# Dauch Corp (DCH) FY 2024 MD&A

Verbatim Item 7 Management's Discussion and Analysis from Dauch Corp's 10-K for fiscal year 2024.

SEC filing source: https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1062231/000106223125000008/axl-20241231.htm
Accession: 0001062231-25-000008
Filing date: 2025-02-14
Report date: 2024-12-31
Extracted structurally from real Item 7 body heading to real Item 7A/8 boundary.
Confidence: high

Company profile: /company/DCH/
All MD&A years: /company/DCH/mda/
Previous year: /company/DCH/mda/fy2023/ (FY 2023)
Next year: /company/DCH/mda/fy2025/ (FY 2025)

Item 7. Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations (MD&A)

COMPANY OVERVIEW

As a leading global tier 1 automotive and mobility supplier, AAM designs, engineers and manufactures Driveline and Metal Forming technologies to support electric, hybrid and internal combustion vehicles. Headquartered in Detroit, Michigan, with over 75 facilities in 16 countries, AAM is bringing the future faster for a safer and more sustainable tomorrow.

We are a primary supplier of driveline components to General Motors Company (GM) for its full-size rear-wheel drive (RWD) light trucks, sport utility vehicles (SUV), and crossover vehicles manufactured in North America, supplying a significant portion of GM's rear axle and four-wheel drive and all-wheel drive (4WD/AWD) axle requirements for these vehicle platforms. We also supply GM with various products from our Metal Forming segment. Sales to GM were approximately 42% of our consolidated net sales in 2024, 39% in 2023, and 40% in 2022.

We also supply driveline system products to Stellantis N.V. (Stellantis) for programs including the heavy-duty Ram full-size pickup trucks and its derivatives. In addition, we sell various products to Stellantis from our Metal Forming segment. Sales to Stellantis were approximately 13% of our consolidated net sales in 2024, 16% in 2023, and 18% in 2022.

We are also a supplier to Ford Motor Company (Ford) for driveline system products on certain vehicle programs including the Bronco Sport, Maverick, Edge, Escape and Lincoln Nautilus, and we also sell various products to Ford from our Metal Forming segment. Sales to Ford were approximately 13% of our consolidated net sales in 2024, and 12% in 2023 and 2022.

No other customer represented 10% or more of consolidated net sales during these periods.

Pending Combination with Dowlais Group plc

On January 29, 2025, AAM announced that we reached agreement with the Board of Directors of Dowlais Group plc (Dowlais) on the terms of a recommended cash and share offer to be made by AAM to acquire the entire issued and to be issued ordinary share capital of Dowlais, a public limited company incorporated in England and Wales for approximately $1.44 billion in cash and AAM shares (the Business Combination). We believe that the Business Combination will create a leading global driveline and metal forming supplier with a comprehensive product portfolio and a diversified customer base.

Pursuant to the Business Combination, Dowlais shareholders will be entitled to receive for each share of Dowlais’ common stock: 0.0863 shares of new AAM common stock, 42 pence per share in cash (approximately $0.52 per share) and up to 2.8 pence (approximately $0.035 per share) of Dowlais fiscal year 2024 final dividend prior to closing. Following the close of the transaction, the combined company will be headquartered in Detroit, Michigan and will be led by AAM's Chairman and CEO. The transaction is expected to close by the end of 2025, subject to approval by both sets of shareholders, regulatory approvals, and satisfaction of customary closing conditions.

Pending Sale of AAM India Manufacturing Corporation Pvt., Ltd.

In October 2024, we entered into a definitive agreement to sell our commercial vehicle axle business and related assets in India (AAM India Manufacturing Corporation Pvt., Ltd.) for a sales price of $65 million, subject to certain customary adjustments at closing (the India Sale Agreement). The sale is expected to close in the first half of 2025, subject to customary closing conditions, including the receipt of regulatory approvals.

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Commercial Matters

In April 2024, one of our largest customers notified AAM that production purchase orders related to a previously announced contract to supply e-Beam axles for a future vehicle program were terminated. We believe that the termination of these purchase orders reflects, in part, the significant uncertainty currently underlying the electric vehicle environment, including volatility in estimated volumes and the timing of production. We have submitted a cancellation claim to recover certain costs incurred in connection with the terminated purchase orders. As of December 31, 2024, we have approximately $70 million of assets in our Consolidated Balance Sheet associated with this program, consisting of capitalized engineering, design and development costs and other commercial amounts. As of the date of this report, we believe we are entitled to claim and recover the full amount. However, due to the nature of the cancellation claim process, and the need to reach final resolution with the customer, the ultimate amount to be recovered is not determinable and could differ materially from the amount included in our Consolidated Balance Sheet.

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INDUSTRY TRENDS

There are a number of significant trends affecting the markets in which we compete. Intense competition, volatility in the price and availability of raw materials, labor shortages and increased labor costs, fluctuations in exchange rates and interest rates, and significant pricing pressures remain. At the same time, there is a focus on investing in future products that will incorporate the latest technology and meet evolving customer demands. The ability to respond timely to the continued advancement of technology and product innovation, as well as the ability to enhance cost reduction initiatives and continue to source programs and maintain a resilient supply chain on a global basis, are critical to attracting and retaining business in our global markets.

INDUSTRY UNCERTAINTY REGARDING ADOPTION OF ELECTRIC VEHICLES The automotive industry has experienced lower than anticipated adoption of electric vehicles. Various barriers to end-user acceptance exist, such as higher vehicle cost, limited offerings, safety concerns, battery range and vehicle performance anxiety and a lack of necessary charging infrastructure. As a result, there is significant uncertainty currently underlying the electric vehicle environment, including volatility in estimated volumes and the timing of program launches and production of electric vehicles. This uncertainty has caused industry participants to reassess capital allocation plans, and has resulted in the extension of certain internal combustion engine (ICE) and hybrid programs.

Additionally, competition to develop and market new and alternative technologies and fuel types, including from new market entrants such as non-traditional automotive companies and technology companies continues to increase. Further, some traditional automotive industry participants are developing strategic partnerships with technology companies as each party seeks to leverage the existing customer relationships and technical knowledge of the partner, and expedite the development and commercialization of new technologies.

We are responding, in part, with ongoing research and development (R&D) activities, reviewing our capital investment plans and continuing to enhance our product portfolio to allow us to meet our customers' needs for high performance vehicles with reduced emissions and reduced environmental impact. We are improving existing products to reduce emissions through lightweighting and efficiency initiatives, such as higher speed transmissions, and downsized engines and continuing to develop new technologies, such as hybrid and electric driveline systems and related subsystems and components. Through lightweight and high-efficiency axles, all-wheel drive systems, high-strength connecting rod technology, refined vibration control systems, and hybrid and electric vehicle components, including our e-drive systems and e-Beam axle technology, we have significantly advanced our efforts to improve ride and handling performance, while reducing emissions and mass. Our efforts have positioned us to compete in the evolving global marketplace.

INCREASED FOCUS ON ENVIRONMENTAL, SOCIAL AND GOVERNANCE (ESG) INITIATIVES AND REPORTING There has been a growing focus on ESG initiatives and reporting by industry stakeholders, including customers, suppliers, providers of debt and equity capital, regulators and those in the workforce. These topics are increasingly driving decisions made by our stakeholders. The ability of OEMs and suppliers to continually communicate and meet expectations on ESG programs and initiatives, comply with expanding regulatory requirements, and manage the cost of complying with such regulatory requirements, will impact their competitive advantage to attract and retain business, as well as a skilled workforce.

We have responded to this trend by implementing and launching programs and initiatives addressing each topic under ESG, such as E4 (E-to-the-fourth), AAM’s energy and environmental sustainability program to drive continuous improvement in our operations by reducing energy consumption, greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and water use while minimizing waste and lessening the environmental impact of our production operations. Also, as part of our continued focus on reducing GHG emissions, we have committed to reaching net-zero carbon emissions by 2040, and have received the validation of our net-zero emissions targets by the climate-action organization Science Based Targets Initiative (SBTi). The SBTi is a partnership between CDP (formerly known as the Climate Disclosure Project), the United Nations Global Compact, World Resources Institute (WRI) and the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) that drives ambitious climate action in the private sector by enabling companies to set greenhouse gas emissions reduction targets that are in line with what the latest climate science deems necessary to meet the goals of international agreements on climate change.

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An in-depth review of non-financial metrics and strategies related to our ESG initiatives and programs is included in our annual Sustainability Report, which includes more details on our sustainability programs, initiatives and future objectives. This report and other ESG areas of focus, such as AAM’s leadership, are made available to stakeholders through our company website. While evolving expectations, expanding regulatory requirements and reporting standards are driving increased ESG reporting and increased costs of compliance, this trend aligns with our cultural values and commitment to profitably grow our business in a way that is sustainable and socially responsible.

GLOBAL CONSUMER PREFERENCE AND OEM PRODUCTION FAVORING LIGHT TRUCKS, SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES AND CROSSOVER VEHICLES There has been ongoing demand for light trucks, SUVs and CUVs in certain markets, while demand for passenger cars has decreased. This increase in demand for light trucks, SUVs and CUVs has been driven by changes in consumer preference as technology advancements have made these vehicles lighter and more efficient. Certain OEMs are responding to this change in consumer preference by shifting their focus to developing and manufacturing these types of vehicles, resulting in a significant reduction of passenger car vehicle programs, especially in North America. We have benefited from this trend as a significant portion of our business supports light truck, SUV and CUV programs in North America.

GLOBAL AUTOMOTIVE PRODUCTION AND INDUSTRY CONSOLIDATION Our customers continue to design their products to meet demand in global markets and therefore require global support from their suppliers. For this reason, it is critical that suppliers maintain a global presence in these markets in order to compete for new contracts. We have business and engineering offices around the world to support our global locations and provide technical solutions to our customers on a regional basis, including in North America, which represents the largest portion of our core business, as well as in China and Europe where consumer acceptance of electric vehicles has been stronger.

The cyclical nature of the automotive industry, volatile commodity prices, the shifting demands of consumer preference, regulatory requirements and trade agreements require OEMs and suppliers to remain agile with regard to product development and global capability. A critical objective for OEMs and suppliers is the ability to meet these global demands while effectively managing costs and capital investment. Some OEMs and suppliers may be preparing for these challenges through merger and acquisition activity, restructuring actions, development of strategic partnerships and reduction of vehicle platform complexity. In order to effectively drive technology development, recognize cost synergies, optimize capacity utilization, and increase global footprint, the industry may continue to see consolidation in the supply base as companies recognize and respond to the need for scalability.

In addition to AAM's technology development relationships and organic growth in technology and processes, AAM's pending acquisition of Dowlais provides a significant opportunity for AAM to leverage complementary technologies, expand our product portfolio, diversify our global customer base, and strengthen our long-term financial profile through greater scale. The anticipated synergies of this acquisition are expected to enhance AAM's ability to compete in today's technological environment, while remaining cost competitive through increased scale and integration.

We also continue to evaluate our existing product portfolio for areas that are not core to our business in order to enhance AAM's ability to compete globally while remaining cost competitive.

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EVOLUTION OF THE AUTOMOTIVE INDUSTRY AS DEMAND FOR AUTONOMOUS VEHICLES AND RIDE-SHARING INCREASES A developing trend is the expectation that autonomous, self-driving cars are expected to become more common with continued advancements in technology, including applications such as last mile delivery. Autonomous vehicles present many possible benefits, such as a reduction in traffic collisions caused by human error and reduced traffic congestion, but there are also foreseeable challenges such as liability for damage and software safety and reliability. The increased integration of electronics and vehicle connectivity that will likely be required in autonomous vehicle developments will provide an opportunity for suppliers with advanced capabilities in this area to be competitive in this expanding market.

With population growth, increased government regulations to ease congestion and generational shifts in preferences, it is expected that the markets for autonomous vehicles, ride-sharing, vehicle subscription services and micro-mobility services will continue to grow, which could cause a change in the type of vehicles utilized. However, the growth in these areas will be dependent on, among other things, cost and availability to end users, continued establishment of infrastructure and advancements in technological capabilities.

VOLUMES AND OUTLOOK

Our results of operations, financial condition and cash flows are significantly impacted by fluctuations in production volumes on the vehicle programs that we support. The following table represents historical and forecasted light vehicle production volumes in North America as our business is most significantly impacted by production volume fluctuations in this region. As our business is also dependent on certain automotive segments, primarily the light truck, SUV and CUV segments, production volume fluctuations for the light vehicle market as a whole may not necessarily be indicative of the vehicle programs that we support.

[[GREPCENT_TABLE]]
[["","(units in millions, except percentages)"],["","2025 Outlook","","% change","","2024","","% change","","2023"],["North America","15.1","","(2.6)","%","","15.5","","(0.6)","%","","15.6"],["Source: S&P Global Mobility, January 2025"]]
[[/GREPCENT_TABLE]]

Production volumes in North America were flat in 2024, as compared to 2023. We expect production volumes in North America to be approximately 15.1 million units in 2025. We expect volumes in other major geographic regions in which we operate to be flat to modest decreases in 2025, as compared to 2024.

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The discussion of our Results of Operations, Reportable Segments, and Liquidity and Capital Resources for 2023, as compared to 2022, can be found within "Part II - Item 7. Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations" in our 2023 Annual Report on Form 10-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) on February 16, 2024, which discussion is incorporated herein by reference.

RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

NET SALES

[[GREPCENT_TABLE]]
[["","","Year Ended December 31,"],["(in millions)","","2024","","2023","","Change","","Percent Change"],["Net sales","","$","6,124.9","","","$","6,079.5","","","$","45.4","","","0.7","%"]]
[[/GREPCENT_TABLE]]

The increase in net sales in 2024, as compared to 2023, primarily reflects increased production volumes on certain vehicle programs that we support as 2023 sales were negatively impacted by an estimated $99 million associated with the UAW work stoppage that occurred in the second half of 2023. This increase was partially offset by a reduction of approximately $50 million associated with the effect of metal market pass-throughs to our customers and the impact of foreign exchange related to translation adjustments.

COST OF GOODS SOLD

[[GREPCENT_TABLE]]
[["","","Year Ended December 31,"],["(in millions)","","2024","","2023","","Change","","Percent Change"],["Cost of goods sold","","$","5,383.5","","","$","5,455.2","","","$","(71.7)","","","(1.3)","%"]]
[[/GREPCENT_TABLE]]

The change in cost of goods sold primarily reflects a reduction of approximately $49 million associated with the effect of metal market pass-throughs to our customers and the impact of foreign exchange related to translation adjustments, as well as a reduction of approximately $17 million in depreciation expense. In addition, cost of goods sold for the year ended December 31, 2023 reflects approximately $7 million of expense related to a field action with one of our largest customers for a die cast component included in transmission assemblies. For both of the years ended December 31, 2024 and December 31, 2023, material costs were approximately 57% of total cost of goods sold.

GROSS PROFIT

[[GREPCENT_TABLE]]
[["","","Year Ended December 31,"],["(in millions)","","2024","","2023","","Change","","Percent Change"],["Gross profit","","$","741.4","","","$","624.3","","","$","117.1","","","18.8","%"]]
[[/GREPCENT_TABLE]]

Gross margin was 12.1% in 2024 as compared to 10.3% in 2023. Gross profit and gross margin were impacted by the factors discussed in Net sales and Cost of goods sold above.

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SELLING, GENERAL AND ADMINISTRATIVE EXPENSES (SG&A)

[[GREPCENT_TABLE]]
[["","","Year Ended December 31,"],["(in millions)","","2024","","2023","","Change","","Percent Change"],["Selling, general and administrative expenses","","$","387.1","","","$","366.9","","","$","20.2","","","5.5","%"]]
[[/GREPCENT_TABLE]]

SG&A as a percentage of net sales was 6.3% in 2024 as compared to 6.0% in 2023. R&D expense, net of engineering, design and development (ED&D) recoveries, was $159.0 million in 2024, as compared to $155.4 million in 2023. In addition to the increase in net R&D expense, the change in SG&A primarily reflects higher incentive compensation expense and professional fees related to our ongoing tax litigation as further described in Note 13 - Income Taxes.

AMORTIZATION OF INTANGIBLE ASSETS Amortization expense for the year ended December 31, 2024 was $82.9 million as compared to $85.6 million for the year ended December 31, 2023.

IMPAIRMENT CHARGE As a result of the India Sale Agreement, the assets and liabilities associated with this business have met the criteria to be classified as held-for-sale. Upon reclassification to held-for-sale in 2024, we recorded an impairment charge of $12 million to reduce the carrying value of this business to fair value less cost to sell. This impairment charge was primarily driven by approximately $30 million of accumulated currency translation adjustments that were included in the calculation of the carrying value of this business. See Note 2 - Acquisitions and Dispositions for more detail.

RESTRUCTURING AND ACQUISITION-RELATED COSTS Restructuring and acquisition-related costs were $18.0 million in 2024 and $25.2 million in 2023. As part of our restructuring actions, we incurred severance charges of approximately $6.5 million, as well as implementation costs, consisting primarily of plant exit costs, of approximately $3.5 million during 2024. In 2023, we incurred severance charges of approximately $7.2 million, as well as implementation costs, consisting primarily of plant exit costs and professional fees, of approximately $11.1 million. We expect to incur approximately $20 million to $30 million of total restructuring costs in 2025. See Note 12 - Restructuring and Acquisition-Related Costs for further detail.

Also in 2024, we incurred integration charges of $2.3 million as we furthered our integration of Tekfor. This compares to $6.9 million of integration charges incurred in 2023 associated with Tekfor. Integration expenses primarily reflect costs for information technology infrastructure and enterprise resource planning systems, and consulting fees incurred in conjunction with integration activities.

On January 29, 2025, AAM announced the pending Business Combination with Dowlais. We incurred $5.7 million of expense associated with the Business Combination in 2024, primarily related to legal and professional fees. In connection with the Business Combination, we expect to incur significant acquisition-related costs consisting of, among other items, advisory, legal, accounting, valuation and other professional or consulting services. Certain of these costs are expected to be incurred throughout 2025 and a substantial portion of these costs occur at closing, which we currently expect by the end of 2025, subject to approval by both sets of shareholders, regulatory approvals, and satisfaction of customary closing conditions.

OPERATING INCOME Operating income was $241.4 million in 2024 as compared to $146.6 million in 2023. Operating margin was 3.9% in 2024 as compared to 2.4% in 2023. The changes in operating income and operating margin in 2024, as compared to 2023, were primarily due to the factors discussed in Net sales, Cost of goods sold and SG&A above.

INTEREST EXPENSE Interest expense was $186.0 million in 2024 and $201.7 million in 2023. The decrease in interest expense in 2024, as compared to 2023, was primarily due to lower outstanding borrowings as a result of our debt reduction initiatives. The weighted-average interest rate of our total debt outstanding was 6.6% in 2024 and 6.8% in 2023. We expect our interest expense in 2025 to be approximately $170 million to $180 million.

INTEREST INCOME Interest income was $28.1 million in 2024 and $26.2 million in 2023. Interest income primarily includes interest earned on cash and cash equivalents and the deferred payment obligation associated with the sale of our former Casting segment.

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OTHER INCOME (EXPENSE) Following are the components of Other Income (Expense) for 2024 and 2023:

Debt refinancing and redemption costs In 2024, we amended our existing Amended and Restated Credit Agreement and established the New Term Loan B Facility. See Note 4 - Long-Term Debt for further detail on the New Term Loan B Facility. As a result, we incurred approximately $0.2 million of debt refinancing and redemption costs during the year ended December 31, 2024.

In 2024, we voluntarily redeemed the remaining $127.6 million of our 6.25% Notes due 2026. This resulted in expense of approximately $0.4 million for the write-off of the remaining unamortized debt issuance costs that we had been amortizing over the expected life of the borrowing.

In 2023, we made voluntary prepayments totaling $26.0 million on our Term Loan A Facility and $20.2 million on our Term Loan B Facility. As a result, we expensed approximately $1.1 million for the write-off of a portion of the unamortized debt issuance costs that we had been amortizing over the expected life of these borrowings.

Also in 2023, we voluntarily redeemed a portion of our 6.25% Notes due 2026. This resulted in a principal payment of $50.0 million and we expensed approximately $0.2 million for the write-off of a portion of the unamortized debt issuance costs that we had been amortizing over the expected life of this borrowing.

Pension curtailment and settlement charges For the year ended December 31, 2023, we recognized $1.3 million of pension curtailment and settlement charges primarily associated with certain restructuring activities initiated in 2023.

Loss on equity securities We had previously invested in the equity securities of REE Automotive, which were measured at fair value each reporting period with changes in fair value reported as a gain or loss within Other income (expense), net in our Consolidated Statement of Operations. During 2024, we sold all of our remaining equity securities of REE Automotive, resulting in a loss of $0.1 million. We recognized an unrealized loss on our investment in REE shares of $1.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2023.

Other income (expense), net We include the net effect of foreign exchange gains and losses, our proportionate share of earnings from equity in unconsolidated subsidiaries, and all components of net periodic pension and postretirement benefit costs other than service costs in Other income (expense), net, which was expense of $20.0 million in 2024, as compared to income of $8.1 million in 2023. The change in other income (expense), net was primarily driven by changes in foreign exchange gains and losses in the year ended December 31, 2024, as compared to the year ended December 31, 2023.

INCOME TAX EXPENSE Income tax expense was $27.8 million in 2024, as compared to $9.1 million in 2023. Our effective income tax rate was 44.3% in 2024, as compared to (37.1)% in 2023. In the year ended December 31, 2023, we recognized income tax expense of approximately $36.1 million attributable to both increased valuation allowances on disallowed interest expense in the U.S., as well as net income tax expense resulting from various changes in determinations related to the potential realization of deferred tax assets and the resulting establishment of, and release of, valuation allowances in certain non-U.S. jurisdictions. These income tax expenses were partially offset by a net income tax benefit of approximately $26.1 million resulting from various internal reorganization and restructuring actions during 2023, which in turn was partially offset by the associated impact on our foreign derived intangible income and disallowed interest deductions in the U.S.

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In 2024, our effective income tax rate varied from the U.S. federal statutory rate primarily due to tax expense related to global intangible low-taxed income, as well as the impact of certain non-U.S. tax rates and non-U.S. withholding tax, partially offset by the impact of tax credits. Additionally, during the year ended December 31, 2024, we recognized an income tax benefit of $7.9 million as a result of elections made as part of our 2023 income tax return. For the year ended December 31, 2023, our effective income tax rate varies from the U.S. federal statutory rate primarily as a result of the impact of the discrete items noted above, as well as favorable non-U.S. tax rates and the impact of tax credits.

Due to the uncertainty associated with the potential impact of geopolitical conflicts or events, as well as macroeconomic factors, including sustained or increased inflation, renegotiated trade agreements, and tariffs or import restrictions, we may experience lower than projected earnings in certain jurisdictions in future periods and, as a result, it is reasonably possible that changes in valuation allowances could be recognized in future periods and such changes could be material to our financial statements.

NET INCOME (LOSS) AND EARNINGS (LOSS) PER SHARE (EPS) Net income was $35.0 million in 2024 as compared to net loss of $33.6 million in 2023. Diluted earnings per share was $0.29 in 2024 as compared to diluted loss per share of $0.29 in 2023. Net income (loss) and EPS were primarily impacted by the factors discussed above.

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SEGMENT REPORTING

Our business is organized into Driveline and Metal Forming segments, with each representing a reportable segment under Accounting Standards Codification (ASC) 280 - Segment Reporting. The results of each segment are regularly reviewed by the chief operating decision maker to assess the performance of the segment and make decisions regarding the allocation of resources to the segments.

Our product offerings by segment are as follows:

•Driveline products consist primarily of front and rear axles, driveshafts, differential assemblies, clutch modules, balance shaft systems, disconnecting driveline technology, and electric and hybrid driveline products and systems for light trucks, SUVs, CUVs, passenger cars and commercial vehicles; and

•Metal Forming products consist primarily of engine, transmission, driveline and safety-critical components for traditional internal combustion engine and electric vehicle architectures including light vehicles, commercial vehicles and off-highway vehicles, as well as products for industrial markets.

The following tables outline our sales and Segment Adjusted EBITDA for each of our reportable segments for the years ended December 31, 2024, 2023 and 2022 (in millions):

[[GREPCENT_TABLE]]
[["","","Year Ended December 31, 2024"],["","","Driveline","","Metal Forming","","","","","","","","Total"],["Sales","","$","4,253.3","","","$","2,414.3","","","","","","","","","$","6,667.6"],["Less: Intersegment sales","","1.4","","","541.3","","","","","","","","","542.7"],["Net external sales","","$","4,251.9","","","$","1,873.0","","","","","","","","","$","6,124.9"],["Segment adjusted EBITDA","","$","578.2","","","$","171.0","","","","","","","","","$","749.2"]]
[[/GREPCENT_TABLE]]

[[GREPCENT_TABLE]]
[["","","Year Ended December 31, 2023"],["","","Driveline","","Metal Forming","","","","","","","","Total"],["Sales","","$","4,176.7","","","$","2,454.3","","","","","","","","","$","6,631.0"],["Less: Intersegment sales","","0.2","","","551.3","","","","","","","","","551.5"],["Net external sales","","$","4,176.5","","","$","1,903.0","","","","","","","","","$","6,079.5"],["Segment adjusted EBITDA","","$","543.6","","","$","149.7","","","","","","","","","$","693.3"]]
[[/GREPCENT_TABLE]]

[[GREPCENT_TABLE]]
[["","","Year Ended December 31, 2022"],["","","Driveline","","Metal Forming","","","","","","","","Total"],["Sales","","$","4,063.5","","","$","2,280.7","","","","","","","","","$","6,344.2"],["Less: Intersegment sales","","\u2014","","","541.8","","","","","","","","","541.8"],["Net external sales","","$","4,063.5","","","$","1,738.9","","","","","","","","","$","5,802.4"],["Segment adjusted EBITDA","","$","510.9","","","$","236.4","","","","","","","","","$","747.3"]]
[[/GREPCENT_TABLE]]

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The increase in Driveline sales for the year ended December 31, 2024, as compared to the year ended December 31, 2023, primarily reflects increased production volumes on certain vehicle programs that we support, including those associated with program launches in 2024 from our new and incremental business backlog. This was partially offset by a reduction of approximately $35 million associated with the effect of metal market pass-throughs to our customers and the impact of foreign exchange related to translation adjustments.

The change in Metal Forming sales for the year ended December 31, 2024, as compared to the year ended December 31, 2023, was primarily the result of the lower production volumes on certain vehicle programs that we support, as well as a reduction of approximately $15 million associated with the effect of metal market pass-throughs to our customers and the impact of foreign exchange related to translation adjustments. These reductions in sales were partially offset by the timing of commercial recoveries for inflationary costs.

We use Segment Adjusted EBITDA as the measure of earnings to assess the performance of each segment and determine the resources to be allocated to the segments. For the year ended December 31, 2024, as compared to the year ended December 31, 2023, the increase in Segment Adjusted EBITDA for the Driveline segment primarily reflects the impact of increased production volumes on certain vehicle programs that we support, as well as the impact of improved operating performance and lower launch costs. These increases in Segment Adjusted EBITDA for Driveline were partially offset by approximately $25 million of increased SG&A expense primarily resulting from an increase in allocated corporate SG&A expenses in 2024, as compared to 2023.

For the year ended December 31, 2024, as compared to the year ended December 31, 2023, the increase in Segment Adjusted EBITDA for the Metal Forming segment primarily reflects the impact of the timing of commercial recoveries for inflationary costs, partially offset by increased labor costs. In addition, Segment Adjusted EBITDA for the Metal Forming segment was impacted by $7 million of expense in 2023 associated with a warranty-related field action with one of our largest customers and there was no such expense for the year ended December 31, 2024.

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Reconciliation of Non-GAAP and GAAP Information

In addition to results reported in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (GAAP) in this MD&A, we have provided certain non-GAAP financial measures such as EBITDA and Total Segment Adjusted EBITDA. Such information is reconciled to its closest GAAP measure in accordance with Securities and Exchange Commission rules below.

We define EBITDA to be earnings before interest expense, income taxes, depreciation and amortization. Total Segment Adjusted EBITDA is defined as EBITDA for our reportable segments excluding the impact of restructuring and acquisition-related costs, debt refinancing and redemption costs, gains or losses on equity securities, pension curtailment and settlement charges, impairment charges and non-recurring items. We believe that EBITDA and Total Segment Adjusted EBITDA are meaningful measures of performance as they are commonly utilized by management and investors to analyze operating performance and entity valuation. Our management, the investment community and the banking institutions routinely use EBITDA and Total Segment Adjusted EBITDA, together with other measures, to measure our operating performance relative to other Tier 1 automotive suppliers and to assess the relative mix of Adjusted EBITDA by segment. We also believe that Total Segment Adjusted EBITDA is a meaningful measure as it is used for operational planning and decision-making purposes. EBITDA and Total Segment Adjusted EBITDA are also key metrics used in our calculation of incentive compensation. These non-GAAP financial measures are not and should not be considered a substitute for any GAAP measure. Additionally, non-GAAP financial measures as presented by AAM may not be comparable to similarly titled measures reported by other companies.

[[GREPCENT_TABLE]]
[["","Year Ended December 31,"],["","2024","","2023","","2022"],["","(in millions)"],["Net income (loss)","$","35.0","","","$","(33.6)","","","$","64.3"],["Interest expense","186.0","","","201.7","","","174.5"],["Income tax expense","27.8","","","9.1","","","2.0"],["Depreciation and amortization","469.7","","","487.2","","","492.1"],["EBITDA","$","718.5","","","$","664.4","","","$","732.9"],["Restructuring and acquisition-related costs","18.0","","","25.2","","","30.2"],["Debt refinancing and redemption costs","0.6","","","1.3","","","6.4"],["Impairment charge","12.0","","","\u2014","","","\u2014"],["Loss on equity securities","0.1","","","1.1","","","25.5"],["Pension curtailment and settlement charges","\u2014","","","1.3","","","\u2014"],["Non-recurring items:"],["Malvern Fire insurance recoveries, net of charges","\u2014","","","\u2014","","","(39.1)"],["Gain on bargain purchase of business","\u2014","","","\u2014","","","(13.6)"],["Acquisition-related fair value inventory adjustment","\u2014","","","\u2014","","","5.0"],["Total Segment Adjusted EBITDA","$","749.2","","","$","693.3","","","$","747.3"]]
[[/GREPCENT_TABLE]]

40

LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES

Our primary liquidity needs are to fund debt service obligations, capital expenditures, R&D spending, including further development of our electrification product portfolio, and working capital requirements, in addition to advancing our strategic initiatives. At December 31, 2024 we had over $1.5 billion of liquidity consisting of approximately $553 million of cash and cash equivalents, approximately $892 million of available borrowings under our Revolving Credit Facility and approximately $78 million of available borrowings under non-U.S. credit facilities. We have no significant debt maturities before 2027. We believe that operating cash flow, available cash and cash equivalent balances and available borrowing capacity under our Senior Secured Credit Facilities and non-U.S. credit facilities will be sufficient to meet these needs.

OPERATING ACTIVITIES Net cash provided by operating activities was $455.4 million in 2024 as compared to $396.1 million in 2023. The following factors impacted cash provided by operating activities in 2024 as compared to 2023:

Accounts receivable For the year ended December 31, 2024, we experienced an increase in cash flow from operating activities of approximately $63 million related to the change in our accounts receivable balance from December 31, 2023 to December 31, 2024, as compared to the change in our accounts receivable balance from December 31, 2022 to December 31, 2023. This change was primarily the result of timing of sales to customers in the applicable periods, as well as the timing of collections on customer receivables due, in part, to our participation in an early payment program offered by our largest customer. This program allows us to sell certain of our North American receivables from this customer to a third party at our discretion, and we utilize this program from time to time.

Accounts payable and accrued expenses For the year ended December 31, 2024, we experienced a decrease in cash flow from operating activities of approximately $123 million related to the change in our accounts payable and accrued expenses balance from December 31, 2023 to December 31, 2024, as compared to the change in our accounts payable and accrued expenses balance from December 31, 2022 to December 31, 2023. This change was primarily attributable to the timing of payments to suppliers within the applicable periods.

Interest paid Interest paid in 2024 was $184.6 million as compared to $186.4 million in 2023. See Note 4 - Long-Term Debt for additional detail.

Income taxes Income taxes paid, net was $49.5 million in 2024, as compared to $54.9 million in 2023. In 2023, we paid $10.1 million as a result of the Notice of Tax Due that was received from the Internal Revenue Service in the fourth quarter of 2022. See Note 13 - Income Taxes for additional detail regarding the Notice of Tax Due.

As of December 31, 2024 and December 31, 2023, we have recorded a liability for unrecognized income tax benefits and related interest and penalties of $34.2 million and $38.1 million, respectively.

Restructuring and acquisition-related costs We incurred $18.0 million and $25.2 million of charges related to restructuring and acquisition-related costs in 2024 and 2023, respectively, and a significant portion of these charges were cash charges. In 2025, we expect restructuring payments in cash flows from operating activities to be between $20 million and $30 million for the full year in conjunction with our ongoing restructuring program and we expect the timing of cash payments to approximate the timing of charges incurred.

In connection with the Business Combination, we expect to incur significant acquisition-related costs consisting of, among other items, advisory, legal, accounting, valuation and other professional or consulting services. Certain of these costs are expected to be incurred throughout 2025 and a substantial portion of these costs occur at closing, which we currently expect by the end of 2025, subject to approval by both sets of shareholders, regulatory approvals, and satisfaction of customary closing conditions.

41

Pension and other postretirement benefits (OPEB) Our cash payments for OPEB, net of GM cost sharing, were $8.7 million in 2024 and $12.5 million in 2023. This compares to our annual postretirement credit of $1.9 million in 2024 and annual postretirement cost of $1.3 million in 2023. We expect our cash payments for OPEB obligations in 2025, net of GM cost sharing, to be approximately $11.6 million.

Due to the availability of our pre-funded pension balances (previous contributions in excess of prior required pension contributions), we expect our regulatory pension funding requirements in 2025 to be approximately $1.1 million.

Other assets and liabilities For the year ended December 31, 2023, we experienced an increase in cash flow from operating activities of $27.2 million related to our variable-to-fixed interest rate swaps which were discontinued in the third quarter of 2023 and were in an asset position on the date that they were discontinued.

Malvern Fire In 2023, we received $24.0 million of cash reimbursements and advances under our insurance policies, of which $7.0 million was associated with operating expenses incurred as a result of the Malvern Fire that occurred in 2020 and have been presented as an operating cash inflow in our Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows for the period. See Note 16 - Manufacturing Facility Fire and Insurance Recovery for additional detail.

INVESTING ACTIVITIES For the year ended December 31, 2024, net cash used in investing activities was $254.8 million as compared to $184.5 million for the year ended December 31, 2023. Capital expenditures were $248.0 million in 2024 and $194.6 million in 2023. We expect our capital spending in 2025 to be approximately 5% of sales, which includes support for our global program launches in 2025 and 2026 within our new and incremental business backlog, as well as program capacity increases and future launches of replacement programs.

In 2023, we received $17.0 million of cash associated with machinery and equipment that was damaged or destroyed as a result of the Malvern Fire. This cash received has been classified as investing cash inflows based on the nature of the associated loss incurred.

In October 2024, we entered into the India Sale Agreement and the transaction is expected to close in the first half of 2025, subject to customary closing conditions, including the receipt of regulatory approvals. Upon closing, we expect to collect the sales price of $65 million in cash, subject to certain customary adjustments at closing.

On January 29, 2025, AAM announced that we reached agreement with the Board of Directors of Dowlais on the terms of a recommended cash and share offer to be made by AAM to acquire the entire issued and to be issued ordinary share capital of Dowlais for approximately $1.44 billion in cash and AAM shares. Dowlais shareholders will be entitled to receive for each share of Dowlais’ common stock: 0.0863 shares of new AAM common stock, 42 pence per share in cash (approximately $0.52 per share) and up to 2.8 pence (approximately $0.035 per share) of Dowlais fiscal year 2024 final dividend prior to closing. The transaction is expected to close by the end of 2025, subject to approval by both sets of shareholders, regulatory approvals, and satisfaction of customary closing conditions.

FINANCING ACTIVITIES Net cash used in financing activities was $156.2 million in 2024, compared to net cash used in financing activities of $205.5 million in 2023. Total debt outstanding, net of debt issuance costs, was $2,624.8 million at year-end 2024 and $2,768.9 million at year-end 2023. The change in total debt outstanding, net of issuance costs, at year-end 2024, as compared to year-end 2023, was primarily due to the factors noted below.

Senior Secured Credit Facilities American Axle & Manufacturing Holdings, Inc. (Holdings) and American Axle & Manufacturing, Inc. (AAM, Inc.) are parties to an amended and restated credit agreement that was entered into on March 11, 2022 and amended on December 13, 2022, June 28, 2023 and May 16, 2024 (as so amended, the Amended and Restated Credit Agreement) which provides for a term loan A facility (the Term Loan A Facility), term loan B facility (the Term Loan B Facility) and a multi-currency revolving credit facility (the Revolving Credit Facility and together with the Term Loan A Facility and the Term Loan B Facility, the Senior Secured Credit Facilities).

42

On May 16, 2024, Holdings and AAM, Inc. entered into a refinancing facility agreement (the Refinancing Facility Agreement), that established a new Term Loan B Facility of $648.0 million (the New Term Loan B Facility) and amended the Amended and Restated Credit Agreement to, among other things, update the applicable interest rate on the New Term Loan B Facility. The proceeds from the New Term Loan B Facility, together with $2.2 million cash on hand, were used to a) prepay the entire principal amount of the then-outstanding Term Loan B Facility, b) pay all accrued and unpaid interest due under the then-outstanding Term Loan B Facility and c) pay fees, costs and expenses payable in connection with the refinancing of the Term Loan B Facility. The New Term Loan B Facility will mature on December 13, 2029 (TLB Maturity), subject to a springing maturity that will apply if, on any date prior to the TLB Maturity, any of AAM's senior notes exceed $250 million outstanding within 91 days of the maturity date of such senior notes. In connection with the Refinancing Facility Agreement, we paid $1.7 million of debt refinancing costs and paid accrued interest of $0.5 million relating to the Term Loan B Facility. The terms of the Term Loan A Facility and the Revolving Credit Facility under the Amended and Restated Credit Agreement, including their respective interest rates and maturity dates in the first quarter of 2027, remain unchanged.

On June 28, 2023, Holdings and AAM, Inc. entered into the First Amendment to the Amended and Restated Credit Agreement (the First Amendment), which, among other things, increased the maximum levels of the total net leverage ratio covenant and reduced the minimum levels of cash interest expense coverage ratio covenant for the period from June 28, 2023 through the filing of our second quarter 2024 results, subject to certain conditions (the Amendment Period), modified certain categories of the applicable margin (determined based on the total net leverage ratio of Holdings) for the duration of the Amendment Period with respect to interest rates under the Term Loan A Facility and the Revolving Credit Facility, and modified certain covenants restricting the ability of Holdings, AAM, Inc. and certain subsidiaries of Holdings to create, incur, assume, or permit to exist certain additional indebtedness and liens and to make or agree to pay or make certain restricted payments, voluntary payments and distributions. As of the date of the First Amendment, the terms of the then-outstanding Term Loan B Facility under the Amended and Restated Credit Agreement, including maturity dates, interest rates and their applicable margins, remained unchanged. We paid debt issuance costs of $3.2 million for the year ended December 31, 2023 related to the First Amendment. The Amendment Period is no longer in effect following the filing of our second quarter 2024 results in August 2024.

At December 31, 2024, $892.2 million was available under the Revolving Credit Facility. This availability reflects a reduction of $32.8 million for standby letters of credit issued against the facility. The proceeds of the Revolving Credit Facility are used for general corporate purposes.

In 2023, we made voluntary prepayments totaling $26.0 million on our Term Loan A Facility and $20.2 million on our Term Loan B Facility. As a result, we expensed approximately $1.1 million for the write-off of a portion of the unamortized debt issuance costs that we had been amortizing over the expected life of these borrowings.

The Senior Secured Credit Facilities provide back-up liquidity for our non-U.S.credit facilities. We intend to use the availability of long-term financing under the Senior Secured Credit Facilities to refinance any current maturities related to such debt agreements that are not otherwise refinanced on a long-term basis in their local markets, except where otherwise reclassified to Current portion of long-term debt on our Consolidated Balance Sheet.

Redemption of 6.25% Notes due 2026 During the year ended December 31, 2024, we voluntarily redeemed and repurchased the remaining portion of our 6.25% Notes due 2026. This resulted in principal payments totaling $127.6 million and $2.2 million in accrued interest. We also expensed approximately $0.4 million for the write-off of the remaining unamortized debt issuance costs that we had been amortizing over the expected life of the borrowing.

In the fourth quarter of 2023, we voluntarily redeemed a portion of our 6.25% Notes due 2026. This resulted in a principal payment of $50.0 million and $0.9 million in accrued interest. We also expensed approximately $0.2 million for the write-off of a portion of the unamortized debt issuance costs that we had been amortizing over the expected life of the borrowing. In the fourth quarter of 2023, we also completed an open market repurchase of our 6.25% Notes due 2026 of $2.4 million.

Non-U.S. Credit Facilities We utilize local currency credit facilities to finance the operations of certain non-U.S. subsidiaries. These credit facilities, some of which are guaranteed by Holdings and/or AAM, Inc., expire at various dates through September 2028. At December 31, 2024, $27.6 million was outstanding under our non-U.S. credit facilities and an additional $78.2 million was available. At December 31, 2023, $51.8 million was outstanding under these facilities and an additional $84.7 million was available.

43

Financing Related to the Pending Combination with Dowlais In connection with the Business Combination, Holdings and AAM, Inc., entered into a credit agreement (the Backstop Credit Agreement) pursuant to which, subject to the terms and conditions set forth therein, the lenders party thereto agreed to provide AAM, Inc. with: (i) $484.25 million in Tranche A Term Loans; (ii) $1,491.0 million in Tranche B Term Loans; and (iii) $1,250.0 million in revolving loans. Additionally, and in connection with the Business Combination, on January 29, 2025, Holdings and AAM, Inc. entered into: (i) a First Lien Bridge Credit Agreement pursuant to which the lenders party thereto have agreed to provide AAM, Inc. with a $843.0 million interim loan facility (the First Lien Bridge Facility); and (ii) a Second Lien Bridge Credit Agreement pursuant to which the lenders party thereto have agreed to provide AAM, Inc. with a $500.0 million interim loan facility (the Second Lien Bridge Facility and together with the First Lien Bridge Facility, the Bridge Facilities). The proceeds of the commitments provided under the Backstop Credit Agreement and Bridge Facilities, or of other permanent financing that replaces such facilities, which may include the issuance of debt securities and/or one or more senior term loan facilities, will be used, among other things, to finance the cash consideration payable to Dowlais shareholders pursuant to the Business Combination and expenses payable in connection with the Business Combination (including debt refinancing costs) and to refinance borrowings under the Amended and Restated Credit Agreement in full.

Treasury stock Treasury stock increased by $2.8 million in 2024 to $235.7 million, as compared to $232.9 million at year-end 2023, due to the withholding and repurchase of shares of AAM stock to satisfy employee tax withholding obligations due upon the vesting of stock-based compensation.

Credit ratings To access public debt capital markets, the Company relies on credit rating agencies to assign short-term and long-term credit ratings to our securities as an indicator of credit quality for fixed income investors. A credit rating agency may change or withdraw its ratings based on its assessment of our current and future ability to meet interest and principal repayment obligations. Credit ratings may affect our cost of borrowing and/or our access to debt capital markets. The credit ratings and outlook currently assigned to our securities by the rating agencies are as follows:

[[GREPCENT_TABLE]]
[["","Corporate Family Rating","Senior Unsecured Notes Rating","Senior Secured Notes Rating","Outlook"],["Standard & Poor's","BB-","B+","BB+","Stable"],["Moody's Investors Services","B1","B2","Ba1","Stable"]]
[[/GREPCENT_TABLE]]

Dividend program We have not declared or paid any cash dividends on our common stock in 2024 or 2023.

Contractual obligations Our contractual obligations consist primarily of: 1) current and long-term debt; 2) operating and finance lease obligations; 3) obligated purchase commitments for capital expenditures and related project expense; 4) pension and other postretirement benefit obligations, net of GM cost sharing; and 5) interest obligations. Information regarding expected payments by period can be found in Item 8, "Financial Statements and Supplementary Data" in this Form 10-K at Note 4 - Long-Term Debt for our current and long-term debt obligations, Note 15 - Leasing for our operating and finance lease obligations, Note 10 - Commitments and Contingencies for purchase commitments related to capital expenditures and project expense, and Note 8 - Employee Benefit Plans for pension and other postretirement benefit obligations.

The expected future interest obligations associated with our current and long-term debt and finance lease obligations are approximately as follows: $176 million in 2025, $172 million in 2026, $123 million in 2027, $95 million in 2028, $73 million in 2029, and $11 million in 2030 and thereafter.

44

Subsidiary Guarantees of Registered Debt Securities Our 6.875% Notes, 6.50% Notes and 5.00% Notes (collectively, the Notes) are senior unsecured obligations of AAM, Inc. (Issuer); all of which are fully and unconditionally guaranteed, on a joint and several basis, by Holdings and substantially all domestic subsidiaries of AAM, Inc. and MPG Inc. (Subsidiary Guarantors). Holdings has no significant assets other than its 100% ownership in AAM, Inc. and MPG Inc., and no direct subsidiaries other than AAM, Inc. and MPG Inc.

Each guarantee by Holdings and/or any of the Subsidiary Guarantors is:

•a senior obligation of the relevant Subsidiary Guarantors;

•the unsecured and unsubordinated obligation of the relevant Subsidiary Guarantors; and

•of equal rank with all other existing and future unsubordinated and unsecured indebtedness of the relevant Subsidiary Guarantors.

Each guarantee by a Subsidiary Guarantor provides by its terms that it will be automatically, fully and unconditionally released and discharged upon:

•any sale, exchange or transfer (by merger or otherwise) of the capital stock of such Subsidiary Guarantor, or the sale or disposition of all the assets of such Subsidiary Guarantor, which sale, exchange, transfer or disposition is made in compliance with the applicable provisions of the indentures;

•the exercise by the issuer of its legal defeasance option or covenant defeasance option or the discharge of the issuer’s obligations under the indentures in accordance with the terms of the indentures; or

•the election of the issuer to affect such a release following the date that such guaranteed Notes have an investment grade rating from both Standard & Poor's Ratings Group, Inc, and Moody's Investors Service, Inc.

The following represents summarized financial information of Holdings, AAM, Inc. and the Subsidiary Guarantors (collectively, the Combined Entities). The information has been prepared on a combined basis and excludes any investments of AAM Holdings, AAM, Inc., or the Subsidiary Guarantors in non-guarantor subsidiaries. Intercompany transactions and amounts between Combined Entities have been eliminated.

[[GREPCENT_TABLE]]
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[[/GREPCENT_TABLE]]

At December 31, 2024 and December 31, 2023, amounts owed by the Combined Entities to non-guarantor entities totaled approximately $15 million and $1,090 million, respectively, and amounts owed to the Combined Entities from non-guarantor entities totaled approximately $380 million and $580 million, respectively. The reduction in the amounts owed by the Combined Entities to non-guarantor entities, and the associated reduction in Current liabilities at December 31, 2024, as compared to December 31, 2023, was the result of the implementation of certain actions to reorganize our global operating structure effective at the end of 2023 and a corresponding change to our Subsidiary Guarantors.

45

CYCLICALITY AND SEASONALITY

Our operations are cyclical because they are directly related to worldwide automotive production, which is itself cyclical and dependent on general economic conditions and other factors. Typically, our business is also moderately seasonal as our major OEM customers historically have an extended shutdown of operations (normally 1-2 weeks) in conjunction with their model year changeover and an approximate one-week shutdown in the month of December. Our major OEM customers also occasionally have longer shutdowns of operations for program changeovers. Accordingly, our quarterly results may reflect these trends.

LEGAL PROCEEDINGS

See Note 13 - Income Taxes and Note 10 - Commitments and Contingencies in Item 8, "Financial Statements and Supplementary Data" for discussion of legal proceedings and the effect on AAM.

EFFECT OF NEW ACCOUNTING STANDARDS

See Note 1 - Organization and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies in Item 8, "Financial Statements and Supplementary Data" for discussion of new accounting standards and the effect on AAM.

CRITICAL ACCOUNTING ESTIMATES

In order to prepare consolidated financial statements in conformity with GAAP, we are required to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts and disclosures in our consolidated financial statements. These estimates are subject to an inherent degree of uncertainty and actual results could differ from our estimates.

Other items in our consolidated financial statements require estimation. In our judgment, they are not as critical as those disclosed below. We have discussed and reviewed our critical accounting estimates disclosure with the Audit Committee of our Board of Directors.

VALUATION OF DEFERRED TAX ASSETS AND OTHER TAX LIABILITIES Because we operate in many different geographic locations, including several non-U.S., state and local tax jurisdictions, the evaluation of our ability to use all recognized deferred tax assets is complex. In accordance with ASC 740 - Income Taxes, we review the likelihood that we will realize the benefit of deferred tax assets and estimate whether recoverability of our deferred tax assets is “more likely than not,” based on forecasts of taxable income in the related tax jurisdictions. In determining the requirement for a valuation allowance, the historical results, projected future operating results based upon approved business plans, eligible carry forward periods, and tax planning opportunities are considered, along with other relevant positive and negative evidence. If, based upon available evidence, it is more likely than not the deferred tax assets will not be realized, a valuation allowance is recorded.

As of December 31, 2024, we have a valuation allowance of approximately $288.8 million related to net deferred tax assets in several non-U.S. jurisdictions and U.S. federal, state and local jurisdictions. As of December 31, 2023 and 2022, our valuation allowance was $267.1 million and $217.5 million, respectively.

If, in the future, we generate taxable income on a sustained basis in non-U.S. and U.S. federal, state and local jurisdictions for which we have recorded valuation allowances, our current estimate of the recoverability of our deferred tax assets could change and result in the future reversal of some or all of the valuation allowance. While we believe we have made appropriate valuations of our deferred tax assets, unforeseen changes in tax legislation, regulatory activities, audit results, operating results, financing strategies, organization structure and other related matters may result in material changes in our deferred tax asset valuation allowances or our tax liabilities.

Further, due to the uncertainty associated with the potential impact of geopolitical conflicts or events, as well as macroeconomic factors, including sustained or increased inflation, renegotiated trade agreements, and tariffs or import restrictions, we may experience lower than projected earnings in certain jurisdictions in future periods and, as a result, it is reasonably possible that changes in valuation allowances could be recognized in future periods and such changes could be material to our financial statements.

46

Unrecognized Income Tax Benefits

We record uncertain tax positions on the basis of a two-step process whereby: (1) we determine whether it is "more likely than not" that the tax positions will be sustained based on the technical merits of the position: and (2) for those positions that meet the "more likely than not" recognition threshold, we recognize the largest amount of tax benefit that is greater than 50% likely to be realized upon ultimate settlement with the related tax authority. We record interest and penalties on uncertain tax positions in income tax expense (benefit). As of December 31, 2024 and 2023, we had a liability for unrecognized income tax benefits and related interest and penalties of $34.2 million and $38.1 million, respectively. We continue to monitor the progress and conclusions of all ongoing audits and other communications with tax authorities and adjust our estimated liability as necessary.

Other Income Tax Matters - Pending Tax Litigation

We operate in multiple jurisdictions throughout the world and the income tax returns of several subsidiaries in various tax jurisdictions are currently under examination. During their examination of our 2015 U.S. federal income tax return, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) asserted that income earned by a Luxembourg subsidiary from its Mexican branch operations should be categorized as foreign base company sales income (FBCSI) under Section 954(d) of the Internal Revenue Code and recognized currently as taxable income on our 2015 U.S. federal income tax return. As a result of this assertion, the IRS issued a Notice of Proposed Adjustment (NOPA). AAM disagreed with the NOPA, believes that the proposed adjustment is without merit and contested the matter through the IRS's administrative appeals process. No resolution was reached in the appeals process and, in September 2022, the IRS issued a Notice of Deficiency. The IRS subsequently issued a Notice of Tax Due in December 2022 and AAM paid the assessed tax and interest of $10.1 million in January 2023. We filed a claim for refund for the amount of tax and interest paid related to this matter for the 2015 tax year and, in December 2023, we filed suit in the U.S. Court of Federal Claims.

We believe, after consultation with tax and legal counsel, that it is more likely than not that our structure did not give rise to FBCSI, and it's likely that we will be successful in ultimately defending our position. As such, we have not recorded any impact of the IRS’s proposed adjustment in our consolidated financial statements as of, and for the years ended, December 31, 2024 and December 31, 2023, with the exception of the cash payment and associated income tax receivable of $10.1 million paid by AAM to the IRS in 2023. As of December 31, 2024, in the event AAM is not successful in defending its position, the potential additional income tax expense, including estimated interest charges, related to tax years 2015 through 2023, is estimated to be in the range of approximately $315 million to $365 million.

In July 2024, the IRS issued to AAM additional NOPAs for this matter for each of the tax years 2016 through 2019. The issuance of these NOPAs does not impact the aforementioned estimated range of potential income tax expense and interest charges and does not alter AAM’s belief that it is more likely than not that our structure did not give rise to FBCSI and that it’s likely that we will be successful in ultimately defending our position.

47

PENSION AND OTHER POSTRETIREMENT BENEFITS In calculating our assets, liabilities and expenses related to pension and OPEB, key assumptions include the discount rate, expected long-term rates of return on plan assets, mortality projections and rates of increase in health care costs.

The discount rates used in the valuation of our U.S. pension and OPEB obligations were based on an actuarial review of a hypothetical portfolio of long-term, high quality corporate bonds matched against the expected payment stream for each of our plans. In 2024, the weighted-average discount rates determined on that basis were 5.65% for the valuation of our pension benefit obligations and 5.70% for the valuation of our OPEB obligations. The discount rates used in the valuations of our non-U.S. pension obligations were based on hypothetical yield curves developed from corporate bond yield information within each regional market. In 2024, the weighted-average discount rate determined on that basis was 4.95% for our non-U.S. plans. The expected weighted-average long-term rates of return on our plan assets were 6.75% for our U.S. plans, and 5.80% for our non-U.S. plans in 2024.

We developed these rates of return assumptions based on future capital market expectations for the asset classes represented within our portfolio and a review of long-term historical returns. The asset allocation for our plans was developed in consideration of the demographics of the plan participants and expected payment stream of the liability. Our investment policy allocates approximately 25% - 35% of the U.S. plan assets to equity securities, with the remainder invested in fixed income securities, hedge fund investments and cash. The rates of increase in health care costs are based on current market conditions, inflationary expectations and historical information.

All of our assumptions were developed in consultation with our actuarial service providers. While we believe that we have selected reasonable assumptions for the valuation of our pension and OPEB obligations at year-end 2024, actual trends could result in materially different valuations. The effect on our pension plans of a 0.5% decrease in both the discount rate and expected return on assets is shown below as of December 31, 2024, our valuation date.

[[GREPCENT_TABLE]]
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[[/GREPCENT_TABLE]]

No changes in benefit levels or in the amortization of gains or losses have been assumed.

For 2025, we assumed a weighted-average annual increase in the per-capita cost of covered health care benefits of 6.8% for OPEB. The rate is assumed to decrease gradually to 5.0% by 2034 and remain at that level thereafter. A 0.5% decrease in the discount rate for our OPEB would have increased total expense in 2024 and the postretirement obligation, net of GM cost sharing, at December 31, 2024 by $0.4 million and $7.8 million, respectively. A 1.0% increase in the assumed health care trend rate would have increased total service and interest cost in 2024 and the postretirement obligation, net of GM cost sharing, at December 31, 2024 by $0.7 million and $11.9 million, respectively.

AAM and GM share in the cost of OPEB for eligible retirees proportionally based on the length of service an employee had with AAM and GM. We estimate the future cost sharing payments and present it as an asset on our Consolidated Balance Sheet. As of December 31, 2024, we estimated $120.4 million in future GM cost sharing. If, in the future, GM were unable to fulfill this financial obligation, our OPEB obligations could be different than our current estimates.

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GOODWILL We record goodwill when the purchase price of acquired businesses exceeds the value of their identifiable net tangible and intangible assets acquired. We periodically evaluate goodwill for impairment in accordance with the accounting guidance for goodwill and other indefinite-lived intangibles that are not amortized. We review our goodwill for impairment annually during the fourth quarter. In addition, we review goodwill for impairment whenever adverse events or changes in circumstances indicate a possible impairment.

This review is performed at the reporting unit level, and involves a comparison of the fair value of the reporting unit with its carrying amount, including goodwill. If the fair value of the reporting unit exceeds its carrying amount, goodwill of the reporting unit is not considered impaired. If the carrying amount of the reporting unit exceeds its fair value, an impairment loss is recognized in an amount equal to the excess carrying value over fair value.

In performing goodwill impairment testing, we utilize a third-party valuation specialist to assist management in determining the fair value of our reporting units. Fair value of each reporting unit is estimated based on a combination of discounted cash flows and the use of pricing multiples derived from an analysis of comparable public companies multiplied against historical and/or anticipated financial metrics of each reporting unit. These calculations contain uncertainties as they require management to make assumptions including, but not limited to, market comparables, future cash flows of the reporting units, and appropriate discount and long-term growth rates. A decline in the actual cash flows of our reporting units in future periods, as compared to the projected cash flows used in our valuations, could result in the carrying value of the reporting units exceeding their respective fair values. Further, a change in market comparables, discount rate or long-term growth rate, as a result of a change in economic conditions or otherwise, could result in the carrying values of the reporting units exceeding their respective fair values.

Our business is organized into two segments: Driveline and Metal Forming. Under the goodwill guidance, we determined that each of our segments represents a reporting unit. The determination of our reporting units and impairment indicators also require us to make significant judgments. At December 31, 2024 all goodwill was associated with our Driveline reporting unit. As a result of our goodwill impairment test completed in the fourth quarter of 2024, we determined that the fair value of our Driveline reporting unit exceeded its carrying value by approximately 40%. See Note 3 - Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets for further detail regarding our goodwill.

IMPAIRMENT OF LONG-LIVED ASSETS Long-lived assets, excluding goodwill, to be held and used are reviewed for impairment whenever adverse events or changes in circumstances indicate a possible impairment. Recoverability of each “held for use” asset group affected by impairment indicators is determined by comparing the forecasted undiscounted cash flows of the operations to which the assets relate to their carrying amount. If the carrying amount of an asset group exceeds the undiscounted cash flows and is therefore not recoverable, the assets in this group are written down to their estimated fair value. We estimate fair value based on market prices, when available, or on a discounted cash flow analysis. Long-lived assets held for sale are recorded at the lower of their carrying amount or fair value less cost to sell. Significant judgments and estimates used by management when evaluating long-lived assets for impairment include:

•An assessment as to whether an adverse event or circumstance has triggered the need for an impairment review;

•Determination of asset groups, the primary asset within each group, and the primary asset's average estimated useful life;

•Undiscounted future cash flows generated by the assets; and

•Determination of fair value when an impairment is deemed to exist, which may require assumptions related to future general economic conditions, future expected production volumes, product pricing and cost estimates, working capital and capital investment requirements, discount rates and estimated liquidation values.

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PRODUCT WARRANTY We record a liability and related charge to cost of goods sold for estimated warranty obligations at the dates our products are sold or when specific warranty issues are identified. Product warranties not expected to be paid within one year are recorded as a noncurrent liability on our Consolidated Balance Sheet. Our estimated warranty obligations for products sold are based on significant management estimates, with input from our warranty, sales, engineering, quality and legal departments. For products and customers with actual warranty payment experience, we estimate warranty costs principally based on past claims history. For certain products and customers, actual warranty payment experience does not exist or is not mature. In these cases, we estimate our costs based on the contractual arrangements with our customers, existing customers' warranty program terms and internal and external warranty data, which includes a determination of our responsibility for potential warranty issues or claims and estimates of repair costs. We actively study trends of our warranty claims and take action to improve product quality and minimize warranty claims. We continuously evaluate these estimates and our customers' administration of their warranty programs. We closely monitor actual warranty claim data and adjust the liability, as necessary, on a quarterly basis.

In addition to our ordinary warranty provisions with our customers, we may be responsible for certain costs associated with product recalls and field actions, which are recorded at the time our obligation is probable and can be reasonably estimated. In 2023, we recorded $7 million of expense related to a field action with one of our largest customers for a die cast component included in transmission assemblies. We reached agreement on this field action with our customer in the fourth quarter of 2023 and paid this amount in 2024.

Our warranty accrual was $60.6 million as of December 31, 2024 and $66.3 million as of December 31, 2023. During 2024 and 2023, we made adjustments to our warranty accrual to reflect revised estimates regarding our projected future warranty obligations. Actual experience could differ from the amounts estimated requiring adjustments to these liabilities in future periods. It is possible that changes in our assumptions or future warranty issues could materially affect our financial position and results of operations.

ACCOUNTING FOR ACQUISITIONS On January 29, 2025, AAM announced that we reached agreement with the Board of Directors of Dowlais on the terms of a recommended cash and share offer to be made by AAM to acquire the entire issued and to be issued ordinary share capital of Dowlais for approximately $1.44 billion in cash and AAM shares. Upon successful consummation of this combination, we will be subject to the accounting guidance as prescribed by ASC 805 - Business Combinations. We are required to allocate the purchase price of an acquired business to its identifiable assets and liabilities based on fair value. The excess purchase price over the fair value of identifiable assets and liabilities, if any, is recorded as goodwill. Determining the fair values of assets acquired and liabilities assumed, especially with regard to intangible assets, requires significant levels of estimates and assumptions made by management. In order to assist management, we utilize third party valuation experts in determining the fair values.

If the initial accounting for an acquisition is incomplete by the end of the reporting period in which the acquisition occurs, we record provisional amounts for the incomplete items. We have the ability to make measurement period adjustments, as necessary, to reflect new information obtained about facts and circumstances that existed as of the acquisition date that, if known, would have affected the measurement of the amounts recognized on the date of acquisition. The measurement period ends once we receive the information that was not obtainable as of the acquisition date, and should not exceed one year from the acquisition date.

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Forward-Looking Statements

In this MD&A and elsewhere in this Form 10-K (Annual Report), we make statements concerning our expectations, beliefs, plans, objectives, goals, strategies, and future events or performance. Such statements are “forward-looking” statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and relate to trends and events that may affect our future financial position and operating results. The terms such as “will,” “may,” “could,” “would,” “plan,” “believe,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “intend,” “project,” "target," and similar words or expressions, as well as statements in future tense, are intended to identify forward-looking statements.

Forward-looking statements should not be read as a guarantee of future performance or results and will not necessarily be accurate indications of the times at, or by, which such performance or results will be achieved. Forward-looking statements are based on information available at the time those statements are made and/or management’s good faith belief as of that time with respect to future events and are subject to risks and may differ materially from those expressed in or suggested by the forward-looking statements. Important factors that could cause such differences include, but are not limited to:

•global economic conditions, including the impact of inflation, recession or recessionary concerns, or slower growth in the markets in which we operate;

•reduced purchases of our products by General Motors Company (GM), Stellantis N.V. (Stellantis), Ford Motor Company (Ford) or other customers;

•our ability to respond to changes in technology, increased competition or pricing pressures;

•our ability to develop and produce new products that reflect market demand;

•lower-than-anticipated market acceptance of new or existing products;

•our ability to attract new customers and programs for new products;

•reduced demand for our customers' products (particularly light trucks and sport utility vehicles (SUVs) produced by GM, Stellantis and Ford);

•our ability to consummate strategic initiatives and successfully integrate acquisitions and joint ventures;

•risks inherent in our global operations (including tariffs and the potential consequences thereof to us, our suppliers, and our customers and their suppliers, adverse changes in trade agreements, such as the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), compliance with customs and trade regulations, immigration policies, political stability or geopolitical conflicts, taxes and other law changes, potential disruptions of production and supply, and currency rate fluctuations);

•supply shortages and the availability of natural gas or other fuel and utility sources in certain regions, labor shortages, including increased labor costs, or price increases in raw material and/or freight, utilities or other operating supplies for us or our customers as a result of pandemic or epidemic illness, geopolitical conflicts, natural disasters or otherwise;

•a significant disruption in operations at one or more of our key manufacturing facilities;

•risks inherent in transitioning our business from internal combustion engine vehicle products to hybrid and electric vehicle products;

•our ability to realize the expected revenues from our new and incremental business backlog;

•negative or unexpected tax consequences, including those resulting from tax litigation;

•risks related to a failure of our information technology systems and networks, including cloud-based applications, and risks associated with current and emerging technology threats, and damage from computer viruses, unauthorized access, cyber attacks, including increasingly sophisticated cyber attacks incorporating use of artificial intelligence, and other similar disruptions;

•our suppliers', our customers' and their suppliers' ability to maintain satisfactory labor relations and avoid or minimize work stoppages;

•cost or availability of financing for working capital, capital expenditures, research and development (R&D) or other general corporate purposes including acquisitions, as well as our ability to comply with financial covenants;

•our customers' and suppliers' availability of financing for working capital, capital expenditures, R&D or other general corporate purposes;

•an impairment of our goodwill, other intangible assets, or long-lived assets if our business or market conditions indicate that the carrying values of those assets exceed their fair values;

•liabilities arising from warranty claims, product recall or field actions, product liability and legal proceedings to which we are or may become a party, or the impact of product recall or field actions on our customers;

•our ability or our customers' and suppliers' ability to successfully launch new product programs on a timely basis;

•risks of environmental issues, including impacts of climate-related events, that could result in unforeseen issues or costs at our facilities, or risks of noncompliance with environmental laws and regulations, including reputational damage;

•our ability to maintain satisfactory labor relations and avoid work stoppages;

•our ability to achieve the level of cost reductions required to sustain global cost competitiveness or our ability to recover certain cost increases from our customers;

•price volatility in, or reduced availability of, fuel;

•our ability to protect our intellectual property and successfully defend against assertions made against us;

•adverse changes in laws, government regulations or market conditions affecting our products or our customers' products;

•our ability or our customers' and suppliers' ability to comply with regulatory requirements and the potential costs of such compliance;

•changes in liabilities arising from pension and other postretirement benefit obligations;

•our ability to attract and retain qualified personnel in key positions and functions; and

•other unanticipated events and conditions that may hinder our ability to compete.

It is not possible to foresee or identify all such factors and we make no commitment to update any forward-looking statement or to disclose any facts, events or circumstances after the date hereof that may affect the accuracy of any forward-looking statement.

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