grepcent / static financial knowledge base

Eaton Corp plc (ETN)

CIK: 0001551182. SIC: 3590 Misc Industrial & Commercial Machinery & Equipment. Latest 10-K as of: 2026-02-26.

SIC breadcrumb: Manufacturing > Industrial And Commercial Machinery And Computer Equipment > SIC 3590 Misc Industrial & Commercial Machinery & Equipment

SEC company page: https://www.sec.gov/edgar/browse/?CIK=1551182. Latest filing source: 0001551182-26-000007.

Informational only - descriptive public-record data, not investment advice.

Selected Fundamentals

MetricValueUnitFYFiled
Revenue27,448,000,000USD20252026-02-26
Net income4,087,000,000USD20252026-02-26
Assets41,251,000,000USD20252026-02-26

Financials

Annual standardized facts from SEC companyfacts as of latest extracted filing date 2026-02-26. Source: https://data.sec.gov/api/xbrl/companyfacts/CIK0001551182.json. Derived margins, ratios, and free cash flow are computed from the extracted annual SEC facts.

Flow metrics use full-year FY periods from 10-K/10-K/A filings; balance-sheet metrics use FY-end instants. Free cash flow = operating cash flow - capital expenditures. Missing metrics are omitted rather than fabricated.

Metric201120122016201720182019202020212022202320242025
Revenue19,747,000,00020,404,000,00021,609,000,00021,390,000,00017,858,000,00019,628,000,00020,752,000,00023,196,000,00024,878,000,00027,448,000,000
Net income1,350,000,0001,217,000,0002,145,000,0002,211,000,0001,410,000,0002,144,000,0002,462,000,0003,218,000,0003,794,000,0004,087,000,000
Diluted EPS4.206.684.915.253.495.346.148.029.5010.45
Operating cash flow2,570,000,0002,666,000,0002,658,000,0003,451,000,0002,944,000,0002,163,000,0002,533,000,0003,624,000,0004,327,000,0004,472,000,000
Capital expenditures497,000,000520,000,000565,000,000587,000,000389,000,000575,000,000598,000,000757,000,000808,000,000919,000,000
Dividends paid1,037,000,0001,068,000,0001,149,000,0001,201,000,0001,175,000,0001,219,000,0001,299,000,0001,379,000,0001,500,000,0001,626,000,000
Share buybacks730,000,000850,000,0001,271,000,0001,029,000,0001,608,000,000122,000,000286,000,0000.002,492,000,0001,862,000,000
Assets30,476,000,00032,623,000,00031,092,000,00032,805,000,00031,824,000,00034,027,000,00035,014,000,00038,432,000,00038,381,000,00041,251,000,000
Stockholders' equity14,954,000,00017,253,000,00016,107,000,00016,082,000,00014,930,000,00016,413,000,00017,038,000,00019,036,000,00018,488,000,00019,425,000,000
Cash and cash equivalents543,000,000561,000,000283,000,000370,000,000438,000,000297,000,000294,000,000488,000,000555,000,000622,000,000
Free cash flow2,073,000,0002,146,000,0002,093,000,0002,864,000,0002,555,000,0001,588,000,0001,935,000,0002,867,000,0003,519,000,0003,553,000,000

Ratios

ROE and ROA use period-end equity/assets. Liabilities / equity uses total liabilities divided by stockholders' equity. Current ratio uses current assets divided by current liabilities when both are reported.

Metric201120122016201720182019202020212022202320242025
Net margin9.93%10.34%7.90%10.92%11.86%13.87%15.25%14.89%
Return on equity13.32%13.75%9.44%13.06%14.45%16.90%20.52%21.04%
Return on assets6.90%6.74%4.43%6.30%7.03%8.37%9.89%9.91%
Current ratio1.281.641.471.701.561.041.381.511.501.32

Financial Charts

Quarterly

Quarterly standardized facts from SEC companyfacts as of latest extracted filing date 2026-05-05. Source: https://data.sec.gov/api/xbrl/companyfacts/CIK0001551182.json.

Flow metrics use discrete quarter-length periods from 10-Q/10-Q/A filings. Q4 revenue and net income are derived only when annual FY and nine-month YTD facts exist for the same fiscal year; derived Q4 values are labeled. EPS Q4 is not derived.

QuarterEnd DateRevenueNet IncomeDiluted EPSMethod
2022-Q22022-06-301.50reported discrete quarter
2022-Q32022-09-301.52reported discrete quarter
2023-Q12023-03-311.59reported discrete quarter
2023-Q22023-06-305,866,000,000744,000,0001.86reported discrete quarter
2023-Q32023-09-305,880,000,000891,000,0002.22reported discrete quarter
2023-Q42023-12-315,967,000,000945,000,000derived Q4 = FY annual - nine-month YTD
2024-Q12024-03-315,943,000,000821,000,0002.04reported discrete quarter
2024-Q22024-06-306,350,000,000993,000,0002.48reported discrete quarter
2024-Q32024-09-306,345,000,0001,009,000,0002.53reported discrete quarter
2024-Q42024-12-316,240,000,000971,000,000derived Q4 = FY annual - nine-month YTD
2025-Q12025-03-316,377,000,000964,000,0002.45reported discrete quarter
2025-Q22025-06-307,028,000,000982,000,0002.51reported discrete quarter
2025-Q32025-09-306,988,000,0001,010,000,0002.59reported discrete quarter
2025-Q42025-12-317,055,000,0001,132,000,000derived Q4 = FY annual - nine-month YTD
2026-Q12026-03-317,451,000,000866,000,0002.22reported discrete quarter

Quarterly Charts

Macro Cross-References

Latest quarter (10-Q)

Latest 10-Q source: 0001551182-26-000013.

Extracted structurally from real Item 2 body heading to real Item 3/4 boundary. Published MD&A gate trimmed front/tail over-capture. Confidence: high. Filing date: 2026-05-05. Report date: 2026-03-31.

ITEM 2.MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS.

Amounts are in millions of dollars or shares unless indicated otherwise (per share data assume dilution). Columns and rows may not add and the sum of components may not equal total amounts reported due to rounding.

COMPANY OVERVIEW

Eaton Corporation plc (Eaton or the Company) is an intelligent power management company dedicated to protecting the environment and improving the quality of life for people everywhere. We make products for the data center, utility, industrial, commercial, machine building, residential, aerospace and mobility markets. We are capitalizing on the megatrends of the electrification, digitalization, and the reindustrialization of and growth of megaprojects in North America and increased global infrastructure spending, all of which are expanding our end markets and positioning Eaton for growth for years to come. We are strengthening our participation across the entire electrical power value chain and benefiting from momentum in the data center and utility end markets as well as a growth cycle in the commercial aerospace and defense markets. We are guided by our commitment to operate sustainably and with the highest ethical standards. Our work is helping to solve the world’s most urgent power management challenges and building a more sustainable society for people today and for future generations.

Founded in 1911, Eaton has continuously evolved to meet the changing and expanding needs of our stakeholders. With revenues of $27.4 billion in 2025, the Company serves customers in 180 countries.

During the first quarter of 2026, Eaton re-segmented certain business segments due to a reorganization of the Company's businesses. The new segment is Mobility, which consists of the legacy Vehicle and eMobility segments. Historical segment information has been recast to reflect this change.

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Portfolio Changes

The Company continues to actively manage its portfolio of businesses to deliver on its strategic objectives. The Company is focused on deploying its capital toward businesses that provide opportunities for above-market growth and strong returns, and that align with secular trends and its power management strategies. During 2025 and 2026, Eaton completed several transactions to strengthen its portfolio.

Acquisitions of businessesDate of acquisitionBusiness segment
Fibrebond CorporationApril 1, 2025Electrical Americas
A U.S. based designer and builder of pre-integrated modular power enclosures for data center, industrial, utility and communications customers.
Resilient Power Systems, Inc.August 6, 2025Electrical Americas
A leading North American developer and manufacturer of innovative energy solutions, including solid-state transformer-based technology.
Ultra PCS LimitedJanuary 23, 2026Aerospace
Producer of electronic controls, sensing, stores ejection and data processing solutions with operations in the U.K. and U.S.
Boyd ThermalMarch 12, 2026Electrical Global
A U.S. based global leader in thermal components, systems, and ruggedized solutions for data center, aerospace and other end-markets.

On January 26, 2026, Eaton announced its intention to pursue a spin-off of its Mobility business, which consists of the Mobility business segment, into an independent, publicly traded company. Eaton expects to complete the anticipated spin-off by the end of the first quarter of 2027, subject to customary legal and regulatory requirements and approvals, including final approval of the Company’s Board of Directors and effectiveness of a Form 10 registration statement filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The planned spin-off is expected to be completed in a manner that is tax-free to Eaton ordinary shareholders for U.S. federal income tax purposes.

Additional information related to acquisitions of businesses is presented in Note 2.

IEEPA Tariffs

On February 20, 2026, the U.S. Supreme Court issued a ruling invalidating certain tariffs previously imposed under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA), and thereafter, the Court of International Trade (CIT) ordered the Customs and Border Protection (CBP) to develop a process to refund tariffs imposed under IEEPA. We are evaluating the impact of these developments on our business and financial statements and cannot reasonably estimate the financial impact nor deem such impact probable. Some of the factors considered in our evaluation include the uncertainty as to the extent tariffs will be refunded by CBP, what processes will govern such refunds, or if such refunds are fully collectable. No amounts have been recorded in the condensed consolidated financial statements as of March 31, 2026 given the uncertainty regarding the potential refund process.

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RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

Non-GAAP Financial Measures

The following discussion of Consolidated Financial Results includes certain non-GAAP financial measures. These financial measures include adjusted earnings and adjusted earnings per ordinary share, each of which differs from the most directly comparable measure calculated in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP). A reconciliation of adjusted earnings and adjusted earnings per ordinary share to the most directly comparable GAAP measure is included in the Consolidated Financial Results table below. Management believes that these financial measures are useful to investors because they provide additional meaningful financial information that should be considered when assessing our business performance and trends, and they allow investors to more easily compare Eaton’s financial performance period to period. Management uses this information in monitoring and evaluating the on-going performance of Eaton.

Acquisition and Divestiture Charges

Eaton incurs integration charges and transaction costs to acquire and integrate businesses, and transaction, separation and other costs to divest and exit businesses. Eaton also recognizes gains and losses on the sale of businesses. A summary of these Corporate items is as follows:

Three months ended March 31
(In millions except for per share data)20262025
Acquisition integration, divestiture charges and transaction costs$109$10
Income tax benefit212
Total after income taxes$87$8
Per ordinary share - diluted$0.22$0.02

Acquisition integration, divestiture charges and transaction costs in 2026 and 2025 are primarily related to the following:

•The acquisitions of Fibrebond Corporation, Resilient Power Systems Inc., Ultra PCS Limited, Boyd Thermal, and Exertherm, the anticipated spin-off of the Mobility business, transactions completed prior to 2023, and other charges to acquire and exit businesses.

•Employee transaction and retention award compensation expense related to the acquisition of Fibrebond of $14 million in the first quarter of 2026.

•Employee incentive compensation expense related to the acquisition of Resilient of $11 million in the first quarter of 2026.

Charges in 2026 and 2025 were included in Cost of products sold, Selling and administrative expense, or Other income - net. In Business Segment Information in Note 15, the charges were included in Other expense - net.

Restructuring Programs

During the first quarter of 2024, Eaton implemented a multi-year restructuring program to accelerate opportunities to optimize its operations and global support structure. These actions will better align the Company's functions to support anticipated growth and drive greater effectiveness throughout the Company. Since the inception of the program, the Company has incurred charges of $374 million. This restructuring program is expected to be completed in 2026 and is expected to incur additional expenses related to workforce reductions of $78 million and plant closing and other costs of $24 million, resulting in total estimated charges of $475 million for the entire program. The Company expects mature year benefits of $375 million when the multi-year program is fully implemented.

Additional information related to these restructuring programs is presented in Note 14.

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Intangible Asset Amortization Expense

Intangible asset amortization expense is as follows:

Three months ended March 31
(In millions except for per share data)20262025
Intangible asset amortization expense$140$106
Income tax benefit3022
Total after income taxes$111$84
Per ordinary share - diluted$0.29$0.21

Consolidated Financial Results

Three months ended March 31Increase (decrease)
(In millions except for per share data)20262025
Net sales$7,451$6,37717%
Gross profit2,6522,4478%
Percent of net sales35.6%38.4%
Income before income taxes1,1071,177(6)%
Net income868965(10)%
Less net income for noncontrolling interests(2)(1)
Net income attributable to Eaton ordinary shareholders866964(10)%
Excluding acquisition and divestiture charges, after-tax878
Excluding restructuring program charges, after-tax3014
Excluding intangible asset amortization expense, after-tax11184
Adjusted earnings$1,094$1,0702%
Net income per share attributable to Eaton ordinary shareholders - diluted$2.22$2.45(9)%
Excluding per share impact of acquisition and divestiture charges, after-tax0.220.02
Excluding per share impact of restructuring program charges, after-tax0.080.04
Excluding per share impact of intangible asset amortization expense, after-tax0.290.21
Adjusted earnings per ordinary share$2.81$2.723%

Net Sales

Changes in Net sales:Three months ended March 31, 2026
Organic growth10%
Acquisitions of businesses4%
Foreign currency3%
Total increase in Net sales17%

The increase in organic sales in the first quarter of 2026 was due to strength in data center and machine OEM end-markets in the Electrical Americas and Electrical Global business segments, strength in commercial & institutional end-markets in the Electrical Americas business segment, strength in residential end-markets in the Electrical Global business segment, and strength in military aftermarket, commercial OEM, and commercial aftermarket in the Aerospace business segment, partially offset by weakness in industrial end-markets in the Electrical Americas and Electrical Global business segments, weakness in utility end-markets in the Electrical Americas business segment, and weakness in the North American region driven by the exit of a low-margin light vehicle business in the Mobility business segment.

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Gross Profit

Gross profit margin decreased from 38.4% in the first quarter of 2025 to 35.6% in the first quarter of 2026. Material factors affecting this decrease were a 400 basis point decline from commodity and wage inflation, partially offset by an 80 basis point increase from operating efficiencies and a 70 basis point increase from higher sales.

Income Taxes

The effective income tax rate for the first quarter of 2026 was expense of 21.6% compa

[Excerpt truncated for page length; source filing is linked above.]

Latest 10-K MD&A

Extracted from a later financial-section MD&A body after the formal Item 7 span was a short reference. Confidence: high. Filing date: 2026-02-26. Report date: 2025-12-31.

MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS.

Amounts are in millions of dollars or shares unless indicated otherwise (per share data assume dilution). Columns and rows may not add and the sum of components may not equal total amounts reported due to rounding.

COMPANY OVERVIEW

Eaton Corporation plc (Eaton or the Company) is an intelligent power management company dedicated to protecting the environment and improving the quality of life for people everywhere. We make products for the data center, utility, industrial, commercial, machine building, residential, aerospace and mobility markets. We are capitalizing on the megatrends of the electrification, digitalization, and the reindustrialization of and growth of megaprojects in North America and increased global infrastructure spending, all of which are expanding our end markets and positioning Eaton for growth for years to come. We are strengthening our participation across the entire electrical power value chain and benefiting from momentum in the data center and utility end markets as well as a growth cycle in the commercial aerospace and defense markets. We are guided by our commitment to operate sustainably and with the highest ethical standards. Our work is helping to solve the world’s most urgent power management challenges and building a more sustainable society for people today and for future generations.

Founded in 1911, Eaton has continuously evolved to meet the changing and expanding needs of our stakeholders. With revenues of $27.4 billion in 2025, the Company serves customers in 180 countries.

During the first quarter of 2026, Eaton re-segmented certain reportable operating segments due to a reorganization of the Company's businesses. The new reportable segment is Mobility, which consists of the legacy Vehicle and eMobility segments. Financial information for this new reportable segment has not been provided as the re-segmentation occurred subsequent to the year ended December 31, 2025. The Company expects to provide financial information for this new reportable segment in the Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the period ended March 31, 2026.

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Portfolio Changes

The Company continues to actively manage its portfolio of businesses to deliver on its strategic objectives. The Company is focused on deploying its capital toward businesses that provide opportunities for above-market growth, strong returns, and align with secular trends and its power management strategies. Over the past three years and continuing in 2026, Eaton completed several transactions to strengthen its portfolio.

Acquisitions of businesses and investments in associate companiesDate of acquisitionBusiness segment
Jiangsu Ryan Electrical Co. Ltd.April 23, 2023Electrical Global
A 49 percent stake in Jiangsu Ryan Electrical Co. Ltd., a manufacturer of power distribution and sub-transmission transformers in China.
ExerthermMay 20, 2024Electrical Americas
A U.K. based provider of thermal monitoring solutions for electrical equipment.
NordicEPOD ASMay 31, 2024Electrical Global
A 49 percent stake in NordicEPOD AS, which designs and assembles standardized power modules for data centers in the Nordic region.
Fibrebond CorporationApril 1, 2025Electrical Americas
A U.S. based designer and builder of pre-integrated modular power enclosures for data center, industrial, utility and communications customers.
Resilient Power Systems, Inc.August 6, 2025Electrical Americas
A leading North American developer and manufacturer of innovative energy solutions, including solid-state transformer-based technology.
Ultra PCS LimitedJanuary 23, 2026Aerospace
Producer of electronic controls, sensing, stores ejection and data processing solutions with operations in the U.K. and U.S.

On November 2, 2025, Eaton signed an agreement to acquire Boyd Thermal, a U.S. based global leader in thermal components, systems, and ruggedized solutions for data center, aerospace and other end-markets. Boyd Thermal employs more than 5,000 people with manufacturing sites across North America, Asia, and Europe. Under the terms of the agreement, Eaton will pay $9.5 billion for Boyd Thermal. The transaction is subject to customary closing conditions and regulatory approvals and is expected to close in the second quarter of 2026.

On January 26, 2026, Eaton announced its intention to pursue a spin-off of its Mobility business, which consists of its legacy Vehicle and eMobility operating segments, into an independent, publicly traded company. Eaton expects to complete the anticipated spin-off by the end of the first quarter of 2027, subject to customary legal and regulatory requirements and approvals, including final approval of the Company’s Board of Directors and effectiveness of a Form 10 registration statement filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The planned spin-off is expected to be completed in a manner that is tax-free to Eaton ordinary shareholders for U.S. federal income tax purposes.

Additional information related to acquisitions of businesses is presented in Note 2.

Summary of Results of Operations

A summary of Eaton’s Net sales, Net income attributable to Eaton ordinary shareholders, and Net income per share attributable to Eaton ordinary shareholders - diluted is as follows:

(In millions except for per share data)202520242023
Net sales$27,448$24,878$23,196
Net income attributable to Eaton ordinary shareholders4,0873,7943,218
Net income per share attributable to Eaton ordinary shareholders - diluted$10.45$9.50$8.02

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RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

Non-GAAP Financial Measures

The following discussion of Consolidated Financial Results includes certain non-GAAP financial measures. These financial measures include adjusted earnings and adjusted earnings per ordinary share, each of which differs from the most directly comparable measure calculated in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP). A reconciliation of adjusted earnings and adjusted earnings per ordinary share to the most directly comparable GAAP measure is included in the Consolidated Financial Results table below. Management believes that these financial measures are useful to investors because they provide additional meaningful financial information that should be considered when assessing our business performance and trends, and they allow investors to more easily compare Eaton’s financial performance period to period. Management uses this information in monitoring and evaluating the on-going performance of Eaton.

Acquisition and Divestiture Charges

Eaton incurs integration charges and transaction costs to acquire and integrate businesses, and transaction, separation and other costs to divest and exit businesses. Eaton also recognizes gains and losses on the sale of businesses. A summary of these Corporate items is as follows:

(In millions except for per share data)202520242023
Acquisition integration, divestiture charges and transaction costs$183$36$54
Income tax benefit381015
Total after income taxes$145$26$39
Per ordinary share - diluted$0.37$0.06$0.10

Acquisition integration, divestiture charges and transaction costs in 2025 are primarily related to the following:

•The acquisitions of Fibrebond Corporation, Resilient Power Systems Inc., Ultra PCS Limited, and Exertherm, the expected acquisition of Boyd Thermal, transactions completed prior to 2023, and other charges to acquire and exit businesses.

•Employee transaction and retention award compensation expense related to the acquisition of Fibrebond of $82 million

•Employee incentive compensation expense related to the acquisition of Resilient of $10 million

Acquisition integration, divestiture charges and transaction costs in 2024 and 2023 are primarily related to acquisitions completed prior to 2023, and include other charges and income to acquire and exit businesses, and the reduction in fair value of contingent future consideration from the Green Motion SA acquisition. Costs in 2023 also include certain indemnity claims associated with the sale of 50% interest in the commercial vehicle automated transmission business in 2017.

Charges in 2025, 2024, and 2023 were included in Cost of products sold, Selling and administrative expense, Research and development expense, or Other expense (income) - net. In Business Segment Information in Note 18, the charges were included in Other expense - net.

Restructuring Programs

In the second quarter of 2020, Eaton initiated a multi-year restructuring program to reduce its cost structure and gain efficiencies in its business segments and at corporate in order to initially respond to declining market conditions brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic. Since the inception of the program, the Company incurred expenses of $199 million for workforce reductions and $184 million for plant closing and other costs, resulting in total charges of $382 million through December 31, 2023. This restructuring program was substantially complete at the end of 2023 and mature year benefits from the program of approximately $265 million were realized in 2024.

During the first quarter of 2024, Eaton implemented a multi-year restructuring program to accelerate opportunities to optimize its operations and global support structure. These actions will better align the Company's functions to support anticipated growth and drive greater effectiveness throughout the Company. Since the inception of the program, the Company has incurred charges of $335 million. This restructuring program is expected to be completed in 2026 and is expected to incur additional expenses related to workforce reductions of $102 million and plant closing and other costs of $38 million, resulting in total estimated charges of $475 million for the entire program. The Company expects mature year benefits of $375 million when the multi-year program is fully implemented.

Additional information related to these restructuring programs is presented in Note 16.

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Intangible Asset Amortization Expense

Intangible asset amortization expense is as follows:

(In millions except for per share data)202520242023
Intangible asset amortization expense$486$425$450
Income tax benefit1019198
Total after income taxes$384$335$353
Per ordinary share - diluted$0.99$0.84$0.89

Consolidated Financial Results

(In millions except for per share data)2025Change from 20242024Change from 20232023
Net sales$27,44810%$24,8787%$23,196
Gross profit10,3179%9,50313%8,434
Percent of net sales37.6%38.2%36.4%
Income before income taxes4,9328%4,56619%3,827
Net income4,0908%3,79818%3,223
Less net income for noncontrolling interests(3)(4)(5)
Net income attributable to Eaton ordinary shareholders4,0878%3,79418%3,218
Excluding acquisition and divestiture charges, after-tax1452639
Excluding restructuring program charges, after-tax10316046
Excluding intangible asset amortization expense, after-tax384335353
Adjusted earnings$4,7209%$4,31418%$3,657
Net income per share attributable to Eaton ordinary shareholders - diluted$10.4510%$9.5018%$8.02
Excluding per share impact of acquisition and divestiture charges, after-tax0.370.060.10
Excluding per share impact of restructuring program charges, after-tax0.260.400.11
Excluding per share impact of intangible asset amortization expense, after-tax0.990.840.89
Adjusted earnings per ordinary share$12.0712%$10.8018%$9.12

Net Sales

Changes in Net sales:20252024
Organic growth8%8%
Acquisitions of businesses2%%
Foreign currency%(1)%
Total increase in Net sales10%7%

2025: Organic sales increased 8% in 2025 due to strength in data center end-markets in the Electrical Americas and Electrical Global business segments, strength in machine OEM and residential end-markets in the Electrical Global business segment, and broad-based strength across all markets in the Aerospace business segment, partially offset by weakness in industrial end-markets in the Electrical Americas and Electrical Global business segments, weakness in the North American truck and light vehicle markets in the Vehicle business segment, and weakness in the North American region in the eMobility business segment.

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2024: Organic sales increased 8% in 2024 due to strength in commercial & institutional end-markets in the Electrical Americas business segment, strength in utility end-markets in the Electrical Global business segment, strength in data center end-markets in the Electrical Americas and Electrical Global business segments, strength in commercial OEM, commercial aftermarket, and military OEM in the Aerospace business segment, and strength in the European region in the eMobility business segment, partially offset by weakness in residential end-markets in the Electrical Americas and Electrical Global business segments and weakness in the North American and European regions in the Vehicle business segment.

Additionally, during 2024, certain facilities in the Electrical Americas business segment were impacted by Hurricane Helene, and the Aerospace business segment was impacted by industry related labor strikes. These events had a negative impact on Net sales in 2024 of $128 million.

Gross Profit

2025: Gross profit margin decreased from 38.2% in 2024 to 37.6% in 2025. Material factors affecting this decrease were a 280 basis point decline from higher commodity and wage inflation and a 50 basis point decline from higher acquisition and divestiture charges, partially offset by a 260 basis point increase from higher sales.

2024: Gross profit margin increased from 36.4% in 2023 to 38.2% in 2024. Material factors affecting this increase were a 290 basis point increase from higher sales and a 90 basis point increase from operating efficiencies, partially offset by a 100 basis point decline from higher commodity and wage inflation and a 70 basis point decline from higher costs to support growth initiatives.

Income Taxes

During 2025, income tax expense of $841 million was recognized (an effective tax rate of 17.1%) compared to income tax expense of $768 million in 2024 (an effective tax rate of 16.8%) and income tax expense of $604 million in 2023 (an effective tax rate of 15.8%). The increase in the effective tax rate from 16.8% in 2024 to 17.1% in 2025 was primarily due to greater levels of income earned in higher tax jurisdictions. The increase in the effective tax rate from 15.8% in 2023 to 16.8% in 2024 was due to greater levels of income earned in higher tax jurisdictions, partially offset by a larger impact from the excess tax benefits recognized for employee share-based payments and the reduction of valuation allowances on foreign tax attributes.

On July 4, 2025, the One Big Beautiful Bill Act ("OBBBA") was enacted into law in the United States. The OBBBA extends and modifies certain provisions of the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act and has multiple effective dates, with some provisions beginning in 2025. The OBBBA did not have a material impact on the Company’s consolidated financial statements in 2025. The Company will continue to assess the impact of OBBBA and does not expect the OBBBA to have a material impact on its effective tax rate in future periods.

Net Income

Changes in Net income attributable to Eaton ordinary shareholders and Net income per share attributable to Eaton ordinary shareholders - diluted are summarized as follows:

20252024
(In millions except for per share data)DollarsPer shareDollarsPer share
Prior year$3,794$9.50$3,218$8.02
Business segment results of operations
Operational performance6011.557301.82
Foreign currency220.06(7)(0.02)
Corporate
Intangible asset amortization expense(50)(0.16)180.05
Restructuring program charges570.14(114)(0.29)
Acquisition and divestiture charges(119)(0.31)130.04
Other corporate items(207)(0.52)(21)(0.05)
Tax rate impact(11)(0.03)(45)(0.11)
Impact of shares0.220.04
Current year$4,087$10.45$3,794$9.50

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Business Segment Results of Operations

The following is a discussion of Net sales, operating profit (loss) and operating margin by business segment. Additionally, the Company uses the following metrics as indicators of customer demand and future revenue expectations in the Electrical Americas, Electrical Global, and Aerospace business segments. The Company believes these metrics are useful to investors for the same reasons.

•Backlog: Includes orders to which customers are firmly committed

•Organic change in backlog: Percentage change in backlog, excluding (1) the impact of foreign currency, (2) divestitures, and (3) firm orders in place prior to closing of business acquisitions

•Organic change in customer orders: Percentage change in firm customer orders on a trailing twelve month basis, excluding (1) the impact of foreign currency, (2) divestitures, and (3) firm orders in place prior to closing of business acquisitions

•Book-to-bill: Average of the ratio of firm customer orders to Net sales for the last four quarters

Electrical Americas

(In millions)2025Change from 20242024Change from 20232023
Net sales$13,27616%$11,43613%$10,098
Operating profit$3,97215%$3,45529%$2,675
Operating margin29.9%30.2%26.5%
Changes in Net sales:20252024
Organic growth12%13%
Acquisitions of businesses4%%
Total increase in Net sales16%13%
Change from December 31
Performance metrics:December 31, 2025December 31, 20242025 vs. 20242024 vs. 2023
Backlog$13,246$10,14131%28%
Organic change in backlog19%29%
Organic change in customer orders16%16%
Book-to-bill1.21.2

The increase in organic sales in 2025 was due to strength in data center end-markets, partially offset by weakness in industrial end-markets. The increase in organic sales in 2024 was due to strength in data center and commercial & institutional end-markets, partially offset by weakness in residential end-markets.

The operating margin decreased from 30.2% in 2024 to 29.9% in 2025. Material factors affecting this decrease were a 380 basis point decline from higher commodity and wage inflation and a 70 basis point decline from higher costs to support growth initiatives, partially offset by a 380 basis point increase from higher sales. The operating margin increased from 26.5% in 2023 to 30.2% in 2024. Material factors affecting this increase were a 560 basis point increase from higher sales and a 150 basis point increase from operating efficiencies, partially offset by a 190 basis point decline from higher costs to support growth initiatives and a 130 basis point decline from higher commodity and wage inflation.

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Electrical Global

(In millions)2025Change from 20242024Change from 20232023
Net sales$6,8159%$6,2483%$6,084
Operating profit$1,32315%$1,149(2)%$1,176
Operating margin19.4%18.4%19.3%
Changes in Net sales:20252024
Organic growth7%4%
Foreign currency2%(1)%
Total increase in Net sales9%3%
Change from December 31
Performance metrics:December 31, 2025December 31, 20242025 vs. 20242024 vs. 2023
Backlog$2,034$1,70419%12%
Organic change in backlog13%16%
Organic change in customer orders6%4%
Book-to-bill1.01.1

The increase in organic sales in 2025 was due to strength in data center, machine OEM, and residential end-markets, partially offset by weakness in industrial end-markets. Additionally, the increase in organic sales in 2025 was due to strength in the Asia Pacific and European regions and in the Global Energy Infrastructure Solutions (GEIS) business. The increase in organic sales in 2024 was due to strength in data center and utility end-markets, partially offset by weakness in residential end-markets. Additionally, the increase in organic sales in 2024 was due to strength in the Asia Pacific and European regions.

The operating margin increased from 18.4% in 2024 to 19.4% in 2025. Material factors affecting this increase were a 270 basis point increase from higher sales, partially offset by a 230 basis point decline from higher commodity and wage inflation. The operating margin decreased from 19.3% in 2023 to 18.4% in 2024. Material factors affecting this decrease were a 150 basis point decline from higher wage inflation, a 70 basis point decline from the sale of a non-production facility in the third quarter of 2023, a 60 basis point decline from higher support costs, and a 50 basis point decline from unfavorable product mix, partially offset by a 140 basis point increase from operating efficiencies and a 90 basis point increase from higher sales.

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Aerospace

(In millions)2025Change from 20242024Change from 20232023
Net sales$4,24913%$3,74410%$3,413
Operating profit$1,01318%$85910%$780
Operating margin23.9%23.0%22.9%
Changes in Net sales:20252024
Organic growth12%10%
Foreign currency1%%
Total increase in Net sales13%10%
Change from December 31
Performance metrics:December 31, 2025December 31, 20242025 vs. 20242024 vs. 2023
Backlog$4,316$3,72116%15%
Organic change in backlog13%16%
Organic change in customer orders11%10%
Book-to-bill1.11.1

The increase in organic sales in 2025 was due to broad-based strength across all markets, with particular strength in military aftermarket. The increase in organic sales in 2024 was due to strength in commercial OEM, commercial aftermarket, and military OEM.

The operating margin increased from 23.0% in 2024 to 23.9% in 2025. Material factors affecting this increase were a 540 basis point increase from higher sales, partially offset by a 260 basis point decline from higher commodity and wage inflation, a 70 basis point decline from operating inefficiencies, a 60 basis point decline from higher costs to support growth initiatives, and a 60 basis point decline from the sale of a production facility in the first quarter of 2024. The operating margin increased from 22.9% in 2023 to 23.0% in 2024. Material factors affecting the operating margin were a 470 basis point increase from higher sales and a 70 basis point increase from the sale of a production facility in the first quarter of 2024, partially offset by a 280 basis point decline from higher commodity and wage inflation, a 180 basis point decline from higher costs to support growth initiatives, and a 70 basis point decline from unfavorable product mix.

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Vehicle

(In millions)2025Change from 20242024Change from 20232023
Net sales$2,505(10)%$2,790(6)%$2,965
Operating profit$419(17)%$5024%$482
Operating margin16.7%18.0%16.3%
Changes in Net sales:20252024
Organic growth(10)%(5)%
Foreign currency%(1)%
Total decrease in Net sales(10)%(6)%

The decrease in organic sales in 2025 was due to weakness in the North American truck and light vehicle markets. The decrease in organic sales in 2024 was due to weakness in the North American and European regions, partially offset by strength in the South American region.

The operating margin decreased from 18.0% in 2024 to 16.7% in 2025. Material factors affecting this decrease were a 250 basis point decline from higher commodity and wage inflation and a 60 basis point decline from lower sales, partially offset by a 190 basis point increase from operating efficiencies. The operating margin increased from 16.3% in 2023 to 18.0% in 2024. Material factors affecting this increase were a 190 basis point increase from operating efficiencies and a 60 basis point increase from the sale of a non-production facility in the second quarter of 2024, partially offset by a 70 basis point decrease from lower income from investments in associate companies.

eMobility

(In millions)2025Change from 20242024Change from 20232023
Net sales$604(9)%$6624%$636
Operating loss$(14)(100)%$(7)67%$(21)
Operating margin(2.3)%(1.0)%(3.2)%
Changes in Net sales:20252024
Organic growth(10)%4%
Foreign currency1%%
Total increase (decrease) in Net sales(9)%4%

The decrease in organic sales in 2025 was due to weakness in the North American region. Despite OEM delays in electric vehicle rollouts due to weaker than expected customer demand, organic sales increased in 2024 due to strength in the European region, partially offset by weakness in the North American region.

The operating margin decreased from negative 1.0% in 2024 to negative 2.3% in 2025. Material factors affecting this decrease were a 270 basis point decline from unfavorable product mix, a 240 basis point decline from higher commodity inflation, and a 240 basis point decline from the sale of non-production facilities in the second quarter of 2024, partially offset by a 360 basis point increase from the reimbursement of research and development and support costs by a customer and a 290 basis point increase from operating efficiencies. The operating margin increased from negative 3.2% in 2023 to negative 1.0% in 2024. Material factors affecting this increase were a 510 basis point increase from operating efficiencies, a 350 basis point increase from higher sales, and a 220 basis point increase from the sale of non-production facilities in the second quarter of 2024, partially offset by a 320 basis point decline from higher costs to support growth initiatives, a 300 basis point decline from unfavorable product mix, and a 220 basis point decline from higher commodity and wage inflation.

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Corporate Expense

(In millions)2025Change from 20242024Change from 20232023
Intangible asset amortization expense$48614%$425(6)%$450
Interest expense - net24185%130(14)%151
Pension and other postretirement benefits income(19)(53)%(40)(13)%(46)
Restructuring program charges133(34)%202254%57
Other expense - net94139%6753%654
Total corporate expense$1,78228%$1,39210%$1,266

The material factors affecting the increase in Total corporate expense in 2025 were higher Other expense - net, Interest expense - net, and Intangible asset amortization expense, partially offset by lower Restructuring program charges. The increase in Other expense - net is primarily due to higher acquisition and divestiture costs and tax litigation charges. The material factor affecting the increase in Total corporate expense in 2024 was higher Restructuring program charges.

LIQUIDITY, CAPITAL RESOURCES, AND FINANCIAL CONDITION

Liquidity and Financial Condition

Eaton’s objective is to finance its business through operating cash flow and an appropriate mix of equity and long-term and short-term debt. By diversifying its debt maturity structure, Eaton reduces liquidity risk.

On May 9, 2025, a subsidiary of Eaton issued Euro denominated notes (2025 Euro Notes) with a face amount of €500 million ($564 million). The 2025 Euro Notes mature in 2035 with interest payable annually at a rate of 3.625% per annum. The issuer received proceeds totaling €494 million ($558 million) from the 2025 Euro Notes issuance, net of financing costs and discounts. The 2025 Euro Notes are fully and unconditionally guaranteed on an unsubordinated, unsecured basis by Eaton and certain of its direct and indirect subsidiaries. The 2025 Euro Notes contain customary optional redemption and par call provisions. The 2025 Euro Notes also contain a change of control provision which requires the Company to make an offer to purchase all or any part of the 2025 Euro Notes at a purchase price of 101% of the principal amount plus accrued and unpaid interest. The capitalized deferred financing fees are amortized in Interest expense - net over the term of the 2025 Euro Notes. The 2025 Euro Notes are subject to customary non-financial covenants.

Also on May 9, 2025, the same subsidiary of Eaton issued senior notes (2025 Notes) with a face amount of $500 million. The 2025 Notes mature in 2030 with interest payable semi-annually at a rate of 4.45% per annum. The issuer received proceeds totaling $495 million from the 2025 Notes issuance, net of financing costs and discounts. The 2025 Notes are fully and unconditionally guaranteed on an unsubordinated, unsecured basis by Eaton and certain of its direct and indirect subsidiaries. The 2025 Notes contain customary optional redemption and par call provisions. The 2025 Notes also contain a change of control provision which requires the Company to make an offer to purchase all or any part of the 2025 Notes at a purchase price of 101% of the principal amount plus accrued and unpaid interest. The capitalized deferred financing fees are amortized in Interest expense - net over the term of the 2025 Notes. The 2025 Notes are subject to customary non-financial covenants.

On September 29, 2025, a subsidiary of Eaton entered into a new $3,000 million five-year revolving credit agreement that will expire on September 27, 2030 (New Revolving Credit Agreement), which replaced the $500 million 364-day revolving credit agreement dated September 30, 2024 and $2,500 million five-year revolving credit agreement dated October 3, 2022. The New Revolving Credit Agreement is used to support commercial paper borrowings and is fully and unconditionally guaranteed by Eaton and certain of its direct and indirect subsidiaries on an unsubordinated, unsecured basis. There were no borrowings outstanding under the New Revolving Credit Agreement at December 31, 2025. The Company maintains access to the commercial paper markets through its $3,000 million commercial paper program, of which none was outstanding on December 31, 2025. On February 6, 2026, a subsidiary of Eaton exercised a $1,000 million upsize of the existing $3,000 million five-year revolving credit agreement, increasing the total facility size to $4,000 million. The upsize was executed under the New Revolving Credit Agreement, and the facility’s maturity date remains unchanged at September 27, 2030. Also on February 6, 2026, the Company increased its commercial paper program from $3,000 million to $4,000 million.

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On February 6, 2026, a subsidiary of Eaton entered into a senior unsecured delayed-draw term loan facility (Term Credit Agreement) in an aggregate principal amount of up to $8,000 million. The proceeds of the Term Credit Agreement, if drawn, will be used solely by the Company to finance a portion of the expected acquisition of Boyd Thermal. The Term Credit Agreement will mature and be payable in full on December 31, 2026 unless the Term Credit Agreement is terminated earlier pursuant to its terms. The Term Credit Agreement is fully and unconditionally guaranteed by Eaton and certain of its direct and indirect subsidiaries on an unsubordinated, unsecured basis. The Company has not drawn on the Term Credit Agreement.

In addition to the revolving credit facility, the Company also had available lines of credit of $872 million from various banks primarily for the issuance of letters of credit, of which there was $350 million outstanding at December 31, 2025.

Over the course of a year, cash, short-term investments, and short-term debt may fluctuate in order to manage global liquidity. As of December 31, 2025 and 2024, Eaton had cash of $622 million and $555 million, short-term investments of $181 million and $1,525 million, respectively, with $1 million short-term debt as of December 31, 2025 and no short-term debt as of December 31, 2024. Eaton has investment grade credit ratings from the two major rating agencies as reflected in the following ratings assigned to its debt:

Credit Rating Agency (long- /short-term rating)RatingOutlook
Standard & Poor'sA-/A-2Stable outlook
Moody'sA3/P-2Stable outlook

Eaton believes it has the operating flexibility, cash flow, cash and short-term investment balances, availability under the existing revolving credit facility, and access to capital markets in excess of the liquidity necessary to meet future operating needs of the business, fund capital expenditures and acquisitions of businesses, as well as scheduled payments of long-term debt, for at least the next 12 months and the foreseeable future thereafter.

On April 1, 2025, the Company paid $1.43 billion, net of cash acquired, to acquire Fibrebond Corporation. On August 6, 2025, the Company acquired Resilient Power Systems Inc. for $86 million, including $55 million of cash paid at closing and an initial estimate of $31 million for the fair value of contingent future consideration. In addition, on January 23, 2026, the Company paid $1.53 billion, net of cash acquired, to acquire Ultra PCS Limited and the Company expects to close the acquisition of Boyd Thermal in the second quarter of 2026 for $9.5 billion.

For additional information on financing transactions and debt, see Note 9.

Eaton’s credit facilities and indentures governing certain long-term debt contain various covenants, the violation of which would limit or preclude the use of the credit facilities for future borrowings, or might accelerate the maturity of the related outstanding borrowings covered by the indentures. At Eaton’s present credit rating level, the most restrictive financial covenant provides that the ratio of secured debt (or lease payments due under a sale and leaseback transaction) to adjusted consolidated net worth (or consolidated net tangible assets, in each case as defined in the relevant credit agreement or indenture) may not exceed 10%. Eaton's actual ratios are substantially below the required threshold. In addition, Eaton is in compliance with each of its debt covenants for all periods presented.

Cash Flows

A summary of cash flows is as follows:

(In millions)2025Change from 20242024Change from 20242023
Net cash provided by operating activities$4,472$145$4,327$703$3,624
Net cash used in investing activities(1,101)(830)(271)2,304(2,575)
Net cash used in financing activities(3,173)763(3,936)(3,065)(871)
Effect of currency on cash(131)(79)(52)(68)16
Total increase in cash$67$67$194

Operating Cash Flow

Net cash provided by operating activities increased by $145 million in 2025 compared to 2024. The material factor affecting this increase was higher net income of $292 million.

Net cash provided by operating activities increased by $703 million in 2024 compared to 2023. The material factor affecting this increase was higher net income of $575 million.

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Investing Cash Flow

Net cash used in investing activities increased by $830 million in 2025 compared to 2024. Material factors affecting this increase were an increase in cash paid for business acquisitions to $1,490 million in 2025 from $50 million in 2024, and an increase in capital expenditures for property, plant and equipment to $919 million in 2025 from $808 million in 2024, partially offset by sales of short-term investments to $1,339 million in 2025 from $575 million in 2024.

Net cash used in investing activities decreased by $2,304 million in 2024 compared to 2023. Material factors affecting this decrease were sales of short-term investments of $575 million in 2024 compared to purchases of short-term investments of $1,861 million in 2023, partially offset by payments for settlement of currency exchange contracts not designated as hedges of $3 million in 2024 compared to proceeds from settlement of currency exchange contracts not designated as hedges of $92 million in 2023.

Financing Cash Flow

Net cash used in financing activities decreased by $763 million in 2025 compared to 2024. Material factors affecting this decrease were a decrease in repurchase of shares to $1,862 million in 2025 from $2,492 million in 2024, and a decrease in payments on borrowings to $717 million in 2025 from $1,015 million in 2024, partially offset by an increase in cash dividends paid to $1,626 million in 2025 from $1,500 million in 2024.

Net cash used in financing activities increased by $3,065 million in 2024 compared to 2023. Material factors affecting this increase were an increase in repurchase of shares to $2,492 million in 2024 compared to no repurchase of shares in 2023, and an increase in payments on borrowings to $1,015 million in 2024 from $19 million in 2023, partially offset by a decrease in net payments of short-term debt to $8 million in 2024 from $311 million in 2023, and an increase in proceeds from borrowings to $1,084 million in 2024 from $818 million in 2023.

Uses of Cash

Purchases of Goods and Services

The Company purchases goods and services in the normal course of business based on expected usage. For certain purchases, the Company enters into purchase obligations with various vendors, which include short-term and long-term commitments for purchases of raw materials, outstanding non-cancelable purchase orders, releases under blanket purchase orders, and commitments under ongoing service arrangements. As of December 31, 2025, the Company has purchase obligations to support the operation of its business similar to those included in historical cash flow trends.

Capital Expenditures

Capital expenditures were $919 million, $808 million, and $757 million in 2025, 2024, and 2023, respectively. The Company plans to increase capital expenditures over the next several years to expand production capacity across various markets to support anticipated growth. As a result, Eaton expects approximately $1.1 billion in capital expenditures in 2026.

Dividends

Cash dividend payments were $1,626 million, $1,500 million, and $1,379 million in 2025, 2024, and 2023, respectively. On February 26, 2026, Eaton's Board of Directors declared a quarterly dividend of $1.10 per ordinary share, a 6% increase over the dividend paid in the fourth quarter of 2025. The dividend is payable on March 27, 2026 to shareholders of record on March 10, 2026. Payment of quarterly dividends in the future depends upon the Company’s ability to generate net income and operating cash flows, among other factors, and is subject to declaration by the Eaton Board of Directors. The Company intends to continue to pay quarterly dividends in 2026.

Share Repurchases

On February 23, 2022, the Board of Directors adopted a share repurchase program for repurchases of ordinary shares up to $5.0 billion to be made during the three-year period commencing on that date (2022 Program). On February 27, 2025, the Board of Directors renewed the 2022 Program by providing authority for up to $9.0 billion in repurchases to be made during the three-year period commencing on that date (2025 Program). Under the 2025 Program, the ordinary shares are expected to be repurchased over time, depending on market conditions, the market price of ordinary shares, capital levels, and other considerations. During 2025 and 2024, 5.7 million and 7.8 million ordinary shares were repurchased under the 2025 or 2022 Programs in the open market at a total cost of $1.9 billion and $2.5 billion, respectively. During 2023, no ordinary shares were repurchased. At December 31, 2025, there is $7,597 million still available for share repurchase under the 2025 Program. The Company does not intend to pursue share repurchases in 2026 due to the expected acquisition of Boyd Thermal in the second quarter of 2026.

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Acquisition of Businesses and Investments in Associate Companies

The Company paid cash of $1,490 million and $50 million in 2025 and 2024, respectively, to acquire businesses. There were no business acquisitions in 2023. The Company paid cash of $16 million, $70 million, and $68 million in 2025, 2024, and 2023, respectively, for investments in associate companies. The Company will continue to focus on deploying its capital toward businesses that provide opportunities for higher growth and strong returns, and align with secular trends and its power management strategies.

Debt

The Company manages a number of short-term and long-term debt instruments, including commercial paper. At December 31, 2025, the Company had Short-term debt of $1 million, Current portion of long-term debt of $1,136 million, and Long-term debt of $8,758 million. The Company believes it has the operating flexibility, cash flow, and access to capital markets to meet scheduled payments of long-term debt. For additional information on financing transactions and debt see Note 9.

Leases

See Note 8 for maturities of lease liabilities.

Unrecognized Income Tax Benefits

At December 31, 2025, the gross unrecognized income tax benefits totaled $1,300 million and interest and penalties were $218 million. Eaton cannot predict with reasonable certainty the timing of cash settlements with the respective taxing authorities. For additional information about income taxes see Note 12.

Defined Benefits Plans

Pension Plans

During 2025, the fair value of plan assets in the Company’s employee pension plans increased $198 million to $4,191 million at December 31, 2025. The increase in plan assets was primarily due to higher than expected return on plan assets, contributions, and the impact of positive currency translation. At December 31, 2025, the net unfunded position of $497 million in pension liabilities consisted of $587 million in plans that have no funding requirements and $166 million in plans that require funding, offset by $256 million in plans that are overfunded.

Funding requirements are a major consideration in making contributions to Eaton’s pension plans. With respect to the Company’s pension plans worldwide, the Company intends to contribute annually not less than the minimum required by applicable law and regulations. In 2025, $124 million was contributed to the pension plans. The Company anticipates making $98 million of contributions to certain pension plans during 2026. The funded status of the Company’s pension plans at the end of 2026, and future contributions, will depend primarily on the actual return on assets during the year and the discount rate used to calculate certain benefits at the end of the year. For additional information about pension plans see Note 10.

Supply Chain Finance Program

A third-party financial institution offers a voluntary supply chain finance (SCF) program that enables certain of the Company’s suppliers, at the supplier’s sole discretion, to sell receivables due from the Company to the financial institution on terms directly negotiated with the financial institution. The SCF program does not have a significant impact on the Company’s liquidity as payments by the Company to participating suppliers are paid to the financial institution on the invoice due date, regardless of whether an individual invoice is sold by the supplier to the financial institution. For additional information on the SCF program, see Note 7.

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Guaranteed Debt

Issuers, Guarantors and Guarantor Structure

Eaton Corporation has issued senior notes pursuant to indentures dated April 1, 1994 (the 1994 Indenture), November 20, 2012 (the 2012 Indenture), September 15, 2017 (the 2017 Indenture), and August 23, 2022 (as supplemented by the First and Second Supplemental Indentures of the same date and the Third Supplemental Indenture dated May 18, 2023, the 2022 Indenture). Eaton Capital Unlimited Company, a subsidiary of Eaton, is the issuer of four outstanding series of debt securities sold in offshore transactions under Regulation S promulgated under the Securities Act (the Eurobonds) and Registered Senior Notes (as defined below) issued under an indenture dated May 9, 2025 (as supplemented by the First and Second Supplemental Indentures of the same date, the 2025 Indenture). The senior notes issued under the 1994, 2012, 2017, 2022, and 2025 Indentures are registered under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the Registered Senior Notes). The Eurobonds and the Registered Senior Notes (together, the Senior Notes) comprise substantially all of Eaton’s long-term indebtedness.

Substantially all of the Senior Notes (with limited exceptions), together with the credit facilities described above under Liquidity and Financial Condition (the Credit Facilities), are guaranteed by Eaton and 17 of its subsidiaries. Accordingly, they rank equally with each other. However, because these obligations are not secured, they would be effectively subordinated to any existing or future secured indebtedness of Eaton and its subsidiaries. As of December 31, 2025, Eaton has no material, long-term secured debt. The guaranteed Registered Senior Notes are also structurally subordinated to the liabilities of Eaton's subsidiaries that are not guarantors. Except as described below under Future Guarantors, Eaton is not obligated to cause its subsidiaries to guarantee the Registered Senior Notes.

The table set forth in Exhibit 22 filed with the Form 10-Q filed on August 5, 2025 (10-Q Exhibit 22) and incorporated by reference in this Annual Report on Form 10-K details the primary obligors and guarantors with respect to the guaranteed Registered Senior Notes.

Terms of Guarantees of Registered Securities

Payment of principal and interest on the Registered Senior Notes is guaranteed, on an unsecured, unsubordinated basis by the subsidiaries of Eaton set forth in the table referenced in the 10-Q Exhibit 22. Each guarantee is full and unconditional, and joint and several. Each guarantor’s guarantee is an unsecured obligation that ranks equally with all its other unsecured and unsubordinated indebtedness. The obligations of each guarantor under its guarantee of the Registered Senior Notes are subject to a customary savings clause or similar provision designed to prevent such guarantee from constituting a fraudulent conveyance or otherwise legally impermissible or voidable obligation.

Though the terms of the indentures vary slightly, generally, each guarantee of the Registered Senior Notes by a guarantor that is a subsidiary of Eaton Corporation provides that it will be automatically and unconditionally released and discharged under certain circumstances, including, but not limited to:

(a)the consummation of certain types of transactions permitted under the applicable indenture, including one that results in such guarantor ceasing to be a subsidiary; and

(b)for Registered Senior Notes issued under the 2022 and 2025 Indentures, when such guarantor is a guarantor or issuer of indebtedness in an aggregate outstanding principal amount of less than 25% of our total outstanding indebtedness.

Further, each guarantee by a direct or indirect parent of Eaton Corporation (other than Eaton) provides that it will also be released if:

(c)such guarantee (so long as the guarantor is not obligated under any other U.S. debt obligations), becomes prohibited by any applicable law, rule or regulation or by any contractual obligation; or

(d)such guarantee results in material adverse tax consequences to Eaton or any of its subsidiaries (so long as the applicable guarantor is not obligated under any other U.S. debt obligation).

The guarantee of Eaton does not contain any release provisions.

Future Guarantors

The 2012 and 2017 Indentures generally provide that, with certain limited exceptions, any subsidiary of Eaton must become a guarantor if it becomes obligated as borrower or guarantor under any series of debt securities or a syndicated credit facility. Further, the 2012 and 2017 Indentures provide that any entity that becomes a direct or indirect parent entity of Eaton Corporation and holds any material assets, with certain limited exceptions, or owes any material liabilities must become a guarantor. The 2022 and 2025 Indentures provide only that, with certain limited exceptions, any subsidiary of Eaton must become a guarantor if it becomes obligated as borrower or guarantor under indebtedness with an aggregate outstanding principal amount in excess of 25% of the Parent and its Subsidiaries’ then-outstanding indebtedness.

The 1994 Indenture does not contain provisions with respect to future guarantors.

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Summarized Financial Information of Guarantors and Issuers

(In millions)December 31, 2025
Current assets$4,075
Noncurrent assets13,439
Current liabilities4,598
Noncurrent liabilities10,788
Amounts due to subsidiaries that are non-issuers and non-guarantors - net9,499
(In millions)2025
Net sales$16,241
Sales to subsidiaries that are non-issuers and non-guarantors967
Cost of products sold11,154
Expense from subsidiaries that are non-issuers and non-guarantors - net943
Net income1,515

The financial information presented is that of the issuers and the guarantors, which includes Eaton Corporation plc, on a combined basis and the financial information of non-issuer and non-guarantor subsidiaries has been excluded. Intercompany balances and transactions between the issuers and guarantors have been eliminated, and amounts due from, amounts due to, and transactions with non-issuer and non-guarantor subsidiaries have been presented separately.

CRITICAL ACCOUNTING POLICIES

The preparation of financial statements in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP) in the United States requires management to make certain estimates and assumptions that may involve the exercise of significant judgment. For any estimate or assumption used, there may be other reasonable estimates or assumptions that could have been used. However, based on facts and circumstances inherent in developing estimates and assumptions, management believes it is unlikely that applying other such estimates and assumptions would have caused materially different amounts to have been reported. Actual results may differ from these estimates.

Revenue Recognition

Sales are recognized when control of promised goods or services are transferred to customers in an amount that reflects the consideration the Company expects to be entitled to in exchange for those goods or services. Control is transferred when the customer has the ability to direct the use of and obtain benefits from the goods or services. The majority of the Company’s sales agreements contain performance obligations satisfied at a point in time when control is transferred to the customer. Sales recognized over time are generally accounted for using an input measure to determine progress completed at the end of the period. Sales for service contracts generally are recognized as the services are provided. For agreements with multiple performance obligations, judgment is required to determine whether performance obligations specified in these agreements are distinct and should be accounted for as separate revenue transactions for recognition purposes. In these types of agreements, we generally allocate sales price to each distinct obligation based on the price of each item sold in separate transactions.

Due to the nature of the work required to be performed for obligations recognized over time, Eaton estimates total costs by contract. The estimate of total costs are subject to judgment. Estimated amounts are included in the recognized sales price to the extent it is not probable that a significant reversal of cumulative sales will occur. Additionally, contracts can be modified to account for changes in contract specifications, requirements or sale price. The effect of a contract modification on the sales price or adjustments to the measure of completion under the input method are recognized as adjustments to revenue on a cumulative catch-up basis.

Eaton records reductions to sales for returns, and customer and distributor incentives, primarily comprised of rebates, at the time of the initial sale. Rebates are estimated based on sales terms, historical experience, trend analysis, and projected market conditions in the various markets served. The rebate programs offered vary across businesses due to the numerous markets Eaton serves, but the most common incentives relate to amounts paid or credited to customers for achieving defined volume levels. Returns are estimated at the time of the sale primarily based on historical experience and are recorded gross on the Consolidated Balance Sheets. See Note 3 for additional information.

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Impairment of Goodwill and Indefinite Life Intangible Assets

Goodwill

Goodwill is evaluated annually for impairment as of July 1 using either a quantitative or qualitative analysis. Goodwill is tested for impairment at the reporting unit level, and is based on the net assets for each reporting unit, including goodwill and intangible assets. The Company’s reporting units are equivalent to the reportable operating segments, except for the Aerospace segment which has two reporting units. Goodwill is assigned to each reporting unit, as this represents the lowest level that constitutes a business and is the level at which management regularly reviews the operating results. The Company performs a quantitative analysis using a discounted cash flow model and other valuation techniques, but may elect to perform a qualitative analysis.

Additionally, goodwill is evaluated for impairment whenever an event occurs or circumstances change that would indicate that it is more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit is less than its carrying amount. Events or circumstances that may result in an impairment review include changes in macroeconomic conditions, industry and market considerations, cost factors, overall financial performance, other relevant entity-specific events, specific events affecting the reporting unit or sustained decrease in share price.

The annual goodwill impairment test was performed using a qualitative analysis in 2025, except for the eMobility reporting unit which used a quantitative analysis in 2025. The annual goodwill impairment test was performed using a quantitative analysis in 2024, except for the Vehicle and eMobility reporting units which used a qualitative analysis in 2024. A qualitative analysis is performed by assessing certain trends and factors, including projected market outlook and growth rates, forecasted and actual sales and operating profit margins, discount rates, industry data, and other relevant qualitative factors. These trends and factors are compared to, and based on, the assumptions used in the most recent quantitative analysis performed for each reporting unit. The results of the qualitative analyses did not indicate a need to perform quantitative analysis.

Quantitative analyses were performed by estimating the fair value of the reporting unit using a discounted cash flow model. The model includes estimates of future cash flows, future growth rates, terminal value amounts, and the applicable weighted-average cost of capital used to discount those estimated cash flows. The future cash flows were based on the Company's long-term operating plan and a terminal value was used to estimate the reporting unit's cash flows beyond the period covered by the operating plan. The weighted-average cost of capital is an estimate of the overall after-tax rate of return required by equity and debt market holders of a business enterprise. These analyses require the exercise of judgments, including judgments about appropriate discount rates, perpetual growth rates, revenue growth, and margin assumptions. Sensitivity analyses were performed around certain of these assumptions in order to assess the reasonableness of the assumptions and the resulting estimated fair values.

Based on these analyses performed in 2025 and 2024, the fair value of Eaton's reporting units continue to substantially exceed their respective carrying amounts and thus, no impairment exists.

Indefinite Life Intangible Assets

Indefinite life intangible assets consist of certain trademarks. They are evaluated annually for impairment as of July 1 using either a quantitative or qualitative analysis to determine whether their fair values exceed their respective carrying amounts. Indefinite life intangible asset impairment testing for 2025 and 2024 was performed using a quantitative analysis. Determining the fair value of these assets requires significant judgment and the Company uses a royalty relief methodology similar to that employed when the associated assets were acquired, but using updated estimates of future sales, cash flows and profitability. Sensitivity analyses were performed around certain of these assumptions in order to assess the reasonableness of the assumptions and the resulting estimated fair values.

Additionally, indefinite life intangible assets are evaluated for impairment whenever an event occurs or circumstances change that would indicate that it is more likely than not that the asset is impaired. Events or circumstances that may result in an impairment review include changes in industry and market considerations, cost factors, financial performance, and other relevant entity-specific events that could affect inputs used to determine the respective fair values of the indefinite-lived intangible assets.

For 2025 and 2024, the fair value of indefinite lived intangible assets exceeded the respective carrying value.

For additional information about goodwill and other intangible assets see Note 6.

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Acquisitions of Businesses

The acquisition of a business is accounted for using the acquisition method of accounting which requires assets and liabilities to be recognized at their fair values on the acquisition date. The initial fair value of assets acquired and liabilities assumed may be revised based on the final determination of fair value during the measurement period of up to 12 months from the acquisition date. The Company generally determines the fair value of intangible assets acquired using third-party valuations that are prepared using discounted cash flow models that rely on the Company's estimates. These estimates require judgment of future revenue growth rates, future margins, and the applicable weighted-average cost of capital used to discount those estimated cash flows. Sensitivity analyses are performed around certain of these assumptions in order to assess the reasonableness of the assumptions and the resulting estimated fair values. For additional information about the acquisitions of businesses see Note 2.

Recoverability of Deferred Income Tax Assets

Eaton is subject to the income tax laws in the jurisdictions in which it operates. In order to determine the income tax provision for financial statement purposes, Eaton must make significant estimates and judgments about its business operations in these jurisdictions. These estimates and judgments are also used in determining the deferred income tax assets and liabilities that have been recognized for differences between the financial statement and income tax basis of assets and liabilities, and income tax loss carryforwards and income tax credit carryforwards.

Management evaluates the realizability of deferred income tax assets for each jurisdiction in which it operates. If the Company experiences cumulative pre-tax income in a particular jurisdiction in a three-year period including the current and prior two years, management normally concludes that the deferred income tax assets will more likely than not be realizable and no valuation allowance is recognized, unless known or planned operating developments, or changes in tax laws, would lead management to conclude otherwise. However, if the Company experiences cumulative pre-tax losses in a particular jurisdiction in a three-year period including the current and prior two years, management then considers a series of factors in the determination of whether the deferred income tax assets can be realized. These factors include historical operating results, known or planned operating developments, the period of time over which certain temporary differences will reverse, consideration of the utilization of certain deferred income tax liabilities, carryback capability under the tax law in a particular country, prudent and feasible tax planning strategies, changes in tax laws, and estimates of future earnings and taxable income using the same assumptions as those used for the Company’s goodwill and other impairment testing. After evaluation of these factors, if the deferred income tax assets are expected to be realized within the tax carryforward period allowed for that specific country, management would conclude that no valuation allowance would be required. To the extent that the deferred income tax assets exceed the amount that is expected to be realized within the tax carryforward period for a particular jurisdiction, management would establish a valuation allowance. For additional information about income taxes see Note 12.

Unrecognized Income Tax Benefits

Eaton recognizes an income tax benefit from an uncertain tax position only if it is more likely than not that the benefit would be sustained upon examination by taxing authorities, based on the technical merits of the position. The Company evaluates and adjusts the amount of unrecognized income tax benefits based on changes in law, facts and circumstances.

The evaluation and determination of the amount of unrecognized income tax benefits related to uncertain tax positions is complex and involves both the exercise of judgment and the utilization of certain estimates and assumptions. Each tax position carries unique facts and circumstances that must be evaluated in light of current tax laws, regulations, and judicial decisions. Additionally, the ultimate resolution of the majority of Eaton’s unrecognized income tax benefits is dependent upon uncontrollable factors such as the timing of finalizing resolutions of audit disputes through reaching settlement agreements or concluding litigation, or changes in law.

Pension and Other Postretirement Benefits Plans

The measurement of liabilities related to pension plans and other postretirement benefits plans is based on assumptions related to future events including interest rates, return on plan assets, rate of compensation increases, and health care cost trend rates. Actual plan asset performance will either reduce or increase losses included in accumulated other comprehensive loss, which ultimately affects net income.

The discount rate for United States plans was determined by discounting the expected future benefit payments using a theoretical zero-coupon spot yield curve derived from a universe of high-quality bonds as of the measurement date and solving for the single rate that would generate the same benefit obligation. Only corporate bonds with a rating of Aa, determined by averaging the ratings by Moody’s, Standard & Poor's, and Fitch, were included. Callable bonds that are not make-whole bonds and certain other non-comparable bonds were eliminated. Finally, a subset of bonds was selected by grouping the universe of bonds by duration and retaining 50% of the bonds that had the highest yields.

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The discount rates for non-United States plans were determined by region and are based on high quality long-term corporate and government bonds. Consideration has been given to the duration of the liabilities in each plan when selecting the bonds to be used in determining the discount rate.

To estimate the service and interest cost components of net periodic benefit cost for the vast majority of its defined benefits pension and other postretirement benefits plans, the Company used a spot rate approach by applying the specific spot rates along the yield curve used to measure the benefit obligation at the beginning of the period to the relevant projected cash flows.

Key assumptions used to calculate pension and other postretirement benefits expense are adjusted at each year-end. A 1-percentage point change in the assumed rate of return on pension plan assets is estimated to have approximately a $46 million effect on pension expense. Likewise, a 1-percentage point change in the discount rate is estimated to have approximately a $15 million effect on pension expense. A 1-percentage point change in the assumed rate of return on other postretirement benefits assets is estimated to have less than $1 million effect on other postretirement benefits expense. A 1-percentage point change in the discount rate is estimated to have a $2 million effect on expense for other postretirement benefits plans.

Additional information related to changes in key assumptions used to recognize expense for other postretirement benefits plans is found in Note 10.

MD&A history

Prior-year 10-K MD&A spans are extracted from SEC filings with the same bounded parser used for the latest filing. The latest 10-K appears above; prior years are below.

FY 2024 10-K MD&A

SEC filing source: 0001551182-25-000006.

Extracted from a later financial-section MD&A body after the formal Item 7 span was a short reference. Confidence: high. Filing date: 2025-02-27. Report date: 2024-12-31.

MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS.

Amounts are in millions of dollars or shares unless indicated otherwise (per share data assume dilution). Columns and rows may not add and the sum of components may not equal total amounts reported due to rounding.

COMPANY OVERVIEW

Eaton Corporation plc (Eaton or the Company) is an intelligent power management company dedicated to protecting the environment and improving the quality of life for people everywhere. We make products for the data center, utility, industrial, commercial, machine building, residential, aerospace and mobility markets. We are capitalizing on the megatrends of the energy transition, electrification, and digitalization. The reindustrialization of and growth of megaprojects in North America and increased global infrastructure spending focused on clean energy programs are expanding our end markets and positioning Eaton for growth for years to come. We are strengthening our participation across the entire electrical power value chain and benefiting from momentum in the data center and utility end markets as well as a growth cycle in the commercial aerospace and defense markets. We are guided by our commitment to operate sustainably and with the highest ethical standards. Our work is accelerating the planet’s transition to renewable energy sources, helping to solve the world’s most urgent power management challenges, and building a more sustainable society for people today and for future generations.

Founded in 1911, Eaton has continuously evolved to meet the changing and expanding needs of our stakeholders. With revenues of nearly $25 billion in 2024, the Company serves customers in more than 160 countries.

Portfolio Changes

The Company continues to actively manage its portfolio of businesses to deliver on its strategic objectives. The Company is focused on deploying its capital toward businesses that provide opportunities for above-market growth, strong returns, and align with secular trends and its power management strategies. Over the past three years, Eaton continued to selectively add businesses to strengthen its portfolio.

Acquisitions of businesses and investments in associate companiesDate of acquisitionBusiness segment
Royal Power SolutionsJanuary 5, 2022eMobility
A manufacturer of high-precision electrical connectivity components used in electric vehicle, energy management, industrial and mobility markets.
Jiangsu Huineng Electric Co., Ltd’s circuit breaker businessJuly 1, 2022Electrical Global
A 50 percent stake in Jiangsu Huineng Electric Co., Ltd's circuit breaker business which manufactures and markets low-voltage circuit breakers in China.
Jiangsu Ryan Electrical Co. Ltd.April 23, 2023Electrical Global
A 49 percent stake in Jiangsu Ryan Electrical Co. Ltd., a manufacturer of power distribution and sub-transmission transformers in China.
ExerthermMay 20, 2024Electrical Americas
A U.K. based provider of thermal monitoring solutions for electrical equipment.
NordicEPOD ASMay 31, 2024Electrical Global
A 49 percent stake in NordicEPOD AS, which designs and assembles standardized power modules for data centers in the Nordic region.

Additional information related to acquisitions of businesses is presented in Note 2.

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Summary of Results of Operations

A summary of Eaton’s Net sales, Net income attributable to Eaton ordinary shareholders, and Net income per share attributable to Eaton ordinary shareholders - diluted is as follows:

(In millions except for per share data)202420232022
Net sales$24,878$23,196$20,752
Net income attributable to Eaton ordinary shareholders3,7943,2182,462
Net income per share attributable to Eaton ordinary shareholders - diluted$9.50$8.02$6.14

RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

Non-GAAP Financial Measures

The following discussion of Consolidated Financial Results includes certain non-GAAP financial measures. These financial measures include adjusted earnings and adjusted earnings per ordinary share, each of which differs from the most directly comparable measure calculated in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP). A reconciliation of adjusted earnings and adjusted earnings per ordinary share to the most directly comparable GAAP measure is included in the Consolidated Financial Results table below. Management believes that these financial measures are useful to investors because they provide additional meaningful financial information that should be considered when assessing our business performance and trends, and they allow investors to more easily compare Eaton’s financial performance period to period. Management uses this information in monitoring and evaluating the on-going performance of Eaton.

Acquisition and Divestiture Charges

Eaton incurs integration charges and transaction costs to acquire and integrate businesses, and transaction, separation and other costs to divest and exit businesses. Eaton also recognizes gains and losses on the sale of businesses. A summary of these Corporate items is as follows:

(In millions except for per share data)202420232022
Acquisition integration, divestiture charges and transaction costs$36$54$194
Gain on the sale of the Hydraulics business(24)
Total before income taxes3654170
Income tax benefit101523
Total after income taxes2639$147
Per ordinary share - diluted$0.06$0.10$0.37

Acquisition integration, divestiture charges and transaction costs are primarily related to acquisitions completed prior to 2023, including other charges and income to acquire and exit businesses, and the reduction in fair value of contingent future consideration from the Green Motion SA acquisition. Costs in 2023 and 2022 also included certain indemnity claims associated with the sale of 50% interest in the commercial vehicle automated transmission business in 2017. Costs in 2022 also included charges of $29 million presented in Other income - net on the Consolidated Statements of Income related to the decision in the second quarter of 2022 to exit the Company's business operations in Russia. These charges consisted primarily of write-downs of accounts receivable, inventory and other assets, and accruals for severance. These charges were included in Cost of products sold, Selling and administrative expense, Research and development expense, or Other income - net. In Business Segment Information in Note 19, the charges were included in Other expense - net.

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Restructuring Programs

In the second quarter of 2020, Eaton initiated a multi-year restructuring program to reduce its cost structure and gain efficiencies in its business segments and at corporate in order to initially respond to declining market conditions brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic. Since the inception of the program, the Company incurred expenses of $199 million for workforce reductions and $184 million for plant closing and other costs, resulting in total charges of $382 million through December 31, 2023. This restructuring program was substantially complete at the end of 2023 and mature year benefits from the program of approximately $265 million were realized in 2024.

During the first quarter of 2024, Eaton implemented a new multi-year restructuring program to accelerate opportunities to optimize its operations and global support structure. These actions will better align the Company's functions to support anticipated growth and drive greater effectiveness throughout the Company. Restructuring charges incurred under this program were $202 million in 2024. This restructuring program is expected to be completed in 2026 and is expected to incur additional expenses related to workforce reductions of $183 million and plant closing and other costs of $90 million, resulting in total estimated charges of $475 million for the entire program. The Company expects mature year benefits of $375 million when the multi-year program is fully implemented.

Additional information related to these restructuring programs is presented in Note 17.

Intangible Asset Amortization Expense

Intangible asset amortization expense is as follows:

(In millions except for per share data)202420232022
Intangible asset amortization expense$425$450$499
Income tax benefit9198105
Total after income taxes$335$353$394
Per ordinary share - diluted$0.84$0.89$0.99

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Consolidated Financial Results

(In millions except for per share data)2024Change from 20232023Change from 20222022
Net sales$24,8787%$23,19612%$20,752
Gross profit9,50313%8,43422%6,887
Percent of net sales38.2%36.4%33.2%
Income before income taxes4,56619%3,82731%2,911
Net income3,79818%3,22331%2,465
Less net income for noncontrolling interests(4)(5)(4)
Net income attributable to Eaton ordinary shareholders3,79418%3,21831%2,462
Excluding acquisition and divestiture charges, after-tax2639147
Excluding restructuring program charges, after-tax1604629
Excluding intangible asset amortization expense, after-tax335353394
Adjusted earnings$4,31418%$3,65721%$3,032
Net income per share attributable to Eaton ordinary shareholders - diluted$9.5018%$8.0231%$6.14
Excluding per share impact of acquisition and divestiture charges, after-tax0.060.100.37
Excluding per share impact of restructuring program charges, after-tax0.400.110.07
Excluding per share impact of intangible asset amortization expense, after-tax0.840.890.99
Adjusted earnings per ordinary share$10.8018%$9.1220%$7.57

Net Sales

Changes in Net sales:20242023
Organic growth8%12%
Foreign currency(1)%%
Total increase in Net sales7%12%

2024: Organic sales increased 8% in 2024 due to strength in commercial & institutional end-markets in the Electrical Americas business segment, strength in utility end-markets in the Electrical Global business segment, strength in data center end-markets in the Electrical Americas and Electrical Global business segments, strength in commercial OEM, commercial aftermarket, and military OEM in the Aerospace business segment, and strength in the European region in the eMobility business segment, partially offset by weakness in residential end-markets in the Electrical Americas and Electrical Global business segments and weakness in the North American and European regions in the Vehicle business segment.

Additionally, during 2024, certain facilities in the Electrical Americas business segment were impacted by Hurricane Helene, and the Aerospace business segment was impacted by industry related labor strikes. These events had a negative impact on Net sales in 2024 of $128 million.

2023: Organic sales increased 12% in 2023 due to strength in commercial & institutional, utility, industrial, and data center end-markets in the Electrical Americas and Electrical Global business segments, strength in sales to commercial OEM and aftermarket in the Aerospace business segment, strength in the North American, European, and Asia Pacific regions in the Vehicle business segment, and the ramp up of key programs in the eMobility business segment due to robust demand for electric vehicles.

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Gross Profit

2024: Gross profit margin increased from 36.4% in 2023 to 38.2% in 2024. Material factors affecting this increase were a 290 basis point increase from higher sales and a 90 basis point increase from operating efficiencies, partially offset by a 100 basis point decline from higher commodity and wage inflation and a 70 basis point decline from higher costs to support growth initiatives.

2023: Gross profit margin increased from 33.2% in 2022 to 36.4% in 2023 primarily due to higher sales volumes and net price realization, partially offset by higher costs to support growth initiatives in the Electrical Americas and Aerospace business segments, unfavorable product mix in the Electrical Global, Aerospace, and eMobility business segments, and operating inefficiencies in the Electrical Global and Vehicle business segments.

Income Taxes

During 2024, income tax expense of $768 million was recognized (an effective tax rate of 16.8%) compared to income tax expense of $604 million in 2023 (an effective tax rate of 15.8%) and income tax expense of $445 million in 2022 (an effective tax rate of 15.3%). The increase in the effective tax rate from 15.8% in 2023 to 16.8% in 2024 was due to greater levels of income earned in higher tax jurisdictions, partially offset by a larger impact from the excess tax benefits recognized for employee share-based payments and the reduction of valuation allowances on foreign tax attributes. The increase in the effective tax rate from 15.3% in 2022 to 15.8% in 2023 was due to greater levels of income earned in higher tax jurisdictions, partially offset by the reduction of valuation allowances on foreign tax attributes.

Net Income

Changes in Net income attributable to Eaton ordinary shareholders and Net income per share attributable to Eaton ordinary shareholders - diluted are summarized as follows:

20242023
(In millions except for per share data)DollarsPer shareDollarsPer share
Prior year$3,218$8.02$2,462$6.14
Business segment results of operations
Operational performance7301.827621.89
Foreign currency(7)(0.02)(11)(0.03)
Corporate
Intangible asset amortization expense180.05410.10
Restructuring program charges(114)(0.29)(17)(0.04)
Acquisition and divestiture charges130.041080.27
Other corporate items(21)(0.05)(102)(0.25)
Tax rate impact(45)(0.11)(25)(0.06)
Impact of shares0.04
Current year$3,794$9.50$3,218$8.02

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Business Segment Results of Operations

The following is a discussion of Net sales, operating profit (loss) and operating margin by business segment. Additionally, the Company uses the following metrics as indicators of customer demand and future revenue expectations in the Electrical Americas, Electrical Global, and Aerospace business segments. The Company believes these metrics are useful to investors for the same reasons.

•Backlog: Includes orders to which customers are firmly committed

•Organic change in backlog: Percentage change in backlog, excluding the impact of foreign currency, acquisitions and divestitures

•Organic change in customer orders: Percentage change in firm customer orders on a trailing twelve month basis, excluding the impact of foreign currency, acquisitions and divestitures

•Book-to-bill: Average of the ratio of firm customer orders to Net sales for the last four quarters

Electrical Americas

(In millions)2024Change from 20232023Change from 20222022
Net sales$11,43613%$10,09819%$8,497
Operating profit$3,45529%$2,67540%$1,913
Operating margin30.2%26.5%22.5%
Changes in Net sales:20242023
Organic growth13%19%
Foreign currency%%
Total increase in Net sales13%19%
Performance metrics:December 31, 2024December 31, 2023
Backlog$10,141$7,95328%
Organic change in backlog29%
Organic change in customer orders16%
Book-to-bill1.2

The increase in organic sales in 2024 was due to strength in data center and commercial & institutional end-markets, partially offset by weakness in residential end-markets. The increase in organic sales in 2023 reflects strength in commercial & institutional, utility, industrial, machine OEM, and data center end-markets.

The operating margin increased from 26.5% in 2023 to 30.2% in 2024. Material factors affecting this increase were a 560 basis point increase from higher sales and a 150 basis point increase from operating efficiencies, partially offset by a 190 basis point decline from higher costs to support growth initiatives and a 130 basis point decline from higher commodity and wage inflation. The operating margin increased from 22.5% in 2022 to 26.5% in 2023 primarily due to higher sales volumes and net price realization, partially offset by higher costs to support growth initiatives, and higher gains from the sale of non-production facilities in 2022.

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Electrical Global

(In millions)2024Change from 20232023Change from 20222022
Net sales$6,2483%$6,0844%$5,848
Operating profit$1,149(2)%$1,1764%$1,134
Operating margin18.4%19.3%19.4%
Changes in Net sales:20242023
Organic growth4%5%
Divestiture%(1)%
Foreign currency(1)%%
Total increase in Net sales3%4%
Performance metrics:December 31, 2024December 31, 2023
Backlog$1,704$1,52212%
Organic change in backlog16%
Organic change in customer orders4%
Book-to-bill1.1

The increase in organic sales in 2024 was due to strength in data center and utility end-markets, partially offset by weakness in residential end-markets. Additionally, the increase in organic sales in 2024 was due to strength in the Asia Pacific and European regions. The increase in organic sales in 2023 was primarily due to strength in commercial & institutional, industrial, utility, and data center end-markets.

The operating margin decreased from 19.3% in 2023 to 18.4% in 2024. Material factors affecting this decrease were a 150 basis point decline from higher wage inflation, a 70 basis point decline from the sale of a non-production facility in the third quarter of 2023, a 60 basis point decline from higher support costs, and a 50 basis point decline from unfavorable product mix, partially offset by a 140 basis point increase from operating efficiencies and a 90 basis point increase from higher sales. The operating margin decreased from 19.4% in 2022 to 19.3% in 2023 primarily due to operating inefficiencies from ongoing supply chain constraints and unfavorable product mix, partially offset by higher sales volumes and net price realization, and a net gain on the sale of a non-production facility in 2023.

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Aerospace

(In millions)2024Change from 20232023Change from 20222022
Net sales$3,74410%$3,41312%$3,039
Operating profit$85910%$78011%$705
Operating margin23.0%22.9%23.2%
Changes in Net sales:20242023
Organic growth10%11%
Foreign currency%1%
Total increase in Net sales10%12%
Performance metrics:December 31, 2024December 31, 2023
Backlog$3,721$3,22815%
Organic change in backlog16%
Organic change in customer orders10%
Book-to-bill1.1

The increase in organic sales in 2024 was due to strength in commercial OEM, commercial aftermarket, and military OEM. The increase in organic sales in 2023 was primarily due to broad-based strength across all markets with particular strength in commercial OEM and aftermarket.

The operating margin increased from 22.9% in 2023 to 23.0% in 2024. Material factors affecting the operating margin were a 470 basis point increase from higher sales and a 70 basis point increase from the sale of a production facility in the first quarter of 2024, partially offset by a 280 basis point decline from higher commodity and wage inflation, a 180 basis point decline from higher costs to support growth initiatives, and a 70 basis point decline from unfavorable product mix. The operating margin decreased from 23.2% in 2022 to 22.9% in 2023 primarily due to commodity and wage inflation, unfavorable product mix, and higher costs to support growth initiatives, partially offset by higher sales volumes including inflationary pricing recovery.

Vehicle

(In millions)2024Change from 20232023Change from 20222022
Net sales$2,790(6)%$2,9655%$2,830
Operating profit$5024%$4826%$453
Operating margin18.0%16.3%16.0%
Changes in Net sales:20242023
Organic growth(5)%4%
Foreign currency(1)%1%
Total increase (decrease) in Net sales(6)%5%

The decrease in organic sales in 2024 was due to weakness in the North American and European regions, partially offset by strength in the South American region. The increase in organic sales in 2023 was primarily due to strength in the North American, European, and Asia Pacific regions, partially offset by weakness in the South American truck, bus and agriculture markets.

The operating margin increased from 16.3% in 2023 to 18.0% in 2024. Material factors affecting this increase were a 190 basis point increase from operating efficiencies and a 60 basis point increase from the sale of a non-production facility in the second quarter of 2024, partially offset by a 70 basis point decrease from lower income from investments in associate companies. The operating margin increased from 16.0% in 2022 to 16.3% in 2023 primarily due to higher sales volumes including net price realization, partially offset by operating inefficiencies.

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eMobility

(In millions)2024Change from 20232023Change from 20222022
Net sales$6624%$63618%$538
Operating loss$(7)67%$(21)(133)%$(9)
Operating margin(1.0)%(3.2)%(1.6)%
Changes in Net sales:20242023
Organic growth4%18%
Foreign currency%%
Total increase in Net sales4%18%

Despite OEM delays in electric vehicle rollouts due to weaker than expected customer demand, organic sales increased in 2024 due to strength in the European region, partially offset by weakness in the North American region. The increase in organic sales in 2023 reflects the ramp up of key programs due to robust demand for electric vehicles in the North American and European markets.

The operating margin increased from negative 3.2% in 2023 to negative 1.0% in 2024. Material factors affecting this increase were a 510 basis point increase from operating efficiencies, a 350 basis point increase from higher sales, and a 220 basis point increase from the sale of a non-production facility in the second quarter of 2024, partially offset by a 320 basis point decline from higher costs to support growth initiatives, a 300 basis point decline from unfavorable product mix, and a 220 basis point decline from higher commodity and wage inflation. The operating margin decreased from negative 1.6% in 2022 to negative 3.2% in 2023 primarily due to commodity and wage inflation, manufacturing start-up costs associated with new electric vehicle programs, and unfavorable product mix, partially offset by higher sales volumes including inflationary pricing recovery.

Corporate Expense

(In millions)2024Change from 20232023Change from 20222022
Intangible asset amortization expense$425(6)%$450(10)%$499
Interest expense - net130(14)%1515%144
Pension and other postretirement benefits income(40)(13)%(46)7%(43)
Restructuring program charges202254%5773%33
Other expense - net6753%654%653
Total corporate expense$1,39210%$1,266(2)%$1,286

The material factor affecting the increase in Total corporate expense in 2024 was higher Restructuring program charges. The decrease in corporate expense in 2023 was primarily due to lower Intangible asset amortization expense, partially offset by higher Restructuring program charges.

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LIQUIDITY, CAPITAL RESOURCES, AND FINANCIAL CONDITION

Liquidity and Financial Condition

Eaton’s objective is to finance its business through operating cash flow and an appropriate mix of equity and long-term and short-term debt. By diversifying its debt maturity structure, Eaton reduces liquidity risk.

On May 21, 2024, a subsidiary of Eaton issued Euro denominated notes (2024 Euro Notes) with a face value of €1,000 million ($1,084 million), in accordance with Regulation S promulgated under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended. The 2024 Euro Notes are comprised of 2 tranches of €500 million each, which mature in 2031 and 2036, with interest payable annually at a respective rate of 3.601% and 3.802%. The issuer received proceeds totaling €995 million ($1,079 million) from the issuance, net of financing costs. The 2024 Euro Notes are fully and unconditionally guaranteed on an unsubordinated, unsecured basis by Eaton and certain of its direct and indirect subsidiaries. The 2024 Euro Notes contain customary optional redemption and par call provisions. The 2024 Euro Notes also contain a change of control provision which requires the Company to make an offer to purchase all or any part of the 2024 Euro Notes at a purchase price of 101% of the principal amount plus accrued and unpaid interest. The capitalized deferred financing fees are amortized in Interest expense - net over the respective terms of the 2024 Euro Notes. The 2024 Euro Notes are subject to customary non-financial covenants.

On September 30, 2024, the Company replaced its existing $500 million 364-day revolving credit facility with a new $500 million 364-day revolving credit facility that will expire on September 29, 2025. The Company also has a $2,500 million five-year revolving credit facility that will expire on October 1, 2027. The revolving credit facilities totaling $3,000 million are used to support commercial paper borrowings and are fully and unconditionally guaranteed by Eaton and certain of its direct and indirect subsidiaries on an unsubordinated, unsecured basis. There were no borrowings outstanding under Eaton’s revolving credit facilities at December 31, 2024. The Company maintains access to the commercial paper markets through its $3,000 million commercial paper program, of which none was outstanding on December 31, 2024. In addition to the revolving credit facilities, the Company also had available lines of credit of $938 million from various banks primarily for the issuance of letters of credit, of which there was $420 million outstanding at December 31, 2024.

Over the course of a year, cash, short-term investments, and short-term debt may fluctuate in order to manage global liquidity. As of December 31, 2024 and 2023, Eaton had cash of $555 million and $488 million, short-term investments of $1,525 million and $2,121 million, respectively, with no short-term debt as of December 31, 2024 and $8 million as of December 31, 2023. Eaton has investment grade credit ratings from the two major rating agencies as reflected in the following ratings assigned to its debt:

Credit Rating Agency (long- /short-term rating)RatingOutlook
Standard & Poor'sA-/A-2Stable outlook
Moody'sA3/P-2Stable outlook

Eaton believes it has the operating flexibility, cash flow, cash and short-term investment balances, availability under existing revolving credit facilities, and access to capital markets in excess of the liquidity necessary to meet future operating needs of the business, fund capital expenditures and acquisitions of businesses, as well as scheduled payments of long-term debt.

For additional information on financing transactions and debt, see Note 9.

Eaton’s credit facilities and indentures governing certain long-term debt contain various covenants, the violation of which would limit or preclude the use of the credit facilities for future borrowings, or might accelerate the maturity of the related outstanding borrowings covered by the indentures. At Eaton’s present credit rating level, the most restrictive financial covenant provides that the ratio of secured debt (or lease payments due under a sale and leaseback transaction) to adjusted consolidated net worth (or consolidated net tangible assets, in each case as defined in the relevant credit agreement or indenture) may not exceed 10%. Eaton's actual ratios are substantially below the required threshold. In addition, Eaton was in compliance with each of its debt covenants for all periods presented.

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Cash Flows

A summary of cash flows is as follows:

(In millions)2024Change from 20232023Change from 20222022
Net cash provided by operating activities$4,327$703$3,624$1,091$2,533
Net cash used in investing activities(271)2,304(2,575)(1,375)(1,200)
Net cash used in financing activities(3,936)(3,065)(871)469(1,340)
Effect of currency on cash(52)(68)16124
Total increase (decrease) in cash$67$194$(3)

Operating Cash Flow

Net cash provided by operating activities increased by $703 million in 2024 compared to 2023. The material factor affecting this increase was higher net income of $575 million.

Net cash provided by operating activities increased by $1,091 million in 2023 compared to 2022 primarily due to lower investment in working capital and higher net income in 2023.

Investing Cash Flow

Net cash used in investing activities decreased by $2,304 million in 2024 compared to 2023. Material factors affecting this decrease were sales of short-term investments of $575 million in 2024 compared to purchases of short-term investments of $1,861 million in 2023, partially offset by payments for settlement of currency exchange contracts not designated as hedges of $3 million in 2024 compared to proceeds from settlement of currency exchange contracts not designated as hedges of $92 million in 2023.

Net cash used in investing activities increased by $1,375 million in 2023 compared to 2022. The increase in the use of cash was primarily driven by an increase in net purchases of short-term investments to $1,861 million in 2023 from $19 million in 2022, and an increase in capital expenditures for property, plant and equipment to $757 million in 2023 from $598 million in 2022, partially offset by no cash paid for business acquisitions in 2023 compared to cash paid of $610 million in 2022.

Financing Cash Flow

Net cash used in financing activities increased by $3,065 million in 2024 compared to 2023. Material factors affecting this increase were an increase in repurchase of shares to $2,492 million in 2024 compared to no repurchase of shares in 2023, and an increase in payments on borrowings to $1,015 million in 2024 from $19 million in 2023, partially offset by a decrease in net payments of short-term debt to $8 million in 2024 from $311 million in 2023, and an increase in proceeds from borrowings to $1,084 million in 2024 from $818 million in 2023.

Net cash used in financing activities decreased by $469 million in 2023 compared to 2022. The decrease in the use of cash was primarily due to lower payments on borrowings of $19 million in 2023 compared to $2,012 million in 2022, and no repurchase of shares in 2023 compared to repurchase of shares of $286 million in 2022, partially offset by net payments of short-term debt of $311 million in 2023 compared to net proceeds of short-term debt of $317 million in 2022 and lower proceeds from borrowings of $818 million in 2023 compared to $1,995 million in 2022.

Uses of Cash

Purchases of Goods and Services

The Company purchases goods and services in the normal course of business based on expected usage. For certain purchases, the Company enters into purchase obligations with various vendors, which include short-term and long-term commitments for purchases of raw materials, outstanding non-cancelable purchase orders, releases under blanket purchase orders, and commitments under ongoing service arrangements. As of December 31, 2024, the Company has purchase obligations to support the operation of its business similar to those included in historical cash flow trends.

Capital Expenditures

Capital expenditures were $808 million, $757 million, and $598 million in 2024, 2023, and 2022, respectively. The Company plans to increase capital expenditures over the next several years to expand production capacity across various markets to support anticipated growth. As a result, Eaton expects approximately $900 million in capital expenditures in 2025.

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Dividends

Cash dividend payments were $1,500 million, $1,379 million and $1,299 million in 2024, 2023, and 2022, respectively. On February 27, 2025, Eaton's Board of Directors declared a quarterly dividend of $1.04 per ordinary share, an 11% increase over the dividend paid in the fourth quarter of 2024. The dividend is payable on March 28, 2025 to shareholders of record on March 10, 2025. Payment of quarterly dividends in the future depends upon the Company’s ability to generate net income and operating cash flows, among other factors, and is subject to declaration by the Eaton Board of Directors. The Company intends to continue to pay quarterly dividends in 2025.

Share Repurchases

On February 23, 2022, the Board of Directors adopted a share repurchase program for repurchases of ordinary shares up to $5.0 billion to be made during the three-year period commencing on that date (2022 Program). Under the 2022 Program, the ordinary shares are expected to be repurchased over time, depending on market conditions, the market price of ordinary shares, capital levels, and other considerations. During 2024 and 2022, 7.8 million and 2.0 million ordinary shares were repurchased under the 2022 Program in the open market at a total cost of $2.5 billion and $286 million, respectively. During 2023, no ordinary shares were repurchased. During 2022, 2.0 million ordinary shares were repurchased under the 2022 Program in the open market at a total cost of $286 million. The Company will continue to pursue share repurchases in 2025 depending on market conditions and capital levels. On February 27, 2025, the Board of Directors renewed the 2022 Program by providing authority for up to $9.0 billion in repurchases to be made during the three-year period commencing on that date (2025 Program).

Acquisition of Businesses and Investments in Associate Companies

The Company paid cash of $50 million and $610 million to acquire businesses in 2024 and 2022, respectively. There were no business acquisitions in 2023. The Company paid cash of $70 million, $68 million, and $42 million for investments in associate companies in 2024, 2023, and 2022, respectively. The Company will continue to focus on deploying its capital toward businesses that provide opportunities for higher growth and strong returns, and align with secular trends and its power management strategies.

Debt

The Company manages a number of short-term and long-term debt instruments, including commercial paper. At December 31, 2024, the Company had no Short-term debt, Current portion of long-term debt of $674 million, and Long-term debt of $8,478 million. The Company believes it has the operating flexibility, cash flow, and access to capital markets to meet scheduled payments of long-term debt. For additional information on financing transactions and debt see Note 9.

Leases

See Note 8 for maturities of lease liabilities.

Unrecognized Income Tax Benefits

At December 31, 2024, the gross unrecognized income tax benefits totaled $1,361 million and interest and penalties were $225 million. Eaton cannot predict with reasonable certainty the timing of cash settlements with the respective taxing authorities. For additional information about income taxes see Note 12.

Defined Benefits Plans

Pension Plans

During 2024, the fair value of plan assets in the Company’s employee pension plans decreased $244 million to $3,993 million at December 31, 2024. The decrease in plan assets was primarily due to benefit payments and negative currency translation exceeding contributions and asset performance. At December 31, 2024, the net unfunded position of $570 million in pension liabilities consisted of $574 million in plans that have no funding requirements and $227 million in plans that require funding, offset by $231 million in plans that are overfunded.

Funding requirements are a major consideration in making contributions to Eaton’s pension plans. With respect to the Company’s pension plans worldwide, the Company intends to contribute annually not less than the minimum required by applicable law and regulations. In 2024, $110 million was contributed to the pension plans. The Company anticipates making $101 million of contributions to certain pension plans during 2025. The funded status of the Company’s pension plans at the end of 2025, and future contributions, will depend primarily on the actual return on assets during the year and the discount rate used to calculate certain benefits at the end of the year. For additional information about pension plans see Note 10

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Supply Chain Finance Program

A third-party financial institution offers a voluntary supply chain finance (SCF) program that enables certain of the Company’s suppliers, at the supplier’s sole discretion, to sell receivables due from the Company to the financial institution on terms directly negotiated with the financial institution. The SCF program does not have a significant impact on the Company’s liquidity as payments by the Company to participating suppliers are paid to the financial institution on the invoice due date, regardless of whether an individual invoice is sold by the supplier to the financial institution. For additional information on the SCF program, see Note 7.

Guaranteed Debt

Issuers, Guarantors and Guarantor Structure

Eaton Corporation has issued senior notes pursuant to indentures dated April 1, 1994 (the 1994 Indenture), November 20, 2012 (the 2012 Indenture), September 15, 2017 (the 2017 Indenture) and August 23, 2022 (as supplemented by the First and Second Supplemental Indentures of the same date and the Third Supplemental Indenture dated May 18, 2023, the 2022 Indenture). The senior notes of Eaton Corporation are registered under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the Registered Senior Notes). Eaton Capital Unlimited Company, a subsidiary of Eaton, is the issuer of five outstanding series of debt securities sold in offshore transactions under Regulation S promulgated under the Securities Act (the Eurobonds). The Eurobonds and the Registered Senior Notes (together, the Senior Notes) comprise substantially all of Eaton’s long-term indebtedness.

Substantially all of the Senior Notes (with limited exceptions), together with the credit facilities described above under Liquidity and Financial Condition (the Credit Facilities), are guaranteed by Eaton and 17 of its subsidiaries. Accordingly, they rank equally with each other. However, because these obligations are not secured, they would be effectively subordinated to any existing or future secured indebtedness of Eaton and its subsidiaries. As of December 31, 2024, Eaton has no material, long-term secured debt. The guaranteed Registered Senior Notes are also structurally subordinated to the liabilities of Eaton's subsidiaries that are not guarantors. Except as described below under Future Guarantors, Eaton is not obligated to cause its subsidiaries to guarantee the Registered Senior Notes.

The table set forth in Exhibit 22 filed with the Form 10-K filed on February 23, 2023 (10-K Exhibit 22) details the primary obligors and guarantors with respect to the guaranteed Registered Senior Notes.

Terms of Guarantees of Registered Securities

Payment of principal and interest on the Registered Senior Notes is guaranteed, on an unsecured, unsubordinated basis by the subsidiaries of Eaton set forth in the table referenced in the 10-K Exhibit 22. Each guarantee is full and unconditional, and joint and several. Each guarantor’s guarantee is an unsecured obligation that ranks equally with all its other unsecured and unsubordinated indebtedness. The obligations of each guarantor under its guarantee of the Registered Senior Notes are subject to a customary savings clause or similar provision designed to prevent such guarantee from constituting a fraudulent conveyance or otherwise legally impermissible or voidable obligation.

Though the terms of the indentures vary slightly, generally, each guarantee of the Registered Senior Notes by a guarantor that is a subsidiary of Eaton Corporation provides that it will be automatically and unconditionally released and discharged under certain circumstances, including, but not limited to:

(a)the consummation of certain types of transactions permitted under the applicable indenture, including one that results in such guarantor ceasing to be a subsidiary; and

(b)for Registered Senior Notes issued under the 2022 Indenture, when such guarantor is a guarantor or issuer of indebtedness in an aggregate outstanding principal amount of less than 25% of our total outstanding indebtedness.

Further, each guarantee by a direct or indirect parent of Eaton Corporation (other than Eaton) provides that it will also be released if:

(c)such guarantee (so long as the guarantor is not obligated under any other U.S. debt obligations), becomes prohibited by any applicable law, rule or regulation or by any contractual obligation; or

(d)such guarantee results in material adverse tax consequences to Eaton or any of its subsidiaries (so long as the applicable guarantor is not obligated under any other U.S. debt obligation).

The guarantee of Eaton does not contain any release provisions.

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Future Guarantors

The 2012 and 2017 Indentures generally provide that, with certain limited exceptions, any subsidiary of Eaton must become a guarantor if it becomes obligated as borrower or guarantor under any series of debt securities or a syndicated credit facility. Further, the 2012 and 2017 Indentures provide that any entity that becomes a direct or indirect parent entity of Eaton Corporation and holds any material assets, with certain limited exceptions, or owes any material liabilities must become a guarantor. The 2022 Indenture provides only that, with certain limited exceptions, any subsidiary of Eaton must become a guarantor if it becomes obligated as borrower or guarantor under indebtedness with an aggregate outstanding principal amount in excess of 25% of the Parent and its Subsidiaries’ then-outstanding indebtedness.

The 1994 Indenture does not contain provisions with respect to future guarantors.

Summarized Financial Information of Guarantors and Issuers

(In millions)December 31, 2024
Current assets$5,027
Noncurrent assets13,225
Current liabilities3,738
Noncurrent liabilities10,564
Amounts due to subsidiaries that are non-issuers and non-guarantors - net10,334
(In millions)2024
Net sales$14,612
Sales to subsidiaries that are non-issuers and non-guarantors1,118
Cost of products sold10,408
Expense from subsidiaries that are non-issuers and non-guarantors - net834
Net income1,237

The financial information presented is that of Eaton Corporation and the Guarantors, which includes Eaton Corporation plc, on a combined basis and the financial information of non-issuer and non-guarantor subsidiaries has been excluded. Intercompany balances and transactions between Eaton Corporation and Guarantors have been eliminated, and amounts due from, amounts due to, and transactions with non-issuer and non-guarantor subsidiaries have been presented separately.

CRITICAL ACCOUNTING POLICIES

The preparation of financial statements in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP) in the United States requires management to make certain estimates and assumptions that may involve the exercise of significant judgment. For any estimate or assumption used, there may be other reasonable estimates or assumptions that could have been used. However, based on facts and circumstances inherent in developing estimates and assumptions, management believes it is unlikely that applying other such estimates and assumptions would have caused materially different amounts to have been reported. Actual results may differ from these estimates.

Revenue Recognition

Sales are recognized when control of promised goods or services are transferred to customers in an amount that reflects the consideration the Company expects to be entitled to in exchange for those goods or services. Control is transferred when the customer has the ability to direct the use of and obtain benefits from the goods or services. The majority of the Company’s sales agreements contain performance obligations satisfied at a point in time when control is transferred to the customer. Sales recognized over time are generally accounted for using an input measure to determine progress completed at the end of the period. Sales for service contracts generally are recognized as the services are provided. For agreements with multiple performance obligations, judgment is required to determine whether performance obligations specified in these agreements are distinct and should be accounted for as separate revenue transactions for recognition purposes. In these types of agreements, we generally allocate sales price to each distinct obligation based on the price of each item sold in separate transactions.

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Due to the nature of the work required to be performed for obligations recognized over time, Eaton estimates total costs by contract. The estimate of total costs are subject to judgment. Estimated amounts are included in the recognized sales price to the extent it is not probable that a significant reversal of cumulative sales will occur. Additionally, contracts can be modified to account for changes in contract specifications, requirements or sale price. The effect of a contract modification on the sales price or adjustments to the measure of completion under the input method are recognized as adjustments to revenue on a cumulative catch-up basis.

Eaton records reductions to sales for returns, and customer and distributor incentives, primarily comprised of rebates, at the time of the initial sale. Rebates are estimated based on sales terms, historical experience, trend analysis, and projected market conditions in the various markets served. The rebate programs offered vary across businesses due to the numerous markets Eaton serves, but the most common incentives relate to amounts paid or credited to customers for achieving defined volume levels. Returns are estimated at the time of the sale primarily based on historical experience and recorded gross on the Consolidated Balance Sheet. See Note 3 for additional information.

Impairment of Goodwill and Indefinite Life Intangible Assets

Goodwill

Goodwill is evaluated annually for impairment as of July 1 using either a quantitative or qualitative analysis. Goodwill is tested for impairment at the reporting unit level, and is based on the net assets for each reporting unit, including goodwill and intangible assets. The Company’s reporting units are equivalent to the reportable operating segments, except for the Aerospace segment which has two reporting units. Goodwill is assigned to each reporting unit, as this represents the lowest level that constitutes a business and is the level at which management regularly reviews the operating results. The Company performs a quantitative analysis using a discounted cash flow model and other valuation techniques, but may elect to perform a qualitative analysis.

Additionally, goodwill is evaluated for impairment whenever an event occurs or circumstances change that would indicate that it is more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit is less than its carrying amount. Events or circumstances that may result in an impairment review include changes in macroeconomic conditions, industry and market considerations, cost factors, overall financial performance, other relevant entity-specific events, specific events affecting the reporting unit or sustained decrease in share price.

The annual goodwill impairment test was performed using a quantitative analysis in 2024, except for the Vehicle and eMobility reporting units which used a qualitative analysis in 2024. The annual goodwill impairment test was performed using a qualitative analysis in 2023, except for the Vehicle reporting unit which used a quantitative analysis in 2023. A qualitative analysis is performed by assessing certain trends and factors, including projected market outlook and growth rates, forecasted and actual sales and operating profit margins, discount rates, industry data, and other relevant qualitative factors. These trends and factors are compared to, and based on, the assumptions used in the most recent quantitative analysis performed for each reporting unit. The results of the qualitative analyses did not indicate a need to perform quantitative analysis.

Quantitative analyses were performed by estimating the fair value of the reporting unit using a discounted cash flow model. The model includes estimates of future cash flows, future growth rates, terminal value amounts, and the applicable weighted-average cost of capital used to discount those estimated cash flows. The future cash flows were based on the Company's long-term operating plan and a terminal value was used to estimate the reporting unit's cash flows beyond the period covered by the operating plan. The weighted-average cost of capital is an estimate of the overall after-tax rate of return required by equity and debt market holders of a business enterprise. These analyses require the exercise of judgments, including judgments about appropriate discount rates, perpetual growth rates, revenue growth, and margin assumptions. Sensitivity analyses were performed around certain of these assumptions in order to assess the reasonableness of the assumptions and the resulting estimated fair values.

Based on these analyses performed in 2024 and 2023, the fair value of Eaton's reporting units continue to substantially exceed their respective carrying amounts and thus, no impairment exists.

Indefinite Life Intangible Assets

Indefinite life intangible assets consist of certain trademarks. They are evaluated annually for impairment as of July 1 using either a quantitative or qualitative analysis to determine whether their fair values exceed their respective carrying amounts. Indefinite life intangible asset impairment testing for 2024 and 2023 was performed using a quantitative analysis. Determining the fair value of these assets requires significant judgment and the Company uses a royalty relief methodology similar to that employed when the associated assets were acquired, but using updated estimates of future sales, cash flows and profitability. Sensitivity analyses were performed around certain of these assumptions in order to assess the reasonableness of the assumptions and the resulting estimated fair values.

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Additionally, indefinite life intangible assets are evaluated for impairment whenever an event occurs or circumstances change that would indicate that it is more likely than not that the asset is impaired. Events or circumstances that may result in an impairment review include changes in industry and market considerations, cost factors, financial performance, and other relevant entity-specific events that could affect inputs used to determine the respective fair values of the indefinite-lived intangible assets.

For 2024 and 2023, the fair value of indefinite lived intangible assets exceeded the respective carrying value.

For additional information about goodwill and other intangible assets see Note 6.

Acquisitions of Businesses

The acquisition of a business is accounted for using the acquisition method of accounting which requires assets and liabilities to be recognized at their fair values on the acquisition date. The initial fair value of assets acquired and liabilities assumed may be revised based on the final determination of fair value during the measurement period of up to 12 months from the acquisition date. The Company generally determines the fair value of intangible assets acquired using third-party valuations that are prepared using discounted cash flow models that rely on the Company's estimates. These estimates require judgement of future revenue growth rates, future margins, and the applicable weighted-average cost of capital used to discount those estimated cash flows. Sensitivity analyses are performed around certain of these assumptions in order to assess the reasonableness of the assumptions and the resulting estimated fair values. For additional information about the acquisitions of businesses see Note 2.

Recoverability of Deferred Income Tax Assets

Eaton is subject to the income tax laws in the jurisdictions in which it operates. In order to determine the income tax provision for financial statement purposes, Eaton must make significant estimates and judgments about its business operations in these jurisdictions. These estimates and judgments are also used in determining the deferred income tax assets and liabilities that have been recognized for differences between the financial statement and income tax basis of assets and liabilities, and income tax loss carryforwards and income tax credit carryforwards.

Management evaluates the realizability of deferred income tax assets for each jurisdiction in which it operates. If the Company experiences cumulative pre-tax income in a particular jurisdiction in a three-year period including the current and prior two years, management normally concludes that the deferred income tax assets will more likely than not be realizable and no valuation allowance is recognized, unless known or planned operating developments, or changes in tax laws, would lead management to conclude otherwise. However, if the Company experiences cumulative pre-tax losses in a particular jurisdiction in a three-year period including the current and prior two years, management then considers a series of factors in the determination of whether the deferred income tax assets can be realized. These factors include historical operating results, known or planned operating developments, the period of time over which certain temporary differences will reverse, consideration of the utilization of certain deferred income tax liabilities, carryback capability under the tax law in a particular country, prudent and feasible tax planning strategies, changes in tax laws, and estimates of future earnings and taxable income using the same assumptions as those used for the Company’s goodwill and other impairment testing. After evaluation of these factors, if the deferred income tax assets are expected to be realized within the tax carryforward period allowed for that specific country, management would conclude that no valuation allowance would be required. To the extent that the deferred income tax assets exceed the amount that is expected to be realized within the tax carryforward period for a particular jurisdiction, management would establish a valuation allowance. For additional information about income taxes see Note 12.

Unrecognized Income Tax Benefits

Eaton recognizes an income tax benefit from an uncertain tax position only if it is more likely than not that the benefit would be sustained upon examination by taxing authorities, based on the technical merits of the position. The Company evaluates and adjusts the amount of unrecognized income tax benefits based on changes in law, facts and circumstances. Eaton also estimates, where reasonably possible, the increase or decrease in the amount of unrecognized income tax benefits in the next 12 months.

The evaluation and determination of the amount of unrecognized income tax benefits related to uncertain tax positions is complex and involves both the exercise of judgement and the utilization of certain estimates and assumptions. Each tax position carries unique facts and circumstances that must be evaluated in light of current tax laws, regulations, and judicial decisions. Additionally, the ultimate resolution of the majority of Eaton’s unrecognized income tax benefits is dependent upon uncontrollable factors such as the timing of finalizing resolutions of audit disputes through reaching settlement agreements or concluding litigation, or changes in law.

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Pension and Other Postretirement Benefits Plans

The measurement of liabilities related to pension plans and other postretirement benefits plans is based on assumptions related to future events including interest rates, return on plan assets, rate of compensation increases, and health care cost trend rates. Actual plan asset performance will either reduce or increase losses included in accumulated other comprehensive loss, which ultimately affects net income.

The discount rate for United States plans was determined by discounting the expected future benefit payments using a theoretical zero-coupon spot yield curve derived from a universe of high-quality bonds as of the measurement date and solving for the single rate that would generate the same benefit obligation. Only corporate bonds with a rating of Aa, determined by averaging the ratings by Moody’s, Standard & Poor's, and Fitch, were included. Callable bonds that are not make-whole bonds and certain other non-comparable bonds were eliminated. Finally, a subset of bonds was selected by grouping the universe of bonds by duration and retaining 50% of the bonds that had the highest yields.

The discount rates for non-United States plans were determined by region and are based on high quality long-term corporate and government bonds. Consideration has been given to the duration of the liabilities in each plan when selecting the bonds to be used in determining the discount rate.

To estimate the service and interest cost components of net periodic benefit cost for the vast majority of its defined benefits pension and other postretirement benefits plans, the Company used a spot rate approach by applying the specific spot rates along the yield curve used to measure the benefit obligation at the beginning of the period to the relevant projected cash flows.

Key assumptions used to calculate pension and other postretirement benefits expense are adjusted at each year-end. A 1-percentage point change in the assumed rate of return on pension plan assets is estimated to have approximately a $49 million effect on pension expense. Likewise, a 1-percentage point change in the discount rate is estimated to have approximately a $15 million effect on pension expense. A 1-percentage point change in the assumed rate of return on other postretirement benefits assets is estimated to have less than $1 million effect on other postretirement benefits expense. A 1-percentage point change in the discount rate is estimated to have a $3 million effect on expense for other postretirement benefits plans.

Additional information related to changes in key assumptions used to recognize expense for other postretirement benefits plans is found in Note 10.

FY 2023 10-K MD&A

SEC filing source: 0001551182-24-000006.

Extracted from a later financial-section MD&A body after the formal Item 7 span was a short reference. Confidence: high. Filing date: 2024-02-29. Report date: 2023-12-31.

MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS.

Amounts are in millions of dollars or shares unless indicated otherwise (per share data assume dilution). Columns and rows may not add and the sum of components may not equal total amounts reported due to rounding.

COMPANY OVERVIEW

Eaton Corporation plc (Eaton or the Company) is an intelligent power management company dedicated to protecting the environment and improving the quality of life for people everywhere. We make products for the data center, utility, industrial, commercial, machine building, residential, aerospace and mobility markets. We are well positioned to capitalize on the megatrends of electrification, energy transition and digitalization. The reindustrialization of North America and Europe, growth in North American megaprojects, and increased global infrastructure spending focused on clean energy programs are expanding our end markets and positioning Eaton for growth for years to come. We are strengthening our participation across the entire electrical power value chain and benefiting from momentum in the data center and utility end markets as well as a growth cycle in the commercial aerospace and defense markets. We are guided by our commitment to operate sustainably and with the highest ethical standards. Our work is accelerating the planet’s transition to renewable energy sources, helping to solve the world’s most urgent power management challenges, and building a more sustainable society for people today and for future generations.

Eaton was founded in 1911 and has been listed on the New York Stock Exchange for more than a century. We reported revenues of $23.2 billion in 2023 and serve customers in more than 160 countries.

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Portfolio Changes

The Company continues to actively manage its portfolio of businesses to deliver on its strategic objectives. The Company is focused on deploying its capital toward businesses that provide opportunities for above-market growth, strong returns, and align with secular trends and its power management strategies. Over the last three years, Eaton continued to selectively add businesses to strengthen its portfolio.

Acquisitions of businesses and investments in associate companiesDate of acquisitionBusiness segment
Tripp LiteMarch 17, 2021Electrical Americas
A leading supplier of power quality products and connectivity solutions including single-phase uninterruptible power supply systems, rack power distribution units, surge protectors, and enclosures for data centers, industrial, medical, and communications markets in the Americas.
Green Motion SAMarch 22, 2021Electrical Global
A leading designer and manufacturer of electric vehicle charging hardware and related software.
HuanYu High TechMarch 29, 2021Electrical Global
A 50 percent stake in HuanYu High Tech, a subsidiary of HuanYu Group that manufactures and markets low-voltage circuit breakers and contactors in China, and throughout the Asia-Pacific region.
Mission SystemsJune 1, 2021Aerospace
A leading manufacturer of air-to-air refueling systems, environmental systems, and actuation primarily for defense markets.
Jiangsu YiNeng Electric's busway businessJune 25, 2021Electrical Global
A 50 percent stake in Jiangsu YiNeng Electric's busway business which manufactures and markets busway products in China.
Royal Power SolutionsJanuary 5, 2022eMobility
A manufacturer of high-precision electrical connectivity components used in electric vehicle, energy management, industrial and mobility markets.
Jiangsu Huineng Electric Co., Ltd’s circuit breaker businessJuly 1, 2022Electrical Global
A 50 percent stake in Jiangsu Huineng Electric Co., Ltd's circuit breaker business which manufactures and markets low-voltage circuit breakers in China.
Jiangsu Ryan Electrical Co. Ltd.April 23, 2023Electrical Global
A 49 percent stake in Jiangsu Ryan Electrical Co. Ltd., a manufacturer of power distribution and sub-transmission transformers in China.
Divestiture of businessDate of divestitureBusiness segment
Hydraulics businessAugust 2, 2021Hydraulics

Additional information related to acquisitions and divestiture of businesses is presented in Note 2.

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Summary of Results of Operations

A summary of Eaton’s Net sales, Net income attributable to Eaton ordinary shareholders, and Net income per share attributable to Eaton ordinary shareholders - diluted is as follows:

(In millions except for per share data)202320222021
Net sales$23,196$20,752$19,628
Net income attributable to Eaton ordinary shareholders3,2182,4622,144
Net income per share attributable to Eaton ordinary shareholders - diluted$8.02$6.14$5.34

2021: Organic sales increased 10% in 2021 as end-markets and regions served by our business segments experienced broad recovery from the negative impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. Our Electrical Global, Vehicle and eMobility business segments all realized organic growth greater than 10% during the year, despite supply chain constraints limiting the availability of materials in select businesses, travel restrictions continuing to impact commercial aviation, and reduced production levels at our customers leading to historic low vehicle inventory.

2022: Organic sales increased 13% in 2022 due to broad-based strength in end-markets and pricing actions in response to inflationary pressures. Each of our business segments realized organic growth greater than 10% during the year, despite being impacted by operating inefficiencies due to supply chain constraints or shortages, inflation, and selective labor shortages.

2023: Organic sales increased 12% in 2023 due to higher sales volumes including net price realization in most of our business segments. Our Electrical Americas, Aerospace, and eMobility business segments each realized organic growth greater than 10%, driving a 31% increase in net income from 2022, despite certain business segments being impacted by higher costs to support growth initiatives, unfavorable product mix, and operating inefficiencies.

Additionally, over the past several years, Eaton has completed a number of transactions to add higher growth, better margin businesses to its portfolio. These portfolio updates have the Company better aligned with secular growth trends and well positioned for expected further growth. These changes to our portfolio of businesses along with double digit organic sales growth and operational performance over the past three years have led to 50% growth in our net income per share since 2021.

RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

Non-GAAP Financial Measures

The following discussion of Consolidated Financial Results includes certain non-GAAP financial measures. These financial measures include adjusted earnings and adjusted earnings per ordinary share, each of which differs from the most directly comparable measure calculated in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP). A reconciliation of adjusted earnings and adjusted earnings per ordinary share to the most directly comparable GAAP measure is included in the Consolidated Financial Results table below. Management believes that these financial measures are useful to investors because they provide additional meaningful financial information that should be considered when assessing our business performance and trends, and they allow investors to more easily compare Eaton’s financial performance period to period. Management uses this information in monitoring and evaluating the on-going performance of Eaton.

Acquisition and Divestiture Charges

Eaton incurs integration charges and transaction costs to acquire and integrate businesses, and transaction, separation and other costs to divest and exit businesses. Eaton also recognizes gains and losses on the sale of businesses. A summary of these Corporate items is as follows:

(In millions except for per share data)202320222021
Acquisition integration, divestiture charges and transaction costs$54$194$349
Gain on the sale of the Hydraulics business(24)(617)
Total charges (income) before income taxes54170(268)
Income tax expense (benefit)(15)(23)362
Total after income taxes$39$147$94
Per ordinary share - diluted$0.10$0.37$0.23

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Acquisition integration, divestiture charges and transaction costs in 2023 and 2022 are related to the acquisition of Royal Power Solutions and other acquisitions completed prior to 2022, including other charges and income to acquire and exit businesses. Costs in 2023 and 2022 also included certain indemnity claims associated with the sale of 50% interest in the commercial vehicle automated transmission business in 2017. 2023 and 2022 also included reductions in the fair value of contingent future consideration from the Green Motion SA acquisition. Costs in 2022 also included charges of $29 million presented in Other expense (income) - net on the Consolidated Statements of Income related to the decision in the second quarter of 2022 to exit the Company's business operations in Russia. These charges consisted primarily of write-downs of accounts receivable, inventory and other assets, and accruals for severance. Charges in 2021 are primarily related to the divestiture of the Hydraulics business, the acquisitions of Tripp Lite, Mission Systems, Souriau-Sunbank Connection Technologies, and Ulusoy Elektrik Imalat Taahhut ve Ticaret A.S., and other charges to acquire and exit businesses including certain indemnity claims associated with the sale of 50% interest in the commercial vehicle automated transmission business in 2017. These charges were included in Cost of products sold, Selling and administrative expense, Research and development expense, or Other expense (income) - net. In Business Segment Information in Note 18, the charges were included in Other expense - net.

Restructuring Programs

In the second quarter of 2020, Eaton initiated a multi-year restructuring program to reduce its cost structure and gain efficiencies in its business segments and at corporate in order to initially respond to declining market conditions brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic. Since the inception of the program, the Company incurred charges of $382 million related to workforce reductions, plant closing, and other costs. The multi-year program was substantially complete at the end of 2023 and mature year benefits from the program are estimated to be $265 million and will be largely realized by the end of 2024. Additional information related to this restructuring is presented in Note 17.

On February 1, 2024, the Company announced a new multi-year restructuring program to accelerate opportunities to optimize its operations and global support structure. These actions will better align the Company's functions to support anticipated growth and drive greater effectiveness throughout the Company. This restructuring program is expected to be completed in 2026, with anticipated workforce reductions of $275 million and plant closing and other costs of $100 million, resulting in total estimated charges of $375 million for the entire program. The Company expects mature year benefits of $325 million when the multi-year program is fully implemented.

Intangible Asset Amortization Expense

Intangible asset amortization expense is as follows:

(In millions except for per share data)202320222021
Intangible asset amortization expense$450$499$444
Income tax benefit9810583
Total after income taxes$353$394$361
Per ordinary share - diluted$0.89$0.99$0.90

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Consolidated Financial Results

(In millions except for per share data)2023Change from 20222022Change from 20212021
Net sales$23,19612%$20,7526%$19,628
Gross profit8,43422%6,8879%6,335
Percent of net sales36.4%33.2%32.3%
Income before income taxes3,82731%2,9111%2,896
Net income3,22331%2,46515%2,146
Less net income for noncontrolling interests(5)(4)(2)
Net income attributable to Eaton ordinary shareholders3,21831%2,46215%2,144
Excluding acquisition and divestiture charges, after-tax3914794
Excluding restructuring program charges, after-tax462960
Excluding intangible asset amortization expense, after-tax353394361
Adjusted earnings$3,65721%$3,03214%$2,659
Net income per share attributable to Eaton ordinary shareholders - diluted$8.0231%$6.1415%$5.34
Excluding per share impact of acquisition and divestiture charges, after-tax0.100.370.23
Excluding per share impact of restructuring program charges, after-tax0.110.070.15
Excluding per share impact of intangible asset amortization expense, after-tax0.890.990.90
Adjusted earnings per ordinary share$9.1220%$7.5714%$6.62

Net Sales

Changes in Net sales are summarized as follows:20232022
Organic growth12%13%
Acquisitions of businesses%3%
Divestiture of business%(7)%
Foreign currency%(3)%
Total increase in Net sales12%6%

2023: Organic sales increased 12% in 2023 due to strength in commercial & institutional, utility, industrial, and data center end-markets in the Electrical Americas and Electrical Global business segments, strength in sales to commercial OEM and aftermarket in the Aerospace business segment, strength in the North American, European, and Asia Pacific regions in the Vehicle business segment, and the ramp up of key programs in the eMobility business segment due to robust demand for electric vehicles.

2022: Organic sales increased 13% in 2022 due to broad-based strength in end-markets of the Electrical Americas and Electrical Global business segments, strength in sales to commercial OEM and aftermarket in the Aerospace business segment, and higher sales volumes including inflationary recovery in the Vehicle business segment. Despite strong growth, many of our businesses were impacted by operating inefficiencies due to supply chain constraints or shortages, inflation, and selective labor shortages.

The acquisitions of Tripp Lite, Mission Systems, and Royal Power Solutions increased sales in 2022, while the divestiture of the Hydraulics business reduced sales.

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Gross Profit

2023: Gross profit margin increased from 33.2% in 2022 to 36.4% in 2023 primarily due to higher sales volumes and net price realization, partially offset by higher costs to support growth initiatives in the Electrical Americas and Aerospace business segments, unfavorable product mix in the Electrical Global, Aerospace, and eMobility business segments, and operating inefficiencies in the Electrical Global and Vehicle business segments.

2022: Gross profit margin increased from 32.3% in 2021 to 33.2% in 2022 primarily due to higher organic sales, including inflationary pricing recovery. Gross profit also improved due to the net impact of the acquisition of Royal Power Solutions and the divestiture of the Hydraulics business. Conversely, commodity and logistics inflation and operating inefficiencies due to supply chain constraints had an unfavorable impact on gross margin during 2022, despite offsetting pricing actions.

Income Taxes

During 2023, income tax expense of $604 million was recognized (an effective tax rate of 15.8%) compared to income tax expense of $445 million in 2022 (an effective tax rate of 15.3%) and income tax expense of $750 million in 2021 (an effective tax rate of 25.9%). Excluding the one-time tax expense associated with the sale of the Hydraulics business in 2021 as discussed in Note 2, the effective tax rate was between 15.0% and 17.0% for 2023, 2022, and 2021.

202320222021
Effective tax rate15.8%15.3%25.9%
Tax impact on sale of the Hydraulics business%%9.1%
15.8%15.3%16.8%

Additionally, see Note 12 for income tax rate reconciliations from Ireland's national statutory rate to the consolidated effective rate.

In December 2023, Ireland enacted legislation to implement a 15% global minimum effective tax rate by country as established by the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), with effective dates of January 1, 2024, and January 1, 2025, for different aspects of the rules. The Company will continue to evaluate the impact of global minimum tax legislation as enacted by Ireland and other countries in which we operate and expects its effective tax rate for 2024 to be near the high end of the 15.0% to 17.0% range in the table above.

Net Income

Changes in Net income attributable to Eaton ordinary shareholders and Net income per share attributable to Eaton ordinary shareholders - diluted are summarized as follows:

20232022
(In millions except for per share data)DollarsPer shareDollarsPer share
Prior year$2,462$6.14$2,144$5.34
Business segment results of operations
Operational performance7621.894921.24
Foreign currency(11)(0.03)(79)(0.20)
Corporate
Intangible asset amortization expense410.10(33)(0.09)
Restructuring program charges(17)(0.04)310.08
Acquisition and divestiture charges1080.27(53)(0.14)
Other corporate items(102)(0.25)(23)(0.06)
Tax rate impact(25)(0.06)(17)(0.04)
Share repurchases0.01
Current year$3,218$8.02$2,462$6.14

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Business Segment Results of Operations

The following is a discussion of Net sales, operating profit (loss) and operating margin by business segment.

Electrical Americas

(In millions)2023Change from 20222022Change from 20212021
Net sales$10,09819%$8,49717%$7,242
Operating profit$2,67540%$1,91328%$1,495
Operating margin26.5%22.5%20.6%
Changes in Net sales are summarized as follows:20232022
Organic growth19%16%
Acquisition of Tripp Lite%1%
Total increase in Net sales19%17%

The increase in organic sales in 2023 reflects strength in commercial & institutional, utility, industrial, machine OEM, and data center end-markets. The increase in organic sales in 2022 reflects broad-based strength in end-markets, with particular strength in residential, industrial, and data center end-markets.

The operating margin increased from 22.5% in 2022 to 26.5% in 2023 primarily due to higher sales volumes and net price realization, partially offset by higher costs to support growth initiatives, and higher gains from the sale of non-production facilities in 2022. The operating margin increased from 20.6% in 2021 to 22.5% in 2022 primarily due to higher sales volumes including inflationary pricing recovery, while headwinds from commodity and logistics inflation and operating inefficiencies due to supply chain constraints were offset by gains from the sale of certain non-production facilities.

Electrical Global

(In millions)2023Change from 20222022Change from 20212021
Net sales$6,0844%$5,8486%$5,516
Operating profit$1,1764%$1,13410%$1,034
Operating margin19.3%19.4%18.7%
Changes in Net sales are summarized as follows:20232022
Organic growth5%13%
Divestiture(1)%%
Foreign currency%(7)%
Total increase in Net sales4%6%

The increase in organic sales in 2023 was primarily due to strength in commercial & institutional, industrial, utility, and data center end-markets. The increase in organic sales in 2022 was primarily due to broad-based strength in end-markets, with particular strength in commercial & institutional and industrial end-markets.

The operating margin decreased from 19.4% in 2022 to 19.3% in 2023 primarily due to operating inefficiencies from ongoing supply chain constraints and unfavorable product mix, partially offset by higher sales volumes and net price realization, and a net gain on the sale of a non-production facility in 2023. The operating margin increased from 18.7% in 2021 to 19.4% in 2022 primarily due to higher sales volumes including inflationary pricing recovery, partially offset by commodity and logistics inflation and operating inefficiencies due to supply chain constraints.

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Hydraulics

On August 2, 2021, Eaton completed the sale of the Hydraulics business segment. For 2021, the Hydraulics segment generated net sales of $1,300 million and operating profit of $177 million.

Aerospace

(In millions)2023Change from 20222022Change from 20212021
Net sales$3,41312%$3,03915%$2,648
Operating profit$78011%$70522%$580
Operating margin22.9%23.2%21.9%
Changes in Net sales are summarized as follows:20232022
Organic growth11%11%
Acquisition of Mission Systems%8%
Foreign currency1%(4)%
Total increase in Net sales12%15%

The increase in organic sales in 2023 was primarily due to broad-based strength across all markets with particular strength in commercial OEM and aftermarket. The increase in organic sales in 2022 was primarily due to strength in sales to commercial OEM and aftermarket.

The operating margin decreased from 23.2% in 2022 to 22.9% in 2023 primarily due to commodity and wage inflation, unfavorable product mix, and higher costs to support growth initiatives, partially offset by higher sales volumes including inflationary pricing recovery. The operating margin increased from 21.9% in 2021 to 23.2% in 2022 primarily due to higher organic sales volumes.

Vehicle

(In millions)2023Change from 20222022Change from 20212021
Net sales$2,9655%$2,83010%$2,579
Operating profit$4826%$4531%$449
Operating margin16.3%16.0%17.4%
Changes in Net sales are summarized as follows:20232022
Organic growth4%12%
Foreign currency1%(2)%
Total increase in Net sales5%10%

The increase in organic sales in 2023 was primarily due to strength in the North American, European, and Asia Pacific regions, partially offset by weakness in the South American truck, bus and agriculture markets. The increase in organic sales in 2022 was primarily due to strength in the North American truck and light vehicle markets, and South American truck, bus and agriculture markets.

The operating margin increased from 16.0% in 2022 to 16.3% in 2023 primarily due to higher sales volumes including net price realization, partially offset by operating inefficiencies. The operating margin decreased from 17.4% in 2021 to 16.0% in 2022 primarily due to commodity and logistics inflation and operating inefficiencies due to supply chain constraints, partially offset by higher sales volumes including inflationary recovery.

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eMobility

(In millions)2023Change from 20222022Change from 20212021
Net sales$63618%$53857%$343
Operating loss$(21)(133)%$(9)69%$(29)
Operating margin(3.2)%(1.6)%(8.5)%
Changes in Net sales are summarized as follows:20232022
Organic growth18%13%
Acquisition of Royal Power Solutions%46%
Foreign currency%(2)%
Total increase in Net sales18%57%

The increase in organic sales in 2023 reflects the ramp up of key programs due to robust demand for electric vehicles in the North American and European markets. The increase in organic sales in 2022 was due to strength in all regions primarily due to robust demand for electric vehicles.

The operating margin decreased from negative 1.6% in 2022 to negative 3.2% in 2023 primarily due to commodity and wage inflation, manufacturing start-up costs associated with new electric vehicle programs, and unfavorable product mix, partially offset by higher sales volumes including inflationary pricing recovery. The operating margin increased from negative 8.5% in 2021 to negative 1.6% in 2022 primarily due to higher organic sales volumes and the acquisition of Royal Power Solutions.

Corporate Expense

(In millions)2023Change from 20222022Change from 20212021
Intangible asset amortization expense$450(10)%$49912%$444
Interest expense - net1515%144%144
Pension and other postretirement benefits income(46)7%(43)34%(65)
Restructuring program charges5773%33(58)%78
Other expense - net654%653212%209
Total corporate expense$1,266(2)%$1,28659%$810

The decrease in Total corporate expense in 2023 was primarily due to lower Intangible asset amortization expense, partially offset by higher Restructuring program charges. The increase in Total corporate expense in 2022 was primarily due to higher Other expense — net and Intangible asset amortization expense, partially offset by lower Restructuring program charges. The increase in Other expense — net is primarily due to the 2021 gain on sale of the Hydraulics business discussed in Note 2, partially offset by lower acquisition and divestiture charges.

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LIQUIDITY, CAPITAL RESOURCES, AND FINANCIAL CONDITION

Liquidity and Financial Condition

Eaton’s objective is to finance its business through operating cash flow and an appropriate mix of equity and long-term and short-term debt. By diversifying its debt maturity structure, Eaton reduces liquidity risk.

On March 3, 2023, a subsidiary of Eaton issued Euro denominated notes (2023 Euro Notes) in a private issuance with a face value of €300 million ($318 million). The floating rate notes are due June 3, 2024 with interest payable quarterly based on the three-month Euro Interbank Offered Rate plus 25 basis points. Proceeds from the Euro Notes were used to pay down outstanding U.S. dollar commercial paper. The 2023 Euro Notes are fully and unconditionally guaranteed on an unsubordinated, unsecured basis by Eaton. The 2023 Euro Notes contain a change of control provision which requires the Company to make an offer to purchase all or any part of the 2023 Euro Notes at a purchase price of 100.5% of the principal amount plus accrued and unpaid interest. The 2023 Euro Notes are subject to customary non-financial covenants.

On May 18, 2023, Eaton issued senior notes (2023 Notes) with a face amount of $500 million. The 2023 Notes mature in 2028 with interest payable semi-annually at a rate of 4.35% per annum. The issuer received proceeds totaling $497 million from the issuance, net of financing costs. Proceeds from the 2023 Notes were used primarily to pay down outstanding U.S. dollar commercial paper. The 2023 Notes are fully and unconditionally guaranteed on an unsubordinated, unsecured basis by Eaton and certain of its direct and indirect subsidiaries. The 2023 Notes contain customary optional redemption and par call provisions. The 2023 Notes also contain a provision which upon a change of control requires the Company to make an offer to purchase all or any part of the 2023 Notes at a purchase price of 101% of the principal amount plus accrued and unpaid interest. The 2023 Notes are subject to customary non-financial covenants.

On October 2, 2023, the Company replaced its existing $500 million 364-day revolving credit facility with a new $500 million 364-day revolving credit facility that will expire on September 30, 2024 on substantially similar terms. The Company also has a $2,500 million five-year revolving credit facility that will expire on October 1, 2027. The revolving credit facilities totaling $3,000 million are used to support commercial paper borrowings and are fully and unconditionally guaranteed by Eaton and certain of its direct and indirect subsidiaries on an unsubordinated, unsecured basis. There were no borrowings outstanding under Eaton’s revolving credit facilities at December 31, 2023. The Company maintains access to the commercial paper markets through its $3,000 million commercial paper program, of which none was outstanding on December 31, 2023. In addition to the revolving credit facilities, the Company also had available lines of credit of $1,070 million from various banks primarily for the issuance of letters of credit, of which there was $451 million outstanding at December 31, 2023.

In 2021, Eaton received proceeds of $3.1 billion from the sale of its Hydraulics business and paid $4.45 billion to acquire Tripp Lite and Mission Systems. In 2022, the Company paid $610 million to acquire Royal Power Solutions and received cash of $22 million from Danfoss A/S to fully settle all post-closing adjustments from the sale of the Hydraulics business.

Over the course of a year, cash, short-term investments, and short-term debt may fluctuate in order to manage global liquidity. As of December 31, 2023 and December 31, 2022, Eaton had cash of $488 million and $294 million, short-term investments of $2,121 million and $261 million, and short-term debt of $8 million and $324 million, respectively. Eaton has investment grade credit ratings from the two major rating agencies as reflected in the following ratings assigned to its debt:

Credit Rating Agency (long- /short-term rating)RatingOutlook
Standard & Poor'sA-/A-2Stable outlook
Moody'sA3Stable outlook

Eaton believes it has the operating flexibility, cash flow, cash and short-term investment balances, availability under existing revolving credit facilities, and access to capital markets in excess of the liquidity necessary to meet future operating needs of the business, fund capital expenditures and acquisitions of businesses, as well as scheduled payments of long-term debt.

For additional information on financing transactions and debt, see Note 9.

Eaton’s credit facilities and indentures governing certain long-term debt contain various covenants, the violation of which would limit or preclude the use of the credit facilities for future borrowings, or might accelerate the maturity of the related outstanding borrowings covered by the indentures. At Eaton’s present credit rating level, the most restrictive financial covenant provides that the ratio of secured debt (or lease payments due under a sale and leaseback transaction) to adjusted consolidated net worth (or consolidated net tangible assets, in each case as defined in the relevant credit agreement or indenture) may not exceed 10%. Eaton's actual ratios are substantially below the required threshold. In addition, Eaton is in compliance with each of its debt covenants for all periods presented.

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Cash Flows

A summary of cash flows is as follows:

(In millions)2023Change from 20222022Change from 20212021
Net cash provided by operating activities$3,624$1,091$2,533$370$2,163
Net cash used in investing activities(2,575)(1,375)(1,200)564(1,764)
Net cash used in financing activities(871)469(1,340)(805)(535)
Effect of currency on cash161249(5)
Total increase (decrease) in cash$194$(3)$(141)

Operating Cash Flow

Net cash provided by operating activities increased by $1,091 million in 2023 compared to 2022 primarily due to lower investment in working capital and higher net income in 2023.

Net cash provided by operating activities increased by $370 million in 2022 compared to 2021. The increase in net cash provided by operating activities in 2022 was primarily due to taxes paid on the sale of the Hydraulics business in 2021, cash received from the termination of interest rate swaps in 2022, lower pension contributions in 2022 due to a $200 million contribution to Eaton's U.S. qualified pension plan in 2021, and higher net income in 2022, partially offset by higher working capital balances to support the Company’s organic growth.

Investing Cash Flow

Net cash used in investing activities increased by $1,375 million in 2023 compared to 2022. The increase in the use of cash was primarily driven by an increase in net purchases of short-term investments to $1,861 million in 2023 from $19 million in 2022, and an increase in capital expenditures for property, plant and equipment to $757 million in 2023 from $598 million in 2022, partially offset by no cash paid for business acquisitions in 2023 compared to cash paid of $610 million in 2022.

Net cash used in investing activities decreased by $564 million in 2022 compared to 2021. The decrease in the use of cash was primarily driven by the decrease in cash paid in 2022 for business acquisitions to $610 million in 2022 compared to $4,500 million in 2021, proceeds from the sale of certain office and distribution facilities in 2022, and the decrease in cash paid for investments in associate companies to $42 million in 2022 from $124 million in 2021, partially offset by proceeds received in 2021 from the sale of Hydraulics business of $3,129 million and net purchases of short-term investments of $19 million in 2022 compared to net sales of $379 million in 2021. Capital expenditures were $598 million in 2022 compared to $575 million in 2021.

Financing Cash Flow

Net cash used in financing activities decreased by $469 million in 2023 compared to 2022. The decrease in the use of cash was primarily due to lower payments on borrowings of $19 million in 2023 compared to $2,012 million in 2022, and no repurchase of shares in 2023 compared to repurchase of shares of $286 million in 2022, partially offset by net payments of short-term debt of $311 million in 2023 compared to net proceeds of short-term debt of $317 million in 2022 and lower proceeds from borrowings of $818 million in 2023 compared to $1,995 million in 2022.

Net cash used in financing activities increased by $805 million in 2022 compared to 2021. The increase in the use of cash was primarily due to higher payments on borrowings of $2,012 million in 2022 compared to $1,013 million in 2021, higher share repurchases of $286 million in 2022 compared to $122 million in 2021, and higher dividends paid of $1,299 million in 2022 compared to $1,219 million in 2021, partially offset by an increase in net proceeds of short-term debt $317 million in 2022 from $20 million in 2021 and higher proceeds from borrowings of $1,995 million in 2022 compared to $1,798 million in 2021.

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Uses of Cash

Purchases of Goods and Services

The Company purchases goods and services in the normal course of business based on expected usage. For certain purchases, the Company enters into purchase obligations with various vendors, which include short-term and long-term commitments for purchases of raw materials, outstanding non-cancelable purchase orders, releases under blanket purchase orders, and commitments under ongoing service arrangements. As of December 31, 2023, the Company has purchase obligations to support the operation of its business similar to those included in historical cash flow trends.

Capital Expenditures

Capital expenditures were $757 million, $598 million, and $575 million in 2023, 2022, and 2021, respectively. The Company plans to increase capital expenditures over the next five years to expand production capacity across various markets to support anticipated growth. As a result, Eaton expects approximately $800 million in capital expenditures in 2024.

Dividends

Cash dividend payments were $1,379 million, $1,299 million, and $1,219 million for 2023, 2022, and 2021, respectively. On February 29, 2024, Eaton's Board of Directors declared a quarterly dividend of $0.94 per ordinary share, a 9% increase over the dividend paid in the fourth quarter of 2023. The dividend is payable on March 29, 2024 to shareholders of record on March 11, 2024. Payment of quarterly dividends in the future depends upon the Company’s ability to generate net income and operating cash flows, among other factors, and is subject to declaration by the Eaton Board of Directors. The Company intends to continue to pay quarterly dividends in 2024.

Share Repurchases

On February 27, 2019, the Board of Directors adopted a share repurchase program for share repurchases up to $5.0 billion of ordinary shares (2019 Program). On February 23, 2022, the Board renewed the 2019 Program by providing authority for up to $5.0 billion in repurchases to be made during the three-year period commencing on that date (2022 Program). Under the 2022 Program, the ordinary shares are expected to be repurchased over time, depending on market conditions, the market price of ordinary shares, capital levels, and other considerations. During 2023, no ordinary shares were repurchased. During 2022, 2.0 million ordinary shares were repurchased under the 2022 Program in the open market at a total cost of $286 million. During 2021, 0.9 million ordinary shares were repurchased under the 2019 Program in the open market at a total cost of $122 million. At December 31, 2023, there is $4,714 million still available for share repurchases under the 2022 Program. The Company will continue to pursue share repurchases in 2024 depending on market conditions and capital levels.

Acquisition of Businesses

The Company paid cash of $610 million and $4,500 million to acquire businesses in 2022 and 2021, respectively. There were no business acquisitions in 2023. The Company will continue to focus on deploying its capital toward businesses that provide opportunities for higher growth and strong returns, and align with secular trends and its power management strategies.

Debt

The Company manages a number of short-term and long-term debt instruments, including commercial paper. At December 31, 2023, the Company had Short-term debt of $8 million, Current portion of long-term debt of $1,017 million, and Long-term debt of $8,244 million. The Company believes it has the operating flexibility, cash flow, and access to capital markets to meet scheduled payments of long-term debt. For additional information on financing transactions and debt see Note 9.

Leases

See Note 8 for maturities of lease liabilities.

Unrecognized Income Tax Benefits

At December 31, 2023, the gross unrecognized income tax benefits totaled $1,300 million and interest and penalties were $188 million. Eaton cannot predict with reasonable certainty the timing of cash settlements with the respective taxing authorities. For additional information about income taxes see Note 12.

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Defined Benefits Plans

Pension Plans

During 2023, the fair value of plan assets in the Company’s employee pension plans increased $116 million to $4,237 million at December 31, 2023. The increase in plan assets was primarily due to favorable return on plan assets, employer contributions and the impact of positive currency translation. At December 31, 2023, the net unfunded position of $609 million in pension liabilities consisted of $616 million in plans that have no funding requirements and $203 million in plans that require funding, offset by $210 million in plans that are overfunded.

Funding requirements are a major consideration in making contributions to Eaton’s pension plans. With respect to the Company’s pension plans worldwide, the Company intends to contribute annually not less than the minimum required by applicable law and regulations. In 2023, $113 million was contributed to the pension plans. The Company anticipates making $115 million of contributions to certain pension plans during 2024. The funded status of the Company’s pension plans at the end of 2024, and future contributions, will depend primarily on the actual return on assets during the year and the discount rate used to calculate certain benefits at the end of the year. For additional information about pension plans see Note 10.

Supply Chain Finance Program

A third-party financial institution offers a voluntary supply chain finance (SCF) program that enables certain of the Company’s suppliers, at the supplier’s sole discretion, to sell receivables due from the Company to the financial institution on terms directly negotiated with the financial institution. The SCF program does not have a significant impact on the Company’s liquidity as payments by the Company to participating suppliers are paid to the financial institution on the invoice due date, regardless of whether an individual invoice is sold by the supplier to the financial institution. For additional information on the SCF program, see Note 7.

Guaranteed Debt

Issuers, Guarantors and Guarantor Structure

Eaton Corporation has issued senior notes pursuant to indentures dated April 1, 1994 (the 1994 Indenture), November 20, 2012 (the 2012 Indenture), September 15, 2017 (the 2017 Indenture) and August 23, 2022 (as supplemented by the First and Second Supplemental Indentures of the same date and the Third Supplemental Indenture dated May 18, 2023, the 2022 Indenture). The senior notes of Eaton Corporation are registered under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the Registered Senior Notes). Eaton Capital Unlimited Company, a subsidiary of Eaton, is the issuer of five outstanding series of debt securities sold in offshore transactions under Regulation S promulgated under the Securities Act (the Eurobonds). The Eurobonds and the Registered Senior Notes (together, the Senior Notes) comprise substantially all of Eaton’s long-term indebtedness.

Substantially all of the Senior Notes (with limited exceptions, for example, see Note 9 of the Financial Statements included herewith), together with the credit facilities described above under Liquidity and Financial Condition (the Credit Facilities), are guaranteed by Eaton and 17 of its subsidiaries. Accordingly, they rank equally with each other. However, because these obligations are not secured, they would be effectively subordinated to any existing or future secured indebtedness of Eaton and its subsidiaries. As of December 31, 2023, Eaton has no material, long-term secured debt. The guaranteed Registered Senior Notes are also structurally subordinated to the liabilities of Eaton's subsidiaries that are not guarantors. Except as described below under Future Guarantors, Eaton is not obligated to cause its subsidiaries to guarantee the Registered Senior Notes.

The table set forth in Exhibit 22 filed with the Form 10-K on February 23, 2023 (10-K Exhibit 22) details the primary obligors and guarantors with respect to the guaranteed Registered Senior Notes.

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Terms of Guarantees of Registered Securities

Payment of principal and interest on the Registered Senior Notes is guaranteed, on an unsecured, unsubordinated basis by the subsidiaries of Eaton set forth in the table referenced in the 10-K Exhibit 22. Each guarantee is full and unconditional, and joint and several. Each guarantor’s guarantee is an unsecured obligation that ranks equally with all its other unsecured and unsubordinated indebtedness. The obligations of each guarantor under its guarantee of the Registered Senior Notes are subject to a customary savings clause or similar provision designed to prevent such guarantee from constituting a fraudulent conveyance or otherwise legally impermissible or voidable obligation.

Though the terms of the indentures vary slightly, generally, each guarantee of the Registered Senior Notes by a guarantor that is a subsidiary of Eaton Corporation provides that it will be automatically and unconditionally released and discharged under certain circumstances, including, but not limited to:

(a)the consummation of certain types of transactions permitted under the applicable indenture, including one that results in such guarantor ceasing to be a subsidiary; and

(b)for Registered Senior Notes issued under the 2022 Indenture, when such guarantor is a guarantor or issuer of indebtedness in an aggregate outstanding principal amount of less than 25% of our total outstanding indebtedness.

Further, each guarantee by a direct or indirect parent of Eaton Corporation (other than Eaton) provides that it will also be released if:

(c)such guarantee (so long as the guarantor is not obligated under any other U.S. debt obligations), becomes prohibited by any applicable law, rule or regulation or by any contractual obligation; or

(d)such guarantee results in material adverse tax consequences to Eaton or any of its subsidiaries (so long as the applicable guarantor is not obligated under any other U.S. debt obligation).

The guarantee of Eaton does not contain any release provisions.

Future Guarantors

The 2012 and 2017 Indentures generally provide that, with certain limited exceptions, any subsidiary of Eaton must become a guarantor if it becomes obligated as borrower or guarantor under any series of debt securities or a syndicated credit facility. Further, the 2012 and 2017 Indentures provide that any entity that becomes a direct or indirect parent entity of Eaton Corporation and holds any material assets, with certain limited exceptions, or owes any material liabilities must become a guarantor. The 2022 Indenture provides only that, with certain limited exceptions, any subsidiary of Eaton must become a guarantor if it becomes obligated as borrower or guarantor under indebtedness with an aggregate outstanding principal amount in excess of 25% of the Parent and its Subsidiaries’ then-outstanding indebtedness.

The 1994 Indenture does not contain provisions with respect to future guarantors.

Summarized Financial Information of Guarantors and Issuers

(In millions)December 31, 2023
Current assets$5,006
Noncurrent assets13,004
Current liabilities3,927
Noncurrent liabilities10,012
Amounts due to subsidiaries that are non-issuers and non-guarantors — net8,178
(In millions)2023
Net sales$13,335
Sales to subsidiaries that are non-issuers and non-guarantors1,073
Cost of products sold10,033
Expense from subsidiaries that are non-issuers and non-guarantors — net1,125
Net income180

The financial information presented is that of Eaton Corporation and the Guarantors, which includes Eaton Corporation plc, on a combined basis and the financial information of non-issuer and non-guarantor subsidiaries has been excluded. Intercompany balances and transactions between Eaton Corporation and Guarantors have been eliminated, and amounts due from, amounts due to, and transactions with non-issuer and non-guarantor subsidiaries have been presented separately.

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CRITICAL ACCOUNTING POLICIES

The preparation of financial statements in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP) in the United States requires management to make certain estimates and assumptions that may involve the exercise of significant judgment. For any estimate or assumption used, there may be other reasonable estimates or assumptions that could have been used. However, based on facts and circumstances inherent in developing estimates and assumptions, management believes it is unlikely that applying other such estimates and assumptions would have caused materially different amounts to have been reported. Actual results may differ from these estimates.

Revenue Recognition

Sales are recognized when control of promised goods or services are transferred to customers in an amount that reflects the consideration the Company expects to be entitled to in exchange for those goods or services. Control is transferred when the customer has the ability to direct the use of and obtain benefits from the goods or services. The majority of the Company’s sales agreements contain performance obligations satisfied at a point in time when control is transferred to the customer. Sales recognized over time are generally accounted for using an input measure to determine progress completed at the end of the period. Sales for service contracts generally are recognized as the services are provided. For agreements with multiple performance obligations, judgment is required to determine whether performance obligations specified in these agreements are distinct and should be accounted for as separate revenue transactions for recognition purposes. In these types of agreements, we generally allocate sales price to each distinct obligation based on the price of each item sold in separate transactions.

Due to the nature of the work required to be performed for obligations recognized over time, Eaton estimates total costs by contract. The estimate of total costs are subject to judgment. Estimated amounts are included in the recognized sales price to the extent it is not probable that a significant reversal of cumulative sales will occur. Additionally, contracts can be modified to account for changes in contract specifications, requirements or sale price. The effect of a contract modification on the sales price or adjustments to the measure of completion under the input method are recognized as adjustments to revenue on a cumulative catch-up basis.

Eaton records reductions to sales for returns, and customer and distributor incentives, primarily comprised of rebates, at the time of the initial sale. Rebates are estimated based on sales terms, historical experience, trend analysis, and projected market conditions in the various markets served. The rebate programs offered vary across businesses due to the numerous markets Eaton serves, but the most common incentives relate to amounts paid or credited to customers for achieving defined volume levels. Returns are estimated at the time of the sale primarily based on historical experience and recorded gross on the Consolidated Balance Sheet. See Note 3 for additional information.

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Impairment of Goodwill and Indefinite Life Intangible Assets

Goodwill

Goodwill is evaluated annually for impairment as of July 1 using either a quantitative or qualitative analysis. Goodwill is tested for impairment at the reporting unit level, and is based on the net assets for each reporting unit, including goodwill and intangible assets. The Company’s reporting units are equivalent to the reportable operating segments, except for the Aerospace segment which has two reporting units. Goodwill is assigned to each reporting unit, as this represents the lowest level that constitutes a business and is the level at which management regularly reviews the operating results. The Company performs a quantitative analysis using a discounted cash flow model and other valuation techniques, but may elect to perform a qualitative analysis.

Additionally, goodwill is evaluated for impairment whenever an event occurs or circumstances change that would indicate that it is more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit is less than its carrying amount. Events or circumstances that may result in an impairment review include changes in macroeconomic conditions, industry and market considerations, cost factors, overall financial performance, other relevant entity-specific events, specific events affecting the reporting unit or sustained decrease in share price.

The annual goodwill impairment test was performed using a qualitative analysis in 2023 and 2022, except for the Vehicle and eMobility reporting units which used a quantitative analysis in 2023 and 2022, respectively. A qualitative analysis is performed by assessing certain trends and factors, including projected market outlook and growth rates, forecasted and actual sales and operating profit margins, discount rates, industry data, and other relevant qualitative factors. These trends and factors are compared to, and based on, the assumptions used in the most recent quantitative analysis performed for each reporting unit. The results of the qualitative analyses did not indicate a need to perform quantitative analysis.

Quantitative analyses were performed by estimating the fair value of the reporting unit using a discounted cash flow model. The model includes estimates of future cash flows, future growth rates, terminal value amounts, and the applicable weighted-average cost of capital used to discount those estimated cash flows. The future cash flows were based on the Company's long-term operating plan and a terminal value was used to estimate the reporting unit's cash flows beyond the period covered by the operating plan. The weighted-average cost of capital is an estimate of the overall after-tax rate of return required by equity and debt market holders of a business enterprise. These analyses require the exercise of judgments, including judgments about appropriate discount rates, perpetual growth rates, revenue growth, and margin assumptions. Sensitivity analyses were performed around certain of these assumptions in order to assess the reasonableness of the assumptions and the resulting estimated fair values.

Based on these analyses performed in 2023 and 2022, the fair value of Eaton's reporting units continue to substantially exceed their respective carrying amounts and thus, no impairment exists.

Indefinite Life Intangible Assets

Indefinite life intangible assets consist of certain trademarks. They are evaluated annually for impairment as of July 1 using either a quantitative or qualitative analysis to determine whether their fair values exceed their respective carrying amounts. Indefinite life intangible asset impairment testing for 2023 and 2022 was performed using a quantitative analysis. Determining the fair value of these assets requires significant judgment and the Company uses a royalty relief methodology similar to that employed when the associated assets were acquired, but using updated estimates of future sales, cash flows and profitability. Sensitivity analyses were performed around certain of these assumptions in order to assess the reasonableness of the assumptions and the resulting estimated fair values.

Additionally, indefinite life intangible assets are evaluated for impairment whenever an event occurs or circumstances change that would indicate that it is more likely than not that the asset is impaired. Events or circumstances that may result in an impairment review include changes in industry and market considerations, cost factors, financial performance, and other relevant entity-specific events that could affect inputs used to determine the respective fair values of the indefinite-lived intangible assets.

For 2023 and 2022, the fair value of indefinite lived intangible assets exceeded the respective carrying value.

For additional information about goodwill and other intangible assets see Note 6.

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Acquisitions of Businesses

The acquisition of a business is accounted for using the acquisition method of accounting which requires assets and liabilities to be recognized at their fair values on the acquisition date. The initial fair value of assets acquired and liabilities assumed may be revised based on the final determination of fair value during the measurement period of up to 12 months from the acquisition date. The Company generally determines the fair value of intangible assets acquired using third-party valuations that are prepared using discounted cash flow models that rely on the Company's estimates. These estimates require judgement of future revenue growth rates, future margins, and the applicable weighted-average cost of capital used to discount those estimated cash flows. Sensitivity analyses are performed around certain of these assumptions in order to assess the reasonableness of the assumptions and the resulting estimated fair values. For additional information about the acquisitions of businesses see Note 2.

Recoverability of Deferred Income Tax Assets

Eaton is subject to the income tax laws in the jurisdictions in which it operates. In order to determine the income tax provision for financial statement purposes, Eaton must make significant estimates and judgments about its business operations in these jurisdictions. These estimates and judgments are also used in determining the deferred income tax assets and liabilities that have been recognized for differences between the financial statement and income tax basis of assets and liabilities, and income tax loss carryforwards and income tax credit carryforwards.

Management evaluates the realizability of deferred income tax assets for each jurisdiction in which it operates. If the Company experiences cumulative pre-tax income in a particular jurisdiction in a three-year period including the current and prior two years, management normally concludes that the deferred income tax assets will more likely than not be realizable and no valuation allowance is recognized, unless known or planned operating developments, or changes in tax laws, would lead management to conclude otherwise. However, if the Company experiences cumulative pre-tax losses in a particular jurisdiction in a three-year period including the current and prior two years, management then considers a series of factors in the determination of whether the deferred income tax assets can be realized. These factors include historical operating results, known or planned operating developments, the period of time over which certain temporary differences will reverse, consideration of the utilization of certain deferred income tax liabilities, carryback capability under the tax law in a particular country, prudent and feasible tax planning strategies, changes in tax laws, and estimates of future earnings and taxable income using the same assumptions as those used for the Company’s goodwill and other impairment testing. After evaluation of these factors, if the deferred income tax assets are expected to be realized within the tax carryforward period allowed for that specific country, management would conclude that no valuation allowance would be required. To the extent that the deferred income tax assets exceed the amount that is expected to be realized within the tax carryforward period for a particular jurisdiction, management would establish a valuation allowance. For additional information about income taxes see Note 12.

Unrecognized Income Tax Benefits

Eaton recognizes an income tax benefit from an uncertain tax position only if it is more likely than not that the benefit would be sustained upon examination by taxing authorities, based on the technical merits of the position. The Company evaluates and adjusts the amount of unrecognized income tax benefits based on changes in law, facts and circumstances. Eaton also estimates, where reasonably possible, the increase or decrease in the amount of unrecognized income tax benefits in the next 12 months.

The evaluation and determination of the amount of unrecognized income tax benefits related to uncertain tax positions is complex and involves both the exercise of judgement and the utilization of certain estimates and assumptions. Each tax position carries unique facts and circumstances that must be evaluated in light of current tax laws, regulations, and judicial decisions. Additionally, the ultimate resolution of the majority of Eaton’s unrecognized income tax benefits is dependent upon uncontrollable factors such as the timing of finalizing resolutions of audit disputes through reaching settlement agreements or concluding litigation, or changes in law.

Pension and Other Postretirement Benefits Plans

The measurement of liabilities related to pension plans and other postretirement benefits plans is based on assumptions related to future events including interest rates, return on plan assets, rate of compensation increases, and health care cost trend rates. Actual plan asset performance will either reduce or increase losses included in accumulated other comprehensive loss, which ultimately affects net income.

The discount rate for United States plans was determined by discounting the expected future benefit payments using a theoretical zero-coupon spot yield curve derived from a universe of high-quality bonds as of the measurement date and solving for the single rate that would generate the same benefit obligation. Only corporate bonds with a rating of Aa, determined by averaging the ratings by Moody’s, Standard & Poor's, and Fitch, were included. Callable bonds that are not make-whole bonds and certain other non-comparable bonds were eliminated. Finally, a subset of bonds was selected by grouping the universe of bonds by duration and retaining 50% of the bonds that had the highest yields.

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The discount rates for non-United States plans were determined by region and are based on high quality long-term corporate and government bonds. Consideration has been given to the duration of the liabilities in each plan when selecting the bonds to be used in determining the discount rate.

To estimate the service and interest cost components of net periodic benefit cost for the vast majority of its defined benefits pension and other postretirement benefits plans, the Company used a spot rate approach by applying the specific spot rates along the yield curve used to measure the benefit obligation at the beginning of the period to the relevant projected cash flows.

Key assumptions used to calculate pension and other postretirement benefits expense are adjusted at each year-end. A 1-percentage point change in the assumed rate of return on pension plan assets is estimated to have approximately a $49 million effect on pension expense. Likewise, a 1-percentage point change in the discount rate is estimated to have approximately a $10 million effect on pension expense. A 1-percentage point change in the assumed rate of return on other postretirement benefits assets is estimated to have less than $1 million effect on other postretirement benefits expense. A 1-percentage point change in the discount rate is estimated to have a $2 million effect on expense for other postretirement benefits plans.

Additional information related to changes in key assumptions used to recognize expense for other postretirement benefits plans is found in Note 10.

FY 2022 10-K MD&A

SEC filing source: 0001551182-23-000004.

Extracted from a later financial-section MD&A body after the formal Item 7 span was a short reference. Confidence: high. Filing date: 2023-02-23. Report date: 2022-12-31.

MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS.

Amounts are in millions of dollars or shares unless indicated otherwise (per share data assume dilution). Columns and rows may not add and the sum of components may not equal total amounts reported due to rounding.

COMPANY OVERVIEW

Eaton Corporation plc (Eaton or the Company) is an intelligent power management company dedicated to improving the quality of life and protecting the environment for people everywhere. We are guided by our commitment to do business right, to operate sustainably and to help our customers manage power – today and well into the future. By capitalizing on the global growth trends of electrification and digitalization, we're accelerating the planet's transition to renewable energy, helping to solve the world's most urgent power management challenges, and doing what's best for our stakeholders and all of society.

Eaton’s businesses are well-positioned to take advantage of secular growth trends related to the energy transition from fossil fuels to renewables. We are responding to these trends by innovating solutions that transform the electrical power value chain, investing in electrical vehicle markets, increasing our focus on electrification, and employing digital technologies for power management. The Company’s innovations are expected to enable the integration of renewables and sustainability solutions, with new types of equipment, services, and software. These strategic focus areas are an important part of our response to climate change.

Founded in 1911, 2023 marks Eaton's 100th anniversary of being listed on the New York Stock Exchange. We reported revenues of $20.8 billion in 2022 and serve customers in more than 170 countries.

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Portfolio Changes

The Company continues to actively manage its portfolio of businesses to deliver on its strategic objectives. The Company is focused on deploying its capital toward businesses that provide opportunities for above-market growth, strong returns, and align with secular trends and its power management strategies. Over the last three years, Eaton has completed a number of transactions to strengthen its portfolio.

Acquisitions of businesses and investments in associate companiesDate of acquisitionBusiness segment
Power Distribution, Inc.February 25, 2020Electrical Americas
A leading supplier of mission critical power distribution, static switching, and power monitoring equipment and services for data centers and industrial and commercial customers.
Tripp LiteMarch 17, 2021Electrical Americas
A leading supplier of power quality products and connectivity solutions including single-phase uninterruptible power supply systems, rack power distribution units, surge protectors, and enclosures for data centers, industrial, medical, and communications markets in the Americas.
Green Motion SAMarch 22, 2021Electrical Global
A leading designer and manufacturer of electric vehicle charging hardware and related software.
HuanYu High TechMarch 29, 2021Electrical Global
A 50 percent stake in HuanYu High Tech, a subsidiary of HuanYu Group that manufactures and markets low-voltage circuit breakers and contactors in China, and throughout the Asia-Pacific region.
Mission SystemsJune 1, 2021Aerospace
A leading manufacturer of air-to-air refueling systems, environmental systems, and actuation primarily for defense markets.
Jiangsu YiNeng Electric's busway businessJune 25, 2021Electrical Global
A 50 percent stake in Jiangsu YiNeng Electric's busway business which manufactures and markets busway products in China.
Royal Power SolutionsJanuary 5, 2022eMobility
A manufacturer of high-precision electrical connectivity components used in electric vehicle, energy management, industrial and mobility markets.
Jiangsu Huineng Electric Co., Ltd’s circuit breaker businessJuly 1, 2022Electrical Global
A 50 percent stake in Jiangsu Huineng Electric Co., Ltd's circuit breaker business which manufactures and markets low-voltage circuit breakers in China.
Divestitures of businessesDate of divestitureBusiness segment
Lighting businessMarch 2, 2020Electrical Americas
Hydraulics businessAugust 2, 2021Hydraulics

Additional information related to acquisitions and divestitures of businesses is presented in Note 2.

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Summary of Results of Operations

A summary of Eaton’s Net sales, Net income attributable to Eaton ordinary shareholders, and Net income per share attributable to Eaton ordinary shareholders - diluted is as follows:

(In millions except for per share data)202220212020
Net sales$20,752$19,628$17,858
Net income attributable to Eaton ordinary shareholders2,4622,1441,410
Net income per share attributable to Eaton ordinary shareholders - diluted$6.14$5.34$3.49

2020: Organic sales during 2020 were down 11% primarily due to the initial impact from the COVID-19 pandemic. In addition, the divestitures of the Lighting and Automotive Fluid Conveyance businesses also reduced sales, but were partially offset by growth from the acquisitions of Souriau-Sunbank Connection Technologies and Power Distribution, Inc.

2021: Organic sales increased 10% in 2021 as end-markets and regions served by our business segments experienced broad recovery from the negative impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. Our Electrical Global, Vehicle and eMobility business segments all realized organic growth greater than 10% during the year, despite supply chain constraints limiting the availability of materials in select businesses, travel restrictions continuing to impact commercial aviation, and reduced production levels at our customers leading to historic low vehicle inventory.

2022: Organic sales increased 13% in 2022 due to broad-based strength in end-markets and pricing actions in response to inflationary pressures. Each of our business segments realized organic growth greater than 10% during the year, despite being impacted by operating inefficiencies due to supply chain constraints or shortages, inflation, and selective labor shortages.

Additionally, over the past several years, Eaton has completed a number of transactions to add higher growth, better margin businesses to its portfolio. These portfolio updates have the Company better aligned with secular growth trends and well positioned for expected further growth. These changes to our portfolio of businesses along with double digit organic sales growth and operational performance over the past two years have led to 76% growth in our net income per share since the COVID-19 pandemic began in 2020.

RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

Non-GAAP Financial Measures

The following discussion of Consolidated Financial Results includes certain non-GAAP financial measures. These financial measures include adjusted earnings and adjusted earnings per ordinary share, each of which differs from the most directly comparable measure calculated in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP). A reconciliation of adjusted earnings and adjusted earnings per ordinary share to the most directly comparable GAAP measure is included in the Consolidated Financial Results table below. Management believes that these financial measures are useful to investors because they provide additional meaningful financial information that should be considered when assessing our business performance and trends, and they allow investors to more easily compare Eaton’s financial performance period to period. Management uses this information in monitoring and evaluating the on-going performance of Eaton.

Acquisition and Divestiture Charges

Eaton incurs integration charges and transaction costs to acquire and integrate businesses, and transaction, separation and other costs to divest and exit businesses. Eaton also recognizes gains and losses on the sale of businesses. A summary of these Corporate items is as follows:

(In millions except for per share data)202220212020
Acquisition integration, divestiture charges and transactions costs$194$349$288
Gain on the sale of the Hydraulics and Lighting businesses(24)(617)(221)
Total charges (income) before income taxes170(268)67
Income tax expense (benefit)(23)36266
Total after income taxes$147$94$133
Per ordinary share - diluted$0.37$0.23$0.33

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Acquisition integration, divestiture charges and transaction costs in 2022 are primarily related to the acquisitions of Royal Power Solutions, Souriau-Sunbank Connection Technologies, Green Motion, Tripp Lite, and Mission Systems, and other charges to acquire and exit businesses including certain indemnity claims associated with the sale of 50% interest in the commercial vehicle automated transmission business in 2017. These costs also included charges of $29 million presented in Other expense (income) - net on the Consolidated Statements of Income related to the decision in the second quarter to exit the Company's business operations in Russia. These charges consisted primarily of write-downs of accounts receivable, inventory and other assets, and accruals for severance. Charges in 2021 are primarily related to the divestiture of the Hydraulics business, the acquisitions of Tripp Lite, Mission Systems, Souriau-Sunbank Connection Technologies, and Ulusoy Elektrik Imalat Taahhut ve Ticaret A.S., and other charges to acquire and exit businesses including certain indemnity claims associated with the sale of 50% interest in the commercial vehicle automated transmission business in 2017. Charges in 2020 are primarily related to the divestitures of the Hydraulics business and the Lighting business, the acquisitions of Souriau-Sunbank, Ulusoy Elektrik, and Power Distribution, Inc., and other charges to exit businesses. These charges were included in Cost of products sold, Selling and administrative expense, Research and development expense, or Other expense (income) - net. In Business Segment Information in Note 17, the charges were included in Other expense - net.

Restructuring

In the second quarter of 2020, Eaton decided to undertake a multi-year restructuring program to reduce its cost structure and gain efficiencies in its business segments and at corporate in order to respond to declining market conditions brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic. Since the inception of the program, the Company has incurred charges of $325 million. These restructuring activities are expected to be completed in 2023 with total estimated charges of $350 million cumulatively for the entire program and projected mature year savings of $250 million when fully implemented. The remaining charges in 2023 are expected to relate primarily to plant closing and other costs. Additional information related to this restructuring is presented in Note 16.

Intangible Asset Amortization Expense

Intangible asset amortization expense is as follows:

(In millions except for per share data)202220212020
Intangible asset amortization expense$499$444$354
Income tax benefit1058382
Total after income taxes$394$361$272
Per ordinary share - diluted$0.99$0.90$0.67

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Consolidated Financial Results

(In millions except for per share data)2022Change from 20212021Change from 20202020
Net sales$20,7526%$19,62810%$17,858
Gross profit6,8879%6,33516%5,450
Percent of net sales33.2%32.3%30.5%
Income before income taxes2,9111%2,89666%1,746
Net income2,46515%2,14652%1,415
Less net income for noncontrolling interests(4)(2)(5)
Net income attributable to Eaton ordinary shareholders2,46215%2,14452%1,410
Excluding acquisition and divestiture charges, after-tax14794133
Excluding restructuring program charges, after-tax2960170
Excluding intangible asset amortization expense, after-tax394361272
Adjusted earnings$3,03214%$2,65934%$1,985
Net income per share attributable to Eaton ordinary shareholders - diluted$6.1415%$5.3453%$3.49
Excluding per share impact of acquisition and divestiture charges, after-tax0.370.230.33
Excluding per share impact of restructuring program charges, after-tax0.070.150.42
Excluding per share impact of intangible asset amortization expense, after-tax0.990.900.67
Adjusted earnings per ordinary share$7.5714%$6.6235%$4.91

Net Sales

Changes in Net sales are summarized as follows:
20222021
Organic growth13%10%
Acquisitions of businesses3%5%
Divestiture of business(7)%(6)%
Foreign currency(3)%1%
Total increase in Net sales6%10%

2022: Organic sales increased 13% in 2022 due to broad-based strength in end-markets of the Electrical Americas and Electrical Global business segments, strength in sales to commercial OEM and aftermarket in the Aerospace business segment, and higher sales volumes including inflationary recovery in the Vehicle business segment. Despite strong growth, many of our businesses were impacted by operating inefficiencies due to supply chain constraints or shortages, inflation, and selective labor shortages.

The acquisitions of Tripp Lite, Mission Systems, and Royal Power Solutions increased sales in 2022, while the divestiture of the Hydraulics business reduced sales.

2021: The increase in organic sales in 2021 was due to broad-based strength in end-markets and regions as our business segments had largely recovered from the negative impact of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020. This organic growth was achieved despite the supply chain constraints experienced by the Electrical Americas business segment, and customers of the Vehicle and eMobility business segments also experienced supply chain constraints leading to reduced production levels. Additionally, organic sales in the Aerospace business segment continued to be impacted by travel restrictions from the COVID-19 pandemic on commercial aviation.

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Gross Profit

2022: Gross profit margin increased from 32.3% in 2021 to 33.2% in 2022 primarily due to higher organic sales, including inflationary pricing recovery. Gross profit also improved due to the net impact of the acquisition of Royal Power Solutions and the divestiture of the Hydraulics business. Conversely, commodity and logistics inflation and operating inefficiencies due to supply chain constraints had an unfavorable impact on gross margin during 2022, despite offsetting pricing actions.

2021: Gross profit margin increased from 30.5% in 2020 to 32.3% in 2021 primarily due to higher sales volumes and savings from restructuring actions. Organic sales volumes improved in the Electrical Americas, Electrical Global, and Vehicle business segments, and declined in the Aerospace business segment. Gross profit also improved due to the net impact of the acquisitions of Tripp Lite and Cobham Mission Systems and the divestiture of the Hydraulics business. Conversely, commodity and logistics inflation had an unfavorable impact on gross margin during 2021.

Income Taxes

During 2022, income tax expense of $445 million was recognized (an effective tax rate of 15.3%) compared to income tax expense of $750 million in 2021 (an effective tax rate of 25.9%) and income tax expense of $331 million in 2020 (an effective tax rate of 19.0%). Excluding the one-time tax expense associated with the sale of the Hydraulics business in 2021 and the sale of the Lighting business in 2020, both discussed in Note 2, the effective tax rate was between 15.0% and 17.0% for 2022, 2021, and 2020.

202220212020
Effective tax rate15.3%25.9%19.0%
Tax impact on sale of businesses%9.1%3.9%
15.3%16.8%15.1%

Additionally, see Note 11 for income tax rate reconciliations from Ireland's national statutory rate to the consolidated effective rate.

Net Income

2022: Net income attributable to Eaton ordinary shareholders of $2,462 million in 2022 increased 15% compared to $2,144 million in 2021. Net income in 2021 included an after-tax gain of $197 million on the sale of the Hydraulics business. Excluding this gain, the increase in 2022 net income was primarily due to higher gross profit, lower acquisition and divestiture charges, and a net improvement in other income which included gains from the sale of certain office and distribution facilities, partially offset by higher income tax expense and intangible asset amortization expense.

Net income per ordinary share increased to $6.14 in 2022 compared to $5.34 in 2021. Net income per ordinary share in 2021 included $0.49 from the sale of the Hydraulics business. Excluding this gain, the increase in Net income per ordinary share in 2022 was due to higher Net income attributable to Eaton ordinary shareholders and the impact of the Company's share repurchases over the past two years.

2021: Net income attributable to Eaton ordinary shareholders of $2,144 million in 2021 increased 52% compared to $1,410 million in 2020. Net income in 2021 and 2020 included after-tax gains of $197 million on the sale of the Hydraulics business and $91 million on the sale of the Lighting business, respectively. Excluding these gains, the increase in 2021 net income was primarily due to higher gross profit and lower restructuring program charges, partially offset by higher income tax expense, acquisition and divestiture charges, and intangible asset amortization expense.

Net income per ordinary share increased to $5.34 in 2021 compared to $3.49 in 2020. Net income per ordinary share in 2021 and 2020 included $0.49 and $0.22 from the sale of the Hydraulics and Lighting businesses, respectively. Excluding these gains, the increase in Net income per ordinary share in 2021 was due to higher Net income attributable to Eaton ordinary shareholders and the impact of the Company's share repurchases over the past two years.

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Business Segment Results of Operations

The following is a discussion of Net sales, operating profit and operating profit margin by business segment.

Electrical Americas

(In millions)2022Change from 20212021Change from 20202020
Net sales$8,49717%$7,2428%$6,680
Operating profit$1,91328%$1,49511%$1,352
Operating margin22.5%20.6%20.2%
Changes in Net sales are summarized as follows:
20222021
Organic growth16%5%
Acquisition of Tripp Lite1%7%
Divestiture of the Lighting business%(4)%
Total increase in Net sales17%8%

The increase in organic sales in 2022 reflects broad-based strength in end-markets, with particular strength in residential, industrial, and data center end-markets. The increase in organic sales in 2021 was primarily due to broad-based recovery in end-markets as they had largely recovered from the initial COVID-19 pandemic impact with particular strength in residential and data centers, partially offset by weakness in sales to utilities.

The operating margin increased from 20.6% in 2021 to 22.5% in 2022 primarily due to higher sales volumes including inflationary pricing recovery, while headwinds from commodity and logistics inflation and operating inefficiencies due to supply chain constraints were offset by gains from the sale of certain office and distribution facilities. The operating margin increased from 20.2% in 2020 to 20.6% in 2021 primarily due to higher organic sales volumes, the favorable net impact of an acquisition and a divestiture, and savings from restructuring actions. Conversely, commodity and logistics inflation had an unfavorable impact on the operating margin.

Electrical Global

(In millions)2022Change from 20212021Change from 20202020
Net sales$5,8486%$5,51617%$4,703
Operating profit$1,13410%$1,03438%$750
Operating margin19.4%18.7%15.9%
Changes in Net sales are summarized as follows:
20222021
Organic growth13%15%
Foreign currency(7)%2%
Total increase in Net sales6%17%

The increase in organic sales in 2022 was primarily due to broad-based strength in end-markets, with particular strength in commercial & institutional and industrial end-markets. The increase in organic sales in 2021 was primarily due to broad-based strength in end-markets as they had largely recovered from the COVID-19 pandemic.

The operating margin increased from 18.7% in 2021 to 19.4% in 2022 primarily due to higher sales volumes including inflationary pricing recovery, partially offset by commodity and logistics inflation and operating inefficiencies due to supply chain constraints. The operating margin increased from 15.9% in 2020 to 18.7% in 2021 primarily due to higher sales volumes and savings from restructuring actions, partially offset by commodity and logistics inflation.

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Hydraulics

On August 2, 2021, Eaton completed the sale of the Hydraulics business segment. For 2021 and 2020, the Hydraulics segment generated net sales of $1,300 million and $1,842 million, respectively, and operating profit of $177 million and $186 million, respectively.

Aerospace

(In millions)2022Change from 20212021Change from 20202020
Net sales$3,03915%$2,64819%$2,223
Operating profit$70522%$58040%$414
Operating margin23.2%21.9%18.6%
Changes in Net sales are summarized as follows:
20222021
Organic growth11%(2)%
Acquisition of Mission Systems8%20%
Foreign currency(4)%1%
Total increase in Net sales15%19%

The increase in organic sales in 2022 was primarily due to strength in sales to commercial OEM and aftermarket. The decrease in organic sales in 2021 was primarily due to the impact of continued travel restrictions from the COVID-19 pandemic on commercial aviation and weakness in military aftermarket.

The operating margin increased from 21.9% in 2021 to 23.2% in 2022 primarily due to higher organic sales volumes. The operating margin increased from 18.6% in 2020 to 21.9% in 2021 primarily due to the acquisition of Mission Systems and savings from restructuring actions, partially offset by lower organic sales volumes.

Vehicle

(In millions)2022Change from 20212021Change from 20202020
Net sales$2,83010%$2,57922%$2,118
Operating profit$4531%$44985%$243
Operating margin16.0%17.4%11.5%
Changes in Net sales are summarized as follows:
20222021
Organic growth12%21%
Foreign currency(2)%1%
Total increase in Net sales10%22%

The increase in organic sales in 2022 was primarily due to strength in the North American truck and light vehicle markets, and South American truck, bus and agriculture markets. The increase in organic sales in 2021 was primarily due to strength in all regions compared to 2020 which was significantly impacted by plant shutdowns due to the COVID-19 pandemic. This organic growth was achieved despite the Vehicle business segment's organic sales being negatively impacted in 2021 as a result of its customers experiencing supply chain constraints leading to reduced production levels and historic low vehicle inventory.

The operating margin decreased from 17.4% in 2021 to 16.0% in 2022 primarily due to commodity and logistics inflation and operating inefficiencies due to supply chain constraints, partially offset by higher sales volumes including inflationary recovery. The operating margin increased from 11.5% in 2020 to 17.4% in 2021 primarily due to higher sales volumes and savings from restructuring actions, partially offset by commodity and logistics inflation.

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eMobility

(In millions)2022Change from 20212021Change from 20202020
Net sales$53857%$34317%$292
Operating profit (loss)$(9)69%$(29)(263)%$(8)
Operating margin(1.6)%(8.5)%(2.7)%
Changes in Net sales are summarized as follows:
20222021
Organic growth13%16%
Acquisition of Royal Power Solutions46%%
Foreign currency(2)%1%
Total increase in Net sales57%17%

The increase in organic sales in 2022 was due to strength in all regions primarily due to robust demand for electric vehicles. The increase in organic sales in 2021 was primarily due to strength in North American and Asia Pacific regions compared to 2020 which was significantly impacted by plant shutdowns due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The operating margin increased from negative 8.5% in 2021 to negative 1.6% in 2022 primarily due to higher organic sales volumes and the acquisition of Royal Power Solutions. The operating margin decreased from negative 2.7% in 2020 to negative 8.5% in 2021 primarily due to increased research and development costs and manufacturing start-up costs associated with new electric vehicle programs, and commodity and logistics inflation, partially offset by higher sales volumes.

Corporate Expense

(In millions)2022Change from 20212021Change from 20202020
Intangible asset amortization expense$49912%$44425%$354
Interest expense - net144%144(3)%149
Pension and other postretirement benefits (income) expense(43)34%(65)(263)%40
Restructuring program charges33(58)%78(64)%214
Other expense - net653212%209(52)%434
Total corporate expense$1,28659%$810(32)%$1,191

Total corporate expense was $1,286 million in 2022 compared to $810 million in 2021. The increase in Total corporate expense was primarily due to higher Other expense - net and Intangible asset amortization expense, partially offset by lower Restructuring program charges. The increase in Other expense - net is primarily due to the 2021 gain on sale of the Hydraulics business discussed in Note 2, partially offset by lower acquisition and divestiture charges. Total corporate expense was $810 million in 2021 compared to $1,191 million in 2020. The decrease in Total corporate expense was primarily due to lower Other expense - net, lower Restructuring program charges, and the favorable impact of the freeze on the Company's United States pension plans, partially offset by higher Intangible asset amortization expense due to acquisitions of businesses. The decrease in Other expense - net is primarily due to the 2021 gain on sale of the Hydraulics business exceeding the 2020 gain on the sale of the Lighting business by $396 million. This decrease was partially offset by higher acquisition and divestiture charges and higher other corporate expenses due to the removal of the temporary cost containment actions taken during 2020 to mitigate the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.

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LIQUIDITY, CAPITAL RESOURCES, AND FINANCIAL CONDITION

Liquidity and Financial Condition

Eaton’s objective is to finance its business through operating cash flow and an appropriate mix of equity and long-term and short-term debt. By diversifying its debt maturity structure, Eaton reduces liquidity risk.

On August 23, 2022, Eaton Corporation issued sustainability-linked senior notes (2022 Sustainability-Linked Notes) and senior notes (2022 Senior Notes, and collectively referred to as the 2022 Notes). The 2022 Sustainability-Linked Notes have a face amount of $1.3 billion, mature in 2033, and pay interest semi-annually at an initial interest rate of 4.15% per annum. Beginning in September 2028, the interest rate payable on the 2022 Sustainability-Linked Notes will be increased by an additional 25 basis points per annum if the Scope 1 and Scope 2 greenhouse gas emissions sustainability performance target is not met. The 2022 Senior Notes have a face amount of $700 million, mature in 2052, and pay interest semi-annually at 4.70% per annum. The issuer received proceeds totaling $1.98 billion from the issuance of the 2022 Notes, net of financing costs and discounts.

On October 3, 2022, the Company replaced its existing $2,000 million five-year revolving credit facility with a new $2,500 million five-year revolving credit facility that will expire on October 1, 2027. On the same date, the Company replaced its existing $500 million 364-day revolving credit facility with a new $500 million 364-day revolving credit facility that will expire on October 2, 2023. The revolving credit facilities totaling $3,000 million are used to support commercial paper borrowings and are fully and unconditionally guaranteed by Eaton and certain of its direct and indirect subsidiaries on an unsubordinated, unsecured basis. In October 2022, the Company also upsized its commercial paper program to $3,000 million. There were no borrowings outstanding under Eaton’s revolving credit facilities at December 31, 2022. The Company had access to the commercial paper markets through its $3,000 million commercial paper program, of which $300 million was outstanding on December 31, 2022, used primarily to manage fluctuations in working capital. In addition to the revolving credit facilities, the Company also had available lines of credit of $919 million from various banks primarily for the issuance of letters of credit, of which there was $414 million outstanding at December 31, 2022.

In 2021, Eaton received proceeds of $3.1 billion from the sale of its Hydraulics business and paid $4.45 billion to acquire Tripp Lite and Mission Systems. In 2022, the Company paid $610 million to acquire Royal Power Solutions and received cash of $22 million from Danfoss A/S to fully settle all post-closing adjustments from the sale of the Hydraulics business.

Over the course of a year, cash, short-term investments, and short-term debt may fluctuate in order to manage global liquidity. As of December 31, 2022 and 2021, Eaton had cash of $294 million and $297 million, short-term investments of $261 million and $271 million, and short-term debt of $324 million and $13 million, respectively. Eaton has investment grade credit ratings from the two major rating agencies as reflected in the following ratings assigned to its debt:

Credit Rating Agency (long- /short-term rating)RatingOutlook
Standard & Poor'sA-/A-2Stable outlook
Moody'sBaa1/P-2Stable outlook

Eaton believes it has the operating flexibility, cash flow, cash and short-term investment balances, availability under existing revolving credit facilities, and access to capital markets in excess of the liquidity necessary to meet future operating needs of the business, fund capital expenditures and acquisitions of businesses, as well as scheduled payments of long-term debt.

For additional information on financing transactions and debt, see Note 8.

Eaton’s credit facilities and indentures governing certain long-term debt contain various covenants, the violation of which would limit or preclude the use of the credit facilities for future borrowings, or might accelerate the maturity of the related outstanding borrowings covered by the indentures. At Eaton’s present credit rating level, the most restrictive financial covenant provides that the ratio of secured debt (or lease payments due under a sale and leaseback transaction) to adjusted consolidated net worth (or consolidated net tangible assets, in each case as defined in the relevant credit agreement or indenture) may not exceed 10%. Eaton's actual ratios are substantially below the required threshold. In addition, Eaton is in compliance with each of its debt covenants for all periods presented.

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Cash Flows

A summary of cash flows is as follows:

(In millions)2022Change from 20212021Change from 20202020
Net cash provided by operating activities$2,533$370$2,163$(781)$2,944
Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities(1,200)564(1,764)(2,161)397
Net cash used in financing activities(1,340)(805)(535)2,723(3,258)
Effect of currency on cash49(5)10(15)
Total increase (decrease) in cash$(3)$(141)$68

Operating Cash Flow

Net cash provided by operating activities increased by $370 million in 2022 compared to 2021. The increase in net cash provided by operating activities in 2022 was primarily due to taxes paid on the sale of the Hydraulics business in 2021, cash received from the termination of interest rate swaps in 2022, lower pension contributions in 2022 due to a $200 million contribution to Eaton's U.S. qualified pension plan in 2021, and higher net income in 2022, partially offset by higher working capital balances to support the Company’s organic growth.

Net cash provided by operating activities decreased by $781 million in 2021 compared to 2020. The decrease in net cash provided by operating activities in 2021 was primarily due to higher working capital balances to support the Company’s organic growth as our business segments had largely recovered from the negative impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, taxes paid on the sale of the Hydraulics business, and a $200 million pension contribution to Eaton's U.S. qualified pension plan in 2021.

Investing Cash Flow

Net cash used in investing activities decreased by $564 million in 2022 compared to 2021. The decrease in the use of cash was primarily driven by the decrease in cash paid in 2022 for business acquisitions to $610 million in 2022 compared to $4,500 million in 2021, proceeds from the sale of certain office and distribution facilities in 2022, and the decrease in cash paid for investments in associate companies to $42 million in 2022 from $124 million in 2021, partially offset by proceeds received in 2021 from the sale of Hydraulics business of $3,129 million and net purchases of short-term investments of $19 million in 2022 compared to net sales of $379 million in 2021. Capital expenditures were $598 million in 2022 compared to $575 million in 2021.

Net cash used in investing activities increased by $2,161 million in 2021 compared to 2020. The increase in the use of cash was primarily driven by cash paid in 2021 for business acquisitions of $4,500 million compared to cash paid in 2020 for business acquisitions of $200 million, partially offset by proceeds received in 2021 from the sale of Hydraulics business of $3,129 million compared to proceeds received in 2020 from the sale of the Lighting business of $1,408 million, and net sales of short-term investments of $379 million in 2021 compared to net purchases of $441 million in 2020. Capital expenditures were $575 million in 2021 compared to $389 million in 2020.

Financing Cash Flow

Net cash used in financing activities increased by $805 million in 2022 compared to 2021. The increase in the use of cash was primarily due to higher payments on borrowings of $2,012 million in 2022 compared to $1,013 million in 2021, higher share repurchases of $286 million in 2022 compared to $122 million in 2021, and higher dividends paid of $1,299 million in 2022 compared to $1,219 million in 2021, partially offset by an increase in net proceeds of short-term debt $317 million in 2022 from $20 million in 2021 and higher proceeds from borrowings of $1,995 million in 2022 compared to $1,798 million in 2021.

Net cash used in financing activities decreased by $2,723 million in 2021 compared to 2020. The decrease in the use of cash was primarily due to higher proceeds from borrowings of $1,798 million in 2021 compared to no proceeds from borrowings in 2020, lower share repurchases of $122 million in 2021 compared to $1,608 million in 2020, and net proceeds of short-term debt of $20 million in 2021 compared to net payments of $254 million in 2020, partially offset by higher payments on borrowings of $1,013 million in 2021 compared to $249 million in 2020.

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Uses of Cash

Purchases of Goods and Services

The Company purchases goods and services in the normal course of business based on expected usage. For certain purchases, the Company enters into purchase obligations with various vendors, which include short-term and long-term commitments for purchases of raw materials, outstanding non-cancelable purchase orders, releases under blanket purchase orders, and commitments under ongoing service arrangements. As of December 31, 2022, the Company has purchase obligations to support the operation of its business similar to those included in historical cash flow trends.

Capital Expenditures

Capital expenditures were $598 million, $575 million, and $389 million in 2022, 2021 and 2020, respectively. Eaton expects approximately $630 million in capital expenditures in 2023.

Dividends

Cash dividend payments were $1,299 million, $1,219 million, and $1,175 million for 2022, 2021 and 2020, respectively. On February 23, 2023, Eaton's Board of Directors declared a quarterly dividend of $0.86 per ordinary share, a 6% increase over the dividend paid in the fourth quarter of 2022. The dividend is payable on March 24, 2023 to shareholders of record on March 6, 2023. Payment of quarterly dividends in the future depends upon the Company’s ability to generate net income and operating cash flows, among other factors, and is subject to declaration by the Eaton Board of Directors. The Company intends to continue to pay quarterly dividends in 2023.

Share Repurchases

On February 27, 2019, the Board of Directors adopted a share repurchase program for share repurchases up to $5.0 billion of ordinary shares (2019 Program). On February 23, 2022, the Board renewed the 2019 Program by providing authority for up to $5.0 billion in repurchases to be made during the three-year period commencing on that date (2022 Program). Under the 2022 Program, the ordinary shares are expected to be repurchased over time, depending on market conditions, the market price of ordinary shares, capital levels, and other considerations. During 2022, 2.0 million ordinary shares were repurchased under the 2022 Program in the open market as a total cost of $286 million. During 2021, 0.9 million ordinary shares were repurchased under the 2019 Program in the open market at a total cost of $122 million. At December 31, 2022, there is $4,714 million still available for share repurchases under the 2022 Program. The Company will continue to pursue share repurchases in 2023 depending on market conditions and capital levels.

Acquisition of Businesses

The Company paid cash of $610 million, $4,500 million, and $200 million to acquire businesses in 2022, 2021 and 2020, respectively. The Company will continue to focus on deploying its capital toward businesses that provide opportunities for higher growth and strong returns, and align with secular trends and its power management strategies.

Debt

The Company manages a number of short-term and long-term debt instruments, including commercial paper. For additional information on financing transactions and debt, see Note 8.

Leases

See Note 7 for maturities of lease liabilities.

Unrecognized Income Tax Benefits

At December 31, 2022, the gross unrecognized income tax benefits totaled $1,235 million and interest and penalties were $137 million. Eaton cannot predict with reasonable certainty the timing of cash settlements with the respective taxing authorities. For additional information about income taxes see Note 11.

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Defined Benefits Plans

Pension Plans

During 2022, the fair value of plan assets in the Company’s employee pension plans decreased $1,798 million to $4,121 million at December 31, 2022. The decrease in plan assets was primarily due to lower than expected return on plan assets and the impact of negative currency translation. At December 31, 2022, the net unfunded position of $499 million in pension liabilities consisted of $573 million in plans that have no funding requirements and $125 million in plans that require funding, offset by $199 million in plans that are overfunded.

Funding requirements are a major consideration in making contributions to Eaton’s pension plans. With respect to the Company’s pension plans worldwide, the Company intends to contribute annually not less than the minimum required by applicable law and regulations. In 2022, $116 million was contributed to the pension plans. The Company anticipates making $108 million of contributions to certain pension plans during 2023. The funded status of the Company’s pension plans at the end of 2023, and future contributions, will depend primarily on the actual return on assets during the year and the discount rate used to calculate certain benefits at the end of the year. For additional information about pension plans see Note 9.

Supply Chain Finance Program

The Company negotiates payment terms directly with its suppliers for the purchase of goods and services. In addition, a third-party financial institution offers a voluntary supply chain finance (SCF) program that enables certain of the Company’s suppliers, at the supplier’s sole discretion, to sell receivables due from the Company to the financial institution on terms directly negotiated with the financial institution. If a supplier elects to participate in the SCF program, the supplier decides which invoices are sold to the financial institution and the Company has no economic interest in a supplier’s decision to sell an invoice. The SCF program does not have a significant impact on the Company’s liquidity as payments by the Company to participating suppliers are paid to the financial institution on the invoice due date, regardless of whether an individual invoice is sold by the supplier to the financial institution. The amounts due to the financial institution for suppliers that participate in the SCF program are included in Accounts payable on the Company’s Consolidated Balance Sheets, and the associated payments are included in operating activities on the Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows. At  December 31, 2022 and 2021, Accounts payable included $208 million and $151 million, respectively, payable to suppliers that have elected to participate in the SCF program.

Guaranteed Debt

Issuers, Guarantors and Guarantor Structure

Eaton Corporation has issued senior notes pursuant to indentures dated April 1, 1994 (the 1994 Indenture), November 20, 2012 (the 2012 Indenture), September 15, 2017 (the 2017 Indenture) and August 23, 2022 (as supplemented by the First and Second Supplemental Indentures of the same date, the 2022 Indenture). The senior notes of Eaton Corporation are registered under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the Registered Senior Notes). Eaton Capital Unlimited Company, a subsidiary of Eaton, is the issuer of four outstanding series of debt securities sold in offshore transactions under Regulation S promulgated under the Securities Act (the Eurobonds). The Eurobonds and the Registered Senior Notes (together, the Senior Notes) comprise substantially all of Eaton’s long-term indebtedness.

Substantially all of the Senior Notes, together with the credit facilities described above under Liquidity and Financial Condition (the Credit Facilities), are guaranteed by Eaton and 17 of its subsidiaries. Accordingly, they rank equally with each other. However, because these obligations are not secured, they would be effectively subordinated to any existing or future secured indebtedness of Eaton and its subsidiaries. As of December 31, 2022, Eaton has no material, long-term secured debt. The guaranteed Registered Senior Notes are also structurally subordinated to the liabilities of Eaton's subsidiaries that are not guarantors. Except as described below under Future Guarantors, Eaton is not obligated to cause its subsidiaries to guarantee the Registered Senior Notes.

The table set forth in Exhibit 22 filed with this Form 10-K details the primary obligors and guarantors with respect to the guaranteed Registered Senior Notes.

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Terms of Guarantees of Registered Securities

Payment of principal and interest on the Registered Senior Notes is guaranteed, on an unsecured, unsubordinated basis by the subsidiaries of Eaton set forth in the table referenced in Exhibit 22. Each guarantee is full and unconditional, and joint and several. Each guarantor's guarantee is an unsecured obligation that ranks equally with all its other unsecured and unsubordinated indebtedness. The obligations of each guarantor under its guarantee of the Registered Senior Notes is subject to a customary savings clause or similar provision designed to prevent such guarantee from constituting a fraudulent conveyance or otherwise legally impermissible or voidable obligation.

Though the terms of the indentures vary slightly, generally, each guarantee of the Registered Senior Notes by a guarantor that is a subsidiary of Eaton Corporation provides that it will be automatically and unconditionally released and discharged under certain circumstances, including, but not limited to:

(a)the consummation of certain types of transactions permitted under the applicable indenture, including one that results in such guarantor ceasing to be a subsidiary; and

(b)for Registered Senior Notes issued under the 2022 Indenture, when such guarantor is a guarantor or issuer of indebtedness in an aggregate outstanding principal amount of less than 25% of our total outstanding indebtedness.

Further, each guarantee by a direct or indirect parent of Eaton Corporation (other than Eaton) provides that it will also be released if:

(c)such guarantee (so long as the guarantor is not obligated under any other U.S. debt obligations), becomes prohibited by any applicable law, rule or regulation or by any contractual obligation; or

(d)such guarantee results in material adverse tax consequences to Eaton or any of its subsidiaries (so long as the applicable guarantor is not obligated under any other U.S. debt obligation).

The guarantee of Eaton does not contain any release provisions.

Future Guarantors

The 2012 and 2017 Indentures generally provide that, with certain limited exceptions, any subsidiary of Eaton must become a guarantor if it becomes obligated as borrower or guarantor under any series of debt securities or a syndicated credit facility. Further, the 2012 and 2017 Indentures provide that any entity that becomes a direct or indirect parent entity of Eaton Corporation and holds any material assets, with certain limited exceptions, or owes any material liabilities must become a guarantor. The 2022 Indenture provides only that, with certain limited exceptions, any subsidiary of Eaton must become a guarantor if it becomes obligated as borrower or guarantor under indebtedness with an aggregate outstanding principal amount in excess of 25% of the Parent and its Subsidiaries' then-outstanding indebtedness.

The 1994 Indenture does not contain provisions with respect to future guarantors.

Summarized Financial Information of Guarantors and Issuers

(In millions)December 31, 2022
Current assets$3,363
Noncurrent assets12,938
Current liabilities2,948
Noncurrent liabilities10,047
Amounts due to subsidiaries that are non-issuers and non-guarantors - net16,285
(In millions)2022
Net sales$11,433
Sales to subsidiaries that are non-issuers and non-guarantors911
Cost of products sold9,277
Expense from subsidiaries that are non-issuers and non-guarantors - net747
Net loss(26)

The financial information presented is that of Eaton Corporation and the Guarantors, which includes Eaton Corporation plc, on a combined basis and the financial information of non-issuer and non-guarantor subsidiaries has been excluded. Intercompany balances and transactions between Eaton Corporation and Guarantors have been eliminated, and amounts due from, amounts due to, and transactions with non-issuer and non-guarantor subsidiaries have been presented separately.

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CRITICAL ACCOUNTING POLICIES

The preparation of financial statements in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP) in the United States requires management to make certain estimates and assumptions that may involve the exercise of significant judgment. For any estimate or assumption used, there may be other reasonable estimates or assumptions that could have been used. However, based on facts and circumstances inherent in developing estimates and assumptions, management believes it is unlikely that applying other such estimates and assumptions would have caused materially different amounts to have been reported. Actual results may differ from these estimates.

Revenue Recognition

Sales are recognized when control of promised goods or services are transferred to customers in an amount that reflects the consideration the Company expects to be entitled to in exchange for those goods or services. Control is transferred when the customer has the ability to direct the use of and obtain benefits from the goods or services. The majority of the Company’s sales agreements contain performance obligations satisfied at a point in time when control is transferred to the customer. Sales recognized over time are generally accounted for using an input measure to determine progress completed at the end of the period. Sales for service contracts generally are recognized as the services are provided. For agreements with multiple performance obligations, judgment is required to determine whether performance obligations specified in these agreements are distinct and should be accounted for as separate revenue transactions for recognition purposes. In these types of agreements, we generally allocate sales price to each distinct obligation based on the price of each item sold in separate transactions.

Due to the nature of the work required to be performed for obligations recognized over time, Eaton estimates total costs by contract. The estimate of total costs are subject to judgment. Estimated amounts are included in the recognized sales price to the extent it is not probable that a significant reversal of cumulative sales will occur. Additionally, contracts can be modified to account for changes in contract specifications, requirements or sale price. The effect of a contract modification on the sales price or adjustments to the measure of completion under the input method are recognized as adjustments to revenue on a cumulative catch-up basis.

Eaton records reductions to sales for returns, and customer and distributor incentives, primarily comprised of rebates, at the time of the initial sale. Rebates are estimated based on sales terms, historical experience, trend analysis, and projected market conditions in the various markets served. The rebate programs offered vary across businesses due to the numerous markets Eaton serves, but the most common incentives relate to amounts paid or credited to customers for achieving defined volume levels. Returns are estimated at the time of the sale primarily based on historical experience and recorded gross on the Consolidated Balance Sheet. See Note 3 for additional information.

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Impairment of Goodwill and Other Long-Lived Assets

Goodwill

Goodwill is evaluated annually for impairment as of July 1 using either a quantitative or qualitative analysis. Goodwill is tested for impairment at the reporting unit level, and is based on the net assets for each reporting unit, including goodwill and intangible assets. The Company’s reporting units are equivalent to the reportable operating segments, except for the Aerospace segment which has two reporting units. Goodwill is assigned to each reporting unit, as this represents the lowest level that constitutes a business and is the level at which management regularly reviews the operating results. The Company performs a quantitative analysis using a discounted cash flow model and other valuation techniques, but may elect to perform a qualitative analysis.

Additionally, goodwill is evaluated for impairment whenever an event occurs or circumstances change that would indicate that it is more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit is less than its carrying amount. Events or circumstances that may result in an impairment review include changes in macroeconomic conditions, industry and market considerations, cost factors, overall financial performance, other relevant entity-specific events, specific events affecting the reporting unit or sustained decrease in share price.

The annual goodwill impairment test was performed using a qualitative analysis in 2022 and 2021, except for the eMobility reporting unit which used a quantitative analysis. A qualitative analysis is performed by assessing certain trends and factors, including projected market outlook and growth rates, forecasted and actual sales and operating profit margins, discount rates, industry data, and other relevant qualitative factors. These trends and factors are compared to, and based on, the assumptions used in the most recent quantitative analysis performed for each reporting unit. The results of the qualitative analyses did not indicate a need to perform quantitative analysis.

Quantitative analyses were performed by estimating the fair value of the reporting unit using a discounted cash flow model. The model includes estimates of future cash flows, future growth rates, terminal value amounts, and the applicable weighted-average cost of capital used to discount those estimated cash flows. The future cash flows were based on the Company's long-term operating plan and a terminal value was used to estimate the reporting unit's cash flows beyond the period covered by the operating plan. The weighted-average cost of capital is an estimate of the overall after-tax rate of return required by equity and debt market holders of a business enterprise. These analyses require the exercise of judgments, including judgments about appropriate discount rates, perpetual growth rates, revenue growth, and margin assumptions. Sensitivity analyses were performed around certain of these assumptions in order to assess the reasonableness of the assumptions and the resulting estimated fair values.

Based on these analyses performed in 2022 and 2021, the fair value of Eaton's reporting units continue to substantially exceed their respective carrying amounts and thus, no impairment exists.

Indefinite Life Intangible Assets

Indefinite life intangible assets consist of certain trademarks. They are evaluated annually for impairment as of July 1 using either a quantitative or qualitative analysis to determine whether their fair values exceed their respective carrying amounts. Indefinite life intangible asset impairment testing for 2022 and 2021 was performed using a quantitative analysis. Determining the fair value of these assets requires significant judgment and the Company uses a royalty relief methodology similar to that employed when the associated assets were acquired, but using updated estimates of future sales, cash flows and profitability. Sensitivity analyses were performed around certain of these assumptions in order to assess the reasonableness of the assumptions and the resulting estimated fair values.

Additionally, indefinite life intangible assets are evaluated for impairment whenever an event occurs or circumstances change that would indicate that it is more likely than not that the asset is impaired. Events or circumstances that may result in an impairment review include changes in industry and market considerations, cost factors, financial performance, and other relevant entity-specific events that could affect inputs used to determine the respective fair values of the indefinite-lived intangible assets.

For 2022 and 2021, the fair value of indefinite lived intangible assets exceeded the respective carrying value.

For additional information about goodwill and other intangible assets see Note 6.

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Acquisitions of Businesses

The acquisition of a business is accounted for using the acquisition method of accounting which requires assets and liabilities to be recognized at their fair values on the acquisition date. The initial fair value of assets acquired and liabilities assumed may be revised based on the final determination of fair value during the measurement period of up to 12 months from the acquisition date. The Company generally determines the fair value of intangible assets acquired using third-party valuations that are prepared using discounted cash flow models that rely on the Company's estimates. These estimates require judgement of future revenue growth rates, future margins, and the applicable weighted-average cost of capital used to discount those estimated cash flows. Sensitivity analyses were performed around certain of these assumptions in order to assess the reasonableness of the assumptions and the resulting estimated fair values. For additional information about the acquisitions of businesses see Note 2.

Recoverability of Deferred Income Tax Assets

Eaton is subject to the income tax laws in the jurisdictions in which it operates. In order to determine the income tax provision for financial statement purposes, Eaton must make significant estimates and judgments about its business operations in these jurisdictions. These estimates and judgments are also used in determining the deferred income tax assets and liabilities that have been recognized for differences between the financial statement and income tax basis of assets and liabilities, and income tax loss carryforwards and income tax credit carryforwards.

Management evaluates the realizability of deferred income tax assets for each jurisdiction in which it operates. If the Company experiences cumulative pre-tax income in a particular jurisdiction in a three-year period including the current and prior two years, management normally concludes that the deferred income tax assets will more likely than not be realizable and no valuation allowance is recognized, unless known or planned operating developments, or changes in tax laws, would lead management to conclude otherwise. However, if the Company experiences cumulative pre-tax losses in a particular jurisdiction in a three-year period including the current and prior two years, management then considers a series of factors in the determination of whether the deferred income tax assets can be realized. These factors include historical operating results, known or planned operating developments, the period of time over which certain temporary differences will reverse, consideration of the utilization of certain deferred income tax liabilities, carryback capability under the tax law in a particular country, prudent and feasible tax planning strategies, changes in tax laws, and estimates of future earnings and taxable income using the same assumptions as those used for the Company’s goodwill and other impairment testing. After evaluation of these factors, if the deferred income tax assets are expected to be realized within the tax carryforward period allowed for that specific country, management would conclude that no valuation allowance would be required. To the extent that the deferred income tax assets exceed the amount that is expected to be realized within the tax carryforward period for a particular jurisdiction, management would establish a valuation allowance. For additional information about income taxes see Note 11.

Unrecognized Income Tax Benefits

Eaton recognizes an income tax benefit from an uncertain tax position only if it is more likely than not that the benefit would be sustained upon examination by taxing authorities, based on the technical merits of the position. The Company evaluates and adjusts the amount of unrecognized income tax benefits based on changes in law, facts and circumstances. Eaton also estimates, where reasonably possible, the increase or decrease in the amount of unrecognized income tax benefits in the next 12 months.

The evaluation and determination of the amount of unrecognized income tax benefits related to uncertain tax positions is complex and involves both the exercise of judgement and the utilization of certain estimates and assumptions. Each tax position carries unique facts and circumstances that must be evaluated in light of current tax laws, regulations, and judicial decisions. Additionally, the ultimate resolution of the majority of Eaton’s unrecognized income tax benefits is dependent upon uncontrollable factors such as the timing of finalizing resolutions of audit disputes through reaching settlement agreements or concluding litigation, or changes in law.

Pension and Other Postretirement Benefits Plans

The measurement of liabilities related to pension plans and other postretirement benefits plans is based on assumptions related to future events including interest rates, return on plan assets, rate of compensation increases, and health care cost trend rates. Actual plan asset performance will either reduce or increase losses included in accumulated other comprehensive loss, which ultimately affects net income.

The discount rate for United States plans was determined by discounting the expected future benefit payments using a theoretical zero-coupon spot yield curve derived from a universe of high-quality bonds as of the measurement date and solving for the single rate that would generate the same benefit obligation. Only corporate bonds with a rating of Aa, determined by averaging the ratings by Moody’s, Standard & Poor's, and Fitch, were included. Callable bonds that are not make-whole bonds and certain other non-comparable bonds were eliminated. Finally, a subset of bonds was selected by grouping the universe of bonds by duration and retaining 50% of the bonds that had the highest yields.

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The discount rates for non-United States plans were determined by region and are based on high quality long-term corporate and government bonds. Consideration has been given to the duration of the liabilities in each plan when selecting the bonds to be used in determining the discount rate.

To estimate the service and interest cost components of net periodic benefit cost for the vast majority of its defined benefits pension and other postretirement benefits plans, the Company used a spot rate approach by applying the specific spot rates along the yield curve used to measure the benefit obligation at the beginning of the period to the relevant projected cash flows.

Key assumptions used to calculate pension and other postretirement benefits expense are adjusted at each year-end. A 1-percentage point change in the assumed rate of return on pension plan assets is estimated to have approximately a $52 million effect on pension expense. Likewise, a 1-percentage point change in the discount rate is estimated to have approximately a $40 million effect on pension expense. A 1-percentage point change in the assumed rate of return on other postretirement benefits assets is estimated to have less than $1 million effect on other postretirement benefits expense. A 1-percentage point change in the discount rate is estimated to have a $3 million effect on expense for other postretirement benefits plans.

Additional information related to changes in key assumptions used to recognize expense for other postretirement benefits plans is found in Note 9.

FY 2021 10-K MD&A

SEC filing source: 0001551182-22-000004.

Extracted from a later financial-section MD&A body after the formal Item 7 span was a short reference. Confidence: high. Filing date: 2022-02-23. Report date: 2021-12-31.

MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS.

Amounts are in millions of dollars or shares unless indicated otherwise (per share data assume dilution).

COMPANY OVERVIEW

Eaton Corporation plc (Eaton or the Company) is an intelligent power management company dedicated to improving the quality of life and protecting the environment for people everywhere. We are guided by our commitment to do business right, to operate sustainably and to help our customers manage power – today and well into the future. By capitalizing on the global growth trends of electrification and digitalization, we're accelerating the planet's transition to renewable energy, helping to solve the world's most urgent power management challenges, and doing what's best for our stakeholders and all of society.

Eaton’s businesses are well-positioned to take advantage of secular growth trends related to the energy transition from fossil fuels to renewables. We are responding to these trends by innovating solutions that transform the electrical power value chain, investing in electrical vehicle markets, increasing our focus on electrification, and employing digital technologies for power management. The Company’s innovations are expected to enable the integration of renewables and sustainability solutions, with new types of equipment, services, and software. These strategic focus areas are an important part of our response to climate change.

Founded in 1911, Eaton has been listed on the New York Stock Exchange for nearly a century. We reported revenues of $19.6 billion in 2021 and serve customers in more than 170 countries.

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Portfolio Changes

The Company continues to actively manage its portfolio of businesses to deliver on its strategic objectives. The Company is focused on deploying its capital toward businesses that provide opportunities for above-market growth, strong returns, and align with secular trends and its power management strategies. Over the last three years, Eaton has completed a number of transactions to strengthen its portfolio.

Acquisitions of businesses and investments in associate companiesDate of acquisitionBusiness segment
Ulusoy Elektrik Imalat Taahhut ve Ticaret A.S.April 15, 2019Electrical Global
93.7 percent controlling interest in a leading manufacturer of electrical switchgear with a primary focus on medium voltage solutions for industrial and utility customers.
Innovative Switchgear Solutions, Inc.July 19, 2019Electrical Americas
A specialty manufacturer of medium-voltage electrical equipment serving the North American utility, commercial and industrial markets.
Souriau-Sunbank Connection TechnologiesDecember 20, 2019Aerospace
A global leader in highly engineered electrical interconnect solutions for harsh environments in the aerospace, defense, industrial, energy, and transport markets.
Power Distribution, Inc.February 25, 2020Electrical Americas
A leading supplier of mission critical power distribution, static switching, and power monitoring equipment and services for data centers and industrial and commercial customers.
Tripp LiteMarch 17, 2021Electrical Americas
A leading supplier of power quality products and connectivity solutions including single-phase uninterruptible power supply systems, rack power distribution units, surge protectors, and enclosures for data centers, industrial, medical, and communications markets in the Americas.
Green Motion SAMarch 22, 2021Electrical Global
A leading designer and manufacturer of electric vehicle charging hardware and related software.
HuanYu High TechMarch 29, 2021Electrical Global
A 50 percent stake in HuanYu High Tech, a subsidiary of HuanYu Group that manufactures and markets low-voltage circuit breakers and contactors in China, and throughout the Asia-Pacific region.
Cobham Mission SystemsJune 1, 2021Aerospace
A leading manufacturer of air-to-air refueling systems, environmental systems, and actuation primarily for defense markets.
Jiangsu YiNeng Electric's busway businessJune 25, 2021Electrical Global
A 50 percent stake in Jiangsu YiNeng Electric's busway business which manufactures and markets busway products in China.
Royal Power SolutionsJanuary 5, 2022eMobility
A manufacturer of high-precision electrical connectivity components used in electric vehicle, energy management, industrial and mobility markets.
Divestitures of businessesDate of divestitureBusiness segment
Automotive Fluid Conveyance businessDecember 31, 2019Vehicle
Lighting businessMarch 2, 2020Electrical Americas
Hydraulics businessAugust 2, 2021Hydraulics

Additional information related to acquisitions and divestitures of businesses is presented in Note 2.

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Restructuring

In the second quarter of 2020, Eaton decided to undertake a multi-year restructuring program to reduce its cost structure and gain efficiencies in its business segments and at corporate in order to respond to declining market conditions brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic. Since the inception of the program, the Company has incurred charges of $292 million. These restructuring activities are expected to incur additional expenses of $28 million in 2022 primarily comprised of plant closing and other costs, resulting in total estimated charges of $320 million for the entire program. The projected mature year savings from these restructuring actions are expected to be $230 million when fully implemented in 2023. Additional information related to this restructuring is presented in Note 16.

Summary of Results of Operations

A summary of Eaton’s Net sales, Net income attributable to Eaton ordinary shareholders, and Net income per share attributable to Eaton ordinary shareholders - diluted is as follows:

(In millions except for per share data)202120202019
Net sales$19,628$17,858$21,390
Net income attributable to Eaton ordinary shareholders2,1441,4102,211
Net income per share attributable to Eaton ordinary shareholders - diluted$5.34$3.49$5.25

During 2019, the Company’s results of operations were impacted by negative currency translation and weaker than expected growth in the Company’s end markets, particularly in the second half of 2019. Despite the declining market conditions and unfavorable impact of currency translation, the Company generated solid operating margins and Net income per ordinary share.

During 2020, the Company's results of operations were impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. Organic sales were down 11% in 2020 primarily due to the impact from the COVID-19 pandemic. The divestitures of the Lighting and Automotive Fluid Conveyance businesses reduced sales, which was partially offset by growth from the acquisitions of Souriau-Sunbank Connection Technologies (Souriau-Sunbank) and Power Distribution, Inc.

During 2021, the Company's organic sales increased 10% as end-markets and regions served by our business segments have largely recovered from the negative impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. Our Electrical Global, Vehicle and eMobility business segments all realized organic growth greater than 10% during the year. This level of organic growth was achieved despite supply chain constraints limiting the availability of materials in select businesses, travel restrictions continuing to impact commercial aviation, and reduced production levels at our customers leading to historic low vehicle inventory. Additionally, over the past several years, Eaton has completed a number of transactions to add higher growth, better margin businesses to its portfolio. These portfolio updates, along with continued improvements in supply chains and recovery of the Aerospace and Vehicle markets from the pandemic, have the Company better aligned with secular growth trends and well positioned for expected further growth.

COVID-19

The Company has been impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic in select markets and industries. As a result, our businesses have been focused on cost control measures where appropriate to offset the volume declines we experienced in addition to executing on our multi-year restructuring program we decided to undertake in the second quarter of 2020. In 2021, the Company has seen broad-based strength in its end-markets and regions as our businesses have largely recovered from the negative impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. However as global economies recover, many of our businesses have been impacted by supply chain disruptions, inflation and labor shortages. Additionally, our Aerospace business segment continues to see some softness in demand due to the impact of continued travel restrictions on commercial aviation, particularly in international travel.

Eaton's products and support services are vital to hospitals, emergency services, military sites, utilities, public works, transportation, and shipping providers. In addition, data centers, retail outlets, airports, and governments, as well as the networks that support schools and remote workers, rely on the Company's products to serve their customers and communities. As a result, the Company's plants are generally not subject to extended shutdowns.

The Company continues to monitor the pandemic’s impact throughout the world, including guidance from governmental authorities and world health organizations. The Company’s actions to protect the safety and health of its workforce are aligned with its preventive health protocols and those of governmental authorities and health organizations including the Centers for Disease Controls (U.S.) and the World Health Organization.

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RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

Non-GAAP Financial Measures

The following discussion of Consolidated Financial Results includes certain non-GAAP financial measures. These financial measures include adjusted earnings and adjusted earnings per ordinary share, each of which differs from the most directly comparable measure calculated in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP). A reconciliation of adjusted earnings and adjusted earnings per ordinary share to the most directly comparable GAAP measure is included in the Consolidated Financial Results table below. During the first quarter of 2021, the Company revised its definition of adjusted earnings to exclude intangible asset amortization expense and prior periods have been retrospectively adjusted to apply this change. Management believes that these financial measures are useful to investors because they exclude certain transactions, allowing investors to more easily compare Eaton’s financial performance period to period. Management uses this information in monitoring and evaluating the on-going performance of Eaton.

Acquisition and Divestiture Charges

Eaton incurs integration charges and transaction costs to acquire and integrate businesses, and transaction, separation and other costs to divest and exit businesses. Eaton also recognizes gains and losses on the sale of businesses. A summary of these Corporate items is as follows:

(In millions except for per share data)202120202019
Acquisition integration, divestiture charges and transactions costs$349$288$198
Gain on the sale of the Hydraulics and Lighting businesses(617)(221)
Total charges (income) before income taxes(268)67198
Income tax expense (benefit)36266(24)
Total after income taxes$94$133$174
Per ordinary share - diluted$0.23$0.33$0.42

Acquisition integration, divestiture charges and transaction costs in 2021 are primarily related to the divestiture of the Hydraulics business, the acquisitions of Tripp Lite, Cobham Mission Systems, Souriau-Sunbank Connection Technologies, and Ulusoy Elektrik Imalat Taahhut ve Ticaret A.S., and other charges to acquire and exit businesses including certain indemnity claims associated with the sale of 50% interest in the commercial vehicle automated transmission business in 2017. Charges in 2020 are primarily related to the divestitures of the Hydraulics business and the Lighting business, the acquisitions of Souriau-Sunbank, Ulusoy Elektrik, and Power Distribution, Inc., and other charges to exit businesses. Charges in 2019 related to the divestiture of the Lighting business, the acquisitions of Ulusoy Elektrik, ISG, and Souriau-Sunbank, the loss on the sale of the Automotive Fluid Conveyance business, and other charges to exit businesses. These charges were included in Cost of products sold, Selling and administrative expense, Research and development expense, Interest expense - net, or Other expense - net. In Business Segment Information in Note 17, the charges were included in Other expense - net.

Intangible Asset Amortization Expense

Intangible asset amortization expense is as follows:

(In millions except for per share data)202120202019
Intangible asset amortization expense$444$354$367
Income tax benefit838284
Total after income taxes$361$272$283
Per ordinary share - diluted$0.90$0.67$0.67

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Consolidated Financial Results

(In millions except for per share data)2021Change from 20202020Change from 20192019
Net sales$19,62810%$17,858(17)%$21,390
Gross profit6,33516%5,450(23)%7,052
Percent of net sales32.3%30.5%33.0%
Income before income taxes2,89666%1,746(33)%2,591
Net income2,14652%1,415(36)%2,213
Less net income for noncontrolling interests(2)(5)(2)
Net income attributable to Eaton ordinary shareholders2,14452%1,410(36)%2,211
Excluding acquisition and divestiture charges, after-tax94133174
Excluding restructuring program charges, after-tax60170
Excluding intangible asset amortization expense, after-tax361272283
Adjusted earnings$2,65934%$1,985(26)%$2,668
Net income per share attributable to Eaton ordinary shareholders - diluted$5.3453%$3.49(34)%$5.25
Excluding per share impact of acquisition and divestiture charges, after-tax0.230.330.42
Excluding per share impact of restructuring program charges, after-tax0.150.42
Excluding per share impact of intangible asset amortization expense, after-tax0.900.670.67
Adjusted earnings per ordinary share$6.6235%$4.91(23)%$6.34

Net Sales

Changes in Net sales are summarized as follows:
20212020
Organic growth10%(11)%
Acquisitions of businesses5%2%
Divestitures of businesses(6)%(7)%
Foreign currency1%(1)%
Total increase (decrease) in Net sales10%(17)%

Organic sales increased 10% in 2021 due to broad-based strength in end-markets and regions as our business segments have largely recovered from the negative impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. This organic growth was achieved despite the supply chain constraints experienced by the Electrical Americas business segment, and customers of the Vehicle and eMobility business segments also experienced supply chain constraints leading to reduced production levels. Additionally, organic sales in the Aerospace business segment continued to be impacted by travel restrictions from the COVID-19 pandemic on commercial aviation. The decrease in organic sales in 2020 was primarily due to the impact from the COVID-19 pandemic, with lower sales in all business segments.

The acquisitions of Tripp Lite and Cobham Mission Systems increased sales in 2021, while the divestitures of the Hydraulics and Lighting businesses reduced sales.

Gross Profit

Gross profit margin increased from 30.5% in 2020 to 32.3% in 2021 primarily due to higher sales volumes and savings from restructuring actions. Organic sales volumes improved in the Electrical Americas, Electrical Global, and Vehicle business segments, and declined in the Aerospace business segment. Gross profit also improved due to the net impact of the acquisitions of Tripp Lite and Cobham Mission Systems and the divestiture of the Hydraulics business. Conversely, commodity and logistics inflation had an unfavorable impact on gross margin during 2021. Gross profit margin decreased from 33.0% in 2019 to 30.5% in 2020 primarily due to the impact from the COVID-19 pandemic, with lower sales in all business segments.

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Income Taxes

During 2021, income tax expense of $750 million was recognized (an effective tax rate of 25.9%) compared to income tax expense of $331 million in 2020 (an effective tax rate of 19.0%) and income tax expense of $378 million in 2019 (an effective tax rate of 14.6%). The increase in the effective tax rate from 19.0% in 2020 to 25.9% in 2021 was primarily due to the tax expense on the gain from the sale of the Hydraulics business in 2021 discussed in Note 2. The increase in the effective tax rate from 14.6% in 2019 to 19.0% in 2020 was primarily due to the tax expense on the gain from the sale of the Lighting business in 2020 discussed in Note 2, partially offset by a tax benefit on the restructuring charges discussed in Note 16. Additionally, see Note 11 for income tax rate reconciliations from Ireland's national statutory rate to the consolidated effective rate.

Net Income

Net income attributable to Eaton ordinary shareholders of $2,144 million in 2021 increased 52% compared to $1,410 million in 2020. Net income in 2021 and 2020 included after-tax gains of $197 million on the sale of the Hydraulics business and $91 million on the sale of the Lighting business, respectively. Excluding these gains, the increase in 2021 net income was primarily due to higher gross profit and lower restructuring program charges, partially offset by higher income tax expense, acquisition and divestiture charges, and intangible asset amortization expense. Net income attributable to Eaton ordinary shareholders of $1,410 million in 2020 decreased 36% compared to $2,211 million in 2019. Net income in 2020 included an after-tax gain of $91 million on the sale of the Lighting business. The decrease in 2020 net income was primarily due to lower sales volumes as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Net income per ordinary share increased to $5.34 in 2021 compared to $3.49 in 2020. Net income per ordinary share in 2021 and 2020 included $0.49 and $0.22 from the sale of the Hydraulics and Lighting businesses, respectively. Excluding these gains, the increase in Net income per ordinary share in 2021 was due to higher Net income attributable to Eaton ordinary shareholders and the impact of the Company's share repurchases over the past two years. Net income per ordinary share decreased to $3.49 in 2020 compared to $5.25 in 2019. The decrease in Net income per ordinary share in 2020 was due to lower Net income attributable to Eaton ordinary shareholders, adjusted for the impact of the Company's share repurchases over the past few years.

Adjusted Earnings

Adjusted earnings of $2,659 million in 2021 increased 34% compared to Adjusted earnings of $1,985 million in 2020. The increase in Adjusted earnings in 2021 was primarily due to higher Net income attributable to Eaton ordinary shareholders, adjusted for acquisition and divestiture charges, restructuring program charges, and intangible asset amortization expense. Adjusted earnings of $1,985 million in 2020 decreased 26% compared to Adjusted Earnings of $2,668 million in 2019. The decrease in Adjusted earnings in 2020 was primarily due to lower Net income attributable to Eaton ordinary shareholders, adjusted for acquisition and divestiture charges, and restructuring program charges.

Adjusted earnings per ordinary share increased to $6.62 in 2021 compared to $4.91 in 2020. The increase in Adjusted earnings per ordinary share in 2021 was due to higher Adjusted earnings and the impact of the Company's share repurchases over the past two years. Adjusted earnings per ordinary share decreased to $4.91 in 2020 compared to $6.34 in 2019. The decrease in Adjusted earnings per ordinary share in 2020 was due to lower Adjusted earnings, adjusted for the impact of the Company's share repurchases over the past few years.

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Business Segment Results of Operations

The following is a discussion of Net sales, operating profit and operating profit margin by business segment.

Electrical Americas

(In millions)2021Change from 20202020Change from 20192019
Net sales$7,2428%$6,680(18)%$8,175
Operating profit$1,49511%$1,352(13)%$1,549
Operating margin20.6%20.2%18.9%
Changes in Net sales are summarized as follows:
20212020
Organic growth5%(2)%
Acquisitions of Tripp Lite, Power Distribution, Inc., and Innovative Switchgear Solutions, Inc.7%1%
Divestiture of the Lighting business(4)%(17)%
Total increase (decrease) in Net sales8%(18)%

The increase in organic sales in 2021 was primarily due to broad-based strength in end-markets as they have largely recovered from the COVID-19 pandemic with particular strength in residential and data centers, partially offset by weakness in sales to utilities. This organic growth was achieved despite the supply chain constraints experienced by the Electrical Americas business segment during 2021, which had a negative impact on Net sales. The decrease in organic sales in 2020 was primarily driven by the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, partially offset by growth in residential, data center, and utility end-markets.

The operating margin increased from 20.2% in 2020 to 20.6% in 2021 primarily due to higher organic sales volumes, the favorable net impact of an acquisition and a divestiture, and savings from restructuring actions. Conversely, commodity and logistics inflation had an unfavorable impact on the operating margin. The operating margin increased from 18.9% in 2019 to 20.2% in 2020 primarily due to the favorable impact from the divestiture of the Lighting business and cost containment actions to counteract the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, partially offset by lower volumes.

Electrical Global

(In millions)2021Change from 20202020Change from 20192019
Net sales$5,51617%$4,703(9)%$5,172
Operating profit$1,03438%$750(16)%$897
Operating margin18.7%15.9%17.3%
Changes in Net sales are summarized as follows:
20212020
Organic growth15%(9)%
Foreign currency2%%
Total increase (decrease) in Net sales17%(9)%

The increase in organic sales in 2021 was primarily due to broad-based strength in end-markets as they have largely recovered from the COVID-19 pandemic. The decrease in organic sales in 2020 was primarily driven by the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, with particular weakness in global oil and gas markets and industrial applications.

The operating margin increased from 15.9% in 2020 to 18.7% in 2021 primarily due to higher sales volumes and savings from restructuring actions, partially offset by commodity and logistics inflation. The operating margin decreased from 17.3% in 2019 to 15.9% in 2020 primarily due to lower sales volumes and unfavorable product mix, partially offset by cost containment actions to mitigate the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.

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Hydraulics

(In millions)20212020Change from 20192019
Net sales$1,300$1,842(16)%$2,204
Operating profit$177$186(4)%$193
Operating margin13.6%10.1%8.8%
Changes in Net sales are summarized as follows:
2020
Organic growth(15)%
Foreign currency(1)%
Total decrease in Net sales(16)%

On August 2, 2021, Eaton completed the sale of the Hydraulics business segment. As a result, net sales and operating profit for 2021 are not directly comparable to 2020, since 2021 only includes the results of the Hydraulics business through the date of the sale.

The decrease in organic sales in 2020 was primarily due to the impact from the COVID-19 pandemic, with weakness at both OEMs and distributors globally.

The operating margin increased from 8.8% in 2019 to 10.1% in 2020 primarily due to depreciation expense no longer being charged as a result of the business being classified as held for sale as discussed in Note 2 and cost containment actions to counteract the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, partially offset by lower sales volumes.

Aerospace

(In millions)2021Change from 20202020Change from 20192019
Net sales$2,64819%$2,223(10)%$2,480
Operating profit$58040%$414(30)%$595
Operating margin21.9%18.6%24.0%
Changes in Net sales are summarized as follows:
20212020
Organic growth(2)%(22)%
Acquisitions of Cobham Mission Systems and Souriau-Sunbank20%12%
Foreign currency1%%
Total increase (decrease) in Net sales19%(10)%

The decrease in organic sales in 2021 was primarily due to the impact of continued travel restrictions from the COVID-19 pandemic on commercial aviation and weakness in military aftermarket. The decrease in organic sales in 2020 was primarily due to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on commercial aviation, partially offset by growth in military sales.

The operating margin increased from 18.6% in 2020 to 21.9% in 2021 primarily due to the acquisition of Cobham Mission Systems and savings from restructuring actions, partially offset by lower organic sales volumes. The operating margin decrease from 24.0% in 2019 to 18.6% in 2020 primarily due to lower sales volumes and the acquisition of Souriau-Sunbank, partially offset by cost containment actions to mitigate the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.

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Vehicle

(In millions)2021Change from 20202020Change from 20192019
Net sales$2,57922%$2,118(30)%$3,038
Operating profit$44985%$243(47)%$460
Operating margin17.4%11.5%15.1%
Changes in Net sales are summarized as follows:
20212020
Organic growth21%(24)%
Divestiture of Automotive Fluid Conveyance business%(4)%
Foreign currency1%(2)%
Total increase (decrease) in Net sales22%(30)%

The increase in organic sales in 2021 was primarily due to strength in all regions compared to 2020 which was significantly impacted by plant shutdowns due to the COVID-19 pandemic. This organic growth was achieved despite the Vehicle business segment's organic sales being negatively impacted in 2021 as a result of its customers experiencing supply chain constraints leading to reduced production levels and historic low vehicle inventory. The decrease in organic sales in 2020 was driven by plant shutdowns in the second quarter of 2020, lower Class 8 OEM production, and weakness in light vehicle sales primarily due to the impact from the COVID-19 pandemic.

The operating margin increased from 11.5% in 2020 to 17.4% in 2021 primarily due to higher sales volumes and savings from restructuring actions, partially offset by commodity and logistics inflation. The operating margin decreased from 15.1% in 2019 to 11.5% in 2020 primarily due to lower sales volumes, partially offset by cost containment actions to mitigate the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.

eMobility

(In millions)2021Change from 20202020Change from 20192019
Net sales$34317%$292(9)%$321
Operating profit (loss)$(29)(263)%$(8)(147)%$17
Operating margin(8.5)%(2.7)%5.3%
Changes in Net sales are summarized as follows:
20212020
Organic growth16%(9)%
Foreign currency1%%
Total increase (decrease) in Net sales17%(9)%

The increase in organic sales in 2021 was primarily due to strength in North American and Asia Pacific regions compared to 2020 which was significantly impacted by plant shutdowns due to the COVID-19 pandemic. This organic growth was achieved despite the eMobility business segment's organic sales being negatively impacted in 2021 as a result of its customers experiencing supply chain constraints leading to reduced production levels. The decrease in organic sales in 2020 was primarily due to the impact from the COVID-19 pandemic, with particular weakness in the legacy internal combustion engine platforms.

The operating margin decreased from negative 2.7% in 2020 to negative 8.5% in 2021 primarily due to increased research and development costs and manufacturing start-up costs associated with new electric vehicle programs, and commodity and logistics inflation, partially offset by higher sales volumes. The operating margin decreased from 5.3% in 2019 to negative 2.7% in 2020 primarily due to lower sales volumes and increased research and development costs.

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Corporate Expense

(In millions)2021Change from 20202020Change from 20192019
Intangible asset amortization expense$44425%$354(4)%$367
Interest expense - net144(3)%149(25)%199
Pension and other postretirement benefits (income) expense(65)(263)%40233%12
Restructuring program charges78(64)%214NM
Other expense - net209(52)%434(20)%542
Total corporate expense$810(32)%$1,1916%$1,120

Total corporate expense was $810 million in 2021 compared to Total corporate expense of $1,191 million in 2020. The decrease in Total corporate expense was primarily due to lower Other expense - net, lower Restructuring program charges, and the favorable impact of the freeze on the Company's United States pension plans, partially offset by higher Intangible asset amortization expense due to acquisitions of businesses. The decrease in Other expense - net is primarily due to the 2021 gain on sale of the Hydraulics business exceeding the 2020 gain on the sale of the Lighting business by $396 million. This decrease was partially offset by higher acquisition and divestiture charges and higher other corporate expenses due to the removal of the temporary cost containment actions taken during 2020 to mitigate the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. Total corporate expense was $1,191 million in 2020 compared to Total Corporate expense of $1,120 million in 2019. The increase in Total corporate expense was primarily due to higher Restructuring program charges, partially offset by lower Other expense - net. The decrease in Other expense - net is primarily due to the 2020 gain on the sale of the Lighting business, partially offset by higher acquisition and divestiture charges.

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LIQUIDITY, CAPITAL RESOURCES, AND FINANCIAL CONDITION

Liquidity and Financial Condition

Eaton’s objective is to finance its business through operating cash flow and an appropriate mix of equity and long-term and short-term debt. By diversifying its debt maturity structure, Eaton reduces liquidity risk.

On March 8, 2021, a subsidiary of Eaton issued Euro denominated notes (2021 Euro Notes) with a face value of €1,500 million ($1,798 million), in accordance with Regulation S promulgated under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended. The 2021 Euro Notes are comprised of two tranches of €900 million and €600 million, which mature in 2026 and 2030, respectively, with interest payable annually at a respective rate of 0.128% and 0.577%. The issuer received proceeds totaling €1,494 million ($1,790 million) from the issuance, net of financing costs and discounts.

On May 17, 2021, the Company entered into a $2,500 million 364-day revolving credit facility, which brought the Company’s total revolving credit facilities to $4,500 million. At June 30, 2021, the Company had access to the commercial paper markets through its $4,500 million commercial paper program, of which $3,372 million was outstanding including funds to finance the acquisition of Cobham Mission Systems discussed in Note 2. Eaton used the proceeds from the sale of the Hydraulics business, which was completed August 2, 2021, to reduce its outstanding commercial paper borrowings.

On September 22, 2021, the Company downsized the 364-day revolving credit facility from $2,500 million to $500 million, which reduced the Company's total revolving credit facilities to $2,500 million. In September 2021, the Company also downsized its commercial paper program to $2,500 million.

On October 4, 2021, the Company replaced its existing $500 million 364-day revolving credit facility, $750 million five-year revolving credit facility, $500 million four-year revolving credit facility, and $750 million five-year revolving credit facility, with a new $500 million 364-day revolving credit facility and a new $2,000 million five-year revolving credit facility that will expire on October 4, 2026. The revolving credit facilities totaling $2,500 million are used to support commercial paper borrowings and are fully and unconditionally guaranteed by Eaton and certain of its direct and indirect subsidiaries on an unsubordinated, unsecured basis. There were no borrowings outstanding under Eaton’s revolving credit facilities at December 31, 2021. The Company maintains access to the commercial paper markets through its $2,500 million commercial paper program, of which none was outstanding on December 31, 2021. In addition to the revolving credit facilities, the Company also had available lines of credit of $972 million from various banks primarily for the issuance of letters of credit, of which there was $335 million outstanding at December 31, 2021.

Eaton received proceeds of $1.4 billion from the sale of its Lighting business in 2020 and $3.1 billion from the sale of its Hydraulics business in 2021. The Company paid $4.45 billion to acquire Tripp Lite and Cobham Mission Systems in 2021.

Over the course of a year, cash, short-term investments, and short-term debt may fluctuate in order to manage global liquidity. As of December 31, 2021 and 2020, Eaton had cash of $297 million and $438 million, short-term investments of $271 million and $664 million, and short-term debt of $13 million and $1 million, respectively. Eaton believes it has the operating flexibility, cash flow, cash and short-term investment balances, availability under existing revolving credit facilities, and access to capital markets in excess of the liquidity necessary to meet future operating needs of the business, fund capital expenditures and acquisitions of businesses, as well as scheduled payments of long-term debt.

For additional information on financing transactions and debt, see Note 8.

Eaton’s credit facilities and indentures governing certain long-term debt contain various covenants, the violation of which would limit or preclude the use of the credit facilities for future borrowings, or might accelerate the maturity of the related outstanding borrowings covered by the indentures. At Eaton’s present credit rating level, the most restrictive financial covenant provides that the ratio of secured debt (or lease payments due under a sale and leaseback transaction) to adjusted consolidated net worth (or consolidated net tangible assets, in each case as defined in the relevant credit agreement or indenture) may not exceed 10%. Eaton's actual ratios are substantially below the required threshold. In addition, Eaton is in compliance with each of its debt covenants for all periods presented.

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Cash Flows

A summary of cash flows is as follows:

(In millions)2021Change from 20202020Change from 20192019
Net cash provided by operating activities$2,163$(781)$2,944$(507)$3,451
Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities(1,764)(2,161)3972,263(1,866)
Net cash used in financing activities(535)2,723(3,258)(1,764)(1,494)
Effect of currency on cash(5)10(15)(11)(4)
Total increase (decrease) in cash$(141)$68$87

Operating Cash Flow

Net cash provided by operating activities decreased by $781 million in 2021 compared to 2020. The decrease in net cash provided by operating activities in 2021 was primarily due to higher working capital balances to support the Company’s organic growth as our business segments have largely recovered from the negative impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, taxes paid on the sale of the Hydraulics business, and a $200 million pension contribution to Eaton's U.S. qualified pension plan in 2021.

Net cash provided by operating activities decreased by $507 million in 2020 compared to 2019. The decrease in net cash provided by operating activities in 2020 was driven by lower net income, partially offset by lower working capital balances compared to 2019.

Investing Cash Flow

Net cash used in investing activities increased by $2,161 million in 2021 compared to 2020. The increase in the use of cash was primarily driven by cash paid in 2021 for business acquisitions of $4,500 million compared to cash paid in 2020 for business acquisitions of $200 million, partially offset by proceeds received in 2021 from the sale of Hydraulics business of $3,129 million compared to proceeds received in 2020 from the sale of the Lighting business of $1,408 million, and net sales of short-term investments of $379 million in 2021 compared to net purchases of $441 million in 2020. Capital expenditures were $575 million in 2021 compared to $389 million in 2020.

Net cash provided by investing activities increased by $2,263 million in 2020 compared to 2019. The increase in the source of cash was primarily driven by proceeds from the sale of the Lighting business and lower cash paid for business acquisitions, partially offset by net purchases of short-term investments of $441 million in 2020 compared to net purchases of $70 million in 2019. Capital expenditures were $389 million in 2020 compared to $587 million in 2019.

Financing Cash Flow

Net cash used in financing activities decreased by $2,723 million in 2021 compared to 2020. The decrease in the use of cash was primarily due to higher proceeds from borrowings of $1,798 million in 2021 compared to no proceeds from borrowings in 2020, lower share repurchases of $122 million in 2021 compared to $1,608 million in 2020, and net proceeds of short-term debt of $20 million in 2021 compared to net payments of $254 million in 2020, partially offset by higher payments on borrowings of $1,013 million in 2021 compared to $249 million in 2020.

Net cash used in financing activities increased by $1,764 million in 2020 compared to 2019. The increase in the use of cash was primarily due to no proceeds from borrowings in 2020 compared to $1,232 million in 2019 and higher share repurchases of $1,608 million in 2020 compared to $1,029 million in 2019.

Uses of Cash

Purchases of Goods and Services

The Company purchases goods and services in the normal course of business based on expected usage. For certain purchases, the Company enters into purchase obligations with various vendors, which include short-term and long-term commitments for purchases of raw materials, outstanding non-cancelable purchase orders, releases under blanket purchase orders, and commitments under ongoing service arrangements. As of December 31, 2021, the Company has purchase obligations to support the operation of its business similar to those included in historical cash flow trends.

Capital Expenditures

Capital expenditures were $575 million, $389 million, and $587 million in 2021, 2020 and 2019, respectively. Eaton expects approximately $650 million in capital expenditures in 2022.

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Dividends

Cash dividend payments were $1,219 million, $1,175 million, and $1,201 million for 2021, 2020 and 2019, respectively. On February 23, 2022, Eaton's Board of Directors declared a quarterly dividend of $0.81 per ordinary share, a 7% increase over the dividend paid in the fourth quarter of 2021. The dividend is payable on March 31, 2022 to shareholders of record on March 11, 2022. Payment of quarterly dividends in the future depends upon the Company’s ability to generate net income and operating cash flows, among other factors, and is subject to declaration by the Eaton Board of Directors. The Company intends to continue to pay quarterly dividends in 2022.

Share Repurchases

On February 27, 2019, the Board of Directors adopted a share repurchase program for share repurchases up to $5.0 billion of ordinary shares (2019 Program). Under the 2019 Program, the ordinary shares are expected to be repurchased over time, depending on market conditions, the market price of ordinary shares, capital levels, and other considerations. During 2021 and 2020, 0.9 million and 17.1 million ordinary shares, respectively, were repurchased under the 2019 Program in the open market at a total cost of $122 million and $1,608 million, respectively. The Company will continue to pursue share repurchases in 2022 depending on market conditions and capital levels. On February 23, 2022, the Board renewed the 2019 Program by providing authority for up to $5.0 billion in repurchases to be made during the three-year period commencing on that date (2022 Program).

Acquisition of Businesses

The Company paid cash of $4,500 million, $200 million, and $1,180 million to acquire businesses in 2021, 2020 and 2019, respectively. The Company will continue to focus on deploying its capital toward businesses that provide opportunities for higher growth and strong returns, and align with secular trends and its power management strategies.

Debt

The Company manages a number of short-term and long-term debt instruments, including commercial paper. For additional information on financing transactions and debt, see Note 8.

Leases

See Note 7 for maturities of lease liabilities.

Unrecognized Income Tax Benefits

At December 31, 2021, the gross unrecognized income tax benefits totaled $1,120 million and interest and penalties were $128 million. Eaton cannot predict with reasonable certainty the timing of cash settlements with the respective taxing authorities. For additional information about income taxes see Note 11.

Defined Benefits Plans

Pension Plans

During 2021, the fair value of plan assets in the Company’s employee pension plans increased $319 million to $5,919 million at December 31, 2021. The increase in plan assets was primarily due to strong returns on plan assets and the Company's contributions to the pension plans. At December 31, 2021, the net unfunded position of $678 million in pension liabilities consisted of $819 million in plans that have no funding requirements and $97 million in plans that require funding, partially offset by $59 million in the U.S. qualified pension plan that is overfunded and $179 million in all other plans that are overfunded.

Funding requirements are a major consideration in making contributions to Eaton’s pension plans. With respect to the Company’s pension plans worldwide, the Company intends to contribute annually not less than the minimum required by applicable law and regulations. In 2021, $343 million was contributed to the pension plans. The Company anticipates making $114 million of contributions to certain pension plans during 2022. The funded status of the Company’s pension plans at the end of 2022, and future contributions, will depend primarily on the actual return on assets during the year and the discount rate used to calculate certain benefits at the end of the year. For additional information about pension plans see Note 9.

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Supply Chain Finance Program

The Company negotiates payment terms directly with its suppliers for the purchase of goods and services. In addition, a third-party financial institution offers a voluntary supply chain finance (SCF) program that enables certain of the Company’s suppliers, at the supplier’s sole discretion, to sell receivables due from the Company to the financial institution on terms directly negotiated with the financial institution. If a supplier elects to participate in the SCF program, the supplier decides which invoices are sold to the financial institution and the Company has no economic interest in a supplier’s decision to sell an invoice. The SCF program does not have a significant impact on the Company’s liquidity as payments by the Company to participating suppliers are paid to the financial institution on the invoice due date, regardless of whether an individual invoice is sold by the supplier to the financial institution. The amounts due to the financial institution for suppliers that participate in the SCF program are included in Accounts payable on the Company’s Consolidated Balance Sheets, and the associated payments are included in operating activities on the Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows. At  December 31, 2021 and 2020, Accounts payable included $151 million and $15 million, respectively, payable to suppliers that have elected to participate in the SCF program.

Guaranteed Debt

Issuers, Guarantors and Guarantor Structure

Eaton Corporation has issued senior notes pursuant to indentures dated April 1, 1994 (the 1994 Indenture), November 20, 2012 (the 2012 Indenture) and September 15, 2017 (the 2017 Indenture). The senior notes of Eaton Corporation are registered under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the Registered Senior Notes). Eaton Corporation is also the issuer of one outstanding series of privately placed debt securities (the PPNs), and Eaton Capital Unlimited Company, another subsidiary of Eaton, is the issuer of four outstanding series of debt securities sold in offshore transactions under Regulation S promulgated under the Securities Act (the Eurobonds). The PPNs, the Eurobonds and the Registered Senior Notes (together, the Senior Notes) comprise substantially all of Eaton’s long-term indebtedness.

Substantially all of the Senior Notes, together with the credit facilities described above under Financial Condition and Liquidity (the Credit Facilities), are guaranteed by Eaton and 18 of its subsidiaries. Accordingly, they rank equally with each other. However, because these obligations are not secured, they would be effectively subordinated to any existing or future secured indebtedness of Eaton and its subsidiaries. As of December 31, 2021, Eaton has no material, long-term secured debt. The guaranteed Registered Senior Notes are also structurally subordinated to the liabilities of Eaton's subsidiaries that are not guarantors. Except as described below under Future Guarantors, Eaton is not obligated to cause its subsidiaries to guarantee the Registered Senior Notes.

The table set forth in Exhibit 22 filed with the 2020 Form 10-K filed on February 24, 2021, details the primary obligors and guarantors with respect to the guaranteed Registered Senior Notes.

Terms of Guarantees of Registered Securities

Payment of principal and interest on the Registered Senior Notes is guaranteed, on an unsecured, unsubordinated basis by the subsidiaries of Eaton set forth in the table referenced in Exhibit 22. Each guarantee is full and unconditional, and joint and several. Each guarantor's guarantee is an unsecured obligation that ranks equally with all its other unsecured and unsubordinated indebtedness. The obligations of each guarantor under its guarantee of the Registered Senior Notes is subject to a customary savings clause or similar provision designed to prevent such guarantee from constituting a fraudulent conveyance or otherwise legally impermissible or voidable obligation.

Generally, each guarantee of the Registered Senior Notes by a guarantor other than Eaton provides that it will be automatically and unconditionally released and discharged upon:

(a)the consummation of any transaction permitted under the applicable indenture resulting in such guarantor ceasing to be a subsidiary, such as a sale to a third party;

(b)such guarantee (so long as the guarantor is not obligated under any other U.S. debt obligations), becoming prohibited by any applicable law, rule or regulation or by any contractual obligation;

(c)such guarantee resulting in material adverse tax consequences to Eaton or any of its subsidiaries (so long as the applicable guarantor is not obligated under any other U.S. debt obligation); or

(d)such guarantor becoming a controlled foreign corporation within the meaning Section 957(a) of the Internal Revenue Code (a CFC), or an entity the material assets of which is limited to equity interests of a CFC.

Notwithstanding the foregoing, each guarantee by a direct or indirect parent of Eaton Corporation (other than Eaton) provides that it will be released only under the circumstances described in subparagraphs (b) and (c) above.

The guarantee of Eaton does not contain any release provisions.

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Future Guarantors

The 2012 and 2017 Indentures generally provide that, with certain limited exceptions, any subsidiary of Eaton must become a guarantor if it becomes obligated as borrower or guarantor under any series of debt securities or a syndicated credit facility. Further, any entity that becomes a direct or indirect parent entity of Eaton Corporation and holds any material assets, with certain limited exceptions, or owes any material liabilities must become a guarantor.

The 1994 Indenture does not contain provisions with respect to future guarantors.

Summarized Financial Information of Guarantors and Issuers

(In millions)December 31, 2021
Current assets$3,032
Noncurrent assets11,553
Current liabilities3,950
Noncurrent liabilities8,461
Amounts due to subsidiaries that are non-issuers and non-guarantors - net18,006
(In millions)2021
Net sales$10,261
Sales to subsidiaries that are non-issuers and non-guarantors873
Cost of products sold8,413
Expense from subsidiaries that are non-issuers and non-guarantors - net435
Net income504

The financial information presented is that of Eaton Corporation and the Guarantors, which includes Eaton Corporation plc, on a combined basis and the financial information of non-issuer and non-guarantor subsidiaries has been excluded. Intercompany balances and transactions between Eaton Corporation and Guarantors have been eliminated, and amounts due from, amounts due to, and transactions with non-issuer and non-guarantor subsidiaries have been presented separately.

Credit Ratings

Eaton's debt has been assigned the following credit ratings:

Credit Rating Agency (long- /short-term rating)RatingOutlook
Standard & Poor'sA-/A-2Stable outlook
Moody'sBaa1/P-2Stable outlook
FitchBBB+/F2Negative outlook

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CRITICAL ACCOUNTING POLICIES

The preparation of financial statements in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP) in the United States requires management to make certain estimates and assumptions that may involve the exercise of significant judgment. For any estimate or assumption used, there may be other reasonable estimates or assumptions that could have been used. However, based on facts and circumstances inherent in developing estimates and assumptions, management believes it is unlikely that applying other such estimates and assumptions would have caused materially different amounts to have been reported. Actual results may differ from these estimates.

Revenue Recognition

Sales are recognized when control of promised goods or services are transferred to customers in an amount that reflects the consideration the Company expects to be entitled to in exchange for those goods or services. Control is transferred when the customer has the ability to direct the use of and obtain benefits from the goods or services. The majority of the Company’s sales agreements contain performance obligations satisfied at a point in time when control is transferred to the customer. Sales recognized over time are generally accounted for using an input measure to determine progress completed at the end of the period. Sales for service contracts generally are recognized as the services are provided. For agreements with multiple performance obligations, judgment is required to determine whether performance obligations specified in these agreements are distinct and should be accounted for as separate revenue transactions for recognition purposes. In these types of agreements, we generally allocate sales price to each distinct obligation based on the price of each item sold in separate transactions.

Due to the nature of the work required to be performed for obligations recognized over time, Eaton estimates total costs by contract. The estimate of total costs are subject to judgment. Estimated amounts are included in the recognized sales price to the extent it is not probable that a significant reversal of cumulative sales will occur. Additionally, contracts can be modified to account for changes in contract specifications, requirements or sale price. The effect of a contract modification on the sales price or adjustments to the measure of completion under the input method are recognized as adjustments to revenue on a cumulative catch-up basis.

Eaton records reductions to sales for returns, and customer and distributor incentives, primarily comprised of rebates, at the time of the initial sale. Rebates are estimated based on sales terms, historical experience, trend analysis, and projected market conditions in the various markets served. The rebate programs offered vary across businesses due to the numerous markets Eaton serves, but the most common incentives relate to amounts paid or credited to customers for achieving defined volume levels. Returns are estimated at the time of the sale primarily based on historical experience and recorded gross on the Consolidated Balance Sheet. See Note 3 for additional information.

Impairment of Goodwill and Other Long-Lived Assets

Goodwill

Goodwill is evaluated annually for impairment as of July 1 using either a quantitative or qualitative analysis. Goodwill is tested for impairment at the reporting unit level, and is based on the net assets for each reporting unit, including goodwill and intangible assets. The Company’s reporting units are equivalent to the reportable operating segments, except for the Aerospace segment which has two reporting units. Goodwill is assigned to each reporting unit, as this represents the lowest level that constitutes a business and is the level at which management regularly reviews the operating results. The Company performs a quantitative analysis using a discounted cash flow model and other valuation techniques, but may elect to perform a qualitative analysis.

Additionally, goodwill is evaluated for impairment whenever an event occurs or circumstances change that would indicate that it is more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit is less than its carrying amount. Events or circumstances that may result in an impairment review include changes in macroeconomic conditions, industry and market considerations, cost factors, overall financial performance, other relevant entity-specific events, specific events affecting the reporting unit or sustained decrease in share price.

The annual goodwill impairment test was performed using a qualitative analysis in 2021 and 2020, except for the eMobility reporting unit which used a quantitative analysis. A qualitative analysis is performed by assessing certain trends and factors, including projected market outlook and growth rates, forecasted and actual sales and operating profit margins, discount rates, industry data, and other relevant qualitative factors. These trends and factors are compared to, and based on, the assumptions used in the most recent quantitative analysis performed for each reporting unit. The results of the qualitative analyses did not indicate a need to perform quantitative analysis.

Goodwill impairment testing was also performed using quantitative analyses in 2020 for the Electrical Americas, Electrical Global, Hydraulics and Aerospace reporting units due to a reorganization of the Company’s businesses and in 2020 as a result of the Hydraulics business being classified as held for sale as discussed in Note 2. The Company used the relative fair value method to reallocate goodwill.

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Quantitative analyses were performed by estimating the fair value for each reporting unit using a discounted cash flow model. The model includes estimates of future cash flows, future growth rates, terminal value amounts, and the applicable weighted-average cost of capital used to discount those estimated cash flows. The future cash flows were based on the Company's long-term operating plan and a terminal value was used to estimate the reporting unit's cash flows beyond the period covered by the operating plan. The weighted-average cost of capital is an estimate of the overall after-tax rate of return required by equity and debt market holders of a business enterprise. These analyses require the exercise of judgments, including judgments about appropriate discount rates, perpetual growth rates, revenue growth, and margin assumptions. Sensitivity analyses were performed around certain of these assumptions in order to assess the reasonableness of the assumptions and the resulting estimated fair values.

Based on these analyses performed in 2021 and 2020, the fair value of Eaton's reporting units continue to substantially exceed their respective carrying amounts and thus, no impairment exists.

Indefinite Life Intangible Assets

Indefinite life intangible assets consist of certain trademarks. They are evaluated annually for impairment as of July 1 using either a quantitative or qualitative analysis to determine whether their fair values exceed their respective carrying amounts. Indefinite life intangible asset impairment testing for 2021 and 2020 was performed using a quantitative analysis. Determining the fair value of these assets requires significant judgment and the Company uses a royalty relief methodology similar to that employed when the associated assets were acquired, but using updated estimates of future sales, cash flows and profitability. Sensitivity analyses were performed around certain of these assumptions in order to assess the reasonableness of the assumptions and the resulting estimated fair values.

Additionally, indefinite life intangible assets are evaluated for impairment whenever an event occurs or circumstances change that would indicate that it is more likely than not that the asset is impaired. Events or circumstances that may result in an impairment review include changes in industry and market considerations, cost factors, financial performance, and other relevant entity-specific events that could affect inputs used to determine the respective fair values of the indefinite-lived intangible assets.

For 2021 and 2020, the fair value of indefinite lived intangible assets exceeded the respective carrying value.

For additional information about goodwill and other intangible assets see Note 6.

Acquisitions of Businesses

The acquisition of a business is accounted for using the acquisition method of accounting which requires assets and liabilities to be recognized at their fair values on the acquisition date. The initial fair value of assets acquired and liabilities assumed may be revised based on the final determination of fair value during the measurement period of 12 months from the acquisition date. The Company generally determines the fair value of intangible assets acquired using third-party valuations that are prepared using discounted cash flow models that rely on the Company's estimates. These estimates require judgement of future revenue growth rates, future margins, and the applicable weighted-average cost of capital used to discount those estimated cash flows. Sensitivity analyses were performed around certain of these assumptions in order to assess the reasonableness of the assumptions and the resulting estimated fair values. For additional information about the acquisitions of businesses see Note 2.

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Divestitures of Businesses

The Company records assets and liabilities of a business to be sold as held for sale in the Consolidated Balance Sheet when all the required criteria are met. The held for sale assets and liabilities are initially measured at the lesser of their carrying value or fair value less cost to sell, with any resulting loss being immediately recognized. In each subsequent reporting period until the business is sold, the Company continues to estimate the fair value less cost to sell of the business and recognizes any additional losses, or any gains to the extent losses were previously recorded on the held for sale assets and liabilities.

In the first quarter of 2020, the Company used the relative fair value method to allocate goodwill to the Hydraulics business. The fair value of the Hydraulics business was estimated based on a combination of the price paid to Eaton by Danfoss A/S and a discounted cash flow model. The model includes estimates of future cash flows, future growth rates, terminal value amounts, and the applicable weighted-average cost of capital used to discount those estimated cash flows. The weighted-average cost of capital is an estimate of the overall after-tax rate of return required by equity and debt market holders of a business enterprise. These analyses require the exercise of judgments, including judgments about appropriate discount rates, perpetual growth rates, revenue growth, and margin assumptions. For additional information about the divestitures of businesses see Note 2.

Recoverability of Deferred Income Tax Assets

Eaton is subject to the income tax laws in the jurisdictions in which it operates. In order to determine the income tax provision for financial statement purposes, Eaton must make significant estimates and judgments about its business operations in these jurisdictions. These estimates and judgments are also used in determining the deferred income tax assets and liabilities that have been recognized for differences between the financial statement and income tax basis of assets and liabilities, and income tax loss carryforwards and income tax credit carryforwards.

Management evaluates the realizability of deferred income tax assets for each jurisdiction in which it operates. If the Company experiences cumulative pre-tax income in a particular jurisdiction in a three-year period including the current and prior two years, management normally concludes that the deferred income tax assets will more likely than not be realizable and no valuation allowance is recognized, unless known or planned operating developments, or changes in tax laws, would lead management to conclude otherwise. However, if the Company experiences cumulative pre-tax losses in a particular jurisdiction in a three-year period including the current and prior two years, management then considers a series of factors in the determination of whether the deferred income tax assets can be realized. These factors include historical operating results, known or planned operating developments, the period of time over which certain temporary differences will reverse, consideration of the utilization of certain deferred income tax liabilities, tax law carryback capability in a particular country, prudent and feasible tax planning strategies, changes in tax laws, and estimates of future earnings and taxable income using the same assumptions as those used for the Company’s goodwill and other impairment testing. After evaluation of these factors, if the deferred income tax assets are expected to be realized within the tax carryforward period allowed for that specific country, management would conclude that no valuation allowance would be required. To the extent that the deferred income tax assets exceed the amount that is expected to be realized within the tax carryforward period for a particular jurisdiction, management would establish a valuation allowance. For additional information about income taxes see Note 11.

Unrecognized Income Tax Benefits

Eaton recognizes an income tax benefit from an uncertain tax position only if it is more likely than not that the benefit would be sustained upon examination by taxing authorities, based on the technical merits of the position. The Company evaluates and adjusts the amount of unrecognized income tax benefits based on changes in law, facts and circumstances. Eaton also estimates, where reasonably possible, the increase or decrease in the amount of unrecognized income tax benefits in the next 12 months.

The evaluation and determination of the amount of unrecognized income tax benefits related to uncertain tax positions is complex and involves both the exercise of judgement and the utilization of certain estimates and assumptions. Each tax position carries unique facts and circumstances that must be evaluated in light of current tax laws, regulations, and judicial decisions. Additionally, the ultimate resolution of the majority of Eaton’s unrecognized income tax benefits is dependent upon uncontrollable factors such as the timing of finalizing resolutions of audit disputes through reaching settlement agreements or concluding litigation, or changes in law.

Pension and Other Postretirement Benefits Plans

The measurement of liabilities related to pension plans and other postretirement benefits plans is based on assumptions related to future events including interest rates, return on plan assets, rate of compensation increases, and health care cost trend rates. Actual plan asset performance will either reduce or increase losses included in accumulated other comprehensive loss, which ultimately affects net income.

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The discount rate for United States plans was determined by discounting the expected future benefit payments using a theoretical zero-coupon spot yield curve derived from a universe of high-quality bonds as of the measurement date and solving for the single rate that would generate the same benefit obligation. Only corporate bonds with a rating of Aa, determined by averaging the ratings by Moody’s, Standard & Poor's, and Fitch, were included. Callable bonds that are not make-whole bonds and certain other non-comparable bonds were eliminated. Finally, a subset of bonds was selected by grouping the universe of bonds by duration and retaining 50% of the bonds that had the highest yields.

The discount rates for non-United States plans were determined by region and are based on high quality long-term corporate and government bonds. Consideration has been given to the duration of the liabilities in each plan when selecting the bonds to be used in determining the discount rate.

To estimate the service and interest cost components of net periodic benefit cost for the vast majority of its defined benefits pension and other postretirement benefits plans, the Company used a spot rate approach by applying the specific spot rates along the yield curve used to measure the benefit obligation at the beginning of the period to the relevant projected cash flows.

Key assumptions used to calculate pension and other postretirement benefits expense are adjusted at each year-end. A 1-percentage point change in the assumed rate of return on pension plan assets is estimated to have approximately a $54 million effect on pension expense. Likewise, a 1-percentage point change in the discount rate is estimated to have approximately a $48 million effect on pension expense. A 1-percentage point change in the assumed rate of return on other postretirement benefits assets is estimated to have less than $1 million effect on other postretirement benefits expense. A 1-percentage point change in the discount rate is estimated to have less than $1 million effect on expense for other postretirement benefits plans.

Additional information related to changes in key assumptions used to recognize expense for other postretirement benefits plans is found in Note 9.