Ingredion Inc (INGR) FY 2022 MD&A

ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

Overview

We are a major supplier of high-quality food and industrial ingredient solutions to customers around the world. We have 47 manufacturing facilities located in North America, South America, Asia-Pacific and EMEA and we manage and operate our businesses at a regional level. We believe this approach provides us with a unique understanding of the cultures and product requirements in each of the geographic markets in which we operate, bringing added value to our customers. Our ingredients are used by customers in the food, beverage, brewing and animal feed industries, among others.

Effectively managing our manufacturing costs, including costs for corn, other raw materials and utilities, is critical to the success of our business. In addition, our global operations expose us to fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates. We use derivative financial instruments, when appropriate, for the purpose of managing the risks and costs associated with fluctuations in certain raw material and energy costs, foreign exchange rates and interest rates. The capital-intensive nature of our business requires that we generate significant cash flow over time in order to reinvest selectively in our operations and grow organically, as well as to expand through strategic acquisitions and alliances.

We have been navigating evolving global conditions that have varying impacts on our customers, suppliers, employees, operations and, ultimately, our profitability and cash flows. During 2022, we continued to achieve strong price mix, which included increased prices for our products to manage the effects of increasing corn and freight costs. Our ability to respond to changing customer demands, increasing inflation, fluctuating foreign exchange rates, and shifting supply channels was affected by a variety of factors, including the continuing conflict between Russia and Ukraine, the ongoing global COVID-19 pandemic with lockdowns in China and weather-related effects on crop yields in Europe.

In 2022, net sales increased over 15 percent to $7.9 billion from $6.9 billion in 2021. The increase in net sales was driven by strong price mix, partly offset by foreign currency impacts and lower volumes. Our operating income of $762 million for 2022 increased from operating income of $310 million in 2021. Net income attributable to Ingredion for 2022 was $492 million, or $7.34 diluted earnings per share, which represented an increase from $117 million, or $1.73 diluted earnings per share, for 2021. The increases in operating income, net income and diluted earnings per share were primarily due to stronger price mix that more than offset higher corn and input costs. Our results for 2022 compared to 2021 were also impacted by a $340 million impairment charge related to the contribution of Ingredion Argentina's net assets to the Argentina joint venture recorded during 2021.

Results of Operations

We have significant operations in four reporting segments: North America, South America, Asia-Pacific and EMEA. Fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates affect the U.S. dollar amounts of our foreign subsidiaries’ revenues and expenses. For most of our foreign subsidiaries, the local foreign currency is the functional currency. Accordingly, revenues and expenses denominated in the functional currencies of these subsidiaries are translated into U.S. dollars at the applicable average exchange rates for the period.

We acquired the majority of shares of Mannitab on December 1, 2022, fully acquired Amishi on August 1, 2022, and KaTech on April 1, 2021. The results of the acquired businesses are included in our consolidated financial results beginning on the respective acquisition dates, which affects the comparability of results between years. In addition, our share of results in joint ventures are classified in our Consolidated Statements of Income in Other operating expense (income) and comparability between years and between financial statement line items is affected by the timing of and consideration provided to the investments. While we identify the impacts of acquisitions and investments on our results, our discussion below also addresses results of operations excluding those impacts, where appropriate, to provide a more comparable and meaningful analysis.

For the Year Ended December 31, 2022

With Comparatives for the Year Ended December 31, 2021

Net sales. Net sales increased 15 percent to $7,946 million for 2022 compared to $6,894 million for 2021. The increase in net sales was driven by strong price mix. This was partially offset by foreign currency impacts and lower volumes.

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Cost of sales. Cost of sales increased by 16 percent to $6,452 million in 2022 compared to cost of sales of $5,563 million in 2021. The increase in cost of sales primarily reflected higher net corn costs. Our gross profit margin of 19 percent in 2022 was unchanged from 2021.

Operating expenses. Operating expenses increased 7 percent to $715 million in 2022 compared to $668 million in 2021. The increase in operating expenses during 2022 was primarily attributable to cost impacts of higher inflation. Operating expenses as a percentage of net sales were approximately 9 percent in 2022 and 2021.

Other operating expense (income). Other operating expense (income) was $13 million in 2022 compared to $(34) million in 2021. The 2022 expense was primarily attributable to charges resulting from a U.S. based work stoppage. During 2021 we recorded $15 million of income from Brazil indirect tax credits and a net gain of $8 million related to the formation of the Amyris joint venture.

Restructuring/impairment charges and related adjustments. Restructuring and impairment charges decreased to $4 million in 2022 from $387 million in 2021, which primarily reflected an impairment charge of $340 million we recorded in 2021 for net assets from our Argentina business we contributed to the Argentina joint venture. In addition, the completion of our Cost Smart restructuring program resulted in $4 million of pre-tax restructuring charges in 2022 as compared to $44 million in 2021.

Financing costs. Financing costs increased 34 percent to $99 million in 2022 compared to $74 million in 2021. The increase was primarily due to higher outstanding debt balances, as well as higher interest rates in 2022 as compared to 2021.

Provision for income taxes. Our effective income tax rates for 2022 and 2021 were 24.9 percent and 49.6 percent, respectively. The decrease was primarily attributable to the $340 million impairment charge related to net assets contributed to the Argentina joint venture during 2021, which did not have a corresponding income tax benefit. The effect of this charge was partially offset by a 2021 reversal of an accrual from unremitted earnings of a foreign subsidiary.

Net income attributable to non-controlling interests. Net income attributable to non-controlling interests increased to $10 million in 2022 from $8 million in 2021.

Net Income attributable to Ingredion. Net income attributable to Ingredion for 2022 increased to $492 million from $117 million in 2021. The increase in net income was largely attributable to the $340 million impairment charge for the Argentina assets contributed to the Argentina joint venture in the prior year. The increase was also impacted by strong price mix that more than offset higher corn and input costs.

North America

Net sales. North America’s net sales increased 19 percent to $4,934 million in 2022 from $4,137 million in 2021. The increase was primarily driven by a 19 percent improvement in price mix and a 1 percent increase in volume. These impacts were partially offset by an unfavorable foreign exchange impact of 1 percent.

Operating income. North America’s operating income increased 16 percent to $565 million in 2022 from $487 million in 2021. The increase was driven by favorable price mix.

South America

Net sales. South America’s net sales increased 6 percent to $1,124 million in 2022 from $1,057 million in 2021. Excluding the effects of revenues from operations we contributed to the Argentina joint venture, net sales were 23 percent higher than in 2021. The increase reflected a 22 percent improvement in price mix and a 2 percent increase in volume. The effect of these factors was partially offset by an unfavorable foreign exchange impact of 1 percent.

Operating income. South America’s operating income increased 22 percent to $169 million in 2022 from $138 million in 2021. The increase was driven by favorable price mix, partially offset by higher corn and input costs.

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Asia-Pacific

Net sales. Asia-Pacific’s net sales increased 11 percent to $1,107 million in 2022 from $997 million in 2021. The increase was driven by favorable price mix of 14 percent and favorable volumes of 5 percent. These impacts were partially offset by unfavorable foreign exchange impacts of 8 percent.

Operating income. Asia-Pacific’s operating income increased 7 percent to $93 million in 2022 from $87 million in 2021. The increase was primarily driven by the favorable price mix that was partially offset by foreign exchange impacts.

EMEA

Net sales. EMEA’s net sales increased by 11 percent to $781 million in 2022 from $703 million in 2021. The increase was driven by favorable price mix of 23 percent and increased volumes of 2 percent, which were partially due to the purchase of KaTech on April 1, 2021. The effect of these factors was partially offset by unfavorable foreign exchange impacts of 14 percent.

Operating income. EMEA’s operating income increased 4 percent to $110 million in 2022 compared to $106 million in 2021. Favorability in Europe was partially offset by foreign exchange impacts across the region.

For the Year Ended December 31, 2021

With Comparatives for the Year Ended December 31, 2020

A discussion of the year-over-year comparison of results for 2021 and 2020 is not included in this report and can be found in Part II, Item 7. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations in Ingredion’s annual report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2021.

Liquidity and Capital Resources

As of December 31, 2022, Ingredion had total available liquidity of approximately $1,626 million. Domestic liquidity of $612 million consisted of $2 million in cash and cash equivalents and $610 million available through a $1 billion commercial paper program that had $390 million of outstanding borrowings. The commercial paper program, which we entered on July 27, 2021, is backed by $1 billion of borrowing availability under a five-year revolving credit agreement that we entered on June 30, 2021, as described below.

As of December 31, 2022, we had international liquidity of approximately $1,014 million, consisting of $234 million of cash and cash equivalents and $3 million of short-term investments held by our operations outside the U.S., as well as $777 million of unused operating lines of credit in foreign countries where we operate. As the parent company, we guarantee certain obligations of our consolidated subsidiaries. As of December 31, 2022, our guarantees aggregated $63 million. We believe that those consolidated subsidiaries will be able to meet their financial obligations as they become due.

We have entered into a revolving credit agreement for an unsecured revolving credit facility in an aggregate principal amount of $1 billion outstanding at any time, which will mature on June 30, 2026. Loans under the facility accrue interest at a per annum rate equal, at our option, to either a specified Secured Overnight Financing Rate ("SOFR") plus an applicable margin, or a base rate (generally determined according to the highest of the prime rate, the federal funds rate or the specified SOFR plus 1.00 percent) plus an applicable margin. The revolving credit agreement contains customary affirmative and negative covenants that, among other matters, specify customary reporting obligations, and that, subject to exceptions, restrict the incurrence of additional indebtedness by our subsidiaries, the incurrence of liens and the consummation of certain mergers, consolidations and sales of assets. We are subject to compliance, as of the end of each quarter, with a maximum leverage ratio of 3.5 to 1.0 and a minimum ratio of consolidated EBITDA to consolidated net interest expense of 3.5 to 1.0, with each financial covenant calculated for the most recently completed four-quarter period. As of December 31, 2022, we were in compliance with these financial covenants.

On July 27, 2021, we established the commercial paper program under which we may issue senior unsecured notes of short maturities up to a maximum aggregate principal amount of $1 billion outstanding at any time. The notes may be sold from time to time on customary terms in the U.S. commercial paper market. We use and intend to continue using the note proceeds for general corporate purposes. During 2022, the average amount of commercial paper outstanding was $522 million with a weighted average interest rate of 1.97 percent over a weighted average maturity of 16 days. As of

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December 31, 2022, we had $390 million of commercial paper outstanding with a weighted average interest rate of 4.75 percent over a weighted average maturity of 7 days. The amount of commercial paper outstanding under this program in 2023 is expected to fluctuate.

On December 16, 2022 we entered into a new two-year, senior, unsecured $200 million term loan, which bears interest, payable quarterly in arrears, at a variable annual rate based on an adjusted daily SOFR plus a margin of 1.10 percent per annum. The term loan will mature and all principal thereunder will be payable on December 16, 2024. The term loan agreement contains customary affirmative and negative covenants that, among other matters, specify customary reporting obligations, and that, subject to exceptions, restrict the incurrence of additional indebtedness by our subsidiaries, the incurrence of liens and the consummation of certain mergers, consolidations and sales of assets. We are subject to compliance, as of the end of each quarter, with a maximum leverage ratio of 3.5 to 1.0 and a minimum ratio of consolidated EBITDA to consolidated net interest expense of 3.5 to 1.0, with each financial covenant calculated for the most recently completed four-quarter period.

As of December 31, 2022, we had total debt outstanding of approximately $2.5 billion, or approximately $1.9 billion excluding the outstanding commercial paper and other short-term borrowings. Of our outstanding debt, $1.7 billion consists of senior notes that do not require principal repayment until 2026 through 2050. The weighted average interest rate on our total indebtedness was approximately 3.5 percent for 2022 and approximately 3.0 percent for 2021.

The principal source of our liquidity is our internally generated cash flow, which we supplement as necessary with our ability to borrow under our credit facilities and to raise funds in the capital markets. We currently expect that our available cash balances, future cash flow from operations, access to debt markets and borrowing capacity under our revolving credit facility and commercial paper program, will provide us with sufficient liquidity to fund our anticipated capital expenditures, dividends and other operating, investing and financing activities for at least the next twelve months and for the foreseeable future thereafter. Our future cash flow needs will depend on many factors, including our rate of revenue growth, cost of raw materials, changing working capital requirements, the timing and extent of our expansion into new markets, the timing of introductions of new products, potential acquisitions of complementary businesses and technologies, continuing market acceptance of our new products and general economic and market conditions. We may need to raise additional capital or incur indebtedness to fund our needs for less predictable strategic initiatives, such as acquisitions.

Net Cash Flows

Our cash provided by operating activities decreased to $152 million in 2022 from $392 million in 2021, primarily due to changes in working capital. Cash used for working capital increased to $664 million for 2022, primarily due to increases in trade accounts receivable and inventory. Cash used for trade accounts receivable increased because of higher pricing and higher freight charges for products we sold, and cash used for inventory increased due primarily to higher input costs from raw materials during 2022. Our cash used by investing activities decreased to $320 million in 2022 from $335 million in 2021, primarily as a result of less cash used for acquisitions in 2022. In 2022, we had cash provided by financing activities of $103 million, as compared to cash used for financing activities of $373 million in 2021. Cash provided by financing activities in 2022 was primarily provided by proceeds from borrowings, including under our new $200 million term loan, which exceeded our payments on debt.

We used $300 million of cash for capital expenditures and mechanical stores purchases to update, expand and improve our facilities in 2022, which was unchanged from the $300 million we paid in 2021 for the same purposes. Capital investment commitments for 2023 are anticipated to be approximately $300 million.

In August 2022, we acquired Amishi for $7 million, net of cash acquired. In December 2022, we acquired a 65 percent controlling interest in Mannitab for $22 million, net of cash acquired.

We declare and pay cash dividends to our common stockholders of record on a quarterly basis. Dividends paid, including those to non-controlling interests, decreased 2 percent to $181 million during 2022 compared to $184 million during 2021. The decrease was primarily due to a reduction in shares outstanding in 2022, as a result of our repurchase during 2022 of 1,283 thousand outstanding shares of common stock in open market transactions at a net cost of $112 million.

We have not provided foreign withholding taxes, state income taxes and federal and state taxes on foreign currency gains/losses on accumulated undistributed earnings of certain foreign subsidiaries because these earnings are

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considered to be permanently reinvested. It is not practicable to determine the amount of the unrecognized deferred tax liability related to the undistributed earnings. We do not anticipate the need to repatriate funds to the U.S. to satisfy domestic liquidity needs arising in the ordinary course of business, including liquidity needs associated with our domestic debt service requirements.

Key Financial Performance Metrics

We use certain key financial performance metrics to monitor our progress towards achieving our long-term strategic business objectives. These metrics relate to our ability to drive profitability, create value for stockholders and monitor our financial leverage. We assess whether we are achieving our profitability and value creation objectives by measuring our Adjusted Return on Invested Capital (“Adjusted ROIC”). We monitor our financial leverage by regularly reviewing our ratio of net debt to adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (“Net Debt to Adjusted EBITDA”). We believe these metrics provide valuable information to help us run our business and are useful to investors.

The metrics Adjusted ROIC and Net Debt to Adjusted EBITDA include certain financial measures (Adjusted operating income, net of tax, and Adjusted EBITDA, respectively) that are not calculated in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (“GAAP”). We also have presented below the most comparable financial measures calculated using components determined in accordance with GAAP. Management uses these non-GAAP financial measures internally for strategic decision-making, forecasting future results and evaluating current performance. Management believes that the non-GAAP financial measures provide a more consistent comparison of our operating results and trends for the periods presented. These non-GAAP financial measures are used in addition to and in conjunction with results presented in accordance with GAAP and reflect an additional way of viewing aspects of our operations that, when viewed with our GAAP results, provides a more complete understanding of factors and trends affecting our business. The non-GAAP financial measures should be considered as a supplement to, and not as a substitute for, or superior to, the corresponding measures calculated in accordance with GAAP.

In accordance with our long-term strategy, we set certain objectives relating to these key financial performance metrics that we strive to meet. However, no assurance can be given that we will continue to meet our financial performance metric targets. See Item 1A. Risk Factors and Item 7A. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk for a discussion of factors that could affect our ability to meet those targets. The objectives reflect our current aspirations in light of our present plans and existing circumstances. We may change these objectives from time to time to address new opportunities or changing circumstances as appropriate to meet our long-term needs and those of our stockholders.

A reconciliation of non-GAAP historical financial measures to the most comparable GAAP measure is provided in the tables below.

Adjusted ROIC

Adjusted ROIC is a financial performance ratio not defined under GAAP, and it should be considered in addition to, and not as a substitute for, GAAP financial measures. Ingredion defines Adjusted ROIC as Adjusted operating income, net of tax, divided by Average end-of-year balances for current year and prior year Total net debt and equity. Similarly named measures may not be defined and calculated by other companies in the same manner. Ingredion believes Adjusted ROIC is meaningful to investors as it focuses on profitability and value-creating potential, taking into account the amount of capital invested. The most comparable measure calculated using components determined in accordance with GAAP is Return on Invested Capital, which Ingredion defines as Net income, divided by Average end-of-year balances for current year and prior year Total net debt and equity, as provided in the table below.

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_____________________

(i)In 2022, we recorded $4 million of pre-tax restructuring charges for the Cost Smart programs. In 2021, we recorded $47 million of pre-tax restructuring charges primarily related to our Cost Smart programs.

(ii)2022 acquisition/integration costs are reduced by $4 million to exclude acquisition/integration costs already included in financing costs above.

(iii)In 2022, we recorded pre-tax charges of $20 million primarily related to the impacts of a U.S.-based work stoppage. In 2021, we recorded $15 million of pre-tax benefits for Brazil indirect tax matters.

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(iv)The effective income tax rate was 27.0 percent for 2022 and 25.6 percent for 2021.

Our long-term objective is to maintain an Adjusted ROIC in excess of 10 percent. For 2022, we achieved an Adjusted ROIC of 11.0 percent as compared to 10.7 percent for 2021.

Net Debt to Adjusted EBITDA

Net Debt to Adjusted EBITDA is a financial performance ratio that is not defined under GAAP, and should be considered in addition to, and not as a substitute for, GAAP financial measures. Ingredion defines this measure as Short-term and Long-term debt less Cash and cash equivalents and Short-term investments, divided by Adjusted EBITDA. Similarly named measures may not be defined and calculated by other companies in the same manner. Ingredion believes Total net debt to Adjusted EBITDA is meaningful to investors as it focuses on Ingredion’s leverage on a comparable Adjusted EBITDA basis and helps investors better understand the time required to pay back Ingredion’s outstanding debt. The most comparable ratio calculated using components determined in accordance with GAAP is Total net debt to Income before income taxes, calculated as Short-term and Long-term debt less Cash and cash equivalents and Short-term investments, divided by Income before income taxes, as provided in the table below.

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_____________________

(i)Restructuring/impairment charges are reduced by $9 million in 2021 to exclude the accelerated depreciation associated with Cost Smart programs that are included in Depreciation and amortization above.

(ii)2022 acquisition/integration costs are reduced by $4 million to exclude acquisition/integration costs already included in financing costs above.

(iii)We recorded $20 million of pre-tax charges primarily related to the impacts of a U.S.-based work stoppage in 2022 and $15 million of pre-tax benefits for Brazil indirect tax matters in 2021.

Our long-term objective is to target a ratio of Net Debt to Adjusted EBITDA of 2.5 or less. As of December 31, 2022 and December 31, 2021, the ratio was 2.2 and 1.9, respectively.

Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates

Our Consolidated Financial Statements have been prepared in accordance with GAAP. The preparation of these financial statements requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and the disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements, as well as the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results may differ from these estimates under different assumptions and conditions.

We have identified below the most critical accounting policies upon which the financial statements are based and that involve our most complex and subjective decisions and assessments. Our senior management has discussed the development, selection and disclosure of these policies with members of the Audit Committee of our Board of Directors. These accounting policies are provided in the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements. The discussion that follows should be read in conjunction with the Consolidated Financial Statements and related notes included elsewhere in this annual report on Form 10-K.

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Business Combinations

Our acquisitions of Amishi and the majority of shares of Mannitab in 2022, KaTech in 2021, and PureCircle and Verdient in 2020 were accounted for in accordance with Accounting Standards Codification (“ASC”) Topic 805, Business Combinations. In purchase accounting, identifiable assets acquired and liabilities assumed are recognized at their estimated fair values on the date of acquisition and any remaining purchase price is recorded as goodwill. In determining the fair values of assets acquired and liabilities assumed, we make significant estimates and assumptions, particularly for long-lived tangible and intangible assets. Critical estimates used in valuing tangible and intangible assets include, but are not limited to, future expected cash flows, discount rates, market prices and asset lives. Although our estimates of fair value are based upon assumptions believed to be reasonable, actual results may differ. See Note 2 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements for more information related to our acquisitions.

Property, Plant and Equipment and Definite-Lived Intangible Assets

We have substantial investments in property, plant and equipment (“PP&E”) and definite-lived intangible assets. For PP&E, we recognize the cost of depreciable assets in operations over the estimated useful life of the assets and evaluate the recoverability of these assets whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying value of the assets may not be recoverable. For definite-lived intangible assets, we recognize the cost of these amortizable assets in operations over their estimated useful life and evaluate the recoverability of the assets whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying value of the assets may not be recoverable. The carrying values of PP&E and definite-lived intangible assets at December 31, 2022 were $2.4 billion and $258 million, respectively.

In assessing the recoverability of the carrying value of PP&E and definite-lived intangible assets, we may have to make projections regarding future cash flows. In developing these projections, we make a variety of important assumptions and estimates that have a significant impact on our assessments of whether the carrying values of PP&E and definite-lived intangible assets should be adjusted to reflect impairment. Among these are assumptions and estimates about the future growth and profitability of the related asset group, anticipated future economic, regulatory and political conditions in the asset group’s market, and estimates of terminal or disposal values.

To optimize our operations, we continually review whether to further consolidate our manufacturing facilities or redeploy assets for other uses when we believe we can achieve a higher return on our investment. This review may result in closing or sale of certain manufacturing facilities, which could have a significant negative impact on our results of operations in the period we decide to close or sell the facility.

The future occurrence of a potential indicator of impairment, such as a significant adverse change in the business climate that would require a change in our assumptions or strategic decisions made in response to economic or competitive conditions, could require us to perform tests of recoverability in the future.

Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets and Goodwill

We have certain indefinite-lived intangible assets in the form of tradenames and trademarks. Our methodology for allocating the purchase price of acquisitions is based on established valuation techniques that reflect the consideration of a number of factors, including valuations performed by third-party appraisers when appropriate. Goodwill is measured as the excess of the cost of an acquired business over the fair value assigned to identifiable assets acquired and liabilities assumed. We have identified several reporting units for which cash flows are determinable and to which goodwill may be allocated. Goodwill is either assigned to a specific reporting unit or allocated between reporting units based on the relative excess fair value of each reporting unit. The carrying value of indefinite-lived intangible assets and goodwill at December 31, 2022 was $143 million and $900 million, respectively, compared to $143 million and $914 million, respectively, at December 31, 2021.

We assess indefinite-lived intangible assets and goodwill for impairment as of July 1 each year (or more frequently if impairment indicators arise). We first assess qualitative factors to determine whether it is more-likely-than-not that the fair value of an indefinite-lived intangible asset is impaired, which include net sales derived from these intangibles and certain market and industry conditions. After assessing the qualitative factors, if we determine that it is more-likely-than-not that the fair value of an indefinite-lived intangible asset is greater than its carrying amount, then we are not required to compute the fair value of the indefinite-lived intangible asset. If the qualitative assessment leads us to conclude otherwise, then we are required to determine the fair value of the indefinite-lived intangible assets and perform a quantitative impairment test in accordance with ASC subtopic 350-30, Intangibles – Goodwill and Other. Based on our

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assessment's results, we concluded that as of July 1, 2022, there were no impairments in our indefinite-lived intangible assets.

In testing goodwill for impairment, we first assess qualitative factors in determining whether it is more-likely-than-not that the fair value of a reporting unit is less than its carrying amount. After assessing the qualitative factors, if we determine that it is more-likely-than-not that the fair value of a reporting unit is greater than its carrying amount, then we do not perform an impairment test. If we conclude otherwise, then we perform the impairment test as described in ASC Topic 350, Intangibles – Goodwill and Other. Under this impairment test, the fair value of the reporting unit is compared to its carrying value. If the fair value of the reporting unit exceeds the carrying value of its net assets, goodwill is not considered impaired, and no further testing is required. If the carrying value of the net assets exceeds the fair value of the reporting unit, then an impairment exists for the difference between the fair value and carrying value of the reporting unit. This difference may not exceed the goodwill recorded at the reporting unit.

When we test goodwill for impairment, we make certain estimates and judgments, which include identifying reporting units and determining the reporting units' fair values based on both discounted cash flow analyses and an analysis of market multiples. To determine the fair value of reporting units, we use significant assumptions and estimates for discount and long-term net sales growth rates, in addition to operating and capital expenditure requirements. We consider changes in discount rates for the reporting units based on current market interest rates and specific risk factors within each geographic region. We also evaluate qualitative factors, such as legal, regulatory or competitive forces, in estimating the impact to the fair value of the reporting units, noting no significant changes that would result in any reporting unit failing the impairment test. Changes in assumptions concerning projected results or other underlying assumptions could have a significant impact on the fair value of the reporting units in the future. Based on the results of the annual assessment, we concluded that as of July 1, 2022, there were no impairments in our reporting units.

Retirement Benefits

We and our subsidiaries sponsor noncontributory defined benefit pension plans (qualified and non-qualified) covering a substantial portion of employees in the U.S. and Canada, and certain employees in other countries. We also provide healthcare and life insurance benefits for retired employees in the U.S., Canada and Brazil. In order to measure the expense and obligations associated with these benefits, our management must make a variety of estimates and assumptions, including discount rates, expected long-term rates of return, rate of compensation increases, employee turnover rates, retirement rates, mortality rates and other factors. We review our actuarial assumptions on an annual basis as of December 31 (or more frequently if a significant event requiring remeasurement occurs) and modify our assumptions based on current rates and trends when it is appropriate to do so. The effects of modifications are recognized immediately on the Consolidated Balance Sheets but are generally amortized into operating earnings over future periods, with the deferred amount recorded in accumulated other comprehensive loss (“AOCL”). We believe the assumptions utilized in recording our obligations under our plans, which are based on our experience, market conditions and input from our actuaries, are reasonable. We use third-party specialists to assist management in evaluating our assumptions and estimates, as well as to appropriately measure the costs and obligations associated with our retirement benefit plans. Had we used different estimates and assumptions for these plans, our retirement benefit obligations and related expense could vary from the actual amounts recorded and such differences could be material. Additionally, adverse changes in investment returns earned on pension assets and discount rates used to calculate pension and postretirement benefit related liabilities or changes in required funding levels may have an unfavorable impact on future expense and cash flow. Net periodic pension and postretirement benefit cost for all of our plans was $6 million in 2022 and $3 million in 2021.

We determine our assumption for the discount rate used to measure year-end pension and postretirement obligations based on high-quality fixed-income investments that match the duration of the expected benefit payments, which has been benchmarked using a long-term, high-quality AA corporate bond index. We use a full yield curve approach in the estimation of the service and interest cost components of benefit cost by applying the specific spot rates along the yield curve used in the determination of the benefit obligation to the relevant projected cash flows. The weighted average discount rate used to determine our obligations under U.S. pension plans as of December 31, 2022 and 2021, was 5.19 percent and 2.91 percent, respectively. The weighted average discount rate used to determine our obligations under non-U.S. pension plans as of 2022 and 2021, was 5.66 percent and 3.47 percent, respectively. The weighted average discount rate used to determine our obligations under our postretirement plans as of December 31, 2022 and 2021, was 7.30 percent and 4.22 percent, respectively.

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A one percentage point decrease in the discount rates at 2022, would have increased the accumulated benefit obligation and projected benefit obligation by the following amounts (millions):

Our investment approach and related asset allocation for the U.S. and Canada plans is a liability-driven investment approach by which a higher proportion of investments will be in interest-rate sensitive investments (fixed income) under an active-management approach. The approach seeks to protect the current funded status of the plans from market volatility with a greater asset allocation to interest-rate sensitive assets. The greater allocation to interest-rate sensitive assets is expected to reduce volatility in plan-funded status by more closely matching movements in asset values to changes in liabilities.

Our current investment policy for our pension plans is to balance risk and return through diversified portfolios of actively managed equity index instruments, fixed income index securities and short-term investments. Maturities for fixed income securities are managed so that sufficient liquidity exists to meet near-term benefit payment obligations. The asset allocation is reviewed regularly, and portfolio investments are rebalanced to the targeted allocation when considered appropriate or to raise sufficient liquidity when necessary to meet near-term benefit payment obligations. For 2022 net periodic pension cost, we assumed an expected long-term rate of return on assets, which is based on the fair value of plan assets, of 4.10 percent for U.S. plans and approximately 3.06 percent for Canadian plans. In developing the expected long-term rate of return assumption on plan assets, which consist mainly of U.S. and Canadian debt and equity securities, management evaluated historical rates of return achieved on plan assets and the asset allocation of the plans, input from our independent actuaries and investment consultants, and historical trends in long-term inflation rates. Projected return estimates made by such consultants are based upon broad equity and bond indices. We also maintain several funded pension plans in other international locations. The expected returns on plan assets for these plans are determined based on each plan’s investment approach and asset allocations. A hypothetical 25 basis point decrease in the expected long-term rate of return assumption would increase 2023 net periodic pension cost for the U.S. and Canada plans by approximately $1 million each.

Healthcare cost trend rates are used in valuing our postretirement benefit obligations and are established based on actual health care cost trends and consultation with actuaries and benefit providers. At December 31, 2022, the health care cost trend rate assumptions for the next year for the U.S., Canada and Brazil plans were 6.82 percent, 4.82 percent and 8.68 percent, respectively.

See Note 11 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements for more information related to our benefit plans.

New Accounting Standards

For information about new accounting standards, see Note 1 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements.

Forward-Looking Statements

This Form 10-K contains or may contain forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. Ingredion intends these forward-looking statements to be covered by the safe harbor provisions for such statements.

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Forward-looking statements include, among others, any statements regarding Ingredion’s prospects, future operations, or future financial condition, earnings, net sales, tax rates, capital expenditures, cash flows, expenses or other financial items, including management’s plans or strategies and objectives for any of the foregoing and any assumptions, expectations or beliefs underlying any of the foregoing.

These statements can sometimes be identified by the use of forward-looking words such as “may,” “will,” “should,” “anticipate,” “assume,” “believe,” “plan,” “project,” “estimate,” “expect,” “intend,” “continue,” “pro forma,” “forecast,” “outlook,” “propels,” “opportunities,” “potential,” “provisional,” or other similar expressions or the negative thereof. All statements other than statements of historical facts therein are “forward-looking statements.”

These statements are based on current circumstances or expectations, but are subject to certain inherent risks and uncertainties, many of which are difficult to predict and beyond our control. Although we believe our expectations reflected in these forward-looking statements are based on reasonable assumptions, investors are cautioned that no assurance can be given that our expectations will prove correct.

Actual results and developments may differ materially from the expectations expressed in or implied by these statements, based on various risks and uncertainties, including effects of the conflict between Russia and Ukraine, including the impacts on the availability and prices of raw materials and energy supplies and volatility in foreign exchange and interest rates; changing consumption preferences relating to high fructose corn syrup and other products we make; the effects of global economic conditions and the general political, economic, business, and market conditions that affect customers and consumers in the various geographic regions and countries in which we buy our raw materials or manufacture or sell our products, and the impact these factors may have on our sales volumes, the pricing of our products and our ability to collect our receivables from customers; future purchases of our products by major industries which we serve and from which we derive a significant portion of our sales, including, without limitation, the food, beverage, animal nutrition, and brewing industries; the impact of COVID-19 on our business, the demand for our products and our financial results; the uncertainty of acceptance of products developed through genetic modification and biotechnology; our ability to develop or acquire new products and services at rates or of qualities sufficient to gain market acceptance; increased competitive and/or customer pressure in the corn-refining industry and related industries, including with respect to the markets and prices for our primary products and our co-products, particularly corn oil; price fluctuations, supply chain disruptions, and shortages affecting inputs to our production processes and delivery channels, including raw materials, energy costs and availability and freight and logistics; our ability to contain costs, achieve budgets and realize expected synergies, including with respect to our ability to complete planned maintenance and investment projects on time and on budget as well as with respect to freight and shipping costs; operating difficulties at our manufacturing facilities and liabilities relating to product safety and quality; the effects of climate change and legal, regulatory, and market measures to address climate change; our ability to successfully identify and complete acquisitions or strategic alliances on favorable terms as well as our ability to successfully integrate acquired businesses or implement and maintain strategic alliances and achieve anticipated synergies with respect to all of the foregoing; economic, political and other risks inherent in conducting operations in foreign countries and in foreign currencies; the behavior of financial and capital markets, including with respect to foreign currency fluctuations, fluctuations in interest and exchange rates and market volatility and the associated risks of hedging against such fluctuations; the failure to maintain satisfactory labor relations; our ability to attract, develop, motivate, and maintain good relationships with our workforce; the impact on our business of natural disasters, war, threats or acts of terrorism, the outbreak or continuation of pandemics such as COVID-19, or the occurrence of other significant events beyond our control; the impact of impairment charges on our goodwill or long-lived assets; changes in government policy, law, or regulation and costs of legal compliance, including compliance with environmental regulation; changes in our tax rates or exposure to additional income tax liability; increases in our borrowing costs that could result from increased interest rates; our ability to raise funds at reasonable rates and other factors affecting our access to sufficient funds for future growth and expansion; security breaches with respect to information technology systems, processes, and sites; volatility in the stock market and other factors that could adversely affect our stock price; risks affecting the continuation of our dividend policy; and our ability to maintain effective internal control over financial reporting.

Our forward-looking statements speak only as of the date on which they are made, and we do not undertake any obligation to update any forward-looking statement to reflect events or circumstances after the date of the statement as a result of new information or future events or developments. If we do update or correct one or more of these statements, investors and others should not conclude that we will make additional updates or corrections. For a further description of these and other risks, see Item 1A. Risk Factors above and our subsequent reports on Form 10-Q and Form 8-K.

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