, operational deficiencies or other circumstances such as severe weather or natural disasters and could impact our ability to provide service to our customers or require us to seek alternative sources for these products and services, if available. A prolonged failure to perform by one or more of our current suppliers or service providers could lead to increased costs or other consequences, which could negatively impact our financial condition, operating results and liquidity.

Macro & Political

Total Risks: 6/35 (17%)Above Sector Average

Economy & Political Environment2 | 5.7%

Economy & Political Environment - Risk 1

General economic and industry conditions impact our business.

Several factors, many of which are beyond our control, may contribute to reduced demand for energy from our customers or increase the cost of providing energy to our customers. These risks include economic growth or decline in our service areas, demographic changes in our customer base and changes in customer demand or load growth due to, among other items, proliferation of distributed generation, energy efficiency initiatives and technological advancements. In addition, customer demand could be impacted by increased competition in our service territories or the loss of a service territory or franchise. Other risks include increased transmission or interconnection costs, generation curtailment and changes in the manner in which wholesale power is purchased and sold. A decrease in revenues or an increase in expenses related to our electric operations could negatively impact our financial condition, operating results and liquidity.

Economy & Political Environment - Risk 2

Changed

Changes in economic conditions and economic policies could negatively impact our businesses.

Our businesses are affected by local, national and worldwide economic conditions. Economic recessions, inflation, changes in commodity prices, changes in interest rates and tightening of credit in financial markets could adversely affect our operating results, financial condition and liquidity. In addition, changes in government policies, including trade regulations and tariffs, could impact our businesses, including increasing our costs of materials, negatively impacting our supply chain, reducing sales volumes of our products or services, or disrupting the competitive environment in which we operate. A broad increase in tariffs may also lead to elevated inflation and increased interest rates, which may negatively impact national economic conditions and impact our operating results, financial condition and liquidity.

Natural and Human Disruptions3 | 8.6%

Natural and Human Disruptions - Risk 1

Weather impacts, including seasonal fluctuations, could adversely affect our operating results.

Our Electric segment business is seasonal, and weather patterns have had an impact on our financial performance in the past and may again in the future. Demand for electricity is normally greater in the winter and summer months. Unusually mild summers and winters could have an adverse effect on our financial condition and results of operations. Our Plastics segment businesses can be affected by seasonal weather prohibiting or delaying construction projects at any time of the year in any geography, but specifically times of the year when frozen ground and cold temperatures in many parts of the country can delay construction projects, all of which can result in reduced customer demand and could have an adverse effect on our financial condition, operating results and liquidity.

Natural and Human Disruptions - Risk 2

We are subject to physical and transition risks associated with climate change and extreme weather events.

Longer term shifts in climate patterns may impact our customers' demand for electricity, interrupt our business operations and damage our facilities; reduce the availability of natural resources, such as water; and cause disruptions in our supply chains. Climate change may increase the frequency and severity of extreme weather events, such as prolonged periods of extreme cold or heat, and natural disasters, such as severe snow and ice storms, tornadoes, flooding and wildfires. These acute events could result in the interruption of our business operations and damage to our facilities. We may not have sufficient insurance coverage to avoid adverse impacts to our operating results or financial condition from damage to our facilities or an interruption in our business. An extreme weather event within our utility service area could directly affect our capital assets, causing disruption in service to customers, and result in reduced operating revenues and additional repair or replacement costs, due to downed wires and poles or damage to other operating equipment. In the past, severe weather events in the Gulf Coast region of the U.S. have disrupted the supply of PVC resin, the primary material input of our Plastics segment businesses. As most U.S. PVC resin production plants are located in the Gulf Coast region, an area prone to seasonal hurricane activity and other extreme weather events, our access to PVC resin may be impacted by the volume and magnitude of hurricane and storm activity in this region, which could impact our Plastics segment businesses. Increased risk of natural disasters, such as wildfires, could have financial consequences, including limiting our ability to secure sufficient insurance coverage, or lead to increased insurance cost. While we carry liability insurance, given an extreme event, if we were found to be liable for damages, amounts that exceed our coverage limit could negatively impact our financial condition, operating results and liquidity. These risks may also negatively impact our credit ratings, which may limit our access to capital markets and increase our borrowing costs. In addition, to the extent investors view climate change, fossil fuel combustion and GHG emissions as a financial risk, our stock price or our ability to access capital markets on favorable terms and conditions could be adversely impacted. We may experience transition risks in moving towards low carbon generation and manufacturing. For example, we may face challenges with the adoption of new technologies, meeting changing customer expectations, ensuring reliability of electric service, and committing to voluntary GHG emissions reduction goals, as well as complying with evolving local, state or federal regulatory requirements intended to reduce GHG emissions.

Natural and Human Disruptions - Risk 3

The effects of a major public health crisis, such as an epidemic or pandemic, and measures taken to reduce and slow the spread of the disease could adversely impact our business.

A future widespread outbreak of an infectious disease, which affects a large percentage of the population regionally, nationally or globally could impact our business operations, including our employees, customers, construction contractors, suppliers and vendors, and could impact our operating results, financial condition and liquidity.

Capital Markets1 | 2.9%

Capital Markets - Risk 1

Changed

We are subject to risks associated with energy and capacity markets.

Our electric business is subject to the risks associated with energy and capacity markets, including changes in market supply, energy and capacity prices. If we need to procure market energy and are faced with shortages in market supply, we may be unable to fulfill our contractual obligations to our retail, wholesale and other customers at previously anticipated costs. This could force us to obtain alternative energy or fuel supplies at higher costs or suffer increased liabilities for unfulfilled contractual obligations. Changes in our own generation capacity or market capacity, including from changes in capacity accreditation, could lead to increased capacity prices. Significantly higher than expected energy or capacity costs could negatively affect our financial condition, operating results and liquidity.

Finance & Corporate

Total Risks: 5/35 (14%)Below Sector Average

Accounting & Financial Operations1 | 2.9%

Accounting & Financial Operations - Risk 1

We rely on our subsidiaries to provide sufficient earnings and cash flows to allow us to meet our financial obligations and pay dividends to our shareholders.

OTC is a holding company with no significant operations of its own. The primary source of funds for payment of our financial obligations and dividends to our shareholders is from cash provided by our subsidiary companies. Our ability to meet our financial obligations and pay dividends on our common stock principally depends on the earnings, cash flows, capital requirements and general financial positions of our subsidiary companies. In addition, OTP is subject to federal and state regulations which may restrict its ability to pay dividends. Finally, we are also reliant on our subsidiary companies to maintain compliance with financial covenants under our various short- and long-term debt agreements. Our debt agreements include restrictions on the payment of cash dividends upon an event of default.

Debt & Financing2 | 5.7%

Debt & Financing - Risk 1

We are subject to capital market and interest rate risks.

We rely on access to debt and equity capital markets as a source of liquidity to fund our investment initiatives, including rate base growth investments in our Electric segment and opportunities for investment, including acquisitions, in our Manufacturing and Plastics segments. Capital markets are impacted by global and domestic economic conditions, monetary policy, commodity prices, geopolitical events and other factors. If we are unable to access capital on acceptable terms and at reasonable costs, our ability to implement our business plans may be adversely affected. In addition, higher market interest rates on outstanding variable-rate indebtedness could also impact our operating results.

Debt & Financing - Risk 2

A decrease in our credit ratings could increase our borrowing costs and result in additional contractual costs.

We rely on our investment grade credit ratings to provide acceptable costs for accessing the capital markets. A downgrade of our credit ratings could result in higher borrowing costs thereby negatively impacting our operating results and limiting our ability to access capital markets, which may negatively impact our ability to implement our business plans. In addition, OTP is a party to contracts that require the posting of collateral or settlement of applicable contracts if credit ratings fall below certain levels, which may negatively impact our financial condition or liquidity.

Corporate Activity and Growth2 | 5.7%

Corporate Activity and Growth - Risk 1

Our strategy includes large capital investments, which are subject to risks.

Our business strategy includes major capital investments at our operating companies. These capital projects are planned years in advance of their in-service dates and are subject to various risks including adverse changes in regulatory treatment or public policy; changes in commodity pricing or construction costs; delivery of critical materials; obtaining necessary permits and licenses; and other adverse conditions. Capital investments in our Electric segment require regulatory approval and are subject to the risks of not being granted timely approval or allowed to be fully recovered. In addition, our ability to construct and own utility assets may be impacted by regulatory requirements to competitively bid such investments, which could impact the amount and timing of our capital investments. A lack of direct ownership, or the inability to complete capital projects on budget and in a timely manner could impact our ability to achieve our strategic financial goals and could adversely impact our operating results and financial condition.

Corporate Activity and Growth - Risk 2

If we are unable to achieve the organic growth we expect, our financial performance may be adversely affected.

We expect much of our growth in the next few years will come from major capital investments at existing companies. To achieve the organic growth we expect, we must have access to the capital markets, be successful with capital expansion programs related to organic growth, develop new products and services, expand our markets and increase efficiencies in our businesses. Competitive and economic factors could adversely affect our ability to do this. If we are unable to achieve and sustain consistent organic growth, we will be less likely to meet our earnings growth targets, which may adversely affect the market price of our common shares.

Tech & Innovation

Total Risks: 2/35 (6%)Below Sector Average

Cyber Security2 | 5.7%

Cyber Security - Risk 1

Changed

Our generation, transmission and distribution facilities could be vulnerable to cyber and physical attack.

OTP owns electric transmission, distribution and generation facilities subject to mandatory and enforceable standards advanced by the NERC. These bulk electric system facilities provide the framework for the electrical infrastructure of OTP's service territory and interconnected systems, the operation of which is dependent on information technology systems. Further, the information systems that operate OTP's electric system are interconnected to external networks. Parties that wish to disrupt the U.S. bulk power system or OTP's operations could view OTP's computer systems, software or networks as attractive targets for cyber-attack. In addition, OTP's generation and transmission facilities are spread throughout a large service territory. These facilities could be subject to physical attack or vandalism that could disrupt OTP's operations or conceivably the regional or U.S. bulk power system. OTP is subject to mandatory cybersecurity and physical security regulatory requirements. OTP implements the NERC standards for operating its transmission and generation assets and remains abreast of best practices within the business and the utility industry to protect its computers and computer-controlled systems from outside attack. We rely on industry-accepted security measures and technology to securely maintain confidential and proprietary information necessary for the operation of our systems. In an effort to reduce the likelihood and severity of cyber intrusions, we have cybersecurity processes and controls, and disaster recovery plans designed to protect and preserve the confidentiality, integrity and availability of data and systems. We also take prudent and reasonable steps to protect the physical security of our transmission, distribution and generation facilities. However, all these measures and technology may not adequately prevent security breaches, ransomware attacks or other cyber-attacks, or enable us to recover effectively from such a breach or attack. Any significant interruption or failure of our information systems or any significant breach of security due to cyber-attacks, hacking or internal security breaches or physical attack of our generation or transmission facilities could adversely affect our business and our financial condition, operating results and liquidity.

Cyber Security - Risk 2

A cyber incident, security breach or system failure could adversely affect our business and operating results.

The operation of our business is dependent on the secure functioning of our computer hardware and software systems, as well as that of third-party service providers and vendors. Information systems, both ours and those of third parties, are vulnerable to security breaches by computer hackers and cyber terrorists, system failures, the negligent or intentional breach of established controls and procedures or mismanagement of confidential information by employees. Cyber-attacks or other security breaches may also be perpetrated through the use of artificial intelligence, which could introduce additional complexity to such an attack or breach. While we employ a defense-in-depth strategy and regularly conduct cybersecurity assessments, we cannot be certain our information security systems and protocols and those of our vendors and other third parties are sufficient to withstand a cyber-attack or other security breach. A system failure could result in a disruption to our business including, but not limited to, the inability to produce products or serve our customers. A prolonged system failure could negatively impact our operating results. A major cyber incident could result in significant expenses to investigate and repair security breaches or system damage, and could lead to litigation, fines, other remedial action, heightened regulatory scrutiny and damage to our reputation. For example, we may be subject to liability under various federal, state and international disclosure laws and data protection laws. These laws are subject to change and expansion and may require additional operational changes and costs to comply. The misappropriation, corruption or loss of personally identifiable information and other confidential data could lead to significant monetary damages, regulatory enforcement actions and breach notification and mitigation expenses, such as credit monitoring, and result in reputational damage affecting relations with shareholders, customers, regulators and others. In addition to property and casualty insurance, which may cover restoration of data, certain physical damage or third-party injuries, we have cybersecurity insurance related to a breach event. However, damage and claims arising from such incidents may not be covered or may exceed the amount of any available insurance.

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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