CTS 10Q 2024 Q3 Quarterly report

CTS (CTS) 10-Q2024 Q3 Quarterly report

Content analysis

UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

WASHINGTON, D.C. 20549

FORM 10-Q

(Mark One)


☒	QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

For The Quarterly Period Ended September 30, 2024


☐	TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

For the Transition Period from to

Commission File Number: 1-4639

CTS CORPORATION

(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

35-0225010

(State or other jurisdiction of

incorporation or organization)

(IRS Employer

Identification Number)


4925 Indiana Avenue
Lisle IL		60532
(Address of principal executive offices)		(Zip Code)

Registrant’s telephone number, including area code: (630) 577-8800

Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:


Title of Each Class	Trading Symbol(s)	Name of Each Exchange on Which Registered
Common stock, without par value	CTS	New York Stock Exchange

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days. Yes ☒ No ☐

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically every Interactive Data File required to be submitted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§ 232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit such files). Yes ☒ No ☐

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, a smaller reporting company, or an emerging growth company. See the definitions of “large accelerated filer”, “accelerated filer,” “smaller reporting company,” and “emerging growth company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.

If an emerging growth company, indicate by check mark if the registrant has elected not to use the extended transition period for complying with any new or revised financial accounting standards provided pursuant to Section 13 (a) of the Exchange Act. ☐

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act). Yes ☐ No ☒

Indicate the number of shares outstanding of each of the issuer’s classes of common stock, as of October 22, 2024: 30,115,545.

CTS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

TABLE OF CONTENTS


			Page

PART I. FINANCIAL INFORMATION

	Item 1.	Financial Statements	3

		Condensed Consolidated Statements of Earnings (Unaudited) For the Three and Nine Months Ended September 30, 2024 and September 30, 2023	3

		Condensed Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Earnings (Unaudited) For the Three and Nine Months Ended September 30, 2024 and September 30, 2023	4

		Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets As of September 30, 2024 (Unaudited) and December 31, 2023	5

		Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows (Unaudited) For the Nine Months Ended September 30, 2024 and September 30, 2023	6

		Condensed Consolidated Statements of Shareholders’ Equity (Unaudited) For the Three and Nine Months Ended September 30, 2024 and September 30, 2023	7

		Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements ‑ (Unaudited)	9

	Item 2.	Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations	28

	Item 3.	Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk	34

	Item 4.	Controls and Procedures	35

PART II. OTHER INFORMATION

	Item 1.	Legal Proceedings	35

	Item 1A.	Risk Factors	35

	Item 2.	Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds	35

	Item 5.	Other Information	36

	Item 6.	Exhibits	37

SIGNATURES			38

PART I - FINANCIAL INFORMATION

Item 1. Financial Statements

CTS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF EARNINGS - UNAUDITED

(In thousands, except per share amounts)


	Three Months Ended						Nine Months Ended
	September 30,			September 30,			September 30,			September 30,
	2024			2023			2024			2023
Net sales	$	132,424		$	134,552		$	388,336		$	425,728
Cost of goods sold		82,636			88,151			247,086			276,933
Gross margin		49,788			46,401			141,250			148,795
Selling, general and administrative expenses		22,509			18,666			66,100			64,339
Research and development expenses		5,031			6,321			17,718			19,628
Restructuring charges		773			3,226			3,657			6,033
Operating earnings		21,475			18,188			53,775			58,795
Other income (expense):
Interest expense		(1,307	)		(997	)		(2,942	)		(2,509	)
Interest income		973			952			3,800			3,087
Other income (expense), net		1,306			594			(761	)		(1,847	)
Total other income (expense), net		972			549			97			(1,269	)
Earnings before income taxes		22,447			18,737			53,872			57,526
Income tax expense		3,764			4,766			9,364			12,314
Net earnings	$	18,683		$	13,971		$	44,508		$	45,212
Earnings per share:
Basic	$	0.62		$	0.45		$	1.46		$	1.44
Diluted	$	0.61		$	0.44		$	1.45		$	1.43
Basic weighted – average common shares outstanding:		30,300			31,302			30,517			31,474
Effect of dilutive securities		236			209			230			216
Diluted weighted – average common shares outstanding:		30,536			31,511			30,747			31,690
Cash dividends declared per share	$	0.04		$	0.04		$	0.12		$	0.12

See notes to unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements.

CTS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE EARNINGS ‑ UNAUDITED

(In thousands)


	Three Months Ended						Nine Months Ended
	September 30,			September 30,			September 30,			September 30,
	2024			2023			2024			2023
Net earnings	$	18,683		$	13,971		$	44,508		$	45,212
Other comprehensive earnings (loss):
Changes in fair market value of derivatives, net of tax		(2,460	)		(392	)		(3,404	)		816
Changes in unrealized pension cost, net of tax		(5	)		22			94			(7	)
Cumulative translation adjustment, net of tax		3,707			(3,996	)		1,063			(812	)
Other comprehensive earnings (loss)	$	1,242		$	(4,366	)	$	(2,247	)	$	(3	)
Comprehensive earnings	$	19,925		$	9,605		$	42,261		$	45,209

See notes to unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements.

CTS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

(In thousands)


	(Unaudited)
	September 30,			December 31,
	2024			2023
ASSETS
Current Assets
Cash and cash equivalents	$	94,875		$	163,876
Accounts receivable, net		86,355			78,569
Inventories, net		57,288			60,031
Other current assets		17,043			16,873
Total current assets		255,561			319,349
Property, plant and equipment, net		93,465			92,592
Operating lease assets, net		23,689			26,425
Other Assets
Goodwill		194,821			157,638
Other intangible assets, net		180,872			103,957
Deferred income taxes		26,837			25,183
Other		14,147			16,023
Total other assets		416,677			302,801
Total Assets	$	789,392		$	741,167
LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY
Current Liabilities
Accounts payable	$	44,951		$	43,499
Operating lease obligations		4,591			4,394
Accrued payroll and benefits		17,008			14,585
Accrued expenses and other liabilities		37,249			34,561
Total current liabilities		103,799			97,039
Long-term debt		102,700			67,500
Long-term operating lease obligations		22,016			24,965
Long-term pension obligations		4,561			4,655
Deferred income taxes		13,784			14,729
Other long-term obligations		11,726			5,457
Total Liabilities		258,586			214,345
Commitments and Contingencies (Note 11)
Shareholders’ Equity
Common stock		321,924			319,269
Additional contributed capital		42,908			45,097
Retained earnings		643,088			602,232
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)		2,017			4,264
Total shareholders’ equity before treasury stock		1,009,937			970,862
Treasury stock		(479,131	)		(444,040	)
Total shareholders’ equity		530,806			526,822
Total Liabilities and Shareholders’ Equity	$	789,392		$	741,167

See notes to unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements.

CTS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS ‑ UNAUDITED

(In thousands)


	Nine Months Ended
	September 30,			September 30,
	2024			2023
CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES:
Net earnings	$	44,508		$	45,212
Adjustments to reconcile net earnings to net cash provided by operating activities:
Depreciation and amortization		22,644			21,425
Pension and other post-retirement plan expense		255			102
Stock-based compensation		3,992			4,641
Asset impairment charges		—			1,324
Deferred income taxes		(1,783	)		(1,338	)
Change in fair value of contingent consideration liability		(739	)		—
(Loss) gain on foreign currency hedges, net of cash		(479	)		326
Changes in assets and liabilities, net of acquisitions:
Accounts receivable		(6,972	)		197
Inventories		11,346			(3,972	)
Operating lease assets		3,400			(4,843	)
Other assets		1,081			(1,089	)
Accounts payable		(146	)		(1,826	)
Accrued payroll and benefits		2,413			(7,342	)
Operating lease liabilities		(3,416	)		4,769
Accrued expenses and other liabilities		(2,645	)		(750	)
Pension and other post-retirement plans		(124	)		(94	)
Net cash provided by operating activities		73,335			56,742
CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES:
Capital expenditures		(12,543	)		(11,236	)
Payments for acquisitions, net of cash acquired		(121,912	)		(3,359	)
Net cash used in investing activities		(134,455	)		(14,595	)
CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES:
Payments of long-term debt		(600,600	)		(593,307	)
Proceeds from borrowings of long-term debt		635,800			586,301
Purchases of treasury stock		(34,787	)		(25,890	)
Dividends paid		(3,677	)		(3,792	)
Payment of contingent consideration		(1,076	)		—
Taxes paid on behalf of equity award participants		(3,154	)		(3,249	)
Net cash used in financing activities		(7,494	)		(39,937	)
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents		(387	)		992
Net (decrease) increase in cash and cash equivalents		(69,001	)		3,202
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period		163,876			156,910
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period	$	94,875		$	160,112
Supplemental cash flow information:
Cash paid for interest	$	2,776		$	2,350
Cash paid for income taxes, net	$	12,143		$	15,129
Non-cash financing and investing activities:
Capital expenditures incurred but not paid	$	2,360		$	1,687
Excise taxes on purchase of treasury stock incurred not paid	$	664		$	—

See notes to unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements.

CTS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY - UNAUDITED

(in thousands, except shares and per share amounts)

The following summarizes the changes in total equity for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2024:


	Common Stock		Additional Contributed Capital			Retained Earnings			Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)			Treasury Stock			Total
Balances at December 31, 2023	$	319,269	$	45,097		$	602,232		$	4,264		$	(444,040	)	$	526,822
Net earnings		—		—			11,119			—			—			11,119
Changes in fair market value of derivatives, net of tax		—		—			—			730			—			730
Changes in unrealized pension cost, net of tax		—		—			—			65			—			65
Cumulative translation adjustment, net of tax		—		—			—			(2,121	)		—			(2,121	)
Cash dividends of $0.04 per share		—		—			(1,227	)		—			—			(1,227	)
Acquired 271,939 shares of treasury stock		—		—			—			—			(12,035	)		(12,035	)
Issued shares on vesting of restricted stock units		2,589		(5,705	)		—			—			—			(3,116	)
Stock compensation		—		1,048			—			—			—			1,048
Balances at March 31, 2024	$	321,858	$	40,440		$	612,124		$	2,938		$	(456,075	)	$	521,285
Net earnings		—		—			14,707			—			—			14,707
Changes in fair market value of derivatives, net of tax		—		—			—			(1,675	)		—			(1,675	)
Changes in unrealized pension cost, net of tax		—		—			—			35			—			35
Cumulative translation adjustment, net of tax		—		—			—			(523	)		—			(523	)
Cash dividends of $0.04 per share		—		—			(1,217	)		—			—			(1,217	)
Acquired 228,000 shares of treasury stock		—		—			—			—			(11,043	)		(11,043	)
Issued shares on vesting of restricted stock units		36		(49	)		—			—			—			(13	)
Stock compensation		—		1,195			—			—			—			1,195
Balances at June 30, 2024	$	321,894	$	41,586		$	625,614		$	775		$	(467,118	)	$	522,751
Net earnings		—		—			18,683			—			—			18,683
Changes in fair market value of derivatives, net of tax		—		—			—			(2,460	)		—			(2,460	)
Changes in unrealized pension cost, net of tax		—		—			—			(5	)		—			(5	)
Cumulative translation adjustment, net of tax		—		—			—			3,707			—			3,707
Cash dividends of $0.04 per share		—		—			(1,209	)		—			—			(1,209	)
Acquired 244,500 shares of treasury stock		—		—			—			—			(12,013	)		(12,013	)
Issued shares on vesting of restricted stock units		30		(54	)		—			—			—			(24	)
Stock compensation		—		1,376			—			—			—			1,376
Balances at September 30, 2024	$	321,924	$	42,908		$	643,088		$	2,017		$	(479,131	)	$	530,806

See notes to unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements.

CTS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY - UNAUDITED

(in thousands, except shares and per share amounts)

The following summarizes the changes in total equity for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2023:


	Common Stock		Additional Contributed Capital			Retained Earnings			Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)			Treasury Stock			Total
Balances at December 31, 2022	$	316,803	$	46,144		$	546,703		$	(671	)	$	(402,755	)	$	506,224
Net earnings		—		—			18,344			—			—			18,344
Changes in fair market value of derivatives, net of tax		—		—			—			379			—			379
Changes in unrealized pension cost, net of tax		—		—			—			(34	)		—			(34	)
Cumulative translation adjustment, net of tax		—		—			—			1,024			—			1,024
Cash dividends of $0.04 per share		—		—			(1,260	)		—			—			(1,260	)
Acquired 198,271 shares of treasury stock		—		—			—			—			(8,802	)		(8,802	)
Issued shares on vesting of restricted stock units		1,982		(5,125	)		—			—			—			(3,143	)
Stock compensation		—		1,404			—			—			—			1,404
Balances at March 31, 2023	$	318,785	$	42,423		$	563,787		$	698		$	(411,557	)	$	514,136
Net earnings		—		—			12,897			—			—			12,897
Changes in fair market value of derivatives, net of tax		—		—			—			830			—			830
Changes in unrealized pension cost, net of tax		—		—			—			4			—			4
Cumulative translation adjustment, net of tax		—		—			—			2,159			—			2,159
Cash dividends of $0.04 per share		—		—			(1,262	)		—			—			(1,262	)
Acquired 197,716 shares of treasury stock		—		—			—			—			(8,760	)		(8,760	)
Issued shares on vesting of restricted stock units		326		(423	)		—			—			—			(97	)
Stock compensation		—		1,488			—			—			—			1,488
Balances at June 30, 2023	$	319,111	$	43,488		$	575,422		$	3,691		$	(420,317	)	$	521,395
Net earnings		—		—			13,971			—			—			13,971
Changes in fair market value of derivatives, net of tax		—		—			—			(392	)		—			(392	)
Changes in unrealized pension cost, net of tax		—		—			—			22			—			22
Cumulative translation adjustment, net of tax		—		—			—			(3,996	)		—			(3,996	)
Cash dividends of $0.04 per share		—		—			(1,249	)		—			—			(1,249	)
Acquired 188,658 shares of treasury stock		—		—			—			—			(8,328	)		(8,328	)
Issued shares on vesting of restricted stock units		14		(23	)		—			—			—			(9	)
Stock compensation		—		1,253			—			—			—			1,253
Balances at September 30, 2023	$	319,125	$	44,718		$	588,144		$	(675	)	$	(428,645	)	$	522,667

See notes to unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements.

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - UNAUDITED

(in thousands, except for share and per share data)

September 30, 2024

NOTE 1 — Basis of Presentation

The accompanying condensed consolidated financial statements have been prepared by CTS Corporation (“CTS”, “we”, “our”, “us” or the “Company”), without audit, pursuant to the rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission. Certain information and footnote disclosures normally included in financial statements prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles have been omitted pursuant to such rules and regulations. The unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements should be read in conjunction with the financial statements, notes thereto, and other information included in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10‑K for the year ended December 31, 2023.

The accompanying unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements reflect, in the opinion of management, all adjustments (consisting of normal recurring items) necessary for a fair statement, in all material respects, of the financial position and results of operations for the periods presented. The preparation of financial statements in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities, the disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reported period. Actual results could differ materially from those estimates. The results of operations for the interim periods are not necessarily indicative of the results for the entire year.

There have been no material changes in the Company’s significant accounting policies as compared to the significant accounting policies described in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2023.

Recently issued accounting pronouncements not yet adopted

ASU No. 2023-07, “Segment Reporting (Topic 280): Improvements to Reportable Segment Disclosure”

In November 2023, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) issued Accounting Standards Update (“ASU”) 2023-07, Segment Reporting (Topic 280): Improvements to Reportable Segment Disclosures, which requires public entities to disclose information about their reportable segments' significant expenses and other segment items on an interim and annual basis. Public entities with a single reportable segment are required to apply the disclosure requirements in ASU 2023-07, as well as existing segment disclosures and reconciliation required under Accounting Standard Codification (“ASC”) 280 on an interim and annual basis. ASU 2023-07 is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2023, and for the interim periods beginning after December 15, 2024, with early adoption permitted. The Company is currently evaluating the impact of adopting ASU 2023-07 and intends to adopt and report on this topic within the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ending December 31, 2024.

ASU No. 2023-09, “Income Taxes (Topic 740): Improvements to Income Tax Disclosures”

In December 2023, the FASB issued ASU 2023-09, Income Taxes (Topic 740): Improvements to Income Tax Disclosures, which requires public entities, on an annual basis, to provide disclosure of specific categories in the reconciliation of the effective tax rate, as well as disclosure of income taxes paid, disaggregated by jurisdiction. ASU 2023-09 is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2024, with early adoption permitted. The Company is currently evaluating the impact of adopting ASU 2023-09.

NOTE 2 – Revenue Recognition

The core principle of ASC (Topic 606) Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606) is that an entity should recognize revenue to depict the transfer of promised goods or services to customers in an amount that reflects the consideration to which the entity expects to be entitled in exchange for those goods or services. The guidance provides a five-step process to achieve that core principle:

•

Identify the contract(s) with a customer

•

Identify the performance obligations

•

Determine the transaction price

•

Allocate the transaction price

•

Recognize revenue when the performance obligations are met

We recognize revenue when the performance obligations specified in our contracts have been satisfied, after considering the impact of variable consideration and other factors that may affect the transaction price. Our contracts normally contain a single performance obligation that is fulfilled on the date of delivery or shipment based on shipping terms stipulated in the contract. We usually expect payment within 30 to 90 days from the shipping date, depending on our terms with the customer. None of our contracts as of September 30, 2024 contained a significant financing component. Differences between the amount of revenue recognized and the amount invoiced, collected from, or paid to our customers are recognized as contract assets or liabilities. Contract assets will be reviewed for impairment when events or circumstances indicate that they may not be recoverable.

To the extent the transaction price includes variable consideration, we estimate the amount of variable consideration that should be included in the transaction price utilizing the most likely amount method based on an analysis of historical experience and current facts and circumstances, which requires significant judgment. Variable consideration is included in the transaction price if, in our judgment, it is probable that a significant future reversal of cumulative revenue under the contract will not occur.

Contract Assets and Liabilities

Contract assets and liabilities included in our Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets are as follows:


	As of
	September 30,			December 31,
	2024			2023
Contract Assets
Unbilled customer receivables included in Other current assets	$	2,662		$	—
Total Contract Assets	$	2,662		$	—

Contract Liabilities
Customer advance payments included in Accrued expenses and other liabilities	$	(2,929	)	$	—
Total Contract Liabilities	$	(2,929	)	$	—

During the nine months ended September 30, 2024, our acquisition of SyQwest, LLC. (“SyQwest”) increased our contract assets and liabilities by $2,662 and $2,929, respectively from December 31, 2023. Further information regarding this acquisition, including the assets acquired and liabilities assumed is included in Note 3 – “Business Acquisitions”. There was no revenue recognized during the nine months ended September 30, 2024 from our contract liabilities that existed as of December 31, 2023.

Disaggregated Revenue

The following table presents revenues disaggregated by the major markets we serve:


	Three months ended				Nine months ended
	September 30, 2024		September 30, 2023		September 30, 2024		September 30, 2023
Transportation	$	63,031	$	75,991	$	193,769	$	232,299
Industrial		30,747		30,187		93,985		104,519
Medical		18,020		17,477		52,754		51,591
Aerospace & Defense		20,626		10,897		47,828		37,319
Total	$	132,424	$	134,552	$	388,336	$	425,728

The end-market sales for 2023 were adjusted by immaterial amounts to align the classification of certain customers in connection with our most recent acquisitions with our enterprise-level end market information.

NOTE 3 – Business Acquisitions

Maglab AG Acquisition

On February 6, 2023, we acquired 100% of the outstanding shares of Maglab AG (“Maglab”). Maglab has deep expertise in magnetic system design and current measurement solutions for use in e-mobility, industrial automation, and renewable energy applications. Maglab's domain expertise coupled with CTS’ commercial, technical and operational capabilities position us to advance our status as a recognized innovator in electric motor sensing and controls markets.

The final purchase price of $7,717 has been allocated to the fair values of assets and liabilities acquired as of February 6, 2023. The purchase price was increased by $3 for the final settlement of net working capital during the second quarter of 2023. The following table summarizes the final purchase price, the fair values of the assets acquired, and the liabilities assumed as of the date of acquisition:


	Consideration Paid
Cash paid, net of cash acquired of $14	$	4,153
Contingent consideration		3,564
Purchase price	$	7,717

Goodwill represents value the Company expects to be created by combining the operations of the acquired business with the Company's operations, including the expansion of customer relationships, access to new customers, and potential cost savings and synergies. Goodwill related to the acquisition is expected to be deductible for tax purposes.

The following table summarizes the carrying amounts and weighted average lives of the acquired intangible assets:


	Carrying Value		Weighted Average Amortization Period
Customer lists/relationships	$	2,800		13.0
Technology and other intangibles		60		3.0
Total	$	2,860

All contingent consideration is payable in cash and is based on success factors related to the integration process as well as upon the achievement of annual revenue and customer order targets through the fiscal year ending December 31, 2025. The Company recorded $3,564 as the acquisition date fair value of the contingent consideration based on the estimate of the probability of achieving the performance targets. This amount is also reflected as an addition to the purchase price. The contingent consideration has a maximum payout of $6,300.

Supplemental pro forma disclosures are not included as the amounts are deemed to be immaterial.

SyQwest, LLC Acquisition

The purchase price, which includes estimated changes in working capital, of $130,027 has been allocated to the fair values of assets and liabilities acquired as of July 29, 2024. The allocation of the purchase price continues to be preliminary, pending the completion of the valuation of intangible assets and finalization of management’s estimates. The information included below represents our current estimate of the purchase price allocation.

The following tables summarize the purchase price, the fair values of the assets acquired and the liabilities assumed as of the date of the acquisition of SyQwest:


	Consideration Paid
Cash paid, net of cash acquired of $1,410	$	121,912
Contingent consideration		8,115
Purchase price	$	130,027


	Fair Values at July 29, 2024
Accounts receivable	$	770
Inventory		8,625
Other current assets		1,476
Property, plant and equipment		1,461
Other assets		684
Goodwill		36,768
Intangible assets		85,791
Fair value of assets acquired		135,575
Less fair value of liabilities acquired		(5,548	)
Purchase price	$	130,027

Goodwill represents the value the Company expects to be created by combining the operations of the acquired business with the Company’s operations, including the expansion of customer relationships, access to new customers, and potential cost savings and synergies. Goodwill related to the acquisition is expected to be deductible for tax purposes.

The Company recorded a $2,087 step-up of inventory to its fair value as of the acquisition date based on the preliminary valuation. The step-up is being amortized as a non-cash charge to cost of goods sold as the acquired inventory was sold with $1,391 recognized in the third quarter of 2024 and the remaining charges expected to be recognized in the fourth quarter of 2024.

Intangible assets acquired have been assigned a provisional value of $85,791 with an estimated weighted average amortization period of 15 years. They are included as customer lists/relationships in our Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets and subsequent notes. Due to the timing of the acquisition, the identification and valuation of all intangible assets remains incomplete; however, management used historical experience and projections to estimate the potential value at September 30, 2024. The amount and assumptions included above remain an estimate that will be adjusted once purchase accounting is complete.

All contingent consideration is payable in cash and is based on the achievement of certain project and earnings metrics through the fiscal year ending December 31, 2026. The Company recorded $8,115 as the acquisition date fair value of the contingent consideration based on the estimate of the probability of achieving the performance targets. This amount is also reflected as an addition to the purchase price and is recorded within other long-term obligations within the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets. The contingent consideration has a maximum payout of $15,000.

Supplemental pro forma disclosures are not included as the amounts are deemed to be immaterial.

NOTE 4 – Accounts Receivable, net

The components of accounts receivable, net are as follows:


	As of
	September 30,			December 31,
	2024			2023
Accounts receivable, gross	$	87,074		$	79,500
Less: Allowance for credit losses		(719	)		(931	)
Accounts receivable, net	$	86,355		$	78,569

NOTE 5 – Inventories, net

Inventories, net consists of the following:


	As of
	September 30,			December 31,
	2024			2023
Finished goods	$	11,383		$	20,279
Work-in-process		24,744			19,213
Raw materials		36,361			33,187
Less: Inventory reserves		(15,200	)		(12,648	)
Inventories, net	$	57,288		$	60,031

NOTE 6 – Property, Plant and Equipment, net

Property, plant and equipment, net is comprised of the following:


	As of
	September 30,			December 31,
	2024			2023
Land and land improvements	$	398		$	536
Buildings and improvements		72,714			74,188
Machinery and equipment		263,699			261,435
Less: Accumulated depreciation		(243,346	)		(243,567	)
Property, plant and equipment, net	$	93,465		$	92,592

Depreciation expense for the three months ended September 30, 2024 and September 30, 2023 was $4,255 and $4,422, respectively. Depreciation expense for the nine months ended September 30, 2024 and September 30, 2023 was $13,273 and $13,229, respectively.

NOTE 7 – Retirement Plans

Pension Plans

Net pension expense for our domestic and foreign plans included in other expense, net in the Condensed Consolidated Statements of Earnings is as follows:


	Three Months Ended				Nine Months Ended
	September 30,		September 30,		September 30,		September 30,
	2024		2023		2024		2023
Net pension expense	$	52	$	79	$	158	$	212

The components of net pension expense for our domestic and foreign plans include the following:


	Domestic Pension Plans				Foreign Pension Plans
	Three Months Ended				Three Months Ended
	September 30,		September 30,		September 30,			September 30,
	2024		2023		2024			2023
Service cost	$	—	$	—	$	3		$	6
Interest cost		9		10		6			10
Expected return on plan assets(1)		—		12		(5	)		(7	)
Amortization of loss		6		5		33			43
Total expense, net	$	15	$	27	$	37		$	52

(1)

Expected return on plan assets is net of expected investment expenses and certain administrative expenses.


	Domestic Pension Plans				Foreign Pension Plans
	Nine Months Ended				Nine Months Ended
	September 30,		September 30,		September 30,			September 30,
	2024		2023		2024			2023
Service cost	$	—	$	—	$	10		$	17
Interest cost		27		29		18			29
Expected return on plan assets(1)		—		12		(15	)		(20	)
Amortization of loss		18		16		100			129
Total expense, net	$	45	$	57	$	113		$	155

(1)

Expected return on plan assets is net of expected investment expenses and certain administrative expenses.

Other Post-retirement Benefit Plan

Net post-retirement expense for our other post-retirement plan includes the following components:


	Three Months Ended						Nine Months Ended
	September 30,			September 30,			September 30,			September 30,
	2024			2023			2024			2023
Service cost	$	—		$	—		$	—		$	—
Interest cost		47			48			143			144
Amortization of gain		(16	)		(85	)		(47	)		(253	)
Total expense (income), net	$	31		$	(37	)	$	96		$	(109	)

NOTE 8 – Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets

Goodwill

Changes in the net carrying amount of goodwill were as follows:


	Total
Goodwill as of December 31, 2023	$	157,638
Increase due to acquisitions		36,768
Foreign exchange impact		415
Goodwill as of September 30, 2024	$	194,821

Other Intangible Assets

Other intangible assets, net consist of the following components:


	As of
	September 30, 2024
	Gross Carrying Amount		Accumulated Amortization			Net Amount
Customer lists/relationships	$	231,203	$	(70,298	)	$	160,905
Technology and other intangibles		54,140		(34,173	)		19,967
Other intangible assets, net	$	285,343	$	(104,471	)	$	180,872


	As of
	December 31, 2023
	Gross Carrying Amount		Accumulated Amortization			Net Amount
Customer lists/relationships	$	144,671	$	(63,006	)	$	81,665
Technology and other intangibles		54,052		(31,760	)		22,292
Other intangible assets, net	$	198,723	$	(94,766	)	$	103,957

Amortization expense for the three months ended September 30, 2024 and September 30, 2023 was $3,738 and $2,828, respectively. Amortization expense for the nine months ended September 30, 2024 and September 30, 2023 was $9,371 and $8,196, respectively.

The changes in the gross carrying amounts of intangible assets are due to the SyQwest acquisition and foreign exchange impacts in the quarter.

Future amortization expense for other intangible assets as of September 30, 2024 is as follows:


	Amortization expense
Remaining 2024	$	4,375
2025		16,484
2026		16,324
2027		16,265
2028		16,230
Thereafter		111,194
Total amortization expense	$	180,872

NOTE 9 – Costs Associated with Exit and Restructuring Activities

Restructuring charges are reported as a separate line within operating earnings in the Condensed Consolidated Statements of Earnings.

Total restructuring charges are as follows:


	Three Months Ended
	September 30, 2024		September 30, 2023
Restructuring charges	$	773	$	3,226


	Nine Months Ended
	September 30, 2024		September 30, 2023
Restructuring charges	$	3,657	$	6,033

September 2020 Plan

In September 2020, we initiated a restructuring plan focused on optimizing our manufacturing footprint and improving operational efficiency by better utilizing our systems capabilities (the “September 2020 Plan”). This plan includes transitioning certain administrative functions to a shared service center, realignment of manufacturing locations, and certain other efficiency improvement actions. The restructuring cost of the September 2020 Plan is estimated to be in the range of $3,868 to $4,200, including workforce reduction charges, building and equipment relocation charges and other contract and asset-related costs. We have incurred $3,868 in program costs to date. During the three months ended September 30, 2024, we recorded $(156) in accrual adjustment for restructuring charges pertaining to building and equipment relocation charges. During the nine months ended September 30, 2024, we recorded ($28) in restructuring charges and accrual adjustments, comprised of $7 and $(35) in workforce reduction and building and equipment relocation charges, respectively. As of September 30, 2024 there was no liability associated with the September 2020 Plan. The total restructuring liability associated with these actions was $83 as of December 31, 2023. These restructuring actions were completed as of September 30, 2024.

Closure and Consolidation of Juarez Manufacturing Facility and Operations

During the first quarter of 2023, we announced the shutdown of our Juarez manufacturing facility. As a part of this activity, operations from the Juarez plant are being consolidated into our expanded Matamoros facility (collectively, the “Matamoros Consolidation”). The Matamoros Consolidation is substantially complete as of September 30, 2024 with remaining activity expected to be completed later

this year. The total restructuring cost of the Matamoros Consolidation is now estimated to be in the range of $5,150 and $5,500, including workforce reduction charges, building and equipment relocation charges and other contract and asset-related costs. The total restructuring costs incurred as part of the Matamoros Consolidation are $5,116 through September 30, 2024.

During the three months ended September 30, 2024, we incurred $106 in restructuring charges associated with the Matamoros Consolidation, comprised of $97, and $9 in building and equipment relocation costs and asset impairment and other charges, respectively. During the nine months ended September 30, 2024, we incurred $1,416 in restructuring costs associated with the Matamoros Consolidation, comprised of $270, $983, and $163 in workforce reduction, building and equipment relocation costs and asset impairment and other charges, respectively. The restructuring liability associated with the Matamoros Consolidation was $79 and $194 as of September 30, 2024 and December 31, 2023, respectively.

In addition to these charges, we have incurred an additional $1,268 of other costs relating to the Matamoros Consolidation that would not qualify as restructuring charges, but represent duplicative expenses arising from the transition process, such as excess rent, utilities, personnel-related expenses and other costs. This includes $697 in the first nine months of 2024 with the other costs incurred in the second half of 2023.

Other Restructuring Activities

During the three month period ended September 30, 2024, we incurred total other restructuring charges of $822, comprised of $746 and $76 in workforce reduction and asset impairment and other charges, respectively. During the nine month period ended September 30, 2024, we incurred total other restructuring charges of $2,269, comprised of $1,821, $286, and $161 in workforce reduction, building and equipment relocation costs, and asset impairment and other charges, respectively. The workforce reduction charges incurred are for restructuring activities used to adjust our business in response to reduced demand across certain locations and products, while charges incurred in relation to building and equipment relocation costs and other charges are for activities intended to consolidate operations across our site locations. The remaining liability associated with our other restructuring actions was $887 and $246 at September 30, 2024 and December 31, 2023, respectively.

The following table displays the restructuring liability activity included in accrued expenses and other liabilities for all plans for the nine months ended September 30, 2024:


Restructuring liability at January 1, 2024	$	523
Restructuring charges		3,657
Costs paid		(3,205	)
Other activity(1)		(9	)
Restructuring liability at September 30, 2024	$	966

(1)

Other charges include the effects of currency translation, non-cash asset write-downs, travel, legal and other charges.

NOTE 10 – Accrued Expenses and Other Liabilities

The components of accrued expenses and other liabilities are as follows:


	As of
	September 30,		December 31,
	2024		2023
Accrued product-related costs	$	2,025	$	2,183
Accrued income taxes		5,743		6,899
Accrued property and other taxes		1,906		1,542
Accrued professional fees		1,902		1,232
Accrued customer-related liabilities		4,864		2,167
Dividends payable		1,207		1,233
Remediation reserves		10,756		12,044
Derivative liabilities		2,818		747
Other accrued liabilities		6,028		6,514
Total accrued expenses and other liabilities	$	37,249	$	34,561

NOTE 11 – Commitments and Contingencies

Certain processes in the manufacture of our current and past products may create by-products classified as hazardous waste. As a result, we have been notified by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (“EPA”), state environmental agencies and in some cases, groups of potentially responsible parties, that we may be potentially liable for environmental contamination at several sites currently or formerly owned or operated by us. Currently, none of these costs and accruals relate to sites that provide revenue generating activities for the Company. Two of those sites, Asheville, North Carolina (the “Asheville Site”) and Mountain View, California, are designated National Priorities List sites under the EPA’s Superfund program. We accrue a liability for probable remediation activities, claims, and proceedings against us with respect to environmental matters if the amount can be reasonably estimated, and provide disclosures including the nature of a loss whenever it is probable or reasonably possible that a potentially material loss may have occurred but cannot be estimated. We record contingent loss accruals on an undiscounted basis.

A roll-forward of remediation reserves included in accrued expenses and other liabilities on the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets is comprised of the following:


	As of
	September 30,			December 31,
	2024			2023
Balance at beginning of period	$	12,044		$	11,048
Remediation expense(1)		(206	)		3,502
Net remediation payments		(1,083	)		(2,497	)
Other activity(2)		1			(9	)
Balance at end of the period	$	10,756		$	12,044

(1)

Remediation expense includes the release of our remediation reserve of $1,144 related to the sale and transfer of our Hopkinton, MA facility.

(2)

Other activity includes currency translation adjustments not recorded to remediation expense.

The Company operates under and in accordance with a federal consent decree, dated March 7, 2017, with the EPA for the Asheville Site. On February 8, 2023, the Company received a pre-litigation letter from the EPA (the “EPA Letter”) seeking reimbursement of its past response costs and interest thereon relating to any release or threatened release of hazardous substances at the Asheville Site in the aggregate amount of $9,955 from the three potentially responsible parties associated with the Asheville Site, including the Company. The matter remains in the pre-litigation phase. The Company expects its potential exposure to be between $1,900 and $9,955. We have determined that no point within this range is more likely than another and, therefore, we have recorded a loss estimate of $1,900 as of September 30, 2024 and December 31, 2023 in the Consolidated Balance Sheets.

Unrelated to the environmental claims described above, certain other legal claims are pending against us with respect to matters arising out of the ordinary conduct of our business.

We provide product warranties when we sell our products and accrue for estimated liabilities at the time of sale. Warranty estimates are forecasts based on the best available information and historical claims experience. We accrue for specific warranty claims if we believe that the facts of a specific claim make it probable that a liability in excess of our historical experience has been incurred, and provide disclosures for specific claims whenever it is reasonably possible that a material loss may be incurred which cannot be estimated.

We cannot provide assurance that the ultimate disposition of environmental, legal, and product warranty claims will not materially exceed the amount of our accrued losses and adversely impact our consolidated financial position, results of operations, or cash flows. Our accrued liabilities and disclosures will be adjusted accordingly if additional information becomes available in the future.

NOTE 12 - Debt

Long-term debt is comprised of the following:


	As of
	September 30,			December 31,
	2024			2023
Total credit facility	$	400,000		$	400,000
Balance outstanding		102,700			67,500
Standby letters of credit		1,640			1,640
Amount available, subject to covenant restrictions	$	295,660		$	330,860
Weighted-average interest rate		6.57	%		6.07	%

On December 15, 2021, we entered into a second amended and restated five-year credit agreement with a group of banks (the “Revolving Credit Facility”) to (i) increase the total credit facility to $400,000, which may be increased by $200,000 at the request of the Company, subject to the administrative agent's approval, (ii) extend the maturity of the Revolving Credit Facility from February 12, 2024 to December 15, 2026, (iii) replace LIBOR with SOFR as the primary reference rate used to calculate interest on the loans under the Revolving Credit Facility, (iv) increase available sublimits for letters of credit and swing line loans as well as providing for additional alternative currency borrowing capabilities, and (v) modify the financial and non-financial covenants to provide the Company additional flexibility. This unsecured credit facility replaced the prior $300,000 unsecured credit facility, which would have expired February 12, 2024.

Borrowings in U.S. dollars under the Revolving Credit Facility bear interest, at a per annum rate equal to the applicable Term SOFR rate (but not less than 0.0%), plus the Term SOFR adjustment, and plus an applicable margin, which ranges from 1.00% to 1.75%, based on our net leverage ratio. Similarly, borrowings of alternative currencies under the Revolving Credit Facility bear interest equal to a defined risk-free reference rate, plus the applicable risk-free rate adjustment and plus an applicable margin, which ranges from 1.00% to 1.75%, based on our net leverage ratio. We use interest rate swaps to convert a portion of our revolving credit facility’s outstanding balance from a variable rate of interest to a fixed rate. The contractual rate of these arrangements ranges from 1.49% to 2.49%. Refer to Note 13, “Derivative Financial Instruments,” for further discussion on the impact of interest rate swaps.

The Revolving Credit Facility includes a swing line sublimit of $20,000 and a letter of credit sublimit of $20,000. We also pay a quarterly commitment fee on the unused portion of the Revolving Credit Facility. The commitment fee ranges from 0.175% to 0.25% based on our net leverage ratio.

The Revolving Credit Facility requires, in addition to customary representations and warranties, that we comply with a maximum net leverage ratio and a minimum interest coverage ratio. Failure to comply with these covenants could reduce the borrowing availability under the Revolving Credit Facility. We were in compliance with all debt covenants at September 30, 2024. The Revolving Credit Facility requires that we deliver quarterly financial statements, annual financial statements, auditor certifications, and compliance certificates within a specified number of days after the end of a quarter and year. Additionally, the Revolving Credit Facility contains restrictions limiting our ability to: dispose of assets; incur certain additional debt; repay other debt or amend subordinated debt instruments; create liens on assets; make investments, loans or advances; make acquisitions or engage in mergers or consolidations; engage in certain transactions with our subsidiaries and affiliates; and make stock repurchases and dividend payments.

We have debt issuance costs related to our long-term debt that are being amortized using the straight-line method over the life of the debt, which approximates the effective interest method. Amortization expense for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2024 was $48 and $145, respectively. Amortization expense for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2023 was $48 and $145, respectively. These costs are included in interest expense in our Consolidated Statements of Earnings.

Note 13 - Derivative Financial Instruments

Our earnings and cash flows are subject to fluctuations due to changes in foreign currency exchange rates and interest rates. We selectively use derivative financial instruments including foreign currency forward contracts as well as interest rate and cross-currency swaps to manage our exposure to these risks.

The use of derivative financial instruments exposes the Company to credit risk, which relates to the risk of nonperformance by a counterparty to the derivative contracts. We manage our credit risk by entering into derivative contracts with only highly rated financial institutions and by using netting agreements.

The effective portion of derivative gains and losses are recorded in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) until the hedged transaction affects earnings upon settlement, at which time they are reclassified to cost of goods sold or net sales. If it is probable that an anticipated hedged transaction will not occur by the end of the originally specified time period, we reclassify the gains or losses related to that hedge from accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) to other income (expense), net.

We assess hedge effectiveness qualitatively by verifying that the critical terms of the hedging instrument and the forecasted transaction continue to match, and that there have been no adverse developments that have increased the risk that the counterparty will default. No recognition of ineffectiveness was recorded in our Condensed Consolidated Statements of Earnings for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2024.

Foreign Currency Hedges

We use forward contracts to mitigate currency risk related to a portion of our forecasted foreign currency revenues and costs. The currency forward contracts are designed as cash flow hedges and are recorded in the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets at fair value.

We continue to monitor the Company’s overall currency exposure and may elect to add cash flow hedges in the future. At September 30, 2024, we had a net unrealized loss of $2,168 in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss), $1,649 of which is expected to be reclassified to earnings within the next 12 months. The notional amount of foreign currency forward contracts outstanding was $35,628 at September 30, 2024.

Interest Rate Swaps

We use interest rate swaps to convert a portion of our Revolving Credit Facility’s outstanding balance from a variable rate of interest to a fixed rate. As of September 30, 2024, we have agreements to fix interest rates on $50,000 of long-term debt until December 2026. The difference to be paid or received under the terms of the swap agreements will be recognized as an adjustment to interest expense when settled.

These swaps are treated as cash flow hedges and consequently, the changes in fair value are recorded in other comprehensive (loss) income. The estimated net amount of the existing gains that are reported in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) that are expected to be reclassified into earnings within the next twelve months is approximately $667.

Cross-Currency Swap

The Company has operations and investments in various international locations and is subject to risks associated with changing foreign exchange rates. In order to hedge the Krone-based purchase price for the acquisition of Ferroperm Piezoceramics, A.S. (“Ferroperm”),

the Company entered into a cross-currency interest rate swap agreement on June 27, 2022 that synthetically swapped $25,000 of variable rate debt to Krone denominated variable rate debt. Upon completion of the Ferroperm acquisition on June 30, 2022, the transaction was designated as a net investment hedge for accounting purposes and will mature on June 30, 2027.

Accordingly, any gains or losses on this derivative instrument are included in the foreign currency translation component of other comprehensive income (loss) until the net investment is sold, diluted or liquidated. At September 30, 2024, we had a net unrealized loss of $1,166 in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss). Interest payments received for the cross-currency swap are excluded from the net investment hedge effectiveness assessment and are recorded in interest expense in the Condensed Consolidated Statements of Earnings. The assumptions used in measuring fair value of the cross-currency swap are considered level 2 inputs, which are based upon the Krone to U.S. Dollar exchange rate market.

The location and fair values of derivative instruments designated as hedging instruments in the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets as of September 30, 2024, are shown in the following table:


	As of
	September 30,			December 31,
	2024			2023
Interest rate swaps reported in Other current assets	$	667		$	1,121
Interest rate swaps reported in Other assets	$	334		$	706
Cross-currency swap reported in Accrued expenses and other liabilities	$	(741	)	$	(747	)
Foreign currency hedges reported in Other current assets	$	—		$	1,087
Foreign currency hedges reported in Accrued expenses and other liabilities	$	(2,073	)	$	—

The Company has elected to net its foreign currency derivative assets and liabilities in the balance sheet in accordance with ASC 210-20 (Balance Sheet, Offsetting). On a gross basis, there were no foreign currency derivative assets and foreign currency derivative liabilities of $2,073 at September 30, 2024.

The effect of derivative instruments on the Condensed Consolidated Statements of Earnings is as follows:


	Three Months Ended					Nine Months Ended
	September 30,		September 30,			September 30,		September 30,
	2024		2023			2024		2023
Foreign Exchange Contracts:
Amounts reclassified from AOCI to earnings:
Net sales	$	9	$	(37	)	$	106	$	(134	)
Cost of goods sold		64		949			1,205		1,793
Total net gain reclassified from AOCI to earnings		73		912			1,311		1,659
Total derivative gain on foreign exchange contracts recognized in earnings	$	73	$	912		$	1,311	$	1,659
Interest Rate Swaps:
Income recorded in Interest expense	$	364	$	481		$	1,140	$	1,298
Cross-Currency Swap:
Income recorded in Interest expense	$	86	$	119		$	275	$	414
Total net gains on derivatives	$	523	$	1,512		$	2,726	$	3,371

NOTE 14 – Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)

Shareholders’ equity includes certain items classified as accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) (“AOCI”) in the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets, including:

•

Unrealized gains (losses) on hedges relate to interest rate swaps to convert a portion of our Revolving Credit Facility's outstanding balance from a variable rate of interest into a fixed rate, foreign currency forward contracts used to hedge our exposure to changes in exchange rates affecting certain revenues and costs denominated in foreign currencies, as well as a cross-currency swap that synthetically converts our U.S. Dollar variable rate debt to Krone denominated variable rate debt. These hedges are designated as cash flow hedges, and we have deferred income statement recognition of gains and losses until the hedged transactions occur, at which time amounts are reclassified into earnings. Further information related to our derivative financial instruments is included in Note 13 – “Derivative Financial Instruments” and Note 17 – “Fair Value Measurements”.

•

Unrealized gains (losses) on pension obligations are deferred from income statement recognition until the gains or losses are realized. Amounts reclassified to income from AOCI are included in net periodic pension income (expense). Further information related to our pension obligations is included in Note 7 – “Retirement Plans”.

•

Cumulative translation adjustments relate to our non-U.S. subsidiary companies that have designated a functional currency other than the U.S. Dollar. We are required to translate the subsidiary functional currency financial statements to dollars using a combination of historical, period-end, and average foreign exchange rates. This combination of rates creates the foreign currency translation adjustment component of other comprehensive income (loss).

Changes in exchange rates between the functional currency and the currency in which a transaction is denominated are foreign exchange transaction gains or losses. Transaction gains (losses) for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2024 were $1,319 and $(817), respectively. Transaction gains (losses) for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2023 were $365 and $(2,317), respectively. The impact of these changes are included in other income (expense) in the Condensed Consolidated Statements of Earnings.

The components of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) for the three months ended September 30, 2024, are as follows:


							(Gain) Loss
	As of			Gain (Loss)			Reclassified			As of
	June 30,			Recognized			from AOCI			September 30,
	2024			in OCI			to Earnings			2024
Changes in fair market value of derivatives:
Gross	$	2,026		$	(2,758	)	$	(437	)	$	(1,169	)
Income tax benefit (expense)		(467	)		634			101			268
Net		1,559			(2,124	)		(336	)		(901	)
Changes in unrealized pension cost:
Gross		(1,017	)		—			(4	)		(1,021	)
Income tax benefit (expense)		432			—			(1	)		431
Net		(585	)		—			(5	)		(590	)
Cumulative translation adjustment:
Gross		(199	)		3,707			—			3,508
Income tax benefit (expense)		—			—			—			—
Net		(199	)		3,707			—			3,508
Total accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)	$	775		$	1,583		$	(341	)	$	2,017

The components of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) for the three months ended September 30, 2023 are as follows:


							(Gain) Loss
	As of			Gain (Loss)			Reclassified			As of
	June 30,			Recognized			from AOCI			September 30,
	2023			in OCI			to Earnings			2023
Changes in fair market value of derivatives:
Gross	$	5,482		$	882		$	(1,392	)	$	4,972
Income tax benefit (expense)		(1,261	)		(203	)		321			(1,143	)
Net		4,221			679			(1,071	)		3,829
Changes in unrealized pension cost:
Gross		(1,219	)		—			25			(1,194	)
Income tax benefit (expense)		386			—			(3	)		383
Net		(833	)		—			22			(811	)
Cumulative translation adjustment:
Gross		303			(3,996	)		—			(3,693	)
Income tax benefit (expense)		—			—			—			—
Net		303			(3,996	)		—			(3,693	)
Total accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)	$	3,691		$	(3,317	)	$	(1,049	)	$	(675	)

The components of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) for the nine months ended September 30, 2024 are as follows:


							(Gain) Loss
	As of			Gain (Loss)			Reclassified			As of
	December 31,			Recognized			from AOCI			September 30,
	2023			in OCI			to Earnings			2024
Changes in fair market value of derivatives:
Gross	$	3,252		$	(1,970	)	$	(2,451	)	$	(1,169	)
Income tax benefit (expense)		(749	)		453			564			268
Net		2,503			(1,517	)		(1,887	)		(901	)
Changes in unrealized pension cost:
Gross		(1,126	)		—			105			(1,021	)
Income tax benefit (expense)		442			—			(11	)		431
Net		(684	)		—			94			(590	)
Cumulative translation adjustment:
Gross		2,445			1,063			—			3,508
Income tax benefit (expense)		—			—			—			—
Net		2,445			1,063			—			3,508
Total accumulated other comprehensive (loss) income	$	4,264		$	(454	)	$	(1,793	)	$	2,017

The components of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) for the nine months ended September 30, 2023 are as follows:


							(Gain) Loss
	As of			Gain (Loss)			Reclassified			As of
	December 31,			Recognized			from AOCI			September 30,
	2022			in OCI			to Earnings			2023
Changes in fair market value of derivatives:
Gross	$	3,911		$	4,017		$	(2,956	)	$	4,972
Income tax benefit (expense)		(899	)		(924	)		680			(1,143	)
Net		3,012			3,093			(2,276	)		3,829
Changes in unrealized pension cost:
Gross		(1,179	)		—			(15	)		(1,194	)
Income tax benefit (expense)		376			—			7			383
Net		(803	)		—			(8	)		(811	)
Cumulative translation adjustment:
Gross		(2,880	)		(813	)		—			(3,693	)
Income tax benefit (expense)		—			—			—			—
Net		(2,880	)		(813	)		—			(3,693	)
Total accumulated other comprehensive (loss) income	$	(671	)	$	2,280		$	(2,284	)	$	(675	)

NOTE 15 – Shareholders’ Equity

Share count and par value data related to shareholders’ equity are as follows:


	As of
	September 30,		December 31,
	2024		2023
Preferred Stock
Par value per share	No par value		No par value
Shares authorized		25,000,000		25,000,000
Shares outstanding		—		—
Common Stock
Par value per share	No par value		No par value
Shares authorized		75,000,000		75,000,000
Shares issued		57,542,558		57,444,228
Shares outstanding		30,178,139		30,824,248
Treasury stock
Shares held		27,364,419		26,619,980

On February 9, 2023, the Board of Directors approved a share repurchase program that authorized the Company to repurchase up to $50,000 of the Company’s common stock. The repurchase program had no set expiration date and replaced the repurchase program approved by the Board of Directors on May 13, 2021. The purchases under the program were made from time to time in the open market (including, without limitation, through the use of Rule 10b5-1 plans), depending on a number of factors, including our evaluation of general market and economic conditions, our financial condition and the trading price of our common stock.

On February 2, 2024, our Board of Directors approved a new share repurchase program that authorizes the Company to repurchase up to $100,000 of its common stock. The repurchase program has no set expiration date and supersedes and replaces the repurchase program approved by the Board of Directors in February 2023. The purchases may be made from time to time in the open market (including, without limitation, through the use of Rule 10b5-1 plans), depending on a number of factors, including our evaluation of general market and economic conditions, our financial condition and the trading price of our common stock. The repurchase program may be extended, modified, suspended or discontinued at any time.

During the three and nine months ended September 30, 2024, 244,500 and 744,439 shares of common stock were repurchased for $11,930 and $35,137, respectively, across both share repurchase programs. During the three and nine months ended September 30, 2023,

188,658 and 584,645 shares of common stock were repurchased for $8,328 and $25,890, respectively. As of September 30, 2024, approximately $69,310 remains available for future purchases.

As of 2023, we are subject to a 1% excise tax on stock repurchases under the United States Inflation Reduction Act of 2022 which we include in the cost of stock repurchases as a reduction of shareholders’ equity. As of September 30, 2024 and December 31, 2023, we had $664 and $359, respectively, recorded in Accrued expenses and other liabilities in the Consolidated Balance Sheet.

A roll-forward of common shares outstanding is as follows:


	Nine Months Ended
	September 30,			September 30,
	2024			2023
Balance at the beginning of the year		30,824,248			31,680,890
Repurchases		(744,439	)		(584,645	)
Restricted share issuances		98,330			109,940
Balance at the end of the period		30,178,139			31,206,185

Certain potentially dilutive restricted stock units are excluded from diluted earnings per share because they are anti-dilutive. The number of outstanding awards that were anti-dilutive for the nine months ended September 30, 2024 was 3,651. There were no anti-dilutive shares for the three months ended September 30, 2024. The number of outstanding awards that were anti-dilutive for the nine months ended September 30, 2023 was 911. There were no anti-dilutive shares for the three months ended September 30, 2023.

NOTE 16- Stock-Based Compensation

At September 30, 2024, we had five active stock-based compensation plans: the Non-Employee Directors’ Stock Retirement Plan (“Directors’ Plan”), the 2004 Omnibus Long-Term Incentive Plan (“2004 Plan”), the 2009 Omnibus Equity and Performance Incentive Plan (“2009 Plan”), the 2014 Performance and Incentive Compensation Plan (“2014 Plan”), and the 2018 Equity and Incentive Compensation Plan (“2018 Plan”). Future grants can only be made under the 2018 Plan.

These plans allow or allowed (as applicable) for grants of stock options, stock appreciation rights, restricted stock, restricted stock units (“RSUs”), performance shares, performance units, and other stock awards subject to the terms of the specific plans under which the awards are granted.

The following table summarizes the compensation expense included in selling, general and administrative expenses in the Condensed Consolidated Statements of Earnings related to stock-based compensation plans:


	Three Months Ended				Nine Months Ended
	September 30,		September 30,		September 30,		September 30,
	2024		2023		2024		2023
Service-based RSUs	$	916	$	728	$	2,791	$	2,263
Performance and Market-based RSUs		462		525		831		1,883
Cash-settled RSUs		72		152		370		495
Total	$	1,450	$	1,405	$	3,992	$	4,641
Income tax benefit		333		379		918		1,067
Net expense	$	1,117	$	1,026	$	3,074	$	3,574

The following table summarizes the unrecognized compensation expense related to unvested RSUs by type and the weighted-average period in which the expense is to be recognized:


	Unrecognized
	Compensation		Weighted-
	Expense at		Average
	September 30, 2024		Period (years)
Service-based RSUs	$	3,186		1.41
Performance and Market-based RSUs		3,066		1.99
Total	$	6,252		1.69

We recognize expense on a straight-line basis over the requisite service period for each separately vesting portion of the award as if the award was, in substance, multiple awards.

The following table summarizes the status of these plans as of September 30, 2024:


	2018 Plan		2014 Plan		2009 Plan		2004 Plan		Directors' Plan
Awards originally available		2,500,000		1,500,000		3,400,000		6,500,000	N/A
Maximum potential awards outstanding		703,623		35,100		30,000		14,545		4,722
RSUs and cash-settled awards vested and released		623,070		—		—		—		—
Awards available for grant		1,173,307		—		—		—		—

Service-Based Restricted Stock Units

The following table summarizes the service-based RSU activity for the nine months ended September 30, 2024:


	Units			Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value
Outstanding at December 31, 2023		280,966		$	30.36
Granted		94,018			43.80
Vested and released		(56,700	)		37.21
Forfeited		(11,233	)		41.74
Outstanding at September 30, 2024		307,051		$	32.80
Releasable at September 30, 2024		141,167		$	21.76

Performance and Market-Based Restricted Stock Units

The following table summarizes the performance and market-based RSU activity for the nine months ended September 30, 2024:


	Units			Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value
Outstanding at December 31, 2023		220,656		$	36.96
Granted		75,498			43.77
Attained by performance		55,272			33.37
Released		(112,907	)		33.85
Forfeited		(16,175	)		37.33
Outstanding at September 30, 2024		222,344		$	39.96
Releasable at September 30, 2024		—		$	—

Cash-Settled Restricted Stock Units

Cash-Settled RSUs entitle the holder to receive the cash equivalent of one share of common stock for each unit when the unit vests. These RSUs are issued to key employees residing in foreign locations as direct compensation. Generally, these RSUs vest over a three-year period. Cash-Settled RSUs are classified as liabilities and are remeasured at each reporting date until settled. At September 30, 2024 and December 31, 2023, we had 44,532 and 42,062 cash-settled RSUs outstanding, respectively. At September 30, 2024 and December 31, 2023, liabilities of $789 and $676, respectively, were included in accrued expenses and other liabilities on our Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets.

NOTE 17 — Fair Value Measurements

The table below summarizes our financial assets and liabilities that were measured at fair value on a recurring basis as of September 30, 2024:


	Asset (Liability) Carrying Value at September 30, 2024			Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical (Level 1)		Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2)			Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3)
Interest rate swaps	$	1,001		$	—	$	1,001		$	—
Foreign currency hedges	$	(2,073	)	$	—	$	(2,073	)	$	—
Cross-currency swap	$	(741	)	$	—	$	(741	)	$	—
Qualified replacement plan assets	$	12,164		$	12,164	$	—		$	—
Contingent consideration	$	(10,064	)	$	—	$	—		$	(10,064	)

The table below summarizes the financial assets and liabilities that were measured at fair value on a recurring basis as of December 31, 2023:


	Asset (Liability) Carrying Value at December 31, 2023			Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical (Level 1)		Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2)			Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3)
Interest rate swaps	$	1,827		$	—	$	1,827		$	—
Foreign currency hedges	$	1,087		$	—	$	1,087		$	—
Cross-currency swap	$	(747	)	$	—	$	(747	)	$	—
Qualified replacement plan assets	$	13,392		$	13,392	$	—		$	—
Contingent consideration	$	(3,764	)	$	—	$	—		$	(3,764	)

We use interest rate swaps to convert a portion of our Revolving Credit Facility’s outstanding balance from a variable rate of interest into a fixed rate and foreign currency forward contracts to hedge the effect of foreign currency changes on certain revenues and costs denominated in foreign currencies. The Company entered into a cross-currency swap agreement in order to manage its exposure to changes in interest rates related to foreign debt. These derivative financial instruments are measured at fair value on a recurring basis. The fair value of our interest rate swaps and foreign currency hedges were measured using standard valuation models using market-based observable inputs over the contractual terms, including forward yield curves, among others. There is a readily determinable market for these derivative instruments, but that market is not active and therefore they are classified within Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy.

The fair value of the contingent consideration requires significant judgment. The Company's fair value estimates used in the contingent consideration valuation are considered Level 3 fair value measurements. The fair value estimates were based on assumptions management believes to be reasonable, but that are inherently uncertain, including estimates of future revenues and timing of events and activities that are expected to take place. Refer to Note 3 “Business Acquisitions” for further discussion on contingent consideration.

A roll-forward of the contingent consideration is as follows:




	Contingent Consideration
Balance at December 31, 2023	$	3,764
Acquisition date fair value of contingent consideration		8,115
Change in fair value		(739	)
Cash paid		(1,076	)
Balance at September 30, 2024	$	10,064

As of September 30, 2024, approximately $1,119 was recorded in accrued expenses and other liabilities with the remainder in other long-term obligations.

Our long-term debt consists of the Revolving Credit Facility, which is recorded at its carrying value. There is a readily determinable market for our long-term debt and it is classified within Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy as the market is not deemed to be active. The fair value of long-term debt approximates its carrying value and was determined by valuing a similar hypothetical coupon bond and attributing that value to our long-term debt under the Revolving Credit Facility.

The qualified replacement plan assets consist of investment funds maintained for future contributions to the Company’s U.S. 401(k) program. The investments are Level 1 marketable securities and are recorded in Other Assets on our Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets.

NOTE 18 — Income Taxes

The effective income tax rates for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2024 and 2023 are as follows:


	Three Months Ended						Nine Months Ended
	September 30,			September 30,			September 30,			September 30,
	2024			2023			2024			2023
Effective tax rate		16.8	%		25.4	%		17.4	%		21.4	%

Our effective income tax rate was 16.8% and 25.4% for the three months ended of 2024 and 2023, respectively. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily attributable to a change in mix of earnings taxed at lower rates and tax benefits from the filing of the US federal income tax return. The third quarter 2024 effective income tax rate was lower than the U.S. statutory federal tax rate for the same reason as noted above. The third quarter 2023 effective income tax rate was higher than the U.S. statutory federal tax rate primarily due to the mix of foreign earnings that are taxed at higher rates.

Our effective income tax rate was 17.4% and 21.4% for the nine months ended September 30, 2024 and 2023, respectively. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily attributable to a mix of earnings taxed at lower rates and tax benefits from the filing of the U.S. federal income tax return. The effective income tax rate in the first nine months of 2024 was lower than the U.S. statutory federal tax rate for the same reason as noted above. The effective income tax rate in the first nine months of 2023 was higher than the U.S. statutory federal income tax rate primarily due the mix of foreign earnings that are taxed at higher rates partially offset by tax benefits recorded upon vesting of restricted stock and tax benefits from amended U.S. federal income tax returns.

Item 2. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations (“MD&A”)

(in thousands, except percentages and per share amounts)

The following discussion should be read in conjunction with our unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements and notes included under Item 1, as well as our Consolidated Financial Statements and notes and related Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations included in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2023.

Overview

CTS Corporation (“CTS”, “we”, “our” or “us”) is a leading designer and manufacturer of products that Sense, Connect and Move. Our vision is to be a leading provider of sensing and motion devices as well as connectivity components, enabling an intelligent and seamless world. These devices are categorized by their ability to Sense, Connect or Move. Sense products provide vital inputs to electronic systems. Connect products allow systems to function in synchronization with other systems. Move products ensure required movements are effectively and accurately executed. We are committed to achieving our vision by continuing to invest in the development of products, technologies and talent within these categories.

We manufacture sensors, actuators, and connectivity components in North America, Europe, and Asia. CTS provides engineered products to OEMs and tier one suppliers in the aerospace and defense, industrial, medical, and transportation markets.

There is an increasing proliferation of sensing and motion applications within various markets we serve. In addition, the increasing connectivity of various devices to the internet results in greater demand for communication bandwidth and data storage, increasing the need for our connectivity products. Our success is dependent on the ability to execute our strategy to support these trends. We are subject to a number of challenges including, without limitation, periodic market softness, competition from other suppliers, changes in technology, and the ability to add new customers, launch new products or penetrate new markets. Many of these, and other risks and uncertainties relating to the Company and our business, are discussed in further detail in Item 1A. of our Annual Report on Form 10-K and other filings made with the SEC.

On July 29, 2024, we acquired 100% of the outstanding membership interests of SyQwest, LLC (“SyQwest”), a leading designer and manufacturer of a broad set of sonar and acoustic sensing solutions primarily for naval applications, for $121.9 million, net of cash and up to $15 million in future contingent consideration. The SyQwest acquisition strengthens our strategy and scale in the defense end market. The acquisition was funded from both cash on hand and borrowings on our Revolving Credit Facility.

Results of Operations: Third Quarter 2024 versus Third Quarter 2023

The following table highlights changes in significant components of the Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Statements of Earnings for the quarters ended September 30, 2024 and September 30, 2023:


	Three Months Ended
	September 30, 2024		September 30, 2023		Percent Change			Percentage of Net Sales – 2024			Percentage of Net Sales – 2023
Net sales	$	132,424	$	134,552		(1.6	)%		100.0	%		100.0	%
Cost of goods sold		82,636		88,151		(6.3	)		62.4			65.5
Gross margin		49,788		46,401		7.3			37.6			34.5
Selling, general and administrative expenses		22,509		18,666		20.6			17.0			13.9
Research and development expenses		5,031		6,321		(20.4	)		3.8			4.7
Restructuring charges		773		3,226		(76.0	)		0.6			2.4
Total operating expenses		28,313		28,213		0.4			21.4			21.0
Operating earnings		21,475		18,188		18.1			16.2			13.5
Total other income (expense), net		972		549		77.0			0.7			0.4
Earnings before income taxes		22,447		18,737		19.8			17.0			13.9
Income tax expense		3,764		4,766		(21.0	)		2.8			3.5
Net earnings	$	18,683	$	13,971		33.7	%		14.1	%		10.4	%
Earnings per share:
Diluted net earnings per share	$	0.61	$	0.44

Net sales were $132,424 in the third quarter of 2024, a decrease of $2,128 or 1.6% from the third quarter of 2023. Net sales to the transportation market decreased $12,959 or 17.1% while net sales to other diversified end-markets increased $10,831 or 18.5%. The overall decline in net sales was primarily driven by decreased volumes from our commercial vehicle related products and lower sales to transportation customers in China. Partially offsetting the sales decline were sales from our acquisition of SyQwest of $3,615, as well as changes in foreign exchange rates. Net sales increased $508 year-over-year related to changes in foreign exchange rates primarily due to the U.S. Dollar depreciating compared to the Chinese Renminbi and Euro.

Gross margin was $49,788 in the third quarter of 2024, an increase of $3,387 or 7.3% from the third quarter of 2023. Our gross margin percentage increased from 34.5% for the third quarter of 2023 to 37.6% for the third quarter of 2024 primarily due to improved end-market mix, operational improvements, and the impact of certain cost saving actions previously taken as discussed in Note 9 “Costs Associated with Exit and Restructuring Activities” in the Notes to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q. Additionally, changes in foreign exchange rates had a net benefit on our gross margin of approximately $1,464 primarily due to rate changes between the U.S. Dollar and the Mexican Peso.

Selling, general and administrative (“SG&A”) expenses were $22,509 or 17.0% of net sales in the third quarter of 2024 versus $18,666 or 13.9% of net sales in the third quarter of 2023. This increase is primarily related to the reduction of incentive and equity-based compensation expense that occurred in the third quarter of 2023. Research and development (“R&D”) expenses were $5,031 or 3.8% of net sales in the third quarter of 2024 compared to $6,321 or 4.7% of net sales in the comparable quarter of 2023. This decrease is primarily related to the timing of non-recurring engineering expense reimbursement during the quarter.

Restructuring charges were $773 or 0.7% of net sales in the third quarter of 2024 compared to $3,226 or 2.4% of net sales in the third quarter of 2023. The restructuring charges in the quarter ended September 30, 2024 were primarily related to actions undertaken to better align our cost structure with lower end-market demand. See Note 9 “Costs Associated with Exit and Restructuring Activities” in the Notes to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for further information.

Other income and expense items are summarized in the following table:


	Three Months Ended
	September 30,			September 30,
	2024			2023
Interest expense	$	(1,307	)	$	(997	)
Interest income		973			952
Other income (expense), net		1,306			594
Total other income (expense), net	$	972		$	549

Total other income (expense), net for the quarter ended September 30, 2024 is primarily driven by foreign currency gains, particularly related to the Chinese Renminbi, Euro and Mexican Peso, partially offset by higher interest expense from our increased debt position as a result of our recent acquisition of SyQwest during the quarter ended September 30, 2024.


	Three Months Ended
	September 30,			September 30,
	2024			2023
Effective tax rate		16.8	%		25.4	%

Our effective income tax rate was 16.8% and 25.4% in the third quarters of 2024 and 2023, respectively. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily attributable to a mix of earnings taxed at lower rates and tax benefits from the filing of the US federal income tax return..

Results of Operations: Nine Months ended September 30, 2024 versus Nine Months Ended September 30, 2023

The following table highlights changes in significant components of the Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Statements of Earnings for the nine months ended September 30, 2024, and September 30, 2023:


	Nine Months Ended
	September 30, 2024		September 30, 2023			Percent Change			Percentage of Net Sales – 2024			Percentage of Net Sales – 2023
Net sales	$	388,336	$	425,728			(8.8	)%		100.0	%		100.0	%
Cost of goods sold		247,086		276,933			(10.8	)		63.6			65.0
Gross margin		141,250		148,795			(5.1	)		36.4			35.0
Selling, general and administrative expenses		66,100		64,339			2.7			17.0			15.1
Research and development expenses		17,718		19,628			(9.7	)		4.6			4.6
Restructuring charges		3,657		6,033			(39.4	)		0.9			1.4
Total operating expenses		87,475		90,000			(2.8	)		22.5			21.1
Operating earnings		53,775		58,795			(8.5	)		13.8			13.8
Total other income (expense), net		97		(1,269	)		(107.6	)		—			(0.3	)
Earnings before income taxes		53,872		57,526			(6.4	)		13.9			13.5
Income tax expense		9,364		12,314			(24.0	)		2.4			2.9
Net earnings	$	44,508	$	45,212			(1.6	)%		11.5	%		10.6	%
Earnings per share:
Diluted net earnings per share	$	1.45	$	1.43

Net sales were $388,336 in the nine months ended September 30, 2024, a decrease of $37,392 or 8.8% from the nine months ended September 30, 2023. Net sales to the transportation market decreased $38,530 or 16.6% while net sales to other diversified end-markets increased $1,138 or 0.5%. The decline in overall net sales was primarily driven by lower volumes of commercial vehicle related products, lower sales to transportation customers in China and decreased sales in the industrial end market. Changes in foreign exchange rates decreased net sales for the nine months ended September 30, 2024 by $674 due to the U.S. Dollar appreciating compared to the Chinese Renminbi and Euro.

Gross margin was $141,250 for the nine months ended September 30, 2024, a decrease of $7,545 or 5.1% from the nine months ended September 30, 2023. The year over year decrease in gross margin was primarily driven by lower sales volumes.

Our gross margin percentage was 36.4% for the first nine months of 2024, an increase from 35.0% in the first nine months of 2023 primarily due to improved end-market mix, operational improvements, and the impact of certain cost saving actions previously taken as discussed in Note 9 “Costs Associated with Exit and Restructuring Activities” in the Notes to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q. Additionally, changes in foreign exchange rates had a net benefit on our gross margin of approximately $627. See Note 13 “Derivative Financial Instruments” in the Notes to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for further information.

SG&A expenses were $66,100 or 17.0% of net sales for the nine months ended September 30, 2024 versus $64,339 or 15.1% of net sales for the nine months ended September 30, 2023. R&D expenses were $17,718 or 4.6% of net sales for the nine months ended September 30, 2024 compared to $19,628 or 4.6% of net sales for the nine months ended September 30, 2023.

Restructuring charges were $3,657 or 0.9% of net sales for the nine months ended September 30, 2024 compared to $6,033 or 1.4% of net sales for the nine months ended September 30, 2023. The restructuring charges were primarily related to actions undertaken to better align our cost structure with lower end-market demand. See Note 9 “Costs Associated with Exit and Restructuring Activities” in the Notes to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for further information.

Other income and expense items are summarized in the following table:


	Nine Months Ended
	September 30,			September 30,
	2024			2023
Interest expense	$	(2,942	)	$	(2,509	)
Interest income		3,800			3,087
Other income (expense), net		(761	)		(1,847	)
Total other income (expense), net	$	97		$	(1,269	)

The reduction in total other income (expense), net was primarily driven by higher interest income from our short-term investments classified as cash equivalents and lower expense related to foreign exchange losses.


	Nine Months Ended
	September 30,			September 30,
	2024			2023
Effective tax rate		17.4	%		21.4	%

Liquidity and Capital Resources

We have historically funded our capital and operating needs primarily through cash flows from operating activities, supported by available credit under our Revolving Credit Facility (as defined below). We believe that cash flows from operating activities and available borrowings under our Revolving Credit Facility will be adequate to fund our working capital needs, capital expenditures, investments, and debt service requirements for at least the next twelve months and for the foreseeable future thereafter. However, we may choose to pursue additional equity and debt financing to provide additional liquidity or to fund acquisitions.

Cash and cash equivalents were $94,875 at September 30, 2024, and $163,876 at December 31, 2023, of which $86,181 and $99,940, respectively, were held outside the United States. Total long-term debt was $102,700 as of September 30, 2024 and $67,500 as of December 31, 2023.

Cash Flow Overview

Cash Flows from Operating Activities

Net cash provided by operating activities was $73,335 during the nine months ended September 30, 2024. Components of net cash provided by operating activities included net earnings of $44,508, depreciation and amortization expense of $22,644, other net non-cash items of $1,246, and a net cash inflow from changes in assets and liabilities of $4,940.

Net cash provided by operating activities was $56,742 during the nine months ended September 30, 2023. Components of net cash provided by operating activities included net earnings of $45,212, depreciation and amortization expense of $21,425, other net non-cash items of $5,055, and a net cash outflow from changes in assets and liabilities of $14,950 primarily driven by 2022’s annual bonus payout and an increase in inventory primarily from pre-determined inventory builds, associated with plant closure and consolidation activities. See Note 9 “Costs Associated with Exit and Restructuring Activities” in the Notes to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for further information.

Cash Flows from Investing Activities

Net cash used in investing activities for the nine months ended September 30, 2024 was $(134,456), driven by payments for the SyQwest acquisition of $(121,913) and for payments on capital expenditures of $(12,543).

Net cash used in investing activities for the nine months ended September 30, 2023 was $(14,595), driven by payments for the Maglab acquisition, finalization of the TEWA Temperature Sensors SP. Zo.o. (“TEWA”) net working capital adjustment of $3,359 and capital expenditures of $11,236. See Note 3 "Business Acquisitions" in the Notes to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.

Cash Flows from Financing Activities

Net cash used in financing activities for the nine months ended September 30, 2024 was $(7,494). The net cash outflow was the result of treasury stock purchases of $(34,787), net cash cash borrowings of long-term debt of $35,200, taxes paid on behalf of equity award participants of $(3,154), payments of contingent consideration of $(1,076) and dividends paid of $(3,677).

Net cash used in financing activities for the nine months ended September 30, 2023 was $(39,937). The net cash outflow was the result of treasury stock purchases of $(25,890), net cash used in the paydown of long-term debt of $(7,006), taxes paid on behalf of equity award participants of $(3,249), and dividends paid of $(3,792).

Capital Resources

Revolving Credit Facility

Long‑term debt is comprised of the following:


	As of
	September 30,		December 31,
	2024		2023
Total credit facility	$	400,000	$	400,000
Balance outstanding		102,700		67,500
Standby letters of credit		1,640		1,640
Amount available, subject to covenant restrictions	$	295,660	$	330,860

On December 15, 2021, we entered into a second amended and restated five-year credit agreement with a group of banks (the “Revolving Credit Facility”) to (i) increase the total credit facility availability to $400,000, which may be increased by $200,000 at the request of the Company, subject to the administrative agent's approval, (ii) extend the maturity of the Revolving Credit Facility from February 12, 2024 to December 15, 2026, (iii) replace LIBOR with SOFR as the primary reference rate used to calculate interest on the loans under the Revolving Credit Facility, (iv) increase available sublimits for letters of credit, and swing line loans as well as providing for additional alternative currency borrowing capabilities, and (v) modify the financial and non-financial covenants to provide the Company additional flexibility. This new unsecured credit facility replaced the prior $300,000 unsecured credit facility, which would have expired February 12, 2024.

Borrowings in U.S. Dollars under the Revolving Credit Facility bear interest, at a per annum rate equal to the applicable Term SOFR rate (but not less than 0.0%), plus the Term SOFR adjustment, and plus an applicable margin, which ranges from 1.00% to 1.75%, based on our net leverage ratio. Similarly, borrowings of alternative currencies under the Revolving Credit Facility bear interest equal to a defined risk-free reference rate, plus the applicable risk-free rate adjustment and plus an applicable margin, which ranges from 1.00% to 1.75%, based on our net leverage ratio. We use interest rate swaps to convert a portion of our revolving credit facility's outstanding balance from a variable rate of interest to a fixed rate. The contractual rate of these arrangements ranges from 1.49% to 2.49%.

The Revolving Credit Facility includes a swing-line sublimit of $20,000 and a letter of credit sublimit of $20,000. We also pay a quarterly commitment fee on the unused portion of the Revolving Credit Facility. The commitment fee ranges from 0.175% to 0.25% based on our net leverage ratio. We were in compliance with all debt covenants at September 30, 2024.

Acquisition

On July 29, 2024, we acquired 100% of the outstanding membership interests of SyQwest a leading designer and manufacturer of a broad set of sonar and acoustic sensing solutions primarily for naval applications, for $121.9 million, net of cash and up to $15 million in future contingent consideration. The SyQwest acquisition will strengthen our strategy and scale in the defense end market. The acquisition was funded from both cash on hand and borrowings on our Revolving Credit Facility.

Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates

The Company’s Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements are prepared in accordance with U.S. GAAP. In connection with the preparation of the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements, the Company uses estimates and makes judgments and assumptions about future events that affect the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, revenue, expenses, and the related disclosures. The assumptions, estimates, and judgments are based on historical experience, current trends, and other factors the Company believes are relevant at the time it prepares the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.

The critical accounting policies and estimates are consistent with those discussed in Note 1, Summary of Significant Accounting Policies, to the Consolidated Financial Statements and the MD&A section of the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2023. During and as of the three and nine months ended September 30, 2024, there were no significant changes in the application of critical accounting policies or estimates.

Significant Customers

Our net sales to customers representing at least 10% of total net sales is as follows:


	Three Months Ended						Nine Months Ended
	September 30, 2024			September 30, 2023			September 30, 2024			September 30, 2023
Cummins Inc.		12.4	%		16.9	%		13.0	%		16.5	%
Toyota Motor Corporation		11.2	%		12.2	%		12.1	%		11.8	%

No other customer accounted for 10% or more of total net sales during these periods. We continue to focus on broadening our customer base to diversify our non-transportation end market exposure.

Forward‑Looking Statements

Readers are cautioned that the statements contained in this document regarding expectations of our performance or other matters that may affect our business, results of operations, or financial condition are, or may be deemed to be, “forward-looking statements” as defined by the “safe harbor” provisions in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Such statements are made in reliance on the safe harbor provisions of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, included or incorporated in this document, including statements regarding our strategy, financial position, guidance, funding for continued operations, cash reserves, liquidity, projected costs, plans, projects, awards and contracts, and objectives of management, among others, are forward-looking statements. Words such as “expect,” “anticipate,”

“should,” “believe,” “hope,” “target,” “continued,” “project,” “plan,” “goals,” “opportunity,” “appeal,” “estimate,” “potential,” “predict,” “demonstrates,” “may,” “will,” “might,” “could,” “intend,” “shall,” “possible,” “would,” “approximately,” “likely,” “outlook,” “schedule,” “on track,” “poised,” “pipeline,” and variations of these terms or the negative of these terms and similar expressions are intended to identify these forward-looking statements , but the absence of these words does not mean that a statement is not forward-looking. These forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance, conditions or results. Forward-looking statements are based on management’s expectations, certain assumptions, and currently available information. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date hereof and are based on various assumptions as to future events, the occurrence of which necessarily are subject to uncertainties. These forward-looking statements are made subject to certain risks, uncertainties, and other factors, which could cause CTS’ actual results, performance, or achievements to differ materially from those presented in the forward-looking statements. Examples of factors that may affect future operating results and financial condition include, but are not limited to: supply chain disruptions; changes in the economy generally, including inflationary and/or recessionary conditions, and in respect to the business in which CTS operates; unanticipated issues in integrating acquisitions including, without limitation the integration of SyQwest; the results of actions to reposition CTS’ business; rapid technological change; general market conditions in the transportation, as well as conditions in the industrial, aerospace and defense, and medical markets; reliance on key customers; unanticipated public health crises, natural disasters or other events; environmental compliance and remediation expenses; the ability to protect CTS’ intellectual property; pricing pressures and demand for CTS’ products; risks associated with CTS’ international operations, including trade and tariff barriers, exchange rates and political and geopolitical risks (including, without limitation, the potential impact U.S./China relations and the conflict between Russia and Ukraine may have on our business, results of operations and financial condition); the amount and timing of any share repurchases; and the effect of any cybersecurity incidents on our business. Many of these, and other risks and uncertainties, are discussed in further detail in Item 1A. of CTS’ most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K and other filings made with the SEC. CTS undertakes no obligation to publicly update CTS’ forward-looking statements to reflect new information or events or circumstances that arise after the date hereof, including market or industry changes. 

Item 3. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

See Item 7A, Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk, of our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2023. During the nine months ended September 30, 2024, there have been no material changes in our exposure to market risk.

Item 4. Controls and Procedures

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

Our management, with the participation of our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, evaluated the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange Act”)) as of the end of the period covered by this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q. Based on that evaluation, our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures as of the end of the period covered by this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q were effective in providing reasonable assurance that information required to be disclosed by us in reports that we file or submit under the Exchange Act, is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in the Securities and Exchange Commission’s rules and forms, and that such information is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, as appropriate, to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosures.

Our management, including our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, does not expect that our disclosure controls and procedures or our internal controls will prevent all error and all fraud. A control system, no matter how well conceived and operated, can provide only reasonable, not absolute, assurance that the objectives of the control system are met. Further, the design of a control system must reflect the fact that there are resource constraints, and the benefits of controls must be considered relative to their costs. Because of the inherent limitations in all control systems, no evaluation of controls can provide absolute assurance that all control issues and instances of fraud, if any, within CTS have been detected.

Changes in Internal Control Over Financial Reporting

There were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting for the quarter ended September 30, 2024 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.

PART II - OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1. Legal Proceedings

From time to time, we are involved in litigation with respect to matters arising from the ordinary conduct of our business, and currently certain claims are pending against us. In the opinion of management, we believe we have established adequate accruals pursuant to U.S. generally accepted accounting principles for our expected future liability with respect to pending lawsuits, claims and proceedings, where the nature and extent of any such liability can be reasonably estimated based on presently available information. However, there can be no assurance that the final resolution of any existing or future lawsuits, claims or proceedings will not have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations, financial condition, or cash flows.

See Note 11 "Commitments and Contingencies" in the Notes to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q.

Item 1A. Risk Factors

There have been no material changes to our risk factors from those contained in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2023.

Item 2. Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

On February 2, 2024, the Board of Directors approved a share repurchase program that authorizes the Company to repurchase up to $100 million of its common stock. The share repurchase program has no set expiration date and supersedes and replaces the repurchase program approved by the Board of Directors in February 2023.


					Total Number		Maximum Dollar
					of Shares		Value of Shares
					Purchased as		That May Yet Be
	Total Number				Part of Publicly		Purchased Under
	of Shares		Average Price		Announced		Publicly Announced
Period	Purchased		Paid per Share		Programs		Plans or Programs
July 1, 2024 - July 31, 2024		72,500	$	51.62		72,500	$	77,497,885
August 1, 2024 - August 31, 2024		92,000	$	47.70		92,000	$	73,109,313
September 1, 2024 - September 30, 2024		80,000	$	47.49		80,000	$	69,310,235
Total		244,500				244,500

Item 5. Other Information

From time to time, our directors and officers may purchase or sell shares of our common stock in the market, including pursuant to plans intended to satisfy the affirmative defense conditions of Rule 10b5-1(c) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (“Rule 10b5-1 Plans”).

Kieran O’Sullivan, President, Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of the Board, entered into a Rule 10b5-1 Plan on August 27, 2024 for the sale of up to 80,000 shares of our common stock, which plan is scheduled to terminate no later than August 27, 2026.

During the quarter ended September 30, 2024, no other director or officer (as defined in Rule 16a-1(f) under the Exchange Act) of the Company adopted, modified or terminated a “Rule 10b5-1 trading arrangement” or “non-Rule 10b5-1 trading arrangement” (as each term is defined in Item 408 of Regulation S-K).

Item 6. Exhibits



(31)(a)	Certification pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes‑Oxley Act of 2002.

(31)(b)	Certification pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes‑Oxley Act of 2002.

(32)(a)	Certification pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes‑Oxley Act of 2002.

(32)(b)	Certification pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes‑Oxley Act of 2002.

101.1	The following information from CTS Corporation’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended September 30, 2024 formatted in Inline XBRL: (i) Condensed Consolidated Statements of Earnings; (ii) Condensed Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Earnings; (iii) Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets; (iv) Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows; (v) Condensed Consolidated Statements of Shareholders’ Equity; (vi) Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements, tagged as blocks of text and including detailed tags.

104	The cover page from this Current Report on Form 10-Q formatted as inline XBRL

SIGNATURES

Pursuant to the requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.


		CTS Corporation

		/s/ Ashish Agrawal
		Ashish Agrawal
		Vice President and Chief Financial Officer (Principal Financial Officer & Principal Accounting Officer)


		Dated: October 29, 2024

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