UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
WASHINGTON, D.C. 20549
FORM 10-K 
xAnnual Report Pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934
For the fiscal year ended December 31, 20152017
or
oTransition Report Pursuant to Section 13 OR 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934
For the transition period from                  to        
KIMBERLY-CLARK CORPORATION
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)
Delaware1-22539-0394230
(State or other jurisdiction of incorporation)(Commission file number)(I.R.S. Employer Identification No.)
   
P.O. Box 619100, Dallas, Texas 75261-9100
(Address of principal executive offices) (Zip code)
Registrant's telephone number, including area code: (972) 281-1200
Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:
Common Stock—$1.25 Par Value New York Stock Exchange
(Title of each class) (Name of each exchange on which registered)
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.    Yes    x    No    o
Indicate by check mark if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or Section 15(d) of the Act.    Yes    o    No    x
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days.    Yes    x    No    o
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate website, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files).    Yes    x    No    o
Indicate by check mark if disclosure of delinquent filers pursuant to Item 405 of Regulation S-K is not contained herein, and will not be contained, to the best of 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. o
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, or a smaller reporting company, or an emerging growth company. See the definitions of "large accelerated filer," "accelerated filer" and "smaller reporting company" and "emerging growth company" in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.
Large accelerated filer x
 
Accelerated filer   o
Non-accelerated filer   o(Do not check if a smaller reporting company)
 
Smaller reporting company  o
Emerging growth company o
If an emerging growth company, indicate by check mark if the registrant has elected not to use the extended period for complying with any new or revised financial accounting standards provided pursuant to Section 13(a) of the Exchange Act. o
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Act).           Yes  o    No  x
The aggregate market value of the registrant's common stock held by non-affiliates on June 30, 20152017 (based on the most recent closing stock price on the New York Stock Exchange as of such date) was approximately $38.6$45.6 billion.
As of February 4, 2016,1, 2018, there were 360,899,707350,706,285 shares of Kimberly-Clark common stock outstanding.
DOCUMENTS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE
Certain information contained in the definitive Proxy Statement for Kimberly-Clark's Annual Meeting of Stockholders to be held on May 4, 201610, 2018 is incorporated by reference into Part III.


KIMBERLY-CLARK CORPORATION
TABLE OF CONTENTS
 
  Page
Part I  
Item 1.
Business
1
Item 1A.
Risk Factors
3
Item 1B.
Unresolved Staff Comments
76
Item 2.
Properties
76
Item 3.
Legal Proceedings
87
Item 4.
Mine Safety Disclosures
87
   
 
Executive Officers of the Registrant
87
   
Part II  
Item 5.
Market for Registrant's Common Equity, Related Stockholder Matters and Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities
109
Item 6.
Selected Financial Data
1110
Item 7.
Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations
1211
Item 7A.
Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk
2824
Item 8.
Financial Statements and Supplementary Data
3026
Item 9.
Changes in and Disagreements with Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure
6257
Item 9A.
Controls and Procedures
6257
Item 9B.
Other Information
6458
   
Part III  
Item 10.
Directors, Executive Officers and Corporate Governance
6559
Item 11.
Executive Compensation
6559
Item 12.
Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related Stockholder Matters
6559
Item 13.
Certain Relationships and Related Transactions, and Director Independence
6559
Item 14.
Principal Accountant Fees and Services
6559
   
Part IV  
Item 15.
Exhibits, Financial Statement Schedules
6660
Item 16.
Form 10-K Summary
62
  
Signatures
7063

 
 


  
KIMBERLY-CLARK CORPORATION - 20152017 Annual Report
PART I





ITEM 1.    BUSINESS
Kimberly-Clark Corporation was incorporated in Delaware in 1928. We are a global company focused on leading the world in essentials for a better life through product innovation and building our personal care, consumer tissue and K-C Professional brands. We are principally engaged in the manufacturing and marketing of a wide range of products mostly made from natural or synthetic fibers using advanced technologies in fibers, nonwovens and absorbency. Unless the context indicates otherwise, the terms "Corporation," "Kimberly-Clark," "K-C," "we," "our" and "us" refer to Kimberly-Clark Corporation and its consolidated subsidiaries.
For financial information by business segment and geographic area, including revenue, profit and total assets of each reportable segment, and information about our principal products and markets, see Item 7, "Management'sManagement's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations"Operations ("MD&A") and Item 8, Note 1613 to the Consolidated Financial Statements.consolidated financial statements.
Dollar amounts are reported in millions, except per share dollar amounts, unless otherwise noted.
Recent Developments
Effective January 2015, we amendedOn December 22, 2017, the U.S. pension plangovernment enacted comprehensive tax legislation commonly referred to include a lump-sum pension benefit payout option for certain plan participants. In addition, in April 2015,as the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (the “Tax Act”). The Tax Act made broad and complex changes to the U.S. pension plan completedtax code which impacted 2017, including, but not limited to, reducing the purchaseU.S. federal corporate tax rate and requiring a one-time transition tax on certain undistributed earnings of group annuity contracts that transferred to two insurance companies the pension benefit obligations totaling $2.5 billion for approximately 21,000 Kimberly-Clark retirees in the United States. As a result of these changes, we recognized pension settlement-related charges of $0.8 billion after tax ($1.4 billion pre-tax in other (income) and expense, net) during 2015, mostly in the second quarter.foreign subsidiaries.  See additional information in MD&A and Item 8, Note 911 to the Consolidated Financial Statements.consolidated financial statements.
Effective December 31, 2015,On January 23, 2018, we deconsolidatedannounced a new global restructuring program. The 2018 Global Restructuring Program will reduce our structural cost base by streamlining and simplifying our manufacturing supply chain and overhead organization.  The restructuring is expected to be completed by the assets and liabilitiesend of 2020, with total costs anticipated to be $1.7 billion to $1.9 billion pre-tax ($1.35 billion to $1.5 billion after tax). Cash costs are expected to be $900 to $1.0 billion. In addition, we expect to incur $600 to $700 of incremental capital spending to implement the restructuring. Workforce reductions are expected to be in the range of 5,000 to 5,500. The restructuring is expected to impact all of our business segments and our organizations in Venezuela from our consolidated balance sheetall major geographies. The restructuring is expected to generate annual pre-tax cost savings of $500 to $550 by the end of 2021. See additional information in MD&A and movedItem 8, Note 15 to the cost method of accounting for our operations in that country. The change reflects the continued deterioration of conditions in the country, including a slowdown in the availability of foreign exchange, and resulted in an after tax charge of $102 in the fourth quarter of 2015. Beginning in the first quarter of 2016, we will no longer include the results of our Venezuelan business in our consolidated financial statements.
Description of Kimberly-Clark
We are organized into operating segments based on product groupings. These operating segments have been aggregated into three reportable global business segments. Information on these three segments as well as their principal sources of revenue, is included below.follows:
Personal Care brands offer our consumers a trusted partner in caring for themselves and their families by delivering confidence, protection and discretion through a wide variety of innovative solutions and products such as disposable diapers, training and youth pants, swimpants, baby wipes, feminine and incontinence care products, and other related products.  Products in this segment are sold under the Huggies, Pull-Ups, Little Swimmers, GoodNites, DryNites, Kotex, U by Kotex, Intimus, Depend, Plenitud, Poise and other brand names.
Consumer Tissue offers a wide variety of innovative solutions and trusted brands that touch and improve people's lives every day.  Products in this segment include facial and bathroom tissue, paper towels, napkins and related products, and are sold under the Kleenex, Scott, Cottonelle, Viva, Andrex, Scottex, Neve and other brand names.
K-C Professional ("KCP") partners with businesses to create Exceptional Workplaces, helping to make them healthier, safer and more productive through a range of solutions and supporting products such as wipers, tissue, towels, apparel, soaps and sanitizers. Our brands, including Kleenex, Scott, WypAll, Kimtech and Jackson Safety, are well-known for quality and trusted to help people around the world work better.
These reportable segments were determined in accordance with how our chief operating decision maker and our executive managers develop and execute our global strategies to drive growth and profitability of our worldwide personal care, consumer tissue and KCP operations. These strategies include global plans for branding and product positioning, technology, research and development programs, cost reductions including supply chain management and capacity, and capital investments for each of these businesses.
Products for household use are sold directly to supermarkets, mass merchandisers, drugstores, warehouse clubs, variety and department stores and other retail outlets, as well as through other distributors and e-commerce. Products for away-from-home


 1
KIMBERLY-CLARK CORPORATION - 20152017 Annual Report

use are sold through distributors and directly to manufacturing, lodging, office building, food service, and high volume public facilities.
Net sales to Wal-Mart Stores,Walmart Inc. as a percent of our consolidated net sales were approximately 14 percent in 2015,2017, 2016 and approximately 13 percent in 2014 and 2013, of our total net sales.2015.
Patents and Trademarks
We own various patents and trademarks registered domestically and in many foreign countries. We consider the patents and trademarks that we own and the trademarks under which we sell certain of our products to be material to our business. Consequently, we seek patent and trademark protection by all available means, including registration.
Raw Materials
Cellulose fiber, in the form of kraft pulp or fiber recycled from recovered waste paper, is the primary raw material for our tissue products, and in the form of fluff pulp is a component of disposable diapers, training and youth pants, feminine pads and incontinence care products.
Polypropylene and other synthetics and chemicals are the primary raw materials for manufacturing nonwoven fabrics, which are used in disposable diapers, training and youth pants, wet wipes, feminine pads, incontinence care products, and away-from-home wipers and apparel. Superabsorbent materials are important components of disposable diapers, training and youth pants and incontinence care products.
Raw materials are purchased from third parties, and we consider the supply to be adequate to meet the needs of our businesses. See Item 1A, "Risk Factors."
Competition
We have several major competitors in most of our markets, some of which are larger and more diversified than us. The principal methods and elements of competition include brand recognition and loyalty, product innovation, quality and performance, price, and marketing and distribution capabilities. For additional discussion of the competitive environment in which we conduct our business, see Item 1A, "Risk Factors."
Research and Development
Research and development expenditures are directed toward new or improved personal care, tissue, wiping, safety and nonwoven materials. Consolidated research and development expense was $311 in 2017, $328 in 2016 and $324 in 2015, $368 in 2014 and $333 in 2013.2015.
Foreign Market Risks
We operate and market our products globally, and our business strategy includes targeted growth in Asia, Latin America, Eastern Europe, the Middle East and Africa, with a particular emphasis in China, Eastern Europe and Latin America. See Item 1A, "Risk Factors" for a discussion of foreign market risks that may affect our financial results.
Environmental Matters
Total worldwide capital expenditures for voluntary environmental controls or controls necessary to comply with legal requirements relating to the protection of the environment at our facilities are expected to be as follows:
 2016 2017
Facilities in U.S.$6
 $4
Facilities outside U.S.45
 27
Total$51
 $31


2
KIMBERLY-CLARK CORPORATION - 2015 Annual Report

$30 and $12 in 2018 and 2019, respectively. Total worldwide operating expenses for environmental compliance, including pollution control equipment operation and maintenance costs, governmental payments,fees, and research and engineering costs are expected to be as follows:
 2016 2017
Facilities in U.S.$53
 $53
Facilities outside U.S.86
 87
Total$139
 $140
$112 and $118 in 2018 and 2019, respectively.
Total environmental capital expenditures and operating expenses are not expected to have a material effect on our total capital and operating expenditures, consolidated earnings or competitive position. Current environmental spending estimates could be modified as a result of changes in our plans, changes in legal requirements, including any requirements related to global climate change, or other factors.
Employees
In our worldwide consolidated operations, we had approximately 43,00042,000 employees as of December 31, 2015.2017.


2
KIMBERLY-CLARK CORPORATION - 2017 Annual Report

Available Information
We make financial information, news releases and other information available on our corporate website at www.kimberly-clark.com. Our annual reports on Form 10-K, quarterly reports on Form 10-Q, current reports on Form 8-K, and any amendments to those reports filed or furnished pursuant to Section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 are available free of charge on this website as soon as reasonably practicable after we file these reports and amendments with, or furnish them to, the Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC"). The information contained on or connected to our website is not incorporated by reference into this Annual Report on Form 10-K and should not be considered part of this or any other report filed with the SEC. Stockholders may also contact Stockholder Services, P.O. Box 612606, Dallas, Texas 75261-2606 or call 972-281-5317 to obtain a hard copy of these reports without charge.


ITEM 1A.    RISK FACTORS
Our business faces many risks and uncertainties that we cannot control. Any of the risks discussed below, as well as factors described in other places in this Form 10-K, or in our other filings with the SEC, could adversely affect our business, consolidated financial position, results of operations or cash flows. In addition, these items could cause our future results to differ from those in any of our forward-looking statements. These risks are not the only ones we face. Other risks that we do not presently know about or that we presently believe are not material could also adversely affect us.
Our international operations are subject to foreign market risks, including foreign exchange risk, currency restrictions and political, social and economic instability, which may adversely affect our financial results.
Our strategy includes operations growth outside the U.S., especially in developing markets such as China, Latin America and Eastern Europe. More than half of our net sales come from markets outside the U.S. We and our equity companies have manufacturing facilities in 39 countries, and sell products in more than 175 countries. Our results may be substantially affected by a number of foreign market risks:
Exposure to the movement of various currencies against each other and the U.S. dollar. A portion of the exposures, arising from transactions and commitments denominated in non-local currencies, is systematically managed through foreign currency forward and swap contracts. We do not generally hedge our translation exposure with respect to foreign operations.
Increases in dollar-based input costs for operations outside the U.S. due to weaker foreign exchange rates versus the U.S. dollar. There can be no assurance that we will be protected against substantial foreign currency fluctuations.
Increases in currency exchange restrictions. These restrictions could limit our ability to repatriate earnings from outside the U.S. or obtain currency exchange for U.S. dollar inputs to continue operating in certain countries.
Adverse political conditions. Risks related to political instability, expropriation, new or revised legal or regulatory constraints, difficulties in enforcing contractual and intellectual property rights, and potentially adverse tax consequences would adversely affect our financial results.


3
KIMBERLY-CLARK CORPORATION - 2015 Annual Report

The inability to effectively manage foreign market risk could adversely affect our business, consolidated financial condition, results of operations or liquidity. See Recent Developments, MD&A and Item 8, Note 1 for information about the impact on our operations from currency restrictions in Venezuela and our decision to deconsolidate our Venezuelan operations at December 31, 2015.
Intense competition for sales of our products, changes in consumer purchasing patterns and the inability to innovate or market our products effectively could have an adverse effect on our financial results.
We operate in highly competitive domestic and international markets against well-known, branded products and low-cost or private label products. Inherent risks in our competitive strategy include uncertainties concerning trade and consumer acceptance, the effects of consolidation within retailer and distribution channels, a growing e-commerce marketplace, customers' and competitors' actions. Our competitors for these markets include global, regional and local manufacturers, including private label manufacturers. Some of these competitors may have better access to financial resources and greater market penetration, which enable them to offer a wider variety of products and services at more competitive prices. Alternatively, some of these competitors may have significantly lower product development and manufacturing costs, particularly with respect to private label products, allowing them to offer products at a lower price. The actions of these competitors could adversely affect our financial results. It may be necessary for us to lower prices on our products and increase spending on advertising and promotions, which could adversely affect our financial results.
We may be unable to anticipate or adequately respond to changes in consumer demand for our products. Demand for our products may change based on many factors, including shifting consumer purchasing patterns to lower cost options such as private-label products and mid to lower-tier value products, low birth rates in certain countries due to slow economic growth or other factors, negative consumer response to pricing actions, consumer shifts in distribution from traditional retailers to e-tailers, or other changes in consumer trends or habits. If we experience lower sales due to changes in consumer demand for our products, our earnings could decrease.
Our ability to develop new products is affected by whether we can successfully anticipate consumer needs and preferences, develop and fund technological innovations, and receive and maintain necessary patent and trademark protection. In addition, we incur substantial development and marketing costs in introducing new and improved products and technologies. The introduction of a new consumer product (whether improved or newly developed) usually requires substantial expenditures for advertising and marketing to gain recognition in the marketplace. If a product gains consumer acceptance, it normally requires continued advertising and promotional support to maintain its relative market position. Some of our competitors may spend more aggressively on advertising and promotional activities, introduce competing products more quickly and respond more effectively to changing business and economic conditions. We may not be successful in developing new or improved products and technologies necessary to compete successfully in the industry, and we may not be successful in advertising, marketing, timely launching and selling our products. Also, if we fail to perfect or successfully assert our intellectual property rights, we may be less competitive, which could adversely affect our business, financial results and financial condition.
Damage to the reputation of Kimberly-Clark or to one or more of our brands could adversely affect our business.
Developing and maintaining our reputation, as well as the reputation of our brands, is a critical factor in our relationship with consumers, customers, suppliers and others. Our inability to address adverse publicity or other issues, including concerns about product safety, quality, efficacy or similar matters, or breaches of consumer, customer, supplier, employee or other confidential information, real or perceived, could negatively impact sentiment towards us and our products and brands, and our business and financial results could suffer. Consumers increasing use and reliance on social media for information could increase the risk of adverse publicity, potentially with negative perception of our products or brands. Our business and results could also be negatively impacted by the effects of a significant product recall, product-related litigation, allegations of product tampering or contamination, the distribution and sale of counterfeit products, or a failure or breach of our information technology systems.
Increasing dependence on key retailers in developed markets and the emergence of new sales channels may adversely affect our business.
Our products are sold in a highly competitive global marketplace, which continues to experience increased concentration and the growing presence of large-format retailers, discounters and discounters.e-tailers. With the consolidation of retail trade, both traditional retailers and e-tailers, especially in developed markets such as the U.S., Europe and Australia, we are increasingly dependent on key retailers,


3
KIMBERLY-CLARK CORPORATION - 2017 Annual Report

customers, and some of these retailers,customers, including large-format retailers and large e-tailers, may have significant bargaining power. They may use this leverage to demand higher trade discounts or allowances which could lead to reduced profitability. We may also be negatively affected by changes in the policies of our retail trade customers, such as inventory de-stocking, limitations on access to shelf space, delisting of our products, additional requirements related to safety, environmental, social and other sustainability issues, and other conditions. If we lose a significant customer or if sales of our products to a significant customer materially decrease, our business, financial condition and results of operations may be


4
KIMBERLY-CLARK CORPORATION - 2015 Annual Report

adversely affected.
There is no guarantee that our ongoing efforts to reduce costs will be successful.
We continue to implement plans to improve our competitive position by achieving cost reductions in our operations, including implementing restructuring programs in functions or areas of our business where we believe such opportunities exist. On January 23, 2018, we announced a new global restructuring program. The 2018 Global Restructuring Program will reduce our structural cost base by streamlining and simplifying our manufacturing supply chain and overhead organization. In addition, we expect ongoing cost savings from our continuous improvement activities. We anticipate these cost savings will result from reducing material costs and manufacturing waste and realizing productivity gains, distribution efficiencies and overhead reductions in each of our business segments and in our corporate functions. Any negative impact these plans have on our relationships with employees, suppliers or customers or any failure to generate the emergence of new sales channels may affect customer preferencesanticipated efficiencies and market dynamics andsavings could adversely impactaffect our financial results. These new channels include sales of consumer and other products via e-commerce, as well as the growth of large-format retailers and discounters that exclusively sell private-label products.
Significant increases in prices for raw materials, energy, transportation andor other necessary supplies andor services, without corresponding increases in our selling prices, could adversely affect our financial results.
Increases in the cost and availability of raw materials, including pulp and petroleum-based materials, the cost of energy, transportation and other necessary services, supplier constraints, an inability to maintain favorable supplier arrangements and relations or an inability to avoid disruptions in production output could have an adverse effect on our financial results.
Cellulose fiber, in the form of kraft pulp or recycled fiber from recovered waste paper, is used extensively in our tissue products and is subject to significant price fluctuations. Cellulose fiber, in the form of fluff pulp, is a key component in our personal care products. In past years, pulp prices have experienced significant volatility. Increases in pulp prices or limits in the availability of recycled fiber could adversely affect our earnings if selling prices for our finished products are not adjusted or if these adjustments significantly trail the increases in pulp prices. We have not used derivative instruments to manage these risks.
A number of our products, such as diapers, training and youth pants, feminine pads, incontinence care products and disposable wipes, contain certain materials that are principally derived from petroleum. These materials are subject to price fluctuations based on changes in petroleum prices, availability and other factors, with these prices experiencing significant volatility in recent years. We purchase these materials from a number of suppliers. Significant increases in prices for these materials could adversely affect our earnings if selling prices for our finished products are not adjusted, if these adjustments significantly trail the increases in prices for these materials, or if we do not utilize lower priced substitutes for these materials. Generally, we have not used derivative instruments to manage these risks.
Our manufacturing operations utilize electricity, natural gas and petroleum-based fuels. To ensure we use all forms of energy efficiently and cost-effectively, we maintain energy efficiency improvement programs at our manufacturing sites. Our contracts with energy suppliers vary as to price, payment terms, quantities and duration. Our energy costs are also affected by various market factors including the availability of supplies of particular forms of energy, energy prices and local and national regulatory decisions (including actions taken to address climate change and related market responses). There can be no assurance that we will be fully protected against substantial changes in the price or availability of energy sources. We use derivative instruments to manage a portion of natural gas price risk in accordance with our risk management policy.
New or revised legal or regulatory requirements, potential litigation or administrative actions, or tax matters could have an adverse effect on our financial results.
As a global company, weOur international operations are subject to many lawsforeign market risks, including changes in foreign currency exchange rates, currency restrictions and governmental regulations across all of the countries inpolitical, social and economic instability, which we do business, including laws and regulations involving marketing, antitrust, anti-bribery or anti-corruption, product liability, environmental, intellectual property or other matters, as well as potential litigation or administrative actions. Additionally, our sales and results of operations may be adversely impacted by new or revised legal requirements, including excise or other taxes, financial reform legislation and regulations, export control and foreign sanctions legislation, and climate change and other environmental legislation and regulations. The costs and other effects of pending litigation and administrative actions against us and new legal requirements cannot be determined with certainty. For example, new legislation or regulations may result in increased costs to us, directly for our compliance or indirectly to the extent suppliers increase prices of goods and services because of increased compliance costs or reduced availability of raw materials. Adverse regulatory action, including a recall, regulatory or other governmental investigation, or product liability or other litigation may adversely affect our financial conditionresults.
Our strategy includes operations growth outside the U.S., especially in developing markets such as China, Eastern Europe and business operations.
We are subject to income tax requirements in various jurisdictions inLatin America. About half of our net sales come from markets outside the U.S. We and internationally. Manyour equity companies have manufacturing facilities in 38 countries, and sell products in more than 175 countries. Our results may be substantially affected by a number of these jurisdictions face budgetary shortfalls or have unpredictable enforcement activity. Increasesforeign market risks:
Exposure to the movement of various currencies against each other and the U.S. dollar. A portion of the exposures, arising from transactions and commitments denominated in applicable tax rates, implementation of new taxes, changes in applicable tax lawsnon-local currencies, is systematically managed through foreign currency forward and interpretations of these tax laws and actions by tax authorities in jurisdictions in which we operate could reduceswap contracts. We do not generally hedge our after-tax income and have an adverse effect on our results oftranslation exposure with respect to foreign operations.
Although we believe that none of these proceedings or requirements will have a material adverse effect on us, the outcome of these proceedings may not be as expected.


 54
KIMBERLY-CLARK CORPORATION - 20152017 Annual Report

DisruptionIncreases in our supply chain or the failure of third-party providers to satisfactorily performcurrency exchange restrictions. These restrictions could adversely impact our operations.
Our ability to manufacture, distribute and sell products is critical to our operations. These activities are subject to inherent risks such as natural disasters, power outages, fires or explosions, labor strikes, terrorism, pandemics, import restrictions, regional economic, business, environmental or political events, governmental regulatory requirements or nongovernmental voluntary actions in response to global climate change or other concerns regarding the sustainability of our business, which could impairlimit our ability to manufacturerepatriate earnings from outside the U.S. or sell our products. This interruption, if not mitigatedobtain currency exchange for U.S. dollar inputs to continue operating in advancecertain countries.
Adverse political conditions. Risks related to political instability, expropriation, new or otherwise effectively managed, could adversely impact our business, financial conditionrevised legal or regulatory constraints, difficulties in enforcing contractual and results of operations, as well as require additional resources to address.
In addition, third parties manufacture some of our productsintellectual property rights, and provide certain administrative services. Disruptions or delays at these third-party manufacturers or service providers due to the reasons above or the failure of these manufacturers or service providers to otherwise satisfactorily perform, could adversely impact our operations, sales, payments to our vendors, employees, and others, and our ability to report financial and management information on a timely and accurate basis.
There is no guarantee that our ongoing efforts to reduce costs will be successful.
We continue to implement plans to improve our competitive position by achieving cost reductions in our operations,potentially adverse tax consequences, including implementing restructuring programs in functions or areas of our business where we believe such opportunities exist. In addition, we expect ongoing cost savingsconsequences from our continuous improvement activities. We anticipate these cost savings will result from reducing material costs and manufacturing waste and realizing productivity gains, distribution efficiencies and overhead reductions in each of our business segments and in our corporate functions. Any negative impact these plans have on our relationships with employees or customers or any failure to generate the anticipated efficiencies and savingsBrexit, could adversely affect our financial results.
Increases in dollar-based input costs for operations outside the U.S. due to weaker foreign exchange rates versus the U.S. dollar. There can be no assurance that we will be protected against substantial foreign currency fluctuations.
The inability to effectively manage foreign market risk could adversely affect our business, consolidated financial condition, results of operations or liquidity.
If our information technology systems suffer interruptions, failures or breaches, our business operations could be disrupted and we could face financial and reputational damage.
Our information technology systems, some of which are dependent on services provided by third parties, serve an important role in the efficient and effective operation and administration of our business. These systems could be damaged or cease to function properly due to any number of causes, such as catastrophic events, power outages, security breaches, computer viruses or cyber-based attacks. While we have contingency plans in place to prevent or mitigate the impact of these events, if they were to occur and our disaster recovery plans do not effectively address the issues on a timely basis, we could suffer interruptions in our ability to manage our operations, which may adversely affect our business and financial results.
Increased cyber-security threats and computer crime also pose a potential risk to the security of our information technology systems, including those of third party service providers with whom we have contracted, as well as the confidentiality, integrity and availability of the data stored on those systems. Any breach in our information technology security systems could result in the disclosure or misuse of confidential or proprietary information, including sensitive customer, vendor,supplier, employee or investor information maintained in the ordinary course of our business. Any such event could cause damage to our reputation, loss of valuable information or loss of revenue and could result in large expenditures to investigate or remediate, to recover data, to repair or replace networks or information systems, or to protect against similar future events.
We may divestDisruption in our supply chain or acquire product lines or businesses, whichthe failure of third-party providers to satisfactorily perform could impact our results.
We periodically divest product lines or businesses. These divestitures may adversely impact our operations.
Our ability to manufacture, distribute and sell products is critical to our operations. These activities are subject to inherent risks such as natural disasters, power outages, fires or explosions, labor strikes, terrorism, pandemics, import restrictions, regional economic, business, environmental or political events, governmental regulatory requirements or nongovernmental voluntary actions in response to global climate change or other concerns regarding the sustainability of our business, which could impair our ability to manufacture or sell our products. This interruption, if not mitigated in advance or otherwise effectively managed, could adversely impact our business, financial condition and results ifof operations, as well as require additional resources to address.
In addition, third parties manufacture some of our products and provide certain administrative services. Disruptions or delays at these third-party manufacturers or service providers due to the reasons above or the failure of these manufacturers or service providers to otherwise satisfactorily perform, could adversely impact our operations, sales, payments to our suppliers, employees, and others, and our ability to report financial and management information on a timely and accurate basis.
Government regulations and enforcement, and potential litigation, could have an adverse effect on our financial results.
As a global company, we are subject to many laws and governmental regulations across all of the countries in which we do business, including laws and regulations involving marketing, antitrust, anti-bribery or anti-corruption, product liability, environmental, intellectual property or other matters, as well as potential litigation or administrative actions.
If we are unable to offset the dilutive impactscomply with all laws and regulations, it could negatively impact our reputation and our business results. We cannot provide assurance that our internal control policies and procedures, and ethics and compliance program will always protect us from the loss of revenue associated with the divested productsacts committed by our employees or businesses, mitigate overhead costs allocated to those businesses,agents. Adverse regulatory action, including a recall, regulatory or otherwise achieve the anticipated benefitsother governmental investigation, or cost savings from the divestitures. Furthermore, the divestitures couldproduct liability or other litigation may also adversely affect our ongoingfinancial condition and business operations, including by enhancing our competitors' positionsoperations. Although we believe that none of these proceedings or reducing consumer confidence in our ongoing brands and products.requirements will have a material adverse effect on us, the outcome of these proceedings may not be as expected.
We may pursue acquisitions of product lines or businesses from third parties. Acquisitions involve numerous risks, including difficulties in the assimilation of the operations, technologies, services and products of the acquired product lines or businesses, estimation and assumption of liabilities and contingencies, personnel turnover and the diversion of management's attention from other business concerns. We may be unable to successfully integrate and manage product lines or businesses that we may acquire in the future, or be unable to achieve anticipated benefits or cost savings from acquisitions in the timeframe we anticipate, or at all.


 65
KIMBERLY-CLARK CORPORATION - 20152017 Annual Report

The inabilityIn addition, new or revised laws or regulations may alter the environment in which we do business, including the United Kingdom's withdrawal from the European Union, which could adversely impact our financial results. For example, new legislation or regulations may result in increased costs to effectivelyus, directly for our compliance, or indirectly to the extent suppliers increase prices of goods and efficiently manage divestitures and acquisitions withservices because of increased compliance costs, excise taxes or reduced availability of raw materials.
Damage to the results we expectreputation of Kimberly-Clark or in the timeframe we anticipateto one or more of our brands could adversely affect our business.
Developing and maintaining our reputation, as well as the reputation of our brands, is a critical factor in our relationship with consumers, customers, suppliers and others. Our inability to address adverse publicity or other issues, including concerns about product safety, quality, efficacy or similar matters, or breaches of consumer, customer, supplier, employee or other confidential information, real or perceived, could negatively impact sentiment towards us and our products and brands, and our business consolidatedand financial condition,results could suffer. Consumers increasing use and reliance on social media for information could increase the risk of adverse publicity, potentially with negative perception of our products or brands. Our business and results could also be negatively impacted by the effects of a significant product recall, product-related litigation, allegations of product tampering or contamination, or the distribution and sale of counterfeit products.
New or revised tax regulations could have an adverse effect in our financial results.
We are subject to income tax requirements in various jurisdictions in the U.S. and internationally. Many of these jurisdictions have made changes to their tax policies, including tax reform in the U.S. that was enacted in December 2017. Overall, the impact of U.S. tax reform should reduce our effective tax rate; however, additional guidance or interpretations of the Tax Act could negatively impact our financial results. Other jurisdictions are contemplating changes or have unpredictable enforcement activity. Increases in applicable tax rates, implementation of new taxes, changes in applicable tax laws and interpretations of these tax laws and actions by tax authorities in jurisdictions in which we operate could reduce our after tax income and have an adverse effect on our results of operations or liquidity.operations.
The 2014 spin-off of our health care business could result in substantial tax liability to us and our shareholders.stockholders.
On October 31, 2014, we completed the spin-off of our health care business, creating a stand-alone, publicly traded health care company, Halyard Health, Inc. ("Halyard"). Historically, the IRS provided companies seeking to perform a spin-off transaction with an advance ruling that the proposed spin-off transaction would qualify for tax-free treatment. However, the IRS no longer provides such advance rulings. Prior to completing the spin-off of our health care business, we obtained an opinion of counsel that neither we nor our U.S. shareholdersstockholders will recognize taxable income, gain or loss for U.S. federal income tax purposes as a result of the spin-off. The opinion of counsel is based on certain statements and representations made by us, which, if incomplete or inaccurate in any material respect, could invalidate the opinion of counsel. In addition, this opinion is not binding on the IRS. Accordingly, the IRS or the courts may reach conclusions with respect to the spin-off that are different from the conclusions reached in the opinion of counsel.
If the spin-off and certain related transactions were determined to be taxable, we would be subject to a substantial tax liability. In addition, if the spin-off were deemed taxable, each U.S. holder of our common stock who received shares of Halyard would generally be treated as receiving a taxable distribution of property in an amount equal to the fair market value of the shares received.


ITEM 1B.    UNRESOLVED STAFF COMMENTS
None.


ITEM 2.    PROPERTIES
At December 31, 20152017, we own or lease:
our principal executive officesoffice located in the Dallas, Texas metropolitan area;
four operating segment and geographic headquarters at two U.S. and two international locations; and
four administrativeglobal business service centers at one U.S. and three international locations.


6
KIMBERLY-CLARK CORPORATION - 2017 Annual Report

The locations of our and our equity affiliates' principal production facilities by major geographic areas of the world are as follows: 
Geographic Area:
Number of
Facilities
United StatesNorth America (in 16 states)states in the U.S.)1832
EuropeOutside North America1361
Asia, Latin America and other63
Worldwide Total (in 3938 countries)9493
Many of these facilities produce multiple products. Consumer tissue and KCP products are produced in 5755 facilities and personal care products are produced in 51 facilities. The list of properties above has not been reduced for any manufacturing facilities contemplated for closure or sale in the 2018 Global Restructuring Program. We believe that our and our equity affiliates' facilities are suitable for their purpose, adequate to support their businesses and well maintained.




7
KIMBERLY-CLARK CORPORATION - 2015 Annual Report

ITEM 3.    LEGAL PROCEEDINGS
See Item 8, Note 129 to the Consolidated Financial Statements for information on legal proceedings,consolidated financial statements, which is incorporated in this Item 3 by reference.reference, for information on legal proceedings.


ITEM 4.    MINE SAFETY DISCLOSURES
Not applicable.

EXECUTIVE OFFICERS OF THE REGISTRANT
The names and ages of our executive officers as of February 11, 2016,8, 2018, together with certain biographical information, are as follows:
Achal Agarwal, 58, was elected President, K-C Asia-Pacific in 2012. He is responsible for our consumer business in our Asia-Pacific region. From 2008 to 2012, his title was President, K-C North Asia. Mr. Agarwal joined Kimberly-Clark from PepsiCo, Inc. where he served from March 2008 to June 2008 as Business Unit General Manager, Sub-Saharan Africa Beverages and Snacks and as Chief Operating Officer, Greater China Beverages from 2005 to February 2008.
Larry P. Allgaier, 59, was elected Group President, K-C North America in April 2017. Mr. Allgaier joined Kimberly-Clark from Mars Incorporated, a manufacturer of confectionery, pet food, and other food products, where he served from 2016 to 2017 as President, Global Veterinary Health, and from 2012 to 2015 as President, North America Petcare. Prior to joining Mars, Mr. Allgaier served from 2009 to 2012 as Chief Executive Officer of New Chapter, Inc., a vitamin, mineral and supplement company, and from 2003 to 2009 as President and Chief Executive Officer of the Over the Counter Medicines Unit at Novartis AG. He began his career at The Procter & Gamble Company.
J. Scott Boston, 55, was elected Senior Vice President and Chief Human Resources Officer in January 2017. He is responsible for the design and implementation of all human capital strategies for Kimberly-Clark, including global compensation and benefits, talent management, diversity and inclusion, organizational effectiveness and corporate health services. From 2011 to April 2016, his title was Vice President HR-K-C International and from April 2016 to December 2017, his title was Vice President of Global Talent Management, HR Strategy & Operations. Prior to joining Kimberly-Clark, Mr. Boston served as Senior Vice President, Human Resources, for McKesson Corporation.
Gustavo Calvo Paz, 56, was elected President, K-C Europe, Middle East & Africa in 2014. He is responsible for our consumer business in our Europe, Middle East & Africa region. From 2010 to 2014, he served as President, K-C Middle East, Eastern Europe & Africa. Mr. Calvo Paz joined Kimberly-Clark in 1996 and has held a number of positions with increasing responsibility within our international business operations.
Sergio Cruz, 51, was elected President, K-C Latin America in January 2017. He is responsible for our consumer business in our Latin America region. From 2014 to January 2017, Mr. Cruz served as Vice President, K-C Latin America - Brazil and from 2011 to 2013, he served as Managing Director, K-C Eastern Europe. Mr. Cruz joined Kimberly-Clark in 2005 and has held a number of positions with increasing responsibility within our international business operations.
Thomas J. Falk, 57,59, was elected Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer in 2003 and President and Chief Executive Officer in 2002. Prior to that, he served as President and Chief Operating Officer since 1999. Mr. Falk previously had been elected Group President - Global Tissue, Pulp and Paper in 1998, where he was responsible for Kimberly-Clark'sour global tissue businesses. Earlier in


7
KIMBERLY-CLARK CORPORATION - 2017 Annual Report

his career, Mr. Falk had responsibility for Kimberly-Clark'sour North American Infant Care, Child Care and Wet Wipes businesses. Mr. Falk joined Kimberly-Clark in 1983 and has held other senior management positions. He has been a director of Kimberly-Clark since 1999. He also serves on the board of directors of Lockheed Martin Corporation, Catalyst Inc., the Global Consumer Goods Forum, and the University of Wisconsin Foundation, and serves as a governor of the Boys & Girls Clubs of America.
Lizanne C. Gottung, 59, was elected Senior Vice President and Chief Human Resources Officer in 2002. She is responsible for leading the design and implementation of all human capital strategies for Kimberly-Clark, including global compensation and benefits, talent management, diversity and inclusion, organizational effectiveness and corporate health services. Ms. Gottung joined Kimberly-Clark in 1981. She has held a variety of human resources, manufacturing and operational roles of increasing responsibility, including Vice President of Human Resources from 2001 to 2002. She is a director of Louisiana-Pacific Corporation.
Maria Henry, 49,51, was elected Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer in April 2015. Prior to joining Kimberly-Clark, Ms. Henry was the chief financial officerserved as Chief Financial Officer of Hillshire Brands Company, a branded food products company, from 2012 to 2014, and Chief Financial Officer of Sara Lee’sLee Corporation’s North American Retail and Food Service business from 2011 to 2012. Prior to joining Sara Lee (the predecessor to Hillshire Brands) in 2011, Ms. Henry was executive vice presidentExecutive Vice President and chief financial officerChief Financial Officer of Culligan International, where she was responsible for finance, strategy, business development and information technology. Before Culligan, Ms. Henry was theserved as Chief Financial Officer forof Vastera, a publicly-traded global trade management company.Inc. She began her career at General Electric. She also serves on the board of directors of General Mills, Inc.
Michael D. Hsu, 51,53, was elected President and Chief Operating Officer and a member of the Board in January 2017. He is responsible for the day-to-day operations of our business units, along with our global innovation, marketing and supply chain functions. He served as Group President - K-C North America in 2013. From 2012from 2013 to May 2013, his title2016, where he was Group President - North America Consumer Products. He is responsible for our consumer business in North America, as well as leading the development of new business strategies for global nonwovens. From 2012 to 2013, his title was Group President - North America Consumer Products. Prior to joining Kimberly-Clark, Mr. Hsu served as Executive Vice President and Chief Commercial Officer of Kraft Foods, Inc., a North American grocery manufacturing and processing conglomerate, from January 2012 to July 2012, as President of Sales, Customer Marketing and Logistics from 2010 to 2012 and as President of its grocery business unit from 2008 to 2010. Prior to that, Mr. Hsu served as President and Chief Operating Officer, Foodservice at H. J. Heinz Company, a manufacturer and marketerCompany. Mr. Hsu also serves on the board of food products.trustees of United Way U.S.A.
Sandra MacQuillan, 49,51, was appointedelected Senior Vice President and Chief Supply Chain Officer in April 2015. She is responsible for procurement, transportation, continuous improvement, sustainability,manufacturing, logistics, quality, safety regulatory operations and lean cost transformation.sustainability. Ms. MacQuillan joined Kimberly-Clark from Mars Incorporated where she served from 2009 to 2015 as Global Vice President, Supply Chain, responsible for manufacturing, engineering and logistics for Mars’ Global Petcare. She has extensive experience in procurement, technology and engineering.Petcare business.
Thomas J. MielkeJeffrey P. Melucci, 57,47, was elected Senior Vice President - General Counsel in 2013.September 2017. From 2007January 2017 to 2012, his title was SeniorSeptember 2017, he served as Vice President, - Law and Government Affairs and Chief Compliance Officer, and from 2012 to 2013, his title was Senior Vice President -Deputy General Counsel and Chief Compliance Officer. His responsibilities include our legal affairs, internal audit and government relations activities. Mr. Mielke joined Kimberly-Clark in 1988. He held various positions within the legal function


8
KIMBERLY-CLARK CORPORATION - 2015 Annual Report

and was appointedGeneral Counsel of Kimberly-Clark’s Global Operations. From March 2013 to January 2017, he served as Vice President and Chief PatentDeputy General Counsel. He also served as Corporate Secretary from April 2014 to September 2017 and General Counsel of Kimberly-Clark International from March 2013 to December 2016. Mr. Melucci joined Kimberly-Clark from General Electric, where he served in 2000, and Vice President and Chiefmultiple roles of increasing responsibility, most recently as General Counsel - North Atlantic Consumer Products in 2004.Aviation Systems and Aviation Business Development.
Anthony J. Palmer, 56,58, was elected President - Global Brands and Innovation in 2012. Previously, he served as Senior Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer from 2006 to 2012. He leads the global development of the company'sour consumer categories through marketing, innovations,innovation, category and customer development and shopper marketing. In addition, he leads the company'sour global marketing, innovation and corporate research and development and corporate communications functions. Prior to joining Kimberly-Clark in 2006, he served in a number of senior marketing and general management roles at the Kellogg Company a producer of cereal and convenience foods, from 2002 to 2006, including as managing directorManaging Director of Kellogg's U.K.United Kingdom business. He is a directoralso serves on the board of directors of The Hershey Company.
Elane B. Stock, 51, was elected Group President - K-C International in 2014. She is responsible for our businesses in Asia, Latin America, Europe, the Middle East and Africa. She previously served as Group President - K-C Professional from 2013 to 2014. From 2012 to 2013, her title was President - Global K-C Professional. She also served as Senior Vice President and Chief Strategy Officer from 2010 to 2012. Prior to joining Kimberly-Clark, Ms. Stock served as National Vice President of Strategy for the American Cancer Society from 2008 to 2010. From 2007 to 2008, she was a regional manager at Georgia-Pacific Corporation (Koch Industries). Ms. Stock was a partner at McKinsey & Company, Inc. in Ireland from 2005 to 2007. She is a director of Yum! Brands, Inc.
Kimberly K. Underhill, 51,53, was appointedelected President of K-C Professional in 2014. From 2011 to 2014, she served as President, Consumer Europe. She is responsible for our global professional business, which includes commercial tissue and wipers, skin care, safety and Do-It-Yourselfdo-it-yourself products. She joined Kimberly-Clark in 1988 and has held a number of positions with increasing responsibility within research and engineering, operations and marketing. She also serves on the board of directors of Foot Locker, Inc.



 98
KIMBERLY-CLARK CORPORATION - 20152017 Annual Report
PART II



ITEM 5.MARKET FOR REGISTRANT'S COMMON EQUITY, RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS AND ISSUER PURCHASES OF EQUITY SECURITIES
The dividend and market price data included in Item 7, MD&A "Unaudited Quarterly Data," are incorporated in this Item 5 by reference.
Quarterly dividends have been paid continually since 1935. Dividends have been paid on or about the second business day of January, April, July and October.
Kimberly-Clark common stock is listed on the New York Stock Exchange. The ticker symbol is KMB.
As of February 4, 2016,1, 2018, we had 22,97220,540 holders of record of our common stock.
For information relating to securities authorized for issuance under equity compensation plans, see Part III, Item 12 of this Form 10-K.
We repurchase shares of Kimberly-Clark common stock from time to time pursuant to publicly announced share repurchase programs. During 2015,2017, we repurchased 7.17.2 million shares of our common stock at a cost of $800$900 through a broker in the open market.
The following table contains information for shares repurchased during the fourth quarter of 2015.2017. None of the shares in this table were repurchased directly from any of our officers or directors.
Period (2015) 
Total Number
of Shares
Purchased(a)
 
Average
Price Paid
Per Share
 
Total Number of
Shares Purchased
as Part of Publicly
Announced Plans
or Programs
 
Maximum Number
of Shares That May
Yet Be Purchased
Under the Plans or
Programs
Period (2017) 
Total Number
of Shares
Purchased(a)
 
Average
Price Paid
Per Share
 
Total Number of
Shares Purchased
as Part of Publicly
Announced Plans
or Programs
 
Maximum Number
of Shares That May
Yet Be Purchased
Under the Plans or
Programs
October 1 to October 31 1,089,000
 $116.37
 1,882,811
 38,117,189
 350,000
 $115.44
 16,375,346
 23,624,654
November 1 to November 30 1,102,000
 119.85
 2,984,811
 37,015,189
 340,400
 114.59
 16,715,746
 23,284,254
December 1 to December 31 749,000
 121.73
 3,733,811
 36,266,189
 172,100
 119.49
 16,887,846
 23,112,154
Total 2,940,000
       862,500
      
(a)Share repurchases were made pursuant to a share repurchase program authorized by our Board of Directors on November 13, 2014. This program allows for the repurchase of 40 million shares in an amount not to exceed $5 billion.




 109
KIMBERLY-CLARK CORPORATION - 20152017 Annual Report

ITEM 6.SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA
Year Ended December 31Year Ended December 31
2015(a)
 
2014(b)
 
2013(c)
 
2012(d)
 
2011(e)
2017(a)
 
2016(b)
 
2015(c)
 
2014(d)
 
2013(e)
Net Sales$18,591
 $19,724
 $19,561
 $19,467
 $19,268
$18,259
 $18,202
 $18,591
 $19,724
 $19,561
Gross Profit6,624
 6,683
 6,609
 6,129
 5,539
6,553
 6,651
 6,624
 6,683
 6,609
Operating Profit1,613
 2,521
 2,903
 2,377
 2,152
3,299
 3,317
 1,613
 2,521
 2,903
Share of Net Income of Equity Companies149
 146
 205
 177
 161
104
 132
 149
 146
 205
Income from Continuing Operations1,066
 1,545
 2,018
 1,627
 1,495
2,319
 2,219
 1,066
 1,545
 2,018
Income from Discontinued Operations, Net of Income Taxes—
 50
 203
 201
 189
—
 —
 —
 50
 203
Net Income1,066
 1,595
 2,221
 1,828
 1,684
2,319
 2,219
 1,066
 1,595
 2,221
Net Income Attributable to Noncontrolling Interests in Continuing Operations(53) (69) (79) (78) (93)(41) (53) (53) (69) (79)
Net Income Attributable to Kimberly-Clark Corporation1,013
 1,526
 2,142
 1,750
 1,591
2,278
 2,166
 1,013
 1,526
 2,142
Per Share Basis                  
Net Income Attributable to Kimberly-Clark Corporation                  
Basic                  
Continuing operations2.78
 3.94
 5.05
 3.94
 3.54
6.44
 6.03
 2.78
 3.94
 5.05
Discontinued operations—
 0.13
 0.53
 0.51
 0.48
—
 —
 —
 0.13
 0.53
Net income2.78
 4.07
 5.58
 4.45
 4.02
6.44
 6.03
 2.78
 4.07
 5.58
                  
Diluted                  
Continuing operations2.77
 3.91
 5.01
 3.91
 3.52
6.40
 5.99
 2.77
 3.91
 5.01
Discontinued operations—
 0.13
 0.52
 0.51
 0.47
—
 —
 —
 0.13
 0.52
Net income2.77
 4.04
 5.53
 4.42
 3.99
6.40
 5.99
 2.77
 4.04
 5.53
                  
Cash Dividends Per Share         
Cash Dividends         
Declared3.52
 3.36
 3.24
 2.96
 2.80
3.88
 3.68
 3.52
 3.36
 3.24
Paid3.48
 3.33
 3.17
 2.92
 2.76
3.83
 3.64
 3.48
 3.33
 3.17
                  
Total Assets14,842
 15,526
 18,919
 19,873
 19,373
15,151
 14,602
 14,842
 15,526
 18,919
Long-Term Debt6,106
 5,630
 5,386
 5,070
 5,426
6,472
 6,439
 6,106
 5,630
 5,386
Total Stockholders' Equity40
 999
 5,140
 5,287
 5,529
882
 117
 40
 999
 5,140

(a)Results include other expense of $24 and an income tax benefit of $85 for 2017 U.S. tax reform and related matters. See Item 8, Notes 4 and 11 to the consolidated financial statements for details.
(b)Results include other income of $11 related to an updated assessment of the deconsolidation of our Venezuelan operations. Additionally, results were negatively impacted by pre-tax charges of $35, $27 after tax, related to the 2014 Organization Restructuring. See Item 8, Notes 1 and 2 to the consolidated financial statements for details.
(c)Results include pre-tax charges related to pension settlements of $1,358, $835 after tax, a $45 nondeductible charge related to the remeasurement of the Venezuelan balance sheet and a pre-tax charge of $108, $102 after tax, related to the deconsolidation of our Venezuelan operations. Additionally, results were negatively impacted by pre-tax charges of $63, $42 after tax, related to the 2014 Organization Restructuring, and nondeductible charges of $23 related to the restructuring of operations in Turkey. Also included is an income tax charge of $49 related to prior years as a result of an updated assessment of uncertain tax positions in certain of our international operations. See Item 8, Notes 1, 2, 96 and 14 of11 to the Consolidated Financial Statementsconsolidated financial statements for details.
(b)(d)Results include pre-tax charges of $133, $95 after tax, related to the 2014 Organization Restructuring, pre-tax charges of $33, $30 after tax, related to European strategic changes, a nondeductible charge of $462 related to the remeasurement of the Venezuelan balance sheet and a nondeductible charge of $35, $17 attributable to Kimberly-Clark Corporation, related to a regulatory dispute in the Middle East. Additionally, results were negatively impacted by pre-tax charges of $157, $138 after tax, for transaction and related costs associated with the spin-off of the health care business (classified in discontinued operations). See Item 8, Notes 1 through 4 of the Consolidated Financial Statements for details on the charges for the Venezuela devaluation and restructuring programs.
(c)(e)Results include pre-tax charges of $81, $66 after tax, related to European strategic changes. Additionally, results were negatively impacted by a $36 pre-tax charge, $26 after tax, related to the devaluation of the Venezuelan bolivar. See Item 8, Notes 1 and 4 of the Consolidated Financial Statements for details.
(d)Results include pre-tax charges of $299, $242 after tax, related to European strategic changes. Additionally, results were negatively impacted by $135 in pre-tax charges, $86 after tax, for restructuring actions related to our pulp and tissue operations. See Item 8, Note 4 of the Consolidated Financial Statements for details related to European strategic changes.
(e)Results include a nondeductible business tax charge related to a law change in Colombia of $35, as well as the effect of pre-tax charges of $415, $289 after tax, related to the restructuring of our pulp and tissue operations.







 1110
KIMBERLY-CLARK CORPORATION - 20152017 Annual Report

ITEM 7.MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
Introduction
This MD&A is intended to provide investors with an understanding of our recent performance, financial condition and prospects. This discussion and analysis compares 2017 results to 2016, and 2016 results to 2015. The reference to "N.M." indicates that the calculation is not meaningful. In addition, we provide commentary regarding organic sales growth, which describes the impact of changes in volume, product mix and net selling prices on net sales. Changes in foreign currency rates and acquisitions and divestitures also impact the year-over-year change in net sales. Dollar amounts are reported in millions, except per share dollar amounts, unless otherwise noted.
The following will be discussed and analyzed:
Overview of Business
Overview of 20152017 Results
Results of Operations and Related Information
Unaudited Quarterly Data
Liquidity and Capital Resources
Critical Accounting Policies and Use of Estimates
Legal Matters
New Accounting Standards
Business Outlook
Information Concerning Forward-Looking Statements
Throughout this MD&A, we refer to financial measures that have not been calculated in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the U.S., or GAAP, and are therefore referred to as non-GAAP financial measures. These measures include adjusted gross and operating profit, adjusted net income, adjusted earnings per share, adjusted other (income) and expense, net, and adjusted effective tax rate. We believe these measures provide our investors with additional information about our underlying results and trends, as well as insight to some of the financial measures used to evaluate management.
Non-GAAP financial measures are not meant to be considered in isolation or as a substitute for the comparable GAAP measures, and they should be read only in conjunction with our consolidated financial statements prepared in accordance with GAAP.  There are limitations to these non-GAAP financial measures because they are not prepared in accordance with GAAP and may not be comparable to similarly titled measures of other companies due to potential differences in methods of calculation and items being excluded.  We compensate for these limitations by using these non-GAAP financial measures as a supplement to the GAAP measures and by providing reconciliations of the non-GAAP and comparable GAAP financial measures.
The non-GAAP financial measures exclude the following items for the relevant time periods as indicated in the reconciliations included later in this MD&A:
U.S. Tax Reform Related Matters - In the fourth quarter of 2017, we recognized a net benefit as a result of U.S. tax reform and related activities.
2014 Organization Restructuring - In 2014, we initiated this restructuring in order to improve organization efficiency and offset the impact of stranded overhead costs resulting from the 2014 spin-off of our health care business. As a result, we recognized restructuring charges in 2014, 2015 and 2016. Restructuring actions were completed by December 31, 2016. See Item 8, Note 2 to the consolidated financial statements for details.
Adjustments Related to Venezuelan Operations - Results in 2016 and 2015 include adjustments for the deconsolidation of our Venezuelan operations, and in 2015 include charges for remeasuring the local currency balance sheet in Venezuela. See Item 8, Note 1 to the consolidated financial statements for details.


11
KIMBERLY-CLARK CORPORATION - 2017 Annual Report

Pension settlement chargesSettlement Charges - In 2015, we recorded settlement-related charges from certain actions taken for our U.S. pension plan.
Charges related See Item 8, Note 6 to Venezuelan Operations - Results in 2015, 2014 and 2013 include chargesthe consolidated financial statements for remeasuring the local currency balance sheet in Venezuela, and in 2015 include charges for the deconsolidation of our Venezuelan operations.details.
Uncertain tax positions adjustmentTax Positions Adjustment - In the fourth quarter of 2015, we updated our assessment of uncertain tax positions for certain international operations, and recorded a charge related to prior years in provision for income taxes. See Item 8, Note 11 to the consolidated financial statements for details.
2014 OrganizationTurkey Restructuring - In October 2014, we initiated a restructuring plan in order to improve organization efficiency and offset the impact of stranded overhead costs resulting from the spin-off of our health care business. Results in both 2014 and 2015 include charges related to this initiative.
Turkey restructuring - In 2015, we recorded charges related to the restructuring of our operations in Turkey.
Regulatory dispute in the Middle East - In 2014, we recorded a charge as a result of an adverse court ruling regarding the treatment of capital contributions in prior years to an affiliate in the Middle East.
European strategic changes and related restructuring charges - In 2012, we initiated strategic changes to and a related restructuring in our Western and Central European businesses. Results in 2014 and 2013 include charges related to this restructuring activity.
In addition, we provide commentary regarding organic net sales, which exclude the impact of changes in foreign currency rates and lower sales in 2014 and 2013 associated with European strategic changes and tissue restructuring actions.


12
KIMBERLY-CLARK CORPORATION - 2015 Annual Report

Overview of Business
We are a global company focused on leading the world in essentials for a better life, with manufacturing facilities in 36 countries and products sold in more than 175 countries. Our products are sold under well-known brands such as Kleenex, Scott, Huggies, Pull-Ups, Kotex and Depend. We have three reportable business segments: Personal Care, Consumer Tissue and K-C Professional ("KCP").KCP. These business segments are described in greater detail in Item 8, Note 1613 to the Consolidated Financial Statements.consolidated financial statements.
In operating our business, we seek to:
manage our portfolio to balance growth, profit margin and cash flow,
invest in our brands, innovation and growth initiatives,
deliver sustainable cost reductions, and
provide disciplined capital management to improve return on invested capital and return cash to shareholders.
Beginning in 2015, weWe describe our business outside North America in two groups – Developing and Emerging Markets ("D&E") and Developed Markets, instead of K-C International ("KCI")Markets. Developing and Europe. D&E marketsEmerging Markets comprise Eastern Europe, the Middle East and Africa, Latin America and Asia-Pacific, excluding Australia and South Korea. Developed Markets consist of Western and Central Europe, Australia and South Korea. Previously, KCI consisted of our businesses in Asia, Latin America, the Middle East, Eastern Europe and Africa.
Highlights for 20152017 include the following:
Net sales of $18.6$18.3 billion decreased 6 percentincreased slightly compared to 2014. Weakening2016. Favorable changes in foreign currency exchangesexchange rates significantly decreased netbenefited sales and operating profit. Organic net sales increased 5by less than 1 percent.
We executed our growth strategies in D&E markets with a focus on China, Eastern Europe and Latin America. Organic net sales in D&E grew 10 percent in 2015 as a result of strong growth in diapers, feminine care, adult care and baby wipes. In D&E, we continue to benefit from innovation, expansion, category development and higher net selling prices.
In North America, we generated 5organic sales were down 2 percent volume growth in our consumer business, with increases on most brands. Results benefited from innovations, promotion support, category growthproducts and market share gains.similar year-on-year in K-C Professional.
In our Developed Markets outsideOutside North America, organic net sales were even with prior year.increased 3 percent in developing and emerging markets but fell 3 percent in developed markets.
To help fund our investments in innovations and growth initiatives and to improve our profit margins, we are generating cost savings through several initiatives, including leveraging our global procurement organization and deploying lean principles. Full-yearWe achieved $450 of cost savings from our ongoing FORCE (Focused On Reducing Costs Everywhere) programprogram.
Diluted earnings per share were $6.40 in 2015 were $365.
In 2015, we continued2017 compared to execute our 2014 Organization Restructuring$5.99 in order to improve organization efficiency and offset the impact of stranded overhead costs resulting2016, including a net benefit from the spin-off of our health care business in 2014. The restructuring is expected to be completed by the end of 2016. In 2015, savings from this initiative were $65.2017 U.S. tax reform and related matters.
We continued to focus on generating cash flow and allocating capital to shareholders. In 2015, cash provided by operations was $2.3 billion, and share repurchases of Kimberly-Clark common stock were $0.8 billion. In addition, weWe raised our dividend in 20152017 by 55.4 percent, the 43rd45th consecutive annual increase in our dividend. Altogether, share repurchases and dividends in 20152017 amounted to $2.1$2.3 billion.
We completed the spin-off of our health care business on October 31, 2014. As a result, the health care business is presented as discontinued operations on the Consolidated Income Statement in 2014 and 2013.
We are subject to risks and uncertainties, which can affect our business operations and financial results. See Item 1A, "Risk Factors" in this Form 10-K for additional information.
Overview of 2017 Results
Net sales of $18.3 billion increased slightly compared to prior year, as changes in foreign currency exchange rates benefited sales by less than 1 percent.
Operating profit and Net Income Attributable to Kimberly-Clark Corporation were $3,299 and $2,278 in 2017 and $3,317 and $2,166 in 2016, respectively.
Diluted earnings per share were $6.40 in 2017 compared to $5.99 in 2016. Results in 2017 included a net benefit of $0.17 as a result of U.S. tax reform and related activities.


 1312
KIMBERLY-CLARK CORPORATION - 20152017 Annual Report

Overview of 2015 Results
Net sales of $18.6 billion decreased 6 percent compared to prior year, as changes in foreign currency exchange rates decreased net sales by 10 percent.
Operating profit and income from continuing operations decreased 36 percent and 31 percent, respectively, compared to 2014. Comparisons were negatively impacted by significant unfavorable currency effects, as well as adjusting items described elsewhere in this MD&A.
Adjusted operating profit and adjusted earnings per share increased 1 percent and 5 percent, respectively, compared to 2014.
Results of Operations and Related Information
This section presents a discussion and analysis of net sales, operating profit and other information relevant to an understanding of 20152017 results of operations. This discussion and analysis compares 2015 results to 2014, and 2014 results to 2013. The reference to "N.M." indicates that the calculation is not meaningful.
Consolidated
Selected Financial ResultsYear Ended December 31
 2015 2014 
Change
2015 vs. 2014
 2013 
Change
2014 vs. 2013
Net Sales$18,591
 $19,724
 -5.7 % $19,561
 +0.8 %
Other (income) and expense, net1,568
 453
 +246.1 % 7
 N.M.
Operating Profit1,613
 2,521
 -36.0 % 2,903
 -13.2 %
Provision for income taxes418
 856
 -51.2 % 828
 +3.4 %
Share of net income from equity companies149
 146
 +2.1 % 205
 -28.8 %
Income from Continuing Operations1,066
 1,545
 -31.0 % 2,018
 -23.4 %
Income from discontinued operations, net of income taxes—
 50
 N.M.
 203
 -75.4 %
Net Income Attributable to Kimberly-Clark Corporation1,013
 1,526
 -33.6 % 2,142
 -28.8 %
Diluted Earnings per Share from Continuing Operations2.77
 3.91
 -29.2 % 5.01
 -22.0 %
Selected Financial ResultsYear Ended December 31
 2017 2016 
Change
2017 vs. 2016
 2015 
Change
2016 vs. 2015
Net Sales:         
North America$9,390
 $9,545
 -2 % $9,531
 —
Outside North America9,186
 8,964
 +2 % 9,458
 -5 %
Intergeographic sales(317) (307) +3 % (398) -23 %
Total Net Sales18,259
 18,202
 —
 18,591
 -2 %
Operating Profit:         
North America2,283
 2,322
 -2 % 2,180
 +7 %
Outside North America1,291
 1,255
 +3 % 1,368
 -8 %
Corporate & Other(a)
(248) (252) N.M.
 (367) N.M.
Other (income) and expense, net(a)
27
 8
 N.M.
 1,568
 N.M.
Total Operating Profit3,299
 3,317
 -1 % 1,613
 +106 %
Provision for income taxes(776) (922) -16 % (418) +121 %
Share of net income of equity companies104
 132
 -21 % 149
 -11 %
Net Income Attributable to Kimberly-Clark Corporation2,278
 2,166
 +5 % 1,013
 +114 %
Diluted Earnings per Share6.40
 5.99
 +7 % 2.77
 +116 %
(a)Corporate & Other and Other (income) and expense, net includes income and expenses not associated with the business segments, including adjustments as indicated in the Non-GAAP Reconciliations.
Operating Profit Reconciliation of GAAP to Non-GAAP
Operating profit includes the following adjusting items: Reconciliations of Selected Financial Results
 Year Ended December 31
 2015 2014 2013
Operating Profit, GAAP$1,613
 $2,521
 $2,903
Plus adjustments for:     
Pension Settlements1,358
 —
 —
Charges Related to Venezuelan Operations153
 462
 36
2014 Organization Restructuring63
 133
 —
Turkey Restructuring23
 —
 —
Regulatory Dispute in Middle East—
 35
 —
European Strategic Changes—
 33
 81
Adjusted Operating Profit$3,210
 $3,184
 $3,020
  Twelve Months Ended December 31, 2017
  
As
Reported
 U.S. Tax Reform Related Matters 
As
Adjusted
Non-GAAP
Other (income) and expense, net $27
 $24
 $3
Operating Profit 3,299
 (24) 3,323
Income before income taxes and equity interests 2,991
 (24) 3,015
Provision for income taxes (776) 85
 (861)
Effective tax rate 25.9% —
 28.6%
Net Income Attributable to Kimberly-Clark Corporation 2,278
 61
 2,217
Diluted Earnings per Share 6.40
 0.17
 6.23


13
KIMBERLY-CLARK CORPORATION - 2017 Annual Report


  Twelve Months Ended December 31, 2016
  
As
Reported
 Charges for 2014 Organization Restructuring Adjustment Related to Venezuelan Operations 
As
Adjusted
Non-GAAP
Cost of products sold $11,551
 $6
 $—
 $11,545
Marketing, research and general expenses 3,326
 32
 —
 3,294
Other (income) and expense, net 8
 (3) (11) 22
Operating Profit 3,317
 (35) 11
 3,341
Income before income taxes and equity interests 3,009
 (35) 11
 3,033
Provision for income taxes (922) 8
 —
 (930)
Effective tax rate 30.6% —
 —
 30.7%
Net Income Attributable to Kimberly-Clark Corporation 2,166
 (27) 11
 2,182
Diluted Earnings per Share 5.99
 (0.07) 0.03
 6.03
  Twelve Months Ended December 31, 2015
  
As
Reported
 
Charges Related to Venezuelan
Operations
 Uncertain Tax Positions Adjustment 
Charges
for Pension
Settlements
 Charges for 2014 Organization Restructuring Charges for Turkey Restructuring 
As
Adjusted
Non-GAAP
Cost of products sold $11,967
 $5
 $—
 $—
 $23
 $22
 $11,917
Marketing, research and general expenses 3,443
 —
 —
 —
 40
 1
 3,402
Other (income) and expense, net 1,568
 148
 —
 1,358
 —
 —
 62
Operating Profit 1,613
 (153) —
 (1,358) (63) (23) 3,210
Income before income taxes
  and equity interests
 1,335
 (153) —
 (1,358) (63) (23) 2,932
Provision for income taxes (418) 6
 (49) 523
 21
 —
 (919)
Effective tax rate 31.3% —
 —
 —
 —
 —
 31.3%
Net Income Attributable to Kimberly-Clark Corporation 1,013
 (147) (49) (835) (42) (23) 2,109
Diluted Earnings per Share(a)
 2.77
 (0.40) (0.13) (2.28) (0.11) (0.06) 5.76
(a) "As Adjusted Non-GAAP" does not equal "As Reported" plus adjustments as a result of rounding.
Analysis of Consolidated Results
Net Sales Percent Change Adjusted Operating Profit Percent Change
  2017 vs. 2016 2016 vs. 2015   2017 vs. 2016 2016 vs. 2015
Volume 1
 2
 Volume 1
 5
Net Price (1) —
 Net Price (8) (1)
Mix/Other —
 —
 Input Costs (11) 2
Currency 1
 (4) Cost Savings 13
 14
Total(a)
 —
 (2) Currency Translation 1
 (3)
      
Other(c)
 3
 (13)
Organic(b)
 —
 2
 Total (1) 4
(a)Total may not equal the sum of volume, net price, mix/other and currency due to rounding.
(b)Combined impact of changes in volume, net price and mix/other.
(c)Includes the impact of changes in marketing, research and general expenses, foreign currency transaction effects and other manufacturing costs.


 14
KIMBERLY-CLARK CORPORATION - 20152017 Annual Report

Consolidated 2017 vs. 2016
Net Salessales of $18.3 billion were up slightly compared to the year-ago period. Favorable foreign currency rates benefited sales by less than 1 percent. Organic sales were similar year-on-year, as sales volumes increased about 1 percent. Changes in product mix increased sales slightly, while changes in net selling prices decreased sales by more than 1 percent. Operating profit was $3,299 in 2017 and $3,317 in 2016. Adjusted operating profit was $3,323 in 2017 and $3,341 in 2016. Results were impacted by lower net selling prices and $355 of higher input costs. The comparison benefited from volume growth, $450 of FORCE cost savings and lower marketing, research and general spending.
The effective tax rate of 25.9 percent in 2017 decreased compared to 30.6 percent in 2016. The rate in 2017 included a net benefit as a result of U.S. tax reform and related activity. This amount included a net expense of $278 for the transition tax and a net benefit of $202 for the remeasurement of deferred taxes associated with the corporate rate reduction and our reassessment of permanently reinvested earnings. In addition, it included a net benefit of $152 for certain tax planning actions that were taken in the fourth quarter of 2017 in anticipation of the enactment of the Tax Act. See additional details in Item 8, Note 11 to the consolidated financial statements. The adjusted effective rate was 28.6 percent in 2017 and 30.7 percent in 2016.
Our share of net income of equity companies was $104 in 2017 and $132 in 2016. Kimberly-Clark de Mexico, S.A.B. de C.V. ("KCM") results in 2017 were impacted by higher input costs, partially offset by benefits from sales growth and cost savings.
Diluted earnings per share was $6.40 in 2017 and $5.99 in 2016 and adjusted earnings per share were $6.23 in 2017 and $6.03 in 2016. The change was driven by a lower share count and higher earnings.
2016 vs. 2015
Net sales of $18.2 billion decreased 2 percent compared to 2015, as changes in foreign currency exchange rates reduced sales by about 4 percent. Organic sales increased approximately 2 percent due to higher volumes. Operating Profit
  Percent Change 
2015 vs. 2014
Net sales of $18.6 billion decreased 6 percent compared to 2014, as changes in foreign currency exchange rates reduced net sales more than 10 percent. Organic net sales increased 5 percent, as volumes increased 4 percent and product mix was favorable by 1 percent. Adjusted operating profit of $3,210 in 2015 increased 1 percent compared to $3,184 in 2014. The comparisons benefited from organic sales growth, FORCE cost savings of $365, input cost deflation of $150 and $65 of savings from the 2014 Organization Restructuring. Translation effects due to changes in foreign currency exchange rates lowered adjusted operating profit by $360 and foreign currency transaction effects also negatively impacted the operating profit comparisons. Total marketing, research and general expenses increased on a local currency basis, driven by higher administrative costs.
2014 vs. 2013
Net sales of $19.7 billion increased 1 percent compared to 2013. Organic net sales increased 4 percent, with volumes and net selling prices each increasing net sales by 2 percent. Foreign currency exchange rates were unfavorable by 2 percent and lower sales in conjunction with European strategic changes and pulp and tissue restructuring actions reduced sales by 1 percent. Adjusted operating profit of $3,184 in 2014 increased 5 percent compared to $3,020 in 2013. The comparisons benefited from organic sales growth, FORCE cost savings of $320 and $30 of savings from pulp and tissue restructuring actions. Input costs were $240 higher overall versus 2013. Foreign currency translation effects reduced operating profit by $75 and currency transaction effects also negatively impacted the operating profit comparison.





Net Sales 2015 vs. 2014 2014 vs. 2013 
Volume 4
 2
 
Restructuring —
 (1) 
Net Price —
 2
 
Mix/Other(a) 
 —
 —
 
Currency (10) (2) 
Total (5.7) 0.8
 
      
      
Adjusted Operating Profit     
Volume 8
 5
 
Net Price 1
 13
 
Input Costs 5
 (8) 
Cost Savings 11
 11
 
Currency Translation (11) (3) 
Other (13) (13) 
Total 0.8
 5.4
 
(a)Mix/Other includes rounding
Other (Income) & Expense, Net Reconciliationprofit was $3,317 in 2016 versus $1,613 in 2015. Results in 2015 included $1,358 of GAAPpension settlement charges and $153 of charges related to Non-GAAP
Other (income) & expense, net includesour Venezuelan operations. Adjusted operating profit of $3,341 in 2016 increased 4 percent compared to $3,210 in 2015. Results in 2016 included benefits from organic sales growth, $435 of FORCE cost savings and $70 of savings from the following adjusting items:


Year Ended December 31
 2015 2014 2013
Other (income) and expense, net, GAAP$1,568
 $453
 $7
Less adjustments for:     
Pension Settlements1,358
 —
 —
Charges Related to Venezuelan Operations148
 421
 36
Regulatory Dispute in Middle East—
 35
 —
European Strategic Changes—
 —
 5
Adjusted other (income) and expense, net$62
 $(3) $(34)
2014 Organization Restructuring. In addition, input costs were $65 lower. Translation effects due to changes in foreign currency exchange rates lowered operating profit by $90 and transaction effects also negatively impacted results.
Adjusted other (income) and expense, net was expense of $22 in 2016 decreased compared to $62 in 2015 and income of $3 in 2014. The change was driven bydue to higher foreign currency transaction losses in 20152015. The decrease in our effective tax rate of 30.6 percent in 2016 compared to 2014, and gains on asset sales31.3 percent in 2014. Lower2015 is primarily due to certain planning initiatives. Our share of net income of $3equity companies was $132 in 20142016 and $149 in 2015. KCM results in 2016 compared to $342015 were negatively impacted by a weaker Mexican peso and higher input costs, partially offset by benefits from organic sales growth and cost savings.
Diluted earnings per share were $5.99 in 20132016 and $2.77 in 2015. The increase in adjusted earnings per share of $6.03 in 2016 compared to $5.76 in 2015 was driven bydue to higher foreign currency transaction losses in 2014, as both periods included gains on the sale of non-core assets.earnings and lower share counts.


 15
KIMBERLY-CLARK CORPORATION - 20152017 Annual Report

Provision for Income Taxes Reconciliation of GAAP to Non-GAAP
Provision for income taxes includes the following adjusting items:Business Segments
Personal Care


Year Ended December 31
 2015 2014 2013
Effective Tax Rate, GAAP31.3% 38.0% 31.4%
Provision for income taxes, GAAP$418
 $856
 $828
Plus adjustments for:     
Pension Settlements523
 —
 —
Charges Related to Venezuelan Operations6
 —
 10
Uncertain Tax Positions Adjustment(49) —
 —
2014 Organization Restructuring21
 38
 —
Europe Strategic Changes—
 3
 15
Adjusted Provision for income taxes$919
 $897
 $853
Adjusted Effective Tax Rate31.3% 30.7% 30.9%
  2017 2016 2015   2017 2016 2015
Net Sales $9,078
 $9,046
 $9,204
 Operating Profit $1,907
 $1,857
 $1,885
The increase in adjusted tax rate in 2015 is primarily due to the redemption
Net Sales Percent Change Operating Profit Percent Change
  2017 vs. 2016 2016 vs. 2015   2017 vs. 2016 2016 vs. 2015
Volume 1
 4
 Volume 2
 8
Net Price (2) (1) Net Price (9) (4)
Mix/Other 1
 —
 Input Costs (7) 2
Currency 1
 (5) Cost Savings 14
 14
Total(a)
 —
 (2) Currency Translation 1
 (3)
      
Other(c)
 2
 (18)
Organic(b)
 (1) 3
 Total 3
 (1)
(a)Total may not equal the sum of volume, net price, mix/other and currency due to rounding.
(b)Combined impact of changes in volume, net price and mix/other.
(c)Includes the impact of changes in marketing, research and general expenses, foreign currency transaction effects and other manufacturing costs.
2017 vs. 2016
Net sales of preferred securities in 2014.
Share of Net Income from Equity Companies
Our share of net income of equity companies$9.1 billion was $149 in 2015, $146 in 2014 and $205 in 2013. Kimberly-Clark de Mexico, S.A.B. de C.V. ("KCM") results in 2015up slightly compared to 20142016. Favorable currency rates and higher sales volumes increased sales by 1 percent each, while changes in net selling prices decreased sales by 2 percent. Operating profit of $1,907 increased 3 percent. The comparison benefited from increased organic net sales,volume growth, cost savings and reduced marketing, research and general spending, mostly offset by lower net selling prices and input costs,cost inflation.
Net sales in North America decreased 2 percent. Changes in net selling prices reduced sales by more than 1 percent, including higher promotion spending in most categories, and volumes decreased slightly. Adult care volumes increased mid-single digits, including benefits from market growth and innovations on our Poise and Depend brands. On the other hand, volumes in the infant and child care mega-category were down low single digits. Although volumes increased in Pull-Ups training pants, Huggies diaper volumes were down, impacted by competitive activity and a lower U.S. birth rate.
Net sales in developing and emerging markets increased 6 percent as sales volumes increased 5 percent and favorable currency rates increased sales by 1 percent. Sales benefited by 1 percent from changes in product mix and an additional slight benefit from our acquisition of our joint venture in India, offset by lower net selling prices of about 2 percent. The volume increase was driven by gains in Latin America, primarily Argentina and Brazil, China, Eastern Europe and Middle East/Africa.
Net sales in developed markets outside North America decreased about 6 percent. Sales volumes decreased 6 percent and changes in net selling prices decreased sales by 3 percent, partially offset by favorable currency rates of more than 1 percent and improved product mix of 1 percent. The volume declines were mostly in South Korea, which was impacted by a weaker Mexican peso. Resultslower birth rate.
2016 vs. 2015
Net sales of $9.0 billion in 20142016 decreased 2 percent compared to 2013 were negatively2015. Unfavorable currency rates decreased sales by 5 percent while sales volumes increased 4 percent. Changes in net selling prices decreased sales by 1 percent. Operating profit of $1,857 decreased 1 percent. The comparison was impacted by input cost increasesunfavorable currency effects and higher marketing, research and general expenses on a weaker Mexican peso, partiallylocal currency basis, mostly offset by increasedorganic sales volumesgrowth and cost savings.
Income from Discontinued Operations
Income from discontinued operations,Net sales in North America increased 2 percent. Sales volumes increased 4 percent, while lower net of income taxes, was $50 in 2014selling prices reduced sales by 2 percent. Child care volumes increased high-single digits and $203 in 2013. The decrease was primarily due to after tax charges of $138 ($157 pre-tax), excluded from adjusted earnings per share, related to the spin-off of our healthadult care business.
Net Income Attributable to Noncontrolling Interests
Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests decreased in 2015 as a result of the redemption of preferred securities. In 2014, adjusted net income attributable to noncontrolling interests of $87 includes an adjustment of $18, excluded from adjusted earnings per share, as a result of an adverse court ruling regarding the treatment of capital contributions in prior years to an affiliatevolumes rose in the Middle East.mid-single digits, as both businesses benefited from category growth and innovations launched in the last 12 months. Volumes on Huggies baby wipes rose mid-single digits. Huggies diapers volumes were down low-single digits, although market shares were up slightly.


 16
KIMBERLY-CLARK CORPORATION - 20152017 Annual Report

Net Income Attributable to Kimberly-Clarksales in developing and Diluted Earnings Per Shareemerging markets decreased 6 percent, including an 11 percent negative impact from Continuing Operations Reconciliationsunfavorable currency rate changes. This was partially offset by sales volume increases of GAAP to Non-GAAP4 percent and changes in net selling prices that increased sales by 1 percent. Volume growth included gains in China, Eastern Europe, Africa and Central America, while volumes declined in Argentina and Brazil. Net selling prices increased in Argentina and Brazil, but decreased in China.
Net Income Attributable to Kimberly-Clarksales in developed markets outside North America decreased 2 percent. Currency rates were unfavorable by 3 percent. Sales volumes increased 2 percent and Diluted Earnings Per Shareinclude the following adjusting items:product mix was favorable 1 percent, while changes in net selling prices decreased sales by 2 percent.
Consumer Tissue
 Year Ended December 31
 2015 2014 2013
Net Income Attributable to Kimberly-Clark, GAAP$1,013
 $1,526
 $2,142
Plus adjustments (net of tax) for:     
Pension Settlements835
 —
 —
Charges Related to Venezuelan Operations147
 462
 26
Uncertain Tax Positions Adjustment49
 —
 —
2014 Organization Restructuring42
 95
 —
Turkey Restructuring23
 —
 —
Regulatory Dispute in Middle East—
 17
 —
Health Care Spin-off—
 138
 —
European Strategic Changes—
 30
 66
Adjusted Net Income Attributable to Kimberly-Clark$2,109
 $2,268
 $2,234
  2017 2016 2015   2017 2016 2015
Net Sales $5,932
 $5,967
 $6,121
 Operating Profit $1,034
 $1,117
 $1,073
 Year Ended December 31
 2015 2014 2013
Diluted Earnings Per Share from Continuing Operations, GAAP$2.77
 $3.91
 $5.01
Plus adjustments for:     
Pension Settlements2.28
 —
 —
Charges Related to Venezuelan Operations0.40
 1.22
 0.07
Uncertain Tax Positions Adjustment0.13
 —
 —
2014 Organization Restructuring0.11
 0.25
 —
Turkey Restructuring0.06
 —
 —
Regulatory Dispute in Middle East—
 0.05
 —
European Strategic Changes—
 0.08
 0.17
Rounding0.01
 —
 (0.01)
Adjusted Diluted Earnings Per Share from Continuing Operations$5.76
 $5.51
 $5.24
Net Sales Percent Change Operating Profit Percent Change
  2017 vs. 2016 2016 vs. 2015   2017 vs. 2016 2016 vs. 2015
Volume —
 —
 Volume (2) 1
Net Price (1) —
 Net Price (5) 2
Mix/Other —
 (1) Input Costs (14) 4
Currency 1
 (2) Cost Savings 11
 10
Total(a)
 (1) (3) Currency Translation —
 (1)
      
Other(c)
 3
 (12)
Organic(b)
 (1) —
 Total (7) 4
(a)Total may not equal the sum of volume, net price, mix/other and currency due to rounding.
(b)Combined impact of changes in volume, net price and mix/other.
(c)Includes the impact of changes in marketing, research and general expenses, foreign currency transaction effects and other manufacturing costs.
2017 vs. 2016
Net sales of $5.9 billion decreased slightly compared to prior year. Changes in net selling prices decreased sales by 1 percent, mostly offset by favorable currency rates. Operating profit of $1,034 decreased 7 percent. The increasecomparison was impacted by lower sales and input cost inflation, partially offset by cost savings and reduced marketing, research and general spending.
Net sales in adjusted earnings per shareNorth America decreased about 3 percent compared to prior year. Sales volumes decreased by 2 percent and changes in net selling prices decreased sales slightly. Sales volumes were down in bathroom tissue and facial tissue, and up in paper towels.
Net sales in developing and emerging markets increased 5 percent as sales volumes increased 5 percent, primarily in Latin America. Favorable currency rates increased sales by about 4 percent, while changes in net selling prices and product mix decreased sales by 3 percent and 1 percent, respectively.
Net sales in developed markets outside North America decreased about 1 percent. Changes in net selling prices decreased sales by 1 percent and sales volumes were slightly lower, partially offset by improved product mix.
2016 vs. 2015
Net sales of $6.0 billion in 2016 decreased 3 percent compared to 2015 as unfavorable currency rates and changes in product mix reduced sales by 2 percent and 1 percent, respectively. Operating profit of $1,117 increased 4 percent compared to prior year. The comparison benefited from continuing operationscost savings and lower input costs, partially offset by unfavorable foreign currency effects.
Net sales in 2015North America were essentially even with the prior year. Sales volumes increased by 1 percent, with increases in all product categories, while product mix was unfavorable by 1 percent.
Net sales in developing and 2014 areemerging markets decreased 7 percent as unfavorable currency rates reduced sales by about 7 percent. Sales volumes decreased about 4 percent, primarily due to lower share counts and higher earnings.in Latin America, while changes in net selling prices increased sales by 3 percent.


 17
KIMBERLY-CLARK CORPORATION - 20152017 Annual Report

Geographical InformationNet sales in developed markets outside North America decreased 4 percent as unfavorable currency effects reduced sales by 4 percent. Sales volumes increased 1 percent, mostly in Australia, while changes in net selling prices decreased sales by 1 percent.
K-C Professional
  2017 2016 2015   2017 2016 2015
Net Sales $3,208
 $3,150
 $3,219
 Operating Profit $633
 $603
 $590
 Year Ended December 31
 2015 2014 
Change
2015 vs. 2014
 2013 
Change
2014 vs. 2013
NET SALES         
North America$9,531
 $9,400
 +1.4 % $9,430
 -0.3 %
Europe2,304
 2,717
 -15.2 % 2,839
 -4.3 %
Asia, Latin America and other7,154
 7,961
 -10.1 % 7,639
 +4.2 %
Intergeographic sales(398) (354) +12.4 % (347) +2.0 %
TOTAL NET SALES$18,591
 $19,724
 -5.7 % $19,561
 +0.8 %
          
OPERATING PROFIT         
North America$2,180
 $2,003
 +8.8 % $1,984
 +1.0 %
Europe297
 282
 +5.3 % 237
 +19.0 %
Asia, Latin America and other1,071
 1,184
 -9.5 % 1,070
 +10.7 %
Corporate & Other(a)
(367) (495) N.M.
 (381) N.M.
Other (income) and expense, net(b)
1,568
 453
 N.M.
 7
 N.M.
TOTAL OPERATING PROFIT$1,613
 $2,521
 -36.0 % $2,903
 -13.2 %
Net Sales Percent Change Operating Profit Percent Change
  2017 vs. 2016 2016 vs. 2015   2017 vs. 2016 2016 vs. 2015
Volume 1
 —
 Volume 3
 1
Net Price (1) 1
 Net Price (3) 4
Mix/Other —
 (1) Input Costs (12) (1)
Currency 1
 (2) Cost Savings 12
 9
Total(a)
 2
 (2) Currency Translation 1
 (2)
      
Other(c)
 4
 (9)
Organic(b)
 1
 —
 Total 5
 2
(a)Corporate & Other includes charges relatedTotal may not equal the sum of volume, net price, mix/other and currency due to the 2014 Organization Restructuring of $63 and $133 and $5 and $41 related to the remeasurement of the Venezuelan balance sheet, in 2015 and 2014, respectively. Corporate & Other also includes $23 for restructuring in Turkey in 2015, and $33 and $76 related to European strategic changes in 2014 and 2013, respectively.rounding.
(b)Other (income)Combined impact of changes in volume, net price and expense, net for 2015mix/other.
(c)Includes the impact of changes in marketing, research and 2014 include charges of $40general expenses, foreign currency transaction effects and $421, respectively, related to the remeasurement of the Venezuelan balance sheet. In addition, 2015 includes charges of $108 for the deconsolidation of our Venezuelan operations and $1,358 for charges related to pension settlements and 2014 includes a charge of $35 related to a regulatory dispute in the Middle East. The results for 2013 include a balance sheet remeasurement charge of $36 due to a devaluation of the Venezuelan bolivar and a charge of $5 for European strategic changes.other manufacturing costs.
2017 vs. 2016
Net sales of $3.2 billion in 2017 increased 2 percent compared to 2016, including the benefit of favorable currency rates of 1 percent. The combined impact from sales volume growth and changes in net selling prices increased sales by 1 percent. Operating profit of $633 increased 5 percent. The comparison benefited from cost savings and lower marketing, research and general spending, partially offset by input cost inflation.
Net sales in North America increased about 1 percent. Sales volumes increased more than 1 percent, including growth in safety and other product categories. Changes in net selling prices decreased sales by about 1 percent.
Net sales in developing and emerging markets increased 5 percent as favorable currency rates increased sales by 3 percent. Sales volumes increased 1 percent, and the combined impact of changes in product mix and net selling prices increased sales by 1 percent.
Net sales in developed markets outside North America increased 3 percent as sales volumes and higher net selling prices each increased sales by 1 percent. Favorable currency rates benefited sales slightly.
2016 vs. 2015
Net sales of $3,150 in 2016 decreased 2 percent compared to 2015 as unfavorable currency rate changes decreased sales by about 2 percent, partially offset by changes in net selling prices that increased sales by about 1 percent. Operating profit of $603 increased 2 percent. The comparison benefited from higher selling prices and cost savings, partially offset by unfavorable currency effects and higher marketing, research and general expenses on a local currency basis.
Net sales in North America increased 2 percent. Sales volumes increased 1 percent, mostly due to growth in washroom products, and the combined impact of changes in net selling prices and product mix increased sales by 1 percent.
Net sales in developing and emerging markets decreased 3 percent as unfavorable changes in currency rates reduced sales by 8 percent. Changes in net selling prices increased sales by 5 percent and product mix improved sales by 1 percent, while sales volumes decreased by 1 percent.
Net sales in developed markets outside North America were down 5 percent, including a 3 percent negative impact from unfavorable currency rates. Changes in net selling prices reduced sales by 2 percent and sales volumes decreased 1 percent, while product mix increased sales by 1 percent.



 18
KIMBERLY-CLARK CORPORATION - 20152017 Annual Report

Business Segments
Personal Care2018 Global Restructuring Program
On January 23, 2018, we announced a new global restructuring program. The 2018 Global Restructuring Program will reduce our structural cost base by streamlining and simplifying the company’s manufacturing supply chain and overhead organization.   The program will make our overhead organization structure and manufacturing supply chain less complex and more efficient. We expect to close or sell approximately 10 manufacturing facilities and expand production capacity at several others. We expect to exit or divest some lower-margin businesses that generate approximately 1 percent of our net sales. The sales are concentrated in our consumer tissue business segment. The restructuring is expected to impact all of our business segments and our organizations in all major geographies. Workforce reductions are expected to be in the range of 5,000 to 5,500. Certain capital appropriations under the 2018 Global Restructuring Program are being finalized. Accounting for actions related to each appropriation will commence when the appropriation is authorized for execution.
The restructuring is expected to be completed by the end of 2020, with total costs anticipated to be $1.7 billion to $1.9 billion pre-tax ($1.35 billion to $1.5 billion after tax). Cash costs are expected to be $900 to $1.0 billion, primarily related to workforce reductions.  Non-cash charges are primarily related to incremental depreciation and asset write-offs. Annual pre-tax savings from the restructuring are expected to be $500 to $550 by 2021. In addition, to implement this program, we expect to incur incremental capital spending of approximately $600 to $700 by the end of 2020. Restructuring charges in 2018 are expected to be $1.2 billion to $1.35 billion pre-tax ($950 to $1.05 billion after tax). We expect to generate savings of $50 to $70 in 2018.
Unaudited Quarterly Data
  Year Ended December 31 
 2015 vs. 2014
In 2015, net sales of $9.2 billion decreased 4 percent compared to 2014. Unfavorable currency rates decreased net sales by 11 percent while sales volumes increased 5 percent and net selling prices and product mix each increased net sales by 1 percent. Operating profit of $1,885 increased 5 percent. The comparison benefited from growth in organic net sales, cost savings and lower input and other manufacturing costs, partially offset by unfavorable effects from changes in currency rates and higher marketing, research and general expenses on a local currency basis.
Net sales in North America increased 1 percent. Sales volumes increased 4 percent while net selling prices and currency decreased net sales by 2 percent and 1 percent, respectively. Adult care volumes increased high-single digits with benefits from innovations, brand investments and category growth. Volumes on Huggies diapers rose low-single digits including benefits from innovation and increased promotion support. Huggies baby wipes volumes rose mid-single digits with benefits from innovation and child care volumes were even with prior year.
Net sales in developing and emerging markets decreased 8 percent including a 22 percent decrease from unfavorable currency rate changes. This was partly offset by an increase in sales volumes of 8 percent which included gains in China, most of Latin America, and Eastern Europe, and 5 percent higher net selling prices, driven by increases in Eastern Europe and Latin America in response to weaker currency rates.
Net sales in developed markets outside North America decreased 10 percent. Currency rates were unfavorable by 11 percent. Volumes and product mix increased by 1 percent each while net selling prices decreased net sales by 1 percent.






 

  2015 2014 2013 
Net Sales $9,204
 $9,635
 $9,536
 
Operating Profit $1,885
 $1,803
 $1,698
 
        
        
        
    PERCENT CHANGE 
Net Sales 2015 vs. 2014 2014 vs. 2013 
Volume 5
 3
 
Restructuring —
 (1) 
Net Price 1
 3
 
Mix/Other(a) 
 1
 —
 
Currency (11) (4) 
Total (4.5) 1.0
 
      
      
Operating Profit     
Volume 10
 5
 
Net Price 5
 15
 
Input Costs 6
 (9) 
Cost Savings 12
 12
 
Currency Translation (11) (3) 
Other (17) (14) 
Total 4.5
 6.2
 
 2017 2016
 Fourth Third Second First Fourth Third Second First
Net Sales$4,582
 $4,640
 $4,554
 $4,483
 $4,544
 $4,594
 $4,588
 $4,476
Gross Profit1,598
 1,659
 1,644
 1,652
 1,678
 1,670
 1,664
 1,639
Operating Profit812
 854
 799
 834
 839
 836
 838
 804
Net Income625
 579
 540
 575
 518
 563
 578
 560
Net Income Attributable to Kimberly-Clark Corporation617
 567
 531
 563
 505
 550
 566
 545
Per Share Basis-Diluted1.75
 1.60
 1.49
 1.57
 1.40
 1.52
 1.56
 1.50
Cash Dividends Declared Per Share0.97
 0.97
 0.97
 0.97
 0.92
 0.92
 0.92
 0.92
Market Price Per Share               
High123.77
 130.00
 134.29
 136.21
 125.76
 138.87
 138.76
 136.61
Low109.67
 115.91
 125.55
 113.71
 111.30
 121.20
 123.52
 121.50
Close120.66
 117.68
 129.11
 131.63
 114.12
 126.14
 137.48
 134.51
(a) Mix/Other includes rounding
2014 vs. 2013Liquidity and Capital Resources
In 2014, net sales of $9.6Cash Provided by Operations
Cash provided by operations was $2.9 billion increased 1 percentin 2017 compared to 2013. Sales volumes and net selling prices each increased 3 percent. Currency rates were unfavorable$3.2 billion in 2016. The decrease was driven by 4 percent,higher tax payments. Cash provided by operations was $2.3 billion in 2015. The increase in 2016 compared to 2015 was driven by improved working capital and lower sales in conjunction with European strategic changes reduced net sales by 1 percent. Operating profit of $1,803 increased 6 percent. The comparison benefited from higher net selling prices, sales volume growth and cost savings, partially offset by unfavorable effects from changes in currency rates and input cost inflation.
Net sales in North America were essentially even with the prior year. Slightly higher sales volumes and net selling prices were offset by unfavorable currency rates. Huggies baby wipes volumes rose double-digits, including benefits from market share gains and product innovation. Adult care volumes increased high-single digits, including innovation on Depend and Poise brands. Huggies diaper volumes decreased mid-single digits and were impacted by market share declines and competitive promotional activity. Child care volumes decreased mid-single digits, driven by lower Pull-Ups training pants volumes, partially offset by the launch of new GoodNites youth pants. Feminine care volumes were down slightly.
Net sales in KCI increased 4 percent. Sales volumes increased 6 percent, and net selling prices were higher by 5 percent, partially offset by unfavorable currency rates of 7 percent. The volume increase included gains in China, Eastern Europe, South Africa, South Korea, Vietnam and most of Latin America. The higher net selling prices were driven by increases in Latin America and Eastern Europe in response to weaker currency rates and cost inflation.
Net sales in Europe decreased 19 percent. Lower sales in conjunction with European strategic changes reduced net sales by 20 percent and net selling prices decreased net sales by 1 percent. Favorable currency rates increased net sales by 2 percent.pension contributions.



 19
KIMBERLY-CLARK CORPORATION - 20152017 Annual Report

Consumer Tissue
  Year Ended December 31 
2015 vs. 2014
In 2015, net sales of $6.1 billion decreased 8 percent compared to 2014. Unfavorable currency rates reduced net sales by 9 percent. Sales volumes increased net sales by 3 percent and net selling price lowered net sales by 1 percent. Operating profit of $1,073 increased 1 percent compared to prior year. The comparison benefited from cost savings and higher sales volumes, mostly offset by the impact of unfavorable foreign currency rates.
Net sales in North America increased 2 percent. Sales volumes increased by 6 percent, while net selling prices decreased net sales by 2 percent and product mix was unfavorable by 1 percent. Paper towel volumes rose double-digits led by Viva and bathroom tissue volumes rose high-single digits led by Cottonelle.
Net sales in developing and emerging markets decreased 22 percent. Unfavorable currency rates reduced net sales by 25 percent. Net selling price increased net sales by 2 percent while volumes increased 1 percent.
Net sales in developed markets outside North America decreased 13 percent. Unfavorable currency effects reduced net sales by 11 percent. Sales volumes decreased 1 percent, mostly in Western/Central Europe, and net selling price decreased net sales by 1 percent.

  2015 2014 2013 
Net Sales $6,121
 $6,645
 $6,637
 
Operating Profit $1,073
 $1,062
 $988
 
        
        
    PERCENT CHANGE 
Net Sales 2015 vs. 2014 2014 vs. 2013 
Volume 3
 1
 
Restructuring —
 (1) 
Net Price (1) 1
 
Mix/Other (a)
 (1) —
 
Currency (9) (1) 
Total (7.9) 0.1
 
      
Operating Profit     
Volume 7
 1
 
Net Price (5) 10
 
Input Costs 1
 (5) 
Cost Savings 10
 10
 
Currency Translation (8) —
 
Other (4) (9) 
Total 1.0
 7.5
 
(a)Mix/Other includes rounding
2014 vs. 2013
In 2014, net sales of $6.6 billion were essentially even with the prior year. Sales volumes and net selling prices each increased net sales by 1 percent. Unfavorable currency rates decreased net sales by 1 percent, and lower sales in conjunction with European strategic changes and pulp and tissue restructuring actions reduced net sales by a combined 1 percent. Operating profit of $1,062 increased 7 percent. The comparison benefited from higher net selling prices and cost savings, partially offset by input cost inflation and higher manufacturing-related costs in 2014.
Net sales in North America increased 1 percent. Sales volumes increased 2 percent, driven by growth in Cottonelle and Scott bathroom tissue and the launch of Viva Vantage paper towels. Unfavorable currency effects and changes in product mix reduced net sales by a combined 1 percent.
Net sales in KCI increased 1 percent. Net selling prices increased net sales by 4 percent, and improved product mix and growth in sales volumes increased net sales by a combined 1 percent. Unfavorable currency rates decreased net sales by 4 percent. The improvement in net selling prices was driven by increases in Latin America.
Net sales in Europe decreased 4 percent, driven by lower sales in conjunction with European strategic changes and pulp and tissue restructuring actions which reduced net sales by a combined 6 percent. Favorable currency rates increased net sales by 3 percent.



20
KIMBERLY-CLARK CORPORATION - 2015 Annual Report

K-C Professional
  Year Ended December 31 

2015 vs. 2014
In 2015, net sales of $3.2 billion decreased 5 percent compared to 2014. Unfavorable currency rate changes decreased net sales by 9 percent. Sales volumes and product mix each increased net sales by 2 percent, including sales of nonwovens to Halyard Health, Inc. in conjunction with a near-term supply agreement. Operating profit of $590 decreased 2 percent. The comparison was impacted by unfavorable currency effects, mostly offset by benefits from organic net sales growth, cost savings and lower input costs.
Net sales in North America increased 1 percent. Sales volumes increased 2 percent, primarily due to growth in wipers, while unfavorable currency effects decreased net sales by 1 percent.
Net sales in developing and emerging markets decreased 15 percent, including a 21 percent decrease from unfavorable changes in currency rates. Volumes increased by 2 percent and the combined impact of changes in net selling prices and product mix improved net sales by 4 percent.
Net sales in developed markets outside North America were down 13 percent. Unfavorable changes in currency rates decreased net sales by 13 percent. Sales volumes increased 1 percent, while the combined impact of changes in overall net selling prices and product mix reduced net sales 1 percent.
  2015 2014 2013 
Net Sales $3,219
 $3,388
 $3,323
 
Operating Profit $590
 $604
 $605
 
        
        
    PERCENT CHANGE 
Net Sales 2015 vs. 2014 2014 vs. 2013 
Volume 2
 3
 
Restructuring —
 —
 
Net Price —
 1
 
Mix/Other(a)
 2
 —
 
Currency (9) (2) 
Total (5.0) 2.0
 
      
Operating Profit     
Volume 3
 5
 
Net Price 1
 3
 
Input Costs 3
 (8) 
Cost Savings 7
 5
 
Currency Translation (13) (3) 
Other (3) (2) 
Total (2.3) (0.2) 
(a)Mix/Other includes rounding
2014 vs. 2013
In 2014, net sales of $3.4 billion increased 2 percent compared to 2013. Sales volumes increased 3 percent, and net selling prices improved by 1 percent. The impact of currency rates on net sales was unfavorable by 2 percent. Operating profit of $604 was essentially even with the prior year. The comparison benefited from sales volume growth, higher net selling prices and cost savings, offset by input cost inflation and unfavorable currency effects.
Net sales in North America decreased 2 percent. Net selling prices were lower by 2 percent, and unfavorable currency effects and changes in product mix decreased net sales by a combined 1 percent. Sales volumes increased 1 percent, driven by gains in safety products, wipers and other categories, partially offset by declines in washroom products.
Net sales in KCI increased 8 percent, despite unfavorable currency rates of 5 percent. Sales volumes rose 7 percent, net selling prices improved net sales by 5 percent and product mix improved 1 percent. Sales volumes rose in each major geography.
Net sales in Europe increased 3 percent. Sales volumes increased 3 percent, driven by growth in washroom products. Favorable currency rates and improved product mix each increased net sales by 1 percent, while lower sales in conjunction with European strategic changes and pulp and tissue restructuring actions and the impact of lower net selling prices each reduced net sales by 1 percent.




21
KIMBERLY-CLARK CORPORATION - 2015 Annual Report

Defined Benefit Pension Plan Changes
Effective January 2015, the U.S. pension plan was amended to include a lump-sum pension benefit payout option for certain plan participants. In addition, in April 2015, the U.S. pension plan completed the purchase of group annuity contracts that transferred to two insurance companies the pension benefit obligations totaling $2.5 billion for approximately 21,000 Kimberly-Clark retirees in the United States. As a result of these changes, we recognized pension settlement-related charges of $0.8 billion after tax ($1.4 billion pre-tax in other (income) and expense, net) during 2015, mostly in the second quarter. In 2015, we made cash contributions of $484 to our pension trusts, of which $410 relates to the changes in the U.S. plan.
2014 Organization Restructuring
In October 2014, we initiated a restructuring plan in order to improve organization efficiency and offset the impact of stranded overhead costs resulting from the spin-off of our health care business. The restructuring is intended to improve our underlying profitability and increase our flexibility to invest in targeted growth initiatives, brand building and other capabilities critical to delivering future growth.
The restructuring is expected to be completed by the end of 2016, with total costs anticipated to be $130 to $160 after tax ($190 to $230 pre-tax). Cash costs are projected to be approximately 80 percent of the total charges. Cumulative pre-tax savings from the restructuring are expected to be $120 to $140 by the end of 2017, and were $70 by the end of 2015. The restructuring is expected to impact all of our business segments and our organizations in all major geographies.
During 2015, $63 of pre-tax charges were recognized for the organization restructuring, including $23 recorded in cost of products sold and $40 recorded in marketing, research and general expenses, primarily for workforce reductions. A related benefit of $21 was recorded in provision for income taxes. During 2014, $133 of pre-tax charges were recognized for the organization restructuring, including $40 recorded in cost of products sold and $93 recorded in marketing, research and general expenses, primarily for workforce reductions. A related benefit of $38 was recorded in provision for income taxes.
European Strategic Changes
In 2012, we approved strategic changes related to our Western and Central European consumer and professional businesses to focus our resources and investments on stronger market positions and growth opportunities. We exited the diaper category in that region, with the exception of the Italian market, and divested or exited some lower-margin businesses, mostly in consumer tissue, in certain markets. The changes primarily affected our consumer businesses, with a modest impact on KCP. The impacted businesses generated annual net sales of approximately $0.5 billion and negligible operating profit. As a result of the restructuring activities, compared to 2012, annual net sales in 2014 and 2013 were decreased by $500 and $350, respectively.
Restructuring actions related to the strategic changes involved the sale or closure of five of our European manufacturing facilities and streamlining of our administrative organization. The restructuring actions commenced in 2012 and were completed by December 31, 2014. The restructuring resulted in cumulative pre-tax charges of $413 ($338 after tax) over that period.
For information on the charges by year, see Item 8, Note 4 to the Consolidated Financial Statements.
Venezuela Charges
Effective December 31, 2015, we deconsolidated the assets and liabilities of our business in Venezuela from our consolidated balance sheet and moved to the cost method of accounting for our operations in that country. The change reflects the continued deterioration of conditions in the country, including a slowdown in the availability of foreign exchange, and resulted in an after tax charge of $102 in the fourth quarter of 2015. Beginning in the first quarter of 2016, we will no longer include the results of our Venezuelan business in our consolidated financial statements. We also recorded nondeductible charges of $45 and $462, and pre-tax charges of $36 (after-tax of $26), related to the remeasurement of the Venezuelan balance sheet in 2015, 2014 and 2013 respectively. For information on the charges by year, see Item 8, Note 1 to the Consolidated Financial Statements.



22
KIMBERLY-CLARK CORPORATION - 2015 Annual Report

Unaudited Quarterly Data
 2015 2014
 Fourth Third Second First Fourth Third Second First
Net sales$4,539
 $4,718
 $4,643
 $4,691
 $4,828
 $5,056
 $4,953
 $4,887
Gross profit1,626
 1,682
 1,657
 1,659
 1,553
 1,765
 1,700
 1,665
Operating profit (loss)630
 779
 (544) 748
 158
 877
 775
 711
Income (loss) from continuing operations344
 529
 (293) 486
 (48) 581
 522
 490
Income (loss) from discontinued operations, net of income taxes—
 —
 —
 —
 (15) 1
 8
 56
Net income (loss)344
 529
 (293) 486
 (63) 582
 530
 546
Net income (loss) attributable to Kimberly-Clark Corporation333
 517
 (305) 468
 (83) 562
 509
 538
Earnings (loss) per share -
   Diluted
               
Continuing operations0.91
 1.41
 (0.83) 1.27
 (0.18) 1.49
 1.32
 1.26
Discontinued operations—
 —
 —
 —
 (0.04) —
 0.02
 0.15
Net income (loss)0.91
 1.41
 (0.83) 1.27
 (0.22) 1.50
 1.35
 1.41
Cash dividends declared per share0.88
 0.88
 0.88
 0.88
 0.84
 0.84
 0.84
 0.84
Market price per share               
High129.89
 117.95
 113.45
 119.01
 118.83
 114.45
 113.93
 111.71
Low107.79
 103.04
 104.53
 103.67
 103.88
 103.50
 108.02
 102.81
Close127.30
 109.04
 105.97
 107.11
 115.54
 107.57
 111.22
 110.25
Historical market prices do not reflect any adjustment for the impact of the spin-off of our health care business completed on October 31, 2014.
Income (loss) from continuing operations was impacted by the $102 after tax charge ($108 pre-tax) to deconsolidate our Venezuelan operations and a charge of $49 related to prior years for uncertain tax positions for certain international operationsin the fourth quarter of 2015, and charges related to pension settlements of $0.8 billion after tax ($1.4 billion pre-tax) primarily in the second quarter of 2015. Income (loss) from continuing operations was impacted by a nondeductible charge of $462 in the fourth quarter of 2014 for the remeasurement of the Venezuelan balance sheet as of December 31, 2014.

Liquidity and Capital Resources
Cash Provided by Operations
Cash provided by operations was $2.3 billion in 2015 compared to $2.8 billion in 2014. The decrease was driven by higher pension contributions in conjunction with the transfer of the pension benefit obligations to two insurance companies in the second quarter of 2015, the spin-off of the health care business in the fourth quarter of 2014 and increased operating working capital. Cash provided by operations of $2.8 billion in 2014 decreased compared to $3.0 billion in 2013 due to higher tax payments and transaction costs for the health care spin-off, partially offset by lower payments for restructuring items.


23
KIMBERLY-CLARK CORPORATION - 2015 Annual Report

Obligations
The following table presents our total contractual obligations for which cash flows are fixed or determinable. 
 Total 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021+
Long-term debt$6,720
 $598
 $964
 $933
 $308
 $755
 $3,162
Interest payments on long-term debt2,693
 280
 254
 205
 158
 144
 1,652
Operating leases545
 142
 115
 86
 67
 53
 82
Unconditional purchase obligations1,314
 698
 170
 139
 144
 156
 7
Open purchase orders1,435
 1,373
 54
 4
 2
 1
 1
Total contractual obligations$12,707
 $3,091
 $1,557
 $1,367
 $679
 $1,109
 $4,904
Projected interest payments for variable-rate debt were calculated based on the outstanding principal amounts and prevailing market rates as of December 31, 2015.
 Total 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 2023+
Long-term debt$6,892
 $407
 $714
 $760
 $251
 $298
 $4,462
Interest payments on long-term debt3,084
 222
 201
 188
 170
 163
 2,140
Operating leases610
 170
 130
 99
 65
 48
 98
Unconditional purchase obligations1,173
 699
 206
 204
 8
 5
 51
Open purchase orders1,907
 1,808
 86
 10
 2
 1
 —
Total contractual obligations$13,666
 $3,306
 $1,337
 $1,261
 $496
 $515
 $6,751
The unconditional purchase obligations are for the purchase of raw materials, primarily superabsorbent materials, pulp and utilities. Although we are primarily liable for payments on the above operating leases and unconditional purchase obligations, based on historic operating performance and forecasted future cash flows, we believe exposure to losses, if any, under these arrangements is not material.
The open purchase orders displayed in the table represent amounts for goods and services we have negotiated for delivery.
The table does not include amounts where payments are discretionary or the timing is uncertain. The following payments are not included in the table:
We will fund our defined benefit pension plans to meet or exceed statutory requirements and currently expect to contribute up to $100 to these plans in 2016.2018.
Other postretirement benefit payments are estimated using actuarial assumptions, including expected future service, to project the future obligations. Based upon those projections, we anticipate making annual payments for these obligations ranging from $51$58 in 20162018 to more than $58$60 by 2025.2027.
Accrued income tax liabilities for uncertain tax positions, deferred taxes and noncontrolling interests.
Potential estimated redemption price of $38 for the redeemable preferred securities related to our subsidiary in Central America as the timing of such redemption is unknown.
Investing
Our capital spending was $1.1$0.8 billion in 20152017 and $1.0 billion in 2014.2016. We expect capital spending to be $950 to $1,050approximately $1.1 billion in 2016.2018, including incremental spending from the 2018 Global Restructuring Program.
Financing
In August 2015, we issued $250 aggregate principal amount of 2.15% notes due August 2020 and $300 aggregate principal amount of 3.05% notes due August 2025.We issue long-term debt in the public market periodically. Proceeds from the offering were used to repay $300 of notes due in August 2015 and to pay down a portion of our outstanding commercial paper balance.
In February 2015, we issued $250 aggregate principal amount of 1.85% notes due March 2020 and $250 aggregate principal amount of 2.65% notes due March 2025. Proceeds from the offering wereofferings are used for general corporate purposes, including pension contribution payments.
In 2015, at our election, we redeemed $200repayment of dealer remarketable securities.maturing debt or outstanding commercial paper indebtedness. See Item 8, Note 4 to the consolidated financial statements for details.
Our short-term debt, which consists of U.S. commercial paper with original maturities up to 90 days and/or other similar short-term debt issued by non-U.S. subsidiaries, was $1,071$547 as of December 31, 20152017 (included in debt payable within one year on the Consolidated Balance Sheet)consolidated balance sheet). The average month-end balance of short-term debt for the fourth quarter of 20152017 was $971$419 and for the twelve months ended December 31, 20152017 was $993.$417. These short-term borrowings provide supplemental funding for supporting


24
KIMBERLY-CLARK CORPORATION - 2015 Annual Report

our operations. The level of short-term debt generally fluctuates depending upon the amount of operating cash flows and the timing of customer receipts and payments for items such as pension contributions, dividends and income taxes.
At December 31, 2015,2017, total debt was $7.8$7.4 billion compared to $7.0$7.6 billion at December 31, 2014.2016.
We maintain a $2.0 billion revolving credit facility which expires in 2019.2021. This facility, currently unused, supports our commercial paper program, and would provide liquidity in the event our access to the commercial paper markets is unavailable for any reason.
We paid $1.3$1.4 billion in dividends in 2015.2017. The Board of Directors approved a dividend increase of 3.1 percent for 2018. We repurchase shares of Kimberly-Clark common stock from time to time pursuant to publicly announced share repurchase programs.


20
KIMBERLY-CLARK CORPORATION - 2017 Annual Report

During 2015,2017, we repurchased 7.17.2 million shares of our common stock at a cost of $800$900 through a broker in the open market. In addition, we acquired the remaining interest in our subsidiary in Israel for $151. We are targeting full-year 20162018 share repurchases of $600 tobetween $700 and $900, subject to market conditions.
Management believes that our ability to generate cash from operations and our capacity to issue short-term and long-term debt are adequate to fund working capital, capital spending, payment of dividends, pension plan contributions and other needs for the foreseeable future. Further, we do not expect restrictions or taxes on repatriation of cash held outside of the United StatesU.S. to have a material effect on our overall business, liquidity, financial condition or results of operations for the foreseeable future.
Critical Accounting Policies and Use of Estimates
The preparation of financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the U.S. requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of net sales and expenses during the reporting period. The critical accounting policies we used in the preparation of the Consolidated Financial Statementsconsolidated financial statements are those that are important both to the presentation of our financial condition and results of operations and require significant judgments by management with regard to estimates used. The critical judgments by management relate to accruals for sales incentives and trade promotion allowances, pension and other postretirement benefits, deferred income taxes and potential income tax assessments. These critical accounting policies have been reviewed with the Audit Committee of the Board of Directors.
Sales Incentives and Trade Promotion Allowances
Trade promotion programs include introductory marketing funds such as slotting fees, cooperative marketing programs, temporary price reductions, end-of-aisle or in-store product displays and other activities conducted by our customers to promote our products. Rebate and promotion accruals are based on estimates of the quantity of customer sales and the promotionsales. Promotion accruals also consider estimates of the number of consumer coupons that will be redeemed and timing of promotional activities and forecasted costs forof activities within the promotional programs. Generally, the estimates for consumer coupon costs are based on historical patterns of coupon redemption, influenced by judgments about current market conditions such as competitive activity in specific product categories. Our related accounting policies are discussed in Item 8, Note 1 to the Consolidated Financial Statements.consolidated financial statements. The accounting policies for these programs did not materially change with the adoption, on January 1, 2018, of the Accounting Standard Update No. 2014-09, Revenue from Contracts with Customers.
Employee Postretirement Benefits
Pension Plans
We have defined benefit pension plans in the United StatesU.S. and the United Kingdom (the "Principal Plans") and/or defined contribution retirement plans covering substantially all regular employees. Certain other subsidiaries have defined benefit pension plans or, in certain countries, termination pay plans covering substantially all regular employees. Effective January 2015, the U.S. pension plan was amended to include a lump-sum pension benefit payout option for certain plan participants. In addition, in April 2015, the U.S. pension plan completed the purchase of group annuity contracts that transferred to two insurance companies the pension benefit obligations totaling $2.5 billion for approximately 21,000 Kimberly-Clark retirees in the United States. As a result of these changes, we recognized pension settlement-related charges of $0.8 billion after tax ($1.4 billion pre-tax in other (income) and expense, net) during the twelve months ended December 31, 2015, mostly in the second quarter. During 2015, we made cash contributions of $484 to our pension trusts, of which $410 relates to the changes to the U.S. plan. Our related accounting policies and account balances are discussed in Item 8, Note 96 to the Consolidated Financial Statements.consolidated financial statements.
Changes in certain assumptions could significantly affect pension expense and the benefit obligations, particularly the estimated long-term rate of return on plan assets and the discount rates used to calculate the obligations:
Long-term rate of return on plan assets. The expected long-term rate of return is evaluated on an annual basis. In setting these assumptions, we consider a number of factors including projected future returns by asset class relative to the target


25
KIMBERLY-CLARK CORPORATION - 2015 Annual Report

asset allocation. Actual asset allocations are regularly reviewed and they are periodically rebalanced to the targeted allocations when considered appropriate. Pension expense is determined using the fair value of assets rather than a calculated value that averages gains and losses ("Calculated Value") over a period of years. Investment gains or losses represent the difference between the expected return calculated using the fair value of assets and the actual return based on the fair value of assets. The variance between actual and expected gains and losses on pension assets is recognized in pension expense more rapidly than it would be if a Calculated Value was used for plan assets.
As of December 31, 2015,2017, the Principal Plans had cumulative unrecognized investment and actuarial losses of approximately $1.4$1.5 billion. These unrecognized net losses may increase future pension expense if not offset by (i) actual investment returns that exceed the assumed investment returns, (ii) other factors, including reduced pension liabilities arising from higher discount rates used to calculate pension obligations, or (iii) other actuarial gains, including whether such accumulated actuarial losses at each measurement date exceed the "corridor" as required. If the expected long-term rates of return on assets for the Principal Plans were lowered by 0.25 percent, the impact on annual pension expense would not be material in 2016.2018.
Discount rate. The discount (or settlement) rate used to determine the present value of our future U.S. pension obligation at December 31, 20152017 was based on a portfolio of high quality corporate debt securities with cash flows that largely match the expected benefit payments of the plan. For the U.K.United Kingdom plan, the discount rate was determined based on yield curves constructed from a portfolio of high quality corporate debt securities. Each year's expected future benefit payments were discounted to their present value at the appropriate yield curve rate to determine the pension obligations.


21
KIMBERLY-CLARK CORPORATION - 2017 Annual Report

If the discount rate assumptions for these same plans were reduced by 0.25 percent, the increase in annual pension expense would not be material in 2016,2018, and the December 31, 20152017 pension liability would increase by about $127.
$145.
Other assumptions. There are a number of other assumptions involved in the calculation of pension expense and benefit obligations, primarily related to participant demographics and benefit elections.
Pension expense for defined benefit pension plans is estimated to approximate $75$35 in 2016.2018. Pension expense beyond 20162018 will depend on future investment performance, our contributions to the pension trusts, changes in discount rates and various other factors related to the covered employeesparticipants in the plans.
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans The estimate of pension expense for 2018 does not include any potential effects related to the 2018 Global Restructuring Program (see Item 8, Note 15 to the consolidated financial statements).
Substantially all U.S. retirees and employees have access to our unfunded healthcarehealth care and life insurance benefit plans. Changes in significant assumptions could affect the consolidated expense and benefit obligations, particularly the discount rates used to calculate the obligations and the healthcarehealth care cost trend rate:
Discount rate. The determination of the discount rates used to calculate the benefit obligations of the plans is discussed in the pension benefit section above, and the methodology for each country is the same as the methodology used to determine the discount rate for that country's pension obligation. If the discount rate assumptions for these plans were reduced by 0.25 percent, there would be nothe impact to 20162018 other postretirement benefit expense and the increase in the December 31, 20152017 benefit liability would not be material. The discount rates displayed for the two types of obligations for our consolidated operations may appear different due to the unique benefit payments of the plans.
HealthcareHealth care cost trend rate. The healthcarehealth care cost trend rate is based on a combination of inputs including our recent claims history and insights from external advisers regarding recent developments in the healthcarehealth care marketplace, as well as projections of future trends in the marketplace.
Our related accounting policies, account balances and the effects of a one percentage point change in the healthcarehealth care cost trend rate are discussed in Item 8, Note 96 to the Consolidated Financial Statements.consolidated financial statements.
Deferred Income Taxes and Potential Assessments
As a global organization, we are subject to income tax requirements in various jurisdictions in the U.S. and internationally. Changes in certain assumptions related to income taxes could significantly affect consolidated results, particularly with regard to valuation allowances on deferred tax assets, unremittedundistributed earnings of subsidiaries outside the U.S. and uncertain tax positions:positions. Our income tax related accounting policies, account balances and matters affecting income taxes are discussed in Item 8, Note 11 to the consolidated financial statements.
Deferred tax assets and related valuation allowances. We have recorded deferred tax assets related to, among other matters, income tax loss carryforwards, income tax credit carryforwards and capital loss carryforwards and have established


26
KIMBERLY-CLARK CORPORATION - 2015 Annual Report

valuation allowances against these deferred tax assets. These carryforwards are primarily in non-U.S. taxing jurisdictions and in certain states in the U.S. Foreign tax credits earned in the U.S. in current and prior years, which cannot be used currently, also give rise to net deferred tax assets. In determining the valuation allowances to establish against these deferred tax assets, many factors are considered, including the specific taxing jurisdiction, the carryforward period, income tax strategies and forecasted earnings for the entities in each jurisdiction. A valuation allowance is recognized if, based on the weight of available evidence, it is more likely than not that some portion or all of the deferred tax asset will not be realized.
UnremittedUndistributed earnings. As of December 31, 2015,Deferred taxes have been recorded for foreign and U.S. state income taxes andon $1.0 billion of earnings of foreign withholding taxesconsolidated subsidiaries expected to be repatriated.  We do not intend to distribute $4.5 billion of earnings of foreign consolidated subsidiaries taxed as part of the transition tax and have not been provided on approximately $8.8 billionrecorded any deferred taxes related to such amounts for foreign and U.S. state income taxes. We consider any excess of unremitted earningsthe amount for financial reporting over the tax basis of our investment in our foreign subsidiaries operating outside the U.S. These earnings are considered by management to be invested indefinitely. However, they would be subject to incomeindefinitely reinvested. At this time, the determination of deferred tax if they were remitted as dividends, were lent to one of our U.S. entities or if we were to sell our stock in the subsidiaries. Itliabilities on this amount is not practicable to determine the amount of unrecognized deferred U.S. income tax liability on these unremitted earnings. We periodically determine whether our non-U.S. subsidiaries will invest their undistributed earnings indefinitely and reassess this determination, as appropriate.practicable.
Uncertain tax positions. We record our global tax provision based on the respective tax rules and regulations for the jurisdictions in which we operate. Where we believe that a tax position is supportable for income tax purposes, the item is included in our income tax returns. Where treatment of a position is uncertain, a liability is recorded based upon the expected most likely outcome taking into consideration the technical merits of the position based on specific tax regulations


22
KIMBERLY-CLARK CORPORATION - 2017 Annual Report

and facts of each matter. These liabilities may be affected by changing interpretations of laws, rulings by tax authorities or the expiration of the statute of limitations. In
Legal Matters
We are party to certain legal proceedings relating to our former health care business, Halyard, which we spun-off on October 31, 2014. This includes Bahamas Surgery Center v. Kimberly-Clark Corporation, et al., a California consumer class action relating to the fourth quartersale of 2015,surgical gowns. On April 7, 2017, the jury awarded the plaintiff class $3.9 in compensatory damages and $350 in punitive damages against us. We have filed motions challenging the jury’s verdict as we updated our assessmentbelieve it is contrary to the evidence presented at trial and that the punitive damage award is baseless, excessive and not consistent with California and federal laws. Under the terms of uncertain tax positionsthe distribution agreement we entered into with Halyard in connection with the spin-off, Halyard is obligated to indemnify us for certain international operationslegal proceedings, claims and as a result, recorded a charge of $49other liabilities primarily related to prior years in provision for income taxes.our former health care business.  Halyard and Kimberly-Clark have each filed suits against the other seeking declaratory judgment regarding the scope of these indemnification obligations. We currentlyare also party to additional legal proceedings relating to Halyard, including civil actions, qui tam matters, a shareholder derivative suit, a securities class action and certain subpoena and document requests from the federal government. Although the results of litigation and claims cannot be predicted with certainty, we continue to believe that the ultimate resolutionfinal outcome of these matters subject to administrative appeals, litigation or other uncertainty,will not have a material adverse effect, individually or in the aggregate, will not have a material effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations or liquidity.
Our income tax related accounting policies, account balances and matters affecting income taxes are discussed in Item 8, Note 14 to the Consolidated Financial Statements.
Legal Matters
See Item 8, Note 12 to the Consolidated Financial Statements for information on legal matters.
New Accounting Standards
See Item 8, Note 1 to the Consolidated Financial Statementsconsolidated financial statements for a description of new accounting standards and their anticipated effects on our Consolidated Financial Statements.consolidated financial statements.
Business Outlook
In 2016,2018, we plan to continue to execute our Global Business Plan strategies, which include a focus on targeted growth initiatives, innovation and brand building, cost savings programs and shareholder-friendly capital allocation. In 2016,2018, we expect adjusted earnings per share in a range of $5.95 to $6.15. Thisbe $3.90 to $4.50. Adjusted earnings per share are expected to be $6.90 to $7.20, which excludes expected 2014 Organization2018 Global Restructuring Program charges equivalent to $0.06$2.70 to $0.03.$3.00. Our adjusted earnings per share guidance is based on the assumptions described below:
GrowthWe expect net sales to increase 1 to 2 percent. We anticipate changes in foreign currency exchange rates to have a neutral to 1 percent positive impact on net sales, volumes,and the acquisition of our joint venture in India should benefit sales slightly.
We expect organic sales to increase approximately 1 percent, driven by higher sales volumes. Changes in net selling prices and product mix isare expected to be in the combined 3 to 5 percent range.similar, or up slightly, year-on-year.
We expect net sales to be negatively impacted by unfavorable foreign currency exchange rates of 5 to 6 percent. We also expect unfavorable foreign currency translation effects to negatively impactadjusted operating profit growth byof 2 to 5 to 6 percent. Currency transaction effects are also anticipated to negatively impact operating profit.
We anticipate the net impact of changes in commodity costs to be between deflation of $100 and $50 of inflation.
We plan to achieve cost savings of at least $350approximately $400 from our FORCE program, and at least $50 to $70 from the 2014 Organization Restructuring.
We anticipate that advertising spending will be similar to, or up slightly, as a percentage of net sales to support targeted growth initiatives, brand building and innovation activities.2018 Global Restructuring Program.
We expect inflation in key cost inputs of $300 to $400. We anticipate the majority of the inflation to occur in international markets.
We expect interest expense to be down approximately 20 percent.
We expect an adjusted effective tax rate of 23 to be between 30.5 and 32.526 percent.


27
KIMBERLY-CLARK CORPORATION - 2015 Annual Report

Our share ofWe expect net income from equity companies is expected to be similar, to, or up somewhat, compared to 2015.
We anticipate capital spending to be in a $950 to $1,050 range and share repurchases to total $600 to $900, subject to market conditions.
We expect to contribute up to $100 to our defined benefit pension plans and to increase our quarterly dividend mid-single digits effective April 2016, subject to approval by the Board of Directors.slightly, year-on-year.
Information Concerning Forward-Looking Statements
Certain matters contained in this report concerning the business outlook, including the anticipated costs, scope, timing and financial and other effects of the 2014 Organization Restructuring, the anticipated cost savings from the company’sour FORCE program, costs and savings from the 2018 Global Restructuring Program, cash flow and uses of cash, growth initiatives, innovations, marketing and other spending, cost savings and reductions, net sales, anticipated currency rates and exchange risks, raw material, energy and other input costs, effective tax rate, contingencies and anticipated transactions of Kimberly-Clark, including dividends, share repurchases and pension contributions, constitute "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and are based upon management's expectations and beliefs concerning future events impacting Kimberly-Clark.  There can be no assurance that these future events will occur as anticipated or that our results will be as estimated.  Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date they were made, and we undertake no obligation to publicly update them. 


23
KIMBERLY-CLARK CORPORATION - 2017 Annual Report

The assumptions used as a basis for the forward-looking statements include many estimates that, among other things, depend on the achievement of future cost savings and projected volume increases. In addition, many factors outside our control, including fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates, the prices and availability of our raw materials, potential competitive pressures on selling prices for our products, energy costs and retail trade customer actions, as well as general economic and political conditions globally and in the markets in which we do business, could affect the realization of these estimates.
The factors described under Item 1A, "Risk Factors" in this Form 10-K, or in our other SEC filings, among others, could cause our future results to differ from those expressed in any forward-looking statements made by us or on our behalf. Other factors not presently known to us or that we presently consider immaterial could also affect our business operations and financial results.


ITEM 7A.QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK
As a multinational enterprise, we are exposed to risks such as changes in foreign currency exchange rates, interest rates and commodity prices. A variety of practices are employed to manage these risks, including operating and financing activities and, where deemed appropriate, the use of derivative instruments. Derivative instruments are used only for risk management purposes and not for speculation. All foreignForeign currency derivative instruments are primarily entered into with major financial institutions. Our credit exposure under these arrangements is limited to agreements with a positive fair value at the reporting date. Credit risk with respect to the counterparties is actively monitored but is not considered significant since these transactions are executed with a diversified group of financial institutions.
Presented below is a description of our risks (foreign currency risk and interest rate risk) together with a sensitivity analysis, performed annually, of each of these risks based on selected changes in market rates and prices. These analyses reflect management's view of changes which are reasonably possible to occur over a one-year period. Also included is a description of our commodity price risk.
Foreign Currency Risk
A portion of our foreign currency risk is managed by the systematic use of foreign currency forward and swap contracts. The use of these instruments allows the management of transactional exposures to exchange rate fluctuations because the gains or losses incurred on the derivative instruments will offset, in whole or in part, losses or gains on the underlying foreign currency exposure.
Foreign currency contracts and transactional exposures are sensitive to changes in foreign currency exchange rates. An annual test is performed to quantify the effects that possible changes in foreign currency exchange rates would have on annual operating profit based on our foreign currency contracts and transactional exposures at the current year-end. The balance sheet effect is calculated by multiplying each affiliate's net monetary asset or liability position by a 10 percent change in the foreign currency exchange rate versus the U.S. dollar.


28
KIMBERLY-CLARK CORPORATION - 2015 Annual Report

As of December 31, 2015,2017, a 10 percent unfavorable change in the exchange rate of the U.S. dollar against the prevailing market rates of foreign currencies involving balance sheet transactional exposures would not be material to our consolidated financial position, results of operations or cash flows. This hypothetical loss on transactional exposures is based on the difference between the December 31, 20152017 rates and the assumed rates.
The translation of the balance sheets of non-U.S. operations from local currencies into U.S. dollars is also sensitive to changes in foreign currency exchange rates. Consequently, an annual test is performed to determine if changes in currency exchange rates would have a significant effect on the translation of the balance sheets of non-U.S. operations into U.S. dollars. These translation gains or losses are recorded as unrealized translation adjustments ("UTA") within stockholders' equity. The hypothetical change in UTA is calculated by multiplying the net assets of these non-U.S. operations by a 10 percent change in the currency exchange rates. As of December 31, 2015,2017, a 10 percent unfavorable change in the exchange rate of the U.S. dollar against the prevailing market rates of our foreign currency translation exposures would have reduced stockholders' equity by approximately $700. These hypothetical adjustments in UTA are based on the difference between the December 31, 2015 exchange rates and the assumed rates.$750. In the view of management, the above potential UTA adjustments resulting from these assumed changes in foreign currency exchange rates are not material to our consolidated financial position because they would not affect our cash flow.
Interest Rate Risk
Interest rate risk is managed through the maintenance of a portfolio of variable- and fixed-rate debt composed of short- and long-term instruments. The objective is to maintain a cost-effective mix that management deems appropriate. At December 31, 2015,2017, the long-term debt portfolio was composedcomprised of approximately 29 percent variable-rate debt and 71 percentprimarily fixed-rate debt.
Two separate tests are performed

24
KIMBERLY-CLARK CORPORATION - 2017 Annual Report

In order to determine whetherthe impact of changes in interest rates would have a significant effect on our financial position or future results of operations. Both tests are based on consolidated debt levels atoperations, we calculated the time of the test. The first test estimates the effect of interest rate changes on fixed-rate debt. Interest rate changes would result in increasesincrease or decreasesdecrease in the market value of fixed-rate debt due to differences between theusing a 10 percent change in current market interest rates and the rates governing these instruments. With respect to fixed-rate debt outstanding atAt December 31, 2015,2017, a 10 percent decrease in interest rates would have increased the fair value of fixed-rate debt by about $186,$285, which would not have a significant impact on our financial statements as we do not record debt at fair value. The second test estimates the potential effect on future pre-tax income that would result from increased interest rates applied to our current level of variable-rate debt. With respect to variable-rate debt, a 10 percent increase in interest rates would not have a material effect on the future results of operations or cash flows.
Commodity Price Risk
We are subject to commodity price risk, the most significant of which relates to the price of pulp. Selling prices of tissue products are influenced, in part, by the market price for pulp. As previously discussed under Item 1A, "Risk Factors," increases in pulp prices could adversely affect earnings if selling prices are not adjusted or if such adjustments significantly trail the increases in pulp prices. Derivative instruments have not been used to manage these risks.
Our energy, manufacturing and transportation costs are affected by various market factors including the availability of supplies of particular forms of energy, energy prices and local and national regulatory decisions. As previously discussed under Item 1A, "Risk Factors," there can be no assurance we will be fully protected against substantial changes in the price or availability of energy sources. In addition, we are subject to price risk for utilities and manufacturing inputs, used in our manufacturing operations. Derivative instruments are used in accordance with our risk management policy to hedge a limited portion of the price risk.


 2925
KIMBERLY-CLARK CORPORATION - 20152017 Annual Report

ITEM 8.FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA
 
KIMBERLY-CLARK CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED INCOME STATEMENT
 Year Ended December 31 Year Ended December 31
(Millions of dollars, except per share amounts) 2015 2014 2013 2017 2016 2015
Net Sales $18,591
 $19,724
 $19,561
 $18,259
 $18,202
 $18,591
Cost of products sold 11,967
 13,041
 12,952
 11,706
 11,551
 11,967
Gross Profit 6,624
 6,683
 6,609
 6,553
 6,651
 6,624
Marketing, research and general expenses 3,443
 3,709
 3,699
 3,227
 3,326
 3,443
Other (income) and expense, net 1,568
 453
 7
 27
 8
 1,568
Operating Profit 1,613
 2,521
 2,903
 3,299
 3,317
 1,613
Interest income 17
 18
 20
 10
 11
 17
Interest expense (295) (284) (282) (318) (319) (295)
Income From Continuing Operations Before Income Taxes and Equity Interests 1,335
 2,255
 2,641
Income Before Income Taxes and Equity Interests 2,991
 3,009
 1,335
Provision for income taxes (418) (856) (828) (776) (922) (418)
Income From Continuing Operations Before Equity Interests 917
 1,399
 1,813
Income Before Equity Interests 2,215
 2,087
 917
Share of net income of equity companies 149
 146
 205
 104
 132
 149
Income From Continuing Operations 1,066
 1,545
 2,018
Income from discontinued operations, net of income taxes —
 50
 203
Net Income 1,066
 1,595
 2,221
 2,319
 2,219
 1,066
Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests in continuing operations (53) (69) (79)
Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests (41) (53) (53)
Net Income Attributable to Kimberly-Clark Corporation $1,013
 $1,526
 $2,142
 $2,278
 $2,166
 $1,013
            
Per Share Basis            
Net Income Attributable to Kimberly-Clark Corporation            
Basic       $6.44
 $6.03
 $2.78
Continuing operations $2.78
 $3.94
 $5.05
Discontinued operations —
 0.13
 0.53
Net income $2.78
 $4.07
 $5.58
      
Diluted       $6.40
 $5.99
 $2.77
Continuing operations $2.77
 $3.91
 $5.01
Discontinued operations —
 0.13
 0.52
Net income $2.77
 $4.04
 $5.53
            
Cash Dividends Declared $3.52
 $3.36
 $3.24
 $3.88
 $3.68
 $3.52
 

















See Notesnotes to Consolidated Financial Statements.the consolidated financial statements.


 3026
KIMBERLY-CLARK CORPORATION - 20152017 Annual Report

KIMBERLY-CLARK CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME
 Year Ended December 31 Year Ended December 31
(Millions of dollars) 2015 2014 2013 2017 2016 2015
Net Income $1,066
 $1,595
 $2,221
 $2,319
 $2,219
 $1,066
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax            
Unrealized currency translation adjustments (922) (835) (494) 517
 (107) (922)
Employee postretirement benefits 942
 (275) 302
 118
 (113) 942
Other 5
 20
 17
 (45) 15
 5
Total Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax 25
 (1,090) (175) 590
 (205) 25
Comprehensive Income 1,091
 505
 2,046
 2,909
 2,014
 1,091
Comprehensive income attributable to noncontrolling interests (33) (57) (87) (76) (44) (33)
Comprehensive Income Attributable to Kimberly-Clark Corporation $1,058
 $448
 $1,959
 $2,833
 $1,970
 $1,058













































See Notesnotes to Consolidated Financial Statements.the consolidated financial statements.


 3127
KIMBERLY-CLARK CORPORATION - 20152017 Annual Report

KIMBERLY-CLARK CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEET
 December 31 December 31
(Millions of dollars) 2015 2014 2017 2016
ASSETS        
Current Assets        
Cash and cash equivalents $619
 $789
 $616
 $923
Accounts receivable, net 2,281
 2,223
 2,315
 2,176
Inventories 1,909
 1,892
 1,790
 1,679
Other current assets 617
 655
 490
 337
Total Current Assets 5,426
 5,559
 5,211
 5,115
Property, Plant and Equipment, Net 7,104
 7,359
 7,436
 7,169
Investments in Equity Companies 247
 257
 233
 257
Goodwill 1,446
 1,628
 1,576
 1,480
Other Assets 619
 723
 695
 581
TOTAL ASSETS $14,842
 $15,526
 $15,151
 $14,602
        
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY        
Current Liabilities        
Debt payable within one year $1,669
 $1,326
 $953
 $1,133
Trade accounts payable 2,612
 2,616
 2,834
 2,609
Accrued expenses 1,750
 1,974
 1,730
 1,775
Dividends payable 318
 310
 341
 329
Total Current Liabilities 6,349
 6,226
 5,858
 5,846
Long-Term Debt 6,106
 5,630
 6,472
 6,439
Noncurrent Employee Benefits 1,137
 1,693
 1,184
 1,301
Deferred Income Taxes 766
 587
 395
 532
Other Liabilities 380
 319
 299
 309
Redeemable Preferred Securities of Subsidiaries 64
 72
 61
 58
Stockholders' Equity (Deficit)    
Stockholders' Equity    
Kimberly-Clark Corporation        
Preferred stock - no par value - authorized 20.0 million shares, none issued —
 —
 —
 —
Common stock - $1.25 par value - authorized 1.2 billion shares;
issued 378.6 and 428.6 million shares at December 31, 2015 and 2014, respectively		 473
 536
Common stock - $1.25 par value - authorized 1.2 billion shares;
issued 378.6 million shares at December 31, 2017 and 2016		 473
 473
Additional paid-in capital 609
 632
 776
 697
Common stock held in treasury, at cost - 17.7 and 63.3 million
shares at December 31, 2015 and 2014, respectively		 (2,972) (5,597)
Common stock held in treasury, at cost - 27.5 and 22.0 million
shares at December 31, 2017 and 2016, respectively		 (4,431) (3,629)
Retained earnings 4,994
 8,470
 6,730
 5,831
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) (3,278) (3,312) (2,919) (3,474)
Total Kimberly-Clark Corporation Stockholders' Equity (Deficit) (174) 729
 629
 (102)
Noncontrolling Interests 214
 270
 253
 219
Total Stockholders' Equity 40
 999
 882
 117
TOTAL LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY $14,842
 $15,526
 $15,151
 $14,602





See Notesnotes to Consolidated Financial Statements.the consolidated financial statements.


 3228
KIMBERLY-CLARK CORPORATION - 20152017 Annual Report

KIMBERLY-CLARK CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY
(Millions of dollars, shares in thousands) 
Common Stock
Issued
 
Additional
Paid-in
Capital
 Treasury Stock 
Retained
Earnings
 
Accumulated
Other
Comprehensive
Income (Loss)
 
Noncontrolling
Interests
 
Common Stock
Issued
 
Additional
Paid-in
Capital
 Treasury Stock 
Retained
Earnings
 
Accumulated
Other
Comprehensive
Income (Loss)
 
Noncontrolling
Interests
Shares Amount Shares Amount  Shares Amount Shares Amount 
  
Balance at December 31, 2012 428,597
 $536
 $481
 39,322
 $(2,796) $8,823
 $(2,059) $302
Net income in stockholders' equity —
 —
 —
 —
 —
 2,142
 —
 48
Other comprehensive income, net of tax                
Unrealized translation —
 —
 —
 —
 —
 —
 (499) 5
Employee postretirement benefits —
 —
 —
 —
 —
 —
 298
 4
Other —
 —
 —
 —
 —
 —
 18
 (1)
Stock-based awards exercised or vested —
 —
 (33) (4,108) 264
 —
 —
 —
Income tax benefits on stock-based compensation —
 —
 46
 —
 —
 —
 —
 —
Shares repurchased —
 —
 —
 12,584
 (1,214) —
 —
 —
Recognition of stock-based compensation —
 —
 92
 —
 —
 —
 —
 —
Dividends declared —
 —
 —
 —
 —
 (1,244) —
 (39)
Other —
 —
 8
 —
 —
 (7) —
 (35)
Balance at December 31, 2013 428,597
 536
 594
 47,798
 (3,746) 9,714
 (2,242) 284
Net income in stockholders' equity —
 —
 —
 —
 —
 1,526
 —
 39
Other comprehensive income, net of tax                
Unrealized translation —
 —
 —
 —
 —
 —
 (819) (15)
Employee postretirement benefits —
 —
 —
 —
 —
 —
 (278) 3
Other —
 —
 —
 —
 —
 —
 19
 1
Stock-based awards exercised or vested —
 —
 (54) (2,783) 180
 —
 —
 —
Income tax benefits on stock-based compensation —
 —
 32
 —
 —
 —
 —
 —
Shares repurchased —
 —
 —
 18,246
 (2,031) —
 —
 —
Recognition of stock-based compensation —
 —
 52
 —
 —
 —
 —
 —
Dividends declared —
 —
 —
 —
 —
 (1,256) —
 (43)
Spin-off of health care business —
 —
 —
 —
 —
 (1,505) 9
 —
Other —
 —
 8
 —
 —
 (9) (1) 1
Balance at December 31, 2014 428,597
 536
 632
 63,261
 (5,597) 8,470
 (3,312) 270
 428,597
 $536
 $632
 63,261
 $(5,597) $8,470
 $(3,312) $270
Net income in stockholders' equity —
 —
 —
 —
 —
 1,013
 —
 48
 —
 —
 —
 —
 —
 1,013
 —
 48
Other comprehensive income, net of tax                 —
 —
 —
 —
 —
 —
 45
 (20)
Unrealized translation —
 —
 —
 —
 —
 —
 (905) (17)
Employee postretirement benefits —
 —
 —
 —
 —
 —
 945
 (3)
Other —
 —
 —
 —
 —
 —
 5
 —
Stock-based awards exercised or vested —
 —
 (47) (2,888) 186
 —
 —
 —
 —
 —
 (47) (2,888) 186
 —
 —
 —
Income tax benefits on stock-based compensation —
 —
 32
 —
 —
 —
 —
 —
 —
 —
 32
 —
 —
 —
 —
 —
Shares repurchased —
 —
 —
 7,364
 (833) —
 —
 —
 —
 —
 —
 7,364
 (833) —
 —
 —
Shares retired (50,000) (63) —
 (50,000) 3,272
 (3,209) —
 —
 (50,000) (63) —
 (50,000) 3,272
 (3,209) —
 —
Recognition of stock-based compensation —
 —
 75
 —
 —
 —
 —
 —
 —
 —
 75
 —
 —
 —
 —
 —
Dividends declared —
 —
 —
 —
 —
 (1,280) —
 (36) —
 —
 —
 —
 —
 (1,280) —
 (36)
Shares purchased from noncontrolling interest —
 —
 (94) —
 —
 —
 (12) (45) —
 —
 (94) —
 —
 —
 (12) (45)
Other —
 —
 11
 —
 —
 —
 1
 (3) —
 —
 11
 —
 —
 —
 1
 (3)
Balance at December 31, 2015 378,597
 $473
 $609
 17,737
 $(2,972) $4,994
 $(3,278) $214
 378,597
 473
 609
 17,737
 (2,972) 4,994
 (3,278) 214
Net income in stockholders' equity —
 —
 —
 —
 —
 2,166
 —
 49
Other comprehensive income, net of tax —
 —
 —
 —
 —
 —
 (196) (8)
Stock-based awards exercised or vested —
 —
 (14) (1,906) 121
 —
 —
 —
Income tax benefits on stock-based compensation —
 —
 19
 —
 —
 —
 —
 —
Shares repurchased —
 —
 —
 6,198
 (778) —
 —
 —
Recognition of stock-based compensation —
 —
 77
 —
 —
 —
 —
 —
Dividends declared —
 —
 —
 —
 —
 (1,322) —
 (36)
Other —
 —
 6
 —
 —
 (7) —
 —
Balance at December 31, 2016 378,597
 473
 697
 22,029
 (3,629) 5,831
 (3,474) 219
Net income in stockholders' equity —
 —
 —
 —
 —
 2,278
 —
 36
Other comprehensive income, net of tax —
 —
 —
 —
 —
 —
 555
 35
Stock-based awards exercised or vested —
 —
 (5) (1,926) 125
 —
 —
 —
Shares repurchased —
 —
 —
 7,388
 (927) —
 —
 —
Recognition of stock-based compensation —
 —
 76
 —
 —
 —
 —
 —
Dividends declared —
 —
 —
 —
 —
 (1,371) —
 (37)
Other —
 —
 8
 —
 —
 (8) —
 —
Balance at December 31, 2017 378,597
 $473
 $776
 27,491
 $(4,431) $6,730
 $(2,919) $253



See Notesnotes to Consolidated Financial Statements.the consolidated financial statements.


 3329
KIMBERLY-CLARK CORPORATION - 20152017 Annual Report

KIMBERLY-CLARK CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED CASH FLOW STATEMENT
 Year Ended December 31 Year Ended December 31
(Millions of dollars) 2015 2014 2013 2017 2016 2015
Operating Activities            
Net income $1,066
 $1,595
 $2,221
 $2,319
 $2,219
 $1,066
Depreciation and amortization 746
 862
 863
 724
 705
 746
Asset impairments 22
 42
 45
Stock-based compensation 75
 52
 92
 76
 77
 75
Deferred income taxes (255) 63
 151
 (69) (15) (255)
Net (gains) losses on asset dispositions 17
 21
 11
Equity companies' earnings (in excess of) less than dividends paid (10) 28
 (36) 26
 (4) (10)
(Increase) decrease in operating working capital (445) (176) (158)
Operating working capital (148) 334
 (445)
Postretirement benefits 930
 (102) (158) 2
 (50) 930
Charges related to Venezuelan Operations 153
 462
 36
Adjustments related to Venezuelan operations —
 (11) 153
Other 7
 (2) (27) (1) (23) 46
Cash Provided by Operations 2,306
 2,845
 3,040
 2,929
 3,232
 2,306
Investing Activities            
Capital spending (1,056) (1,039) (953) (785) (771) (1,056)
Acquisitions of businesses —
 —
 (32)
Proceeds from dispositions of property 27
 38
 129
Proceeds from sales of investments —
 127
 26
Investments in time deposits (146) (151) (93) (214) (221) (146)
Maturities of time deposits 164
 239
 94
 183
 188
 164
Other (39) 16
 (15) (35) 72
 (12)
Cash Used for Investing (1,050) (770) (844) (851) (732) (1,050)
Financing Activities            
Cash dividends paid (1,272) (1,256) (1,223) (1,359) (1,311) (1,272)
Change in short-term debt 303
 721
 (287) 360
 (908) 303
Debt proceeds 1,100
 1,257
 890
 937
 1,293
 1,100
Debt repayments (553) (123) (544) (1,481) (598) (553)
Redemption of redeemable preferred securities of subsidiary —
 (500) —
Cash paid on redeemable preferred securities of subsidiaries (3) (34) (27)
Proceeds from exercise of stock options 140
 127
 232
 121
 107
 140
Acquisitions of common stock for the treasury (861) (1,939) (1,216) (911) (739) (861)
Cash transferred to Halyard Health, Inc. related to spin-off —
 (120) —
Shares purchased from noncontrolling interest (151) —
 —
 —
 —
 (151)
Other (1) (26) (10) (88) (29) (4)
Cash Used for Financing (1,298) (1,893) (2,185) (2,421) (2,185) (1,298)
Effect of Exchange Rate Changes on Cash and Cash Equivalents (128) (447) (63) 36
 (11) (128)
Increase (Decrease) in Cash and Cash Equivalents (170) (265) (52)
Change in Cash and Cash Equivalents (307) 304
 (170)
Cash and Cash Equivalents - Beginning of Year 789
 1,054
 1,106
 923
 619
 789
Cash and Cash Equivalents - End of Year $619
 $789
 $1,054
 $616
 $923
 $619









See Notesnotes to Consolidated Financial Statements.the consolidated financial statements.


 3430
KIMBERLY-CLARK CORPORATION - 20152017 Annual Report

KIMBERLY-CLARK CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Note 1.1.    Accounting Policies
Basis of Presentation
The Consolidated Financial Statementsconsolidated financial statements present the accounts of Kimberly-Clark Corporation and all subsidiaries in which it has a controlling financial interest as if they were a single economic entity in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America ("GAAP"). All intercompany transactions and accounts are eliminated in consolidation. The terms "Corporation," "Kimberly-Clark," "we," "our," and "us" refer to Kimberly-Clark Corporation and all subsidiaries in which it has a controlling financial interest. Dollar amounts are reported in millions, except per share dollar amounts, unless otherwise noted.
In 2014, we completed the spin-off of our health care business, creating a stand-alone, publicly traded health care company, Halyard Health, Inc. ("Halyard"), by distributing 100 percent of the outstanding shares of Halyard to holders of our common stock. See Note 3 for more information. The spun-off health care business is presented as discontinued operations on the Consolidated Income Statement for all periods presented. The health care business' balance sheet, other comprehensive income and cash flows are included within our Consolidated Balance Sheet, Consolidated Statement of Stockholders' Equity, Consolidated Statement of Comprehensive Income and Consolidated Cash Flow Statement through October 31, 2014.
Accounting for Venezuelan Operations
Prior to December 31, 2015, we accounted for our operations in Venezuela using highly inflationary accounting. Since February 2013, the Central Bank of Venezuela's regulated currency exchange system rate has been 6.3 bolivars per U.S. dollar. During March 2013, the Venezuelan government announced a complementary currency exchange system, SICAD. In February 2014, the president of Venezuela announced that another floating rate exchange system (referred to as SICAD II) would be initiated. On February 10, 2015, the Venezuelan government announced the addition of a new foreign currency exchange system referred to as the Marginal Currency System, or SIMADI, along with the elimination of the SICAD II system.
We have historically measured results in Venezuela at the rate in which we transact our business. We have qualified for access to the official exchange rate because we manufacture and sell price-controlled products. Since March 2013, exchange transactions have taken place through letters of credit which resulted in an effective exchange rate of 6.3 bolivars per U.S. dollar and through approved transactions using the regulated currency exchange system, which were also at a 6.3 exchange rate. To date, we have not been invited to participate in SICAD, and currency exchanges obtained using the SIMADI system have been minimal. The SIMADI exchange rate at December 31, 2015 was 199 bolivars per U.S. dollar.
We continued to measure results at the 6.3 rate through December 31, 2014; however, given the level of uncertainty and lack of liquidity in Venezuela, we remeasured our local currency-denominated balance sheet as of December 31, 2014 at the year-end floating SICAD II exchange rate of 50 bolivars per U.S. dollar as we believed this was the most accessible rate available in the  absence of exchange at 6.3 bolivars per U.S. dollar. This remeasurement resulted in a nondeductible charge of $462 of which $421 is recorded in other (income) and expense, net and $41 is recorded in cost of products sold for the year ended December 31, 2014.
With the elimination of SICAD II in February 2015, we remeasured our local currency-denominated balance sheet during the first quarter of 2015 at the applicable floating SIMADI exchange rate as we believed this was the most accessible rate available to us in the absence of exchange at 6.3 bolivars per U.S. dollar. This remeasurement resulted in a nondeductible charge of $45 in the Consolidated Income Statement for the three months ended March 31, 2015, with $5 recorded in cost of products sold and $40 recorded in other (income) and expense, net. We continued to use the applicable floating SIMADI exchange rate to measure our results of operations for the remainder of 2015. Remeasurement charges since March 31, 2015 were not significant.
As a result of the continued deterioration of conditions in the country, including a slowdown in the availability of foreign exchange, we concluded that we no longer meet the accounting criteria for control over our business in Venezuela and we deconsolidated our Venezuelan operations on December 31, 2015. As a result of deconsolidating our Venezuelan operations, we recorded an after tax charge of $102, $108 pre-tax, in other (income) and expense, net in the fourth quarter of 2015. This charge included the write-off of our investment in our Venezuelan operations, related unrealized translation adjustments and elimination of intercompany


35
KIMBERLY-CLARK CORPORATION - 2015 Annual Report

amounts. Beginning in the first quarter of 2016, we will no longer include the results of our Venezuelan business in our consolidated financial statements.
Net sales of K-C Venezuela represented approximately 3 percent and 2 percent of consolidated net sales for the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively, and were insignificant in 2015.
Use of Estimates
The preparation of financial statements requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of net sales and expenses during the reporting periods. Actual results could differ from these estimates, and changes in these estimates are recorded when known. Estimates are used in accounting for, among other things, sales incentives and trade promotion allowances, employee postretirement benefits, and deferred income taxes and potential assessments.
Cash Equivalents
Cash equivalents are short-term investments with an original maturity date of three months or less.
Inventories and Distribution Costs
Most U.S. inventories are valued at the lower of cost, using the Last-In, First-Out ("LIFO") method, or market.  The balance of the U.S. inventories and inventories of consolidated operations outside the U.S. are valued at the lower of cost andor net realizable value using either the First-In, First-Out ("FIFO") or weighted-average cost methods.  Net realizable value is the estimated selling prices in the ordinary course of business, less reasonably predictable costs of completion, disposal, and transportation. Distribution costs are classified as cost of products sold.
Property and Depreciation
Property, plant and equipment are stated at cost and are depreciated on the straight-line method. Buildings are depreciated over their estimated useful lives, primarily 40 years. Machinery and equipment are depreciated over their estimated useful lives, primarily ranging from 16 to 20 years. Purchases of computer software, including external costs and certain internal costs (including payroll and payroll-related costs of employees) directly associated with developing significant computer software applications for internal use, are capitalized. Computer software costs are amortized on the straight-line method over the estimated useful life of the software, which generally does not exceed 5 years.
Estimated useful lives are periodically reviewed and, when warranted, changes are made to them. Long-lived assets are reviewed for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that their carrying amount may not be recoverable. An impairment loss would be indicated when estimated undiscounted future cash flows from the use and eventual disposition of an asset group, which are identifiable and largely independent of the cash flows of other asset groups, are less than the carrying amount of the asset group. Measurement of an impairment loss would be based on the excess of the carrying amount of the asset group over its fair value. Fair value is measured using discounted cash flows or independent appraisals, as appropriate. When property is sold or retired, the cost of the property and the related accumulated depreciation are removed from the Consolidated Balance Sheetconsolidated balance sheet and any gain or loss on the transaction is included in income.
Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets
Goodwill represents costs in excess of fair values assigned to the underlying net assets of acquired businesses.  Goodwill is not amortized, but rather is assessed for impairment annually and whenever events and circumstances indicate that impairment may have occurred.  Impairment testing compares the reporting unit carrying amount of goodwill with its fair value.  If the reporting unit carrying amount of goodwill exceeds its fair value, an impairment charge would be recorded.  In our evaluation of goodwill impairment, we have the option to first assess qualitative factors such as macroeconomic, industry and competitive conditions, legal and regulatory environment,environments, historical and projected financial performance, significant changes in the reporting unit and


31
KIMBERLY-CLARK CORPORATION - 2017 Annual Report

the magnitude of excess fair value over carrying amount from the previous quantitative impairment testing.  If the qualitative assessment determines that it is more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit is less than its carrying amount, then a quantitative impairment test using discounted cash flows to estimate fair value must be performed.  On the other hand, if the qualitative assessment determines that it is more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit is more than its carrying value, then further quantitative testing is not required.  For 2015,2017, we have completed the required annual assessment of goodwill for impairment for all of our reporting units using a qualitative assessment as of the first day of the third quarter, and have determined that it is more likely than not that the fair value is more than the carrying amount for each of our reporting units. 


36
KIMBERLY-CLARK CORPORATION - 2015 Annual Report

Intangible assets with finite lives are amortized over their estimated useful lives and are reviewed for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that their carrying amount may not be recoverable.Estimated useful lives range from 2 to 20 years for trademarks, 5 to 15 years for patents and developed technologies, and 5 to 15 years for other intangible assets. An impairment loss would be indicated when estimated undiscounted future cash flows from the use of the asset are less than its carrying amount.An impairment loss would be measured as the difference between the fair value (based on discounted future cash flows) and the carrying amount of the asset. Estimated useful lives range from 2 to 20 years for trademarks and 5 to 15 years for patents, developed technologies and other intangible assets.
Investments in Equity Companies
Investments in companies which we do not control but over which we have the ability to exercise significant influence and that, in general, are at least 20 percent-owned by us, are stated at cost plus equity in undistributed net income. These investments are evaluated for impairment when warranted. An impairment loss would be recorded whenever a decline in value of an equity investment below its carrying amount is determined to be other than temporary. In judging "other than temporary," we would consider the length of time and extent to which the fair value of the equity company investment has been less than the carrying amount, the near-term and longer-term operating and financial prospects of the equity company, and our longer-term intent of retaining the investment in the equity company.
Revenue Recognition
Sales revenue is recognized at the time of product shipment or delivery, depending on when title passes, to unaffiliated customers, and when all of the following have occurred: a firm sales agreement is in place, pricing is fixed or determinable, and collection is reasonably assured. Sales are reported net of returns, consumer and trade promotions, rebates and freight allowed. Taxes imposed by governmental authorities on our revenue-producing activities with customers, such as sales taxes and value-added taxes, are excluded from net sales.
Sales Incentives and Trade Promotion Allowances
The cost of promotion activities provided to customers is classified as a reduction in sales revenue. In addition, the estimated redemption value of consumer coupons is recorded at the time the coupons are issued and classified as a reduction in sales revenue. Rebate and promotion accruals are based on estimates of the quantity of customer sales and the promotionsales. Promotion accruals also consider estimates of the number of consumer coupons that will be redeemed and timing of promotional activities and forecasted costs forof activities within the promotional programs.
Advertising Expense
Advertising costs are expensed in the year the related advertisement or campaign is first presented by the media. For interim reporting purposes, advertising expenses are charged to operations as a percentage of sales based on estimated sales and related advertising expense for the full year.
Research Expense
Research and development costs are charged to expense as incurred.
Foreign Currency Translation
The income statements of foreign operations, other than those in highly inflationary economies, are translated into U.S. dollars at rates of exchange in effect each month. The balance sheets of these operations are translated at period-end exchange rates, and the differences from historical exchange rates are reflected in stockholders' equity as unrealized translation adjustments.
Accounting for Venezuelan Operations
Effective December 31, 2015, we deconsolidated the assets and liabilities of our business in Venezuela from our consolidated balance sheet. The change resulted in the recognition of an after tax charge of $102 in 2015 and other income of $11 related to


32
KIMBERLY-CLARK CORPORATION - 2017 Annual Report

an updated assessment in 2016. In addition, we recorded a non-deductible charge of $45 in 2015 related to a balance sheet remeasurement. In 2016, we wrote off our investment in K-C Venezuela and shut down operations in that country.
Derivative Instruments and Hedging
Our policies allow the use of derivatives for risk management purposes and prohibit their use for speculation. Our policies also prohibit the use of any leveraged derivative instrument. Consistent with our policies, foreign currency derivative instruments, interest rate swaps and locks, and the majority of commodity hedging contracts are entered into with major financial institutions. At inception we formally designate certain derivatives as cash flow, fair value or net investment hedges and establish how the effectiveness of these hedges will be assessed and measured. This process links the derivatives to the transactions or financial balances they are hedging. Changes in the fair value of derivatives not designated as hedging instruments are recorded in earnings as they occur. All derivative instruments are recorded as assets or liabilities on the balance sheet at fair value. Changes in the fair value of derivatives are either recorded in the income statement or other comprehensive income, as appropriate. The gain or loss on derivatives designated as fair value hedges and the offsetting loss or gain on the hedged item attributable to the hedged risk are included in income in the period that changes in fair value occur. The effective portion of the gain or loss on derivatives designated


37
KIMBERLY-CLARK CORPORATION - 2015 Annual Report

as cash flow hedges is included in other comprehensive income in the period that changes in fair value occur, and is reclassified to income in the same period that the hedged item affects income. The gain or loss on derivatives designated as hedges of investments in foreign subsidiaries is recognized in other comprehensive income to offset the change in value of the net investments being hedged. Any ineffective portion of cash flow hedges and net investment hedges is immediately recognized in income. Certain foreign-currency derivative instruments not designated as hedging instruments have been entered into to manage a portion of our foreigncertain non-functional currency transactional exposures.denominated monetary assets and liabilities. The gain or loss on these derivatives is included in income in the period that changes in their fair values occur. See Note 1310 for disclosures about derivative instruments and hedging activities.
New Accounting Standards - Adopted as of January 1, 2017
In July 2015,2016, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (the “FASB”"FASB") issued Accounting Standards Update (“ASU”("ASU") No. 2015-11,2016-09, Simplifying the Measurement of InventoryCompensation-Stock Compensation (Topic 718). This ASU changesThe new guidance simplifies several aspects of the measurement principleaccounting for inventories valued undershare-based payment transactions, including the FIFOincome tax consequences, classification of awards as either equity or weighted-average methods fromliabilities, and classification on the lowerstatement of cost or market to the lower of cost and net realizable value.  Net realizable value is defined by the FASB as estimated selling prices in the ordinary course of business, less reasonably predictable costs of completion, disposal and transportation.  This ASU does not change the measurement principles for inventories valued under the LIFO method.cash flows. We adopted this ASU on September 30, 2015.standard as of January 1, 2017. The adoption of this ASU did not have a material effecton our Consolidated Financial Statements.
In November 2015, the FASB issued ASU No. 2015-17, Income Taxes (Topic 740): Balance Sheet Classification of Deferred Taxes. Under ASU 2015-17, a reporting entity is required to classify deferred tax assets and liabilities as noncurrent in a classified statement of financial position. Current guidance requiring the offsetting of deferred tax assets and liabilities of a tax-paying component of an entity and presentation as a single noncurrent amount is not affected. This ASU is effective for public business entities issuing financial statements for the annual periods beginning after December 15, 2016, and interim periods within those annual periods. Early adoption is permitted for financial statements as of the beginning of an interim or annual reporting period. Entities may apply the update prospectively to all deferred tax assets and liabilities and taxes, or retrospectively for all periods presented. The effects of this updateimpact on our financial position, results of operations andor cash flows areflows. Prior periods were not expected to be material.recast.
In January 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-01,2016-15, RecognitionStatement of Cash Flows (Topic 230): Classification of Certain Cash Receipts and MeasurementCash Payments (a consensus of Financial Assets and Financial Liabilitiesthe Emerging Issues Task Force), which makes limited amendments to theproviding guidance in U.S. GAAP on theeight specific cash flow statement classification and measurementmatters. We early adopted this standard as of financial instruments.January 1, 2017. The update significantly revises an entity's accounting related to the classification and measurement of investments in equity securities and the presentation of certain fair value changes for financial liabilities measured at fair value. It also amends certain disclosure requirements associated with the fair value of financial instruments. The update will take effect for public companies for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2017, including interim periods within those fiscal years. The effectsadoption of this updatestandard did not have a material impact on our financial position, resultscash flow statement. Prior periods were not recast.
Accounting Standards Issued - Not Adopted as of operations and cash flows are not expected to be material.December 31, 2017
In May 2014, the FASB issued ASU No. 2014-09,Revenue from Contracts with Customers, which provides a single comprehensive model for entities to use in accounting for revenue arising from contracts with customers and will supersede most current revenue recognition guidance. In 2016, the FASB issued four amendments to the ASU. The standard is effective for public entitiescompanies for annual and interim periods beginning after December 15, 2017. Early adoptionWe adopted this ASU effective January 1, 2018. The guidance is permittedrequired to be adopted on either a full or modified retrospective basis. As this standard did not have a material impact on our financial position, results of operations or cash flows on either a full or modified retrospective basis, we will not recast prior periods.
In 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-16, Income Taxes (Topic 740): Intra-Entity Transfers of Assets Other Than Inventory, which removes the prohibition in ASC 740 against the immediate recognition of the current and deferred income tax effects of intra-entity transfers of assets other than inventory.  The ASU is effective for public companies for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2017, and interim periods within those annual periods.  The ASU is to be applied on a modified retrospective basis, recognizing the effects in retained earnings as of one year prior to the current effective date. The guidance permits two implementation approaches, one requiring retrospective applicationbeginning of the year of adoption.  We adopted this standard as of January 1, 2018. The impact of this standard on our financial position, results of operations or cash flows was not material.
In 2017, the FASB issued ASU No. 2017-07, Compensation-Retirement Benefits (Topic 715), Improving the Presentation of Net Periodic Pension Cost and Net Periodic Postretirement Benefit Cost. The standard requires that an employer report the service cost component in the same line items as other compensation costs arising from services rendered by the pertinent employees during the period. The other components of net periodic benefit cost are required to be presented in the income statement separately from the service cost component and outside of operating profit. The standard is effective for public companies for annual periods


33
KIMBERLY-CLARK CORPORATION - 2017 Annual Report

beginning after December 15, 2017, including interim periods within those annual periods.  We adopted this standard as of January 1, 2018. Prior periods will be recast. See Note 6 for more information about the net periodic benefit cost for pensions and other postretirement benefits and related service cost for the years ended December 31, 2017, 2016 and 2015.
In 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-02, Leases (Topic 842). Under the new guidance, a lessee will be required to recognize assets and liabilities for all leases with lease terms of more than 12 months. Consistent with current GAAP, the recognition, measurement, and presentation of expenses and cash flows arising from a lease by a lessee primarily will depend on its classification as a finance or operating lease. The ASU requires additional disclosures. The standard with restatement of prioris effective for public companies for fiscal years, and one requiring prospective applicationinterim periods within those fiscal years, beginning after December 15, 2018. The ASU requires adoption based upon a modified retrospective transition approach. We will adopt this standard as of the new standard with disclosure of results under old standards.January 1, 2019. The effects of this standard on our financial position, results of operations andor cash flows are not yet known.

In 2017, the FASB issued ASU No. 2017-12, Derivatives and Hedging (Topic 815): Targeted Improvements to Accounting for Hedging Activities. The new standard makes more financial and nonfinancial hedging strategies eligible for hedge accounting. It also amends the presentation and disclosure requirements and changes how companies assess effectiveness. For public companies, the amendments in this ASU are effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2018, and interim periods within those fiscal years. Early adoption is permitted in any interim period. The effects of this standard on our financial position, results of operations or cash flows are not yet known.
Note 2.    2014 Organization Restructuring
In October 2014, we initiated a restructuring plan in order to improve organization efficiency and offset the impact of stranded overhead costs resulting from the spin-off of our health care business. The restructuring iswas intended to improve our underlying profitability and increase our flexibility to invest in targeted growth initiatives, brand building and other capabilities critical to delivering future growth.
The restructuring is expected to be completed by the end of 2016, with total costs, primarily severance, anticipated to be $130 to $160 after tax ($190 to $230 pre-tax). Cash costs are projected to be approximately 80 percent of the total charges. The restructuring is expected to impactimpacted all of our business segments and our organizations in all major geographies.


38
KIMBERLY-CLARK CORPORATION - 2015 Annual Report

Charges were recorded in the following income statement line items:
 Year Ended December 31
 2015 2014
Cost of products sold$23
 $40
Marketing, research and general expenses40
 93
Provision for income taxes(21) (38)
Net charges$42
 $95
Cash payments of $86 were made during 2015 related to the restructuring. Cash payments in 2014 were not material.

Note 3.    Spin-Off of Health Care Business and Related Costs
On October 31, 2014, we completed the spin-off of our health care business, and each of our shareholders of record as of the close of business on October 23, 2014 (the "Record Date") received one share of Halyard common stock for every 8 shares of our common stock held as of the Record Date. The distribution was structured to be tax free to our U.S. shareholders for U.S. federal income tax purposes. After the distribution, we do not beneficially own any shares of Halyard common stock.
The results of the health care discontinued operations exclude certain corporate costs which were allocated to the health care segment historically and we expect to continue to incur these costs after the spin-off. These include costs related to supply chain, finance, legal, information technology, human resources, compliance, shared services, insurance, employee benefits and incentives, and stock-based compensation. On a pre-tax basis, these costs were $70 for the ten months ended October 31, 2014 and $85 in 2013.
To evaluate, plan and execute the spin-off, we incurred $157 of pre-tax charges ($138 after tax) in transaction and related costs, including the exit of one of Halyard's health care glove manufacturing facilities in Thailand and outsourcing of the related production. These charges and the related tax impact are recorded in Income from discontinued operations, net of income taxes.
In order to implement the spin-off, we entered into certain agreements with Halyard to effect our legal and structural separation; govern the relationship between us; and allocate various assets, liabilities and obligations between us, including, among other things, employee benefits, intellectual property and tax-related assets and liabilities. We also entered into a transition services agreement with Halyard, whereby we provided certain administrative and other services for a limited time, a tax matters agreement, an employee matters agreement, intellectual property agreements, manufacturing and supply agreements, distribution agreements and non-competition agreements.

Note 4.    European Strategic Changes
In 2012, we approved strategic changes related to our Western and Central European consumer and professional businesses to focus our resources and investments on stronger market positions and growth opportunities. We exited the diaper category in that region, with the exception of the Italian market, and divested or exited some lower-margin businesses, mostly in consumer tissue, in certain markets. The changes primarily affected our consumer businesses, with a modest impact on K-C Professional ("KCP"). The restructuring actions commenced in 2012 and were completed by December 31, 2014.
Restructuring actions related to2016, with total costs, primarily severance, of $164 after tax ($231 pre-tax). Charges were $27 and $42 after tax ($35 and $63 pre-tax) for the strategic changes involved the sale or closure of five of our European manufacturing facilitiesyears ended December 31, 2016 and streamlining of our administrative organization. After tax charges of $30 and $66 were incurred in connection with the European strategic changes in 2014 and 2013,2015, respectively. Cumulative pre-tax charges between 2012 and 2014 for these strategic changes were $413 ($338 after tax). Cash payments of $41$60 and $156$86 were made during 20142016 and 2013,2015, respectively, related to the restructuring.

Note 5.3.    Fair Value Information
The following fair value information is based on a fair value hierarchy that prioritizes the inputs to valuation techniques used to measure fair value. The three levels in the hierarchy used to measure fair value are:
Level 1—Unadjusted quoted prices in active markets accessible at the reporting date for identical assets and liabilities.


39
KIMBERLY-CLARK CORPORATION - 2015 Annual Report

Level 2—Quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities in active markets. Quoted prices for identical or similar assets and liabilities in markets that are not considered active or financial instruments for which all significant inputs are observable, either directly or indirectly.
Level 3—Prices or valuations that require inputs that are significant to the valuation and are unobservable.
A financial instrument's level within the fair value hierarchy is based on the lowest level of any input that is significant to the fair value measurement.
During 20152017 and 2014,2016, there were no significant transfers among level 1, 2 or 3 fair value determinations.
Company-owned life insurance ("COLI") assets and derivativeDerivative assets and liabilities are measured on a recurring basis at fair value. COLI assets were $57 and $58 at December 31, 2015 and 2014, respectively. The COLI policies are a source of funding primarily for our nonqualified employee benefits and are included in other assets. The fair value of the COLI policies is considered a level 2 measurement and is derived from investments in a mix of money market, fixed income and equity funds managed by unrelated fund managers. At December 31, 20152017 and 2014,2016, derivative assets were $56$27 and $54,$43, respectively, and derivative liabilities were $42$51 and $112,$46, respectively. The fair values of derivatives used to manage interest rate risk and commodity price risk are based on LIBOR rates and interest rate swap curves and NYMEX price quotations, respectively. The fair valuevalues of hedging instruments used to manage foreign currency risk isare based on published quotations of spot currency rates and forward points, which are converted into implied forward currency rates. Measurement of our derivative assets and liabilities is considered a level 2 measurement. AdditionalSee Note 10 for additional information on our classification and use of derivative instruments.
Redeemable preferred securities of subsidiaries are measured on a recurring basis at fair value and were $61 and $58 at December 31, 2017 and 2016, respectively. They are not traded in active markets. For certain redeemable securities, fair values were calculated using a floating rate pricing model that compared the stated spread to the fair value spread to determine the price at


34
KIMBERLY-CLARK CORPORATION - 2017 Annual Report

which each of the financial instruments should trade. The model used the following inputs to calculate fair values: face value, current LIBOR rate, unobservable fair value credit spread, stated spread, maturity date and interest or dividend payment dates. The fair value of the remaining redeemable securities was based on various inputs, including an independent third-party appraisal, adjusted for current market conditions. Measurement of the redeemable preferred securities is containedconsidered a level 3 measurement.
Company-owned life insurance ("COLI") assets are measured on a recurring basis at fair value. COLI assets were $68 and $61 at December 31, 2017 and 2016, respectively. The COLI policies are a source of funding primarily for our nonqualified employee benefits and are included in Note 13.other assets. The COLI policies are measured at fair value using the net asset value per share practical expedient, and therefore, are not classified in the fair value hierarchy.
The following table includes the fair value of our financial instruments for which disclosure of fair value is required:

Fair Value
Hierarchy
Level
 
Carrying
Amount
 
Estimated
Fair
Value
 
Carrying
Amount
 
Estimated
Fair
Value

Fair Value
Hierarchy
Level
 
Carrying
Amount
 Estimated Fair Value 
Carrying
Amount
 Estimated Fair Value
 December 31, 2015 December 31, 2014 December 31, 2017 December 31, 2016
Assets                
Cash and cash equivalents(a)
1 $619
 $619
 $789
 $789
1 $616
 $616
 $923
 $923
Time deposits and other(b)
1 124
 124
 130
 130
1 185
 185
 138
 138
Liabilities and redeemable securities of subsidiaries        
Liabilities        
Short-term debt(c)
2 1,071
 1,071
 777
 777
2 547
 547
 170
 170
Long-term debt(d)
2 6,704
 7,300
 6,179
 6,963
2 6,878
 7,398
 7,402
 7,886
Redeemable preferred securities of subsidiaries(e)
3 64
 64
 72
 72
(a)Cash equivalents are composed of certificates of deposit, time deposits and other interest-bearing investments with original maturity dates of 90 days or less. Cash equivalents are recorded at cost, which approximates fair value.
(b)Time deposits are composed of deposits with original maturities of more than 90 days but less than one year and instruments with original maturities of greater than one year, included in other current assets or other assets in the Consolidated Balance Sheet,consolidated balance sheet, as appropriate. Other, included in other current assets, is composed of funds held in escrow. Time deposits and other are recorded at cost, which approximates fair value.
(c)Short-term debt is composed of U.S. commercial paper and/or other similar short-term debt issued by non-U.S. subsidiaries, all of which are recorded at cost, which approximates fair value.
(d)Long-term debt includes the current portion of these debt instruments. Fair values were estimated based on quoted prices for financial instruments for which all significant inputs were observable, either directly or indirectly.
(e)The redeemable preferred securities of subsidiaries are not traded in active markets. For certain instruments, fair values were calculated using a floating rate pricing model that compared the stated spread to the fair value spread to determine the price at which each of the financial instruments should trade. The model used the following inputs to calculate fair values: face value, current LIBOR rate, unobservable fair value credit spread, stated spread, maturity date and interest or dividend payment dates. Additionally, the fair value of the remaining redeemable securities was based on various inputs, including an independent third-party appraisal, adjusted for current market conditions.



40
KIMBERLY-CLARK CORPORATION - 2015 Annual Report

Note 6.    Intangible Assets
The changes in the carrying amount of goodwill by business segment are as follows:
 
Personal
Care
 
Consumer
Tissue
 
K-C
Professional
 
Health Care
Business
 Total
Balance at December 31, 2013$684
 $641
 $424
 $1,432
 $3,181
Currency and other(59) (47) (15) (3) (124)
Spin-off of health care business—
 —
 —
 (1,429) (1,429)
Balance at December 31, 2014625
 594
 409
 —
 1,628
Currency and other(92) (70) (20) —
 (182)
Balance at December 31, 2015$533
 $524
 $389
 $—
 $1,446
Intangible assets subject to amortization consist of the following at December 31:
 2015 2014
 
Gross
Carrying
Amount
 
Accumulated
Amortization
 
Gross
Carrying
Amount
 
Accumulated
Amortization
Trademarks$109
 $77
 $117
 $79
Patents and developed technologies47
 11
 49
 9
Other60
 34
 64
 33
Total$216
 $122
 $230
 $121

Note 7.4.    Debt and Redeemable Preferred Securities of Subsidiaries
Long-term debt is composed of the following:
Weighted-
Average
Interest
Rate
 Maturities December 31
Weighted-
Average
Interest
Rate
 Maturities December 31
2015 20142017 2016
Notes and debentures4.3% 2016 - 2045 $6,396
 $5,656
3.7% 2018 - 2047 $6,577
 $7,101
Dealer remarketable securities— — —
 200
Industrial development revenue bonds0.1% 2018 - 2034 264
 261
1.6% 2018 - 2045 264
 264
Bank loans and other financings in various currencies8.1% 2016 - 2025 44
 62
7.3% 2018 - 2028 37
 37
Total long-term debt 6,704
 6,179
 6,878
 7,402
Less current portion 598
 549
 406
 963
Long-term portion $6,106
 $5,630
 $6,472
 $6,439
Scheduled maturities of long-term debt for the next five years are $598 in 2016, $964 in 2017, $933$407 in 2018, $308$714 in 2019, $760 in 2020, $251 in 2021 and $755$298 in 2020.2022.
In December 2017, we redeemed $500 aggregate principal amount of 7.50% notes originally due November 1, 2018.  As a result, we recognized a charge of $24 in other (income) and expense, net.
In September 2017, we issued €500 aggregate principal amount of 0.625% notes due September 7, 2024. Proceeds from the offering were used to repay a portion of our outstanding commercial paper indebtedness.


35
KIMBERLY-CLARK CORPORATION - 2017 Annual Report

In May 2017, we issued $350 aggregate principal amount of 3.90% notes due May 4, 2047. Proceeds from the offering were used for general corporate purposes, including repayment of a portion of our outstanding commercial paper indebtedness.
In July 2016, we issued $500 aggregate principal amount of 3.20% notes due July 30, 2046. Proceeds from the offering were used for general corporate purposes, including repayment of a portion of our outstanding commercial paper indebtedness.
In February 2016, we issued $400 aggregate principal amount of 1.40% notes due February 15, 2019 and $400 aggregate principal amount of 2.75% notes due February 15, 2026. Proceeds from the offering were used for general corporate purposes, including repayment of a portion of our outstanding notes and commercial paper indebtedness.
In August 2015, we issued $250 aggregate principal amount of 2.15% notes due August 2020 and $300 aggregate principal amount of 3.05% notes due August 2025. Proceeds from the offering were used to repay $300 of notes due in August 2015 and to pay down a portion of our outstanding commercial paper balance.
In February 2015, we issued $250 aggregate principal amount of 1.85% notes due March 2020 and $250 aggregate principal amount of 2.65% notes due March 2025. Proceeds from the offering were used for general corporate purposes, including pension contribution payments.
In 2015, at our election, we redeemed $200 of dealer remarketable securities.


41
KIMBERLY-CLARK CORPORATION - 2015 Annual Report

On October 17, 2014, we issued debt of $640 aggregate principal amount that was transferred to Halyard as part of the spin-off.
On May 22, 2014, we issued $300 aggregate principal amount of floating rate notes due May 19, 2016 and $300 aggregate principal amount of 1.9% notes due May 22, 2019. Proceeds from the offering were used for general corporate purposes and repurchases of common stock.
In 2013, we issued $250 aggregate principal amount of floating rate notes due May 15, 2016, $350 aggregate principal amount of 2.4% notes due June 1, 2023, and $250 aggregate principal amount of 3.7% notes due June 1, 2043. Proceeds from the offering were used to repay our $500 aggregate principal amount of 5.0% notes due August 15, 2013, to fund investment in our business and for general corporate purposes.
In 2014, we entered intoWe maintain a $2.0$2.0 billion revolving credit facility which expires in 2019.2021.  This facility, currently unused, supports our commercial paper program, and would provide liquidity in the event our access to the commercial paper markets is unavailable for any reason.
Redeemable Preferred Securities of Subsidiaries
Our subsidiary in Central America has outstanding redeemable preferred securities that are held by a noncontrolling interest and another noncontrolling interest holds certain redeemable preferred securities issued by one of our subsidiaries in North America.  In December 2014, we redeemed $0.5 billion preferred securities in our Luxembourg-based financing subsidiary, and accordingly, the subsidiary became wholly-owned by Kimberly-Clark.

Note 8.5.    Stock-Based Compensation
We have a stock-based Equity Participation Plan and an Outside Directors' Compensation Plan (the "Plans"), under which we can grant stock options, restricted shares and restricted share units to employees and outside directors. As of December 31, 2015,2017, the number of shares of common stock available for grants under the Plans aggregated 2016 million shares.
Stock options are granted at an exercise price equal to the fair market value of our common stock on the date of grant, and they have a term of 10 years. Stock options are subject to graded vesting whereby options vest 30 percent at the end of each of the first two 12-month periods following the grant and 40 percent at the end of the third 12-month period.
Restricted shares, time-vested restricted share units and performance-based restricted share units granted to employees are valued at the closing market price of our common stock on the grant date and vest generally at the end of three years. The number of performance-based share units that ultimately vest ranges from zero to 200 percent of the number granted, based on performance tied to return on invested capital ("ROIC") and net sales during the three-year performance period. ROIC and net sales targets are set at the beginning of the performance period. Restricted share units granted to outside directors are valued at the closing market price of our common stock on the grant date and vest when they are granted. The restricted period begins on the date of grant and expires on the date the outside director retires from or otherwise terminates service on our Board.
At the time stock options are exercised or restricted shares and restricted share units become payable, common stock is issued from our accumulated treasury shares. Dividend equivalents are credited on restricted share units on the same date and at the same rate as dividends are paid on Kimberly-Clark's common stock. These dividend equivalents, net of estimated forfeitures, are charged to retained earnings.
Stock-based compensation costs of $75, $52$76, $77 and $92$75 and related deferred income tax benefits of $29, $19$26, $28 and $35$29 were recognized for 2015, 20142017, 2016 and 2013,2015, respectively.
The fair value of stock option awards was determined using a Black-Scholes-Merton option-pricing model utilizing a range of assumptions related to dividend yield, volatility, risk-free interest rate, and employee exercise behavior. Dividend yield is based on historical experience and expected future dividend actions. Expected volatility is based on a blend of historical volatility and implied volatility from traded options on Kimberly-Clark's common stock. The risk-free interest rate is based on the U.S. Treasury yield curve in effect at the time of grant. We estimate forfeitures based on historical data.


 4236
KIMBERLY-CLARK CORPORATION - 20152017 Annual Report

The weighted-average fair value of options granted was estimated at $12.21, $10.95 and $7.39, $7.89in 2017, 2016 and $7.15, in 2015, 2014 and 2013, respectively, per option on the date of grant based on the following assumptions:
Year Ended December 31Year Ended December 31
2015 2014 20132017 2016 2015
Dividend yield3.50% 3.50% 3.70%3.2% 3.1% 3.5%
Volatility13.42% 13.41% 15.40%15.6% 16.0% 13.4%
Risk-free interest rate1.51% 1.73% 0.87%1.8% 1.2% 1.5%
Expected life - years4.8
 5.0
 5.1
4.6
 4.6
 4.8
Total remaining unrecognized compensation costs and amortization period are as follows:
 December 31, 2015 
Weighted-Average
Service Years
Nonvested stock options$9
 1.3
Restricted shares and time-vested restricted share units5
 1.9
Nonvested performance-based restricted share units52
 1.9
Excess tax benefits, resulting from tax deductions in excess of the compensation cost recognized, aggregating $37, $37 and $50 were classified as other cash inflows under Financing Activities in the Consolidated Cash Flow Statement for the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014 and 2013, respectively.
 December 31, 2017 
Weighted-Average
Service Years
Nonvested stock options$12
 1.3
Restricted shares and time-vested restricted share units6
 1.8
Nonvested performance-based restricted share units45
 1.8
A summary of stock-based compensation is presented below:
Stock Options
Shares
(in thousands)
 
Weighted-Average
Exercise Price
 
Weighted-Average
Remaining Contractual Term
 
Aggregate Intrinsic
Value
Shares
(in thousands)
 
Weighted-Average
Exercise Price
 
Weighted-Average
Remaining Contractual Term
 
Aggregate Intrinsic
Value
Outstanding at January 1, 20156,961
 $82.32
  
Outstanding at January 1, 20176,793
 $101.16
  
Granted1,779
 110.73
  1,605
 132.77
  
Exercised(1,941) 71.97
  (1,323) 91.04
  
Forfeited or expired(209) 103.43
  (387) 119.49
  
Outstanding at December 31, 20156,590
 92.35
 6.76 $230
Exercisable at December 31, 20153,339
 77.34
 4.86 $167
Outstanding at December 31, 20176,688
 109.69
 7.61 $100
Exercisable at December 31, 20173,711
 95.93
 5.97 $94
The total intrinsic value of options exercised during the years ended December 31,2017, 2016 and 2015 2014was $48, $55 and 2013 was $83, $79 and $138, respectively.
Time-Vested
Restricted Share Units
 
Performance-Based
Restricted Share Units
Time-Vested
Restricted Share Units
 
Performance-Based
Restricted Share Units
Other Stock-Based Awards
Shares
(in thousands)
 
Weighted-
Average
Grant-Date
Fair Value
 
Shares
(in thousands)
 
Weighted-
Average
Grant-Date
Fair Value
Shares
(in thousands)
 
Weighted-
Average
Grant-Date
Fair Value
 
Shares
(in thousands)
 
Weighted-
Average
Grant-Date
Fair Value
Nonvested at January 1, 2015244
 $86.34
 1,809
 $96.35
Nonvested at January 1, 2017111
 $117.63
 1,642
 $116.53
Granted77
 107.29
 770
 106.82
73
 116.98
 628
 131.68
Vested(212) 83.01
 (683) 78.17
(72) 108.86
 (544) 112.16
Forfeited(7) 87.59
 (135) 104.30
(10) 119.08
 (164) 119.84
Nonvested at December 31, 2015102
 108.91
 1,761
 107.51
Nonvested at December 31, 2017102
 123.19
 1,562
 123.97
The total fair value of restricted share units that were distributed to participants during 2017, 2016 and 2015 2014was $80, $83 and 2013 was $99, $102 and $45, respectively.



43
KIMBERLY-CLARK CORPORATION - 2015 Annual Report

Note 9.6.    Employee Postretirement Benefits
Substantially all regular employees in the U.S. and the United Kingdom are covered by defined benefit pension plans (the "Principal Plans") and/or defined contribution retirement plans. The information presented for the Principal Plans for 2014 and 2013 also included Canada and Puerto Rico. Certain other subsidiaries have defined benefit pension plans or, in certain countries, termination pay plans covering substantially all regular employees. The funding policy for our qualified defined benefit pension plans is to contribute assets at least equal in amount to regulatory minimum requirements. Nonqualified U.S. plans providing pension benefits in excess of limitations imposed by the U.S. income tax code are not funded.


37
KIMBERLY-CLARK CORPORATION - 2017 Annual Report

Substantially all U.S. retirees and employees have access to our unfunded healthcarehealth care and life insurance benefit plans. The annual increase in the consolidated weighted-average healthcarehealth care cost trend rate is expected to be 5.86.0 percent in 20162018 and to decline to 4.6 percent in 2028 and thereafter. Assumed healthcarehealth care cost trend rates affect the amounts reported for postretirement healthcarehealth care benefit plans. A one-percentage-point change in assumed healthcarehealth care trend rates would not have a significant effect on our financial results.
Effective January 2015, the U.S. pension plan was amended to include a lump-sum pension benefit payout option for certain plan participants. In addition, in April 2015, the U.S. pension plan completed the purchase of group annuity contracts that transferred to two insurance companies the pension benefit obligations totaling $2.5 billion for approximately 21,000 Kimberly-Clark retirees in the United States.U.S. As a result of these changes, we recognized pension settlement-related charges of $0.8 billion after tax ($1.4 billion pre-tax in other (income) and expense, net) during 2015, mostly in the second quarter.2015. In 2015, we made cash contributions of $410 related to these changes to the U.S. plan.


44
KIMBERLY-CLARK CORPORATION - 2015 Annual Report

Summarized financial information about postretirement plans, excluding defined contribution retirement plans, is presented below:
Pension Benefits Other BenefitsPension Benefits Other Benefits
Year Ended December 31Year Ended December 31
2015 2014 2015 20142017 2016 2017 2016
Change in Benefit Obligation              
Benefit obligation at beginning of year$6,860
 $6,164
 $788
 $761
$4,126
 $3,959
 $758
 $717
Service cost38
 46
 12
 13
41
 42
 12
 11
Interest cost187
 279
 32
 35
129
 148
 32
 33
Actuarial loss (gain)(150) 986
 (53) 39
Actuarial loss20
 501
 16
 41
Currency and other(139) (207) (8) (4)221
 (304) (3) 9
Benefit payments from plans(235) (356) —
 —
(218) (202) —
 —
Direct benefit payments(12)
(10)
(54)
(56)(8)
(15)
(50)
(53)
Settlements(2,590) (42) —
 —
(15) (3) —
 —
Benefit obligation at end of year3,959
 6,860
 717
 788
4,296
 4,126
 765
 758
Change in Plan Assets              
Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year5,914
 5,567
 —
 —
3,534
 3,508
 —
 —
Actual return on plan assets54
 694
 —
 —
333
 413
 —
 —
Employer contributions484
 185
 —
 —
53
 108
 —
 —
Currency and other(119) (142) —
 —
204
 (290) —
 —
Benefit payments(235) (356) —
 —
(218) (202) —
 —
Settlements(2,590) (34) —
 —
(9) (3) —
 —
Fair value of plan assets at end of year3,508
 5,914
 —
 —
3,897
 3,534
 —
 —
Funded Status$(451) $(946) $(717) $(788)$(399) $(592) $(765) $(758)
Amounts Recognized in the Balance Sheet       
Noncurrent asset - prepaid benefit cost$16
 $6
 $—
 $—
Current liability - accrued benefit cost(11) (13) (50) (51)
Noncurrent liability - accrued benefit cost(456) (939) (667) (737)
Net amount recognized$(451) $(946) $(717) $(788)
Substantially all of the funded status of pension and other benefits is recognized in the consolidated balance sheet in noncurrent employee benefits, with the remainder recognized in accrued expenses and other assets. 


38
KIMBERLY-CLARK CORPORATION - 2017 Annual Report

Information for the Principal Plans and All Other Pension Plans
Principal Plans 
All Other
Pension Plans
 TotalPrincipal Plans 
All Other
Pension Plans
 Total
Year Ended December 31Year Ended December 31
2015 2014 2015 2014 2015 20142017 2016 2017 2016 2017 2016
Projected benefit obligation (“PBO”)$3,295
 $6,312
 $664
 $548
 $3,959
 $6,860
$3,567
 $3,427
 $729
 $699
 $4,296
 $4,126
Accumulated benefit obligation (“ABO”)3,253
 6,221
 594
 475
 3,847
 6,696
3,513
 3,378
 658
 622
 4,171
 4,000
Fair value of plan assets3,019
 5,559
 489
 355
 3,508
 5,914
3,312
 3,011
 585
 523
 3,897
 3,534
Approximately one-half of the PBO and fair value of plan assets for the Principal Plans relate to the U.S. qualified and nonqualified pension plans.


45
KIMBERLY-CLARK CORPORATION - 2015 Annual Report

Information for Pension Plans with an ABO in Excess of Plan Assets
December 31December 31
2015 20142017 2016
PBO$2,115
 $4,983
$2,146
 $3,807
ABO2,096
 4,908
2,134
 3,736
Fair value of plan assets1,696
 4,111
1,699
 3,243
Components of Net Periodic Benefit Cost
Pension Benefits Other BenefitsPension Benefits Other Benefits
Year Ended December 31Year Ended December 31
2015 2014 2013 2015 2014 20132017 2016 2015 2017 2016 2015
Service cost$38
 $46
 $53
 $12
 $13
 $17
$41
 $42
 $38
 $12
 $11
 $12
Interest cost187
 279
 257
 32
 35
 32
129
 148
 187
 32
 33
 32
Expected return on plan assets(a)
(215) (332) (331) —
 —
 —
(156) (158) (215) —
 —
 —
Recognized net actuarial loss75
 100
 120
 —
 —
 3
57
 52
 75
 1
 —
 —
Curtailments—
 —
 (32) —
 —
 —
Settlements1,357
 20
 1
 —
 —
 —
7
 1
 1,357
 —
 —
 —
Other(10) (3) 1
 (1) (1) (2)(9) (9) (10) (2) (1) (1)
Net periodic benefit cost$1,432
 $110
 $69
 $43
 $47
 $50
$69
 $76
 $1,432
 $43
 $43
 $43
(a)
The expected return on plan assets is determined by multiplying the fair value of plan assets at the remeasurement date, typically the prior year-end adjusted for estimated current year cash benefit payments and contributions, by the expected long-term rate of return.
Weighted-Average Assumptions Used to Determine Net Cost for Years Ended December 31
Pension Benefits Other Benefits
Projected 2016 2015 2014 2013 2015 2014 2013Pension Benefits Other Benefits
             Projected 2018 2017 2016 2015 2017 2016 2015
Discount rate3.91% 3.86% 4.66% 4.04% 4.28% 4.97% 3.97%3.10% 3.19% 3.91% 3.86% 4.29% 4.59% 4.28%
Expected long-term return on plan assets4.84% 5.21% 5.98% 6.26% —
 —
 —
4.54% 4.46% 4.84% 5.21% —
 —
 —
Rate of compensation increase2.32% 2.63% 2.67% 2.73% —
 —
 —
2.27% 2.29% 2.32% 2.63% —
 —
 —


39
KIMBERLY-CLARK CORPORATION - 2017 Annual Report

Weighted-Average Assumptions Used to Determine Benefit Obligations at December 31
Pension Benefits Other BenefitsPension Benefits Other Benefits
2015 2014 2015 20142017 2016 2017 2016
Discount rate3.91% 3.83% 4.59% 4.28%3.10% 3.19% 3.91% 4.29%
Rate of compensation increase2.32% 2.63% —
 —
2.27% 2.29% —
 —


46
KIMBERLY-CLARK CORPORATION - 2015 Annual Report

Investment Strategies for the Principal Plans
Strategic asset allocation decisions are made considering several risk factors, including plan participants' retirement benefit security, the estimated payments of the associated liabilities, the plan funded status, and Kimberly-Clark's financial condition. The resulting strategic asset allocation is a diversified blend of equity and fixed income investments. Equity investments are typically diversified across geographies and market capitalization. Fixed income investments are diversified across multiple sectors including government issues and corporate debt instruments with a portfolio duration that is consistent with the estimated payment of the associated liability. Actual asset allocation is regularly reviewed and periodically rebalanced to the strategic allocation when considered appropriate. Our 20162018 target plan asset allocation for the Principal Plans is 70 percent fixed income securities and 30 percent equity securities.
The expected long-term rate of return is evaluated on an annual basis. In setting this assumption, we consider a number of factors including projected future returns by asset class relative to the current asset allocation. The weighted-average expected long-term rate of return on pension fund assets used to calculate pension expense for the Principal Plans was 4.72 percent in 2017, 5.10 percent in 2016 and 5.35 percent in 2015, compared with 6.16 percent in 2014 and will be 5.104.81 percent in 2016.2018.


40
KIMBERLY-CLARK CORPORATION - 2017 Annual Report

Set forth below are the pension plan assets of the Principal Plans measured at fair value, by level in the fair-value hierarchy:hierarchy. More than 70 percent of the assets are held in pooled funds and are measured using a net asset value (or its equivalent). Accordingly, such assets do not meet the Level 1, Level 2, or Level 3 criteria of the fair value hierarchy.
Fair Value Measurements at December 31, 2015
Fair Value Measurements at December 31, 2017(a)
Total 
Quoted Prices
in Active
Markets for
Identical Assets
(Level 1)
 
Significant
Observable
Inputs
(Level 2)
 
Significant
Unobservable
Inputs
(Level 3)
Total
Plan Assets
 
Assets at Quoted Prices
in Active
Markets for
Identical Assets
(Level 1)
 
Assets at Significant
Unobservable
Inputs
(Level 3)
Cash and Cash Equivalents            
Held directly$14
 $12
 $2
 $—
$28
 $28
 $—
Held through mutual and pooled funds34
 —
 34
 —
Held through mutual and pooled funds measured at net asset value24
 —
 —
Fixed Income            
Held directly            
U.S. government and municipals157
 141
 16
 —
522
 522
 —
U.S. corporate debt21
 —
 21
 —
Held through mutual and pooled funds       
Held through mutual and pooled funds measured at net asset value     
U.S. government and municipals149
 —
 149
 —
150
 —
 —
U.S. corporate debt623
 —
 623
 —
686
 —
 —
International bonds1,236
 —
 1,236
 —
665
 —
 —
Equity            
Held directly            
U.S. equity58
 58
 —
 —
41
 41
 —
International equity30
 30
 —
 —
47
 47
 —
Held through mutual and pooled funds       
Held through mutual and pooled funds measured at net asset value     
Non-U.S. equity67
 —
 67
 —
85
 —
 —
Global equity630
 —
 630
 —
730
 —
 —
Insurance Contracts334
 —
 334
Total Plan Assets$3,019
 $241
 $2,778
 $—
$3,312
 $638
 $334
(a)There were no plan assets measured at Level 2.
For the U.S. pension plan, Treasury futures contracts are used when appropriate to manage duration targets.  As of December 31, 2015,2017 and 2016, the U.S. plan had Treasury futures contracts in place with a total notional value of approximately $15$138 and $216, respectively, and an insignificant fair value.


47
KIMBERLY-CLARK CORPORATION - 2015 Annual Report

 
Fair Value Measurements at December 31, 2014

 Total 
Quoted Prices
in Active
Markets for
Identical Assets
(Level 1)
 
Significant
Observable
Inputs
(Level 2)
 Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3)
Cash and Cash Equivalents       
Held directly$28
 $28
 $—
 $—
Held through mutual and pooled funds175
 9
 166
 —
Fixed Income       
Held directly       
U.S. government and municipals252
 71
 181
 —
U.S. corporate debt2,167
 —
 2,167
 —
U.S. securitized fixed income6
 —
 6
 —
Held through mutual and pooled funds       
U.S. corporate debt149
 —
 149
 —
International bonds1,438
 —
 1,438
 —
Multi-sector1
 1
 —
 —
Equity       
Held directly       
U.S. equity18
 18
 —
 —
Held through mutual and pooled funds       
U.S. equity4
 4
 —
 —
Non-U.S. equity106
 1
 105
 —
Global equity1,186
 —
 1,186
 —
Other29
 29
 —
 —
Total Plan Assets$5,559
 $161
 $5,398
 $—
As of December 31, 2014, the U.S. pension plan had equity options in place with a total notional value of approximately $950, During 2017 and the fair value of the aggregate options was an asset position of $29.  As of December 31, 2014, the U.S. plan had Treasury futures contracts in place with a total notional value of approximately $510 and an insignificant fair value.
During 2015 and 2014,2016, the plan assets did not include a significant amount of Kimberly-Clark common stock.


41
KIMBERLY-CLARK CORPORATION - 2017 Annual Report

 
Fair Value Measurements at December 31, 2016(a)
 
Total
Plan Assets
 
Assets at Quoted Prices
in Active
Markets for
Identical Assets
(Level 1)
Cash and Cash Equivalents   
Held directly$33
 $33
Held through mutual and pooled funds measured at net asset value17
 —
Fixed Income   
Held directly   
U.S. government and municipals122
 122
Held through mutual and pooled funds measured at net asset value   
U.S. government and municipals128
 —
U.S. corporate debt648
 —
International bonds1,223
 —
Equity   
Held directly   
U.S. equity41
 41
International equity44
 44
Held through mutual and pooled funds measured at net asset value   
Non-U.S. equity68
 —
Global equity687
 —
Total Plan Assets$3,011
 $240
(a)There were no plan assets measured at Level 2 or Level 3.
Inputs and valuation techniques used to measure the fair value of plan assets vary according to the type of security being valued. Substantially all of the equity securities held directly by the plans are actively traded and fair values are determined based on quoted market prices. Fair values of U.S. Treasury securities are determined based on trading activity in the marketplace.
Fair values of U.S. corporate debt, U.S. securitized fixed income and international bonds are typically determined by reference to the values of similar securities traded in the marketplace and current interest rate levels. Multiple pricing services are typically employed to assist in determining these valuations.
Fair values of equity securities and fixed income securities held through units of pooled funds are based on net asset value of the units of the pooled fund determined by the fund manager. Pooled funds are similar in nature to retail mutual funds, but are typically more efficient for institutional investors. The fair value of pooled funds is determined by the value of the underlying assets held by the fund and the units outstanding. The value of the pooled fund is not directly observable, but is based on observable inputs.
Equity securities held directly by the pension trusts and those held through units in pooled funds are monitored as to issuer and industry. Except for U.S. Treasuries, concentrations of fixed income securities are similarly monitored for concentrations by issuer and industry. As of December 31, 2015, 2017, there were no significant concentrations of equity or debt securities in any single issuer or industry.
No significant level 3 transfers (in or out) were made in 20152017 or 2014.2016, other than an insurance contract purchase in 2017. Fair values of insurance contracts are based on an evaluation of various factors, including purchase price.


 4842
KIMBERLY-CLARK CORPORATION - 20152017 Annual Report

We expect to contribute up to $100 to our defined benefit pension plans in 2016.2018. Over the next ten years, we expect that the following gross benefit payments will occur:
Pension Benefits Other BenefitsPension Benefits Other Benefits
2016$217
 $51
2017234
 53
2018238
 54
$245
 $58
2019242
 56
259
 60
2020251
 58
263
 60
2021-20251,284
 291
2021261
 62
2022272
 63
2023-20271,322
 299
Defined Contribution Pension Plans
Our 401(k) profit sharing plan and supplemental plan provide for a matching contribution of a U.S. employee's contributions and accruals, subject to predetermined limits, as well as a discretionary profit sharing contribution, in which contributions will be based on our profit performance. We also have defined contribution pension plans for certain employees outside the U.S. Costs charged to expense for our defined contribution pension plans were $128 in 2017, $126 in 2016, and $107 $121 and $117 in 2015, 2014 and 2013, respectively.2015. Approximately one-thirdone-fourth of these costs were for plans outside the U.S.

Note 10.7.    Stockholders' Equity
During the first quarter of 2015, we acquired the remaining 49.9 percent interest in our subsidiary in Israel, Hogla-Kimberly, Ltd., for $151. As our subsidiary in Turkey was wholly-owned by our subsidiary in Israel, through this acquisition we also effectively acquired the remaining 49.9 percent interest in our subsidiary in Turkey, Kimberly-Clark Tuketim Mallari Sanayi ve Ticaret A.s. The purchase of additional ownership in an already controlled subsidiary is treated as an equity transaction with no gain or loss recognized in consolidated net income or comprehensive income. The effect of the change in ownership interest is as follows:
  2015
Net Income Attributable to Kimberly-Clark Corporation $1,013
Decrease in Kimberly-Clark Corporation's additional paid-in capital for acquisition (94)
Change from net income attributable to Kimberly-Clark Corporation and transfers to noncontrolling interests $919


49
KIMBERLY-CLARK CORPORATION - 2015 Annual Report

Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income/Loss
The changes in the components of accumulated other comprehensive income ("AOCI") attributable to Kimberly-Clark, net of tax, are as follows:
 Unrealized Translation Defined Benefit Pension Plans Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Cash Flow Hedges and Other Unrealized Translation Defined Benefit Pension Plans Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Cash Flow Hedges and Other
Balance as of December 31, 2013 $(525) $(1,668) $(15) $(34)
Balance as of December 31, 2015 $(2,252) $(1,013) $(3) $(10)
Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications (819) (313) (23) 29
 (99) (115) (27) 33
(Income) loss reclassified from AOCI —
 57
(a)1
(a)(11) —
 31
(a)(1)(a)(18)
Net current period other comprehensive income (loss) (819) (256) (22) 18
 (99) (84) (28) 15
Spin-off of health care business 9
 —
 —
 —
Balance as of December 31, 2014 (1,335) (1,924) (37) (16)
Balance as of December 31, 2016 (2,351) (1,097) (31) 5
Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications (942) 39
 35
 53
 487
 85
 (7) (56)
(Income) loss reclassified from AOCI 37
(b)872
(a)(1)(a)(48) —
 36
(a)(1)(a)11
Net current period other comprehensive income (loss) (905) 911
 34
 5
 487
 121
 (8) (45)
Shares purchased from noncontrolling interests and other (12) —
 —
 1
Balance as of December 31, 2015 $(2,252) $(1,013) $(3) $(10)
Balance as of December 31, 2017 $(1,864) $(976) $(39) $(40)
(a)
Included in computation of net periodic pension and other postretirement benefits costs (see Note 9)6).
(b)Included in other (income) and expense, net as part of the charge related to the deconsolidation of our Venezuelan operations at December 31, 2015 (see Note 1).
Included in the defined benefit pension plans and other postretirement benefit plans balances as of December 31, 20152017 is $1,061$1,050 and $46$35 of unrecognized net actuarial loss and unrecognized net prior service credit, respectively, of which $52$50 and $10 pre-tax, respectively, are expected to be recognized as a component of net periodic benefit cost in 2016.2018.


 5043
KIMBERLY-CLARK CORPORATION - 20152017 Annual Report

The changes in the components of AOCI attributable to Kimberly-Clark, including the tax effect, are as follows:
Year Ended December 31Year Ended December 31
2015 2014 20132017 2016 2015
Unrealized translation$(882) $(826) $(495)$398
 $(88) $(882)
Tax effect(23) 7
 (4)89
 (11) (23)
(905) (819) (499)487
 (99) (905)
          
Defined benefit pension plans          
Unrecognized net actuarial loss and transition amount          
Funded status recognition(4) (624) 356
159
 (230) (4)
Amortization included in net periodic benefit cost75
 100
 120
63
 52
 75
2015 U.S. plan settlements (recorded in Other (income) and expense, net)1,355
 —
 —
—
 —
 1,355
Currency and other42
 69
 (8)(66) 81
 42
1,468
 (455) 468
156
 (97) 1,468
Unrecognized prior service cost/credit          
Funded status recognition4
 42
 —
2
 (1) 4
Amortization included in net periodic benefit cost(12) (7) (31)(8) (8) (12)
Currency and other(2) (3) (1)3
 (6) (2)
(10) 32
 (32)(3) (15) (10)
Tax effect(547) 167
 (176)(32) 28
 (547)
911
 (256) 260
121
 (84) 911
Other postretirement benefit plans          
Unrecognized net actuarial loss and transition amount59
 (36) 65
Unrecognized prior service cost/credit(4) —
 (3)
Unrecognized net actuarial loss and transition amount and other(11) (45) 55
Tax effect(21) 14
 (24)3
 17
 (21)
34
 (22) 38
(8) (28) 34
Cash flow hedges and other          
Recognition of effective portion of hedges66
 18
 37
(76) 44
 66
Amortization included in net income(53) (5) (10)18
 (20) (53)
Currency and other(7) 2
 4
(2) (4) (7)
Tax effect(1) 3
 (13)15
 (5) (1)
5
 18
 18
(45) 15
 5
          
Shares purchased from noncontrolling interests and other(11) —
 —
Spin-off of health care business—
 9
 —
Other—
 —
 (11)
Change in AOCI$34
 $(1,070) $(183)$555
 $(196) $34
Amounts are reclassified from AOCI into cost of products sold, marketing, research and general expenses, interest expense or other (income) and expense, net, as applicable, in the Consolidated Income Statement.consolidated income statement.
Net unrealized currency gains or losses resulting from the translation of assets and liabilities of foreign subsidiaries, except those in highly inflationary economies, are recorded in AOCI. For these operations, changes in exchange rates generally do not affect cash flows; therefore, unrealized translation adjustments are recorded in AOCI rather than net income. Upon sale or substantially complete liquidation of any of these subsidiaries, the applicable unrealized translation adjustment would be removed from AOCI and reported as part of the gain or loss on the sale or liquidation. The change in unrealized translation in 20152017 is primarily due to the strengthening of most foreign currencies versus the U.S. dollar, versusincluding the Brazilian real,euro, South Korean won, British pound sterling, and Australian dollar, euro, Canadian dollar and Colombian peso as well as most other foreign currencies.dollar. Also included in unrealized translation amounts are the effects of foreign exchange rate changes on intercompany balances of a long-term investment nature and transactions designated as hedges of net foreign investments.


 5144
KIMBERLY-CLARK CORPORATION - 20152017 Annual Report

During 2015, we acquired the remaining 49.9 percent interest in our subsidiary in Israel, Hogla-Kimberly, Ltd., for $151. As our subsidiary in Turkey was wholly-owned by our subsidiary in Israel, through this acquisition we also effectively acquired the remaining 49.9 percent interest in our subsidiary in Turkey, Kimberly-Clark Tuketim Mallari Sanayi ve Ticaret A.s.

Note 11.8.    Leases and Commitments
We have entered into operating leases for certain warehouse facilities, automobiles and equipment. The future minimum obligations under operating leases having a noncancelable term in excess of one year are as follows:
Year Ending December 31Year Ending December 31
2016$142
2017115
201886
$170
201967
130
202053
99
202165
202248
Thereafter82
98
Future minimum obligations$545
$610
Consolidated rental expense under operating leases was $281, $271 and $279 $303in 2017, 2016 and $316 in 2015, 2014 and 2013, respectively.
We have entered into long-term contracts for the purchase of superabsorbent materials, pulp and certain utilities. Commitments under these contracts based on current prices are $698$699 in 2016, $1702018, $206 in 2017, $1392019, $204 in 2018, $1442020, $8 in 2019, $1562021, $5 in 2020,2022, and $51 beyond the year 2020 are not significant.2022.
Although we are primarily liable for payments on the above-mentioned leases and purchase commitments, our exposure to losses, if any, under these arrangements is not material.

Note 12.9.    Legal Matters
We are subject to various legal proceedings, claims and governmental inquiries, inspections, audits or investigations pertaining to issues such as contract disputes, product liability, tax matters, patents and trademarks, advertising, pricing, business practices, governmental regulations, employment and other matters. Although the results of litigation and claims cannot be predicted with certainty, we believe that the ultimate disposition of these matters, to the extent not previously provided for, will not have a material adverse effect, individually or in the aggregate, on our business, financial condition, results of operations or liquidity.
We are subject to federal, state and local environmental protection laws and regulations with respect to our business operations and are operating in compliance with, or taking action aimed at ensuring compliance with, these laws and regulations. We have been named a potentially responsible party under the provisions of the U.S. federal Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation and Liability Act, or analogous state statutes, at a number of sites where hazardous substances are present. None of our compliance obligations with environmental protection laws and regulations, individually or in the aggregate, is expected to have a material adverse effect on our business, liquidity, financial condition or results of operations.

Note 13.10.    Objectives and Strategies for Using Derivatives
As a multinational enterprise, we are exposed to financial risks, such as changes in foreign currency exchange rates, interest rates, and commodity prices. We employ a number of practices to manage these risks, including operating and financing activities and, where appropriate, the use of derivative instruments. We enter into derivative instruments to hedge a portion of forecasted cash flows denominated in foreign currencies for non-U.S. operations' purchases of raw materials, which are priced in U.S. dollars, and imports of intercompany finished goods and work-in-process priced predominantly in U.S. dollars and euros. The derivative instruments used to manage these exposures are designated and qualify as cash flow hedges. The foreign currency exposure on certain non-functional currency denominated monetary assets and liabilities, primarily intercompany loans and accounts payable, is hedged with primarily undesignated derivative instruments.
Interest rate risk is managed using a portfolio of variable and fixed-rate debt composed of short and long-term instruments. Interest rate swap contracts may be used to facilitate the maintenance of the desired ratio of variable and fixed-rate debt and are designated


45
KIMBERLY-CLARK CORPORATION - 2017 Annual Report

and qualify as fair value hedges. From time to time, we also hedge the anticipated issuance of fixed-rate debt using forward-starting swaps, and thesethose contracts are designated as cash flow hedges.


52
KIMBERLY-CLARK CORPORATION - 2015 Annual Report

We use derivative instruments, such as forward swap contracts, to hedge a limited portion of our exposure to market risk arising from changes in prices of certain commodities. These derivatives are designated as cash flow hedges of specific quantities of the underlying commodity expected to be purchased in future months.
Translation adjustments result from translating foreign entities' financial statements into U.S. dollars from their functional currencies. The risk to any particular entity's net assets is reduced to the extent that the entity is financed with local currency borrowing. Translationborrowings. A portion of our balance sheet translation exposure for certain affiliates, which results from changes in translation rates between the affiliates’ functional currencies and the U.S. dollar, generally is not hedged.
Set forth below is a summaryhedged with financial instruments. These instruments are designated as net investment hedges and have an aggregate notional value of $870 at December 31, 2017. Changes in fair value of net investment hedges are recorded in AOCI as part of the designatedcumulative translation adjustment.
At December 31, 2017 and undesignated fair values2016, derivative assets were $27 and $43, respectively, and derivative liabilities were $51 and $46, respectively, primarily comprised of our derivative instruments:
 Assets Liabilities
 2015 2014 2015 2014
Foreign currency exchange contracts$56
 $54
 $27
 $102
Commodity price contracts—
 —
 15
 10
Total$56
 $54
 $42
 $112
foreign currency exchange contracts.
The derivative assets are included in the Consolidated Balance Sheetconsolidated balance sheet in other current assets and other assets, as appropriate. The derivative liabilities are included in the Consolidated Balance Sheetconsolidated balance sheet in accrued expenses and other liabilities, as appropriate.
Derivative instruments that are designated and qualify as fair value hedges are predominantly used to manage interest rate risk. The fair values of these derivative instruments are recorded as an asset or liability, as appropriate, with the offset recorded in current earnings. The offset to the change in fair values of the related hedged items also is recorded in current earnings. Any realized gain or loss on the derivatives that hedge interest rate risk is amortized to interest expense over the life of the related debt. At December 31, 2015,2017, the aggregate notional values of outstanding interest rate contracts designated as fair value hedges were $375.$300. Fair value hedges resulted in no significant ineffectiveness in each of the three years ended December 31, 2015. For each of the three years ended December 31, 2015,2017, and gains or losses recognized in interest expense and the related assets and liabilities for interest rates swaps were not significant. For each of the three years ended December 31, 2015,2017, no gain or loss was recognized in earnings as a result of a hedged firm commitment no longer qualifying as a fair value hedge.
For derivative instruments that are designated and qualify as cash flow hedges, the effective portion of the gain or loss on the derivative instrument is initially recorded in AOCI, net of related income taxes, and recognized in earnings in the same period that the hedged exposure affects earnings. As of December 31, 2015,2017, outstanding commodity forward contracts were in place to hedge a limited portion of our estimated requirements of the related underlying commodities in 20162018 and future periods. As of December 31, 2015,2017, the aggregate notional values of outstanding foreign exchange derivative contracts designated as cash flow hedges was $815 and there were no outstanding interest rate derivative contracts designated as cash flow hedges.hedges were $795 and $200, respectively. Cash flow hedges resulted in no significant ineffectiveness in each of the three years ended December 31, 2015. For each of the three years ended December 31, 2015, 2017, and no gains or losses were reclassified into earnings as a result of the discontinuance of cash flow hedges due to the original forecast transaction no longer being probable of occurring. At December 31, 2015,2017, amounts to be reclassified from AOCI during the next twelve months are not expected to be material. The maximum maturity of cash flow hedges in place at December 31, 20152017 is December 2018.January 2020.
Gains or losses on undesignated foreign exchange hedging instruments are immediately recognized in other (income) and expense, net. LossesA gain of $188, $192$37 and $74losses of $30 and $188 were recorded in the years ending December 31, 2015, 20142017, 2016 and 2013,2015, respectively. The effect on earnings from the use of these non-designated derivatives is substantially neutralized by the transactional gains and losses recorded on the underlying assets and liabilities. At December 31, 2015,2017, the notional amount of these undesignated derivative instruments was approximately $2.4 billion.
Note 11.    Income Taxes
On December 22, 2017, the U.S. government enacted comprehensive tax legislation commonly referred to as the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (the “Tax Act”). The Tax Act made broad and complex changes to the U.S. tax code which impacted 2017 including, but not limited to, reducing the U.S. federal corporate tax rate and requiring a one-time transition tax on certain undistributed earnings of foreign subsidiaries.
The Tax Act also puts in place new tax laws that will apply prospectively, which include, but are not limited to, (1) implementing a base erosion and anti-abuse tax, (2) generally eliminating U.S. federal income taxes on dividends from foreign subsidiaries, (3) a new provision designed to tax currently in the U.S. global intangible low-taxed income ("GILTI") of foreign subsidiaries, which



 5346
KIMBERLY-CLARK CORPORATION - 20152017 Annual Report

Note 14.    Income Taxesallows for the possibility of utilizing foreign tax credits to offset the income tax liability (subject to some limitations), and (4) a lower effective U.S. tax rate on certain revenues from sources outside the U.S.
GAAP requires the impact of tax legislation to be recorded in the period of enactment. Therefore, in connection with our initial analysis of the impact of the Tax Act, we recorded a discrete net tax expense of $76 in the period ended December 31, 2017. This amount consists of a net expense of $278 for the transition tax and a net benefit of $202 for the remeasurement of deferred taxes associated with the corporate rate reduction and our reassessment of permanently reinvested earnings. In addition, we recorded a net benefit of $152 for certain tax planning actions that were taken in the fourth quarter of 2017 in anticipation of the enactment of the Tax Act.
Other than the item noted below, we were able to make reasonable estimates of the impact of the Tax Act and have recorded provisional amounts for the transition tax, the remeasurement of deferred taxes, and our reassessment of permanently reinvested earnings, uncertain tax positions and valuation allowances. These estimates may be impacted by the need for further analysis and future clarification and guidance regarding available tax accounting methods and elections, earnings and profits computations, state tax conformity to federal tax changes and the impact of prospective tax related to the GILTI provisions.
At December 31, 2017, we were not able to reasonably estimate and, therefore, have not recorded deferred taxes for the GILTI provisions. We have not yet determined our policy election with respect to whether to record deferred taxes for basis differences expected to reverse as a result of the GILTI provisions in future years, or in the period in which that tax was incurred.
An analysis of the provision for income taxes follows:
Year Ended December 31Year Ended December 31
2015 2014 20132017 2016 2015
Current income taxes          
United States$223
 $350
 $292
$463
 $523
 $223
State56
 48
 99
52
 53
 56
Other countries394
 387
 286
330
 361
 394
Total673
 785
 677
845
 937
 673
Deferred income taxes          
United States(180) 67
 85
(68) (40) (180)
State(74) (16) 14
(3) 31
 (74)
Other countries(1) 20
 52
2
 (6) (1)
Total(255) 71
 151
(69) (15) (255)
Total provision for income taxes$418
 $856
 $828
$776
 $922
 $418
Income from continuing operations before income taxes is earned in the following tax jurisdictions:
Year Ended December 31Year Ended December 31
2015 2014 20132017 2016 2015
United States$451
 $1,571
 $1,557
$1,995
 $2,088
 $451
Other countries884
 684
 1,084
996
 921
 884
Total income before income taxes$1,335
 $2,255
 $2,641
$2,991
 $3,009
 $1,335


47
KIMBERLY-CLARK CORPORATION - 2017 Annual Report

Deferred income tax assets and liabilities are composed of the following:
December 31 December 31
2015 2014 2017 2016
Deferred tax assetsDeferred tax assets   Deferred tax assets   
Pension and other postretirement benefits Pension and other postretirement benefits$682
 $883
 Pension and other postretirement benefits$312
 $499
Tax credits and loss carryforwards Tax credits and loss carryforwards443
 538
 Tax credits and loss carryforwards470
 450
Derivatives and unrealized exchange gains and losses Derivatives and unrealized exchange gains and losses63
 32
Share based compensation Share based compensation47
 86
Other Other599
 667
 Other308
 480
1,724
 2,088
 1,200
 1,547
Valuation allowance(274) (215)
Valuation allowances Valuation allowances(176) (225)
Total deferred tax assets Total deferred tax assets1,450
 1,873
 Total deferred tax assets1,024
 1,322
       
Deferred tax liabilitiesDeferred tax liabilities   Deferred tax liabilities   
Pension and other postretirement benefits254
 260
Property, plant and equipment, net Property, plant and equipment, net1,118
 1,162
 Property, plant and equipment, net818
 1,079
Investments in subsidiaries Investments in subsidiaries186
 223
 Investments in subsidiaries117
 190
Goodwill Goodwill83
 83
Other Other281
 339
 Other186
 268
Total deferred tax liabilities Total deferred tax liabilities1,839
 1,984
 Total deferred tax liabilities1,204
 1,620
Net deferred tax assets (liabilities)Net deferred tax assets (liabilities)$(389) $(111)Net deferred tax assets (liabilities)$(180) $(298)


54
KIMBERLY-CLARK CORPORATION - 2015 Annual Report

Valuation allowances at the end of 20152017 primarily relate to tax credits, capital loss carryforwards, and income tax loss carryforwards of $0.8 billion.$743. If these items are not utilized against taxable income, $357$481 of the income tax loss carryforwards will expire from 20162018 through 2035.2037. The remaining $458$262 have no expiration date.
Realization of income tax loss carryforwards is dependent on generating sufficient taxable income prior to expiration of these carryforwards. Although realization is not assured, we believe it is more likely than not that all of the deferred tax assets, net of applicable valuation allowances, will be realized. The amount of the deferred tax assets considered realizable could be reduced or increased due to changes in the tax environment or if estimates of future taxable income change during the carryforward period.
Presented below is a reconciliation of the income tax provision computed at the U.S. federal statutory tax rate to the actual effective tax rate:
Year Ended December 31Year Ended December 31
2015 2014 20132017 2016 2015
U.S. statutory rate applied to income before income taxes35.0 % 35.0 % 35.0 %35.0 % 35.0 % 35.0 %
Rate of state income taxes, net of federal tax benefit(0.9) 0.7
 2.7
1.1
 1.8
 (0.9)
Statutory rates other than U.S. statutory rate(6.9) (3.0) (3.0)(3.1) (2.7) (6.9)
Venezuela deconsolidation, balance sheet remeasurement and inflationary impacts4.5
 4.9
 (0.8)—
 (0.1) 4.5
Uncertain tax positions adjustment(a)
3.7
 —
 —
—
 —
 3.7
Routine tax incentives(b)
(7.4) (3.6) (3.9)(2.7) (4.0) (7.4)
Net tax cost on foreign income(b)
5.1
 3.6
 1.6
Other - net(c)
(1.8) 0.4
 (0.2)
Net tax (benefit) cost on foreign income(0.7) 0.1
 5.1
Net impact of the Tax Act(2.5) —
 —
Other - net(b)
(1.2) 0.5
 (1.8)
Effective income tax rate31.3 % 38.0 % 31.4 %25.9 % 30.6 % 31.3 %
(a)In the fourth quarter of 2015, we updated our assessment of uncertain tax positions for certain international operations and as a result we recorded an immaterial income tax charge of $49 related to prior years.
(b)In 2015, we aggregated certain items to provide additional information on impacts to our effective tax rate. Prior years have been recast to conform with the 2015 presentation.
(c)Other - net is composed of numerous items, none of which is greater than 1.75 percent of income before income taxes.
At December 31, 2015, U.S. income taxes and foreign withholding taxes have not been provided on $8.8 billion of unremittedPrior to the Tax Act, we considered essentially all historical earnings ofin our non-U.S. subsidiaries operating outside the U.S. These earnings, which are considered to be invested indefinitely would become subjectreinvested, except related to certain equity investments, and, accordingly, recorded insignificant deferred income taxes.  Prior to the transition


48
KIMBERLY-CLARK CORPORATION - 2017 Annual Report

tax, if they were remitted as dividends, were lent to one of our U.S. entities, or if we were to sell our stock in the subsidiaries. Determinationhad an excess of the amount of unrecognized deferred U.S. incomefor financial reporting over the tax liability on these unremitted earnings is not practicable becausebasis in our foreign subsidiaries.  While the transition tax resulted in the reduction of the complexities associated with this hypothetical calculation.excess of the amount for financial reporting over the tax basis in our foreign subsidiaries, an actual repatriation from our non-U.S. subsidiaries could be subject to additional foreign and U.S. state income taxes.
Deferred taxes have been recorded for foreign and U.S. state income taxes on $1.0 billion of earnings of foreign consolidated subsidiaries expected to be repatriated.  We do not expect restrictions or taxes on repatriationintend to distribute $4.5 billion of cash held outsideearnings of foreign consolidated subsidiaries taxed as part of the transition tax and have not recorded any deferred taxes related to such amounts for foreign and U.S. state income taxes. We consider any excess of the amount for financial reporting over the tax basis of our investment in our foreign subsidiaries to have a material effectbe indefinitely reinvested. At this time, the determination of deferred tax liabilities on our overall liquidity, financial condition or results of operations in the foreseeable future.this amount is not practicable.
Presented below is a reconciliation of the beginning and ending amounts of unrecognized income tax benefits:
2015 2014 20132017 2016 2015
Balance at January 1$416
 $473
 $435
$321
 $406
 $416
Gross increases for tax positions of prior years80
 36
 73
50
 20
 80
Gross decreases for tax positions of prior years(61) (91) (31)(23) (104) (61)
Gross increases for tax positions of the current year59
 87
 37
37
 39
 59
Settlements(63) (77) (35)(19) (29) (63)
Other(25) (12) (6)(12) (11) (25)
Balance at December 31$406
 $416
 $473
$354
 $321
 $406
Of the amounts recorded as unrecognized tax benefits at December 31, 2015, $3072017, $297 would reduce our effective tax rate if recognized.


55
KIMBERLY-CLARK CORPORATION - 2015 Annual Report

We recognize accrued interest and penalties related to unrecognized tax benefits in income tax expense. During each of the three years ended December 31, 2015,2017, the net costimpact in interest and penalties was not significant. Total accrued penalties and net accrued interest was $40$35 and $28$47 at December 31, 20152017 and 2014,2016, respectively.
It is reasonably possible that a number of uncertainties could be resolved within the next 12 months. The aggregate resolution of the uncertainties could be up to $170,$220, while none of the uncertainties is individually significant. Resolution of these matters is not expected to have a material effect on our financial condition, results of operations or liquidity.
As of December 31, 2015,2017, the following tax years remain subject to examination for the major jurisdictions where we conduct business:
JurisdictionYears
United States20122014 to 20152017
United Kingdom2012 to 20152017
Brazil20102012 to 20152017
South Korea2014 to 20152017
China20062008 to 20152017
Our U.S. federal income tax returns have been audited through 2011.2013. We have various federal income tax return positions in administrative appeals for 2004, 2005, 2007 and 2010 and 2011.through 2013.
State income tax returns are generally subject to examination for a period of 3 to 5 years after filing of the respective return. The state effect of any changes to filed federal positions remains subject to examination by various states for a period of up to two years after formal notification to the states. We have various state income tax return positions in the process of examination, administrative appeals or litigation.


49
KIMBERLY-CLARK CORPORATION - 2017 Annual Report

Note 15.12.    Earnings Per Share ("EPS")
There are no adjustments required to be made to net income for purposes of computing basic and diluted EPS. The average number of common shares outstanding is reconciled to those used in the basic and diluted EPS computations as follows:
(Millions of shares) 2015 2014 2013 2017 2016 2015
Basic 363.8
 374.5
 384.0
 353.6
 359.4
 363.8
Dilutive effect of stock options and restricted share unit awards 2.5
 2.9
 3.3
 2.3
 2.3
 2.5
Diluted 366.3
 377.4
 387.3
 355.9
 361.7
 366.3
Options outstanding that were not included in the computation of diluted EPS because their exercise price was greater than the average market price of the common shares were insignificant. The number of common shares outstanding as of December 31, 2017, 2016 and 2015 2014was 351.1 million, 356.6 million and 2013 was 360.9 million, 365.3 million and 380.8 million, respectively.

Note 16.13.    Business Segment Information
We are organized into operating segments based on product groupings. These operating segments have been aggregated into three reportable global business segments: Personal Care, Consumer Tissue and KCP. The reportable segments were determined in accordance with how our chief operating decision maker and our executive managers develop and execute global strategies to drive growth and profitability. These strategies include global plans for branding and product positioning, technology, research and development programs, cost reductions including supply chain management, and capacity and capital investments for each of these businesses. Segment management is evaluated on several factors, including operating profit. Segment operating profit excludes other (income) and expense, net and income and expense not associated with the business segments, including the charges related to the 2014 Organization Restructuring and the European strategic changes described in Notes 2 and 4, respectively.segments.


56
KIMBERLY-CLARK CORPORATION - 2015 Annual Report

The principal sources of revenue in each global business segment are described below:
Personal Care brands offer our consumers a trusted partner in caring for themselves and their families by delivering confidence, protection and discretion through a wide variety of innovative solutions and products such as disposable diapers, training and youth pants, swimpants, baby wipes, feminine and incontinence care products, and other related products.  Products in this segment are sold under the Huggies, Pull-Ups, Little Swimmers, GoodNites, DryNites, Kotex, U by Kotex, Intimus, Depend, Plenitud, Poise and other brand names.
Consumer Tissue offers a wide variety of innovative solutions and trusted brands that touch and improve people's lives every day.  Products in this segment include facial and bathroom tissue, paper towels, napkins and related products, and are sold under the Kleenex, Scott, Cottonelle, Viva, Andrex, Scottex, Neve and other brand names.
K-C Professional partners with businesses to create Exceptional Workplaces, helping to make them healthier, safer and more productive through a range of solutions and supporting products such as wipers, tissue, towels, apparel, soaps and sanitizers. Our brands, including Kleenex, Scott, WypAll, Kimtech and Jackson Safety, are well-known for quality and trusted to help people around the world work better.
Net sales to Wal-Mart Stores,Walmart Inc. as a percent of our consolidated net sales were approximately 14 percent in 2015,2017, 2016 and approximately 13 percent in 2014 and 2013, of our total net sales.2015.


50
KIMBERLY-CLARK CORPORATION - 2017 Annual Report

Information concerning consolidated operations by business segment is presented in the following tables:
Consolidated Operations by Business Segment
Year Ended December 31Year Ended December 31
2015 2014 20132017 2016 2015
NET SALES(a)
          
Personal Care$9,204
 $9,635
 $9,536
$9,078
 $9,046
 $9,204
Consumer Tissue6,121
 6,645
 6,637
5,932
 5,967
 6,121
K-C Professional3,219
 3,388
 3,323
3,208
 3,150
 3,219
Corporate & Other47
 56
 65
41
 39
 47
TOTAL NET SALES$18,591
 $19,724
 $19,561
$18,259
 $18,202
 $18,591
          
OPERATING PROFIT(b)
  
Personal Care$1,885
 $1,803
 $1,698
$1,907
 $1,857
 $1,885
Consumer Tissue1,073
 1,062
 988
1,034
 1,117
 1,073
K-C Professional590
 604
 605
633
 603
 590
Corporate & Other(c)
(367) (495) (381)(248) (252) (367)
Other (income) and expense, net(d)
1,568
 453
 7
27
 8
 1,568
TOTAL OPERATING PROFIT$1,613
 $2,521
 $2,903
$3,299
 $3,317
 $1,613
(a)Net sales in the United StatesU.S. to third parties totaled $8,698, $8,874 and $8,819 $8,573in 2017, 2016 and $8,557 in 2015, 2014 and 2013, respectively. No other individual country's net sales exceeds 10 percent of total net sales.
(b)Segment operating profit excludes other (income) and expense, net and income and expenses not associated with the business segments.
(c)
Corporate & Other includes charges related to the 2014 Organization Restructuring of $63$38and$63 in 2016 and $133,2015, respectively, and $5 and $41 related to the remeasurement of the Venezuelan balance sheet in 2015 and 2014, respectively.2015. Corporate & Other also includes charges of $23 for restructuring in Turkey in 2015, and $33 and $76 related to European strategic changes in 2014 and 2013, respectively2015.
(d)Other (income) and expense, net for 2017 includes a charge of $24 for the early redemption of debt, 2016 and 2015 includes income of $11 and 2014 includea charge of $108, respectively, related to the deconsolidation of our Venezuelan operations, and 2015 includes charges of $40 and $421, respectively, related to the remeasurement of the Venezuelan balance sheet. In addition, 2015 includes charges of $108 for the deconsolidation of our Venezuelan operations and $1,358 for charges related to pension settlements and 2014 includes a charge of $35 related to a regulatory dispute in the Middle East. The results for 2013 include a balance sheet remeasurement charge of $36 due to a devaluation of the Venezuelan bolivar and a charge of $5 for European strategic changes.settlements.


 5751
KIMBERLY-CLARK CORPORATION - 20152017 Annual Report

Personal
Care
 
Consumer
Tissue
 
K-C
Professional
 
Corporate
& Other
 
Ongoing
Operations
 
Health Care
Business
(Spun-off)
 
Consolidated
Total
Personal
Care
 
Consumer
Tissue
 
K-C
Professional
 
Corporate
& Other
 

Total
Depreciation and Amortization                      
2017$324
 $283
 $112
 $5
 $724
2016305
 280
 116
 4
 705
2015$340
 $282
 $121
 $3
 $746
 $—
 $746
340
 282
 121
 3
 746
2014359
 299
 132
 3
 793
 69
 862
2013332
 318
 138
 4
 792
 71
 863
Capital Spending         
2017405
 281
 92
 7
 785
2016421
 250
 95
 5
 771
2015590
 344
 116
 6
 1,056
Goodwill(a)
         
2017617
 559
 400
 —
 1,576
2016549
 538
 393
 —
 1,480
2015533
 524
 389
 —
 1,446
Assets                      
20176,592
 5,007
 2,255
 1,297
 15,151
20166,141
 4,761
 2,151
 1,549
 14,602
20156,330
 5,050
 2,264
 1,198
 14,842
 —
 14,842
6,330
 5,050
 2,264
 1,198
 14,842
20146,373
 5,229
 2,339
 1,585
 15,526
 —
 15,526
20136,623
 5,483
 2,431
 2,012
 16,549
 2,370
 18,919
Capital Spending             
2015590
 344
 116
 6
 1,056
 —
 1,056
2014501
 314
 143
 6
 964
 75
 1,039
2013461
 328
 118
 2
 909
 44
 953

(a)In 2017, we acquired the remaining 50 percent of our joint venture in India, which resulted in the recognition of $35 of personal care goodwill. All other changes in goodwill are related to currency.
Sales of Principal Products
(Billions of dollars) 2015 2014 2013 2017 2016 2015
Consumer tissue products $6.1
 $6.6
 $6.6
 $5.9
 $6.0
 $6.1
Baby and child care products 6.6
 7.0
 7.0
 6.3
 6.4
 6.6
Away-from-home professional products 3.2
 3.4
 3.3
 3.2
 3.1
 3.2
All other 2.7
 2.7
 2.7
 2.9
 2.7
 2.7
Consolidated $18.6
 $19.7
 $19.6
 $18.3
 $18.2
 $18.6

Note 17.14.    Supplemental Data
Supplemental Income Statement Data
Year Ended December 31Year Ended December 31
2015 2014 20132017 2016 2015
Advertising expense$710
 $767
 $769
$648
 $665
 $710
Research expense324
 368
 333
311
 328
 324
Equity Companies' Data

 
Net
Sales
 
Gross
Profit
 
Operating
Profit
 
Net
Income
 
Corporation's
Share of Net
Income
2015$2,255
 $773
 $497
 $308
 $149
20142,452
 781
 485
 304
 146
20132,638
 950
 642
 426
 205
 
Current
Assets
 
Non-
Current
Assets
 
Current
Liabilities
 
Non-
Current
Liabilities
 
Stockholders'
Equity
2015$1,103
 $993
 $508
 $1,068
 $520
20141,016
 1,040
 690
 963
 403
20131,197
 1,124
 847
 845
 629


 5852
KIMBERLY-CLARK CORPORATION - 20152017 Annual Report

Equity Companies' Data
 
Net
Sales
 
Gross
Profit
 
Operating
Profit
 
Net
Income
 
Corporation's
Share of Net
Income
2017$2,191
 $627
 $378
 $214
 $104
20162,138
 720
 454
 276
 132
20152,255
 773
 497
 308
 149
 
Current
Assets
 
Non-Current
Assets
 
Current
Liabilities
 
Non-Current
Liabilities
 
Stockholders'
Equity
2017$828
 $1,232
 $415
 $1,125
 $520
2016963
 1,168
 531
 1,046
 554
20151,103
 993
 508
 1,068
 520
Equity companies are principally engaged in operations in the personal care and consumer tissue businesses. At December 31, 2015,2017, our ownership interest in Kimberly-Clark de Mexico, S.A.B. de C.V.KCM and subsidiaries was 47.9%. Kimberly-Clark de Mexico, S.A.B. de C.V.47.9 percent. KCM is partially owned by the public, and its stock is publicly traded in Mexico. At December 31, 2015,2017, our investment in this equity company was $179,$170, and the estimated fair value of the investment was $2.9$2.6 billion based on the market price of publicly traded shares. Our other equity ownership interests are not significant to our consolidated balance sheet or financial results.
At December 31, 2015, unremitted2017, undistributed net income of equity companies included in consolidated retained earnings was $1$1.1 billion.
Supplemental Balance Sheet Data
December 31December 31
Summary of Accounts Receivable, Net2015 20142017 2016
From customers$2,017
 $2,079
$2,203
 $2,077
Other329
 210
168
 167
Less allowance for doubtful accounts and sales discounts(65) (66)(56) (68)
Total$2,281
 $2,223
$2,315
 $2,176
December 31December 31
2015 20142017 2016
Summary of Inventories by Major ClassLIFO 
Non-
LIFO
 Total LIFO 
Non-
LIFO
 TotalLIFO 
Non-
LIFO
 Total LIFO 
Non-
LIFO
 Total
Raw materials$100
 $297
 $397
 $104
 $322
 $426
$87
 $258
 $345
 $93
 $236
 $329
Work in process110
 93
 203
 120
 95
 215
110
 103
 213
 114
 89
 203
Finished goods525
 689
 1,214
 511
 672
 1,183
421
 684
 1,105
 430
 600
 1,030
Supplies and other—
 278
 278
 —
 288
 288
—
 303
 303
 —
 280
 280
735
 1,357
 2,092
 735
 1,377
 2,112
618
 1,348
 1,966
 637
 1,205
 1,842
Excess of FIFO or weighted-average cost over
LIFO cost		(183) —
 (183) (220) —
 (220)(176) —
 (176) (163) —
 (163)
Total$552
 $1,357
 $1,909
 $515
 $1,377
 $1,892
$442
 $1,348
 $1,790
 $474
 $1,205
 $1,679
Inventories are valued at the lower of cost andor net realizable value, determined on the FIFO or weighted-average cost methods, and at the lower of cost or market, determined on the LIFO cost method.


 December 31
Summary of Property, Plant and Equipment, Net2015 2014
Land$164
 $177
Buildings2,537
 2,574
Machinery and equipment13,393
 13,437
Construction in progress453
 591
 16,547
 16,779
Less accumulated depreciation(9,443) (9,420)
Total$7,104
 $7,359
Property, plant and equipment, net in the United States as of December 31, 2015 and 2014 was $3,716 and $3,685, respectively.


 5953
KIMBERLY-CLARK CORPORATION - 20152017 Annual Report

 December 31
Summary of Accrued Expenses2015 2014
Accrued advertising and promotion$339
 $326
Accrued salaries and wages392
 415
Accrued rebates229
 258
Accrued taxes - income and other329
 330
Derivatives36
 113
Other425
 532
Total$1,750
 $1,974
 December 31
Summary of Property, Plant and Equipment, Net2017 2016
Land$173
 $163
Buildings2,830
 2,612
Machinery and equipment14,612
 13,591
Construction in progress300
 488
 17,915
 16,854
Less accumulated depreciation(10,479) (9,685)
Total$7,436
 $7,169
Property, plant and equipment, net in the U.S. as of December 31, 2017 and 2016 was $3,591 and $3,638, respectively.
 December 31
Summary of Accrued Expenses2017 2016
Accrued advertising and promotion$394
 $373
Accrued salaries and wages449
 426
Accrued rebates227
 220
Accrued taxes - income and other249
 259
Accrued interest68
 96
Derivatives45
 44
Other298
 357
Total$1,730
 $1,775
Supplemental Cash Flow Statement Data
Summary of Cash Flow Effects of Decrease (Increase) in Operating Working CapitalYear Ended December 31
2015 2014 2013
Summary of Cash Flow Effects of Operating Working CapitalYear Ended December 31
2017 2016 2015
Accounts receivable$60
 $267
 $4
$(44) $(23) $60
Inventories(28) 12
 100
(33) 230
 (28)
Trade accounts payable44
 (30) 128
174
 (61) 44
Accrued expenses(110) (120) (177)(102) 26
 (110)
Accrued income taxes(81) (159) (90)(176) 121
 (81)
Derivatives(63) 103
 5
(47) 43
 (63)
Currency and other(267) (249) (128)80
 (2) (267)
Total$(445) $(176) $(158)$(148) $334
 $(445)
Year Ended December 31Year Ended December 31
Other Cash Flow Data2015 2014 20132017 2016 2015
Interest paid$308
 $300
 $307
$354
 $315
 $308
Income taxes paid695
 926
 776
961
 744
 695




 6054
KIMBERLY-CLARK CORPORATION - 20152017 Annual Report

Note 15.    Subsequent Events - Announcement of 2018 Global Restructuring Program
On January 23, 2018, we announced a new global restructuring program. The 2018 Global Restructuring Program will reduce our structural cost base by streamlining and simplifying our manufacturing supply chain and overhead organization.   The program will make our overhead organization structure and manufacturing supply chain less complex and more efficient. We expect to close or sell approximately 10 manufacturing facilities and expand production capacity at several others. We expect to exit or divest some lower-margin businesses that generate approximately 1 percent of our net sales. The sales are concentrated in our consumer tissue business segment. The restructuring is expected to impact all of our business segments and our organizations in all major geographies. Workforce reductions are expected to be in the range of 5,000 to 5,500. Certain capital appropriations under the 2018 Global Restructuring Program are being finalized. Accounting for actions related to each appropriation will commence when the appropriation is authorized for execution.
The restructuring is expected to be completed by the end of 2020, with total costs anticipated to be $1.7 billion to $1.9 billion pre-tax ($1.35 billion to $1.5 billion after tax). Cash costs are expected to be $900 to $1.0 billion, primarily related to workforce reductions.  Non-cash charges are expected to be $800 to $900 pre-tax and will primarily consist of incremental depreciation and asset impairments. Restructuring charges in 2018 are expected to be $1.2 billion to $1.35 billion pre-tax ($950 to $1.05 billion after tax).


55
KIMBERLY-CLARK CORPORATION - 2017 Annual Report

REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM

To the shareholders and the Board of Directors and Stockholders of
Kimberly-Clark Corporation:

Opinion on the Financial Statements
We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of Kimberly-Clark Corporation and subsidiaries (the "Corporation") as of December 31, 20152017 and 2014, and2016, the related consolidated statements of income, comprehensive income, stockholders' equity, and cash flows, for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2015. Our audits also included2017, and the related notes and the financial statement schedule listed in the IndexTable of Contents at Item 15. These financial statements and financial statement schedule are15 (collectively referred to as the responsibility of the Corporation's management. Our responsibility is to express an“financial statements”). In our opinion, on the financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of the Corporation as of December 31, 2017 and financial statement schedule based on our audits.2016, and the results of its operations and its cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2017, in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.

We conducted our auditshave also audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). (PCAOB), the Corporation’s internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2017, based on criteria established in Internal Control - Integrated Framework (2013) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission and our report dated February 8, 2018, expressed an unqualified opinion on the Corporation’s internal control over financial reporting.
Basis for Opinion
These financial statements are the responsibility of the Corporation’s management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Corporation’s financial statements based on our audits. We are a public accounting firm registered with the PCAOB and are required to be independent with respect to the Corporation in accordance with the U.S. federal securities laws and the applicable rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission and the PCAOB.
We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the PCAOB. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement. An audit includesmisstatement, whether due to error or fraud. Our audits included performing procedures to assess the risks of material misstatement of the financial statements, whether due to error or fraud, and performing procedures that respond to those risks. Such procedures included examining, on a test basis, evidence supportingregarding the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. An auditOur audits also includes assessingincluded evaluating the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall presentation of the financial statement presentation.statements. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.

In our opinion, such consolidated financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of Kimberly-Clark Corporation and subsidiaries as of December 31, 2015 and 2014, and the results of their operations and their cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2015, in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. Also, in our opinion, such financial statement schedule, when considered in relation to the basic consolidated financial statements taken as a whole, presents fairly, in all material respects, the information set forth therein.

We have also audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States), the Corporation's internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2015, based on the criteria established in Internal Control – Integrated Framework (2013) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission and our report dated February 11, 2016 expressed an unqualified opinion on the Corporation's internal control over financial reporting.

/s/ DELOITTE & TOUCHE LLP  
Deloitte & Touche LLP
Dallas, Texas
February 11, 20168, 2018
We have served as the Corporation’s auditor since 1928.











 6156
KIMBERLY-CLARK CORPORATION - 20152017 Annual Report

ITEM 9.CHANGES IN AND DISAGREEMENTS WITH ACCOUNTANTS ON ACCOUNTING AND FINANCIAL DISCLOSURE
None.


ITEM 9A.CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES
Disclosure Controls and Procedures
As of December 31, 2015,2017, an evaluation was performed under the supervision and with the participation of our management, including our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, of the effectiveness of the design and operation of our disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a - 15(e) and 15d - 15(e) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (Exchange Act)). Based on that evaluation, our management, including our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures were effective as of December 31, 2015.2017.
Internal Control Over Financial Reporting
Management's Report on the Financial Statements
Our management is responsible for all aspects of the business, including the preparation of the Consolidated Financial Statements in this annual report. The Consolidated Financial Statements have been prepared using generally accepted accounting principles considered appropriate in the circumstances to present fairly our consolidated financial position, results of operations and cash flows on a consistent basis. Management also has prepared the other information in this annual report and is responsible for its accuracy and consistency with the Consolidated Financial Statements.
Some financial statement amounts are based on estimates and judgments, and measures have been taken to provide reasonable assurance of the integrity and reliability of the financial information contained in this annual report. These measures include an effective control-oriented environment in which the internal audit function plays an important role and an Audit Committee of the Board of Directors oversees the financial reporting process. The Consolidated Financial Statements have been audited by the independent registered public accounting firm, Deloitte & Touche LLP. During its audits, Deloitte & Touche LLP was given unrestricted access to all financial records, including minutes of all meetings of stockholders and our Board of Directors and all committees of our Board. Management believes that all representations made to the independent registered public accountants during their audits were valid and appropriate.
Audit Committee Oversight and Our Code of Conduct
The Audit Committee of our Board of Directors, which is composed solely of independent directors, assists our Board in fulfilling its responsibility for oversight of the quality and integrity of our accounting, auditing and financial reporting practices; the audits of our Consolidated Financial Statements; and internal control over financial reporting. The Audit Committee reviews with the auditors any relationships that may affect their objectivity and independence. The Audit Committee also reviews with management, the internal auditors and the independent registered public accounting firm the quality and adequacy of our internal control over financial reporting, including compliance matters related to our code of conduct, and the results of internal and external audits. The Audit Committee has reviewed and recommended that the audited Consolidated Financial Statements included in this report be included in the Form 10-K for filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission.
Our code of conduct, among other things, contains policies for conducting business affairs in a lawful and ethical manner everywhere we do business, for avoiding potential conflicts of interest and for preserving confidentiality of information and business ideas. Internal controls have been implemented to provide reasonable assurance that the code of conduct is followed.
Management's Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting
Management is responsible for establishing and maintaining an adequate system of internal control over financial reporting, including safeguarding of assets against unauthorized acquisition, use or disposition. This system is designed to provide reasonable assurance to management and our Board of Directors regarding preparation of reliable published financial statements and safeguarding of our assets. This system is supported with written policies and procedures, contains self-monitoring mechanisms and is audited by the internal audit function. Appropriate actions are taken by management to correct deficiencies as they are identified. All internal control systems have inherent limitations, including the possibility of circumvention and overriding of controls, and, therefore, can provide only reasonable assurance as to the reliability of financial statement preparation and such asset safeguarding.


62
KIMBERLY-CLARK CORPORATION - 2015 Annual Report

We have assessed the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2015.2017. In making this assessment, we used the criteria described in Internal Control – Integrated Framework (2013) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission. Based on this assessment, management believes that, as of December 31, 2015,2017, our internal control over financial reporting is effective.
Deloitte & Touche LLP has issued its attestation report onaudited the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting. That attestationreporting as of December 31, 2017, and has expressed an unqualified opinion in their report, which appears below.

/s/ Thomas J. Falk/s/ Maria Henry
Thomas J. FalkMaria Henry
Chairman of the Board andSenior Vice President and
Chief Executive OfficerChief Financial Officer
February 11, 2016
in this report.
Changes in Internal Control Over Financial Reporting
There have been no changes in our internal control over financial reporting identified in connection with the evaluation described above in "Management's Report on Internal"Internal Control Over Financial Reporting" that occurred during our fourth fiscal quarter that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.
Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

To the shareholders and the Board of Directors and Stockholders of
Kimberly-Clark Corporation:

Opinion on Internal Control over Financial Reporting
We have audited the internal control over financial reporting of Kimberly-Clark Corporation and subsidiaries (the "Corporation"“Corporation”) as of December 31, 2015,2017, based on criteria established in Internal Control – Integrated Framework (2013)issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission. Commission (COSO). In our opinion, the Corporation maintained, in all material respects, effective internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2017, based on criteria established in Internal Control – Integrated Framework (2013) issued by COSO.
We have also audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) (PCAOB), the consolidated balance sheets as of December 31, 2017 and 2016, the related consolidated statements of income, comprehensive income, stockholders' equity, and cash flows, for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2017, of the Corporation and our report dated February 8, 2018, expressed an unqualified opinion on those financial statements.
Basis for Opinion
The Corporation'sCorporation’s management is responsible for maintaining effective internal control over financial reporting and for its assessment of the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting, included in the accompanying Management’s Report on Internal Control Over


57
KIMBERLY-CLARK CORPORATION - 2017 Annual Report

Financial Reporting.Reporting. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Corporation'sCorporation’s internal control over financial reporting based on our audit.

We are a public accounting firm registered with the PCAOB and are required to be independent with respect to the Corporation in accordance with the U.S. federal securities laws and the applicable rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission and the PCAOB.
We conducted our audit in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States).PCAOB. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether effective internal control over financial reporting was maintained in all material respects. Our audit included obtaining an understanding of internal control over financial reporting, assessing the risk that a material weakness exists, testing and evaluating the design and operating effectiveness of internal control based on the assessed risk, and performing such other procedures as we considered necessary in the circumstances. We believe that our audit provides a reasonable basis for our opinion.

Definition and Limitations of Internal Control over Financial Reporting
A company'scompany’s internal control over financial reporting is a process designed by, or under the supervision of, the company's principal executive and principal financial officers, or persons performing similar functions, and effected by the company's board of directors, management, and other personnel to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. A company'scorporation’s internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that (1) pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of the assets of the company;corporation; (2) provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, and that receipts and expenditures of the companycorporation are being made only in accordance with authorizations of management and directors of the company;corporation; and (3) provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use, or disposition of the company'scorporation’s assets that could have a material effect on the financial statements.

Because of theits inherent limitations, of internal control over financial reporting including the possibility of collusion or improper management override of controls, material misstatements due to error or fraud may not be preventedprevent or detected on a timely basis.


63
KIMBERLY-CLARK CORPORATION - 2015 Annual Report

detect misstatements. Also, projections of any evaluation of the effectiveness of the internal control over financial reporting to future periods are subject to the risk that the controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.

In our opinion, the Corporation maintained, in all material respects, effective internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2015, based on the criteria established in Internal Control – Integrated Framework (2013) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission.

We have also audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States), the consolidated financial statements and financial statement schedule of the Corporation as of and for the year ended December 31, 2015 and our report dated February 11, 2016 expressed an unqualified opinion on those financial statements and financial statement schedule.

/s/ DELOITTE & TOUCHE LLP  
Deloitte & Touche LLP
Dallas, Texas
February 11, 20168, 2018




ITEM 9B.    OTHER INFORMATION
None.




 6458
KIMBERLY-CLARK CORPORATION - 20152017 Annual Report
PART III



ITEM 10.    DIRECTORS, EXECUTIVE OFFICERS AND CORPORATE GOVERNANCE
The following sections of our 20162018 Proxy Statement for the Annual Meeting of Stockholders (the "2016"2018 Proxy Statement") are incorporated in this Item 10 by reference:
"The Nominees" under "Proposal 1. Election of Directors," which identifies our directors and nominees for our Board of Directors.
"Other Information-SectionInformation - Section 16(a) Beneficial Ownership Reporting Compliance."
"Corporate Governance-OtherGovernance - Other Corporate Governance Policies and Practices-CodePractices - Code of Conduct," which describes our Code of Conduct.
"Corporate Governance-StockholderGovernance - Stockholder Rights," "Proposal 1. Election of Directors," "Other Information-StockholderInformation - Stockholder Director Nominees for Inclusion in Next Year's Proxy Statement," and "Other Information-StockholderInformation - Stockholder Director Nominees Not Included in Next Year's Proxy Statement," which describe the procedures by which stockholders may nominate candidates for election to our Board of Directors.
"Corporate Governance-Board Committees-AuditGovernance - Board Committees - Audit Committee," which identifies members of the Audit Committee of our Board of Directors and audit committee financial experts.
Information regarding our executive officers is reported under the caption "Executive Officers of the Registrant" in Part I of this Report.


ITEM 11.    EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION
The information in the sections of the 2016our 2018 Proxy Statement captioned "Compensation Discussion and Analysis," "Compensation Tables," "Director Compensation" andCompensation," "Corporate Governance - Compensation Committee Interlocks and Insider Participation" and "Other Information - CEO Pay Ratio Disclosure" is incorporated in this Item 11 by reference.


ITEM 12.SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT AND RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS
The information in the sections of the 2016our 2018 Proxy Statement captioned "Equity"Compensation Tables - Equity Compensation Plan Information" under "Proposal 4. Reapproval of Performance Goals Under the 2011 Equity Participation Plan" and "Other Information - Security Ownership Information" is incorporated in this Item 12 by reference.


ITEM 13.    CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED TRANSACTIONS, AND DIRECTOR INDEPENDENCE
The information in the sections of the 2016our 2018 Proxy Statement captioned "Other Information - Transactions with Related Persons" and "Corporate Governance - Director Independence" is incorporated in this Item 13 by reference.


ITEM 14.    PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTANT FEES AND SERVICES
The information in the sections of the 2016our 2018 Proxy Statement captioned "Principal Accounting Firm Fees" and "Audit Committee Approval of Audit and Non-Audit Services" under "Proposal 2. Ratification of Auditors"Auditor" is incorporated in this Item 14 by reference.




 6559
KIMBERLY-CLARK CORPORATION - 20152017 Annual Report
PART IV



ITEM 15.    EXHIBITS AND FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULES
(a)Documents filed as part of this report.
1.Financial statements.
The financial statements are set forth under Item 8 of this report on Form 10-K.
2.Financial statement schedules.
The following information is filed as part of this Form 10-K and should be read in conjunction with the financial statements contained in Item 8:
•Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
Schedule for Kimberly-Clark Corporation and Subsidiaries:
•Schedule II Valuation and Qualifying Accounts
All other schedules have been omitted because they were not applicable or because the required information has been included in the financial statements or notes thereto.
3.Exhibits
Exhibit No. (2)a.
Distribution Agreement, dated October 31, 2014, between Halyard Health, Inc. and the Corporation, incorporated by reference to Exhibit No. 2.1 of the Corporation's Current Report on Form 8-K dated October31,filed on November 5, 2014.
Exhibit No. (2)b.
Definitive Purchase Agreement, dated as of February 23, 2015, by and among the Corporation, The Prudential Insurance Company of America, Prudential Financial, Inc., and State Street Bank and Trust Company, as Independent Fiduciary of the Kimberly-Clark Corporation Pension Plan, incorporated by reference to Exhibit No. (2)b of the Corporation'sQuarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended June 30, 2015.**
Exhibit No. (2)c.Definitive Purchase Agreement, dated as of February 23, 2015, by and among the Corporation, Massachusetts Mutual Life Insurance Company, and State Street Bank and Trust Company, as Independent Fiduciary of the Kimberly-Clark Corporation Pension Plan, incorporated by reference to Exhibit No. (2)c of the Corporation's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended June 30, 2015.**
Exhibit No. (3)a.
Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation, dated April 30, 2009, incorporated by reference to Exhibit No. (3)a of the Corporation's Current Report on Form 8-K datedfiled on May 1, 2009.
Exhibit No. (3)b.
By-Laws, as amended December 14, 2015, incorporated by reference to Exhibit
No. (3)b of the Corporation's Current Report on Form 8-K datedfiled on December 14, 2015.
Exhibit No. (4).Copies of instruments defining the rights of holders of long-term debt will be furnished to the Securities and Exchange Commission on request.
Exhibit No. (10)a.
Management Achievement Award Program, as amended and restated November 13, 2008, incorporated by reference to Exhibit No. (10)a of the Corporation's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2008.*


66
KIMBERLY-CLARK CORPORATION - 2015 Annual Report

Exhibit No. (10)b.
Executive Severance Plan, as amended and restated as of December 31, 2014,2017, incorporated by reference to Exhibit No. (10)b of the Corporation's Current Report on Form 8-K dated September 17, 2014.filed on November 16, 2017.*
Exhibit No. (10)c.
Seventh Amended and Restated Deferred Compensation Plan for Directors, effective January 1, 2008, incorporated by reference to Exhibit No. (10)c of the Corporation's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended March 31, 2008.*
Exhibit No. (10)d.
Executive Officer Achievement Award Program as amended November 12, 2008, incorporated by reference to Exhibit No. (10)d of the Corporation's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2008.*
Exhibit No. (10)e.Letter Agreement between the Corporation and Sandra MacQuillan, incorporated by reference to Exhibit No. (10)e of the Corporation's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended March 31, 2015.*
Exhibit No. (10)f.
Deferred Compensation Plan, as amended and restated, dated December 31, 2005, incorporated by reference to Exhibit No. (10)f of the Corporation's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2005.*


60
KIMBERLY-CLARK CORPORATION - 2017 Annual Report

Exhibit No. (10)g.
Outside Directors' Stock Compensation Plan, as amended, incorporated by reference to Exhibit No. (10)g of the Corporation's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2002.*
Exhibit No. (10)h.
Supplemental Benefit Plan to the Kimberly-Clark Corporation Pension Plan, as amended and restated effective April 17, 2009, incorporated by reference to Exhibit No. (10)h of the Corporation's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2009.*
Exhibit No. (10)i.
Second Supplemental Benefit Plan to the Kimberly-Clark Corporation Pension Plan, as amended and restated, effective April 17, 2009, incorporated by reference to Exhibit No. (10)i of the Corporation's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2009.*
Exhibit No. (10)j.
Kimberly-Clark Corporation Supplemental Retirement 401(k) and Profit Sharing Plan, as amended and restated, effective January 1, 2010, incorporated by reference to Exhibit No. (10)j of the Corporation's Current Report on Form 8-K datedfiled on December 21, 2009.*
Exhibit No. (10)k.Letter Agreement between the Corporation and Maria Henry, incorporated by reference to Exhibit No. (10)k of the Corporation's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended March 31, 2015.*
Exhibit No. (10)l.
2011 Outside Directors' Compensation Plan, as amended and restated, effective April 21, 2011,May 4, 2016, incorporated by reference to Exhibit No. 10.l(10)l of the Corporation's CurrentQuarterly Report on Form 8-K dated April 26, 2011.10-Q for the quarter ended June 30, 2016.*
Exhibit No. (10)m.
2011 Equity Participation Plan, as amended and restated, effective April 21, 2011, incorporated by reference to Exhibit No. 10.2 of the Corporation's Current Report on Form 8-K datedfiled on April 26, 2011.*
Exhibit No. (10)n.
Form of Award Agreements under 2011 Equity Participation Plan for Nonqualified Stock Options, and Time-Vested Restricted Stock Units, incorporated by reference to Exhibit No. (10)n of the Corporation's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended June 30, 2014.2017.*


67
KIMBERLY-CLARK CORPORATION - 2015 Annual Report

Exhibit No. (10)o.Summary of Outside Directors' Compensation pursuant to the 2011 Outside Directors' Compensation Plan, effective January 1, 2015, incorporated by reference to Exhibit No. (10)o of the Corporation's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2014.
Exhibit No. (10)p.
Severance Pay Plan, amended and restated, effective June 25, 2013,January 1, 2017, incorporated by reference to Exhibit No. (10)p of the Corporation's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended March 31, 2014.September 30, 2017.*
Exhibit No. (10)q.
Form of Award Agreements under 2011 Equity Participation Plan for Performance Restricted Stock Units, incorporated by reference to Exhibit No. (10)nq of the Corporation's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended March 31, 2017.*
Exhibit No. (10)r.
Form of Award Agreements under 2011 Equity Participation Plan for Time-Vested Restricted Stock Units, incorporated by reference to Exhibit No. (10)r of the Corporation's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended June 30, 2015.2017.*
Exhibit No. (10)t.Summary of Financial Counseling Program for Kimberly-Clark Corporation Executives, dated November 12, 2008, incorporated by reference to Exhibit No. (10)t of the Corporation's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2008.*
Exhibit No. (10)v.
Tax Matters Agreement, dated October 31, 2014, between Halyard Health, Inc. and the Corporation, incorporated by reference to Exhibit No. 10.1 of the Corporation's Current Report on Form 8-K dated October 31,filed on November 5, 2014.
Exhibit No. (12).
Computation of ratio of earnings to fixed charges for the five years ended December 31, 2015,2017, filed herewith.
Exhibit No. (21).
Subsidiaries of the Corporation, filed herewith.
Exhibit No. (23).
Consent of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm, filed herewith.


61
KIMBERLY-CLARK CORPORATION - 2017 Annual Report

Exhibit No. (24).
Powers of Attorney, filed herewith.
Exhibit No. (31)a.
Certification of Chief Executive Officer required by Rule 13a-14(a) or Rule 15d-14(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the "Exchange Act"), filed herewith.
Exhibit No. (31)b.
Certification of Chief Financial Officer required by Rule 13a-14(a) or Rule 15d-14(a) of the Exchange Act, filed herewith.
Exhibit No. (32)a.
Certification of Chief Executive Officer required by Rule 13a-14(b) or Rule 15d-14(b) of the Exchange Act and Section 1350 of Chapter 63 of Title 18 of the United States Code, furnished herewith.
Exhibit No. (32)b.
Certification of Chief Financial Officer required by Rule 13a-14(b) or Rule 15d-14(b) of the Exchange Act and Section 1350 of Chapter 63 of Title 18 of the United States Code, furnished herewith.
Exhibit No. (101).INSXBRL Instance Document
Exhibit No. (101).SCHXBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document
Exhibit No. (101).CALXBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document


68
KIMBERLY-CLARK CORPORATION - 2015 Annual Report

Exhibit No. (101).DEFXBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document
Exhibit No. (101).LABXBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document
Exhibit No. (101).PREXBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document
*A management contract or compensatory plan or arrangement required to be identified pursuant to Item 15(a)(3) of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.
**
Pursuant to a request for confidential treatment, which has been granted, portions of this exhibit have been redacted from the publicly filed document and have been furnished separately to the Securities and Exchange Commission as required by Rule 24b-2 under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Schedules and exhibits to this agreement have been omitted pursuant to Item 601(b)(2) of Regulation S-K. A copy of any omitted schedule or exhibit will be furnished supplementally to the Securities and Exchange Commission on request.ITEM 16. FORM 10-K SUMMARY
None.





 6962
KIMBERLY-CLARK CORPORATION - 20152017 Annual Report

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.
 KIMBERLY-CLARK CORPORATION
   
February 11, 20168, 2018By:
/s/ Maria Henry
  Maria Henry
  Senior 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 dates indicated.
 

/s/ Thomas J. Falk 
Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer and Director
(principal executive officer)
February 11, 20168, 2018
Thomas J. Falk  
    
/s/ Maria Henry 
Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer
(principal financial officer)
February 11, 20168, 2018
Maria Henry  
    
/s/ Michael T. Azbell 
Vice President and Controller
(principal accounting officer)
February 11, 20168, 2018
Michael T. Azbell  
 
Directors
 
John F. Bergstrom  James M. Jenness
Abelardo E. Bru  Nancy J. Karch
Robert W. Decherd  Christa S. Quarles
Fabian T. GarciaIan C. Read
Fabian T. GarciaMichael D. Hsu  Marc J. Shapiro
Mae C. Jemison  Michael D. White

 
By:
/s/    Thomas J. MielkeJeffrey P. Melucci   
 February 11, 20168, 2018
 
Thomas J. MielkeJeffrey P. Melucci
Attorney-in-Fact
  



 7063
KIMBERLY-CLARK CORPORATION - 20152017 Annual Report

KIMBERLY-CLARK CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

SCHEDULE II

VALUATION AND QUALIFYING ACCOUNTS
FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2015, 20142017, 2016 AND 20132015
(Millions of dollars)
Description
Balance at
Beginning
of Period
 Additions Deductions  
Balance at
Beginning
of Period
 Additions Deductions  
Charged to
Costs and
Expenses
 
Charged to
Other
Accounts(a)
 
Write-Offs and
Reclassifications
 
Balance
at End of
Period
Charged to
Costs and
Expenses
 
Charged to
Other
Accounts(a)
 
Write-Offs and
Reclassifications
 
Balance
at End of
Period
December 31, 2017         
Allowances deducted from assets to which they apply         
Allowance for doubtful accounts$50
 $8
 $2
 $22
(b) 
$38
Allowances for sales discounts18
 247
 —
 247
(c) 
18
December 31, 2016         
Allowances deducted from assets to which they apply         
Allowance for doubtful accounts$50
 $8
 $3
 $11
(b) 
$50
Allowances for sales discounts15
 254
 —
 251
(c) 
18
December 31, 2015                  
Allowances deducted from assets to which they apply                  
Allowance for doubtful accounts$50
 $12
 $(10) $2
(b) 
$50
$50
 $12
 $(10) $2
(b) 
$50
Allowances for sales discounts16
 256
 (1) 256
(c) 
15
16
 256
 (1) 256
(c) 
15
December 31, 2014         
Allowances deducted from assets to which they apply         
Allowance for doubtful accounts$51
 $13
 $(7) $7
(b) 
$50
Allowances for sales discounts20
 265
 (1) 268
(c) 
16
December 31, 2013         
Allowances deducted from assets to which they apply         
Allowance for doubtful accounts$60
 $—
 $(4) $5
(b) 
$51
Allowances for sales discounts20
 275
 (1) 274
(c) 
20
(a)
Includes bad debt recoveries and the effects of changes in foreign currency exchange rates.
(b)
Primarily uncollectible receivables written off.
(c)
Sales discounts allowed.
  Additions      Additions    
Description
Balance at
Beginning
of Period
 
Charged to
Costs and
Expenses
 
Charged to
Other
Accounts
 
Deductions(a)
 
Balance
at End
of  Period
Balance at
Beginning
of Period
 
Charged to
Costs and
Expenses
 
Charged to
Other
Accounts
 
Deductions(a)
 
Balance
at End
of  Period
December 31, 2017         
Deferred taxes         
Valuation allowance$225
 $(59) $—
 $(10) $176
December 31, 2016         
Deferred taxes         
Valuation allowance$274
 $(45) $—
 $4
 $225
December 31, 2015                  
Deferred taxes                  
Valuation allowance$215
 $78
 $—
 $19
 $274
$215
 $78
 $—
 $19
 $274
December 31, 2014         
Deferred taxes         
Valuation allowance$197
 $30
 $—
 $12
 $215
December 31, 2013         
Deferred taxes         
Valuation allowance$215
 $(11) $—
 $7
 $197
(a)
Represents the net currency effects of translating valuation allowances at current rates of exchange.



 7164
KIMBERLY-CLARK CORPORATION - 20152017 Annual Report