WHR.12.31.2012 - 10-K


UNITED STATES SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
WASHINGTON, D.C. 20549
FORM 10-K
(Mark One)
x
 
ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the fiscal year ended December 31, 2012
OR
o
 
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 1-3932
WHIRLPOOL CORPORATION
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)
Delaware
 
38-1490038
(State of Incorporation)
 
(I.R.S. Employer Identification No.)
 
 
 
2000 North M-63, Benton Harbor, Michigan
 
49022-2692
(Address of principal executive offices)
 
(Zip Code)
Registrant’s telephone number, including area code (269) 923-5000
Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:
Title of each class
 
Name of each exchange on which registered
Common stock, par value $1 per share
 
Chicago Stock Exchange and New York Stock Exchange
Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act: NONE
Indicate by check mark if the registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act. 
Yesý No¨
Indicate by check mark if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or Section 15(d) of the Exchange Act.
Yes¨ Noý
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Exchange Act during
the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such report), and (2) has been subject to such
filing requirements for the past 90 days.
Yesý No¨
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Web site, if any, every Interactive Data
File required to be submitted and posted 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 and post such files).
Yesý No¨
Indicate by check mark if disclosure of delinquent filers pursuant to Item 405 of Regulation S-K (§229.405 of this chapter) is not contained
herein, and will not be contained, to the best of the registrant’s knowledge, in definitive proxy or information statements incorporated by
reference in Part III of this Form 10-K or any amendment to this Form 10-K. 
¨
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, or a smaller reporting
company. See the definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer,” and “smaller reporting company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.
(Check one)
          Large accelerated filer  ý
Accelerated filer ¨
          Non-accelerated filer ¨ (Do not check if a smaller reporting  company)
Smaller reporting company ¨
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act).  
Yes¨ Noý
The aggregate market value of voting common stock of the registrant held by stockholders not including voting stock held by directors and executive officers of the registrant and certain employee plans of the registrant (the exclusion of such shares shall not be deemed an admission by the registrant that any such person is an affiliate of the registrant) at the close of business on June 30, 2012 (the last business day of the registrant’s most recently completed second fiscal quarter) was $4,705,058,995.
On 2/8/2013, the registrant had 78,542,864 shares of common stock outstanding.
DOCUMENTS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE
Portions of the following documents are incorporated herein by reference into the Part of the Form 10-K indicated:
Document
  
Part of Form 10-K into which incorporated
The registrant’s proxy statement for the 2013 annual meeting of stockholders (the “Proxy Statement”)
  
Part III



WHIRLPOOL CORPORATION
ANNUAL REPORT ON FORM 10-K
For the fiscal year ended December 31, 2012
TABLE OF CONTENTS
 
 
PAGE
 
Item 1.
Item 1A.
Item 1B.
Item 2.
Item 3.
Item 4.
 
 
 
 
Item 5.
Item 6.
Item 7.
Item 7A.
Item 8.
Item 9.
Item 9A.
Item 9B.
 
 
 
 
Item 10.
Item 11.
Item 12.
Item 13.
Item 14.
 
 
 
 
Item 15.
 
 
 
 
 



PART I
ITEM 1.
BUSINESS.
Whirlpool Corporation, the world’s leading manufacturer and marketer of major home appliances, was incorporated in 1955 under the laws of Delaware as the successor to a business that traces its origin to 1898. Whirlpool manufactures products in 11 countries and markets products in nearly every country around the world under brand names such as Whirlpool, Maytag, KitchenAid, Jenn-Air, Amana, Bauknecht, Brastemp and Consul. Whirlpool’s geographic segments consist of North America, Latin America, EMEA (Europe, Middle East and Africa) and Asia. As of December 31, 2012, Whirlpool had approximately 68,000 employees.
As used herein, and except where the context otherwise requires, “Whirlpool,” “we,” “us,” and “our” refer to Whirlpool Corporation and its consolidated subsidiaries.
Products and Markets
Whirlpool manufactures and markets a full line of major home appliances and related products. Our principal products are laundry appliances, refrigerators and freezers, cooking appliances, dishwashers, mixers and other portable household appliances. We also produce hermetic compressors for refrigeration systems.
The following table provides the percentage of net sales for each class of products which accounted for 10% or more of our consolidated net sales over the last three years:
 
 
2012
 
2011
 
2010
Laundry Appliances
 
30
%
 
30
%
 
30
%
Refrigerators and Freezers
 
30
%
 
30
%
 
31
%
Cooking Appliances
 
17
%
 
17
%
 
16
%
Other
 
23
%
 
23
%
 
23
%
Net Sales
 
100
%
 
100
%
 
100
%
In North America, Whirlpool markets and distributes major home appliances and portable appliances under a variety of brand names. In the United States, we market and distribute products primarily under the Whirlpool, Maytag, KitchenAid, Jenn-Air, Amana, Roper, Estate, Admiral and Gladiator brand names primarily to retailers, distributors and builders. In Canada, we market and distribute major home appliances primarily under the Inglis, Admiral, Whirlpool, Maytag, Jenn-Air, Amana, Roper, Estate and KitchenAid brand names. In Mexico, we market and distribute major home appliances primarily under the Whirlpool, Maytag, Acros, KitchenAid and Supermatic brand names. We sell some products to other manufacturers, distributors, and retailers for resale in North America under those manufacturers’ and retailers’ respective brand names.
In Latin America, we market and distribute our major home appliances primarily under the Consul, Brastemp, Whirlpool, KitchenAid, Maytag and Eslabón de Lujo brand names. We manage appliance sales and distribution in Brazil, Argentina, Chile and Peru through our Brazilian subsidiary, and in Bolivia, Paraguay and Uruguay through our distributors. We manage appliance sales and distribution in the Caribbean, Central American countries, Venezuela, Colombia, Guatemala and Ecuador through our Brazilian subsidiary and through distributors.
In EMEA, we market and distribute our major home appliances primarily under the Whirlpool, Bauknecht, Ignis, Maytag, Laden, Polar and Privileg brand names, and major and portable appliances under the KitchenAid brand name. In addition to our operations in Western Europe, we have sales subsidiaries in Russia, Ukraine, Hungary, Poland, the Czech Republic, Slovakia, Romania, Bulgaria, Latvia, Estonia, Lithuania, Croatia, Morocco and Turkey, with representative offices in Kazakhstan, Slovenia, Serbia and Montenegro. We market and distribute a full line of products under the Whirlpool, KIC and Ignis brand names in South Africa. Our European operations also market and distribute products under the Whirlpool, Bauknecht and Ignis brand names to distributors and dealers in Africa and the Middle East.
In Asia, we have organized the marketing and distribution of our major home appliances into five operating groups: (1) mainland China (2) Hong Kong and Taiwan; (3) India, which includes Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Nepal and Pakistan; (4) Oceania, which includes Australia, New Zealand and Pacific Islands; and (5) Southeast Asia, which includes Thailand, Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia, Vietnam, the Philippines, Korea, Myanmar and Japan. We market and distribute our products in Asia primarily under the Whirlpool, Maytag, KitchenAid, Amana and Jenn-Air brand names through a combination of direct sales to appliance retailers and chain stores and full-service distributors to a large network of retail stores.


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Competition
Competition in the major home appliance industry is intense, including competitors such as Bosch Siemens, Electrolux, General Electric, Haier, Kenmore, LG , Mabe and Samsung. Moreover, the United States customer base includes large, sophisticated trade customers who have many choices and demand competitive products, services and prices. Competition in our markets is based upon a wide variety of factors, including selling price, product features and design, performance, innovation, energy efficiency, quality, cost, distribution and financial incentives. These financial incentives include cooperative advertising, co-marketing funds, salesperson incentives, volume rebates and terms. We believe that we can best compete in the current environment by focusing on introducing new and innovative products, building strong brands, enhancing trade customer and consumer value with our product offerings, continuing to expand our global footprint, expanding trade distribution channels, increasing productivity, improving quality, lowering costs, and taking other efficiency-enhancing measures.
Raw Materials and Purchased Components
We are generally not dependent upon any one source for raw materials or purchased components essential to our business. In areas where a single supplier is used, alternative sources are generally available and can be developed within the normal manufacturing environment. Some unanticipated costs may be incurred in transitioning to a new supplier if a prior single supplier relationship was abruptly interrupted or terminated. Cost pressure has been experienced during 2012 in some areas, such as base metals and plastic resins. Supply constraints due to environment impacts such as hurricanes and floods have required the qualification and use of alternate materials, some of which were at premium costs. We believe such raw materials and components will be available in adequate quantities to meet forecast production schedules.
Trademarks, Licenses and Patents
We consider the trademarks, licenses and patents we own in the aggregate to be a valuable asset. Whirlpool is the owner of a number of trademarks in the United States and foreign countries. The most important trademarks to North America are Whirlpool, Maytag, Jenn-Air, KitchenAid, Amana, and Acros. The most important trademarks to EMEA are Whirlpool, Bauknecht and Ignis. In Latin America, the most important trademarks are Consul, Brastemp, Whirlpool and KitchenAid. The most important trademark to Asia is Whirlpool. We receive royalties from licensing our trademarks to third parties to sell and service certain products bearing the Whirlpool, Maytag, KitchenAid, Jenn-Air, and Amana brand names. We continually apply for and obtain United States and foreign patents. The primary purpose in obtaining patents is to protect our designs and technologies.
Research and Development
Expenditures for research and development relating to new and innovative products and the improvement of existing products were approximately $553 million, $578 million and $532 million in 2012, 2011 and 2010, respectively.
Protection of the Environment
Our manufacturing facilities are subject to numerous laws and regulations designed to protect or enhance the environment, many of which require federal, state, or other governmental licenses and permits with regard to wastewater discharges, air emissions, and hazardous waste management. Our policy is to comply with all such laws and regulations. Where laws and regulations are less restrictive, we have established and are following our own standards consistent with our commitment to environmental responsibility.
We believe that we are in compliance, in all material respects, with presently applicable governmental provisions relating to environmental protection in the countries that we have manufacturing operations. Compliance with these environmental laws and regulations has not had a material effect on capital expenditures, earnings, or our competitive position during 2012 and are not expected to be material in 2013.
The entire major home appliance industry, including Whirlpool, must contend with the adoption of stricter governmental energy and environmental standards. These standards will be phased in over the next several years and include the general phase-out of ozone depleting chemicals used in refrigeration, energy standards rulemakings for selected major appliances, regulatory restrictions on the materials content specified for use in our products by some jurisdictions, and mandated recycling of our products at the end of their useful lives. Compliance with these various standards, as they become effective, will require some product redesign. However, we believe, based on our understanding of the current state of proposed regulations, that we will be able to develop, manufacture, and market products that comply with these regulations.
State and federal environmental protection agencies have notified us of our possible involvement in a number of “Superfund” sites in the United States. However, based upon our evaluation of the facts and circumstances relating to these sites along with the evaluation of our technical consultants, we do not presently anticipate any material adverse effect upon our earnings, financial condition, or competitive position arising out of the resolution of these matters or the resolution of any other known governmental proceeding regarding environmental protection matters.


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Other Information
For information about the challenges and risks associated with our foreign operations, see “Risks Relating to Our Business” under Item 1A below.
For certain other financial information concerning our business segments and foreign and domestic operations, see Note 13 to the Consolidated Financial Statements.
For information on our global restructuring plans, and the impact of these plans on our operating segments, see Note 10 to the Consolidated Financial Statements.
For information on product recalls, see Note 6 to the Consolidated Financial Statements.
Executive Officers of the Registrant
The following table sets forth the names and ages of our executive officers on February 8, 2013, the positions and offices they held on that date, and the year they first became executive officers:
Name
 
Office
 
First Became
an Executive
Officer
 
Age
Jeff M. Fettig
 
Director, Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer
 
1994
 
55

Michael A. Todman
 
Director and President, Whirlpool International
 
2001
 
55

Marc R. Bitzer
 
President, Whirlpool North America
 
2006
 
48

Jose A. Drummond
 
President, Whirlpool EMEA and Executive Vice President of Whirlpool Corporation
 
2008
 
48

João C. Brega
 
Executive Vice President and President, Whirlpool Latin America
 
2012
 
49

David T. Szczupak
 
Executive Vice President, Global Product Organization
 
2008
 
57

Larry M. Venturelli
 
Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer
 
2012
 
52

Each of the executive officers named above was elected by our Board of Directors to serve in the office indicated until the first meeting of the Board of Directors following the annual meeting of stockholders in 2013 and until his successor is chosen and qualified or until his earlier resignation or removal. Each of our executive officers has held the position set forth in the table above or has served Whirlpool in various executive or administrative capacities for at least the past five years, except for Mr. Szczupak. Prior to joining Whirlpool in July 2008, Mr. Szczupak for the previous two years served as Chief Operating Officer of Dura Automotive Systems, Inc., and before joining Dura in 2006, worked for Ford Motor Company for 22 years in various leadership roles.
Available Information
Financial results and investor information (including Whirlpool’s Form 10-K, 10-Q, and 8-K reports) are accessible at Whirlpool’s website: www.whirlpoolcorp.com — click on “Investors” and then click on “SEC Filings.” Copies of our Form 10-K, 10-Q, and 8-K reports and amendments, if any, are available free of charge through our website on the same day they are filed with, or furnished to, the Securities and Exchange Commission.


5


ITEM 1A.
RISK FACTORS.
This report contains statements referring to Whirlpool that are not historical facts and are considered “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These statements, which are intended to take advantage of the “safe harbor” provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, are based on current projections about operations, industry conditions, financial condition and liquidity. Words that identify forward-looking statements include words such as “may,” “could,” “will,” “should,” “possible,” “plan,” “predict,” “forecast,” “potential,” “anticipate,” “estimate,” “expect,” “project,” “intend,” “believe,” “may impact,” “on track,” and words and terms of similar substance used in connection with any discussion of future operating or financial performance, a merger, or our businesses. In addition, any statements that refer to expectations, projections, or other characterizations of future events or circumstances, including any underlying assumptions, are forward-looking statements. Those statements are not guarantees and are subject to risks, uncertainties, and assumptions that are difficult to predict. Therefore, actual results could differ materially and adversely from these forward-looking statements. These risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to, the following:
Risks Relating to Our Business
We face intense competition in the major home appliance industry and failure to successfully compete may negatively affect our business and financial performance. Each of our operating segments operates in a highly competitive business environment and faces intense competition from a growing number of competitors, many of which have strong consumer brand equity. Several of these competitors, such as Electrolux, LG, Samsung, Bosch Siemens, Panasonic and General Electric are large, well-established companies, many ranking among the Global Fortune 150, and have demonstrated a commitment to success in the global market. Moreover, the United States customer base includes large, sophisticated trade customers who have many choices and demand competitive products, services and prices. Competition in the global appliance market is based on a number of factors including selling price, product features and design, performance, innovation, reputation, energy efficiency, quality, cost, distribution, and financial incentives, such as cooperative advertising, co-marketing funds, sales person incentives, volume rebates and terms. In the past, our competitors, especially global competitors with low-cost sources of supply and/or highly protected home markets outside the United States, have aggressively priced their products and/or introduced new products to increase market share. If we are unable to successfully compete in this highly competitive environment, our business and financial performance could be negatively affected.
The loss of or substantial decline in sales to any of our key trade customers, which include Lowe's, Sears, Home Depot, Best Buy, Casas Bahia, Ikea, Alno, major buying groups, and builders, could adversely affect our financial performance. We sell to a sophisticated customer base of large trade customers that have significant leverage as buyers over their suppliers. Most of our products are not sold through long-term contracts, which facilitates the trade customers' ability to change volume among suppliers. As the trade customers continue to become larger, they may seek to use their position to improve their profitability by various means, including improved efficiency, lower pricing, and increased promotional programs. If we are unable to meet their demands requirements, our volume growth and financial results could be negatively affected. The loss of, or substantial decline in volume of, sales to Lowe's, Sears, Home Depot, Best Buy, Casas Bahia, Ikea, Alno, major buying groups or builders, or any other trade customers to which we sell a significant amount of products, could adversely affect our financial performance. Additionally, the loss of market share or financial difficulties, including bankruptcy and financial restructuring, by these trade customers could have a material adverse effect on our liquidity, financial position and results of operations.
Changes in economic conditions could adversely affect demand for our products. A number of economic factors, including, but not limited to, gross domestic product, availability of consumer credit, interest rates, consumer sentiment and debt levels, retail trends, housing starts, sales of existing homes, the level of mortgage refinancing and defaults, fiscal and credit market uncertainty, and foreign currency exchange rates, generally affect demand for our products. Higher unemployment rates, higher fuel and other energy costs, higher deficit spending and debt levels, and higher tax rates adversely affect demand. A decline in economic activity and conditions in the United States, Brazil, Europe and the other markets in which we operate has had an adverse affect on our financial condition and results of operations over the past few years, and future declines and adverse conditions could have a similar adverse affect.
We face inventory and other asset risk. We write-down for product and component inventories that have become obsolete or exceed anticipated demand or net realizable value. We also review our long-lived and intangible assets for impairment whenever events or changed circumstances indicate the carrying amount of an asset may not be recoverable. If we determine that impairment has occurred, we record a write-down to adjust carrying value to fair value. Although we believe our inventory and other asset related provisions are currently adequate, no assurance can be given that, given the unpredictable pace of product obsolescence and business conditions with trade customers and in general, we will not incur additional inventory or asset related charges. Such charges could materially adversely affect our financial condition and operating results.


6


Risks associated with our international operations may decrease our revenues and increase our costs. For the year ended December 31, 2012, we derived approximately 48% of our net sales from outside of North America (which includes Canada and Mexico), including 27% in Latin America, 16% in EMEA and 5% in Asia. We expect that international sales will continue to account for a significant percentage of our net sales in the foreseeable future. Accordingly, we face numerous risks associated with conducting international operations, any of which could negatively affect our financial performance. These risks include the following:
 
changes in foreign country regulatory requirements;
various import/export restrictions and the availability of required import/export licenses;
imposition of foreign tariffs and other trade barriers;
political, legal, and economic instability and uncertainty;
foreign currency exchange rate fluctuations;
changes in foreign country tax rules, regulations and other requirements, such as changes in tax rates and statutory and judicial interpretations of tax laws;
inflation;
managing widespread operations and enforcing internal policies and procedures such as compliance with U.S. and foreign anti-bribery and anti-corruption regulations, such as the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (“FCPA”), and anti-trust laws;
work stoppages and labor relations;
disruptions in the shipping of imported and exported products;
government price controls;
extended payment terms and the inability to collect accounts receivable; and
limitations on the repatriation of earnings.
As a U.S. corporation, we are subject to the FCPA, which may place us at a competitive disadvantage to foreign companies that are not subject to similar regulations. Additionally, any determination that we have violated the FCPA could have a material adverse effect on us.
Terrorist attacks, armed conflicts, labor disputes, natural disasters, and epidemics could affect our domestic and international sales, disrupt our supply chain, and impair our ability to produce and deliver our products. Such events could directly impact our physical facilities or those of our suppliers or customers, both in the United States and elsewhere.
We are exposed to risks associated with the uncertain global economy. Uncertain global economic conditions and slowing or negative growth in the United States, Europe, and China, along with continuing difficulties in the financial markets, national debt and fiscal concerns in various regions (including a potential “fiscal cliff” in the United States), and government austerity measures, are posing challenges to the industry in which Whirlpool operates. The markets for our products depend largely on consumer spending and the availability of financing. Economic uncertainty and related factors exacerbate negative trends in business and consumer spending and may cause certain customers to push out, cancel, or refrain from placing orders for our products. Uncertain market conditions, difficulties in obtaining capital, or reduced profitability may also cause some customers to scale back operations, exit markets, merge with other retailers, or file for bankruptcy protection and potentially cease operations, which can also result in lower sales and/or additional inventory. These conditions may similarly affect key suppliers, which could impair their ability to deliver parts and result in delays for our products or added costs. In addition, these conditions may lead to strategic alliances by, or consolidation of, other appliance manufacturers, which could adversely affect our ability to compete effectively.
Uncertainty about future economic and industry conditions also makes it more challenging for us to forecast our operating results, make business decisions, and identify and prioritize the risks that may affect our businesses, sources and uses of cash, financial condition and results of operations. We may be required to implement additional cost reduction efforts, including restructuring activities, which may adversely affect our ability to capitalize on opportunities in a market recovery. In addition, our operations are subject to general credit, liquidity, foreign exchange, market and interest rate risks.
If we do not timely and appropriately adapt to changes resulting from the uncertain macroeconomic environment and industry conditions, or to difficulties in the financial markets, our business, financial condition and results of operations may be materially and adversely affected.


7


An inability to effectively execute and manage our business objectives could adversely affect our financial performance. The highly competitive nature of our industry requires that we effectively execute and manage our business including our global operating platform initiative. Our global operating platform initiative aims to reduce costs, expand margins, drive productivity and quality improvements, and accelerate our rate of innovation. Our inability to effectively control costs and drive productivity improvements could affect our profits. In addition, our inability to provide high-quality, innovative products could adversely affect our ability to maintain or increase our sales, which it could negatively affect our revenues and overall financial performance. Additionally, our success is dependent on anticipating changes in customer preferences and on successful new product and process development and product relaunches in response to such changes. Our future results and our ability to maintain or improve our competitive position will depend on our capacity to gauge the direction of our key markets and upon our ability to successfully and timely identify, develop, manufacture, market, and sell new or improved products in these changing markets.
Failure to maintain our reputation and brand image could negatively impact our business. Our brands have worldwide recognition, and our success depends on our ability to maintain and enhance our brand image and reputation. Maintaining, promoting and growing our brands depends on our design and marketing efforts, including advertising and consumer campaigns, as well as product innovation. We could be adversely impacted if we fail to achieve any of these objectives or if, whether or not justified, the reputation or image of any of our brands is tarnished or receives negative publicity. In addition, adverse publicity about regulatory or legal action against us could damage our reputation and brand image, undermine our customers' confidence in us and reduce long-term demand for our products, even if the regulatory or legal action is unfounded or not material to our operations.
In addition, our success in maintaining, extending and expanding our brand image depends on our ability to adapt to a rapidly changing media environment, including our increasing reliance on social media and online dissemination of advertising campaigns. Negative posts or comments about us on social networking and other websites could seriously damage our reputation and brand image. If we do not maintain, extend and expand our brand image, then our product sales, financial condition and results of operations could be materially and adversely affected.
Fluctuations and volatility in the cost of raw materials and purchased components could adversely affect our operating results. The primary materials used to produce and manufacture our products are steel, oil, plastic resins, and base metals, such as aluminum, copper, zinc, and nickel. On a global and regional basis, the sources and prices of those materials and components are susceptible to significant price fluctuations due to supply/demand trends, transportation costs, government regulations and tariffs, changes in currency exchange rates, price controls, the economic climate, and other unforeseen circumstances. These inflationary costs are expected to have a material impact in 2013, largely driven by increases in the cost of plastic resins and base metals, such as copper, aluminum, zinc and nickel, as well as component parts. Continued significant increases in these and other costs in the future could have a material adverse effect on our operating results.
Unfavorable results of legal and tax proceedings could materially adversely affect our business and financial condition and performance. We are subject to a variety of litigation and legal compliance risks, including litigation concerning products, intellectual property rights, taxes, environmental matters, commercial matters and compliance with competition laws and sales and trading practices. Results of legal proceedings cannot be predicted with certainty. Regardless of merit, litigation may be both time-consuming and disruptive to our operations and cause significant diversion of management attention and expense, for which no insurance is likely available. We estimate loss contingencies and establish accruals as required by generally accepted accounting principles based on our assessment of contingencies where liability is deemed probable and reasonably estimable in light of the facts and circumstances known to us at a particular point in time. Subsequent developments in legal proceedings, volatility in foreign currency exchange rates and other factors may affect our assessment and estimates of the loss contingency recorded and could result in an adverse effect on our results of operations in the period in which a liability would be recognized or cash flows for the period in which amounts would be paid. Actual results may significantly vary from our reserves.
Product liability or product recall costs could adversely affect our business and financial performance. We are subject to the risk of exposure to product liability and product recall claims if any of our products are alleged to have resulted in injury to persons or damage to property. In the event that any of our products prove to be defective, we may need to recall and/or redesign such products. In addition, any claim or product recall that results in significant adverse publicity, particularly if those claims or recalls cause customers to question the safety or reliability of our products, may negatively affect our business, financial condition, or results of operations. We do maintain product liability insurance, but this insurance may not be adequate to cover losses related to product liability claims brought against us. We may also be involved in certain class action and other litigation, for which no insurance is available. Product liability insurance could become more expensive and difficult to maintain and may not be available on commercially reasonable terms, if at all. In addition, we do not maintain any product recall insurance, so any product recall we are required to initiate could have a significant impact on our operating results and/or cash flows.


8


We regularly engage in investigations of potential quality and safety issues as part of our ongoing effort to deliver quality products to our customers. We are currently investigating a limited number of potential quality and safety issues, and as necessary, we undertake to effect repair or replacement of appliances. Actual costs of these issues and any future issues depend upon several factors, including the number of consumers who respond to a particular recall, repair and administrative costs, whether the cost of any corrective action is borne initially by Whirlpool or the supplier, and, if initially borne by Whirlpool, whether we will be successful in recovering our costs from the supplier. The actual costs incurred as a result of these issues and any future issues could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition or results of operations.
We are subject to, and could be further subject to, governmental investigations or actions by other third parties. We are subject to various federal, foreign and state laws, including antitrust laws, violations of which can involve civil or criminal sanctions. Government regulators in various jurisdictions are currently investigating alleged pricing practices in the global compressor industry, including our Embraco compressor business headquartered in Brazil. In addition, we have been named as a defendant in related lawsuits in various jurisdictions, which seek damages in connection with the pricing of compressors, and additional lawsuits may be filed. The impact of these and other investigations and lawsuits could have a material adverse effect on our financial position, liquidity and results of operations.
Our intellectual property rights are valuable, and any inability to protect them could reduce the value of our products, services, and brands. We consider our intellectual property rights, including patents, trademarks, trade secrets, and licensing agreements, to be a significant and valuable aspect of our business. We attempt to protect our intellectual property rights through a combination of patent, trademark, copyright, and trade secret laws, as well as licensing agreements and third party nondisclosure and assignment agreements. Our failure to obtain or adequately protect our trademarks, products, new features of our products, or our processes may diminish our competitiveness.
We have applied for patent protection in the United States and other jurisdictions with respect to certain innovations and new products, product features, and processes. We cannot be assured that the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office or any other jurisdiction will approve any of our patent applications. Additionally, the patents we own could be challenged, invalidated, or others could design around our patents and the patents may not be of sufficient scope or strength to provide us with any meaningful protection or commercial advantage. Further, the laws of certain foreign countries in which we do business or contemplate doing business in the future do not recognize intellectual property rights or protect them to the same extent as United States law. As a result, these factors could weaken our competitive advantage with respect to our products, services, and brands in foreign jurisdictions, which could adversely affect our financial performance.
Moreover, while we do not believe that any of our products infringe on the valid intellectual property rights of third parties, others may assert intellectual property rights that cover some of our technology, brands, products, or services. Any litigation regarding patents or other intellectual property could be costly and time-consuming and could divert the attention of our management and key personnel from our business operations. Claims of intellectual property infringement might also require us to enter into costly license agreements. We also may be subject to significant damages or injunctions against development and sale of certain products.
The ability of suppliers to deliver parts, components and manufacturing equipment to our manufacturing facilities, including our ability to manufacture without disruption, could affect our global business performance. We use a wide range of materials and components in the global production of our products and use numerous suppliers to provide materials and components. Because we generally do not have guaranteed supply arrangements with our suppliers and some key parts may be available only from a single supplier or a limited group of suppliers, we are subject to supply and pricing risks. In addition, certain proprietary component parts used in some of our products are provided by single-source unaffiliated third-party suppliers. We would be unable to obtain these proprietary component parts for an indeterminate period of time if these single-source suppliers were to cease or interrupt production or otherwise fail to supply these components to us, which could adversely affect our product sales and operating results. Our operations and operations at suppliers' facilities are subject to disruption for a variety of reasons, including, but not limited to, work stoppages, intellectual property claims against suppliers, hazards such as fire, earthquake, flooding, or other natural disasters. Such disruption could interrupt our ability to manufacture certain products. Any significant disruption could negatively impact our revenue and earnings performance.
Significant differences between actual results and estimates of the amount of future funding for our pension plans and postretirement health care benefit programs, and significant changes in funding assumptions or significant increases in funding obligations due to regulatory changes, could adversely affect our financial results. We have both funded and unfunded defined benefit pension plans that cover certain employees in North America, Europe, Asia and Brazil. We also have unfunded postretirement health care benefit plans for eligible retired employees. The Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA) and the Internal Revenue Code, as amended, govern the funding obligations for our U.S. pension plans, which are our principal pension plans. Our U.S. defined benefit plans were frozen as of December 31, 2006 for substantially all participants. For 2007 and beyond, Whirlpool employees may participate in an enhanced defined contribution plan.


9


As of December 31, 2012, our projected benefit obligations under our pension plans and postretirement health care benefit programs exceeded the fair value of plan assets by an aggregate of approximately $2.1 billion, ($1.6 billion of which was attributable to pension plans and $0.5 billion of which was attributable to postretirement health care benefits). Estimates for the amount and timing of the future funding obligations of these pension plans and postretirement health care benefit plans are based on various assumptions. These assumptions include discount rates, expected long-term rate of return on plan assets, and health care cost trend rates. These assumptions are subject to change based on changes in interest rates on high quality bonds, stock and bond market returns, and health care cost trend rates. Significant differences in results or significant changes in assumptions may materially affect our postretirement obligations and related future contributions and expenses.
We may be subject to information technology system failures, network disruptions and breaches in data security, which may materially adversely affect our operations, financial condition and operating results. We depend on information technology as an enabler to improve the effectiveness of our operations and to interface with our customers, as well as to maintain financial accuracy and efficiency. Information technology system failures, including suppliers' or vendors' system failures, could disrupt our operations by causing transaction errors, processing inefficiencies, delays or cancellation of customer orders, the loss of customers, impediments to the manufacture or shipment of products, other business disruptions, or the loss of or damage to intellectual property through security breach.
In addition, we have outsourced certain information technology support services and administrative functions, such as payroll processing and benefit plan administration, to third-party service providers and may outsource other functions in the future to achieve cost savings and efficiencies. If the service providers to which we outsource these functions do not perform effectively, we may not be able to achieve the expected cost savings and may have to incur additional costs to correct errors made by such service providers. Depending on the function involved, such errors may also lead to business disruption, processing inefficiencies or the loss of or damage to intellectual property through security breach, or harm employee morale.
Our information systems could also be penetrated by outside parties intent on extracting information, corrupting information or disrupting business processes. Such unauthorized access could disrupt our business and could result in the loss of assets.
A deterioration in labor relations could adversely impact our global business. As of December 31, 2012, we had approximately 68,000 employees. Of those employees, various labor unions with separate collective bargaining agreements represent approximately 50%. Our current collective bargaining agreements generally have three year terms. Due to the large number of collective bargaining agreements, we are periodically in negotiations with certain of the unions representing our employees. We may be subject to employee work stoppages that, if such events were to occur, may have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, or results of operations. Further, we cannot be assured that we will be able to renew collective bargaining agreements on the same or similar terms, or at all, which may also have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, or results of operations.
Our ability to attract, develop and retain executives and other qualified employees is crucial to our results of operations and future growth. We depend upon the continued services and performance of our key executives, senior management and skilled personnel, particularly our professionals with experience in our business and operations and the home appliance industry. We cannot be sure that any of these individuals will continue to be employed by us. A lengthy period of time is required to hire and develop replacement personnel when skilled personnel depart Whirlpool. An inability to hire, develop, engage and retain a sufficient number of qualified employees could materially hinder our business by, for example, delaying our ability to bring new products to market or impairing the success of our operations.
Changes in the legal and regulatory environment could limit our business activities, increase our operating costs, reduce demand for our products or result in litigation. The conduct of our businesses, and the production, distribution, sale, advertising, safety, transportation and use of many of our products, are subject to various laws and regulations administered by federal, state and local governmental agencies in the United States, as well as to foreign laws and regulations administered by government entities and agencies in markets in which we operate. These laws and regulations may change, sometimes dramatically, as a result of political, economic or social events. Changes in laws, regulations or governmental policy and the related interpretations may alter the environment in which we do business and, therefore, may impact our results or increase our costs or liabilities. In addition, we incur and will continue to incur capital and other expenditures to comply with various laws and regulations, especially relating to, protection of the environment, human health and safety and energy efficiency. These types of costs could adversely affect our financial performance. Additionally, we could be subjected to future liabilities, fines or penalties or the suspension of product production for failing to comply with various laws and regulations, including environmental regulations. Cleanup obligations that might arise at any of our manufacturing sites or the imposition of more stringent environmental laws in the future could adversely affect us.


10


New regulations related to “conflict minerals” may force us to incur additional expenses and may make our supply chain more complex. In August 2012 the SEC adopted annual disclosure and reporting requirements for those companies who use certain minerals known as “conflict minerals” mined from the Democratic Republic of Congo and adjoining countries in their products. These new requirements will require due diligence efforts in 2013, with initial disclosure requirements beginning in 2014. There will be significant costs associated with complying with these disclosure requirements, including for diligence to determine the sources of conflict minerals used in our products and other potential changes to products, processes or sources of supply as a consequence of such verification activities.
Foreign currency fluctuations may affect our financial performance. We generate a significant portion of our revenue and incur a significant portion of our expenses in currencies other than the U.S. dollar. Changes in the exchange rates of functional currencies of those operations affect the U.S. dollar value of our revenue and earnings from our foreign operations. We use currency forwards and options to manage our foreign currency transaction exposures. We cannot completely eliminate our exposure to foreign currency fluctuations, which may adversely affect our financial performance. In addition, because our consolidated financial results are reported in dollars, if we generate sales or earnings in other currencies, the translation of those results into dollars can result in a significant increase or decrease in the amount of those sales or earnings. Finally, the amount of legal contingencies related to foreign operations may fluctuate significantly based upon changes in the exchange rates and usually cannot be managed with currency forwards, options or other arrangements. Such fluctuations in exchange rates can significantly increase or decrease the amount of any legal contingency related to our foreign operations and make it difficult to assess and manage the potential exposure.
ITEM 1B.
UNRESOLVED STAFF COMMENTS.
None.


11



ITEM 2.
PROPERTIES.
Our principal executive offices are located in Benton Harbor, Michigan. On December 31, 2012, our principal manufacturing operations were carried on at 34 locations in 11 countries worldwide. We occupied a total of approximately 66 million square feet devoted to manufacturing, service, sales and administrative offices, warehouse and distribution space. Over 34 million square feet of such space is occupied under lease. Whirlpool properties include facilities which are suitable and adequate for the manufacture and distribution of Whirlpool’s products. The company’s major production sites by operating segment are as follows:
North America:
  
 
United States:
  
Amana and Newton, Iowa; Tulsa, Oklahoma;
 
  
Greenville, Clyde, Findlay, Marion and Ottawa, Ohio;
 
  
Cleveland, Tennessee
Mexico:
  
Celaya; Monterrey; Ramos Arizpe
 
 
Latin America:
  
 
Brazil:
  
Itaiopolis; Joinville; Manaus; Rio Claro
China:
  
Beijing
Italy:
  
Riva di Chieri
Slovakia:
  
Spisska Nova Ves
Mexico:
  
Monterrey
 
 
Europe, Middle East and Africa:
France:
  
Amiens
Italy:
  
Trento; Cassinetta; Siena; Naples
Poland:
  
Wroclaw
Slovakia:
  
Poprad
Sweden:
  
Norrkoping
South Africa:
  
Isithebe
 
 
Asia:
  
 
China:
  
ChangXing (Joint Venture); Shunde
India:
  
Faridabad; Pune; Pondicherry

ITEM 3.
LEGAL PROCEEDINGS.
Information regarding legal proceedings can be found in Note 6 to the Consolidated Financial Statements and is incorporated herein by reference.

ITEM 4.
MINE SAFETY DISCLOSURES.
Not applicable.


12



PART II
ITEM 5.
MARKET FOR REGISTRANT’S COMMON EQUITY, RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS
AND ISSUER PURCHASES OF EQUITY SECURITIES.
Whirlpool’s common stock is traded on the New York Stock Exchange and the Chicago Stock Exchange. As of February 8, 2013, the number of holders of record of Whirlpool common stock was approximately 12,649.
Quarterly market and dividend information can be found in Note 14 to the Consolidated Financial Statements.
On April 23, 2008, our Board of Directors authorized a new share repurchase program of up to $500 million. Share repurchases are made from time to time on the open market as conditions warrant. There have been no repurchases since 2008. At December 31, 2012, there were $350 million remaining authorized under this program.
ITEM 6.
SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA.
See “Five Year Selected Financial Data” in the Financial Supplement to this report.
ITEM 7.
MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS
OF OPERATIONS.
See “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” in the Financial Supplement to this report.
ITEM 7A.
QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK.
See “Market Risk” in “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” in the Financial Supplement to this report.
ITEM 8.
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA.
Whirlpool’s Consolidated Financial Statements are included in the Financial Supplement to this report. Supplementary financial information regarding quarterly results of operations (unaudited) for 2012 and 2011 can be found in Note 14 to the Consolidated Financial Statements. For a list of financial statements and schedules filed as part of this report, see the Table of Contents to the Financial Supplement to this report on page F-1.
ITEM 9.
CHANGES IN AND DISAGREEMENTS WITH ACCOUNTANTS ON ACCOUNTING AND
FINANCIAL DISCLOSURE.
None.
ITEM 9A.
CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES.
Disclosure controls and procedures. Whirlpool maintains disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rule 13a-15(e) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934) that are designed to provide reasonable assurance that information required to be disclosed in our filings under the Securities Exchange Act is recorded, processed, summarized, and reported within the periods specified in the rules and forms of the Securities and Exchange Commission and that such information is accumulated and communicated to Whirlpool’s management, including its Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, as appropriate, to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.
Prior to filing this report, we completed an evaluation under the supervision and with the participation of Whirlpool management, including the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, of the effectiveness of the design and operation of our disclosure controls and procedures as of December 31, 2012. Based on this evaluation, the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures were effective at the reasonable assurance level as of December 31, 2012.
Management’s annual report on internal control over financial reporting. Pursuant to Section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 and the rules and regulations adopted pursuant thereto, we included a report of management’s assessment of the effectiveness of its internal control over financial reporting as part of this report. Management’s report is included in the Consolidated Financial Statements contained in the Financial Supplement to this report under the caption entitled “Management’s Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting” and is incorporated herein by reference.


13


Our internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2012 has been audited by Ernst & Young LLP, an independent registered public accounting firm, as stated in their report, which is included in the Consolidated Financial Statements contained in the Financial Supplement to this report under the caption entitled “Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm” and is incorporated herein by reference.
There were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the fourth quarter that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.
ITEM 9B.
OTHER INFORMATION.
There was no information required to be disclosed in a report on Form 8-K during the fourth quarter that was not previously reported.
PART III
ITEM 10.
DIRECTORS, EXECUTIVE OFFICERS AND CORPORATE GOVERNANCE.
Information regarding our executive officers is included in ITEM 1 of PART I of this report.
Information regarding the background of the directors, matters related to the Audit Committee, and Section 16(a) compliance can be found under the captions “Directors and Nominees for Election as Directors,” “Board of Directors and Corporate Governance- Audit Committee,” and “Section 16(a) Beneficial Ownership Reporting Compliance” in our Proxy Statement, which is incorporated herein by reference.
There have been no material changes to the procedures through which stockholders may recommend nominees to our Board of Directors since March 5, 2012, which is the date of our last proxy statement.
We have adopted a code of ethics that applies to all of our employees, officers and directors, including our principal executive officer, principal financial officer and principal accounting officer. The text of our code of ethics is posted on our website: www.whirlpoolcorp.com—scroll over the “Responsibility” dropdown menu and click on “Code of Ethics.” Whirlpool intends to disclose future amendments to, or waivers from, certain provisions of the code of ethics for executive officers and directors on the website within four business days following the date of such amendment or waiver. Stockholders may request a free copy of the code of ethics from:

Investor Relations
Whirlpool Corporation
2000 North M-63
Mail Drop 1208
Benton Harbor, MI 49022-2692
Telephone: (269) 923-2641
Whirlpool has also adopted Corporate Governance Guidelines and written charters for its Audit, Finance, Human Resources and Corporate Governance and Nominating Committees, all of which are posted on our website: www.whirlpoolcorp.com—scroll over the “Responsibility” dropdown menu and then over “Governance” and then click on “Board of Directors.” Stockholders may request a free copy of the charters and guidelines from the address or telephone number set forth above.

ITEM 11.
EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION.
Information regarding compensation of our executive officers and directors can be found under the captions “Nonemployee Director Compensation,” “Compensation Discussion and Analysis,” “Executive Compensation Tables,” and “Human Resources Committee Interlocks and Insider Participation” in the Proxy Statement, which is incorporated herein by reference. See also the information under the caption “Human Resources Committee Report” in our Proxy Statement, which is incorporated herein by reference; however, such information is only “furnished” hereunder and not deemed “soliciting material” or “filed” with the Securities and Exchange Commission or subject to Regulation 14A or 14C or to the liabilities of Section 18 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934.



14


ITEM 12.
SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT AND
RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS.
Information regarding the security ownership of any person that we know to beneficially own more than 5% of Whirlpool stock and by each Whirlpool director, each Whirlpool named executive officer, and all directors and executive officers as a group, can be found under the captions “Security Ownership” and “Beneficial Ownership” in the Proxy Statement, which is incorporated herein by reference. Information relating to securities authorized under equity compensation plans can be found under the caption “Equity Compensation Plan Information” in the Proxy Statement, which is incorporated herein by reference.

ITEM 13.
CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED TRANSACTIONS, AND DIRECTOR
INDEPENDENCE.
Information regarding certain relationships and related transactions (if any) and the independence of Whirlpool’s directors, can be found under the captions “Related Person Transactions” and “Board of Directors and Corporate Governance—Director Independence” in the Proxy Statement, which is incorporated herein by reference.

ITEM 14.
PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTING FEES AND SERVICES.
Information regarding our auditors and the Audit Committee’s pre-approval policies can be found under the caption “Matters Relating to Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm” in the Proxy Statement, which is incorporated herein by reference.


PART IV
ITEM 15.
EXHIBITS, FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULES.
(a) The following documents are filed as a part of this report:
1. The financial statements and related notes, and reports of management and the independent registered public accounting firm, listed in the Table of Contents to the Financial Supplement to this report. Individual financial statements of the registrant’s affiliated foreign companies, accounted for by the equity method, have been omitted since no such company individually constitutes a significant subsidiary.
2. “Schedule II—Valuation and Qualifying Accounts” is contained in the Financial Supplement to this report. Certain schedules for which provisions are made in the applicable accounting regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission are not required under the related instructions or are inapplicable, and therefore have been omitted.
(b) The exhibits listed in the “Exhibit Index” attached to this report.


15



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.
 
WHIRLPOOL CORPORATION
(Registrant)
 
By:
 
/S/    Larry M. Venturelli
February 19, 2013
 
 
Larry M. Venturelli
Executive Vice President
and Chief Financial Officer
 
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, this report has been signed below by the following persons on behalf of the registrant and in the capacities and on the date indicated.
 
Signature
  
Title
 
 
 
/S/    JEFF M. FETTIG
 
Director, Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer
(Principal Executive Officer)
Jeff M. Fettig
  
 
 
/S/    MICHAEL A. TODMAN
 
Director and President, Whirlpool International
Michael A. Todman
  
 
 
/S/    LARRY M. VENTURELLI
 
Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer
(Principal Financial Officer)
Larry M. Venturelli
  
 
 
 
/S/ CHRISTOPHER J. KUEHN
 
Vice President and Corporate Controller
(Principal Accounting Officer)
Christopher J. Kuehn
 
 
 
 
SAMUEL R. ALLEN*
 
Director
Samuel R. Allen
  
 
 
 
GARY T. DICAMILLO*
 
Director
Gary T. DiCamillo
  
 
 
 
KATHLEEN J. HEMPEL*
 
Director
Kathleen J. Hempel
  
 
 
 
MICHAEL F. JOHNSTON*
 
Director
Michael F. Johnston
  
 
 
 
WILLIAM T. KERR*
 
Director
William T. Kerr
  
 
 
 
JOHN D. LIU*
 
Director
John D. Liu
 
 
 
 
HARISH MANWANI*
 
Director
Harish Manwani

 
 
 
 
MILES L. MARSH*
 
Director
Miles L. Marsh
 
WILLIAM D. PEREZ*
 
Director
William D. Perez
  
 
 
MICHAEL D. WHITE*
 
Director
Michael D. White
  
*By:
 
/S/    KIRSTEN J. HEWITT
 
Attorney-in-Fact
 
February 19, 2013
 
 
Kirsten J. Hewitt

 
 
 


16



WHIRLPOOL CORPORATION
Financial Supplement to
2012 Annual Report on Form 10-K
and 2013 Proxy Statement
TABLE OF CONTENTS
 
  
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
  
 




F-1



FIVE-YEAR SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA
 
(Millions of dollars, except share and employee data)
 
2012

2011

2010

2009

2008
CONSOLIDATED OPERATIONS
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Net sales
 
$
18,143

 
$
18,666

 
$
18,366

 
$
17,099

 
$
18,907

Restructuring costs
 
237

 
136

 
74

 
126

 
149

Depreciation and amortization(1)
 
551

 
558

 
555

 
525

 
597

Operating profit
 
869

 
792

 
1,008

 
688

 
549

Earnings (loss) before income taxes and other items
 
558


(28
)

586


293


246

Net earnings
 
425

 
408

 
650

 
354

 
447

Net earnings available to Whirlpool
 
401

 
390

 
619

 
328

 
418

Capital expenditures
 
476

 
608

 
593

 
541

 
547

Dividends
 
155

 
148

 
132

 
128

 
128

CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL POSITION
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Current assets
 
$
6,827

 
$
6,422

 
$
7,315

 
$
7,025

 
$
6,044

Current liabilities
 
6,510

 
6,297

 
6,149

 
5,941

 
5,563

Accounts receivable, inventories and accounts payable, net
 
694

 
947

 
1,410

 
1,389

 
1,889

Property, net
 
3,034

 
3,102

 
3,134

 
3,117

 
2,985

Total assets
 
15,396

 
15,181

 
15,584

 
15,094

 
13,532

Long-term debt
 
1,944

 
2,129

 
2,195

 
2,502

 
2,002

Total debt (2)
 
2,461

 
2,491

 
2,509

 
2,903

 
2,597

Whirlpool stockholders’ equity
 
4,260

 
4,181

 
4,226

 
3,664

 
3,006

PER SHARE DATA
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Basic net earnings available to Whirlpool
 
$
5.14

 
$
5.07

 
$
8.12

 
$
4.39

 
$
5.57

Diluted net earnings available to Whirlpool
 
5.06

 
4.99

 
7.97

 
4.34

 
5.50

Dividends
 
2.00

 
1.93

 
1.72

 
1.72

 
1.72

Book value(3)
 
53.70

 
53.50

 
54.48

 
48.48

 
39.54

Closing Stock Price—NYSE
 
101.75

 
47.45

 
88.83

 
80.66

 
41.35

KEY RATIOS
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Operating profit margin
 
4.8
%
 
4.2
 %
 
5.5
%
 
4.0
%
 
2.9
 %
Pre-tax margin(4)
 
3.1
%

(0.2
)%

3.2
%

1.7
%
 
1.3
 %
Net margin(5)
 
2.2
%

2.1
 %

3.4
%

1.9
%
 
2.2
 %
Return on average Whirlpool stockholders’ equity(6)
 
9.5
%
 
9.3
 %
 
15.7
%
 
9.8
%
 
10.7
 %
Return on average total assets(7)
 
2.6
%
 
2.5
 %
 
4.0
%
 
2.3
%
 
3.0
 %
Current assets to current liabilities
 
1.0


1.0


1.2

 
1.2

 
1.1

Total debt as a percent of invested capital(8)
 
36.0
%
 
36.8
 %
 
36.7
%
 
43.6
%
 
46.0
 %
Price earnings ratio (9)
 
20.1

 
9.5

 
11.2

 
18.6

 
7.5

OTHER DATA
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Common shares outstanding (in thousands):
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
    Average number—on a diluted basis
 
79,337

 
78,143

 
77,628

 
75,584

 
76,019

    Year-end common shares outstanding
 
78,407

 
76,451

 
76,030

 
74,704

 
73,536

Year-end number of stockholders
 
12,759

 
13,527

 
14,080

 
14,930

 
14,515

Year-end number of employees
 
68,000

 
68,000

 
71,000

 
67,000

 
70,000

Five-year annualized total return to stockholders(10)
 
7.6
%
 
(8.1
)%
 
3.8
%
 
5.8
%
 
(8.5
)%

(1)
Depreciation method changed prospectively from a straight-line method to a modified units of production method in 2009.
(2)
Total debt includes notes payable and current and long-term debt.
(3)
Total Whirlpool stockholders’ equity divided by average number of shares on a diluted basis.
(4)
Earnings (loss) before income taxes, as a percent of net sales.
(5)
Net earnings available to Whirlpool, as a percent of net sales.
(6)
Net earnings available to Whirlpool, divided by average Whirlpool stockholders’ equity.
(7)
Net earnings available to Whirlpool, divided by average total assets.
(8)
Total debt divided by total debt and total stockholders’ equity.
(9)
Closing stock price divided by diluted net earnings available to Whirlpool.
(10)
Stock appreciation plus reinvested dividends, divided by share price at the beginning of the period.


F-2



MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION
AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
This Management Discussion and Analysis should be read in connection with the Consolidated Financial Statements, Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements and Selected Financial Data included in this Form 10-K. Certain references to particular information in the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements are made to assist readers.
ABOUT WHIRLPOOL
Whirlpool Corporation (“Whirlpool”) is the world’s leading manufacturer of major home appliances with revenues of approximately $18 billion and net earnings available to Whirlpool of $401 million in 2012. We are a leading producer of major home appliances in North America and Latin America and have a significant presence in markets throughout Europe and India. We have received worldwide recognition for accomplishments in a variety of business and social efforts, including leadership, diversity, innovative product design, business ethics, social responsibility and community involvement. We conduct our business through four reportable segments, which we define based on geography. Our reportable segments consist of North America, Latin America, EMEA (Europe, Middle East and Africa) and Asia. Our customer base includes large, sophisticated trade customers who have many choices and demand competitive products, services and prices. The major home appliance industry operates in an intensely competitive environment, reflecting the impact of both new and established global competitors, including Asian and European manufacturers.
The charts below summarize the balance of net sales by reportable segment for 2012, 2011 and 2010, respectively:

We monitor country-specific economic factors such as gross domestic product, unemployment, consumer confidence, retail trends, housing starts and completions, sales of existing homes and mortgage interest rates as key indicators of industry demand. In addition to profitability, we also focus on country, brand, product and channel sales when assessing and forecasting financial results.
Our leading portfolio of brands includes: Whirlpool, Maytag, KitchenAid, Brastemp and Consul, each of which have annual revenues in excess of $1 billion. Our global branded consumer products strategy is to introduce innovative new products, increase brand customer loyalty, expand our presence in foreign markets, enhance our trade management platform, improve total cost and quality by expanding and leveraging our global operating platform and, where appropriate, make strategic acquisitions and investments.
As we grow revenues in our core products, our strategy is to extend our business by offering products and services that are dependent on and related to our core business and expand into adjacent products, such as Gladiator GarageWorks, through stand-alone businesses that leverage our core competencies and business infrastructure.


F-3

MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS - (CONTINUED)

2012 OVERVIEW
Whirlpool delivered strong operating results while facing continued uncertainty across much of the world in 2012, including recessionary demand levels in developed countries, a slowdown in emerging markets, continued inflation in material costs and volatility in foreign currencies. Our success in this period of uncertain economic growth and consumer demand was driven by the aggressive actions announced during the fourth quarter 2011 to expand our operating margins and improve our earnings. These actions included implementation of our previously announced cost-based price increases, continued investment in new product innovation, execution of cost and capacity reductions and continued productivity improvements. Our execution on these items during 2012 has structurally improved our operating margin and positions us very well for further improvement as consumer confidence increases and demand returns.
Whirlpool’s ongoing focus on cost reductions, productivity improvements and investment in innovative new products continue to enable the company to adapt to changes in the macroeconomic environment and maintain our position as the global number one major home appliance maker.
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
The following table summarizes the consolidated results of operations:
 
 
December 31,
Consolidated
 
2012
 
Change        
 
2011
 
Change        
 
2010
Net sales
 
$
18,143

 
(2.8)%
 
$
18,666

 
1.6%
 
$
18,366

Gross margin
 
2,893

 
12.3
 
2,577

 
(5.0)
 
2,714

Selling, general and administrative
 
1,757

 
(8.4)
 
1,621

 
(1.0
)
 
1,604

Restructuring costs
 
237

 
nm
 
136

 
nm
 
74

Interest and sundry income (expense)
 
(112
)
 
nm
 
(607
)
 
nm
 
(197
)
Interest expense
 
(199
)
 
6.7
 
(213
)
 
5.4

 
(225
)
Income tax expense (benefit)
 
133

 
nm
 
(436
)
 
nm
 
(64
)
Net earnings available to Whirlpool
 
401

 
3.0
 
390

 
(37.0)
 
619

Diluted net earnings available to Whirlpool per share
 
$
5.06

 
1.5%
 
$
4.99

 
(37.5)%
 
$
7.97

nm: not meaningful
Consolidated Net Sales
The following tables summarize units sold and consolidated net sales by operating segment:
 
 
December 31,
In thousands
 
 
2012
 
Change
 
2011
 
Change        
 
2010
Units Sold
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
North America
 
 
24,291

 
(5.0
)%
 
25,575

 
(2.0
)%
 
26,095

Latin America
 
 
12,637

 
6.8

 
11,830

 
1.4

 
11,661

EMEA
 
 
11,546

 
(6.4
)
 
12,334

 
(0.1
)
 
12,351

Asia
 
 
4,028

 
0.4

 
4,014

 
0.5

 
3,996

Consolidated
 
 
52,502

 
(2.3
)%
 
53,753

 
(0.6
)%
 
54,103

 
 
December 31,
Millions of dollars
 
 
2012
 
Change
 
2011
 
Change        
 
2010
Consolidated Net Sales
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
North America
 
 
$
9,631

 
0.5
 %
 
$
9,582

 
(2.1
)%
 
$
9,784

Latin America
 
 
4,950

 
(2.2
)
 
5,062

 
7.8

 
4,694

EMEA
 
 
2,874

 
(13.1
)
 
3,305

 
2.4

 
3,227

Asia
 
 
847

 
(3.8
)
 
881

 
3.1

 
855

Other/eliminations
 
 
(159
)
 

 
(164
)
 

 
(194
)
Consolidated
 
 
$
18,143

 
(2.8
)%
 
$
18,666

 
1.6
 %
 
$
18,366



F-4

MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS - (CONTINUED)

Consolidated net sales decreased 2.8% compared to 2011 primarily due to the unfavorable impact of foreign currency, lower BEFIEX credits recognized and lower unit shipments, which were largely offset by favorable pricing and mix. Excluding the impact of foreign currency and BEFIEX, consolidated net sales increased 2.9% compared to 2011. Consolidated net sales for 2011 increased 1.6% compared to 2010 primarily due to the favorable impact of foreign currency and higher BEFIEX credits recognized, partially offset by lower unit shipments. Excluding the impact of foreign currency and BEFIEX, consolidated net sales for 2011 decreased 0.6% compared to 2010.
We provide the percentage change in net sales, excluding the impact of foreign currency and BEFIEX credits, as a supplement to the change in net sales as determined by U.S. generally accepted accounting principles ("GAAP") to provide stockholders with a clearer basis to assess Whirlpool's results over time. This measure is considered a non-GAAP financial measure and is calculated by translating the current period net sales excluding BEFIEX, in functional currency, to U.S. dollars using the prior-year period's exchange rate compared to the prior-year period net sales excluding BEFIEX.
Significant regional trends were as follows:
 
North America net sales increased 0.5% compared to 2011 primarily due to favorable product price/mix, partially offset by a 5.0% decrease in units sold. North America net sales for 2011 decreased 2.1% compared to 2010 primarily due to a 2.0% decrease in units sold. Improvements in product price/mix began in the second half of 2011 and continued into 2012 as we began to realize the effects of pricing actions taken earlier in 2011. However, for the full year, net sales were slightly unfavorable to 2010 as a result of product price/mix. Foreign currency did not have a significant impact on North America net sales in 2012 or 2011.

Latin America net sales decreased 2.2% compared to 2011 primarily due to the unfavorable impact of foreign currency, and lower BEFIEX credits recognized, partially offset by an 6.8% increase in units sold and favorable product price/mix. Excluding the impact of foreign currency and BEFIEX credits, Latin America net sales increased 13.9% in 2012. Latin America net sales for 2011 increased 7.8% compared to 2010 primarily due to the favorable impact of foreign currency, improved product price/mix, higher BEFIEX credits recognized and a 1.4% increase in units sold. Excluding the impact of foreign currency and higher BEFIEX credits, Latin America net sales increased 3.0% in 2011.

The Brazilian government announced an Impostos sobre Produtos ("IPI") sales tax holiday on appliances beginning in December 2011. During this holiday, we monetized reduced amounts of BEFIEX export credits because the export credits are monetized through the offset of IPI taxes due. The sales tax holiday has been extended through January 31, 2013, with IPI tax rates increasing beginning in February 2013 and new long-term IPI rates effective July 1, 2013. We recognized approximately $37 million, $266 million and $225 million of export credits during 2012, 2011 and 2010, respectively. As of December 31, 2012, approximately $184 million of future cash monetization remained, including $56 million of related court awarded fees, which will be payable in subsequent years. For additional information regarding BEFIEX credits, see Note 11 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements.
 
EMEA net sales decreased 13.1% compared to 2011, primarily due to the unfavorable impact of foreign currency and a 6.4% decrease in units sold. Excluding the impact of foreign currency, net sales decreased 6.6%. EMEA net sales for 2011 increased 2.4% compared to 2010, primarily due to the favorable impact of foreign currency, partially offset by unfavorable product price/mix. Excluding the impact of foreign currency, net sales decreased 3.1%.

Asia net sales decreased 3.8% compared to 2011 primarily due to the unfavorable impact of foreign currency, partially offset by favorable product price/mix. Excluding the impact of foreign currency, Asia net sales increased 3.8%. Asia net sales for 2011 increased 3.1% compared to 2010, primarily due to improved product price/mix, the favorable impact of foreign currency and a 0.5% increase in units sold. Excluding the impact of foreign currency, Asia net sales increased 2.3%.


F-5

MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS - (CONTINUED)

Gross Margin
The table below summarizes gross margin percentages by region:
 
 
December 31,
 
Percentage of net sales
 
2012
 
 
Change    
 
2011
 
Change    
 
2010
 
North America
 
16.4
%
 
5.1

pts
11.3
%
(0.5
)
pts 
11.8
%
Latin America
 
17.7
 
 
(2.3
)
 
20.0
 
(1.2
)
 
21.2
 
EMEA
 
9.7
 
 
(0.4
)
 
10.1
 
(3.0
)
 
13.1
 
Asia
 
17.9
 
 
1.4

 
16.5
 
(0.7
)
 
17.2
 
Consolidated
 
15.9
%
 
2.1

pts
13.8
%
(1.0
)
pts
14.8
%
The consolidated gross margin percentage increased 2.1 points to 15.9% compared to 2011, primarily due to the favorable impacts from improved product price/mix, productivity and restructuring activities, partially offset by higher material costs and lower BEFIEX credits.
    
Significant regional trends were as follows:
 
North America gross margin reflects strong improvement compared to 2011 primarily due to the favorable impact from previously announced cost-based price increases and cost and capacity reduction initiatives, partially offset by higher material costs and a supplier recovery payment received in the prior year that did not recur in 2012. North America gross margin for 2011 decreased compared to 2010 primarily due to significant increases in material costs, partially offset by continued productivity improvements and the favorable impact from product price/mix. Gross margin also reflects the favorable impact from $78 million in lower product recall charges and a $61 million supplier recovery payment received in 2011, partially offset by $50 million in higher LIFO adjustments and $27 million in lower postretirement curtailment gains.

Latin America gross margin decreased compared to 2011 primarily due to $229 million in lower BEFIEX credits recognized due to the extension of the IPI sales tax holiday and higher material costs, partially offset by favorable product price/mix and continued productivity and cost reduction initiatives. During 2011, Latin America gross margin decreased compared to 2010 primarily due to higher material costs and the unfavorable impact of foreign currency, partially offset by cost reductions and $41 million in higher BEFIEX credits recognized.

EMEA gross margin decreased compared to 2011 primarily due to lower production levels related to the weak demand environment throughout Europe and higher material costs, which were partially offset by the favorable impact of product price/mix, productivity and benefits from restructuring initiatives. During 2011, EMEA gross margin decreased compared to 2010 primarily due to higher material costs and the unfavorable impact of product price/mix, partially offset by cost reductions and improved productivity.

Asia gross margin increased compared to 2011 primarily due to favorable product price/mix and productivity, partially offset by the unfavorable impacts of higher material costs and foreign currency. Asia gross margin during 2011 decreased compared to 2010 primarily due to higher material costs, partially offset by productivity improvements and cost reductions, improved product price/mix and the favorable impact of foreign currency.
Selling, General and Administrative
The following table summarizes selling, general and administrative expenses as a percentage of sales by region:
 
 
December 31,
Millions of dollars
 
2012
 
As a %
of Net Sales    
 
2011
 
As a %
of Net Sales    
 
2010
 
As a %
of Net Sales    
North America
 
$
707

 
7.3%
 
$
658

 
6.9%
 
$
662

 
6.8%
Latin America
 
400

 
8.1
 
370

 
7.3
 
329

 
7.0
EMEA
 
332

 
11.5
 
333

 
10.1
 
320

 
9.9
Asia
 
115

 
13.6
 
115

 
13.1
 
114

 
13.3
Corporate/other
 
203

 
 
145

 
 
179

 
Consolidated
 
$
1,757

 
9.7%
 
$
1,621

 
8.7%
 
$
1,604

 
8.7%


F-6

MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS - (CONTINUED)


Consolidated selling, general and administrative expenses, as a percentage of sales, increased compared to 2011, primarily due to higher employee incentive compensation. Selling, general and administrative expenses as a percent of consolidated net sales in 2011 remained flat compared to 2010, with unfavorable foreign currency and increased brand investments offset by lower employee incentive compensation.
Restructuring
During the fourth quarter 2011, the Company committed to restructuring plans that will result in substantial cost and capacity reductions. We expect to incur up to $500 million of total costs beginning in the fourth quarter 2011 with substantial completion expected by the end of 2013.
We incurred total restructuring charges of $237 million, $136 million and $74 million during the years ended December 31, 2012, 2011 and 2010, respectively. We expect to incur approximately $250 million of future cash expenditures related to the 2011 Plan. Additional information about restructuring activities can be found in Note 10 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements.
Interest and Sundry Income (Expense)
Interest and sundry expense decreased $495 million compared to 2011 to $112 million, primarily driven by charges related to the prior year settlement of the Brazilian collection dispute and lower charges related to Embraco antitrust matters, partially offset by current year expense related to the conclusion of long-standing United States contract and patent resolutions. During 2011, interest and sundry expense increased $410 million compared to 2010 to $607 million, primarily driven by charges related to the settlement of the Brazilian collection dispute and Embraco antitrust matters of $528 million in 2011 compared to $146 million in 2010. In addition, 2011 reflects the unfavorable impact of foreign currency.
For additional information about the Brazilian collection dispute and Embraco antitrust matters, see Note 6 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements.
Interest Expense
Interest expense decreased $14 million compared to 2011 to $199 million. During 2011, interest expense decreased $12 million compared to 2010. For both periods the decrease was primarily due to lower interest rates, partially offset by higher average monthly debt levels.
Income Taxes
The income tax expense (benefit) was $133 million, ($436 million), and ($64 million ) in 2012, 2011 and 2010, respectively. The increase in tax expense in 2012 compared to 2011 is primarily due to higher pre-tax earnings and the expiration of the United States energy tax credit in 2012. The increase in tax benefit in 2011 compared to 2010 was primarily due to lower pre-tax earnings, higher United States energy tax credits and higher BEFIEX credits recognized.
The "American Taxpayer Relief Act of 2012" was signed on January 2, 2013 which reinstates the energy tax credit for 2012 and 2013 and will be recognized in 2013. As a result, during 2013 we expect to record a tax credit benefit related to 2012 and 2013 production in the combined amount of $120 million under the provisions of the Act related to the production of qualifying appliances. For additional information about our consolidated tax provision, see Note 11 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements.


F-7

MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS - (CONTINUED)

The following table summarizes the difference between income tax expense at the United States statutory rate of 35% and the income tax benefit at effective worldwide tax rates for the respective periods:
Millions of dollars
 
2012
 
2011
 
2010
Earnings (loss) before income taxes
 
 
 
 
 
 
United States
 
$
113

 
$
(240
)
 
$
(256
)
Foreign
 
445

 
212

 
842

Earnings (loss) before income taxes
 
558

 
(28
)
 
586

Income tax computed at United States statutory rate
 
195

 
(10
)
 
205

U.S. government tax incentives, including Energy Tax Credits
 

 
(379
)
 
(230
)
Foreign government tax incentives, including BEFIEX
 
(38
)
 
(100
)
 
(103
)
Foreign tax rate differential
 
(2
)
 
(13
)
 
(46
)
U.S. foreign tax credits
 
(31
)
 
(37
)
 
(28
)
Valuation allowances
 
(86
)
 
11

 
(9
)
Deductible interest on capital
 

 

 
(7
)
State and local taxes, net of federal tax benefit
 
2

 
(4
)
 
(2
)
Foreign withholding taxes
 
12

 
10

 
12

Non-deductible government settlements
 

 
30

 
33

U.S. tax on foreign dividends and subpart F income
 
57

 
26

 
49

Settlement of global tax audits
 
18

 
10

 
56

Other items, net
 
6

 
20

 
6

Income tax computed at effective worldwide tax rates
 
$
133

 
$
(436
)
 
$
(64
)
FORWARD-LOOKING PERSPECTIVE
We currently estimate earnings per diluted share and industry demand for 2013 to be within the following ranges:
 
2013
Millions of dollars, except per share data
Current Outlook
Estimated earnings per diluted share, for the year ending December 31, 2013
$9.80
$10.30
Including:
 
 
 
BEFIEX credits
$0.81
Restructuring expense
$(1.75)
U.S. Energy Tax Credits1
$1.50
 
 
 
 
Industry demand
 
 
 
North America
2%
3%
Latin America
3%
5%
EMEA
0%
0%
Asia
3%
5%
1
2013 Outlook includes the expected impact of the U.S. Energy Tax Credits earned in 2012 and 2013. The benefit earned for both years will be recognized in 2013.
For the full-year 2013, we expect to generate free cash flow between $600 million and $650 million, including restructuring cash outlays of up to $245 million, capital spending of $600 million to $650 million and U.S. pension contributions of up to $140 million.
The table below reconciles projected 2013 cash provided by operations determined in accordance with GAAP to free cash flow, a non-GAAP measure. Management believes that free cash flow provides stockholders with a relevant measure of liquidity and a useful basis for assessing Whirlpool’s ability to fund its activities and obligations. There are limitations to using non-GAAP financial measures, including the difficulty associated with comparing companies that use similarly named non-GAAP measures whose calculations may differ from our calculations. We define free cash flow as cash provided by continuing operations after capital expenditures and proceeds from the sale of assets/businesses.


F-8

MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS - (CONTINUED)

 
2013
Millions of dollars
Current Outlook
Cash provided by operating activities
$
1,200

$
1,300

Capital expenditures and proceeds from sale of assets/businesses
(600
)
(650
)
Free cash flow
$
600

$
650

The projections above are based on many estimates and are inherently subject to change based on future decisions made by management and the Board of Directors of Whirlpool, and significant economic, competitive and other uncertainties and contingencies.
FINANCIAL CONDITION AND LIQUIDITY
Our objective is to finance our business through operating cash flow and the appropriate mix of long-term and short-term debt. By diversifying the maturity structure, we avoid concentrations of debt, reducing liquidity risk. We have varying needs for short-term working capital financing as a result of the nature of our business. We regularly review our capital structure and liquidity priorities, which include funding the business through capital and engineering spending to support innovation and productivity initiatives, funding our pension plans and term debt liabilities, return to shareholders and potential acquisitions in our core business and/or strategic adjacent business opportunities. These priorities are aligned with our goal to return our credit ratings to pre-recession levels.
We have continued to operate under uncertain and volatile global economic conditions for most of 2012, experiencing higher material costs, recessionary demand levels in developed markets and slowing growth in certain emerging markets. We believe that operating cash flow, together with access to sufficient sources of liquidity, will be adequate to meet our ongoing requirements to fund our operations.
Our short term potential uses of liquidity include funding $600 million to $650 million of capital spending, $500 million of term debt maturing in March 2013, up to $245 million of restructuring activities and up to $140 million for our United States pension plans. At December 31, 2012 and 2011 we had no borrowings outstanding under credit facilities and we were in compliance with all financial covenant requirements.
We monitor the credit ratings and market indicators of credit risk of our lending, depository, and derivative counterparty banks regularly. In addition, we diversify our deposits and investments in short term cash equivalents to limit the concentration of exposure by counterparty.
We continue to monitor the general financial instability and uncertainty throughout Europe. At December 31, 2012, we had cash, cash equivalents and third-party receivables of approximately $160 million in Italy and $310 million in Belgium, which were the only countries in Europe with exposures for cash, cash equivalents and third party receivables greater than 1% of our consolidated assets. In addition, as of December 31, 2012, we had $106 million in outstanding trade and other receivables associated with Alno AG, a long-standing European customer. As previously announced, Alno is taking steps to strengthen their equity base and reduce their long-term debt. During the fourth quarter 2012, Alno issued 44 million additional shares, at a per share price of Euro 1.05, the proceeds of which were used to retire all of Alno's bank debt. Upon completion of the share issuance, we increased our ownership in Alno from 18.25% to 30.58%. While the share subscription is a significant step to improve Alno's financial condition, Alno's next step is to secure long-term financing in the first half of 2013. For additional information regarding Alno, see Note 3 in the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements.
As of December 31, 2012, we had $1.2 billion of cash and equivalents on hand, of which $0.8 billion was held outside of the United States. Our intent is to permanently reinvest these funds outside of the United States and our current plans do not demonstrate a need to repatriate these funds to fund our U.S. operations. However, if these funds were repatriated, then we would be required to accrue and pay applicable U.S. taxes (subject to an adjustment for foreign tax credits) and withholding taxes payable to various countries.
Sources and Uses of Cash
We met our cash needs during 2012 through cash flows from operations, cash and equivalents, and financing arrangements. Our cash and equivalents at December 31, 2012 increased $59 million compared to the same period in 2011. Significant drivers of changes in our cash and equivalents balance during 2012 are discussed below.


F-9

MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS - (CONTINUED)

Cash Flow Summary
Millions of dollars
 
2012
 
2011
 
2010
Cash provided by (used in):
 
 
 
 
 
 
Operating activities
 
$
696

 
$
530

 
$
1,078

Investing activities
 
(494
)
 
(596
)
 
(606
)
Financing activities
 
(148
)
 
(166
)
 
(495
)
Effect of exchange rate changes
 
5

 
(27
)
 
11

Net increase (decrease) in cash and equivalents
 
$
59

 
$
(259
)
 
$
(12
)
Cash Flows from Operating Activities
The increase in cash provided by operations during 2012 reflects strong cash earnings and working capital improvements, which were partially offset by approximately $400 million for legal settlements and $167 million to fund our United States qualified pension plans. The decrease in cash provided by operations during 2011 reflects a $301 million payment related to the settlement of the Brazilian collection dispute, funding of our United States qualified pension plans of $298 million and lower net earnings, partially offset by significant reductions in inventory.
The timing of cash flows from operations varies significantly within a quarter primarily due to changes in production levels, sales patterns, promotional programs, funding requirements as well as receivable and payment terms. Dependent on timing of cash flows, the location of cash balances, as well as the liquidity requirements of each country, external sources of funding are used to support working capital requirements throughout the year. Due to the variables discussed above, cash flow used in operations during the year may significantly exceed our quarter and year-end balances.
During the first quarter of 2011, the European Parliament approved a directive that changes existing laws regarding supplier payment terms. The approved directive generally requires payment terms to be 30 days from the invoice date unless otherwise stated in the contract. An extension of up to 60 days is allowed if both parties agree to the terms. Countries within the European Union are required to adopt this directive within 2 years. We continue to monitor this situation as these changes, once adopted, could negatively affect our cash flows to suppliers and from customers, since our payment terms to affected suppliers are generally longer than from affected customers.
We offer our suppliers access to third party payables processors. Independent of Whirlpool, the processors allow suppliers to sell their receivables to financial institutions at the discretion of only the supplier and the financial institution. We have no economic interest in the sale of these receivables and no direct financial relationship with the financial institutions concerning these services. All of our obligations, including amounts due, remain to our suppliers as stated in our supplier agreements. As of December 31, 2012 and 2011, approximately $1.2 billion and $1.0 billion, respectively, have been sold by suppliers to participating financial institutions.
Cash Flows from Investing Activities
Cash used in investing activities of $494 million during 2012 decreased $102 million from 2011, primarily driven by lower capital investment due to project timing and the completion of a significant investment in a new cooking facility in the United States during 2011. Cash used in investing activities during 2011 was $596 million, which was consistent with cash used during 2010, reflecting continued capital spending to support new products and innovation.
Cash Flows from Financing Activities
Cash used in financing activities during 2012 decreased compared to 2011, reflecting a net reduction in long-term debt levels, increased cash dividends and higher issuances of common stock associated with stock option exercises. Cash used in financing activities during 2011 totaled $166 million compared to $495 million in 2010. The decrease in cash used during 2011 compared to 2010 was primarily due to a significant reduction in long-term debt during 2010.


F-10

MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS - (CONTINUED)

Financing Arrangements
We have a $1.725 billion committed credit facility maturing on June 28, 2016 which includes a $200 million letter of credit sub-facility. Borrowings under the credit facility are available to us and designated subsidiaries for general corporate purposes, including commercial paper support. Subsidiary borrowings under this facility, if any, are guaranteed by Whirlpool Corporation. Interest under the credit facility accrues at a variable annual rate based on LIBOR plus a margin or the prime rate plus a margin. The margin is dependent on our credit rating at that time. The credit facility requires us to meet certain leverage and interest coverage requirements. We will incur a commitment fee based on Whirlpool's credit rating for any unused portion of the credit facility. At December 31, 2012 and 2011, we had no borrowings outstanding under this credit agreement and are in compliance with all financial covenant requirements.
During 2012 we completed a debt offering comprised of $300 million aggregate principal amount of 4.70% notes due June 1, 2022. Proceeds from the issuance were used to partially repay $350 million in term debt that matured in May 2012. The notes contain customary covenants that limit our ability to incur certain liens or enter into certain sale and lease-back transactions. In addition, if we experience a specific kind of change of control, we are required to make an offer to purchase all of the notes at a purchase price of 101% of the principal amount thereof, plus accrued and unpaid interest.
In 2011, we completed a debt offering comprised of $300 million aggregate principal amount of 4.85% notes due June 15, 2021. Proceeds from the issuance were used to repay $300 million in term debt that matured in June 2011. The notes contain customary covenants that limit our ability to incur certain liens or enter into certain sale and lease-back transactions. In addition, if we experience a specific kind of change of control, we are required to make an offer to purchase all of the notes at a purchase price of 101% of the principal amount thereof, plus accrued and unpaid interest.
We have committed credit facilities in Brazil, which provide borrowings up to 880 million Brazilian reais (approximately $431 million as of December 31, 2012) and mature in 2014. The credit facilities contain no financial covenants and we had no borrowings outstanding under these credit facilities at December 31, 2012 and 2011.
For additional information about our financing arrangements, see Note 5 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements.
401(k) Defined Contribution Plan
During January 2012, we began contributing company stock to fund the company match and automatic company contributions, equal to up to 7% of employees' eligible pay, in our 401(k) defined contribution plan covering all U.S. employees. We contributed $49 million of company stock to our 401(k) defined contribution plan during 2012. We resumed funding the company match and automatic contribution in cash during the fourth quarter 2012.



F-11

MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS - (CONTINUED)

CONTRACTUAL OBLIGATIONS AND FORWARD-LOOKING CASH REQUIREMENTS
The following table summarizes our expected cash outflows resulting from financial contracts and commitments:
 
 
 
Payments due by period
Millions of dollars                                        
 
Total
 
2013
 
2014 &
2015
 
2016 &
2017
 
Thereafter
Long-term debt obligations(1)
 
$
2,937

 
$
641

 
$
983

 
$
588

 
$
725

Operating lease obligations
 
831

 
194

 
285

 
187

 
165

Purchase obligations(2)
 
854

 
206

 
303

 
165

 
180

United States pension plans(3)
 
1,179

 
116

 
311

 
239

 
513

Foreign pension plans(4)
 
15

 
15

 

 

 

Other postretirement benefits(5)
 
391

 
53

 
90

 
83

 
165

Legal settlements(6)
 
99

 
36

 
63

 

 

Total(7)
 
$
6,306

 
$
1,261

 
$
2,035

 
$
1,262

 
$
1,748

(1) 
Interest payments related to long-term debt are included in the table above. For additional information about our financing arrangements, see Note 5 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements.
(2) 
Purchase obligations include our “take-or-pay” contracts with materials vendors and minimum payment obligations to other suppliers.
(3) 
Represents the minimum contributions required by law estimated based on current interest rates, asset return assumptions, legislative requirements and other actuarial assumptions at December 31, 2012. Management may elect to contribute amounts in addition to those required by law. See Note 12 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information.
(4) 
Represents required contributions to our foreign funded pension plans only. See Note 12 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information.
(5) 
Represents our portion of expected benefit payments under our retiree healthcare plans.
(6) 
For additional information regarding legal settlements, see Note 6 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements.
(7) 
The table does not include short-term credit facility and commercial paper borrowings. For additional information about short-term borrowings, see Note 5 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements.

OFF-BALANCE SHEET ARRANGEMENTS
We have guarantee arrangements in a Brazilian subsidiary. As a standard business practice in Brazil, the subsidiary guarantees customer lines of credit at commercial banks to support purchases following its normal credit policies. If a customer were to default on its line of credit with the bank, our subsidiary would be required to satisfy the obligation with the bank and the receivable would revert back to the subsidiary. As of December 31, 2012 and 2011, the guaranteed amounts totaled $449 million and $467 million, respectively. Our subsidiary insures against credit risk for these guarantees, under normal operating conditions, through policies purchased from high-quality underwriters. We had no losses associated with this guarantee in 2012 and 2011.
We have guaranteed a $50 million five year revolving credit facility between certain financial institutions and a not-for-profit entity in connection with a community and economic development project (“Harbor Shores”). The credit facility, which originated in 2008, was refinanced in December 2012 and we renewed our guarantee through 2017. The fair value of the guarantee was nominal.The purpose of Harbor Shores is to stimulate employment and growth in the areas of Benton Harbor and St. Joseph, Michigan. In the event of default, we must satisfy the guarantee of the credit facility up to the amount borrowed at the date of default.
In the ordinary course of business, we enter into agreements with financial institutions to issue bank guarantees, letters of credit and surety bonds. These agreements are primarily associated with unresolved tax matters in Brazil, as is customary under local regulations, and governmental obligations related to certain employee benefit arrangements. At December 31, 2012 we had approximately $600 million outstanding under these agreements.
CRITICAL ACCOUNTING POLICIES AND ESTIMATES
The preparation of financial statements in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles in the United States (GAAP) requires management to make certain estimates and assumptions. We periodically evaluate these estimates and assumptions, which are based on historical experience, changes in the business environment and other factors that management believes to be reasonable under the circumstances. Actual results may differ materially from these estimates.
 


F-12

MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS - (CONTINUED)

Pension and Other Postretirement Benefits
Accounting for pensions and other postretirement benefits involves estimating the costs of future benefits and attributing the cost over the employee’s expected period of employment. The determination of our obligation and expense for these costs requires the use of certain assumptions. Those assumptions include, the discount rate, expected long-term rate of return on plan assets and health care cost trend rates. These assumptions are subject to change based on interest rates on high quality bonds, stock and bond markets and medical cost inflation, respectively. Actual results that differ from our assumptions are accumulated and amortized over future periods and therefore, generally affect our recognized expense and accrued liability in such future periods. While we believe that our assumptions are appropriate given current economic conditions and actual experience, significant differences in results or significant changes in our assumptions may materially affect our pension and other postretirement benefit obligations and related future expense.
Our pension and other postretirement benefit obligations at December 31, 2012 and preliminary retirement benefit costs for 2013 were prepared using the assumptions that were determined at December 31, 2012. The following table summarizes the sensitivity of our December 31, 2012 retirement obligations and 2013 retirement benefit costs of our United States plans to changes in the key assumptions used to determine those results:
 
 
 
 
 
Estimated increase (decrease) in
Million of dollars
 
Percentage
Change
 
2013 Expense
 
PBO/APBO*
for 2012
United States Pension Plans
 
 
 
 
 
 
Discount rate
 
+/-.50%
 
$ 0/(1)

 
$ (244)/259

Expected long-term rate of return on plan assets
 
+/-.50%
 
(13)/13

 

Other Postretirement Benefit Plan
 
 
 
 
 
 
Discount rate
 
+/-.50%
 
2/(2)

 
(11)/12

Health care cost trend rate
 
+/-.50%
 

 
3/(3)

*
Projected benefit obligation (PBO) for pension plans and accumulated postretirement benefit obligation (APBO) for other postretirement benefit plan.
These sensitivities may not be appropriate to use for other years’ financial results. Furthermore, the impact of assumption changes outside of the ranges shown above may not be approximated by using the above results. For additional information about our pension and other postretirement benefit obligations, see Note 12 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements.
Income Taxes
We estimate our income taxes in each of the taxing jurisdictions in which we operate. This involves estimating actual current tax expense together with assessing any temporary differences resulting from the different treatment of certain items, such as the timing for recognizing expenses, for tax and accounting purposes. These differences may result in deferred tax assets or liabilities, which are included in our Consolidated Balance Sheets. We are required to assess the likelihood that deferred tax assets, which include net operating loss carryforwards, foreign tax credits and deductible temporary differences, are expected to be realizable in future years. Realization of our net operating loss and foreign tax credit deferred tax assets is supported by specific tax planning strategies and, where possible, considers projections of future profitability. If recovery is not more likely than not, we provide a valuation allowance based on estimates of future taxable income in the various taxing jurisdictions, and the amount of deferred taxes that are ultimately realizable. If future taxable income is lower than expected or if tax planning strategies are not available as anticipated, we may record additional valuation allowances through income tax expense in the period such determination is made. Likewise, if we determine that we are able to realize our deferred tax assets in the future in excess of net recorded amounts, an adjustment to the deferred tax asset will benefit income tax expense in the period such determination is made.
As of December 31, 2012 and 2011, we had total deferred tax assets of $3.1 billion and $2.8 billion, respectively, net of valuation allowances of $130 million and $208 million, respectively. Our income tax benefit or expense has fluctuated considerably over the last five years from a tax benefit of $(436) million to the current year tax expense of $133 million and has been influenced primarily by U.S. energy tax credits, audit settlements and adjustments, tax planning strategies, enacted legislation, and dispersion of global income. Future changes in the effective tax rate will be subject to several factors, including the reinstatement of the U.S. energy tax credit legislation in January 2013, remaining BEFIEX credits, business profitability, tax planning strategies, and enacted tax laws.
In addition, we operate within multiple taxing jurisdictions and are subject to audit in these jurisdictions. These audits can involve complex issues, which may require an extended period of time to resolve. For additional information about income taxes, see Notes 1 and 11 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements.


F-13

MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS - (CONTINUED)

BEFIEX Credits
In previous years, our Brazilian operations earned tax credits under the Brazilian government’s export incentive program (BEFIEX). These credits reduce Brazilian federal excise taxes on domestic sales, resulting in an increase in the operations’ recorded net sales. We recognize BEFIEX credits as they are monetized; however, future actions by the Brazilian government could limit our ability to monetize these export credits. For additional information regarding BEFIEX credits, see Note 11 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements.
Warranty Obligations
The estimation of warranty obligations is determined in the same period that revenue from the sale of the related products is recognized. The warranty obligation is based on historical experience and represents our best estimate of expected costs at the time products are sold. Warranty accruals are adjusted for known or anticipated warranty claims as new information becomes available. New product launches require a greater use of judgment in developing estimates until historical experience becomes available. Future events and circumstances could materially change our estimates and require adjustments to the warranty obligations. For additional information about warranty obligations, see Note 6 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements.
 
Goodwill and Intangibles
Certain business acquisitions have resulted in the recording of goodwill and trademark assets. Upon acquisition, the purchase price is first allocated to identifiable assets and liabilities, including trademark assets, based on estimated fair value, with any remaining purchase price recorded as goodwill. Most trademarks and goodwill are considered indefinite lived intangible assets and as such are not amortized. At December 31, 2012, we have goodwill of $1,727 million, mostly recorded within our North America reporting unit. There have been no changes to our reporting units or allocations of goodwill by reporting units. We have trademark assets in our North America and EMEA operating segments with a carrying value of $1,470 million and $51 million, respectively, as of December 31, 2012.
During 2012, we voluntarily changed the date of our annual impairment assessment for goodwill and other indefinite-lived intangible assets from November 30 to October 1. We determined that this change is preferable under the circumstances as the timing better aligns with the Company's annual and long-term business planning cycle and financial reporting process. The voluntary change in accounting principle was not made to delay, accelerate or avoid an impairment charge.
Goodwill Valuations
We evaluate goodwill using a qualitative assessment to determine whether it is more likely than not that the fair value of any reporting unit is less than its carrying amount. If we determine that the fair value of the reporting unit may be less than its carrying amount, we evaluate goodwill using a two-step impairment test. Otherwise, we conclude that no impairment is indicated and we do not perform the two-step impairment test.
In conducting a qualitative assessment, the Company analyzes a variety of events or factors that may influence the fair value of the reporting unit, including, but not limited to: the results of prior quantitative tests performed; changes in the carrying amount of the reporting unit; actual and projected operating results; relevant market data for both the company and its peer companies; industry outlooks; macroeconomic conditions; liquidity; changes in key personnel; and the Company's competitive position. Significant judgment is used to evaluate the totality of these events and factors to make the determination of whether it is more likely than not that the fair value of the reporting unit is less than its carrying value.
If the qualitative assessment concludes that the two-step impairment test is necessary, we first compare the book value of a reporting unit, including goodwill, with its fair value. The fair value is estimated based on a market approach and a discounted cash flow analysis, also known as the income approach, and is reconciled back to the current market capitalization for Whirlpool to ensure that the implied control premium is reasonable. If the book value of a reporting unit exceeds its fair value, we perform the second step to estimate an implied fair value of the reporting unit’s goodwill by allocating the fair value of the reporting unit to all of the assets and liabilities other than goodwill (including any unrecognized intangible assets). The difference between the total fair value of the reporting unit and the fair value of all the assets and liabilities other than goodwill is the implied fair value of that goodwill. The amount of impairment loss is equal to the excess of the book value of the goodwill over the implied fair value of that goodwill.

Evaluating Goodwill - Results and Significant Assumptions
Based on the favorable results of the qualitative assessment conducted on October 1, 2012, there was no goodwill impairment charge recorded in 2012.


F-14

MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS - (CONTINUED)

For our North America reporting unit, where the majority of our goodwill is held, our qualitative assessment included a review of the events and factors outlined above. Significant weight was provided to the following factors, as we determined that these items have the most significant impact on the fair value of this reporting unit.
Operating profit margins improved from 4.2% in 2011 to 8.8% in 2012, driven primarily by successful execution of the cost and capacity reduction plans announced during the fourth quarter 2011 and previously announced cost-based price increases, as well as our continued ability to deliver innovative and consumer relevant products to the marketplace. The improvement in operating margins compared to the prior year assessment provides significant positive evidence for the qualitative assessment.
We experienced a 100 basis point decrease in the discount rate in 2012, resulting from a decline in both the risk free rate and our company specific risk premium as we have structurally improved our operating model through successful execution of our cost and capacity reductions and implementation of cost-based price increases. Based on prior year sensitivities, this decrease would increase the fair value of the reporting unit by approximately $1 billion, which provides significant positive evidence for the qualitative assessment.
The implied increases to the fair value of our North America reporting unit noted above are further supported by an increase in our overall market capitalization of approximately $2.5 billion, or 65%, as of October 1, 2012, compared to the prior year assessment. This increase was largely driven by the improved operating performance of the North America reporting unit.
Intangible Valuations
We evaluate certain indefinite-lived intangibles using a qualitative assessment to determine whether it is more likely than not that the fair value of the indefinite lived intangible asset is less than its carrying amount. If we determine that the fair value may be less than its carrying amount, the fair value of the trademark is estimated and compared to its carrying value to determine if an impairment exists. Otherwise, we conclude that no impairment is indicated and we do not perform the quantitative test.
When the qualitative assessment is not utilized and a quantitative test is performed, we estimate the fair value of these intangible assets using the relief-from-royalty method, which requires assumptions related to projected revenues from our annual long-range plan; assumed royalty rates that could be payable if we did not own the trademarks; and a discount rate based on our weighted average cost of capital. We recognize an impairment loss when the estimated fair value of the indefinite-lived intangible asset is less than its carrying value.
 
Evaluating Trademarks - Results and Significant Assumptions
We performed a qualitative assessment for two trademarks, with a combined carrying value of approximately $30 million. Our prior year quantitative test indicated that the fair value for each trademark exceeded its respective carrying value by more than 200%. Based on the qualitative assessment conducted on October 1, 2012, we concluded that it was more likely than not that the fair value of these two trademarks was greater than their respective carrying values, therefore no impairment was recorded.
We performed a quantitative test for our remaining trademarks. Based on the results of our test as of October 1, 2012, we determined that no impairment existed for our trademarks, with the exception of one European trademark with a pre-impairment carrying value of $14 million. We recognized a $4 million impairment charge on this trademark within selling, general and administrative expense during the fourth quarter 2012.
In performing the quantitative test, significant assumptions used in our relief from royalty model as of October 1, 2012 included revenue growth rates, assumed royalty rates and the discount rate, which are discussed further below.
 
Revenue growth rates relate to projected revenues from our annual long range plan and vary from brand to brand. Adverse changes in the operating environment for the appliance industry or our inability to grow revenues at the forecasted rates may result in a future impairment charge. We performed a sensitivity analysis on our estimated fair value noting that a 10% reduction of forecasted revenues would result in an impairment of approximately $95 million.
In determining royalty rates for the valuation of our trademarks, we considered factors that affect the intrinsic royalty rates that would hypothetically be paid for the use of the trademark. The most significant factors in determining the intrinsic royalty rates include the overall role and importance of the trademarks in the particular industry, the profitability of the products utilizing the trademarks, and the position of the trademarked products in a given market segment. Based on this analysis, we determined royalty rates of 2-3% for our value brands, 4% for our mass market brands and 6% for our super premium brand. We performed a sensitivity analysis on our estimated fair value noting that a 100 basis point reduction of the royalty rates for each brand would result in an impairment of approximately $290 million.


F-15

MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS - (CONTINUED)

In developing discount rates for the valuation of our trademarks, we used the industry average weighted average cost of capital as the base, adjusted for the higher relative level of risks associated with doing business in other countries, as applicable, as well as the higher relative levels of risks associated with intangible assets. Based on this analysis, we determined discount rates ranging from 9.5% to 13.0%. We performed a sensitivity analysis on our estimated fair value noting that an increase in the discount rates used for the valuation of 100 basis points would result in an impairment of approximately $125 million.
Many of the factors used in assessing fair value are outside the control of management and it is reasonably likely that assumptions and estimates can change in future periods. These changes can result in future impairments.
For additional information about goodwill and intangible valuations, see Note 2 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements.
ISSUED BUT NOT YET EFFECTIVE ACCOUNTING PRONOUNCEMENTS
Issued but not yet effective accounting pronouncements are not expected to have a material effect on our consolidated financial statements.
MARKET RISK
We have in place an enterprise risk management process that involves systematic risk identification and mitigation covering the categories of enterprise, strategic, financial, operation and compliance and reporting risk. The enterprise risk management process receives Board of Directors and Management oversight, drives risk mitigation decision-making and is fully integrated into our internal audit planning and execution cycle.
 
We are exposed to market risk from changes in foreign currency exchange rates, domestic and foreign interest rates, and commodity prices, which can affect our operating results and overall financial condition. We manage exposure to these risks through our operating and financing activities and, when deemed appropriate, through the use of derivatives. Derivatives are viewed as risk management tools and are not used for speculation or for trading purposes. Derivatives are generally contracted with a diversified group of investment grade counterparties to reduce exposure to nonperformance on such instruments.
We use foreign currency forward contracts, currency options and currency swaps to hedge the price risk associated with firmly committed and forecasted cross-border payments and receipts related to ongoing business and operational financing activities. Foreign currency contracts are sensitive to changes in foreign currency exchange rates. At December 31, 2012, a 10% favorable or unfavorable exchange rate movement in each currency in our portfolio of foreign currency contracts would have resulted in an incremental unrealized gain or loss of approximately $215 million. Consistent with the use of these contracts to neutralize the effect of exchange rate fluctuations, such unrealized losses or gains would be offset by corresponding gains or losses, respectively, in the re-measurement of the underlying exposures.
We enter into commodity swap contracts to hedge the price risk associated with firmly committed and forecasted commodities purchases, the prices of which are not fixed directly through supply contracts. As of December 31, 2012, a 10% favorable or unfavorable shift in commodity prices would have resulted in an incremental gain or loss of approximately $35 million, respectively, related to these contracts.
OTHER MATTERS
Embraco Antitrust Matters
Beginning in February 2009, our compressor business headquartered in Brazil ("Embraco") was notified of investigations of the global compressor industry by government authorities in various jurisdictions. In 2012, Embraco sales represented approximately 8% of our global net sales.
Government authorities in Brazil, Europe, the United States, and other jurisdictions have entered into agreements with Embraco and concluded their investigations of the Company. In connection with these agreements, Embraco has acknowledged violations of antitrust law with respect to the sale of compressors at various times from 2004 through 2007 and agreed to pay fines or settlement payments.


F-16

MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS - (CONTINUED)

Since the government investigations commenced in February 2009, Embraco has been named as a defendant in related antitrust lawsuits in various jurisdictions seeking damages in connection with the pricing of compressors from 1996 to 2009. Several other compressor manufacturers who are the subject of the government investigations have also been named as defendants in the antitrust lawsuits. United States federal lawsuits instituted on behalf of purported "direct" and "indirect" purchasers and containing class action allegations have been combined in one proceeding in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Michigan ("Michigan Lawsuit"). Other lawsuits are also pending and additional lawsuits may be filed by purported purchasers.

On February 12, 2013, Embraco entered into a settlement agreement with plaintiffs representing a proposed settlement class of direct purchasers of compressors in the Michigan Lawsuit. The settlement agreement, which is subject to court approval, provides for, among other things, the payment by Embraco of up to $30 million in exchange for a release by all settlement class members. The settlement agreement does not cover any claims by direct purchasers that opt out of the proposed settlement class and the settlement amount will be reduced if there are opt-outs. The settlement agreement does not cover claims by “indirect purchaser” plaintiffs in the Michigan Lawsuit, which remain pending.
In connection with these agreements and other Embraco antitrust matters, we have incurred, in the aggregate, charges of approximately $357 million, including fines, defense costs and other expenses. These charges have been recorded within interest and sundry income (expense). At December 31, 2012, $111 million remains accrued, with installment payments of $73 million, plus interest, remaining to be made to government authorities at various times through 2015.
We continue to work toward resolution of ongoing government actions in other jurisdictions, to defend the related antitrust lawsuits and to take other steps to minimize our potential exposure. The final outcome and impact of these matters, and any related claims and investigations that may be brought in the future are subject to many variables, and cannot be predicted. We establish accruals only for those matters where we determine that a loss is probable and the amount of loss can be reasonably estimated. While it is currently not possible to reasonably estimate the aggregate amount of costs which we may incur in connection with these matters, such costs could have a material adverse effect on our financial position, liquidity, or results of operations.
Brazilian Collection Dispute
We reached an agreement in June 2011 to settle all claims arising from our long-standing dispute in Brazil with Banco Safra S.A. Such settlement was subsequently approved by a Brazilian court in July 2011. Pursuant to the settlement, our subsidiary agreed to pay Banco Safra S.A. 959 million Brazilian reais, in two installments, the first of 469 million reais (equivalent to $301 million) was made in July 2011, and the second of 490 million reais (equivalent to $275 million) was made during January 2012.
BEFIEX Credits
In previous years, our Brazilian operations earned tax credits under the Brazilian government’s export incentive program (BEFIEX). These credits reduced Brazilian federal excise taxes on domestic sales, resulting in an increase in the operations’ recorded net sales. After a favorable court decision in 2005, upheld by a December 2011 appellate court decision, we were able to recognize approximately $37 million, $266 million and $225 million of export credits in 2012, 2011 and 2010, respectively. We recognize export credits as they are monetized; however, future actions by the Brazilian government could limit our ability to monetize these export credits. As of December 31, 2012, approximately $184 million of future cash monetization remained, including $56 million of related court awarded fees, which will be payable in subsequent years.
Our Brazilian operations have received governmental assessments related to claims for income and social contribution taxes associated with BEFIEX credits monetized from 2000 through 2002 and 2007 through 2011. We do not believe BEFIEX export credits are subject to income or social contribution taxes. We are disputing these tax matters in various courts and intend to vigorously defend our positions. We have not provided for income or social contribution taxes on these export credits, and based on the opinions of tax and legal advisors, we have not accrued any amount related to these assessments as of December 31, 2012. As of December 31, 2012, the total amount of outstanding tax assessments for income and social contribution taxes relating to the BEFIEX credits, including interest and penalties, is approximately 1.2 billion Brazilian reais (equivalent to $590 million).
Litigation is inherently unpredictable and the conclusion of these matters may take many years to ultimately resolve, during which time the amounts related to these assessments will continue to be increased by monetary adjustments at the Selic rate, which is the benchmark rate set by the Brazilian Central Bank. Accordingly, it is possible that an unfavorable outcome in these proceedings could have a material adverse effect on our financial position, liquidity, or results of operations in any particular reporting period.


F-17

MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS - (CONTINUED)

Brazil Tax Matters (Previously Operating Tax Matter)
Relying on existing Brazilian legal precedent, in 2003 and 2004, we recognized tax credits in an aggregate amount of $26 million, adjusted for currency, on the purchase of raw materials used in production (“IPI tax credits”). The Brazilian tax authority subsequently challenged the recording of IPI tax credits. No credits have been recognized since 2004. In 2009, we entered into a special Brazilian government program which provided extended payment terms and reduced penalties and interest to encourage tax payers to resolve this and certain other disputed tax credit amounts. As permitted by the program, we elected to settle certain debts through the use of other existing tax credits and recorded charges of approximately $34 million in 2009 associated with these matters. In July 2012, the Brazilian revenue authority notified us that a portion of our proposed settlement was rejected and we received a tax assessment of 178 million Brazilian reais (equivalent to $87 million) in January 2013, reflecting the original assessment, plus interest and penalties. We are disputing this assessment and we intend to vigorously defend our position. Based on our analysis of the facts, including the opinion of our legal advisors, we did not record additional charges related to these matters in 2012.
We are currently disputing other assessments issued by the Brazilian tax authorities related to non-income and income tax matters. These matters are at various stages of review in numerous administrative and judicial proceedings. We routinely assess these matters and record our best estimate of loss in situations where we assess the likelihood of an ultimate loss to be probable. We believe these assessments are without merit and are vigorously defending our positions, however, each of these matters may take several years to resolve and the outcome of litigation is inherently unpredictable.
Other Litigation
We are currently defending against numerous lawsuits pending in federal and state courts in the United States and various jurisdictions in Canada relating to certain of our front load washing machines. Some of these lawsuits have been certified for treatment as class actions. The complaints in these lawsuits generally allege violations of state consumer fraud acts, unjust enrichment, and breach of warranty. The complaints generally seek unspecified compensatory, consequential and punitive damages. We believe these suits are without merit and are vigorously defending them. Given the preliminary stage of these proceedings, the Company cannot reasonably estimate a possible range of loss, if any, at this time. The resolution of one or more of these matters could have a material adverse effect on our Consolidated Financial Statements.

In addition, we are currently defending a number of other lawsuits in federal and state courts in the United States related to the manufacturing and sale of our products which include class action allegations. These lawsuits allege claims which include breach of contract, breach of warranty, product defect, fraud, violation of federal and state consumer protection acts and negligence. We do not have insurance coverage for class action lawsuits. We are also involved in various other legal actions arising in the normal course of business, for which insurance coverage may or may not be available depending on the nature of the action. We dispute the merits of these suits and actions, and intend to vigorously defend them. Management believes, based upon its current knowledge, after taking into consideration legal counsel's evaluation of such suits and actions, and after taking into account current litigation accruals, that the outcome of these matters currently pending against Whirlpool should not have a material adverse effect, if any, on our Consolidated Financial Statements.
Antidumping Actions
In March 2011, we filed antidumping and countervailing duty petitions against bottom-mount refrigerators from South Korea and an antidumping petition against the same product from Mexico. The Whirlpool products affected by this case are made in Amana, Iowa, where Whirlpool employs approximately 2,200 people. In March 2012, the U.S. Department of Commerce ("DOC") issued favorable final determinations in which it found that several Korean and Mexican producers had engaged in dumping and that certain Korean producers received countervailable government subsidies. In April 2012, the U.S. International Trade Commission ("ITC") reached an unfavorable final determination that dumped and subsidized imports were not a cause of material injury to domestic producers, and therefore trade remedies were not imposed on the subject imports. We disagree with the ITC's decision and we have filed an appeal with the U.S. Court of International Trade. Timing of the ultimate resolution depends on many factors and is, therefore, uncertain.


F-18

MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS - (CONTINUED)

In December 2011, we filed petitions requesting that the DOC and the ITC initiate antidumping and countervailing duty investigations against large residential washers from South Korea, and an antidumping investigation against the same products from Mexico. The Whirlpool products affected by this case are made in Clyde, Ohio, where Whirlpool employs approximately 3,500 people. In December 2012, the DOC issued a final determination in which it found that several Korean and Mexican producers had engaged in dumping and that certain Korean producers received countervailable government subsidies. In January 2013, the ITC unanimously determined that dumped and subsidized imports caused material injury to domestic producers. Final orders are expected to be issued by the DOC in February 2013. As a result, certain Korean and Mexican producers are required to pay cash deposits on large residential washers imported into the United States based on the estimated dumping and countervailing duty margins determined by the DOC in the investigation. The ultimate amount of dumping and countervailing duties owed by importers will be determined by the DOC through administrative review procedures over the next several years.
Conflict Minerals
In August 2012, the SEC issued final rules requiring disclosure of the use of conflict minerals (tantalum, tin, tungsten and gold) originating in the Democratic Republic of Congo and adjoining countries. We are currently analyzing whether conflict minerals are necessary to the functionality or production of our products and if so, the most efficient and effective means of complying with the due diligence and reporting requirements of the rules. The first disclosure reporting period is for the 2013 calendar year, with a final report to be filed no later than May 31, 2014.
FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS
The Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 provides a safe harbor for forward-looking statements made by us or on our behalf. Certain statements contained in this annual report, including those within the forward-looking perspective section within this Management's Discussion and Analysis, and other written and oral statements made from time to time by us or on our behalf do not relate strictly to historical or current facts and may contain forward-looking statements that reflect our current views with respect to future events and financial performance. As such, they are considered “forward-looking statements” which provide current expectations or forecasts of future events. Such statements can be identified by the use of terminology such as “may,” “could,” “will,” “should,” “possible,” “plan,” “predict,” “forecast,” “potential,” “anticipate,” “estimate,” “expect,” “project,” “intend,” “believe,” “may impact,” “on track,” and similar words or expressions. Our forward-looking statements generally relate to our growth strategies, financial results, product development, and sales efforts. These forward-looking statements should be considered with the understanding that such statements involve a variety of risks and uncertainties, known and unknown, and may be affected by inaccurate assumptions. Consequently, no forward-looking statement can be guaranteed and actual results may vary materially.
This document contains forward-looking statements about Whirlpool Corporation and its consolidated subsidiaries (“Whirlpool”) that speak only as of this date. Whirlpool disclaims any obligation to update these statements. Forward-looking statements in this document may include, but are not limited to, statements regarding expected earnings per share, cash flow, productivity and material and oil-related prices. Many risks, contingencies and uncertainties could cause actual results to differ materially from Whirlpool's forward-looking statements. Among these factors are: (1) intense competition in the home appliance industry reflecting the impact of both new and established global competitors, including Asian and European manufacturers; (2) Whirlpool's ability to continue its relationship with significant trade customers and the ability of these trade customers to maintain or increase market share; (3) changes in economic conditions which affect demand for our products, including the strength of the building industry and the level of interest rates; (4) inventory and other asset risk; (5)  risks related to our international operations, including changes in foreign regulations, regulatory compliance and disruptions arising from natural disasters or terrorist attacks; (6) the uncertain global economy; (7) the ability of Whirlpool to achieve its business plans, productivity improvements, cost control, price increases, leveraging of its global operating platform, and acceleration of the rate of innovation; (8) Whirlpool's ability to maintain its reputation and brand image; (9) fluctuations in the cost of key materials (including steel, oil, plastic, resins, copper and aluminum) and components and the ability of Whirlpool to offset cost increases; (10) litigation, tax, and legal compliance risk and costs, especially costs which may be materially different from the amount we expect to incur or have accrued for; (11)  product liability and product recall costs; (12) the effects and costs of governmental investigations or related actions by third parties; (13) Whirlpool's ability to obtain and protect intellectual property rights; (14)  the ability of suppliers of critical parts, components and manufacturing equipment to deliver sufficient quantities to Whirlpool in a timely and cost-effective manner;  (15) health care cost trends, regulatory changes and variations between results and estimates that could increase future funding obligations for pension and post retirement benefit plans;  (16) information technology system failures and data security breaches; (17) the impact of labor relations; (18) our ability to attract, develop and retain executives and other qualified employees; (19) changes in the legal and regulatory environment including environmental and health and safety regulations; and (20) the ability of Whirlpool to manage foreign currency fluctuations.


F-19

MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS - (CONTINUED)

We undertake no obligation to update any forward-looking statement, and investors are advised to review disclosures in our filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. It is not possible to foresee or identify all factors that could cause actual results to differ from expected or historic results. Therefore, investors should not consider the foregoing factors to be an exhaustive statement of all risks, uncertainties, or factors that could potentially cause actual results to differ from forward-looking statements.
Additional information concerning these and other factors can be found in “Risk Factors” in Item 1A of this report.


F-20




WHIRLPOOL CORPORATION
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME
Year Ended December 31,
(Millions of dollars, except per share data)
 

 
 
2012
 
2011
 
2010
Net sales
 
$
18,143

 
$
18,666

 
$
18,366

Expenses
 

 

 
 
Cost of products sold
 
15,250

 
16,089

 
15,652

Gross margin
 
2,893

 
2,577

 
2,714

Selling, general and administrative
 
1,757

 
1,621

 
1,604

Intangible amortization
 
30

 
28

 
28

Restructuring costs
 
237

 
136

 
74

Operating profit
 
869

 
792

 
1,008

Other income (expense)
 

 

 
 
Interest and sundry income (expense)
 
(112
)
 
(607
)
 
(197
)
Interest expense
 
(199
)
 
(213
)
 
(225
)
Earnings (loss) before income taxes
 
558

 
(28
)
 
586

Income tax expense (benefit)
 
133

 
(436
)
 
(64
)
Net earnings
 
425


408


650

Less: Net earnings available to noncontrolling interests
 
24

 
18

 
31

Net earnings available to Whirlpool
 
$
401

 
$
390

 
$
619

Per share of common stock
 

 

 
 
Basic net earnings available to Whirlpool
 
$
5.14

 
$
5.07

 
$
8.12

Diluted net earnings available to Whirlpool
 
$
5.06

 
$
4.99

 
$
7.97

Dividends
 
$
2.00

 
$
1.93

 
$
1.72

Weighted-average shares outstanding (in millions)
 
 
 
 
 
 
Basic
 
78.1

 
76.8

 
76.2

Diluted
 
79.3

 
78.1

 
77.6


The accompanying notes are an integral part of these Consolidated Financial Statements


F-21



WHIRLPOOL CORPORATION
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME
Year Ended December 31,
(Millions of dollars)

 
 
2012
 
2011
 
2010
Net earnings
 
$
425

 
$
408

 
$
650

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Other comprehensive loss, before tax:
 
 
 
 
 
 
  Foreign currency translation adjustments
 
(36
)
 
(86
)
 
(59
)
  Derivative instruments:
 

 

 

     Net gain (loss) arising during period
 
(17
)
 
(62
)
 
70

     Less: reclassification adjustment for gain (loss) included in net earnings
 
(25
)
 
80

 
47

  Derivative instruments, net
 
8

 
(142
)
 
23

  Marketable securities:
 
 
 
 
 
 
     Net gain (loss) arising during period
 
2

 
(13
)
 
(10
)
     Less: reclassification adjustment for gain (loss) included in net earnings
 
(7
)
 
(9
)
 

  Marketable securities, net
 
9

 
(4
)
 
(10
)
  Defined benefit pension and postretirement plans:
 
 
 
 
 
 
     Prior service credit arising during period
 
2

 
148

 
41

     Net gain (loss) arising during period
 
(384
)
 
(283
)
 
44

     Less: amortization of prior service credit and actuarial loss
 
38

 
42

 
61

  Defined benefit pension and postretirement plans, net:
 
(420
)
 
(177
)
 
24

Other comprehensive loss, before tax
 
(439
)
 
(409
)
 
(22
)
    Income tax benefit related to items of other comprehensive loss
 
130

 
71

 

Other comprehensive loss, net of tax
 
(309
)
 
(338
)
 
(22
)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Comprehensive income
 
116

 
70

 
628

     Less: comprehensive income, available to noncontrolling interests
 
20

 
13

 
34

Comprehensive income available to Whirlpool
 
$
96

 
$
57

 
$
594


The accompanying notes are an integral part of these Consolidated Financial Statements


F-22


WHIRLPOOL CORPORATION
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
At December 31,
(Millions of dollars, except share data)
 
 
2012
 
2011
Assets



Current assets



Cash and equivalents
$
1,168


$
1,109

Accounts receivable, net of allowance of $60 and $61, respectively
2,038


2,105

Inventories
2,354


2,354

Deferred income taxes
558


248

Prepaid and other current assets
709


606

Total current assets
6,827


6,422

Property, net of accumulated depreciation of $6,070 and $6,146, respectively
3,034


3,102

Goodwill
1,727


1,727

Other intangibles, net of accumulated amortization of $211 and $177, respectively
1,722


1,757

Deferred income taxes
1,832


1,893

Other noncurrent assets
254


280

Total assets
$
15,396


$
15,181

Liabilities and stockholders’ equity



Current liabilities



Accounts payable
$
3,698


$
3,512

Accrued expenses
692


951

Accrued advertising and promotions
419


429

Employee compensation
520


365

Notes payable
7


1

Current maturities of long-term debt
510


361

Other current liabilities
664


678

Total current liabilities
6,510


6,297

Noncurrent liabilities



Long-term debt
1,944


2,129

Pension benefits
1,636


1,487

Postretirement benefits
422


430

Other noncurrent liabilities
517


558

Total noncurrent liabilities
4,519


4,604

Stockholders’ equity



Common stock, $1 par value, 250 million shares authorized, 108 million and 106 million shares issued and 79 million and 76 million shares outstanding, respectively
108


106

Additional paid-in capital
2,313


2,201

Retained earnings
5,147


4,922

Accumulated other comprehensive loss
(1,531
)

(1,226
)
Treasury stock, 29 million and 30 million shares, respectively
(1,777
)

(1,822
)
Total Whirlpool stockholders’ equity
4,260


4,181

Noncontrolling interests
107


99

Total stockholders’ equity
4,367


4,280

Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity
$
15,396


$
15,181


The accompanying notes are an integral part of these Consolidated Financial Statements


F-23


WHIRLPOOL CORPORATION
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
Year Ended December 31,
(Millions of dollars)

2012

2011

2010
Operating activities





Net earnings
$
425


$
408


$
650

Adjustments to reconcile net earnings to cash provided by operating activities:





Depreciation and amortization
551


558


555

Curtailment gain
(52
)

(35
)

(62
)
Increase (decrease) in LIFO inventory reserve
(13
)

54


4

Brazilian collection dispute
(275
)

144


63

Changes in assets and liabilities: