Mattel Inc: Form 10-K for the period ended Dec 31, 2024

Throughout this report "Mattel" refers to Mattel, Inc. and/or one or more of its subsidiaries. Mattel is a leading global toy and family entertainment company and owner of one of the most iconic brand portfolios in the world. Mattel creates innovative products and experiences that inspire fans, entertain audiences, and develop children through play. Mattel is focused on the following strategy to grow its intellectual property ("IP") driven toy business and expand its entertainment offering:

• Grow toy business profitably through scaling Mattel's portfolio, optimizing operations, evolving demand creation, and growing franchise brands; and
• Expand entertainment offering to capture the full value of Mattel's IP outside the toy aisle in highly accretive business verticals, by growing franchise brands and accelerating content, consumer products, and digital and live experiences.

Mattel is the owner of a portfolio of iconic brands and partners with global entertainment companies to license other IP. Mattel's portfolio of owned and licensed brands and products are organized into the following categories:

**Dolls—**including brands such as Barbie, American Girl, Disney Princess, Disney Frozen, Monster High, and Polly Pocket. Mattel's Dolls portfolio is driven by the flagship Barbie brand and a collection of complementary brands offered globally. Empowering girls since 1959, Barbie has inspired the limitless potential of every girl by showing them that they can be anything. Monster High, a character-driven franchise, engages fans of all ages, encouraging them to be their authentic selves and celebrate what makes them unique. American Girl, with an extensive portfolio of dolls and accessories, content, gaming, and lifestyle products, is best known for imparting valuable life lessons that instill confidence through its inspiring dolls and books, featuring characters from past and present.

**Infant, Toddler, and Preschool—**including brands such as Fisher-Price (including Little People and Fisher-Price Wood), Imaginext, and Thomas & Friends. As a leader in play and child development, Fisher-Price is dedicated to giving families the best possible start to life by making the most fun, enriching products for infants, toddlers, and preschoolers. Thomas & Friends is an award-winning preschool train brand franchise that lays the tracks to inspire, entertain, and develop young train fans through toys, content, live events, and other consumer products.

In the first quarter of 2024, Mattel further divided its Infant, Toddler, and Preschool category into three subcategories. The first subcategory is Fisher-Price, the power brand, which includes the core Infant, Little People, and Newborn product lines, as well as the recently launched Fisher-Price Wood product line. The second subcategory is Preschool Entertainment, which includes owned IP such as Thomas & Friends and Barney, Mattel's character based Imaginext line, and partner entertainment brands. The third subcategory is Baby Gear and Power Wheels, in which Mattel is strategically out-licensing or exiting certain product lines.

**Vehicles—**including brands such as Hot Wheels (including Hot Wheels Monster Trucks and Hot Wheels RC), Matchbox, and Cars (Disney Pixar). In production for over 50 years, Hot Wheels continues to push the limits of performance and design, and ignites and nurtures the challenger spirit of kids, adults, and collectors. From die-cast vehicles to tracks, playsets, and accessories, the Mattel Vehicles portfolio has broad appeal that engages and excites fans of all ages.

**Action Figures, Building Sets, Games, and Other—**including brands such as Masters of the Universe, MEGA, UNO, Jurassic World (NBCUniversal), Minecraft (Microsoft), WWE, and Star Wars (Disney's Lucasfilm). Mattel's Action Figures portfolio is comprised of product lines associated with licensed entertainment franchises, such as Jurassic World and WWE, as well as product lines from Mattel-owned IP, such as Masters of the Universe. As the challenger brand in Building Sets, MEGA inspires creativity through authentic building experiences for builders of all ages and fans of global franchises. Within Games, UNO is the classic matching card game that is easy to learn and fast fun for everyone. Other includes Plush, which contains products associated with movie releases from licensed entertainment franchises, as well as Mattel-owned IP.

Business Segments

In the first quarter of 2024, Mattel implemented an organizational change integrating the American Girl business into Mattel's North America commercial organization, which resulted in a change to Mattel's operating and reportable segments. Mattel's new reportable segments are: (i) North America and (ii) International. The prior period amounts have been reclassified to conform to the current period presentation. The North America and International segments sell products across Mattel's categories, although some products are developed and adapted for particular international markets, and American Girl products are sold only in North America.

For additional information on Mattel's worldwide gross billings by brand category, see Part II, Item 7 "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations—Results of Operations."

North America Segment

The North America segment markets and sells toys and consumer products in the United States and Canada across all of Mattel's categories.

Dolls

Barbie continues to deliver innovation, purpose-driven marketing campaigns, and engaging toys connected to a strong system of play. Barbie has broad product offerings, with product lines designed to appeal to children of multiple age groups, complemented by a Barbie Signature line with high-quality dolls that appeal to fans of all ages. In 2025, Barbie will continue to inspire multi-generational fans by delivering new products and captivating experiences through the year-long Limitless Possibilities marketing campaign, which Mattel expects will further amplify the franchise's impact globally.

Mattel is also excited to build upon its strong partnerships with Disney for the Disney Princess and Disney Frozen product lines. Monster High will look to build upon the success of its global re-launch, including planned new content and product offerings.

American Girl is a direct marketer, retailer, and children's publisher dedicated to its mission to help girls grow up with courage, confidence, and strength of character. In 2025, American Girl looks to build on its momentum from 2024 with quality product drops, multiplatform content launches, immersive omnichannel experiences, and new promotional campaigns geared towards kids, shoppers, and adult fans.

Infant, Toddler, and Preschool

In 2025, Fisher-Price will continue its focus on engaging consumers as a trusted partner for families with infants, toddlers and preschoolers, and remain dedicated to giving families the best possible start to life. Consumer-centric innovation will continue to drive new product offerings across the portfolio. Fisher-Price Wood will continue to expand globally, leveraging popular themes and trend-based aesthetics, while Little People will look to build on its strong momentum with the expansion of the Little People Core line and Little People Collector line. Thomas & Friends will be celebrating its 80th anniversary with numerous activations throughout the year and also launch exciting new products with classic characters and train play.

Vehicles

In 2025, industry leader Hot Wheels expects to continue its strong momentum as a multigenerational franchise with consumer interest that remains at historic highs. Hot Wheels product offerings are expected to excite consumers with innovation in both die-cast vehicles and tracks and playsets. These offerings will be supported by the animated children's series on Netflix, Hot Wheels Let's Race, and the new exciting partnership with Formula 1, bringing fans of the sport a full range of Hot Wheels products. Hot Wheels also seeks to further expand die-cast vehicle distribution, targeting fans of all ages.

Die-cast pioneer Matchbox expects to continue to bring exciting new products to market, including new sustainable die-cast products and toys tied to the theatrical release of NBCUniversal's Jurassic World: Rebirth.

Mattel will continue to partner with Disney Pixar for Cars to drive innovation, including fresh new product offerings to support key promotional events in 2025.

Action Figures, Building Sets, Games, and Other

Mattel Action Figures will continue to collaborate with key licensor partners, such as Disney Pixar, Microsoft, NBCUniversal, and WWE to bring innovative products to the global marketplace. Mattel's 2025 Action Figures product lines will include toys tied to theatrical releases for NBCUniversal's Jurassic World: Rebirth and Microsoft's Minecraft (Minecraft the Movie), as well as new releases within Masters of the Universe and WWE.

In Building Sets, MEGA inspires creativity through authentic building experiences for builders of all ages and fans of global franchises. Partnerships with some of the world's top franchises, including Pokémon, invite consumers to try MEGA building sets, while innovative building play, authentic details, compatible quality, and accessible value encourages consumers to stay in the MEGA building set collection. Parents of preschoolers can continue to discover how the MEGA Bloks preschool building system enhances playtime and early childhood development beyond the Big Building Bag.

Mattel Games consists of some of the most beloved Games IP in the world including UNO, Pictionary, Skip-Bo, Phase-10, Blokus, and many others. Mattel will focus on its expansion of Games into its direct-to-consumer business, collectability, and innovation. Additionally, Mattel expects to introduce new game extensions and partnerships that celebrate pop culture.

International Segment

Products marketed and sold by the International segment are generally the same as those marketed and sold by the North America segment, although some are developed or adapted for particular international markets. Mattel's products are sold directly to retailers and wholesalers in most European, Latin American, and Asian countries, in Australia and New Zealand, and through agents and distributors in those countries where Mattel has no direct presence. No individual country within the International segment exceeded 7% of worldwide consolidated net sales during 2024.

Competition and Industry Background

Mattel is a worldwide leader in the manufacture, marketing, and sale of toys, games, and other products related to play, entertainment, learning, and development. Competition in the toy industry is based primarily on quality, play value, brands, and price. Mattel offers a wide range of products for children, fans of all ages, and families that include, among others, toys for infants, toddlers, and preschoolers, toys for school-aged children, dolls, vehicles, action figures, building sets, games, including digital, puzzles, plush, educational toys, technology-related products, media-driven products, and fashion-related items. The North America segment competes with several large toy companies, including Hasbro, Jazwares, LEGO, the Pokémon Company, Spin Master, many smaller toy companies, and manufacturers of digital games and consumer electronics. The North America segment also includes American Girl products which compete with companies that manufacture dolls and accessories, and with children's book publishers and retailers. The International segment competes with global toy companies including Hasbro, Jazwares, LEGO, the Pokémon Company, Spin Master, other national and regional toy companies, and manufacturers of digital games and consumer electronics. Foreign regions may include competitors that are strong in a particular toy line or geographical area but do not compete with Mattel or other international toy companies worldwide.

There is increasing competition among the above companies due to trends towards shorter life cycles for individual toy products, the phenomenon of children outgrowing toys at younger ages, an increasing use of more sophisticated technology in toys, including machine learning and artificial intelligence ("AI"), and an evolving path to purchase for consumers. In addition, Mattel competes with companies that sell non-toy products, such as electronic consumer products, digital games, as well as content and other entertainment companies. Competition continues to be heavily influenced by the fact that a small number of retailers account for a large portion of all toy sales, allocate the shelf space from which toys are viewed, and have direct contact with parents and children through in-store and online purchases. Such retailers can and do promote their own private-label toys, facilitate the sale of competitors' toys, showcase toys online based on proprietary algorithms, and allocate shelf space to one type of toy over another. Online distributors are able to promote a wide variety of toys and represent a wide variety of toy manufacturers.

Seasonality

Mattel's business is highly seasonal, with consumers making a large percentage of all toy purchases during the traditional holiday season. A significant portion of retailer purchasing typically occurs in the third and fourth quarters of the year in anticipation of holiday buying. These seasonal purchasing patterns and requisite production lead times create risk to Mattel's business associated with the underproduction of popular toys and the overproduction of less popular toys that do not match consumer demand. The seasonality of Mattel's business increases the risk that Mattel may not be able to meet demand for certain products at peak demand times or that Mattel's own inventory levels may be adversely impacted by the need to pre-build products before orders are placed. In addition, this seasonality may cause Mattel's sales to vary significantly from period to period.

In anticipation of retail sales during the traditional holiday season, Mattel significantly increases its production in advance of the peak selling period, resulting in a corresponding build-up of inventory levels in the first three quarters of the year. Additionally, seasonal shipping patterns generally result in significant increases in accounts receivable during the third and fourth quarters of the year. The elevated accounts receivable and inventory levels may result in seasonal working capital financing requirements.

Sales

Mattel's products are sold throughout the world. Products within the North America segment include products sold directly to retailers, including omnichannel retailers, discount and free-standing toy stores, chain stores, department stores, other retail outlets, and, to a limited extent, wholesalers. Mattel also operates small retail outlets at certain corporate offices as a service to its employees and as an outlet for its products. The North America segment also includes American Girl products and its children's publications, which are sold directly to consumers and select retailers in the United States. Mattel has retail space in Chicago, Illinois; Los Angeles, California; and New York, New York for its flagship American Girl stores, and in four other cities across the United States for its American Girl boutique stores. Products within the International segment are sold directly to retailers and wholesalers in most European, Latin American, and Asian countries, in Australia and New Zealand, and through agents and distributors in those countries where Mattel has no direct presence. Mattel also has retail outlets in Latin America that serve as outlets for its products. Additionally, Mattel sells certain of its products directly to consumers through its e-commerce platform and various third-party e-commerce channels.

During 2024, Mattel's three largest customers (Walmart at $1.17 billion, Target at $0.68 billion, and Amazon at $0.51 billion) accounted for approximately 44% of worldwide consolidated net sales. During 2023, Mattel's three largest customers (Walmart at $1.13 billion, Target at $0.67 billion, and Amazon at $0.60 billion) accounted for approximately 44% of worldwide consolidated net sales. Within countries in the International segment, there is also a concentration of sales to certain large customers that do not operate in the United States, none of which exceeded 10% of worldwide consolidated net sales. The customers and the degree of concentration vary depending upon the region or nation. See Part I, Item 1A "Risk Factors" and Part II, Item 8 "Financial Statements and Supplementary Data—Note 14 to the Consolidated Financial Statements—Segment Information."

License Agreements

Mattel has license agreements with third parties that permit Mattel to utilize the trademark, characters, or inventions of the licensor in products that Mattel sells. A number of these licenses relate to product lines that are significant to Mattel's business and operations.

Mattel has entered into agreements to license entertainment properties, including among others, Disney Consumer Products (including Disney Princess and Disney Frozen, Star Wars, Disney Pixar (including Cars and Toy Story) and certain other Disney films and television properties), NBCUniversal (including Jurassic World, Wicked, and Fast and Furious), Warner Bros. (including DC Universe and Harry Potter), Microsoft (including Minecraft and Halo), WWE, Pokémon, and Paramount (relating to its Nickelodeon properties).

Royalty expense for 2024, 2023, and 2022 was $244.1 million, $249.8 million, and $230.8 million, respectively. See Part II, Item 7 "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations—Liquidity and Capital Resources—Commitments" and Part II, Item 8 "Financial Statements and Supplementary Data—Note 13 to the Consolidated Financial Statements—Commitments and Contingencies."

Mattel licenses a number of its trademarks and other property rights to others for use in connection with the sale of their products.

Trademarks, Copyrights, and Patents

Most of Mattel's products are sold under and are associated with trademarks, trade names, and copyrights, and some of these products incorporate devices or designs for which patent protection has been, or is being, pursued. Trademarks, copyrights, and patents are significant assets of Mattel in that they provide product recognition, acceptance, and exclusive rights to Mattel's innovations around the world.

Mattel customarily seeks trademark, copyright, and/or patent protection covering its products, and it owns or has applications pending or registrations for U.S. and foreign trademarks, copyrights, and patents covering many of its products. Although a number of these trademarks, copyrights, and patents relate to product lines that are significant to Mattel's business and operations, Mattel does not believe it is dependent on a single trademark, copyright, or patent. Mattel believes its rights to these properties are adequately protected, but there can be no assurance that its rights can be successfully asserted in the future or will not be invalidated, circumvented, or challenged.

Manufacturing and Materials

Mattel manufactures toy products for all segments in both company-owned facilities and through third-party manufacturers. Products are also purchased from unrelated entities that design, develop, and manufacture those products. To provide greater flexibility in the manufacture and delivery of its products, and as part of a continuing effort to reduce manufacturing costs, Mattel has concentrated production of most of its core products in company-owned facilities and generally uses third-party manufacturers for the production of non-core products.

Mattel's principal manufacturing facilities are located in China, Indonesia, Malaysia, Mexico, and Thailand. In conjunction with Mattel's cost savings programs, Mattel discontinued production at a plant located in China in 2024 and intends to discontinue production at another plant located in China in 2025. To help avoid disruption of its product supply due to political instability, civil unrest, future pandemics or other health crises, economic instability, changes in government policies or regulations, including tariffs, trade restrictions, or trade barriers, natural and manmade disasters, and other risks, Mattel produces its products in various facilities across multiple countries. Mattel believes that the existing production capacity at its owned and third-party manufacturers' facilities is sufficient to handle expected volume for the foreseeable future.

Mattel bases its production schedules for toy products on customer orders and forecasts, taking into account historical trends, results of market research, and current market information. Actual shipments of products ordered and order cancellation rates are affected by consumer acceptance of product lines, strength of competing products, marketing strategies of retailers, changes in buying patterns of both retailers and consumers, and overall economic conditions. Unexpected changes in these factors could result in a lack of product availability or excess inventory in a particular product line.

The majority of Mattel's raw materials are available from numerous suppliers but may be subject to fluctuations in price. See Part I, Item 1A "Risk Factors."

Advertising and Promotion

Mattel supports its product lines with extensive advertising and consumer promotions. Advertising takes place at varying levels throughout the year and peaks during the traditional holiday season. Advertising includes television commercials, social media, catalogs, and internet advertisements. Promotions include in-store displays, merchandising materials, major events focusing on products, and tie-ins with various consumer products companies.

During 2024, 2023, and 2022, Mattel incurred advertising and promotion expenses of $507.3 million (9.4% of net sales), $524.8 million (9.6% of net sales), and $534.3 million (9.8% of net sales), respectively.

Financial Instruments

Currency exchange rate fluctuations may impact Mattel's results of operations and cash flows. Mattel seeks to mitigate its exposure to foreign currency exchange risk by monitoring its foreign currency transaction exposure for the year and partially hedging such exposure using foreign currency forward exchange contracts primarily to hedge its purchase and sale of inventory and other intercompany transactions denominated in foreign currencies. These contracts have maturity dates of up to 24 months. In addition, Mattel manages its exposure to currency exchange rate fluctuations through the selection of currencies used for international borrowings. Mattel does not trade in financial instruments for speculative purposes.

For additional information regarding foreign currency contracts, see Part II, Item 7A "Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk" and Part II, Item 8 "Financial Statements and Supplementary Data—Note 12 to the Consolidated Financial Statements—Derivative Instruments."

Government Regulations

Mattel's products sold in the United States are subject to the provisions of the Consumer Product Safety Act, as amended by the Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act of 2008, and the Federal Hazardous Substances Act, and may also be subject to the requirements of the Flammable Fabrics Act or the Food, Drug, and Cosmetics Act and the regulations promulgated pursuant to such statutes. These statutes and the related regulations ban from the market consumer products that fail to comply with applicable product safety laws, regulations, and standards. The Consumer Product Safety Commission may require the recall, repurchase, replacement, or repair of any such banned products or products that otherwise create a substantial risk of injury and may seek penalties for regulatory noncompliance under certain circumstances. Similar laws exist in some U.S. states. Mattel believes that it is in substantial compliance with these federal and state laws and regulations.

Mattel's products sold worldwide are subject to the provisions of similar laws and regulations in many jurisdictions, including the European Union ("EU") and Canada. Mattel believes that it is in substantial compliance with these laws and regulations.

Mattel maintains a quality control program to help ensure compliance with applicable product safety requirements. Nonetheless, Mattel has experienced, and may in the future experience, issues in products that result in recalls, withdrawals, or replacements of products. A product recall could have a material adverse effect on Mattel's business, financial condition, and results of operations, depending on the product affected by the recall and the extent of the recall efforts required. A product recall could also negatively affect Mattel's reputation and the sales of other Mattel products. See Part I, Item 1A "Risk Factors."

Mattel's advertising and promotion activities are subject to the Federal Trade Commission Act and the Children's Television Act of 1990 and may also be subject to other rules and regulations promulgated by the Federal Trade Commission, and the Federal Communications Commission, as well as laws of certain countries that regulate advertising, advertising to children, and related activities. In addition, Mattel's web-based products and services and other online and digital communications activity are or may be subject to U.S. and foreign privacy-related regulations, including the U.S. Children's Online Privacy Protection Act of 1998 and the EU General Data Protection Regulation and related national regulations. Privacy-related laws also exist in some U.S. states, such as the California Consumer Privacy Act, as amended by the California Privacy Rights Act, and other state laws that are in effect, or are yet to take effect. Mattel believes that it is in substantial compliance with these laws and regulations.

Mattel's worldwide operations are subject to the requirements of various environmental laws and regulations in the jurisdictions where those operations are located. Mattel believes that it is in substantial compliance with these laws and regulations. Mattel's operations are from time to time the subject of investigations, conferences, discussions, and negotiations with various federal, state, and local environmental agencies within and outside the United States with respect to the discharge or cleanup of hazardous waste. Mattel is not aware of any material cleanup liabilities. In addition, Mattel continues to monitor existing and pending environmental laws and regulations within the United States and elsewhere related to climate change and greenhouse gas emissions.

Mattel is subject to various other federal, state, local, and international laws and regulations applicable to its business. Mattel believes that it is in substantial compliance with these laws and regulations.

Human Capital

As of December 31, 2024, Mattel had approximately 34,000 employees (including temporary and seasonal employees) working in over 37 countries worldwide to create innovative products and experiences that inspire fans, entertain audiences, and develop children through play. Approximately 29,600 employees (86% of the total workforce) are located outside the United States, with a significant global manufacturing labor workforce of approximately 25,100 employees. The remaining workforce focuses on design, marketing, sales, finance, and other aspects of Mattel's business.

Mattel believes recruiting, developing, and motivating a talented global workforce are important to its long-term growth and success. Through Mattel's focus on employee engagement, equal employment opportunity, training and development, health and safety, and employee well-being, Mattel endeavors to create a supportive and rewarding environment where employees are encouraged to collaborate, innovate, and grow. Mattel's Board of Directors, Compensation Committee, and Governance and Social Responsibility Committee are involved in the oversight of how the company fosters its culture and receive regular updates on Mattel's workforce management.

Mattel was ranked among Forbes 2024 World's Best Employers; named to Fast Company's Most Innovative Companies of 2024 and Best Workplaces for Innovators in 2024; recognized by Newsweek as one of the World's Most Trustworthy Companies of 2024; honored by TIME as one of America's Best Mid-Size Companies of 2024; named to Computerworld's 2024 Best Places to Work in IT; and certified as a Great Place to Work in multiple countries.

Workplace Culture

Mattel is committed to fostering a culture where all employees have the opportunity to realize their full potential. Management regularly collects feedback to measure employee engagement and job satisfaction on an ongoing basis through its annual global engagement survey, which is used to help improve the employee experience and strengthen its workplace culture. Mattel values a wide range of ideas and voices that help evolve and broaden its perspectives, with a reach that extends to consumers, customers, business partners, and suppliers.

Employee Development and Well-Being

Mattel believes continuously developing skills and capabilities for the future is essential to operating as an IP-driven, high-performing toy and family entertainment company. Additionally, offering the opportunity for employees to continuously learn and grow their careers at Mattel is a key driver of its employee engagement strategy. Around the globe, employees at all levels participate in a variety of online classes and instructor-led training, including professional development, management development, and technical training.

Mattel is focused on creating a safe and healthy workplace for all of its employees. This is reflected in a comprehensive set of standards and oversight processes that establish Mattel's expectations for responsible working conditions, environmental protections, social compliance, health, and safety in both its own manufacturing facilities and those of its supply chain partners.

Mattel offers several benefits to promote employee well-being, including paid time off, health and welfare insurance options, retirement plans, and basic and supplemental employee life insurance for eligible individuals.

Available Information

Mattel files its Annual Report on Form 10-K, Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q, Current Reports on Form 8-K, Proxy Statements, and amendments to those reports filed or furnished pursuant to Section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the "Exchange Act"), with the SEC. The SEC maintains an Internet website that contains reports, proxy, and other information regarding issuers that file electronically with the SEC at http://www.sec.gov.

Mattel's internet website address is http://corporate.mattel.com. Mattel makes available on its internet website, free of charge, its Annual Report on Form 10-K, Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q, Current Reports on Form 8-K, Proxy Statements, and amendments to those reports filed or furnished pursuant to Section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Exchange Act as soon as reasonably practicable after such materials are electronically filed with, or furnished to, the SEC.

If any of the risks, events, and uncertainties described below actually occurs, Mattel's business, financial condition and results of operations could be adversely affected, and such effects could at times be material. The risk factors listed below are not exhaustive. Other sections of this Annual Report on Form 10-K include additional factors that could materially and adversely impact Mattel's business, financial condition and results of operations. Moreover, Mattel operates in a very competitive and rapidly changing environment. New factors emerge from time to time, and it is not possible for management to predict the impact of all of these factors on Mattel's business, financial condition, or results of operations, or the extent to which any factor, or combination of factors, may cause actual results or outcomes, or the timing of those results or outcomes, to differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking statements. These factors are also currently, and in the future may be, amplified by the global economic or geopolitical climate and additional or unforeseen circumstances, developments, or risks. Given these risks and uncertainties, investors should not rely on forward-looking statements as a prediction of actual results or outcomes. Any or all of the forward-looking statements contained in this Annual Report on Form 10-K and any other public statement made by Mattel or its representatives may turn out to be wrong. The risk factors below describe factors, events, or contingencies that could have an adverse effect on Mattel and are not intended as an exhaustive discussion of whether any such factors, events, or contingencies have or have not occurred. Mattel expressly disclaims any obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new developments or otherwise.

Business Operations

Mattel and its license partners are not always able to successfully identify and/or satisfy consumer preferences, which could cause Mattel's business, financial condition, and results of operations to be adversely affected.

Mattel's business and operating results depend largely upon the appeal of its products, driven by both innovation and marketing. Consumer preferences are continuously changing and can vary by geographical markets. Product life cycles and consumer preferences continue to be affected by the rapidly increasing use and proliferation of social and digital media by consumers, and the speed with which information is shared. Mattel is not always able to identify trends in consumer preferences or identify and satisfy consumer preferences in a timely manner. Significant, sudden shifts in demand are caused by "hit" toys and trends, which are often unpredictable and can result in short consumer life cycles. Mattel offers a wide range of products for children, fans of all ages, and families that includes, among others, toys for infants, toddlers, and preschoolers, toys for school-aged children, dolls, vehicles, action figures, building sets, games, including digital, puzzles, plush, educational toys, technology-related products, media-driven products, and fashion-related items. Mattel competes domestically and internationally with a wide range of large and small manufacturers, marketers, and sellers of such products, consumer electronics, such as tablets and mobile devices, and other play products, as well as retailers, which means that Mattel's market position is always at risk. Mattel's ability to maintain or increase its current product sales, or establish product sales with new, innovative toys, depends on Mattel's ability to satisfy play preferences, enhance existing products, develop and introduce new products, and achieve market acceptance of these products. These challenges are intensifying due to trends towards shorter life cycles for individual toy products, the phenomenon of children outgrowing traditional toys at younger ages, an increasing use of more sophisticated technology in toys, including machine learning and AI, and an evolving path to purchase.

In addition, entertainment media has become increasingly important for consumers to experience Mattel's brands and its license partners' brands. The extent to which Mattel's and its license partners' entertainment offerings are successful can significantly impact the demand for Mattel's products and its financial performance. Consumer acceptance of Mattel's and its license partners' entertainment offerings is impacted by factors beyond its control, including critical reviews, promotions, the popularity of movies and television programs released into the marketplace at or near the same time, the availability of alternative forms of entertainment, general economic conditions, and public preferences generally.

Mattel's failure to successfully meet the challenges outlined above in a timely and cost-effective manner could decrease demand for its products and entertainment offerings and may adversely affect Mattel's business, financial condition, and results of operations.

High levels of competition and low barriers to entry can make it difficult to achieve, maintain, or build upon the success of Mattel's brands, products, and product lines.

Mattel faces competitors who are also constantly monitoring and attempting to anticipate consumer tastes, seeking ideas which will appeal to consumers, and introducing new products that compete with Mattel's products. In addition, competition for access to entertainment properties has lessened, and may in the future continue to lessen, Mattel's ability to secure, maintain, and renew popular licenses to entertainment products developed by other parties and licensed to Mattel on beneficial terms, if at all, or require Mattel to pay licensors higher royalties and higher minimum guaranteed payments to obtain or retain these licenses. As a licensee of entertainment properties, Mattel has no guarantee that a particular property or brand will translate into a successful toy, game, or other product. In addition, the barriers to entry for new participants in the toy industry and entertainment industry are low and the increasing prevalence of digital media has further increased the ability for new participants to enter Mattel's markets, and broadened the array of companies Mattel competes with. New market participants with a popular product idea or entertainment property can become a significant source of competition for Mattel and its products in a very short period of time. Reduced demand for Mattel's brands, products, and product lines as a result of these factors may adversely affect Mattel's business, financial condition, and results of operations.

Inaccurately anticipating changes and trends in popular culture, media, fashion, or technology can adversely affect Mattel's sales, financial condition, and results of operations.

Successful movies, television programs, digital games, and characters in children's literature affect play preferences, and many products depend on media-based IP licenses including trademarks, trade names, copyrights, patents, trade secrets, and rights under IP license agreements and other agreements with third parties. Media-based licenses can cause a line of toys or other products to gain immediate success among children, parents, or families. Trends in media, and children's characters change swiftly and contribute to the transience and uncertainty of play preferences. Mattel attempts to respond to such trends and developments by modifying, refreshing, extending, and expanding its product offerings on an annual basis.

Mattel spends considerable resources in designing and developing toys and other products based on its and its license partners' planned content releases. Mattel also relies heavily on the efforts of third parties, such as studios and other content creators and distributors, with respect to the development of content, marketing support, and release dates, which has an impact on the success of such content and the associated toys and other products. In many cases, Mattel does not fully control when or if any particular project will be greenlit, developed, or released. Third parties may change their plans with respect to projects and release dates, or may decide to cancel development. Other developments, such as labor strikes or theater closures, have at times caused, and could in the future cause, delays in the release of new movies and television programs, and any such delay or cancellation may adversely impact Mattel’s sales of the associated toys and other products.

Mattel expects that children will continue to be interested in product offerings incorporating sophisticated technology, such as digital games, consumer electronics, and social and digital media, at increasingly younger ages. As Mattel introduces more sophisticated technology products, such products tend to have higher design, development, and production costs, follow longer timelines, and require different competencies compared to Mattel's more traditional toys and games. The pace of change in product offerings and consumer tastes for sophisticated technology products is potentially even greater than for Mattel's more traditional products, and consequently the window for consumer interest in such products may be shorter than for traditional toys and games.

The entertainment industry continues to experience frequent change driven by technological development and audience viewing preferences, including developments with respect to the formats through which films, television programming, and other episodic content are delivered to consumers, and the scale and scope of these changes have accelerated in recent years, with consumers continuing to increase their access to television, film, and other episodic content on streaming and digital content networks.

These changes, as well as other trends in the industry, have caused significant disruption to the retail distribution of entertainment offerings and have caused, and could in the future cause, a negative impact on sales of Mattel's products and other forms of monetization of content, especially those that are reliant on box office success. Mattel may lose opportunities to capitalize on changing market dynamics, technological innovations or consumer tastes if it does not adapt to such changes in a timely manner. The overall effect that technological development and new digital distribution platforms have on the revenue and profits Mattel derives from its entertainment content, including from product sales associated with such content, and the additional costs associated with changing markets, media platforms, and technologies, is unpredictable. If Mattel fails to accurately assess and effectively respond to changes in technology and consumer behavior in the entertainment industry, Mattel's business, financial condition, and results of operations could be adversely affected.

Any inability by Mattel to accurately anticipate trends in popular culture, media, fashion, or technology may cause its products not to be accepted by children, parents, fans, or families and may adversely affect its sales, financial condition, and results of operations.

Mattel's failure to successfully market or advertise its products could have an adverse effect on Mattel's business, financial condition, and results of operations.

Mattel's products are marketed worldwide through a wide spectrum of advertising, marketing, and promotional programs, including the use of digital and social media to reach consumers. Mattel's ability to sell products is dependent in part upon the success of these programs. As such, Mattel's business, financial condition, and results of operations could be adversely affected by its failure to successfully market its products or by an increase in its advertising, marketing, or promotional costs.

Mattel's business is highly seasonal and otherwise subject to fluctuations in demand, and its operating results depend, in large part, on sales during the relatively brief traditional holiday season. Events that disrupt Mattel's business during its peak demand times can adversely and disproportionately affect Mattel's business, financial condition, and results of operations.

Mattel's business is subject to risks associated with the underproduction of popular toys and the overproduction of toys that are less popular with consumers. Sales of toy products at retail are highly seasonal, with a large percentage of all toy purchases occurring during the relatively brief traditional holiday season. As a result, Mattel's operating results depend, in large part, on sales during the holiday season. Retailers attempt to manage their inventories tightly, which requires Mattel to ship products closer to the time the retailers expect to sell the products to consumers. This in turn results in shorter lead times for production. Management believes that the increase in "last minute" shopping during the holiday season and the popularity of gift cards (which often shift purchases to after the holiday season) may negatively impact customer re-orders during the holiday season.

In addition, as a result of the seasonal nature of Mattel's business, Mattel may be adversely affected, in a manner disproportionate to the impact on a company with sales spread more evenly throughout the year, by unforeseen events, such as pandemics or other public health crises, terrorist attacks, economic shocks, severe weather due to climate change or otherwise, earthquakes or other catastrophic events, that harm the retail environment or consumer buying patterns during its key selling season, or by other events, such as strikes, disruptions in transportation, port delays, regional conflict, tariffs, trade restrictions, or trade barriers, and geopolitical and macro-economic factors, including high inflation and high interest rates, that interfere with the manufacture or shipment of goods during the critical months leading up to the holiday purchasing season.

If Mattel does not correctly anticipate demand for its products, Mattel may not be able to secure sufficient quantities or cost-effective production of its products or it could have costly excess production or inventories.

To ensure adequate inventory supply, Mattel must forecast inventory needs. If Mattel fails to accurately forecast customer demand, it may experience excess inventory levels or a shortage of product to deliver to its customers. Inventory levels in excess of customer demand have in the past resulted in, and may in the future result in, inventory write-downs or write-offs, and the sale of excess inventory at discounted prices or through less preferred distribution channels, which could harm Mattel's profit margins and impair Mattel's brand image. If Mattel underestimates the demand for its products, its manufacturing plants or third-party manufacturers may not be able to produce products to meet customer requirements, which has in the past resulted in, and may in the future result in, delays in the shipment of Mattel products.

Mattel has significant customer concentration, such that economic difficulties or changes in the purchasing policies or patterns of its key customers could have an adverse effect on Mattel's business, financial condition, and results of operations.

A small number of customers account for a large share of Mattel's worldwide consolidated net sales. In 2024, Mattel's three largest customers, Walmart, Target, and Amazon, in the aggregate, accounted for approximately 44% of worldwide consolidated net sales (Walmart at $1.17 billion, Target at $0.68 billion, and Amazon at $0.51 billion) and its ten largest customers, in the aggregate, accounted for approximately 51% of net sales. This concentration exposes Mattel to risk of a material adverse effect if one or more of Mattel's large customers were to significantly reduce purchases for any reason, favor competitors or new entrants, redeploy their retail floor space to other product categories, alter the manner in which they promote Mattel's products or the resources they devote to promoting and selling Mattel's products, or increase their direct competition with Mattel by expanding their private-label business. Customers make no binding long-term commitments to Mattel regarding purchase volumes and make all purchases by delivering one-time purchase orders. Any customer reducing its overall purchases of Mattel's products, reducing the number and variety of Mattel's products that it carries, and the shelf space allotted for Mattel's products, or otherwise seeking to materially change the terms of the business relationship at any time could adversely affect Mattel's business, financial condition, and results of operations.

Liquidity problems or bankruptcy of Mattel's key customers could have an adverse effect on Mattel's business, financial condition, and results of operations.

Mattel's sales to customers are typically made on credit without collateral. There is a risk that key customers will not pay, or that payment may be delayed, because of bankruptcy, contraction of credit availability to such customers, weak retail sales, or other factors beyond the control of Mattel, which could increase Mattel's exposure to losses from bad debts. In addition, when key customers cease doing business with Mattel as a result of bankruptcy, or significantly reduce the number of stores operated, it can have an adverse effect on Mattel's business, financial condition, and results of operations.

Failure to successfully implement new initiatives or meet product introduction schedules can have an adverse effect on Mattel's business, financial condition, and results of operations.

Mattel has in the past announced, and in the future may announce, initiatives to reduce its costs, optimize its manufacturing footprint, increase its efficiency, improve the execution of its core business, globalize and extend Mattel's brands, catch new trends, create new brands, offer new innovative products and improve existing products, enhance product safety, develop people, improve productivity, simplify processes, and maintain customer service levels, as well as initiatives designed to drive sales growth, capitalize on Mattel's scale advantage, and improve its supply chain. These initiatives involve investment of capital and complex decision-making as well as extensive and intensive execution, and the success of these initiatives is not assured. Failure to achieve any of these initiatives could harm Mattel's business, financial condition, and results of operations.

From time to time, Mattel anticipates introducing new products, product lines, or brands at a certain time in the future. There is no guarantee that Mattel will be able to manufacture, source, ship, and distribute new or continuing products in a timely manner and on a cost-effective basis. Unforeseen delays or difficulties in the development process or significant increases in the planned cost of development for new Mattel products may cause the introduction date for products to be later than anticipated or, in some situations, may cause a product or new product introduction to be discontinued. Failure to successfully implement any of these initiatives or launches, or the failure of any of these initiatives or launches to produce the results anticipated by management, could have an adverse effect on Mattel's business, financial condition, and results of operations.

Mattel's business depends in large part on the success of its vendors and outsourcers, and Mattel's brands and reputation are subject to harm from actions taken by third parties that are outside Mattel's control. In addition, any significant failure, inadequacy, or interruption from such vendors or outsourcers could harm Mattel's ability to effectively operate its business.

As a part of its efforts to cut costs, achieve better efficiencies, and increase productivity and service quality, Mattel relies significantly on vendor and outsourcing relationships with third parties for services and systems including manufacturing, transportation, logistics, and information technology. Any shortcoming of a Mattel vendor or outsourcer, particularly an issue related to compliance or reputation, or affecting the quality of these services or systems, risks damage to Mattel's reputation and brand value, and potentially adverse effects to Mattel's business, financial condition, and results of operations. In addition, problems with transitioning these services and systems to, or operating failures with, these vendors and outsourcers cause delays in product sales and reduce the efficiency of Mattel's operations, and significant capital investments could be required to remediate the problem.

The production and sale of private-label toys by Mattel's retail customers may result in lower purchases of Mattel-branded products by those retail customers.

In recent years, consumer goods companies, including those in the toy business, generally have experienced the phenomenon of retail customers developing their own private-label products that directly compete with the products of traditional manufacturers. Some retail chains and online retailers that are customers of Mattel, including three of its largest retail customers, Walmart, Amazon and Target, sell private-label toys designed, manufactured, and branded by the retailers themselves. These toys may be sold at prices lower than comparable toys sold by Mattel and may result in lower purchases of Mattel-branded products by these retailers and reduce overall consumer demand for Mattel products. In some cases, retailers who sell these private-label toys are larger than Mattel and have substantially more resources than Mattel.

Mattel depends on key personnel and may not be able to hire, retain, and integrate sufficient qualified personnel to maintain and expand its business.

Mattel's future success depends partly on the continued contribution of key executives, designers, and technical, sales, marketing, manufacturing, entertainment, and other personnel. If Mattel fails to retain, hire, train, and integrate key personnel, Mattel's ability to maintain or expand its business could be harmed. Recruiting and retaining qualified personnel is costly and highly competitive. Labor shortages and increased labor costs as a result of increased competition for qualified talent, higher employee turnover rates, increases in employee benefit costs, wage inflation, or other disruptions to Mattel's workforce can negatively impact its business. In addition, changes to Mattel's current and future work environments may not meet the needs or expectations of its employees or be perceived as less favorable compared to other companies' policies, which could negatively impact Mattel's ability to hire and retain qualified personnel.

Market Conditions

The deterioration of global or regional economic conditions could adversely affect Mattel's business, financial condition, and results of operations.

Mattel designs, manufactures, and markets a wide variety of products worldwide through sales to retailer customers and directly to consumers. Mattel's performance is impacted by the level of discretionary consumer spending, which remains relatively weak in many countries around the world in which Mattel does business. Consumers' discretionary purchases of toy and entertainment products are often impacted by a number of factors beyond Mattel's control, including, inflation, job losses, foreclosures, bankruptcies, reduced access to credit, interest rates, tax rates, investment losses, lower consumer confidence, and other macro-economic factors that affect consumer spending behavior. These or other factors can reduce the amount that consumers spend on the purchase of Mattel's products. Deterioration of global or regional economic conditions have at times adversely affected Mattel's business, financial condition, and results of operations. Unfavorable economic conditions can also impair the ability of those with whom Mattel does business to satisfy their obligations to us. Future deterioration of global or regional economic conditions or disruptions in credit markets in the markets in which Mattel operates could potentially have a material adverse effect on Mattel's liquidity and capital resources, including increasing Mattel's cost of capital or its ability to raise additional capital if needed, or otherwise adversely affect Mattel's business, financial condition, and results of operations.

In addition to experiencing potentially lower revenues during times of economic difficulty, in an effort to maintain sales during such times, Mattel may need to increase promotional spending or take other steps to encourage retailer and consumer purchases of its products. Those steps may increase costs and/or decrease profit margins and are not always successful. During periods of increased inflation, such as Mattel is currently facing, Mattel has increased prices of certain products, and may in the future need to increase prices further in order to cover increased costs of goods sold, which may reduce demand for products. There can be no guarantee that Mattel will be able to successfully increase prices in the future or that the price increases Mattel has already taken will offset the entirety of additional costs it has incurred and may incur in the future. The inability to adequately increase prices to offset increased costs and inflationary pressures, or otherwise mitigate the impact of these macro-economic conditions and market disruptions, may also increase costs and/or decrease profit margins.

Significant increases in the price of commodities, transportation, or labor, if not offset by declines in other input costs, or a reduction or interruption in the delivery of raw materials, components, and finished products from Mattel's vendors, could adversely affect Mattel's business, financial condition, and results of operations.

Cost increases, whether resulting from rising costs of materials, transportation, services, labor, or compliance with existing or future regulatory requirements, including tariffs, trade restrictions, or trade barriers, impact the profit margins realized by Mattel on the sale of its products. Because of market conditions, timing of pricing decisions, and other factors, there can be no assurance that Mattel will be able to offset any of these increased costs by adjusting the prices of its products. Increases in prices of Mattel's products may not be sustainable and could result in lower sales. Mattel's ability to meet customer demand depends, in part, on its ability to obtain timely and adequate delivery of materials, parts, and components from its suppliers and internal manufacturing capacity. Mattel has experienced shortages in the past, including shortages of raw materials and components. Additionally, as Mattel cannot guarantee the stability of its major suppliers, major suppliers may stop manufacturing components at any time with little or no notice. If Mattel is required to use alternative sources, it may be required to redesign some aspects of the affected products, which may involve delays and additional expense. Reductions or interruptions in supplies or in the delivery of finished products, whether resulting from more stringent regulatory requirements, disruptions in transportation, port delays, labor strikes or disputes, lockouts, loss or impairment of key manufacturing facilities, discontinuity or disruptions in information technology systems, changes in trade policy, including the imposition of tariffs, trade restrictions, or trade barriers, an outbreak of disease or a severe public health crisis, natural disasters, including severe weather due to climate change or otherwise, the occurrence or threat of wars or other conflicts, or a significant increase in the price of one or more supplies (or an inability to procure sufficient supplies), such as fuel or resin (which is an oil-based product used in plastics), or otherwise, have at times adversely affected and could in the future adversely affect Mattel's business, financial condition, and results of operations.

Significant changes in currency exchange rates or the ability to transfer capital across borders could have an adverse effect on Mattel's business, financial condition, and results of operations.

Mattel operates facilities and sells products in numerous countries outside the United States. During 2024, Mattel's International segment net sales were 41% of Mattel's total consolidated net sales. Furthermore, Mattel's net investment in its foreign subsidiaries and its results of operations and cash flows are subject to changes in currency exchange rates and regulations. Significant inflation in economies of certain foreign countries can result in foreign currency devaluation, which negatively impacts Mattel's profitability. Mattel's efforts to mitigate the exposure of its results of operations to fluctuations in currency exchange rates by aligning its prices with the local currency cost of acquiring inventory, distributing earnings in U.S. dollars, and partially hedging this exposure using foreign currency forward exchange contracts may ultimately be unsuccessful. Government action may restrict Mattel's ability to transfer capital across borders, such as currency control regulations in China, and may also impact the fluctuation of currencies in the countries where Mattel conducts business or has invested capital. Significant changes in currency exchange rates, reductions in Mattel's ability to transfer its capital across borders, and changes in government-fixed currency exchange rates, including the Chinese yuan, could have an adverse effect on Mattel's business, financial condition, and results of operations.

An increasing portion of Mattel's business may come from new and emerging markets, and growing business in new and emerging markets presents additional challenges.

An increasing portion of Mattel's net revenues may come from new and emerging markets, including China and India. Operating in new and emerging markets, each with its own unique consumer preferences and business climates, presents additional challenges that Mattel must meet. In addition, sales and operations in new and emerging markets are subject to other risks associated with international operations. Such risks include complications in complying with different laws in varying jurisdictions; dealing with changes in governmental policies and the evolution of laws and regulations that impact Mattel's product offerings and related enforcement; difficulties understanding the retail climate, consumer trends, local customs and competitive conditions in foreign markets, which are often quite different from those in the United States; difficulties in moving materials and products from one country to another, including port congestion, strikes and other transportation delays and interruptions; potential challenges to Mattel's transfer pricing determinations and other aspects of its cross border transactions; and the impact of tariffs, trade restrictions, trade barriers, quotas, or other protectionist measures.

Failure to properly manage these risks could adversely affect Mattel's business, financial condition, and results of operations.

Disruptions due to political instability, civil unrest, the threat or occurrence of war or terrorist activities, pandemics or other public health crises, or earthquakes or other natural disasters out of Mattel's control and actions taken by governments, businesses, and individuals in response to such events could adversely affect Mattel's business, financial condition, and results of operations.

Mattel's business and operations could be materially and adversely affected by political instability, civil unrest, the threat or occurrence of war or terrorist activities, pandemics or other public health crises, earthquakes, natural disasters, and other natural or man-made economic, political, or environmental disruptions. Disruptions, and government responses to any disruption, could adversely affect Mattel's business, financial condition, and results of operations and may vary based on the length and severity of the disruption. For example, the COVID-19 pandemic and the actions taken by governments, businesses, and individuals in response thereto affected how Mattel and its suppliers and partners operated their businesses, caused supply chain disruption and retail store closures, and adversely affected Mattel's operating results.

Mattel owns, operates, and manages manufacturing facilities and utilizes third-party manufacturers and suppliers throughout Asia, primarily in China, Indonesia, Malaysia, Vietnam and Thailand, and in Mexico. Risks from political instability, civil unrest, the threat or occurrence of war or terrorist activities, and other geopolitical or macro-economic conditions exist in certain of these countries, which could temporarily or permanently damage the manufacturing operations of Mattel or its third-party manufacturers located there. In addition, Mattel has significant operations near major earthquake faults, including its corporate headquarters in El Segundo, California. A catastrophic event where Mattel has important operations, such as an earthquake, tsunami, flood, typhoon, fire or wildfire, power outage, or other natural or manmade disaster, including as a result of climate change, could disrupt Mattel's operations or those of its business partners and impair production or distribution of its products, damage inventory, interrupt critical functions, or otherwise affect its business negatively.

Any one of these factors, or a combination thereof, could impact Mattel's ability to meet demand for its products or could increase the costs of its products. To the extent any of these disruptions become prolonged or recur, particularly during seasonally high periods of production or distribution, Mattel's ability to meet demand may be materially impacted. Insurance for certain disruptions may not be available, affordable, or adequate. Such disruptions in the markets in which Mattel, its employees, consumers, customers, business partners, licensees, licensors, suppliers, and manufacturers operate, can have, and at times in the past have had, a significant negative impact on Mattel's business, liquidity, financial position, sales, and results of operations. In addition, the contingency plans Mattel has developed to help mitigate the impact of disruptions in its manufacturing operations and supply chain may not prevent its business, financial position, sales, and results of operations from being adversely affected by a significant disruption to its manufacturing operations or suppliers.

The occurrence of war or hostilities between countries or threat of terrorist activities, and the responses to and results of these activities, could adversely impact Mattel, its personnel and facilities, its customers and suppliers, retail and financial markets, and general economic conditions. For example, the global economy has been negatively impacted as a result of the Russia-Ukraine war as well as the conflict in the Middle East, and Mattel's operations in Russia have experienced significant disruption. Mattel has paused all shipments into Russia and expects, for the foreseeable future, decreased revenues compared with those prior to the war from Russia and Ukraine.

Political developments, including trade relations, and/or trade actions could adversely impact Mattel, its personnel and facilities, its customers and suppliers, retail and financial markets, and general economic conditions.

Mattel's business is worldwide in scope, and political instability, civil unrest, the deterioration of the political, economic, or social situation in a country in which Mattel has significant sales or operations, or the breakdown of trade relations between the United States and a foreign country in which Mattel has significant manufacturing facilities or other operations, could adversely affect Mattel's business, financial condition, and results of operations. A change in trade status between the United States and a foreign country could result in a substantial increase in the import duty of toys manufactured in that foreign country and imported into the United States. For example, the United States has implemented certain trade actions directed at China, including imposing increased tariffs on certain goods imported into the United States from China, which has resulted in retaliatory tariffs by China. China has also implemented various trade actions directed at the United States. Further trade actions by the United States or China, or trade actions by or directed toward other countries, such as Mexico or Canada, could result in diverting more production to, or sourcing from, countries other than China or Mexico, could raise the cost of Mattel products in those markets, and could cause customers in those markets to seek domestic or non-U.S. sources for products that Mattel sells, or to be pressured or incentivized by foreign governments not to purchase goods of U.S. companies, all of which could harm Mattel's future sales in these those markets, adversely affecting Mattel's business, financial condition, and results of operations.

In addition, the United States, United Kingdom, and European Union, among other jurisdictions, have each imposed export controls, as well as financial and economic sanctions, currency controls, and other trade actions, on certain products, technologies, industry sectors, and parties in Russia and Belarus as a result of the Russia-Ukraine war, which have resulted and could further result in retaliatory measures and actions by Russia. Any increased trade barriers or restrictions on global trade imposed by the United States, whether toward China, Russia, or other countries, or further retaliatory trade measures or currency controls taken by China, Russia, or other countries in response, could further adversely affect Mattel's business, financial condition, and results of operations.

Evolving stakeholder expectations, regulatory requirements, and increasing scrutiny relating to sustainability matters including with respect to climate change, could expose Mattel to potential liabilities, increase costs, cause reputational harm, and cause other adverse impacts to Mattel's business.

Mattel's business is susceptible to financial, operational, and reputational risks associated with the effects of global climate change. Mattel's operations may be vulnerable to the adverse effects of climate change, which are predicted to increase the frequency and severity of weather events and other natural cycles such as wildfires, heatwaves, storms, floods, and droughts. The effects of climate change may cause disruptions to Mattel's operations, including by disrupting its supply chain and the productivity of its third-party manufacturers, increasing Mattel's production costs, imposing capacity restraints, and impacting the types of products that consumers purchase, all of which may cause Mattel to suffer losses and additional costs to maintain or resume operations. Mattel may also be subject to decreased availability or less favorable pricing for certain commodities that are necessary for Mattel's products.

In addition, Mattel expects to incur capital expenditures, compliance costs, and other costs to comply with increasingly stringent sustainability laws, compliance reporting, and enforcement policies, including those related to the environment. Foreign, federal, state, and local governments have and may in the future focus on enacting laws and regulations regarding the management of, or disclosure regarding, sustainability matters, such as, among other topics, climate change and the regulation of greenhouse gas (“GHG”) emissions, energy use, sustainability claims and labeling requirements, responsible sourcing, and the recyclability or recoverability of packaging and products. For example, in October 2023, California enacted legislation addressing the disclosure of GHG emissions, climate-related risks, certain environmental claims, and the use or sale of voluntary carbon offsets. Federal agencies, such as the Securities and Exchange Commission and other U.S. agencies, have at times in the past increased their focus on climate, human capital, or other sustainability-related disclosures, claims, and practices. Global efforts have been made and continue to be made in the international community toward the adoption of international treaties or protocols that would address global sustainability issues. Further, the EU has passed a variety of sustainability-related directives and regulations in recent years as part of its Green Deal, such as the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive, which will require sustainability reporting across a broad range of sustainability topics for both EU and non-EU companies, and the Corporation Sustainability Due Diligence Directive, which will require both EU and non-EU companies to take certain steps to address human rights- and climate-related risks and impacts. Compliance with this evolving legislative and regulatory landscape will require management’s time and resources, impose increased costs, and could result in operational disruptions. Further, Mattel’s failure to comply with sustainability-related laws and regulations could lead to government enforcement actions, penalties, litigation, and/or reputational harm.

A variety of Mattel's stakeholders, including regulators, investors, advisory firms, rating agencies, and customers, are establishing laws, regulations, expectations, and/or assessments reflecting their varied and evolving expectations on corporate practices, including transparency, due diligence, and reporting related to sustainability matters, such as climate change, plastic use, human rights and/or labor standards, responsible sourcing, the recyclability or recoverability of packaging and products, human capital management, product safety and quality, and other sustainability matters. In particular, customers and consumers may continue to put a premium on purchasing products that are sustainably manufactured and packaged, and Mattel may need to incur additional costs in order to effectively source materials that are more sustainable. As Mattel's sustainability practices, stakeholder expectations, and voluntary and regulatory sustainability disclosure standards and policies continue to evolve, Mattel has developed, and may further develop, sustainability-related goals and disclosures in these areas. Current sustainability goals are based on Mattel management's current assumptions related to scientific or technological developments, carbon markets, and other matters that are subject to change in the future and which may be outside of Mattel's control, as well as standards for measuring progress that are still developing and subject to a number of significant risks and uncertainties. Mattel's efforts to be responsive to climate change, including to reduce its carbon footprint, and other sustainability matters, cannot provide assurance that Mattel will successfully achieve its sustainability goals, that related costs may not be higher than expected, that proposed regulation or deregulation related to climate change and other sustainability matters will not be more aggressive than Mattel's measures and result in higher costs (or require additional resources), or that any investments Mattel makes in furtherance of achieving such goals will meet expectations for all stakeholders or any applicable binding or non- binding standards, any one of which could have an adverse effect on Mattel's financial condition, results of operations, reputation, or stock price. In addition, Mattel's efforts on these topics may harm its reputation or competitive position and negatively impact its ability to retain existing or attract new employees, customers, and business relationships. Further, being associated with activities by business partners or other affiliates that have or are perceived to have individual or cumulative adverse impacts on the climate, human rights, or other sustainability matters could negatively affect Mattel's reputation and impose additional costs.

Climate and other sustainability-related litigation has increased in recent years, such as claims involving the failure of organizations to mitigate their negative impacts on climate change, the failure of organizations to adapt to climate change, the insufficiency or inaccuracy of disclosure around climate or other sustainability-related risks, the failure to meet stated sustainability-related goals, or the failure to adequately meet standards regarding human rights and/or labor conditions. If Mattel's sustainability practices do not or are perceived to not meet or align with investor or other stakeholder expectations and standards (which are continually evolving and may disagree with or emphasize different priorities than the ones Mattel chooses to focus on), or if Mattel fails to achieve, is perceived to have failed to achieve or been delayed in achieving, its sustainability goals, it could negatively affect consumer or customer preference for Mattel's products, as well as expose Mattel to reputational harm or litigation.

Financial and Accounting

To the extent Mattel is unable to realize the anticipated cost savings from its previously announced cost savings programs or incurs additional and/or unexpected costs to realize such cost savings, Mattel's business, financial condition, and results of operations could be adversely affected.

Mattel has implemented and continues to implement a series of cost savings programs as described in Part II, Item 7 "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations—Cost Savings Programs."

There can be no assurance that Mattel will be able to realize the cost savings from its previously announced cost savings programs in the anticipated amounts or within the anticipated timeframes or at all, or that the impact of the efforts to achieve such cost savings will not be significantly different than currently anticipated. In addition, any cost savings that Mattel realizes may be offset, in whole or in part, by reductions in net sales or through increases in other expenses. Failure to realize the expected cost savings from these cost savings programs could have an adverse effect on Mattel's business, financial condition, and results of operations.

The amounts of anticipated cost savings and anticipated expenses related thereto are based on Mattel's current estimates, but they involve risks, uncertainties, assumptions, and other factors that may cause actual results, performance, or achievements to be materially different from those described herein. Assumptions relating to the plans and amounts related thereto involve subjective decisions and judgments with respect to, among other things, the estimated impact of certain operational adjustments, including marketing efficiency, labor management, material input cost fluctuations, plant transition costs, and other cost and savings adjustments, as well as future economic, competitive, industry and market conditions, and future business decisions, all of which are inherently uncertain and may be beyond the control of Mattel's management. Although Mattel's management believes these estimates and assumptions to be reasonable, there can be no assurance that the assumptions or estimates described herein will prove to be accurate or that the objectives and plans expressed will be achieved. Neither Mattel's independent registered public accounting firm nor any other independent registered public accounting firm, has examined, compiled, or performed any procedures with respect to these amounts, nor have they expressed any opinion, or any other form of assurance, on such information or their achievability.

Mattel has in the past engaged, and may in the future engage, in acquisitions, mergers, dispositions, or other strategic transactions, which can affect Mattel's revenues, profit, profit margins, debt-to-capital ratio, capital expenditures, or other aspects of Mattel's business. In addition, Mattel has certain anti-takeover provisions in its bylaws that may make it more difficult for a third party to acquire Mattel without its consent, which may adversely affect Mattel's stock price.

Mattel regularly considers, and from time to time engages in, discussions and negotiations regarding acquisitions, mergers, dispositions, or other strategic transactions that could affect the profit, revenues, profit margins, debt-to-capital ratio, capital expenditures, or other aspects of Mattel's business. There can be no assurance that Mattel will be able to identify suitable acquisition targets or merger partners or that, if identified, it will be able to complete these transactions on terms acceptable to Mattel and to potential acquisition targets or merger partners. There can also be no assurance that Mattel will be successful in integrating any acquired company into its overall operations, or that any such acquired company will operate profitably or will not otherwise adversely impact Mattel's results of operations. Further, Mattel cannot be certain that key talented individuals at those acquired companies will continue to work for Mattel after the acquisition or that they will continue to develop popular and profitable products or services. In addition, Mattel has certain anti-takeover provisions in its bylaws that may make it more difficult for a third party to acquire Mattel without its consent, which may adversely affect Mattel's stock price.

The level of returns on pension plan assets and the actuarial assumptions used for valuation purposes could affect Mattel's earnings in future periods. Changes in standards and government regulations could also affect its pension plan expense and funding requirements.

Assumptions used in determining projected benefit obligations and the fair value of plan assets for Mattel's pension plan are evaluated by Mattel in consultation with outside actuaries. In the event that Mattel determines that changes are warranted in the assumptions used, such as the discount rate or expected long term rate of return, its future pension benefit expenses could increase or decrease. Due to changing market conditions or changes in the participant population, the actuarial assumptions that Mattel uses may differ from actual results, which could have an impact on its pension and postretirement liability and related costs. Funding obligations are determined based on the value of assets and liabilities on a specific date as required under relevant government regulations for each plan. Future pension funding requirements, and the timing of funding payments, could be affected by legislation enacted by the relevant governmental authorities.

If Mattel's goodwill becomes impaired, Mattel's results of operations could be adversely affected.

Goodwill accounts for a significant amount of Mattel's assets. Mattel tests its goodwill for impairment annually or more often if an event or circumstance indicates that an impairment may have occurred. For purposes of evaluating whether goodwill is impaired, goodwill is allocated to various reporting units. Declines in profitability of Mattel's reporting units may impact the fair value of its reporting units, which could result in an impairment of its goodwill, adversely affecting its results of operations. For more information, see Part II, Item 7 "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations—Application of Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates—Goodwill" and Part II, Item 8 "Financial Statements and Supplementary Data—Note 3 to the Consolidated Financial Statements—Goodwill and Intangible Assets, Net."

Mattel's stock price has been volatile over the past several years and could decline in the future, resulting in losses for Mattel's investors.

All the factors discussed in this section or any other material announcements or events can affect Mattel's stock price. In addition, quarterly fluctuations in Mattel's operating results, changes in investor and analyst perception of Mattel's business risks and conditions of its business, Mattel's ability to meet earnings estimates and other performance expectations of financial analysts or investors, unfavorable commentary or downgrades of Mattel's stock by research analysts, fluctuations in the stock prices of Mattel's peer companies or in stock markets in general, and general economic or political conditions can also cause the price of Mattel's stock to change. A significant drop in the price of Mattel's stock would expose Mattel to the risk of securities class action lawsuits, which could result in substantial costs and divert management's attention and resources, with the potential to adversely affect Mattel's business. For example, Mattel and certain other defendants have been party to certain class actions and certain derivative actions. For more information, see Part II, Item 8 "Financial Statements and Supplementary Data—Note 13 to the Consolidated Financial Statements—Commitments and Contingencies—Litigation."

Mattel identified a material weakness in its internal control over financial reporting which, if not remediated appropriately or timely, could affect Mattel's ability to record, process, and report financial information accurately, impair its ability to prepare financial statements, negatively affect investor confidence, and cause reputational harm.

Effective internal controls are necessary for Mattel to provide reliable and accurate financial reporting and financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. A failure to maintain effective internal control over financial reporting could lead to violations, unintentional or otherwise, of laws and regulations. As disclosed in Part II, Item 9A "Controls and Procedures," Mattel determined that there is a material weakness in its internal control over financial reporting and as a result, its disclosure controls and procedures and internal control over financial reporting are not effective as of December 31, 2024. While Mattel is in the process of implementing its remediation plan to address the material weakness, there can be no assurance that the efforts will fully remediate the material weakness in a timely manner. If Mattel is unable to remediate the material weakness, or is otherwise unable to maintain effective internal control over financial reporting or disclosure controls and procedures, Mattel's ability to record, process, and report financial information accurately, and to prepare financial statements within required time periods, could be adversely affected. Litigation, government investigations, or regulatory enforcement actions arising out of any such failure or alleged failure could subject Mattel to civil and criminal penalties that could materially and adversely affect Mattel's reputation, financial condition, and operating results. The material weakness, remediation efforts, and any related litigation, government investigations, or regulatory enforcement actions will require management attention and resources and cause Mattel to incur unanticipated costs, and could negatively affect investor confidence in Mattel's financial statements, cause Mattel reputational harm, and raise other risks to its operations.

Legal and Regulatory

Mattel relies extensively on information technology in its operations, and any material failure, inadequacy, interruption, or security breach of that technology could have an adverse effect on its business, financial condition, and results of operations.

Mattel relies extensively on information technology systems across its operations, including for management of its supply chain, sale and delivery of its products and services, reporting its results of operations, collection and storage of consumer data, personal data of customers, employees and other stakeholders, and various other processes and transactions. If Mattel does not allocate and effectively manage the resources necessary to build, sustain, and protect an appropriate technology infrastructure, it could be subject to transaction errors, processing inefficiencies, loss of customers, business disruptions, shutdowns, or loss of or damage to IP through security breach. Many of these systems are managed by third-party service providers. Mattel relies on such third parties to provide services on a timely and effective basis, but Mattel ultimately does not control their performance. Mattel uses third-party technology and systems for a variety of reasons, including, without limitation, encryption and authentication technology, employee email, content delivery to customers, regulatory compliance, back-office support, and other functions. A small and growing volume of Mattel's consumer products and services are web-based, and some are offered in conjunction with business partners or such third-party service providers. In addition, Mattel's distributors, suppliers, and other external business partners utilize their own information technology systems that are subject to similar risks to Mattel as described above. Their failure to perform as expected or as required by contract, or a cyber-attack on them that disrupts their systems, could result in significant disruptions and costs to Mattel's operations or, in the case of third-party service providers, a penetration of Mattel's systems. Mattel and its business partners and third-party service providers collect, process, store, and transmit consumer data, including personal and payment information, in connection with those products and services. Failure to follow applicable regulations related to those activities, or to prevent or mitigate data loss or other security breaches, including breaches of Mattel's business partners' technology and systems, can expose Mattel or its customers to a risk of loss or misuse of such information, which can adversely affect Mattel's operating results, result in regulatory enforcement, other litigation and potential liability for Mattel, and otherwise harm its business. Mattel's ability to effectively manage its business and coordinate the production, distribution, and sale of its products and services depends significantly on the reliability and capacity of these systems and third-party service providers.

Mattel has exposure to security risks similar to those faced by other large companies that have data stored on their information technology systems, such as security breaches, cyber-attacks, and other hacking activities such as denial of service, malware, and ransomware, and is not always successful in preventing attacks or other cyber incidents. For example, in July 2020, Mattel experienced a ransomware attack. That attack was contained, Mattel restored its operations, and no exfiltration of any sensitive business data or retail customer, supplier, consumer, or employee data was identified; however, there can be no assurance that Mattel will be able to mitigate negative impacts in the same way in the event of future attacks or other cyber incidents.

The systems and processes that Mattel has developed to protect personal information and prevent data loss and other security breaches, including systems and processes designed to prevent, detect, and minimize the impact of a security breach at a third-party provider as well as enhancements to the security of Mattel's systems and processes following the July 2020 ransomware attack, do not provide absolute security, and any failure or inadequacy of such systems or processes could have an adverse effect on Mattel's business, financial condition, and results of operations. While Mattel carries cyber and business continuity insurance commensurate with its size and the nature of its operations, there can be no guarantee that costs incurred as a result of cyber events will be covered completely. Remote or hybrid work environments (including for Mattel's employees, customers, sellers, suppliers, vendors, and other third parties) may amplify these security risks or introduce additional security vulnerabilities. Additionally, the prevalence and increasing sophistication of AI may increase the frequency or efficacy of cyberattacks against Mattel.

Mattel's information systems require an ongoing commitment of significant resources to maintain, upgrade and enhance existing systems and develop or contract for new systems in order to keep pace with continuing changes in information processing technology, emerging cybersecurity risks and threats, evolving industry, legal and regulatory standards and requirements, and other changes in Mattel's business, among other things. Mattel has made and expects to continue to make significant investments in updating and integrating IT systems; however, those investments could turn out to be insufficient or fail to yield the expected results. If Mattel's or its third-party service providers' systems fail to operate effectively or are damaged, destroyed, or shut down, or there are problems with transitioning to upgraded or replacement systems, or there are future security breaches in these systems, any of which could occur as a result of natural disasters, software or equipment failures, telecommunications failures, loss or theft of equipment, acts of terrorism, circumvention of security systems, or other cyber-attacks, including denial-of-service attacks, Mattel could experience delays or decreases in product sales and reduced efficiency of its operations. Additionally, any of these types of events could lead to violations of privacy laws, loss of customers, or loss, misappropriation or corruption of confidential information, trade secrets, or data, which could expose Mattel to potential litigation, regulatory actions, sanctions, or other statutory penalties, any or all of which could adversely affect its business and cause it to incur significant losses and remediation costs.

If Mattel fails to comply with applicable U.S. and foreign laws related to privacy, data security, AI, and data protection, it could adversely affect Mattel's operating results and financial condition.

As a global company, Mattel is subject to a variety of continuously evolving and developing laws and regulations in the United States and abroad regarding privacy, data protection, AI, and data security, including those related to the collection, storage, handling, use, disclosure, transfer, and security of personal data. For example, Mattel is or may become subject to a variety of laws and regulations such as the European Union's General Data Protection Regulation ("GDPR"), EU Artificial Intelligence Act ("EU AI Act"), China's Personal Information Protection Law ("PIPL"), California's Consumer Privacy Act ("CCPA"), or the U.S. Children's Online Privacy Protection Act of 1998 ("COPPA") regarding privacy, data protection, AI (including automated decision-making) and data security. These laws and regulations are continuously evolving and developing, creating significant uncertainty as privacy and data protection laws may be interpreted and applied differently from country to country and may create inconsistent or conflicting requirements. For example, the GDPR, which greatly increases the jurisdictional reach of EU law and became effective in May 2018, added a broad array of requirements for handling personal data, including the public disclosure of significant data breaches, and imposes substantial penalties for non-compliance. The EU AI Act, which was adopted in 2024 and will be implemented in phases beginning 2025 through 2030, imposes certain requirements and limitations on developers and deployers of AI systems designated as "high risk," including in some cases AI systems designed for interaction with children. The requirements will apply to companies based outside the EU but operating on the EU market, and will carry the potential for substantial penalties for non-compliance. China's PIPL imposes additional operational requirements relating to processing personal information and provides for penalties and enforcement mechanisms. China has recently enacted complex and highly restrictive cybersecurity, data localization, and cross border data transfer laws. The CCPA requires covered companies to provide additional disclosures and data rights to data subjects. The California Privacy Rights Act ("CPRA"), which became operative on January 1, 2023, established the California Privacy Protection Agency to enforce Californians' privacy rights under the CCPA. Since the CCPA was enacted, several other states have enacted or are in the process of enacting privacy, data protection, and AI-related laws, which may also impose obligations on companies developing and using AI or automated decision-making technologies.

Mattel's ongoing efforts to comply with the GDPR and other privacy and data protection laws, such as the PIPL, CCPA, CPRA, and COPPA, as well as initiatives to comply with new legal regimes relating to privacy, data protection, and AI, impose significant costs and challenges that are likely to increase over time, including as Mattel introduces sophisticated digital and smart technology products, including products that incorporate AI. Given that the scope, interpretation, and application of these laws and regulations are often uncertain and may be in conflict across jurisdictions, it is possible that these obligations may be interpreted and applied in a manner that is inconsistent from one jurisdiction to another and may conflict with other rules or Mattel's practices. Any failure, or perceived failure, by Mattel or third-party service providers to comply with Mattel's privacy or security policies or privacy-related legal obligations, or any compromise of security that results in the unauthorized release or transfer of personal data, may result in governmental enforcement actions, litigation, or negative publicity, and could have an adverse effect on Mattel's operating results and financial condition.

Mattel faces risks related to protecting its proprietary IP and information and is subject to third-party claims that Mattel is infringing on their IP rights, either of which could adversely affect Mattel's business, financial condition, and results of operations.

The value of Mattel's business depends on its ability to protect its IP and information, including its trademarks, trade names, copyrights, patents, trade secrets, and rights under IP license agreements and other agreements with third parties, in the United States and around the world, as well as its customer, employee, and consumer data. From time to time, third parties have challenged, and may in the future try to challenge, Mattel's ownership of its IP in the United States and around the world. Responding to any infringement claim, regardless of its validity, may be costly and time-consuming and may divert management and key personnel from business operations. Findings of infringement on the IP rights of any third party by Mattel, its distributors, its licensors, or its manufacturers may require obtaining a license to use those rights, which may not be obtainable on reasonable terms, if at all.

In addition, Mattel's business is subject to the risk of third parties counterfeiting its products or infringing on its IP rights, and the availability of certain AI tools has facilitated the creation of infringing works based on the unauthorized use of Mattel's IP. The legal landscape for some new technologies, including AI (particularly generative AI), remains uncertain, and development of the law in this area could impact Mattel's ability to protect against potentially infringing uses associated with both the development and use of AI. In addition, the availability of copyright protection and other legal protections for IP generated by certain new technologies, such as generative AI, is uncertain. The steps Mattel has taken may not prevent unauthorized use of its IP, particularly in foreign countries where the laws may not protect its IP as fully as in the United States. Mattel at times resorts to litigation to protect its IP rights, which could result in substantial costs and diversion of resources. Mattel's failure to protect its proprietary IP and information, including with respect to any successful challenge to Mattel's ownership of its IP or significant infringements of its IP, could have an adverse effect on Mattel's business, financial condition, and results of operations.

Mattel has acquired, and may in the future acquire, certain IP from third parties. Declines in the profitability of these acquired brands may impact Mattel's ability to recover the carrying value of the related assets and could result in an impairment charge. Reduction in net earnings caused by impairment charges could harm Mattel's results of operations.

Unfavorable resolution of, or adverse developments in, legal proceedings, other investigations, or regulatory matters could have an adverse effect on Mattel's business, financial condition, and results of operations.

Mattel is, from time to time, involved in litigation or other disputes, investigations, and regulatory matters. An unfavorable resolution of these matters could have an adverse effect on Mattel's business, financial condition, and results of operations. Regardless of their outcome, these matters may result in substantial costs and expenses, significantly divert the attention of management, or interrupt Mattel's normal business operations. There can be no assurance that Mattel will be able to prevail in, or achieve a favorable settlement of, any of these matters. For more information, see Part II, Item 8 "Financial Statements and Supplementary Data—Note 13 to the Consolidated Financial Statements—Commitments and Contingencies—Litigation."

Mattel is subject to various laws and government policies or regulations in numerous jurisdictions, violation of which could subject it to sanctions. In addition, changes in such laws or policies or regulations may lead to increased costs, changes in Mattel's effective tax rate, or the interruption of normal business operations that could adversely affect Mattel's business, financial condition, and results of operations.

Mattel operates in a highly regulated environment in the United States and international markets. U.S. federal, state, and local governmental entities, and foreign governments regulate many aspects of Mattel's business, including its products and the importation and exportation of its products, and these laws and regulations can change frequently. These policies or regulations include accounting standards, taxation requirements (including changes in applicable income tax rates, new tax laws, and revised tax law interpretations), product safety and other safety standards, duties and tariffs (including international trade laws and regulations, export controls, and economic sanctions), trade restrictions, trade barriers, regulations regarding currency and financial matters, anticorruption standards (such as the U.S. Foreign Corrupt Practices Act), labor and employment, environmental matters, advertising directed toward children, product content, AI, and privacy and data protection, as well as other administrative and regulatory restrictions. In addition, as Mattel enters into new areas of investment, product development, or other business activities, it will have to learn to navigate the regulatory framework surrounding those areas, which may be continuing to develop. For example, Mattel has launched several non-fungible token projects, and its own digital collectibles marketplace. Mattel may continue to make investments involving cryptocurrency and may transact in cryptocurrency, and must comply with applicable regulations, which continue to evolve. The steps Mattel takes to comply with these laws, regulations, and policies do not ensure that Mattel will be in compliance in the future. Compliance with these various laws, regulations, and policies imposes significant costs on Mattel's business, and failure to comply could result in monetary liabilities and other penalties and could also lead to negative media attention, reputational damage, and consumer dissatisfaction, which could have an adverse effect on Mattel's business, financial condition, and results of operations.

New tax laws and interpretations of tax law are taken into account for financial statement purposes in the quarter or year that they become applicable. The Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development reached an agreement among various countries to implement a minimum 15% tax rate on certain multinational enterprises, commonly referred to as Pillar Two. Many countries continue to announce changes in their tax laws and regulations based on the Pillar Two rules. Mattel is continuing to evaluate the impact of these proposed and enacted legislative changes as new guidance becomes available. Some of the legislative changes could impact Mattel’s effective tax rate and tax liabilities. When and how these rules are adopted or enacted by various countries in which Mattel does business could increase tax complexity and uncertainty and may adversely affect Mattel’s worldwide effective tax rate, income tax expense, and cash flows. Mattel is subject to regular review and audit by both domestic and foreign tax authorities. Tax authorities are increasingly scrutinizing the tax positions of companies and Mattel has tax audits pending in several jurisdictions. If the U.S. or foreign tax authorities change applicable tax laws or successfully challenge how or where Mattel's profits are currently recognized, Mattel's overall taxes could increase, and Mattel's business, financial condition or results of operations may be adversely impacted.

In addition, increases in import and excise duties and/or sales or value added taxes in the jurisdictions in which Mattel operates could affect the affordability of Mattel's products and, therefore, reduce demand.

From time to time, issues with products lead to product liability, personal injury or property damage claims, recalls, withdrawals, replacements of products, or regulatory or other actions by governmental authorities, which could divert resources, affect business operations, decrease sales, increase costs, and put Mattel at a competitive disadvantage, any of which could have an adverse effect on Mattel's business, financial condition, and results of operations.

Mattel has in the past experienced, and may in the future experience, issues with products that lead to product liability, personal injury or property damage claims, recalls, withdrawals, replacements of products, or regulatory actions by governmental authorities. These issues and activities have resulted in increased governmental scrutiny and inquiries, harm to Mattel's reputation, reduced demand by consumers for its products, decreased willingness by retailer customers to purchase or provide marketing support for those products, adverse impacts on Mattel's ability to enter into licensing agreements for products on competitive terms, absence or increased cost of insurance, or additional safety and testing requirements. For example, the insurance terms Mattel negotiated for certain prior periods were less favorable than preceding periods as a result of past claims, product liability incidents, changes in market conditions, and other factors. These issues and activities can divert development and management resources, adversely affect Mattel's business operations, decrease sales, increase legal fees and other costs, and put Mattel at a competitive disadvantage compared to other manufacturers not affected by similar issues with products, any of which could have an adverse effect on Mattel's business, financial condition, and results of operations.

Mattel's current and future operating procedures and product requirements may increase costs, adversely affect its relationship with vendors, and make it more difficult for Mattel to produce, purchase, and deliver products on a timely basis to meet market demands. Future conditions may require Mattel to adopt further changes that may increase its costs and further affect its relationship with vendors.

Mattel's current operating procedures and product requirements, including testing requirements and standards, have imposed costs on both Mattel and the vendors from which it purchases products. Changes in business conditions, including those resulting from new legislative and regulatory requirements, have in the past caused, and in the future could cause, further revisions of Mattel's operating procedures and product requirements. Changes in Mattel's operating procedures and product requirements can delay delivery of products and increase costs. Mattel's relationships with its existing vendors may be adversely affected as a result of these changes, making Mattel more dependent on a smaller number of vendors. Mattel is not currently dependent on a single supplier or group of suppliers. Some vendors may choose not to continue to do business with Mattel or not to accommodate Mattel's needs to the extent that they have done in the past. In addition, rising production costs, contraction of credit availability, and labor shortages have caused a substantial contraction in the number of toy manufacturers in China and other countries in Asia, decreasing the number of potential vendors to manufacture Mattel's products. Because of the seasonal nature of Mattel's business and the demands of its customers for deliveries with short lead times, Mattel depends upon the cooperation of its vendors to meet market demand for its products in a timely manner. There can be no assurance that existing and future events will not require Mattel to adopt additional requirements and incur additional costs, and impose those requirements and costs on its vendors, which may adversely affect its relationship with those vendors and Mattel's ability to meet market demand in a timely manner.

Indebtedness

Mattel's substantial indebtedness could adversely affect its ability to raise additional capital to fund its operations, limit its ability to react to changes in the economy or its industry, and expose it to interest rate risk to the extent of its variable rate debt.

At December 31, 2024, Mattel had $2.33 billion of indebtedness on a consolidated basis. In addition, Mattel has $1.40 billion of commitments under its revolving credit facility. For more information, see Part II, Item 8 "Financial Statements and Supplementary Data—Note 6 to the Consolidated Financial Statements—Seasonal Financing and Debt."

Subject to the limits contained in the credit agreement that governs Mattel's revolving credit facility, the indentures that govern the notes, and Mattel's other debt instruments, Mattel may incur substantial additional debt from time to time to finance working capital, capital expenditures, investments or acquisitions, or for other purposes. To the extent Mattel does so, the risks related to Mattel's high level of debt would increase. Specifically, Mattel's substantial indebtedness could have important consequences. For example, it could:

• Require Mattel to dedicate a substantial portion of its cash flow from operations to payments on Mattel's indebtedness, thereby reducing the availability of Mattel's cash flow to fund acquisitions, working capital, capital expenditures, research and development efforts, and other general corporate purposes;
• Increase Mattel's vulnerability to, and limit Mattel's flexibility in planning for or reacting to, changes in its business and the industries in which it operates;
• Restrict Mattel from making strategic acquisitions or cause Mattel to make non-strategic divestitures;
• Expose Mattel to the risk of increased interest rates as borrowings under its revolving credit facility will be subject to variable rates of interest;
• Expose Mattel to additional risks related to currency exchange rates and repatriation of funds;
• Place Mattel at a competitive disadvantage compared to its competitors that have less debt; and
• Limit Mattel's ability to obtain additional debt or equity financing for working capital, capital expenditures, business development, debt service requirements, acquisitions, and general corporate or other purposes.

Mattel's credit ratings have fluctuated over time. If Mattel's credit ratings decline, its cost of issuing new debt could increase. Mattel may be hindered from obtaining, or required to incur incremental costs to obtain, additional credit in tight credit markets. Further, Mattel's ability to issue additional debt could be adversely affected by other factors, including market conditions. The interest rate margins, unused line fee, and letter of credit fronting fee under Mattel's revolving credit facility may fluctuate based on Mattel's credit ratings. For example, if Mattel's credit ratings decline, its debt service obligations under its revolving credit facility may increase even if the principal amount borrowed remains the same.

In addition, the indentures governing the notes and the agreements governing Mattel's revolving credit facility contain affirmative and negative covenants that limit Mattel's ability to engage in activities that may be in its long-term best interests. Mattel's failure to comply with those covenants could result in an event of default which, if not cured or waived, could result in the acceleration of all of Mattel's debts.

To service Mattel's indebtedness, Mattel requires a significant amount of cash and Mattel's ability to generate cash depends on many factors beyond Mattel's control.

Mattel's ability to make cash payments on and to refinance its indebtedness, and to fund planned capital expenditures, depends on Mattel's ability to generate significant operating cash flow in the future. This, to a significant extent, is subject to general economic, financial, competitive, legislative, regulatory, and other factors that are beyond Mattel's control.

Mattel's business may not generate sufficient cash flow from operations and future borrowings may not be available under Mattel's revolving credit facility in an amount sufficient to enable Mattel to pay its indebtedness or to fund its other liquidity needs. In such circumstances, Mattel may need to refinance all or a portion of its indebtedness upon or before maturity. Mattel may not be able to refinance any of its indebtedness, including its revolving credit facility and the notes, on commercially reasonable terms or at all. If Mattel cannot service its indebtedness, Mattel may need to take actions such as selling assets, issuing additional equity, reducing or delaying capital expenditures, strategic acquisitions, investments, and alliances. There can be no assurance that such actions, if necessary, will be effected on commercially reasonable terms or at all. The credit agreement governing Mattel's revolving credit facility and the indentures governing the notes will restrict Mattel's ability to sell assets and use the proceeds from such sales.

If Mattel is unable to generate sufficient cash flow or is otherwise unable to obtain funds necessary to meet required payments of principal, premium, if any, and interest on its indebtedness, or if Mattel otherwise fails to comply with the various covenants in the instruments governing its indebtedness, Mattel could be in default under the terms of the agreements governing such indebtedness. In the event of such default, the holders of such indebtedness will have the right to elect to declare all the funds borrowed thereunder to be due and payable, together with accrued and unpaid interest, the lenders under Mattel's revolving credit facility will have the right to elect to terminate their commitments thereunder, cease making further loans, and institute foreclosure proceedings against Mattel's assets, and Mattel could be forced into bankruptcy or liquidation. Declines in Mattel's operating performance may require Mattel to obtain waivers in the future from the required lenders under its revolving credit facility to avoid being in default. If Mattel breaches its covenants under its revolving credit facility and seeks a waiver, Mattel may not be able to obtain a waiver from the required lenders. If this occurs, Mattel would be in default under its revolving credit facility, the lenders could exercise their rights, as described above, and Mattel could be forced into bankruptcy or liquidation.

Mattel's variable rate indebtedness subjects Mattel to interest rate risk, which could cause Mattel's debt service obligations to increase significantly.

Borrowings under Mattel's revolving credit facility will be at variable rates of interest and will expose Mattel to interest rate risk. If interest rates continue to increase, Mattel's debt service obligations on the variable rate indebtedness will increase even though the amount borrowed remains the same, and Mattel's net income and cash flows, including cash available for servicing its indebtedness, will correspondingly decrease. Assuming Mattel's revolving credit facility is fully drawn up to the maximum commitment level and the interest rates are above the interest rate floor set forth in the credit agreement governing Mattel's revolving credit facility, each one-eighth point change in interest rates would result in a $1.75 million change in annual interest expense on Mattel's indebtedness under its revolving credit facility. Any interest rate swaps that Mattel enters into with respect to its variable rate indebtedness may not fully mitigate Mattel's interest rate risk.

Mattel is dependent upon its lenders for financing to execute its business strategy and meet its liquidity needs. If Mattel's lenders are unable to fund borrowings under their credit commitments or Mattel is unable to borrow, it could adversely affect Mattel's business, financial condition, and results of operations.

There is risk that one or more of Mattel's lenders, even those with strong balance sheets and sound lending practices, could fail or refuse to honor their legal commitments and obligations under existing credit commitments, including but not limited to extending credit up to the maximum amount permitted by a credit facility and otherwise accessing capital and/or honoring loan commitments. If Mattel's lenders are unable to fund borrowings under their credit commitments or Mattel is unable to borrow, it could be difficult to replace Mattel's revolving credit facility on similar terms, which could adversely affect Mattel's business, financial condition, and results of operations.

Mattel's stock repurchase program could affect the price of its common stock and may be suspended at any time, and there is no guarantee that repurchases under the program, if any, will enhance stockholder value.

Mattel has a $1.00 billion stock repurchase program, under which it is currently authorized to repurchase up to $600 million of its common stock. The stock repurchase program does not obligate Mattel to repurchase any dollar amount or number of shares and may be suspended at any time without prior notice, which could cause the market price of Mattel's common stock to decline. The amount and timing of repurchases under Mattel's share repurchase program, if any, are influenced by many factors and may fluctuate based on Mattel's operating results, cash flows, priorities for the use of cash, the market price of Mattel's common stock, and its possession of potentially material nonpublic information. There is no guarantee as to the exact number of shares to be repurchased by Mattel, if any. Repurchases pursuant to the stock repurchase program could affect Mattel's stock price and increase its volatility. The existence of a stock repurchase program could also cause Mattel's stock price to be higher than it would be in the absence of such a program. Additionally, repurchases under the stock repurchase program utilize Mattel's cash reserves, which could impact its ability to pursue possible future strategic opportunities and acquisitions. There can be no assurance that any stock repurchases will enhance stockholder value because the market price of Mattel's common stock may decline below the levels at which it repurchased shares of common stock.

Risk Management and Strategy

Mattel has processes in place for assessing, identifying, and managing material risks from cybersecurity threats, which include developing, implementing, and maintaining cybersecurity measures and controls. Mattel considers the following factors, among others, to assess whether adequate protections are in place to address risks from known and anticipated cybersecurity threats: likelihood and severity of risk; impact on Mattel and others, including retail customers, suppliers, consumers, or employees, if a risk materializes; feasibility and cost of controls; and impact of controls on operations.

As part of its cybersecurity risk management program, Mattel utilizes cybersecurity assessors, consultants, auditors, and other third-parties to assist its internal team with network security, cloud security, endpoint security, identity and access management, data loss prevention, and security information and event management. In addition, Mattel utilizes a variety of third-party technology, information systems, and service providers to help identify, isolate, and mitigate security incidents.

Mattel seeks to identify vulnerabilities and mitigate risks from cybersecurity threats posed by its use of third-party technology, information systems, and service providers through oversight by Mattel's information technology ("IT") organization through a variety of processes, including conducting onboarding due diligence, imposing contractual obligations related to privacy and information security, and regularly monitoring the performance of third parties providing critical support systems.

To support incident response preparedness, Mattel has developed a cybersecurity incident response plan and conducts an annual simulated incident exercise. The cybersecurity incident response plan addresses cybersecurity incidents that directly impact Mattel or arise from Mattel's use of third-party technology, information systems, and service providers. Mattel also utilizes business continuity and disaster recovery plans to prepare for potential disruptions in technology that Mattel relies upon. Further, Mattel monitors novel and advanced cybersecurity threats and provides ongoing employee security awareness training.

As part of Mattel's overall risk management program, Mattel's IT organization has a governance, risk, and compliance group that provides oversight regarding IT-related risks, including cybersecurity risks, and monitors Mattel's IT control environment. This group also works with Mattel's Internal Audit team to assess Mattel's cybersecurity processes. In addition, Mattel's IT organization has a steering committee comprised of internal privacy and cybersecurity experts, chaired by Mattel's Chief Information Security Officer ("CISO"), which is responsible for the development and maintenance of Mattel's privacy and information security programs and regularly reports to Mattel's Chief Technology Officer ("CTO").

Mattel is subject to cybersecurity threats that could have a material adverse impact on its results of operations, financial condition, and liquidity, as further discussed in Item 1A "Risk Factors" under the headings of Legal and Regulatory. Mattel is not aware of having experienced any cybersecurity threats or incidents to date that have materially affected or are reasonably likely to materially affect Mattel, its business strategy, results of operation or financial condition. However, there can be no assurance that Mattel will be able to mitigate negative impacts in the event of future attacks or other cyber incidents.

Governance

Mattel's CISO has more than twenty years of cybersecurity industry experience at Mattel and elsewhere and is responsible for coordinating cybersecurity efforts within Mattel, with a focus on cybersecurity threat prevention, detection, and mitigation, as well as enhancement of privacy and security measures, including security updates, security architecture and engineering, and identity access management. Mattel's CISO reports to the CTO, regularly communicating risks and other relevant information related to cybersecurity threats and incidents. Mattel's CTO has significant leadership, cybersecurity, and technology experience, is responsible for overseeing the monitoring and mitigation of cybersecurity threats, and advises and consults Mattel's senior management regarding material cybersecurity risks.

A team led by the CISO implements and maintains systems designed to detect and prevent cybersecurity threats, monitors important developments that may present risk to Mattel and third-party systems, and oversees the results of internal and third-party security reviews. The CISO provides regular updates to Mattel's CTO regarding critical and major severity security incidents involving Mattel systems, security incidents involving third parties that have the potential to impact Mattel's operations or involve sensitive customer, supplier, consumer, or employee data, and mitigation and remediation implemented to address such threats or incidents.

The Audit Committee of the Board of Directors (the "Audit Committee") oversees Mattel's assessment and management of material cybersecurity risks. The CTO reports to the Audit Committee on Mattel's cybersecurity, including material cybersecurity risks and mitigation, at least annually. The CTO reports and escalates cybersecurity incidents to management and the Audit Committee as appropriate.

Mattel owns its corporate headquarters in El Segundo, California, consisting of approximately 360,000 square feet, and an adjacent office building consisting of approximately 55,000 square feet. In 2024, Mattel purchased another building in El Segundo that will serve as its Global Design Center, consisting of approximately 168,000 square feet. Mattel also leases buildings in El Segundo consisting of approximately 387,000 square feet. All segments use these facilities. Mattel also owns facilities in East Aurora, New York, consisting of approximately 607,000 square feet, used by the North America segment and for brand and corporate support functions and a distribution facility in DeForest, Wisconsin, consisting of approximately 350,000 square feet, which is used by the North America segment. Mattel also owns its principal manufacturing facilities located in Indonesia, Malaysia, Mexico, and Thailand.

Mattel maintains leased offices in the United States, in Arkansas, California, and Minnesota, a leased warehouse in Wisconsin, distribution facilities in California, Pennsylvania, Texas, and in Mississauga, Canada, and retail and related office space in Chicago, Illinois; Los Angeles, California; and New York, New York for its flagship American Girl stores, and in four other cities across the United States for its American Girl boutique stores, all of which are used by the North America segment. Internationally, Mattel has offices and/or warehouse space in over 30 countries. Mattel leases facilities used by the International segment in various foreign jurisdictions, including China, France, Mexico, and the United Kingdom. Mattel also leases office space and principal manufacturing facilities in China, which support the North America and International segments.

For all remaining leases that are scheduled to expire within the next twelve months, Mattel may negotiate new lease agreements, renew existing lease agreements, or utilize alternate facilities. See Part II, Item 8 "Financial Statements and Supplementary Data—Note 8 to the Consolidated Financial Statements—Leases." Mattel believes that its owned and leased facilities, in general, are suitable and adequate for its present and currently foreseeable needs.

See Part II, Item 8 "Financial Statements and Supplementary Data—Note 13 to the Consolidated Financial Statements—Commitments and Contingencies—Litigation."

The following discussion should be read in conjunction with the consolidated financial statements and the related notes. See Item 8 "Financial Statements and Supplementary Data." Amounts shown in millions or billions within this Item 7 may not sum due to rounding.

Mattel has omitted discussion of 2022 results where it would be redundant to the discussion previously included in Part II, Item 7 "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations," of Mattel's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2023.

The following discussion includes currency exchange rate impact, a non-GAAP financial measure within the meaning of Regulation G promulgated by the SEC ("Regulation G"), to supplement the financial results as reported in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles in the United States ("GAAP"). The currency exchange rate impact reflects the portion (expressed as a percentage) of changes in Mattel's reported results that are attributable to fluctuations in currency exchange rates. Mattel uses this non-GAAP financial measure to analyze its continuing operations and to monitor, assess, and identify meaningful trends in its operating and financial performance. Management believes that the disclosure of this non-GAAP financial measure provides useful supplemental information to investors to allow them to better evaluate ongoing business performance and certain components of Mattel's results. This measure is not, and should not be viewed as, a substitute for GAAP financial measures.

The following discussion also includes the use of gross billings, a key performance indicator. Gross billings represent amounts invoiced to customers. It does not include the impact of sales adjustments, such as trade discounts and other allowances. Mattel presents changes in gross billings as a metric for comparing its aggregate, categorical, brand, and geographic results to highlight significant trends in Mattel's business. Changes in gross billings are discussed because, while Mattel records the details of sales adjustments in its financial accounting systems at the time of sale, such sales adjustments are generally recorded by customer and not associated with categories, brands, or individual products.

Overview

Mattel is a leading global toy and family entertainment company and owner of one of the most iconic brand portfolios in the world. Mattel creates innovative products and experiences that inspire fans, entertain audiences, and develop children through play. Mattel is focused on the following strategy to grow its IP-driven toy business and expand its entertainment offering:

• Grow toy business profitably through scaling Mattel's portfolio, optimizing operations, evolving demand creation, and growing franchise brands; and
• Expand entertainment offering to capture the full value of Mattel's IP outside the toy aisle in highly accretive business verticals, by growing franchise brands and accelerating content, consumer products, and digital and live experiences.

Recent Developments

During 2024, Mattel continued to execute its multi-year strategy to grow its IP-driven toy business and expand its entertainment offering, growing profitability, expanding gross margin, and generating strong cash flow.

Mattel's full year net sales declined 1%, which reflects a comparison with the benefits of the Barbie movie in the prior year. Gross margin expanded to 50.8% in 2024 compared to 47.5% in 2023, with benefits from favorable supply chain and other efficiencies, the Optimizing for Profitable Growth program ("OPG program"), lower inventory management costs, cost deflation, and favorable foreign currency exchange and other factors, which more than offset the prior year benefit associated with the Barbie movie. Operating income grew to $694.3 million, an improvement of $132.6 million, and earnings per share in 2024 increased to $1.58, compared to $0.60 in 2023.

Mattel ended the year with a cash balance of $1.39 billion, compared to $1.26 billion in the prior year. Cash increased primarily due to Mattel's cash flows from operations, which were $800.6 million during the year. Cash flows from operations were partially offset by $400.0 million of cash used for share repurchases and capital expenditures, including $58.8 million for the acquisition of a property that will serve as Mattel's new global design center, which will replace a facility that is currently leased.

During 2024, Mattel executed $400.0 million of share repurchases and has a remaining authorization of $600.0 million as of December 31, 2024.

Additionally, in February 2024, Mattel announced the OPG program, a multi-year cost savings program that follows the Optimizing for Growth program ("OFG program") and is designed to achieve further efficiency and cost savings opportunities, primarily within Mattel's global supply chain, including its manufacturing footprint. The OPG program has targeted annual gross cost savings of $200.0 million between 2024 and 2026. During 2024, Mattel generated approximately $83 million of cost savings under the OPG program.

Mattel is operating in a macro-economic environment that may impact consumer demand. To the extent the macro-economic environment worsens, it may have a material effect on Mattel's results of operations and financial condition. Refer to Part I, Item 1A "Risk Factors" for further discussion regarding potential impacts on Mattel's business.

Results of Operations

Consolidated Results

The following table presents Mattel's consolidated results for 2024 and 2023:

(In millions, except percentage and basis point information)

Sales

Net sales in 2024 were $5.38 billion, a decrease of $61.7 million, or 1%, as compared to $5.44 billion in 2023. The decrease in net sales was primarily due to a decrease in gross billings of $68.6 million.

Gross billings represent amounts invoiced to a customer and do not include the impact of sales adjustments, such as trade discounts and other allowances. Changes in gross billings are discussed below because, while Mattel records the details of sales adjustments in its financial accounting systems at the time of sale, such sales adjustments are generally recorded by customer and are not associated with categories, brands, or individual products. The following tables provide a summary of Mattel's consolidated gross billings by categories, along with supplemental information by brand, for 2024 and 2023:

(In millions, except percentage information)

(a) Beginning in the first quarter of 2024, the Fisher-Price power brand was revised to exclude Baby Gear and Imaginext products. Prior period amounts have been reclassified to conform to the current presentation.

Gross billings were $6.03 billion in 2024, a decrease of $68.6 million, or 1%, as compared to $6.10 billion in 2023, with an unfavorable impact from changes in currency exchange rates of one percentage point. The decrease in gross billings was due to lower billings of Dolls and Infant, Toddler, and Preschool products, partially offset by higher billings of Vehicles and Action Figures, Building Sets, Games, and Other products.

Dolls gross billings decreased 8%, due to lower billings of Barbie, which benefited from the Barbie movie in the prior year.

Infant, Toddler, and Preschool gross billings decreased 5%, primarily due to lower billings of Baby Gear and Power Wheels products of 5%, due to the continued strategic exit from certain product lines in Power Wheels and Baby Gear.

Vehicles gross billings increased 9%, due to higher billings of Hot Wheels products.

Action Figures, Building Sets, Games, and Other gross billings increased 2%, of which 6% was due to higher billings of Games products and 1% was due to higher billings of Action Figures products, partially offset by lower billings of Building Sets products of 2% and lower billings of Other products of 3%.

Sales adjustments generally represent arrangements with Mattel's customers to provide sales incentives, support customer promotions, and provide allowances for returns and defective merchandise. Such programs are based primarily on customer purchases, customer performance of specified promotional activities, and other specified factors such as sales to consumers. Additionally, sales adjustments may include foreign currency transaction gains and losses from the remeasurement of accounts receivable denominated in currencies that are different from the relevant entity's functional currency. Sales adjustments decreased to $653.7 million in 2024, as compared to $660.6 million in 2023. Sales adjustments as a percentage of net sales were relatively consistent at 12.2% in 2024, as compared to 12.1% in 2023.

Cost of Sales

Cost of sales decreased by $212.0 million, or 7%, to $2.65 billion in 2024 from $2.86 billion in 2023. Within cost of sales, product and other costs decreased by $203.4 million, or 9%, to $2.08 billion in 2024 from $2.28 billion in 2023. Royalty expense decreased by $5.7 million, or 2%, to $244.1 million in 2024 from $249.8 million in 2023. Freight and logistics expenses decreased by $2.9 million, or 1%, to $324.1 million in 2024 from $327.0 million in 2023.

Gross Margin

Gross margin increased to 50.8% in 2024 from 47.5% in 2023. The increase in gross margin was primarily due to favorable supply chain and other efficiencies of 130 basis points, incremental realized savings from the OPG program of 90 basis points, lower inventory management costs of 60 basis points, including lower close-out sales and inventory obsolescence, cost deflation of 50 basis points, and favorable foreign currency exchange and other factors of 90 basis points, partially offset by unfavorable mix of 90 basis points primarily related to the prior year benefit from the Barbie movie.

Advertising and Promotion Expenses

Advertising and promotion expenses primarily consist of: (i) media costs, which include the media, planning, and buying fees for television, print, and online advertisements, (ii) non-media costs, which include commercial and website production, merchandising, and promotional costs, (iii) retail advertising costs, which include consumer direct catalogs; and (iv) general advertising costs, which include trade show costs. Advertising and promotion expenses as a percentage of net sales were relatively flat at 9.4% in 2024, compared to 9.6% in 2023.

Other Selling and Administrative Expenses

Other selling and administrative expenses were $1.53 billion, or 28.5% of net sales, in 2024, an increase of $35.2 million, as compared to $1.50 billion, or 27.5% of net sales, in 2023. The increase in other selling and administrative expenses was primarily due to employee compensation increases and higher incentive compensation of $65.6 million, partially offset by realized savings from cost savings programs of $30.8 million.

Interest Expense

Interest expense was $118.8 million in 2024, a decrease of $5.0 million as compared to $123.8 million in 2023.

Interest Income

Interest income increased by $26.2 million to $51.5 million in 2024 from $25.2 million in 2023, primarily due to higher average invested cash balances in 2024.

Provision for Income Taxes

Mattel's provision for income taxes was $105.6 million in 2024, as compared to a provision for income taxes of $269.5 million in 2023. The decrease in provision for income taxes was the result of the intra-group transfer of certain IP rights in the prior year, resulting in a net tax expense of $161.4 million related to the write-down of certain foreign deferred tax assets and establishment of certain U.S. deferred tax assets. Additionally, in 2024, Mattel recognized a net income tax benefit of $34.8 million related to tax elections filed to amortize certain intangible assets transferred as part of Mattel’s intra-group IP rights transfer and establishment of certain U.S. deferred tax assets, which was offset by higher income tax expense as a result of an increase in income before income taxes.

Evaluating the need for and the amount of a valuation allowance for deferred tax assets often requires significant judgment and extensive analysis of all available evidence to determine whether it is more likely than not that these assets will be realizable. Mattel routinely assesses the positive and negative evidence for this realizability, including the evaluation of sustained profitability and three years of cumulative pretax income for each tax jurisdiction. Changes in the valuation allowances in 2023 primarily related to changes in the assessment of the future realizability of certain deferred tax assets, utilization and expiration of tax attributes, and currency fluctuations. As of December 31, 2023, Mattel's valuation allowances on its U.S. federal and state deferred tax assets and foreign deferred tax assets were approximately $14 million and $71 million, respectively. Changes in the valuation allowances in 2024 primarily related to changes in assessment of the future realizability of certain deferred tax assets, utilization and expiration of tax attributes. As of December 31, 2024, Mattel's valuation allowances on its U.S. federal and state deferred tax assets and foreign deferred tax assets were approximately $12 million and $85 million, respectively. As of December 31, 2024 and 2023, Mattel has recorded net deferred tax assets of $252.5 million and $243.1 million, respectively.

The Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development ("OECD") reached an agreement among various countries to implement a minimum 15% tax rate on certain multinational enterprises, commonly referred to as Pillar Two. Many countries continue to announce changes in their tax laws and regulations based on the Pillar Two rules. Mattel is continuing to evaluate the impact of these proposed and enacted legislative changes as new guidance becomes available. Some of the legislative changes could impact Mattel's effective tax rate and tax liabilities. When and how these laws and regulations are adopted or enacted by various countries in which Mattel operates could increase tax complexity and uncertainty and may adversely affect Mattel's worldwide effective tax rate, income tax expense and cash flows. Mattel does not expect the provisions that went into effect in 2024 to have a materially adverse impact on its results of operations, financial position, or cash flows.

Segment Results

North America Segment

Beginning in the first quarter of 2024, Mattel's American Girl business was integrated into its North America commercial organization and is reported within the North America operating segment. Prior to the first quarter of 2024, Mattel's American Girl business was a separate reportable operating segment. Prior period amounts have been reclassified to conform to the current period presentation.

The following tables provide a summary of Mattel's net sales, segment operating income, and gross billings by categories, along with supplemental information by brand, for the North America segment for 2024 and 2023:

(In millions, except percentage information)

Net sales for the North America segment in 2024 were $3.17 billion, a decrease of $42.4 million, or 1%, as compared to $3.21 billion in 2023. The decrease in net sales was primarily due to a decrease in gross billings of $37.9 million.

(In millions, except percentage information)

(a) Beginning in the first quarter of 2024, the Fisher-Price power brand was revised to exclude Baby Gear and Imaginext products. Prior period amounts have been reclassified to conform to the current presentation.

Gross billings for the North America segment were $3.39 billion in 2024, a decrease of $37.9 million, or 1%, as compared to $3.43 billion in 2023. The decrease in the North America segment gross billings was primarily due to lower billings of Dolls and Infant, Toddler, and Preschool products, partially offset by higher billings of Vehicles and Action Figures, Building Sets, Games, and Other products.

Dolls gross billings decreased 6%, due to lower billings of Barbie, which benefited from the Barbie movie in the prior year.

Infant, Toddler, and Preschool gross billings decreased 6%, due to lower billings of Baby Gear and Power Wheels products.

Vehicles gross billings increased 6%, due to higher billings of Hot Wheels products.

Action Figures, Building Sets, Games, and Other gross billings increased 6%, of which 6% was due to higher billings of Action Figures products and 5% was due to higher billings of Games products, partially offset by lower billings of Building Sets products of 2% and lower billings of Other products of 2%.

Sales adjustments increased to $226.5 million in 2024, as compared to $222.1 million in 2023. Sales adjustments as a percentage of net sales were relatively consistent at 7.1% in 2024 as compared to 6.9% in 2023.

Cost of sales decreased by $121.1 million, or 7%, to $1.60 billion in 2024 from $1.72 billion in 2023, primarily due to a decrease in product and other costs of $115.8 million.

Gross margin increased to 49.4% in 2024 from 46.3% in 2023, primarily due to supply chain and other efficiencies of 210 basis points, incremental realized savings from the OPG program of 90 basis points, lower inventory management costs of 60 basis points, including lower inventory obsolescence and close-out sales, and favorable other factors of 40 basis points, partially offset by unfavorable mix of 90 basis points primarily related to the prior year benefit from the Barbie movie.

North America segment operating income was $840.0 million in 2024, as compared to $787.7 million in 2023, due to higher gross profit of $78.7 million, partially offset by higher other selling and administrative expenses of $33.2 million.

International Segment

The following tables provide a summary of Mattel's net sales, segment operating income, and gross billings by categories, along with supplemental information by brand, for the International segment for 2024 and 2023:

(In millions, except percentage information)

Net sales for the International segment in 2024 were $2.21 billion, a decrease of $19.3 million, or 1%, as compared to $2.23 billion in 2023. The decrease in net sales was due to a decrease in gross billings of $30.6 million, partially offset by a decrease in sales adjustments of $11.3 million.

(In millions, except percentage information)

(a) Beginning in the first quarter of 2024, the Fisher-Price power brand was revised to exclude Baby Gear and Imaginext products. Prior period amounts have been reclassified to conform to the current presentation.

Gross billings for the International segment were $2.64 billion in 2024, a decrease of $30.6 million, or 1%, as compared to $2.67 billion in 2023, with an unfavorable impact from changes in currency exchange rates of one percentage point. The decrease in the International segment gross billings was due to lower billings of Dolls, Infant, Toddler, and Preschool, and Action Figures, Building Sets, Games, and Other products, partially offset by higher billings of Vehicles products.

Dolls gross billings decreased 10%, of which 8% was due to lower billings of Barbie primarily due to the benefit of the Barbie movie in the prior year.

Infant, Toddler, and Preschool gross billings decreased 4%, of which 3% was due to lower billings of Baby Gear and Power Wheels products.

Vehicles gross billings increased 12%, of which 11% was due to higher billings of Hot Wheels products.

Action Figures, Building Sets, Games, and Other gross billings decreased 3%, of which 5% was due to lower billings of Action Figures products and 3% was due to lower billings of Other products, partially offset by higher billings of Games products of 6%.

Sales adjustments decreased to $427.2 million in 2024, as compared to $438.6 million in 2023. Sales adjustments as a percentage of net sales were relatively consistent at 19.3% in 2024 as compared to 19.7% in 2023.

Cost of sales decreased by $95.2 million, or 8%, to $1.14 billion in 2024 from $1.23 billion in 2023, primarily due to a decrease of product and other costs of $92.4 million.

Gross margin in 2024 increased to 48.5% from 44.7% in 2023, primarily due to incremental realized savings from the OPG program of 100 basis points, cost deflation of 100 basis points, lower inventory management costs of 70 basis points, including lower close-out sales and inventory obsolescence, favorable supply chain and other efficiencies of 60 basis points, and favorable foreign currency exchange and other factors of 160 basis points, partially offset by unfavorable mix of 110 basis points, primarily related to the prior year benefit from the Barbie movie.

International segment operating income was $389.0 million in 2024, as compared to $299.1 million in 2023, primarily due to higher gross profit of $75.9 million and lower advertising and promotion expenses of $10.8 million.

Cost Savings Programs

Optimizing for Profitable Growth

On February 7, 2024, Mattel announced the OPG program, a multi-year cost savings program that follows the Optimizing for Growth program (the "OFG program"), which concluded in the fourth quarter of 2023. The OPG program is designed to achieve further efficiency and cost savings opportunities, primarily within Mattel's global supply chain, including its manufacturing footprint. The OPG program includes cost savings actions in connection with discontinuing production at a plant in China, as previously announced in the third quarter of 2023, as well as savings from other previous actions taken in 2023 that were not recognized in the OFG program. Targeted annual gross cost savings from actions associated with the OPG program, which are expected to be completed by 2026, are $200 million. Of the $200 million in targeted annual gross costs savings, approximately 70% is expected to benefit cost of sales and 30% is expected to benefit other selling and administrative expenses. Total expected cash expenditures under the OPG program are expected to be between $130 and $165 million and total non-cash charges are expected to be up to $5 million.

The costs associated with the OPG program are expected to include the following:

In connection with the OPG program, Mattel recorded severance and other restructuring costs in the following cost and expense categories within operating income in the consolidated statements of operations:

(In millions)

(a) Severance and other restructuring costs recorded within cost of sales in the consolidated statements of operations are included in segment operating income in "Note 14 to the Consolidated Financial Statements—Segment Information."

(b) Severance and other restructuring costs recorded within other selling and administrative expenses in the consolidated statements of operations are included in corporate and other expense in "Note 14 to the Consolidated Financial Statements—Segment Information."

As of December 31, 2024, Mattel had recorded cumulative severance and other restructuring charges related to the OPG program of approximately $74 million, which included approximately $2 million of non-cash charges. Mattel realized cumulative cost savings (before severance, restructuring costs, and cost inflation) of approximately $83 million, which represents approximately 60% benefit to cost of sales, and 40% benefit to other selling and administrative expenses, as of December 31, 2024, in connection with the OPG Program.

Other Cost Savings Actions

As of December 31, 2023, Mattel concluded the OFG program, a multi-year cost savings program that had integrated and expanded upon the previous Capital Light program. During 2023 and 2022, Mattel recorded severance and other restructuring charges of $32.3 million and $23.6 million, respectively, within other selling and administrative expenses and $(1.3) million and $10.7 million, respectively, within cost of sales in the consolidated statement of operations in connection with the OFG program.

During 2023, Mattel executed actions to further streamline its organizational structure that were not included in the OFG program. In connection with these actions, Mattel recorded severance charges of $3.4 million within other selling and administrative expenses in the consolidated statement of operations.

Income Taxes

See Part II, Item 7 "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations—Results of Operations—Provision for Income Taxes."

Liquidity and Capital Resources

Mattel's primary sources of liquidity are its domestic and foreign cash and equivalents balances, short-term borrowing facilities, including its $1.40 billion in aggregate principal amount of senior unsecured revolving credit facilities (the "Credit Facility"), which on July 15, 2024 replaced the $1.40 billion prior credit facility, and access to capital markets to fund its operations and obligations. Such obligations may include capital expenditures, debt service, future royalty payments pursuant to licensing agreements, future inventory and service purchases, and required cash contributions and payments related to benefit plans. Of Mattel's $1.39 billion in cash and equivalents at December 31, 2024, $728.1 million was held by foreign subsidiaries, including $48.9 million held in Russia. Mattel's cash held in Russia can be used within the country; however, its movement out of Russia is currently limited. In early 2022, Mattel paused all shipments into Russia.

Cash flows from operating activities could be negatively impacted by decreased demand for Mattel's products, which could result from factors such as, but not limited to, adverse economic conditions and changes in public and consumer preferences, or by increased costs associated with manufacturing and distribution of products or shortages in raw materials or component parts. Additionally, Mattel's ability to issue long-term debt and obtain seasonal financing could be adversely affected by factors such as, but not limited to, global economic crises and tight credit environments, an inability to comply with its debt covenants and its Credit Facility covenants, or deterioration of Mattel's credit ratings. However, based on Mattel's current business plan and factors known to date, it is expected that existing cash and equivalents, cash flows from operations, availability under the Credit Facility, and access to capital markets, will be sufficient to meet working capital and operating expenditure requirements for the next twelve months and in the long-term.

The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, enacted on December 22, 2017 (the "U.S. Tax Act"), provides Mattel with a reduced cost to access the earnings of its foreign subsidiaries. With the passage of the U.S. Tax Act, repatriations of foreign earnings generally will not be taxable for U.S. federal income tax purposes, but may be subject to state income tax and/or foreign withholding tax, in addition to any local country distribution requirements. As such, Mattel has evaluated its intentions related to its indefinite reinvestment assertion and has recorded a $22.1 million deferred tax liability related to approximately $559 million of foreign earnings that will not be indefinitely reinvested.

Current Market Conditions

Mattel is exposed to financial market risk resulting from changes in interest and foreign currency exchange rates.

Mattel intends to utilize its existing cash and cash equivalents, cash flow from operations, and borrowings under the Credit Facility to meet its short-term liquidity needs. At December 31, 2024, Mattel had no outstanding borrowings under the Credit Facility and approximately $9 million in outstanding letters of credit under the Credit Facility.

Market conditions could affect certain terms of other debt instruments that Mattel enters into from time to time.

Mattel monitors the third-party depository institutions that hold Mattel's cash and equivalents. Mattel's emphasis is primarily on safety and liquidity of principal, and secondarily on maximizing the yield on those funds. Mattel diversifies its cash and equivalents among counterparties and securities to minimize risks.

Mattel is subject to credit risks relating to the ability of its counterparties in hedging transactions to meet their contractual payment obligations. The risks related to creditworthiness and nonperformance have been considered in the fair value measurements of Mattel's foreign currency forward exchange contracts. Mattel closely monitors its counterparties and takes action, as necessary, to manage its counterparty credit risk.

Mattel expects that some of its customers and vendors may experience difficulty in obtaining the liquidity required to buy inventory or raw materials. Mattel monitors its customers' financial condition and their liquidity in order to mitigate accounts receivable collectability risks, and customer terms and credit limits are adjusted, if necessary. Additionally, Mattel uses a variety of financial arrangements to support the collectability of accounts receivable of customers deemed to be a credit risk, including requiring letters of credit, purchasing various forms of credit insurance with unrelated third parties, or requiring cash in advance of shipment.

Mattel sponsors defined benefit pension plans and postretirement benefit plans for its employees. Actual returns below the expected rate of return, along with changes in interest rates that affect the measurement of the liability, would impact the amount and timing of Mattel's future contributions to these plans. Mattel expects to make cash contributions totaling approximately $21 million to its defined benefit pension and postretirement benefit plans in 2025, substantially all of which will be for benefit payments for its under-funded plans.

Cash Flow Activities

Cash flows provided by operating activities were $800.6 million in 2024, as compared to $869.8 million in 2023. The decrease in cash flows provided by operating activities was primarily due to an increase in cash used for working capital of $191.1 million, which included $285.8 million of unfavorable changes in inventories, reflecting the prior year impact of reduced inventory levels, and $86.1 million of unfavorable changes in accounts payable and accrued liabilities, partially offset by $219.7 million of favorable changes in accounts receivable. The unfavorable changes to working capital were partially offset by an increase in net income, excluding the impact of non-cash items.

Cash flows used for investing activities were $189.0 million in 2024, as compared to $142.4 million in 2023. The increase was primarily due to a $42.3 million increase in capital expenditures, including the July 2024 purchase of a property that will serve as Mattel's new global design center for $58.8 million.

Cash flows used for financing activities were $449.4 million in 2024, as compared to $226.6 million in 2023. The increase in cash flows used for financing activities was primarily due to $197.0 million of higher share repurchases in 2024 compared to 2023.

During 2024, Mattel repurchased 21.0 million shares of its common stock at a cost of $400.0 million. During 2023, Mattel repurchased 10.4 million shares of its common stock at a cost of $203.0 million. Mattel's share repurchase program was first announced on July 21, 2003. On February 5, 2024, the Board of Directors authorized a new $1.00 billion share repurchase program. As of December 31, 2024, Mattel had a remaining authorization of $600.0 million under the program. Repurchases under the program will take place from time to time, depending on market conditions. Mattel's share repurchase program has no expiration date.

During 2024 and 2023, Mattel did not pay any dividends to holders of its common stock. The payment of dividends on common stock is at the discretion of the Board of Directors and is subject to customary limitations.

Seasonal Financing

See Item 8 "Financial Statements and Supplementary Data—Note 6 to the Consolidated Financial Statements—Seasonal Financing and Debt."

Credit Ratings

In 2024, Fitch changed Mattel's credit rating from BB+ to BBB- with a stable outlook, Standard & Poor's changed Mattel's credit rating from BBB- to BBB with a stable outlook, and Moody's maintained Mattel's credit rating of Baa3 with a stable outlook.

Financial Position

Mattel's cash and equivalents increased $126.5 million to $1.39 billion at December 31, 2024, as compared to $1.26 billion at December 31, 2023, primarily due to cash flow provided by operating activities of $800.6 million, partially offset by share repurchases of $400.0 million and capital expenditures of $202.6 million.

Accounts receivable decreased $78.6 million to $1.00 billion at December 31, 2024, as compared to $1.08 billion at December 31, 2023, primarily due to the impact of foreign currency translation and the timing of sales and collections.

Inventories decreased $69.9 million to $501.7 million at December 31, 2024, as compared to $571.6 million at December 31, 2023, primarily due to continued inventory management efforts during 2024 and the impact of foreign currency translation.

Prepaid expenses and other current assets increased $26.6 million to $234.1 million at December 31, 2024, as compared to $207.5 million at December 31, 2023, primarily due to an increase in derivative receivables of $16.5 million.

Accounts payable and accrued liabilities decreased $30.9 million to $1.28 billion at December 31, 2024, as compared to $1.31 billion at December 31, 2023, primarily due to a decrease of $43.2 million in accounts payable, partially offset by an increase in accrued advertising expense of $18.1 million.

A summary of Mattel's capitalization is as follows:

(In millions, except percentage information)

Total debt was $2.33 billion at December 31, 2024, flat as compared to $2.33 billion at December 31, 2023.

Stockholders' equity increased $114.9 million to $2.26 billion at December 31, 2024, as compared to $2.15 billion at December 31, 2023, primarily due to net income in 2024 of $541.8 million and the impact of share-based compensation on additional paid-in capital of $79.4 million, partially offset by share repurchases of $400.0 million and other comprehensive loss of $89.5 million.

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

Mattel is required to provide standby letters of credit to support certain obligations that arise in the ordinary course of business and may choose to provide letters of credit in place of posting cash collateral. Although the letters of credit are off-balance sheet, the majority of the obligations to which they relate are reflected as liabilities in the consolidated balance sheets. Outstanding letters of credit totaled approximately $9 million as of December 31, 2024 and 2023.

Commitments

In the normal course of business, Mattel enters into contractual arrangements to obtain and protect Mattel's right to create and market certain products, and for future purchases of goods and services, including for the purchase of future inventory to ensure availability of materials. These arrangements include commitments for royalty payments pursuant to licensing agreements, which routinely contain provisions for guarantees or minimum expenditures during the terms of the contracts. Mattel also enters into long-term debt arrangements that include periodic interest and principal payments. Mattel also has defined benefit and postretirement benefit plans, which require future cash contributions and benefit payments. Additionally, Mattel routinely enters into noncancelable lease agreements for premises and equipment used, which contain minimum rental payments.

The following table summarizes Mattel's contractual commitments and obligations:

(In millions)

Liabilities for uncertain tax positions for which a cash tax payment is not expected to be made in the next twelve months are classified as other noncurrent liabilities. Due to the uncertainty regarding the periods in which examinations will be completed and limited information related to current audits, Mattel is not able to make reasonably reliable estimates of the periods in which cash settlements will occur with taxing authorities for the noncurrent liabilities.

Litigation

The content of Item 8 "Financial Statements and Supplementary Data—Note 13 to the Consolidated Financial Statements—Commitments and Contingencies—Litigation" is hereby incorporated by reference in this Item 7.

Application of Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates

Mattel makes certain estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses. The accounting policies and estimates described below are those Mattel considers most critical in preparing its consolidated financial statements. These accounting policies and estimates include significant judgments made by management using information available at the time the estimates are made. As described below, however, these estimates could change materially if different information or assumptions were used instead.

Accounts Receivable—Allowance for Credit Losses

The allowance for credit losses is based on collection history and management's assessment of the current economic trends, business environment, customers' financial condition, accounts receivable aging, and customer disputes that may impact the level of future credit losses. Management believes the accounting estimate related to the allowance for credit losses is a "critical accounting estimate" because significant judgment is required to evaluate the creditworthiness of its customers when estimating the collectability of its accounts receivable. In addition, the allowance requires a high degree of judgment since it involves estimation of the impact of both current and future economic factors in relation to its customers' ability to pay amounts owed to Mattel. Significant changes in the assumptions used to develop the estimate could materially affect key financial statement line items, including other selling and administrative expenses, and accounts receivable.

Mattel's products are sold throughout the world. Products within the North America segment are sold directly to retailers, including discount and freestanding toy stores, chain stores, department stores, other retail outlets and, to a limited extent, wholesalers, and directly to consumers through Mattel's e-commerce platforms. Products within the International segment are sold directly to retailers and wholesalers in most European, Latin American, and Asian countries, and in Australia and New Zealand, and through agents and distributors in those countries where Mattel has no direct presence.

In recent years, the mass-market retail channel has experienced significant shifts in market share among competitors, causing some large retailers to experience liquidity problems. Mattel's sales to customers are typically made on credit without collateral and are highly concentrated in the third and fourth quarters due to the seasonal nature of toy sales, which results in a substantial portion of trade receivables being collected during the latter half of the year and the first quarter of the following year. There is a risk that customers will not pay, or that payment may be delayed, because of bankruptcy, financial difficulty, or other factors beyond the control of Mattel. This could increase Mattel's exposure to losses from bad debts.

A small number of customers account for a large share of Mattel's net sales and accounts receivable. In 2024, Mattel's three largest customers, Walmart, Target, and Amazon, in the aggregate, accounted for approximately 44% of net sales, and its ten largest customers, in the aggregate, accounted for approximately 51% of net sales. As of December 31, 2024, Mattel's three largest customers accounted for approximately 41% of net accounts receivable, and its ten largest customers accounted for approximately 51% of net accounts receivable. Should one or more of Mattel's large customers experience bankruptcy or financial difficulty, the allowance for credit losses may not be sufficient to cover such losses.

Mattel has procedures to mitigate its risk of exposure to losses from bad debts. Credit limits and payment terms are established based on the underlying criteria that collectability must be reasonably assured at the levels set for each customer. Extensive evaluations are performed on an ongoing basis throughout the fiscal year of each customer's financial performance, cash generation, financing availability, and liquidity status. Customers are reviewed at least annually, with more frequent reviews being performed, if necessary, based on the customers' financial condition and the level of credit being extended. For customers who are experiencing financial difficulty, management performs additional financial analyses prior to shipping to those customers on credit. Customers' terms and credit limits are adjusted or revoked, if necessary, to reflect the results of the review. Mattel uses a variety of financial arrangements to ensure collectability of accounts receivable of customers, including requiring letters of credit, purchasing various forms of credit insurance with unrelated third parties, or requiring cash in advance of shipment.

The following table summarizes Mattel's allowance for credit losses:

(In millions, except percentage information)

Changes in the allowance for credit losses reflect management's assessment of the factors noted above, including changes in current economic trends, business environment, past due accounts, disputed balances with customers, and the financial condition of customers. The allowance for credit losses is also affected by the time at which uncollectable accounts receivable balances are actually written off.

For the year ended December 31, 2024, Mattel recorded a charge related to its allowance for credit losses of approximately $3 million, which was recognized as other selling and administrative expense. For the year ended December 31, 2023, Mattel recorded a benefit related to its allowance for credit losses of approximately $2 million, which was recognized as other selling and administrative income. In general, Mattel's allowance for credit loss estimates has historically been within its expectations and in line with the reserves established, and although possible, significant variation is not expected in the future. If significant changes in the assumptions used to develop the estimates occur, they could materially affect key financial statement line items, including other selling and administrative expenses and accounts receivable. A hypothetical 1% increase or decrease to the allowance for credit losses as a percentage of accounts receivable would have impacted 2024 and 2023 other selling and administrative expenses by approximately $10 million and $11 million, respectively.

Inventories—Obsolescence Reserve

Inventories are stated at the lower of cost or net realizable value. Inventory obsolescence reserves are recorded for damaged, obsolete, excess, and slow-moving inventory. Inventory obsolescence expense is charged to cost of sales and establishes a lower cost basis for the inventory. Management believes that the accounting estimate related to the obsolescence reserve is a "critical accounting estimate" because significant judgment is required to evaluate the level of future demand for inventories held by Mattel as well as the prices at which customers are willing to pay for Mattel's inventories. As more fully described below, obsolescence reserves required for Mattel's inventory could be impacted by changes in public and consumer preferences, demand for product, or changes in the buying patterns of both retailers and consumers and inventory management of customers. Significant changes in the assumptions used to develop the estimate could materially affect key financial statement line items, including cost of sales and inventories.

In the toy industry, orders are typically subject to cancellation or change at any time prior to shipment. Actual shipments of products ordered and order cancellation rates are affected by consumer acceptance of product lines, strength of competing products, marketing strategies of retailers, changes in buying patterns of both retailers and consumers, and overall economic conditions. Unexpected changes in these factors could result in excess inventory in a particular product line, which would require management to record a valuation adjustment on such inventory.

Mattel bases its production schedules for toy products on customer orders and forecasts, taking into account historical trends, results of market research, and current market information. Mattel ships products in accordance with delivery schedules specified by its customers, who usually request delivery within three months. In anticipation of retail sales in the traditional holiday season, Mattel significantly increases its production in advance of the peak selling period, resulting in a corresponding build-up of inventory levels in the first three quarters of the year. These seasonal purchasing patterns and requisite production lead times create risk to Mattel's business associated with the underproduction of popular toys and the overproduction of toys that do not match consumer demand. Retailers are also attempting to manage their inventories more tightly, requiring Mattel to ship products closer to the time the retailers expect to sell the products to consumers. These factors increase inventory valuation risk because Mattel's inventory levels may be adversely impacted by the need to prebuild products before orders are placed.

When conditions in the domestic and global economies become uncertain, it is difficult to estimate the level of growth or contraction for the economy as a whole. It is even more difficult to estimate growth or contraction in various parts of the economy, including the economies in which Mattel participates. Because all components of Mattel's budgeting and forecasting are dependent upon estimates of growth or contraction in the markets it serves and demand for its products, economic uncertainty makes estimates of future demand for products more difficult. Such economic changes may affect the sales of Mattel's products and its corresponding inventory levels, which could potentially impact the valuation of its inventory.

At the end of each quarter, management within each business segment, North America and International, performs a detailed review of its inventory on an item-by-item basis. Management assesses the need for, and the amount of, an obsolescence reserve based on the following factors:

• Customer and/or consumer demand for the item;
• Overall inventory positions of Mattel's customers;
• Strength of competing products in the market;
• Quantity on hand of the item;
• Sales price of the item;
• Mattel's cost for the item; and
• Length of time the item has been in inventory.

The timeframe between when an estimate is made and the time of disposal depends on the above factors and may vary significantly. Generally, slow-moving inventory is liquidated during the next annual selling cycle.

The following table summarizes Mattel's obsolescence reserve:

(In millions, except percentage information)

For the years ended December 31, 2024 and 2023, Mattel recorded a charge related to its inventory obsolescence reserve of approximately $46 million and $64 million, respectively, which was recognized as cost of sales. In general, Mattel's inventory obsolescence estimates have historically been within expectations and in line with the reserves established, and although possible, significant variation is not expected in the future. If significant changes in the assumptions used to develop the estimate occur, they could materially affect key financial statement line items, including cost of sales and inventories. A hypothetical 1% increase or decrease to inventory reserves as a percentage of gross inventory at December 31, 2024 and 2023 would have impacted 2024 and 2023 cost of sales by approximately $5 million and $6 million, respectively.

Goodwill

Mattel tests goodwill for impairment annually or more often if an event or circumstance indicates that an impairment may have occurred. Management believes that the accounting estimates related to the fair value estimates of its goodwill are "critical accounting estimates" because assessing goodwill for impairment involves a high degree of judgment due to the prospective assumptions that underlie the fair value assessments, such as projecting future cash flows for Mattel's reporting units and estimating the weighted-average cost of capital that a market participant would use as a discount rate. Significant changes in the assumptions used in the goodwill impairment tests could materially affect key financial statement line items, including other selling and administrative expenses and goodwill.

Goodwill is allocated to reporting units for purposes of evaluating whether goodwill is impaired. Mattel's reporting units are: (i) North America, (ii) International, and (iii) American Girl. Mattel then assesses qualitative factors to determine whether it is more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit is less than its carrying amount. This qualitative assessment is used as a basis for determining whether it is necessary to perform the quantitative goodwill impairment test.

When the quantitative goodwill impairment test is necessary, impairment is determined by estimating the fair value of a reporting unit and comparing that value to the reporting unit's carrying amount. If the carrying amount of the reporting unit exceeds its fair value, an impairment charge is recognized in an amount equal to the excess, limited by the amount of goodwill in that reporting unit.

When performing the quantitative goodwill impairment test, Mattel determines the fair value of its reporting units based upon one or more acceptable valuation approaches. Mattel utilizes the income approach for each of its reporting units and also utilizes the market approach for the North America and International reporting units. The income approach determines the fair value based upon the discounted cash flows that the business can be expected to generate in the future. The market approach determines fair value utilizing earnings multiples of comparable public companies, which are reflective of the market in which each respective reporting unit operates, and recent comparable market transactions. The income approach requires Mattel to make projections of revenue, gross margin, operating costs, and working capital investment for the reporting unit over a multi-year period. Additionally, management must make an estimate of a weighted-average cost of capital that a market participant would use as a discount rate. Changes in these projections or estimates would impact the estimated fair value, which could significantly change the amount of any impairment ultimately recorded.

Mattel performed a quantitative goodwill impairment assessment as of August 1, 2024, and the resulting calculations indicated that the fair values exceeded the carrying amounts of Mattel's reporting units by 4.2 times, 2.2 times, and 1.8 times for the North America, International, and American Girl reporting units, respectively. There were no events or changes in circumstances subsequent to the third quarter assessment that indicate that the carrying amount of a reporting unit may exceed its fair value as of December 31, 2024.

Sales Adjustments

Mattel routinely enters into arrangements with its customers to provide sales incentives, support customer promotions, and provide allowances for returns and defective merchandise. Such programs are based primarily on customer purchases, customer performance of specified promotional activities, and other specified factors such as sales to consumers. Management believes that the accounting estimates related to sales adjustments are "critical accounting estimates" because significant judgment is required to estimate related accruals, such as estimating future customer sales volume to support volume-based sales incentives, estimating volumes of defective products to support reserves for defective merchandise, and estimating future customer performance and consumer preferences that could impact the discretionary sales promotions. Significant changes in the assumptions used to develop the estimates could materially affect key financial statement line items, including net sales and accounts receivable.

The above-described programs primarily involve fixed amounts or percentages of sales to customers. The accruals for such programs, which can either be contractual or discretionary in nature, are based on an assessment of customer purchases, customer performance of specified promotional activities, and other specified factors such as customer sales volume. While certain sales adjustment amounts are readily determinable at year-end and do not require estimates, other sales adjustments, such as discretionary sales adjustments, require significant judgment by management to make these estimates. In making these estimates, management considers all available information, including the overall business environment, historical trends, and information from customers.

Accruals for these programs are recorded as sales adjustments that reduce gross billings in the period the related sale is recognized. Sales adjustments for such programs totaled $653.7 million or 12.2% as a percentage of net sales in 2024 and $660.6 million or 12.1% as a percentage of net sales in 2023. If significant changes in the assumptions used to develop the estimates occur, they could impact Mattel's results of operations or financial condition. A hypothetical 1% increase or decrease in Mattel's sales adjustments as a percentage of net sales during the years ended December 31, 2024 and 2023 would have impacted 2024 and 2023 net sales and accounts receivable by approximately $54 million.

Income Taxes

Mattel's income tax provision and related income tax assets and liabilities are based on actual and expected future income, U.S. federal and foreign statutory income tax rates, and tax regulations and planning opportunities in the various jurisdictions in which Mattel operates. Management believes that the accounting estimates related to income taxes are "critical accounting estimates" because significant judgment is required in interpreting tax regulations in the United States and in foreign jurisdictions, evaluating Mattel's worldwide uncertain tax positions, and assessing the likelihood of realizing certain tax benefits. Actual results could differ materially from those judgments, and changes in judgments could materially affect Mattel's consolidated financial statements.

Certain income and expense items are accounted for differently for financial reporting and income tax purposes. As a result, the income tax expense reflected in Mattel's consolidated statements of operations is different than that reported in Mattel's tax returns filed with the taxing authorities. Some of these differences are permanent, such as expenses that are not deductible in Mattel's tax return, and some are temporary differences that reverse over time, such as depreciation expense. These timing differences create deferred income tax assets and liabilities. Deferred income tax assets generally represent items that can be used as a tax deduction or credit in Mattel's tax returns in future years for which Mattel has already recorded a tax benefit in its consolidated statements of operations. Mattel records a valuation allowance to reduce its deferred income tax assets if, based on the weight of available evidence, management believes expected future taxable income is not likely to support the use of a deduction or credit in that jurisdiction. Management evaluates the level of Mattel's valuation allowances at least annually, and more frequently if actual operating results differ significantly from forecasted results.

Changes in the valuation allowances in 2023 primarily related to changes in assessment of the future realizability of certain deferred tax assets, utilization and expiration of tax attributes, and currency fluctuations. As of December 31, 2023, Mattel's valuation allowances on its U.S. federal and state deferred tax assets and foreign deferred tax assets were approximately $14 million and $71 million, respectively. Changes in the valuation allowances in 2024 primarily related to changes in assessment of the future realizability of certain deferred tax assets, utilization and expiration of tax attributes. As of December 31, 2024, Mattel's valuation allowances on its U.S. federal and state deferred tax assets and foreign deferred tax assets were approximately $12 million and $85 million, respectively. As of December 31, 2024 and 2023, Mattel has recorded net deferred tax assets of $252.5 million and $243.1 million, respectively.

Mattel records unrecognized tax benefits for U.S. federal, state, local, and foreign tax positions related primarily to transfer pricing, tax credits claimed, tax nexus, and apportionment. For each reporting period, management applies a consistent methodology to measure unrecognized tax benefits and all unrecognized tax benefits are reviewed periodically and adjusted as circumstances warrant. Mattel's measurement of its unrecognized tax benefits is based on management's assessment of all relevant information, including prior audit experience, the status of audits, conclusions of tax audits, lapsing of applicable statutes of limitations, identification of new issues, and any administrative guidance or developments. Mattel recognizes unrecognized tax benefits in the first financial reporting period in which information becomes available indicating that such benefits will more likely than not (a greater than 50 percent likelihood) be realized. As of December 31, 2024 and 2023, the unrecognized tax benefit balance, inclusive of interest and penalties, and net of U.S. federal tax benefit was $151.7 million and $144.9 million, respectively.

In the normal course of business, Mattel is regularly audited by U.S. federal, state, local, and foreign tax authorities. Many of the judgments made in adjusting uncertain tax positions involve assumptions and estimates regarding audit outcomes and the timing of audit settlements, which are often uncertain and subject to change. The ultimate settlement of any particular issue with the applicable taxing authority could have a material impact on Mattel's consolidated financial statements.

New Accounting Pronouncements

See Item 8 "Financial Statements and Supplementary Data—Note 1 to the Consolidated Financial Statements—Summary of Significant Accounting Policies."

Non-GAAP Financial Measure

To supplement the financial results presented in accordance with GAAP, Mattel presents a non-GAAP financial measure within the meaning of Regulation G promulgated by the SEC. The non-GAAP financial measure that Mattel presents is currency exchange rate impact. Mattel uses this measure to analyze its continuing operations and to monitor, assess, and identify meaningful trends in its operating and financial performance. Mattel believes that the disclosure of this non-GAAP financial measure provides useful supplemental information to investors to be able to better evaluate ongoing business performance and certain components of Mattel's results. This measure is not, and should not be viewed as, a substitute for GAAP financial measures and may not be comparable to similarly-titled measures used by other companies.

Currency Exchange Rate Impact

The currency exchange rate impact reflects the portion (expressed as a percentage) of changes in Mattel's reported results that are attributable to fluctuations in currency exchange rates.

For entities reporting in currencies other than the U.S. dollar, Mattel calculates the percentage change of period-over-period results at constant currency exchange rates (established as described below) by translating current period and prior period results using these rates and then determines the currency exchange rate impact percentage by calculating the difference between the percentage change at such constant currency exchange rates and the percentage change at actual exchange rates.

The constant currency exchange rates are determined by Mattel at the beginning of each year and are applied consistently during the year. They are generally different from the actual exchange rates in effect during the current or prior period due to volatility in actual currency exchange rates. Mattel considers whether any changes to the constant currency rates are appropriate at the beginning of each year. The exchange rates used for these constant currency calculations are generally based on prior year actual exchange rates.

Mattel believes that the disclosure of the percentage impact of currency changes is useful supplemental information for investors to be able to gauge Mattel's current business performance and the longer-term strength of its overall business since currency changes could potentially mask underlying sales trends. The disclosure of the percentage impact of currency exchange allows investors to calculate the impact on a constant currency basis and also enhances their ability to compare financial results from one period to another.

Key Performance Indicator

Gross billings represent amounts invoiced to customers. It does not include the impact of sales adjustments, such as trade discounts and other allowances. Mattel presents changes in gross billings as a metric for comparing its aggregate, categorical, brand, and geographic results to highlight significant trends in Mattel's business. Changes in gross billings are discussed because, while Mattel records the details of sales adjustments in its financial accounting systems at the time of sale, such sales adjustments are generally recorded by customer and not associated with categories, brands, or individual products.

Foreign Currency Exchange Rate Risk

Currency exchange rate fluctuations impact Mattel's results of operations and cash flows. The Euro and Chinese yuan were the primary currencies that caused foreign currency transaction exposure for Mattel in 2024. Mattel seeks to mitigate its foreign currency exchange risk by monitoring its foreign currency transaction exposure for the year and partially hedging such exposure using foreign currency forward exchange contracts primarily to hedge its purchase and sale of inventory and other intercompany transactions denominated in foreign currencies. These contracts generally have maturity dates of up to 24 months. For those intercompany receivables and payables that are not hedged, the transaction gains or losses are recorded in the consolidated statements of operations in the period in which the exchange rate changes as part of operating income or other non-operating expense (income), net based on the nature of the underlying transaction. Transaction gains or losses on hedged intercompany inventory transactions are recorded in the consolidated statements of operations in the period in which the inventory is sold to customers. In addition, Mattel manages its exposure to currency exchange rate fluctuations through the selection of currencies used for international borrowings. Mattel does not trade in financial instruments for speculative purposes.

Mattel's financial position is also impacted by currency exchange rate fluctuations on translation of its net investments in subsidiaries with non-U.S. dollar functional currencies. Assets and liabilities of subsidiaries with non-U.S. dollar functional currencies are translated into U.S. dollars at period-end exchange rates. Income, expense, and cash flow items are translated at weighted-average exchange rates prevailing during the period. The resulting currency translation adjustments are recorded as a component of accumulated other comprehensive loss within stockholders' equity. Mattel's primary currency translation adjustments in 2024 were related to its net investments in entities having functional currencies denominated in the Mexican peso, Russian ruble, and Brazilian real.

There are numerous factors impacting the amount by which Mattel's financial results are affected by foreign currency translation and transaction gains and losses resulting from changes in currency exchange rates, including, but not limited to, the level of foreign currency forward exchange contracts in place at a given time and the volume of foreign currency-denominated transactions in a given period. However, assuming that such factors were held constant, Mattel estimates that a one percent change in the U.S. dollar would have impacted Mattel's 2024 net sales by approximately 0.4% and would have less than a $0.01 impact to Mattel's net income per share.

Mattel's foreign currency forward exchange contracts that were used to hedge firm commitments and anticipated transactions as of December 31, 2024 are shown below. All contracts in the following table are against the U.S. dollar and are maintained by reporting units with a U.S. dollar functional currency.

(In thousands of U.S. dollars, except for rates)

(a) The weighted-average contract rate for these contracts is quoted in U.S. dollar per local currency.

For the purchase of foreign currencies, fair value reflects the amount, based on dealer quotes, that Mattel would pay at maturity for contracts involving the same notional amounts, currencies, and maturity dates, if they had been entered into as of December 31, 2024. For the sale of foreign currencies, fair value reflects the amount, based on dealer quotes, that Mattel would receive at maturity for contracts involving the same notional amounts, currencies, and maturity dates, if they had been entered into as of December 31, 2024. The differences between the market forward amounts and the contract amounts are expected to be fully offset by currency transaction gains and losses on the underlying hedged transactions.

In addition to the contracts involving the U.S. dollar detailed in the above table, Mattel also had contracts to sell British pound sterling for the purchase of Euro. As of December 31, 2024, these contracts had a contract amount of $69.0 million and a fair value liability of $1.4 million.

Had Mattel not entered into hedges to limit the effect of currency exchange rate fluctuations on its results of operations and cash flows, its earnings before income taxes would have decreased by approximately $30 million in each of 2024 and 2023.

Turkey Operations

Effective April 1, 2022, Mattel has accounted for Turkey as a highly inflationary economy, as the projected three-year cumulative inflation rate exceeded 100%. As such, beginning April 1, 2022, Mattel's Turkey subsidiary has designated the U.S. dollar as its functional currency. Mattel's Turkey subsidiary represented approximately 1% of Mattel's consolidated net sales for the year ended December 31, 2024.

Principal Executive Officer and Principal Financial Officer Certifications

Appearing as exhibits to this report are certifications of Mattel's principal executive officer and Mattel's principal financial officer. The certifications are required to be made by Rule 13a-14 or Rule 15d-14 under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (the "Exchange Act"). This item contains the information about the evaluation that is referred to in the certifications, and the information set forth below in this Item 9A should be read in conjunction with the certifications for a more complete understanding of the certifications.

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

As of December 31, 2024, Mattel's disclosure controls and procedures were evaluated, with the participation of Mattel's principal executive officer and principal financial officer, to assess whether they are effective in providing reasonable assurance that information required to be disclosed by Mattel in the reports that it files or submits under the Exchange Act is accumulated and communicated to management, including its principal executive officer and principal financial officer, as appropriate, to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure and to provide reasonable assurance that such information is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in the SEC's rules and forms. Based on this evaluation, Ynon Kreiz, Mattel's principal executive officer, and Anthony DiSilvestro, Mattel's principal financial officer, concluded that these disclosure controls and procedures are not effective as of December 31, 2024 due to a material weakness in Mattel's internal control over financial reporting, as further described in Management's Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting, which is included in Item 8 "Financial Statements and Supplementary Data" of this report and incorporated herein by reference.

Management's Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting

The report called for by Item 308(a) of Regulation S-K is incorporated by reference to Management's Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting, included in Item 8 "Financial Statements and Supplementary Data" of this report.

Completed Remediation Actions

As previously disclosed in Item 8 of our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2023, management identified that software program change monitoring controls were not effectively designed to detect inappropriate changes to certain information technology systems. During 2024, management designed and implemented new controls to address the identified deficiency. During the quarter ended December 31, 2024, management completed its testing of the operating effectiveness of these controls and concluded that the deficiency had been remediated.

Remaining Remediation Actions

During the quarter ended December 31, 2024, management completed the design of new user access provisioning and review controls for certain systems. Additional time is required to test the operating effectiveness of these controls to demonstrate the effectiveness of the remediation efforts for those systems. Additionally, management recently identified a similar control deficiency involving the execution of user access provisioning and review controls within certain other systems. The material weakness cannot be considered remediated until the applicable controls operate for a sufficient period of time and management has concluded, through testing, that the controls are operating effectively.

Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

The report called for by Item 308(b) of Regulation S-K is incorporated by reference to Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm, included in Item 8 "Financial Statements and Supplementary Data" of this report.

Changes in Internal Control Over Financial Reporting

There were no changes in internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the quarter ended December 31, 2024 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, Mattel's internal control over financial reporting.