SUMMARY OF OPERATIONS AND SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES AND ESTIMATES | NOTE 1. SUMMARY OF OPERATIONS AND SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES AND ESTIMATES Advanced Energy Industries, Inc., a Delaware corporation, and its consolidated subsidiaries (“we,” “us,” “our,” “Advanced Energy,” or the “Company”) provides highly engineered, critical, precision power conversion, measurement, and control solutions to our global customers. We design, manufacture, sell and support precision power products that transform, refine, and modify the raw electrical power coming from either the utility or the building facility and convert it into various types of highly controllable, usable power that is predictable, repeatable, and customizable to meet the necessary requirements for powering a wide range of complex equipment. . In December 2015, we completed the wind down of engineering, manufacturing, and sales of our solar inverter product line. We have continuing involvement with regard to certain warranty obligations. Accordingly, the results of our inverter business are reflected as loss from discontinued operations, net of income taxes on our Consolidated Statements of Operations. Principles of Consolidation Our consolidated financial statements include the Company and its subsidiaries. All intercompany accounts and transactions have been eliminated. Our consolidated financial statements are stated in United States (“U.S.”) Dollars and have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States (“U.S. GAAP”). Reclassifications We reclassified certain prior period amounts to conform to the current year presentation. Within the operating activities section of our Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows, we present activity associated with our operating leases separately in the caption “Operating lease right-of-use assets and operating lease liabilities, net.” Additionally, we separately present “Amortization and write-off of debt issuance costs and debt discount.” Previously the above activity was included within “Other liabilities and accrued expenses.” Use of Estimates in the Preparation of the Consolidated Financial Statements The preparation of our consolidated financial statements in conformity with U.S. GAAP requires us to make estimates, assumptions, and judgments that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities, the disclosure of contingent liabilities at the date of the financial statements, and the reported amounts of revenue and expenses during the reporting period. The significant estimates, assumptions, and judgments include, but are not limited to, excess and obsolete inventory, income taxes and other provisions, and acquisitions and asset valuation. Segment Information Our Chief Executive Officer (“CEO”) is the chief operating decision maker who reviews financial information on a consolidated basis for purposes of allocating resources and evaluating financial performance. Accordingly, we determined we operate in a single reporting segment – power electronics conversion products. Within this segment, our products are sold into the Semiconductor Equipment, Industrial and Medical, Data Center Computing, and Telecom and Networking markets. Our CEO assesses performance and decides how to allocate resources primarily based on consolidated net income, which is reported on our Consolidated Statements of Operations. Total assets on the Consolidated Balance Sheets represent our segment assets. Foreign Currency Translation The functional currency of certain of our foreign subsidiaries is the local currency. Assets and liabilities of these foreign subsidiaries are translated to the United States Dollar at prevailing exchange rates on the balance sheet date. Revenues and expenses are translated at the average exchange rates in effect for each period. Translation adjustments resulting from this process are reported as a separate component of other comprehensive income. For certain other subsidiaries, the functional currency is the U.S. Dollar. Foreign currency transactions are recorded based on exchange rates at the time such transactions arise. Subsequent changes in exchange rates for foreign currency denominated monetary assets and liabilities result in foreign currency transaction gains and losses, which are reflected as unrealized (based on period end remeasurement) or realized (upon settlement of the transactions) in other income (expense), net in our Consolidated Statements of Operations. Derivatives We use derivative financial instruments to manage risks associated with foreign currency. Unless we meet specific hedge accounting criteria, changes in the fair value of derivative financial instruments are recognized in the Consolidated Statements of Operations within other income (expense), net. Fair Value We value certain financial assets and liabilities using fair value measurements. U.S. GAAP for fair value establishes a hierarchy that prioritizes fair value measurements based on the types of inputs used for the various valuation techniques (market approach, income approach, and cost approach). Our financial assets and liabilities are measured using inputs from the three levels of the fair value hierarchy. The three levels of the hierarchy and the related inputs are as follows: ● Level 1 — Quoted prices (unadjusted) in active markets for identical assets or liabilities that the entity can access on the measurement date. ● Level 2 — Inputs other than quoted prices included within Level 1 that are observable for the asset or liability, either directly or indirectly. ● Level 3 — Unobservable inputs for the asset or liability. We categorize fair value measurements within the fair value hierarchy based upon the lowest level of the most significant inputs used to determine fair value. Our assessment of the significance of a particular input to the fair value measurement requires judgment and may affect the valuation of the fair value of assets and liabilities and their placement within the fair value hierarchy levels. We have various assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis, including: Category of Asset or Liability Fair Value Hierarchy Methodology for Estimating Fair Value Certificates of deposit and investments Level 2 Observable market data for similar assets Foreign currency forward contracts Level 2 Forecasted movement in the forward rates of foreign currency for the applicable duration in which the hedging instrument is denominated Deferred compensation liability Level 2 Observable market data for participants’ notional funds Pension benefit obligations Level 2 Actuarial analysis, which includes various estimates and assumptions including, but not limited to, discount rates, expected return on plan assets, and future inflation rates The carrying amounts of our cash and cash equivalents, accounts receivable, accounts payable and other current assets and liabilities approximate fair value as recorded due to the short-term nature of these instruments. Our non-financial assets, which primarily consist of property and equipment, operating lease right-of-use assets, goodwill, and other intangible assets, are not required to be carried at fair value on a recurring basis and are reported at carrying value. However, on a periodic basis or whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that their carrying value may not be fully recoverable (and at least annually for goodwill), non-financial instruments are assessed for impairment and, if applicable, written down to and recorded at fair value. See Note 11. Intangible Assets and Goodwill Cash and Cash Equivalents We consider all amounts on deposit with financial institutions and highly liquid investments with an original maturity of three months or less at the time of purchase to be cash equivalents. Cash and cash equivalents consist primarily of short-term money market instruments and demand deposits with insignificant interest rate risk. In some instances, we invest excess cash in money market funds not insured by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation. The investments in money market funds are on deposit with credit-worthy financial institutions and the funds are highly liquid. These investments are reported at fair value and included in cash and cash equivalents. We classify investments with stated maturities of greater than three months at time of purchase in other current assets on the Consolidated Balance Sheets. Concentrations of Credit Risk Financial instruments with potential credit risk include cash and cash equivalents and trade accounts receivable. To preserve capital and maintain liquidity, we invest with financial institutions we deem to be of high quality and sound financial condition. Our investments are in low-risk instruments, and we limit our credit exposure in any one institution or type of investment instrument based upon criteria, including creditworthiness. Allowance for Credit Losses We evaluate collection risk and establish expected credit loss primarily through a combination of the following: continuous monitoring of customer credit, analysis of historical aging and credit loss experience, current economic conditions, and customer specific information. Our standard payment terms are net 30 days. Certain large volume customers have longer payment terms. Inventories We value inventories at the lower of cost or net realizable value, computed on a first-in, first-out basis. General market conditions, as well as our design activities, can cause certain products to become obsolete and we adjust our inventory carrying value for estimated excess and obsolescence equal to the difference between the cost of inventory and the estimated net realizable value based on projected end-user demand, which is determined by considering historical usage, customer orders and forecast, and qualitative considerations such as market and economic conditions. The determination of projected end-user demand requires the use of estimates and assumptions related to projected unit sales for each product. Demand for our products can fluctuate significantly. A significant decrease in demand could result in an increase in the charges for excess inventory quantities on hand. Property and Equipment Property and equipment are stated at cost or estimated fair value if acquired in a business combination. We compute depreciation over the estimated useful lives using the straight-line method. Additions and improvements are capitalized, while maintenance and repairs are expensed as incurred. We evaluate the useful life and test for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate the carrying amount of an asset group containing the property and equipment may not be recoverable. When depreciable assets are retired, or otherwise disposed of, the cost and related accumulated depreciation are removed from the accounts, and any related gains or losses are included in other income (expense), net, in our Consolidated Statements of Operations. Internal-Use Software Development Costs We capitalize qualifying costs associated with software applications developed for internal use. We begin capitalization after meeting two criteria: (i) the preliminary project stage is completed and (ii) it is probable that the software will be completed and used for its intended function. We also capitalize costs related to specific upgrades and enhancements when it is probable the expenditures will result in significant additional functionality. We cease capitalization when the software is substantially complete and ready for its intended use, including the completion of all significant testing. Costs related to preliminary project activities, post-implementation operating activities, maintenance, and minor upgrades are expensed as incurred. We classify capitalized software development costs within property and equipment, net and other assets on the Consolidated Balance Sheets. These costs are amortized on a straight-line basis over the software’s estimated useful life. Amortization is included in both cost of revenue and operating expenses. We evaluate the useful life and test for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate the carrying amount may not be recoverable. Leases We lease manufacturing and office space under non-cancelable operating leases. Some of these leases contain provisions for landlord funded leasehold improvements, which we record as a reduction to right-of-use (“ROU”) assets and the related operating lease liabilities. Our lease agreements generally contain lease and non-lease components, and we combine fixed payments for non-lease components with lease payments and account for them together as a single lease component. Certain lease agreements may contain variable payments, which are expensed as incurred and not included in the right-of-use lease assets and operating lease liabilities. When renewal options are reasonably certain of exercise, we include the renewal period in the lease term. In many cases, we have leases with a term of less than one year. We elected the practical expedient to exclude these short-term leases from our ROU assets and operating lease liabilities. On an ongoing basis, we negotiate and execute new leases to meet business objectives. Right-of-use assets and operating lease liabilities are recognized at the present value of the future lease payments on the lease commencement date. The interest rate used to determine the present value of the future lease payments is our incremental borrowing rate because the interest rate implicit in our leases is not readily determinable. Our incremental borrowing rate is estimated to approximate the interest rate on a collateralized basis with similar terms and payments. We have a centrally managed treasury function; therefore, we apply a portfolio approach for determining the incremental borrowing rate applicable to the lease term. Operating lease expense is recognized on a straight-line basis over the lease term. We evaluate the useful life and test for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate the carrying amount of an asset group containing the right-of-use assets may not be recoverable. Intangible Assets and Goodwill Our intangible assets consist of customer relationships, developed technology, trademarks, patents, and intellectual property, which are stated at cost less accumulated amortization. Intangible assets, which are considered long-lived assets, are amortized over their estimated useful lives and reviewed for impairment when events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of an asset group containing these assets may not be recoverable. Goodwill represents the excess of the purchase price over the fair value of the identifiable net assets acquired in a business combination. We evaluate goodwill for impairment as a single reporting unit annually during the fourth quarter or when events or changes in circumstances indicate the carrying value may not be recoverable. Our goodwill impairment evaluation consists of a qualitative assessment. If this assessment indicates it is more likely than not that the Company’s estimated fair value exceeds the carrying value of our net assets, we do not consider goodwill to be impaired. Otherwise, we perform a quantitative assessment by comparing the Company’s fair value to the carrying value of our net assets, including goodwill. If the carrying value of our net assets exceeds the fair value, we consider goodwill to be impaired. Based on the facts and circumstances, we determine the fair value based on an income, market, or cost approach. Each method is subjective in nature and involves the use of significant estimates and assumptions, which can include projected financial results, discount rates, long-term growth rates, and industry trends. Debt Issuance Costs We capitalize costs associated with issuing debt. Depending on the nature of the agreement, we record these costs on the Consolidated Balance Sheets either in other assets or as a direct deduction from the carrying amount of the debt. We amortize the costs over the term of the agreement using the effective interest method. Amortization expense is reflected within interest expense on the Consolidated Statements of Operations. See Note 18. Long-Term Debt Revenue Recognition Net revenue consists of products and support services. We recognize substantially all revenue at a point in time when we satisfy our performance obligations. Typically, this occurs on shipment of goods because, at that point, we transfer control to our customer. The transaction price is based upon the standalone selling price. In most transactions, we have no obligations to our customers after the date products are shipped, other than pursuant to warranty obligations. We recognize revenue net of any taxes collected from customers, which are subsequently remitted to governmental authorities. Surcharges, cost recoveries, and shipping and handling fees billed to customers, if any, are recognized as revenue. The related cost for shipping and handling fees is recognized in cost of revenue. Support services include warranty and non-warranty repair services, upgrades, and refurbishments on the products we sell. Repairs covered under our standard warranty do not generate revenue. We recognize substantially all non-warranty revenue upon completion of the service because that is the point in time when we satisfy our performance obligation. As part of our ongoing service business, we satisfy our service obligations under preventative maintenance contracts and extended warranties. Up-front fees received for extended warranties or maintenance plans are deferred and recorded in customer deposits and other on the Consolidated Balance Sheets. Revenue under these arrangements is recognized ratably over the underlying terms, as we do not have historical information that would allow us to project the estimated service usage pattern at this time. We expense the incremental costs of obtaining contracts when the amortization period of the costs is less than one year. These costs are included in selling, general, and administrative expenses in our Consolidated Statements of Operations. Our remaining performance obligations primarily relate to customer purchase orders for products we have not yet shipped. We expect to fulfill the majority of these performance obligations within one year. Research and Development Expenses Costs incurred to advance, test, or otherwise modify our technology or develop new technologies are considered research and development costs and are expensed when incurred. These costs are primarily comprised of costs associated with the operation of our laboratories and research facilities, including internal labor, materials, and overhead. Stock-Based Compensation Accounting for stock-based compensation requires the measurement and recognition of compensation expense for all stock-based awards made to employees and directors based on estimated fair value at the grant date. We estimate the fair value of restricted stock units (“RSUs”) on the grant date. For RSUs that contain a time-based and/or performance-based vesting condition, we estimate fair value using the closing share price on the grant date. We record stock-based compensation expense for awards with time-based vesting conditions on a straight-line basis over the requisite service period. For awards with a performance-based vesting condition, we record stock-based compensation expense (based on our assessment of the probability of meeting the performance conditions) over the estimated period to achieve the performance conditions. If the awards are forfeited, we reverse the stock-based compensation expense. Certain RSUs vest based on a market condition. Our stock-based compensation expense is based on an estimate of the fair value and probability of achievement for each tranche of these awards using a Monte Carlo simulation. For these RSUs, we recognize stock-based compensation expense over each tranche’s estimated achievement period even if some or all of the shares never vest. For all stock awards, we estimate forfeitures at the grant date and revise those estimates in subsequent periods if actual forfeitures differ from our estimates. Income Taxes We follow the liability method of accounting for income taxes under which deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognized for future tax consequences. A deferred tax asset or liability is computed for both the expected future impact of differences between the financial statement and tax basis of assets and liabilities and for the expected future tax benefit to be derived from tax loss and tax credit carryforwards. Tax rate changes are reflected in the period such changes are enacted. We assess the recoverability of our net deferred tax assets and the need for a valuation allowance on a quarterly basis. Our assessment includes several factors, including historical results and taxable income projections for each jurisdiction. The ultimate realization of deferred income tax assets is dependent on the generation of taxable income in appropriate jurisdictions during the periods in which those temporary differences are deductible. We consider the scheduled reversal of deferred income tax liabilities, projected future taxable income, and tax planning strategies in determining the amount of the valuation allowance. Based on the level of historical taxable income and projections for future taxable income over the periods in which the deferred income tax assets are deductible, we determine if we will more likely than not realize the benefits of these deductible differences. Accounting for income taxes requires a two-step approach to recognize and measure uncertain tax positions. The first step is to evaluate the tax position for recognition by determining, if based on the technical merits, it is more likely than not that the position will be sustained upon audit, including resolutions of related appeals or litigation processes, if any. The second step is to measure the tax benefit as the largest amount that is more than 50% likely of being realized upon ultimate settlement. We regularly assess the likelihood of favorable or unfavorable outcomes resulting from these examinations to determine the adequacy of our provision for income taxes. This evaluation is based on factors including, but not limited to, changes in facts or circumstances, changes in tax law, effectively settled issues under audit, and new audit activity. Under U.S. GAAP, an accounting policy election can be made to either recognize deferred taxes for temporary basis differences expected to reverse as global intangible low-tax income (“GILTI”) in future years, or to provide for the tax expense related to GILTI in the year that the tax is incurred as a period expense only. We have elected to account for GILTI in the year that the tax is incurred. Commitments and Contingencies We are involved in disputes and legal actions arising in the normal course of our business. While we currently believe that the amount of any ultimate loss would not be material to our financial position, the outcome of these actions is inherently difficult to predict. In the event of an adverse outcome, the ultimate loss could have a material adverse effect on our financial position or reported results of operations. An unfavorable decision in intellectual property litigation also could require material changes in production processes and products or result in our inability to ship products or components found to have violated third party intellectual property rights. We accrue loss contingencies in connection with our commitments and contingencies, including litigation, when it is probable that a loss has occurred, and the amount of such loss can be reasonably estimated. We are not currently a party to any legal action that we believe would reasonably have a material adverse impact on our business, financial condition, results of operations or cash flows. New Accounting Standards From time to time, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) or other standards setting bodies issue new accounting pronouncements. Updates to the FASB Accounting Standards Codification (“ASC”) are communicated through issuance of an Accounting Standards Update (“ASU”). Unless otherwise discussed, we believe that the impact of recently issued guidance, whether adopted or to be adopted in the future, will not have a material impact on the consolidated financial statements upon adoption. New Accounting Standards Adopted In November 2023, the FASB issued ASU 2023-07 “Segment Reporting (Topic 280) Improvements to Reportable Segment Disclosures.” The amendments in ASU 2023-07 expand disclosure requirements. In addition, the ASU enhances interim disclosures, clarifies circumstances in which an entity can disclose multiple segment measures of profit or loss, and provides new disclosures requirements for entities with a single reportable segment. We adopted this guidance on December 31, 2024, and it was not material to our consolidated financial statements. New Accounting Standards Issued But Not Yet Adopted In December 2023, the FASB issued ASU 2023-09 “Improvements to Income Tax Disclosures.” ASU 2023-09 requires disaggregated information about a reporting entity’s effective tax rate reconciliation as well as additional disclosure on income taxes paid. This guidance will be effective for us on January 1, 2025 for annual disclosures. We do not expect the above guidance to materially impact our consolidated financial statements. In March 2024, the SEC issued climate-related disclosure rules. These rules do not change accounting treatment, but they significantly expand the climate-related information companies are required to disclose. Several petitions were filed challenging these climate-related disclosure rules and, in April 2024, the SEC voluntarily stayed the rules, pending completion of judicial review. Disclosure requirements, absent the results of pending legal challenges, may begin phasing in with our annual reporting for the year ending December 31, 2025. We do not expect the above disclosure requirement to materially impact our consolidated financial statements. We are evaluating the disclosure requirements and changes to our business processes, systems, and controls to support the additional disclosures. In November 2024, the FASB issued ASU 2024-03 final standard on Income Statement: Disaggregation of Income Statement Expenses, which requires disaggregated disclosure of income statement expenses for public business entities. The ASU does not change the expense captions an entity presents on the face of the income statement; rather, it requires disaggregation of certain expense captions into specified categories in disclosures within the footnotes to the financial statements. This guidance will be effective for us on January 1, 2027. We do not expect the above guidance to materially impact our consolidated financial statements. |