IPG PHOTONICS CORP (IPGP) FY 2023 MD&A

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

The following discussion and analysis of our financial condition and results of operations should be read in conjunction with our consolidated financial statements and related notes included in this Annual Report on Form 10-K. This discussion contains forward-looking statements that involve risks and uncertainties. Our actual results could differ materially from those anticipated in these forward-looking statements as a result of certain factors including, but not limited to, those discussed under Item 1A, "Risk Factors." The following analysis generally discusses 2023 and 2022 items and year-to-year comparisons between 2023 and 2022. Discussions of 2021 items and year-to-year comparisons between 2022 and 2021 that are not included in this Form 10-K can be found in “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2022 filed with the SEC on February 27, 2023.

Overview

We develop, manufacture and sell high-performance fiber lasers, fiber amplifiers and diode lasers that are used for diverse applications, primarily in materials processing. We also manufacture and sell complementary products used with our

31

Table of Contents

lasers including optical delivery cables, fiber couplers, beam switches, optical processing heads, in-line sensors and chillers. In addition, we offer laser-based and non-laser based systems for certain markets and applications. Our portfolio of laser solutions is used in materials processing, medical procedures, advanced applications and communications. We sell our products globally to original equipment manufacturers ("OEMs"), system integrators and end users. We market our products internationally, primarily through our direct sales force. Our major manufacturing facilities are located in the United States and Germany. As a result of the Russia-Ukraine conflict and related sanctions, our ability to ship and receive components from our Russian operations, has been significantly curtailed. We have and will continue to expand our manufacturing operations in Germany and the United States, and have added manufacturing capacity in Poland and expanded capacity in Italy to replace capacity in Russia. We have sales and service offices and applications laboratories worldwide.

We are vertically integrated such that we design and manufacture most of the key components used in our finished products, from semiconductor diodes to optical fiber preforms, finished fiber lasers, amplifiers and complementary products. Our vertically integrated operations allow us to reduce manufacturing costs, control quality, rapidly develop and integrate advanced products and protect our proprietary technology.

Description of Our Net Sales, Costs and Expenses

Net sales. We derive net sales primarily from the sale of fiber lasers, diode lasers, laser and non-laser based systems, amplifiers and complementary products. We sell our products to OEMs that supply materials processing laser systems, communications systems, medical laser systems and other laser systems to end users. With the sale of our communications transmission product lines in August 2022, we no longer intend to target communications as a principal market. We also sell our laser products and laser and non-laser based systems to end users. Our scientists and engineers work closely with OEMs, systems integrators and end users to analyze their system requirements and match appropriate fiber laser, amplifier or system specifications to those requirements. Our sales cycle varies substantially, ranging from a period of a few weeks to as long as one year or more, but is typically several months.

Sales of our products are generally recognized upon shipment, provided that no obligations remain and collection of the receivable is reasonably assured. Sales of customized large scale material processing systems are recognized over time. Our sales typically are made on a purchase order basis rather than through long-term purchase commitments.

We develop our products to standard specifications and use a common set of components within our product architectures. Our major products are based upon a common technology platform. We continually enhance these and other products by improving their components and developing new components and new product designs.

Cost of sales. Our cost of sales consists primarily of the cost of raw materials and components, direct labor expenses and manufacturing overhead. We are vertically integrated and currently manufacture all critical components for our products as well as assemble finished products. We believe our vertical integration allows us to increase efficiencies, leverage our scale and lower our cost of sales. Cost of sales also includes personnel costs and overhead related to our manufacturing, engineering and service operations, related occupancy and equipment costs, shipping costs and reserves for inventory obsolescence and for warranty obligations. Inventories are written off and charged to cost of sales when identified as excess or obsolete.

Due to our vertical integration strategy and ongoing investment in plant and machinery, we maintain a relatively high fixed manufacturing overhead. We may not be able to or choose not to adjust these fixed costs to adapt to rapidly changing market conditions. Our gross margin is therefore significantly affected by our sales volume and the corresponding utilization of capacity and absorption of fixed manufacturing overhead expenses.

Sales and marketing. Our sales and marketing expense consists primarily of costs related to compensation, trade shows, professional and technical conferences, travel, facilities, depreciation of equipment used for demonstration purposes and other marketing costs.

Research and development. Our research and development expense consists primarily of compensation, development expenses related to the design of our products and certain components, the cost of materials and components to build prototype devices for testing and facilities costs. Costs related to product development are recorded as research and development expenses in the period in which they are incurred.

General and administrative. Our general and administrative expense consists primarily of compensation and associated costs for executive management, finance, legal, human resources, information technology and other administrative personnel, outside legal and professional fees, insurance premiums and fees, allocated facilities costs and other corporate expenses such as charges and benefits related to the change in allowance for doubtful debt.

32

Table of Contents

Factors and Trends That Affect Our Operations and Financial Results

In reading our financial statements, you should be aware of the following factors and trends that our management believes are important in understanding our financial performance.

Russia-Ukraine Conflict. The Russia-Ukraine conflict and the sanctions imposed in response to this crisis have significantly curtailed our ability to use our manufacturing operations in Russia to supply other IPG operations outside of Russia. The conflict and the risk of additional sanctions has also increased the levels of uncertainty and risks facing the Company due to our manufacturing operations in Belarus. Since the start of the conflict, we have been executing on plans to reduce our reliance on our Russia and Belarus operations by adding capacity in other countries, increasing inventories worldwide and qualifying third-party suppliers. Since 2022, we began hiring and training additional employees, expanding capacity for increased production, and running additional shifts in the U.S. and Germany and adding additional manufacturing capacity in Italy and Poland.

We believe the contingency measures outlined above that we have already put in place substantially mitigate the effects of the recent sanctions on our ability to supply finished products to customers. If we have not fully mitigated the effect of these and other trade restrictions, or if new sanctions are adopted, our ability to supply finished products to customers could be impacted. Although we believe our contingency plans mitigate the risk of our ability to supply customers with finished product, these plans require additional investments in facilities outside of Russia and Belarus in the near term as well as additional ongoing operating costs, primarily associated with the higher cost of labor outside of Russia and Belarus. While we have sufficient financial resources to make these investments and expenditures, our gross margins and financial results have been and will be adversely impacted by increased operating costs associated with these transitions. Over time, we intend to mitigate some of these increases by producing components in countries with lower labor costs than the United States and Germany, with ongoing product expense reduction initiatives, higher productivity from automation, improved yields and product specifications. We are also continuing to review our operations in Russia and Belarus.

We evaluated the recoverability of certain assets located in Russia during the fourth quarter of 2022 and incurred impairment charges that reduced the value of fixed assets, inventory and other current assets. We also incurred restructuring charges in 2022 and 2023. As of December 31, 2023, we have substantially completed the restructuring program in Russia and recovered the majority of the remaining restructuring charges accrual. Refer to Note 6 "Restructuring" in the notes to the consolidated financial statements for further information.

Sales to third-parties in Russia were approximately 3% of our revenue for the years ended December 31, 2023 and 2022. Our Russian subsidiary has historically supplied certain finished goods for our Chinese market. Sanctions have limited our ability to provide components to Russia for the completion of finished lasers. Although our Russian operation has an amount of safety stock, we are also producing more finished lasers for China at other IPG locations. The total value of product shipped to the Chinese market from Russia was approximately $15.8 million and $61.5 million for the years ended December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively.

At December 31, 2023, we had working capital excluding cash and cash equivalents of $23.6 million in Russia of which $20.2 million is inventory. We had $76.4 million of cash and cash equivalents in Russia. The net asset value of our Russian subsidiary was $103.9 million. The net value of assets in Russia was reduced by a $138.5 million other comprehensive loss related to the cumulative translation of the Russian ruble into U.S. dollars. Depending upon the outcome of our review of our Russian operations, we may incur additional asset impairment charges and the other comprehensive loss that is currently in the equity section of our consolidated balance sheets may be charged to our consolidated statements of income.

We continue to manufacture laser cabinets and other mechanical components in Belarus. Trade sanctions have not significantly affected our ability to supply these items from Belarus to other manufacturing locations. The value of the long-lived assets in Belarus was $31.8 million at December 31, 2023, and we had working capital excluding cash of $4.4 million in Belarus of which $4.5 million is inventory. In addition, we had $5.5 million cash in Belarus. If additional sanctions are imposed on Belarus or Belarus places restrictions on our operations there, it could trigger an asset impairment evaluation and may result in impairment charges in the future.

Our Board of Directors has been monitoring and continues to assess and monitor risks to our business associated with the Russia-Ukraine conflict and our Russian and Belarus operations. Our Directors request and receive management reports from management regarding our Russian and Belarus operations, contingency planning and execution, and impacts on our business at its quarterly and special meetings.

COVID-19. Global demand trends have been impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic While business conditions generally improved from the severe contraction experienced in 2020, it is difficult to predict whether conditions could change if there are additional restrictions imposed as a result of a resurgence in COVID-19 infections. To date, we have been able to accommodate these challenges to our business operations and continue to meet customer demand. If guidelines or mandates from relevant

33

Table of Contents

authorities becomes more restrictive due to a resurgence of COVID-19 in a particular region, the effect on our operations could be more significant.

Supply Chain. We and our customers are experiencing improvements in lead times and availability of components purchased from third party suppliers; including many electronic components as compared to those experienced during the COVID-19 pandemic. We, our customers and our suppliers continue to face some constraints related to supply chain and logistics, including availability of capacity, materials, warehouse space, sea containers and higher freight rates. While supply chain and logistics constraints moderated in 2023, they have not yet fully returned to pre-pandemic conditions. Supply chain constraints have not significantly affected our business but they have moderately increased our freight costs, caused us to carry higher levels of safety stock for certain inventory items, and increased the cost of certain electronic components. We received substantial shipments in 2023 of electronic components ordered during the occurrence of shortages from the COVID-19 pandemic. We are implementing changes to our logistics process to address increased freight costs.

Net sales.  Our annual revenue growth rates have varied from year to year. Net sales decreased by 10% in 2023, decreased by 2% in 2022 and increased 22% in 2021. Our growth rates are subject to several factors, many of which are not in our control. These include:

•Macroeconomic conditions including changes in foreign exchange rates compared to the U.S. dollar;

•Competition;

•Our ability to develop new products and new applications for existing or new products;

•Geopolitical conditions in our end markets; and

•Pandemic, plagues, wars, conflicts, natural disasters or other shocks affecting global trade.

We are experiencing declines for sales in cutting applications. OEM’s that manufacture cutting machines were some of the earliest adopters of fiber lasers and this market is now mature so growth trends are more subject to general economic factors affecting capital equipment purchases. In addition, we are experiencing significant price competition in China for lasers sold in this application and we have lost market share in China to competitors as a result. The declines in revenue that we are experiencing in cutting are significantly, but not completely, offset by growth in sales of lasers in other applications and new products. Lasers used for welding applications are growing generally and for electric vehicle and battery manufacturing in particular. Lasers used for foil cutting related to battery manufacturing are another area of growth. We are also experiencing growth in new or emerging products such as LightWELD and laser based systems, lasers used for medical procedures and lasers with short pulse durations and at mid infrared and visible wavelengths. Lasers used for applications such as cleaning and ablation, additive manufacturing, solar cell manufacturing and annealing have become a more significant component of our total sales. While these products and applications are growing, they are only partially offsetting the decline in cutting and sales trends for any one product or application may vary from quarter to quarter or year.

Our business depends substantially upon capital expenditures by end users, particularly by manufacturers using our products for materials processing, which includes general manufacturing, automotive including electric vehicles (EV), other transportation, aerospace, heavy industry, consumer, semiconductor and electronics. Approximately 90% of our revenues in 2023 were from customers using our products for materials processing. Although applications within materials processing are broad, the capital equipment market in general is cyclical and historically has experienced sudden and severe downturns. For the foreseeable future, our operations will continue to depend upon capital expenditures by end users of materials processing equipment and will be subject to the broader fluctuations of capital equipment spending.

In response to inflation, some global central banks have adopted less accommodating monetary policy and have increased benchmark interest rates in several major global economies in 2023. The increase in interest rates is intended to dampen demand that could lead to regional or global recession that may reduce demand for our products. In addition, an increase in interest rates would increase the cost of equipment financed with leases or debt. If inflation starts to moderate in 2024, global central banks may adopt more accommodating monetary policy and reduce benchmark interest rates.

In recent years, our net sales and margins have been negatively impacted by tariffs and trade policy. New tariffs and other changes in U.S. trade policy could trigger retaliatory actions by affected countries, and certain foreign governments.

We are also susceptible to global or regional disruptions such as political instability, geopolitical conflicts, acts of terrorism, significant fluctuations in currency values, natural disasters and pandemics to the extent that they affect macroeconomic conditions, global supply chains or individual IPG locations

The average selling prices of our products generally decrease as the products mature. These decreases result from factors such as increased competition, decreased manufacturing costs and increases in unit volumes. We may also reduce selling prices

34

Table of Contents

in order to penetrate new markets and applications. Furthermore, we may negotiate discounted selling prices from time to time with certain customers that place high unit-volume orders.

The secular shift to fiber laser technology in large materials processing applications, such as welding and cutting applications, had a positive effect on our sales trends in the past such that our sales trends were often better than other capital equipment manufacturers in both positive and negative economic cycles. As the secular shift to fiber laser technology matures in such applications, our sales trends are more susceptible to economic cycles, which can broadly affect the demand for capital equipment including machine tools and industrial lasers, and competition from other fiber laser manufacturers.

Gross margin. Our total gross margin in any period can be significantly affected by a number of factors, including net sales, production volumes, competitive factors, product mix, and by other factors such as changes in foreign exchange rates relative to the U.S. dollar. Many of these factors are not under our control. The following are examples of factors affecting gross margin:

•As our products mature, we can experience additional competition, which tends to decrease average selling prices and affects gross margin;

•Our gross margin can be significantly affected by product mix. Within each of our product categories, the gross margin is generally higher for devices with greater average power. These higher power products often have better performance, more difficult specifications to attain and fewer competing products in the marketplace;

•Higher power lasers also use a greater number of optical components, improving absorption of fixed overhead costs and enabling economies of scale in manufacturing;

•The gross margin for certain specialty products may be higher because there are fewer or sometimes no equivalent competing products;

•Customers that purchase devices in greater unit volumes generally are provided lower prices per device than customers that purchase fewer units. In general, lower selling prices to high unit volume customers reduce gross margin although this may be partially offset by improved absorption of fixed overhead costs associated with larger product volumes, which drive economies of scale;

•Gross margin on systems can be lower than gross margin for our laser and amplifier sources, depending on configuration, volume and competitive forces, among other factors;

•Persistent inflation leading to increases in average manufacturing salaries as well as an increase in the purchase price of components including, but not limited to, electronic components and metal parts could negatively impact gross margin if we are not able to pass those increases on to customers by increasing the selling price of our products; and finally,

•Changes in relative exchange rates between currencies we receive when selling our products and currencies we use to pay our manufacturing expenses.

•Our gross margin from products on new manufacturing lines can be lower due to production inefficiencies and high scrap costs.

We expect that some new technologies, products and systems will have returns above our cost of capital but may have gross margins below our corporate average. If we are able to develop opportunities that are significant in size, competitively advantageous or leverage our existing technology base and leadership, our current gross margin levels may not be maintained. Instead, we aim to deliver industry-leading levels of gross margins by growing sales, by taking market share in existing markets, or by developing new applications and markets we address, by reducing the cost of our products and by optimizing the efficiency of our manufacturing operations.

We invested $110.5 million, $110.1 million and $123.1 million in capital expenditures in 2023, 2022 and 2021, respectively. Most of this investment relates to expansion of our manufacturing capacity and, to a lesser extent, research and development and sales-related facilities. We received $31.2 million, $26.9 million and $1.4 million in proceeds from the sale of property, plant and equipment in 2023, 2022 and 2021, respectively.

A high proportion of our costs is fixed so costs are generally difficult to adjust or may take time to adjust in response to changes in demand. In addition, our fixed costs increase as we expand our capacity. If we expand capacity faster than is required by sales levels, gross margins could be negatively affected. Gross margins generally decline if production volumes are lower as a result of a decrease in sales or a reduction in inventory because the absorption of fixed manufacturing costs will be

35

Table of Contents

reduced. Gross margins generally improve when the opposite occurs. If both sales and inventory decrease in the same period, the decline in gross margin may be greater if we cannot reduce fixed costs or choose not to reduce fixed costs to match the decrease in the level of production. If we experience a decline in sales that reduces absorption of our fixed costs, or if we have production issues, our gross margins will be negatively affected.

We also regularly review our inventory for items that are slow-moving, have been rendered obsolete or are determined to be excess. Any provision for such slow-moving, obsolete or excess inventory affects our gross margins. For example, we recorded provisions for slow-moving, obsolete or excess inventory and other inventory related charges totaling $45.5 million, $128.0 million and $34.3 million in 2023, 2022 and 2021, respectively. Inventory provision and related charges of $74.1 million in 2022 were attributable to Russian operations.

Selling and general and administrative expenses. In the past, the Company has invested in selling and general and administrative costs in order to support continued growth in the Company. As the secular shift to fiber laser technology matures, our sales growth becomes more susceptible to the cyclical trends typical of capital equipment manufacturers. Accordingly, our future management of and investments in selling and general and administrative expenses will also be influenced by these trends, although we may still invest in selling or general and administrative functions to support certain initiatives even in economic down cycles. Certain general and administrative expenses are not related to the level of sales and may vary quarter to quarter due to acquisitions, litigation and project related consulting expenses.

Research and development expenses. In 2023 and 2022 our research and development expenses decreased primarily due to a reduction of expenses associated with our telecommunications transceiver business, which was sold in August 2022. Going forward, we plan to continue to invest in research and development to improve our existing components and products and develop new components, products, systems and applications technology. We believe that these investments will sustain our position as a leader in the fiber laser industry and will support development of new products that can address new markets and growth opportunities. The amount of research and development expense we incur may vary from period to period. As part of the telecommunications transmission product line divestiture mentioned above, we will no longer be incurring research and development expenses attributed to the development of telecommunications transmission products.

Goodwill and long-lived assets impairments. We review our intangible assets and property, plant and equipment for impairment when events or changes in circumstances indicate the carrying value may not be recoverable. Goodwill is required to be tested for impairment at least annually. Negative industry or economic trends, including reduced estimates of future cash flows, disruptions to our business, slower growth rates, lack of growth in our relevant business units, differences in the estimated product acceptance rates, or market prices below the carrying value of long-lived assets evaluated for sale could lead to impairment charges against our long-lived assets, including goodwill and other intangible assets. We are evaluating the sale of certain U.S.-based assets, including land and building. If the estimated sales value of any of these assets is below carrying value, then we may need to record an asset impairment charge when they are classified as held-for-sale. We have long-lived assets in Belarus with a carrying value of $31.8 million. If sanctions increase or if the geopolitical situation changes such that we can no longer use Belarus as a source of supply for our laser cabinets and other mechanical components, we may need to evaluate those assets for impairment, which may result in impairment charges.

Our valuation methodology for assessing impairment requires management to make significant judgments and assumptions based on historical experience and to rely heavily on projections of future operating performance at many points during the analysis. Also, the process of evaluating the potential impairment of goodwill is subjective. We operate in a highly competitive environment and projections of future operating results and cash flows may vary significantly from actual results. If our analysis indicates potential impairment to goodwill in one or more of our reporting units, we may be required to record charges to earnings in our financial statements, which could negatively affect our results of operations.

Foreign exchange. Because we are a U.S. based company doing business globally, we have both translational and transactional exposure to fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates. Changes in the relative exchange rate between the U.S. dollar and the foreign currencies in which our subsidiaries operate directly affects our sales, costs and earnings. Differences in the relative exchange rates between where we sell our products and where we incur manufacturing and other operating costs (primarily in the U.S., Germany, Russia, and Belarus) also affects our costs and earnings. Certain currencies experiencing significant exchange rate fluctuations like the euro, the Russian ruble, Chinese yuan and the Japanese yen have had and could have an additional significant impact on our sales, costs and earnings. Our ability to adjust the foreign currency selling prices of products in response to changes in exchange rates is limited and may not offset the impact of the changes in exchange rates on the translated value of sales or costs. In addition, if we increase the selling price of our products in local currencies, this could have a negative impact on the demand for our products.

Income taxes. The Organization for Economic Cooperation & Development (OECD) has proposed a two-pillared plan for a revised international tax system. Pillar 1 proposes to reallocate taxing rights among the jurisdictions in which in-scope multinational corporations operate. Based on the current guidance, we do not meet the revenue threshold for Pillar 1 and thus

36

Table of Contents

do not expect any tax impact from implementation. Pillar 2 proposes to assess a 15% minimum tax on the earnings of in-scope multinational corporations on a country-by-country basis. Numerous countries have indicated their intent to adopt the proposal and are drafting legislation to implement the Pillar 2 model rules with a subset of the rules becoming effective January 1, 2024, and the remaining rules becoming effective January 1, 2025, or in later periods. The OECD continues to release additional guidance on the two-pillar framework and it is uncertain if these proposals will be enacted into law in the U.S. or other countries in which we operate. We are continuing to evaluate the impact of the proposed and enacted legislative changes as new information becomes available. It is possible that such proposals as adopted by countries may adversely affect our provision for income taxes. Based on the current drafts of the Pillar 2 proposals, we do not anticipate this will have a material impact on our tax provision or effective tax rate in 2024.

Major customers. While we have historically depended on a few customers for a large percentage of our annual net sales, the composition of this group can change from year to year. Net sales derived from our five largest customers as a percentage of our annual net sales were 13%, 15% and 19% in 2023, 2022 and 2021, respectively. One of our customers accounted for 14% of our net accounts receivable as of both December 31, 2023 and 2022. We seek to add new customers and to expand our relationships with existing customers. We anticipate that the composition of our significant customers will continue to change. We generally do not enter into agreements with our customers obligating them to purchase a fixed number or large volume of our fiber lasers or amplifiers. If any of our significant customers were to substantially reduce their purchases from us, our results would be adversely affected.

Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates

The preparation of financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States ("GAAP") requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of net sales and expenses. Refer to Note 1, "Nature of Business and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies," in our consolidated financial statements for additional information. By their nature, these estimates and judgments are subject to an inherent degree of uncertainty. We base our estimates and judgments on our historical experience and on other assumptions that we believe are reasonable under the circumstances, the results of which form the basis for making the judgments about the carrying values of assets and liabilities that are not readily apparent from other sources. Actual results could differ from those estimates, which may materially affect our operating results and financial position. We have identified the following items that require the most significant judgment and often involve complex estimation:

Revenue Recognition. Revenue is recognized when transfer of control to the customer occurs (i.e., when our performance obligation is satisfied) in an amount reflecting the consideration that we expect to be entitled. For the majority of our revenue, this typically occurs at a point in time such as shipment or delivery date, but can occur over time for certain of our customized large scale materials processing systems contracts. We also recognize revenue over time for sales of extended warranties. When goods or services have been delivered to the customer, but all conditions for revenue recognition have not been met, deferred revenue and deferred costs are recorded on our consolidated balance sheets.

Judgments and Uncertainties: Recognizing revenue at shipment or delivery involves some judgment, particularly when we receive orders with multiple delivery dates. We allocate the transaction price of the contract to each delivery date based upon the standalone selling price of each distinct product in the contract. We invoice for each scheduled delivery upon shipment and recognize revenue for such delivery when transfer of control has occurred. Recognizing revenue over time for customized large scale materials processing systems contracts is based on our judgment that these systems do not have an alternative use and we have an enforceable right to payment for performance completed to date. Recognizing revenue over time also requires estimation of the progress towards completion based on the projected costs of the contract.

Sensitivity of Estimate to Change: Recognizing revenue at a point in time is sensitive to changes in shipping or delivery dates. Revenue recognition over time is sensitive to the actual costs incurred as compared to the projected total cost of the project. We monitor the actual and projected costs of these contracts closely. A change in the projected cost of a project will affect the estimated percentage of completion, the amount of revenue recognized and estimated gross margin.

Inventory. We maintain a reserve for excess or obsolete inventory items. The reserve is based upon a review of inventory materials on hand, which we compare with historic usage, estimated future usage and age. In addition, we review the inventory and compare recorded costs with estimates of current market value. Write-downs are recorded to reduce the carrying value to the net realizable value with respect to any part with costs in excess of current market value. In the fourth quarter of 2022, we performed a review of the inventory in Russia in light of new sanctions which restricted our Russian factory's ability to supply components and finished goods to other IPG locations. We recorded $74.1 million of additional inventory provision and related charges as a result of that review in 2022.

37

Table of Contents

Judgments and Uncertainties: Estimating demand and current market values is inherently difficult, particularly given that we make highly specialized components and products. We determine the valuation of excess and obsolete inventory by making our best estimate considering the current quantities of inventory on hand and our forecast of the need for this inventory to support future sales of our products. We often have limited information on which to base our forecasts. If future sales differ from these forecasts, the valuation of excess and obsolete inventory may change and additional inventory provisions may be required.

Sensitivity of Estimate to Change: Because of our vertical integration, a significant or sudden decrease in sales could result in a significant change in the estimates of excess or obsolete inventory valuation. We recorded provisions for slow-moving, obsolete or excess inventory, and inventory related charges totaling $45.5 million, $128.0 million and $34.3 million in 2023, 2022 and 2021, respectively. Because our calculation of slow-moving, excess or obsolete inventory is based on historical and estimated future use of inventory items, the calculation is affected by sales trends. In 2023, as sales decreased the inventory provision related to slow-moving, excess or obsolete inventory increased. In 2022, we recorded inventory provision and related charges of $74.1 million as a result of the review of the inventory in Russia. For the rest of our operations, as safety stock increased excess and obsolete inventory reserves increased during 2022. In 2021, as sales increased due to recovery from the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic and other factors, our provisions for slow-moving, excess and obsolete inventory reserves decreased.

Long-lived Asset Impairment Long-lived assets including definite-lived intangible assets are amortized on a straight-line basis over the estimated useful life. We review these assets for impairment when conditions exist that indicate the carrying amount of the assets may not be recoverable. Such conditions could include significant adverse changes in the business climate, current-period operating or cash flow losses, significant declines in forecasted operations, or a current expectation that an asset group will be disposed of before the end of its useful life. We perform undiscounted operating cash flow analyses to determine if an impairment exists. When testing for impairment of long-lived assets held for use, we group assets at the lowest level for which cash flows are separately identifiable. If an impairment is determined to exist, the loss is calculated based on estimated fair value.

Judgments and Uncertainties: Our valuation methodology for assessing impairment requires management to make significant judgments and assumptions based on historical experience and to rely heavily on projections of future operating performance at many points during the analysis. Estimating undiscounted operating cash flow used to determine if there is indication of impairment of a long-lived asset requires us to make assumptions and estimates regarding our future plans, as well as industry, economic, and regulatory conditions. Fair value estimates performed to determine impairment charge amounts. The fair values are subject to underlying changes in estimates and market conditions. Assumptions used in long-lived asset impairment are made at a point in time and require significant judgment; therefore, they are subject to change based on the facts and circumstances present at each impairment test date.

Sensitivity of Estimate to Change: Undiscounted cash flow and fair value are sensitive to changes in underlying assumptions, estimates, and market factors. Negative industry or economic trends, including reduced estimates of future cash flows, disruptions to our business, slower growth rates, lack of growth in our relevant business units, differences in the estimated product acceptance rates, or market prices below the carrying value of long-lived assets evaluated for sale could lead to impairment charges against our long-lived assets. We recorded long-lived asset impairment charge of $1.2 million, $79.9 million, and nil in 2023, 2022 and 2021, respectively. In the fourth quarter of 2022, we performed a review of the estimated fair value of the long-lived assets in Russia in light of new sanctions and recorded long-lived asset impairment of $79.0 million as a result of that review.

Income Taxes and Deferred Taxes. Our annual tax rate is based on the income generated in the jurisdictions in which we operate, the statutory tax rates in those jurisdictions and tax planning opportunities available to the Company. We file federal and state income tax returns in the United States and income tax returns in all the foreign jurisdictions in which we operate.

Judgments and Uncertainties: We estimate our income tax expense in each jurisdiction we operate in after considering, among other factors, the pricing of inter-company transactions on an arm’s length basis, the differing tax rates between jurisdictions, allocation factors, tax credits, nondeductible items and changes in enacted tax rates. Significant judgment is required in determining the pricing of inter-company transactions, our annual tax expense and in evaluating our tax positions in the various jurisdictions in which we operate. As we continue to expand globally, there is a risk that, due to complexity within and diversity among the various jurisdictions in which we do business, a governmental agency may disagree with the manner in which we have computed our taxes. Additionally, due to the lack of uniformity among all of the foreign and domestic taxing authorities, there may be situations where the tax treatment of an item in one jurisdiction is different from the tax treatment in another jurisdiction or that the transaction causes a tax liability to arise in another jurisdiction.

38

Table of Contents

In addition, we review the deferred tax assets in each jurisdiction and the positive and negative evidence that would support a conclusion that a valuation allowance is or is not needed. Where it is more likely than not that some portion of the deferred tax assets will not be realized, we record a valuation allowance against the deferred tax assets. The decision to establish a valuation allowance or reverse it is based on management’s judgment based on the weight of available evidence including forecasts of future taxable income and the future reversal of existing taxable temporary differences.

Sensitivity of Estimate to Change: We provide reserves for potential payments of tax to various tax authorities related to uncertain tax positions and other issues. Reserves recorded are based on a determination of tax benefits claimed in our tax filings and whether these positions are more likely than not to be realized following the resolution of any potential tax audits related to the tax benefit, assuming that the matter in question will be reviewed by the tax authorities. Potential interest and penalties associated with such uncertain tax positions are recorded as a component of income tax expense. As of December 31, 2023, we had $17.2 million of unrecognized tax benefits, excluding interest and penalties, recorded in other long-term liabilities and deferred income taxes. This tax liability increased by $3.0 million for tax positions taken in the current year offset by reductions of $1.3 million for changes in prior period positions.

Results of Operations

The following table sets forth selected statement of operations data for the periods indicated in dollar amounts and expressed as a percentage of net sales:

39

Table of Contents

Comparison of Year Ended December 31, 2023 to Year Ended December 31, 2022

Net sales. Net sales decreased by $142.1 million, or 9.9%, to $1,287.4 million in 2023 from $1,429.5 million in 2022. The table below sets forth sales by application:

The table below sets forth sales by type of product and other revenue:

Materials Processing

Sales for materials processing applications decreased due to lower sales of high power lasers, medium power lasers, pulsed lasers, and QCW lasers, partially offset by higher sales of laser and non-laser systems and other laser products.

•The decrease in high power CW laser sales was due to lower sales for cutting applications as a result of soft industrial demand in China and Europe and increased competition in China.

•The decrease in medium power CW laser sales related to a decrease in demand for cutting applications, partially offset by an increase in additive manufacturing applications.

•Pulsed laser sales, including high power pulsed lasers, decreased due to decreases in e-mobility foil cutting applications, marking and engraving applications and solar cell manufacturing applications, partially offset by growth in sales for cleaning and ablation applications.

•QCW laser sales decreased due to lower demand in fine processing for consumer electronics applications.

•Laser and non-laser systems sales benefited from higher demand for LightWELD.

•Other revenue for materials processing increased due to higher sales of accessories and parts and service.

Other Applications

Sales from other applications decreased mainly due to decreased sales for communications products as a result of the business divestiture in the third quarter of 2022, partially offset by increased demand for lasers used in medical procedures and advanced applications.

40

Table of Contents

Our net sales were derived from customers in the following geographic regions:

(1)The substantial majority of sales in North America are to customers in the United States.

Cost of sales and gross margin. Cost of sales decreased by $128.4 million, or 14.7%, to $745.7 million in 2023 from $874.1 million in 2022. Our gross margin increased to 42.1% in 2023 from 38.9% in 2022. Gross margin increased compared to the prior year primarily because we did not record any additional inventory provisions and other charges related to our Russian operations, which were $74.1 million and reduced gross margin by 5.2% in 2022. This improvement to gross margin was partially offset by an increase in cost of product sold. As we expand production capacity in the U.S., Germany, Italy and Poland to replace dependency on our Russian and Belarus operations, we incurred higher manufacturing costs as a percentage of sales due to higher compensation costs, lower yields and manufacturing inefficiencies and higher scrap expense as we ramped up manufacturing capacity in existing and new locations. Expenses related to provisions for excess or obsolete inventory and other valuation adjustments decreased by $82.5 million to $45.5 million, or 3.5% of sales, for the year ended December 31, 2023, as compared to $128.0 million, or 9.0% of sales, for the year ended December 31, 2022.

Sales and marketing expense. Sales and marketing expense increased by $9.1 million, or 11.9%, to $85.7 million in 2023 from $76.6 million in 2022. This change was primarily a result of an increase of $7.0 million in personnel and related costs, driven by an increase in sales and marketing department headcount. As a percentage of sales, sales and marketing expense was 6.7% and 5.3% of sales in 2023 and 2022, respectively.

Research and development expense. Research and development expense decreased by $17.4 million, or 15.0%, to $98.7 million in 2023 from $116.1 million in 2022. This change was primarily a result of a decrease of $5.1 million in personnel and related costs, a decrease of $5.6 million in depreciation and amortization expenses, and a decrease of $2.0 million in materials and other R&D expense. The decreases were primarily a result of the divestiture of telecommunications transmission product line in August 2022, and the impairment of fixed assets related to our Russian operation in 2022. As a percentage of sales, research and development expense decreased to 7.7% in 2023 from 8.1% in 2022. We expect to continue to invest in research and development efforts for our continuing products and increase expenses in whole dollars.

General and administrative expense. General and administrative expense decreased by $5.6 million, or 4.3%, to $125.7 million in 2023 from $131.3 million in 2022. This change was primarily a result of a decrease of $3.9 million in depreciation expense as a result of disposing our corporate aircraft and impairing our Russia long-lived assets in 2022, and a decrease of $2.1 million in consultants, partially offset by an increase of $3.7 million in personnel and related costs. As a percentage of sales, general and administrative expense increased to 9.8% in 2023 from 9.2% in 2022.

Effect of exchange rates on sales, gross margin and operating expenses. We estimate that if exchange rates had been the same as one year ago, sales in 2023 would have been $34.9 million higher, gross margin would have been $21.2 million higher and sales and marketing, research and development and general and administrative expenses would have been $4.9 million higher. These estimates assume constant exchange rates between fiscal year 2023 and fiscal year 2022 and are calculated using the average exchange rates for the twelve-month period ended December 31, 2022 for the respective currencies, which were US$1=Euro 0.95, US$1=Japanese yen 131, US$1=Chinese yuan 6.73 and US$1=Russian ruble 68.

41

Table of Contents

Impairment of long-lived assets. We recorded a non-cash long-lived asset impairment charge of $1.2 million in 2023 as compared to $79.9 million in 2022. The impairment of long-lived assets in 2023 was related to the right-of-use asset ("ROU" asset) for a leased building associated with our Submarine Network Division business that was previously divested. Attempts to sublease the space have been unsuccessful. As of December 31, 2023, the ROU asset related to this lease has been reduced to zero. The long-lived asset impairment in 2022 was related to Russian operations.

Restructuring charges (recoveries), net We recorded a net restructuring recovery of $0.3 million in 2023 as compared to a restructuring charge of $9.7 million in 2022. In 2023, we substantially completed the restructuring program at our Russian subsidiary. As a result, we released $1.7 million that had been accrued in relation to restructuring expenses. The restructuring charges in 2022 are primarily related to restructuring costs in Russia. In addition, some restructuring charges related to the closure of our office in Lebanon which had supported the communications transmission business which we divested in the third quarter of 2022.

(Gain) loss on foreign exchange. We incurred a foreign exchange gain of $1.4 million in 2023 as compared to a loss of $4.1 million in 2022. The gain in 2023 was primarily attributable to depreciation of the Russian ruble, partially offset by losses from appreciation of the Euro and depreciation of the Chinese yuan as compared to the U.S. dollar.

Interest income, net. Interest income, net was $41.7 million in 2023 compared to $12.6 million in 2022. The change in interest income, net, was driven by an increase in yields on cash equivalents and short term investments that resulted in higher market interest rates as compared to prior year rates.

Provision for income taxes. Provision for income taxes was $56.0 million in 2023 compared to $72.6 million in 2022, representing an effective tax rate of 20.4% in 2023 and 39.6% in 2022. The decrease in tax expense was due primarily to discrete items. Discrete adjustments in 2023 resulted in a $5.7 million decrease in tax expense, which includes (i) $4.3 million decrease in the valuation allowance primarily due to current year profits in our Russian subsidiary and (ii) $3.5 million related to a decrease in uncertain tax positions and the results of tax audits. These benefits were partly offset by an increase in tax expense for $1.8 million for equity-based compensation deductions reflected in book income in excess of the deductions allowed for tax purposes. Discrete adjustments in 2022 resulted in a $23.2 million increase in tax expense, which includes (i) $35.8 million increase in the valuation allowance primarily related to deferred tax assets in our Russian subsidiary which were provided in conjunction with the restructuring and other charges discussed above and (ii) $2.7 million for equity-based compensation deductions reflected in book income in excess of the deductions allowed for tax purposes. These detriments were partly offset by (i) $10.1 million for the acceptance of amended returns related to incentives offered for capital investment; (ii) $3.9 million related to a reversal of tax reserves primarily due to the expiry of the statute of limitations for the year in which the reserve was established.

Net income attributed to IPG Photonics Corporation. Net income attributable to IPG Photonics Corporation increased by $109.0 million to $218.9 million in 2023 from $109.9 million in 2022. Net income attributable to IPG Photonics Corporation as a percentage of our net sales increased by 9.4% to 17.0% in 2023 from 7.6% in 2022 due to the factors described above.

Liquidity and Capital Resources

We believe that our existing cash and cash equivalents, short-term investments, our cash flows from operations and our existing lines of credit provide us with the financial flexibility to meet our liquidity and capital needs. We expect to continue making investments in capital expenditures, to assess acquisition opportunities and to repurchase shares of our stock in accordance with our repurchase program. The extent and timing of such expenditures may vary from period to period. Our future long-term capital requirements will depend on many factors including our level of sales, the impact of the economic environment on our growth including any ongoing impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on certain global or regional economies, global or regional recessions, the timing and extent of spending to support development efforts, expansion of global sales and marketing activities, government regulation including trade sanctions, the timing and introductions of new products, the need to ensure access to adequate manufacturing capacity and the continuing market acceptance of our products. As of December 31, 2023, we had no off-balance sheet arrangements that have, or are reasonably likely to have, a current or future material effect on our consolidated financial condition, results of operations, liquidity, capital expenditures or capital resources.

Included in cash and cash equivalents are $76.4 million of cash and cash equivalents located in Russia, and $5.5 million of cash and cash equivalents located in Belarus, as of December 31, 2023. Cash and cash equivalents in Russia are subject to capital controls that prevent repatriation by dividend or distribution of capital. There are currently no restrictions on our ability to use cash and cash equivalents in Russia for operating purposes including converting cash to foreign currency for the payment of goods received from vendors outside of Russia. The Russian operations are self-funding. Approximately 6% of our consolidated working capital including cash, cash equivalents and short-term investments is located in Russia. We are making no new investments in Russia.

42

Table of Contents

The following table presents our principal sources of liquidity:

Short-term investments at December 31, 2023 consist of liquid investments including U.S. Treasury and agency obligations, corporate bonds, commercial paper, and term deposits with original maturities of greater than three months but less than one year. See Note 3, "Fair Value Measurements" in the notes to the consolidated financial statements for further information about our short-term investments.

The following table details our line-of-credit facilities as of December 31, 2023:

(1) This facility is available to certain foreign subsidiaries in their respective local currencies. At December 31, 2023, there were no amounts drawn on this line, however, there were $2.5 million of guarantees issued against the line which reduces total availability.

(2) This facility is available to certain foreign subsidiaries in their respective local currencies. At December 31, 2023, there were no amounts drawn on this line, however, there were $1.2 million of guarantees issued against the line which reduces total availability.

(3) At December 31, 2023, there were no drawings. This facility renews annually.

Our largest committed credit line is with Bank of America N.A. in the amount of $75.0 million, which is not syndicated. We are required to meet certain financial covenants associated with our U.S. revolving line of credit. These covenants, tested quarterly, include an interest coverage ratio and a funded debt to earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization ("EBITDA") ratio. The interest coverage covenant requires that we maintain a trailing twelve-month ratio of EBITDA to interest on all obligations that is at least 3.0:1.0. The funded debt to EBITDA covenant requires that the sum of all indebtedness for borrowed money on a consolidated basis be less than three times our trailing twelve months EBITDA. Funded debt is decreased by our cash and available marketable securities not classified as long-term investments in the U.S. in excess of $50 million up to a maximum of $500 million. We were in compliance with all such financial covenants as of and for the three months ended December 31, 2023.

See Note 11, "Financing Arrangements" in the notes to the consolidated financial statements for further information about our facilities and term debt.

43

Table of Contents

The following table summarizes our material cash commitments at December 31, 2023 and the effect such commitments are expected to have on our liquidity and cash flows in future periods. We intend to use our existing cash, cash equivalents and short term investments as well as cash generated from operations as sources of funds for these material commitments.

(1)Excludes obligations related to ASC 740, reserves for uncertain tax positions, because we are unable to provide a reasonable estimate of the timing of future payments relating to the remainder of these obligations. See Note 17, "Income Taxes" to the consolidated financial statements.

The following table presents cash flow activities:

Operating activities. Net cash provided by operating activities increased by $83.4 million to $296.0 million in 2023 from $212.6 million in 2022 primarily due to a decrease in cash used by working capital. Our largest working capital items are inventory and accounts receivable. Items such as accounts payable to third parties, prepaid expenses and other current assets and accrued expenses and other liabilities are not as significant as our working capital investment in accounts receivable and inventory because of the amount of value added within IPG due to our vertically integrated structure. Accruals and payables for personnel costs including bonuses and income and other taxes payable are largely dependent on the timing of payments for those items. The increase in cash flow from operating activities in 2023 primarily resulted from:

•an increase in cash provided by inventory as we moderated investment in safety stock related to supply chain disruptions for third party electronic parts and components internally manufactured by our factory in Russia; and

•an increase in cash provided by other taxes payable driven by the timing of estimated tax payments made and refunds received from filing tax returns.

The increases in cash provided by operating activities were partially offset by:

•a decrease in cash provided by net income after adjusting for non-cash operating activities, mainly due to lower sales in 2023;

•an increase in cash used by accounts receivable, including an increase in days sales outstanding;

•an increase in cash used by prepaid expenses and other assets; and

•an increase in cash used by accounts payable due to timing of payments.

Investing activities. Net cash used in investing activities was $237.6 million in 2023 as compared to cash provided by investing activities of $297.0 million in 2022. The cash used in investing activities in 2023 primarily related to $158.9 million of net cash used for purchases of short-term investments, and $110.5 million of cash used for property, plant and equipment, partially offset by $31.2 million of proceeds from the sale of property, plant and equipment. The cash provided by investing activities in 2022 primarily related to $329.3 million of net proceeds from short-term investments, $52.9 million of proceeds received from the divestiture of the telecommunications transmission product lines, net of cash sold, and $26.9 million of proceeds from the sale of property, plant and equipment mainly from the sale of corporate aircraft; partially offset by $110.1 million of cash used for property, plant and equipment.

In 2024, we expect to incur approximately $120.0 million to $130.0 million in capital expenditures net of asset divestitures. Capital expenditures include investments in property, facilities and equipment to add capacity worldwide to support anticipated revenue growth, increase vertical integration, increase redundant manufacturing capacity for critical components and enhance research and development capabilities. The timing and extent of any capital expenditures in and between periods can have a significant effect on our cash flow. If we obtain financing for certain projects, our cash expenditures would be reduced in the year of expenditure. Many of the capital expenditure projects that we undertake have long lead times

44

Table of Contents

and are difficult to cancel or defer to a later period. We intend to finance our capital expenditures with existing cash, cash equivalents and short term investments as well as with cash generated from operations.

Financing activities. Net cash used in financing activities was $236.4 million and $514.5 million in 2023 and 2022, respectively. The cash used in financing activities in 2023 was primarily related to the purchase of $223.5 million of treasury stock, $16.0 million of principal payments on our long-term borrowings; partially offset by net proceeds of $3.1 million from the exercise of stock options net of amounts disbursed in relation to shares withheld to cover employee income taxes due upon the vesting and release of restricted stock units and shares issued under our employee stock purchase plan. The cash used in financing activities in 2022 was primarily related to the purchase of $499.5 million of treasury stock, $18.1 million of principal payments on our long-term borrowings, the purchase of non-controlling interests of $2.5 million related to the divestiture of the telecommunications transmission product lines; partially offset by net proceeds of $5.6 million from the exercise of stock options net of amounts disbursed in relation to shares withheld to cover employee income taxes due upon the vesting and release of restricted stock units and shares issued under our employee stock purchase plan.

Recent Accounting Pronouncements

See Note 1, "Nature of Business and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies" in the notes to the consolidated financial statements for a full description of recent accounting pronouncements, including the respective dates of adoption or expected adoption and effects on our consolidated financial statements contained in Part IV of this Annual Report.