Cover
Cover - USD ($) $ in Billions | 12 Months Ended | ||
Dec. 31, 2023 | Jan. 31, 2024 | Jun. 30, 2023 | |
Entity Addresses [Line Items] | |||
Document Type | 10-K | ||
Document Annual Report | true | ||
Document Period End Date | Dec. 31, 2023 | ||
Current Fiscal Year End Date | --12-31 | ||
Document Transition Report | false | ||
Entity File Number | 001-38730 | ||
Entity Registrant Name | LINDE PLC | ||
Entity Incorporation, State or Country Code | L2 | ||
Entity Tax Identification Number | 98-1448883 | ||
Entity Address, Address Line One | Forge | ||
Entity Address, Address Line Two | 43 Church Street West | ||
Entity Address, City or Town | Woking | ||
Entity Address, Country | GB | ||
Entity Address, Postal Zip Code | GU21 6HT | ||
Country Region | +44 | ||
City Area Code | 14 | ||
Local Phone Number | 83 242200 | ||
Title of 12(b) Security | Ordinary shares (€0.001 nominal value per share) | ||
Trading Symbol | LIN | ||
Security Exchange Name | NASDAQ | ||
Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer | Yes | ||
Entity Voluntary Filers | No | ||
Entity Current Reporting Status | Yes | ||
Entity Interactive Data Current | Yes | ||
Entity Filer Category | Large Accelerated Filer | ||
Entity Small Business | false | ||
Entity Emerging Growth Company | false | ||
ICFR Auditor Attestation Flag | true | ||
Document Financial Statement Error Correction [Flag] | false | ||
Entity Shell Company | false | ||
Entity Public Float | $ 186 | ||
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding | 481,576,472 | ||
Documents Incorporated by Reference | Portions of the Proxy Statement of Linde plc for its 2024 Annual General Meeting of Shareholders, to be filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission within 120 days after the end of the company’s fiscal year, are incorporated in Part III of this report. | ||
Amendment Flag | false | ||
Document Fiscal Year Focus | 2023 | ||
Document Fiscal Period Focus | FY | ||
Entity Central Index Key | 0001707925 | ||
Other Address | |||
Entity Addresses [Line Items] | |||
Entity Address, Address Line One | 10 Riverview Drive, | ||
Entity Address, City or Town | Danbury | ||
Entity Address, State or Province | CT | ||
Entity Address, Country | US | ||
Entity Address, Postal Zip Code | 06810 |
Audit Information
Audit Information | 12 Months Ended |
Dec. 31, 2023 | |
Audit Information [Abstract] | |
Auditor Firm ID | 238 |
Auditor Name | PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP |
Auditor Location | Stamford, Connecticut |
Consolidated Statements of Inco
Consolidated Statements of Income - USD ($) shares in Thousands, $ in Millions | 12 Months Ended | ||
Dec. 31, 2023 | Dec. 31, 2022 | Dec. 31, 2021 | |
Income Statement [Abstract] | |||
Sales | $ 32,854 | $ 33,364 | $ 30,793 |
Cost of sales, exclusive of depreciation and amortization | 17,492 | 19,450 | 17,543 |
Selling, general and administrative | 3,295 | 3,107 | 3,189 |
Depreciation and amortization | 3,816 | 4,204 | 4,635 |
Research and development | 146 | 143 | 143 |
Other charges | 40 | 1,029 | 273 |
Other income (expenses) – net | (41) | (62) | (26) |
Operating Profit | 8,024 | 5,369 | 4,984 |
Interest expense – net | 200 | 63 | 77 |
Net pension and OPEB cost (benefit), excluding service cost | (164) | (237) | (192) |
Income Before Income Taxes and Equity Investments | 7,988 | 5,543 | 5,099 |
Income taxes | 1,814 | 1,434 | 1,262 |
Income From Continuing Operations Before Equity Investments | 6,174 | 4,109 | 3,837 |
Income from equity investments | 167 | 172 | 119 |
Income From Continuing Operations (Including Noncontrolling Interests) | 6,341 | 4,281 | 3,956 |
Income from discontinued operations, net of tax | 0 | 0 | 5 |
Net Income (Including Noncontrolling Interests) | 6,341 | 4,281 | 3,961 |
Less: noncontrolling interests from continuing operations | (142) | (134) | (135) |
Net Income – Linde plc | 6,199 | 4,147 | 3,826 |
Net Income – Linde plc | |||
Income from continuing operations | 6,199 | 4,147 | 3,821 |
Income from discontinued operations | $ 0 | $ 0 | $ 5 |
Per Share Data – Linde plc Shareholders | |||
Basic earnings per share from continuing operations (in dollars per share) | $ 12.70 | $ 8.30 | $ 7.39 |
Basic earnings per share from discontinued operations (in dollars per share) | 0 | 0 | 0.01 |
Basic earnings per share (in dollars per share) | 12.70 | 8.30 | 7.40 |
Diluted earnings per share from continuing operations (in dollars per share) | 12.59 | 8.23 | 7.32 |
Diluted earnings per share from discontinued operations (in dollars per share) | 0 | 0 | 0.01 |
Diluted earnings per share (in dollars per share) | $ 12.59 | $ 8.23 | $ 7.33 |
Weighted Average Shares Outstanding (000’s): | |||
Basic shares outstanding (in shares) | 488,191 | 499,736 | 516,896 |
Diluted shares outstanding (in shares) | 492,290 | 504,038 | 521,875 |
Consolidated Statements of Comp
Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income - USD ($) $ in Millions | 12 Months Ended | ||
Dec. 31, 2023 | Dec. 31, 2022 | Dec. 31, 2021 | |
Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract] | |||
NET INCOME (INCLUDING NONCONTROLLING INTERESTS) | $ 6,341 | $ 4,281 | $ 3,961 |
Translation adjustments: | |||
Foreign currency translation adjustments | 399 | (1,725) | (1,116) |
Reclassifications to net income | 0 | (110) | (52) |
Income taxes | 1 | 0 | (7) |
Translation adjustments | 400 | (1,835) | (1,175) |
Funded status - retirement obligations (Note 16): | |||
Retirement program remeasurements | (480) | 1,349 | 826 |
Reclassifications to net income | (14) | 80 | 175 |
Income taxes | 114 | (359) | (255) |
Funded status - retirement obligations | (380) | 1,070 | 746 |
Derivative instruments (Note 12): | |||
Current year unrealized gain (loss) | (80) | 107 | 140 |
Reclassifications to net income | 13 | (129) | (49) |
Income taxes | 12 | 9 | (20) |
Derivative instruments | (55) | (13) | 71 |
TOTAL OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS) | (35) | (778) | (358) |
COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (INCLUDING NONCONTROLLING INTERESTS) | 6,306 | 3,503 | 3,603 |
Less: noncontrolling interests | (130) | (90) | (135) |
COMPREHENSIVE INCOME - LINDE PLC | $ 6,176 | $ 3,413 | $ 3,468 |
Consolidated Balance Sheets
Consolidated Balance Sheets - USD ($) $ in Millions | Dec. 31, 2023 | Dec. 31, 2022 |
Assets | ||
Cash and cash equivalents | $ 4,664 | $ 5,436 |
Accounts receivable – net | 4,718 | 4,559 |
Contract assets | 196 | 124 |
Inventories | 2,115 | 1,978 |
Prepaid and other current assets | 927 | 950 |
Total Current Assets | 12,620 | 13,047 |
Property, plant and equipment – net | 24,552 | 23,548 |
Equity investments | 2,190 | 2,350 |
Goodwill | 26,751 | 25,817 |
Other intangible assets – net | 12,399 | 12,420 |
Other long-term assets | 2,299 | 2,476 |
Total Assets | 80,811 | 79,658 |
Liabilities and Equity | ||
Accounts payable | 3,020 | 2,995 |
Short-term debt | 4,713 | 4,117 |
Current portion of long-term debt | 1,263 | 1,599 |
Contract liabilities | 1,901 | 3,073 |
Accrued taxes | 664 | 613 |
Other current liabilities | 4,156 | 4,082 |
Total Current Liabilities | 15,717 | 16,479 |
Long-term debt | 13,397 | 12,198 |
Other long-term liabilities | 3,804 | 2,795 |
Deferred credits | 6,798 | 6,799 |
Total Liabilities | 39,716 | 38,271 |
Commitments and contingencies (Note 17) | ||
Redeemable noncontrolling interests | 13 | 13 |
Linde plc Shareholders’ Equity: | ||
Ordinary shares (€0.001 par value, authorized 1,750,000,000 shares, 2023 issued: 490,766,972 ordinary shares; 2022 issued: 552,012,862 ordinary shares) | 1 | 1 |
Additional paid-in capital | 39,812 | 40,005 |
Retained earnings | 8,845 | 20,541 |
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) | (5,805) | (5,782) |
Less: Treasury shares, at cost (2023 – 8,321,827 shares and 2022 – 59,555,235 shares) | (3,133) | (14,737) |
Total Linde plc Shareholders’ Equity | 39,720 | 40,028 |
Noncontrolling interests | 1,362 | 1,346 |
Total Equity | 41,082 | 41,374 |
Total Liabilities and Equity | $ 80,811 | $ 79,658 |
Consolidated Balance Sheets (Pa
Consolidated Balance Sheets (Parenthetical) - € / shares | Dec. 31, 2023 | Mar. 01, 2023 | Dec. 31, 2022 |
Statement of Financial Position [Abstract] | |||
Ordinary shares, par value (euro per share) | € 0.001 | € 0.001 | |
Ordinary shares, authorized (in shares) | 1,750,000,000 | 1,750,000,000 | |
Ordinary shares, issued (in shares) | 490,766,972 | 490,766,972 | 552,012,862 |
Treasury shares, at cost (in shares) | 8,321,827 | 59,555,235 |
Consolidated Statements of Cash
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows - USD ($) $ in Millions | 12 Months Ended | ||
Dec. 31, 2023 | Dec. 31, 2022 | Dec. 31, 2021 | |
Operations | |||
Net Income – Linde plc | $ 6,199 | $ 4,147 | $ 3,826 |
Less: income from discontinued operations, net of tax and noncontrolling interests | 0 | 0 | (5) |
Add: Noncontrolling interests from continuing operations | 142 | 134 | 135 |
Income from continuing operations (including noncontrolling interests) | 6,341 | 4,281 | 3,956 |
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities: | |||
Other charges, net of payments | (118) | 902 | 98 |
Depreciation and amortization | 3,816 | 4,204 | 4,635 |
Deferred income taxes | (84) | (383) | (254) |
Share-based compensation | 141 | 107 | 128 |
Non-cash charges and other | 43 | (49) | (19) |
Working capital | |||
Accounts receivable | (86) | (423) | (553) |
Contract assets and liabilities, net | (168) | 310 | 1,307 |
Inventory | (127) | (347) | (129) |
Prepaid and other current assets | 66 | (157) | 76 |
Payables and accruals | (168) | 307 | 447 |
Pension contributions | (46) | (51) | (42) |
Long-term assets, liabilities and other | (305) | 163 | 75 |
Net cash provided by operating activities | 9,305 | 8,864 | 9,725 |
Investing | |||
Capital expenditures | (3,787) | (3,173) | (3,086) |
Acquisitions, net of cash acquired | (953) | (110) | (88) |
Divestitures and asset sales, net of cash divested | 70 | 195 | 167 |
Net cash used for investing activities | (4,670) | (3,088) | (3,007) |
Financing | |||
Short-term debt borrowings (repayments) – net | 554 | 3,050 | (1,329) |
Long-term debt borrowings | 2,188 | 3,210 | 2,283 |
Long-term debt repayments | (1,682) | (1,785) | (1,468) |
Issuances of ordinary shares | 33 | 36 | 50 |
Purchases of ordinary shares | (3,958) | (5,168) | (4,612) |
Cash dividends – Linde plc shareholders | (2,482) | (2,344) | (2,189) |
Noncontrolling interest transactions and other | (53) | (88) | (323) |
Net cash used for financing activities | (5,400) | (3,089) | (7,588) |
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents | (7) | (74) | (61) |
Change in cash and cash equivalents | (772) | 2,613 | (931) |
Cash and cash equivalents, beginning-of-period | 5,436 | 2,823 | 3,754 |
Cash and cash equivalents, end-of-period | 4,664 | 5,436 | 2,823 |
Supplemental Data | |||
Income taxes paid | 1,955 | 1,735 | 1,710 |
Interest paid, net of capitalized interest (Note 7) | $ 451 | $ 170 | $ 233 |
Consolidated Statements of Equi
Consolidated Statements of Equity - USD ($) $ in Millions | Total | Linde plc Shareholders’ Equity | Ordinary shares | Additional Paid-in Capital | Retained Earnings | Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) | Treasury Stock | Noncontrolling Interests |
Beginning balance, ordinary (in shares) at Dec. 31, 2020 | 552,013,000 | |||||||
Beginning balance at Dec. 31, 2020 | $ 49,569 | $ 47,317 | $ 1 | $ 40,202 | $ 17,178 | $ (4,690) | $ (5,374) | $ 2,252 |
Beginning balance, treasury (in shares) at Dec. 31, 2020 | 28,718,000 | |||||||
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward] | ||||||||
Net Income available for Linde plc shareholders | 3,961 | 3,826 | 3,826 | 135 | ||||
Other comprehensive income (loss) | (358) | (358) | (358) | |||||
Noncontrolling interests: | ||||||||
Dividends and other capital reductions | (118) | (118) | ||||||
Additions (Reductions) | (876) | (876) | ||||||
Dividends | (2,189) | (2,189) | (2,189) | |||||
Issuances of ordinary shares: | ||||||||
For employee savings and incentive plans | (46) | (46) | (150) | (105) | $ 209 | |||
For employee savings and incentive plans (in shares) | (1,026,000) | |||||||
Purchases of ordinary shares (in shares) | 15,640,000 | |||||||
Purchases of ordinary shares | (4,643) | (4,643) | $ (4,643) | |||||
Share-based compensation | 128 | 128 | 128 | |||||
Ending balance, ordinary (in shares) at Dec. 31, 2021 | 552,013,000 | |||||||
Ending balance at Dec. 31, 2021 | 45,428 | 44,035 | $ 1 | 40,180 | 18,710 | (5,048) | $ (9,808) | 1,393 |
Ending balance, treasury (in shares) at Dec. 31, 2021 | 43,332,000 | |||||||
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward] | ||||||||
Net Income available for Linde plc shareholders | 4,281 | 4,147 | 4,147 | 134 | ||||
Other comprehensive income (loss) | (778) | (734) | (734) | (44) | ||||
Noncontrolling interests: | ||||||||
Dividends and other capital reductions | (81) | (81) | ||||||
Additions (Reductions) | (56) | (56) | ||||||
Dividends | (2,344) | (2,344) | (2,344) | |||||
Issuances of ordinary shares: | ||||||||
For employee savings and incentive plans | (56) | (56) | (282) | 28 | $ 198 | |||
For employee savings and incentive plans (in shares) | (811,000) | |||||||
Purchases of ordinary shares (in shares) | 17,034,000 | |||||||
Purchases of ordinary shares | (5,127) | (5,127) | $ (5,127) | |||||
Share-based compensation | $ 107 | 107 | 107 | |||||
Ending balance, ordinary (in shares) at Dec. 31, 2022 | 552,012,862 | 552,013,000 | ||||||
Ending balance at Dec. 31, 2022 | $ 41,374 | 40,028 | $ 1 | 40,005 | 20,541 | (5,782) | $ (14,737) | 1,346 |
Ending balance, treasury (in shares) at Dec. 31, 2022 | 59,555,235 | 59,555,000 | ||||||
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward] | ||||||||
Net Income available for Linde plc shareholders | $ 6,341 | 6,199 | 6,199 | 142 | ||||
Other comprehensive income (loss) | (35) | (23) | (23) | (12) | ||||
Noncontrolling interests: | ||||||||
Dividends and other capital reductions | (113) | (113) | ||||||
Additions (Reductions) | (13) | (12) | (12) | (1) | ||||
Dividends | (2,482) | (2,482) | (2,482) | |||||
Issuances of ordinary shares: | ||||||||
For employee savings and incentive plans | (128) | (128) | (322) | (113) | $ 307 | |||
For employee savings and incentive plans (in shares) | (924,000) | |||||||
Purchases of ordinary shares (in shares) | 10,937,000 | |||||||
Purchases of ordinary shares | (4,003) | (4,003) | $ (4,003) | |||||
Share-based compensation | 141 | 141 | 141 | |||||
Intercompany reorganization (in shares) | (61,246,000) | (61,246,000) | ||||||
Intercompany reorganization (Note 14) | $ 0 | (15,300) | $ 15,300 | |||||
Ending balance, ordinary (in shares) at Dec. 31, 2023 | 490,766,972 | 490,767,000 | ||||||
Ending balance at Dec. 31, 2023 | $ 41,082 | $ 39,720 | $ 1 | $ 39,812 | $ 8,845 | $ (5,805) | $ (3,133) | $ 1,362 |
Ending balance, treasury (in shares) at Dec. 31, 2023 | 8,321,827 | 8,322,000 |
Consolidated Statements of Eq_2
Consolidated Statements of Equity (Parenthetical) - $ / shares | 12 Months Ended | ||
Dec. 31, 2023 | Dec. 31, 2022 | Dec. 31, 2021 | |
Statement of Stockholders' Equity [Abstract] | |||
Dividends per ordinary share (in dollars per share) | $ 5.10 | $ 4.68 | $ 4.24 |
Summary of Significant Accounti
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies | 12 Months Ended |
Dec. 31, 2023 | |
Accounting Policies [Abstract] | |
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies | SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES Linde plc ("Linde" or "the company") is an incorporated public limited company formed under the laws of Ireland. Linde’s registered office is located at Ten Earlsfort Terrace, Dublin 2, D02 T380 Ireland. Linde’s principal executive offices are located at Forge, 43 Church Street West, Woking, Surrey GU21 6HT, United Kingdom and 10 Riverview Drive, Danbury, Connecticut, United States 06810. Linde trades on the Nasdaq under the symbol LIN. On January 18, 2023, shareholders approved the company’s proposal for an intercompany reorganization that resulted in the delisting of its ordinary shares from the Frankfurt Stock Exchange, on March 1, 2023, after the completion of legal and regulatory approvals. In connection with the closing of the intercompany reorganization on March 1, 2023, Linde shareholders automatically received one share of the new holding company in exchange for each share of Linde plc that was previously owned. The new holding company is also named “Linde plc” and trades under the existing ticker LIN. Principles of Consolidation – The consolidated financial statements were prepared in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America ("U.S. GAAP") and include the accounts of all significant subsidiaries where control exists and, in limited situations, variable-interest entities where the company is the primary beneficiary. Intercompany transactions and balances are eliminated in consolidation and any significant related-party transactions have been disclosed. Equity investments generally consist of 20% to 50% owned operations where the company exercises significant influence, but does not have control. Income from equity investments in corporations is reported on an after-tax basis. Pre-tax income from equity investments that are partnerships or limited-liability corporations is included in other income (expenses) – net with related taxes included in Income taxes. Equity investments are reviewed for impairment whenever events or circumstances reflect that an impairment loss may have been incurred. Changes in ownership interest that result either in consolidation or deconsolidation of an investment are recorded at fair value through earnings, including the retained ownership interest, while changes that do not result in either consolidation or deconsolidation of a subsidiary are treated as equity transactions. Use of Estimates – The preparation of financial statements in conformity with U.S. GAAP 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 and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. While actual results could differ, management believes such estimates to be reasonable. Operations – Linde is the largest industrial gases company globally. The company produces, sells and distributes atmospheric, process and specialty gases to a diverse group of industries including aerospace, chemicals, food and beverage, electronics, energy, healthcare, manufacturing, and metals. Linde’s Engineering business offers its customers an extensive range of gas production and processing services including supplying plant components and services directly to customers. Revenue Recognition – Revenue is recognized as control of goods or services are transferred to customers in an amount that reflects the consideration to which the company expects to be entitled to receive in exchange for the goods or services. See Note 19 for additional details regarding Linde's revenue recognition policies. Cash Equivalents – Cash equivalents are considered to be highly liquid securities with original maturities of three months or less. Inventories – Inventories are stated at the lower of cost or net realizable value. Cost is determined using the average-cost method. Property, Plant and Equipment – Net – Property, plant and equipment are carried at cost, net of accumulated depreciation. The company capitalizes labor, applicable overhead and interest as part of the cost of constructing major facilities. Expenditures for additions and improvements that extend the lives or increase the capacity of plant assets are also capitalized. Depreciation is calculated on the straight-line method based on the estimated useful lives of the assets, which range from 3 years to 40 years (see Note 8). Linde uses accelerated depreciation methods for tax purposes where appropriate. Maintenance of property, plant and equipment is generally expensed as incurred. The company performs a test for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of an individual asset or asset group may not be recoverable. Should projected undiscounted future cash flows be less than the carrying amount of the asset or asset group, an impairment charge reducing the carrying amount to fair value may be required. Fair value is determined based on the most appropriate valuation technique, including discounted cash flows. Asset-Retirement Obligations – An asset-retirement obligation is recognized in the period in which sufficient information exists to determine the fair value of the liability with a corresponding increase to the carrying amount of the related property, plant and equipment which is then depreciated over its useful life. The liability is initially measured at fair value and then accretion expense is recorded in each subsequent period. The company’s asset-retirement obligations are primarily associated with its on-site long-term supply arrangements where the company has built a facility on land leased from the customer and is obligated to remove the facility at the end of the contract term. The company's asset-retirement obligations are not material to its consolidated financial statements. Foreign Currency Translation – For most foreign operations, the local currency is the functional currency and translation gains and losses are reported as part of the accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) component of equity as a cumulative translation adjustment (see Note 7). Financial Instruments – Linde enters into various derivative financial instruments to manage its exposure to fluctuating interest rates, currency exchange rates, commodity pricing and energy costs. Such instruments primarily include interest-rate swap and treasury rate lock agreements; currency-swap agreements; forward contracts; currency options; and commodity-swap agreements. These instruments are not entered into for trading purposes. Linde only uses commonly traded and non-leveraged instruments. There are three types of derivatives the company enters into: (i) those relating to fair-value exposures, (ii) those relating to cash-flow exposures, and (iii) those relating to foreign currency net investment exposures. Fair-value exposures relate to recognized assets or liabilities, and firm commitments; cash-flow exposures relate to the variability of future cash flows associated with recognized assets or liabilities, or forecasted transactions; and net investment exposures relate to the impact of foreign currency exchange rate changes on the carrying value of net assets denominated in foreign currencies. When a derivative is executed and hedge accounting is appropriate, it is designated as either a fair-value hedge, cash-flow hedge, or a net investment hedge. Currently, Linde designates all interest-rate and treasury rate locks as hedges for accounting purposes; however, currency contracts are generally not designated as hedges for accounting purposes unless they are related to forecasted transactions. Whether designated as hedges for accounting purposes or not, all derivatives are linked to an appropriate underlying exposure. On an ongoing basis, the company assesses the hedge effectiveness of all derivatives designated as hedges for accounting purposes to determine if they continue to be highly effective in offsetting changes in fair values or cash flows of the underlying hedged items. If it is determined that the hedge is not highly effective, then hedge accounting will be discontinued prospectively. Changes in the fair value of derivatives designated as fair-value hedges are recognized in earnings as an offset to the change in the fair values of the underlying exposures being hedged. The changes in fair value of derivatives that are designated as cash-flow hedges are deferred in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) and are reclassified to earnings as the underlying hedged transaction affects earnings. Provided the hedge remains highly effective, any ineffectiveness is deferred in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) and is reclassified to earnings as the underlying hedged transaction affects earnings. Hedges of net investments in foreign subsidiaries are recognized in the cumulative translation adjustment component of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) on the consolidated balance sheets to offset translation gains and losses associated with the hedged net investment. Derivatives that are entered into for risk-management purposes and are not designated as hedges (primarily related to currency derivatives other than for firm commitments) are recorded at their fair market values and recognized in current earnings. See Note 12 for additional information relating to financial instruments. Goodwill – Acquisitions are accounted for using the acquisition method which requires allocation of the purchase price to assets acquired and liabilities assumed based on estimated fair values. Any excess of the purchase price over the fair value of the assets and liabilities acquired is recorded as goodwill. Allocations of the purchase price are based on preliminary estimates and assumptions at the date of acquisition and are subject to revision based on final information received, including appraisals and other analyses which support underlying estimates. The company performs a goodwill impairment test annually as of October 1 or more frequently if events or circumstances indicate that an impairment loss may have been incurred. The impairment test allows an entity to first assess qualitative factors to determine if it is more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit is less than carrying value. If it is determined that it is more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit is less than carrying value then the company will estimate and compare the fair value of its reporting units to their carrying value, including goodwill. Reporting units are determined based on one level below the operating segment level. The qualitative analysis of goodwill for the year ended December 31, 2023 showed the fair value of the reporting units substantially exceeded the carrying value, as such further analysis was not performed. See Note 9 for additional information relating to goodwill. Other Intangible Assets – Other intangible assets, primarily customer relationships, are amortized over the estimated period of benefit. The determination of the estimated period of benefit will be dependent upon the use and underlying characteristics of the intangible asset. Linde evaluates the recoverability of its intangible assets subject to amortization when facts and circumstances indicate that the carrying value of the asset may not be recoverable. If the carrying value is not recoverable, impairment is measured as the amount by which the carrying value exceeds its estimated fair value. Fair value is generally estimated based on either appraised value or other valuation techniques. Indefinite lived intangible assets related to the Linde brand are evaluated for impairment on an annual basis or more frequently if events or circumstances indicate an impairment loss may have occurred. See Note 10 for additional information relating to other intangible assets. Income Taxes – Deferred income taxes are recorded for the temporary differences between the financial statement and tax bases of assets and liabilities using currently enacted tax rates. Valuation allowances are established against deferred tax assets whenever circumstances indicate that it is more likely than not that such assets will not be realized in future periods. Under the guidance for accounting for uncertainty in income taxes, the company can recognize the benefit of an income tax position only if it is more likely than not (greater than 50%) that the tax position will be sustained upon tax examination, based solely on the technical merits of the tax position. Otherwise, no benefit can be recognized. The tax benefits recognized are measured based on the largest benefit that has a greater than 50% likelihood of being realized upon ultimate settlement. Additionally, the company accrues interest and related penalties, if applicable, on all tax exposures for which reserves have been established consistent with jurisdictional tax laws. Interest and penalties are classified as income tax expense in the financial statements. See Note 5 for additional information relating to income taxes. Retirement Benefits – Most Linde employees participate in a form of defined benefit or contribution retirement plan, and additionally certain employees are eligible to participate in various post-employment health care and life insurance benefit plans. The cost of contribution plans is recognized in the year earned while the cost of other plans is recognized over the employees’ expected service period to the company, all in accordance with the applicable accounting standards. The funded status of the plans is recorded as an asset or liability in the consolidated balance sheets. Funding of retirement benefits varies and is in accordance with local laws and practices. See Note 16 for additional information relating to retirement programs. Share-based Compensation – The company has historically granted share-based awards which consist of stock options, restricted stock and performance-based stock. Share-based compensation expense is generally recognized on a straight-line basis over the stated vesting period. For stock awards granted to full-retirement-eligible employees, compensation expense is recognized over the period from the grant date to the date retirement eligibility is achieved. For performance-based awards, compensation expense is recognized only if it is probable that the performance condition will be achieved. See Note 15 for additional disclosures relating to share-based compensation. Reclassifications – Certain prior years’ amounts have been reclassified to conform to the current year’s presentation. Recently Issued Accounting Standards Accounting Standards Implemented in 2023 There were no new accounting pronouncements implemented in 2023 that would materially impact the 2023 financial statements. Accounting Standards to be Implemented Improvements to Reportable Segments Disclosures - In November 2023, the FASB issued guidance requiring enhanced disclosure related to reportable segments. The new standard is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2023, and interim periods within fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2024, with early adoption permitted. The adoption of this standard will only impact disclosures within the company's consolidated financial statements and the company is evaluating the impact this guidance will have on those disclosures. Improvements to Income Tax Disclosures - In December 2023, the FASB issued guidance requiring enhanced disclosure related to income taxes. The standard requires additional or modified disclosures related to the income tax rate reconciliation, disaggregation of income taxes paid, and several other disclosures. The new standard is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2024, with early adoption permitted. The adoption of this standard will only impact disclosures within the company's consolidated financial statements and the company is evaluating the impact this guidance will have on those disclosures. |
Business Acquisition
Business Acquisition | 12 Months Ended |
Dec. 31, 2023 | |
Business Combination and Asset Acquisition [Abstract] | |
Acquisitions and Divestitures | Acquisitions and Divestitures Acquisitions Acquisitions were $953 million, $110 million and $88 million for the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021, respectively. Acquisitions in 2023 primarily related to the Americas. Acquisitions in 2022 and 2021 primarily related to the Americas and EMEA. Acquisition of nexAir, LLC On January 5, 2023, Linde completed the acquisition of nexAir, LLC, a gas distribution and welding supply company in the United States, in order to further expand the company’s geographic footprint into different regions. Prior to completion of the acquisition, Linde held a 23% interest in nexAir, LLC. Pursuant to a signed purchase agreement between Linde and nexAir, LLC, Linde purchased the remaining 77% ownership interest in an all cash transaction with a total purchase price of $866 million, or $811 million net of cash acquired. The fair value of Linde’s equity interest in nexAir, LLC immediately preceding the acquisition date was $183 million, which resulted in a gain on remeasurement of the company’s previously held equity interest which was not material; this gain is recorded within “Other income (expenses) – net” on the consolidated statements of income. Final Allocation of Purchase Price The acquisition of nexAir, LLC was accounted for as a business combination. Following the acquisition date, 100% of nexAir, LLC's results were consolidated in the Americas business segment. Linde's twelve months ended December 31, 2023 consolidated income statement includes sales of $408 million related to nexAir, LLC. Pro forma results for 2022 have not been included as the impact of the acquisition is not material to the consolidated statements of income. The company estimated the preliminary fair value of net assets acquired based on information currently available at the time of the acquisition and has continued to adjust those estimates as additional information has become available. Measurement period adjustments totaled approximately $27 million, and related to working capital adjustments and deferred taxes. The following table summarizes the fair value of identifiable assets acquired and liabilities assumed in the acquisition of nexAir, LLC as of the acquisition date. (Millions of dollars) January 5, 2023 Assets: Cash and cash equivalents $ 55 Other current assets - net 49 Property, plant and equipment, net 241 Other intangible assets - net 245 Other long-term liabilities - net (1) Deferred taxes (25) Total identifiable net assets $ 564 Goodwill $ 485 Fair value of previously held equity interest $ 183 Total purchase price $ 866 nexAir, LLC’s assets and liabilities were measured at estimated fair values at January 5, 2023. Estimates of fair value represent management's best estimate of assumptions about future events and uncertainties, including significant judgments related to future cash flows (sales, costs, customer attrition rates, and contributory asset charges), discount rates, competitive trends, and market comparables. Inputs used were generally obtained from historical data supplemented by current and anticipated market conditions and growth rates. The fair value of the previously held equity interest was based upon a purchase price valuation (excluding debt) multiplied by the company’s previously held ownership interest adjusted by a discount for lack of marketability. The fair value of property, plant & equipment, net is based on assumptions that market participants would use in pricing an asset, based on the most advantageous market for the asset (i.e., its highest and best use). The cost approach, adjusted for the age and condition of the property, plant and equipment, was used to estimate fair value. Identifiable intangible assets primarily consist of customer relationships of approximately $245 million that will be amortized over their estimated useful life of 20 years. The fair value of the customer relationships intangible asset was valued using a multi-period excess earnings method, a form of the income approach, which incorporates the estimated future cash flows to be generated from nexAir, LLC's existing customer base. There were no indefinite-lived intangible assets identified in conjunction with the acquisition. The excess of the consideration for the acquisition over the preliminary fair value of net assets acquired was recorded as goodwill. The acquisition resulted in $485 million of goodwill, the majority of which is expected to be deductible for tax purposes. The goodwill balance is primarily attributable to the assembled workforce and operating synergies expected to result from the acquisition. The goodwill recorded as a result of the acquisition was allocated to the Americas reportable segment, which represents the reportable segment anticipated to experience operating synergies as a result of the acquisition. Divestitures Sale of GIST business In the third quarter of 2022, the company completed the sale of its GIST business. Proceeds from the sale were $184 million, net of cash divested of $75 million, for net proceeds of $109 million. The sale resulted in a loss of $21 million (benefit of $3 million, after tax), recorded within the other charges |
Other Charges
Other Charges | 12 Months Ended |
Dec. 31, 2023 | |
Restructuring and Related Activities [Abstract] | |
Other Charges | Other Charges 2023 Charges Other charges were $40 million for the year ended December 31, 2023. Costs primarily related to severance in the Engineering segment and expenses incurred due to the intercompany reorganization for the year ended December 31, 2023. Other charges for 2023 included an income tax benefit of $81 million primarily comprised of a benefit of $124 million related to the resolution of an income tax audit, partially offset by an accrual of $85 million for the potential settlement of an international income tax matter, both recorded in the first quarter. 2022 Charges Other charges were $1 billion ($896 million, after tax and noncontrolling interests) for the year ended December 31, 2022, largely attributable to the Russia-Ukraine conflict. Russia-Ukraine Conflict In response to the Russian invasion of Ukraine, multiple jurisdictions, including Europe and the U.S., have imposed several tranches of economic sanctions on Russia. As a result, Linde reassessed its ability to control its Russian subsidiaries and determined that as of June 30, 2022 it can no longer exercise control over these entities. As such, Linde deconsolidated its Russian gas and engineering business entities as of June 30, 2022 . The deconsolidation of the company's Russian gas and engineering business entities resulted in a loss of $787 million ($730 million after tax). The fair value of Linde’s Russian subsidiaries was determined using a probability weighted discounted cash flow model, which resulted in the recognition of a $407 million loss on deconsolidation when compared to the carrying value of the entities. This loss is recorded within Other charges in the consolidated statements of income. Upon deconsolidation an investment was recorded, which represents the fair value of net assets. The company did not receive any consideration, cash or otherwise, as part of the deconsolidation. Linde will maintain its interest in its Russian subsidiaries and will continue to comply with sanctions and government restrictions. The investment will be monitored for impairment in future periods. Receivables, primarily loans receivable, with newly deconsolidated entities were reassessed for collectability resulting in a write-off of approximately $380 million. Other Russia related charges Other charges related specifically to the Russia-Ukraine conflict were $103 million ($73 million after tax) for the year ended December 31, 2022, and are primarily comprised of impairments of assets which are maintained by international entities in support of the Russian business. Merger-Related Costs and Other Charges Merger-related costs and other charges were $139 million ($93 million, after tax) for the year ended December 31, 2022 , primarily related to severance actions within the Engineering segment recorded during the fourth quarter, the impairment of an equity method investment in the EMEA segment, and the sale of the GIST business completed on September 30, 2022 (see Note 2). The following table provides a summary of the pre-tax charges by reportable segment for the year ended December 31, 2022: Year Ended December 31, 2022 (millions of dollars) Russia deconsolidation charges Other Russia related charges Total Russia charges Merger-related costs and other charges Total Americas $ — $ — $ — $ 4 $ 4 EMEA 733 (7) 726 25 751 APAC — — — 28 28 Engineering 54 110 164 41 205 Other — — — 41 41 Total $ 787 $ 103 $ 890 $ 139 $ 1,029 2021 Charges Other charges were $273 million ($279 million after tax) for the year ended December 31, 2021. Total cost reduction program related charges were $338 million ($253 million after tax), for the year ended December 31, 2021. These expenses consisted primarily of severance charges of $259 million and other charges of $79 million for the year ended December 31, 2021. Other charges related primarily to the execution of the company's synergistic actions including location consolidations and business rationalization projects, process harmonization, and associated non-recurring costs. Merger-related and other charges were benefits of $65 million (benefit of $26 million, after tax) for the year ended December 31, 2021. The 2021 pre-tax benefit was primarily due to a $52 million gain triggered by a joint venture deconsolidation in the APAC segment. The following table provides a summary of the pre-tax charges by reportable segment for the year ended December 31, 2021: Year Ended December 31, 2021 (millions of dollars) Severance costs Other cost reduction charges Total cost reduction program related charges Merger related and other charges Total Americas $ 4 $ 2 $ 6 $ (6) $ — EMEA 204 33 237 1 238 APAC 16 12 28 (50) (22) Engineering 20 6 26 — 26 Other 15 26 41 (10) 31 Total $ 259 $ 79 $ 338 $ (65) $ 273 Cash Requirements The total cash requirements of the other charges incurred for the year ended December 31, 2023 are expected to be immaterial. Remaining cash requirements are expected to be paid primarily through 2024. Other charges, net of payments in the consolidated statements of cash flows for the twelve months ended December 31, 2023 and 2022 also reflect the impact of cash payments of liabilities, including merger-related tax liabilities, accrued as of December 31, 2022 and 2021, respectively. The following table summarizes the activities related to the company's cost reduction programs and other charges during 2022 and 2023: (millions of dollars) Total Russia charges Severance costs Other cost reduction charges Total cost reduction program related charges Merger related and other charges Total Balance, December 31, 2021 $ — $ 384 $ 38 $ 422 $ 31 $ 453 2022 Russia-Ukraine conflict and other charges 890 41 24 65 74 1,029 Less: Cash payments — (122) (24) (146) 19 (127) Less: Non-cash charges (890) — (7) (7) (109) (1,006) Foreign currency translation and other — (22) (4) (26) (3) (29) Balance, December 31, 2022 $ — $ 281 $ 27 $ 308 $ 12 $ 320 2023 Other Charges — 26 — 26 14 40 Less: Cash payments — (134) (1) (135) (23) (158) Less: Non-cash charges — — — — 12 12 Foreign currency translation and other — (1) — (1) 1 — Balance, December 31, 2023 $ — $ 172 $ 26 $ 198 $ 16 $ 214 Classification in the consolidated financial statements The pre-tax charges for each year are shown within operating profit in a separate line item on the consolidated statements of income. In the consolidated balance sheets, reductions in assets are recorded against the carrying value of the related assets and unpaid amounts are recorded as other current or long-term liabilities (see Note 7). On the consolidated statements of cash flows, the pre-tax impact of these charges, net of cash payments, is shown as an adjustment to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities. In Note 18 Segment Information, Linde excluded these charges from its management definition of segment operating profit; a reconciliation of segment operating profit to consolidated operating profit is shown within the segment operating profit table. |
Leases
Leases | 12 Months Ended |
Dec. 31, 2023 | |
Leases [Abstract] | |
Leases | LEASES In the normal course of its business, Linde enters into various leases as the lessee, primarily involving manufacturing and distribution equipment and office space. Linde determines whether a contract is or contains a lease at contract inception. Total lease and rental expenses related to operating lease right of use assets for the twelve months ended December 31, 2023 and 2022 was $284 million. Operating lease costs are included in selling, general and administrative expenses and cost of sales, exclusive of depreciation and amortization. The related assets and obligations are included in other long-term assets and other current liabilities and other long-term liabilities, respectively. Total lease and rental expenses related to finance lease right of use assets for the twelve months ended December 31, 2023 and 2022 were $58 million and $57 million, respectively, and the costs are included in depreciation and amortization and interest. Related assets and obligations are included in other long-term assets and other current liabilities and other long-term liabilities, respectively . Linde includes renewal options that are reasonably certain to be exercised as part of the lease term. Operating and financing lease expenses above include short term and variable lease costs which are immaterial. As most leases do not provide an implicit rate, Linde uses the applicable incremental borrowing rate at lease commencement to measure lease liabilities and right-of-use assets. Linde determines incremental borrowing rates through market sources. The company has elected to apply the short-term lease exception for all underlying asset classes. Short-term leases are leases that, at the commencement date, have a lease term of twelve months or less and do not include a purchase option that the lessee is reasonably certain to exercise. Leases that meet the short-term lease definition are not recognized on the balance sheet, but rather expensed on a straight-line basis over the lease term. Some leasing arrangements require variable payments that are dependent on usage, output, or may vary for other reasons, such as insurance. The company does not have material variable lease payments. Gains and losses on sale and leaseback transactions were immaterial. Operating cash flows used for operating leases for the twelve months ended December 31, 2023 and 2022 were $249 million and $254 million, respectively. Cash flows used for finance leases for the same period were immaterial. Supplemental balance sheet information related to leases is as follows: (Millions of dollars) December 31, 2023 December 31, 2022 Operating Leases Operating lease right-of-use assets $ 759 $ 726 Other current liabilities 177 181 Other long-term liabilities 572 540 Total operating lease liabilities 749 721 Finance Leases Finance lease right-of-use assets 179 146 Other current liabilities 50 42 Other long-term liabilities 143 114 Total finance lease liabilities $ 193 $ 156 Supplemental operating lease information: December 31, 2023 December 31, 2022 Weighted average lease term (years) 8 8 Weighted average discount rate 4.19 % 3.26 % Future operating and finance lease payments as of December 31, 2023 are as follows (millions of dollars): Period Operating Leases Financing Leases 2024 $ 209 $ 58 2025 157 50 2026 121 40 2027 88 29 2028 60 16 Thereafter 268 55 Total future undiscounted lease payments 903 248 Less imputed interest (154) (55) Total reported lease liability $ 749 $ 193 |
Leases | LEASES In the normal course of its business, Linde enters into various leases as the lessee, primarily involving manufacturing and distribution equipment and office space. Linde determines whether a contract is or contains a lease at contract inception. Total lease and rental expenses related to operating lease right of use assets for the twelve months ended December 31, 2023 and 2022 was $284 million. Operating lease costs are included in selling, general and administrative expenses and cost of sales, exclusive of depreciation and amortization. The related assets and obligations are included in other long-term assets and other current liabilities and other long-term liabilities, respectively. Total lease and rental expenses related to finance lease right of use assets for the twelve months ended December 31, 2023 and 2022 were $58 million and $57 million, respectively, and the costs are included in depreciation and amortization and interest. Related assets and obligations are included in other long-term assets and other current liabilities and other long-term liabilities, respectively . Linde includes renewal options that are reasonably certain to be exercised as part of the lease term. Operating and financing lease expenses above include short term and variable lease costs which are immaterial. As most leases do not provide an implicit rate, Linde uses the applicable incremental borrowing rate at lease commencement to measure lease liabilities and right-of-use assets. Linde determines incremental borrowing rates through market sources. The company has elected to apply the short-term lease exception for all underlying asset classes. Short-term leases are leases that, at the commencement date, have a lease term of twelve months or less and do not include a purchase option that the lessee is reasonably certain to exercise. Leases that meet the short-term lease definition are not recognized on the balance sheet, but rather expensed on a straight-line basis over the lease term. Some leasing arrangements require variable payments that are dependent on usage, output, or may vary for other reasons, such as insurance. The company does not have material variable lease payments. Gains and losses on sale and leaseback transactions were immaterial. Operating cash flows used for operating leases for the twelve months ended December 31, 2023 and 2022 were $249 million and $254 million, respectively. Cash flows used for finance leases for the same period were immaterial. Supplemental balance sheet information related to leases is as follows: (Millions of dollars) December 31, 2023 December 31, 2022 Operating Leases Operating lease right-of-use assets $ 759 $ 726 Other current liabilities 177 181 Other long-term liabilities 572 540 Total operating lease liabilities 749 721 Finance Leases Finance lease right-of-use assets 179 146 Other current liabilities 50 42 Other long-term liabilities 143 114 Total finance lease liabilities $ 193 $ 156 Supplemental operating lease information: December 31, 2023 December 31, 2022 Weighted average lease term (years) 8 8 Weighted average discount rate 4.19 % 3.26 % Future operating and finance lease payments as of December 31, 2023 are as follows (millions of dollars): Period Operating Leases Financing Leases 2024 $ 209 $ 58 2025 157 50 2026 121 40 2027 88 29 2028 60 16 Thereafter 268 55 Total future undiscounted lease payments 903 248 Less imputed interest (154) (55) Total reported lease liability $ 749 $ 193 |
Income Taxes
Income Taxes | 12 Months Ended |
Dec. 31, 2023 | |
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract] | |
Income Taxes | INCOME TAXES Pre-tax income applicable to U.S. and non-U.S. operations is as follows: (Millions of dollars) Year Ended December 31, 2023 2022 2021 United States $ 2,859 $ 2,502 $ 2,020 Non-U.S. 5,129 3,041 3,079 Total income before income taxes $ 7,988 $ 5,543 $ 5,099 Provision for Income Taxes The following is an analysis of the provision for income taxes: (Millions of dollars) Year Ended December 31, 2023 2022 2021 Current tax expense (benefit) U.S. federal $ 291 $ 486 $ 287 State and local 116 92 87 Non-U.S. 1,491 1,239 1,142 1,898 1,817 1,516 Deferred tax expense (benefit) U.S. federal 57 (12) 63 State and local 5 7 8 Non-U.S. (146) (378) (325) (84) (383) (254) Total income taxes $ 1,814 $ 1,434 $ 1,262 Effective Tax Rate Reconciliation For purposes of the effective tax rate reconciliation, the company utilizes the U.S. statutory income tax rate of 21%. An analysis of the difference between the provision for income taxes and the amount computed by applying the U.S. statutory income tax rate to pre-tax income follows: (Dollar amounts in millions) Year Ended December 31, 2023 2022 2021 U.S. statutory income tax $ 1,677 21.0 % $ 1,164 21.0 % $ 1,071 21.0 % State and local taxes – net of federal benefit 105 1.3 % 84 1.5 % 83 1.6 % Tax on Non-U.S. activities (a) 169 2.1 % 176 3.2 % 219 4.3 % Share-Based compensation (66) (0.8) % (41) (0.7) % (56) (1.1) % Russia/Ukraine Charges — — % 108 1.9 % — — % Other (b) (71) (0.9) % (57) (1.0) % (55) (1.1) % Provision for income taxes $ 1,814 22.7 % $ 1,434 25.9 % $ 1,262 24.7 % ________________________ (a) Primarily related to differences between the U.S. tax rate and the statutory tax rate in the countries in which the company operates. It also includes the U.S. tax impact of the non-U.S. activities and other non-U.S. permanent items and tax rate changes. Excluding 2021, which included an $83 million deferred income tax charge related to a tax rate increase in the U.K., these other items were not material. (b) Includes net tax benefits related to tax audit settlements of $54 million in 2023, of $71 million in 2022, and $47 million in 2021. Net Deferred Tax Liabilities Net deferred tax liabilities included in the consolidated balance sheets are comprised of the following: (Millions of dollars) December 31, 2023 2022 Deferred tax liabilities Fixed assets $ 2,686 $ 2,775 Goodwill 215 173 Other intangible assets 2,872 2,939 Subsidiary/equity investments 586 545 Other (a) 456 471 $ 6,815 $ 6,903 Deferred tax assets Carryforwards $ 285 $ 289 Benefit plans and related (b)(c) 243 165 Inventory 82 68 Accruals and other (d) 858 1,001 $ 1,468 $ 1,523 Less: Valuation allowances (e) (176) (276) $ 1,292 $ 1,247 Net deferred tax liabilities $ 5,523 $ 5,656 Recorded in the consolidated balance sheets as (Note 7): Other long-term assets 226 230 Deferred credits 5,749 5,886 $ 5,523 $ 5,656 ________________________ (a) Includes $221 million in 2023 and $206 million in 2022 related to right-of-use lease assets. (b) Includes deferred tax asset of $60 million and deferred tax liability of $54 million in 2023 and 2022, respectively, related to pension / OPEB funded status (see Notes 7 and 16). (c) The amounts are net of non-US deferred tax liabilities of $187 million in 2023 and $315 million in 2022. (d) Includes $228 million in 2023 and $212 million in 2022 related to lease liabilities. (e) Summary of changes in valuation allowances relating to deferred tax assets follows (millions of dollars): 2023 2022 2021 Balance, January 1, $ (276) $ (235) $ (243) Income tax (charge) benefit 65 (44) 8 Other, including write-offs 34 — — Translation adjustments 1 3 — Balance, December 31, $ (176) $ (276) $ (235) The company evaluates deferred tax assets quarterly to ensure that estimated future taxable income will be sufficient in character (e.g., capital gain versus ordinary income treatment), amount and timing to result in their recovery. After considering the positive and negative evidence, a valuation allowance is established to reduce the assets to their realizable value when management determines that it is more likely than not (i.e., greater than 50% likelihood) that a deferred tax asset will not be realized. Considerable judgment is required in establishing deferred tax valuation allowances. As of December 31, 2023, the company had $285 million of deferred tax assets relating to net operating losses (“NOLs”) and tax credits and $176 million of valuation allowances. These deferred tax assets include $235 million relating to NOLs of which $82 million expire within 5 years, $24 million expire after 5 years and $129 million have no expiration. The deferred tax assets also include $50 million related to credits of which $3 million expire within 5 years, $40 million expire after 5 years, and $7 million have no expiration. The valuation allowances of $176 million primarily relate to NOLs. Management has determined, based on financial projections and available tax strategies, that it is unlikely that the benefit of these losses will be realized. If events or circumstances change, valuation allowances are adjusted at that time resulting in an income tax benefit or charge. The company has $586 million of non-U.S income and withholding taxes accrued related to its investment in non-U.S. subsidiaries and equity investments. A provision has not been made for any additional non-U.S. income or withholding taxes at December 31, 2023 on approximately $4 billion of unremitted non-U.S. earnings on which the company intends to remain indefinitely reinvested or on other outside basis differences in its investments unrelated to unremitted earnings. A determination of these deferred taxes related to these amounts is not practicable. Uncertain Tax Positions Unrecognized income tax benefits represent income tax positions taken on income tax returns but not yet recognized in the consolidated financial statements. The company has unrecognized income tax benefits totaling $304 million, $325 million and $387 million as of December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021, respectively. If recognized, the majority of the unrecognized tax benefits and related interest and penalties would be recorded as a benefit to income tax expense on the consolidated statements of income. A reconciliation of the beginning and ending amount of unrecognized tax benefits is as follows: (Millions of dollars) 2023 2022 2021 Unrecognized income tax benefits, January 1 $ 325 $ 387 $ 452 Additions for tax positions of prior years 108 26 11 Reductions for tax positions of prior years (a) (121) (45) (11) Additions for current year tax positions — — 19 Reductions for settlements with taxing authorities (a)(b) (1) (23) (60) Other (c) (7) (20) (24) Unrecognized income tax benefits, December 31 $ 304 $ 325 $ 387 ________________________ (a) 2023 and 2022 amounts are primarily related to the settlement of tax audits. (b) Settlements are uncertain tax positions that were effectively settled with the taxing authorities, including positions where the company has agreed to amend its tax returns to eliminate the uncertainty. (c) Other includes reductions for statute of limitation lapses and foreign currency translation. The company classifies interest income and expense related to income taxes as tax expense in the consolidated statements of income. The company recognized net interest benefit of $17 million and $3 million and expense of $15 million for the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021, respectively. The company had $14 million and $35 million of accrued interest and penalties as of December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively, which were recorded in other long-term liabilities in the consolidated balance sheets (See Note 7). As of December 31, 2023, the company remained subject to examination in the following major tax jurisdictions for the tax years as indicated below: Major tax jurisdictions Open Years North and South America United States 2020 through 2023 Canada 2014 through 2023 Mexico 2014 through 2023 Brazil 2008 through 2023 Europe and Africa France 2019 through 2023 Germany 2018 through 2023 Spain 2010 through 2023 United Kingdom 2021 through 2023 Asia and Australia Australia 2019 through 2023 China 2018 through 2023 India 2006 through 2023 South Korea 2020 through 2023 The company is currently under audit in a number of jurisdictions. As a result, it is reasonably possible that some of these matters will conclude or reach the stage where a change in unrecognized income tax benefits may occur within the next twelve months. At the time new information becomes available, the company will record any adjustment to income tax expense as required. Final determinations, if any, are not expected to be material to the consolidated financial statements. The company is also subject to income taxes in many hundreds of state and local taxing jurisdictions that are open to tax examinations. |
Earnings Per Share - Linde PLC
Earnings Per Share - Linde PLC Shareholders | 12 Months Ended |
Dec. 31, 2023 | |
Earnings Per Share [Abstract] | |
Earnings Per Share - Linde PLC Shareholders | EARNINGS PER SHARE – LINDE PLC SHAREHOLDERS Basic and Diluted earnings per share - Linde plc shareholders is computed by dividing Income from continuing operations, Income from discontinued operations, net of tax, and Net income – Linde plc for the period by the weighted average number of either basic or diluted shares outstanding, as follows: 2023 2022 2021 Numerator (Millions of dollars) Income from continuing operations $ 6,199 $ 4,147 $ 3,821 Income from discontinued operations, net of tax — — 5 Net Income – Linde plc $ 6,199 $ 4,147 $ 3,826 Denominator (Thousands of shares) Weighted average shares outstanding 487,656 499,254 516,507 Shares earned and issuable under compensation plans 535 482 389 Weighted average shares used in basic earnings per share 488,191 499,736 516,896 Effect of dilutive securities Stock options and awards 4,099 4,302 4,979 Weighted average shares used in diluted earnings per share 492,290 504,038 521,875 Basic earnings per share from continuing operations $ 12.70 $ 8.30 $ 7.39 Basic earnings per share from discontinued operations — — 0.01 Basic Earnings Per Share $ 12.70 $ 8.30 $ 7.40 Diluted earnings per share from continuing operations $ 12.59 $ 8.23 $ 7.32 Diluted earnings per share from discontinued operations — — 0.01 Diluted Earnings Per Share $ 12.59 $ 8.23 $ 7.33 There were no antidilutive shares for the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021. |
Supplemental Information
Supplemental Information | 12 Months Ended |
Dec. 31, 2023 | |
Supplemental Information [Abstract] | |
Supplemental Information | SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION Income Statement (Millions of dollars) Year Ended December 31, 2023 2022 2021 Selling, General and Administrative Selling $ 1,330 $ 1,295 $ 1,342 General and administrative 1,965 1,812 1,847 $ 3,295 $ 3,107 $ 3,189 Year Ended December 31, 2023 2022 2021 Depreciation and Amortization (a) Depreciation $ 3,266 $ 3,633 $ 3,912 Amortization of intangibles (Note 10) 550 571 723 Depreciation and Amortization $ 3,816 $ 4,204 $ 4,635 Year Ended December 31, 2023 2022 2021 Other Income (Expenses) – Net Currency related net gains (losses) $ (47) $ (18) $ (29) Partnership income 2 18 13 Severance expense (12) (13) (5) Asset divestiture gains (losses) – net 6 (9) (31) Other – net gains (losses) 10 (40) 26 $ (41) $ (62) $ (26) Year Ended December 31, 2023 2022 2021 Interest Expense – Net Interest incurred on debt and other $ 480 $ 277 $ 227 Interest income (197) (117) (40) Amortization on acquired debt (16) (35) (53) Interest capitalized (67) (62) (57) $ 200 $ 63 $ 77 Balance Sheet (Millions of dollars) December 31, 2023 2022 Accounts Receivable Trade and Other receivables $ 5,175 $ 4,964 Less: allowance for expected credit losses (457) (405) $ 4,718 $ 4,559 Receivables Linde applies loss rates that are lifetime expected credit losses at initial recognition of the receivables. These expected loss rates are based on an analysis of the actual historical default rates for each business, taking regional circumstances into account. If necessary, these historical default rates are adjusted to reflect the impact of current changes in the macroeconomic environment using forward-looking information. The loss rates are also evaluated based on the expectations of the responsible management team regarding the collectability of the receivables. Gross trade receivables aged less than one year were $4,667 million and $4,498 million at December 31, 2023 and December 31, 2022, respectively, and gross receivables aged greater than one year were $354 million and $321 million at December 31, 2023 and December 31, 2022, respectively. Gross other receivables were $154 million and $145 million at December 31, 2023 and December 31, 2022, respectively. Receivables aged greater than one year are generally fully reserved unless specific circumstances warrant exceptions, such as those backed by federal governments. Provisions for expected credit losses were $175 million, $163 million and $129 million for the twelve months ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021, respectively. The allowance activity in the twelve months ended December 31, 2023 related to write-offs of uncollectible amounts, net of recoveries and currency movements is not material. December 31, 2023 2022 Inventories Raw materials and supplies $ 614 $ 567 Work in process 390 368 Finished goods 1,111 1,043 $ 2,115 $ 1,978 December 31, 2023 2022 Prepaid and Other Current Assets Prepaid and other deferred charges (b) $ 583 $ 597 VAT recoverable 178 225 Unrealized gains on derivatives (Note 12) 73 24 Other 93 104 $ 927 $ 950 December 31, 2023 2022 Other Long-term Assets Pension assets (Note 16) $ 380 $ 661 Insurance contracts (c) 38 39 Long-term receivables, net (d) 163 164 Lease assets (Note 4) 938 872 Deposits 76 52 Investments carried at cost (e) 187 184 Deferred charges 60 66 Deferred income taxes (Note 5) 226 230 Unrealized gains on derivatives (Note 12) 8 4 Other 223 204 $ 2,299 $ 2,476 December 31, 2023 2022 Other Current Liabilities Accrued expenses $ 1,494 $ 1,533 Payroll 678 614 VAT payable 253 259 Pension and postretirement (Note 16) 31 51 Interest payable 129 118 Lease liability (Note 4) 227 223 Insurance reserves 21 19 Unrealized losses on derivatives (Note 12) 41 23 Cost reduction programs and other charges (Note 3) 146 187 Other 1,136 1,055 $ 4,156 $ 4,082 December 31, 2023 2022 Other Long-term Liabilities Pension and postretirement (Note 16) $ 693 $ 640 Tax liabilities for uncertain tax positions (Note 5) 216 248 Tax Act liabilities (f) 80 139 Lease liability (Note 4) 715 654 Interest and penalties for uncertain tax positions (Note 5) 14 35 Insurance reserves 54 52 Asset retirement obligation 305 305 Unrealized losses on derivatives (Note 12) 6 73 Cost reduction programs and other charges (Note 3) 68 133 Contingent liabilities (Note 17) 1,148 29 Other 505 487 $ 3,804 $ 2,795 December 31, 2023 2022 Deferred Credits Deferred income taxes (Note 5) $ 5,749 $ 5,886 Contract liabilities (Note 19) 1,049 913 $ 6,798 $ 6,799 December 31, 2023 2022 Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) Cumulative translation adjustment - net of taxes: Americas (g) $ (3,618) $ (3,942) EMEA (g) (737) (1,249) APAC (g) (1,037) (835) Engineering (93) (241) Other 113 483 (5,372) (5,784) Derivatives – net of taxes 7 62 Pension/OPEB funded status obligation (net of $60 million tax benefit in 2023 and $(54) million tax obligation in 2022) (Note 16) (440) (60) $ (5,805) $ (5,782) (a) Depreciation and amortization expense in 2023 include $529 million and $462 million, respectively, of Linde AG purchase accounting impacts. In 2022, depreciation and amortization expense include $1,006 million and $474 million, respectively, of Linde AG purchase accounting impacts. (b) Includes estimated income tax payments of $173 million in 2023 and $164 million in 2022. (c) Consists primarily of insurance contracts and other investments to be utilized for non-qualified pension and OPEB obligations. (d) The balances at December 31, 2023 and 2022 are net of reserves of $42 million and $36 million, respectively. The amounts relate primarily to long-term notes receivable from customers in APAC, government receivables in Brazil and receivables from the sale of GIST. (e) Includes investments from the deconsolidation of Russian subsidiaries. (f) Represents tax payable related to the deemed repatriation tax pursuant to the U.S. Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2018. The company is required to fund the balance in annual installments through 2025. |
Property, Plant & Equipment - N
Property, Plant & Equipment - Net | 12 Months Ended |
Dec. 31, 2023 | |
Property, Plant and Equipment [Abstract] | |
Property, Plant & Equipment - Net | PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENT – NET Significant classes of property, plant and equipment are as follows: (Millions of dollars) December 31, Depreciable Lives (Yrs) 2023 2022 Production plants (primarily 15-year life) (a) 10-20 $ 33,071 $ 30,554 Storage tanks 15-20 5,445 4,807 Transportation equipment and other 3-15 4,050 3,434 Cylinders 10-30 4,993 4,604 Buildings 25-40 3,275 3,002 Land and improvements (b) 0-20 1,087 1,047 Construction in progress 3,404 3,239 55,325 50,687 Less: accumulated depreciation (30,773) (27,139) $ 24,552 $ 23,548 (a) Depreciable lives of production plants related to long-term customer supply contracts are generally consistent with the contract lives. |
Goodwill
Goodwill | 12 Months Ended |
Dec. 31, 2023 | |
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract] | |
Goodwill | GOODWILL Changes in the carrying amount of goodwill for the years ended December 31, 2023 and 2022 were as follows: (Millions of dollars) Americas EMEA APAC Engineering Other Total Balance, December 31, 2021 $ 9,087 $ 10,278 $ 4,854 $ 2,496 $ 323 $ 27,038 Acquisitions 44 28 — — — 72 Foreign currency translation and other 5 (773) (304) (146) (13) (1,231) Disposals (Note 2 & Note 3) — (41) — (1) (20) (62) Balance, December 31, 2022 9,136 9,492 4,550 2,349 290 25,817 Acquisitions (Note 2) 550 — 3 — — 553 Foreign currency translation and other 17 347 (54) 73 3 386 Disposals — (5) — — — (5) Balance, December 31, 2023 $ 9,703 $ 9,834 $ 4,499 $ 2,422 $ 293 $ 26,751 |
Other Intangible Assets
Other Intangible Assets | 12 Months Ended |
Dec. 31, 2023 | |
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract] | |
Other Intangible Assets | OTHER INTANGIBLE ASSETS The following is a summary of Linde’s other intangible assets at December 31, 2023 and 2022: (Millions of dollars) For the year ended December 31, 2023 Customer Relationships Brands/Tradenames Other Intangible Assets Total Cost: Balance, December 31, 2022 $ 11,062 $ 2,565 $ 1,697 $ 15,324 Additions 258 6 50 314 Foreign currency translation 185 38 41 264 Disposals (3) — (20) (23) Other * (23) — 145 122 Balance, December 31, 2023 11,479 2,609 1,913 16,001 Less: accumulated amortization: Balance, December 31, 2022 (1,841) (196) (867) (2,904) Amortization expense (Note 7) (423) (36) (91) (550) Foreign currency translation (36) (1) (24) (61) Disposals — — 21 21 Other * 30 — (138) (108) Balance, December 31, 2023 (2,270) (233) (1,099) (3,602) Net balance at December 31, 2023 $ 9,209 $ 2,376 $ 814 $ 12,399 (Millions of dollars) For the year ended December 31, 2022 Customer Relationships Brands/Tradenames Other Intangible Assets Total Cost: Balance, December 31, 2021 $ 11,859 $ 2,685 $ 1,629 $ 16,173 Additions 19 — 53 72 Foreign currency translation (660) (120) (56) (836) Disposals (Note 2) (140) — (45) (185) Other * (16) — 116 100 Balance, December 31, 2022 11,062 2,565 1,697 15,324 Less: accumulated amortization: Balance, December 31, 2021 (1,541) (159) (671) (2,371) Amortization expense (Note 7) (419) (42) (110) (571) Foreign currency translation 80 5 13 98 Disposals (Note 2) 34 — 16 50 Other * 5 — (115) (110) Balance, December 31, 2022 (1,841) (196) (867) (2,904) Net balance at December 31, 2022 $ 9,221 $ 2,369 $ 830 $ 12,420 *Other primarily relates to the write-off of fully amortized assets and reclassifications. There are no expected residual values related to these intangible assets. Amortization expense for the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021 was $550 million, $571 million and $723 million, respectively. The remaining weighted-average amortization period for intangible assets is approximately 24 years. Total estimated annual amortization expense related to finite-lived intangibles is as follows: (Millions of dollars) 2024 $ 578 2025 528 2026 516 2027 505 2028 492 Thereafter 8,035 Total amortization related to finite-lived intangible assets 10,654 Indefinite-lived intangible assets at December 31, 2023 1,745 Net intangible assets at December 31, 2023 $ 12,399 |
Debt
Debt | 12 Months Ended |
Dec. 31, 2023 | |
Debt Disclosure [Abstract] | |
Debt | DEBT The following is a summary of Linde’s outstanding debt at December 31, 2023 and 2022 : (Millions of dollars) December 31, 2023 December 31, 2022 SHORT-TERM Commercial paper $ 4,483 $ 3,926 Other borrowings (primarily non U.S.) 230 191 Total short-term debt 4,713 4,117 LONG-TERM (a) (U.S. dollar denominated unless otherwise noted) 2.70% Notes due 2023 (c) — 501 2.00% Euro denominated notes due 2023 (d) — 699 5.875% GBP denominated notes due 2023 (d) — 367 1.20% Euro denominated notes due 2024 607 588 1.875% Euro denominated notes due 2024 (b) 332 324 4.800% Notes due 2024 300 299 4.700% Notes due 2025 599 598 2.65% Notes due 2025 399 400 1.625% Euro denominated notes due 2025 550 533 3.625% Euro denominated notes due 2025 (e) 551 — 0.00% Euro denominated notes due 2026 774 751 3.20% Notes due 2026 724 724 3.434% Notes due 2026 198 198 1.652% Euro denominated notes due 2027 90 88 0.250% Euro denominated notes due 2027 827 802 1.00% Euro denominated notes due 2027 553 536 1.00% Euro denominated notes due 2028 (b) 780 749 3.375% Euro denominated notes due 2029 (e) 824 — 1.10% Notes due 2030 697 696 1.90% Euro denominated notes due 2030 114 111 1.375% Euro denominated notes due 2031 829 803 0.550% Euro denominated notes due 2032 823 798 0.375% Euro denominated notes due 2033 546 529 3.625% Euro denominated notes due 2034 (e) 714 — 1.625% Euro denominated notes due 2035 876 849 3.55% Notes due 2042 666 665 2.00% Notes due 2050 296 296 1.00% Euro denominated notes due 2051 755 731 Non U.S. borrowings 226 152 Other 10 10 14,660 13,797 Less: current portion of long-term debt (1,263) (1,599) Total long-term debt 13,397 12,198 Total debt $ 19,373 $ 17,914 ________________________ (a) Amounts are net of unamortized discounts, premiums and/or debt issuance costs as applicable. (b) December 31, 2023 and December 31, 2022 included a cumulative $46 million and $56 million adjustment to carrying value, respectively, related to hedge accounting of interest rate swaps, including related terminations. Refer to Note 12. (c) In February 2023, Linde repaid $500 million of 2.70% notes that became due. (d) In April 2023, Linde repaid €650 million of 2.00% notes and £300 million of 5.875% notes that became due. (e) In June 2023, Linde issued €500 million of 3.625% notes due in 2025, €750 million of 3.375% notes due in 2029 and €650 million of 3.625% notes due in 2034. Credit Facilities On December 7, 2022, the company and certain of its subsidiaries entered into an amended and restated unsecured revolving credit agreement (the “Five Year Credit Agreement”) with a syndicate of banking institutions. The Five Year Credit Agreement provides for total commitments of $5.0 billion, which may be increased up to $6.5 billion, subject to receipt of additional commitments and satisfaction of customary conditions. There are no financial maintenance covenants contained within the Credit Agreement. The revolving credit facility expires on December 7, 2027 with the option to request two one-year extensions of the expiration date. In addition, on December 6, 2023, the company and certain of its subsidiaries entered into an unsecured 364-day revolving credit agreement (the “364-Day Credit Agreement” and, together with the Five Year Credit Agreement, the “Credit Agreements”) with a syndicate of banking institutions. The 364-Day Credit Agreement provides for total commitments of $1.5 billion. There are no financial maintenance covenants contained within the Credit Agreement. The 364-Day Credit Agreement expires on December 4, 2024 with the option to elect to have the entire principal balances outstanding under the Credit Agreement converted into non-revolving term loans, which will be due and payable one year after the commitment termination date. No borrowings were outstanding under the Credit Agreements as of December 31, 2023. Other Debt Information The weighted-average interest rates of short-term borrowings outstanding were 4.8% and 3.2% as of December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively. Expected maturities of long-term debt are as follows: (Millions of dollars) 2024 $ 1,263 2025 2,113 2026 1,733 2027 1,500 2028 835 Thereafter 7,216 $ 14,660 As of December 31, 2023, the amount of Linde's assets pledged as collateral was immaterial. See Note 13 for the fair value information related to debt. |
Financial Instruments
Financial Instruments | 12 Months Ended |
Dec. 31, 2023 | |
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Abstract] | |
Financial Instruments | FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS In its normal operations, Linde is exposed to market risks relating to fluctuations in interest rates, foreign currency exchange rates, energy and commodity costs. The objective of financial risk management at Linde is to minimize the negative impact of such fluctuations on the company’s earnings and cash flows. To manage these risks, among other strategies, Linde routinely enters into various derivative financial instruments (“derivatives”) including interest-rate swap and treasury rate lock agreements, currency-swap agreements, forward contracts, currency options, and commodity-swap agreements. These instruments are not entered into for trading purposes and Linde only uses commonly traded and non-leveraged instruments. There are three types of derivatives that the company enters into: (i) those relating to fair-value exposures, (ii) those relating to cash-flow exposures, and (iii) those relating to foreign currency net investment exposures. Fair-value exposures relate to recognized assets or liabilities, and firm commitments; cash-flow exposures relate to the variability of future cash flows associated with recognized assets or liabilities, or forecasted transactions; and net investment exposures relate to the impact of foreign currency exchange rate changes on the carrying value of net assets denominated in foreign currencies. When a derivative is executed and hedge accounting is appropriate, it is designated as either a fair-value hedge, cash-flow hedge, or a net investment hedge. Currently, Linde designates all interest-rate and treasury rate locks as hedges for accounting purposes; however, cross-currency contracts are generally not designated as hedges for accounting purposes. Certain currency contracts related to forecasted transactions are designated as hedges for accounting purposes. Whether designated as hedges for accounting purposes or not, all derivatives are linked to an appropriate underlying exposure. On an ongoing basis, the company assesses the hedge effectiveness of all derivatives designated as hedges for accounting purposes to determine if they continue to be highly effective in offsetting changes in fair values or cash flows of the underlying hedged items. If it is determined that the hedge is not highly effective, through the use of a qualitative assessment, then hedge accounting will be discontinued prospectively. Counterparties to Linde’s derivatives are major banking institutions with credit ratings of investment grade or better. The company has Credit Support Annexes ("CSAs") in place for certain entities with their principal counterparties to minimize potential default risk and to mitigate counterparty risk. Under the CSAs, the fair values of derivatives for the purpose of interest rate and currency management are collateralized with cash on a regular basis. As of December 31, 2023, the impact of such collateral posting arrangements on the fair value of derivatives was insignificant. Management believes the risk of incurring losses on derivative contracts related to credit risk is remote and any losses would be immaterial. The following table is a summary of the notional amount and fair value of derivatives outstanding at December 31, 2023 and 2022 for consolidated subsidiaries: Fair Value (Millions of dollars) Notional Amounts Assets (a) Liabilities (a) December 31, 2023 2022 2023 2022 2023 2022 Derivatives Not Designated as Hedging Instruments: Currency contracts: Balance sheet items $ 4,567 $ 3,056 $ 46 $ 13 $ 26 $ 7 Forecasted transactions 335 449 11 9 6 9 Cross-currency swaps — 42 — — — 1 Commodity contracts N/A N/A — — — — Total $ 4,902 $ 3,547 $ 57 $ 22 $ 32 $ 17 Derivatives Designated as Hedging Instruments: Currency contracts: Forecasted transactions $ 749 $ 323 $ 20 $ 6 $ 4 $ 5 Commodity contracts N/A N/A 3 — 7 4 Interest rate swaps 1,214 856 1 — 4 70 Total Hedges $ 1,963 $ 1,179 $ 24 $ 6 $ 15 $ 79 Total Derivatives $ 6,865 $ 4,726 $ 81 $ 28 $ 47 $ 96 (a) Amounts at December 31, 2023 and 2022 included current assets of $73 million and $24 million, which are recorded in prepaid and other current assets; long-term assets of $8 million and $4 million, which are recorded in other long-term assets; current liabilities of $41 million and $23 million, which are recorded in other current liabilities; and long-term liabilities of $6 million and $73 million, which are recorded in other long-term liabilities. Balance Sheet Items Foreign currency contracts related to balance sheet items consist of forward contracts entered into to manage the exposure to fluctuations in foreign-currency exchange rates on recorded balance sheet assets and liabilities denominated in currencies other than the functional currency of the related operating unit. Certain forward currency contracts are entered into to protect underlying monetary assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies from foreign exchange risk and are not designated as hedging instruments. For balance sheet items that are not designated as hedging instruments, the fair value adjustments on these contracts are offset by the fair value adjustments recorded on the underlying monetary assets and liabilities. Forecasted Transactions Foreign currency contracts related to forecasted transactions consist of forward contracts entered into to manage the exposure to fluctuations in foreign-currency exchange rates on (1) forecasted purchases of capital-related equipment and services, (2) forecasted sales, or (3) other forecasted cash flows denominated in currencies other than the functional currency of the related operating units. For forecasted transactions that are designated as cash flow hedges, fair value adjustments are recorded to accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) with deferred amounts reclassified to earnings over the same time period as the income statement impact of the associat ed purchase. For forecasted transactions that do not qualify for cash flow hedging relationships, fair value adjustments are recorded directly to earnings. Linde is hedging forecasted transactions for a maximum period of three years. Cross-Currency Swaps Cross-currency interest rate swaps are entered into to limit the foreign currency risk of future principal and interest cash flows associated with intercompany loans, and to a more limited extent bonds, denominated in non-functional currencies. The fair value adjustments on the cross-currency swaps are recorded to earnings, where they are offset by fair value adjustments on the underlying intercompany loan or bond. Commodity Contracts Commodity contracts are entered into to manage the exposure to fluctuations in commodity prices, which arise in the normal course of business from its procurement transactions. To reduce the extent of this risk, Linde enters into a limited number of electricity, natural gas, and propane gas derivatives. For forecasted transactions that are designated as cash flow hedges, fair value adjustments are recorded to accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) with deferred amounts reclassified to earnings over the same time period as the income statement impact of the associated purchase. Linde is hedging commodity contracts for a maximum period of three years. Net Investment Hedges As of December 31, 2023, Linde has €10.7 billion ($11.7 billion) Euro-denominated notes and intercompany loans and ¥4.7 billion ($0.7 billion) CNY-denominated intercompany loans that are designated as hedges of the net investment positions in certain foreign operations. Since hedge inception, the deferred gain recorded within cumulative translation adjustment component of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) in the consolidated balance sheet is $45 million (deferred loss of $305 million in the consolidated statement of comprehensive income for the year ended December 31, 2023). As of December 31, 2023, exchange rate movements relating to previously designated hedges that remain in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) is a gain of $56 million. These movements will remain in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss), until appropriate, such as upon sale or liquidation of the related foreign operations at which time amounts will be reclassified to the consolidated statements of income. Interest Rate Swaps Linde uses interest rate swaps to hedge the exposure to changes in the fair value of financial assets and financial liabilities as a result of interest rate changes. These interest rate swaps effectively convert fixed-rate interest exposures to variable rates; fair value adjustments are recognized in earnings along with an equally offsetting charge/benefit to earnings for the changes in the fair value of the underlying financial asset or financial liability (see Note 11). Certain interest rate swaps in a designated fair value hedge relationship were terminated during 2023. Upon termination, adjustments are no longer recorded to the hedged items for changes in respective fair values attributable to the risk being hedged. The unrecognized loss on the terminated interest rate swaps is shown as a discount to long-term debt of $56 million, and will be amortized to interest expense over the remaining life of the debt, which extends through April 2028. In addition, as of December 31, 2023, Linde is using interest rate swaps with a notional value of €1 billion to hedge the variability of future cash flows of forecasted transactions due to interest rate risk and has designated this as a cash flow hedge. Derivatives Impact on Consolidated Statements of Income The following table summarizes the impact of the company's derivatives on the consolidated statements of income: (Millions of dollars) Amount of Pre-Tax Gain (Loss) December 31, 2023 2022 2021 Derivatives Not Designated as Hedging Instruments Currency contracts: Balance sheet items: Debt-related $ 91 $ 12 $ 42 Other balance sheet items (1) 8 (5) Total $ 90 $ 20 $ 38 * The gains (losses) on balance sheet items are offset by gains (losses) recorded on the underlying hedged assets and liabilities. Accordingly, the gains (losses) for the derivatives and the underlying hedged assets and liabilities related to debt items are recorded in the consolidated statements of income as interest expense-net. Other balance sheet items and anticipated net income gains (losses) are recorded in the consolidated statements of income as other income (expenses)-net. The amounts of gain or loss recognized in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) and reclassified to the consolidated statement of income was not material for the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022, and 2021. Net impacts expected to be reclassified to earnings during the next twelve months are also not material. |
Fair Value Disclosures
Fair Value Disclosures | 12 Months Ended |
Dec. 31, 2023 | |
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract] | |
Fair Value Disclosures | FAIR VALUE DISCLOSURES The fair value hierarchy prioritizes the inputs to valuation techniques used to measure fair value into three broad levels as follows: Level 1 – quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities Level 2 – quoted prices for similar assets and liabilities in active markets or inputs that are observable Level 3 – inputs that are unobservable (for example cash flow modeling inputs based on assumptions) Assets and Liabilities Measured at Fair Value on a Recurring Basis The following table summarizes assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis at December 31, 2023 and 2022: Fair Value Measurements Using (Millions of dollars) Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 2023 2022 2023 2022 2023 2022 Assets Derivative assets $ — $ — $ 81 $ 28 $ — $ — Investments and securities * 16 20 — — 12 13 Total $ 16 $ 20 $ 81 $ 28 $ 12 $ 13 Liabilities Derivative liabilities $ — $ — $ 47 $ 96 $ — $ — * Investments and securities are recorded in prepaid and other current assets and other long-term assets in the company's consolidated balance sheets. Level 1 investments and securities are marketable securities traded on an exchange. Level 2 investments are based on market prices obtained from independent brokers or determined using quantitative models that use as their basis readily observable market parameters that are actively quoted and can be validated through external sources, including third-party pricing services, brokers and market transactions. Level 3 investments and securities consist of a venture fund. For the valuation, Linde uses the net asset value received as part of the fund's quarterly reporting, which for the most part is not based on quoted prices in active markets. In order to reflect current market conditions, Linde proportionally adjusts these by observable market data (stock exchange prices) or current transaction prices. Changes in level 3 investments and securities were immaterial. The fair value of cash and cash equivalents, short-term debt, accounts receivable-net, and accounts payable approximate carrying value because of the short-term maturities of these instruments. The fair value of long-term debt is estimated based on the quoted market prices for the same or similar issues. Long-term debt is categorized within Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy. At December 31, 2023, the estimated fair value of Linde’s long-term debt portfolio was $13,337 million versus a carrying value of $14,660 million. At December 31, 2022 the estimated fair value of Linde’s long-term debt portfolio was $11,994 million versus a carrying value of $13,797 million. Differences between the carrying value and the fair value are attributable to fluctuations in interest rates subsequent to when the debt was issued and relative to stated coupon rates. |
Equity and Noncontrolling Inter
Equity and Noncontrolling Interests | 12 Months Ended |
Dec. 31, 2023 | |
Equity [Abstract] | |
Equity and Noncontrolling Interests | EQUITY AND NONCONTROLLING INTERESTS Linde plc Shareholders’ Equity On March 1, 2023, in connection with the shareholder approved intercompany reorganization that resulted in the delisting of old Linde plc from the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) and the Frankfurt Stock Exchange (FSE), and the subsequent relisting of new Linde plc to the NYSE, Linde shareholders automatically received one share of the new holding company in exchange for each share of Linde plc that was previously owned. The company issued 490,766,972 new Linde shares. Linde plc's historical treasury shares were immediately canceled which resulted in an approximate $15 billion decrease in treasury shares and retained earnings in Shareholders' Equity. On November 7, 2023, Linde plc transferred the listing of its ordinary shares from the NYSE to the Nasdaq, and continued trading under the ticker symbol "LIN". At December 31, 2023 and 2022, Linde has total authorized share capital of €1,825,000 divided into 1,750,000,000 ordinary shares of €0.001 each, 25,000 A ordinary shares of €1.00 each, 25,000 deferred shares of €1.00 each and 25,000,000 preferred shares of €0.001 each. At December 31, 2023 there were 490,766,972 and 482,445,145 of Linde plc ordinary shares issued and outstanding, respectively. At December 31, 2023 there were no shares of A ordinary shares, deferred shares or preferred shares issued or outstanding. At December 31, 2022 there were 552,012,862 and 492,457,627 of Linde plc ordinary shares issued and outstanding, respectively. At December 31, 2022, there were no shares of A ordinary shares, deferred shares or preferred shares issued or outstanding. Linde’s Board of Directors may from time to time authorize the issuance of one or more series of preferred stock and, in connection with the creation of such series, determine the characteristics of each such series including, without limitation, the preference and relative, participating, optional or other special rights, and the qualifications, limitations or restrictions of the series. Other Linde plc Ordinary Share and Treasury Share Transactions Linde may issue new ordinary shares for dividend reinvestment and stock purchase plans and employee savings and incentive plans. No new ordinary shares were issued in 2023, 2022 and 2021. On January 22, 2019 the company’s board of directors approved the additional repurchase of $6.0 billion of its ordinary shares under which Linde had repurchased 24,847,354 shares through December 31, 2021. Linde completed the repurchases under this program in the first quarter of 2021. On January 25, 2021 the company's board of directors approved the additional repurchase of $5.0 billion of its ordinary shares under which Linde had repurchased 16,662,678 shares through December 31, 2022. Linde completed the repurchases under this program in the first quarter of 2022. On February 28, 2022, the company's board of directors authorized a new share repurchase program for up to $10.0 billion of its ordinary shares ("2022 program") under which Linde had repurchased 26,411,514 shares through December 31, 2023. This program expires on July 31, 2024. On October 23, 2023, the company's board of directors approved a new share repurchase program for up to $15.0 billion of its ordinary shares ("2023 program") under which Linde has no repurchases as of December 31, 2023. This program will terminate on the earlier of the date as the maximum authority under the 2023 program is reached or the board terminates the 2023 program. Noncontrolling Interests Noncontrolling interest ownership changes are presented within the consolidated statements of equity. 2022 includes the impact of deconsolidating the company's Russian gas and engineering business entities (see Note 3). Redeemable Noncontrolling Interests |
Share-Based Compensation
Share-Based Compensation | 12 Months Ended |
Dec. 31, 2023 | |
Share-Based Payment Arrangement [Abstract] | |
Share-Based Compensation | SHARE-BASED COMPENSATION Share-based compensation expense was $141 million in 2023 ($107 million and $128 million in 2022 and 2021, respectively). The related income tax benefit recognized was $88 million in 2023 ($64 million and $64 million in 2022 and 2021, respectively). The expense was primarily recorded in selling, general and administrative expenses and no share-based compensation expense was capitalized. Summary of Plans The 2021 Linde plc Long Term Incentive Plan (the “2021 Plan") was adopted by the Board of Directors and shareholders of Linde plc on July 26, 2021. The 2021 Plan permits awards of stock options, stock appreciation rights, restricted stock and restricted stock units, performance-based stock units and other equity awards to eligible officer and non-officer employees and non-employee directors of the company and its affiliates. As of December 31, 2023, 7,661,431 shares remained available for equity grants under the 2021 Plan, of which 2,452,443 shares may be granted as awards other than options or stock appreciation rights. Exercise prices for options granted under the 2021 Plan may not be less than the closing market price of the company’s ordinary shares on the date of grant and granted options may not be re-priced or exchanged without shareholder approval. Options granted under the 2021 Plan subject only to time vesting requirements may become partially exercisable after a minimum of one year after the date of grant but may not become fully exercisable until at least three years have elapsed from the date of grant, and all options have a maximum duration of ten years. In order to satisfy option exercises and other equity grants, the company may issue authorized but previously unissued shares or it may issue treasury shares. Stock Option Fair Value The company utilizes the Black-Scholes Options-Pricing Model to determine the fair value of stock options consistent with that used in prior years. Management is required to make certain assumptions with respect to selected model inputs, including anticipated changes in the underlying stock price (i.e., expected volatility) and option exercise activity (i.e., expected life). Expected volatility is based on the historical volatility of the company’s stock over the most recent period commensurate with the estimated expected life of the company’s stock options and other factors. The expected life of options granted, which represents the period of time that the options are expected to be outstanding, is based primarily on historical exercise experience. The expected dividend yield is based on the company’s most recent history and expectation of dividend payouts. The risk-free rate is based on the U.S. Treasury yield curve in effect at the time of grant for a period commensurate with the estimated expected life. If factors change and result in different assumptions in future periods, the stock option expense that the company records for future grants may differ significantly from what the company has recorded in the current period. The weighted-average fair value of options granted during 2023 was $83.69 ($45.07 in 2022 and $37.80 in 2021) based on the Black-Scholes Options-Pricing model. The increase in the grant date fair value year-over-year is primarily attributable to the increase in the stock price. The following weighted-average assumptions were used to value the grants in 2023, 2022 and 2021: Year Ended December 31, 2023 2022 2021 Dividend yield 1.4 % 1.7 % 1.7 % Volatility 22.0 % 20.6 % 18.4 % Risk-free interest rate 4.23 % 1.70 % 1.10 % Expected term years 5 5 6 The following table summarizes option activity under the plans as of December 31, 2023 and changes during the period then ended (averages are calculated on a weighted basis; life in years; intrinsic value expressed in millions): Activity Number of Average Average Aggregate Outstanding at January 1, 2023 6,720 $ 164.03 Granted 361 354.16 Exercised (1,225) 137.78 Cancelled or expired (31) 311.86 Outstanding at December 31, 2023 5,825 $ 180.58 5.0 $ 1,341 Exercisable at December 31, 2023 4,926 $ 159.18 4.4 $ 1,239 The aggregate intrinsic value represents the difference between the company’s closing stock price of $410.71 as of December 31, 2023 and the exercise price multiplied by the number of in the money options outstanding as of that date. The total intrinsic value of stock options exercised during 2023 was $283 million ($176 million and $294 million in 2022 and 2021, respectively). Cash received from option exercises under all share-based payment arrangements for 2023 was $33 million ($36 million and $50 million in 2022 and 2021, respectively). The cash tax benefit realized from share-based compensation totaled $86 million for 2023 ($61 million and $64 million cash tax benefit in 2022 and 2021, respectively). As of December 31, 2023, $17 million of unrecognized compensation cost related to non-vested stock options is expected to be recognized over a weighted-average period of approximately 1 year. Performance-Based and Restricted Stock Unit Awards In 2023, the company granted 341,915 performance-based stock unit awards under the 2021 Plan to senior management that vest, subject to the attainment of pre-established minimum performance criteria, principally on the third anniversary of their date of grant. These awards are tied to either after tax return on capital ("ROC") performance or relative total shareholder return ("TSR") performance versus that of a blended group of companies that is comprised of the S&P 500, excluding the Financial sector, and Eurofirst 300. The actual number of shares issued in settlement of a vested award can range from zero to 200 percent of the target number of shares granted based upon the company’s attainment of specified performance targets at the end of a three-year period. Compensation expense related to these awards is recognized over the three-year performance period based on the fair value of the closing market price of the company’s ordinary shares on the date of the grant and the estimated performance that will be achieved. Compensation expense for ROC awards will be adjusted during the three-year performance period based upon the estimated performance levels that will be achieved. TSR awards are measured at their grant date fair value and not subsequently re-measured. The number of performance-based stock unit awards granted in 2023 includes an increase of 201,120 stock units to the target number of performance-based awards originally granted in 2020, as these awards achieved a higher payout factor upon completion of the three-year performance period. The weighted-average fair value of ROC awards granted in 2023 was $340.80 ($257.63 in 2022 and $241.10 in 2021). These fair values are based on the closing market price of Linde's ordinary shares on the grant date adjusted for dividends that will not be paid during the vesting period. The weighted-average fair value of TSR awards granted in 2023 was $489.33 ($301.42 in 2022 and $301.04 in 2021) and was estimated using a Monte Carlo simulation performed as of the grant date. There were 160,839 restricted stock units granted to employees by Linde during 2023. The weighted-average fair value of restricted stock units granted during 2023 was $332.69 ($260.27 in 2022 and $242.60 in 2021). These fair values are based on the closing market price of Linde's ordinary shares on the grant date adjusted for dividends that will not be paid during the vesting period. Compensation expense related to the restricted stock units is recognized over the vesting period. The following table summarizes non-vested performance-based and restricted stock unit award activity as of December 31, 2023 and changes during the period then ended (shares based on target amounts, averages are calculated on a weighted basis): Performance-Based Restricted Stock Number of Average Number of Average Non-vested at January 1, 2023 583 $ 226.04 646 $ 190.33 Granted 342 385.10 161 332.69 Vested (340) 174.99 (154) 176.06 Cancelled and Forfeited (13) 156.14 (15) 163.12 Non-vested at December 31, 2023 572 $ 281.11 638 $ 232.15 There are approximately 11 thousand performance-based stock units and 17 thousand restricted stock units that are non-vested at December 31, 2023 which will be settled in cash due to foreign regulatory limitations. The liability related to these grants reflects the current estimate of performance that will be achieved and the current share price. As of December 31, 2023, $48 million of unrecognized compensation cost related to performance-based awards and $42 million of unrecognized compensation cost related to the restricted stock unit awards is expected to be recognized primarily through the first quarter of 2026. |
Retirement Programs
Retirement Programs | 12 Months Ended |
Dec. 31, 2023 | |
Retirement Benefits [Abstract] | |
Retirement Programs | RETIREMENT PROGRAMS Defined Benefit Pension Plans - U.S. The Linde retirement plans are non-contributory defined benefit plans covering eligible employees and its participating affiliates. Effective July 1, 2002, the Linde U.S. Pension Plan was amended to give participating employees a one-time irrevocable choice between a traditional benefit (the “Traditional Design”) and an account-based benefit (the “Account-Based Design”). The Traditional Design pays a monthly benefit based on years of service and average pay during the last years of the participant’s career with Linde. The Account-Based Design gives participants annual pay credits equal to 4% of eligible compensation, plus interest credits based on long-term treasury rates on the accumulated account balance. This new formula applies to all new employees hired after April 30, 2002 into businesses adopting this plan. The U.S. pension plan assets are comprised of a diversified mix of investments, including corporate equities, government securities and corporate debt securities. Linde has several plans that provide supplementary retirement benefits primarily to higher level employees that are unfunded and are nonqualified for federal tax purposes. Pension coverage for employees of certain of Linde’s non-U.S. subsidiaries generally is provided by those companies through separate plans. Obligations under such plans are primarily provided for through diversified investment portfolios, with some smaller plans provided for under insurance policies or by book reserves. Defined Benefit Pension Plans - Non-U.S. Linde has Non-U.S., defined benefit commitments primarily in Germany and the U.K that include pension plan assets comprised of a diversified mix of investments. The defined benefit commitments in Germany relate to old age pensions, invalidity pensions and surviving dependents pensions. These commitments also take into account vested rights for periods of service prior to January 1, 2002 based on earlier final-salary pension plan rules. In addition, there are direct commitments in respect of the salary conversion scheme for the form of cash balance plans. The resulting pension payments are calculated on the basis of an interest guarantee and the performance of the corresponding investment. There are no minimum funding requirements. The pension obligations in Germany are partly funded by a Contractual Trust Agreement (CTA). Defined benefit commitments in the U.K. prior to July 1, 2003 are earnings-related and dependent on the period of service. Such commitments relate to old age pensions, invalidity pensions and surviving dependents pensions. Beginning in April 1, 2011, the amount of future increases in inflation-linked pensions and of increases in pensionable emoluments was restricted. Multi-employer Pension Plans In the United States Linde participates in eight multi-employer defined benefit pension plans ("MEPs"), pursuant to the terms of collective bargaining agreements, that cover approximately 200 union-represented employees. The collective bargaining agreements expire on different dates through 2028. In connection with such agreements, the company is required to make periodic contributions to the MEPs in accordance with the terms of the respective collective bargaining agreements. Linde’s participation in these plans is not material either at the plan level or in the aggregate. For all MEPs, Linde’s contributions were significantly less than 1% of the total contributions to each plan for 2022 and 2021. Total 2023 contr ibutions were not yet available from the MEPs. Linde has obtained the most recently available Pension Protection Act ("PPA") annual funding notices from the Trustees of the MEPs. As of December 31, 2023, there were two Red Zone plans, deemed to be in "critical" or "critical and declining" status that have implemented financial improvement or rehabilitation plans. Linde does not currently anticipate significant future obligations due to the funding status of these plans and any such obligation would be immaterial. If Li nde determined it was probable that it would withdraw from an MEP, the company would record a liability for its portion of the MEP’s unfunded pension obligations, as calculated at that time. Historically, such withdrawal payments have not been significant. Defined Contribution Plans Linde’s U.S. employees are eligible to participate in defined contribution savings plans offered by their applicable business. Employee contribution percentages vary by plan and are subject to the maximum allowable by IRS regulations. The cost for these defined contribution plans was $59 million in 2023, $56 million in 2022 and $51 million in 2021 (these costs are not included in the tables that follow). The defined contribution plans include a non-leveraged employee stock ownership plan ("ESOP") which covers all employees participating in this plan. The collective number of shares of Linde ordinary shares in the ESOP totaled 1,660,694 at December 31, 2023. Certain non-U.S. subsidiaries of the company also sponsor defined contribution plans where contributions are determined under various formulas. The expense for these plans was $60 million in 2023, $80 million in 2022 and $101 million in 2021 (these expenses are not included in the tables that follow). Postretirement Benefits Other Than Pensions (OPEB) Linde provides health care and life insurance benefits to certain eligible retired employees. These benefits are provided through various insurance companies and healthcare providers. The company does not currently fund its postretirement benefits obligations. Linde’s retiree plans may be changed or terminated by Linde at any time for any reason with no liability to current or future retirees. Linde uses a measurement date of December 31 for its pension and other post-retirement benefit plans. Pension and Postretirement Benefit Costs The components of net pension and postretirement benefits other than pension ("OPEB") costs for 2023, 2022 and 2021 are shown in the table below: (Millions of dollars) Year Ended December 31, 2023 2022 2021 Amount recognized in Operating Profit Service cost $ 84 $ 127 $ 157 Amount recognized in Net pension and OPEB cost (benefit), excluding service cost Interest cost 373 201 154 Expected return on plan assets (523) (518) (521) Net amortization and deferral (30) 74 171 Settlement charges (a) 16 6 4 $ (164) $ (237) $ (192) Net periodic benefit cost (benefit) $ (80) $ (110) $ (35) (a) Settlement charges were triggered by lump sum benefit payments. Funded Status Changes in the benefit obligation and plan assets for Linde’s pension and OPEB programs, including reconciliation of the funded status of the plans to amounts recorded in the consolidated balance sheet, as of December 31, 2023 and 2022 are shown below. (Millions of dollars) Year Ended December 31, 2023 2022 U.S. Non-U.S. U.S. Non-U.S. Change in Benefit Obligation ("PBO") Benefit obligation, January 1 $ 2,129 $ 5,586 $ 2,719 $ 9,398 Service cost 25 59 34 93 Interest cost 105 268 60 141 Participant contributions 11 18 11 17 Actuarial loss (gain) 100 532 (528) (2,972) Benefits paid (162) (324) (158) (296) Plan settlement (21) (14) (9) (8) Foreign currency translation and other changes — 260 — (787) Benefit obligation, December 31 $ 2,187 $ 6,385 $ 2,129 $ 5,586 Accumulated benefit obligation ("ABO") $ 2,037 $ 6,300 $ 1,982 $ 5,508 Change in Plan Assets Fair value of plan assets, January 1 $ 1,891 $ 5,794 $ 2,448 $ 7,968 Actual return on plan assets 300 365 (421) (1,302) Company contributions — 46 — 51 Participant contributions — 18 — 17 Benefits paid from plan assets (141) (320) (136) (248) Foreign currency translation and other changes — 275 — (692) Fair value of plan assets, December 31 $ 2,050 $ 6,178 $ 1,891 $ 5,794 Funded Status, End of Year $ (137) $ (207) $ (238) $ 208 Recorded in the Balance Sheet (Note 7) Other long-term assets $ 19 $ 361 $ 13 $ 648 Other current liabilities (17) (14) (38) (13) Other long-term liabilities (139) (554) (213) (427) Net amount recognized, December 31 $ (137) $ (207) $ (238) $ 208 Amounts recognized in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) consist of: Net actuarial loss (gain) $ 290 $ 219 $ 357 $ (343) Prior service cost (credit) (10) 1 (12) 4 Deferred tax obligation (benefit) (Note 7) (67) 7 (85) 139 Amount recognized in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) (Note 7) $ 213 $ 227 $ 260 $ (200) Comparative funded status information as of December 31, 2023 and 2022 for select non-U.S. pension plans is presented in the table below as the benefit obligations of these plans are considered to be significant relative to the total benefit obligation: United Kingdom Germany Other Non-U.S. Total Non-U.S. (Millions of dollars) 2023 2023 2023 2023 Benefit obligation, December 31 $ 3,616 $ 1,684 $ 1,085 $ 6,385 Fair value of plan assets, December 31 3,858 1,370 950 6,178 Funded Status, End of Year $ 242 $ (314) $ (135) $ (207) United Kingdom Germany Other Non-U.S. Total Non-U.S. (Millions of dollars) 2022 2022 2022 2022 Benefit obligation, December 31 $ 3,100 $ 1,485 $ 1,001 $ 5,586 Fair value of plan assets, December 31 3,625 1,285 884 5,794 Funded Status, End of Year $ 525 $ (200) $ (117) $ 208 The changes in plan assets and benefit obligations recognized in other comprehensive income in 2023 and 2022 are as follows: Pensions (Millions of dollars) 2023 2022 Current year net actuarial losses (gains)* $ 480 $ (1,259) Amortization of net actuarial gains (losses) 29 (75) Amortization of prior service credits (costs) 1 1 Pension settlements (16) (6) Foreign currency translation and other changes — (90) Total recognized in other comprehensive income $ 494 $ (1,429) ________________________ * Pension net actuarial losses in 2023 are largely driven by the decrease in the discount rate environment resulting in actuarial losses from a higher PBO, which is partially offset by favorable plan asset experience for non-U.S plans. The U.S. plan derived a benefit from the actual return on plan assets. In 2022, the actuarial gains were largely driven by the significant increase in the discount rate environment resulting in actuarial gains from a lower PBO, which is partially offset by unfavorable plan asset experience for both non-U.S. and U.S. plans. The following table provides information for pension plans where the accumulated benefit obligation exceeds the fair value of plan assets: (Millions of dollars) Year Ended December 31, Pensions 2023 2022 U.S. Non-U.S. U.S. Non-U.S. Accumulated benefit obligation ("ABO") $ 1,952 $ 1,880 $ 1,895 $ 1,848 Fair value of plan assets $ 1,945 $ 1,385 $ 1,791 $ 1,472 The following table provides information for pension plans where the projected benefit obligation exceeds the fair value of plan assets: (Millions of dollars) Year Ended December 31, Pensions 2023 2022 U.S. Non-U.S. U.S. Non-U.S. Projected benefit obligation ("PBO") $ 2,012 $ 1,932 $ 1,948 $ 1,901 Fair value of plan assets $ 1,945 $ 1,390 $ 1,791 $ 1,478 Assumptions The assumptions used to determine benefit obligations are as of the respective balance sheet dates and the assumptions used to determine net benefit cost are as of the previous year-end, as shown below: Pensions U.S. Non-U.S. 2023 2022 2023 2022 Weighted average assumptions used to determine benefit obligations at December 31, Discount rate 5.03 % 5.35 % 4.27 % 4.58 % Interest crediting rate 4.03 % 4.02 % 1.70 % 2.13 % Rate of increase in compensation levels 3.50 % 3.25 % 2.58 % 2.59 % Weighted average assumptions used to determine net periodic benefit cost for years ended December 31, Discount rate 5.35 % 2.78 % 4.58 % 1.82 % Interest crediting rate 4.02 % 2.06 % 2.13 % 1.03 % Rate of increase in compensation levels 3.25 % 3.25 % 2.59 % 2.55 % Expected long-term rate of return on plan assets (1) 7.00 % 7.00 % 5.64 % 5.60 % (1) The expected long term rate of return on the U.S. and non-U.S. plan assets is estimated based on the plans' investment strategy and asset allocation, historical capital market performance and, to a lesser extent, historical plan per formance. For the U.S. plans, the expected rate of return of 7.00% was derived based on the target asset allocation of 50%-70% equity securities (approximately 8.40% expected return), 20%-50% fixed income securities (approximately 4.80% expected return) and 2%-8% alternative investments (approximately 3.40% expected return). For the non-U.S. plans, the expected rate of return was derived based on the weighted average target asset allocation of 15%-25% equity securities (approximately 7.20% expected return), 30%-50% fixed income securities (approximately 5.90% expected return), and 30%-50% alternative investments (approximately 5.80% expected return). For the U.S. plan assets, the actual annualized total return for the most recent 10-year period ended December 31, 2023 was approximately 6.60%. For the non-U.S. plan assets, the actual annualized total return for the same period was approximately 4.90%. Changes to plan asset allocations and investment strategy over this time period limit the value of historical plan performance as a factor in estimating the expected long term rate of return. For 2024, the expected long-term rate of return on plan assets will be 7.00% for the U.S. plans and 5.83%. for non-U.S. plans. Pension Plan Assets The investments of the U.S. pension plan are managed to meet the future expected benefit liabilities of the plan over the long term by investing in diversified portfolios consistent with prudent diversification and historical and expected capital market returns. Investment strategies are reviewed by management and investment performance is tracked against appropriate benchmarks. There are no concentrations of risk as it relates to the assets within the plans. The non-U.S. pension plans are managed individually based on diversified investment portfolios, with different target asset allocations that vary for each plan. Weighted-average asset allocations at December 31, 2023 and 2022 for Linde’s U.S. and non-U.S. pension plans, as well as respective asset allocation ranges by major asset category, are generally as follows: U.S. Non-U.S. Asset Category Target 2023 Target 2022 2023 2022 Target 2023 Target 2022 2023 2022 Equity securities 50% - 70% 50% - 70% 59% 60% 15% - 25% 15% - 25% 22% 20% Fixed income securities 20% - 50% 20% - 50% 31% 29% 30% - 50% 30% - 50% 30% 30% Other 2% - 8% 2% - 8% 10% 11% 30% - 50% 30% - 50% 48% 50% The following table summarizes pension assets measured at fair value by asset category at December 31, 2023 and 2022. Transfers of assets were not material for the year ended December 31, 2023 and 2022. See Note 13 for the definition of levels within the fair value hierarchy: Fair Value Measurements Using Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 ** Total (Millions of dollars) 2023 2022 2023 2022 2023 2022 2023 2022 Cash and cash equivalents $ 368 $ 313 $ — $ — $ — $ — $ 368 $ 313 Equity securities: Global equities 926 778 — — — — 926 778 Mutual funds 298 248 — — — — 298 248 Fixed income securities: Government bonds — — 1,486 1,317 — — 1,486 1,317 Emerging market debt — — 283 245 — — 283 245 Mutual funds 119 101 60 55 — — 179 156 Corporate bonds — — 324 372 — — 324 372 Bank loans — — 27 18 — — 27 18 Alternative investments: Real estate funds — — — — 324 353 324 353 Private debt — — — — 1,345 1,360 1,345 1,360 Insurance contracts — — — — 51 46 51 46 Liquid alternative — — 1,022 982 — — 1,022 982 Other investments 1 1 22 39 — — 23 40 Total plan assets at fair value, $ 1,712 $ 1,441 $ 3,224 $ 3,028 $ 1,720 $ 1,759 $ 6,656 $ 6,228 Pooled funds * 1,572 1,457 Total fair value plan assets $ 8,228 $ 7,685 * Pooled funds are measured using the net asset value ("NAV") as a practical expedient for fair value as permissible under the accounting standard for fair value measurements and have not been categorized in the fair value hierarchy. ** The following table summarizes changes in fair value of the pension plan assets classified as level 3 for the periods ended December 31, 2023 and 2022: (Millions of dollars) Insurance Contracts Real Estate Funds Private Debt Total Balance, December 31, 2021 $ 12 $ 360 $ 1,368 $ 1,740 Gain/(Loss) for the period — 5 93 98 Purchases 2 18 63 83 Sales — (22) (34) (56) Transfer into/ (out of) Level 3 33 — — 33 Foreign currency translation (1) (8) (130) (139) Balance, December 31, 2022 46 353 1,360 1,759 Gain/(Loss) for the period — (27) (38) (65) Purchases 1 3 1 5 Sales — (15) (44) (59) Transfer into / (out of) Level 3 — — — — Foreign currency translation 4 10 66 80 Balance, December 31, 2023 $ 51 $ 324 $ 1,345 $ 1,720 The descriptions and fair value methodologies for the company's pension plan assets are as follows: Cash and Cash Equivalents – This category includes cash and short-term interest bearing investments with maturities of three months or less. Investments are valued at cost plus accrued interest. Cash and cash equivalents are classified within level 1 of the valuation hierarchy. Equity Securities – This category is comprised of shares of common stock in U.S. and non-U.S. companies from a diverse set of industries and size. Common stock is valued at the closing market price reported on a U.S. or non-U.S. exchange where the security is actively traded. Equity securities are classified within level 1 of the valuation hierarchy. Mutual Funds – These categories consist of publicly and privately managed funds that invest primarily in marketable equity and fixed income securities. The fair value of these investments is determined by reference to the net asset value of the underlying securities of the fund. Shares of publicly traded mutual funds are valued at the net asset value quoted on the exchange where the fund is traded and are primarily classified as level 1 within the valuation hierarchy. Emerging Market Debt - This category includes fixed income debt issued by countries with developing economies as well as by corporations within those nations. They typically have higher yields but lower credit ratings relative to developed country corporate and government bonds. The fair values for these investments are classified as level 2 within the valuation hierarchy. U.S. and Non-U.S. Government Bonds – This category includes U.S. treasuries, U.S. federal agency obligations and non-U.S. government debt. The majority of these investments do not have quoted market prices available for a specific government security and so the fair value is determined using quoted prices of similar securities in active markets and is classified as level 2 within the valuation hierarchy. Corporate Bonds – This category is comprised of corporate bonds of U.S. and non-U.S. companies from a diverse set of industries and size. The fair values for U.S. and non-U.S. corporate bonds are determined using quoted prices of similar securities in active markets and observable data or broker or dealer quotations. The fair values for these investments are classified as level 2 within the valuation hierarchy. Pooled Funds - Pooled fund NAVs are provided by the trustee and are determined by reference to the fair value of the underlying securities of the trust, less its liabilities, which are valued primarily through the use of directly or indirectly observable inputs. Depending on the pooled fund, underlying securities may include marketable equity securities or fixed income securities. Bank Loans - This category is comprised of traded syndicated loans of larger corporate borrowers. Such loans are issued by sub-investment grade rated companies both in the U.S. and internationally and are syndicated by investment banks to institutional investors. They are regularly traded in an active dealer market comprised of large investment banks, which supply bid and offer quotes and are therefore classified within level 2 of the valuation hierarchy. Liquid Alternative Investments - This category is comprised of investments in alternative mutual funds whose holdings include liquid securities, cash, and derivatives. Such funds focus on diversification and employ a variety of investing strategies including long/short equity, multi-strategy, and global macro. The fair value of these investments is determined by reference to the net asset value of the underlying holdings of the fund, which can be determined using observable data (e.g., indices, yield curves, quoted prices of similar securities), and is classified within level 2 of the valuation hierarchy. Insurance Contracts – This category is comprised of purchased annuity insurance contracts (annuity contract buy-ins) and is intended to mitigate the Company's exposure to certain risks, such as longevity risk. The fair value is calculated based on the cash surrender value of the purchased annuity insurance contract, which is determined based on such factors as the fair value of the underlying assets and discounted cash flows. These contracts are with highly rated insurance companies. Insurance contracts are classified within level 3 of the valuation hierarchy. Real Estate Funds – This category includes real estate properties, partnership equities and investments in operating companies. The fair value of the assets is determined using discounted cash flows by estimating an income stream for the property plus a reversion into a present value at a risk adjusted rate. Yield rates and growth assumptions utilized are derived from market transactions as well as other financial and industry data. The fair value for these investments are classified within level 3 of the valuation hierarchy. Private Debt - This category includes non-traded, privately-arranged loans between one or a small group of private debt investment managers and corporate borrowers, which are typically too small to access the syndicated market and have no credit rating. This category also includes similar loans to real estate companies or individual properties. Loans included in this category are valued at par value, are held to maturity or to call, and are classified within level 3 of the valuation hierarchy. Contributions At a minimum, Linde contributes to its pension plans to comply with local regulatory requirements (e.g., ERISA in the United States). Discretionary contributions in excess of the local minimum requirements are made based on many factors, including long-term projections of the plans' funded status, the economic environment, potential risk of overfunding, pension insurance costs and alternative uses of the cash. Changes to these factors can impact the timing of discretionary contributions from year to year. Pension contributions were $46 million in 2023, $51 million in 2022 and $42 million in 2021. Estimated required contributions for 2024 are currently expected to be in the range of $35 million to $45 million. Estimated Future Benefit Payments The following table presents estimated future benefit payments, net of participant contributions: (Millions of dollars) Pensions Year Ended December 31, U.S. Non-U.S. 2024 $ 203 $ 355 2025 166 341 2026 163 353 2027 166 359 2028 165 373 2029-2033 824 1,974 |
Commitments and Contingencies
Commitments and Contingencies | 12 Months Ended |
Dec. 31, 2023 | |
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract] | |
Commitments and Contingencies | COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES The company accrues non income-tax liabilities for contingencies when management believes that a loss is probable and the amounts can be reasonably estimated, while contingent gains are recognized only when realized. In the event any losses are sustained in excess of accruals, they will be charged against income at that time. Attorney fees are recorded as incurred. Commitments represent obligations, such as those for future purchases of goods or services, that are not yet recorded on the company’s balance sheet as liabilities. The company records liabilities for commitments when incurred (i.e., when the goods or services are received). Contingent Liabilities Linde is subject to various lawsuits and government investigations that arise from time to time in the ordinary course of business. These actions are based upon alleged environmental, tax, antitrust and personal injury claims, among others. Linde has strong defenses in these cases and intends to defend itself vigorously. It is possible that the company may incur losses in connection with some of these actions in excess of accrued liabilities. Management does not anticipate that in the aggregate such losses would have a material adverse effect on the company’s consolidated financial position or liquidity; however, it is possible that the final outcomes could have a significant impact on the company’s reported results of operations in any given period. Significant matters are: • During 2009, the Brazilian government published Law 11941/2009 instituting a new voluntary amnesty program (“Refis Program”) which allowed Brazilian companies to settle certain federal tax disputes at reduced amounts. During 2009, the company decided that it was economically beneficial to settle many of its outstanding federal tax disputes and such disputes were enrolled in the Refis Program, subject to final calculation and review by the Brazilian federal government. The company recorded estimated liabilities based on the terms of the Refis Program. Since 2009, Linde has been unable to reach final agreement on the calculations and initiated litigation against the government in an attempt to resolve certain items. Open issues relate to the following matters: (i) application of cash deposits and net operating loss carryforwards to satisfy obligations and (ii) the amount of tax reductions available under the Refis Program. It is difficult to estimate the timing of resolution of legal matters in Brazil. • At December 31, 2023, the most significant non-income tax claims in Brazil, after enrollment in the Refis Program, relate to state VAT tax matters. The total estimated exposure relating to such claims, including interest and penalties, as appropriate, is approximately $115 million. Linde has not recorded any liabilities related to such claims based on management judgment and opinions of outside counsel. During the first quarter of 2023, the Brazilian Supreme Court issued a decision confirming the constitutionality of a specific federal income tax, with retroactive effect. As a result of this decision, the company recorded a reserve based on its best estimate of potential settlement (see Note 3). This decision has not yet been finalized and is subject to ongoing motions for clarification. Because litigation in Brazil historically takes many years to resolve, it is very difficult to estimate the timing of resolution of these matters; however, it is possible that certain of these matters may be resolved within the near term. The company is vigorously defending against the proceedings. • On September 1, 2010, CADE (Brazilian Administrative Council for Economic Defense) announced alleged anticompetitive activity on the part of five industrial gas companies in Brazil and imposed fines. CADE imposed a civil fine of R$1.7 billion Brazilian reais ($350 million) on White Martins, the Brazil-based subsidiary of Linde Inc., and R$0.2 billion Brazilian reais ($41 million) on Linde Gases Ltda., the former Brazil-based subsidiary of Linde AG, which was divested to MG Industries GmbH on March 1, 2019 and with respect to which Linde provided a contractual indemnity. The fine against White Martins and Linde Gases Ltda. was overturned by the Ninth and Seventh Federal Courts of Brasilia, respectively. CADE appealed these decisions, and the Federal Court of Appeals rejected CADE's appeals and confirmed the decision of the Ninth and Seventh Federal Courts of Brasilia. CADE had filed appeals for both subsidiaries with the Superior Court of Justice which were denied. CADE filed subsequent appeals to a panel of the Supreme Court of Justice and final and binding decisions were issued by the Supreme Court of Justice annulling the fine imposed against Linde Gases Ltda and White Martins in September 2023 and January 2024, respectively. • On and after April 23, 2019 former shareholders of Linde AG filed appraisal proceedings at the District Court ( Landgericht ) Munich I (Germany), seeking an increase of the cash consideration paid in connection with the previously completed cash merger squeeze-out of all of Linde AG’s minority shareholders for €189.46 per share. Any such increase would apply to all 14,763,113 Linde AG shares that were outstanding on April 8, 2019, when the cash merger squeeze-out was completed. The period for plaintiffs to file claims expired on July 9, 2019. In November 2023, the court issued a decision rejecting the plaintiffs’ claims in their entirety and determining that the cash merger squeeze-out consideration was appropriate. The plaintiffs are entitled to appeal this decision. • On December 30, 2022, the Russian Arbitration Court of the St. Petersburg and Leningrad Region ("St. Petersburg Court") issued an injunction preventing (i) the sale of any shares in Linde’s subsidiaries and joint ventures in Russia, and (ii) the disposal of any of the assets in those entities exceeding 5% of the relevant company’s overall asset value. The injunction was requested by RusChemAlliance (RCA) as a preliminary measure to secure payment of a possible eventual award under an arbitration proceeding RCA intended to file against Linde Engineering for alleged breach of contract under the agreement to build a gas processing plant in Ust Luga, Russia entered into between a consortium of Linde Engineering, Renaissance Heavy Industries LLC, and RCA on July 7, 2021. Performance of the agreement was lawfully suspended by Linde Engineering on May 27, 2022 in compliance with applicable sanctions and in accordance with a decision by the sanctions authority in Germany. On March 1, 2023, RCA filed a claim in St. Petersburg against Linde GmbH for recovery of advance payments under the agreement ("Russian Claim"), and subsequently (i) added Linde and other Linde subsidiaries as defendants, and (ii) is seeking payment of alleged damages from Linde (pursuant to corporate guarantees) and guarantor banks. On March 4, 2023, in accordance with the dispute resolution provisions of the agreement, Linde GmbH filed a notice of arbitration with the Hong Kong International Arbitration Centre ("HKIAC") against RCA to claim that (i) RCA has no entitlement to payment, (ii) RCA’s Russian claim is in breach of the arbitration agreement which requires HKIAC arbitration, and (iii) RCA must compensate Linde for the losses and damages caused by the injunction. Additionally, Linde GmbH filed for and on March 17, 2023 obtained an anti-suit injunction from a Hong Kong court against RCA directing RCA to seek a stay of the Russian Claim and ordering it to resolve any disputes in accordance with HKIAC arbitration. On September 27, 2023, the anti-suit injunction was confirmed by the same Hong Kong court. On January 4, 2024, the Hong Kong court issued a final judgment in Linde’s favor (i) granting a permanent anti-suit injunction against RCA, (ii) granting a permanent, global anti-enforcement injunction against RCA, and (iii) ordering that the injunction issued by the St. Petersburg Court be lifted. As of December 31, 2023, Linde has a contingent liability of $1.1 billion recorded in Other long-term liabilities, which represents advance payments previously recorded in contract liabilities as of December 31, 2022 related to terminated engineering projects with RCA. As a result of the contract terminations, Linde no longer has future performance obligations for these projects. Linde deconsolidated its Russian gas and engineering business entities as of June 30, 2022, and the remaining investment value of its Russia subsidiaries is immaterial. Despite the January 4, 2024 decision of the Hong Kong court, the injunction affecting Linde’s shares and assets has not been lifted, the proceeding in St. Petersburg has not been stayed and RCA is continuing to pursue its claim in Russia. On February 20, 2024, the St. Petersburg Court issued its decision and granted the Russian Claim in RCA’s favor. Linde has 30 days to appeal this decision and expects to do so prior to the expiration of that deadline. If Linde appeals, RCA cannot enforce the decision (including foreclosing on the shares of the Russian entities) until after the appeal is decided. Linde does not expect an adverse impact on earnings from this decision given the contingent liability recorded as of December 31, 2023 and the immaterial remaining investment value of its deconsolidated Russia subsidiaries. It is difficult to estimate the timing of resolution of this matter. The company intends to vigorously defend its interests in both the Russian Claim and arbitration proceedings. Commitments At December 31, 2023, Linde had undrawn outstanding letters of credit, bank guarantees and surety bonds valued at approximately $3,344 million from financial institutions. These relate primarily to customer contract performance guarantees (including plant construction in connection with certain on-site contracts), self-insurance claims and other commercial and governmental requirements, including non-U.S. litigation matters. Other commitments related to leases, tax liabilities for uncertain tax positions, long-term debt, other post retirement and pension obligations are summarized elsewhere in the financial statements (see Notes 4, 5, 11, and 16). |
Segment Information
Segment Information | 12 Months Ended |
Dec. 31, 2023 | |
Segment Reporting [Abstract] | |
Segment Information | SEGMENT INFORMATION Linde’s operations consist of two major product lines: industrial gases and engineering. As further described in the following paragraph, Linde’s industrial gases operations are managed on a geographic basis, which represent three of the company's reportable segments - Americas, EMEA (Europe/Middle East/Africa), and APAC (Asia/South Pacific); a fourth reportable segment, which represents the company's Engineering business, designs and manufactures equipment for air separation and other industrial gas applications specifically for end customers and is managed on a worldwide basis operating in all three geographic segments. Other consists of corporate costs and a few smaller businesses which individually do not meet the quantitative thresholds for separate presentation. The industrial gases product line centers on the manufacturing and distribution of atmospheric gases (oxygen, nitrogen, argon, rare gases) and process gases (carbon dioxide, helium, hydrogen, electronic gases, specialty gases, acetylene). Many of these products are co-products of the same manufacturing process. Linde manufactures and distributes nearly all of its products and manages its customer relationships on a regional basis. Linde’s industrial gases are distributed to various end-markets within a regional segment through one of three basic distribution methods: on-site or tonnage; merchant or bulk; and packaged or cylinder gases. The distribution methods are generally integrated in order to best meet the customer’s needs and very few of its products can be economically transported outside of a region. Therefore, the distribution economics are specific to the various geographies in which the company operates and are consistent with how management assesses performance. The company’s measure of profit/loss for segment reporting is segment operating profit. Segment operating profit is defined as operating profit excluding purchase accounting impacts of the Linde AG merger, intercompany royalties, and items not indicative of ongoing business trends. This is the manner in which the company’s CODM assesses performance and allocates resources. Similarly, total assets have not been included as this is not provided to the CODM for their assessment. The table below presents information about reportable segments for the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021. (Millions of dollars) 2023 2022 2021 Sales (a) Americas $ 14,304 $ 13,874 $ 12,103 EMEA 8,542 8,443 7,643 APAC 6,559 6,480 6,133 Engineering 2,160 2,762 2,867 Other 1,289 1,805 2,047 Total Sales $ 32,854 $ 33,364 $ 30,793 2023 2022 2021 Segment Operating Profit Americas $ 4,244 $ 3,732 $ 3,368 EMEA 2,486 2,013 1,889 APAC 1,806 1,670 1,502 Engineering 491 555 473 Other 43 (66) (56) Reported Segment operating profit 9,070 7,904 7,176 Other charges (Note 3) (40) (1,029) (273) Purchase accounting impacts - Linde AG (1,006) (1,506) (1,919) Total operating profit $ 8,024 $ 5,369 $ 4,984 2023 2022 2021 Depreciation and Amortization Americas $ 1,423 $ 1,320 $ 1,243 EMEA 640 661 752 APAC 633 593 611 Engineering 33 33 39 Other 96 116 127 Segment depreciation and amortization 2,825 2,723 2,772 Purchase accounting impacts - Linde AG 991 1,481 1,863 Total depreciation and amortization $ 3,816 $ 4,204 $ 4,635 2023 2022 2021 Capital Expenditures and Acquisitions Americas $ 2,999 $ 1,698 $ 1,354 EMEA 635 550 669 APAC 975 889 995 Engineering 24 28 25 Other 107 118 131 Total Capital Expenditures and Acquisitions $ 4,740 $ 3,283 $ 3,174 2023 2022 2021 Sales by Major Country United States $ 10,566 $ 10,553 $ 9,123 Germany (c) 2,827 3,662 3,601 China 2,585 2,643 2,562 United Kingdom 1,507 1,954 2,060 Australia 1,303 1,372 1,307 Brazil 1,302 1,158 1,065 Other – non-U.S. 12,764 12,022 11,075 Total sales $ 32,854 $ 33,364 $ 30,793 2023 2022 2021 Long-lived Assets by Major Country (b) United States $ 8,490 $ 7,663 $ 7,659 Germany 1,584 1,678 2,003 China 2,063 2,176 2,385 United Kingdom 684 704 1,078 Australia 654 688 872 Brazil 836 720 705 Other – non-U.S. 10,241 9,919 11,301 Total long-lived assets $ 24,552 $ 23,548 $ 26,003 ________________________ (a) Sales reflect external sales only. Intersegment sales, primarily from Engineering to the industrial gases segments, were $1,479 million, $1,035 million and $896 million for the year ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021, respectively. (b) Long-lived assets include property, plant and equipment - net. (c) Sales in Germany include Engineering sales to third parties, locally and internationally, which represent 35%, 44% and 53% of Germany sales in 2023, 2022 and 2021, respectively. |
Revenue Recognition
Revenue Recognition | 12 Months Ended |
Dec. 31, 2023 | |
Revenue from Contract with Customer [Abstract] | |
Revenue Recognition | REVENUE RECOGNITION Revenue is accounted for in accordance with ASC 606. Revenue is recognized as control of goods or services are transferred to customers in an amount that reflects the consideration to which an entity expects to be entitled to receive in exchange for the goods or services. Contracts with Customers Linde serves a diverse group of industries including healthcare, chemicals and energy, manufacturing, metals and mining, food and beverage, and electronics. Industrial Gases Within each of the company’s geographic segments for industrial gases, there are three basic distribution methods: (i) on-site or tonnage; (ii) merchant or bulk liquid; and (iii) packaged or cylinder gases. The distribution method used by Linde to supply a customer is determined by many factors, including the customer’s volume requirements and location. The distribution method generally determines the contract terms with the customer and, accordingly, the revenue recognition accounting practices. Linde's primary products in its industrial gases business are atmospheric gases (oxygen, nitrogen, argon, rare gases) and process gases (carbon dioxide, helium, hydrogen, electronic gases, specialty gases, acetylene). These products are generally sold through one of the three distribution methods. Following is a description of each of the three industrial gases distribution methods and the respective revenue recognition policies : On-site. Customers that require the largest volumes of product and that have a relatively constant demand pattern are supplied by cryogenic and process gas on-site plants. Linde constructs plants on or adjacent to these customers’ sites and supplies the product directly to customers by pipeline. Where there are large concentrations of customers, a single pipeline may be connected to several plants and customers. On-site product supply contracts generally are total requirement contracts with terms typically ranging from 10-20 years and contain minimum purchase requirements and price escalation provisions. Many of the cryogenic on-site plants also produce liquid products for the merchant market. Therefore, plants are typically not dedicated to a single customer. Additionally, Linde is responsible for the design, construction, operations and maintenance of the plants and our customers typically have no involvement in these activities. Advanced air separation processes also allow on-site delivery to customers with smaller volume requirements. The company’s performance obligations related to on-site customers are satisfied over time as customers receive and obtain control of the product. Linde has elected to apply the practical expedient for measuring progress towards the completion of a performance obligation and recognizes revenue as the company has the right to invoice each customer, which generally corresponds with product delivery. Accordingly, revenue is recognized when product is delivered to the customer and the company has the right to invoice the customer in accordance with the contract terms. Consideration in these contracts is generally based on pricing which fluctuates with various price indices. Variable components of consideration exist within on-site contracts but are considered constrained. Merchant. Merchant deliveries generally are made from Linde's plants by tanker trucks to storage containers at the customer's site. Due to the relatively high distribution cost, merchant oxygen and nitrogen generally have a relatively small distribution radius from the plants at which they are produced. Merchant argon, hydrogen and helium can be shipped much longer distances. The customer agreements used in the merchant business are usually three The company’s performance obligations related to merchant customers are generally satisfied at a point in time as the customers receive and obtain control of the product. Revenue is recognized when product is delivered to the customer and the company has the right to invoice the customer in accordance with the contract terms. Any variable components of consideration within merchant contracts are constrained however this consideration is not significant. Packaged Gases. Customers requiring small volumes are supplied products in containers called cylinders, under medium to high pressure. Linde distributes merchant gases from its production plants to company-owned cylinder filling plants where cylinders are then filled for distribution to customers. Cylinders may be delivered to the customer’s site or picked up by the customer at a packaging facility or retail store. Linde invoices the customer for the industrial gases and the use of the cylinder container(s). The company also sells hardgoods and welding equipment purchased from independent manufacturers. Packaged gases are generally sold under one The company’s performance obligations related to packaged gases are satisfied at a point in time. Accordingly, revenue is recognized when product is delivered to the customer or when the customer picks up product from a packaged gas facility or retail store, and the company has the right to payment from the customer in accordance with the contract terms. Any variable consideration is constrained and will be recognized when the uncertainty related to the consideration is resolved. Engineering The company designs and manufactures equipment for air separation and other industrial gas applications manufactured specifically for end customers. Sale of equipment contracts are generally comprised of a single performance obligation. Revenue from sale of equipment is generally recognized over time as Linde has an enforceable right to payment for performance completed to date and performance does not create an asset with alternative use. For contracts recognized over time, revenue is recognized primarily using a cost incurred input method. Costs incurred to date relative to total estimated costs at completion are used to measure progress toward satisfying performance obligations. Costs incurred include material, labor, and overhead costs and represent work contributing and proportionate to the transfer of control to the customer. Changes to cost estimates and contract modifications are typically accounted for as part of the existing contract and are recognized as a cumulative adjustments for the inception-to-date effect of such change. Contract Assets and Liabilities Contract assets and liabilities result from differences in timing of revenue recognition and customer invoicing. Contract assets primarily relate to sale of equipment contracts for which revenue is recognized over time. The balance represents unbilled revenue which occurs when revenue recognized under the measure of progress exceeds amounts invoiced to customers. Customer invoices may be based on the passage of time, the achievement of certain contractual milestones or a combination of both criteria. Contract liabilities include advance payments or right to consideration prior to performance under the contract. Contract liabilities are recognized as revenue as performance obligations are satisfied under contract terms. Linde has contract assets of $196 million at December 31, 2023 and $124 million at December 31, 2022. Total contract liabilities are $2,950 million at December 31, 2023 (current of $1,901 million and $1,049 million within deferred credits in the consolidated balance sheets). As of December 31, 2023, Linde has $418 million recorded in contract liabilities related to engineering projects in Russia subject to sanctions and therefore suspended and lawfully wound down. Total contract liabilities were $3,986 million at December 31, 2022 (current contract liabilities of $3,073 million and $913 million within deferred credits in the consolidated balance sheets). The decrease in contract liabilities is primarily related to a reclassification of contract liabilities to a contingent liability in other long-term liabilities associated with an engineering project in Russia (see Note 17). Revenue recognized for the twelve months ended December 31, 2023 that was included in the contract liability at December 31, 2022 was $1,017 million. Contract assets and liabilities primarily relate to the Engineering business. Payment Terms and Other Linde generally receives payment after performance obligations are satisfied, and customer prepayments are not typical for the industrial gases business. Payment terms vary based on the country where sales originate and local customary payment practices. Linde does not offer extended financing outside of customary payment terms. Amounts billed for sales and use taxes, value-added taxes, and certain excise and other specific transactional taxes imposed on revenue producing transactions are presented on a net basis and are not included in sales within the consolidated statement of income. Additionally, sales returns and allowances are not a normal practice in the industry and are not significant. Disaggregated Revenue Information As described above and in Note 18, the company manages its industrial gases business on a geographic basis, while the Engineering and Other businesses are generally managed on a global basis. Furthermore, the company believes that reporting sales by distribution method by reportable geographic segment best illustrates the nature, timing, type of customer, and contract terms for its revenues, including terms and pricing. The following tables show sales by distribution method at the consolidated level and for each reportable segment and Other for the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021. (Millions of dollars) Year Ended December 31, 2023 Sales Americas EMEA APAC Engineering Other Total % Merchant $ 4,370 $ 2,773 $ 2,242 $ — $ 218 $ 9,603 29 % On-Site 3,246 1,980 2,599 — — 7,825 24 % Packaged Gas 6,457 3,735 1,416 — 46 11,654 35 % Other 231 54 302 2,160 1,025 3,772 12 % $ 14,304 $ 8,542 $ 6,559 $ 2,160 $ 1,289 $ 32,854 100 % (Millions of dollars) Year Ended December 31, 2022 Sales Americas EMEA APAC Engineering Other Total % Merchant $ 3,786 $ 2,509 $ 2,220 $ — $ 176 $ 8,691 26 % On-Site 4,048 2,415 2,471 — — 8,934 27 % Packaged Gas 5,831 3,466 1,523 — 51 10,871 33 % Other 209 53 266 2,762 1,578 4,868 14 % $ 13,874 $ 8,443 $ 6,480 $ 2,762 $ 1,805 $ 33,364 100 % (Millions of dollars) Year Ended December 31, 2021 Sales Americas EMEA APAC Engineering Other Total % Merchant $ 3,279 $ 2,227 $ 2,181 $ — $ 173 $ 7,860 26 % On-Site 3,225 1,824 2,296 — — 7,345 24 % Packaged Gas 5,456 3,539 1,532 — 24 10,551 34 % Other 143 53 124 2,867 1,850 5,037 16 % $ 12,103 $ 7,643 $ 6,133 $ 2,867 $ 2,047 $ 30,793 100 % Remaining Performance Obligations As described above, Linde's contracts with on-site customers are under long-term supply arrangements which generally require the customer to purchase their requirements from Linde and also have minimum purchase requirements. Additionally, plant sales from the Linde Engineering business are primarily contracted on a fixed price basis. The company estimates the consideration related to future minimum purchase requirements and plant sales was approximately $48 billion (excludes Russian projects which are impacted by sanctions). This amount excludes all on-site sales above minimum purchase requirements, which can be significant depending on customer needs. In the future, actual amounts will be different due to impacts from several factors, many of which are beyond the company’s control including, but not limited to, timing of newly signed, terminated and renewed contracts, inflationary price escalations, currency exchange rates, and pass-through costs related to natural gas and electricity. The actual duration of long-term supply contracts ranges up to twenty years. The company estimates that approximately half of the revenue related to minimum purchase requirements will be earned in the next five years and the remaining thereafter. |
Subsequent Events
Subsequent Events | 12 Months Ended |
Dec. 31, 2023 | |
Subsequent Events [Abstract] | |
Subsequent Events | SUBSEQUENT EVENTS In February 2024, Linde issued €700 million of 3.00% notes due in 2028, €850 million of 3.20% notes due in 2031 and €700 million of 3.40% notes due in 2036. |
Summary of Significant Accoun_2
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Policies) | 12 Months Ended |
Dec. 31, 2023 | |
Accounting Policies [Abstract] | |
Principles of Consolidation | Principles of Consolidation – The consolidated financial statements were prepared in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America ("U.S. GAAP") and include the accounts of all significant subsidiaries where control exists and, in limited situations, variable-interest entities where the company is the primary beneficiary. Intercompany transactions and balances are eliminated in consolidation and any significant related-party transactions have been disclosed. Changes in ownership interest that result either in consolidation or deconsolidation of an investment are recorded at fair value through earnings, including the retained ownership interest, while changes that do not result in either consolidation or deconsolidation of a subsidiary are treated as equity transactions. |
Equity Investments | Equity investments generally consist of 20% to 50% owned operations where the company exercises significant influence, but does not have control. Income from equity investments in corporations is reported on an after-tax basis. Pre-tax income from equity investments that are partnerships or limited-liability corporations is included in other income (expenses) – net with related taxes included in Income taxes. Equity investments are reviewed for impairment whenever events or circumstances reflect that an impairment loss may have been incurred. |
Use of Estimates | Use of Estimates – The preparation of financial statements in conformity with U.S. GAAP 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 and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. While actual results could differ, management believes such estimates to be reasonable. |
Revenue Recognition | Revenue Recognition – |
Cash Equivalents | Cash Equivalents – Cash equivalents are considered to be highly liquid securities with original maturities of three months or less. |
Inventories | Inventories – |
Property, Plant and Equipment - Net | Property, Plant and Equipment – Net – Property, plant and equipment are carried at cost, net of accumulated depreciation. The company capitalizes labor, applicable overhead and interest as part of the cost of constructing major facilities. Expenditures for additions and improvements that extend the lives or increase the capacity of plant assets are also capitalized. Depreciation is calculated on the straight-line method based on the estimated useful lives of the assets, which range from 3 years to 40 years (see Note 8). Linde uses accelerated depreciation methods for tax purposes where appropriate. Maintenance of property, plant and equipment is generally expensed as incurred. The company performs a test for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of an individual asset or asset group may not be recoverable. Should projected undiscounted future cash flows be less than the carrying amount of the asset or asset group, an impairment charge reducing the carrying amount to fair value may be required. Fair value is determined based on the most appropriate valuation technique, including discounted cash flows. |
Asset - Retirement Obligations | Asset-Retirement Obligations – An asset-retirement obligation is recognized in the period in which sufficient information exists to determine the fair value of the liability with a corresponding increase to the carrying amount of the related property, plant and equipment which is then depreciated over its useful life. The liability is initially measured at fair value and then accretion expense is recorded in each subsequent period. The company’s asset-retirement obligations are primarily associated with its on-site long-term supply arrangements where the company has built a facility on land leased from the customer and is obligated to remove the facility at the end of the contract term. The company's asset-retirement obligations are not material to its consolidated financial statements. |
Foreign Currency Translation | Foreign Currency Translation – |
Financial Instruments | Financial Instruments – Linde enters into various derivative financial instruments to manage its exposure to fluctuating interest rates, currency exchange rates, commodity pricing and energy costs. Such instruments primarily include interest-rate swap and treasury rate lock agreements; currency-swap agreements; forward contracts; currency options; and commodity-swap agreements. These instruments are not entered into for trading purposes. Linde only uses commonly traded and non-leveraged instruments. There are three types of derivatives the company enters into: (i) those relating to fair-value exposures, (ii) those relating to cash-flow exposures, and (iii) those relating to foreign currency net investment exposures. Fair-value exposures relate to recognized assets or liabilities, and firm commitments; cash-flow exposures relate to the variability of future cash flows associated with recognized assets or liabilities, or forecasted transactions; and net investment exposures relate to the impact of foreign currency exchange rate changes on the carrying value of net assets denominated in foreign currencies. When a derivative is executed and hedge accounting is appropriate, it is designated as either a fair-value hedge, cash-flow hedge, or a net investment hedge. Currently, Linde designates all interest-rate and treasury rate locks as hedges for accounting purposes; however, currency contracts are generally not designated as hedges for accounting purposes unless they are related to forecasted transactions. Whether designated as hedges for accounting purposes or not, all derivatives are linked to an appropriate underlying exposure. On an ongoing basis, the company assesses the hedge effectiveness of all derivatives designated as hedges for accounting purposes to determine if they continue to be highly effective in offsetting changes in fair values or cash flows of the underlying hedged items. If it is determined that the hedge is not highly effective, then hedge accounting will be discontinued prospectively. Changes in the fair value of derivatives designated as fair-value hedges are recognized in earnings as an offset to the change in the fair values of the underlying exposures being hedged. The changes in fair value of derivatives that are designated as cash-flow hedges are deferred in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) and are reclassified to earnings as the underlying hedged transaction affects earnings. Provided the hedge remains highly effective, any ineffectiveness is deferred in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) and is reclassified to earnings as the underlying hedged transaction affects earnings. Hedges of net investments in foreign subsidiaries are recognized in the cumulative translation adjustment component of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) on the consolidated balance sheets to offset translation gains and losses associated with the hedged net investment. Derivatives that are entered into for risk-management purposes and are not designated as hedges (primarily related to currency derivatives other than for firm commitments) are recorded at their fair market values and recognized in current earnings. |
Goodwill | Goodwill – Acquisitions are accounted for using the acquisition method which requires allocation of the purchase price to assets acquired and liabilities assumed based on estimated fair values. Any excess of the purchase price over the fair value of the assets and liabilities acquired is recorded as goodwill. Allocations of the purchase price are based on preliminary estimates and assumptions at the date of acquisition and are subject to revision based on final information received, including appraisals and other analyses which support underlying estimates. The company performs a goodwill impairment test annually as of October 1 or more frequently if events or circumstances indicate that an impairment loss may have been incurred. The impairment test allows an entity to first assess qualitative factors to determine if it is more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit is less than carrying value. If it is determined that it is more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit is less than carrying value then the |
Other Intangible Assets | Other Intangible Assets – |
Income Taxes | Income Taxes – Deferred income taxes are recorded for the temporary differences between the financial statement and tax bases of assets and liabilities using currently enacted tax rates. Valuation allowances are established against deferred tax assets whenever circumstances indicate that it is more likely than not that such assets will not be realized in future periods. |
Retirement Benefits | Retirement Benefits |
Share-based Compensation | Share-based Compensation – |
Reclassifications | Reclassifications – Certain prior years’ amounts have been reclassified to conform to the current year’s presentation. |
Recently Issued Accounting Standards | Recently Issued Accounting Standards Accounting Standards Implemented in 2023 There were no new accounting pronouncements implemented in 2023 that would materially impact the 2023 financial statements. Accounting Standards to be Implemented Improvements to Reportable Segments Disclosures - In November 2023, the FASB issued guidance requiring enhanced disclosure related to reportable segments. The new standard is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2023, and interim periods within fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2024, with early adoption permitted. The adoption of this standard will only impact disclosures within the company's consolidated financial statements and the company is evaluating the impact this guidance will have on those disclosures. Improvements to Income Tax Disclosures - In December 2023, the FASB issued guidance requiring enhanced disclosure related to income taxes. The standard requires additional or modified disclosures related to the income tax rate reconciliation, disaggregation of income taxes paid, and several other disclosures. The new standard is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2024, with early adoption permitted. The adoption of this standard will only impact disclosures within the company's consolidated financial statements and the company is evaluating the impact this guidance will have on those disclosures. |
Acquisitions and Divestitures (
Acquisitions and Divestitures (Tables) | 12 Months Ended |
Dec. 31, 2023 | |
Business Combination and Asset Acquisition [Abstract] | |
Summary of Consideration Transferred and Identified Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed | The following table summarizes the fair value of identifiable assets acquired and liabilities assumed in the acquisition of nexAir, LLC as of the acquisition date. (Millions of dollars) January 5, 2023 Assets: Cash and cash equivalents $ 55 Other current assets - net 49 Property, plant and equipment, net 241 Other intangible assets - net 245 Other long-term liabilities - net (1) Deferred taxes (25) Total identifiable net assets $ 564 Goodwill $ 485 Fair value of previously held equity interest $ 183 Total purchase price $ 866 |
Other Charges (Tables)
Other Charges (Tables) | 12 Months Ended |
Dec. 31, 2023 | |
Restructuring and Related Activities [Abstract] | |
Summary of Cost Reductions | The following table provides a summary of the pre-tax charges by reportable segment for the year ended December 31, 2022: Year Ended December 31, 2022 (millions of dollars) Russia deconsolidation charges Other Russia related charges Total Russia charges Merger-related costs and other charges Total Americas $ — $ — $ — $ 4 $ 4 EMEA 733 (7) 726 25 751 APAC — — — 28 28 Engineering 54 110 164 41 205 Other — — — 41 41 Total $ 787 $ 103 $ 890 $ 139 $ 1,029 The following table provides a summary of the pre-tax charges by reportable segment for the year ended December 31, 2021: Year Ended December 31, 2021 (millions of dollars) Severance costs Other cost reduction charges Total cost reduction program related charges Merger related and other charges Total Americas $ 4 $ 2 $ 6 $ (6) $ — EMEA 204 33 237 1 238 APAC 16 12 28 (50) (22) Engineering 20 6 26 — 26 Other 15 26 41 (10) 31 Total $ 259 $ 79 $ 338 $ (65) $ 273 The following table summarizes the activities related to the company's cost reduction programs and other charges during 2022 and 2023: (millions of dollars) Total Russia charges Severance costs Other cost reduction charges Total cost reduction program related charges Merger related and other charges Total Balance, December 31, 2021 $ — $ 384 $ 38 $ 422 $ 31 $ 453 2022 Russia-Ukraine conflict and other charges 890 41 24 65 74 1,029 Less: Cash payments — (122) (24) (146) 19 (127) Less: Non-cash charges (890) — (7) (7) (109) (1,006) Foreign currency translation and other — (22) (4) (26) (3) (29) Balance, December 31, 2022 $ — $ 281 $ 27 $ 308 $ 12 $ 320 2023 Other Charges — 26 — 26 14 40 Less: Cash payments — (134) (1) (135) (23) (158) Less: Non-cash charges — — — — 12 12 Foreign currency translation and other — (1) — (1) 1 — Balance, December 31, 2023 $ — $ 172 $ 26 $ 198 $ 16 $ 214 |
Leases (Tables)
Leases (Tables) | 12 Months Ended |
Dec. 31, 2023 | |
Leases [Abstract] | |
Schedule of Supplemental Balance Sheet Information | Supplemental balance sheet information related to leases is as follows: (Millions of dollars) December 31, 2023 December 31, 2022 Operating Leases Operating lease right-of-use assets $ 759 $ 726 Other current liabilities 177 181 Other long-term liabilities 572 540 Total operating lease liabilities 749 721 Finance Leases Finance lease right-of-use assets 179 146 Other current liabilities 50 42 Other long-term liabilities 143 114 Total finance lease liabilities $ 193 $ 156 |
Schedule of Supplemental Operating Lease Information | Supplemental operating lease information: December 31, 2023 December 31, 2022 Weighted average lease term (years) 8 8 Weighted average discount rate 4.19 % 3.26 % |
Schedule of Future Operating Lease Payments | Future operating and finance lease payments as of December 31, 2023 are as follows (millions of dollars): Period Operating Leases Financing Leases 2024 $ 209 $ 58 2025 157 50 2026 121 40 2027 88 29 2028 60 16 Thereafter 268 55 Total future undiscounted lease payments 903 248 Less imputed interest (154) (55) Total reported lease liability $ 749 $ 193 |
Schedule of Future Financing Lease Payments | Future operating and finance lease payments as of December 31, 2023 are as follows (millions of dollars): Period Operating Leases Financing Leases 2024 $ 209 $ 58 2025 157 50 2026 121 40 2027 88 29 2028 60 16 Thereafter 268 55 Total future undiscounted lease payments 903 248 Less imputed interest (154) (55) Total reported lease liability $ 749 $ 193 |
Income Taxes (Tables)
Income Taxes (Tables) | 12 Months Ended |
Dec. 31, 2023 | |
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract] | |
Schedule of U.S. and Foreign Pre-tax Income Table | Pre-tax income applicable to U.S. and non-U.S. operations is as follows: (Millions of dollars) Year Ended December 31, 2023 2022 2021 United States $ 2,859 $ 2,502 $ 2,020 Non-U.S. 5,129 3,041 3,079 Total income before income taxes $ 7,988 $ 5,543 $ 5,099 |
Schedule of the Provision for Income Taxes Table | The following is an analysis of the provision for income taxes: (Millions of dollars) Year Ended December 31, 2023 2022 2021 Current tax expense (benefit) U.S. federal $ 291 $ 486 $ 287 State and local 116 92 87 Non-U.S. 1,491 1,239 1,142 1,898 1,817 1,516 Deferred tax expense (benefit) U.S. federal 57 (12) 63 State and local 5 7 8 Non-U.S. (146) (378) (325) (84) (383) (254) Total income taxes $ 1,814 $ 1,434 $ 1,262 |
Schedule of the Difference Between the Actual Income Tax Provision and the Amount Computed By Applying the US Statutory Income Tax Rate Table | An analysis of the difference between the provision for income taxes and the amount computed by applying the U.S. statutory income tax rate to pre-tax income follows: (Dollar amounts in millions) Year Ended December 31, 2023 2022 2021 U.S. statutory income tax $ 1,677 21.0 % $ 1,164 21.0 % $ 1,071 21.0 % State and local taxes – net of federal benefit 105 1.3 % 84 1.5 % 83 1.6 % Tax on Non-U.S. activities (a) 169 2.1 % 176 3.2 % 219 4.3 % Share-Based compensation (66) (0.8) % (41) (0.7) % (56) (1.1) % Russia/Ukraine Charges — — % 108 1.9 % — — % Other (b) (71) (0.9) % (57) (1.0) % (55) (1.1) % Provision for income taxes $ 1,814 22.7 % $ 1,434 25.9 % $ 1,262 24.7 % ________________________ (a) Primarily related to differences between the U.S. tax rate and the statutory tax rate in the countries in which the company operates. It also includes the U.S. tax impact of the non-U.S. activities and other non-U.S. permanent items and tax rate changes. Excluding 2021, which included an $83 million deferred income tax charge related to a tax rate increase in the U.K., these other items were not material. (b) Includes net tax benefits related to tax audit settlements of $54 million in 2023, of $71 million in 2022, and $47 million in 2021. |
Schedule of the Composition of the Net Deferred Tax Liabilities in the Consolidated Balance Sheets Table | Net deferred tax liabilities included in the consolidated balance sheets are comprised of the following: (Millions of dollars) December 31, 2023 2022 Deferred tax liabilities Fixed assets $ 2,686 $ 2,775 Goodwill 215 173 Other intangible assets 2,872 2,939 Subsidiary/equity investments 586 545 Other (a) 456 471 $ 6,815 $ 6,903 Deferred tax assets Carryforwards $ 285 $ 289 Benefit plans and related (b)(c) 243 165 Inventory 82 68 Accruals and other (d) 858 1,001 $ 1,468 $ 1,523 Less: Valuation allowances (e) (176) (276) $ 1,292 $ 1,247 Net deferred tax liabilities $ 5,523 $ 5,656 Recorded in the consolidated balance sheets as (Note 7): Other long-term assets 226 230 Deferred credits 5,749 5,886 $ 5,523 $ 5,656 ________________________ (a) Includes $221 million in 2023 and $206 million in 2022 related to right-of-use lease assets. (b) Includes deferred tax asset of $60 million and deferred tax liability of $54 million in 2023 and 2022, respectively, related to pension / OPEB funded status (see Notes 7 and 16). (c) The amounts are net of non-US deferred tax liabilities of $187 million in 2023 and $315 million in 2022. (d) Includes $228 million in 2023 and $212 million in 2022 related to lease liabilities. (e) Summary of changes in valuation allowances relating to deferred tax assets follows (millions of dollars): 2023 2022 2021 Balance, January 1, $ (276) $ (235) $ (243) Income tax (charge) benefit 65 (44) 8 Other, including write-offs 34 — — Translation adjustments 1 3 — Balance, December 31, $ (176) $ (276) $ (235) |
Schedule of Valuation Allowances Relating To Deferred Tax Assets Table | Summary of changes in valuation allowances relating to deferred tax assets follows (millions of dollars): 2023 2022 2021 Balance, January 1, $ (276) $ (235) $ (243) Income tax (charge) benefit 65 (44) 8 Other, including write-offs 34 — — Translation adjustments 1 3 — Balance, December 31, $ (176) $ (276) $ (235) |
Schedule of Reconciliation of Unrecognized Tax Benefits Table | A reconciliation of the beginning and ending amount of unrecognized tax benefits is as follows: (Millions of dollars) 2023 2022 2021 Unrecognized income tax benefits, January 1 $ 325 $ 387 $ 452 Additions for tax positions of prior years 108 26 11 Reductions for tax positions of prior years (a) (121) (45) (11) Additions for current year tax positions — — 19 Reductions for settlements with taxing authorities (a)(b) (1) (23) (60) Other (c) (7) (20) (24) Unrecognized income tax benefits, December 31 $ 304 $ 325 $ 387 ________________________ (a) 2023 and 2022 amounts are primarily related to the settlement of tax audits. (b) Settlements are uncertain tax positions that were effectively settled with the taxing authorities, including positions where the company has agreed to amend its tax returns to eliminate the uncertainty. (c) Other includes reductions for statute of limitation lapses and foreign currency translation. |
Schedule of Open Tax Years Subject to Examination by Major Jurisdiction Table | As of December 31, 2023, the company remained subject to examination in the following major tax jurisdictions for the tax years as indicated below: Major tax jurisdictions Open Years North and South America United States 2020 through 2023 Canada 2014 through 2023 Mexico 2014 through 2023 Brazil 2008 through 2023 Europe and Africa France 2019 through 2023 Germany 2018 through 2023 Spain 2010 through 2023 United Kingdom 2021 through 2023 Asia and Australia Australia 2019 through 2023 China 2018 through 2023 India 2006 through 2023 South Korea 2020 through 2023 |
Earnings Per Share - Linde PL_2
Earnings Per Share - Linde PLC Shareholders (Tables) | 12 Months Ended |
Dec. 31, 2023 | |
Earnings Per Share [Abstract] | |
Schedule of Earnings Per Share | Basic and Diluted earnings per share - Linde plc shareholders is computed by dividing Income from continuing operations, Income from discontinued operations, net of tax, and Net income – Linde plc for the period by the weighted average number of either basic or diluted shares outstanding, as follows: 2023 2022 2021 Numerator (Millions of dollars) Income from continuing operations $ 6,199 $ 4,147 $ 3,821 Income from discontinued operations, net of tax — — 5 Net Income – Linde plc $ 6,199 $ 4,147 $ 3,826 Denominator (Thousands of shares) Weighted average shares outstanding 487,656 499,254 516,507 Shares earned and issuable under compensation plans 535 482 389 Weighted average shares used in basic earnings per share 488,191 499,736 516,896 Effect of dilutive securities Stock options and awards 4,099 4,302 4,979 Weighted average shares used in diluted earnings per share 492,290 504,038 521,875 Basic earnings per share from continuing operations $ 12.70 $ 8.30 $ 7.39 Basic earnings per share from discontinued operations — — 0.01 Basic Earnings Per Share $ 12.70 $ 8.30 $ 7.40 Diluted earnings per share from continuing operations $ 12.59 $ 8.23 $ 7.32 Diluted earnings per share from discontinued operations — — 0.01 Diluted Earnings Per Share $ 12.59 $ 8.23 $ 7.33 |
Supplemental Information (Table
Supplemental Information (Tables) | 12 Months Ended |
Dec. 31, 2023 | |
Supplemental Information [Abstract] | |
Schedule of Selling General and Administrative | (Millions of dollars) Year Ended December 31, 2023 2022 2021 Selling, General and Administrative Selling $ 1,330 $ 1,295 $ 1,342 General and administrative 1,965 1,812 1,847 $ 3,295 $ 3,107 $ 3,189 |
Schedule of Depreciation and Amortization | Year Ended December 31, 2023 2022 2021 Depreciation and Amortization (a) Depreciation $ 3,266 $ 3,633 $ 3,912 Amortization of intangibles (Note 10) 550 571 723 Depreciation and Amortization $ 3,816 $ 4,204 $ 4,635 Depreciation and amortization expense in 2023 include $529 million and $462 million, respectively, of Linde AG purchase accounting impacts. In 2022, depreciation and amortization expense include $1,006 million and $474 million, respectively, of Linde AG purchase accounting impacts. |
Schedule of Other Income (Expense) | Year Ended December 31, 2023 2022 2021 Other Income (Expenses) – Net Currency related net gains (losses) $ (47) $ (18) $ (29) Partnership income 2 18 13 Severance expense (12) (13) (5) Asset divestiture gains (losses) – net 6 (9) (31) Other – net gains (losses) 10 (40) 26 $ (41) $ (62) $ (26) |
Schedule of Interest Expense | Year Ended December 31, 2023 2022 2021 Interest Expense – Net Interest incurred on debt and other $ 480 $ 277 $ 227 Interest income (197) (117) (40) Amortization on acquired debt (16) (35) (53) Interest capitalized (67) (62) (57) $ 200 $ 63 $ 77 |
Schedule of Accounts Receivable | (Millions of dollars) December 31, 2023 2022 Accounts Receivable Trade and Other receivables $ 5,175 $ 4,964 Less: allowance for expected credit losses (457) (405) $ 4,718 $ 4,559 |
Schedule of Inventories | December 31, 2023 2022 Inventories Raw materials and supplies $ 614 $ 567 Work in process 390 368 Finished goods 1,111 1,043 $ 2,115 $ 1,978 |
Schedule of Prepaid and Other Current Assets | December 31, 2023 2022 Prepaid and Other Current Assets Prepaid and other deferred charges (b) $ 583 $ 597 VAT recoverable 178 225 Unrealized gains on derivatives (Note 12) 73 24 Other 93 104 $ 927 $ 950 |
Schedule of Other Long-term Assets | December 31, 2023 2022 Other Long-term Assets Pension assets (Note 16) $ 380 $ 661 Insurance contracts (c) 38 39 Long-term receivables, net (d) 163 164 Lease assets (Note 4) 938 872 Deposits 76 52 Investments carried at cost (e) 187 184 Deferred charges 60 66 Deferred income taxes (Note 5) 226 230 Unrealized gains on derivatives (Note 12) 8 4 Other 223 204 $ 2,299 $ 2,476 |
Schedule of Other Current Liabilities | December 31, 2023 2022 Other Current Liabilities Accrued expenses $ 1,494 $ 1,533 Payroll 678 614 VAT payable 253 259 Pension and postretirement (Note 16) 31 51 Interest payable 129 118 Lease liability (Note 4) 227 223 Insurance reserves 21 19 Unrealized losses on derivatives (Note 12) 41 23 Cost reduction programs and other charges (Note 3) 146 187 Other 1,136 1,055 $ 4,156 $ 4,082 |
Schedule of Other Long-term Liabilities | December 31, 2023 2022 Other Long-term Liabilities Pension and postretirement (Note 16) $ 693 $ 640 Tax liabilities for uncertain tax positions (Note 5) 216 248 Tax Act liabilities (f) 80 139 Lease liability (Note 4) 715 654 Interest and penalties for uncertain tax positions (Note 5) 14 35 Insurance reserves 54 52 Asset retirement obligation 305 305 Unrealized losses on derivatives (Note 12) 6 73 Cost reduction programs and other charges (Note 3) 68 133 Contingent liabilities (Note 17) 1,148 29 Other 505 487 $ 3,804 $ 2,795 |
Schedule of Deferred Credits | December 31, 2023 2022 Deferred Credits Deferred income taxes (Note 5) $ 5,749 $ 5,886 Contract liabilities (Note 19) 1,049 913 $ 6,798 $ 6,799 |
Schedule of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) | December 31, 2023 2022 Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) Cumulative translation adjustment - net of taxes: Americas (g) $ (3,618) $ (3,942) EMEA (g) (737) (1,249) APAC (g) (1,037) (835) Engineering (93) (241) Other 113 483 (5,372) (5,784) Derivatives – net of taxes 7 62 Pension/OPEB funded status obligation (net of $60 million tax benefit in 2023 and $(54) million tax obligation in 2022) (Note 16) (440) (60) $ (5,805) $ (5,782) |
Property, Plant & Equipment -_2
Property, Plant & Equipment - Net (Tables) | 12 Months Ended |
Dec. 31, 2023 | |
Property, Plant and Equipment [Abstract] | |
Property, Plant & Equipment - Net | Significant classes of property, plant and equipment are as follows: (Millions of dollars) December 31, Depreciable Lives (Yrs) 2023 2022 Production plants (primarily 15-year life) (a) 10-20 $ 33,071 $ 30,554 Storage tanks 15-20 5,445 4,807 Transportation equipment and other 3-15 4,050 3,434 Cylinders 10-30 4,993 4,604 Buildings 25-40 3,275 3,002 Land and improvements (b) 0-20 1,087 1,047 Construction in progress 3,404 3,239 55,325 50,687 Less: accumulated depreciation (30,773) (27,139) $ 24,552 $ 23,548 (a) Depreciable lives of production plants related to long-term customer supply contracts are generally consistent with the contract lives. |
Goodwill (Tables)
Goodwill (Tables) | 12 Months Ended |
Dec. 31, 2023 | |
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract] | |
Schedule of Goodwill | Changes in the carrying amount of goodwill for the years ended December 31, 2023 and 2022 were as follows: (Millions of dollars) Americas EMEA APAC Engineering Other Total Balance, December 31, 2021 $ 9,087 $ 10,278 $ 4,854 $ 2,496 $ 323 $ 27,038 Acquisitions 44 28 — — — 72 Foreign currency translation and other 5 (773) (304) (146) (13) (1,231) Disposals (Note 2 & Note 3) — (41) — (1) (20) (62) Balance, December 31, 2022 9,136 9,492 4,550 2,349 290 25,817 Acquisitions (Note 2) 550 — 3 — — 553 Foreign currency translation and other 17 347 (54) 73 3 386 Disposals — (5) — — — (5) Balance, December 31, 2023 $ 9,703 $ 9,834 $ 4,499 $ 2,422 $ 293 $ 26,751 |
Other Intangible Assets (Tables
Other Intangible Assets (Tables) | 12 Months Ended |
Dec. 31, 2023 | |
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract] | |
Schedule of Other Intangible Assets | The following is a summary of Linde’s other intangible assets at December 31, 2023 and 2022: (Millions of dollars) For the year ended December 31, 2023 Customer Relationships Brands/Tradenames Other Intangible Assets Total Cost: Balance, December 31, 2022 $ 11,062 $ 2,565 $ 1,697 $ 15,324 Additions 258 6 50 314 Foreign currency translation 185 38 41 264 Disposals (3) — (20) (23) Other * (23) — 145 122 Balance, December 31, 2023 11,479 2,609 1,913 16,001 Less: accumulated amortization: Balance, December 31, 2022 (1,841) (196) (867) (2,904) Amortization expense (Note 7) (423) (36) (91) (550) Foreign currency translation (36) (1) (24) (61) Disposals — — 21 21 Other * 30 — (138) (108) Balance, December 31, 2023 (2,270) (233) (1,099) (3,602) Net balance at December 31, 2023 $ 9,209 $ 2,376 $ 814 $ 12,399 (Millions of dollars) For the year ended December 31, 2022 Customer Relationships Brands/Tradenames Other Intangible Assets Total Cost: Balance, December 31, 2021 $ 11,859 $ 2,685 $ 1,629 $ 16,173 Additions 19 — 53 72 Foreign currency translation (660) (120) (56) (836) Disposals (Note 2) (140) — (45) (185) Other * (16) — 116 100 Balance, December 31, 2022 11,062 2,565 1,697 15,324 Less: accumulated amortization: Balance, December 31, 2021 (1,541) (159) (671) (2,371) Amortization expense (Note 7) (419) (42) (110) (571) Foreign currency translation 80 5 13 98 Disposals (Note 2) 34 — 16 50 Other * 5 — (115) (110) Balance, December 31, 2022 (1,841) (196) (867) (2,904) Net balance at December 31, 2022 $ 9,221 $ 2,369 $ 830 $ 12,420 *Other primarily relates to the write-off of fully amortized assets and reclassifications. |
Schedule of Estimated Future Amortization Expense | Total estimated annual amortization expense related to finite-lived intangibles is as follows: (Millions of dollars) 2024 $ 578 2025 528 2026 516 2027 505 2028 492 Thereafter 8,035 Total amortization related to finite-lived intangible assets 10,654 Indefinite-lived intangible assets at December 31, 2023 1,745 Net intangible assets at December 31, 2023 $ 12,399 |
Debt (Tables)
Debt (Tables) | 12 Months Ended |
Dec. 31, 2023 | |
Debt Disclosure [Abstract] | |
Summary of Outstanding Debt | The following is a summary of Linde’s outstanding debt at December 31, 2023 and 2022 : (Millions of dollars) December 31, 2023 December 31, 2022 SHORT-TERM Commercial paper $ 4,483 $ 3,926 Other borrowings (primarily non U.S.) 230 191 Total short-term debt 4,713 4,117 LONG-TERM (a) (U.S. dollar denominated unless otherwise noted) 2.70% Notes due 2023 (c) — 501 2.00% Euro denominated notes due 2023 (d) — 699 5.875% GBP denominated notes due 2023 (d) — 367 1.20% Euro denominated notes due 2024 607 588 1.875% Euro denominated notes due 2024 (b) 332 324 4.800% Notes due 2024 300 299 4.700% Notes due 2025 599 598 2.65% Notes due 2025 399 400 1.625% Euro denominated notes due 2025 550 533 3.625% Euro denominated notes due 2025 (e) 551 — 0.00% Euro denominated notes due 2026 774 751 3.20% Notes due 2026 724 724 3.434% Notes due 2026 198 198 1.652% Euro denominated notes due 2027 90 88 0.250% Euro denominated notes due 2027 827 802 1.00% Euro denominated notes due 2027 553 536 1.00% Euro denominated notes due 2028 (b) 780 749 3.375% Euro denominated notes due 2029 (e) 824 — 1.10% Notes due 2030 697 696 1.90% Euro denominated notes due 2030 114 111 1.375% Euro denominated notes due 2031 829 803 0.550% Euro denominated notes due 2032 823 798 0.375% Euro denominated notes due 2033 546 529 3.625% Euro denominated notes due 2034 (e) 714 — 1.625% Euro denominated notes due 2035 876 849 3.55% Notes due 2042 666 665 2.00% Notes due 2050 296 296 1.00% Euro denominated notes due 2051 755 731 Non U.S. borrowings 226 152 Other 10 10 14,660 13,797 Less: current portion of long-term debt (1,263) (1,599) Total long-term debt 13,397 12,198 Total debt $ 19,373 $ 17,914 ________________________ (a) Amounts are net of unamortized discounts, premiums and/or debt issuance costs as applicable. (b) December 31, 2023 and December 31, 2022 included a cumulative $46 million and $56 million adjustment to carrying value, respectively, related to hedge accounting of interest rate swaps, including related terminations. Refer to Note 12. (c) In February 2023, Linde repaid $500 million of 2.70% notes that became due. (d) In April 2023, Linde repaid €650 million of 2.00% notes and £300 million of 5.875% notes that became due. (e) In June 2023, Linde issued €500 million of 3.625% notes due in 2025, €750 million of 3.375% notes due in 2029 and €650 million of 3.625% notes due in 2034. |
Expected Maturities On Long-term Debt | Expected maturities of long-term debt are as follows: (Millions of dollars) 2024 $ 1,263 2025 2,113 2026 1,733 2027 1,500 2028 835 Thereafter 7,216 $ 14,660 |
Financial Instruments (Tables)
Financial Instruments (Tables) | 12 Months Ended |
Dec. 31, 2023 | |
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Abstract] | |
Schedule of Derivative Instruments in Statement of Financial Position, Fair Value | The following table is a summary of the notional amount and fair value of derivatives outstanding at December 31, 2023 and 2022 for consolidated subsidiaries: Fair Value (Millions of dollars) Notional Amounts Assets (a) Liabilities (a) December 31, 2023 2022 2023 2022 2023 2022 Derivatives Not Designated as Hedging Instruments: Currency contracts: Balance sheet items $ 4,567 $ 3,056 $ 46 $ 13 $ 26 $ 7 Forecasted transactions 335 449 11 9 6 9 Cross-currency swaps — 42 — — — 1 Commodity contracts N/A N/A — — — — Total $ 4,902 $ 3,547 $ 57 $ 22 $ 32 $ 17 Derivatives Designated as Hedging Instruments: Currency contracts: Forecasted transactions $ 749 $ 323 $ 20 $ 6 $ 4 $ 5 Commodity contracts N/A N/A 3 — 7 4 Interest rate swaps 1,214 856 1 — 4 70 Total Hedges $ 1,963 $ 1,179 $ 24 $ 6 $ 15 $ 79 Total Derivatives $ 6,865 $ 4,726 $ 81 $ 28 $ 47 $ 96 |
Schedule of Derivative Instruments Not Designated as Hedging Instruments | The following table summarizes the impact of the company's derivatives on the consolidated statements of income: (Millions of dollars) Amount of Pre-Tax Gain (Loss) December 31, 2023 2022 2021 Derivatives Not Designated as Hedging Instruments Currency contracts: Balance sheet items: Debt-related $ 91 $ 12 $ 42 Other balance sheet items (1) 8 (5) Total $ 90 $ 20 $ 38 * The gains (losses) on balance sheet items are offset by gains (losses) recorded on the underlying hedged assets and liabilities. Accordingly, the gains (losses) for the derivatives and the underlying hedged assets and liabilities related to debt items are recorded in the consolidated statements of income as interest expense-net. Other balance sheet items and anticipated net income gains (losses) are recorded in the consolidated statements of income as other income (expenses)-net. |
Fair Value Disclosures (Tables)
Fair Value Disclosures (Tables) | 12 Months Ended |
Dec. 31, 2023 | |
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract] | |
Schedule of Assets and Liabilities Measured at Fair Value on a Recurring Basis | The following table summarizes assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis at December 31, 2023 and 2022: Fair Value Measurements Using (Millions of dollars) Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 2023 2022 2023 2022 2023 2022 Assets Derivative assets $ — $ — $ 81 $ 28 $ — $ — Investments and securities * 16 20 — — 12 13 Total $ 16 $ 20 $ 81 $ 28 $ 12 $ 13 Liabilities Derivative liabilities $ — $ — $ 47 $ 96 $ — $ — * Investments and securities are recorded in prepaid and other current assets and other long-term assets in the company's consolidated balance sheets. |
Share-Based Compensation (Table
Share-Based Compensation (Tables) | 12 Months Ended |
Dec. 31, 2023 | |
Share-Based Payment Arrangement [Abstract] | |
Schedule of Share-based Payment Award, Stock Options, Valuation Assumptions | The following weighted-average assumptions were used to value the grants in 2023, 2022 and 2021: Year Ended December 31, 2023 2022 2021 Dividend yield 1.4 % 1.7 % 1.7 % Volatility 22.0 % 20.6 % 18.4 % Risk-free interest rate 4.23 % 1.70 % 1.10 % Expected term years 5 5 6 |
Schedule of Share-based Compensation, Stock Options, Activity | The following table summarizes option activity under the plans as of December 31, 2023 and changes during the period then ended (averages are calculated on a weighted basis; life in years; intrinsic value expressed in millions): Activity Number of Average Average Aggregate Outstanding at January 1, 2023 6,720 $ 164.03 Granted 361 354.16 Exercised (1,225) 137.78 Cancelled or expired (31) 311.86 Outstanding at December 31, 2023 5,825 $ 180.58 5.0 $ 1,341 Exercisable at December 31, 2023 4,926 $ 159.18 4.4 $ 1,239 |
Performance Based and Restricted Stock Activity | The following table summarizes non-vested performance-based and restricted stock unit award activity as of December 31, 2023 and changes during the period then ended (shares based on target amounts, averages are calculated on a weighted basis): Performance-Based Restricted Stock Number of Average Number of Average Non-vested at January 1, 2023 583 $ 226.04 646 $ 190.33 Granted 342 385.10 161 332.69 Vested (340) 174.99 (154) 176.06 Cancelled and Forfeited (13) 156.14 (15) 163.12 Non-vested at December 31, 2023 572 $ 281.11 638 $ 232.15 |
Retirement Programs (Tables)
Retirement Programs (Tables) | 12 Months Ended |
Dec. 31, 2023 | |
Retirement Benefits [Abstract] | |
Schedule of Pension and OPEB Net Periodic Benefit Costs Table | The components of net pension and postretirement benefits other than pension ("OPEB") costs for 2023, 2022 and 2021 are shown in the table below: (Millions of dollars) Year Ended December 31, 2023 2022 2021 Amount recognized in Operating Profit Service cost $ 84 $ 127 $ 157 Amount recognized in Net pension and OPEB cost (benefit), excluding service cost Interest cost 373 201 154 Expected return on plan assets (523) (518) (521) Net amortization and deferral (30) 74 171 Settlement charges (a) 16 6 4 $ (164) $ (237) $ (192) Net periodic benefit cost (benefit) $ (80) $ (110) $ (35) (a) Settlement charges were triggered by lump sum benefit payments. |
Schedule of Pension and OPEB Funded Status Table | Changes in the benefit obligation and plan assets for Linde’s pension and OPEB programs, including reconciliation of the funded status of the plans to amounts recorded in the consolidated balance sheet, as of December 31, 2023 and 2022 are shown below. (Millions of dollars) Year Ended December 31, 2023 2022 U.S. Non-U.S. U.S. Non-U.S. Change in Benefit Obligation ("PBO") Benefit obligation, January 1 $ 2,129 $ 5,586 $ 2,719 $ 9,398 Service cost 25 59 34 93 Interest cost 105 268 60 141 Participant contributions 11 18 11 17 Actuarial loss (gain) 100 532 (528) (2,972) Benefits paid (162) (324) (158) (296) Plan settlement (21) (14) (9) (8) Foreign currency translation and other changes — 260 — (787) Benefit obligation, December 31 $ 2,187 $ 6,385 $ 2,129 $ 5,586 Accumulated benefit obligation ("ABO") $ 2,037 $ 6,300 $ 1,982 $ 5,508 Change in Plan Assets Fair value of plan assets, January 1 $ 1,891 $ 5,794 $ 2,448 $ 7,968 Actual return on plan assets 300 365 (421) (1,302) Company contributions — 46 — 51 Participant contributions — 18 — 17 Benefits paid from plan assets (141) (320) (136) (248) Foreign currency translation and other changes — 275 — (692) Fair value of plan assets, December 31 $ 2,050 $ 6,178 $ 1,891 $ 5,794 Funded Status, End of Year $ (137) $ (207) $ (238) $ 208 Recorded in the Balance Sheet (Note 7) Other long-term assets $ 19 $ 361 $ 13 $ 648 Other current liabilities (17) (14) (38) (13) Other long-term liabilities (139) (554) (213) (427) Net amount recognized, December 31 $ (137) $ (207) $ (238) $ 208 Amounts recognized in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) consist of: Net actuarial loss (gain) $ 290 $ 219 $ 357 $ (343) Prior service cost (credit) (10) 1 (12) 4 Deferred tax obligation (benefit) (Note 7) (67) 7 (85) 139 Amount recognized in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) (Note 7) $ 213 $ 227 $ 260 $ (200) Comparative funded status information as of December 31, 2023 and 2022 for select non-U.S. pension plans is presented in the table below as the benefit obligations of these plans are considered to be significant relative to the total benefit obligation: United Kingdom Germany Other Non-U.S. Total Non-U.S. (Millions of dollars) 2023 2023 2023 2023 Benefit obligation, December 31 $ 3,616 $ 1,684 $ 1,085 $ 6,385 Fair value of plan assets, December 31 3,858 1,370 950 6,178 Funded Status, End of Year $ 242 $ (314) $ (135) $ (207) United Kingdom Germany Other Non-U.S. Total Non-U.S. (Millions of dollars) 2022 2022 2022 2022 Benefit obligation, December 31 $ 3,100 $ 1,485 $ 1,001 $ 5,586 Fair value of plan assets, December 31 3,625 1,285 884 5,794 Funded Status, End of Year $ 525 $ (200) $ (117) $ 208 |
Schedule of Pension and OPEB Changes in Plan Assets and Benefit Obligations Recognized in AOCI Table | The changes in plan assets and benefit obligations recognized in other comprehensive income in 2023 and 2022 are as follows: Pensions (Millions of dollars) 2023 2022 Current year net actuarial losses (gains)* $ 480 $ (1,259) Amortization of net actuarial gains (losses) 29 (75) Amortization of prior service credits (costs) 1 1 Pension settlements (16) (6) Foreign currency translation and other changes — (90) Total recognized in other comprehensive income $ 494 $ (1,429) ________________________ |
Schedule of Pension Plans Where the Accumulated Benefit Obligation Exceeds the Fair Value of Plan Assets | The following table provides information for pension plans where the accumulated benefit obligation exceeds the fair value of plan assets: (Millions of dollars) Year Ended December 31, Pensions 2023 2022 U.S. Non-U.S. U.S. Non-U.S. Accumulated benefit obligation ("ABO") $ 1,952 $ 1,880 $ 1,895 $ 1,848 Fair value of plan assets $ 1,945 $ 1,385 $ 1,791 $ 1,472 |
Schedule of Pension Plans Where the Projected Benefit Obligation Exceeds the Fair Value of Plan Assets | The following table provides information for pension plans where the projected benefit obligation exceeds the fair value of plan assets: (Millions of dollars) Year Ended December 31, Pensions 2023 2022 U.S. Non-U.S. U.S. Non-U.S. Projected benefit obligation ("PBO") $ 2,012 $ 1,932 $ 1,948 $ 1,901 Fair value of plan assets $ 1,945 $ 1,390 $ 1,791 $ 1,478 |
Schedule of Pension and OPEB Plans Assumptions Used to Determine Benefit Obligations and the Net Benefit Cost Table | The assumptions used to determine benefit obligations are as of the respective balance sheet dates and the assumptions used to determine net benefit cost are as of the previous year-end, as shown below: Pensions U.S. Non-U.S. 2023 2022 2023 2022 Weighted average assumptions used to determine benefit obligations at December 31, Discount rate 5.03 % 5.35 % 4.27 % 4.58 % Interest crediting rate 4.03 % 4.02 % 1.70 % 2.13 % Rate of increase in compensation levels 3.50 % 3.25 % 2.58 % 2.59 % Weighted average assumptions used to determine net periodic benefit cost for years ended December 31, Discount rate 5.35 % 2.78 % 4.58 % 1.82 % Interest crediting rate 4.02 % 2.06 % 2.13 % 1.03 % Rate of increase in compensation levels 3.25 % 3.25 % 2.59 % 2.55 % Expected long-term rate of return on plan assets (1) 7.00 % 7.00 % 5.64 % 5.60 % (1) The expected long term rate of return on the U.S. and non-U.S. plan assets is estimated based on the plans' investment strategy and asset allocation, historical capital market performance and, to a lesser extent, historical plan per formance. For the U.S. plans, the expected rate of return of 7.00% was derived based on the target asset allocation of 50%-70% equity securities (approximately 8.40% expected return), 20%-50% fixed income securities (approximately 4.80% expected return) and 2%-8% alternative investments (approximately 3.40% expected return). For the non-U.S. plans, the expected rate of return was derived based on the weighted average target asset allocation of 15%-25% equity securities (approximately 7.20% expected return), 30%-50% fixed income securities (approximately 5.90% expected return), and 30%-50% alternative investments (approximately 5.80% expected return). For the U.S. plan assets, the actual annualized total return for the most recent 10-year period ended December 31, 2023 was approximately 6.60%. For the non-U.S. plan assets, the actual annualized total return for the same period was approximately 4.90%. Changes to plan asset allocations and investment strategy over this time period limit the value of historical plan performance as a factor in estimating the expected long term rate of return. For 2024, the expected long-term rate of return on plan assets will be 7.00% for the U.S. plans and 5.83%. for non-U.S. plans. |
Schedule of Pension Plans Targeted Asset Allocation Range and Weighted-Average Asset Allocations | Weighted-average asset allocations at December 31, 2023 and 2022 for Linde’s U.S. and non-U.S. pension plans, as well as respective asset allocation ranges by major asset category, are generally as follows: U.S. Non-U.S. Asset Category Target 2023 Target 2022 2023 2022 Target 2023 Target 2022 2023 2022 Equity securities 50% - 70% 50% - 70% 59% 60% 15% - 25% 15% - 25% 22% 20% Fixed income securities 20% - 50% 20% - 50% 31% 29% 30% - 50% 30% - 50% 30% 30% Other 2% - 8% 2% - 8% 10% 11% 30% - 50% 30% - 50% 48% 50% |
Schedule of Pension Plans Assets Measured at Fair Value by Asset Category Table | The following table summarizes pension assets measured at fair value by asset category at December 31, 2023 and 2022. Transfers of assets were not material for the year ended December 31, 2023 and 2022. See Note 13 for the definition of levels within the fair value hierarchy: Fair Value Measurements Using Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 ** Total (Millions of dollars) 2023 2022 2023 2022 2023 2022 2023 2022 Cash and cash equivalents $ 368 $ 313 $ — $ — $ — $ — $ 368 $ 313 Equity securities: Global equities 926 778 — — — — 926 778 Mutual funds 298 248 — — — — 298 248 Fixed income securities: Government bonds — — 1,486 1,317 — — 1,486 1,317 Emerging market debt — — 283 245 — — 283 245 Mutual funds 119 101 60 55 — — 179 156 Corporate bonds — — 324 372 — — 324 372 Bank loans — — 27 18 — — 27 18 Alternative investments: Real estate funds — — — — 324 353 324 353 Private debt — — — — 1,345 1,360 1,345 1,360 Insurance contracts — — — — 51 46 51 46 Liquid alternative — — 1,022 982 — — 1,022 982 Other investments 1 1 22 39 — — 23 40 Total plan assets at fair value, $ 1,712 $ 1,441 $ 3,224 $ 3,028 $ 1,720 $ 1,759 $ 6,656 $ 6,228 Pooled funds * 1,572 1,457 Total fair value plan assets $ 8,228 $ 7,685 |
Schedule of Pension Plans Changes in Fair Value of Assets Classified as Level 3 Table | ** The following table summarizes changes in fair value of the pension plan assets classified as level 3 for the periods ended December 31, 2023 and 2022: (Millions of dollars) Insurance Contracts Real Estate Funds Private Debt Total Balance, December 31, 2021 $ 12 $ 360 $ 1,368 $ 1,740 Gain/(Loss) for the period — 5 93 98 Purchases 2 18 63 83 Sales — (22) (34) (56) Transfer into/ (out of) Level 3 33 — — 33 Foreign currency translation (1) (8) (130) (139) Balance, December 31, 2022 46 353 1,360 1,759 Gain/(Loss) for the period — (27) (38) (65) Purchases 1 3 1 5 Sales — (15) (44) (59) Transfer into / (out of) Level 3 — — — — Foreign currency translation 4 10 66 80 Balance, December 31, 2023 $ 51 $ 324 $ 1,345 $ 1,720 |
Schedule of Pension and OPEB Estimated Future Benefit Payments, Net of Participant Contributions Table | The following table presents estimated future benefit payments, net of participant contributions: (Millions of dollars) Pensions Year Ended December 31, U.S. Non-U.S. 2024 $ 203 $ 355 2025 166 341 2026 163 353 2027 166 359 2028 165 373 2029-2033 824 1,974 |
Segment Information (Tables)
Segment Information (Tables) | 12 Months Ended |
Dec. 31, 2023 | |
Segment Reporting [Abstract] | |
Schedule of Segment Reporting Information | The table below presents information about reportable segments for the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021. (Millions of dollars) 2023 2022 2021 Sales (a) Americas $ 14,304 $ 13,874 $ 12,103 EMEA 8,542 8,443 7,643 APAC 6,559 6,480 6,133 Engineering 2,160 2,762 2,867 Other 1,289 1,805 2,047 Total Sales $ 32,854 $ 33,364 $ 30,793 2023 2022 2021 Segment Operating Profit Americas $ 4,244 $ 3,732 $ 3,368 EMEA 2,486 2,013 1,889 APAC 1,806 1,670 1,502 Engineering 491 555 473 Other 43 (66) (56) Reported Segment operating profit 9,070 7,904 7,176 Other charges (Note 3) (40) (1,029) (273) Purchase accounting impacts - Linde AG (1,006) (1,506) (1,919) Total operating profit $ 8,024 $ 5,369 $ 4,984 2023 2022 2021 Depreciation and Amortization Americas $ 1,423 $ 1,320 $ 1,243 EMEA 640 661 752 APAC 633 593 611 Engineering 33 33 39 Other 96 116 127 Segment depreciation and amortization 2,825 2,723 2,772 Purchase accounting impacts - Linde AG 991 1,481 1,863 Total depreciation and amortization $ 3,816 $ 4,204 $ 4,635 2023 2022 2021 Capital Expenditures and Acquisitions Americas $ 2,999 $ 1,698 $ 1,354 EMEA 635 550 669 APAC 975 889 995 Engineering 24 28 25 Other 107 118 131 Total Capital Expenditures and Acquisitions $ 4,740 $ 3,283 $ 3,174 Sales reflect external sales only. Intersegment sales, primarily from Engineering to the industrial gases segments, were $1,479 million, $1,035 million and $896 million for the year ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021, respectively. |
Schedule of Segment Information, Sales by Major Country Table | 2023 2022 2021 Sales by Major Country United States $ 10,566 $ 10,553 $ 9,123 Germany (c) 2,827 3,662 3,601 China 2,585 2,643 2,562 United Kingdom 1,507 1,954 2,060 Australia 1,303 1,372 1,307 Brazil 1,302 1,158 1,065 Other – non-U.S. 12,764 12,022 11,075 Total sales $ 32,854 $ 33,364 $ 30,793 Sales in Germany include Engineering sales to third parties, locally and internationally, which represent 35%, 44% and 53% of Germany sales in 2023, 2022 and 2021, respectively. |
Long-lived Assets by Geographic Areas | 2023 2022 2021 Long-lived Assets by Major Country (b) United States $ 8,490 $ 7,663 $ 7,659 Germany 1,584 1,678 2,003 China 2,063 2,176 2,385 United Kingdom 684 704 1,078 Australia 654 688 872 Brazil 836 720 705 Other – non-U.S. 10,241 9,919 11,301 Total long-lived assets $ 24,552 $ 23,548 $ 26,003 |
Revenue Recognition (Tables)
Revenue Recognition (Tables) | 12 Months Ended |
Dec. 31, 2023 | |
Revenue from Contract with Customer [Abstract] | |
Disaggregation of Revenue | The following tables show sales by distribution method at the consolidated level and for each reportable segment and Other for the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021. (Millions of dollars) Year Ended December 31, 2023 Sales Americas EMEA APAC Engineering Other Total % Merchant $ 4,370 $ 2,773 $ 2,242 $ — $ 218 $ 9,603 29 % On-Site 3,246 1,980 2,599 — — 7,825 24 % Packaged Gas 6,457 3,735 1,416 — 46 11,654 35 % Other 231 54 302 2,160 1,025 3,772 12 % $ 14,304 $ 8,542 $ 6,559 $ 2,160 $ 1,289 $ 32,854 100 % (Millions of dollars) Year Ended December 31, 2022 Sales Americas EMEA APAC Engineering Other Total % Merchant $ 3,786 $ 2,509 $ 2,220 $ — $ 176 $ 8,691 26 % On-Site 4,048 2,415 2,471 — — 8,934 27 % Packaged Gas 5,831 3,466 1,523 — 51 10,871 33 % Other 209 53 266 2,762 1,578 4,868 14 % $ 13,874 $ 8,443 $ 6,480 $ 2,762 $ 1,805 $ 33,364 100 % (Millions of dollars) Year Ended December 31, 2021 Sales Americas EMEA APAC Engineering Other Total % Merchant $ 3,279 $ 2,227 $ 2,181 $ — $ 173 $ 7,860 26 % On-Site 3,225 1,824 2,296 — — 7,345 24 % Packaged Gas 5,456 3,539 1,532 — 24 10,551 34 % Other 143 53 124 2,867 1,850 5,037 16 % $ 12,103 $ 7,643 $ 6,133 $ 2,867 $ 2,047 $ 30,793 100 % |
Summary of Significant Accoun_3
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Details) | 12 Months Ended | |
Dec. 31, 2023 contract | Mar. 01, 2023 shares | |
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items] | ||
Common stock exchanged, conversion ratio (in shares) | shares | 1 | |
Different types of derivative, number | contract | 3 | |
Minimum | ||
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items] | ||
Useful life | 3 years | |
Maximum | ||
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items] | ||
Useful life | 40 years |
Acquisitions and Divestitures -
Acquisitions and Divestitures - Narrative (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions | 3 Months Ended | 12 Months Ended | |||||
Jan. 05, 2023 | Dec. 31, 2023 | Sep. 30, 2022 | Dec. 31, 2023 | Dec. 31, 2023 | Dec. 31, 2022 | Dec. 31, 2021 | |
Business Acquisition [Line Items] | |||||||
Acquisitions | $ 953 | $ 110 | $ 88 | ||||
Goodwill | $ 26,751 | $ 26,751 | $ 26,751 | $ 25,817 | $ 27,038 | ||
Disposal Group, Not Discontinued Operation, Gain (Loss) on Disposal, Statement of Income or Comprehensive Income [Extensible Enumeration] | Other charges | ||||||
Disposal Group, Disposed of by Sale, Not Discontinued Operations | GIST | |||||||
Business Acquisition [Line Items] | |||||||
Consideration for sale of business | $ 184 | ||||||
Proceeds from divestiture of businesses | 75 | ||||||
Net proceeds | 109 | ||||||
Loss on sale of business | 21 | ||||||
After tax benefit from loss on sale of business | $ 3 | ||||||
nexAir, LLC | |||||||
Business Acquisition [Line Items] | |||||||
Acquisitions | $ 811 | ||||||
Ownership interest in acquiree before acquisition (percent) | 23% | ||||||
Ownership interest acquired (percent) | 77% | ||||||
Purchase price | $ 866 | ||||||
Fair value of previously held equity interest | $ 183 | ||||||
Ownership interest in acquiree after acquisition (percent) | 100% | ||||||
Pro forma sales since acquisition date | $ 408 | ||||||
Measurement period adjustments related to working capital and deferred taxes | $ 27 | ||||||
Identifiable intangible assets | $ 245 | ||||||
Goodwill | 485 | ||||||
nexAir, LLC | Customer Relationships | |||||||
Business Acquisition [Line Items] | |||||||
Identifiable intangible assets | $ 245 | ||||||
Estimated useful life of acquired intangible assets | 20 years |
Acquisitions and Divestitures_2
Acquisitions and Divestitures - Summary of Consideration Transferred and Identified Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions | Jan. 05, 2023 | Dec. 31, 2023 | Dec. 31, 2022 | Dec. 31, 2021 |
Assets: | ||||
Goodwill | $ 26,751 | $ 25,817 | $ 27,038 | |
nexAir, LLC | ||||
Assets: | ||||
Cash and cash equivalents | $ 55 | |||
Other current assets - net | 49 | |||
Property, plant and equipment, net | 241 | |||
Other intangible assets - net | 245 | |||
Other long-term liabilities - net | (1) | |||
Deferred taxes | (25) | |||
Total identifiable net assets | 564 | |||
Goodwill | 485 | |||
Fair value of previously held equity interest | 183 | |||
Total purchase price | $ 866 |
Other Charges - Narrative (Deta
Other Charges - Narrative (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions | 3 Months Ended | 12 Months Ended | ||
Jun. 30, 2022 | Dec. 31, 2023 | Dec. 31, 2022 | Dec. 31, 2021 | |
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items] | ||||
Russia-Ukraine conflict and other charges | $ 40 | $ 1,029 | $ 273 | |
Russia-Ukraine conflict and other charges, after tax | (81) | 896 | 279 | |
Total Russia charges | ||||
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items] | ||||
Russia-Ukraine conflict and other charges | 890 | |||
Total cost reduction program related charges | ||||
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items] | ||||
Russia-Ukraine conflict and other charges | 26 | 65 | 338 | |
Cost reduction program related charges | 338 | |||
Cost reduction program related charges, net of tax | 253 | |||
Resolution of U.S. Income Tax Audit | ||||
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items] | ||||
Russia-Ukraine conflict and other charges, after tax | (124) | |||
Accrual for Potential Settlement of International Income Tax Matter | ||||
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items] | ||||
Russia-Ukraine conflict and other charges, after tax | 85 | |||
Russia deconsolidation charges | Total Russia charges | ||||
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items] | ||||
Russia-Ukraine conflict and other charges | $ 787 | 787 | ||
Russia-Ukraine conflict and other charges, after tax | $ 730 | |||
Loss recognized on deconsolidation | 407 | |||
Receivables write-off | 380 | |||
Other charges | Total Russia charges | ||||
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items] | ||||
Russia-Ukraine conflict and other charges | 103 | |||
Russia-Ukraine conflict and other charges, after tax | 73 | |||
Other charges | Total cost reduction program related charges | ||||
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items] | ||||
Russia-Ukraine conflict and other charges | 0 | 24 | 79 | |
Merger-related costs and other charges | ||||
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items] | ||||
Russia-Ukraine conflict and other charges | 139 | |||
Russia-Ukraine conflict and other charges, after tax | 93 | |||
Severance costs | Total cost reduction program related charges | ||||
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items] | ||||
Russia-Ukraine conflict and other charges | 26 | 41 | 259 | |
Merger related and other charges | ||||
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items] | ||||
Russia-Ukraine conflict and other charges | $ 14 | $ 74 | (65) | |
Russia-Ukraine conflict and other charges, after tax | (26) | |||
Gain from deconsolidation of joint venture | $ 52 |
Other Charges - Schedule of Cha
Other Charges - Schedule of Charges (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions | 3 Months Ended | 12 Months Ended | ||
Jun. 30, 2022 | Dec. 31, 2023 | Dec. 31, 2022 | Dec. 31, 2021 | |
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items] | ||||
Other charges | $ 40 | $ 1,029 | $ 273 | |
Merger-related costs and other charges | ||||
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items] | ||||
Other charges | 139 | |||
Merger related and other charges | ||||
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items] | ||||
Other charges | 14 | 74 | (65) | |
Operating Segments | Americas | ||||
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items] | ||||
Other charges | 4 | 0 | ||
Operating Segments | Americas | Merger-related costs and other charges | ||||
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items] | ||||
Other charges | 4 | |||
Operating Segments | Americas | Merger related and other charges | ||||
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items] | ||||
Other charges | (6) | |||
Operating Segments | EMEA | ||||
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items] | ||||
Other charges | 751 | 238 | ||
Operating Segments | EMEA | Merger-related costs and other charges | ||||
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items] | ||||
Other charges | 25 | |||
Operating Segments | EMEA | Merger related and other charges | ||||
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items] | ||||
Other charges | 1 | |||
Operating Segments | APAC | ||||
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items] | ||||
Other charges | 28 | (22) | ||
Operating Segments | APAC | Merger-related costs and other charges | ||||
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items] | ||||
Other charges | 28 | |||
Operating Segments | APAC | Merger related and other charges | ||||
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items] | ||||
Other charges | (50) | |||
Operating Segments | Engineering | ||||
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items] | ||||
Other charges | 205 | 26 | ||
Operating Segments | Engineering | Merger-related costs and other charges | ||||
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items] | ||||
Other charges | 41 | |||
Operating Segments | Engineering | Merger related and other charges | ||||
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items] | ||||
Other charges | 0 | |||
Operating Segments | Other | ||||
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items] | ||||
Other charges | 41 | 31 | ||
Operating Segments | Other | Merger-related costs and other charges | ||||
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items] | ||||
Other charges | 41 | |||
Operating Segments | Other | Merger related and other charges | ||||
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items] | ||||
Other charges | (10) | |||
Russia-Ukraine Conflict | ||||
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items] | ||||
Other charges | 890 | |||
Russia-Ukraine Conflict | Russia deconsolidation charges | ||||
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items] | ||||
Other charges | $ 787 | 787 | ||
Russia-Ukraine Conflict | Other Russia related and cost reduction charges | ||||
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items] | ||||
Other charges | 103 | |||
Russia-Ukraine Conflict | Operating Segments | Americas | ||||
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items] | ||||
Other charges | 0 | |||
Russia-Ukraine Conflict | Operating Segments | Americas | Russia deconsolidation charges | ||||
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items] | ||||
Other charges | 0 | |||
Russia-Ukraine Conflict | Operating Segments | Americas | Other Russia related and cost reduction charges | ||||
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items] | ||||
Other charges | 0 | |||
Russia-Ukraine Conflict | Operating Segments | EMEA | ||||
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items] | ||||
Other charges | 726 | |||
Russia-Ukraine Conflict | Operating Segments | EMEA | Russia deconsolidation charges | ||||
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items] | ||||
Other charges | 733 | |||
Russia-Ukraine Conflict | Operating Segments | EMEA | Other Russia related and cost reduction charges | ||||
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items] | ||||
Other charges | (7) | |||
Russia-Ukraine Conflict | Operating Segments | APAC | ||||
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items] | ||||
Other charges | 0 | |||
Russia-Ukraine Conflict | Operating Segments | APAC | Russia deconsolidation charges | ||||
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items] | ||||
Other charges | 0 | |||
Russia-Ukraine Conflict | Operating Segments | APAC | Other Russia related and cost reduction charges | ||||
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items] | ||||
Other charges | 0 | |||
Russia-Ukraine Conflict | Operating Segments | Engineering | ||||
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items] | ||||
Other charges | 164 | |||
Russia-Ukraine Conflict | Operating Segments | Engineering | Russia deconsolidation charges | ||||
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items] | ||||
Other charges | 54 | |||
Russia-Ukraine Conflict | Operating Segments | Engineering | Other Russia related and cost reduction charges | ||||
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items] | ||||
Other charges | 110 | |||
Russia-Ukraine Conflict | Operating Segments | Other | ||||
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items] | ||||
Other charges | 0 | |||
Russia-Ukraine Conflict | Operating Segments | Other | Russia deconsolidation charges | ||||
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items] | ||||
Other charges | 0 | |||
Russia-Ukraine Conflict | Operating Segments | Other | Other Russia related and cost reduction charges | ||||
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items] | ||||
Other charges | 0 | |||
Total cost reduction program related charges | ||||
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items] | ||||
Other charges | 26 | 65 | 338 | |
Total cost reduction program related charges | Other Russia related and cost reduction charges | ||||
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items] | ||||
Other charges | 0 | 24 | 79 | |
Total cost reduction program related charges | Severance costs | ||||
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items] | ||||
Other charges | $ 26 | $ 41 | 259 | |
Total cost reduction program related charges | Operating Segments | Americas | ||||
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items] | ||||
Other charges | 6 | |||
Total cost reduction program related charges | Operating Segments | Americas | Other Russia related and cost reduction charges | ||||
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items] | ||||
Other charges | 2 | |||
Total cost reduction program related charges | Operating Segments | Americas | Severance costs | ||||
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items] | ||||
Other charges | 4 | |||
Total cost reduction program related charges | Operating Segments | EMEA | ||||
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items] | ||||
Other charges | 237 | |||
Total cost reduction program related charges | Operating Segments | EMEA | Other Russia related and cost reduction charges | ||||
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items] | ||||
Other charges | 33 | |||
Total cost reduction program related charges | Operating Segments | EMEA | Severance costs | ||||
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items] | ||||
Other charges | 204 | |||
Total cost reduction program related charges | Operating Segments | APAC | ||||
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items] | ||||
Other charges | 28 | |||
Total cost reduction program related charges | Operating Segments | APAC | Other Russia related and cost reduction charges | ||||
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items] | ||||
Other charges | 12 | |||
Total cost reduction program related charges | Operating Segments | APAC | Severance costs | ||||
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items] | ||||
Other charges | 16 | |||
Total cost reduction program related charges | Operating Segments | Engineering | ||||
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items] | ||||
Other charges | 26 | |||
Total cost reduction program related charges | Operating Segments | Engineering | Other Russia related and cost reduction charges | ||||
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items] | ||||
Other charges | 6 | |||
Total cost reduction program related charges | Operating Segments | Engineering | Severance costs | ||||
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items] | ||||
Other charges | 20 | |||
Total cost reduction program related charges | Operating Segments | Other | ||||
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items] | ||||
Other charges | 41 | |||
Total cost reduction program related charges | Operating Segments | Other | Other Russia related and cost reduction charges | ||||
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items] | ||||
Other charges | 26 | |||
Total cost reduction program related charges | Operating Segments | Other | Severance costs | ||||
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items] | ||||
Other charges | $ 15 |
Other Charges - Summary of Acti
Other Charges - Summary of Activity (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions | 12 Months Ended | ||
Dec. 31, 2023 | Dec. 31, 2022 | Dec. 31, 2021 | |
Restructuring Reserve [Roll Forward] | |||
Beginning balance | $ 320 | $ 453 | |
Russia-Ukraine conflict and other charges | 40 | 1,029 | $ 273 |
Less: Cash payments | (158) | (127) | |
Less: Non-cash charges | 12 | (1,006) | |
Foreign currency translation and other | 0 | (29) | |
Ending balance | 214 | 320 | 453 |
Merger related and other charges | |||
Restructuring Reserve [Roll Forward] | |||
Beginning balance | 12 | 31 | |
Russia-Ukraine conflict and other charges | 14 | 74 | (65) |
Less: Cash payments | (23) | 19 | |
Less: Non-cash charges | 12 | (109) | |
Foreign currency translation and other | 1 | (3) | |
Ending balance | 16 | 12 | 31 |
Total cost reduction program related charges | |||
Restructuring Reserve [Roll Forward] | |||
Beginning balance | 308 | 422 | |
Russia-Ukraine conflict and other charges | 26 | 65 | 338 |
Less: Cash payments | (135) | (146) | |
Less: Non-cash charges | 0 | (7) | |
Foreign currency translation and other | (1) | (26) | |
Ending balance | 198 | 308 | 422 |
Total cost reduction program related charges | Total Russia charges | |||
Restructuring Reserve [Roll Forward] | |||
Beginning balance | 0 | 0 | |
Russia-Ukraine conflict and other charges | 0 | 890 | |
Less: Cash payments | 0 | 0 | |
Less: Non-cash charges | 0 | (890) | |
Foreign currency translation and other | 0 | 0 | |
Ending balance | 0 | 0 | 0 |
Total cost reduction program related charges | Severance costs | |||
Restructuring Reserve [Roll Forward] | |||
Beginning balance | 281 | 384 | |
Russia-Ukraine conflict and other charges | 26 | 41 | 259 |
Less: Cash payments | (134) | (122) | |
Less: Non-cash charges | 0 | 0 | |
Foreign currency translation and other | (1) | (22) | |
Ending balance | 172 | 281 | 384 |
Total cost reduction program related charges | Other cost reduction charges | |||
Restructuring Reserve [Roll Forward] | |||
Beginning balance | 27 | 38 | |
Russia-Ukraine conflict and other charges | 0 | 24 | 79 |
Less: Cash payments | (1) | (24) | |
Less: Non-cash charges | 0 | (7) | |
Foreign currency translation and other | 0 | (4) | |
Ending balance | $ 26 | $ 27 | $ 38 |
Leases - Narrative (Details)
Leases - Narrative (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions | 12 Months Ended | |
Dec. 31, 2023 | Dec. 31, 2022 | |
Leases [Abstract] | ||
Operating lease expense | $ 284 | $ 284 |
Finance lease, depreciation, amortization, and interest expense | 58 | 57 |
Operating lease, payments | $ 249 | $ 254 |
Leases - Schedule of Supplement
Leases - Schedule of Supplemental Balance Sheet Information (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions | Dec. 31, 2023 | Dec. 31, 2022 |
Operating Leases | ||
Operating Lease, Right-of-Use Asset, Statement of Financial Position [Extensible Enumeration] | Other long-term assets | Other long-term assets |
Operating lease right-of-use assets | $ 759 | $ 726 |
Operating Lease, Liability, Current, Statement of Financial Position [Extensible Enumeration] | Other current liabilities | Other current liabilities |
Other current liabilities | $ 177 | $ 181 |
Operating Lease, Liability, Noncurrent, Statement of Financial Position [Extensible Enumeration] | Other long-term liabilities | Other long-term liabilities |
Other long-term liabilities | $ 572 | $ 540 |
Total operating lease liabilities | $ 749 | $ 721 |
Finance Leases | ||
Finance Lease, Right-of-Use Asset, Statement of Financial Position [Extensible Enumeration] | Other long-term assets | Other long-term assets |
Finance lease right-of-use assets | $ 179 | $ 146 |
Finance Lease, Liability, Current, Statement of Financial Position [Extensible Enumeration] | Other current liabilities | Other current liabilities |
Other current liabilities | $ 50 | $ 42 |
Finance Lease, Liability, Noncurrent, Statement of Financial Position [Extensible Enumeration] | Long-term debt | Long-term debt |
Other long-term liabilities | $ 143 | $ 114 |
Total finance lease liabilities | $ 193 | $ 156 |
Leases - Schedule of Suppleme_2
Leases - Schedule of Supplemental Operating Lease Information (Details) | Dec. 31, 2023 | Dec. 31, 2022 |
Leases [Abstract] | ||
Weighted average lease term (years) | 8 years | 8 years |
Weighted average discount rate | 4.19% | 3.26% |
Leases - Schedule of Future Lea
Leases - Schedule of Future Lease Payments (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions | Dec. 31, 2023 | Dec. 31, 2022 |
Operating Leases | ||
2024 | $ 209 | |
2025 | 157 | |
2026 | 121 | |
2027 | 88 | |
2028 | 60 | |
Thereafter | 268 | |
Total future undiscounted lease payments | 903 | |
Less imputed interest | (154) | |
Total reported lease liability | 749 | $ 721 |
Financing Leases | ||
2024 | 58 | |
2025 | 50 | |
2026 | 40 | |
2027 | 29 | |
2028 | 16 | |
Thereafter | 55 | |
Total future undiscounted lease payments | 248 | |
Less imputed interest | (55) | |
Total reported lease liability | $ 193 | $ 156 |
Income Taxes - Schedule of Pre-
Income Taxes - Schedule of Pre-tax Income (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions | 12 Months Ended | ||
Dec. 31, 2023 | Dec. 31, 2022 | Dec. 31, 2021 | |
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract] | |||
United States | $ 2,859 | $ 2,502 | $ 2,020 |
Non-U.S. | 5,129 | 3,041 | 3,079 |
Income Before Income Taxes and Equity Investments | $ 7,988 | $ 5,543 | $ 5,099 |
Income Taxes - Income Tax Provi
Income Taxes - Income Tax Provision (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions | 12 Months Ended | ||
Dec. 31, 2023 | Dec. 31, 2022 | Dec. 31, 2021 | |
Current tax expense (benefit) | |||
U.S. federal | $ 291 | $ 486 | $ 287 |
State and local | 116 | 92 | 87 |
Non-U.S. | 1,491 | 1,239 | 1,142 |
Total current tax expense | 1,898 | 1,817 | 1,516 |
Deferred tax expense (benefit) | |||
U.S. federal | 57 | (12) | 63 |
State and local | 5 | 7 | 8 |
Non-U.S. | (146) | (378) | (325) |
Total deferred income taxes | (84) | (383) | (254) |
Provision for income taxes | $ 1,814 | $ 1,434 | $ 1,262 |
Income Taxes - Tax Rate Analysi
Income Taxes - Tax Rate Analysis (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions | 12 Months Ended | ||
Dec. 31, 2023 | Dec. 31, 2022 | Dec. 31, 2021 | |
Income Taxes [Line Items] | |||
U.S. statutory income tax | $ 1,677 | $ 1,164 | $ 1,071 |
U.S. statutory income tax percentage | 21% | 21% | 21% |
State and local taxes – net of federal benefit | $ 105 | $ 84 | $ 83 |
State and local taxes - net of federal benefit percentage | 1.30% | 1.50% | 1.60% |
Foreign tax differentials | $ 169 | $ 176 | $ 219 |
Foreign tax rate differentials percentage | 2.10% | 3.20% | 4.30% |
Share-Based compensation | $ (66) | $ (41) | $ (56) |
Share-Based compensation percentage | (0.80%) | (0.70%) | (1.10%) |
Russia/Ukraine Charges | $ 0 | $ 108 | $ 0 |
Russia/Ukraine Charges percentage | 0% | 1.90% | 0% |
Other – net | $ (71) | $ (57) | $ (55) |
Other - net percentage | (0.90%) | (1.00%) | (1.10%) |
Provision for income taxes | $ 1,814 | $ 1,434 | $ 1,262 |
Provision for income taxes percentage | 22.70% | 25.90% | 24.70% |
Settlement of tax audits, amount | $ 54 | $ 71 | $ 47 |
United Kingdom | Her Majesty's Revenue and Customs (HMRC) | |||
Income Taxes [Line Items] | |||
Tax rate increase, amount | $ 83 |
Income Taxes - Net Deferred Tax
Income Taxes - Net Deferred Tax Liabilities and Valuation Allowances (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions | 12 Months Ended | ||
Dec. 31, 2023 | Dec. 31, 2022 | Dec. 31, 2021 | |
Deferred tax liabilities | |||
Fixed assets | $ 2,686 | $ 2,775 | |
Goodwill | 215 | 173 | |
Other intangible assets | 2,872 | 2,939 | |
Subsidiary/equity investments | 586 | 545 | |
Other | 456 | 471 | |
Deferred tax liabilities | 6,815 | 6,903 | |
Deferred tax assets | |||
Carryforwards | 285 | 289 | |
Benefit plans and related | 243 | 165 | |
Inventory | 82 | 68 | |
Accruals and other | 858 | 1,001 | |
Deferred tax assets | 1,468 | 1,523 | |
Less: Valuation allowances | (176) | (276) | $ (235) |
Total net deferred tax assets | 1,292 | 1,247 | |
Other long-term assets | 226 | 230 | |
Deferred credits | 5,749 | 5,886 | |
Net deferred tax liabilities | 5,523 | 5,656 | |
Deferred tax liability, right-of-use lease assets | 221 | 206 | |
Deferred tax asset (liability), defined benefit plans | 60 | 54 | |
Non-US deferred tax liabilities | 5,523 | 5,656 | |
Deferred tax asset, lease liabilities | 228 | 212 | |
Valuation Allowance [Roll Forward] | |||
Valuation allowances, beginning of period | (276) | (235) | (243) |
Income tax (charge) benefit | 65 | (44) | 8 |
Other, including write-offs | 34 | 0 | 0 |
Translation adjustments | 1 | 3 | 0 |
Valuation allowances, end of period | (176) | (276) | $ (235) |
Foreign Tax Authority | |||
Deferred tax assets | |||
Net deferred tax liabilities | 187 | 315 | |
Non-US deferred tax liabilities | $ 187 | $ 315 |
Income Taxes - Valuation Allowa
Income Taxes - Valuation Allowances Narrative (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions | Dec. 31, 2023 | Dec. 31, 2022 | Dec. 31, 2021 | Dec. 31, 2020 |
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract] | ||||
Carryforwards | $ 285 | $ 289 | ||
Valuation allowance | 176 | 276 | $ 235 | $ 243 |
Deferred tax assets, net operating losses | 235 | |||
Deferred tax assets, net operating losses, expiring within 5 years | 82 | |||
Deferred tax assets, net operating losses, expiring after 5 years | 24 | |||
Deferred tax assets, net operating losses, no expiration | 129 | |||
Deferred tax assets, tax credit carryforwards | 50 | |||
Deferred tax assets, tax credit carryforwards, expiring within 5 years | 3 | |||
Deferred tax assets, tax credit carryforwards, expiring after 5 years | 40 | |||
Deferred tax assets, tax credit carryforwards, no expiration | 7 | |||
Accrued income taxes | 586 | |||
Undistributed earnings of foreign subsidiaries | 4,000 | |||
Unrecognized tax benefits | $ 304 | $ 325 | $ 387 | $ 452 |
Income Taxes - Unrecognized Tax
Income Taxes - Unrecognized Tax Positions (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions | 12 Months Ended | ||
Dec. 31, 2023 | Dec. 31, 2022 | Dec. 31, 2021 | |
Reconciliation of Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Excluding Amounts Pertaining to Examined Tax Returns [Roll Forward] | |||
Unrecognized income tax benefits, January 1 | $ 325 | $ 387 | $ 452 |
Additions for tax positions of prior years | 108 | 26 | 11 |
Reductions for tax positions of prior years | (121) | (45) | (11) |
Additions for current year tax positions | 0 | 0 | 19 |
Reductions for settlements with taxing authorities | (1) | (23) | (60) |
Other | (7) | (20) | (24) |
Unrecognized income tax benefits, December 31 | 304 | 325 | 387 |
Expenses (Income) for interest and penalties on tax reserves | (17) | (3) | $ 15 |
Accrued interest and penalties | $ 14 | $ 35 |
Earnings Per Share - Linde PL_3
Earnings Per Share - Linde PLC Shareholders (Details) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, $ in Millions | 12 Months Ended | ||
Dec. 31, 2023 | Dec. 31, 2022 | Dec. 31, 2021 | |
Numerator (Millions of dollars) | |||
Income from continuing operations | $ 6,199 | $ 4,147 | $ 3,821 |
Income from discontinued operations, net of tax | 0 | 0 | 5 |
Net Income – Linde plc | $ 6,199 | $ 4,147 | $ 3,826 |
Denominator (Thousands of shares) | |||
Weighted average shares outstanding (in shares) | 487,656,000 | 499,254,000 | 516,507,000 |
Shares earned and issuable under compensation plans (in shares) | 535,000 | 482,000 | 389,000 |
Weighted average shares used in basic earnings per share (in shares) | 488,191,000 | 499,736,000 | 516,896,000 |
Effect of dilutive securities | |||
Stock options and awards (in shares) | 4,099,000 | 4,302,000 | 4,979,000 |
Weighted average shares used in diluted earnings per share (in shares) | 492,290,000 | 504,038,000 | 521,875,000 |
Basic earnings per share from continuing operations (in dollars per share) | $ 12.70 | $ 8.30 | $ 7.39 |
Basic earnings per share from discontinued operations (in dollars per share) | 0 | 0 | 0.01 |
Basic earnings per share (in dollars per share) | 12.70 | 8.30 | 7.40 |
Diluted earnings per share from continuing operations (in dollars per share) | 12.59 | 8.23 | 7.32 |
Diluted earnings per share from discontinued operations (in dollars per share) | 0 | 0 | 0.01 |
Diluted earnings per share (in dollars per share) | $ 12.59 | $ 8.23 | $ 7.33 |
Antidilutive excluded from the computation of earnings per share (in shares) | 0 | 0 | 0 |
Supplemental Information - Supp
Supplemental Information - Supplemental Info (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions | 12 Months Ended | ||
Dec. 31, 2023 | Dec. 31, 2022 | Dec. 31, 2021 | |
Selling, General and Administrative | |||
Selling | $ 1,330 | $ 1,295 | $ 1,342 |
General and administrative | 1,965 | 1,812 | 1,847 |
Selling, General and Administrative | 3,295 | 3,107 | 3,189 |
Depreciation and Amortization | |||
Depreciation | 3,266 | 3,633 | 3,912 |
Amortization of intangibles (Note 10) | 550 | 571 | 723 |
Depreciation and Amortization | 3,816 | 4,204 | 4,635 |
Other Income (Expenses) – Net | |||
Currency related net gains (losses) | (47) | (18) | (29) |
Partnership income | 2 | 18 | 13 |
Severance expense | (12) | (13) | (5) |
Asset divestiture gains (losses) – net | 6 | (9) | (31) |
Other – net gains (losses) | 10 | (40) | 26 |
Other Income (Expenses) – Net | (41) | (62) | (26) |
Interest Expense – Net | |||
Interest incurred on debt and other | 480 | 277 | 227 |
Interest income | (197) | (117) | (40) |
Amortization on acquired debt | (16) | (35) | (53) |
Interest capitalized | (67) | (62) | (57) |
Interest Expense – Net | 200 | 63 | $ 77 |
Accounts Receivable | |||
Trade and Other receivables | 5,175 | 4,964 | |
Less: allowance for expected credit losses | (457) | (405) | |
Accounts Receivable | 4,718 | 4,559 | |
Inventories | |||
Raw materials and supplies | 614 | 567 | |
Work in process | 390 | 368 | |
Finished goods | 1,111 | 1,043 | |
Inventories | 2,115 | 1,978 | |
Prepaid and Other Current Assets | |||
Prepaid and other deferred charges | 583 | 597 | |
VAT recoverable | 178 | 225 | |
Unrealized gains on derivatives (Note 12) | 73 | 24 | |
Other | 93 | 104 | |
Prepaid and Other Current Assets | 927 | 950 | |
Other Long-term Assets | |||
Pension assets (Note 16) | 380 | 661 | |
Insurance contracts | 38 | 39 | |
Long-term receivables, net | 163 | 164 | |
Lease assets (Note 4) | 938 | 872 | |
Deposits | 76 | 52 | |
Investments carried at cost | 187 | 184 | |
Deferred charges | 60 | 66 | |
Deferred income taxes (Note 5) | 226 | 230 | |
Unrealized gains on derivatives (Note 12) | 8 | 4 | |
Other | 223 | 204 | |
Other Long-term Assets | 2,299 | 2,476 | |
Other Current Liabilities | |||
Accrued expenses | 1,494 | 1,533 | |
Payroll | 678 | 614 | |
VAT payable | 253 | 259 | |
Pension and postretirement (Note 16) | 31 | 51 | |
Interest payable | 129 | 118 | |
Lease liability (Note 4) | 227 | 223 | |
Insurance reserves | 21 | 19 | |
Unrealized losses on derivatives (Note 12) | 41 | 23 | |
Cost reduction programs and other charges (Note 3) | 146 | 187 | |
Other | 1,136 | 1,055 | |
Other Current Liabilities | 4,156 | 4,082 | |
Other Long-term Liabilities | |||
Pension and postretirement (Note 16) | 693 | 640 | |
Tax liabilities for uncertain tax positions (Note 5) | 216 | 248 | |
Tax Act liabilities | 80 | 139 | |
Lease liability (Note 4) | 715 | 654 | |
Interest and penalties for uncertain tax positions (Note 5) | 14 | 35 | |
Insurance reserves | 54 | 52 | |
Asset retirement obligation | 305 | 305 | |
Unrealized losses on derivatives (Note 12) | 6 | 73 | |
Cost reduction programs and other charges (Note 3) | 68 | 133 | |
Contingent liabilities (Note 17) | 1,148 | 29 | |
Other | 505 | 487 | |
Other Long-term Liabilities | 3,804 | 2,795 | |
Deferred Credits | |||
Deferred income taxes (Note 5) | 5,749 | 5,886 | |
Contract liabilities (Note 19) | 1,049 | 913 | |
Deferred Credits | $ 6,798 | $ 6,799 |
Supplemental Information - Addi
Supplemental Information - Additional Information (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions | 12 Months Ended | ||
Dec. 31, 2023 | Dec. 31, 2022 | Dec. 31, 2021 | |
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items] | |||
Trade and Other receivables | $ 5,175 | $ 4,964 | |
Provision for allowance for credit loss | 175 | 163 | $ 129 |
Depreciation | 3,266 | 3,633 | 3,912 |
Amortization of intangibles (Note 10) | 550 | 571 | $ 723 |
Estimated income tax payments | 173 | 164 | |
Long-term receivables reserves | 42 | 36 | |
Trade Receivable | Less Than 1 Year | |||
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items] | |||
Trade and Other receivables | 4,667 | 4,498 | |
Trade Receivable | Greater Than 1 Year | |||
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items] | |||
Trade and Other receivables | 354 | 321 | |
Other Receivables | |||
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items] | |||
Trade and Other receivables | 154 | 145 | |
Linde AG | |||
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items] | |||
Depreciation | 529 | 1,006 | |
Amortization of intangibles (Note 10) | $ 462 | $ 474 |
Supplemental Information - Accu
Supplemental Information - Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions | Dec. 31, 2023 | Dec. 31, 2022 |
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items] | ||
Derivatives – net of taxes | $ 7 | $ 62 |
Pension/OPEB funded status obligation (net of $60 million tax benefit in 2023 and $(54) million tax obligation in 2022) (Note 16) | (440) | (60) |
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) | (5,805) | (5,782) |
Deferred tax obligation (benefit) | (60) | 54 |
Americas | ||
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items] | ||
Cumulative translation adjustment - net of taxes | (3,618) | (3,942) |
EMEA | ||
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items] | ||
Cumulative translation adjustment - net of taxes | (737) | (1,249) |
APAC | ||
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items] | ||
Cumulative translation adjustment - net of taxes | (1,037) | (835) |
Engineering | ||
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items] | ||
Cumulative translation adjustment - net of taxes | (93) | (241) |
Other | ||
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items] | ||
Cumulative translation adjustment - net of taxes | 113 | 483 |
Total | ||
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items] | ||
Cumulative translation adjustment - net of taxes | $ (5,372) | $ (5,784) |
Property, Plant & Equipment -_3
Property, Plant & Equipment - Net - Property, Plant & Equipment - Net (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions | Dec. 31, 2023 | Dec. 31, 2022 |
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items] | ||
Gross balance | $ 55,325 | $ 50,687 |
Less: accumulated depreciation | (30,773) | (27,139) |
Property. plant and equipment - net | 24,552 | 23,548 |
Production plants | ||
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items] | ||
Gross balance | 33,071 | 30,554 |
Storage tanks | ||
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items] | ||
Gross balance | 5,445 | 4,807 |
Transportation equipment and other | ||
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items] | ||
Gross balance | 4,050 | 3,434 |
Cylinders | ||
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items] | ||
Gross balance | 4,993 | 4,604 |
Buildings | ||
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items] | ||
Gross balance | 3,275 | 3,002 |
Land and improvements | ||
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items] | ||
Gross balance | 1,087 | 1,047 |
Construction in progress | ||
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items] | ||
Gross balance | $ 3,404 | $ 3,239 |
Minimum | ||
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items] | ||
Useful life | 3 years | |
Minimum | Production plants | ||
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items] | ||
Useful life | 10 years | |
Minimum | Storage tanks | ||
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items] | ||
Useful life | 15 years | |
Minimum | Transportation equipment and other | ||
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items] | ||
Useful life | 3 years | |
Minimum | Cylinders | ||
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items] | ||
Useful life | 10 years | |
Minimum | Buildings | ||
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items] | ||
Useful life | 25 years | |
Minimum | Land and improvements | ||
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items] | ||
Useful life | 0 years | |
Maximum | ||
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items] | ||
Useful life | 40 years | |
Maximum | Production plants | ||
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items] | ||
Useful life | 20 years | |
Maximum | Storage tanks | ||
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items] | ||
Useful life | 20 years | |
Maximum | Transportation equipment and other | ||
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items] | ||
Useful life | 15 years | |
Maximum | Cylinders | ||
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items] | ||
Useful life | 30 years | |
Maximum | Buildings | ||
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items] | ||
Useful life | 40 years | |
Maximum | Land and improvements | ||
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items] | ||
Useful life | 20 years |
Goodwill (Details)
Goodwill (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions | 12 Months Ended | |
Dec. 31, 2023 | Dec. 31, 2022 | |
Goodwill [Roll Forward] | ||
Goodwill, beginning balance | $ 25,817 | $ 27,038 |
Foreign currency translation and other | 386 | (1,231) |
Disposals | (5) | (62) |
Goodwill, ending balance | 26,751 | 25,817 |
Americas | ||
Goodwill [Roll Forward] | ||
Goodwill, beginning balance | 9,136 | 9,087 |
Foreign currency translation and other | 17 | 5 |
Disposals | 0 | 0 |
Goodwill, ending balance | 9,703 | 9,136 |
EMEA | ||
Goodwill [Roll Forward] | ||
Goodwill, beginning balance | 9,492 | 10,278 |
Foreign currency translation and other | 347 | (773) |
Disposals | (5) | (41) |
Goodwill, ending balance | 9,834 | 9,492 |
APAC | ||
Goodwill [Roll Forward] | ||
Goodwill, beginning balance | 4,550 | 4,854 |
Foreign currency translation and other | (54) | (304) |
Disposals | 0 | 0 |
Goodwill, ending balance | 4,499 | 4,550 |
Engineering | ||
Goodwill [Roll Forward] | ||
Goodwill, beginning balance | 2,349 | 2,496 |
Foreign currency translation and other | 73 | (146) |
Disposals | 0 | (1) |
Goodwill, ending balance | 2,422 | 2,349 |
Other | ||
Goodwill [Roll Forward] | ||
Goodwill, beginning balance | 290 | 323 |
Foreign currency translation and other | 3 | (13) |
Disposals | 0 | (20) |
Goodwill, ending balance | 293 | 290 |
2018 Non-Merger Related Acquisitions | ||
Goodwill [Roll Forward] | ||
Acquisitions (Note 2) | 553 | 72 |
2018 Non-Merger Related Acquisitions | Americas | ||
Goodwill [Roll Forward] | ||
Acquisitions (Note 2) | 550 | 44 |
2018 Non-Merger Related Acquisitions | EMEA | ||
Goodwill [Roll Forward] | ||
Acquisitions (Note 2) | 0 | 28 |
2018 Non-Merger Related Acquisitions | APAC | ||
Goodwill [Roll Forward] | ||
Acquisitions (Note 2) | 3 | 0 |
2018 Non-Merger Related Acquisitions | Engineering | ||
Goodwill [Roll Forward] | ||
Acquisitions (Note 2) | 0 | 0 |
2018 Non-Merger Related Acquisitions | Other | ||
Goodwill [Roll Forward] | ||
Acquisitions (Note 2) | $ 0 | $ 0 |
Goodwill - Narrative (Details)
Goodwill - Narrative (Details) | 12 Months Ended |
Dec. 31, 2023 USD ($) | |
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract] | |
Goodwill, Impairment Loss | $ 0 |
Other Intangible Assets - Sched
Other Intangible Assets - Schedule of Other Intangible Assets (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions | 12 Months Ended | ||
Dec. 31, 2023 | Dec. 31, 2022 | Dec. 31, 2021 | |
Cost: | |||
Beginning cost | $ 15,324 | $ 16,173 | |
Foreign currency translation | 264 | ||
Disposals | (23) | ||
Other | 122 | 100 | |
Ending cost | 16,001 | 15,324 | $ 16,173 |
Less: accumulated amortization: | |||
Beginning accumulated amortization | (2,904) | (2,371) | |
Amortization expense (Note 7) | (550) | (571) | (723) |
Foreign currency translation | (61) | 98 | |
Disposals | 21 | 50 | |
Other | (108) | (110) | |
Ending accumulated amortization | (3,602) | (2,904) | (2,371) |
Net balance | 12,399 | 12,420 | |
Customer Relationships | |||
Cost: | |||
Beginning cost | 11,062 | 11,859 | |
Foreign currency translation | 185 | ||
Disposals | (3) | ||
Other | (23) | (16) | |
Ending cost | 11,479 | 11,062 | 11,859 |
Less: accumulated amortization: | |||
Beginning accumulated amortization | (1,841) | (1,541) | |
Amortization expense (Note 7) | (423) | (419) | |
Foreign currency translation | (36) | 80 | |
Disposals | 0 | 34 | |
Other | 30 | 5 | |
Ending accumulated amortization | (2,270) | (1,841) | (1,541) |
Net balance | 9,209 | 9,221 | |
Brands/Tradenames | |||
Cost: | |||
Beginning cost | 2,565 | 2,685 | |
Foreign currency translation | 38 | ||
Disposals | 0 | ||
Other | 0 | 0 | |
Ending cost | 2,609 | 2,565 | 2,685 |
Less: accumulated amortization: | |||
Beginning accumulated amortization | (196) | (159) | |
Amortization expense (Note 7) | (36) | (42) | |
Foreign currency translation | (1) | 5 | |
Disposals | 0 | 0 | |
Other | 0 | 0 | |
Ending accumulated amortization | (233) | (196) | (159) |
Net balance | 2,376 | 2,369 | |
Other Intangible Assets | |||
Cost: | |||
Beginning cost | 1,697 | 1,629 | |
Foreign currency translation | 41 | ||
Disposals | (20) | ||
Other | 145 | 116 | |
Ending cost | 1,913 | 1,697 | 1,629 |
Less: accumulated amortization: | |||
Beginning accumulated amortization | (867) | (671) | |
Amortization expense (Note 7) | (91) | (110) | |
Foreign currency translation | (24) | 13 | |
Disposals | 21 | 16 | |
Other | (138) | (115) | |
Ending accumulated amortization | (1,099) | (867) | $ (671) |
Net balance | 814 | 830 | |
Linde AG | |||
Cost: | |||
Additions | 314 | 72 | |
Foreign currency translation | (836) | ||
Disposals | (185) | ||
Less: accumulated amortization: | |||
Amortization expense (Note 7) | (462) | (474) | |
Linde AG | Customer Relationships | |||
Cost: | |||
Additions | 258 | 19 | |
Foreign currency translation | (660) | ||
Disposals | (140) | ||
Linde AG | Brands/Tradenames | |||
Cost: | |||
Additions | 6 | 0 | |
Foreign currency translation | (120) | ||
Disposals | 0 | ||
Linde AG | Other Intangible Assets | |||
Cost: | |||
Additions | $ 50 | 53 | |
Foreign currency translation | (56) | ||
Disposals | $ (45) |
Other Intangible Assets - Narra
Other Intangible Assets - Narrative (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions | 12 Months Ended | ||
Dec. 31, 2023 | Dec. 31, 2022 | Dec. 31, 2021 | |
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract] | |||
Amortization of intangible assets | $ 550 | $ 571 | $ 723 |
Remaining weighted-average amortization period for intangible asset | 24 years |
Other Intangible Assets - Sch_2
Other Intangible Assets - Schedule of Estimated Future Amortization Expense (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions | Dec. 31, 2023 | Dec. 31, 2022 |
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract] | ||
2024 | $ 578 | |
2025 | 528 | |
2026 | 516 | |
2027 | 505 | |
2028 | 492 | |
Thereafter | 8,035 | |
Total amortization related to finite-lived intangible assets | 10,654 | |
Indefinite-lived intangible assets at December 31, 2023 | 1,745 | |
Net balance | $ 12,399 | $ 12,420 |
Debt - Summary of Outstanding D
Debt - Summary of Outstanding Debt (Details) € in Millions, £ in Millions, $ in Millions | 1 Months Ended | 12 Months Ended | |||||
Apr. 30, 2023 EUR (€) | Apr. 30, 2023 GBP (£) | Feb. 28, 2023 USD ($) | Dec. 31, 2023 USD ($) | Dec. 31, 2022 USD ($) | Dec. 31, 2021 USD ($) | Jun. 30, 2023 EUR (€) | |
SHORT-TERM | |||||||
Commercial paper | $ 4,483 | $ 3,926 | |||||
Other borrowings (primarily non U.S.) | 230 | 191 | |||||
Total short-term debt | 4,713 | 4,117 | |||||
Long-term | |||||||
Carrying value of long-term debt including current portion | 14,660 | 13,797 | |||||
Less: current portion of long-term debt | (1,263) | (1,599) | |||||
Total long-term debt | 13,397 | 12,198 | |||||
Total debt | 19,373 | 17,914 | |||||
Repayments of long-term debt | $ 1,682 | 1,785 | $ 1,468 | ||||
2.70% Notes due 2023 | |||||||
Long-term | |||||||
Interest rate | 2.70% | 2.70% | |||||
Carrying value of long-term debt including current portion | $ 0 | 501 | |||||
Repayments of long-term debt | $ 500 | ||||||
2.00% Euro denominated notes due 2023 | |||||||
Long-term | |||||||
Interest rate | 2% | 2% | 2% | ||||
Carrying value of long-term debt including current portion | $ 0 | 699 | |||||
Repayments of long-term debt | € | € 650 | ||||||
5.875% GBP denominated notes due 2023 | |||||||
Long-term | |||||||
Interest rate | 5.875% | 5.875% | 5.875% | ||||
Carrying value of long-term debt including current portion | $ 0 | 367 | |||||
Repayments of long-term debt | £ | £ 300 | ||||||
1.20% Euro denominated notes due 2024 | |||||||
Long-term | |||||||
Interest rate | 1.20% | ||||||
Carrying value of long-term debt including current portion | $ 607 | 588 | |||||
1.875% Euro denominated notes due 2024 | |||||||
Long-term | |||||||
Interest rate | 1.875% | ||||||
Carrying value of long-term debt including current portion | $ 332 | 324 | |||||
4.800% Notes due 2024 | |||||||
Long-term | |||||||
Interest rate | 4.80% | ||||||
Carrying value of long-term debt including current portion | $ 300 | 299 | |||||
4.700% Notes due 2025 | |||||||
Long-term | |||||||
Interest rate | 4.70% | ||||||
Carrying value of long-term debt including current portion | $ 599 | 598 | |||||
2.65% Notes due 2025 | |||||||
Long-term | |||||||
Interest rate | 2.65% | ||||||
Carrying value of long-term debt including current portion | $ 399 | 400 | |||||
1.625% Euro denominated notes due 2025 | |||||||
Long-term | |||||||
Interest rate | 1.625% | ||||||
Carrying value of long-term debt including current portion | $ 550 | 533 | |||||
3.625% Euro denominated notes due 2025 | |||||||
Long-term | |||||||
Interest rate | 3.625% | 3.625% | |||||
Carrying value of long-term debt including current portion | $ 551 | 0 | |||||
Debt instrument, face amount | € | € 500 | ||||||
0.00% Euro denominated notes due 2026 | |||||||
Long-term | |||||||
Interest rate | 0% | ||||||
Carrying value of long-term debt including current portion | $ 774 | 751 | |||||
3.20% Notes due 2026 | |||||||
Long-term | |||||||
Interest rate | 3.20% | ||||||
Carrying value of long-term debt including current portion | $ 724 | 724 | |||||
3.434% Notes due 2026 | |||||||
Long-term | |||||||
Interest rate | 3.434% | ||||||
Carrying value of long-term debt including current portion | $ 198 | 198 | |||||
1.652% Euro denominated notes due 2027 | |||||||
Long-term | |||||||
Interest rate | 1.652% | ||||||
Carrying value of long-term debt including current portion | $ 90 | 88 | |||||
0.250% Euro denominated notes due 2027 | |||||||
Long-term | |||||||
Interest rate | 0.25% | ||||||
Carrying value of long-term debt including current portion | $ 827 | 802 | |||||
1.00% Euro denominated notes due 2027 | |||||||
Long-term | |||||||
Interest rate | 1% | ||||||
Carrying value of long-term debt including current portion | $ 553 | 536 | |||||
1.00% Euro denominated notes due 2028 | |||||||
Long-term | |||||||
Interest rate | 1% | ||||||
Carrying value of long-term debt including current portion | $ 780 | 749 | |||||
3.375% Euro denominated notes due 2029 | |||||||
Long-term | |||||||
Interest rate | 3.375% | 3.375% | |||||
Carrying value of long-term debt including current portion | $ 824 | 0 | |||||
Debt instrument, face amount | € | € 750 | ||||||
1.10% Notes due 2030 | |||||||
Long-term | |||||||
Interest rate | 1.10% | ||||||
Carrying value of long-term debt including current portion | $ 697 | 696 | |||||
1.90% Euro denominated notes due 2030 | |||||||
Long-term | |||||||
Interest rate | 1.90% | ||||||
Carrying value of long-term debt including current portion | $ 114 | 111 | |||||
1.375% Euro denominated notes due 2031 | |||||||
Long-term | |||||||
Interest rate | 1.375% | ||||||
Carrying value of long-term debt including current portion | $ 829 | 803 | |||||
0.550% Euro denominated notes due 2032 | |||||||
Long-term | |||||||
Interest rate | 0.55% | ||||||
Carrying value of long-term debt including current portion | $ 823 | 798 | |||||
0.375% Euro denominated notes due 2033 | |||||||
Long-term | |||||||
Interest rate | 0.375% | ||||||
Carrying value of long-term debt including current portion | $ 546 | 529 | |||||
3.625% Euro denominated notes due 2034 | |||||||
Long-term | |||||||
Interest rate | 3.625% | 3.625% | |||||
Carrying value of long-term debt including current portion | $ 714 | 0 | |||||
Debt instrument, face amount | € | € 650 | ||||||
1.625% Euro denominated notes due 2035 | |||||||
Long-term | |||||||
Interest rate | 1.625% | ||||||
Carrying value of long-term debt including current portion | $ 876 | 849 | |||||
3.55% Notes due 2042 | |||||||
Long-term | |||||||
Interest rate | 3.55% | ||||||
Carrying value of long-term debt including current portion | $ 666 | 665 | |||||
2.00% Notes due 2050 | |||||||
Long-term | |||||||
Interest rate | 2% | ||||||
Carrying value of long-term debt including current portion | $ 296 | 296 | |||||
1.00% Euro denominated notes due 2051 | |||||||
Long-term | |||||||
Interest rate | 1% | ||||||
Carrying value of long-term debt including current portion | $ 755 | 731 | |||||
Non U.S. borrowings | |||||||
Long-term | |||||||
Carrying value of long-term debt including current portion | 226 | 152 | |||||
Other | |||||||
Long-term | |||||||
Carrying value of long-term debt including current portion | 10 | 10 | |||||
Derivatives Designated as Hedging Instruments - Fair Value | Interest rate swaps | Derivatives Designated as Hedging Instruments: | |||||||
Long-term | |||||||
Fair value increase | $ 46 | $ 56 |
Debt - Narrative (Details)
Debt - Narrative (Details) | Dec. 07, 2022 USD ($) extensionOption | Dec. 31, 2023 USD ($) | Dec. 31, 2022 |
Line Of Credit Facility [Line Items] | |||
Weighted average interest rate of short term debt borrowings | 4.80% | 3.20% | |
Five Year Credit Agreement | Revolving Credit Facility | |||
Line Of Credit Facility [Line Items] | |||
Line of credit facility period | 5 years | ||
Total facility | $ 5,000,000,000 | ||
Line of credit facility, increase limit | $ 6,500,000,000 | ||
Number of extension options | extensionOption | 2 | ||
Line of credit facility, extension option period | 1 year | ||
364-Day Credit Agreement | Revolving Credit Facility | |||
Line Of Credit Facility [Line Items] | |||
Line of credit facility period | 364 days | ||
Total facility | $ 1,500,000,000 | ||
Credit Agreements | Revolving Credit Facility | |||
Line Of Credit Facility [Line Items] | |||
Borrowings outstanding | $ 0 |
Debt - Other Debt Information (
Debt - Other Debt Information (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions | Dec. 31, 2023 | Dec. 31, 2022 |
Debt Disclosure [Abstract] | ||
2024 | $ 1,263 | |
2025 | 2,113 | |
2026 | 1,733 | |
2027 | 1,500 | |
2028 | 835 | |
Thereafter | 7,216 | |
Carrying value of long-term debt including current portion | $ 14,660 | $ 13,797 |
Financial Instruments - Narrati
Financial Instruments - Narrative (Details) $ in Millions, € in Billions, ¥ in Billions | 12 Months Ended | |||
Dec. 31, 2023 USD ($) contract | Dec. 31, 2023 EUR (€) | Dec. 31, 2023 CNY (¥) | Dec. 31, 2022 USD ($) | |
Derivative [Line Items] | ||||
Different types of derivative, number | contract | 3 | |||
Notional value | $ 6,865 | $ 4,726 | ||
Forecasted Transactions | Maximum | ||||
Derivative [Line Items] | ||||
Derivative period | 3 years | |||
Commodity contracts | Maximum | ||||
Derivative [Line Items] | ||||
Derivative period | 3 years | |||
Interest rate swaps | ||||
Derivative [Line Items] | ||||
Unrecognized loss on terminated derivative | $ 56 | |||
Notional value | € | € 1 | |||
Net Investment Hedging | ||||
Derivative [Line Items] | ||||
Deferred gain (loss) | (305) | |||
Designated as Hedging Instrument | ||||
Derivative [Line Items] | ||||
Notional value | 1,963 | 1,179 | ||
Designated as Hedging Instrument | Interest rate swaps | ||||
Derivative [Line Items] | ||||
Notional value | 1,214 | $ 856 | ||
Designated as Hedging Instrument | Net Investment Hedging | ||||
Derivative [Line Items] | ||||
Gain on exchange rate movements | 56 | |||
Line of Credit | Net Investment Hedging | ||||
Derivative [Line Items] | ||||
Deferred gain (loss) | 45 | |||
Line of Credit | Designated as Hedging Instrument | Net Investment Hedging | ||||
Derivative [Line Items] | ||||
Intercompany Euro-denominated notes and loans | 11,700 | € 10.7 | ||
Intercompany CNY-denominated loan | $ 700 | ¥ 4.7 |
Financial Instruments - Summary
Financial Instruments - Summary of Notional Amount and Gross Fair Value (Details) $ in Millions, € in Billions | Dec. 31, 2023 USD ($) | Dec. 31, 2023 EUR (€) | Dec. 31, 2022 USD ($) |
Derivative [Line Items] | |||
Notional Amounts | $ 6,865 | $ 4,726 | |
Derivative Assets | 81 | 28 | |
Derivative Liabilities | 47 | 96 | |
Interest rate swaps | |||
Derivative [Line Items] | |||
Notional Amounts | € | € 1 | ||
Prepaid Expenses and Other Current Assets | |||
Derivative [Line Items] | |||
Derivative Assets | 73 | 24 | |
Other Noncurrent Assets | |||
Derivative [Line Items] | |||
Derivative Assets | 8 | 4 | |
Other Current Liabilities | |||
Derivative [Line Items] | |||
Derivative Liabilities | 41 | 23 | |
Other Noncurrent Liabilities | |||
Derivative [Line Items] | |||
Derivative Liabilities | 6 | 73 | |
Derivatives Not Designated as Hedging Instruments: | |||
Derivative [Line Items] | |||
Notional Amounts | 4,902 | 3,547 | |
Derivative Assets | 57 | 22 | |
Derivative Liabilities | 32 | 17 | |
Derivatives Not Designated as Hedging Instruments: | Balance sheet items | |||
Derivative [Line Items] | |||
Notional Amounts | 4,567 | 3,056 | |
Derivative Assets | 46 | 13 | |
Derivative Liabilities | 26 | 7 | |
Derivatives Not Designated as Hedging Instruments: | Forecasted transactions | |||
Derivative [Line Items] | |||
Notional Amounts | 335 | 449 | |
Derivative Assets | 11 | 9 | |
Derivative Liabilities | 6 | 9 | |
Derivatives Not Designated as Hedging Instruments: | Cross-currency swaps | |||
Derivative [Line Items] | |||
Notional Amounts | 0 | 42 | |
Derivative Assets | 0 | 0 | |
Derivative Liabilities | 0 | 1 | |
Derivatives Not Designated as Hedging Instruments: | Commodity contracts | |||
Derivative [Line Items] | |||
Derivative Assets | 0 | 0 | |
Derivative Liabilities | 0 | 0 | |
Derivatives Designated as Hedging Instruments: | |||
Derivative [Line Items] | |||
Notional Amounts | 1,963 | 1,179 | |
Derivative Assets | 24 | 6 | |
Derivative Liabilities | 15 | 79 | |
Derivatives Designated as Hedging Instruments: | Forecasted transactions | |||
Derivative [Line Items] | |||
Notional Amounts | 749 | 323 | |
Derivative Assets | 20 | 6 | |
Derivative Liabilities | 4 | 5 | |
Derivatives Designated as Hedging Instruments: | Commodity contracts | |||
Derivative [Line Items] | |||
Derivative Assets | 3 | 0 | |
Derivative Liabilities | 7 | 4 | |
Derivatives Designated as Hedging Instruments: | Interest rate swaps | |||
Derivative [Line Items] | |||
Notional Amounts | 1,214 | 856 | |
Derivative Assets | 1 | 0 | |
Derivative Liabilities | $ 4 | $ 70 |
Financial Instruments - Schedul
Financial Instruments - Schedule of Derivative Instruments Not Designated as Hedging Instruments Table (Details) - Not Designated as Hedging Instrument - USD ($) $ in Millions | 12 Months Ended | ||
Dec. 31, 2023 | Dec. 31, 2022 | Dec. 31, 2021 | |
Derivative [Line Items] | |||
Amount of Pre-Tax Gain (Loss) Recognized in Earnings | $ 90 | $ 20 | $ 38 |
Debt-related | |||
Derivative [Line Items] | |||
Amount of Pre-Tax Gain (Loss) Recognized in Earnings | 91 | 12 | 42 |
Other balance sheet items | |||
Derivative [Line Items] | |||
Amount of Pre-Tax Gain (Loss) Recognized in Earnings | $ (1) | $ 8 | $ (5) |
Fair Value Disclosures - Schedu
Fair Value Disclosures - Schedule of Assets and Liabilities Measured at Fair Value on a Recurring Basis (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions | Dec. 31, 2023 | Dec. 31, 2022 |
Assets | ||
Derivative assets | $ 81 | $ 28 |
Liabilities | ||
Derivative liabilities | 47 | 96 |
Level 1 | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring | ||
Assets | ||
Derivative assets | 0 | 0 |
Investments and securities | 16 | 20 |
Total | 16 | 20 |
Liabilities | ||
Derivative liabilities | 0 | 0 |
Level 2 | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring | ||
Assets | ||
Derivative assets | 81 | 28 |
Investments and securities | 0 | 0 |
Total | 81 | 28 |
Liabilities | ||
Derivative liabilities | 47 | 96 |
Level 3 | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring | ||
Assets | ||
Derivative assets | 0 | 0 |
Investments and securities | 12 | 13 |
Total | 12 | 13 |
Liabilities | ||
Derivative liabilities | $ 0 | $ 0 |
Fair Value Disclosures - Narrat
Fair Value Disclosures - Narrative (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions | Dec. 31, 2023 | Dec. 31, 2022 |
Debt Instrument [Line Items] | ||
Carrying value | $ 14,660 | $ 13,797 |
Level 2 | ||
Debt Instrument [Line Items] | ||
Estimated fair value of long-term debt portfolio | $ 13,337 | $ 11,994 |
Equity and Noncontrolling Int_2
Equity and Noncontrolling Interests - Narrative (Details) € / shares in Units, $ in Billions | 2 Months Ended | 12 Months Ended | 22 Months Ended | 23 Months Ended | 35 Months Ended | |||||||
Mar. 01, 2023 USD ($) shares | Dec. 31, 2023 EUR (€) € / shares shares | Dec. 31, 2023 EUR (€) € / shares shares | Dec. 31, 2022 EUR (€) € / shares shares | Dec. 31, 2021 shares | Dec. 31, 2023 EUR (€) € / shares shares | Dec. 31, 2022 EUR (€) € / shares shares | Dec. 31, 2021 shares | Oct. 23, 2023 USD ($) | Feb. 28, 2022 USD ($) | Jan. 25, 2021 USD ($) | Jan. 22, 2019 USD ($) | |
Class of Stock [Line Items] | ||||||||||||
Common stock exchanged, conversion ratio (in shares) | 1 | |||||||||||
Ordinary shares, issued (in shares) | 490,766,972 | 490,766,972 | 490,766,972 | 552,012,862 | 490,766,972 | 552,012,862 | ||||||
Cancellation of stock | $ | $ 15 | |||||||||||
Authorized share capital | € | € 1,825,000 | € 1,825,000 | € 1,825,000 | € 1,825,000 | € 1,825,000 | |||||||
Ordinary shares, authorized (in shares) | 1,750,000,000 | 1,750,000,000 | 1,750,000,000 | 1,750,000,000 | 1,750,000,000 | |||||||
Ordinary shares, par value (euro per share) | € / shares | € 0.001 | € 0.001 | € 0.001 | € 0.001 | € 0.001 | |||||||
Ordinary shares | ||||||||||||
Class of Stock [Line Items] | ||||||||||||
Ordinary shares, issued (in shares) | 490,766,972 | 490,766,972 | 552,012,862 | 490,766,972 | 552,012,862 | |||||||
Ordinary shares, authorized (in shares) | 1,750,000,000 | 1,750,000,000 | 1,750,000,000 | 1,750,000,000 | 1,750,000,000 | |||||||
Ordinary shares, par value (euro per share) | € / shares | € 0.001 | € 0.001 | € 0.001 | € 0.001 | € 0.001 | |||||||
Ordinary shares, outstanding (in shares) | 482,445,145 | 482,445,145 | 492,457,627 | 482,445,145 | 492,457,627 | |||||||
New ordinary shares issued (in shares) | 0 | 0 | 0 | |||||||||
Ordinary shares | 2019 Share Repurchase Program | ||||||||||||
Class of Stock [Line Items] | ||||||||||||
Additional ordinary shares authorized for repurchase | $ | $ 6 | |||||||||||
Ordinary shares repurchased (in shares) | 24,847,354 | |||||||||||
Ordinary shares | 2021 Share Repurchase Program | ||||||||||||
Class of Stock [Line Items] | ||||||||||||
Additional ordinary shares authorized for repurchase | $ | $ 5 | |||||||||||
Ordinary shares repurchased (in shares) | 16,662,678 | |||||||||||
Ordinary shares | 2022 Share Repurchase Program | ||||||||||||
Class of Stock [Line Items] | ||||||||||||
Additional ordinary shares authorized for repurchase | $ | $ 10 | |||||||||||
Ordinary shares repurchased (in shares) | 0 | 26,411,514 | ||||||||||
Ordinary shares | 2023 Share Repurchase Program | ||||||||||||
Class of Stock [Line Items] | ||||||||||||
Additional ordinary shares authorized for repurchase | $ | $ 15 | |||||||||||
A Ordinary Shares | ||||||||||||
Class of Stock [Line Items] | ||||||||||||
Ordinary shares, issued (in shares) | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | |||||||
Ordinary shares, authorized (in shares) | 25,000 | 25,000 | 25,000 | 25,000 | 25,000 | |||||||
Ordinary shares, par value (euro per share) | € / shares | € 1 | € 1 | € 1 | € 1 | € 1 | |||||||
Ordinary shares, outstanding (in shares) | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | |||||||
Deferred Stock | ||||||||||||
Class of Stock [Line Items] | ||||||||||||
Ordinary shares, issued (in shares) | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | |||||||
Ordinary shares, authorized (in shares) | 25,000 | 25,000 | 25,000 | 25,000 | 25,000 | |||||||
Ordinary shares, par value (euro per share) | € / shares | € 1 | € 1 | € 1 | € 1 | € 1 | |||||||
Ordinary shares, outstanding (in shares) | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | |||||||
Preferred Stock | ||||||||||||
Class of Stock [Line Items] | ||||||||||||
Ordinary shares, issued (in shares) | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | |||||||
Ordinary shares, authorized (in shares) | 25,000,000 | 25,000,000 | 25,000,000 | 25,000,000 | 25,000,000 | |||||||
Ordinary shares, par value (euro per share) | € / shares | € 0.001 | € 0.001 | € 0.001 | € 0.001 | € 0.001 | |||||||
Ordinary shares, outstanding (in shares) | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
Share-Based Compensation - Narr
Share-Based Compensation - Narrative (Details) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, $ in Millions | 12 Months Ended | ||
Dec. 31, 2023 | Dec. 31, 2022 | Dec. 31, 2021 | |
Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award [Line Items] | |||
Share-based compensation expense | $ 141 | $ 107 | $ 128 |
Share-based compensation expense related income tax benefit | 88 | 64 | 64 |
Capitalized share-based compensation expense | $ 0 | $ 0 | $ 0 |
Closing stock price (in dollars per share) | $ 410.71 | ||
Minimum | |||
Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award [Line Items] | |||
Percentage of shares issues in settlement of a vested award | 0% | ||
Maximum | |||
Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award [Line Items] | |||
Percentage of shares issues in settlement of a vested award | 200% | ||
Stock Options | |||
Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award [Line Items] | |||
Weighted-average fair values of options granted (in dollars per share) | $ 83.69 | $ 45.07 | $ 37.80 |
Total intrinsic value of stock options exercised | $ 283 | $ 176 | $ 294 |
Cash received from option exercises | 33 | 36 | 50 |
Total cash tax benefit | 86 | $ 61 | $ 64 |
Unrecognized compensation expense | $ 17 | ||
Weighted average performance period (years) | 1 year | ||
Granted (in shares) | 361,000 | ||
Performance-Based | |||
Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award [Line Items] | |||
Unrecognized compensation expense | $ 48 | ||
Granted (in dollars per share) | $ 385.10 | ||
Granted (in shares) | 342,000 | ||
Awards to be settled in cash (in shares) | 11,000 | ||
Performance Shares ROC | |||
Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award [Line Items] | |||
Granted (in dollars per share) | $ 340.80 | $ 257.63 | $ 241.10 |
Performance Shares TSR | |||
Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award [Line Items] | |||
Granted (in dollars per share) | $ 489.33 | 301.42 | 301.04 |
Restricted Stock | |||
Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award [Line Items] | |||
Unrecognized compensation expense | $ 42 | ||
Granted (in dollars per share) | $ 332.69 | $ 260.27 | $ 242.60 |
Granted (in shares) | 160,839 | ||
Awards to be settled in cash (in shares) | 17,000 | ||
2021 Plan | |||
Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award [Line Items] | |||
Number of shares authorized for grant (in shares) | 7,661,431 | ||
Authorized for issuance (in shares) | 2,452,443 | ||
Service period | 3 years | ||
2021 Plan | Minimum | |||
Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award [Line Items] | |||
Service period | 1 year | ||
2021 Plan | Maximum | |||
Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award [Line Items] | |||
Exercisable period | 10 years | ||
2021 Plan | Performance-Based | |||
Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award [Line Items] | |||
Service period | 3 years | ||
Granted (in shares) | 341,915 | ||
2019 Plan | Performance-Based | |||
Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award [Line Items] | |||
Service period | 3 years | ||
Upward adjustment to awards granted (in shares) | 201,120 |
Share-Based Compensation - Weig
Share-Based Compensation - Weighted-Average Assumptions (Details) - Stock Options | 12 Months Ended | ||
Dec. 31, 2023 | Dec. 31, 2022 | Dec. 31, 2021 | |
Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award [Line Items] | |||
Dividend yield | 1.40% | 1.70% | 1.70% |
Volatility | 22% | 20.60% | 18.40% |
Risk-free interest rate | 4.23% | 1.70% | 1.10% |
Expected term years | 5 years | 5 years | 6 years |
Share-Based Compensation - Stoc
Share-Based Compensation - Stock Options (Details) - Stock Options $ / shares in Units, shares in Thousands, $ in Millions | 12 Months Ended |
Dec. 31, 2023 USD ($) $ / shares shares | |
Number of Options (000’s) | |
Beginning balance, outstanding (in shares) | shares | 6,720 |
Granted (in shares) | shares | 361 |
Exercised (in shares) | shares | (1,225) |
Cancelled or expired (in shares) | shares | (31) |
Ending balance, outstanding (in shares) | shares | 5,825 |
Exercisable (in shares) | shares | 4,926 |
Average Exercise Price | |
Beginning balance, outstanding (in dollars per share) | $ / shares | $ 164.03 |
Granted (in dollars per share) | $ / shares | 354.16 |
Exercised (in dollars per share) | $ / shares | 137.78 |
Cancelled or expired (in dollars per share) | $ / shares | 311.86 |
Ending balance, outstanding (in dollars per share) | $ / shares | 180.58 |
Exercisable (in dollars per share) | $ / shares | $ 159.18 |
Average Remaining Life | |
Outstanding at December 31, 2023 | 5 years |
Exercisable at December 31, 2023 | 4 years 4 months 24 days |
Aggregate Intrinsic Value | |
Outstanding at December 31, 2023 | $ | $ 1,341 |
Exercisable at December 31, 2023 | $ | $ 1,239 |
Share-Based Compensation - Perf
Share-Based Compensation - Performance-Based and Restricted Stock Awards (Details) - $ / shares | 12 Months Ended | ||
Dec. 31, 2023 | Dec. 31, 2022 | Dec. 31, 2021 | |
Performance-Based | |||
Number of Shares (000’s) | |||
Non-vested at beginning of period (in shares) | 583,000 | ||
Granted (in shares) | 342,000 | ||
Vested (in shares) | (340,000) | ||
Cancelled and forfeited (in shares) | (13,000) | ||
Non-vested at end of period (in shares) | 572,000 | 583,000 | |
Average Grant Date Fair Value | |||
Non-vested at beginning of period (in dollars per share) | $ 226.04 | ||
Granted (in dollars per share) | 385.10 | ||
Vested (in dollars per share) | 174.99 | ||
Cancelled and forfeited (in dollars per share) | 156.14 | ||
Non-vested at end of period (in dollars per share) | $ 281.11 | $ 226.04 | |
Restricted Stock | |||
Number of Shares (000’s) | |||
Non-vested at beginning of period (in shares) | 646,000 | ||
Granted (in shares) | 160,839 | ||
Vested (in shares) | (154,000) | ||
Cancelled and forfeited (in shares) | (15,000) | ||
Non-vested at end of period (in shares) | 638,000 | 646,000 | |
Average Grant Date Fair Value | |||
Non-vested at beginning of period (in dollars per share) | $ 190.33 | ||
Granted (in dollars per share) | 332.69 | $ 260.27 | $ 242.60 |
Vested (in dollars per share) | 176.06 | ||
Cancelled and forfeited (in dollars per share) | 163.12 | ||
Non-vested at end of period (in dollars per share) | $ 232.15 | $ 190.33 |
Retirement Programs - Narrative
Retirement Programs - Narrative (Details) $ in Millions | 12 Months Ended | |||
Dec. 31, 2023 USD ($) multiemployerPlan employee shares | Dec. 31, 2022 USD ($) | Dec. 31, 2021 USD ($) | Dec. 31, 2024 USD ($) | |
Defined Contribution Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | ||||
Number of multiemployer plans participated in | multiemployerPlan | 8 | |||
Estimated number of union employees in multiemployer plans | employee | 200 | |||
Multiemployer plan, contributions by employer, percentage of employee contributions | 1% | 1% | ||
Number of plans in red zone | multiemployerPlan | 2 | |||
Pension contributions | $ 46 | $ 51 | $ 42 | |
Pensions | ||||
Defined Contribution Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | ||||
Annual pay credits, percent of eligible compensation | 4% | |||
Minimum | Scenario, Forecast | ||||
Defined Contribution Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | ||||
Estimated pension plan contributions during next fiscal year | $ 35 | |||
Maximum | Scenario, Forecast | ||||
Defined Contribution Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | ||||
Estimated pension plan contributions during next fiscal year | $ 45 | |||
Praxair U.S. Defined Contribution Savings Plans | ||||
Defined Contribution Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | ||||
Defined contribution plan contributions | $ 59 | 56 | 51 | |
Shares of common stock in esops (in shares) | shares | 1,660,694 | |||
Praxair International Defined Contribution Savings Plans | ||||
Defined Contribution Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | ||||
Defined contribution plan contributions | $ 60 | $ 80 | $ 101 |
Retirement Programs - Pension a
Retirement Programs - Pension and Postretirement Benefit Costs (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions | 12 Months Ended | ||
Dec. 31, 2023 | Dec. 31, 2022 | Dec. 31, 2021 | |
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | |||
Amount recognized in Net pension and OPEB cost (benefit), excluding service cost | $ (164) | $ (237) | $ (192) |
Pensions | |||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | |||
Service cost | 84 | 127 | 157 |
Interest cost | 373 | 201 | 154 |
Expected return on plan assets | (523) | (518) | (521) |
Net amortization and deferral | (30) | 74 | 171 |
Settlement charges | 16 | 6 | 4 |
Amount recognized in Net pension and OPEB cost (benefit), excluding service cost | (164) | (237) | (192) |
Net periodic benefit cost (benefit) | $ (80) | $ (110) | $ (35) |
Retirement Programs - Funded St
Retirement Programs - Funded Status (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions | 12 Months Ended | ||
Dec. 31, 2023 | Dec. 31, 2022 | Dec. 31, 2021 | |
Change in Plan Assets | |||
Other long-term assets | $ 380 | $ 661 | |
Other current liabilities | (31) | (51) | |
Other long-term liabilities | (693) | (640) | |
Deferred tax obligation (benefit) (Note 7) | (60) | 54 | |
Amount recognized in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) (Note 7) | 440 | 60 | |
Pensions | |||
Change in Benefit Obligation ("PBO") | |||
Service cost | 84 | 127 | $ 157 |
Interest cost | 373 | 201 | 154 |
Change in Plan Assets | |||
Fair value of plan assets, January 1 | 7,685 | ||
Fair value of plan assets, December 31 | 8,228 | 7,685 | |
U.S. | Pensions | |||
Change in Benefit Obligation ("PBO") | |||
Benefit obligation, January 1 | 2,129 | 2,719 | |
Service cost | 25 | 34 | |
Interest cost | 105 | 60 | |
Participant contributions | 11 | 11 | |
Actuarial loss (gain) | 100 | (528) | |
Benefits paid | (162) | (158) | |
Plan settlement | (21) | (9) | |
Foreign currency translation and other changes | 0 | 0 | |
Benefit obligation, December 31 | 2,187 | 2,129 | 2,719 |
Accumulated benefit obligation ("ABO") | 2,037 | 1,982 | |
Change in Plan Assets | |||
Fair value of plan assets, January 1 | 1,891 | 2,448 | |
Actual return on plan assets | 300 | (421) | |
Company contributions | 0 | 0 | |
Participant contributions | 0 | 0 | |
Benefits paid from plan assets | (141) | (136) | |
Foreign currency translation and other changes | 0 | 0 | |
Fair value of plan assets, December 31 | 2,050 | 1,891 | 2,448 |
Other long-term assets | 19 | 13 | |
Other current liabilities | (17) | (38) | |
Other long-term liabilities | (139) | (213) | |
Funded Status, End of Year | (137) | (238) | |
Net actuarial loss (gain) | 290 | 357 | |
Prior service cost (credit) | (10) | (12) | |
Deferred tax obligation (benefit) (Note 7) | (67) | (85) | |
Amount recognized in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) (Note 7) | 213 | 260 | |
Non-U.S. | Pensions | |||
Change in Benefit Obligation ("PBO") | |||
Benefit obligation, January 1 | 5,586 | 9,398 | |
Service cost | 59 | 93 | |
Interest cost | 268 | 141 | |
Participant contributions | 18 | 17 | |
Actuarial loss (gain) | 532 | (2,972) | |
Benefits paid | (324) | (296) | |
Plan settlement | (14) | (8) | |
Foreign currency translation and other changes | 260 | (787) | |
Benefit obligation, December 31 | 6,385 | 5,586 | 9,398 |
Accumulated benefit obligation ("ABO") | 6,300 | 5,508 | |
Change in Plan Assets | |||
Fair value of plan assets, January 1 | 5,794 | 7,968 | |
Actual return on plan assets | 365 | (1,302) | |
Company contributions | 46 | 51 | |
Participant contributions | 18 | 17 | |
Benefits paid from plan assets | (320) | (248) | |
Foreign currency translation and other changes | 275 | (692) | |
Fair value of plan assets, December 31 | 6,178 | 5,794 | $ 7,968 |
Other long-term assets | 361 | 648 | |
Other current liabilities | (14) | (13) | |
Other long-term liabilities | (554) | (427) | |
Funded Status, End of Year | (207) | 208 | |
Net actuarial loss (gain) | 219 | (343) | |
Prior service cost (credit) | 1 | 4 | |
Deferred tax obligation (benefit) (Note 7) | 7 | 139 | |
Amount recognized in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) (Note 7) | $ 227 | $ (200) |
Retirement Programs - Comparati
Retirement Programs - Comparative Funded Status (Details) - Pensions - USD ($) $ in Millions | Dec. 31, 2023 | Dec. 31, 2022 | Dec. 31, 2021 |
Change in Benefit Obligation ("PBO") | |||
Fair value of plan assets, December 31 | $ 8,228 | $ 7,685 | |
Non-U.S. | |||
Change in Benefit Obligation ("PBO") | |||
Benefit obligation, December 31 | 6,385 | 5,586 | $ 9,398 |
Fair value of plan assets, December 31 | 6,178 | 5,794 | $ 7,968 |
Funded Status, End of Year | (207) | 208 | |
United Kingdom | |||
Change in Benefit Obligation ("PBO") | |||
Benefit obligation, December 31 | 3,616 | 3,100 | |
Fair value of plan assets, December 31 | 3,858 | 3,625 | |
Funded Status, End of Year | 242 | 525 | |
Germany | |||
Change in Benefit Obligation ("PBO") | |||
Benefit obligation, December 31 | 1,684 | 1,485 | |
Fair value of plan assets, December 31 | 1,370 | 1,285 | |
Funded Status, End of Year | (314) | (200) | |
Other Non-U.S. | |||
Change in Benefit Obligation ("PBO") | |||
Benefit obligation, December 31 | 1,085 | 1,001 | |
Fair value of plan assets, December 31 | 950 | 884 | |
Funded Status, End of Year | $ (135) | $ (117) |
Retirement Programs - Changes I
Retirement Programs - Changes In Plan Assets and Benefit Obligations Recognized in OCI (Details) - Pensions - USD ($) $ in Millions | 12 Months Ended | |
Dec. 31, 2023 | Dec. 31, 2022 | |
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | ||
Current year net actuarial losses (gains) | $ 480 | $ (1,259) |
Amortization of net actuarial gains (losses) | 29 | (75) |
Amortization of prior service credits (costs) | 1 | 1 |
Pension settlements | (16) | (6) |
Foreign currency translation and other changes | 0 | (90) |
Total recognized in other comprehensive income | $ 494 | $ (1,429) |
Retirement Programs - Plans Whe
Retirement Programs - Plans Where the ABO Exceeds Plan Assets Fair Value (Details) - Pensions - USD ($) $ in Millions | Dec. 31, 2023 | Dec. 31, 2022 |
U.S. | ||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | ||
Accumulated benefit obligation ("ABO") | $ 1,952 | $ 1,895 |
Fair value of plan assets | 1,945 | 1,791 |
Non-U.S. | ||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | ||
Accumulated benefit obligation ("ABO") | 1,880 | 1,848 |
Fair value of plan assets | $ 1,385 | $ 1,472 |
Retirement Programs - Plan Wher
Retirement Programs - Plan Where the PBO Exceeds Plan Asset Fair Value (Details) - Pensions - USD ($) $ in Millions | Dec. 31, 2023 | Dec. 31, 2022 |
U.S. | ||
Defined Contribution Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | ||
Projected benefit obligation ("PBO") | $ 2,012 | $ 1,948 |
Fair value of plan assets | 1,945 | 1,791 |
Non-U.S. | ||
Defined Contribution Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | ||
Projected benefit obligation ("PBO") | 1,932 | 1,901 |
Fair value of plan assets | $ 1,390 | $ 1,478 |
Retirement Programs - Assumptio
Retirement Programs - Assumptions Used in Determining Benefit Obligations and Net Benefit Costs (Details) - Pensions | 12 Months Ended | ||
Dec. 31, 2024 | Dec. 31, 2023 | Dec. 31, 2022 | |
U.S. | |||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | |||
Discount rate | 5.03% | 5.35% | |
Interest crediting rate | 4.03% | 4.02% | |
Rate of increase in compensation levels | 3.50% | 3.25% | |
Discount rate | 5.35% | 2.78% | |
Interest crediting rate | 4.02% | 2.06% | |
Rate of increase in compensation levels | 3.25% | 3.25% | |
Expected long-term rate of return on plan assets | 7% | 7% | |
Actual rate of return on plan assets, period | 10 years | ||
Actual rate of return on plan assets | 6.60% | ||
U.S. | Scenario, Forecast | |||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | |||
Expected long-term rate of return on plan assets | 7% | ||
Non-U.S. | |||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | |||
Discount rate | 4.27% | 4.58% | |
Interest crediting rate | 1.70% | 2.13% | |
Rate of increase in compensation levels | 2.58% | 2.59% | |
Discount rate | 4.58% | 1.82% | |
Interest crediting rate | 2.13% | 1.03% | |
Rate of increase in compensation levels | 2.59% | 2.55% | |
Expected long-term rate of return on plan assets | 5.64% | 5.60% | |
Actual rate of return on plan assets | 4.90% | ||
Non-U.S. | Scenario, Forecast | |||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | |||
Expected long-term rate of return on plan assets | 5.83% | ||
Equity securities | U.S. | |||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | |||
Expected rate of return on plan assets | 8.40% | ||
Equity securities | Non-U.S. | |||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | |||
Expected rate of return on plan assets | 7.20% | ||
Fixed income securities | U.S. | |||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | |||
Expected rate of return on plan assets | 4.80% | ||
Fixed income securities | Non-U.S. | |||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | |||
Expected rate of return on plan assets | 5.90% | ||
Other | U.S. | |||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | |||
Expected rate of return on plan assets | 3.40% | ||
Other | Non-U.S. | |||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | |||
Expected rate of return on plan assets | 5.80% | ||
Minimum | Equity securities | U.S. | |||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | |||
Defined benefit plan, plan assets, target allocation, percentage | 50% | 50% | |
Minimum | Equity securities | Non-U.S. | |||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | |||
Defined benefit plan, plan assets, target allocation, percentage | 15% | 15% | |
Minimum | Fixed income securities | U.S. | |||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | |||
Defined benefit plan, plan assets, target allocation, percentage | 20% | 20% | |
Minimum | Fixed income securities | Non-U.S. | |||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | |||
Defined benefit plan, plan assets, target allocation, percentage | 30% | 30% | |
Minimum | Other | U.S. | |||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | |||
Defined benefit plan, plan assets, target allocation, percentage | 2% | 2% | |
Minimum | Other | Non-U.S. | |||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | |||
Defined benefit plan, plan assets, target allocation, percentage | 30% | 30% | |
Maximum | Equity securities | U.S. | |||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | |||
Defined benefit plan, plan assets, target allocation, percentage | 70% | 70% | |
Maximum | Equity securities | Non-U.S. | |||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | |||
Defined benefit plan, plan assets, target allocation, percentage | 25% | 25% | |
Maximum | Fixed income securities | U.S. | |||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | |||
Defined benefit plan, plan assets, target allocation, percentage | 50% | 50% | |
Maximum | Fixed income securities | Non-U.S. | |||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | |||
Defined benefit plan, plan assets, target allocation, percentage | 50% | 50% | |
Maximum | Other | U.S. | |||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | |||
Defined benefit plan, plan assets, target allocation, percentage | 8% | 8% | |
Maximum | Other | Non-U.S. | |||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | |||
Defined benefit plan, plan assets, target allocation, percentage | 50% | 50% |
Retirement Programs - Pension P
Retirement Programs - Pension Plan Assets (Details) - Pensions | Dec. 31, 2023 | Dec. 31, 2022 |
Equity securities | U.S. | ||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | ||
Weighted average asset allocation | 59% | 60% |
Equity securities | U.S. | Minimum | ||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | ||
Defined benefit plan, plan assets, target allocation, percentage | 50% | 50% |
Equity securities | U.S. | Maximum | ||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | ||
Defined benefit plan, plan assets, target allocation, percentage | 70% | 70% |
Equity securities | Non-U.S. | ||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | ||
Weighted average asset allocation | 22% | 20% |
Equity securities | Non-U.S. | Minimum | ||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | ||
Defined benefit plan, plan assets, target allocation, percentage | 15% | 15% |
Equity securities | Non-U.S. | Maximum | ||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | ||
Defined benefit plan, plan assets, target allocation, percentage | 25% | 25% |
Fixed income securities | U.S. | ||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | ||
Weighted average asset allocation | 31% | 29% |
Fixed income securities | U.S. | Minimum | ||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | ||
Defined benefit plan, plan assets, target allocation, percentage | 20% | 20% |
Fixed income securities | U.S. | Maximum | ||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | ||
Defined benefit plan, plan assets, target allocation, percentage | 50% | 50% |
Fixed income securities | Non-U.S. | ||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | ||
Weighted average asset allocation | 30% | 30% |
Fixed income securities | Non-U.S. | Minimum | ||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | ||
Defined benefit plan, plan assets, target allocation, percentage | 30% | 30% |
Fixed income securities | Non-U.S. | Maximum | ||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | ||
Defined benefit plan, plan assets, target allocation, percentage | 50% | 50% |
Other | U.S. | ||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | ||
Weighted average asset allocation | 10% | 11% |
Other | U.S. | Minimum | ||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | ||
Defined benefit plan, plan assets, target allocation, percentage | 2% | 2% |
Other | U.S. | Maximum | ||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | ||
Defined benefit plan, plan assets, target allocation, percentage | 8% | 8% |
Other | Non-U.S. | ||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | ||
Weighted average asset allocation | 48% | 50% |
Other | Non-U.S. | Minimum | ||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | ||
Defined benefit plan, plan assets, target allocation, percentage | 30% | 30% |
Other | Non-U.S. | Maximum | ||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | ||
Defined benefit plan, plan assets, target allocation, percentage | 50% | 50% |
Retirement Programs - Pension_2
Retirement Programs - Pension Plan Asset Fair Value By Category And Level 3 Rollforward (Details) - Pensions - USD ($) $ in Millions | 12 Months Ended | |
Dec. 31, 2023 | Dec. 31, 2022 | |
Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Fair Value of Plan Assets [Roll Forward] | ||
Fair value of plan assets, January 1 | $ 7,685 | |
Fair value of plan assets, December 31 | 8,228 | $ 7,685 |
Level 3 | ||
Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Fair Value of Plan Assets [Roll Forward] | ||
Fair value of plan assets, January 1 | 1,759 | 1,740 |
Gain/(Loss) for the period | (65) | 98 |
Purchases | 5 | 83 |
Sales | (59) | (56) |
Transfer into / (out of) Level 3 | 0 | 33 |
Foreign currency translation | 80 | (139) |
Fair value of plan assets, December 31 | 1,720 | 1,759 |
Pool Funds Measured at NAV | ||
Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Fair Value of Plan Assets [Roll Forward] | ||
Fair value of plan assets, January 1 | 1,457 | |
Fair value of plan assets, December 31 | 1,572 | 1,457 |
Cash and cash equivalents | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1, 2 and 3 | ||
Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Fair Value of Plan Assets [Roll Forward] | ||
Fair value of plan assets, January 1 | 313 | |
Fair value of plan assets, December 31 | 368 | 313 |
Cash and cash equivalents | Level 1 | ||
Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Fair Value of Plan Assets [Roll Forward] | ||
Fair value of plan assets, January 1 | 313 | |
Fair value of plan assets, December 31 | 368 | 313 |
Cash and cash equivalents | Level 2 | ||
Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Fair Value of Plan Assets [Roll Forward] | ||
Fair value of plan assets, January 1 | 0 | |
Fair value of plan assets, December 31 | 0 | 0 |
Cash and cash equivalents | Level 3 | ||
Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Fair Value of Plan Assets [Roll Forward] | ||
Fair value of plan assets, January 1 | 0 | |
Fair value of plan assets, December 31 | 0 | 0 |
Global equities | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1, 2 and 3 | ||
Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Fair Value of Plan Assets [Roll Forward] | ||
Fair value of plan assets, January 1 | 778 | |
Fair value of plan assets, December 31 | 926 | 778 |
Global equities | Level 1 | ||
Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Fair Value of Plan Assets [Roll Forward] | ||
Fair value of plan assets, January 1 | 778 | |
Fair value of plan assets, December 31 | 926 | 778 |
Global equities | Level 2 | ||
Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Fair Value of Plan Assets [Roll Forward] | ||
Fair value of plan assets, January 1 | 0 | |
Fair value of plan assets, December 31 | 0 | 0 |
Global equities | Level 3 | ||
Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Fair Value of Plan Assets [Roll Forward] | ||
Fair value of plan assets, January 1 | 0 | |
Fair value of plan assets, December 31 | 0 | 0 |
Mutual funds | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1, 2 and 3 | ||
Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Fair Value of Plan Assets [Roll Forward] | ||
Fair value of plan assets, January 1 | 248 | |
Fair value of plan assets, December 31 | 298 | 248 |
Mutual funds | Level 1 | ||
Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Fair Value of Plan Assets [Roll Forward] | ||
Fair value of plan assets, January 1 | 248 | |
Fair value of plan assets, December 31 | 298 | 248 |
Mutual funds | Level 2 | ||
Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Fair Value of Plan Assets [Roll Forward] | ||
Fair value of plan assets, January 1 | 0 | |
Fair value of plan assets, December 31 | 0 | 0 |
Mutual funds | Level 3 | ||
Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Fair Value of Plan Assets [Roll Forward] | ||
Fair value of plan assets, January 1 | 0 | |
Fair value of plan assets, December 31 | 0 | 0 |
Government bonds | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1, 2 and 3 | ||
Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Fair Value of Plan Assets [Roll Forward] | ||
Fair value of plan assets, January 1 | 1,317 | |
Fair value of plan assets, December 31 | 1,486 | 1,317 |
Government bonds | Level 1 | ||
Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Fair Value of Plan Assets [Roll Forward] | ||
Fair value of plan assets, January 1 | 0 | |
Fair value of plan assets, December 31 | 0 | 0 |
Government bonds | Level 2 | ||
Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Fair Value of Plan Assets [Roll Forward] | ||
Fair value of plan assets, January 1 | 1,317 | |
Fair value of plan assets, December 31 | 1,486 | 1,317 |
Government bonds | Level 3 | ||
Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Fair Value of Plan Assets [Roll Forward] | ||
Fair value of plan assets, January 1 | 0 | |
Fair value of plan assets, December 31 | 0 | 0 |
Emerging market debt | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1, 2 and 3 | ||
Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Fair Value of Plan Assets [Roll Forward] | ||
Fair value of plan assets, January 1 | 245 | |
Fair value of plan assets, December 31 | 283 | 245 |
Emerging market debt | Level 1 | ||
Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Fair Value of Plan Assets [Roll Forward] | ||
Fair value of plan assets, January 1 | 0 | |
Fair value of plan assets, December 31 | 0 | 0 |
Emerging market debt | Level 2 | ||
Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Fair Value of Plan Assets [Roll Forward] | ||
Fair value of plan assets, January 1 | 245 | |
Fair value of plan assets, December 31 | 283 | 245 |
Emerging market debt | Level 3 | ||
Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Fair Value of Plan Assets [Roll Forward] | ||
Fair value of plan assets, January 1 | 0 | |
Fair value of plan assets, December 31 | 0 | 0 |
Mutual funds | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1, 2 and 3 | ||
Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Fair Value of Plan Assets [Roll Forward] | ||
Fair value of plan assets, January 1 | 156 | |
Fair value of plan assets, December 31 | 179 | 156 |
Mutual funds | Level 1 | ||
Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Fair Value of Plan Assets [Roll Forward] | ||
Fair value of plan assets, January 1 | 101 | |
Fair value of plan assets, December 31 | 119 | 101 |
Mutual funds | Level 2 | ||
Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Fair Value of Plan Assets [Roll Forward] | ||
Fair value of plan assets, January 1 | 55 | |
Fair value of plan assets, December 31 | 60 | 55 |
Mutual funds | Level 3 | ||
Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Fair Value of Plan Assets [Roll Forward] | ||
Fair value of plan assets, January 1 | 0 | |
Fair value of plan assets, December 31 | 0 | 0 |
Corporate bonds | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1, 2 and 3 | ||
Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Fair Value of Plan Assets [Roll Forward] | ||
Fair value of plan assets, January 1 | 372 | |
Fair value of plan assets, December 31 | 324 | 372 |
Corporate bonds | Level 1 | ||
Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Fair Value of Plan Assets [Roll Forward] | ||
Fair value of plan assets, January 1 | 0 | |
Fair value of plan assets, December 31 | 0 | 0 |
Corporate bonds | Level 2 | ||
Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Fair Value of Plan Assets [Roll Forward] | ||
Fair value of plan assets, January 1 | 372 | |
Fair value of plan assets, December 31 | 324 | 372 |
Corporate bonds | Level 3 | ||
Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Fair Value of Plan Assets [Roll Forward] | ||
Fair value of plan assets, January 1 | 0 | |
Fair value of plan assets, December 31 | 0 | 0 |
Bank loans | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1, 2 and 3 | ||
Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Fair Value of Plan Assets [Roll Forward] | ||
Fair value of plan assets, January 1 | 18 | |
Fair value of plan assets, December 31 | 27 | 18 |
Bank loans | Level 1 | ||
Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Fair Value of Plan Assets [Roll Forward] | ||
Fair value of plan assets, January 1 | 0 | |
Fair value of plan assets, December 31 | 0 | 0 |
Bank loans | Level 2 | ||
Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Fair Value of Plan Assets [Roll Forward] | ||
Fair value of plan assets, January 1 | 18 | |
Fair value of plan assets, December 31 | 27 | 18 |
Bank loans | Level 3 | ||
Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Fair Value of Plan Assets [Roll Forward] | ||
Fair value of plan assets, January 1 | 0 | |
Fair value of plan assets, December 31 | 0 | 0 |
Real estate funds | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1, 2 and 3 | ||
Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Fair Value of Plan Assets [Roll Forward] | ||
Fair value of plan assets, January 1 | 353 | |
Fair value of plan assets, December 31 | 324 | 353 |
Real estate funds | Level 1 | ||
Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Fair Value of Plan Assets [Roll Forward] | ||
Fair value of plan assets, January 1 | 0 | |
Fair value of plan assets, December 31 | 0 | 0 |
Real estate funds | Level 2 | ||
Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Fair Value of Plan Assets [Roll Forward] | ||
Fair value of plan assets, January 1 | 0 | |
Fair value of plan assets, December 31 | 0 | 0 |
Real estate funds | Level 3 | ||
Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Fair Value of Plan Assets [Roll Forward] | ||
Fair value of plan assets, January 1 | 353 | 360 |
Gain/(Loss) for the period | (27) | 5 |
Purchases | 3 | 18 |
Sales | (15) | (22) |
Transfer into / (out of) Level 3 | 0 | 0 |
Foreign currency translation | 10 | (8) |
Fair value of plan assets, December 31 | 324 | 353 |
Private debt | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1, 2 and 3 | ||
Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Fair Value of Plan Assets [Roll Forward] | ||
Fair value of plan assets, January 1 | 1,360 | |
Fair value of plan assets, December 31 | 1,345 | 1,360 |
Private debt | Level 1 | ||
Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Fair Value of Plan Assets [Roll Forward] | ||
Fair value of plan assets, January 1 | 0 | |
Fair value of plan assets, December 31 | 0 | 0 |
Private debt | Level 2 | ||
Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Fair Value of Plan Assets [Roll Forward] | ||
Fair value of plan assets, January 1 | 0 | |
Fair value of plan assets, December 31 | 0 | 0 |
Private debt | Level 3 | ||
Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Fair Value of Plan Assets [Roll Forward] | ||
Fair value of plan assets, January 1 | 1,360 | 1,368 |
Gain/(Loss) for the period | (38) | 93 |
Purchases | 1 | 63 |
Sales | (44) | (34) |
Transfer into / (out of) Level 3 | 0 | 0 |
Foreign currency translation | 66 | (130) |
Fair value of plan assets, December 31 | 1,345 | 1,360 |
Insurance contracts | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1, 2 and 3 | ||
Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Fair Value of Plan Assets [Roll Forward] | ||
Fair value of plan assets, January 1 | 46 | |
Fair value of plan assets, December 31 | 51 | 46 |
Insurance contracts | Level 1 | ||
Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Fair Value of Plan Assets [Roll Forward] | ||
Fair value of plan assets, January 1 | 0 | |
Fair value of plan assets, December 31 | 0 | 0 |
Insurance contracts | Level 2 | ||
Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Fair Value of Plan Assets [Roll Forward] | ||
Fair value of plan assets, January 1 | 0 | |
Fair value of plan assets, December 31 | 0 | 0 |
Insurance contracts | Level 3 | ||
Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Fair Value of Plan Assets [Roll Forward] | ||
Fair value of plan assets, January 1 | 46 | 12 |
Gain/(Loss) for the period | 0 | 0 |
Purchases | 1 | 2 |
Sales | 0 | 0 |
Transfer into / (out of) Level 3 | 0 | 33 |
Foreign currency translation | 4 | (1) |
Fair value of plan assets, December 31 | 51 | 46 |
Liquid alternative | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1, 2 and 3 | ||
Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Fair Value of Plan Assets [Roll Forward] | ||
Fair value of plan assets, January 1 | 982 | |
Fair value of plan assets, December 31 | 1,022 | 982 |
Liquid alternative | Level 1 | ||
Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Fair Value of Plan Assets [Roll Forward] | ||
Fair value of plan assets, January 1 | 0 | |
Fair value of plan assets, December 31 | 0 | 0 |
Liquid alternative | Level 2 | ||
Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Fair Value of Plan Assets [Roll Forward] | ||
Fair value of plan assets, January 1 | 982 | |
Fair value of plan assets, December 31 | 1,022 | 982 |
Liquid alternative | Level 3 | ||
Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Fair Value of Plan Assets [Roll Forward] | ||
Fair value of plan assets, January 1 | 0 | |
Fair value of plan assets, December 31 | 0 | 0 |
Other investments | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1, 2 and 3 | ||
Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Fair Value of Plan Assets [Roll Forward] | ||
Fair value of plan assets, January 1 | 40 | |
Fair value of plan assets, December 31 | 23 | 40 |
Other investments | Level 1 | ||
Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Fair Value of Plan Assets [Roll Forward] | ||
Fair value of plan assets, January 1 | 1 | |
Fair value of plan assets, December 31 | 1 | 1 |
Other investments | Level 2 | ||
Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Fair Value of Plan Assets [Roll Forward] | ||
Fair value of plan assets, January 1 | 39 | |
Fair value of plan assets, December 31 | 22 | 39 |
Other investments | Level 3 | ||
Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Fair Value of Plan Assets [Roll Forward] | ||
Fair value of plan assets, January 1 | 0 | |
Fair value of plan assets, December 31 | 0 | 0 |
Total pension assets, by level | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1, 2 and 3 | ||
Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Fair Value of Plan Assets [Roll Forward] | ||
Fair value of plan assets, January 1 | 6,228 | |
Fair value of plan assets, December 31 | 6,656 | 6,228 |
Total pension assets, by level | Level 1 | ||
Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Fair Value of Plan Assets [Roll Forward] | ||
Fair value of plan assets, January 1 | 1,441 | |
Fair value of plan assets, December 31 | 1,712 | 1,441 |
Total pension assets, by level | Level 2 | ||
Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Fair Value of Plan Assets [Roll Forward] | ||
Fair value of plan assets, January 1 | 3,028 | |
Fair value of plan assets, December 31 | 3,224 | 3,028 |
Total pension assets, by level | Level 3 | ||
Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Fair Value of Plan Assets [Roll Forward] | ||
Fair value of plan assets, January 1 | 1,759 | |
Fair value of plan assets, December 31 | $ 1,720 | $ 1,759 |
Retirement Programs - Contribut
Retirement Programs - Contributions and Estimated Future Benefit Payments (Details) - Pensions $ in Millions | Dec. 31, 2023 USD ($) |
U.S. | |
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | |
2024 | $ 203 |
2025 | 166 |
2026 | 163 |
2027 | 166 |
2028 | 165 |
2029-2033 | 824 |
Non-U.S. | |
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | |
2024 | 355 |
2025 | 341 |
2026 | 353 |
2027 | 359 |
2028 | 373 |
2029-2033 | $ 1,974 |
Commitments and Contingencies (
Commitments and Contingencies (Details) $ in Millions, R$ in Billions | Sep. 01, 2010 USD ($) company | Dec. 31, 2023 USD ($) | Dec. 31, 2022 USD ($) | Dec. 30, 2022 | Apr. 23, 2019 € / shares | Apr. 08, 2019 shares | Sep. 01, 2010 BRL (R$) |
Other Commitments [Line Items] | |||||||
Brazil tax matters estimated exposure | $ 115 | ||||||
Number of defendants | company | 5 | ||||||
Contract liabilities | 2,950 | $ 3,986 | |||||
Outstanding letters of credit, bank guarantees and surety bonds | 3,344 | ||||||
RCA | |||||||
Other Commitments [Line Items] | |||||||
Contract liabilities | $ 1,100 | ||||||
RUSSIAN FEDERATION | |||||||
Other Commitments [Line Items] | |||||||
Maximum allowed percent of net assets for asset disposal | 5% | ||||||
White Martins | |||||||
Other Commitments [Line Items] | |||||||
Initial CADE civil fine imposed | $ 350 | R$ 1.7 | |||||
MG Industries GmbH | |||||||
Other Commitments [Line Items] | |||||||
Initial CADE civil fine imposed | $ 41 | R$ 0.2 | |||||
Squeeze-Out Transaction | Linde AG | |||||||
Other Commitments [Line Items] | |||||||
Business acquisition, share price (in euro per share) | € / shares | € 189.46 | ||||||
Ordinary shares, outstanding (in shares) | shares | 14,763,113 |
Segment Information - Narrative
Segment Information - Narrative (Details) - 12 months ended Dec. 31, 2023 | productLine | reportableSegment | extensionOption | distribution_method |
Segment Reporting [Abstract] | ||||
Number of major product lines | productLine | 2 | |||
Number of geographic segments | 3 | 3 | ||
Number of reportable segments | reportableSegment | 4 | |||
Number of distribution methods | distribution_method | 3 |
Segment Information - Reportabl
Segment Information - Reportable Segments (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions | 12 Months Ended | ||
Dec. 31, 2023 | Dec. 31, 2022 | Dec. 31, 2021 | |
Sales by Major Country [Line Items] | |||
Total Sales | $ 32,854 | $ 33,364 | $ 30,793 |
Total operating profit | 8,024 | 5,369 | 4,984 |
Other charges (Note 3) | (40) | (1,029) | (273) |
Total depreciation and amortization | 3,816 | 4,204 | 4,635 |
Total Capital Expenditures and Acquisitions | 4,740 | 3,283 | 3,174 |
Total long-lived assets | 24,552 | 23,548 | 26,003 |
United States | |||
Sales by Major Country [Line Items] | |||
Total Sales | 10,566 | 10,553 | 9,123 |
Total long-lived assets | 8,490 | 7,663 | 7,659 |
Germany | |||
Sales by Major Country [Line Items] | |||
Total Sales | 2,827 | 3,662 | 3,601 |
Total long-lived assets | 1,584 | 1,678 | 2,003 |
China | |||
Sales by Major Country [Line Items] | |||
Total Sales | 2,585 | 2,643 | 2,562 |
Total long-lived assets | 2,063 | 2,176 | 2,385 |
United Kingdom | |||
Sales by Major Country [Line Items] | |||
Total Sales | 1,507 | 1,954 | 2,060 |
Total long-lived assets | 684 | 704 | 1,078 |
Australia | |||
Sales by Major Country [Line Items] | |||
Total Sales | 1,303 | 1,372 | 1,307 |
Total long-lived assets | 654 | 688 | 872 |
Brazil | |||
Sales by Major Country [Line Items] | |||
Total Sales | 1,302 | 1,158 | 1,065 |
Total long-lived assets | 836 | 720 | 705 |
Other – non-U.S. | |||
Sales by Major Country [Line Items] | |||
Total Sales | 12,764 | 12,022 | 11,075 |
Total long-lived assets | 10,241 | 9,919 | 11,301 |
Americas | |||
Sales by Major Country [Line Items] | |||
Total Sales | 14,304 | 13,874 | 12,103 |
EMEA | |||
Sales by Major Country [Line Items] | |||
Total Sales | 8,542 | 8,443 | 7,643 |
APAC | |||
Sales by Major Country [Line Items] | |||
Total Sales | 6,559 | 6,480 | 6,133 |
Engineering | |||
Sales by Major Country [Line Items] | |||
Total Sales | $ 2,160 | $ 2,762 | $ 2,867 |
Engineering | Germany | Revenue from Contract with Customer, Segment Benchmark | Geographic Concentration Risk | |||
Sales by Major Country [Line Items] | |||
Concentration risk, percentage | 35% | 44% | 53% |
Other | |||
Sales by Major Country [Line Items] | |||
Total Sales | $ 1,289 | $ 1,805 | $ 2,047 |
Operating Segments | |||
Sales by Major Country [Line Items] | |||
Total operating profit | 9,070 | 7,904 | 7,176 |
Operating Segments | Americas | |||
Sales by Major Country [Line Items] | |||
Total Sales | 14,304 | 13,874 | 12,103 |
Total operating profit | 4,244 | 3,732 | 3,368 |
Other charges (Note 3) | (4) | 0 | |
Total depreciation and amortization | 1,423 | 1,320 | 1,243 |
Total Capital Expenditures and Acquisitions | 2,999 | 1,698 | 1,354 |
Operating Segments | EMEA | |||
Sales by Major Country [Line Items] | |||
Total Sales | 8,542 | 8,443 | 7,643 |
Total operating profit | 2,486 | 2,013 | 1,889 |
Other charges (Note 3) | (751) | (238) | |
Total depreciation and amortization | 640 | 661 | 752 |
Total Capital Expenditures and Acquisitions | 635 | 550 | 669 |
Operating Segments | APAC | |||
Sales by Major Country [Line Items] | |||
Total Sales | 6,559 | 6,480 | 6,133 |
Total operating profit | 1,806 | 1,670 | 1,502 |
Other charges (Note 3) | (28) | 22 | |
Total depreciation and amortization | 633 | 593 | 611 |
Total Capital Expenditures and Acquisitions | 975 | 889 | 995 |
Operating Segments | Engineering | |||
Sales by Major Country [Line Items] | |||
Total Sales | 2,160 | 2,762 | 2,867 |
Total operating profit | 491 | 555 | 473 |
Other charges (Note 3) | (205) | (26) | |
Total depreciation and amortization | 33 | 33 | 39 |
Total Capital Expenditures and Acquisitions | 24 | 28 | 25 |
Operating Segments | Other | |||
Sales by Major Country [Line Items] | |||
Total Sales | 1,289 | 1,805 | 2,047 |
Total operating profit | 43 | (66) | (56) |
Other charges (Note 3) | (41) | (31) | |
Total depreciation and amortization | 96 | 116 | 127 |
Total Capital Expenditures and Acquisitions | 107 | 118 | 131 |
Segment Reconciling Items | |||
Sales by Major Country [Line Items] | |||
Other charges (Note 3) | (40) | (1,029) | (273) |
Purchase accounting impacts - Linde AG | (1,006) | (1,506) | (1,919) |
Total depreciation and amortization | 2,825 | 2,723 | 2,772 |
Purchase accounting impacts - Linde AG | 991 | 1,481 | 1,863 |
Intersegment Eliminations | Engineering | |||
Sales by Major Country [Line Items] | |||
Total Sales | $ 1,479 | $ 1,035 | $ 896 |
Revenue Recognition - Narrative
Revenue Recognition - Narrative (Details) $ in Millions | 12 Months Ended | |
Dec. 31, 2023 USD ($) distribution_method | Dec. 31, 2022 USD ($) | |
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | ||
Number of distribution methods | distribution_method | 3 | |
Contract assets | $ 196 | $ 124 |
Contract liabilities | 2,950 | 3,986 |
Current contract liabilities | 1,901 | 3,073 |
Other long-term liabilities | 1,049 | 913 |
Contract with customer, liability, revenue recognized | 1,017 | |
Remaining performance obligation | $ 48,000 | |
Contract term | 20 years | |
Revenue, Remaining Performance Obligation, Expected Timing of Satisfaction, Start Date [Axis]: 2024-01-01 | ||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | ||
Remaining performance obligation, expected timing of satisfaction | 5 years | |
Other Noncurrent Liabilities | ||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | ||
Other long-term liabilities | $ 1,049 | $ 913 |
Engineering | RUSSIAN FEDERATION | Russia-Ukraine Conflict, International Sanctions | ||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | ||
Contract liabilities | $ 418 | |
Minimum | ||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | ||
On-site product supply contract period | 10 years | |
Maximum | ||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | ||
On-site product supply contract period | 20 years | |
Merchant | Minimum | ||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | ||
Customer supply agreements period | 3 years | |
Merchant | Maximum | ||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | ||
Customer supply agreements period | 7 years | |
Packaged Gas | Minimum | ||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | ||
Customer supply agreements period | 1 year | |
Packaged Gas | Maximum | ||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | ||
Customer supply agreements period | 3 years |
Revenue Recognition - Schedule
Revenue Recognition - Schedule of Revenue by Distribution Method (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions | 12 Months Ended | ||
Dec. 31, 2023 | Dec. 31, 2022 | Dec. 31, 2021 | |
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | |||
Sales | $ 32,854 | $ 33,364 | $ 30,793 |
Merchant | |||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | |||
Sales | 9,603 | 8,691 | 7,860 |
On-Site | |||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | |||
Sales | 7,825 | 8,934 | 7,345 |
Packaged Gas | |||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | |||
Sales | 11,654 | 10,871 | 10,551 |
Other | |||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | |||
Sales | 3,772 | 4,868 | 5,037 |
Americas | |||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | |||
Sales | 14,304 | 13,874 | 12,103 |
Americas | Merchant | |||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | |||
Sales | 4,370 | 3,786 | 3,279 |
Americas | On-Site | |||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | |||
Sales | 3,246 | 4,048 | 3,225 |
Americas | Packaged Gas | |||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | |||
Sales | 6,457 | 5,831 | 5,456 |
Americas | Other | |||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | |||
Sales | 231 | 209 | 143 |
EMEA | |||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | |||
Sales | 8,542 | 8,443 | 7,643 |
EMEA | Merchant | |||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | |||
Sales | 2,773 | 2,509 | 2,227 |
EMEA | On-Site | |||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | |||
Sales | 1,980 | 2,415 | 1,824 |
EMEA | Packaged Gas | |||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | |||
Sales | 3,735 | 3,466 | 3,539 |
EMEA | Other | |||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | |||
Sales | 54 | 53 | 53 |
APAC | |||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | |||
Sales | 6,559 | 6,480 | 6,133 |
APAC | Merchant | |||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | |||
Sales | 2,242 | 2,220 | 2,181 |
APAC | On-Site | |||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | |||
Sales | 2,599 | 2,471 | 2,296 |
APAC | Packaged Gas | |||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | |||
Sales | 1,416 | 1,523 | 1,532 |
APAC | Other | |||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | |||
Sales | 302 | 266 | 124 |
Engineering | |||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | |||
Sales | 2,160 | 2,762 | 2,867 |
Engineering | Merchant | |||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | |||
Sales | 0 | 0 | 0 |
Engineering | On-Site | |||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | |||
Sales | 0 | 0 | 0 |
Engineering | Packaged Gas | |||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | |||
Sales | 0 | 0 | 0 |
Engineering | Other | |||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | |||
Sales | 2,160 | 2,762 | 2,867 |
Other | |||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | |||
Sales | 1,289 | 1,805 | 2,047 |
Other | Merchant | |||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | |||
Sales | 218 | 176 | 173 |
Other | On-Site | |||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | |||
Sales | 0 | 0 | 0 |
Other | Packaged Gas | |||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | |||
Sales | 46 | 51 | 24 |
Other | Other | |||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | |||
Sales | $ 1,025 | $ 1,578 | $ 1,850 |
Sales | Revenue from Contract with Customer Benchmark | |||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | |||
Concentration risk, percentage | 100% | 100% | 100% |
Sales | Revenue from Contract with Customer Benchmark | Merchant | |||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | |||
Concentration risk, percentage | 29% | 26% | 26% |
Sales | Revenue from Contract with Customer Benchmark | On-Site | |||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | |||
Concentration risk, percentage | 24% | 27% | 24% |
Sales | Revenue from Contract with Customer Benchmark | Packaged Gas | |||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | |||
Concentration risk, percentage | 35% | 33% | 34% |
Sales | Revenue from Contract with Customer Benchmark | Other | |||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | |||
Concentration risk, percentage | 12% | 14% | 16% |
Subsequent Events (Details)
Subsequent Events (Details) - Subsequent Event € in Millions | Feb. 28, 2024 EUR (€) |
Euro Denominated 3.00% Notes Due 2028 | |
Subsequent Event [Line Items] | |
Notes issued | € 700 |
Notes issued, interest rate | 3% |
Euro Denominated 3.20% Notes Due 2031 | |
Subsequent Event [Line Items] | |
Notes issued | € 850 |
Notes issued, interest rate | 3.20% |
Euro Denominated 3.40% Notes Due 2036 | |
Subsequent Event [Line Items] | |
Notes issued | € 700 |
Notes issued, interest rate | 3.40% |