UNITED STATES SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
FORM 10-K
þANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the Fiscal Year Ended December 31, 20152018
OR
¨TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
Commission file number 001-11625
Pentair plc
 
(Exact name of Registrant as specified in its charter)
Ireland 98-1141328
(State or other jurisdiction of
incorporation or organization)
 
(I.R.S. Employer
Identification number)
  
P.O. Box 471, Sharp Street, Walkden, Manchester, M28 8BURegal House, 70 London Road, Twickenham, London, TW13QS United Kingdom
(Address of principal executive offices)
Registrant’s telephone number, including area code: 44-161-703-188544-74-9421-6154
Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:
Title of each class Name of each exchange on which registered
Ordinary Shares, nominal value $0.01 per share New York Stock Exchange
Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act: None
Indicate by check mark if the registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act.    Yes þ    No ¨
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 ¨    No þ
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 þ    No ¨
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 þ    No ¨
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.  Yes ¨ No þ
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“large accelerated filer," "accelerated filer"” “accelerated filer”, “smaller reporting company” and "smaller reporting company"“emerging growth company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act. (Check one):
Large accelerated filer  þ
  
Accelerated filer  o
  
Non-accelerated filer  o
  
Smaller reporting
 company  o
 (Do not check if a smaller reporting company)
Emerging growth company o

If an emerging growth company, indicate by check mark if the registrant has elected not to use the extended transition period for complying with any new or revised financial accounting standards provided pursuant to Section 13(a) of the Exchange Act. ¨
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Act).    Yes ¨    No þ
Aggregate market value of voting and non-voting common equity held by non-affiliates of the Registrant, based on the closing price of $63.75$42.08 per share as reported on the New York Stock Exchange on June 26, 201529, 2018 (the last business day of Registrant’s most recently completed second quarter): $11,256,593,708$6,703,824,353.
The number of shares outstanding of Registrant’s only class of common stock on December 31, 20152018 was 180,455,693.171,363,615.
DOCUMENTS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE
Parts of the Registrant’s definitive proxy statement for its annual general meeting to be held on May 10, 2016,7, 2019, are incorporated by reference in this Form 10-K in response to Part III, ITEM 10, 11, 12, 13 and 14.





Pentair plc
Annual Report on Form 10-K
For the Year Ended December 31, 20152018
 
     Page
PART I
   
ITEM 1.   
   
ITEM 1A.   
   
ITEM 1B.   
   
ITEM 2.   
     
ITEM 3.   
     
ITEM 4.   
 
PART II
   
ITEM 5.   
     
ITEM 6.   
   
ITEM 7.   
   
ITEM 7A.   
   
ITEM 8.   
   
ITEM 9.   
   
ITEM 9A.   
   
ITEM 9B.   
 
PART III
   
ITEM 10.   
   
ITEM 11.   
   
ITEM 12.   
   
ITEM 13.   
   
ITEM 14.   
 
PART IV
   
ITEM 15.   
ITEM 16.
   
    





PART I

ITEM 1.    BUSINESS
GENERAL
At Pentair plc, we believe the health of our world depends on reliable access to clean water. We deliver a comprehensive range of smart, sustainable water solutions to homes, business and industry around the world. Our industry leading and proven portfolio of solutions enables our customers to access clean, safe water. Whether it’s improving, moving or enjoying water, we help manage the world’s most precious resource. Smart, Sustainable Water Solutions. For Life.

Pentair plc is a focused diversified industrial manufacturing company comprising four reportingcomprised of three reportable business segments: Valves & Controls, Flow &Aquatic Systems, Filtration Solutions Water Quality Systems and Technical Solutions. Valves & Controls designs, manufactures, markets and services valves, fittings, automation and controls and actuators. Flow & Filtration Solutions designs, manufactures, markets and services solutionsTechnologies. See below for the toughest filtration, separation, flow and fluid management challenges in agriculture, food and beverage processing, water supply and disposal and a varietyfurther discussion of industrial applications. Water Quality Systems designs, manufactures, markets and services innovative water system products and solutions to meet filtration and fluid management challenges in food and beverage, water, swimming pools and aquaculture applications. Technical Solutions designs, manufactures, markets and services products that guard and protect someeach of the world’s most sensitive electrical and electronic equipment, as well as heat management solutions designed to provide thermal protection to temperature sensitive fluid applications and engineered electrical and fastening products for electrical, mechanical and civil applications.these segments.
Pentair strategy
Our strategyvision is to drive sustainable, profitablebe the leading residential and commercial water treatment company. As a pure play water company, we are:

Focused on strategies to advance pool growth and return on invested capital improvements through:accelerate residential and commercial water treatment;
building operational excellence through
Accelerated by innovation and digital transformation; and

Grounded in Win Right values and utilizing the Pentair Integrated Management System ("PIMS"(“PIMS”) consisting of lean enterprise, growth and talent management;
driving long-term growth in sales, operating incomemanagement to drive sustained and cash flows, through growth and productivity initiatives along with acquisitions;
developing new products and enhancing existing products;
penetrating attractive growth markets, particularly outside of the United States;
expanding multi-channel distribution; and
proactively managing our business portfolio for optimal value creation, including consideration of new business platforms.consistent performance.
Unless the context otherwise indicates, references herein to "Pentair,"“Pentair,” the "Company,"“Company,” and such words as "we," "us,"“we,” “us,” and "our"“our” include Pentair plc and its consolidated subsidiaries. We are an Irish corporationpublic limited by sharescompany that was formed in 2014. We are the successor to Pentair Ltd., a Swiss corporation formed in 2012, and Pentair, Inc., a Minnesota corporation formed in 1966 and our wholly-owned subsidiary, under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the "Exchange Act").
HISTORY AND DEVELOPMENT
In December 2013, the Company's Board of Directors approved changing the Company's jurisdiction of organization from Switzerland to Ireland. At an extraordinary meeting of shareholders on May 20, 2014, Pentair Ltd. shareholders voted in favor of a reorganization proposal pursuant to which Pentair Ltd. would merge into Pentair plc and all Pentair Ltd. common shares would be cancelled and all holders of such shares would receive ordinary shares of Pentair plc on a one-to-one basis. The reorganization transaction was completed on June 3, 2014, at which time Pentair plc replaced Pentair Ltd. as the ultimate parent company (the "Redomicile"“Exchange Act”). Shares of Pentair plc began trading on the New York Stock Exchange ("NYSE") on June 3, 2014 under the symbol "PNR," the same symbol under which Pentair Ltd. shares were previously traded.
Although our jurisdiction of organization is Ireland, we manage our affairs so that we are centrally managed and controlled in the United Kingdom (the "U.K."“U.K.”) and therefore have our tax residency in the U.K.
Our former parent company, Pentair Ltd., took its form on SeptemberHISTORY AND DEVELOPMENT
On April 28, 20122017, we completed the sale of the Valves & Controls business to Emerson Electric Co. for $3.15 billion in cash. The sale resulted in a gain of $181.1 million, net of tax. The results of the Valves & Controls business have been presented as discontinued operations. The Valves & Controls business was previously disclosed as a resultstand-alone reporting segment.

On April 30, 2018, Pentair completed the separation of its Electrical business from the rest of Pentair (the “Separation”) by means of a reverse acquisition (the "Merger"dividend in specie of the Electrical business, which was effected by the transfer of the Electrical business from Pentair to nVent Electric plc (“nVent”) involving Pentair, Inc. and an indirect, wholly-owned subsidiarythe issuance by nVent of Flow Control (defined below), with Pentair, Inc. surviving as an indirect, wholly-owned subsidiary of ours. "Flow Control" refersordinary shares directly to Pentair Ltd. prior to the Merger. Prior to the Merger, Tyco International Ltd. ("Tyco") engaged in an internal restructuring whereby it transferred to Flow Control certain assets related to the flow control business of Tyco, and Flow Control assumed from Tyco certain liabilities related to the flow control business of Tyco. On September 28, 2012 prior to the Merger, Tyco effected a spin-off of Flow Control through the pro-rata distribution of 100% of the outstanding ordinary shares of Flow Control to Tyco’s shareholders (the "Distribution"“Distribution”), resulting. On May 1, 2018, following the Separation and Distribution, nVent became an independent publicly traded company, trading on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol “NVT.” The Company did not retain any equity interest in nVent. nVent’s historical financial results are reflected in the distribution of approximately 110.9 million of our ordinary shares to Tyco’s shareholders. The Merger was accounted forCompany’s consolidated financial statements as a reverse acquisition underdiscontinued operation. Refer to Note 2 for further discussion.
In connection with the purchase methodDistribution of accounting with Pentair, Inc. treatednVent, the Company and nVent entered into several agreements covering administrative and tax matters to provide or obtain services on a transitional basis, as needed, for varying periods after the acquirer.

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On September 18, 2015, we acquired,Distribution. The administrative agreements cover various services such as part of Technical Solutions,information technology, human resources and finance. The Company expects all ofservices to be substantially complete within one year after the outstanding shares of capital stock of ERICO Global Company ("ERICO") for approximately $1.8 billion (the "ERICO Acquisition"). ERICO is a leading global manufacturer and marketer of engineered electrical and fastening products for electrical, mechanical and civil applications. ERICO has employees in 30 countries across the world with recognized brands including CADDY fixing, fastening and support products; ERICO electrical grounding, bonding and connectivity products and LENTON engineered systems.Distribution.
Our registered principal office is located at P.O. Box 471, Sharp Street, Walkden, Manchester, M28 8BURegal House, 70 London Road, Twickenham, London, TW13QS United Kingdom. Our management office in the United States ("(“U.S.") is located at 5500 Wayzata Boulevard, Suite 600,900, Minneapolis, Minnesota.


BUSINESS AND PRODUCTS
Reporting segment and geographical financial information is contained in ITEM 8, Note 16 of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements, included in this Form 10-K. The following is a brief description of each of the Company’s reportable segments and business activities.
VALVES & CONTROLSAquatic Systems
The Valves & ControlsAquatic Systems segment designs, manufactures markets and services valves, fittings, automationsells a complete line of energy-efficient residential and commercial pool equipment and accessories including pumps, filters, heaters, lights, automatic controls, automatic cleaners, maintenance equipment and actuatorspool accessories. Applications for the energy and industrial verticals.
Valveour Aquatic Systems products include a broad range of industrial valves, including on-off valves, safety relief valvesresidential and other specialty valves. Actuation products include pneumatic, hydraulic and electric actuators. Control products include limit switches, valve positioners, network systems and accessories.
Valves & Controls products are used in many applications including oil and gas, power, chemical and pharmaceutical, mining, marine and food and beverage. Valves & Controls also provides engineering, design, inspection,commercial pool maintenance, andpool repair, services for its valves and related products. The product line is sold under many trade names, including Anderson Greenwood, Biffi, Crosby, Keystone and Vanessa, globally via its internal sales force and in some cases through independent distributors.
Customers
Valves & Controls customers include businesses engaged in a wide range of applications within the energy and industrial verticals. Customers include end-users as well as engineering, procurementrenovation, service and construction companies, contractors, original equipment manufacturers and distributors.aquaculture solutions.
Seasonality
Valves & Controls is not significantly affected by seasonal demand fluctuations.
Competition
The flow control industry is highly fragmented, consisting of many local and regional companies and a few global competitors. We compete against a number of international, national and local manufacturers of industrial valves, as well as against specialized manufacturers on the basis of product capability, product quality, breadth of product line, delivery, service capability and price. Our major competitors vary by region and by industry.
FLOW & FILTRATION SOLUTIONS
The Flow & Filtration Solutions segment designs, manufactures, markets and services solutions for the toughest filtration, separation, flow and fluid management challenges in agriculture, food and beverage processing, water supply and disposal and a variety of industrial applications.
Flow & Filtration Solutions is involved in the entire fluid management system, from advanced filtration, desalination and water supply to water disposal, process and control. From product selection to installation, maintenance and servicing, Flow & Filtration Solutions supports a broad range of products and services specifically tailored to address customers' needs for reliable and efficient movement and control of fluids. Solutions include light duty diaphragm pumps and pressure boosters, high-flow turbine pumps and solid handling pumps, as well as advanced filtration, oil & gas separation, membrane technology, energy recovery and quality control and instrumentation.
Applications for Flow and Filtration Solutions’ products include precision agriculture, water supply and disposal, fire applications and food and beverage processing. Brand names for Flow & Filtration Solutions productsAquatic Systems include Aurora, Berkeley, Fairbanks-Nijhuis, Haffmans, Hydromatic, Hypro, Sta-Rite, SüdmoKreepy Krauly, Pentair, Pentair Aquatic Eco-Systems, and X-Flow.

Sta-Rite.
Customers
Flow & Filtration SolutionsAquatic Systems customers include businesses engaged in wholesale distribution and retail acrossdistribution in the residential & commercial industrial, infrastructure, energy and food and beverage verticals. Customers in the residential & commercial verticals also include end-users as well as engineering procurement contractors, original equipment manufacturers and consumers. Pentair’s verticals include residential, retail consumers.commercial, and industrial businesses.

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One customer of the Aquatic Systems segment, Pool Corporation, represented approximately 15% of our consolidated net sales in 2018.

Seasonality
We experience seasonal demand with several end customers and end-users within Aquatic Systems. End-user demand for residential water supply products, infrastructure and agricultural products followingpool equipment follows warm weather trends which areand is at seasonalseason highs from April to August. The magnitude of the sales increase is partially mitigated by employing some advance sale "early buy"“early buy” programs (generally including extended payment terms and/or additional discounts). Seasonal effects may vary from year to year and are impacted by weather patterns, particularly by temperatures, heavy flooding and droughts.
Competition
Flow & Filtration SolutionsAquatic Systems faces numerous domestic and international competitors, some of which have substantially greater resources directed to the verticals in which we compete. Competition in Flow & Filtration Solutions focuses on brand names, product performance (including energy-efficient offerings and required specifications), quality, service and price. We compete by offering a wide variety of innovative and high-quality products, which are competitively priced. We believe our distribution channels and reputation for quality also provide us a competitive advantage.
WATER QUALITY SYSTEMSFiltration Solutions
The Water Quality SystemsFiltration Solutions segment designs, manufactures, markets and services innovative water system products and solutions to meet filtration and fluid managementseparation challenges inacross residential, commercial, food & beverage and beverage, water, swimming pools and aquacultureindustrial applications.
Water Quality SystemsFiltration Solutions offers a comprehensive product suite of components and systems that includes a full range of recreational water treatment equipment including energy-efficient pumps,ranges from point-of-entry /and point-of-use filtration, valves and automated controls for residential and commercial applications including foodservice, valves, UV sanitizationas well as advanced filtration, oil & gas separation, membrane technology, and automation controls. We offer designenergy recovery for food & beverage and consulting services and our advanced water technologies are used across a wide number of industries including industrial residential, commercial, municipal, foodservice, aquaculture, aquaponics, aquatic life support systems, irrigation and flood control, wastewater and more.applications. Our equipment and solutions are found in swimming pools and spas, aquaculture farms, laboratories, water purification and sanitation systems, foodservice operations, food & beverage processing plants and in other applications across the globe.
The portfolio of products serves a range of industries, including use in the commercial, residential and industrial verticals. Brand names for Water Quality SystemsFiltration Solutions offerings include Codeline, Everpure, PentairHaffmans, Südmo and Sta-Rite.X-Flow.
Customers
Water Quality SystemsFiltration Solutions customers include businesses engaged in wholesale and retail distribution in the residential, & commercial, food & beverage and infrastructureindustrial verticals. Customers in the residential &and commercial vertical also include end-users, consumers and consumers.original equipment manufacturers.
Seasonality
We experience seasonal demand with several end customers and end-users within Water Quality Systems.Filtration Solutions. End-user demand for pool equipmentwater filtration products generally follows warm weather trends and is at seasonal highs from April to August. The magnitude of the sales increase is partially mitigated by employing some advance sale "early buy" programs (generally including extended payment terms and/or additional discounts).July.
Competition
Water Quality SystemsFiltration Solutions faces numerous domestic and international competitors, some of which have substantially greater resources directed to the verticals in which we compete. Competition focuses on brand names, product performance (including energy-efficient offerings)required specification), quality and price. We compete by offering a wide variety of innovative and high-quality products, which are competitively priced. We believe our distribution channels and reputation for quality also provide us a competitive advantage.
TECHNICAL SOLUTIONS
The Technical Solutions segment designs, manufactures, markets and services products that guard and protect some of the world’s most sensitive electrical and electronic equipment, as well as heat management solutions designed to provide thermal protection to temperature sensitive fluid applications and engineered electrical and fastening products for electrical, mechanical and civil applications.

Technical SolutionsFlow Technologies
The Flow Technologies segment manufactures and sells products include mild steel, stainless steel, aluminumranging from light duty diaphragm pumps to high-flow turbine pumps and non-metallic enclosures, cabinets, cases, subracks, backplanes, engineered fastening solutions across a wide range of industries and verticals and thermal management systems including heat tracing, floor heating, fire-rated and specialty wiring, sensing, and snow melting and de-icing solutions for industrial,solid handling pumps while serving the global residential, commercial and residential use.
The portfolio of products servesindustrial markets. These pumps are used in a range of industries,applications, including useresidential and municipal wells, water treatment, wastewater solids handling, pressure boosting, fluid delivery, circulation and transfer, fire suppression, flood control, agricultural irrigation and crop spray.
Brand names for Flow Technologies include Aurora, Berkeley, Fairbanks-Nijhuis, Hydromatic, Hypro, Jung Pumpen, Pentair, Myers, Sta-Rite, and Shurflo.
Customers
Flow Technologies customers include businesses engaged in industrial, energy,wholesale and retail distribution in the residential & commercial, food & beverage and infrastructureindustrial verticals. Brand names for Technical Solutions offeringsCustomers also include CADDY, ERICO, Hoffman, LENTON, Raychem, Schroffend-users and Tracer. Technical Solutions products are highly engineered and are sold largely through independent distributors and on a project basis, via a network of sales and service professionals.

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Customers
Technical Solutions customers include electrical distributors, data center contractors, original equipment manufacturers, contractors mainly of greenfield developments and maintenance contractors. Technical Solutions has a global installed base of customers.consumers in the residential & commercial vertical.
Seasonality
Technical Solutions generally experiencesWe experience increased demand for thermal protectionresidential water supply, infrastructure and agricultural products following warm weather trends, which are at season highs from April to August. The magnitude of the sales increase is mitigated by employing some advance sale “early buy” programs (generally including extended payment terms and/or additional discounts). Seasonal effects may vary from year to year and services during the fallare impacted by weather patterns, particularly by temperatures, heavy flooding and winter months in the Northern Hemisphere and increased demand for electrical fastening products during the spring and summer months in the Northern Hemisphere.droughts.
Competition
Within Technical Solutions, the equipment protection businessFlow Technologies faces significant competition innumerous domestic and international competitors, some of which have substantially greater resources directed to the verticals it serves, particularly within the communications industry, wherein which we compete. Competition focuses on brand names, product design, prototyping, global supply, price competitionperformance (including energy-efficient offerings and customerrequired specifications), quality, service and price. We compete by offering a wide variety of innovative and high-quality products, which are significant factors. The industries and verticals served by the thermal management business are highly fragmented, comprising local markets and niches.competitively priced.

INFORMATION REGARDING ALL REPORTABLE SEGMENTS
Backlog of orders by segment
 December 31
In millions20152014$ change% change
Valves & Controls$1,127.6
$1,233.7
$(106.1)(8.6)%
Flow & Filtration Solutions289.6
361.2
(71.6)(19.8)
Water Quality Systems141.4
121.0
20.4
16.9
Technical Solutions319.0
281.0
38.0
13.5
Total$1,877.6
$1,996.9
$(119.3)(6.0)%
 December 31
In millions20182017$ change% change
Aquatic Systems$80.3
$110.1
$(29.8)(27.1)%
Filtration Solutions96.2
145.7
(49.5)(34.0)%
Flow Technologies156.0
151.1
4.9
3.2 %
Total$332.5
$406.9
$(74.4)(18.3)%
BacklogA substantial portion of our revenues result from Valves & Controls consists of businessorders received and products delivered in the energy and industrial verticals. Generally,same month. Our backlog from Valves & Controls has a longer manufacturing cycle and products typically ship within six to twelve months of the date on which a customer places an order. Backlog from Flow & Filtration Solutions, Water Quality Systems and Technical Solutions typically has a shortershort manufacturing cycle and products generally ship within 90 days of the date on which a customer places an order. A substantialHowever, a portion of our revenues, however, resultbacklog, particularly from orders receivedfor major capital projects, can take more than one year depending on the size and product delivered in the same month.type of order. We record as part of our backlog all orders from external customers, which represent firm commitments, and are supported by a purchase order or other legitimate contract. We expect the majority of our backlog from all segments at December 31, 20152018 will be filledshipped in 2016.2019.
Research and development
We conduct research and development activities primarily in our own facilities. These efforts consist primarily of the development of new products, product applications and manufacturing processes. Research and development expenditures during 2015, 2014 and 2013 were $119.6 million, $117.3 million and $122.8 million, respectively.
Environmental
Environmental matters are discussed in ITEM 3, ITEM 7 and ITEM 8, Note 17 of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements, included in this Form 10-K.
Raw materials
The principal materials we use in manufacturing our products are electric motors, mild steel, stainless steel, electronic components, plastics (resins, fiberglass, epoxies), copper and paint (powder and liquid). In addition to the purchase of raw materials, we purchase some finished goods for distribution through our sales channels.
We purchase the materials we use in various manufacturing processes on the open market and the majority is available through multiple sources which are in adequate supply. We have not experienced any significant work stoppages to date due to shortages of materials. We have certain long-term commitments, principally price commitments, for the purchase of various component parts and raw materials and believe that it is unlikely that any of these agreements would be terminated prematurely. Alternate sources of supply at competitive prices are available for most materials for which long-term commitments exist and we believe that the termination of any of these commitments would not have a material adverse effect on our financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

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Certain commodities, such as metals and resin, are subject to market and duty-driven price fluctuations. We manage these fluctuations through several mechanisms, including long-term agreements with price adjustment clauses for significant commodity market movements in certain circumstances. Prices for raw materials, such as metals and resins, may trend higher in the future.
Intellectual property
Patents, non-compete agreements, proprietary technologies, customer relationships, trademarks, trade names and brand names are important to our business. However, we do not regard our business as being materially dependent upon any single patent, non-compete agreement, proprietary technology, customer relationship, trademark, trade name or brand name.
Patents, patent applications and license agreements will expire or terminate over time by operation of law, in accordance with their terms or otherwise. We do not expect the termination of patents, patent applications or license agreements to have a material adverse effect on our financial position, results of operations or cash flows.
Employees
As of December 31, 2015,2018, we employed 27,600approximately 10,000 people worldwide, of which 9,600 were in the U.S. and 10,200 were covered by collective bargaining agreements or works councils. We believe that our relations with the labor unions have generally been good.worldwide.
Captive insurance subsidiary
We insure certain general and product liability, property, workers’ compensation and automobile liability risks through our regulated wholly-owned captive insurance subsidiary, Penwald Insurance Company ("Penwald"(“Penwald”). Reserves for policy claims are established based on actuarial projections of ultimate losses. Accruals with respect to liabilities insured by third parties, such as liabilities arising from acquired businesses, pre-Penwald liabilities and those of certain non-U.S. operations are established.
Matters pertaining to Penwald are discussed in ITEM 3 and ITEM 8, Note 1 of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements – Insurance subsidiary, included in this Form 10-K.
Available information
We make available free of charge (other than an investor’s own Internet access charges) through our Internet website (http://www.pentair.com) our Annual Report on Form 10-K, Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q, Current Reports on Form 8-K, and if applicable, amendments to those reports filed or furnished pursuant to Section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Exchange Act as soon as reasonably practicable after we electronically file such material with, or furnish it to, the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC"(the “SEC”). Reports of beneficial ownership filed by our directors and executive officers pursuant to Section 16(a) of the Exchange Act are also available on our website. We are not including the information contained on our website as part of or incorporating it by reference into, this Annual Report on Form 10-K.
ITEM 1A.    RISK FACTORS
You should carefully consider all of the information in this document and the following risk factors before making an investment decision regarding our securities. Any of the following risks could materially and adversely affect our business, financial condition, results of operations, cash flows and the actual outcome of matters as to which forward-looking statements are made in this document.
Risks Relating to Our Business
General global economic and business conditions affect demand for our products.
We compete in various geographic regions and product markets around the world. Among these, the most significant are global industrial, marketscommercial, and residential markets. We have experienced, and expect to continue to experience, fluctuations in revenues and operating results of operations due to economic and business cycles. Important factors for our businesses and the businesses of our customers include the overall strength of the economy and our customers’ confidence in the economy, industrial and governmental capital spending, the strength of the residential and commercial real estate markets, the residential housing market, the commercial business climate, unemployment rates, availability of consumer and commercial financing, interest rates, and energy and commodity prices. The businesses of many of our industrial customers particularly oil and gas companies, chemical and petrochemical companies, mining and general industrial companies, are to varying degrees cyclical and have experienced periodic downturns. While we attempt to minimize our exposure to economic or market fluctuations by serving a balanced mix of end markets and geographic regions, any of the above factors, individually or in the aggregate, or a significant or sustained downturn in a specific end market or geographic region could reduce demand for our products and services.

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In particular, products sold by Valves & Controls to energy-related businesses are cyclical in nature as the worldwide demand for oil and gas fluctuates. Lower worldwide demand for oil and gas impacts the economics of oil and gas capital project investments, reducing the demand for our products. Therefore, results of operations for any particular period are not necessarily indicative of the results of operations for any future period. Prices for oil and gas are subject to fluctuations in response to changes in the supply of, and demand for, oil and gas, market uncertainty and a variety of other economic factors that are beyond our control. Since the latter half of 2014, the price of oil has dropped dramatically. A sustained depression of oil prices may result in the reduction or deferral of major capital projects, including significant maintenance projects and upgrades. Lower levels of oil and gas maintenance spend and major capital project activity may result in a corresponding decline in the demand for our products and services, thatwhich could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.


We compete in attractive markets with a high level of competition, which may result in pressure on our profit margins and limit our ability to maintain or increase the market share of our products.
The markets for our products and services are geographically diverse and highly competitive. We compete against large and well-established national and global companies, as well as regional and local companies and lower cost manufacturers. We compete based on technical expertise, intellectual property, reputation for quality and reliability, timeliness of delivery, previous installation history, contractual terms, service offerings, customer experience and service, and price. Some of our competitors, in particular smaller companies, attempt to compete based primarily on price, localized expertise and local relationships, especially with respect to products and applications that do not require a great deal of engineering or technical expertise. In addition, during economic downturns average selling prices tend to decrease as market participants compete more aggressively on price. If we are unable to continue to differentiate our products, services and solutions, or if we are forced to cut prices or to incur additional costs to remain competitive, it could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations and cash flows could be materially and adversely affected.flows.
Volatility in currency exchange rates may adversely affectcould have a material adverse effect on our financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.
Sales outside of the U.S. for the year ended December 31, 20152018 accounted for 52 percent37% of our net sales. Our financial statements reflect translation of items denominated in non-U.S. currencies to U.S. dollars. Therefore, if the U.S. dollar strengthens in relation to the principleprincipal non-U.S. currencies from which we derive revenue as compared to a prior period, our U.S. dollar reported revenue and income will effectively be decreased to the extent of the change in currency valuations, and vice-versa. During 2015, foreign currency translations had a 6.6 percent negative impact on our results of operations. Fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates, most notably the strengthening of the U.S. dollar against the Euro,euro, could continue to adversely affecthave a material adverse effect on our reported revenue in future periods. In addition, currency variations can adversely affectcould have a material adverse effect on margins on sales of our products in countries outside of the U.S. and margins on sales of products that include components obtained from suppliers located outside of the U.S.
Our future growth is dependent upon our ability to continue to adapt our products, services and organization to meet the demands of local markets in both developed and emerging economies and by developing or acquiring new technologies that achieve market acceptance with acceptable margins.
We operate in global markets that are characterized by customer demand that is often global in scope but localized in delivery. We compete with thousands of smaller regional and local companies that may be positioned to offer products produced at lower cost than ours, or to capitalize on highly localized relationships and knowledge that are difficult for us to replicate. Also, in several emerging markets potential customers prefer local suppliers, in some cases because of existing relationships and in other cases because of local legal restrictions or incentives that favor local businesses. Accordingly, our future success depends upon a number of factors, including our ability to adapt our products, services, organization, workforce and sales strategies to fit localities throughout the world, particularly in high growth emerging markets; identify emerging technological and other trends in our target end-markets; and develop or acquire competitive products and services and bring them to market quickly and cost-effectively. We have chosen to focus our growth initiatives in specific end markets and geographies, but we cannot provide assurance that these growth initiatives will be sufficient to offset revenue declines in other markets. The failure to effectively adapt our products or services could materially and adversely affecthave a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.

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Our business strategy includes acquiring businesses and making investments that complement our existing businesses. We may not be able to identify, finance and complete suitable acquisitions and investments, and any completed acquisitions and investments could be unsuccessful or consume significant resources, which could adversely affectresources.
Our business strategy includes acquiring businesses and making investments that complement our operating results.
existing businesses. We continue to analyze and evaluate the acquisition of strategic businesses or product lines with the potential to strengthen our industry position or enhance our existing set of product and service offerings. We cannot provide any assurance that we willmay not be able to identify suitable acquisition candidates, obtain financing or have sufficient cash necessary for acquisitions or successfully complete acquisitions in the future orfuture. Any acquisitions that completed acquisitions willwe complete may not be successful. Acquisitions and investments may involve significant cash expenditures, debt incurrences, equity issuances, operating losses and expenses that could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.expenses. Acquisitions involve numerous other risks, including:
diversion of management time and attention from daily operations;
difficulties integrating acquired businesses, technologies and personnel into our business;
difficulties in obtaining and verifying the financial statements and other business information of acquired businesses;
inability to obtain required regulatory approvals;
potential loss of key employees, key contractual relationships or key customers of acquired companies or of ours;
assumption of the liabilities and exposure to unforeseen liabilities of acquired companies, including risks relatedrelating to the U.S. Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (the "FCPA"“FCPA”); and
dilution of interests of holders of our shares through the issuance of equity securities or equity-linked securities.



It may be difficult for us to complete transactions quickly and to integrate acquired operations, including those from our recent acquisitions of Aquion, Inc. and Pelican Water Systems, efficiently into our business operations. Any acquisitions or investments may not be successful and may ultimately harmresult in impairment charges and have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations and cash flows, as such acquisitions may not be successful and may ultimately result in impairment charges.
We may not realize the anticipated benefits of the acquisition of ERICO Global Company and any benefit may take longer to realize than we expect.
On September 18, 2015, we acquired all of the outstanding shares of capital stock of ERICO for approximately $1.8 billion. The ERICO Acquisition involves the integration of ERICO’s operations with our existing operations, and there are uncertainties inherent in such an integration. We will be required to devote significant management attention and resources to integrating ERICO’s operations. Delays or unexpected difficulties in the integration process could adversely affect our business, financial results and financial condition. Even if we are able to integrate ERICO’s operations successfully, this integration may not result in the realization of the full benefits of revenue synergies, cost savings and operational efficiencies that we expect or the achievement of these benefits within a reasonable period of time. In addition, we may not have identified all liabilities and other factors regarding ERICO that could produce unintended and unexpected consequences for us. Undiscovered factors could result in us incurring financial liabilities, which could be material, and in us not achieving the expected benefits from the ERICO Acquisition within our desired time frames, if at all.

flows.
We may not achieve some or all of the expected benefits of our business initiatives.
During 2015, 20142018, 2017 and 2013,2016, we initiated and continued execution of certain business initiatives aimed at reducing our fixed cost structure and realigning our business. As a result, we have incurred substantial expense, including restructuring charges. We may not be able to achieve the operating efficiencies to reduce costs or realize benefits that were initially anticipated in connection with these initiatives. If we are unable to execute these initiatives as planned, we may not realize all or any of the anticipated benefits, which could adversely affecthave a material adverse effect on our business, andfinancial condition, results of operations and cash flows.
We are exposed to political, regulatory, economic, trade, and other risks that arise from operating a multinational business.
Sales outside of the U.S. for the year ended December 31, 20152018 accounted for 52 percent37% of our net sales. Further, most of our businesses obtain some products, components and raw materials from non-U.S. suppliers. Accordingly, our business is subject to the political, regulatory, economic, trade, and other risks that are inherent in operating in numerous countries. These risks include:
changes in general economic and political conditions in countries where we operate, particularly in emerging markets;
relatively more severe economic conditions in some international markets than in the United States;U.S.;
the imposition of tariffs, exchange controls or other trade restrictions;
changes in tax treaties, laws or rulings that could have a material adverse impact on our effective tax rate;
the difficulty of enforcing agreements and collecting receivables through foreignnon-U.S. legal systems;

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the difficulty of communicating and monitoring standards and directives across our global network of after-market service centers and manufacturing facilities;
trade protection measures and import or export licensing requirements and restrictions;
the possibility of terrorist action affecting us or our operations;
the threat of nationalization and expropriation;
the imposition of tariffs, exchange controls or other trade restrictions;
difficulty in staffing and managing widespread operations in non-U.S. labor markets;
changes in tax treaties, laws or rulings that could have an adverse impact on our effective tax rate;
limitations on repatriation of earnings;
the difficulty of protecting intellectual property in non-U.S. countries; and
changes in and required compliance with a variety of non-U.S. laws and regulations.

In 2016, the United Kingdom voted in a referendum to exit the European Union (“Brexit”), which resulted in significant currency exchange rate fluctuations and volatility. Negotiations continue to determine the terms of Brexit. Given the lack of comparable precedent and the status of the negotiations, the implications of Brexit, or how such implications might affect our company, continue to remain unclear at this time. Brexit could, among other impacts, disrupt trade and the movement of goods, services and people between the United Kingdom and the European Union or other countries as well as create legal and global economic uncertainty.
Our success depends in part on our ability to anticipate and effectively manage these and other risks. We cannot assure you that these and other factors will not have a material adverse effect on our international operations or on our business as a whole.
Our future revenue dependsChanges in partU.S. or foreign government administrative policy, including changes to existing trade agreements, could have a material adverse effect on us.
As a result of changes to U.S. or foreign government administrative policy, there may be changes to existing trade agreements, like the existenceNorth American Free Trade Agreement (“NAFTA”) and its anticipated successor agreement, the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement (“USMCA”) which is still subject to approval by the U.S., Mexico and Canada, greater restrictions on free trade generally, and significant increases in tariffs on goods imported into the U.S., particularly tariffs on products manufactured in Mexico, China, or other U.S. trading countries where we have operations or manufacture or sell products, among other possible changes. If the USMCA is ratified by all three countries, many of its provisions will not take effect until 2020. While the USMCA is somewhat similar to NAFTA, it contains several new compliance obligations addressing such issues as rules of origin, labor standard, certificate of origin documentation and de minimis thresholds, as well as new policies on labor and environmental standards, intellectual property protections and some digital trade provisions. We are currently analyzing the expected impact of the USMCA. While certain aspects of the USMCA are expected to be positive, others, including potentially higher regulatory compliance costs, may have an adverse impact on our abilitybusiness. It remains unclear what the U.S.


administration or foreign governments, including China, will or will not do with respect to win new contracts for major capital projects.
tariffs, NAFTA, USMCA or other international trade agreements and policies. A significant portion of our revenuetrade war, other governmental action related to tariffs or international trade agreements, including NAFTA and USMCA, changes in Technical Solutions is derived from major capital projects. The numberU.S. social, political, regulatory and economic conditions or in laws and policies governing foreign trade, manufacturing, development and investment in the territories and countries where we currently manufacture and sell products, and any resulting negative sentiments towards the U.S. as a result of such projects we may win in any year fluctuates, and is dependent upon the general availability of such projects and our ability to bid successfully for them. If negative market conditions arise, fewer such projects may be available, and if we fail to secure adequate financial arrangements or required governmental approvals we may not be able to pursue particular projects. Either conditionchanges, could materially and adversely affecthave a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.
We maintain a sizable backlog and the timing of our conversion of revenue out of backlog is uncertain. Our inability to convert backlog into revenue, whether due to factors that are within or outside of our control, could adversely affect our revenue and profitability.
The timing of our conversion of revenue out of backlog is subject to a variety of factors that may cause delays, many of which, including fluctuations in our customers’ delivery schedules, are beyond our control. This is especially true with respect to major global capital projects, where the extended timeline for project completion and invoice satisfaction increases the likelihood for delays in the conversion of backlog related to modifications and order cancellations. Such delays may lead to significant fluctuations in results of operations and cash flows from quarter to quarter, making it difficult to predict our financial performance on a quarterly basis. Further, while we believe that historical order cancellations have not been significant, if we were to experience a significant amount of cancellations of or reductions in orders, it would reduce our backlog and, consequently, our future sales and results of operations.
Material cost and other inflation have adversely affected and could continue to affect our results of operations.inflation.
In the past, we have experienced material cost and other inflation in a number of our businesses. We strive for productivity improvements and implement increases in selling prices to help mitigate cost increases in raw materials (especially metals and resins), energy and other costs such asincluding wages, pension, health care and insurance. We continue to implement operational initiatives in order to mitigate the impacts of this inflation and continuously reduce our costs. We cannot provide assurance, however, thatHowever, these actions willmay not be successful in managing our costs or increasing our productivity. Continued cost inflation or failure of our initiatives to generate cost savings or improve productivity would likely negatively impact our results of operations.
We are exposed to liquidated damages in many of our customer contracts.
Many of our customer contracts contain liquidated damages provisions in the event that we fail to perform our obligations thereunder incould have a timely manner or in accordance with agreed terms, conditions and standards. Liquidated damages provisions typically provide for a payment to be made by us to the customer if we fail to deliver a product or servicematerial adverse effect on time. We generally try to limit our exposure to a maximum penalty within a contract. However, because our products are often components of large and complex systems or capital projects, if we incur liquidated damages they may materially and adversely affect our business, financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.

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Certain of our products require certifications by regulators or standards organizations, and our failure to obtain or maintain such certifications could negatively impact our business.
In certain industries and for certain applications, in particular with respect to our pressure relief valves and valves used in the nuclear power generation industry, we must obtain certifications for our products or installations by regulators or standards organizations. As we expand our products offering into emerging markets, we will need to comply with additional and potentially different certification requirements. If we fail to obtain required certifications for our products, or if we fail to maintain such certifications on our products after they have been certified, our business, financial condition, results of operations and cash flows could be materially and adversely affected.
Intellectual property challenges may hinder our ability to develop, engineer and market our products.
Patents, non-compete agreements, proprietary technologies, customer relationships, trademarks, trade names and brand names are important to our business. Intellectual property protection, however, may not preclude competitors from developing products similar to ours or from challenging our names or products. Our pending patent applications, and our pending copyright and trademark registration applications, may not be allowed or competitors may challenge the validity or scope of our patents, copyrights or trademarks. In addition, our patents, copyrights, trademarks and other intellectual property rights may not provide us a significant competitive advantage. Over the past few years, we have noticed an increasing tendency for participants in our markets to use conflicts over and challenges to intellectual property as a means to compete. Patent and trademark challenges increase our costs to develop, engineer and market our products. We may need to spend significant resources monitoring, enforcing and defending our intellectual property rights and we may or may not be able to detect infringement by third parties. If we fail to successfully enforce our intellectual property rights or register new patents, our competitive position could suffer, which could harmhave a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.
We have significant goodwill and intangible assets and future impairment of our goodwill and intangible assets could have a material negative impactadverse effect on our financial results.results of operations.
We test goodwill and other indefinite-lived intangible assets for impairment on at least an annual basis, and more frequently if circumstances warrant, by comparing the estimated fair value of each of our reporting units to their respective carrying values on their balance sheets.warrant. As of December 31, 20152018 our goodwill and intangible assets were $7,745.5$2,349 million and represented 65%62% of our total assets. Long-term declinesDeclines in projected future cash flowsfair market value could result in future goodwill and intangible asset impairments. For example, we recognized a pre-tax, non-cash impairment chargecharges.

A loss of, $554.7 million for the year ended December 31, 2015 related to goodwill and trade name intangible assetsor material cancellation, reduction, or delay in Valves & Controls. Because of the significancepurchases by, one or more of our goodwill and intangible assets,largest customers could harm our business.
Our net sales to our largest customer represented approximately 15% of our consolidated net sales in 2018. While we do not have any future impairmentother customers that accounted for 10% or more of our consolidated net sales in 2018, we have other customers that are key to the success of our business. Our concentration of sales to a relatively small number of larger customers makes our relationship with each of these assetscustomers important to our business. Our success is dependent on retaining these customers, which requires us to successfully manage relationships and anticipate the needs of our customers in the channels in which we sell our products. Our customers also may be impacted by economic conditions in the industries of those customers, which could result in reduced demand for our products. We cannot provide assurance that we will be able to retain our largest customers. In addition, some of our customers may shift their purchases to our competitors in the future. The loss of one or more of our largest customers, any material cancellation, reduction, or delay in purchases by these customers, or our inability to successfully develop relationships with additional customers could have a material adverse effect on our financial results.
We may be adversely affected by work stoppages, union negotiations, labor disputes and other matters associated with our labor force.
As of December 31, 2015, approximately 10,200 of our employees were covered by collective bargaining agreements or works councils. Although we believe that our relations with the labor unions and work councils that represent our employees are generally good and we have experienced no material strikes and only minor work stoppages recently, no assurances can be made that we will not experience in the future these and other types of conflicts with labor unions, works councils, other groups representing employees or our employees generally, or that any future negotiations with our labor unions will not result in significant increases in our cost of labor.
Seasonality of sales and weather conditions may adversely affect our financial results.
We experience seasonal demand in a number of markets within Flow & Filtration Solutions, Water Quality Systems and Technical Solutions. In Flow & Filtration Solutions, demand for residential water supply products, infrastructure and agricultural products follows warm weather trends and is at seasonal highs from April to August. In Water Quality Systems, end-user demand for pool equipment in our primary markets follows warm weather trends and is at seasonal highs from April to August. The magnitude of the sales increase in both Flow & Filtration Solutions and Water Quality Systems is partially mitigated by employing some advance sale or "early buy" programs (generally including extended payment terms and/or additional discounts). Seasonal effects may vary from year to year and are impacted by weather patterns, particularly by temperatures, heavy flooding and droughts. Technical Solutions generally experiences increased demand for thermal protection products and services during the fall and winter months in the Northern Hemisphere and increased demand for electrical fastening products during the spring and summer months in the Northern Hemisphere. We cannot provide assurance that seasonality and weather conditions will not have a material adverse effect on our results of operations.
Our share price may fluctuate significantly.
We cannot predict the prices at which our shares may trade. The market price of our shares may fluctuate widely, depending on many factors, some of which may be beyond our control, including:
actual or anticipated fluctuations in our operating results due to factors related to our business;

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success or failure of our business strategy;
our quarterly or annual earnings, or those of other companies in our industry;
our ability to obtain third-party financing as needed;
announcements by us or our competitors of significant acquisitions or dispositions;
changes in accounting standards, policies, guidance, interpretations or principles;
changes in earnings estimates by us or securities analysts or our ability to meet those estimates;
the operating and share price performance of other comparable companies;
investor perception of us;
natural or other environmental disasters that investors believe may affect us;
overall market fluctuations;
results from any material litigation, including asbestos claims, government investigations or environmental liabilities;
changes in laws and regulations affecting our business; and
general economic conditions and other external factors.
Stock markets in general have experienced volatility that has often been unrelated to the operating performance of a particular company. These broad market fluctuations could adversely affect the trading price of our shares.
Risks Relating to Legal, Regulatory and Compliance Matters
Our subsidiaries are party to asbestos-related product litigation that could adversely affect our financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.
Our subsidiaries, along with numerous other companies, are named as defendants in a substantial number of lawsuits based on alleged exposure to asbestos-containing materials. These cases typically involve product liability claims based primarily on allegations of manufacture, sale or distribution of industrial products that either contained asbestos or were attached to or used with asbestos-containing components manufactured by third parties. Each case typically names between dozens to hundreds of corporate defendants. Historically, our subsidiaries have been identified as defendants in asbestos-related claims. We have experienced an increase in the number of asbestos-related lawsuits over the past several years, including lawsuits by plaintiffs with mesothelioma-related claims. A large percentage of these suits have not presented viable legal claims and, as a result, have been dismissed or withdrawn. Our strategy has been, and continues to be, to mount a vigorous defense aimed at having unsubstantiated suits dismissed, and, only where appropriate, settling claims before trial. As of December 31, 2015, there were approximately 4,100 claims pending against our subsidiaries. We cannot predict with certainty the extent to which we will be successful in litigating or otherwise resolving lawsuits in the future and we continue to evaluate different strategies related to asbestos claims filed against us including entity restructuring and judicial relief. Unfavorable rulings, judgments or settlement terms could have a material adverse impact on our business and financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.

We currently record an estimated liability related to pending claims and future claims, including related defense costs, based on a number of key assumptions and estimation methodologies. These assumptions are derived from historical claims experience and reflect our expectations about future claim activities. These assumptions about the future may or may not prove accurate, and accordingly, we may incur additional liabilities in the future. A change in one or more of the inputs or the methodology that we use to estimate the asbestos liability could materially change the estimated liability and associated cash flows for pending and future claims. Although it is possible that we will incur additional costs for asbestos claims filed beyond what we have currently recorded, we do not believe there is a reasonable basis for estimating those costs at this time. On an annual basis, we review, and update as appropriate, such estimated asbestos liabilities and assets and the underlying assumptions. Such an update could result in a material change in such estimated assets and liabilities.

We also record an asset that represents our best estimate of probable recoveries from insurers or other responsible parties for the estimated asbestos liabilities. There are significant assumptions made in developing estimates of asbestos-related recoveries, such as policy triggers, policy or contract interpretation, success in litigation in certain cases, the methodology for allocating claims to policies and the continued solvency of the insurers or other responsible parties. The assumptions underlying the recorded asset may not prove accurate, and as a result, actual performance by our insurers and other responsible parties could result in lower receivables and cash flows expected to reduce our asbestos costs. We believe it is possible that the

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cost of asbestos claims filed beyond our estimation period, net of expected recoveries, could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.
We could be adversely affected by violations of the U.S. Foreign Corrupt Practices Act and similar anti-corruption laws outside the United States.
The FCPA and similar anti-corruption laws in other jurisdictions generally prohibit companies and their intermediaries from making improper payments to government officials or other persons for the purpose of obtaining or retaining business. Recent years have seen a substantial increase in anti-bribery law enforcement activity, with more frequent and aggressive investigations and enforcement proceedings by both the U.S. Department of Justice ("DOJ") and the SEC, increased enforcement activity by non-U.S. regulators and increases in criminal and civil proceedings brought against companies and individuals. Our policies mandate compliance with these anti-bribery laws. We operate in many parts of the world that are recognized as having governmental and commercial corruption and in certain circumstances, strict compliance with anti-bribery laws may conflict with local customs and practices. Because many of our customers and end users are involved in infrastructure construction and energy production, they are often subject to increased scrutiny by regulators. We cannot assure you that our internal control policies and procedures will always protect us from reckless or criminal acts committed by our employees or third-party intermediaries. In the event that we believe or have reason to believe that our employees or agents have or may have violated applicable anti-corruption laws, including the FCPA we may be required to investigate or have outside counsel investigate the relevant facts and circumstances, which can be expensive and require significant time and attention from senior management. Violations of these laws may result in criminal or civil sanctions, which could disrupt our business and result in a material adverse effect on our reputation, business, financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.
PriorA material disruption at any of our manufacturing facilities could cause us to the Merger, the Flow Control business was subjectbe unable to investigations by the DOJ and the SEC relatedmeet customer demands or increase our costs.
If operations at any of our manufacturing facilities were to allegations that improper payments were made by the Flow Control business and other Tyco subsidiaries and third-party intermediaries in recent years in violation of the FCPA. Tyco reported to the DOJ and the SEC the remedial measures that it had taken in response to the allegations and Tyco’s own internal investigations. Asbe disrupted as a result of discussions with the DOJ and SEC aimed at resolving these matters, on September 24, 2012, Tyco entered into a settlement with the SEC and a non-prosecution agreement with the DOJ. As a result, the Flow Control businesssignificant equipment failures, natural disasters, earthquakes, power outages, fires, explosions, terrorism, adverse weather conditions, labor disputes or other reasons, we may be subjectunable to investigationsfill customer orders and otherwise meet customer demand for our products, which could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations and cash flows. Interruptions in other jurisdictionsproduction, in particular at our manufacturing facilities, could increase our costs and reduce our sales. Any interruption in production capability could require us to make substantial capital expenditures to fill customer orders. We maintain property damage insurance that we believe to be adequate to provide for reconstruction of facilities and equipment, as well as business interruption insurance to mitigate losses resulting from any production interruption or suffer other criminalshutdown caused by an insured loss. However, any recovery under our insurance policies may not offset the lost sales or civil penalties or adverse impacts, including being subject to lawsuits brought by private litigants, eachincreased costs that may be experienced


during the disruption of operations, which could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.
Our failureSeasonality of sales and weather conditions could have a material adverse effect on our financial results.
We experience seasonal demand with end-customers and end-users within each of our business segments. Demand for pool equipment in the Aquatic Systems segment, water filtration products in the Filtration Solutions segment, and residential water supply, infrastructure and agricultural products in the Flow Technologies segment follows warm weather trends and is at seasonal highs from April to satisfy international trade compliance regulations may adversely affect us.
Our global operations require importing and exporting goods and technology across international borders on a regular basis. CertainAugust. While we attempt to mitigate the magnitude of the products we manufacture are "dual use" products, which are products that may have both civil and military applications, or may otherwise be involved in weapons proliferation, and are often subject to more stringent export controls. From time to time, we obtain or receive information alleging improper activity in connection with imports or exports. Our policy mandates strict compliance with U.S. and non-U.S. trade laws applicable to our products. However, even when we are in strict compliance with law and our policies, we may suffer reputational damage if certain of our products are sold through various intermediaries to entities operating in sanctioned countries. When we receive information alleging improper activity, our policy is to investigate that information and respond appropriately, including, if warranted, reporting our findings to relevant governmental authorities. Nonetheless, we cannot provide assurance that our policies and procedures will always protect us from actions that would violate U.S. and/or non-U.S. laws. Any improper actions could subject us to civil or criminal penalties, including material monetary fines, or other adverse actions including denial of import or export privileges, and could damage our reputation and business prospects.
We are exposed to potential environmental and other laws, liabilities and litigation.
We are subject to U.S. federal, state, local and non-U.S. laws and regulations governing our environmental practices, public and worker health and safety, and the indoor and outdoor environment. Compliance with these environmental, health and safety regulations could require us to satisfy environmental liabilities, increase the cost of manufacturing our products or otherwise adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations. Any violations of these laws by us could cause us to incur unanticipated liabilities that could harm our operating results and cause our business to suffer. We are also required to comply with various environmental laws and maintain permits, some of which are subject to discretionary renewal from time to time, for many of our businesses and we could suffer if we are unable to renew existing permits or to obtain any additional permits that we may require. Compliance with environmental requirements also could require significant operating or capital expenditures or result in significant operational restrictions. We cannot assure you that we have been or will be at all times in compliance with environmental and health and safety laws. If we violate these laws, we could be fined, criminally charged or otherwise sanctioned by regulators.
We have been named as defendant, target or a potentially responsible party ("PRP") in a number of environmental clean-ups relating to our current or former business units. We have disposed of a number of businesses in recent years and in certain

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cases, we have retained responsibility and potential liability for certain environmental obligations. We have received claims for indemnification from certain purchasers. We may be named as a PRP at other sitessales spike in the future for existing business units, as well as both divestedAquatic Systems and acquired businesses. In addition to cleanup actions broughtFlow Technologies segments by governmental authorities, private parties could bring personal injury employing some advance sale “early buy” programs (generally including extended payment terms and/or other claims due to the presence of, or exposure to, hazardous substances.
Certain environmental laws impose liability on current or previous owners or operators of real property for the cost of removal or remediation of hazardous substances at their properties or at properties at which they have disposed of hazardous substances. We have projects underway at several current and former manufacturing facilities to investigate and remediate environmental contamination resulting from our past operations or by other businesses that previously owned or used the properties. The cost of cleanup and other environmental liabilities can be difficult to accurately predict. In addition, environmental requirements change and tend to become more stringent over time. Thus, we cannot provide assurance that our eventual environmental clean-up costs and liabilities will not exceed the amount of our current reserves.
We are exposed to potential regulatory, financial and reputational risks related to certain "conflict minerals."
In 2012, the SEC adopted disclosure requirements related to certain minerals sourced from the Democratic Republic of Congo or adjoining countries, as required by Section 1502 of the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act. The final rules impose inquiry, diligence and disclosure obligations with respect to "conflict minerals," defined as tin, tantalum, tungsten and gold, that are necessary to the functionality of a product manufactured, or contracted to be manufactured, by an SEC reporting company. Certain of these minerals are used extensively in components manufactured by our suppliers (or in components incorporated by our suppliers into components supplied to us) for use in our products. Under the final rules, an SEC reporting company must conduct a country of origin inquiry that is reasonably designed to determine whether any of the "conflict minerals" that are necessary to the functionality of a product manufactured, or contracted to be manufactured, by the company originated in the Democratic Republic of the Congo or an adjoining country. If any such "conflict minerals" originated in the Democratic Republic of Congo or an adjoining country, the final rules require the issuer to exercise due diligence on the source of such "conflict minerals" and their chain of custody with the ultimate objective of determining whether the "conflict minerals" directly or indirectly financed or benefited armed groups in the Democratic Republic of the Congo or an adjoining country. The issuer must then prepare and file with the SEC annually a report regarding its diligence efforts, which we have done since the SEC's reporting requirements became effective. We have incurred, and expect to continue to incur, significant costs to conduct country of origin inquiries and to exercise such due diligence.
We have a very large number of suppliers and our supply chain is very complex and multifaceted. While we have no intention to use minerals sourced from the Democratic Republic of Congo or adjoining countries that are not "conflict free" (meaning that they do not contain "conflict minerals" that directly or indirectly finance or benefit armed groups in the Democratic Republic of the Congo or an adjoining country), a significant number of our suppliers are small businesses, and those small businesses have limited or no resources to track their sources of minerals. As a result, we have experienced, and expect to continue to experience, ongoing significant difficulty in determining the country of origin or the source and chain of custody for all "conflict minerals" used in our products and disclosing that our products are "conflict free." We may face reputational challenges if we are unable to verify the country of origin or the source and chain of custody for all "conflict minerals" used in our products or if we continue to be unable to disclose that our products are "conflict free." The ongoing implementation of these rules may also affect the sourcing and availability of some minerals necessary to the manufacture of our products and may affect the availability and price of "conflict minerals" capable of certification as "conflict free." Accordingly, we have incurred, and expect to continue to incur, significant costs as a consequence of these rules, which may adversely affect our business, financial condition or results of operations.
We are exposed to certain regulatory and financial risks related to climate change.
Climate change is receiving ever increasing attention worldwide. Many scientists, legislators and others attribute global warming to increased levels of greenhouse gases, including carbon dioxide, which has led to significant legislative and regulatory efforts to limit greenhouse gas emissions. The U.S. Congress and federal and state regulatory agencies have been considering legislation and regulatory proposals that would regulate and limit greenhouse gas emissions. It is uncertain whether, when and in what form a federal mandatory carbon dioxide emissions reduction program may be adopted. Similarly, certain countries have adopted the Kyoto Protocol and this and other existing international initiatives or those under consideration could affect our international operations. To the extent our customers, particularly those involved in the oil and gas, power generation, petrochemical processing or petroleum refining industries, are subject to any of these or other similar proposed or newly enacted laws and regulations, we are exposed to risks that the additional costs by customers to comply with such laws and regulations could impact their ability or desire to continue to operate at similar levels in certain jurisdictions as historically seen or as currently anticipated, which could negatively impact their demand for our products and services. In addition, new laws and regulations that might favor the increased use of non-fossil fuels, including nuclear, wind, solar and bio-fuels or that are designed to increase energy efficiency, could dampen demand for oil and gas production or power generation resulting in lower spending by customers for our products and services. These actions could also increase costs associated with

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our operations, including costs for raw materials and transportation. Because it is uncertain what laws will be enacted, we cannot predict the potential impact of such laws on our future financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.
Increased information technology security threats and more sophisticated computer crime pose a risk to our systems, networks, products and services. We are exposed to potential regulatory, financial and reputational risks relating to the protection of our data.
We rely upon information technology systems and networks in connection with a variety of business activities, some of which are managed by third parties. Additionally, we collect and store data that is sensitive to Pentair and its employees, customers, dealers and suppliers. The secure operation of these information technology systems and networks, and the processing and maintenance of this data is critical to our business operations and strategy. Information technology security threats -- from user error to attacks designed to gain unauthorized access to our systems, networks and data -- are increasing in frequency and sophistication. Attacks may range from random attempts to coordinated and targeted attacks, including sophisticated computer crime and advanced persistent threats. These threats pose a risk to the security of our systems and networks and the confidentiality, availability and integrity of the data we process and maintain. Establishing systems and processes to address these threats and changes in legal requirements relating to data collection and storage may increase our costs. We have identified attempts to gain unauthorized access to our information technology systems and networks. To our knowledge, no such attack was ultimately successful in exporting sensitive data or controlling sensitive systems or networks. Should such an attack succeed it could expose us and our employees, customers, dealers and suppliers to misuse of information or systems, the compromising of confidential information, theft of assets, manipulation and destruction of data, defective products, production downtimes and operations disruptions, and breach of privacy, which may require notification under data privacy and other applicable laws. The occurrence of any of these events could adversely affect our reputation, competitive position, business and results of operations. In addition, such breaches in security could result in litigation, regulatory action and potential liability and the costs and operational consequences of implementing further data protection measures.
Our results of operations may be negatively impacted by litigation.
Our businesses expose us to potential litigation, such as product liability claims relating to the design, manufacture and sale of our products. While we currently maintain what we believe to be suitable product liability insurance, we cannot provide assurance that we will be able to maintain this insurance on acceptable terms or that this insurance will provide adequate protection against potential or previously existing liabilities. In addition, we self-insure a portion of product liability claims. Successful claims against us for significant amounts could materially and adversely affect our product reputation, financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.
Risks Relating to the Distribution and the Merger
We share responsibility for certain income tax liabilities for tax periods prior to and including the date of the Distribution.
In connection with the Distribution, we entered into a tax sharing agreement (the "2012 Tax Sharing Agreement") with Tyco and The ADT Corporation ("ADT")discounts), which governs the rights and obligations of ADT, Tyco and us for certain pre-Distribution tax liabilities, including Tyco’s obligations under a separate tax sharing agreement (the "2007 Tax Sharing Agreement") entered into by Tyco, Covidien Ltd. (now known as Medtronic plc, "Medtronic") and TE Connectivity Ltd. ("TE Connectivity") in connection with the 2007 distributions of Medtronic and TE Connectivity by Tyco (the "2007 Separation").
The 2007 Tax Sharing Agreement governs the rights and obligations of Tyco, Medtronic and TE Connectivity with respect to certain pre-2007 Separation tax liabilities and certain tax liabilities arising in connection with the 2007 Separation. More specifically, Tyco, Medtronic and TE Connectivity share 27%, 42% and 31%, respectively, of income tax liabilities that arise from adjustments made by tax authorities to Tyco’s, Medtronic’s and TE Connectivity’s U.S. and certain non-U.S. 2007 and prior income tax returns. In addition, in the event that the 2007 Separation or certain related transactions are determined to be taxable as a result of actions taken after the 2007 Separation by Tyco, Medtronic or TE Connectivity, the party responsible for such failure would be responsible for all taxes imposed on Tyco, Medtronic or TE Connectivity as a result thereof. If none of the companies is responsible for such failure, then Tyco, Medtronic and TE Connectivity would be responsible for such taxes, in the same manner and in the same proportions as other shared tax liabilities under the 2007 Tax Sharing Agreement. Costs and expenses associated with the management of these shared tax liabilities are generally shared equally among the parties.
The 2012 Tax Sharing Agreement provides that we, Tyco and ADT will share (i) certain pre-Distribution income tax liabilities that arise from adjustments made by tax authorities to our, Tyco’s and ADT’s U.S. income tax returns, and (ii) payments required to be made by Tyco with respect to the 2007 Tax Sharing Agreement (the liabilities in clauses (i) and (ii) collectively, "Shared Tax Liabilities"). Tyco is responsible for the first $500 million of Shared Tax Liabilities. As of December 31, 2015, Tyco has paid $63.0 million of Shared Tax Liabilities. We and ADT will share 42% and 58%, respectively, of the next $225 million of Shared Tax Liabilities. We, ADT and Tyco will share 20%, 27.5% and 52.5%, respectively, of Shared Tax Liabilities above $725 million. Costs and expenses associated with the management of Shared Tax Liabilities will generally be shared 20% by us, 27.5% by ADT and 52.5% by Tyco.

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Tax authorities, including the Internal Revenue Service ("IRS"), have raised issues and proposed tax adjustments, in particular with respect to tax years preceding the 2007 Separation, in connection with examinations of Tyco’s and its subsidiaries’ income tax returns. The issues and proposed adjustments are generally subject to the sharing provisions of the 2007 Tax Sharing Agreement which may require Tyco to make a payment to a taxing authority, Medtronic or TE Connectivity. In connection with U.S. federal tax audits, the IRS has raised a number of issues and proposed adjustments for periods beginning with the 1997 tax year. Although Tyco has resolve substantially all of the issues and adjustments proposed by the IRS for tax years through 2007, it has not been able to resolve matters related to the treatment of certain intercompany debt transactions during the period. As described below, Tyco has entered into a settlement with the IRS intended to resolve the intercompany debt issues for Tyco’s 1997 - 2000 audit cycle; however, the ultimate resolution of these matters is uncertain and could result in Tyco being responsible for a greater amount than it expects under the 2007 Tax Sharing Agreement.
On July 1, 2013, Tyco announced that the IRS issued Notices of Deficiency ("Tyco IRS Notices") to Tyco asserting that several of Tyco’s former U.S. subsidiaries collectively owe additional taxes of $883.3 million plus penalties of $154 million based on audits of the 1997 through 2000 tax years of Tyco and its subsidiaries as they existed at that time. These amounts exclude interest and do not reflect the impact on subsequent periods if the IRS position described below is ultimately successful.
The IRS asserted in the Tyco IRS Notices that substantially all of Tyco’s intercompany debt originated during the 1997 - 2000 period should not be treated as debt for U.S. federal income tax purposes, and has disallowed interest and related deductions recognized on U.S. income tax returns for those periods totaling approximately $2.9 billion. If the IRS is successful in asserting its claim, it would have an adverse impact on interest deductions related to the same Tyco intercompany debt in subsequent time periods, totaling approximately $6.6 billion, which Tyco has advised us that it expects the IRS to disallow. Under the 2012 Tax Sharing Agreement, Tyco has the right to administer, control, and settle all U.S. income tax audits for periods prior to and including the Distribution. Tyco has filed petitions with the U.S. Tax Court contesting the IRS proposed adjustments and a trial date has been set for October 2016.
On January 19, 2016, Tyco announced that it had entered into Stipulations of Settled Issues with the IRS intended to resolve all disputes related to the intercompany debt issues for Tyco’s 1997 - 2000 audit cycle currently before the U.S. Tax Court. The Stipulations of Settled Issues are contingent upon the IRS Appeals Division applying the same settlement to all intercompany debt issues on appeal for subsequent audit cycles (2001 - 2007) and, if applicable, review by the U.S. Congress Joint Committee on Taxation. Tyco further disclosed that if finalized, the tentative resolution would cover all aspects of the controversy described above and before the Appeals Division of the IRS, and would result in a total cash payment to the IRS in the range of $475 million to $525 million, which includes all interest and penalties, and that this payment would be subject to the sharing formulas described above in the 2007 and 2012 Tax Sharing Agreements with Pentair not being responsible for any payment related to this amount. However, we cannot provide any assurance that the conditions precedent to this settlementsuch programs will be met, that the intercompany debt dispute is settled with the IRS or that the IRS will consistently apply the terms of the settlement to all of Tyco’s U.S. income tax returns filed subsequent to 2000.
If the IRS should successfully assert its position, our share of the collective liability, if any, would be determined pursuant to the 2007 Tax Sharing Agreement and the 2012 Tax Sharing Agreement. Any payment that Tyco is required to make under the 2007 Tax Sharing Agreement, including if the IRS were to prevail with respect to the matter set forth above, could result in a material liability for us under the 2012 Tax Sharing Agreement. To the extent we are responsible for any liability under the 2012 Tax Sharing Agreement, and indirectly the 2007 Tax Sharing Agreement, there could be a material adverse impact on our financial condition, results of operations, cash flows or our effective tax rate in future reporting periods.
If the Merger, Distribution or certain internal transactions undertaken in anticipation of the Distribution are determined to be taxable for U.S. federal income tax purposes, we, our shareholders or Tyco could incur significant U.S. federal income tax liabilities.
Pentair, Inc. and Tyco received private letter rulings from the IRS in connection with the Distribution and the Merger regarding the U.S. federal income tax consequences of the Distribution and the Merger to the effect that, for U.S. federal income tax purposes: the Distribution will qualify as tax-free under Sections 355 and 361 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the "Code"), except for cash received in lieu of fractional shares; certain internal transactions undertaken in anticipation of the Distribution will qualify for favorable treatment under the Code; the Merger will qualify as a reorganization under Section 368(a) of the Code; certain anticipated post-closing transactions will not prevent the tax-free treatment of the Distribution or the Merger; and Section 367(a)(1) of the Code will not cause the Merger to be taxable to Pentair, Inc. shareholders (except for a U.S. shareholder who is or will be a "five-percent transferee shareholder" within the meaning of applicable Treasury Regulations but who does not enter into a "gain recognition agreement" with the IRS).successful. In addition, Tyco received a legal opinion confirming the tax-free status of the Distribution for U.S. federal income tax purposes and Tyco and Pentair, Inc. received legal opinions to the effect that the Merger will qualify as a reorganization under section 368(a) of the Code and that Section 367(a)(1) of the Code will not cause the Merger to be taxable to Pentair, Inc. shareholders (except for a U.S. shareholder who is or will be a "five-percent transferee shareholder" within the meaning of applicable Treasury

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Regulations but who does not enter into a "gain recognition agreement" with the IRS).
The private letter rulings and opinions relied on certain facts and assumptions, and certain representations and undertakings, from us, Tyco and Pentair, Inc. Notwithstanding the private letter rulings and the opinions, the IRS could determine on audit that the Distribution, the internal transactions or the Merger should be treated as taxable transactions if it determines that any of these facts, assumptions, representations or undertakings is not correct or has been violated, or that the Distribution, the internal transactions or the Merger should be taxable for other reasons, including as a result of significant changes in share or asset ownership after the Merger.
If the Distribution ultimately is determined to be taxable, the Distribution could be treated as a taxable dividend or capital gain to Tyco shareholders for U.S. federal income tax purposes, and Tyco shareholders could incur significant U.S. federal income tax liabilities. In addition, Tyco would recognize a gain in an amount equal to the excess of the fair market value of Pentair Ltd.’s ordinary shares distributed to Tyco shareholders on the Distribution date over Tyco’s tax basis in such ordinary shares, but such gain, if recognized, generally would not be subject to U.S. federal income tax. However, Tyco could incur significant U.S. federal income tax liabilities if it is ultimately determined that certain internal transactions undertaken in anticipation of the Distribution are taxable. If the Merger ultimately is determined to be taxable, Pentair, Inc. shareholders would recognize taxable gain or loss on their disposition of Pentair, Inc. ordinary sharesseasonal effects in the Merger.
Under the terms of the 2012 Tax Sharing Agreement, in the event the Distribution, the ADT distribution, the internal transactions or the Merger were determinedFlow Technologies segment may vary from year to be taxable as a result of actions taken after the Distribution by us, ADT or Tyco, the party responsible for such failure would be responsible for all taxes imposed as a result thereof. If such failure is not the result of actions taken after the Distribution by us, ADT or Tyco, then we, ADTyear and Tyco would be responsible for any taxes imposed as a result of such determination in the same manner and in the same proportions as we, ADT and Tyco are responsible for Shared Tax Liabilities. Such tax amounts could be significant. In the event that any party to the 2012 Tax Sharing Agreement defaults in its obligation to pay certain taxes to another party that arise as a result of no party’s fault, each non-defaulting party would be responsible for an equal amount of the defaulting party’s obligation to make a payment to another party in respect of such other party’s taxes. In addition, if another party to the 2012 Tax Sharing Agreement that is responsible for all or a portion of an income tax liability were to default in its payment of such liability to a taxing authority, we could be legally liable under applicable tax law for such liabilities and required to make additional tax payments. Accordingly, under certain circumstances, we may be obligated to pay amounts in excess of our agreed-upon share of our, Tyco’s and ADT’s tax liabilities.
If the Distribution or the Merger is determined to be taxable for Swiss withholding or other tax purposes, we could incur significant Swiss withholding tax or other tax liabilities.
Generally, Swiss withholding tax of 35% is due on dividends and similar distributions to Tyco’s shareholders, regardless of the place of residency of the shareholder. As of January 1, 2011, distributions to shareholders out of qualifying contributed surplus (Kapitaleinlage) accumulated on or after January 1, 1997 are exempt from Swiss withholding tax if certain conditions are met (Kapitaleinlageprinzip). Tyco has obtained a ruling from the Swiss Federal Tax Administration confirming that the Distribution qualifies as payment out of such qualifying contributed surplus and no amount will be withheld by Tyco when making the Distribution.
As a condition to closing of the Merger, Tyco obtained rulings from the Swiss Federal Tax Administration confirming: (i) that the Merger will be a transaction that is generally tax-free for Swiss federal, cantonal, and communal tax purposes (including with respect to Swiss stamp tax and Swiss withholding tax); (ii) the relevant Swiss tax base of an acquisition subsidiary of ours for Swiss tax (including federal and cantonal and communal) purposes; (iii) the relevant amount of capital contribution reserves (Kapitaleinlageprinzip) which will be exempt from Swiss withholding tax in the event of a distribution to our shareholders after the Merger; and (iv) that no Swiss stamp tax will be levied on certain post-Merger restructuring transactions.
These tax rulings rely on certain facts and assumptions, and certain representations and undertakings, from Tyco. Notwithstanding these tax rulings, the Swiss Federal Tax Administration could determine on audit that the Distribution or the Merger or certain internal transactions undertaken in anticipation of the Distribution should be treated as a taxable transaction for withholding tax or other tax purposes if it determines that any of these facts, assumptions, representations or undertakings is not correct or has been violated. If the Distribution or the Merger or certain internal transactions undertaken in anticipation of the Distribution ultimately are determined to be taxable for withholding tax or other tax purposes, we and Tyco could incur material Swiss withholding tax or other tax liabilities that could significantly detract from, or eliminate, the benefits of the Distribution and the Merger. In addition, we could become liable to indemnify Tyco for part of any Swiss withholding tax liabilities to the extent provided under the 2012 Tax Sharing Agreement.

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Risks Relating to Our Liquidity
Disruptions in the financial markets could adversely affect us, our customers and our suppliers by increasing funding costs or reducing availability of credit.
In the normal course of our business, we may access credit markets for general corporate purposes, which may include repayment of indebtedness, acquisitions, additions to working capital, repurchase of shares, capital expenditures and investments in our subsidiaries. Although we expect to have sufficient liquidity to meet our foreseeable needs, our access to and the cost of capital could be negatively impacted by disruptions in the credit markets, which have occurred in the pastweather patterns, particularly by temperature, heavy flooding and made financing terms for borrowers unattractive or unavailable. These factors may make it more difficult or expensive for us to access credit markets if the need arises. In addition, these factors may make it more difficult for our suppliers to meet demand for their products or for prospective customers to commence new projects, as customers and suppliers may experience increased costs of debt financing or difficulties in obtaining debt financing. Disruptions in the financial markets have had adverse effects on other areas of the economy and have led to a slowdown in general economic activity that may continue to adversely affect our businesses. These disruptions may have other unknown adverse effects. One or more of these factors could adversely affect our business, financial condition, results of operations or cash flows.droughts.
Covenants in our debt instruments may adversely affect us.
Our credit agreements and indentures contain customary financial covenants, including those that limit the amount of our debt, which may restrict the operations of our business and our ability to incur additional debt to finance acquisitions. Our ability to meet the financial covenants can be affected by events beyond our control, and we cannot provide assurance that we will meet those tests. A breach of any of these covenants could result in a default under our credit agreements or indentures. Upon the occurrence of an event of default under any of our credit facilities or indentures, the lenders or trustees could elect to declare all amounts outstanding thereunder to be immediately due and payable and, in the case of credit facility lenders, terminate all commitments to extend further credit. If the lenders or trustees accelerate the repayment of borrowings, we cannot provide assurance that we will have sufficient assets to repay our credit facilities and our other indebtedness. Furthermore, acceleration of any obligation under any of our material debt instruments will permit the holders of our other material debt to accelerate their obligations, which could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition.
We may increase our debt or raise additional capital or our credit ratings may be downgraded in the future, which could affect our financial condition, and may decrease our profitability.
As of December 31, 2015,2018, we had $4.7 billion$788 million of total debt outstanding. We may increase our debt or raise additional capital in the future, subject to restrictions in our debt agreements. If our cash flow from operations is less than we anticipate, if our cash requirements are more than we expect, or if we intend to finance acquisitions, we may require more financing. However, debt or equity financing may not be available to us on acceptable terms, if at all. If we incur additional debt or raise equity through the issuance of additional capital shares, the terms of the debt or capital shares issued may give the holders rights, preferences and privileges senior to those of holders of our ordinary shares, particularly in the event of liquidation. The terms of the debt may also impose additional and more stringent restrictions on our operations than we currently have. If we raise funds through the issuance of additional equity, the percentage ownership of existing shareholders in our company would decline. If we are unable to raise additional capital when needed, our financial condition could be adversely affected. Unfavorable changes in the ratings that rating agencies assign to our debt may ultimately negatively impact our access to the debt capital markets and increase the costs we incur to borrow funds. If ratings for our debt fall below investment grade, our access to the debt capital markets may become restricted. Additionally, our credit agreements generally include an increase in interest rates if the ratings for our debt are downgraded.
Our leverage could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition or results of operations.
Our ability to make payments on and to refinance our indebtedness, including our existing debt as well as any future debt that we may incur, will depend on our ability to generate cash in the future from operations, financings or asset sales. Our ability to generate cash is subject to general economic, financial, competitive, legislative, regulatory and other factors that are beyond our control. If we are not able to repay or refinance our debt as it becomes due, we may be forced to sell assets or take other disadvantageous actions, including (i) reducing financing in the future for working capital, capital expenditures and general corporate purposes or (ii) dedicating an unsustainable level of our cash flow from operations to the payment of principal and interest on our indebtedness. The lenders who hold such debt could also accelerate amounts due, which could potentially trigger a default or acceleration of any of our other debt.

Disruptions in the financial markets could adversely affect us, our customers and our suppliers by increasing funding costs or reducing availability of credit.
In the normal course of our business, we may access credit markets for general corporate purposes, which may include repayment of indebtedness, acquisitions, additions to working capital, repurchase of shares, capital expenditures and investments in our subsidiaries. Although we expect to have sufficient liquidity to meet our foreseeable needs, our access to and the cost of capital could be negatively impacted by disruptions in the credit markets, which have occurred in the past and made financing terms for borrowers unattractive or unavailable. These factors may make it more difficult or expensive for us to access credit markets if the need arises. In addition, these factors may make it more difficult for our suppliers to meet demand for their products or for prospective customers to commence new projects, as customers and suppliers may experience


increased costs of debt financing or difficulties in obtaining debt financing. Disruptions in the financial markets have had adverse effects on other areas of the economy and have led to a slowdown in general economic activity that may continue to adversely affect our businesses. One or more of these factors could adversely affect our business, financial condition, results of operations or cash flows.
Our share price may fluctuate significantly.
We cannot predict the prices at which our shares may trade. The market price of our shares may fluctuate widely, depending on many factors, some of which may be beyond our control, including:
actual or anticipated fluctuations in our results of operations due to factors related to our business;
success or failure of our business strategy;
our quarterly or annual earnings, or those of other companies in our industry;
our ability to obtain third-party financing as needed;
announcements by us or our competitors of significant acquisitions or dispositions;
changes in accounting standards, policies, guidance, interpretations or principles;
changes in earnings estimates or guidance by us or securities analysts or our ability to meet those estimates or guidance;
the operating and share price performance of other comparable companies;
investor perception of us;
overall market fluctuations;
results from any material litigation, government investigations or environmental liabilities;
natural or other environmental disasters;
changes in laws and regulations affecting our business; and
general economic conditions and other external factors.
Stock markets in general have experienced volatility that has often been unrelated to the operating performance of a particular company. These broad market fluctuations could have a material adverse effect on our share price.
Risks Relating to Legal, Regulatory and Compliance Matters
Violations of the U.S. Foreign Corrupt Practices Act and similar anti-corruption laws outside the U.S. could have a material adverse effect on us.
The FCPA and similar anti-corruption laws in other jurisdictions generally prohibit companies and their intermediaries from making improper payments to government officials or other persons for the purpose of obtaining or retaining business. Recent years have seen a substantial increase in anti-bribery law enforcement activity, with more frequent and aggressive investigations and enforcement proceedings by both the U.S. Department of Justice and the SEC, increased enforcement activity by non-U.S. regulators and increases in criminal and civil proceedings brought against companies and individuals. Our policies mandate compliance with these anti-bribery laws. We operate in many parts of the world that are recognized as having governmental and commercial corruption and in certain circumstances, strict compliance with anti-bribery laws may conflict with local customs and practices. Because many of our customers and end users are involved in infrastructure construction and energy production, they are often subject to increased scrutiny by regulators. We cannot assure you that our internal control policies and procedures will always protect us from reckless or criminal acts committed by our employees or third-party intermediaries. In the event that we believe or have reason to believe that our employees or agents have or may have violated applicable anti-corruption laws, including the FCPA we may be required to investigate or have outside counsel investigate the relevant facts and circumstances, which can be expensive and require significant time and attention from senior management. Violations of these laws may require self-disclosure to government agencies and result in criminal or civil sanctions, which could disrupt our business and result in a material adverse effect on our reputation, business, financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.
Our failure to satisfy international trade compliance regulations, and changes in U.S. government sanctions, could have a material adverse effect on us.
Our global operations require importing and exporting goods and technology across international borders on a regular basis. Certain of the products we manufacture are “dual use” products, which are products that may have both civil and military applications, or may otherwise be involved in weapons proliferation, and are often subject to more stringent export controls.


From time to time, we obtain or receive information alleging improper activity in connection with imports or exports. Our policy mandates strict compliance with U.S. and non-U.S. trade laws applicable to our products. However, even when we are in strict compliance with law and our policies, we may suffer reputational damage if certain of our products are sold through various intermediaries to entities operating in sanctioned countries. When we receive information alleging improper activity, our policy is to investigate that information and respond appropriately, including, if warranted, reporting our findings to relevant government authorities. Nonetheless, our policies and procedures may not always protect us from actions that would violate U.S. and/or non-U.S. laws. Any improper actions could subject us to civil or criminal penalties, including material monetary fines, or other adverse actions including denial of import or export privileges, and could damage our reputation and business prospects.

We are exposed to potential environmental laws, liabilities and litigation.
We are subject to U.S. federal, state, local and non-U.S. laws and regulations governing our environmental practices, public and worker health and safety, and the indoor and outdoor environment. Compliance with these environmental, health and safety regulations could require us to satisfy environmental liabilities, increase the cost of manufacturing our products or otherwise have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations and cash flows. Any violations of these laws by us could cause us to incur unanticipated liabilities. We are also required to comply with various environmental laws and maintain permits, some of which are subject to renewal from time to time, for many of our businesses and we could suffer if we are unable to renew existing permits or to obtain any additional permits that we may require. Compliance with environmental requirements also could require significant operating or capital expenditures or result in significant operational restrictions. We cannot assure you that we have been or will be at all times in compliance with environmental and health and safety laws. If we violate these laws, we could be fined, criminally charged or otherwise sanctioned by regulators.
We have been named as defendant, target or a potentially responsible party (“PRP”) in a number of environmental clean-ups relating to our current or former business units. We have disposed of a number of businesses in recent years and in certain cases, we have retained responsibility and potential liability for certain environmental obligations. We have received claims for indemnification from certain purchasers. We may be named as a PRP at other sites in the future for existing business units, as well as both divested and acquired businesses. In addition to clean-up actions brought by governmental authorities, private parties could bring personal injury or other claims due to the presence of, or exposure to, hazardous substances.
Certain environmental laws impose liability on current or previous owners or operators of real property for the cost of removal or remediation of hazardous substances at their properties or at properties at which they have disposed of hazardous substances. We have projects underway at several current and former manufacturing facilities to investigate and remediate environmental contamination resulting from our past operations or by other businesses that previously owned or used the properties. The cost of clean-up and other environmental liabilities can be difficult to accurately predict. In addition, environmental requirements change and tend to become more stringent over time. Our eventual environmental clean-up costs and liabilities could exceed the amount of our current reserves.
Our subsidiaries are party to asbestos-related product litigation that could adversely affect our financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.
Our subsidiaries, along with numerous other companies, are named as defendants in a substantial number of lawsuits based on alleged exposure to asbestos-containing materials, substantially all of which relate to our discontinued operations. These cases typically involve product liability claims based primarily on allegations of manufacture, sale or distribution of industrial products that either contained asbestos or were attached to or used with asbestos-containing components manufactured by third parties. Each case typically names between several dozen to more than a hundred corporate defendants. Historically, our subsidiaries have been identified as defendants in asbestos-related claims. Our strategy has been, and continues to be, to mount a vigorous defense aimed at having unsubstantiated suits dismissed, and, only where appropriate, settling claims before trial. As of December 31, 2018, there were approximately 600 claims pending against our subsidiaries, substantially all of which relate to our discontinued operations. We cannot predict with certainty the extent to which we will be successful in litigating or otherwise resolving lawsuits in the future and we continue to evaluate different strategies related to asbestos claims filed against us including entity restructuring and judicial relief. Unfavorable rulings, judgments or settlement terms could have a material adverse impact on our business and financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.
We are exposed to certain regulatory and financial risks related to climate change.
Climate change is receiving ever increasing attention worldwide. Many scientists, legislators and others attribute global warming to increased levels of greenhouse gases, which has led to significant legislative and regulatory efforts to limit greenhouse gas emissions. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (“EPA”) has published findings that emissions of carbon dioxide, methane, and other greenhouse gases (“GHGs”) present an endangerment to public health and the environment because emissions of such gases are, according to the EPA, contributing to the warming of the earth’s atmosphere and other climate changes. Based on these findings, the EPA has implemented regulations that require reporting of GHG emissions, or


that limit emissions of GHGs from certain mobile or stationary sources. In addition, the U.S. Congress and federal and state regulatory agencies have considered other legislation and regulatory proposals to reduce emissions of GHGs, and many states have already taken legal measures to reduce emissions of GHGs, primarily through the development of GHG inventories, GHG permitting and/or regional GHG cap-and-trade programs. It is uncertain whether, when and in what form a federal mandatory carbon dioxide emissions reduction program, or other state programs, may be adopted. Similarly, certain countries have adopted the Kyoto Protocol and/or the Paris Accord, and these and other existing international initiatives or those under consideration could affect our international operations. To the extent our customers, particularly our energy and industrial customers, are subject to any of these or other similar proposed or newly enacted laws and regulations, we are exposed to risks that the additional costs by customers to comply with such laws and regulations could impact their ability or desire to continue to operate at similar levels in certain jurisdictions as historically seen or as currently anticipated, which could negatively impact their demand for our products and services. These actions could also increase costs associated with our operations, including costs for raw materials and transportation. It is uncertain what laws will be enacted and therefore we cannot predict the potential impact of such laws on our future financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.
Increased information technology security threats and computer crime pose a risk to our systems, networks, products and services, and we are exposed to potential regulatory, financial and reputational risks relating to the protection of our data.
We rely upon information technology systems and networks in connection with a variety of business activities, some of which are managed by third parties. As our business increasingly interfaces with employees, customers, dealers and suppliers using information technology systems and networks, we are subject to an increased risk to the secure operation of these systems and networks. The secure operation of these information technology systems and networks is critical to our business operations and strategy. Information technology security threats -- from user error to attacks designed to gain unauthorized access to our systems, networks and data -- are increasing in frequency and sophistication. These threats pose a risk to the security of our systems and networks and the confidentiality, availability and integrity of the data we process and maintain. Establishing systems and processes to address these threats may increase our costs. We have experienced data breaches, and, although we have determined such data breaches to be immaterial and such data breaches have not had a material adverse effect on our financial condition, results of operations or cash flows, there can be no assurance of similar results in the future. Should future attacks succeed in the theft of assets, exporting sensitive data or financial information or controlling sensitive systems or networks, it could expose us and our employees, customers, dealers and suppliers to the theft of assets, misuse of information or systems, the compromising of confidential information, manipulation and destruction of data, defective products, and production downtimes and operations disruptions. The occurrence of any of these events could have a material adverse effect on our reputation, business, financial condition, results of operations and cash flows. In addition, such breaches in security could result in litigation, regulatory action and potential liability and the costs and operational consequences of implementing further data protection measures.
Changes in data privacy laws and our ability to comply with them could have a material adverse effect on us.
We collect and store data that is sensitive to Pentair and its employees, customers, dealers and suppliers. A variety of state, national, foreign and international laws and regulations apply to the collection, use, retention, protection, security, disclosure, transfer and other processing of personal and other data. Many foreign data privacy regulations, including the General Data Protection Regulation (“GDPR”), which became effective in the European Union in 2018, are more stringent than those in the United States. These laws and regulations are rapidly evolving and changing, and could have an adverse effect on our operations. Companies’ obligations and requirements under these laws and regulations are subject to uncertainty in how they may be interpreted by government authorities. The costs of compliance with, and the other burdens imposed by, these and other laws or regulatory actions may increase our operational costs, and/or result in interruptions or delays in the availability of systems. In the case of non-compliance these laws, including the GDPR, regulators have the authority to levy significant fines. In addition, if there is a breach of privacy, we may be required to make notifications under data privacy regulations. The occurrence of any of these events could have a material adverse effect on our reputation, business, financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.
We may be negatively impacted by litigation and other claims.
We are currently, and may in the future, become subject to litigation and other claims. These legal proceedings are typically claims that relate to the conduct of our business and include, without limitation, claims relating to commercial or contractual disputes with suppliers, customers or parties to acquisitions and divestitures, intellectual property matters, environmental, safety and health matters, product liability, the use or installation of our products, consumer matters, and employment and labor matters. The outcome of such legal proceedings cannot be predicted with certainty and some may be disposed of unfavorably to us. We also may not have insurance that covers such claims. While we currently maintain what we believe to be suitable product liability insurance, we may not be able to maintain this insurance on acceptable terms and this insurance may not provide adequate protection against potential or previously existing liabilities. In addition, we self-insure a portion of product liability claims. Further, some of our business involves the sale of our products to customers that are constructing large and complex systems, facilities or other capital projects and while we generally try to limit our exposure liquidated damages,


consequential damages and other damages in the contracts for these projects, we could be exposed to significant monetary damages and other liabilities in connection with the sale of our products for these projects for a variety of reasons. Successful claims or litigation against us for significant amounts could have a material adverse effect on our reputation, business, financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.

Risks Relating to the Separation of nVent Electric plc by Spin-off
We may be unable to achieve some or all of the benefits that we expect to achieve from the spin-off.
On April 30, 2018, we completed the separation of our Electrical business through the spin-off nVent Electric plc to our shareholders. Following the spin-off, we are a smaller and less diversified company with a narrower business focus and, as a result, we may be more vulnerable to changing market conditions. Although we believe that the spin-off of nVent Electric plc will provide financial, operational, managerial and other benefits to us and our shareholders, the spin-off may not provide the results on the scope or on the scale we anticipate, and we may not realize any or all of the intended benefits. In addition, we have and will continue to incur one-time costs and ongoing costs in connection with, or as a result of, the spin-off, including costs of operating as independent, publicly-traded companies that the two businesses are no longer able to share. Those costs may exceed our estimates or could negate some of the benefits we expect to realize. If we do not realize the intended benefits or if our costs exceed our estimates, we could suffer a material adverse effect on the business, financial condition, results of operations, cash flows and trading prices.
The spin-off transaction could result in substantial tax liability to us and our shareholders if the spin-off does not qualify as a tax-free transaction.
The spin-off was conditioned on our receipt of opinions of tax advisors and tax rulings from taxing authorities. However, these tax opinions will not be binding on taxing authorities. Accordingly, taxing authorities or the courts may reach conclusions with respect to the spin-off that are different from the conclusions reached in such opinions. Moreover, such opinions were based on certain statements and representations made by us, which, if incomplete or inaccurate in any material respect, could invalidate the opinions. If the spin-off and certain related transactions were determined to be taxable, we could be subject to a substantial tax liability that could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition, results of operations and cash flows. In addition, if the spin-off were taxable, each holder of our ordinary shares who received shares of nVent Electric plc in the spin-off would generally be treated as receiving a taxable distribution of property in an amount equal to the fair market value of the shares received.
We may be exposed to claims and liabilities as a result of the spin-off.
In connection with the spin-off, we and nVent Electric plc entered into a separation and distribution agreement and various other agreements, including a transition services agreement, a tax matters agreement and an employee matters agreement. These agreements provide for the performance of services by each company for the benefit of the other for a period of time after the spin-off and provide for specific indemnity and liability obligations. The indemnity rights we have against nVent under the agreements may not be sufficient to protect us. In addition, our indemnity obligations to nVent may be significant and these risks could negatively affect our financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.
Risks Relating to Our Jurisdiction of Incorporation in Ireland and Tax Residency in the United KingdomU.K.
We are subject to changes in law and other factors that may not allow us to maintain a worldwide effective corporate tax rate that is competitive in our industry.
While we believe that we should be able to maintain a worldwide effective corporate tax rate that is competitive in our industry, we cannot give any assurance as to what our effective tax rate will be in the future because of, among other things, uncertainty regarding tax policies of the jurisdictions where we operate. Also, the tax laws of the U.S., the U.K., Ireland and other jurisdictions could change in the future, and such changes could cause a material change in our worldwide effective corporate tax rate. These changes include the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act enacted in the U.S. in December 2017, which made significant changes to certain U.S. tax laws relevant to us, including limitations on the deductibility of certain interest expense and employee compensation, limitations on various other deductions and credits, the imposition of taxes in respect of certain cross-border payments or transfers, the imposition of taxes on certain earnings of non-U.S. entities on a current basis, and changes in the timing of the recognition of income or its character. These items and regulations and guidance implementing the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act could materially adversely affect our financial condition, results of operations, cash flows or our effective tax rate in future reporting periods. In particular,addition, legislative action could be taken by the U.S., the U.K., Ireland or the European Union which could override tax treaties or modify tax statutes or regulations upon which we expect to rely and adversely affect our effective tax

16



rate. We cannot predict the outcome of any specific legislative proposals. If proposals were enacted that had the effect of disregarding our incorporation in Ireland or limiting our ability as an Irish company to maintain tax residency in the U.K. and take advantage of the tax treaties among the U.S., the U.K. and Ireland, we could be subject to increased taxation, which could materially adversely affect our financial condition, results of operations, cash flows or our effective tax rate in future reporting periods.


A change in our tax residency could have a negative effect on our future profitability, and may trigger taxes on dividends.dividends or exit charges.
Under current Irish legislation, a company is regarded as resident for tax purposes in Ireland if it is centrally managed and controlled in Ireland, or, in certain circumstances, if it is incorporated in Ireland. Under current U.K. legislation, a company that is centrally managed and controlled in the U.K. is regarded as resident in the U.K. for taxation purposes. purposes unless it is treated as resident in another jurisdiction pursuant to any appropriate double tax treaty with the U.K. Other jurisdictions may also seek to assert taxing jurisdiction over Pentair.
Where a company is treated as tax resident under the domestic laws of both the U.K. and Ireland, then the provisions of article 4(3) of the Double Tax Convention between Ireland and the U.K. provide(the “residence tie-breaker”) currently provides that such enterprisethe company shall be treated as resident only in the jurisdiction in whichone of those two jurisdictions if its place of effective management is situated. Wesituated in that jurisdiction.
The Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development has proposed a number of measures relating to the tax treatment of multinationals, some of which are to be implemented by amending double tax treaties through a multilateral instrument (the “MLI”). The MLI has been signed and ratified by a number of countries, including Ireland and the U.K. The MLI allows signatories to opt into or out of certain changes: the effect for a given double tax convention depends on the options chosen by the two contracting states. Ireland and the U.K. have managed, and weconfirmed that they intend to continue to manage, our affairschange the residence tie-breaker so that we are centrally manageda company will not cease being dual resident until there is a determination by the tax authorities of the two contracting states, instead of an objective application of the place of effective management test. The MLI has not yet entered into force effect in order to amend the residence tie-breaker.
Under Ireland’s domestic tax residency rules, Pentair should not be Irish resident until January 1, 2021 (provided that there is no change in ownership and controlledno major change in the U.K. and thereforenature or conduct of the business of the company before that date, in which case the residence tie-breaker should apply from the date of the change of ownership). Accordingly, we do not expect the change to the residence tie-breaker to have our tax residency only ineffect until January 1, 2021 at the U.K. However, we cannot provide assurance that we will continue to be resident only in the U.K. for tax purposes. earliest.
It is possible that in the future, whether as a result of a change in law (including the entry into force and effect of the MLI) or the practice of any relevant tax authority or as a result of any change in the conduct of itsour affairs, we could become, or be regarded as having become, resident in a jurisdiction other than the U.K. If wePentair ceases to be resident in the U.K. and becomes resident in another jurisdiction, it may be subject to U.K. exit charges, and could become liable for additional tax charges in the other jurisdiction (including dividend withholding taxes or corporate income tax charges). If Pentair were to be treated as resident in more than one jurisdiction, it could be subject to taxation in multiple jurisdictions. If, for example, Pentair were considered to be a tax resident of Ireland, we could become liable for Irish corporation tax and any dividends paid by usit could be subject to Irish dividend withholding tax.
Irish law differs from the laws in effect in the United States and may afford less protection to holders of our securities.
It may not be possible to enforce court judgments obtained in the U.S. against us in Ireland based on the civil liability provisions of the U.S. federal or state securities laws. In addition, there is some uncertainty as to whether the courts of Ireland would recognize or enforce judgments of U.S. courts obtained against us or our directors or officers based on the civil liabilities provisions of the U.S. federal or state securities laws or hear actions against us or those persons based on those laws. We have been advised that the United StatesU.S. currently does not have a treaty with Ireland providing for the reciprocal recognition and enforcement of judgments in civil and commercial matters. Therefore, a final judgment for the payment of money rendered by any U.S. federal or state court based on civil liability, whether or not based solely on U.S. federal or state securities laws, would not automatically be enforceable in Ireland.
As an Irish company, we are governed by the Irish Companies Act, which differs in some material respects from laws generally applicable to U.S. corporations and shareholders, including, among others, differences relating to interested director and officer transactions and shareholder lawsuits. Likewise, the duties of directors and officers of an Irish company generally are owed to the company only. Shareholders of Irish companies generally do not have a personal right of action against directors or officers of the company and may exercise such rights of action on behalf of the company only in limited circumstances. Accordingly, holders of our securities may have more difficulty protecting their interests than would holders of securities of a corporation incorporated in a jurisdiction of the U.S.


Transfers of our ordinary shares may be subject to Irish stamp duty.
Transfers of our ordinary shares effected by means of the transfer of book entry interests in the Depository Trust Company ("DTC"(“DTC”) will not be subject to Irish stamp duty. However, if you hold your ordinary shares directly rather than beneficially through DTC, any transfer of your ordinary shares could be subject to Irish stamp duty (currently at the rate of 1%1 percent of the higher of the price paid or the market value of the shares acquired). Payment of Irish stamp duty is generally a legal obligation of the transferee.
We currently intend to pay, or cause one of our affiliates to pay, stamp duty in connection with share transfers made in the ordinary course of trading by a seller who holds shares directly to a buyer who holds the acquired shares beneficially. In other cases we may, in our absolute discretion, pay or cause one of our affiliates to pay any stamp duty. Our articles of association provide that, in the event of any such payment, we (i) may seek reimbursement from the buyer, (ii) will have a lien against the shares acquired by such buyer and any dividends paid on such shares and (iii) may set-off the amount of the stamp duty against future dividends on such shares. Parties to a share transfer may assume that any stamp duty arising in respect of a transaction in our shares has been paid unless one or both of such parties is otherwise notified by us.
Our ordinary shares, received by means of a gift or inheritance could be subject to Irish capital acquisitions tax.
Irish capital acquisitions tax ("CAT"(“CAT”) could apply to a gift or inheritance of our ordinary shares irrespective of the place of residence, ordinary residence or domicile of the parties. This is because our shares will be regarded as property situated in Ireland. The person who receives the gift or inheritance has primary liability for CAT. Gifts and inheritances passing between spouses are exempt from CAT. Children have a tax-free threshold of €280,000€320,000 per lifetime in respect of taxable gifts or inheritances received from their parents for periods on or after October 14, 2015.10, 2018.

17



ITEM 1B.  UNRESOLVED STAFF COMMENTS
None.
ITEM 2.  PROPERTIES
Our principal office is located in leased premises in Manchester, United Kingdom,London, U.K., and our management office in the United StatesU.S. is located in leased premises in Minneapolis, Minnesota.
Our operations are conducted in facilities throughout the world. These facilities house manufacturing and distribution operations, as well as sales and marketing, engineering and administrative offices.
We carry out The following is a summary of our Valves & Controlsprincipal properties, including manufacturing, operations at 8 plants located throughout the United States and at 32 plants located in 16 other countries. In addition, Valves & Controls has 23 distribution, facilities, 56 sales offices and 51 service centers located in numerous countries throughout the world.centers:
We carry out our Flow & Filtration Solutions manufacturing operations at 7 plants located throughout the United States and at 12 plants located in 8 other countries. In addition, Flow & Filtration Solutions has 22 distribution facilities, 18 sales offices and 10 service centers located in numerous countries throughout the world.
We carry out our Water Quality Systems manufacturing operations at 13 plants located throughout the United States and at 10 plants located in 6 other countries. In addition, Water Quality Systems has 15 distribution facilities, 11 sales offices and 2 service centers located in numerous countries throughout the world.
We carry out our Technical Solutions manufacturing operations at 10 plants located throughout the United States and at 15 plants located in 11 other countries. In addition, Technical Solutions has 11 distribution facilities, 52 sales offices and 3 service centers located in numerous countries throughout the world.
  No. of Facilities
 LocationManufacturingDistributionSales and Corporate OfficesService Centers
Aquatic Systems22 U.S. cities and 12 foreign countries911131
Filtration Solutions14 U.S. cities and 40 foreign countries19926
Flow Technologies15 U.S. cities and 35 foreign countries2012810
Corporate3 U.S. cities and 4 foreign countries

7
Total 48325411
We believe that our production facilities as well as the related machinery and equipment, are well maintained and suitable for their purpose and are adequate to support our businesses. 
ITEM 3.  LEGAL PROCEEDINGS
We have been, and in the future may be, made parties to a number of actions filed or have been, and in the future may be, given notice of potential claims relating to the conduct of our business, including those pertainingrelating to commercial or contractual disputes product liability, asbestos,with suppliers, customers or parties to acquisitions and divestitures, intellectual property matters, environmental, safety and health patent infringementmatters, product liability, the use or installation of our products, consumer matters, and employment and labor matters.
While we believe that a material impact on our consolidated financial position, results of operations or cash flows from any such future claims or potential claims is unlikely, given the inherent uncertainty of litigation, a remote possibility exists that a


future adverse ruling or unfavorable development could result in future charges that could have a material adverse impact. We do and will continue to periodically reexamine our estimates of probable liabilities and any associated expenses and receivables and make appropriate adjustments to such estimates based on experience and developments in litigation. As a result, the current estimates of the potential impact on our consolidated financial position, results of operations and cash flows for the proceedings and claims described in the notes to our consolidated financial statements could change in the future.
Asbestos matters
Our subsidiaries and numerous other unaffiliated companies are named as defendants in personal injury lawsuits based on alleged exposure to asbestos-containing materials. These cases typically involve product liability claims based primarily on allegations of manufacture, sale or distribution of industrial products that either contained asbestos or were attached to or used with asbestos-containing components manufactured by third-parties. Each case typically names between dozensseveral dozen to hundreds ofmore than a hundred corporate defendants. While we have observed an increase in the number of these lawsuits over the past several years, including lawsuits by plaintiffs with mesothelioma-related claims, a large percentage of these suits have not presented viable legal claims and, as a result, have been dismissed by the courts. Our historical strategy has been to mount a vigorous defense aimed at having unsubstantiated suits dismissed, and, where appropriate, settling suits before trial. Although a large percentage of litigated suits have been dismissed, we cannot predict the extent to which we will be successful in resolving lawsuits in the future.
As of December 31, 2015,2018, there were approximately 4,100600 claims outstanding against our subsidiaries. This amount is not adjusted for claims that are not actively being prosecuted, identified incorrect defendants, or duplicated other actions, which would ultimately reflect our current estimate of the number of viable claims made against us, our affiliates, or entities for which we assumed responsibility in connection with acquisitions or divestitures. In addition, the amount does not include certain claims pending against third parties for which we have been provided an indemnification.

18



Our estimated liability for asbestos-related claims was $237.9 million and $249.1 million as of December 31, 2015 and 2014, respectively, and was recorded in Other non-current liabilities in the Consolidated Balance Sheets for pending and future claims and related defense costs. Our estimated receivable for insurance recoveries was $111.0 million and $115.8 million at December 31, 2015 and 2014, all of which was acquired in the Merger, and was recorded in Other non-current assets in the Consolidated Balance Sheets.
Environmental matters
We are involvedhave been named as defendant, target or a PRP in a number of environmental clean-ups relating to our current or former business units. We have disposed of a number of businesses in recent years and in certain cases, we have retained responsibility and potential liability for certain environmental obligations and legal proceedings related to our current business and, including pursuant to certain indemnification obligations, related to certain formerly owned businesses.obligations. We are responsible, or alleged to be responsible, for ongoing environmental investigation and/or remediation of sites in several countries. These sites are in various stages of investigation and/or remediation and at some of these sites our liability is considered de minimis. We received notification from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and from similar state and non-U.S. environmental agencies that several sites formerly or currently owned and/or operated by us, and other properties or water supplies that may be or may have been impacted from those operations, contain disposed or recycled materials or waste and require environmental investigation and/or remediation. Those sites include instances where we have been identified as a potentially responsible party under U.S. federal, state and/or non-U.S. environmental laws and regulations. For several formerly owned businesses, we have also received claims for indemnification from purchaserscertain purchasers. We may be named as a PRP at other sites in the future for existing business units, as well as both divested and acquired businesses. In addition to cleanup actions brought by governmental authorities, private parties could bring personal injury or other claims due to the presence of, these businesses.or exposure to, hazardous substances.
Certain environmental laws impose liability on current or previous owners or operators of real property for the cost of removal or remediation of hazardous substances at their properties or at properties at which they have disposed of hazardous substances. We have projects underway at several current and former manufacturing facilities to investigate and remediate environmental contamination resulting from our past operations or by other businesses that previously owned or used the properties.
Our accruals for environmental matters are recorded on a site-by-site basis when it is probable that a liability has been incurred and the amount of the liability can be reasonably estimated, based on current law and existing technologies. It can be difficult to estimate reliably the final costs of investigation and remediation due to various factors. In our opinion, the amounts accrued are appropriate based on facts and circumstances as currently known. Based uponAs of December 31, 2018, our experience, current information regarding known contingencies and applicable laws, we have recorded reserves for these environmental matters of $22.8 million and $31.4 million as of December 31, 2015 and 2014, respectively.were not material. We do not anticipate theseour remaining environmental conditions will have a material adverse effect on our financial position, results of operations or cash flows. However, unknown conditions, new details about existing conditions or changes in environmental requirements may give rise to environmental liabilities that will exceed the amount of our current reserves and could have a material adverse effect in the future.
Product liability claims
We are subject to various product liability lawsuits and personal injury claims. A substantial number of these lawsuits and claims are insured and accrued for by Penwald, our captive insurance subsidiary. See discussion in ITEM 1 and ITEM 8, Note 1 of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements — Insurance subsidiary. Penwald records a liability for these claims based on actuarial projections of ultimate losses. For all other claims, accruals covering the claims are recorded, on an undiscounted basis, when it is probable that a liability has been incurred and the amount of the liability can be reasonably estimated based on existing information. The accruals are adjusted periodically as additional information becomes available. In 2004, we disposed of the Tools Group and we retained responsibility for certain product claims. We have not experienced significant unfavorable trends in either the severity or frequency of product liability lawsuits or personal injury claims.
Compliance matters
Prior to the Merger, the Flow Control business was subject to investigations by the DOJ and the SEC related to allegations that improper payments were made by the Flow Control business and other Tyco subsidiaries and third-party intermediaries in recent years in violation of the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act. Tyco reported to the DOJ and the SEC the remedial measures that it had taken in response to the allegations and Tyco’s own internal investigations. As a result of discussions with the DOJ and SEC aimed at resolving these matters, on September 24, 2012, Tyco entered into a settlement with the SEC and a non-prosecution agreement with the DOJ.
ITEM 4.  MINE SAFETY DISCLOSURES
Not applicable.

19




EXECUTIVE OFFICERS OF THE REGISTRANT
Current executive officers of Pentair plc, their ages, current position and their business experience during at least the past five years are as follows:
Name Age Current Position and Business Experience
Randall J. Hogan60
Chief Executive Officer since 2001 and Chairman of the Board since 2002; President and Chief Operating Officer, 1999 — 2000; Executive Vice President and President of Pentair’s Electrical and Electronic Enclosures Group, 1998 — 1999; United Technologies Carrier Transicold President, 1995 — 1997; Pratt & Whitney Industrial Turbines Vice President and General Manager, 1994 — 1995; General Electric various executive positions, 1988 — 1994; McKinsey & Company consultant, 1981 — 1987.
John L. Stauch 5154
 President and Chief Executive Officer since 2018; Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer since 2007;2007 — 2018; Chief Financial Officer of the Automation and Control Systems unit of Honeywell International Inc., 2005 — 2007; Vice President, Finance and Chief Financial Officer of the Sensing and Controls unit of Honeywell International Inc., 2004 — 2005; Vice President, Finance and Chief Financial Officer of the Automation & Control Products unit of Honeywell International Inc., 2002 — 2004; Chief Financial Officer and IT Director of PerkinElmer Optoelectronics, a unit of PerkinElmer, Inc., 2000 — 2002; Various executive, investor relations and managerial finance positions with Honeywell International Inc. and its predecessor AlliedSignal Inc., 1994 — 2000.
Angela D. JilekKelly A. Baker 4749
 SeniorExecutive Vice President General Counsel and SecretaryChief Human Resources Officer since 2010; Assistant General Counsel, 2002 — 2010; Shareholder and2017; Chief Human Resources Officer of the law firmPatterson Companies, Inc. 2016 — 2017; Vice President of HensonHuman Resources, U.S. Retail Organization and Marketing Function of General Mills 2014 — 2016; Vice President of Human Resources, Corporate & Efron, P.A., 2000Global Business Solutions of General Mills 2009 — 2002; Associate Attorney in the law firm2014; Vice President of HensonDiversity & Efron, P.A. 1996Inclusion of General Mills 2005 — 2000 and in the law firm of Felhaber Larson Fenlon & Vogt, P.A., 19922009; Various Human Resources leadership positions at General Mills 1995 — 1996.2005.
Mark C. Borin 4851
 Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer since 2018; Senior Vice President and Chief Accounting Officer since 2008 — 2018 and Treasurer since 2015;2015 — 2018; Partner in the audit practice of the public accounting firm KPMG LLP, 2000 — 2008; Various positions in the audit practice of KPMG LLP, 1989 — 2000.
Karl R. Frykman 5558
 Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer since 2018; Senior Vice President and President, Water segment 2017 — 2018; President, Water Quality Systems Global Business Unit, since 2007;2007 — 2016; President of Aquatic Systems'Systems’ National Pool Tile group, 1998— 2007; Vice President of Operations for American Products, 1995—1995 — 1998; Vice President of Anthony Pools, 1990 — 1995; Vice President of Poolsaver, 1988 — 1990.
Alok MaskaraJohn H. Jacko 4461
 Executive Vice President Technical Solutions Global Business Unitand Chief Growth Officer since 2014;2018; Senior Vice President Thermaland Chief Marketing Officer 2017 — 2018; Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer of Kennametal Corporation, 2007 — 2016; Senior Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer of Flowserve Corporation, 2002 — 2007; Vice President of Marketing and Customer Management of Flowserve Corporation, 2001 — 2002; Various business leadership positions of Honeywell Aerospace, 1995 — 2001.
Karla C. Robertson48
Executive Vice President, General Counsel and Secretary since 2018; General Counsel, Pentair plc Water segment 2017 — 2018; Executive Vice President, General Counsel and Corporate Secretary of SUPERVALU Inc. 2013 — 2017; Vice President, Employment, Compensation and Benefits Law of SUPERVALU Inc. 2012 — 2014; President, Water Purification business,2013; Director, Employment Law of SUPERVALU Inc. 2011 — 2012; President, Residential Filtration business, 2008Senior Counsel, Employment Law of SUPERVALU Inc. 2009 — 2011; General ManagerSenior Employee Relations Counsel of the Residential & Commercial water business at General ElectricTarget Corporation 2006 — 2008; Manager Corporate Initiatives, General Electric Corporation, 2004 — 2006; Various executive positions with McKinseyAssociate, Faegre & Company,Benson LLP 2000 — 2004.2005; Judicial Clerk, United States District Court for the Southern District of Iowa, 1998 — 2000
Beth A. WozniakPhilip M. Rolchigo, Ph.D. 5157
 Executive Vice President Flow & Filtration Solutions Global Business Unitand Chief Technology Officer since 2015;2017; Vice President of EnvironmentalEngineering and Combustion Controls unitTechnology Innovation 2007 — 2017; Business Development Director of Honeywell International Inc., 2011GE Global Research Center 20062015;2007; Director of Technology of GE Water & Process Technologies 2003 — 2006; Chief Technology Officer of Osmonics 2000 — 2003; Vice President of Sensing and Controls unitResearch & Development of Honeywell International Inc., 2006Osmonics 19982011; Various leadership positions at Honeywell International Inc. and its predecessor AlliedSignal Inc., 19902000; Chief Technology Officer of Membrex 19882006.1998.

20




PART II

ITEM 5. MARKET FOR REGISTRANT’S COMMON EQUITY, RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS AND ISSUER PURCHASES OF EQUITY SECURITIES
Our ordinary shares are listed for trading on the New York Stock Exchange and trade(“NYSE”) under the symbol "PNR."“PNR.” As of December 31, 2015,2018, there were 19,99015,032 shareholders of record.
The high, low and closing sales price for our ordinary shares and the dividends paid for each of the quarterly periods for 2015 and 2014 were as follows:
 2015 2014
  
First  Second  Third  Fourth   First  Second  Third  Fourth  
High$68.24
$66.52
$69.65
$59.69
 $83.37
$81.04
$73.36
$69.37
Low60.73
59.92
49.44
48.14
 71.29
71.96
62.91
59.09
Close62.39
63.75
51.98
49.53
 77.66
72.76
67.41
66.42
Dividends paid0.32
0.32
0.32
0.32
 0.25
0.25
0.30
0.30
Pentair has paid 160172 consecutive quarterly dividends. Thecash dividends, including most recently a dividend of $0.175 per share in the fourth quarter of 2018. In addition, the Board of Directors has approved a plan to increase the dividend for 2016,2019, which will mark the 4043thrd consecutive year we have increased dividends.
Future dividends, on our ordinary shares or reductionsas adjusted for the spin-off of share capital for distribution to shareholders, if any, must be approved by our Board of Directors for payment out of distributable reserves on our statutory balance sheet. We are not permitted to pay dividends out of share capital, which includes share premiums. Distributable reserves may be created through the earnings of the Irish parent company and through a reduction in share capital approved by the Irish High Court. Distributable reserves are not linked to a U.S. generally accepted accounting principles ("GAAP") reported amount (e.g., retained earnings). On July 22, 2014, the Irish High Court approved Pentair plc's conversion of approximately $14.4 billion of share premium to distributable reserves. On July 29, 2014, following the approval of the Irish High Court, we made the required filing of Pentair plc's initial accounts with the Irish Companies Registration Office, which completed the process to allow us to pay future cash dividends and redeem and repurchase shares out of Pentair plc's "distributable reserves." Our distributable reserve balance was $9.6 billion and $12.1 billion as of December 31, 2015 and 2014, respectively.nVent.
The timing, declaration and payment of future dividends to holders of our ordinary shares will depend upon many factors, including our financial condition and results of operations, the capital requirements of our businesses, industry practice and any other relevant factors.
United Kingdom tax considerations
Although our jurisdiction of organization is Ireland, we manage our affairs so that we are centrally managed and controlled in the U.K. and therefore have our tax residency in the U.K.
As a result of its U.K. tax status, dividend distributions by Pentair plc to its shareholders are not subject to withholding tax, as the U.K. currently does not levy a withholding tax on dividend distributions.
See the discussion of "Dividends" under "Liquidity and Capital Resources—Financing Activities" in ITEM 7 of this annual report on Form 10-K for additional information required by this item.



21



Share Performance Graph
The following information under the caption "Share“Share Performance Graph"Graph” in this ITEM 5 of this Annual Report on Form 10-K is not deemed to be "soliciting material"“soliciting material” or to be "filed"“filed” with the SEC or subject to Regulation 14A or 14C under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the "Exchange Act"“Exchange Act”), or to the liabilities of Section 18 of the Exchange Act and will not be deemed to be incorporated by reference into any filing under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, or the Exchange Act, except to the extent we specifically incorporate it by reference into such a filing.
The following graph sets forth the cumulative total shareholder return on our ordinary shares for the last five years, assuming the investment of $100 on December 31, 20102013 and the reinvestment of all dividends since that date to December 31, 2015.2018. The graph also contains for comparison purposes the S&P 500 Index and the S&P 500 Industrials Index, assuming the same investment level and reinvestment of dividends.
By virtue of our market capitalization, we are a component of the S&P 500 Index. On the basis of our size and diversity of businesses, we believe the S&P 500 Industrials Index is an appropriate published industry index for comparison purposes.

shareperformancegraph.jpg
Base Period
December
2010
 
INDEXED RETURNS
Years ended December 31
Base Period
December
 
INDEXED RETURNS
Years ended December 31
Company / Index20112012201320142015201320142015201620172018
Pentair plc100 93.13
140.52
225.80
196.08
149.39
$100
 $86.84
$66.16
$76.74
$98.74
$80.12
S&P 500 Index100 102.11
118.45
156.82
178.28
180.75
100
 113.69
115.26
129.05
157.22
150.33
S&P 500 Industrials Index100 99.41
114.67
161.31
177.16
172.67
100
 112.36
115.62
127.31
156.04
151.29

22




Purchases of Equity Securities
The following table provides information with respect to purchases we made of our ordinary shares during the fourth quarter of 2015:2018:
 (a)(b)(c)(d)
 
Total number of
shares
purchased
Average price
paid per share
Total number of
shares
purchased as
part of publicly
announced
plans or
programs
Dollar value
of
shares that may
yet be purchased
under the plans or
programs
September 27 – October 24, 201585,640
$51.80

$800,000,049
October 25 – November 21, 2015388
55.11

800,000,049
November 22 – December 31, 20151,523
54.67

800,000,049
Total87,551
 
 
 (a)(b)(c)(d)
 
Total number of
shares
purchased
Average price
paid per share
Total number of
shares
purchased as
part of publicly
announced
plans or
programs
Dollar value
of
shares that may
yet be purchased
under the plans or
programs
October 1 – October 27632
$41.29

$500,000,101
October 28 – November 24809,872
39.90
625,162
473,603,480
November 25 – December 311,833,155
40.15
1,832,049
400,000,120
Total2,643,659
 2,457,211
 
(a)
The purchases in this column include 85,640 shares for the period September 27 – October 24, 2015, 388632 shares for the period October 251 – October 27, 184,710 shares for the period October 28 – November 21, 2015,24, and 1,5231,106 shares for the period November 2225 – December 31 2015 deemed surrendered to us by participants in our 2012 Stock and Incentive Plan (the "2012 Plan"“2012 Plan”) and earlier stock incentive plans that are now outstanding under the 2012 Plan (collectively the "Plans"“Plans”) to satisfy the exercise price or withholding of tax obligations related to the exercise of stock options and vesting of restricted shares.
(b)
The average price paid in this column includes shares repurchased as part of our publicly announced plans and shares deemed surrendered to us by participants in the Plans to satisfy the exercise price for the exercise price of stock options and withholding tax obligations due upon stock option exercises and vesting of restricted and performance shares.
(c)
The number of shares in this column represents the number of shares repurchased as part of our publicly announced plans to repurchase our ordinary shares up to a maximum dollar limit authorized by the Board of $3.2 billion.Directors, discussed below.
(d)
In December 2014,On May 8, 2018, our Board of Directors authorized the repurchase of our ordinary shares up to a maximum dollar limit of $1.0 billion. This$750.0 million. The 2018 authorization expires on DecemberMay 31, 2019.2021. We have $400.0 million remaining availability for repurchases under the 2018 authorization. From time to time, we may enter into a Rule 10b5-1 trading plan for the purpose of repurchasing shares under this authorization.

23




ITEM 6.  SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA
The following table sets forth our selected historical financial data for the five years ended December 31, 2015.2018.
  Years ended December 31
In millions, except per-share data20152014201320122011
Consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive income (loss) data     
Net sales$6,449.0
$7,039.0
$6,999.7
$4,306.8
$3,456.7
Operating income (loss)177.2
851.9
742.6
(4.8)100.2
Net income (loss) from continuing operations attributable to Pentair plc(65.0)607.0
511.7
(81.5)(7.5)
Per-share data
    
Basic:
    
Earnings (loss) per ordinary share from continuing operations attributable to Pentair plc$(0.36)$3.19
$2.54
$(0.64)$(0.08)
Weighted average shares180.3
190.6
201.1
127.4
98.2
Diluted:
    
Earnings (loss) per ordinary share from continuing operations attributable to Pentair plc$(0.36)$3.14
$2.50
$(0.64)$(0.08)
Weighted average shares182.6
193.7
204.6
127.4
98.2
Cash dividends declared and paid per ordinary share$1.28
$1.10
$0.96
$0.88
$0.80
Cash dividends declared and unpaid per ordinary share0.33
0.64
0.50
0.46

Consolidated balance sheets data
    
Total assets$11,857.0
$10,655.2
$11,743.3
$11,882.7
$4,586.3
Total debt4,710.0
3,004.1
2,550.4
2,451.6
1,309.1
Total equity4,008.8
4,663.8
6,217.7
6,487.5
2,047.4
Factors affecting comparability of our Selected Financial Data
In the fourth quarter of 2015, we recorded a pre-tax, non-cash goodwill and trade name impairment charge of $554.7 million.
 Years ended December 31
In millions, except per-share amounts20182017201620152014
Consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive income     
Net sales$2,965.1
$2,845.7
$2,780.6
$2,812.4
$2,942.1
Operating income436.7
378.3
354.4
304.7
226.8
Net income from continuing operations attributable to Pentair321.7
114.1
178.2
170.9
122.3
Per ordinary share
    
Basic
    
Earnings per ordinary share from continuing operations attributable to Pentair$1.83
$0.63
$0.98
$0.95
$0.64
Weighted average ordinary shares175.8
181.7
181.3
180.3
190.6
Diluted
    
Earnings per ordinary share from continuing operations attributable to Pentair$1.81
$0.62
$0.97
$0.94
$0.63
Weighted average ordinary shares177.3
183.7
183.1
182.6
193.7
Cash dividends declared and paid per ordinary share$1.05
$1.38
$1.34
$1.28
$1.10
Cash dividends declared and unpaid per ordinary share0.18
0.35
0.345
0.33
0.32
Consolidated balance sheets
    
Total assets$3,806.5
$8,633.7
$11,534.8
$11,833.4
$10,643.8
Total debt787.6
1,440.7
4,279.2
4,685.8
2,988.4
Total equity1,836.1
5,037.8
4,254.4
4,008.8
4,663.8

For periods prior to 2012, the Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss) include the historical results of Pentair, Inc. Following the consummation of the Merger on September 28, 2012, the consolidated financial statements include the results of Flow Control.
In May 2011, we acquired as part of Flow & Filtration Solutions, the Clean Process Technologies division of privately held Norit Holding B.V. In the fourth quarter of 2011, we recorded a pre-tax non-cash goodwill impairment charge of $200.5 million.


24




ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
Forward-looking statements
This report contains statements that we believe to be "forward-looking statements"“forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. All statements, other than statements of historical fact are forward-looking statements. Without limitation, any statements preceded or followed by or that include the words "targets," "plans," "believes," "expects," "intends," "will," "likely," "may," "anticipates," "estimates," "projects," "should," "would," "positioned," "strategy," "future"“targets,” “plans,” “believes,” “expects,” “intends,” “will,” “likely,” “may,” “anticipates,” “estimates,” “projects,” “should,” “would,” “positioned,” “strategy,” “future” or words, phrases or terms of similar substance or the negative thereof, are forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and are subject to risks, uncertainties, assumptions and other factors, some of which are beyond our control, which could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. These factors include overall global economic and business conditions impacting our business, including worldwide demand for oilthe strength of housing and gas;related markets; competition and pricing pressures in the abilitymarkets we serve; volatility in currency exchange rates; failure of markets to achieve the benefits of our restructuring plans;accept new product introductions and enhancements; the ability to successfully identify, finance, complete and integrate acquisitions, including the Aquion, Inc. (“Aquion”) and Pelican Water Systems (“Pelican”) acquisitions; the ability to successfully integrate and achieve the expected benefits of the acquisition of ERICO Global Company; competitionour restructuring plans and pricing pressures in the markets we serve; the strength of housing and related markets; volatility in currency exchange rates and commodity prices; inability to generate savings from excellence in operations initiatives consisting of lean enterprise, supply management and cash flow practices; increasedcost reduction initiatives; risks associated with operating foreign businesses; the impact of material cost and other inflation; our ability to deliver backlogcomply with laws and win future project work; failure of markets to accept new product introductions and enhancements;regulations; the impact of changes in laws, regulations and regulations,administrative policy, including those that limit U.S. tax benefits;benefits or impact trade agreements and tariffs; the outcome of litigation and governmental proceedings; the ability to realize the anticipated benefits from the Separation (as defined below); and the ability to achieve our long-term strategic operating goals. Additional information concerning these and other factors is contained in our filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”), including in Item 1A of this Annual Report on Form 10-K. All forward-looking statements speak only as of the date of this report. Pentair plc assumes no obligation, and disclaims any obligation, to update the information contained in this report.
Overview
Pentair plc and its consolidated subsidiaries (“we,” “us,” “our,” “Pentair” or the “Company”) is a focused diversifiedpure play water industrial manufacturing company comprising fourcomprised of three reporting segments: Valves & Controls, Flow &Aquatic Systems, Filtration Solutions Water Quality Systems and Technical Solutions.Flow Technologies. We classify our operations into business segments based primarily on types of products offered and markets served. For the year ended December 31, 2015, Valves & Controls, Flow &2018, the Aquatic Systems, Filtration Solutions Water Quality Systems and Technical Solutions accounted for 29 percent, 22 percent, 21 percentFlow Technologies segments represented approximately 35%, 34% and 28 percent31% of total revenues, respectively.
In December 2013, the Company's Board of Directors approved changing the Company's jurisdiction of organization from Switzerland to Ireland. At an extraordinary meeting of shareholders on May 20, 2014, Pentair Ltd. shareholders voted in favor of a reorganization proposal pursuant to which Pentair Ltd. would merge into Pentair plc and all Pentair Ltd. common shares would be cancelled and all holders of such shares would receive ordinary shares of Pentair plc on a one-to-one basis. The reorganization transaction was completed on June 3, 2014, at which time Pentair plc replaced Pentair Ltd. as the ultimate parent company (the "Redomicile"). Shares of Pentair plc began trading on the New York Stock Exchange ("NYSE") on June 3, 2014 under the symbol "PNR", the same symbol under which Pentair Ltd. shares were previously traded.
Although our jurisdiction of organization is Ireland, we manage our affairs so that we are centrally managed and controlled in the United Kingdom (the "U.K."“U.K.”) and therefore have our tax residency in the U.K.
Our former parent company, Pentair Ltd., took its form on SeptemberOn April 28, 2012 as a result of a reverse acquisition (the "Merger") involving Pentair, Inc. and an indirect, wholly-owned subsidiary of Flow Control (defined below), with Pentair, Inc. surviving as an indirect, wholly-owned subsidiary of Pentair Ltd. "Flow Control" refers to Pentair Ltd. prior2017, we completed the Merger. Prior to the Merger, Tyco International Ltd. ("Tyco") engaged in an internal restructuring whereby it transferred to Flow Control certain assets related to the flow control business of Tyco, and Flow Control assumed from Tyco certain liabilities related to the flow control business of Tyco. On September 28, 2012 prior to the Merger, Tyco effected a spin-off of Flow Control through the pro-rata distribution of 100%sale of the outstanding ordinary sharesValves & Controls business to Emerson Electric Co. for $3.15 billion. The sale resulted in a gain of Flow Control to Tyco’s shareholders (the "Distribution"), resulting in the distribution$181.1 million, net of approximately 110.9 million of our ordinary shares to Tyco’s shareholders. The Merger was accounted for as a reverse acquisition under the purchase method of accounting with Pentair, Inc. treated as the acquirer.
On January 30, 2014, we acquired, as part of Water Quality Systems, the remaining 19.9 percent ownership interest in two entities, a U.S. entity and an international entity (collectively, Pentair Residential Filtration or "PRF"), from GE Water & Process Technologies (a unit of General Electric Company) ("GE") for $134.3 million in cash. Prior to the acquisition, we held a 80.1 percent ownership equity interest in PRF, representing our and GE's respective global water softener and residential water filtration businesses.

25



On July 28, 2014, our Board of Directors approved a decision to exit our Water Transport business in Australia.tax. The results of the Water TransportValves & Controls business have been presented as discontinued operations and the assets and liabilities of the Water Transport business have been reclassified as held for sale for all periods presented. During 2014,The Valves & Controls business was previously disclosed as a stand-alone reporting segment.

On April 30, 2018, we recognized an impairment charge related to allocated amountscompleted the separation of goodwill, intangible assets, property, plant & equipment and other non-current assets totaling $380.1 million, netour Electrical business from the rest of tax, representing our estimated loss on disposalPentair (the “Separation”) by means of a dividend in specie of the Water Transport business. The saleElectrical business, which was effected by the transfer of the Water TransportElectrical business from Pentair to nVent and the issuance by nVent of nVent ordinary shares directly to Pentair shareholders (the “Distribution”). We did not retain an equity interest in nVent. The results of the Electrical business have been presented as discontinued operations for all periods presented. The Electrical business was completed in 2015.
On September 18, 2015, we acquired,previously disclosed as part of Technical Solutions, all of the outstanding shares of capital stock of ERICO Global Company ("ERICO") for approximately $1.8 billion (the "ERICO Acquisition"). ERICO is a leading global manufacturer and marketer of engineered electrical and fastening products for electrical, mechanical and civil applications. ERICO has employees in 30 countries across the world with recognized brands including CADDY fixing, fastening and support products; ERICO electrical grounding, bonding and connectivity products and LENTON engineered systems.
During the latter part of the fourth quarter of 2015, the oil and gas industry continued to deteriorate, leading management to reconsider its estimates for future profitability of Valves & Controls. As a result, for the year ended December 31, 2015, we recognized a pre-tax, non-cash impairment charge of $554.7 million related to goodwill and trade name intangible assets in Valves & Controls.stand-alone reporting segment.
Key trends and uncertainties regarding our existing business
The following trends and uncertainties affected our financial performance in 20152018 and 2014,2017, and will likely impact our results in the future:

In late 2014During 2018 and continuing through 2015,2017, we continued execution of certain business restructuring initiatives aimed at reducing our results were negatively impacted due to the strengtheningfixed cost structure and realigned our business in contemplation of the U.S. dollar against most key global currencies.Separation and Distribution of nVent. We expect this trend to continue into 2016.
In 2015, we experienced declines in project orders, particularly within the energy and industrial businesses. We expect headwinds in the energy and industrial business to continue and oil prices to remain depressed throughout 2016.
In the last three quarters of 2015, we initiated further restructuring actions to offset the negative earnings impact of foreign exchange and core revenue decline. We expect to continue these actions into 2016 and these actions will contribute to margin growth in 2016.2019.
We have identified specific product and geographic market opportunities that we find attractive and continue to pursue, both within and outside the United States.U.S. We are reinforcing our businesses to more effectively address these opportunities through research and development and additional sales and marketing resources. Unless we successfully penetrate these markets, our core sales growth will likely be limited or may decline.
Despite the favorable long-term outlook for our end-markets, we experience differing levels of volatility depending on the end-market and may continue to do so over the medium and longer term. While we believe the general trends are favorable, factors specific to each of our major end-markets may negatively affect the capital spending plans of our customers and lead to lower sales volumes for us.
Through 2014 and into 2015, we
We have experienced material and other cost inflation. We strive for productivity improvements, and we implement increases in selling prices to help mitigate this inflation. We expect the current economic environment will result in continuing price volatility for many of our raw materials. Commodity prices have declined, butmaterials, and we are uncertain as to the timing and impact of these market changes.
Proposed regulations as part of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, enacted in the U.S. in December 2017, may place limitations on the deductibility of certain interest expense for U.S. tax purposes. These proposed regulations could materially adversely affect our financial condition, results of operations, cash flows or our effective tax rate in future reporting periods when enacted.
In 2016,2019, our operating objectives include the following:
Reducing long-term debt and overall leverage through improved cash flow performance;
Driving operating excellence through lean enterprise initiatives,Accelerating PIMS, with specific focus on sourcingthe area of commercial excellence and supply management, cash flow management and lean operations;acquisition integrations;
Achieving differentiated revenueDelivering our growth priorities through new products and global and market expansion;expansion, specifically in the areas of pool and residential and commercial water treatment especially through acquisitions and focus on China and Southeast Asia;
Optimizing our technological capabilities to increasingly generate innovative new products;products and advance digital transformation; and
FocusingBuilding a growth culture and delivering on developing global talentour commitments while living our Win Right values.
In January 2019, as part of Filtration Solutions, we entered into definitive agreements to acquire Aquion and Pelican for $160.0 million and $120.0 million in lightcash, respectively, and subject to certain customary adjustments. We completed the Aquion acquisition on February 13, 2019 and the Pelican acquisition on February 12, 2019. Aquion offers a diverse line of our increased global presence.water conditioners, water filters, drinking-water purifiers, ozone and ultraviolet disinfection systems, reverse osmosis systems and acid neutralizers for the residential and commercial water treatment industry. Pelican provides residential whole home water treatment systems.

26




CONSOLIDATED RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
The consolidated results of operations were as follows:
Years ended December 31 % / point changeYears ended December 31 % / point change
In millions201520142013 2015 vs. 20142014 vs. 2013201820172016 2018 vs 20172017 vs 2016
Net sales$6,449.0
$7,039.0
$6,999.7
 (8.4)%0.6 %$2,965.1
$2,845.7
$2,780.6
 4.2 %2.3 %
Cost of goods sold4,263.2
4,576.0
4,629.6
 (6.8)%(1.2)%1,917.4
1,858.2
1,821.5
 3.2 %2.0 %
Gross profit2,185.8
2,463.0
2,370.1
 (11.3)%3.9 %1,047.7
987.5
959.1
 6.1 %3.0 %
% of net sales33.9%35.0%33.9% (1.1)1.1
35.3%34.7%34.5% 0.6  pts0.2  pts
      
Selling, general and administrative1,334.3
1,493.8
1,493.7
 (10.7)% %534.3
536.0
531.4
 (0.3)%0.9 %
% of net sales20.8%21.3%21.3% (0.5)
18.0%18.8%19.1% (0.8) pts(0.3) pts
Research and development119.6
117.3
122.8
 2.0 %(4.5)%76.7
73.2
73.3
 4.8 %(0.1)%
% of net sales1.9%1.7%1.8% 0.2
(0.1)2.6%2.6%2.6% 

Impairment of goodwill and trade names554.7

11.0
 N.M.
(100.0)%
% of net sales8.6%%0.2% 8.6
(0.2)
      
Operating income177.2
851.9
742.6
 (79.2)%14.7 %436.7
378.3
354.4
 15.4 %6.7 %
% of net sales2.7%12.1%10.6% (9.4)1.5
14.7%13.3%12.7% 1.4  pts0.6  pts
      
Loss (gain) on sale of businesses, net3.2
0.2
(20.8) N.M.
(101.0)%
Loss on sale of businesses7.3
4.2
3.9
 N.M.
7.7 %
Loss on early extinguishment of debt17.1
101.4

 N.M.
N.M
Net interest expense102.7
68.6
70.9
 49.7 %(3.2)%32.6
87.3
140.1
 (62.7)%(37.7)%
Other (income) expense(0.1)12.6
(10.5) N.M.
N.M
      
Income from continuing operations before income taxes and noncontrolling interest74.1
784.3
694.5
 (90.6)%12.9 %
Income from continuing operations before income taxes379.8
172.8
220.9
 N.M.
(21.8)%
Provision for income taxes139.1
177.3
177.0
 (21.5)%0.2 %58.1
58.7
42.7
 (1.0)%37.5  %
Effective tax rate187.7%22.6%25.5% 165.1
(2.9)15.3%34.0%19.3% (18.7) pts14.7  pts
N.M. Not Meaningful
Net sales
The components of the consolidated net sales change were as follows:
2015 vs. 2014 2014 vs. 20132018 vs 2017 2017 vs 2016
Volume(4.3)% 1.0 %3.6 % %
Price0.4
 0.9
1.2
 0.8
Core growth (decline)(3.9) 1.9
Core growth4.8
 0.8
Acquisition (divestiture)2.1
 (0.2)(1.2) 1.1
Currency(6.6) (1.1)0.6
 0.4
Total(8.4)% 0.6 %4.2 % 2.3%
The 8.44.2 percent decreaseincrease in consolidated net sales in 20152018 from 20142017 was primarily the result of:
a slowdown in industrial capital spending, particularlycore sales increases across all three reportable segments, primarily driven by increased sales in the oil & gasresidential and energy-related businesses, driving core sales declines in Valves & Controls;
slowing economic activity in China, Brazil and other developing markets; and
a strong U.S. dollar causing unfavorable foreign currency effects.
These decreases were partially offset by:
core sales growth in Water Quality Systems and Technical Solutions, primarily as the result of increased volume in the United States and Canada;

27



sales of $147.0 million in 2015 as a result of the ERICO Acquisition;
core sales growth in our food & beverage and residential & commercial businesses; and
selective increases in selling prices to mitigate inflationary cost increases.increases; and
favorable foreign currency effects during the year ended December 31, 2018.
This increase was partially offset by:
sales declines due to the sale of certain businesses during the year ended December 31, 2018.


The 0.62.3 percent increase in consolidated net sales in 20142017 from 20132016 was primarily the result of:
coreincreased sales growth in Technical Solutions,our industrial and residential & commercial businesses primarily as the result of increased volume in the United States, China and Canada;
core sales growth in Water Quality Systems due to higher sales of certain pool products serving North American residential housing and increased demand for global food & beverage solutions; andU.S.;
selective increases in selling prices to mitigate inflationary cost increases.increases;
These increases wereincreased sales related to business acquisitions that occurred in the fourth quarter of 2016 and the first quarter of 2017; and
favorable foreign currency effects during the year ended December 31, 2017.
This increase was partially offset by:
unfavorable foreign currency effects;
decreases in sales of energy products in Valves & Controls and sales declines in residential retail productour industrial business due to customer delays in capital spending; and
large job adjustments to net sales and infrastructure businessesof $9.7 million in Flow & Filtration Solutions; and
loss of revenue related to the 2013 divestitures of businesses in Technical Solutions and Flow & Filtration Solutions.2017.
Gross profit 
The 1.1 percentage point decrease in gross profit as a percentage of sales in 2015 from 2014 was primarily the result of:
lower core sales volumes, which resulted in decreased leverage on fixed expenses included in cost of goods sold;
an increase in cost of goods sold of $35.7 million in 2015 compared to 2014 as a result of inventory fair value step-up recorded as part of the Technical Solutions acquisitions in 2015, which did not occur in 2014; and
inflationary increases related to raw materials and labor costs.
These decreases were partially offset by:
higher contribution margin as a result of savings generated from our Pentair Integrated Management System ("PIMS") initiatives including lean and supply management practices; and
selective increases in selling prices to mitigate inflationary cost increases.
The 1.10.6 percentage point increase in gross profit as a percentage of sales in 20142018 from 20132017 was primarily the result of:
a decreaseselective increases in selling prices across all three reportable segments to mitigate inflationary cost of goods sold of $86.6 millionincreases;
favorable mix in 2014 compared to 2013 as a result of inventory fair value step-upthe Filtration Solutions segment; and customer backlog recorded as part of the Merger purchase accounting in 2013, which did not recur in 2014;
higher contribution margin as a result of savings generated from our PIMS initiatives, including lean and supply management practices;practices.
This increase was partially offset by:
inflationary increases related to raw materials and labor costs.
The 0.2 percentage point increase in gross profit as a percentage of sales in 2017 from 2016 was primarily the result of:
favorable material savings for certain raw materials and product mix offsetting inflation;
selective increases in selling prices across all business segments to mitigate inflationary cost increases.increases; and
These increases werehigher contribution margin as a result of savings generated from our PIMS initiatives including lean and supply management practices.
This increase was partially offset by:
inflationary increases related to raw materials and labor costs.
Selling, general and administrative ("(“SG&A"&A”) 
The 0.50.8 percentage point decrease in SG&A expense as a percentage of sales in 20152018 from 20142017 and was driven by:
"mark-to-market" actuarial gains related to pensionsavings generated from restructuring and other post-retirement benefit planslean initiatives; and
higher sales resulting in increased leverage.
This decrease was partially offset by:
restructuring costs of $23.0$40.6 million in 2015,2018, compared to "mark-to-market" actuarial losses of $49.9$28.2 million in 2014;2017;
the reversal of a $13.3 million indemnification liability in 2017 that did not recur in 2018; and
cost investments in sales and marketing to drive growth.
The 0.3 percentage point decrease in SG&A expense as a percentage of sales in 2017 from 2016 and was driven by the following:
a benefit from the reversal of a $13.3 million indemnification liability in 2017; and
savings generated from back-office consolidation, reduction in personnel and other lean initiatives.

28




These decreases wereThis decrease was partially offset by:
restructuring costs of $117.8$28.2 million in 2015,2017, compared to $88.3$12.2 million in 2014;2016;
dealnon-cash charges of $15.6 million in 2017 related coststo trade names and expenses of $14.3 million for 2015;other impairments; and
lowerincreased investments in sales volume and the resulting loss of leverage on fixed operating expenses.
SG&A expense as a percentage of sales remained consistent in 2014 from 2013 and was favorably impacted by the following:
restructuring costs of $88.3 million in 2014, comparedmarketing to $103.2 million in 2013;
savings generated from back-office consolidation, reduction in personnel and other lean initiatives; and
higher sales volume and the resultant gain of leverage on fixed operating expenses.
These favorable fluctuations were offset by the following:
"mark-to-market" actuarial losses related to pension and other post-retirement benefit plans of $49.9 million in 2014, compared to "mark-to-market" actuarial gains of $63.2 million in 2013; and
costs of $10.3 million incurred in 2014, compared to $5.4 million in 2013, as a result of the Redomicile of the Company from Switzerland to Ireland.
Impairment of goodwill and trade names
During the fourth quarter of 2015, we recognized a pre-tax, non-cash impairment charge of $554.7 million related to goodwill and trade name intangible assets in Valves & Controls. An impairment charge of $11.0 million was recorded in the fourth quarter of 2013 related to a trade name in Technical Solutions.
Gain on sale of businesses, net
During 2013, we sold businesses that were part of Technical Solutions and Flow & Filtration Solutions for a cash purchase price of $30.1 million and $13.4 million, respectively, net of transaction costs, resulting in a gain of $16.8 million and $4.0 million, respectively.drive growth.
Net interest expense
The 49.762.7 percent increasedecrease in net interest expense in 20152018 from 20142017 was primarily the result of:
the amortization of $10.8 million of debt issuance costs during 2015 related to financing commitments for a senior unsecured bridge loan facility established (and subsequently terminated upon issuance of the September 2015 issuance of senior notes discussed in Liquidity and Capital Resources below) in connection with the ERICO Acquisition;
the impact of higherlower debt levels during 2015,2018 compared to 2014, primarily as2017. In June 2018, the resultproceeds from the Separation were utilized to repay the remaining $255.3 million aggregate principal amount of our 2.9% fixed rate senior notes due 2018 and for the September 2015 issuanceearly extinguishment of €363.4 million aggregate principal amount of our 2.45% senior notes; andnotes due 2019.
higher interest rates on commercial paper.This decrease was partially offset by:
The 3.2 percent decrease in net interest expense in 2014 from 2013 was primarily the result of:
reducedincreased overall interest rates in effect on our outstanding debt; andvariable rate debt during 2018 compared to 2017.
additionalThe 37.7 percent decrease in net interest expense in 2017 from 2016 was primarily the result of:
the impact of $2.1lower debt levels during 2017 compared to 2016. In May 2017, a portion of the proceeds from the sale of the Valves & Controls business was utilized to repay all commercial paper and revolving long term debt and for the early extinguishment of $1,659.3 million in the second quarteraggregate principal amount of 2013 for a working capital and net indebtedness adjustment related to the Merger that did not recur in 2014.certain series of fixed rate outstanding notes.
These decreases wereThis decrease was partially offset by:
the impact of higherincreased overall interest rates in effect on our variable rate outstanding debt levels during 20142017 compared to 2013.2016.
Loss on early extinguishment of debt
In June 2018, we redeemed the remaining $255.3 million aggregate principal amount of our 2.9% fixed rate senior notes due 2018 and completed a cash tender offer in the amount of €363.4 million aggregate principal amount of our 2.45% senior notes due 2019. All costs associated with the repurchases of debt were recorded as a Loss on the early extinguishment of debt, including $16.0 million premium paid on early extinguishment and $1.1 million of unamortized deferred financing costs.

In May 2017, we repurchased aggregate principal of certain series of outstanding fixed rate debt totaling $1,659.3 million. Total costs of $101.4 million associated with the repurchases were recorded as Loss on early extinguishment of debt.
Provision for income taxes
The 165.118.7 percentage point decrease in the effective tax rate in 2018 from 2017 was primarily due to:
the mix of global earnings, including the impact of U.S. Tax Reform; and
the impact of lower nondeductible interest expense allocated to continuing operations in 2018 compared to 2017.
The 14.7 percentage point increase in the effective tax rate in 20152017 from 2014 was primarily due to:
a goodwill impairment charge of $515.2 million, which was not tax deductible;
restructuring costs in jurisdictions with low tax benefits;
an increase in valuation allowances during 2015; and

29



the unfavorable tax impact of transaction costs related to the ERICO Acquisition.
These increases were partially offset by:
the mix of global earnings toward lower tax jurisdictions; and
non-recurring withholding taxes during 2014 which did not recur in 2015.
The 2.9 percentage point decrease in the effective tax rate in 2014 from 20132016 was primarily due to:
the mix of global earnings, toward lowerincluding the impact of U.S. Tax Reform; and
the unfavorable tax jurisdictions.impact of restructuring costs in 2016 in jurisdictions with low tax benefits.
The decrease was partially offset by:
increase in withholding taxes that are non-recurring.
SEGMENT RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
This summary that follows provides a discussion of the results of operations of each of our fourthree reportable segments (Valves & Controls, Flow &(Aquatic Systems, Filtration Solutions Water Quality Systems and Technical Solutions)Flow Technologies). Each of these segments comprisesis comprised of various product offerings that serve multiple end markets.
We evaluate performance based on sales and segment income and use a variety of ratios to measure performance of our reporting segments. During the third quarter of 2015, we revised our definition of segment income to exclude intangible amortization to better reflect how management assesses performance of the business. Segment income represents equity income of unconsolidated subsidiaries and operating income (loss) from continuing operations exclusive of intangible amortization, certain acquisition related expenses, costs of restructuring activities, impairments and other unusual non-operating items.
Valves & Controls

Aquatic Systems
The net sales and segment income for Valves & ControlsAquatic Systems were as follows:
Years ended December 31 % / point changeYears ended December 31 % / point change
In millions201520142013 2015 vs. 20142014 vs. 2013201820172016 2018 vs 20172017 vs 2016
Net sales$1,840.1
$2,377.3
$2,451.7
 (22.6)%(3.0)%$1,026.1
$939.6
$877.8
 9.2%7.0%
Segment income223.0
398.5
349.3
 (44.0)%14.1 %277.6
254.1
217.4
 9.2%16.9%
% of net sales12.1%16.8%14.2% (4.7)2.6
27.1%27.0%24.8% 0.1  pts2.2  pts
Net sales
The components of the change in Valves & Controls net sales were as follows:
 2015 vs. 2014 2014 vs. 2013
Volume(13.6)% (2.2)%
Price(0.1) 0.5
   Core growth(13.7) (1.7)
Currency(8.9) (1.3)
Total(22.6)% (3.0)%
The 22.6 percent decrease in Valves & Controls net sales in 2015 from 2014 was primarily the result of:
lower shipments and orders within the oil & gas and industrial businesses and broad-based slowing of global capital spending;
continued sales decline in the mining industry; and
a strong U.S. dollar causing unfavorable foreign currency effects.
These decreases were partially offset by:
sales growth in developing regions, including Southeast Asia, India and Eastern Europe.

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The 3.0 percent decrease in Valves & Controls net sales in 2014 from 2013 was primarily the result of:
decreased sales volume related to lower shipments for our energy products, particularly in the mining industry; and
unfavorable foreign currency effects.
These decreases were partially offset by:
increased sales volume for our industrial products; and
selective increases in selling prices to mitigate inflationary cost increases.
Segment income
The components of the change in Valves & Controls segment income from the prior period were as follows:
 20152014
Growth(6.5) pts
Inflation(1.0)(1.4)
Productivity/Price2.8
4.0
Total(4.7) pts2.6 pts

The 4.7 percentage point decrease in segment income for Valves & Controls as a percentage of net sales in 2015 from 2014 was primarily the result of:
lower core sales volumes, which resulted in decreased leverage on operating expenses; and
inflationary cost increases.
These decreases were partially offset by:
cost savings generated from back-office consolidation, reduction in personnel and other lean initiatives.
The 2.6 percentage point increase in segment income for Valves & Controls as a percentage of net sales in2014 from 2013 was primarily the result of:
selective increases in selling price to mitigate inflationary cost increases related to raw materials and labor costs;
favorable project mix due to higher margin projects in 2014; and
savings generated from our PIMS initiatives, including lean and supply management practices.
These increases were partially offset by:
costs related to the operating model transformation investment in 2014.
Flow & Filtration Solutions
The net sales and segment income for Flow & Filtration Solutions were as follows:
 Years ended December 31 % / point change
In millions201520142013 2015 vs. 20142014 vs. 2013
Net sales$1,441.6
$1,603.1
$1,651.8
 (10.1)%(2.9)%
Segment income185.1
199.5
202.4
 (7.2)%(1.4)%
% of net sales12.8%12.3%12.3% 0.5


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Net sales
The components of the change in Flow & Filtration Solutions net sales were as follows:
 2015 vs. 2014 2014 vs. 2013
Volume(4.6)% (2.1)%
Price1.0
 0.7
   Core growth(3.6) (1.4)
Acquisition (divestiture)
 (0.6)
Currency(6.5) (0.9)
Total(10.1)% (2.9)%
The 10.1 percent decrease in Flow & Filtration Solutions sales in 2015 from 2014 was primarily the result of:
decrease in core sales due to significant declines in the global agricultural industry, broad-based slowing of global capital spending and customer inventory de-stocking;
decreased sales volume related to the loss of a customer in the residential retail business during the second half of 2014; and
a strong U.S. dollar causing unfavorable foreign currency effects.
These decreases were partially offset by:
selective increases in selling prices to mitigate inflationary cost increases;
core sales growth in our food & beverage business; and
core growth in developing regions, including Eastern Europe and Southeast Asia.
The 2.9 percent decrease in Flow & Filtration Solutions sales in 2014 from 2013 was primarily the result of:
decreased sales volume related to the loss of a customer in the residential retail business and sales declines in the infrastructure business;
loss of revenue related to the divestiture of a business at the end of the fourth quarter of 2013; and
unfavorable foreign currency effects.
These decreases were partially offset by:
selective increases in selling prices to mitigate inflationary cost increases.
Segment income
The components of the change in Flow & Filtration Solutions segment income from the prior period were as follows:
 20152014
Growth(2.5) pts
Acquisition (divestiture)
(0.1)
Inflation(1.4)(1.5)
Productivity/Price4.4
1.6
Total0.5 pts

The 0.5 percentage point increase in segment income for Flow & Filtration Solutions as a percentage of net sales in 2015 from 2014 was primarily the result of:
price increases more than offsetting inflationary cost increases;
savings driven by restructuring actions; and
savings generated from our PIMS initiatives including lean and supply management practices.

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These increases were partially offset by:
inflationary increases related to labor and certain raw materials;
lower core sales volumes, which resulted in decreased leverage on operating expenses; and
decreased sales volume related to the loss of a customer in the residential retail business during the second half of 2014.
Segment income for Flow & Filtration Solutions as a percentage of net sales remained consistent in 2014 from 2013 and was positively impacted by the following:
selective increases in selling prices to mitigate inflationary cost increases; and
savings generated from our PIMS initiatives including lean and supply management practices.
These were partially offset by:
inflationary increases related to labor and certain raw materials.
Water Quality Systems
The net sales and segment income for Water Quality Systems were as follows:
 Years ended December 31 % / point change
In millions201520142013 2015 vs. 20142014 vs. 2013
Net sales$1,381.5
$1,356.4
$1,269.3
 1.9%6.9%
Segment income281.8
253.3
227.9
 11.3%11.1%
% of net sales20.4%18.7%18.0% 1.7
0.7
Net sales
The components of the change in Water QualityAquatic Systems net sales were as follows:
2015 vs. 2014 2014 vs. 20132018 vs 2017 2017 vs 2016
Volume4.2 % 6.2 %8.2 % 5.2%
Price0.8
 1.3
2.3
 1.4
Core growth5.0
 7.5
10.5
 6.6
Acquisition (divestiture)(1.2) 0.1
Currency(3.1) (0.6)(0.1) 0.3
Total1.9 % 6.9 %9.2 % 7.0%
The 1.99.2 percent increase in Water Qualitynet sales for Aquatic Systems sales in 20152018 from 2014 was primarily the result of:
core sales growth related to higher sales of certain pool products primarily serving the North American residential housing market in 2015;
core sales growth within our residential & commercial and food & beverage businesses; and
selective increases in selling prices to mitigate inflationary cost increases.
These increases were partially offset by:
a strong U.S. dollar causing unfavorable foreign currency effects; and
decreased sales in Western Europe and in the developing regions of Brazil and Latin America.
The 6.9 percent increase in Water Quality Systems sales in 2014 from 20132017 was primarily the result of:
core sales growth related to higher sales of certain pool products primarily serving North American residential housing;
increased demand for global food & beverage solutions in 2014;

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growth in developed regions led by strength in the U.S. and Western Europe; and
selective increases in selling prices to mitigate inflationary cost increases.
These increases wereThis increase was partially offset by:
sales declines due to the divestiture of certain businesses in 2018.
The 7.0 percent increase in net sales for Aquatic Systems in 2017 from 2016 was primarily the result of:
core sales increases in the residential & commercial business primarily in the U.S.;
selective increases in selling prices to mitigate inflationary cost increases; and
favorable foreign currency effects.
Segment income
The components of the change in Aquatic Systems segment income from the prior period were as follows:
 20182017
Growth1.4 pts0.8 pts
Acquisition0.4
0.4
Inflation(2.9)(1.1)
Productivity/Price1.2
2.1
Total0.1 pts2.2 pts
The 0.1 point increase in segment income for Aquatic Systems as a percentage of net sales in 2018 from 2017 was primarily the result of:
core sales growth contributions to income;
selective increases in selling prices to mitigate inflationary cost increases; and
cost savings generated from PIMS initiatives including lean and supply management practices.


This increase was partially offset by:
inflationary increases related to raw material and labor costs.
The 2.2 point increase in segment income for Aquatic Systems as a percentage of net sales in 2017 from 2016 was primarily the result of:
price increases to mitigate inflationary cost increases; and
cost savings generated from PIMS initiatives including lean and supply management practices.
This increase was partially offset by:
inflationary increases related to raw materials and labor costs.
Filtration Solutions
The net sales and segment income for Filtration Solutions were as follows:
 Years ended December 31 % / point change
In millions201820172016 2018 vs 20172017 vs 2016
Net sales$1,001.0
$990.6
$976.3
 1.0%1.5%
Segment income168.5
154.5
138.4
 9.1%11.6%
% of net sales16.8%15.6%14.2% 1.2  pts1.4  pts
Net sales
The components of the change in Filtration Solutions net sales were as follows:
 2018 vs 2017 2017 vs 2016
Volume0.3 % (2.8)%
Price0.5
 0.4
   Core growth0.8
 (2.4)
Acquisition (divestiture)(0.9) 2.9
Currency1.1
 1.0
Total1.0 % 1.5 %
The 1.0 percent increase in net sales for Filtration Solutions in 2018 from 2017 was primarily the result of:
increased sales volume in our industrialcommercial and infrastructureindustrial businesses;
unfavorableselective increases in selling prices to mitigate inflationary cost increases; and
favorable foreign currency effects;effects.
This increase was partially offset by:
sales volume declines in our residential vertical; and
decreased sales declines due to the divestiture of certain businesses in Brazil2018.
The 1.5 percent increase in net sales for Filtration Solutions in 2017 from 2016 was primarily the result of:
increased sales related to a business acquisition that occurred in the first quarter of 2017;
selective increases in selling prices to mitigate inflationary cost increases;
sales increases in the U.S., China and Western Europe.Southeast Asia; and
favorable foreign currency effects.


This increase was partially offset by:
sales volume declines.
Segment income
The components of the change in Water Quality SystemsFiltration Solutions segment income from the prior period were as follows:
2015201420182017
Growth0.3 pts
1.7 pts(0.8) pts
Acquisition0.1
(0.1)
Inflation(1.0)(1.5)(2.5)(1.6)
Productivity/Price2.4
2.2
1.9
3.9
Total1.7 pts0.7 pts1.2 pts1.4 pts
The 1.7 percentage1.2 point increase in segment income for Water Quality SystemsFiltration Solutions as a percentage of net sales in 20152018 from 20142017 was primarily the result of:
pricecore growth contributions to income resulting in favorable mix;
selective increases more than offsettingin selling prices to mitigate inflationary cost increases; and
cost savings generated from PIMS initiatives including lean and supply management practices.
This increase was partially offset by:
inflationary increases related to raw material and labor costs.
The 1.4 point increase in segment income for Filtration Solutions as a percentage of net sales in 2017 from 2016 was primarily the result of:
selective increases in selling prices to mitigate inflation cost increases; and
cost savings generated from back-office consolidation, reduction in personnel and other lean initiatives.
These increases wereThis increase was partially offset by:
inflationary increases related to raw material and labor costscosts; and certain raw materials.
unfavorable mix due to volume declines year over year.
Flow Technologies
The 0.7 percentagenet sales and segment income for Flow Technologies were as follows:
 Years ended December 31 % / point change
In millions201820172016 2018 vs 20172017 vs 2016
Net sales$936.7
$914.2
$923.5
 2.5%(1.0)%
Segment income145.6
140.6
141.6
 3.6%(0.7)%
% of net sales15.5%15.4%15.3% 0.1 pts0.1  pts


Net sales
The components of the change in Flow Technologies net sales were as follows:
 2018 vs 2017 2017 vs 2016
Volume2.3 % (2.0)%
Price0.9
 0.5
   Core growth3.2
 (1.5)
Acquisition (divestiture)(1.3) 
Currency0.6
 0.5
Total2.5 % (1.0)%
The 2.5 percent increase in Flow Technologies sales in 2018 from 2017 was primarily the result of:
core growth in our commercial and specialty businesses;
selective increases in selling prices to mitigate inflationary cost increases; and
favorable foreign currency effects during 2018;
This increase was partially offset by:
sales declines due to the divestiture of certain businesses.
The 1.0 percent decrease in Flow Technologies sales in 2017 from 2016 was primarily the result of:
volume declines in our commercial business; and
large job adjustments to net sales of $9.7 million in 2017.
This decrease was partially offset by:
selective increases in selling prices to mitigate inflationary cost increases; and
favorable foreign currency effects.
Segment income
The components of the change in Flow Technologies segment income from the prior period were as follows:
 20182017
Growth0.8 pts(1.1) pts
Acquisition (divestiture)(0.1)
Inflation(2.7)(0.9)
Productivity/Price2.1
2.1
Total0.1 pts0.1  pts

The 0.1 point increase in segment income for Water Quality SystemsFlow Technologies as a percentage of net sales in 20142018 from 20132017was primarily the result of:
higher core sales in our commercial and specialty businesses, which resulted in increased leverage on fixed operating expenses;
selective increases in selling prices to mitigate inflationary cost increases; and
cost control and savings generated from lean initiatives.
This increase was partially offset by:
inflationary increases related to raw material and labor costs.


The 0.1 point increase in segment income for Flow Technologies as a percentage of sales in 2017 from 2016 was primarily the result of:
selective increases in selling prices to mitigate inflationary cost increases; and
core sales growthcost control and savings generated from back-office consolidation, reduction in our residential & commercialpersonnel and food & beverage businesses, which resulted in increased leverage on operating expenses.other lean initiatives.
These increases wereThis increase was partially offset by:
sales volume declines from our commercial business; and
inflationary increases related to certain raw materials;materials and labor costs.
lower sales volumes in our industrial and infrastructure businesses, which resulted in decreased leverage on operating expenses.
Technical Solutions
The net sales and segment income for Technical Solutions were as follows:
 Years ended December 31 % / point change
In millions201520142013 2015 vs. 20142014 vs. 2013
Net sales$1,809.3
$1,728.1
$1,663.4
 4.7 %3.9%
Segment income395.0
378.1
342.0
 4.5 %10.6%
% of net sales21.8%21.9%20.6% (0.1)1.3

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Net sales
The components of the change in Technical Solutions net sales were as follows:
 2015 vs. 2014 2014 vs. 2013
Volume2.2 % 4.2 %
Price0.1
 1.3
   Core growth2.3
 5.5
Acquisition (divestiture)8.5
 (0.4)
Currency(6.1) (1.2)
Total4.7 % 3.9 %
The 4.7 percent increase in Technical Solutions sales in 2015 from 2014 was primarily the result of:
sales of $147.0 million in 2015 as a result of the ERICO Acquisition;
core growth in our residential & commercial and energy businesses; and
higher project core sales volume in the United States and Canada.
These increases were partially offset by:
a strong U.S. dollar causing unfavorable foreign currency effects;
lower core sales volumes in our infrastructure business, primarily due to broad-based slowing of global capital spending; and
a decrease in demand for products in developing regions.
The 3.9 percent increase in Technical Solutions sales in 2014 from 2013 was primarily the result of:
higher sales volume in the U.S., China and Canada;
increased sales in our industrial, infrastructure and residential & commercial businesses; and
selective increases in selling prices to mitigate inflationary cost increases.
These increases were partially offset by:
unfavorable foreign currency effects; and
loss of revenue related to the divestiture of a business at the end of the first quarter of 2013.
Segment income
The components of the change in Technical Solutions segment income from the prior period were as follows:

 20152014
Growth(1.3) pts
Acquisition/Divestiture0.4
0.1
Inflation(1.1)(1.7)
Productivity/Price1.9
2.9
Total(0.1) pts1.3 pts

The 0.1 percentage point decrease in segment income for Technical Solutions as a percentage of net sales in 2015 from 2014andwas primarily the result of:
high margin project sales in 2014 that did not recur in 2015;
lower core sales volumes in our infrastructure business, which resulted in decreased leverage on operating expenses; and

35



inflationary increases related to labor costs and certain raw materials.
These decreases were partially offset by:
higher core sales volumes in our energy and commercial businesses, which resulted in increased leverage on operating expenses; and
selective increases in selling prices to mitigate inflationary cost increases.
The 1.3 percentage point increase in segment income for Technical Solutions as a percentage of sales in 2014 from 2013 was primarily the result of:
higher sales volume in our industrial, infrastructure and residential & commercial businesses, which resulted in increased leverage on operating expenses; and
selective increases in selling prices to mitigate inflationary cost increases.
These increases were partially offset by:
inflationary increases related to labor costs and certain raw materials.
LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES
We generally fund cash requirements for working capital, capital expenditures, equity investments, acquisitions, debt repayments, dividend payments and share repurchases from cash generated from operations, availability under existing committed revolving credit facilities and in certain instances, public and private debt and equity offerings. We have grown our businesses in significant part in the past through acquisitions financed by credit provided under our revolving credit facilities and from time to time, by private or public debt issuance. Our primary revolving credit facilities have generally been adequate for these purposes, although we have negotiated additional credit facilities or completed debt and equity offerings as needed to allow us to complete acquisitions. We intend togenerally issue commercial paper to fund our financing needs on a short-term basis and to use our revolving credit facility as back-up liquidity to support commercial paper.
We are focusing on increasing our cash flow and repaying existing debt, while continuing to fund our research and development, marketing and capital investment initiatives. Our intent is to maintain investment grade credit ratings and a solid liquidity position.
We experience seasonal cash flows primarily due to seasonal demand in a number of markets within Flow & Filtration Solutions and Water Quality Systems.markets. We generally borrow in the first quarter of our fiscal year for operational purposes, which usage reverses in the second quarter as the seasonality of our businesses peaks. End-user demand for pool and certain pumping equipment follows warm weather trends and is at seasonal highs from April to August. The magnitude of the sales spike is partially mitigated by employing some advance sale "early buy"“early buy” programs (generally including extended payment terms and/or additional discounts). Demand for residential and agricultural water systems is also impacted by weather patterns, particularly by heavy flooding and droughts. Additionally, Technical Solutions generally experiences increased demand for thermal protection products and services during the fall and winter months in the Northern Hemisphere.
Operating activities
Cash provided by operating activities of continuing operations was $750.0$458.1 million in 2015, or $255.02018, compared to $278.6 million lower than in 2014. 2017 and $379.9 million in 2016.

The decrease$458.1 million in net cash provided by operating activities of continuing operations in 2018 primarily reflects net income from continuing operations was due primarily to a $173.2of $423.4 million, decrease in Net income (loss) from continuing operations before noncontrolling interest, net of the following non-cash items: depreciation and amortization and the loss (gain) on saleearly extinguishment of businesses, goodwill and trade name impairment and pension and other post-retirement expense (income).debt, further increased by a positive impact of $30.2 million as a result of changes in net working capital.
Cash provided by operating activities from continuing operations was $1,005.0The $278.6 million in 2014, or $73.7 million higher than in 2013. The increase innet cash provided by operating activities of continuing operations in 2017 primarily reflects net income from continuing operations was due primarily to a $184.3of $302.7 million, increase in Net income (loss) before noncontrolling interest, net of the following non-cash items: depreciation and amortization and the loss (gain) on saleearly extinguishment of businesses, trade name impairmentdebt, partially offset by a negative impact of $87.3 million as a result of changes in net working capital.
The $379.9 million in net cash provided by operating activities of continuing operations in 2016 primarily reflects net income from continuing operations of $266.6 million, net of non-cash depreciation and pensionamortization and other post-retirement expense (income).a positive impact of $192.4 million as a result of changes in net working capital.
Investing activities
Cash used for investing activities of continuing operations was $61.7 million in 2018, compared to $2,678.1 million of cash provided by investing activities of continuing operation in 2017 and $54.6 million of cash used for investing activities of continuing operations in 2016.
Net cash used for investing activities of continuing operations was $2,024.5in 2018 primarily reflects capital expenditures of $48.2 million in 2015, compared to $128.3 million in 2014 and $211.2 million in 2013. The following investing activities impacted our cash flow:

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Acquisitions
In 2015, we paid cash of $1,806.3 million, net of cash acquired, to acquire ERICO Global Company during the third quarter and cash of $96.0 million, net of cash acquired, to acquire Nuheat Industries Limited ("Nuheat") duringpaid for the second quarter, both as part of Technical Solutions. During the fourth quarter, we paid an additional $0.9 million related to the Nuheat acquisition in settlement of a working capital adjustment.
In December 2014, we paid cash of $7.5 million and $4.8 million to acquire businesses as part of Water Quality Systems and Technical Solutions, respectively.
In June 2013, $84.4 million of cash was paid to Tyco in settlement of a working capital and net indebtedness adjustment related to the Merger. In addition,sale of the Valves & Controls business.
Net cash provided by investing activities of continuing operations in December 2013 we acquired2017 primarily reflects the sale of the Valves & Controls business, partially offset by capital expenditures of $39.1 million and cash paid of $45.9 million to acquire a business as part of Water Quality SystemsFiltration Solutions.


Net cash used for investing activities of continuing operations in 2016 primarily reflects capital expenditures of $43.3 million and cash considerationpaid of $8.0$25.0 million net of cash acquired.
Divestitures
During 2013, we sold businesses that wereto acquire a business as part of Technical Solutions and Flow & Filtration Solutions for a cash purchase price of $30.1 million and $13.4 million, respectively, net of transaction costs, resulting in a gain of $16.8 million and $4.0 million, respectively.
Capital expenditures
Capital expenditures in 2015, 2014 and 2013 were $134.3 million, $129.6 million and $170.0 million, respectively. We anticipate capital expenditures for fiscal 2016 to be approximately $140 million, primarily for capacity expansions of manufacturing facilities located in our low-cost countries, developing new products and general maintenance.Aquatic Systems.
Financing activities
Net cash provided byCash used for financing activities was $1,286.3$407.9 million in 2015. Cash provided by2018, compared to $3,432.6 million and $600.1 million in 2017 and 2016, respectively.

As described below, in 2018, we utilized $993.6 million of cash distributed from the Separation to repay commercial paper and revolving long-term debt and for the early extinguishment of certain series of fixed rate debt. Additionally, we repurchased $500.0 million of shares and made dividend payments of $187.2 million during 2018.

In 2017, net cash used for financing activities in 2015 was primarily duerelates to cashthe utilization of proceeds received from the September 2015 issuancesale of senior notes (discussed below), partially offset by share repurchases, repaymentthe Valves & Controls business to repay our commercial paper and revolving long-term debt and for the early extinguishment of $350.0certain series of fixed rate debt. Additionally, we repurchased $200.0 million of senior notes due 2015shares and paymentmade dividend payments of dividends.$251.7 million during 2017.
Net
In 2016, net cash used for financing activities was $995.1 million in 2014. Cash used for financing activities in 2014 included share repurchases, payments of dividends and the purchase of the remaining noncontrolling interest in a business, partially offset byprimarily due to net receiptsrepayments of commercial paper and revolving long-term debt to fund our operations in the normal course of business.
Net cash used for financing activities was $719.1 million in 2013. Cash used for financing activities in 2013 included share repurchases and payments of dividends partially offset by net receipts of commercial paper and revolving long-term debt to fund our operations in the normal course of business and cash received from shares issued to employees.$243.6 million.
In September 2015,On April 25, 2018, Pentair, plc, Pentair Finance S.A. ("PFSA") and Pentair Investments Switzerland GmbH ("PISG"(“PISG”), a 100-percent owned subsidiary of Pentair plc and the 100-percent owner of PFSA, completed public offerings (the "September 2015 Offerings"Finance S.à r.l. (“PFSA”) of $500.0 million aggregate principal amount of PFSA's 2.90% Senior Notes due 2018, $400.0 million aggregate principal amount of PFSA's 3.625% Senior Notes due 2020, $250.0 million aggregate principal amount of PFSA's 4.65% Senior Notes due 2025 and €500.0 million aggregate principal amount of PFSA's 2.45% Senior Notes due 2019, all of which are guaranteed as to payment by Pentair plc and PISG. Pentair plc used the net proceeds from the September 2015 Offerings to finance the ERICO Acquisition.
Additionally, PFSA has outstanding $350.0 million of 1.875% Senior Notes due 2017, $250.0 million of 2.65% Senior Notes due 2019, $373.0 million of the 5.00% Senior Notes due 2021 and $550.0 million of 3.15% Senior Notes due 2022 and Pentair, Inc. has outstanding $127.0 million of 5.00% Senior Notes due 2021, all of which are guaranteed as to payment by Pentair plc and PISG.
Pentair, Inc. hadentered into a credit agreement, providing for ana five-year $800.0 million senior unsecured committed revolving credit facility (the "Prior“Senior Credit Facility") pursuant to which Pentair Ltd. was the guarantor and PFSA and certain other of our subsidiaries were affiliate borrowers. In October 2014, Pentair plc, PISG, PFSA and Pentair, Inc. entered into an amended and restated credit agreement related to the Prior Credit Facility (the "Amended Credit Facility"Facility”), with Pentair plc and PISG as guarantors and PFSA and Pentair, Inc. as borrowers. The AmendedSenior Credit Facility increasedreplaced PFSA’s existing credit facility under that certain Amended and Restated Credit Agreement, dated as of October 3, 2014. PFSA has the maximumoption to request to increase the Senior Credit Facility in an aggregate availabilityamount of up to $2,100.0$300.0 million, and extendedsubject to customary conditions, including the commitment of the participating lenders. The Senior Credit Facility has a maturity date to October 3, 2019.of April 25, 2023. Borrowings under the AmendedSenior Credit Facility generally bear interest at a variable rate equal to an adjusted base rate or the London Interbank Offered Rate, ("LIBOR") plus, a specifiedin each case, an applicable margin. The applicable margin is based upon PFSA'son, at PFSA’s election, Pentair’s leverage level or PFSA’s public credit ratings. PFSA must pay a facility fee ranging from 9.0 to 25.0 basis points per annum (based upon PFSA's credit ratings) on the amount of each lender's commitment and letter of credit fee for each letter of credit issued and outstanding under the Amended Credit Facility.
In August 2015, Pentair plc, PISG and PFSA entered into a First Amendment to the Amended Credit Facility (the "First Amendment"), which, among other things, increased the Leverage Ratio (as defined below) following the ERICO Acquisition

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from 3.50 to 1.00 on the last day of each fiscal quarter to the amounts specified below. Additionally, in September 2015, Pentair plc, PISG and PFSA entered into a Second Amendment to the Amended Credit Facility (the "Second Amendment," and together with the First Amendment, the "Amendments"), which, among other things, increased the maximum aggregate availability to $2,500.0 million.rating.
PFSA is authorized to sell short-term commercial paper notes to the extent availability exists under the AmendedSenior Credit Facility. PFSA uses the AmendedSenior Credit Facility as back-up liquidity to support 100% of commercial paper outstanding. AsPFSA had $76.0 million of commercial paper outstanding as of December 31, 20152018 and 2014, we had $179.5$34.0 million and $987.6 million, respectively,as of commercial paper outstanding,December 31, 2017, all of which was classified as long-term debt as we have the intent and the ability to refinance such obligations on a long-term basis under the AmendedSenior Credit Facility.
Our debt agreements contain certainvarious financial covenants, but the most restrictive of whichcovenants are contained in the AmendedSenior Credit Facility. The Senior Credit Facility (as updated for the Amendments), including that we maycontains covenants requiring us not to permit (i) the ratio of our consolidated debt plus synthetic lease obligations(net of its consolidated unrestricted cash in excess of $5.0 million but not to exceed $250.0 million) to our consolidated net income (excluding, among other things, non-cash gains and losses) before interest, taxes, depreciation, amortization and non-cash share-based compensation expense and up to a lifetime maximum $25.0 million of costs, fees and expenses incurred in connect with certain acquisitions, investments, dispositions and the issuance, repayment or refinancing debt, and in addition (but without duplication of) the fees, cost and expenses referred above, any fees costs and expenses, in an aggregate amount not to exceed $50.0 million, incurred in connection with the ERICO Acquisition and any related incurrance, issuance, repayment or refinancing of debt ("EBITDA"(“EBITDA”) for the four consecutive fiscal quarters then ended (the "Leverage Ratio") to exceed (a) 4.50 to 1.00 as ofon the last day of any period of four consecutive fiscal quarters ending on or prior to June 30, 2016; (b) 4.25 to 1.00 as of the last day of the period of four consecutive fiscal quarters ending on September 30, 2016; (c) 4.00 to 1.00 as of the last day of the period of four consecutive fiscal quarters ending on December 31, 2016; (d)exceed 3.75 to 1.00 as of the last day of the period of four consecutive fiscal quarters ending after December 31, 2016 but before June 30, 2017; and (e) 3.50 to 1.00 as of the last day of the period of four consecutive fiscal quarters ending after June 30, 2017,(the “Leverage Ratio”) and (ii) the ratio of our EBITDA for the four consecutive fiscal quarters then ended to our consolidated interest expense, including consolidated yield or discount accrued as to outstanding securitization obligations (if any), for the same period to be less than 3.00 to 1.00 as of the end of each fiscal quarter. For purposes of the Leverage Ratio, the AmendedSenior Credit Facility provides for the calculation of EBITDA giving pro forma effect to certain acquisitions, divestitures and liquidations during the period to which such calculation relates. As of December 31, 2015,2018, we were in compliance with all financial covenants in our debt agreements.
Total availability under the AmendedSenior Credit Facility was $1,139.1$697.8 million as of December 31, 2015, which was limited to $640.6 million by the Leverage Ratio in the Amended Credit Facility’s credit agreement.2018.
In addition to the AmendedSenior Credit Facility, we have various other credit facilities with an aggregate availability of $50.6$21.1 million, of which none wasthere were no outstanding borrowings at December 31, 2015.2018. Borrowings under these credit facilities bear interest at variable rates.
In June 2018, we used the $993.6 million of cash received from nVent as a result of the Distribution to pay down commercial paper and revolving credit facilities, redeem the remaining $255.3 million aggregate principal of our 2.9% fixed rate senior notes due 2018, and complete a cash tender offer in the amount of €363.4 million aggregate principal of our 2.45% senior notes due 2019. All costs associated with the repurchases of debt were recorded as a Loss on early extinguishment of debt in the Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income, including $16.0 million premium paid on early extinguishment and $1.1 million of unamortized deferred financing costs.
As of December 31, 2015,2018, we had $64.2$48.8 million of cash held in certain countries in which the ability to repatriate is limited due to local regulations or significant potential tax consequences.


We expect to continue to have cash requirements to support working capital needs and capital expenditures, to pay interest and service debt and to pay dividends to shareholders quarterly. We believe we have the ability and sufficient capacity to meet these cash requirements by using available cash and internally generated funds and to borrow under our committed and uncommitted credit facilities.
Authorized shares
Our authorized share capital consists of 426.0 million ordinary shares with a par value of $0.01 per share.
Share repurchases
In December 2014, the Board of Directors authorized the repurchase of our ordinary shares up to a maximum dollar limit of $1.0 billion (the “2014 Authorization”). On May 8, 2018, the Board of Directors authorized the repurchase of our ordinary
shares up to a maximum dollar limit of $750.0 million (the “2018 Authorization”), replacing the 2014 Authorization. The 2018
Authorization expires on May 31, 2021.
During the year ended December 31, 2017, we repurchased 3.0 million of our ordinary shares for $200.0 million under the 2014 Authorization.
During the year ended December 31, 2018, we repurchased 10.2 million of our shares for $500.0 million, of which 2.2 million shares, or $150.0 million, and 8.0 million shares, or $350.0 million, were repurchased pursuant to the 2014 and 2018 Authorizations, respectively.
As of December 31, 2018, we had $400.0 million available for share repurchases under the 2018 Authorization.
Dividends
We paid dividends in 2015 of $231.7 million, or $1.28 per ordinary share, compared with $211.4 million, or $1.10 per ordinary share, in 2014 and $194.2 million, or $0.96 per ordinary share, in 2013. On December 8, 2015,10, 2018, the Board of Directors declared a quarterly cash dividend of $0.33$0.18 that was paid on February 12, 20168, 2019 to shareholders of record at the close of business on January 29, 2016.25, 2019. Additionally, the Board of Directors approved a plan to increase the 20162019 annual cash dividend to $1.34, which$0.72 from $0.70, adjusted for the Separation. The 2019 dividend is intended to be paid in four quarterly installmentsinstallments. As a result, the balance of $0.33dividends payable included in each ofOther current liabilities on our Consolidated Balance Sheets was $30.8 million at December 31, 2018. Dividends paid per ordinary share were $1.05, $1.38 and $1.34 for the firstyears ended December 31, 2018, 2017 and second quarters of 2016, and $0.34 in each of the third and fourth quarters of 2016. The 2016 increase will mark the 40th consecutive year we have increased dividends.respectively.
Under Irish law, the payment of future cash dividends after those approved at our 2014 annual meeting of shareholders and redemptions and repurchases of shares following the Redomicile may be paid only out of Pentair plc's "distributable reserves"plc’s “distributable reserves” on its statutory balance sheet. Pentair plc is not permitted to pay dividends out of share capital, which includes share premiums. Distributable reserves may be created through the earnings of the Irish parent company and through a reduction in share capital approved by the Irish High Court. Distributable reserves are not linked to a U.S. generally accepted accounting principles ("GAAP")GAAP reported amount (e.g., retained earnings). On July 22, 2014, the Irish High Court approved Pentair plc's conversion of approximately $14.4 billion of share premium to distributable reserves. On July 29, 2014, following the approval of the Irish

38



High Court, we made the required filing of Pentair plc's initial accounts with the Irish Companies Registration Office, which completed the process to allow us to pay future cash dividends and redeem and repurchase shares out of Pentair plc's "distributable reserves." Our distributable reserve balance was $9.6$6.5 billion and $12.1$9.0 billion as of December 31, 20152018 and 2014,2017, respectively.
Authorized shares
Our authorized share capital consists of 426.0 million ordinary shares with a par value of $0.01 per share.
Ordinary shares held in treasury
In August 2015, we canceled all of our ordinary shares held in treasury. At the time of the cancellation, we held 19.1 million ordinary shares in treasury at a cost of $1.2 billion.
Share repurchases
Prior to the closing of the Merger, our Board of Directors, and Tyco as our sole shareholder, authorized the repurchase of our ordinary shares with a maximum aggregate value of $400.0 million following the closing of the Merger. This authorization did not have an expiration date. In October 2012, our Board of Directors authorized the repurchase of our ordinary shares with a maximum aggregate value of $800.0 million. This authorization expired on December 31, 2015 and was in addition to the $400.0 million share repurchase authorization. There is no remaining availability under the 2012 authorizations.
In December 2013, the Board of Directors authorized the repurchase of shares of our ordinary shares up to a maximum dollar limit of $1.0 billion. This authorization expires on December 31, 2016 and is in addition to the combined $1.2 billion 2012 share repurchase authorizations. There is no remaining availability under the 2013 authorization.
In December 2014, the Board of Directors authorized the repurchase of our ordinary shares up to a maximum dollar limit of $1.0 billion. This authorization is in addition to the 2012 and 2013 share repurchase authorizations. The authorization expires on December 31, 2019.
During the year ended December 31, 2015, we repurchased 3.1 million of our ordinary shares for $200.0 million under the 2014 authorization and had $800.0 million remaining availability for repurchases under the 2014 authorization.
Contractual obligations
The following summarizes our significant contractual obligations that impact our liquidity:
Years ended December 31Years ended December 31
In millions20162017201820192020ThereafterTotal20192020202120222023ThereafterTotal
Debt obligations$
$350.0
$500.0
$2,159.3
$400.0
$1,300.0
$4,709.3
$405.1
$74.0
$103.8
$88.3
$102.1
$19.4
$792.7
Capital lease obligations0.7





0.7
Interest obligations on fixed-rate debt109.6
107.9
99.4
85.2
64.8
98.0
564.9
21.9
11.5
6.3
3.7
0.9
1.8
46.1
Operating lease obligations, net of sublease rentals44.3
32.6
24.8
19.8
14.9
23.3
159.7
22.5
17.0
12.7
10.5
8.9
13.2
84.8
Purchase obligations43.1
1.7
0.2
0.1
0.1
0.1
45.3
Purchase and marketing obligations20.6
4.6
3.0
3.2
2.4
4.8
38.6
Pension and other post-retirement plan contributions24.4
20.4
22.5
23.2
19.8
87.1
197.4
31.6
8.8
8.7
8.7
8.2
41.6
107.6
Marketing obligations6.6
4.2
3.5
3.0
2.4
11.9
31.6
Total contractual obligations, net$228.7
$516.8
$650.4
$2,290.6
$502.0
$1,520.4
$5,708.9
$501.7
$115.9
$134.5
$114.4
$122.5
$80.8
$1,069.8
The majority of the purchase obligations represent commitments for raw materials to be utilized in the normal course of business. For purposes of the above table, arrangements are considered purchase obligations if a contract specifies all significant terms, including fixed or minimum quantities to be purchased, a pricing structure and approximate timing of the transaction.
In addition to the summary of significant contractual obligations, we will incur annual interest expense on outstanding variable rate debt. As of December 31, 2015,2018, variable interest rate debt was $1,360.9$102.2 million at a weighted average interest rate of 1.54%3.36%.


The total gross liability for uncertain tax positions at December 31, 20152018 was estimated to be $69.9$51.4 million. We record penalties and interest related to unrecognized tax benefits in Provision for income taxes and Interest expense, respectively, which is consistent with our past practices. As of December 31, 2015,2018, we had recorded $2.6$0.5 million for the possible payment of penalties and $10.8$3.6 million related to the possible payment of interest.

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Other financial measures
In addition to measuring our cash flow generation or usage based upon operating, investing and financing classifications included in the Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows, we also measure our free cash flow. We have a long-term goal to consistently generate free cash flow that equals or exceeds 100 percent conversion of adjusted net income. Free cash flow is a non-GAAP financial measure that we use to assess our cash flow performance. We believe free cash flow is an important measure of operating performanceliquidity because it provides us and our investors a measurement of cash generated from operations that is available to pay dividends, make acquisitions, repay debt and repurchase shares. In addition, free cash flow is used as a criterion to measure and pay compensation-based incentives. Our measure of free cash flow may not be comparable to similarly titled measures reported by other companies.
The following table is a reconciliation of free cash flow:
Years ended December 31Years ended December 31
In millions201520142013201820172016
Net cash provided by operating activities of continuing operations$750.0
$1,005.0
$931.3
$458.1
$278.6
$379.9
Capital expenditures(134.3)(129.6)(170.0)
Proceeds from sale of property and equipment27.3
13.1
6.0
Capital expenditures of continuing operations(48.2)(39.1)(43.3)
Proceeds from sale of property and equipment of continuing operations0.2
3.7
18.8
Free cash flow from continuing operations$410.1
$243.2
$355.4
Net cash provided by (used for) operating activities of discontinued operations(19.0)341.6
481.5
Capital expenditures of discontinued operations(7.4)(38.6)(94.9)
Proceeds from sale of property and equipment of discontinued operations2.3
4.5
27.8
Free cash flow$643.0
$888.5
$767.3
$386.0
$550.7
$769.8
Off-balance sheet arrangements
At December 31, 2015,2018, we had no off-balance sheet financing arrangements.
COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES
We have been, and in the future may be, made parties to a number of actions filed or have been, and in the future may be, given notice of potential claims relating to the conduct of our business, including those pertainingrelating to commercial or contractual disputes product liability, asbestos,with suppliers, customers or parties to acquisitions and divestitures, intellectual property matters, environmental, safety and health patent infringementmatters, product liability, the use or installation of our products, consumer matters, and employment and labor matters.
While we believe that a material impact on our consolidated financial position, results of operations or cash flows from any such future claims or potential claims is unlikely, given the inherent uncertainty of litigation, a remote possibility exists that a future adverse ruling or unfavorable development could result in future charges that could have a material impact. We do and will continue to periodically reexamine our estimates of probable liabilities and any associated expenses and receivables and make appropriate adjustments to such estimates based on experience and developments in litigation. As a result, the current estimates of the potential impact on our consolidated financial position, results of operations and cash flows for the proceedings and claims described in ITEM 8, Note 1715 of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements could change in the future.
Asbestos matters
Our subsidiaries and numerous other companies are named as defendants in personal injury lawsuits based on alleged exposure to asbestos-containing materials. These cases typically involve product liability claims based primarily on allegations of manufacture, sale or distribution of industrial products that either contained asbestos or were attached to or used with asbestos-containing components manufactured by third-parties. Each case typically names between dozens to hundreds of corporate defendants. While we have observed an increase in the number of these lawsuits over the past several years, including lawsuits by plaintiffs with mesothelioma-related claims, a large percentage of these suits have not presented viable legal claims and, as a result, have been dismissed by the courts. Our historical strategy has been to mount a vigorous defense aimed at having unsubstantiated suits dismissed, and, where appropriate, settling suits before trial. Although a large percentage of litigated suits have been dismissed, we cannot predict the extent to which we will be successful in resolving lawsuits in the future.
As of December 31, 2015, there were approximately 4,100 claims outstanding against our subsidiaries. This amount is not adjusted for claims that are not actively being prosecuted, identified incorrect defendants, or duplicated other actions, which would ultimately reflect our current estimate of the number of viable claims made against us, our affiliates, or entities for which we assumed responsibility in connection with acquisitions or divestitures. In addition, the amount does not include certain claims pending against third parties for which we have been provided an indemnification.
Our estimated liability for asbestos-related claims was $237.9 million and $249.1 million as of December 31, 2015 and 2014, respectively, and was recorded in Other non-current liabilities in the Consolidated Balance Sheets for pending and future claims and related defense costs. Our estimated receivable for insurance recoveries was $111.0 million and $115.8 million at December 31, 2015 and 2014, respectively, and was recorded in Other non-current assets in the Consolidated Balance Sheets.
Environmental matters
We are involved in or have retained responsibility and potential liability for environmental obligations and legal proceedings related to our current business and, including pursuant to certain indemnification obligations, related to certain formerly owned

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businesses. We are responsible, or alleged to be responsible, for ongoing environmental investigation and/or remediation of sites in several countries. These sites are in various stages of investigation and/or remediation and at some of these sites our liability is considered de minimis. We received notification from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and from similar state and non-U.S. environmental agencies, that several sites formerly or currently owned and/or operated by us, and other properties or water supplies that may be or may have been impacted from those operations, contain disposed or recycled materials or waste and require environmental investigation and/or remediation. Those sites include instances where we have been identified as a potentially responsible party under U.S. federal, state and/or non-U.S. environmental laws and regulations. For several formerly owned businesses, we have also received claims for indemnification from purchasers of these businesses.
Our accruals for environmental matters are recorded on a site-by-site basis when it is probable that a liability has been incurred and the amount of the liability can be reasonably estimated, based on current law and existing technologies. It can be difficult to estimate reliably the final costs of investigation and remediation due to various factors. In our opinion, the amounts accrued are appropriate based on facts and circumstances as currently known. Based upon our experience, current information regarding known contingencies and applicable laws, we have recorded reserves for these environmental matters of $22.8 million and $31.4 million as of December 31, 2015 and 2014, respectively. We do not anticipate these environmental conditions will have a material adverse effect on our financial position, results of operations or cash flows. However, unknown conditions, new details about existing conditions or changes in environmental requirements may give rise to environmental liabilities that will exceed the amount of our current reserves and could have a material adverse effect in the future.
Product liability claims
We are subject to various product liability lawsuits and personal injury claims. A substantial number of these lawsuits and claims are insured and accrued for by Penwald, our captive insurance subsidiary. See discussion in ITEM 1 and ITEM 8, Note 1 of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements — Insurance subsidiary. Penwald records a liability for these claims based on actuarial projections of ultimate losses. For all other claims, accruals covering the claims are recorded, on an undiscounted basis, when it is probable that a liability has been incurred and the amount of the liability can be reasonably estimated based on existing information. The accruals are adjusted periodically as additional information becomes available. In 2004, we disposed of the Tools Group and we retained responsibility for certain product claims. We have not experienced significant unfavorable trends in either the severity or frequency of product liability lawsuits or personal injury claims.


Stand-by letters of credit, bank guarantees and bonds
In certain situations, Tyco International Ltd., Pentair Ltd.’s former parent company (“Tyco”), guaranteed performance by the flow control business of Pentair Ltd. (“Flow Control’s performanceControl”) to third parties or provided financial guarantees for financial commitments of Flow Control. In situations where Flow Control and Tyco were unable to obtain a release from these guarantees in connection with the spin-off of Flow Control from Tyco, we will indemnify Tyco for any losses it suffers as a result of such guarantees.
In disposing of assets or businesses, we often provide representations, warranties and indemnities to cover various risks including unknown damage to the assets, environmental risks involved in the sale of real estate, liability to investigate and remediate environmental contamination at waste disposal sites and manufacturing facilities and unidentified tax liabilities and legal fees related to periods prior to disposition. We do not have the ability to reasonably estimate the potential liability due to the inchoate and unknown nature of these potential liabilities. However, we have no reason to believe that these uncertainties would have a material adverse effect on our financial position, results of operations or cash flows.
In the ordinary course of business, we are required to commit to bonds, letters of credit and bank guarantees that require payments to our customers for any non-performance. The outstanding face value of these instruments fluctuates with the value of our projects in process and in our backlog. In addition, we issue financial stand-by letters of credit primarily to secure our performance to third parties under self-insurance programs.
As of December 31, 20152018 and 2014,2017, the outstanding value of bonds, letters of credit and bank guarantees totaled $402.2$123.6 million and $370.1$129.2 million, respectively.
NEW ACCOUNTING STANDARDS
See ITEM 8, Note 1 of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements, included in this Form 10-K, for information pertaining to recently adopted accounting standards or accounting standards to be adopted in the future.
CRITICAL ACCOUNTING POLICIES
We have adopted various accounting policies to prepare the consolidated financial statements in accordance with GAAP. Our significant accounting policies are more fully described in ITEM 8, Note 1 of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements. Certain of our accounting policies require the application of significant judgment by management in selecting the appropriate assumptions for calculating financial estimates. By their nature, these judgments are subject to an inherent degree of

41



uncertainty. These judgments are based on our historical experience, terms of existing contracts, our observance of trends in the industry and information available from other outside sources, as appropriate. We consider an accounting estimate to be critical if:
it requires us to make assumptions about matters that were uncertain at the time we were making the estimate; and
changes in the estimate or different estimates that we could have selected would have had a material impact on our financial condition or results of operations.
Our critical accounting estimates include the following:
Impairment of goodwill and indefinite-lived intangibles
Goodwill
Goodwill represents the excess of the cost of acquired businesses over the net of the fair value of identifiable tangible net assets and identifiable intangible assets purchased and liabilities assumed.
Goodwill is tested at least annually for impairment and is tested for impairment more frequently if events or changes in circumstances indicate that the asset might be impaired. TheWe complete our annual goodwill impairment test isevaluation as of the first day of the fourth quarter. We last performed using a two-step process.assessment of goodwill impairment as of October 1, 2017, referred to as a “step 1” approach. In the first step of the step 1 approach, the fair value of each reporting unit is compared with the carrying amount of the reporting unit, including goodwill. If the estimated fair value is less than the carrying amount of the reporting unit there is an indication that goodwill impairment exists and a second step must be completed in order to determine the amount of the goodwill impairment, if any, that should be recorded. In the second step of the step 1 approach, an impairment loss is recognized for any excess of the carrying amount of the reporting unit’s goodwill over the implied fair value of that goodwill. The implied fair value of goodwill is determined by allocating the fair value of the reporting unit in a manner similar to a purchase price allocation.


The fair value of each reporting unit is determined using a discounted cash flow analysis and market approach. Projecting discounted future cash flows requires us to make significant estimates regarding future revenues and expenses, projected capital expenditures, changes in working capital and the appropriate discount rate. Use of the market approach consists of comparisons to comparable publicly-traded companies that are similar in size and industry. Actual results may differ from those used in our valuations.
In developing our discounted cash flow analysis, assumptions about future revenues and expenses, capital expenditures and changes in working capital, are based on our annual operating plan and long-term business plan for each of our reporting units. These plans take into consideration numerous factors including historical experience, anticipated future economic conditions, changes in raw material prices and growth expectations for the industries and end markets we participate in. These assumptions are determined over a six year long-term planning period. The six year growth rates for revenues and operating profits vary for each reporting unit being evaluated. Revenues and operating profit beyond 2021 are projected to grow at a perpetual growth rate of 3.0%.
Discount rate assumptions for each reporting unit take into consideration our assessment of risks inherent in the future cash flows of the respective reporting unit and our weighted-average cost of capital. We utilized discount rates ranging from 9.5% to 12.5% in determining the discounted cash flows in our fair value analysis.
In estimating fair value using the market approach, we identify a group of comparable publicly-traded companies for each reporting unit that are similar in terms of size and product offering. These groups of comparable companies are used to develop multiples based on total market-based invested capital as a multiple of earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization ("EBITDA").EBITDA. We determine our estimated values by applying these comparable EBITDA multiples to the operating results of our reporting units. The ultimate fair value of each reporting unit is determined considering the results of both valuation methods.
As of October 1, 2018, we performed a qualitative assessment, referred to as a “step 0” approach, and determined that it was more likely than not that the fair value of the reporting units exceeded their respective carrying amounts. As a result, the Company is not required to proceed to a “step 1” impairment assessment. Factors considered included the 2017 “step 1” analysis and the calculated excess fair value over carrying amount, financial performance, forecasts and trends, market capitalization, regulatory and environmental issues, macro-economic conditions, industry and market considerations, raw material and labor costs and management stability. We consider the extent to which each of the adverse events and circumstances identified affect the comparison of the respective reporting unit’s fair value with its carrying amount. We place more weight on the events and circumstances that most affect the respective reporting unit’s fair value or the carrying amount of its net assets. We consider positive and mitigating events and circumstances that may affect its determination of whether it is more likely than not that the fair value exceeds the carrying amount.
We completed step one of our annual goodwill impairment evaluation as of the first day of the fourth quarter of 2015, 20142018, 2017 and 20132016 with all but oneno indications of our reporting units' fair value substantially in excess of its carrying value. In connection with our 2015 annual impairment test, we determined that the fair value of our Valves & Controls reporting unit did not exceed its carrying value by a significant amount. The percentage of excess fair value over carrying value of this reporting unit was approximately 9% as of the annual impairment testing date. If cash flow projections decreased by 10.5%, or if the discount rate increased by 100 basis points, this reporting unit would have failed the annual step one test.impairment.
During the latter part of the fourth quarter of 2015, the oil and gas industry continued to deteriorate, leading management to reconsider its estimates for future profitability of the reporting unit and thereby increasing the likelihood that the associated goodwill could be impaired. As such, we concluded that a triggering event occurred during the fourth quarter of 2015 requiring that we test Valves & Controls goodwill for impairment. As a result, we reperformed our step one analysis as of December 31,

42



2015. Consistent with our annual test, the fair value was estimated using both a discounted cash flow analysis and market approach.
The results of our step one goodwill impairment testing as of December 31, 2015 indicated that the fair value of Valves & Controls was below its carrying value. Accordingly, we performed the step two test and concluded the goodwill of Valves & Controls was impaired. As a result, we recorded a non-cash goodwill impairment charge of $515.2 million for the year ended December 31, 2015. The impairment is included in Impairment of goodwill and trade names in our Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss).
Identifiable intangible assets
Our primary identifiable intangible assets include: customer relationships, trade names, and trademarks, proprietary technology backlog and patents. Identifiable intangibles with finite lives are amortized and those identifiable intangibles with indefinite lives are not amortized. Identifiable intangible assets that are subject to amortization are evaluated for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount may not be recoverable. Identifiable intangible assets not subject to amortization are tested for impairment annually or more frequently if events warrant. We complete our annual impairment test during the fourth quarter each year for those identifiable assets not subject to amortization.

The impairment test for trade names consists of a comparison of the fair value of the trade name with its carrying value. Fair value is measured using the relief-from-royalty method. This method assumes the trade name has value to the extent that the owner is relieved of the obligation to pay royalties for the benefits received from them. This method requires us to estimate the future revenue for the related brands, the appropriate royalty rate and the weighted average cost of capital. The non-recurring fair value measurement is a “Level 3” measurement under the fair value hierarchy.
As noted above, during the latter part of the fourth quarter of 2015, the oil and gas industry continued to deteriorate, leading management to reconsider its estimates
There were no impairment charges recorded in 2018 for future profitability of the Valves & Controls and thereby increasing the likelihood that the associatedidentifiable intangible assets could be impaired. As such, we concluded that a triggering event occurred during the fourth quarter of 2015 requiring that we test Valves & Controls trade names for impairment. As a result of this test, anassets.

An impairment charge of $39.5$8.8 million was recorded in 20152017 related to certain trade names in Valves & Controls.

There was no impairment charge recorded in 2014 for identifiable intangible assets. An impairment charge of $11.0 million was recorded in 2013 related toFiltration Solutions and Flow Technologies as a trade name in Technical Solutions as the result of alower forecasted sales volume or rebranding strategystrategies implemented in the fourth quarter of 2013. These2017. The trade name impairment charges were recorded in Impairment of goodwillSelling, general and trade namesadministrative in our Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss).Income.
Impairment of long-lived assets
We review the recoverability of long-lived assets to be held and used, such as property, plant and equipment, when events or changes in circumstances occur that indicate the carrying value of the asset or asset group may not be recoverable. The assessment of possible impairment is based on our ability to recover the carrying value of the asset or asset group from the expected future pre-tax cash flows (undiscounted and without interest charges) of the related operations. If these cash flows are less than the carrying value of such asset, an impairment loss is recognized for the difference between estimated fair value and carrying value. Impairment losses on long-lived assets held for sale are determined in a similar manner, except that fair values are reduced for the cost to dispose of the assets. The measurement of impairment requires us to estimate future cash flows and the fair value of long-lived assets. During 2015, 2014, and 2013, we recordedThere were no impairment charges of $17.7 million, $20.9 million and $16.6 million, respectively,recorded in conjunction with restructuring activities.
Percentage of completion revenue recognition
Revenue from certain long-term contracts is recognized over the contractual period under the percentage of completion method of accounting. Under this method, sales and gross profit are recognized as work is performed either based on the relationship between the actual costs incurred and the total estimated costs at completion ("the cost-to-cost method") or based on efforts expended2016 for measuring progress towards completion in situations in which this approach is more representative of the progress on the contract than the cost-to-cost method. Changes to the original estimates may be required during the life of the contract and such estimates are reviewed on a regular basis. Sales and gross profit are adjusted using the cumulative catch-up method for revisions in estimated total contract costs and contract values. These reviews have not resulted in adjustments that were significant to our results of operations. Estimated losses are recorded when identified. Claims against customers are recognized as revenue upon settlement.identifiable intangible assets.

43




Pension and other post-retirement plans
We sponsor U.S. and Non-U.S.non-U.S. defined-benefit pension and other post-retirement plans. The amounts recognized in our consolidated financial statements related to our defined-benefit pension and other post-retirement plans are determined from actuarial valuations. Inherent in these valuations are assumptions, including: expected return on plan assets, discount rates, rate of increase in future compensation levels and health care cost trend rates. These assumptions are updated annually and are disclosed in ITEM 8, Note 1311 to the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements. Differences in actual experience or changes in assumptions may affect our pension and other post-retirement obligations and future expense.
We recognize changes in the fair value of plan assets and net actuarial gains or losses for pension and other post-retirement benefits annually in the fourth quarter each year ("(“mark-to-market adjustment"adjustment”) and, if applicable, in any quarter in which an interim remeasurement is triggered. Net actuarial gains and losses occur when the actual experience differs from any of the various assumptions used to value our pension and other post-retirement plans or when assumptions change as they may each year. The primary factors contributing to actuarial gains and losses each year are (1) changes in the discount rate used to value pension and other post-retirement benefit obligations as of the measurement date and (2) differences between the expected and the actual return on plan assets. This accounting method also results in the potential for volatile and difficult to forecast mark-to-market adjustments. Mark-to-market adjustments resulted in pre-tax incomecharges of $23.0$3.6 million and $8.5 million in 2018 and 20152017, a pre-tax charge of $49.9 million in 2014respectively, and pre-tax income of $63.2$12.0 million in 20132016. The remaining components of pension expense, including service and interest costs and the expected return on plan assets, are recorded on a quarterly basis as ongoing pension expense.
Discount raterates
The discount rate reflects the current rate at which the pension liabilities could be effectively settled at the end of the year based on our December 31 measurement date. The discount rate was determined by matching our expected benefit payments to payments from a stream of bonds rated AA or higher available in the marketplace, rated AA or higher, adjusted to eliminate the effects of call provisions. This produced a weighted-average discount rate for our U.S. plans of 4.21% in 2015, 3.63% in 2014 and 4.51% in 2013. The discount rates on our Non-U.S. plans ranged from 0.50% to 4.25% in 2015, 0.50% to 4.25% in 2014 and 0.50% to 5.00% in 2013. There are no known or anticipated changes in our discount rate assumptionassumptions that will impact our pension expense in 2016.2019.

Expected rate of return
Our expected rate of return on plan assets for our U.S. plans was 3.65% for 2015, 4.56% in 2014 and 3.75% in 2013. The expected rate of return on our Non-U.S. plans ranged from 1.00% to 6.00% in 2015, 1.00% to 6.40% in 2014 and 1.00% to 6.50% in 2013. The expected rate of return is designed to be a long-term assumption that may be subject to considerable year-to-year variance from actual returns. In developing the expected long-term rate of return, we considered our historical returns, with consideration given to forecasted economic conditions, our asset allocations, input from external consultants and broader longer-termlong-term market indices.
During 2012, we adopted an investment strategy for our U.S. pension plans with a primary objective of preserving the funded status of the U.S. plans. This was achieved through investments in fixed interest instruments with interest rate sensitivity characteristics closely reflecting the interest rate sensitivity of our benefit obligations. The shifting of allocations away from equities to liability hedging fixed income investments, by reinvesting in fixed income instruments as equity investments were redeemed, was completed during 2013. As of December 31, 2015, the U.S. pension plans have an approximately 98 percent allocation to fixed income investments. As a result of the adoption of this investment strategy, we anticipate the expected rate of return on our U.S. funded pension plans will continue to be consistent with the discount rate.
See ITEM 8, Note 13 of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for further information regarding pension and other post-retirement plans.
Loss contingencies
Accruals are recorded for various contingencies including legal proceedings, self-insurance and other claims that arise in the normal course of business. The accruals are based on judgment, the probability of losses and, where applicable, the consideration of opinions of internal and/or external legal counsel and actuarially determined estimates. Additionally, we record receivables from third party insurers when recovery has been determined to be probable.
We recognize asbestos-related liabilities on an undiscounted basis when a loss is probable and can be reasonably estimated. Certain of these liabilities are subject to insurance coverage. Our subsidiaries and numerous other companies are named as defendants in personal injury lawsuits based on alleged exposure to asbestos-containing materials. These cases typically involve product liability claims based primarily on allegations of manufacture, sale or distribution of industrial products that either contained asbestos or were attached to or used with asbestos-containing components manufactured by third-parties. The process of estimating asbestos-related liabilities and the corresponding insurance recoveries receivable is

44



complex and dependent primarily on our historical claim experience, estimates of potential future claims, our legal strategy for resolving these claims, the availability of insurance coverage, and the solvency and creditworthiness of insurers.
See ITEM 8, Note 17 of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for further information regarding loss contingencies.
Income taxes
In determining taxable income for financial statement purposes, we must make certain estimates and judgments. These estimates and judgments affect the calculation of certain tax liabilities and the determination of the recoverability of certain of the deferred tax assets, which arise from temporary differences between the tax and financial statement recognition of revenue and expense. In evaluating our ability to recover our deferred tax assets we consider all available positive and negative evidence including our past operating results, the existence of cumulative losses in the most recent years and our forecast of future taxable income. In estimating future taxable income, we develop assumptions including the amount of future pre-tax operating income, the reversal of temporary differences and the implementation of feasible and prudent tax planning strategies. These assumptions require significant judgment about the forecasts of future taxable income and are consistent with the plans and estimates we are using to manage the underlying businesses.
We currently have recorded valuation allowances that we will maintain until when, in the opinion of management, it is more likely than not that some portion or all of the deferred tax assets will not be realized. Our income tax expense recorded in the future may be reduced to the extent of decreases in our valuation allowances. The realization of our remaining deferred tax assets is primarily dependent on future taxable income in the appropriate jurisdiction. Any reduction in future taxable income including but not limited to any future restructuring activities may require that we record an additional valuation allowance against our deferred tax assets. An increase in the valuation allowance could result in additional income tax expense in such period and could have a significant impact on our future earnings.
Changes in tax laws and rates could also affect recorded deferred tax assets and liabilities in the future. Management records the effect of a tax rate or law change on the Company’s deferred tax assets and liabilities in the period of enactment. Future tax rate or law changes could have a material effect on the Company’s financial condition, results of operations or cash flows.


In addition, the calculation of our tax liabilities involves dealing with uncertainties in the application of complex tax regulations in a multitude of jurisdictions across our global operations. We perform reviews of our income tax positions on a quarterly basis and accrue for uncertain tax positions. We recognize potential liabilities and record tax liabilities for anticipated tax audit issues in the tax jurisdictions in which we operate based on our estimate of whether, and the extent to which, additional taxes will be due. These tax liabilities are reflected net of related tax loss carryforwards. As events change or resolution occurs, these liabilities are adjusted, such as in the case of audit settlements with taxing authorities. The ultimate resolution may result in a payment that is materially different from our current estimate of the tax liabilities. If our estimate of tax liabilities proves to be less than the ultimate assessment, an additional charge to expense would result. If payment of these amounts ultimately proves to be less than the recorded amounts, the reversal of the liabilities would result in tax benefits being recognized in the period when we determine the liabilities are no longer necessary.
ITEM 7A. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK
Market risk is the potential economic loss that may result from adverse changes in the fair value of financial instruments. We are exposed to various market risks, including changes in interest rates and foreign currency rates. Periodically, we use derivative financial instruments to manage or reduce the impact of changes in interest rates and foreign currency rates. Counterparties to all derivative contracts are major financial institutions. All instruments are entered into for other than trading purposes. The major accounting policies and utilization of these instruments is described more fully in ITEM 8, Note 1 of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.
Interest rate risk
Our debt portfolio as of December 31, 2015,2018, was comprised of debt predominantly denominated in U.S. dollars. This debt portfolio is comprised of 71%88% fixed-rate debt and 29%12% variable-rate debt. Changes in interest rates have different impacts on the fixed and variable-rate portions of our debt portfolio. A change in interest rates on the fixed portion of the debt portfolio impacts the fair value, but has no impact on interest incurred or cash flows. A change in interest rates on the variable portion of the debt portfolio impacts the interest incurred and cash flows but does not impact the net financial instrument position.
Based on the fixed-rate debt included in our debt portfolio, as of December 31, 2015,2018, a 100 basis point increase or decrease in interest rates would result in a $144.3an $11.6 million decrease or a $152.1$12.0 million increase in fair value, respectively.
Based on the variable-rate debt included in our debt portfolio as of December 31, 2015,2018, a 100 basis point increase or decrease in interest rates would result in a $13.6$1.0 million increase or decrease in interest incurred.

45



Foreign currency risk
We conduct business in various locations throughout the world and are subject to market risk due to changes in the value of foreign currencies in relation to our reporting currency, the U.S. dollar. Periodically, we use derivative financial instruments to manage these risks. The functional currencies of our foreign operating locations are generally the local currency in the country of domicile. We manage these operating activities at the local level and revenues, costs, assets and liabilities are generally denominated in local currencies, thereby mitigating the risk associated with changes in foreign exchange. However, our results of operations and assets and liabilities are reported in U.S. dollars and thus will fluctuate with changes in exchange rates between such local currencies and the U.S. dollar.

From time to time, we may enter into short duration foreign currency contracts to hedge foreign currency risks. As the majority of our foreign currency contracts have an original maturity date of less than one year, there is no material foreign currency risk. At December 31, 20152018 and 2014,2017, we had outstanding foreign currency derivative contracts with gross notional U.S. dollar equivalent amounts of $331.5$331.4 million and $250.8$481.4 million, respectively. Changes in the fair value of all derivatives are recognized immediately in income unless the derivative qualifies as a hedge of future cash flows. Gains and losses related to a hedge are deferred and recorded in the Consolidated Balance Sheets as a component of AOCIAccumulated other comprehensive loss and subsequently recognized in the Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss) when the hedged item affects earnings.

In September 2015,At December 31, 2018, we designated the €500.0had €136.6 million 2.45% Senior Notes due 2019 (the "2019“2019 Euro Notes"Notes”) designated as a net investment hedge of our investments in certain international subsidiaries that use the Euro as their functional currency. The hedge is intended to reduce, but will not eliminate, the impact on our financial results of changes in the exchange rate between the Euro and the U.S. dollar. The currency risk related to the net investment hedge is measured by estimating the potential impact of a 10% change in the value of the U.S. dollar relative to the Euro. The rates used to perform this analysis were based on the market exchange rates in effect on December 31, 2015.2018. A 10% appreciation of the U.S. dollar relative to the Euro would result in a $49.9$14.1 million net increase in OtherAccumulated other comprehensive income.loss. Conversely, a 10% depreciation of the U.S. dollar relative to the Euro would result in a $60.9$17.2 million net decrease in OtherAccumulated other comprehensive income.loss. However,


these increases and decreases in Other comprehensive income would be offset by decreases or increases in the hedged net investments on our balance sheet due to currency translation.

46




ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA
MANAGEMENT’S REPORT ON INTERNAL CONTROL OVER FINANCIAL REPORTING
Management of Pentair plc and its subsidiaries (the "Company"“Company”) is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting, as such term is defined in Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. The Company’s internal control over financial reporting is designed 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. The Company’s internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that (1) pertain to maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of the assets of the Company; (2) provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of the financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles and that receipts and expenditures of the Company are being made only in accordance with authorizations of management and directors of the Company; and (3) provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use or disposition of the Company’s assets that could have a material effect on the financial statements.
Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements. Also, projections of any evaluation of the effectiveness of 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.
Management assessed the effectiveness of the Company’s internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2015.2018. In making this assessment, management used the criteria for effective internal control over financial reporting 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, 2015,2018, the Company’s internal control over financial reporting was effective based on those criteria.
Management has excluded from its assessment the internal control over financial reporting at ERICO Global Company, which was acquired on September 18, 2015 and whose financial statements constitute approximately 19 percent of total assets and 2 percent of total revenues in the consolidated financial statements as of and for the year ended December 31, 2015.
Our independent registered public accounting firm, Deloitte & Touche LLP, has issued an attestation report on the Company’s internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2015.2018. That attestation report is set forth immediately following this management report.
 
Randall J. HoganJohn L. StauchMark C. Borin
ChairmanPresident and Chief Executive Officer Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer


47




REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM
To the Board of Directors and Shareholders of
Pentair plc
Manchester,London, United Kingdom

Opinion on Internal Control over Financial Reporting
We have audited the internal control over financial reporting of Pentair plc and subsidiaries (the "Company"“Company”) as of December 31, 2015,2018, 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 Company maintained, in all material respects, effective internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2018, based on the 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 financial statements and financial statement schedule listed in the Index at Item 15 as of and for the year ended December 31, 2018, of the Company and our report dated February 19, 2019 expressed an unqualified opinion on those financial statements and financial statement schedule.
Basis for Opinion
The Company’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 Financial Reporting. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Company’s internal control over financial reporting based on our audit. As describedWe are a public accounting firm registered with the PCAOB and are required to be independent with respect to the Company in Management’s Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting, management excluded from its assessmentaccordance with the internal control over financial reporting at ERICO Global Company ("ERICO"), which was acquired on September 18, 2015U.S. federal securities laws and whose financial statements constitute approximately 19 percentthe applicable rules and regulations of total assetsthe Securities and 2 percent of total revenues inExchange Commission and the consolidated financial statements as of and for the year ended December 31, 2015. Accordingly, our audit did not include the internal control over financial reporting at ERICO.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’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’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; (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 company are being made only in accordance with authorizations of management and directors of the company; and (3) provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use, or disposition of the company’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.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 Company 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 listed in the Index at Item 15 as of and for the year ended December 31, 2015 of the Company and our report dated February 26, 2016 expressed an unqualified opinion on those financial statements and financial statement schedule.

/s/ Deloitte & Touche LLP
Minneapolis, Minnesota
February 26, 201619, 2019


48




REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM
To the Board of Directors and Shareholders of
Pentair plc
Manchester,London, United Kingdom
Opinion on the Financial Statements
We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of Pentair plc and subsidiaries (the "Company"“Company”) as of December 31, 20152018 and 2014,2017, the related Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income, Changes in Equity, and Cash Flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2018, the related notes, and the related consolidatedschedule listed in the Index at Item 15 (collectively referred to as the “financial statements”). In our opinion, the financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of the Company as of December 31, 2018 and 2017, and the results of its operations and comprehensive income (loss), changes in equity, andits cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2015. Our audits also included the consolidated financial statement schedule listed2018, in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the Index at Item 15. United States of America.
We have also audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) (PCAOB), the Company’s internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2018, 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 19, 2019 expressed an unqualified opinion on the Company’s internal control over financial reporting.
Basis for Opinion
These financial statements and financial statement schedule are the responsibility of the Company’s management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the financial statements and financial statement schedule based on our audits. We are a public accounting firm registered with the PCAOB and are required to be independent with respect to the Company 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 Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States).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 Pentair plc 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 consolidated financial statement schedule, when considered in relation to the basic consolidated financial statements taken as a whole, present 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 Company’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 26, 2016 expressed an unqualified opinion on the Company’s internal control over financial reporting.

/s/ Deloitte & Touche LLP
Minneapolis, Minnesota
February 26, 201619, 2019

We have served as the Company’s auditor since 1977.

49




Pentair plc and Subsidiaries
Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss)
 
 Years ended December 31
In millions, except per-share data201520142013
Net sales$6,449.0
$7,039.0
$6,999.7
Cost of goods sold4,263.2
4,576.0
4,629.6
Gross profit2,185.8
2,463.0
2,370.1
Selling, general and administrative1,334.3
1,493.8
1,493.7
Research and development119.6
117.3
122.8
Impairment of goodwill and trade names554.7

11.0
Operating income177.2
851.9
742.6
Other (income) expense   
Loss (gain) on sale of businesses, net3.2
0.2
(20.8)
Equity income of unconsolidated subsidiaries(2.8)(1.2)(2.0)
Interest income(6.0)(3.7)(4.4)
Interest expense108.7
72.3
75.3
Income from continuing operations before income taxes and noncontrolling interest74.1
784.3
694.5
Provision for income taxes139.1
177.3
177.0
Net income (loss) from continuing operations before noncontrolling interest(65.0)607.0
517.5
Income (loss) from discontinued operations, net of tax(4.7)(6.4)25.9
Loss from sale / impairment of discontinued operations, net of tax(6.7)(385.7)(0.8)
Net income (loss) before noncontrolling interest(76.4)214.9
542.6
Noncontrolling interest

5.8
Net income (loss) attributable to Pentair plc$(76.4)$214.9
$536.8
Net income (loss) from continuing operations attributable to Pentair plc$(65.0)$607.0
$511.7
Comprehensive income (loss), net of tax   
Net income (loss) before noncontrolling interest$(76.4)$214.9
$542.6
Changes in cumulative translation adjustment(264.9)(336.3)(29.1)
Amortization of pension and other post-retirement prior service cost, net of $0, $0 and $0.2 tax, respectively

(0.4)
Changes in market value of derivative financial instruments, net of $0.5, $1.1 and $0.7 tax, respectively0.2
(0.4)(0.3)
Total comprehensive income (loss)(341.1)(121.8)512.8
Less: Comprehensive income attributable to noncontrolling interest

8.0
Comprehensive income (loss) attributable to Pentair plc$(341.1)$(121.8)$504.8
Earnings (loss) per ordinary share attributable to Pentair plc   
Basic   
Continuing operations$(0.36)$3.19
$2.54
Discontinued operations(0.06)(2.06)0.13
Basic earnings (loss) per ordinary share attributable to Pentair plc$(0.42)$1.13
$2.67
Diluted   
Continuing operations$(0.36)$3.14
$2.50
Discontinued operations(0.06)(2.03)0.12
Diluted earnings (loss) per ordinary share attributable to Pentair plc$(0.42)$1.11
$2.62
Weighted average ordinary shares outstanding   
Basic180.3
190.6
201.1
Diluted182.6
193.7
204.6
 Years ended December 31
In millions, except per-share data201820172016
Net sales$2,965.1
$2,845.7
$2,780.6
Cost of goods sold1,917.4
1,858.2
1,821.5
Gross profit1,047.7
987.5
959.1
Selling, general and administrative534.3
536.0
531.4
Research and development76.7
73.2
73.3
Operating income436.7
378.3
354.4
Other (income) expense   
Loss on sale of businesses7.3
4.2
3.9
Loss on early extinguishment of debt17.1
101.4

Net interest expense32.6
87.3
140.1
Other (income) expense(0.1)12.6
(10.5)
Income from continuing operations before income taxes379.8
172.8
220.9
Provision for income taxes58.1
58.7
42.7
Net income from continuing operations321.7
114.1
178.2
Income from discontinued operations, net of tax25.7
371.3
343.4
Gain from sale / impairment of discontinued operations, net of tax
181.1
0.6
Net income$347.4
$666.5
$522.2
Comprehensive income, net of tax   
Net income$347.4
$666.5
$522.2
Changes in cumulative translation adjustment (inclusive of divestiture of business reclassified to gain from sale of $374.2 for the year ended December 31, 2017)10.0
497.5
(83.0)
Changes in market value of derivative financial instruments, net of tax4.8
(4.6)(8.3)
Comprehensive income$362.2
$1,159.4
$430.9
Earnings per ordinary share   
Basic   
Continuing operations$1.83
$0.63
$0.98
Discontinued operations0.15
3.04
1.90
Basic earnings per ordinary share$1.98
$3.67
$2.88
Diluted   
Continuing operations$1.81
$0.62
$0.97
Discontinued operations0.15
3.01
1.88
Diluted earnings per ordinary share$1.96
$3.63
$2.85
Weighted average ordinary shares outstanding   
Basic175.8
181.7
181.3
Diluted177.3
183.7
183.1
See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.

50




Pentair plc and Subsidiaries
Consolidated Balance Sheets
 
December 31December 31
In millions, except per-share data2015201420182017
Assets
Current assets  
Cash and cash equivalents$126.3
$110.4
$74.3
$86.3
Accounts and notes receivable, net of allowances of $103.7 and $96.5, respectively1,167.7
1,205.9
Accounts receivable, net of allowances of $14.0 and $14.2, respectively488.2
483.1
Inventories1,174.3
1,130.4
387.5
356.9
Other current assets312.3
366.8
89.4
114.5
Current assets held for sale
80.6

708.0
Total current assets2,780.6
2,894.1
1,039.4
1,748.8
Property, plant and equipment, net942.8
950.0
272.6
279.8
Other assets  
Goodwill5,255.4
4,741.9
2,072.7
2,112.8
Intangibles, net2,490.1
1,608.1
276.3
321.8
Other non-current assets388.1
436.2
145.5
180.9
Non-current assets held for sale
24.9

3,989.6
Total other assets8,133.6
6,811.1
2,494.5
6,605.1
Total assets$11,857.0
$10,655.2
$3,806.5
$8,633.7
Liabilities and Equity
Current liabilities  
Current maturities of long-term debt and short-term borrowings$0.7
$6.7
Accounts payable578.8
583.1
$378.6
$321.5
Employee compensation and benefits262.9
305.5
111.7
115.8
Other current liabilities644.1
709.1
328.4
401.3
Current liabilities held for sale
35.1

360.8
Total current liabilities1,486.5
1,639.5
818.7
1,199.4
Other liabilities  
Long-term debt4,709.3
2,997.4
787.6
1,440.7
Pension and other post-retirement compensation and benefits287.2
322.0
90.0
96.4
Deferred tax liabilities844.2
528.3
105.9
108.6
Other non-current liabilities521.0
497.7
168.2
213.8
Non-current liabilities held for sale
6.5

537.0
Total liabilities7,848.2
5,991.4
1,970.4
3,595.9
Equity  
Ordinary shares $0.01 par value, 426.0 authorized, 180.5 and 202.4 issued at December 31, 2015 and December 31, 2014, respectively1.8
2.0
Ordinary shares held in treasury, 19.9 shares at December 31, 2014
(1,251.9)
Ordinary shares $0.01 par value, 426.0 authorized, 171.4 and 180.3 issued at December 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017, respectively1.7
1.8
Additional paid-in capital2,860.3
4,250.0
1,893.8
2,797.7
Retained earnings1,791.7
2,044.0
169.2
2,481.7
Accumulated other comprehensive loss(645.0)(380.3)(228.6)(243.4)
Total equity4,008.8
4,663.8
1,836.1
5,037.8
Total liabilities and equity$11,857.0
$10,655.2
$3,806.5
$8,633.7
See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.

51




Pentair plc and Subsidiaries
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows
Years ended December 31Years ended December 31
In millions201520142013201820172016
Operating activities  
Net income (loss) before noncontrolling interest$(76.4)$214.9
$542.6
Loss (income) from discontinued operations, net of tax4.7
6.4
(25.9)
Loss from sale / impairment of discontinued operations, net of tax6.7
385.7
0.8
Adjustments to reconcile net income (loss) from continuing operations before noncontrolling interest to net cash provided by (used for) operating activities of continuing operations 
Net income$347.4
$666.5
$522.2
Income from discontinued operations, net of tax(25.7)(371.3)(343.4)
Gain from sale / impairment of discontinued operations, net of tax
(181.1)(0.6)
Adjustments to reconcile net income from continuing operations to net cash provided by operating activities of continuing operations 
Equity income of unconsolidated subsidiaries(2.8)(1.2)(2.0)(8.4)(1.3)(4.3)
Depreciation139.5
138.7
141.3
49.7
50.8
53.0
Amortization121.4
114.0
134.1
34.9
36.4
35.4
Loss (gain) on sale of businesses, net3.2
0.2
(20.8)
Loss on sale of businesses7.3
4.2
3.9
Deferred income taxes3.0
2.0
54.0
(4.1)(18.0)1.2
Share-based compensation33.0
33.6
31.1
20.9
39.6
34.2
Impairment of goodwill and trade names554.7

11.0
Trade name and other impairment12.0
15.6

Loss on early extinguishment of debt17.1
101.4

Excess tax benefits from share-based compensation(6.0)(12.6)(16.8)

(8.0)
Amortization of bridge financing debt issuance costs10.8


Pension and other post-retirement expense (income)9.1
76.2
(31.3)
Pension and other post-retirement contributions(24.7)(27.7)(34.0)
Changes in assets and liabilities, net of effects of business acquisitions  
Accounts and notes receivable48.8
9.0
(106.3)
Accounts receivable(15.3)(13.4)16.6
Inventories1.4
(3.7)58.1
(40.1)(20.5)33.9
Other current assets(21.7)(22.0)(5.7)31.2
(13.0)2.1
Accounts payable(8.1)34.5
41.1
58.3
15.6
22.8
Employee compensation and benefits(41.1)13.2
66.3
(0.6)(1.4)26.7
Other current liabilities(31.2)58.5
41.2
(3.3)(54.6)90.3
Other non-current assets and liabilities25.7
(14.7)52.5
(23.2)23.1
(106.1)
Net cash provided by (used for) operating activities of continuing operations750.0
1,005.0
931.3
Net cash provided by operating activities of continuing operations458.1
278.6
379.9
Net cash provided by (used for) operating activities of discontinued operations(10.7)3.4
(3.4)(19.0)341.6
481.5
Net cash provided by (used for) operating activities739.3
1,008.4
927.9
Net cash provided by operating activities439.1
620.2
861.4
Investing activities  
Capital expenditures(134.3)(129.6)(170.0)(48.2)(39.1)(43.3)
Proceeds from sale of property and equipment27.3
13.1
6.0
0.2
3.7
18.8
Proceeds from sale of businesses, net
0.3
43.5
(Payments due to) proceeds from sale of businesses and other(12.8)2,759.4
(5.1)
Acquisitions, net of cash acquired(1,913.9)(12.3)(92.4)(0.9)(45.9)(25.0)
Other(3.6)0.2
1.7
Net cash provided by (used for) investing activities of continuing operations(2,024.5)(128.3)(211.2)(61.7)2,678.1
(54.6)
Net cash provided by (used for) investing activities of discontinued operations59.0


Net cash used for investing activities of discontinued operations(7.1)(47.7)(67.2)
Net cash provided by (used for) investing activities(1,965.5)(128.3)(211.2)(68.8)2,630.4
(121.8)
Financing activities  
Net receipts (repayments) of short-term borrowings(2.3)0.5

Net receipts of commercial paper and revolving long-term debt363.5
468.6
104.2
Proceeds from long-term debt1,714.8
2.2
0.7
Net receipts (repayments) of commercial paper and revolving long-term debt39.7
(913.1)(385.3)
Repayment of long-term debt(356.6)(16.8)(7.4)(675.1)(2,009.3)(0.7)
Debt issuance costs(26.8)(3.1)(1.4)
Excess tax benefits from share-based compensation6.0
12.6
16.8
Premium paid on early extinguishment of debt(16.0)(94.9)
Transfer of cash to nVent(74.2)

Distribution of cash from nVent993.6


Shares issued to employees, net of shares withheld19.4
37.0
80.0
13.3
37.2
20.7
Repurchases of ordinary shares(200.0)(1,150.0)(715.8)(500.0)(200.0)
Dividends paid(231.7)(211.4)(194.2)(187.2)(251.7)(243.6)
Purchase of / distribution to noncontrolling interest
(134.7)(2.0)
Net cash provided by (used for) financing activities1,286.3
(995.1)(719.1)
Other(2.0)(0.8)8.8
Net cash used for financing activities(407.9)(3,432.6)(600.1)
Change in cash held for sale27.0
(5.4)1.1
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents(44.2)(30.6)21.0
(1.4)56.8
(27.3)
Change in cash and cash equivalents15.9
(145.6)18.6
(12.0)(130.6)113.3
Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of year110.4
256.0
237.4
86.3
216.9
103.6
Cash and cash equivalents, end of year$126.3
$110.4
$256.0
$74.3
$86.3
$216.9
 
Supplemental disclosure of cash flow information: 
Cash paid for interest, net$43.7
$107.2
$143.4
Cash paid for income taxes, net92.9
362.1
145.1
See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.

52




Pentair plc and Subsidiaries
Consolidated Statements of Changes in Equity
In millionsOrdinary shares Treasury sharesAdditional paid-in capitalRetained earningsAccumulated other comprehensive income (loss)Total Pentair plcNon-controlling interest TotalOrdinary sharesAdditional paid-in capitalRetained earningsAccumulated other comprehensive income (loss) Total
NumberAmount NumberAmountNumberAmount
Balance - December 31, 2012213.0
$113.5
 (6.9)$(315.5)$5,292.4
$1,292.3
$(11.6)$6,371.1
$116.4
$6,487.5
Balance - December 31, 2015180.5
$1.8
$2,860.3
$1,791.7
$(645.0)$4,008.8
Net income

 


536.8

536.8
5.8
542.6



522.2

522.2
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax

 



(32.0)(32.0)2.2
(29.8)
Other comprehensive loss, net of tax



(91.3)(91.3)
Tax benefit of share-based compensation

 

22.6


22.6

22.6


5.5


5.5
Dividends declared

 

(198.5)

(198.5)
(198.5)


(245.8)
(245.8)
Distribution to noncontrolling interest

 





(2.0)(2.0)
Exercise of options, net of shares tendered for payment1.0

31.6


31.6
Issuance of restricted shares, net of cancellations0.5





Shares surrendered by employees to pay taxes(0.2)
(10.8)

(10.8)
Share-based compensation

34.2


34.2
Balance - December 31, 2016181.8
$1.8
$2,920.8
$2,068.1
$(736.3)$4,254.4
Net income


666.5

666.5
Other comprehensive income, net of tax



492.9
492.9
Dividends declared


(252.9)
(252.9)
Share repurchase

 (12.3)(715.8)


(715.8)
(715.8)(3.0)
(200.0)

(200.0)
Exercise of options, net of shares tendered for payment

 3.0
131.8
(35.6)

96.2

96.2
1.2

45.6


45.6
Issuance of restricted shares, net of cancellations

 0.9
37.0
(37.0)




0.4





Shares surrendered by employees to pay taxes

 (0.3)(12.6)(3.6)

(16.2)
(16.2)(0.1)
(8.3)

(8.3)
Share-based compensation

 

31.1


31.1

31.1


39.6


39.6
Balance - December 31, 2013213.0
$113.5
 (15.6)$(875.1)$5,071.4
$1,829.1
$(43.6)$6,095.3
$122.4
$6,217.7
Balance - December 31, 2017180.3
$1.8
$2,797.7
$2,481.7
$(243.4)$5,037.8
Net income

 


214.9

214.9

214.9



347.4

347.4
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax

 



(336.7)(336.7)
(336.7)
Tax benefit of share-based compensation

 

11.4


11.4

11.4
Conversion of Pentair Ltd. common shares to Pentair plc ordinary shares
(111.4) 

111.4





Cumulative effect of accounting changes


(214.0)
(214.0)
Other comprehensive income, net of tax



62.6
62.6
Distribution to nVent

(438.2)(2,291.0)(47.8)(2,777.0)
Dividends declared

 

(229.5)

(229.5)
(229.5)


(154.9)
(154.9)
Purchase of noncontrolling interest

 

(12.3)

(12.3)(122.4)(134.7)
Share repurchase(10.6)(0.1) (5.8)(450.7)(699.2)

(1,150.0)
(1,150.0)
Share repurchases(10.2)(0.1)(499.9)

(500.0)
Exercise of options, net of shares tendered for payment

 1.3
60.9
(14.4)

46.5

46.5
0.9

24.3


24.3
Issuance of restricted shares, net of cancellations

 0.3
19.3
(19.3)




0.5





Shares surrendered by employees to pay taxes

 (0.1)(6.3)(3.1)

(9.4)
(9.4)(0.1)
(11.0)

(11.0)
Share-based compensation

 

33.6


33.6

33.6


20.9


20.9
Balance - December 31, 2014202.4
$2.0
 (19.9)$(1,251.9)$4,250.0
$2,044.0
$(380.3)$4,663.8
$
$4,663.8
Net income (loss)

 


(76.4)
(76.4)
(76.4)
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax

 



(264.7)(264.7)
(264.7)
Tax benefit of share-based compensation

 

5.7


5.7

5.7
Dividends declared

 

1.5
(175.9)
(174.4)
(174.4)
Share repurchase(3.1)
 

(200.0)

(200.0)
(200.0)
Cancellation of treasury shares(19.1)(0.2)
19.1
1,210.9
(1,210.7)




Exercise of options, net of shares tendered for payment0.1

 0.7
34.6
(3.5)

31.1

31.1
Issuance of restricted shares, net of cancellations0.3

 0.2
9.4
(9.4)




Shares surrendered by employees to pay taxes(0.1)
 (0.1)(3.0)(6.3)

(9.3)
(9.3)
Share-based compensation

 

33.0


33.0

33.0
Balance - December 31, 2015180.5
$1.8
 
$
$2,860.3
$1,791.7
$(645.0)$4,008.8
$
$4,008.8
Balance - December 31, 2018171.4
$1.7
$1,893.8
$169.2
$(228.6)$1,836.1
See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.

53

Pentair plc and Subsidiaries
Notes to consolidated financial statements


1.
Basis of Presentation and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies
Business
Pentair plc and its consolidated subsidiaries (the "Company"(“we,” “us,” “our,” “Pentair” or "Pentair"the “Company”) is a focused diversified industrial manufacturingpure play water company comprising fourcomprised of three reporting segments: Valves & Controls, Flow &Aquatic Systems, Filtration Solutions Water Quality Systems and Technical Solutions.Flow Technologies.

Electrical separation
In December 2013,On April 30, 2018, Pentair completed the Company’s Boardseparation of Directors approved changingits Electrical business from the Company’s jurisdictionrest of organization from Switzerland to Ireland. At an extraordinary meeting of shareholders on May 20, 2014, Pentair Ltd. shareholders voted in favor(the “Separation”) by means of a reorganization proposal pursuantdividend in specie of the Electrical business, which was effected by the transfer of the Electrical business from Pentair to which Pentair Ltd. would merge into PentairnVent Electric plc an Irish company,(“nVent”) and all Pentair Ltd. CHF 0.50 par value common shares would be canceled and all holdersthe issuance by nVent of such shares would receive $0.01 par value ordinary shares ofdirectly to Pentair plc on a one-for-one basis. The reorganization transaction was completed on June 3, 2014, at which time Pentair plc replaced Pentair Ltd. as our ultimate parent companyshareholders (the "Redomicile"“Distribution”). Shares of Pentair plc beganOn May 1, 2018, following the Separation and Distribution, nVent became an independent publicly traded company, trading on the New York Stock Exchange on June 3, 2014 under the symbol "PNR," the same symbol under which Pentair Ltd. shares were previously traded. Although our jurisdiction of organization is Ireland, we manage our affairs so that we“NVT.”
The Company did not retain any equity interest in nVent. nVent’s historical financial results are centrally managed and controlledreflected in the United Kingdom (the "U.K.") and therefore have our tax residency in the U.K.
Our former parent company, Pentair Ltd., took its form on September 28, 2012Company’s consolidated financial statements as a resultdiscontinued operation. Refer to Note 2 for further discussion.
In connection with the Distribution of nVent, the Company and nVent entered into several agreements covering administrative and tax matters to provide or obtain services on a reverse acquisition (the "Merger") involving Pentair, Inc.transitional basis, as needed, for varying periods after the Distribution. The administrative agreements cover various services such as information technology, human resources and an indirect, wholly-owned subsidiary of Flow Control (defined below), with Pentair, Inc. surviving as an indirect, wholly-owned subsidiary of ours. "Flow Control" refersfinance. The Company expects all services to Pentair Ltd. prior tobe substantially complete within one year after the Merger. Prior to the Merger, Tyco International Ltd. ("Tyco") engaged in an internal restructuring whereby it transferred to Flow Control certain assets related to the flow control business of Tyco, and Flow Control assumed from Tyco certain liabilities related to the flow control business of Tyco. On September 28, 2012 prior to the Merger, Tyco effected a spin-off of Flow Control through the pro-rata distribution of 100% of the outstanding ordinary shares of Flow Control to Tyco’s shareholders (the "Distribution"), resulting in the distribution of approximately 110.9 million of our ordinary shares to Tyco’s shareholders.Distribution.
Basis of presentation
The accompanying consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Pentair and all subsidiaries, both the United States ("(“U.S.") and non-U.S., which we control. Intercompany accounts and transactions have been eliminated. Investments in companies of which we own 20% to 50% of the voting stock or have the ability to exercise significant influence over operating and financial policies of the investee are accounted for using the equity method of accounting and as a result, our share of the earnings or losses of such equity affiliates is included in the Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss).Income.
The consolidated financial statements have been prepared in U.S. dollars ("USD"(“USD”) and in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America ("GAAP"(“GAAP”).
Fiscal year
Our fiscal year ends on December 31. We reported our interim quarterly periods on a 13-week basis ending on a Saturday during 2015, 2014 and 2013. Beginning in 2016, we will report our interim quarterly periods on a calendar quarter basis.
Use of estimates
The preparation of our consolidated financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires us to make estimates and assumptions that affect the amounts reported in these consolidated financial statements and accompanying notes, disclosures of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. These estimates include our accounting for valuation of goodwill and indefinite lived intangible assets, estimated losses on accounts receivable, estimated realizable value on excess and obsolete inventory, percentage of completion revenue recognition, assets acquired and liabilities assumed in acquisitions, estimated selling proceeds from assets held for sale, contingent liabilities, income taxes, and pension and other post-retirement benefits.benefits and the estimated impact of the new lease standard, discussed below. Actual results could differ from our estimates.
Revenue recognition
We recognize revenue when it is realized or realizable and has been earned. Revenue is recognized when persuasive evidence of an arrangement exists, shipment or delivery has occurred (depending on the termscontrol of the sale),promised goods or services are transferred to our pricecustomers, in an amount that reflects the consideration we expect to be entitled to in exchange for transferring those goods or providing services. We account for a contract when it has approval and commitment from both parties, the buyer is fixed or determinable,rights of the parties are identified, payment terms are identified, the contract has commercial substance and collectability of consideration is reasonably assured.probable.

When determining whether the customer has obtained control of the goods or services, we consider any future performance obligations. Generally, there is no post-shipment obligation on product sold other than warranty obligations in the normal and ordinary course of business. In the event significant post-shipment obligations were to exist, revenue recognition would be deferred until Pentair has substantially all obligations were satisfied.accomplished what it must do to be entitled to the benefits represented by the revenue.

54

Pentair plc and Subsidiaries
Notes to consolidated financial statements


PercentagePerformance obligations
A performance obligation is a promise in a contract to transfer a distinct good or service to the customer, and is the unit of completionaccount for purposes of revenue recognition. A contract’s transaction price is allocated to each distinct performance obligation and recognized as revenue when, or as, the performance obligation is satisfied. The majority of our contracts have a single performance obligation as the promise to transfer the individual goods or services is not separately identifiable from other promises in the contracts and, therefore, not distinct. For contracts with multiple performance obligations, standalone selling price is generally readily observable.
Our performance obligations are satisfied at a point in time or over time as work progresses. Revenue from goods and services transferred to customers at a point in time accounted for 92.5%, 92.4% and 94.0% of our revenue for the twelve months ended December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016, respectively. Revenue on these contracts is recognized when obligations under the terms of the contract with our customer are satisfied; generally this occurs with the transfer of control upon shipment.
Revenue from certain long-term contracts isproducts and services transferred to customers over time accounted for 7.5%, 7.6% and 6.0% of our revenue for the twelve months ended December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016, respectively. For the majority of our revenue recognized over the contractual period under the percentage of completion method of accounting.time, we use an input measure to determine progress towards completion. Under this method, sales and gross profit are recognized as work is performed eithergenerally based on the relationship between the actual costs incurred and the total estimated costs at completion ("(“the cost-to-cost method"method”) or based on efforts for measuring progress towards completion in situations in which this approach is more representative of the progress on the contract than the cost-to-cost method. Contract costs include labor, material, overhead and, when appropriate, general and administrative expenses. Changes to the original estimates may be required during the life of the contract, and such estimates are reviewed on a regular basis. Sales and gross profit are adjusted using the cumulative catch-up method for revisions in estimated total contract costs. These reviews have not resulted in adjustments that were significant to our results of operations. Estimated losses are recordedFor performance obligations related to long term contracts, when identified. Claims against customers areestimates of total costs to be incurred on a performance obligation exceed total estimates of revenue to be earned, a provision for the entire loss on the performance obligation is recognized as revenue upon settlement.in the period the loss is determined.
On December 31, 2018, we had $57.2 million of remaining performance obligations on contracts with an original expected duration of one year or more. We record costs and earnings in excessexpect to recognize the majority of billingsour remaining performance obligations on uncompletedthese contracts within Other current assets and billings in excess of costs and earnings on uncompleted contracts within Other current liabilities in the Consolidated Balance Sheets.next 12 to 18 months.
Sales returns
The right of return may exist explicitly or implicitly with our customers. Generally, ourOur return policy allows for customer returns only upon our authorization. Goods returned must be product we continue to market and must be in salable condition. ReturnsWhen the right of custom or modified goods are normally not allowed. Atreturn exists, we adjust the time of sale, we reduce revenuetransaction price for the estimated effect of returns. Estimated salesWe estimate the expected returns include consideration ofbased on historical sales levels, the timing and magnitude of historical sales return levels as a percent of sales, type of product, type of customer and a projection of this experience into the future.

Pricing and sales incentives
Our contracts may give customers the option to purchase additional goods or services priced at a discount. Options to acquire additional goods or services at a discount can come in many forms, such as customer programs and incentive offerings including pricing arrangements, promotions and other volume-based incentives.

We record estimated reductions to revenuereduce the transaction price for certain customer programs and incentive offerings including pricing arrangements, promotions and other volume-based incentives at the later of the date revenue is recognized or the incentive is offered.that represent variable consideration. Sales incentives given to our customers are recorded asusing either the expected value method or most likely amount approach for estimating the amount of consideration to which Pentair shall be entitled. The expected value is the sum of probability-weighted amounts in a reductionrange of revenue unless we (1) receivepossible consideration amounts. An expected value is an identifiable benefit for the goods or services in exchange for the consideration and (2) we can reasonablyappropriate estimate the fair value of the benefit received.amount of variable consideration when there are a large number of contracts with similar characteristics. The most likely amount is the single most likely amount in a range of possible consideration amounts (that is, the single most likely outcome of the contract). The most likely amount is an appropriate estimate of the amount of variable consideration if the contract has limited possible outcomes (for example, an entity either achieves a performance bonus or does not).

Pricing is established at or prior to the time of sale with our customers, and we record sales at the agreed-upon net selling price. However, one of our businesses allows customers to apply for a refund of a percentage of the original purchase price if they can demonstrate sales to a qualifying end customer. AtWe use the time of sale, weexpected value method to estimate the anticipated refund to be paid based on historical experience and reduce sales for the probable cost of the discount. The cost of these refunds is recorded as a reduction in gross sales.of the transaction price.
Pentair plc and Subsidiaries
Notes to consolidated financial statements


Volume-based incentives involve rebates that are negotiated at or prior to the time of sale with the customer and are redeemable only if the customer achieves a specified cumulative level of sales or sales increase. Under these incentive programs, at the time of sale, we reforecastdetermine the anticipatedmost likely amount of the rebate to be paid based on forecasted sales levels. These forecasts are updated at least quarterly for each customer, and sales arethe transaction price is reduced for the anticipated cost of the rebate. If the forecasted sales for a customer changes,change, the accrual for rebates is adjusted to reflect the new amount of rebates expected to be earned by the customer.
Shipping and handling costs
Amounts billed to customers for shipping and handling activities after the customer obtains control are treated as a promised service performance obligation and recorded in Net sales in the accompanying Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss).Income. Shipping and handling costs incurred by Pentair for the delivery of goods to customers are considered a cost to fulfill the contract and are included in Cost of goods sold in the accompanying Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss).Income.

Contract assets and liabilities
Contract assets consist of unbilled amounts resulting from sales under long-term contracts when the cost-to-cost method of revenue recognition is utilized and revenue recognized exceeds the amount billed to the customer, such as when the customer retains a small portion of the contract price until completion of the contract. We typically receive interim payments on sales under long-term contracts as work progresses, although for some contracts, we may be entitled to receive an advance payment. Contract liabilities consist of advanced payments, billings in excess of costs incurred and deferred revenue.

Contract assets are recorded within Other current assets, and contract liabilities are recorded within Other current liabilities in the Consolidated Balance Sheets.

Contract assets and liabilities consisted of the following:
 December 31   
In millions20182017 $ Change% Change
Contract assets$36.5
$51.5
 $(15.0)(29.1)%
Contract liabilities32.8
29.2
 3.6
12.3 %
Net contract assets$3.7
$22.3
 $(18.6)(83.4)%
The $18.6 million decrease in net contract assets from December 31, 2017 to December 31, 2018 was primarily the result of timing of milestone payments. Approximately 70% of our contract liabilities at December 31, 2017 were recognized in revenue during the twelve months ended December 31, 2018. There were no impairment losses recognized on our contract assets for the twelve months ended December 31, 2018.

Practical expedients and exemptions
We generally expense incremental costs of obtaining a contract when incurred because the amortization period would be less than one year. These costs primarily relate to sales commissions and are recorded in Selling, general and administrative expense in the Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income.

We do not disclose the value of unsatisfied performance obligations for contracts with an original expected length of one year or less. Further, we do not adjust the promised amount of consideration for the effects of a significant financing component if we expect, at contract inception, that the period between when we transfer a promised good or service to a customer and when the customer pays for that good or service will be one year or less.

Revenue by category
We disaggregate our revenue from contracts with customers by segment, geographic location and vertical, as we believe these best depict how the nature, amount, timing and uncertainty of our revenue and cash flows are affected by economic factors. Refer to Note 14 for revenue disaggregated by segment.

Pentair plc and Subsidiaries
Notes to consolidated financial statements


Geographic net sales information for continuing operations, based on geographic destination of the sale, was as follows:
 Years ended December 31
In millions201820172016
U.S.$1,858.1
$1,752.7
$1,690.0
Western Europe402.7
381.9
377.7
Developing (1)
476.5
478.2
492.0
Other Developed (2)
227.8
232.9
220.9
Consolidated net sales (3)
$2,965.1
$2,845.7
$2,780.6
(1)  Developing includes China, Eastern Europe, Latin America, the Middle East and Southeast Asia.
(2) Other Developed includes Australia, Canada and Japan.
(3) Net sales held in Ireland, for each of the years presented, were not material.

Vertical net sales information was as follows:
 Years ended December 31
In millions201820172016
Residential$1,665.9
$1,579.0
$1,498.7
Commercial630.7
604.4
586.5
Industrial668.5
662.3
695.4
Consolidated net sales$2,965.1
$2,845.7
$2,780.6
Research and development
We conduct research and development ("(“R&D"&D”) activities primarily in our own facilities, which mostly consist primarily of the development of new products, product applications and manufacturing processes. We expense R&D costs as incurred. R&D expenditures from continuing operations during 20152018, 20142017 and 20132016 were $119.6$76.7 million, $117.3$73.2 million and $122.8$73.3 million, respectively.
Cash equivalents
We consider highly liquid investments with original maturities of three months or less at the date of acquisition to be cash equivalents.
Trade receivables and concentration of credit risk
We record an allowance for doubtful accounts, reducing our receivables balance to an amount we estimate is collectible from our customers. Estimates used in determining the allowance for doubtful accounts are based on current trends, aging of accounts receivable, periodic credit evaluations of our customers’ financial condition, and historical collection experience. We generally do not require collateral. No customer receivable balances exceeded 10% of total net receivable balances as of December 31, 2015 or December 31, 2014.

55

Pentair plc and Subsidiaries
Notes to consolidated financial statements


Inventories
Inventories are stated at the lower of cost or market with substantially all inventories recorded using the first-in, first-out ("FIFO"(“FIFO”) cost method and with an insignificant amount of inventories located outside the U.S. recorded using a moving average cost method which approximates FIFO.
method.
Property, plant and equipment, net
Property, plant and equipment is stated at historical cost. We compute depreciation by the straight-line method based on the following estimated useful lives:
 Years
Land improvements5 to 20
Buildings and leasehold improvements5 to 50
Machinery and equipment3 to 15
Significant improvements that add to productive capacity or extend the lives of properties are capitalized. Costs for repairs and maintenance are charged to expense as incurred. When property is retired or otherwise disposed of, the recorded cost of the assets and their related accumulated depreciation are removed from the Consolidated Balance Sheets and any related gains or losses are included in income.
Pentair plc and Subsidiaries
Notes to consolidated financial statements


The following table presents geographic Property, plant and equipment, net by region as of December 31:
In millions20182017
U.S.$156.9
$151.9
Western Europe76.6
82.8
Developing (1)
28.8
33.0
Other Developed (2)
10.3
12.1
Consolidated (3)
$272.6
$279.8
(1)  Developing includes China, Eastern Europe, Latin America, the Middle East and Southeast Asia.
(2) Other Developed includes Australia, Canada and Japan.
(3) Property, plant and equipment, net held in Ireland, for each of the years presented, were not material.
We review the recoverability of long-lived assets to be held and used, such as property, plant and equipment, when events or changes in circumstances occur that indicate the carrying value of the asset or asset group may not be recoverable. The assessment of possible impairment is based on our ability to recover the carrying value of the asset or asset group from the expected future pre-tax cash flows (undiscounted and without interest charges) of the related operations. If these cash flows are less than the carrying value of such asset or asset group, an impairment loss is recognized for the difference between estimated fair value and carrying value. Impairment losses on long-lived assets held for sale are determined in a similar manner, except that fair values are reduced for the cost to dispose of the assets. The measurement of impairment requires us to estimate future cash flows and the fair value of long-lived assets. During 2015, 2014 and 2013, weWe recorded no long-lived asset impairment charges of $17.7 million, $20.9 million and $16.6 million, respectively,in 2018, 2017, or 2016 in conjunction with restructuring activities.
Goodwill and identifiable intangible assets
Goodwill
Goodwill represents the excess of the cost of acquired businesses over the net of the fair value of identifiable tangible net assets and identifiable intangible assets purchased and liabilities assumed.
Goodwill is tested at least annually for impairment and is tested for impairment more frequently if events or changes in circumstances indicate that the asset might be impaired. TheWe complete our annual goodwill impairment test isevaluation as of the first day of the fourth quarter. We last performed using a two-step process.assessment of goodwill impairment as of October 1, 2017, referred to as a “step 1” approach. In the first step of the step 1 approach, the fair value of each reporting unit is compared with the carrying amount of the reporting unit, including goodwill. If the estimated fair value is less than the carrying amount of the reporting unit there is an indication that goodwill impairment exists and a second step must be completed in order to determine the amount of the goodwill impairment, if any, that should be recorded. In the second step of the step 1 approach, an impairment loss is recognized for any excess of the carrying amount of the reporting unit’s goodwill over the implied fair value of that goodwill. The implied fair value of goodwill is determined by allocating the fair value of the reporting unit in a manner similar to a purchase price allocation.
The fair value of each reporting unit is determined using a discounted cash flow analysis and market approach. Projecting discounted future cash flows requires us to make significant estimates regarding future revenues and expenses, projected capital expenditures, changes in working capital and the appropriate discount rate. Use of the market approach consists of comparisons to comparable publicly-traded companies that are similar in size and industry. Actual results may differ from those used in our valuations. This non-recurring fair value measurement is a "Level 3" measurement under the fair value hierarchy described below.
In developing our discounted cash flow analysis, assumptions about future revenues and expenses, capital expenditures and changes in working capital, are based on our annual operating plan and long-term business plan for each of our reporting units. These plans take into consideration numerous factors including historical experience, anticipated future economic conditions, changes in raw material prices and growth expectations for the industries and end markets we participate in. These assumptions are determined over a six year long-term planning period. The six year growth rates for revenues and operating profits vary for each reporting unit being evaluated. Revenues and operating profit beyond 2021 are projected to grow at a perpetual growth rate of 3.0%.

56

Pentair plc and Subsidiaries
Notes to consolidated financial statements


Discount rate assumptions for each reporting unit take into consideration our assessment of risks inherent in the future cash flows of the respective reporting unit and our weighted-average cost of capital. We utilized discount rates ranging from 9.5% to 12.5% in determining the discounted cash flows in our fair value analysis.
In estimating fair value using the market approach, we identify a group of comparable publicly-traded companies for each reporting unit that are similar in terms of size and product offering. These groups of comparable companies are used to develop multiples based on total market-based invested capital as a multiple of earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization ("EBITDA"(“EBITDA”). We determine our estimated values by applying these comparable EBITDA multiples to the operating results of our reporting units. The ultimate fair value of each reporting unit is determined considering the results of both valuation methods.
Pentair plc and Subsidiaries
Notes to consolidated financial statements


As of October 1, 2018, we performed a qualitative assessment, referred to as a “step 0” approach, and determined that it was more likely than not that the fair value of the reporting units exceeded their respective carrying amounts. As a result, the Company was not required to proceed to a “step 1” impairment assessment. Factors considered included the 2017 “step 1” analysis and the calculated excess fair value over carrying amount, financial performance, forecasts and trends, market cap, regulatory and environmental issues, macro-economic conditions, industry and market considerations, raw material costs and management stability. We consider the extent to which each of the adverse events and circumstances identified affect the comparison of the respective reporting unit’s fair value with its carrying amount. We place more weight on the events and circumstances that most affect the respective reporting unit’s fair value or the carrying amount of its net assets. We consider positive and mitigating events and circumstances that may affect its determination of whether it is more likely than not that the fair value exceeds the carrying amount.
We completed step one of our annual goodwill impairment evaluation as of the first day of the fourth quarter of 2015, 20142018, 2017 and 20132016 with each reporting unit’s fair value in excessno indications of its carrying value. During the latter part of the fourth quarter of 2015, the oil and gas industry continued to deteriorate, leading management to reconsider its estimates for future profitability of the Valves & Controls reporting unit and thereby increasing the likelihood that the associated goodwill could be impaired. As such, we concluded that a triggering event occurred during the fourth quarter of 2015 requiring that we test Valves & Controls goodwill for impairment. As a result, we reperformed our step one analysis as of December 31, 2015.
The results of our step one goodwill impairment testing as of December 31, 2015 indicated that the fair value of Valves & Controls was below its carrying value. Accordingly, we performed the step two test and concluded the goodwill of Valves & Controls was impaired. As a result, we recorded a non-cash goodwill impairment charge of $515.2 million for the year ended December 31, 2015. The impairment is included in Impairment of goodwill and trade names in our Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss). TheThis non-recurring fair value measurement is a "Level 3"“Level 3” measurement under the fair value hierarchy described below.in Note 9.

Identifiable intangible assets
Our primary identifiable intangible assets include: customer relationships, trade names, proprietary technology and patents. Identifiable intangibles with finite lives are amortized and those identifiable intangibles with indefinite lives are not amortized. Identifiable intangible assets that are subject to amortization are evaluated for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount may not be recoverable. Identifiable intangible assets not subject to amortization are tested for impairment annually or more frequently if events warrant. We complete our annual impairment test during the fourth quarter each year for those identifiable assets not subject to amortization.

The impairment test for trade names consists of a comparison of the fair value of the trade name with its carrying value. Fair value is measured using the relief-from-royalty method. This method assumes the trade name has value to the extent that the owner is relieved of the obligation to pay royalties for the benefits received from them. This method requires us to estimate the future revenue for the related brands, the appropriate royalty rate and the weighted average cost of capital. The non-recurring fair value measurement is a "Level 3"“Level 3” measurement under the fair value hierarchy described below.in Note 9.
As noted above, during the latter part of the fourth quarter of 2015, the oil and gas industry continued to deteriorate, leading management to reconsider its estimates
There were no impairment charges recorded in 2018 for future profitability of the Valves & Controls and thereby increasing the likelihood that the associatedidentifiable intangible assets could be impaired. As such, we concluded that a triggering event occurred during the fourth quarter of 2015 requiring that we test Valves & Controls trade names for impairment. As a result of this test, anassets.

An impairment charge of $39.5$8.8 million was recorded in 20152017 related to certain trade names in Valves & Controls.

There was no impairment charge recorded in 2014 for identifiable intangible assets. An impairment charge of $11.0 million was recorded in 2013 related toFiltration Solutions and Flow Technologies as a trade name in Technical Solutions as the result of alower forecasted sales volume or rebranding strategystrategies implemented in the fourth quarter of 2013. These2017. The trade name impairment charges were recorded in Impairment of goodwillSelling, general and trade namesadministrative in our Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss).Income.
Equity and cost method investments
We have investments that are accounted for using the equity method. Our proportionate share of income or losses from investments accounted for under the equity method isThere were no impairment charges recorded in the Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss). We write down or write off an investment and recognize a loss when events or circumstances indicate there is impairment in the investment that is other-than-temporary. This requires significant judgment, including assessment of the investees’ financial condition and in certain cases the possibility of subsequent rounds of financing, as well as the investees’ historical and projected results of operations and cash flows. If the actual outcomes2016 for the investees are significantly different from projections, we may incur future charges for the impairment of these investments. Our investment in and loans to equity method investees was $36.0 million and $12.9 million at December 31, 2015 and December 31, 2014, respectively, net of our proportionate share of the results of their operations.

57

Pentair plc and Subsidiaries
Notes to consolidated financial statements


Investments for which we do not have significant influence are accounted for under the cost method. The aggregate balance of these investments was $9.3 million and $8.6 million at December 31, 2015 and December 31, 2014, respectively.identifiable intangible assets.
Income taxes
We use the asset and liability approach to account for income taxes. Under this method, deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognized for the expected future tax consequences of differences between the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities and their respective tax bases using enacted tax rates in effect for the year in which the differences are expected to reverse. The effect on deferred tax assets and liabilities of a change in tax rates is recognized in income in the period when the change is enacted. Deferred tax assets are reduced by aWe maintain valuation allowance when, in the opinion of management,allowances unless it is more likely than not that someall or a portion or all of the deferred tax assets will not be realized. Changes in valuation allowances from period to period are included in our tax provision in the period of change. We recognize the effect of income tax positions only if those positions are more likely than not of being sustained. Recognized income tax positions are measured at the largest amount that is greater than 50% likely of being realized. Changes in recognition or measurement are reflected in the period in which the change in judgment occurs.
Pension and other post-retirement plans
We sponsor U.S. and Non-U.S.non-U.S. defined-benefit pension and other post-retirement plans. The pension and other post-retirement benefit costs for company-sponsored benefit plans are determined from actuarial assumptions and methodologies, including discount rates and expected returns on plan assets and health care cost trend rates.assets. These assumptions are updated annually and are disclosed in Note 13.11.
We recognize changes in the fair value of plan assets and net actuarial gains or losses for pension and other post-retirement benefits annually in the fourth quarter each year ("(“mark-to-market adjustment"adjustment”) and, if applicable, in any quarter in which an interim remeasurement is triggered. Net actuarial gains and losses occur when the actual experience differs from any of the various assumptions used to value our pension and other post-retirement plans or when assumptions change, as they may each year. The remaining components of pension expense, including service and interest costs and estimated return on plan assets, are recorded on a quarterly basis.
Environmental
Pentair plc and Subsidiaries
We recognize environmental clean-up liabilities on an undiscounted basis when a loss is probable and can be reasonably estimated. Such liabilities generally are not subjectNotes to insurance coverage. The cost of each environmental clean-up is estimated by engineering,consolidated financial and legal specialists based on current law. Such estimates are based primarily upon the estimated cost of investigation and remediation required and the likelihood that, where applicable, other potentially responsible parties ("PRPs") will be able to fulfill their commitments at the sites where Pentair may be jointly and severally liable. The process of estimating environmental clean-up liabilities is complex and dependent primarily on the nature and extent of historical information and physical data relating to a contaminated site, the complexity of the site, the uncertainty as to what remedy and technology will be required and the outcome of discussions with regulatory agencies and other PRPs at multi-party sites. In future periods, new laws or regulations, advances in clean-up technologies and additional information about the ultimate clean-up remedy that is used could significantly change our estimates. Accruals for environmental liabilities are included in Other current liabilities and Other non-current liabilities in the Consolidated Balance Sheets.statements
Asbestos matters
We recognize asbestos-related liabilities on an undiscounted basis when a loss is probable and can be reasonably estimated. Certain of these liabilities are subject to insurance coverage and we recognize receivables for asbestos-related insurance recoveries only when realization of the claim is deemed probable. Our subsidiaries and numerous other companies are named as defendants in personal injury lawsuits based on alleged exposure to asbestos-containing materials. These cases typically involve product liability claims based primarily on allegations of manufacture, sale or distribution of industrial products that either contained asbestos or were attached to or used with asbestos-containing components manufactured by third-parties. The process of estimating asbestos-related liabilities and the corresponding insurance recoveries receivable is complex and dependent primarily on our historical claim experience, estimates of potential future claims, our legal strategy for resolving these claims, the availability of insurance coverage, and the solvency and creditworthiness of insurers. On an annual basis, we review, and update as appropriate, such estimated asbestos liabilities and assets and the underlying assumptions.
Accruals for asbestos-related liabilities are included in Other non-current liabilities and the estimated receivable for insurance recoveries are recorded in Other non-current assets in the Consolidated Balance Sheets.
Insurance subsidiary
We insure certain general and product liability, property, workers’ compensation and automobile liability risks through our regulated wholly-owned captive insurance subsidiary, Penwald Insurance Company ("Penwald"(“Penwald”). Reserves for policy claims are established based on actuarial projections of ultimate losses. As of December 31, 20152018 and 2014,2017, reserves for policy claims were $62.2$60.9 million, ($13.2of which $13.2 million was included in Other current liabilities and $49.0$47.7 million was included in Other non-current liabilities

58

Pentair plc, and Subsidiaries
Notes to consolidated financial statements


liabilities) and $58.1$61.5 million, ($13.2of which $13.2 million was included in Other current liabilities and $44.9$48.3 million was included in Other non-current liabilities), respectively.
Share-based compensation
We account for share-based compensation awards on a fair value basis. The estimated grant date fair value of each option award is recognized in income on an accelerated basis over the requisite service period (generally the vesting period). The estimated fair value of each option award is calculated using the Black-Scholes option-pricing model. From time to time, we have elected to modify the terms of the original grant. These modified grants are accounted for as a new award and measured using the fair value method, resulting in the inclusion of additional compensation expense in our Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss). Income.
Restricted share awards and units (“RSUs”) are recorded as compensation cost on an accelerated basis over the requisite service periods based on the market value on the date of grant.
Performance share units (“PSUs”) are stock awards where the ultimate number of shares issued will be contingent on the Company’s performance against certain financial performance targets. The fair value of each PSU is based on the market value on the date of grant. We recognize expense related to the estimated vesting of our PSUs granted. The estimated vesting of the PSUs is based on the probability of achieving certain financial performance thresholds over the specified performance period.
Earnings (loss) per ordinary share
We present two calculations of earnings per ordinary share (“EPS”). Basic earnings (loss) per share are computed by dividingEPS equals net income (loss) attributable to Pentair plc by the weighted-average number of ordinary shares outstanding. Diluted earnings (loss) per share are computed by dividing net income (loss) attributable to Pentair plcdivided by the weighted-average number of ordinary shares outstanding includingduring the period. Diluted EPS is computed by dividing net income by the sum of weighted-average number of ordinary shares outstanding plus dilutive effects of ordinary share equivalents.
Derivative financial instruments
We recognize all derivatives, including those embedded in other contracts, as either assets or liabilities at fair value in our Consolidated Balance Sheets. If the derivative is designated and is effective as a cash-flow hedge, the effective portion of changes in the fair value of the derivative are recorded in Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) ("AOCI"(“AOCI”) as a separate component of equity in the Consolidated Balance Sheets and isare recognized in the Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss) when the hedged item affects earnings. If the underlying hedged transaction ceases to exist or if the hedge becomes ineffective, all changes in fair value of the related derivatives that have not been settled are recognized in current earnings. For a derivative that is not designated as or does not qualify as a hedge, changes in fair value are reported in earnings immediately.

Gains and losses on net investment hedges are included in AOCI as a separate component of equity in the Consolidated Balance Sheets.
We use derivative instruments for the purpose of hedging interest rate and currency exposures, which exist as part of ongoing business operations. We do not hold or issue derivative financial instruments for trading or speculative purposes. All other contracts that contain provisions meeting the definition of a derivative also meet the requirements of and have been designated as, normal purchases or sales. Our policy is not to enter into contracts with terms that cannot be designated as normal purchases or sales. From time to time, we may enter into short duration foreign currency contracts to hedge foreign currency risks.
Fair value measurements
Fair value is defined as the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date. Assets and liabilities measured at fair value are classified using the following hierarchy, which is based upon the transparency of inputs to the valuation as of the measurement date:
Level 1: Valuation is based on observable inputs such as quoted market prices (unadjusted) for identical assets or liabilities in active markets.
Level 2: Valuation is based on inputs such as quoted market prices for similar assets or liabilities in active markets or other inputs that are observable for the asset or liability, either directly or indirectly, for substantially the full term of the financial instrument.
Level 3: Valuation is based upon other unobservable inputs that are significant to the fair value measurement.
In making fair value measurements, observable market data must be used when available. When inputs used to measure fair value fall within different levels of the hierarchy, the level within which the fair value measurement is categorized is based on the lowest level input that is significant to the fair value measurement.
Foreign currency translation
The financial statements of subsidiaries located outside of the U.S. are generally measured using the local currency as the functional currency, except for certain corporate entities outside of the U.S. which are measured using USD. Assets and liabilities of these subsidiaries are translated at the rates of exchange at the balance sheet date. Income (Loss) and expense items are translated at average monthly rates of exchange. The resultant translation adjustments are included in AOCI, a separate component of equity.

59

Pentair plc and Subsidiaries
Notes to consolidated financial statements


New accounting standards
In November 2015,February 2016, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (the "FASB") issued a new accounting standard which clarifies and simplifies the balance sheet classification of deferred tax assets and liabilities. Under ASU No. 2016-02, “Leases” (“the new standard, all deferred taxlease standard” or “ASC 842”), which requires an entity to recognize both assets and liabilities are required to be classified as non-current in a classified balance sheet.arising from financing and operating leases, along with additional qualitative and quantitative disclosures. The new lease standard is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2016, including interim periods within that reporting period, and early adoption is permitted. We have not yet determined the impact this standard will have on our financial condition.
In September 2015, the FASB issued a new accounting standard related to the accounting for measurement period adjustments recognized in a business combination. Under the previous standard, when adjustments were made to amounts previously reported as part of a business combination during the measurement period, entities were required to revise comparative information for prior periods. Under the new standard, entities must recognize these adjustments in the reporting period in which the amounts are determined rather than retrospectively. The new standard is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2015, including interim periods within that reporting period, and early adoption is permitted. We adopted the new standard during the fourth quarter of 2015.
In May 2014, the FASB issued new accounting requirements for the recognition of revenue from contracts with customers. The new requirements also include additional disclosure about the nature, amount, timing and uncertainty of revenue and cash flows arising from customer contracts, including significant judgments and changes in judgments and assets recognized from costs incurred to obtain or fulfill a contract. The requirements are effective for annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2017,2018, including interim periods within that reporting period. EarlyWe adopted the new lease guidance as of January 1, 2019, using the transition method of adoption isapplied to those leases which were not completed as of that date. Under the transition method of adoption, comparative periods will not be restated for the new standard. We also elected the package of practical expedients permitted under the transition guidance, which among other things allowed us to carry forward the historical lease classification. In preparation for reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2016.adoption of the new guidance, we have implemented appropriate changes to our business processes, systems and controls to support preparation of financial information and have reached conclusions on key accounting assessments related to the standard. As a result of these assessments, we anticipate the adoption of the new standard to increase assets and liabilities on the consolidated balance sheet by approximately $75.0 million as of the adoption date. We currently do not expect ASC 842 to have a material effect on either our consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive income or consolidated statements of cash flows.

On January 1, 2018, we adopted ASU No. 2017-01, “Clarifying the Definition of a Business.” This ASU clarifies the definition of a business and provides guidance on whether transactions should be accounted for as acquisitions (or disposals) of assets or businesses. The adoption of the new standard did not yet determined the potential effectshave a material impact on our consolidated financial condition or resultsstatements.

On January 1, 2018, we adopted ASU No. 2017-07, “Retirement Benefits-Improving the Presentation of operations.Net Periodic Pension Cost and Net Periodic Postretirement Benefit Cost.” As a result of the adoption, the interest cost, expected return on plan assets and net actuarial gain/loss components of net periodic pension and post-retirement benefit cost have been reclassified from Selling, general and administrative expense to Other (income) expense. Only the service cost component remains in Operating income and will be eligible for capitalization in assets on a prospective basis. The effect of the retrospective presentation change related to the net periodic cost of our defined benefit pension and other post-retirement plans on our Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income was a reclassification of expense of $13.9 million and income of $6.2 million for the years ended December 31, 2017 and 2016, respectively, from Selling, general and administrative expense to Other (income) expense.
2.Acquisitions
Material acquisitions
On September 18, 2015,January 1, 2018, we acquired,adopted ASU No. 2016-16, “Accounting for Income Taxes: Intra-Entity Asset Transfers of Assets Other than Inventory.” This ASU requires the tax effects of all intra-entity sales of assets other than inventory to be recognized in the period in which the transaction occurs. The adoption resulted in a $215.8 million cumulative-effect adjustment (of which $174.6 million related to nVent) recorded in retained earnings as part of Technical Solutions, all of the outstanding sharesbeginning of capital stock2018. The adjustment reflects a $254.3 million reduction of ERICO Global Company ("ERICO"a prepaid long term tax asset, partially offset by the establishment of $38.5 million of deferred tax assets.

On January 1, 2018, we adopted ASU No. 2014-09, “Revenue from Contracts with Customers” and the related amendments (“the new revenue standard”) using the modified retrospective method. The cumulative impact to our retained earnings at January 1, 2018 was not material. The comparative information has not been restated and continues to be reported under the accounting standards in effect for approximately $1.8 billion (the "ERICO Acquisition"). ERICO is a leading global manufacturer and marketer of engineered electrical and fastening products for electrical, mechanical and civil applications. ERICO has employees in 30 countries across the world with recognized brands including CADDY fixing, fastening and support products; ERICO electrical grounding, bonding and connectivity products and LENTON engineered systems.
The purchase price has been preliminarily allocated based on the estimated fair value of assets acquired and liabilities assumed at the date of the ERICO Acquisition. The preliminary purchase price allocation is subject to further refinement and may require significant adjustments to arrive at the final purchase price allocation. These changes will primarily relate to income tax-related items.those periods. We expect the purchase price allocationimpact of the adoption of the new standard to be completed in the first halfimmaterial to our net income on an ongoing basis.

A majority of 2016. There canour net sales continue to be no assurance that such finalization will not result in material changesrecognized when products are shipped from the preliminary purchase price allocations.
The following table summarizes our preliminary estimatesmanufacturing facilities or delivery has occurred, depending on terms of the fair valuessale. Under the new revenue standard, timing for recognition of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed in the ERICO Acquisition:certain revenue may be accelerated such that a portion of revenue will be recognized prior to shipment or delivery dependent upon contract-specific terms.

In millionsAs Originally ReportedAs Revised
Cash$11.6
$11.8
Accounts receivable76.7
75.9
Inventories99.0
102.4
Other current assets9.5
2.9
Property, plant and equipment27.0
53.4
Identifiable intangible assets964.6
1,033.8
Goodwill1,102.8
1,061.9
Current liabilities(96.0)(97.2)
Deferred income taxes, including current(373.0)(418.8)
Other liabilities(4.1)(8.0)
Purchase price$1,818.1
$1,818.1
The excess of purchase price over tangible net assets and identified intangible assets acquired has been preliminarily allocated to goodwill in the amount of $1,061.9 million, none of which is expected to be deductible for income tax purposes. Identifiable

60

Pentair plc and Subsidiaries
Notes to consolidated financial statements


The cumulative effect of the changes made to our January 1, 2018 Consolidated Balance Sheet from the modified retrospective adoption of ASU 2016-16 and ASU 2014-09 was as follows:
Consolidated Balance Sheets   
In millionsBalance at December 31, 2017Adjustments due to ASU 2016-16Adjustments due to ASU 2014-09Balance at January 1, 2018
Assets    
Accounts and notes receivable, net$483.1
$
$2.7
$485.8
Inventories356.9

(1.6)355.3
Other current assets114.5

1.6
116.1
Current assets held for sale708.0

3.8
711.8
Other non-current assets180.9
(44.9)
136.0
Non-current assets held for sale3,989.6
(201.6)
3,788.0
Liabilities    
Other current liabilities401.3

2.7
404.0
Deferred tax liabilities108.6
(3.7)0.1
105.0
Non-current liabilities held for sale537.0
(27.0)0.4
510.4
Equity    
Retained Earnings2,481.7
(215.8)1.8
2,267.7
2.Acquisitions and Discontinued Operations
Acquisitions
In January 2019, as part of Filtration Solutions, we entered into definitive agreements to acquire Aquion Inc. (“Aquion”) and Pelican Water Systems (“Pelican”) for $160.0 million and $120.0 million in cash, respectively, and subject to certain customary adjustments. We completed the Aquion acquisition on February 13, 2019 and the Pelican acquisition on February 12, 2019.
Aquion offers a diverse line of water conditioners, water filters, drinking-water purifiers, ozone and ultraviolet disinfection systems, reverse osmosis systems and acid neutralizers for the residential and commercial water treatment industry. Pelican Water Systems provides residential whole home water treatment systems. These acquisitions are not expected to have a material impact on our consolidated financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

During 2017, our continuing operations completed acquisitions with purchase prices totaling $45.9 million in cash, net of cash acquired. Identifiable intangible assets acquired as part of the ERICO Acquisition include $228.4 million of indefinite-lived trade name intangible assets and $805.4included $19.1 million of definite-lived customer relationships with an estimated useful life of 2111 years.

ERICO's net sales and net income for the period from the acquisition date to December 31, 2015 were $147.0 million and $12.7 million, respectively.

The following unaudited pro forma consolidated condensed financial results of operations are presented as if the ERICO Acquisition was consummated on January 1, 2014, the beginning of the comparable prior annual reporting period:
 Years ended December 31
In millions, except share and per-share data20152014
Pro forma net sales$6,835.2
$7,596.0
Pro forma net income (loss) from continuing operations(1.6)609.2
Pro forma earnings (loss) per ordinary share - continuing operations  
Basic$(0.01)$3.20
Diluted(0.01)3.15
The unaudited pro forma net income (loss) fromIn November 2016, our continuing operations for the year ended December 31, 2014 was adjusted to include the impactcompleted an acquisition with a purchase price of $32.8 million in non-recurring items related to acquisition date fair value adjustments to inventory. The unaudited pro forma net income (loss) for the year ended December 31, 2015 excludes the impact of $24.6 million of non-recurring transaction related and bridge financing costs.
The pro forma condensed consolidated financial information has been prepared for comparative purposes only and includes certain adjustments, as noted above. The adjustments are estimates based on currently available information and actual amounts may differ materially from these estimates. They do not reflect the effect of costs or synergies that would have been expected to result from the integration of the ERICO Acquisition. The pro forma information does not purport to be indicative of the results of operations that actually would have resulted had the ERICO Acquisition occurred on January 1, 2014.
Other acquisitions
In April 2015, we acquired, as part of Technical Solutions, all of the outstanding shares of capital stock of Nuheat Industries Limited ("Nuheat") for $96.0$25.0 million in cash, (120.5 million Canadian dollars translated at the April 2, 2015 exchange rate), net of cash acquired. In November 2015, cash of $0.9 million (1.2 million Canadian dollars translated at the average monthly exchange rate) was paid to Nuheat in settlement of a working capital adjustment. Based in Canada, Nuheat is a leading manufacturer of electric floor heating systems that are distributed across North America. Total goodwill recorded as part of the purchase allocation was $43.2 million, none of which is tax deductible. Identified intangible assets acquired consisted of customer relationships of $53.3 million, with an estimated useful life of 17 years.
The pro forma impact of this acquisitionthese acquisitions was deemed to not be material.

Discontinued Operations
Electrical separation
On JanuaryApril 30, 2014,2018, we acquired,completed the Separation and Distribution. The results of the Electrical business have been presented as part of Water Quality Systems,discontinued operations and the remaining 19.9 percent ownership interest in two entities,related assets and liabilities were reclassified as held for sale for all periods presented. The Electrical business had been previously disclosed as a U.S. entity and an international entity (collectively, Pentair Residential Filtration or "PRF"), from GE Water & Process Technologies (a unit of General Electric Company) ("GE") for $134.3 million in cash. Priorstand-alone reporting segment. Separation costs related to the acquisition, we heldSeparation and Distribution were $84.2 million and $39.3 million for the twelve months ended December 31, 2018 and 2017, respectively. These costs are reported in discontinued operations as they represent a 80.1 percent ownership equity interest in PRF, representing ourcost directly related to the Separation and GE's respective global water softenerDistribution and residential water filtration businesses. were included within Income from discontinued operations, net of tax presented below.

There waswere no material pro forma impact from this acquisition asseparation costs related to the results of PRF were consolidated into our financial statements prior to acquiringSeparation and Distribution for the remaining interest.twelve months ended December 31, 2016.

61

Pentair plc and Subsidiaries
Notes to consolidated financial statements


3.Discontinued Operations and Divestitures
Discontinued operations
Sale of Valves & Controls
On JulyApril 28, 2014, our Board2017, we completed the sale of Directors approvedthe Valves & Controls business to Emerson Electric Co. for $3.15 billion in cash. The sale resulted in a decision to exit our Water Transport business in Australia. During the third quartergain of 2014, we recognized an impairment charge related to allocated amounts of goodwill, intangible assets, property, plant & equipment and other non-current assets totaling $380.1$181.1 million, net of a $12.3 million tax benefit, representing our estimated loss on disposal of the Water Transport business. The impairment charge was determined using significant unobservable inputs ("Level 3" fair value measurements). In addition, during the first quarter of 2014 and fourth quarter of 2013, we sold portions of our Water Transport business in Australia and New Zealand, respectively, resulting in losses of $5.6 million, net of a $2.4 million tax benefit, and $0.8 million, net of a $0.3 million tax benefit, respectively.
During 2015, we sold the remainder of our Water Transport business and received cash proceeds of $59.0 million.tax. The results of the Water TransportValves & Controls business have been presented as discontinued operations. The Valves & Controls business was previously disclosed as a stand-alone reporting segment. Transaction costs of $56.4 million related to the sale of Valves & Controls were incurred during the year ended December 31, 2017 and were recorded within Gain from sale/impairment of discontinued operations and the assets and liabilities of the Water Transport business have been reclassified as held for sale for all periods presented.before income taxes presented below.
Operating results of discontinued operations are summarized below:
 Years ended December 31
In millions201520142013
Net sales$18.6
$295.8
$490.1
Cost of goods sold18.1
250.2
387.4
Gross profit$0.5
$45.6
$102.7
    
Income (loss) from discontinued operations before income taxes$(7.1)$1.5
$33.0
Income tax benefit (provision)2.4
(7.9)(7.1)
Income (loss) from discontinued operations, net of tax$(4.7)$(6.4)$25.9
    
Loss from sale / impairment of discontinued operations before income taxes$(6.7)$(400.4)$(1.1)
Income tax benefit
14.7
0.3
Loss from sale / impairment of discontinued operations, net of tax$(6.7)$(385.7)$(0.8)
 Years ended December 31
In millions201820172016
Net sales$693.9
$2,548.2
$3,755.4
Cost of goods sold424.0
1,596.2
2,457.1
Gross profit269.9
952.0
1,298.3
Selling, general and administrative237.8
589.2
803.2
Research and development14.6
48.3
59.0
Operating income$17.5
$314.5
$436.1
    
Income from discontinued operations before income taxes$31.8
$317.1
$418.5
Income tax provision (benefit)6.1
(54.2)75.1
Income from discontinued operations, net of tax$25.7
$371.3
$343.4
    
Gain from sale / impairment of discontinued operations before income taxes$
$183.5
$0.6
Provision for income taxes
2.4

Gain from sale / impairment of discontinued operations, net of tax$
$181.1
$0.6

62

Pentair plc and Subsidiaries
Notes to consolidated financial statements


The carrying amounts of major classes of assets and liabilities that were classified as held for sale on the Consolidated Balance Sheets were as follows:
December 31December 31
In millions201520142017
Cash and cash equivalents$
$7.0
$27.0
Accounts and notes receivable, net
28.8
Accounts receivable, net348.5
Inventories
30.1
224.1
Other current assets
14.7
108.4
Current assets held for sale$
$80.6
$708.0
Property, plant and equipment, net$
$18.5
$265.8
Goodwill2,238.2
Intangibles, net1,236.6
Other non-current assets
6.4
249.0
Non-current assets held for sale$
$24.9
$3,989.6
Accounts payable$
$12.2
$174.1
Employee compensation and benefits
11.3
70.8
Other current liabilities
11.6
115.9
Current liabilities held for sale$
$35.1
$360.8
Long-term debt$
$4.0
Pension and other post-retirement compensation and benefits
2.5
$189.2
Deferred tax liabilities286.2
Other non-current liabilities61.6
Non-current liabilities held for sale$
$6.5
$537.0
Divestitures
During 2013, we sold businesses that were part of Technical Solutions and Flow & Filtration Solutions for a cash purchase price of $30.1 million and $13.4 million, respectively, net of transaction costs, resulting in a gain of $16.8 million and $4.0 million, respectively. Goodwill of $5.3 million and $5.7 million was included in the assets of the business sold for Technical Solutions and Flow & Filtration Solutions, respectively.
4.Earnings (Loss) Per Share
Basic and diluted earnings (loss) per share were calculated as follows:
 Years ended December 31
In millions, except per share data201520142013
Net income (loss) attributable to Pentair plc$(76.4)$214.9
$536.8
Net income (loss) from continuing operations attributable to Pentair plc$(65.0)$607.0
$511.7
Weighted average ordinary shares outstanding   
Basic180.3
190.6
201.1
Dilutive impact of stock options and restricted stock awards2.3
3.1
3.5
Diluted182.6
193.7
204.6
Earnings (loss) per ordinary share attributable to Pentair plc   
Basic   
Continuing operations$(0.36)$3.19
$2.54
Discontinued operations(0.06)(2.06)0.13
Basic earnings (loss) per ordinary share attributable to Pentair plc$(0.42)$1.13
$2.67
Diluted   
Continuing operations$(0.36)$3.14
$2.50
Discontinued operations(0.06)(2.03)0.12
Diluted earnings (loss) per ordinary share attributable to Pentair plc$(0.42)$1.11
$2.62
Anti-dilutive stock options excluded from the calculation of diluted earnings per share1.3
0.5
0.2

63

Pentair plc and Subsidiaries
Notes to consolidated financial statements


5.Restructuring
3.    Earnings Per Share
Basic and diluted earnings per share were calculated as follows:
 Years ended December 31
In millions, except per share data201820172016
Net income$347.4
$666.5
$522.2
Net income from continuing operations$321.7
$114.1
$178.2
Weighted average ordinary shares outstanding   
Basic175.8
181.7
181.3
Dilutive impact of stock options and restricted stock awards1.5
2.0
1.8
Diluted177.3
183.7
183.1
Earnings per ordinary share   
Basic   
Continuing operations$1.83
$0.63
$0.98
Discontinued operations0.15
3.04
1.90
Basic earnings per ordinary share$1.98
$3.67
$2.88
Diluted   
Continuing operations$1.81
$0.62
$0.97
Discontinued operations0.15
3.01
1.88
Diluted earnings per ordinary share$1.96
$3.63
$2.85
Anti-dilutive stock options excluded from the calculation of diluted earnings per share1.2
1.8
1.2
4.    Restructuring
During 2015, 20142018, 2017 and 2013,2016, we initiated and continued execution of certain business restructuring initiatives aimed at reducing our fixed cost structure and realigning our business. The 2015 initiativesInitiatives during the years ended December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016 included a reduction in hourly and salaried headcount of approximately 3,000300 employees, which included 2,500 in Valves & Controls, 200 in Flow & Filtration Solutions, 100 in Water Quality Systems and 200 in Technical Solutions. The 2014 initiatives included the reduction in hourly and salaried headcount of approximately 1,150250 employees which included 600 in Valves & Controls, 350 in Flow & Filtration Solutions, 50 in Water Quality Systems and 150 in Technical Solutions. The 2013 initiatives included the reduction in hourly and salaried headcount of approximately 1,100 employees, which included 500 in Valves & Controls, 250 in Flow & Filtration Solutions, 50 in Water Quality Systems and 300 in Technical Solutions.employees, respectively.
Restructuring related costs included in Selling, general and administrative expenses in the Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss) included costs for severance and other restructuring costs as follows:
Years ended December 31Years ended December 31
In millions201520142013201820172016
Severance and related costs$96.7
$58.9
$81.5
$13.2
$27.3
$12.2
Other21.1
29.4
21.7
27.4
0.9

Total restructuring costs$117.8
$88.3
$103.2
$40.6
$28.2
$12.2
Other restructuring costs primarily consist of asset impairment and various contract termination costs.

Restructuring costs by reportable segment were as follows:
 Years ended December 31
In millions201520142013
Valves & Controls$76.5
$48.8
$51.0
Flow & Filtration Solutions11.2
14.0
17.8
Water Quality Systems6.2
15.2
5.0
Technical Solutions15.7
4.3
19.4
Other8.2
6.0
10.0
Consolidated$117.8
$88.3
$103.2
 Years ended December 31
In millions201820172016
Aquatic Systems$15.3
$3.6
$1.8
Filtration Solutions14.6
13.0
7.4
Flow Technologies9.3
7.0
1.3
Other1.4
4.6
1.7
Consolidated$40.6
$28.2
$12.2
Pentair plc and Subsidiaries
Notes to consolidated financial statements


Activity in the restructuring accrualrelated to accrued severance and related costs recorded in Other current liabilities and Employee compensation and benefits in the Consolidated Balance Sheets is summarized as follows:
Years ended December 31Years ended December 31
In millions2015201420182017
Beginning balance$73.4
$68.6
$34.5
$15.1
Costs incurred96.7
58.9
13.2
27.3
Cash payments and other(78.9)(54.1)(20.6)(7.9)
Ending balance$91.2
$73.4
$27.1
$34.5
6.5.Goodwill and Other Identifiable Intangible Assets
The changes in the carrying amount of goodwill for the years ended December 31, 20152018 and 20142017 by reportable segment were as follows:
In millionsDecember 31, 2014Acquisitions/
divestitures
ImpairmentForeign currency
translation/other
December 31, 2015
Valves & Controls$1,511.6
$
$(515.2)$
$996.4
Flow & Filtration Solutions942.4


(59.7)882.7
Water Quality Systems1,137.6


(16.5)1,121.1
Technical Solutions1,150.3
1,116.4

(11.5)2,255.2
Total goodwill$4,741.9
$1,116.4
$(515.2)$(87.7)$5,255.4
In millionsDecember 31, 2017Foreign currency
translation/other
December 31, 2018
Aquatic Systems$973.1
$(7.2)$965.9
Filtration Solutions667.6
(24.1)643.5
Flow Technologies472.1
(8.8)463.3
Total goodwill$2,112.8
$(40.1)$2,072.7

64

Pentair plc and Subsidiaries
Notes to consolidated financial statements


In millionsDecember 31, 2013Acquisitions/
divestitures
Foreign currency
translation/other
December 31, 2014
Valves & Controls$1,511.6
$
$
$1,511.6
Flow & Filtration Solutions1,036.4

(94.0)942.4
Water Quality Systems1,154.7
6.8
(23.9)1,137.6
Technical Solutions1,158.0

(7.7)1,150.3
Total goodwill$4,860.7
$6.8
$(125.6)$4,741.9
In millionsDecember 31, 2016Acquisitions/
divestitures
Foreign currency
translation/other
December 31, 2017
Aquatic Systems$918.7
$
$54.4
$973.1
Filtration Solutions630.2
27.3
10.1
667.6
Flow Technologies445.7

26.4
472.1
Total goodwill$1,994.6
$27.3
$90.9
$2,112.8

AccumulatedThere has been no impairment of goodwill impairment losses were $715.7 million and $200.5 million asfor any of December 31, 2015 and 2014, respectively.the years presented.
Identifiable intangible assets consisted of the following at December 31:
2015 20142018 2017
In millionsCost
Accumulated
amortization
Net Cost
Accumulated
amortization
NetCost
Accumulated
amortization
Net Cost
Accumulated
amortization
Net
Finite-life intangibles   
Definite-life intangibles   
Customer relationships$2,078.7
$(415.8)$1,662.9
 $1,247.8
$(325.2)$922.6
$347.1
$(247.9)$99.2
 $360.9
$(229.9)$131.0
Trade names1.8
(1.2)0.6
 2.0
(1.1)0.9
0.4
(0.4)
 1.5
(1.4)0.1
Proprietary technology and patents249.3
(114.2)135.1
 255.7
(96.7)159.0
86.2
(68.4)17.8
 117.0
(89.3)27.7
Total finite-life intangibles2,329.8
(531.2)1,798.6
 1,505.5
(423.0)1,082.5
433.7
(316.7)117.0
 479.4
(320.6)158.8
Indefinite-life intangibles      
Trade names691.5

691.5
 525.6

525.6
159.3

159.3
 163.0

163.0
Total intangibles$3,021.3
$(531.2)$2,490.1
 $2,031.1
$(423.0)$1,608.1
$593.0
$(316.7)$276.3
 $642.4
$(320.6)$321.8
Identifiable intangible asset amortization expense in 2015, 20142018, 2017 and 20132016 was $121.4$34.9 million, $114.0$36.4 million and $134.1$35.4 million, respectively.
There was no impairment charge for trade name intangible assets in 2018. In 2015,2017, we recorded an impairment charge for trade name intangible assets of $39.5$8.8 million in Valves & Controls. There wereFiltration Solutions and Flow Technologies. In 2016, there was no impairment charges recorded in 2014. In 2013, we recorded an impairment charge for trade name intangible assets of $11.0 million in Technical Solutions.assets.
Estimated future amortization expense for identifiable intangible assets during the next five years is as follows:
In millions2016201720182019202020192020202120222023
Estimated amortization expense$149.5
$148.0
$145.6
$138.8
$133.7
$27.4
$22.4
$17.3
$10.1
$7.8


65

Pentair plc and Subsidiaries
Notes to consolidated financial statements


7.Supplemental Balance Sheet Information
  
December 31
In millions20152014
Inventories  
Raw materials and supplies$433.0
$460.1
Work-in-process249.2
229.0
Finished goods492.1
441.3
Total inventories$1,174.3
$1,130.4
Other current assets  
Cost in excess of billings$114.4
$103.5
Prepaid expenses87.6
109.6
Deferred income taxes96.7
139.4
Other current assets13.6
14.3
Total other current assets$312.3
$366.8
Property, plant and equipment, net  
Land and land improvements$161.9
$165.1
Buildings and leasehold improvements518.8
493.5
Machinery and equipment1,287.6
1,169.1
Construction in progress79.3
71.0
Total property, plant and equipment2,047.6
1,898.7
Accumulated depreciation and amortization1,104.8
948.7
Total property, plant and equipment, net$942.8
$950.0
Other non-current assets  
Asbestos-related insurance receivable$111.0
$115.8
Deferred income taxes62.8
87.9
Other non-current assets214.3
232.5
Total other non-current assets$388.1
$436.2
Other current liabilities  
Deferred revenue and customer deposits$94.6
$112.7
Dividends payable59.6
116.8
Billings in excess of cost32.0
41.4
Accrued warranty59.8
66.4
Other current liabilities398.1
371.8
Total other current liabilities$644.1
$709.1
Other non-current liabilities  
Asbestos-related liabilities$237.9
$249.1
Taxes payable71.1
61.6
Other non-current liabilities212.0
187.0
Total other non-current liabilities$521.0
$497.7

8.Supplemental Cash Flow Information
  
Years ended December 31
In millions201520142013
Cash paid for interest, net$76.9
$67.5
$69.4
Cash paid for income taxes, net182.8
134.2
91.2

66

Pentair plc and Subsidiaries
Notes to consolidated financial statements


9.Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)

6.    Supplemental Balance Sheet Information
  
December 31
In millions20182017
Inventories  
Raw materials and supplies$191.3
$190.8
Work-in-process64.0
57.9
Finished goods132.2
108.2
Total inventories$387.5
$356.9
Other current assets  
Cost in excess of billings$36.5
$51.5
Prepaid expenses36.7
51.4
Prepaid income taxes8.5
7.8
Other current assets7.7
3.8
Total other current assets$89.4
$114.5
Property, plant and equipment, net  
Land and land improvements$33.5
$33.5
Buildings and leasehold improvements178.9
184.3
Machinery and equipment593.8
609.6
Construction in progress35.7
23.7
Total property, plant and equipment841.9
851.1
Accumulated depreciation and amortization569.3
571.3
Total property, plant and equipment, net$272.6
$279.8
Other non-current assets  
Prepaid income taxes$
$52.8
Deferred income taxes26.2
29.0
Deferred compensation plan assets20.9
23.2
Other non-current assets98.4
75.9
Total other non-current assets$145.5
$180.9
Other current liabilities  
Dividends payable$30.8
$63.1
Accrued warranty33.9
38.1
Accrued rebates55.7
49.8
Billings in excess of cost21.3
20.1
Income taxes payable10.4
39.7
Accrued restructuring27.1
34.5
Other current liabilities149.2
156.0
Total other current liabilities$328.4
$401.3
Other non-current liabilities  
Income taxes payable$46.8
$61.3
Self-insurance liabilities47.7
48.3
Deferred compensation plan liabilities20.9
23.2
Foreign currency contract liabilities30.6
47.2
Other non-current liabilities22.2
33.8
Total other non-current liabilities$168.2
$213.8
Pentair plc and Subsidiaries
Notes to consolidated financial statements


7.    Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss
Components of AOCIAccumulated Other Comprehensive Loss consist of the following:
December 31December 31
In millions2015201420182017
Cumulative translation adjustments$(635.9)$(371.0)$(211.4)$(221.4)
Market value of derivative financial instruments, net of tax(9.1)(9.3)(17.2)(22.0)
Accumulated other comprehensive loss$(645.0)$(380.3)$(228.6)$(243.4)
10.Debt
8.    Debt
Debt and the average interest rates on debt outstanding were as follows:
In millions
Average
interest rate at
December 31, 2015
Maturity
year
December 31
20152014
Commercial paper1.308%2019$179.5
$987.6
Revolving credit facilities1.581%20191,181.4
9.8
Senior notes - fixed rate1.350%2015
350.0
Senior notes - fixed rate1.875%2017350.0
350.0
Senior notes - fixed rate2.900%2018500.0

Senior notes - fixed rate2.650%2019250.0
250.0
Senior notes - fixed rate - Euro2.450%2019548.4

Senior notes - fixed rate3.625%2020400.0

Senior notes - fixed rate5.000%2021500.0
500.0
Senior notes - fixed rate3.150%2022550.0
550.0
Senior notes - fixed rate4.650%2025250.0

Capital lease obligations4.670%20160.7
6.7
Total debt  4,710.0
3,004.1
Less: Current maturities and short-term borrowings  (0.7)(6.7)
Long-term debt  $4,709.3
$2,997.4
In millionsAverage
interest rate at
Maturity
year
December 31
December 31, 201820182017
Commercial paper3.248%2023$76.0
$34.0
Revolving credit facilities3.703%202326.2
28.4
Senior notes - fixed rate (1)
2.900%2018
255.3
Senior notes - fixed rate (1)
2.650%2019250.0
250.0
Senior notes - fixed rate - Euro (1)
2.450%2019155.1
594.4
Senior notes - fixed rate (1)
3.625%202074.0
74.0
Senior notes - fixed rate (1)
5.000%2021103.8
103.8
Senior notes - fixed rate (1)
3.150%202288.3
88.3
Senior notes - fixed rate (1)
4.650%202519.3
19.3
Unamortized issuance costs and discountsN/AN/A(5.1)(6.8)
Total debt  $787.6
$1,440.7
     
(1) Senior notes guaranteed as to payment by Pentair plc and PISG (“the Notes”)
In September 2015,
On April 25, 2018, Pentair, plc, Pentair Finance S.A. ("PFSA") and Pentair Investments Switzerland GmbH ("PISG"(“PISG”), a 100-percent owned subsidiary of Pentair plcFinance S.à r.l. (“PFSA”) and the 100-percent owner of PFSA, completed public offerings (the "September 2015 Offerings") of $500.0 million aggregate principal amount of PFSA's 2.90% Senior Notes due 2018, $400.0 million aggregate principal amount of PFSA's 3.625% Senior Notes due 2020, $250.0 million aggregate principal amount of PFSA's 4.65% Senior Notes due 2025 and €500.0 million aggregate principal amount of PFSA's 2.45% Senior Notes due 2019. Pentair plc used the net proceeds from the September 2015 Offerings to finance the ERICO Acquisition.
The Senior Notes issued in the September 2015 Offerings, 1.875% Senior Notes due 2017, 2.65% Senior Notes due 2019, $373.0 million of the 5.00% Senior Notes due 2021 and 3.15% Senior Notes due 2022 issued by PFSA and $127.0 million of the 5.00% Senior Notes due 2021 issued by Pentair, Inc. (collectively, the "Notes") are guaranteed as to payment by Pentair plc and PISG. Prior to its maturity and repayment in the fourth quarter of 2015, the 1.35% Senior Notes due 2015 were also guaranteed as to payment by Pentair plc and PISG.
Pentair, Inc. hadentered into a credit agreement, providing for ana five-year $800.0 million senior unsecured committed revolving credit facility (the "Prior“Senior Credit Facility") pursuant to which Pentair Ltd. was the guarantor and PFSA and certain other of our subsidiaries were affiliate borrowers. In October 2014, Pentair plc, PISG, PFSA and Pentair, Inc. entered into an amended and restated credit agreement related to the Prior Credit Facility (the "Amended Credit Facility"Facility”), with Pentair plc and PISG as guarantors and PFSA and Pentair, Inc. as borrowers. The AmendedSenior Credit Facility increasedreplaced PFSA’s existing credit facility under that certain Amended and Restated Credit Agreement, dated as of October 3, 2014. PFSA has the maximumoption to request to increase the Senior Credit Facility in an aggregate availabilityamount of up to $2,100.0$300.0 million, and extendedsubject to customary conditions, including the commitment of the participating lenders. The Senior Credit Facility has a maturity date to October 3, 2019.of April 25, 2023. Borrowings under the AmendedSenior Credit Facility generally bear interest at a variable rate equal to an adjusted base rate or the London Interbank Offered Rate, ("LIBOR") plus, a specifiedin each case, an applicable margin. The applicable margin is based upon PFSA'son, at PFSA’s election, Pentair’s leverage level or PFSA’s public credit ratings. PFSA must pay a facility fee ranging from 9.0 to 25.0 basis points per annum (based upon PFSA's credit ratings) on the amount of each lender's commitment and letter of credit fee for each letter of credit issued and outstanding under the Amended Credit Facility.

67

Pentair plc and Subsidiaries
Notes to consolidated financial statements


In August 2015, Pentair plc, PISG and PFSA entered into a First Amendment to the Amended Credit Facility (the "First Amendment"), which, among other things, increased the Leverage Ratio (as defined below) following the ERICO Acquisition from 3.50 to 1.00 on the last day of each fiscal quarter to the amounts specified below. Additionally, in September 2015, Pentair plc, PISG and PFSA entered into a Second Amendment to the Amended Credit Facility (the "Second Amendment", and together with the First Amendment, the "Amendments"), which, among other things, increased the maximum aggregate availability to $2,500.0 million.rating.
PFSA is authorized to sell short-term commercial paper notes to the extent availability exists under the AmendedSenior Credit Facility. PFSA uses the AmendedSenior Credit Facility as back-up liquidity to support 100% of commercial paper outstanding. AsPFSA had $76.0 million of commercial paper outstanding as of December 31, 20152018 and 2014, we had $179.5$34.0 million and $987.6 million, respectively,as of commercial paper outstanding,December 31, 2017, all of which was classified as long-term debt as we have the intent and the ability to refinance such obligations on a long-term basis under the AmendedSenior Credit Facility.
Our debt agreements contain certainvarious financial covenants, but the most restrictive of whichcovenants are contained in the AmendedSenior Credit Facility. The Senior Credit Facility (as updated for the Amendments), including that we maycontains covenants requiring us not to permit (i) the ratio of our consolidated debt plus synthetic lease obligations(net of its consolidated unrestricted cash in excess of $5.0 million but not to exceed $250.0 million) to our consolidated net income (excluding, among other things, non-cash gains and losses) before interest, taxes, depreciation, amortization and non-cash share-based compensation expense and up to a lifetime maximum $25.0 million of costs, fees and expenses incurred in connect with certain acquisitions, investments, dispositions and the issuance, repayment or refinancing debt, and in addition (but without duplication of) the fees, cost and expenses referred above, any fees costs and expenses, in an aggregate amount not to exceed $50.0 million, incurred in connection with the ERICO Acquisition and any related incurrance, issuance, repayment or refinancing of debt ("EBITDA"(“EBITDA”) for the four consecutive fiscal quarters then ended (the "Leverage Ratio") to exceed (a) 4.50 to 1.00 as ofon the last day of any period of four consecutive fiscal quarters ending on or prior to June 30, 2016; (b) 4.25 to 1.00 as of the last day of the period of four consecutive fiscal quarters ending on September 30, 2016; (c) 4.00 to 1.00 as of the last day of the period of four consecutive fiscal quarters ending on December 31, 2016; (d)exceed 3.75 to 1.00 as of the last day of the period of four consecutive fiscal quarters ending after December 31, 2016 but before June 30, 2017; and (e) 3.50 to 1.00 as of the last day of the period of four consecutive fiscal quarters ending after June 30, 2017,(the “Leverage Ratio”) and (ii) the ratio of our EBITDA for the four consecutive fiscal quarters then ended to our consolidated interest expense, including consolidated yield or discount accrued as to outstanding securitization obligations (if any), for the same period to be less than 3.00 to 1.00 as of the end of each fiscal quarter. For purposes of the Leverage Ratio, the AmendedSenior Credit Facility provides for the calculation of EBITDA giving pro forma effect to certain acquisitions, divestitures and liquidations during the period to which such calculation relates. As of December 31, 2015,2018, we were in compliance with all financial covenants in our debt agreements.
Pentair plc and Subsidiaries
Notes to consolidated financial statements


Total availability under the AmendedSenior Credit Facility was $1,139.1$697.8 million as of December 31, 2015, which was limited to $640.6 million by the Leverage Ratio in the Amended Credit Facility’s credit agreement.2018.
In addition to the AmendedSenior Credit Facility, we have various other credit facilities with an aggregate availability of $50.6$21.1 million, of which none wasthere were no outstanding borrowings at December 31, 2015.2018. Borrowings under these credit facilities bear interest at variable rates.
In June 2018, we used the $993.6 million of cash received from nVent as a result of the Distribution to pay down commercial paper and revolving credit facilities, redeem the remaining $255.3 million aggregate principal of our 2.9% fixed rate senior notes due 2018, and complete a cash tender offer in the amount of €363.4 million aggregate principal of our 2.45% senior notes due 2019. All costs associated with the repurchases of debt were recorded as a Loss on early extinguishment of debt in the Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income, including $16.0 million premium paid on early extinguishment and $1.1 million of unamortized deferred financing costs.
In May 2017, we repurchased an aggregate principal amount of certain series of outstanding senior notes totaling $1,659.3 million. All costs associated with the repurchases were recorded as Loss on early extinguishment of debt, including $6.5 million of unamortized deferred financing costs.

We have $405.1 million aggregate principle amount of fixed rate senior notes maturing in 2019. We classified this debt as long-term as of December 31, 2018 as we have the intent and ability to refinance such obligation on a long-term basis under the Credit Facility.
Debt outstanding, excluding unamortized issuance costs and discounts, at December 31, 20152018 matures on a calendar year basis as follows:
In millions20162017201820192020ThereafterTotal20192020202120222023ThereafterTotal
Contractual debt obligation maturities$
$350.0
$500.0
$2,159.3
$400.0
$1,300.0
$4,709.3
$405.1
$74.0
$103.8
$88.3
$102.1
$19.4
$792.7
Capital lease obligations0.7





0.7
Total maturities$0.7
$350.0
$500.0
$2,159.3
$400.0
$1,300.0
$4,710.0
Capital lease obligations relate primarily to land
9.    Derivatives and buildings and consist of total future minimum lease payments of $0.8 million, less the imputed interest of $0.1 million, as of December 31, 2015.Financial Instruments
As of December 31, 2015 and 2014, the recorded values of the assets acquired under capital lease were $14.7 million and $19.5 million, respectively, less accumulated amortization of $2.9 million and $2.4 million, respectively, all of which were included in Property, plant and equipment, net on the Consolidated Balance Sheets.

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Pentair plc and Subsidiaries
Notes to consolidated financial statements


11.Derivatives and Financial Instruments
Derivative financial instruments
We are exposed to market risk related to changes in foreign currency exchange rates. To manage the volatility related to this exposure, we periodically enter into a variety of derivative financial instruments. Our objective is to reduce, where it is deemed appropriate to do so, fluctuations in earnings and cash flows associated with changes in foreign currency rates. The derivative contracts contain credit risk to the extent that our bank counterparties may be unable to meet the terms of the agreements. The amount of such credit risk is generally limited to the unrealized gains, if any, in such contracts. Such risk is minimized by limiting those counterparties to major financial institutions of high credit quality.
Foreign currency contracts
We conduct business in various locations throughout the world and are subject to market risk due to changes in the value of foreign currencies in relation to our reporting currency, the U.S. dollar. We manage our economic and transaction exposure to certain market-based risks through the use of foreign currency derivative financial instruments. Our objective in holding these derivatives is to reduce the volatility of net earnings and cash flows associated with changes in foreign currency exchange rates. The majority of our foreign currency contracts have an original maturity date of less than one year. The derivative contracts contain credit risk to the extent that our bank counterparties may be unable to meet the terms of the agreements. The amount of such credit risk is generally limited to the unrealized gains, if any, in such contracts. Such risk is minimized by limiting those counterparties to major financial institutions of high credit quality.
At December 31, 20152018 and 2014,2017, we had outstanding foreign currency derivative contracts with gross notional U.S. dollar equivalent amounts of $331.5$331.4 million and $250.8$481.4 million, respectively. The impact of these contracts on the Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss) was not material for any period presented.

Gains or losses on foreign currency contracts designated as hedges are reclassified out of AOCIAccumulated other comprehensive loss and into Selling, general and administrative expense in the Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss) upon settlement.when the hedged item affects earnings. Such reclassifications during 2015, 20142018, 2017 and 20132016 were not material.

Net investment hedge
We have net investments in foreign subsidiaries that are subject to changes in the foreign currency exchange rate. In September 2015, we designated the €500 million 2.45% Senior Notes due 2019 (the "2019“2019 Euro Notes"Notes”) as a net investment hedge for a portion of our net investment in our Euro denominated subsidiaries. In June 2018, the Company completed a tender offer for €363.4 million of the 2019 Euro Notes. The remaining €136.6 million of the 2019 Euro Notes have been re-designated as a net
Pentair plc and Subsidiaries
Notes to consolidated financial statements


investment hedge in our Euro denominated subsidiaries. The gains/losses on the 2019 Euro Notes have been included as a component of the cumulative translation adjustment account within AOCI.Accumulated other comprehensive loss. As of December 31, 2015,2018 and 2017, we had deferred foreign currency gainslosses of $16.4$0.8 million and $29.6 million, respectively, in AOCIAccumulated other comprehensive loss associated with the net investment hedge activity.
Fair value measurements
Fair value is defined as the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date. Assets and liabilities measured at fair value are classified using the following hierarchy, which is based upon the transparency of inputs to the valuation as of the measurement date:
Level 1:Valuation is based on observable inputs such as quoted market prices (unadjusted) for identical assets or liabilities in active markets.
Level 2:Valuation is based on inputs such as quoted market prices for similar assets or liabilities in active markets or other inputs that are observable for the asset or liability, either directly or indirectly, for substantially the full term of the financial instrument.
Level 3:Valuation is based upon other unobservable inputs that are significant to the fair value measurement.
In making fair value measurements, observable market data must be used when available. When inputs used to measure fair value fall within different levels of the hierarchy, the level within which the fair value measurement is categorized is based on the lowest level input that is significant to the fair value measurement.
Fair value of financial instruments
The following methods were used to estimate the fair values of each class of financial instrument:
short-term financial instruments (cash and cash equivalents, accounts and notes receivable, accounts and notes payable and variable-rate debt) — recorded amount approximates fair value because of the short maturity period;
long-term fixed-rate debt, including current maturities — fair value is based on market quotes available for issuance of debt with similar terms, which are inputs that are classified as Level 2 in the valuation hierarchy defined by the accounting guidance; and
foreign currency contract agreements — fair values are determined through the use of models that consider various assumptions, including time value, yield curves, as well as other relevant economic measures, which are inputs that are classified as Level 2 in the valuation hierarchy defined by the accounting guidance.guidance; and
deferred compensation plan assets (mutual funds, common/collective trusts and cash equivalents for payment of certain non-qualified benefits for retired, terminated and active employees) — fair value of mutual funds and cash equivalents are based on quoted market prices in active markets that are classified as Level 1 in the valuation hierarchy defined by the accounting guidance; fair value of common/collective trusts are valued at net asset value (“NAV”), which is based on the fair value of the underlying securities owned by the fund and divided by the number of shares outstanding.
The recorded amounts and estimated fair values of total debt, excluding unamortized issuance costs and discounts,at December 31 were as follows:
2015 20142018 2017
In millions
Recorded
Amount
Fair Value 
Recorded
Amount
Fair ValueRecorded
Amount
Fair Value Recorded
Amount
Fair Value
Variable rate debt$1,360.9
$1,360.9
 $997.4
$997.4
$102.2
$102.2
 $62.4
$62.4
Fixed rate debt3,349.1
3,395.4
 2,006.7
2,070.4
690.5
691.8
 1,385.1
1,424.0
Total debt$4,710.0
$4,756.3
 $3,004.1
$3,067.8
$792.7
$794.0
 $1,447.5
$1,486.4
 

69

Pentair plc and Subsidiaries
Notes to consolidated financial statements


Financial assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring and nonrecurring basis were as follows:
Recurring fair value measurementsDecember 31, 2015
In millionsLevel 1Level 2Level 3Total
Foreign currency contract assets$
$0.1
$
$0.1
Foreign currency contract liabilities
(7.6)
(7.6)
Deferred compensation plans assets (1)
43.8
7.0

50.8
Total recurring fair value measurements$43.8
$(0.5)$
$43.3
Nonrecurring fair value measurements    
Goodwill (2)
$
$
$996.4
$996.4
Trade name intangibles (3)


138.1
138.1
Total nonrecurring fair value measurements$
$
$1,134.5
$1,134.5
Recurring fair value measurementsDecember 31, 2018
In millionsLevel 1Level 2Level 3NAVTotal
Foreign currency contract liabilities$
$(30.6)$
$
$(30.6)
Deferred compensation plan assets17.6


3.3
20.9
Total recurring fair value measurements$17.6
$(30.6)$
$3.3
$(9.7)
Recurring fair value measurementsDecember 31, 2014December 31, 2017
In millionsLevel 1Level 2Level 3TotalLevel 1Level 2Level 3NAVTotal
Foreign currency contract assets$
$0.9
$
$0.9
$
$0.6
$
$
$0.6
Foreign currency contract liabilities
(6.6)
(6.6)
(47.2)

(47.2)
Deferred compensation plan assets (1)
47.9
7.4

55.3
18.7


4.5
23.2
Total recurring fair value measurements$47.9
$1.7
$
$49.6
$18.7
$(46.6)$
$4.5
$(23.4)
Nonrecurring fair value measurements (4)(1)
 
 
(1)
Deferred compensation plan assets include mutual funds, common/collective trusts and cash equivalents for payment of certain non-qualified benefits for retired, terminated and active employees. The fair value of mutual funds and cash equivalents were based on quoted market prices in active markets. The underlying investments in the common/collective trusts primarily include intermediate and long-term debt securities, corporate debt securities, equity securities and fixed income securities. The overall fair value of the common/collective trusts are based on observable inputs.
(2)During the fourth quarter of 2015,2017, we performed a goodwillcompleted our annual intangible assets impairment test for our Valves & Controls reporting unit using the required two-step process as of December 31, 2015. As a result, we recorded a non-cash goodwill impairment charge of $515.2 million. The first step of this process includes comparing the fair value to the carrying value of the reporting unit to which the goodwill is allocated to identify potential impairment. If the fair value of the reporting unit exceeds its carrying value, goodwill allocated to that reporting unit is considered not impaired. If the inverse result is observed, the reporting unit is considered to be impaired and step two of the test to measure the amount of impairment must be completed.
The fair value of the reporting unit was determined using a discounted cash flow analysis and market approach. Projecting discounted future cash flows requires us to make significant estimates regarding future revenues and expenses, projected capital expenditures, changes in working capital and the appropriate discount rate. Use of the market approach consists of comparisons to comparable publicly-traded companies that are similar in size and industry. Actual results may differ from those used in our valuations.
Step two compares the implied fair value of the goodwill with the carrying value of that goodwill. If the carrying value of the goodwill exceeds its implied fair value, an impairment loss is recognized in an amount equal to that excess. The implied fair value of goodwill is determined in the same manner as the amount of goodwill recognized in a business combination. That is, the fair value of the reporting unit is allocated to all of its assets and liabilities as if the reporting unit had been acquired in a business combination and its fair value was the purchase price paid to acquire the reporting unit.
(3)During the fourth quarter of 2015, we performed an impairment test for our Valves & Controls trade names.review. As a result, we recorded a pre-tax non-cash trade name impairment charge of $39.5$8.8 million for trade name intangibles, reducing the carrying value of these intangibles to $10.8 million. The fair value of trade names is measured using the relief-from-royalty method. This method assumes the trade name has value to the extent that the owner is relieved of the obligation to pay royalties for the benefits received from them. This method requires us to estimate the future revenue for the related brands, the appropriate royalty rate and the weighted average cost of capital.

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Pentair plc and Subsidiaries
Notes to consolidated financial statements10.    Income Taxes


(4)During the third quarter of 2014, we recognized an impairment charge related to allocated amounts of goodwill, intangible assets, property, plant & equipment and other non-current assets totaling $380.1 million, net of a $12.3 million tax benefit, representing our estimated loss on disposal of the Water Transport business. The impairment charge was determined using significant unobservable inputs ("Level 3" fair value measurements). See Note 3 for additional information about the impairment.

12.Income Taxes
Income from continuing operations before income taxes and noncontrolling interest consisted of the following:
Years ended December 31Years ended December 31
In millions201520142013201820172016
Federal (1)
$(23.7)$13.3
$328.7
$(24.6)$(34.1)$(25.6)
International(2)97.8
771.0
365.8
404.4
206.9
246.5
Income from continuing operations before income taxes and noncontrolling interest$74.1
$784.3
$694.5
Income from continuing operations before income taxes$379.8
$172.8
$220.9
(1)
As a result of the Redomicile, "Federal"“Federal” reflects United Kingdom (“U.K.”) income from continuing operations before income taxes and noncontrolling interest for the U.K. in 2015 and 2014 and for Switzerland in 2013.taxes.
(2)
“International” reflects non-U.K. income from continuing operations before income taxes.
The provision for income taxes consisted of the following:
Years ended December 31Years ended December 31
In millions201520142013201820172016
Currently payable 
Currently payable (receivable) 
Federal (1)
$
$(0.4)$17.4
$(0.1)$
$
International (2)
136.1
175.7
105.6
62.3
76.7
41.5
Total current taxes136.1
175.3
123.0
62.2
76.7
41.5
Deferred  
 
Federal (1)
0.9
2.2
18.9



International (2)
2.1
(0.2)35.1
(4.1)(18.0)1.2
Total deferred taxes3.0
2.0
54.0
(4.1)(18.0)1.2
Total provision for income taxes$139.1
$177.3
$177.0
$58.1
$58.7
$42.7
(1)
As a result of the Redomicile, "Federal"“Federal” represents U.K. taxes for 2015 and 2014 and Swiss taxes for 2013.taxes.
(2)
As a result of the Redomicile, "International"“International” represents non-U.K. taxes for 2015 and 2014 and non-Swiss taxes for 2013.taxes.
Pentair plc and Subsidiaries
Notes to consolidated financial statements


Reconciliations of the federal statutory income tax rate to our effective tax rate were as follows:
Years ended December 31Years ended December 31
Percentages201520142013201820172016
Federal statutory income tax rate (1)
20.3
21.0
7.8
U.K. federal statutory income tax rate19.0 %19.3 %20.0 %
Tax effect of international operations (2)(1)
(74.5)(4.9)10.4(12.0)(20.8)(26.5)
Change in valuation allowances81.6
3.4
5.77.9
27.6
22.1
Withholding taxes7.3
2.3
1.10.3
0.4
1.8
Interest limitations8.8
0.8
0.51.8
1.7
1.5
Non-deductible transaction costs3.4

Non-deductible goodwill impairment140.8

Excess tax benefits on stock-based compensation(1.7)(4.5)
Tax effect of U.S. tax reform(0.9)1.3

Tax effect of early extinguishment of debt0.9
9.0

Other

0.4
Effective tax rate187.7
22.6
25.515.3 %34.0 %19.3 %
(1)
The statutory rate for 2015 and 2014 reflects the U.K. statutory rate of 20.25 percent and 21 percent, respectively. For 2013, the statutory rate reflects the Swiss statutory rate of 7.8 percent.
(2)The tax effect of international operations for 2015 and 2014 consists of non-U.K. jurisdictions. For 2013, the tax effect of international operations consists of non-Swiss jurisdictions.

71

Pentair plc and Subsidiaries
Notes to consolidated financial statements


Reconciliations of the beginning and ending gross unrecognized tax benefits were as follows:
Years ended December 31Years ended December 31
In millions201520142013201820172016
Beginning balance$62.1
$60.8
$53.4
$13.8
$46.3
$25.0
Gross increases for tax positions in prior periods5.2
2.3
12.2
44.0
4.7
26.9
Gross decreases for tax positions in prior periods(3.4)(0.5)(0.6)(4.4)(3.4)(2.2)
Gross increases based on tax positions related to the current year6.2
1.8
2.7
0.9
0.7
0.8
Gross decreases related to settlements with taxing authorities(1.9)(0.1)(5.1)(1.8)(33.6)(3.4)
Reductions due to statute expiration(1.5)(1.2)(1.8)(1.1)(0.9)(0.8)
Gross decreases due to currency fluctuations(3.4)(1.0)
Gross increases due to acquisitions6.6


Ending balance$69.9
$62.1
$60.8
$51.4
$13.8
$46.3
We record gross unrecognized tax benefits in Other current liabilities and Other non-current liabilities in the Consolidated Balance Sheets. Included in the $69.9$51.4 million of total gross unrecognized tax benefits as of December 31, 20152018 was $66.2$50.3 million of tax benefits that, if recognized, would impact the effective tax rate. It is reasonably possible that the gross unrecognized tax benefits as of December 31, 20152018 may decrease by a range of $0zero to $32.6$8.1 million during 2016,2019, primarily as a result of the resolution of non-U.K. examinations, including U.S. federal and state examinations, and the expiration of various statutes of limitations.
The determinationBased on the outcome of annual incomethese examinations, or as a result of the expiration of statute of limitations for specific jurisdictions, it is reasonably possible that certain unrecognized tax expense takes into consideration amounts which may be needed to cover exposuresbenefits for open tax years. The Internal Revenue Service ("IRS") is currently examining the Pentair, Inc. U.S. federal income tax return for the tax year ending September 28, 2012, and the Panthro Acquisition Co. U.S. federal incomepositions taken on previously filed tax returns for tax years ending December 31, 2012 and December 31, 2013.will materially change from those recorded as liabilities in our financial statements. A number of tax periods from 20022003 to present are under audit by tax authorities in various jurisdictions, including Canada,China, Germany, India and Italy.New Zealand. We anticipate that several of these audits may be concluded in the foreseeable future. We are also subject to the 2012 Tax Sharing Agreement, discussed below, which generally applies to pre-Distribution Tyco tax periods beginning in 1997 which remain subject to audit by the IRS.
We record penalties and interest related to unrecognized tax benefits in Provision for income taxes and InterestNet interest expense, respectively.respectively, in the Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income. As of December 31, 20152018 and 2014,2017, we have liabilities of $2.6$0.5 million and $1.2$0.3 million, respectively, for the possible payment of penalties and $10.8$3.6 million and $9.8$2.9 million, respectively, for the possible payment of interest expense, which are recorded in Other current liabilities in the Consolidated Balance Sheets.
Deferred taxes in the amount of $11.1 million have been provided on undistributed earnings of certain subsidiaries. Taxes have not been provided on undistributed earnings of subsidiaries where it is our intention to reinvest these earnings permanently or to repatriate the earnings only when it is tax effective to do so. It is not practicable to estimate the amount of tax that might be payable if such earnings were to be remitted.
Deferred taxes arise because of different treatment between financial statement accounting and tax accounting, known as "temporary“temporary differences." We record the tax effect of these temporary differences as "deferred“deferred tax assets"assets” (generally items that can be used as a tax deduction or credit in future periods) and "deferred“deferred tax liabilities"liabilities” (generally items for which we received a tax deduction but the tax impact has not yet been recorded in the Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss))Income).
Pentair plc and Subsidiaries
Notes to consolidated financial statements


Deferred taxes were recorded in the Consolidated Balance Sheets as follows:
December 31December 31
In millions2015201420182017
Other current assets$96.7
$139.4
Other non-current assets62.8
87.9
$26.2
$29.0
Deferred tax liabilities844.2
528.3
105.9
108.6
Net deferred tax liabilities$684.7
$301.0
$79.7
$79.6


72

Pentair plc and Subsidiaries
Notes to consolidated financial statements


The tax effects of the major items recorded as deferred tax assets and liabilities were as follows:
December 31December 31
In millions2015201420182017
Deferred tax assets 
Accrued liabilities and reserves$168.7
$200.3
$42.9
$43.9
Pension and other post-retirement benefits53.2
68.4
Employee compensation & benefits102.7
100.0
Pension and other post-retirement compensation and benefits25.2
35.7
Employee compensation and benefits21.8
39.2
Tax loss and credit carryforwards392.8
291.9
724.7
670.5
Other assets4.4

Total deferred tax assets717.4
660.6
819.0
789.3
Valuation allowance362.5
235.8
711.9
656.2
Deferred tax assets, net of valuation allowance354.9
424.8
107.1
133.1
Deferred tax liabilities 
Property, plant and equipment58.1
51.6
7.1
3.7
Goodwill and other intangibles942.4
645.6
179.7
190.6
Other liabilities39.1
28.6

18.4
Total deferred tax liabilities1,039.6
725.8
186.8
212.7
Net deferred tax liabilities$684.7
$301.0
$79.7
$79.6
Included in tax loss and credit carryforwards in the table above is a deferred tax asset of $29.6 million as of December 31, 2018 related to foreign tax credit carryover from the tax period ended December 31, 2017 and related to transition taxes. The entire amount is subject to a valuation allowance. The foreign tax credit is eligible for carryforward until the tax period ending December 31, 2027.
As of December 31, 2015,2018, tax loss carryforwards of $1,419.6$2,911.9 million were available to offset future income. A valuation allowance of $326.0$692.3 million exists for deferred income tax benefits related to the tax loss carryforwards which may not be realized. The increase in tax loss carryforwards and valuation allowance from 20142017 to 20152018 were primarily related to internal restructuring costs and impairments.transactions. We believe sufficient taxable income will be generated in the respective jurisdictions to allow us to fully recover the remainder of the tax losses. The tax losses primarily relate to Non-U.S.non-U.S. carryforwards of $1,339.6$2,818.2 million which are subject to varying expiration periods. Non-U.S. carryforwards of $1,045.4$2,345.7 million are located in jurisdictions with unlimited tax loss carryforward periods, while the remainder will begin to expire in 2016.2019. In addition, there were no U.S. federal tax loss carryforwards and $80.0$93.7 million of state tax loss carryforwards as of December 31, 2015, which2018. State tax losses of $56.1 million are in jurisdictions with unlimited tax loss carryforward periods, while the remainder will expire in future years through 2035.2038.
U.S. tax reform
On December 22, 2017, the Tax sharing agreement
In connection with the Distribution, we enteredCuts and Jobs Act of 2017 (the “Act”) was signed into a tax sharing agreement (the "2012 Tax Sharing Agreement") with Tyco and The ADT Corporation ("ADT"), which governs the rights and obligations of ADT, Tyco, and us for certain pre-Distribution tax liabilities, including Tyco’s obligations under a separate tax sharing agreement (the "2007 Tax Sharing Agreement") entered into by Tyco, Covidien Ltd. (now known as Medtronic plc, "Medtronic") and TE Connectivity Ltd. ("TE Connectivity") in connection with the 2007 distributions of Medtronic and TE Connectivity by Tyco (the "2007 Separation").

The 2007 Tax Sharing Agreement governs the rights and obligations of Tyco, Medtronic and TE Connectivity with respect to certain pre-2007 Separation tax liabilities and certain tax liabilities arising in connection with the 2007 Separation. More specifically, Tyco, Medtronic and TE Connectivity share 27%, 42% and 31%, respectively, of income tax liabilities that arise from adjustments made by tax authorities to Tyco's, Medtronic's and TE Connectivity's U.S. and certain non-U.S. 2007 and prior income tax returns. In addition, in the event that the 2007 Separation or certain related transactions are determined to be taxable as a result of actions taken after the 2007 Separation by Tyco, Medtronic or TE Connectivity, the party responsible for such failure would be responsible for all taxes imposed on Tyco, Medtronic or TE Connectivity as a result thereof. If none of the companies is responsible for such failure, then Tyco, Medtronic and TE Connectivity would be responsible for such taxes, in the same manner and in the same proportions as other shared tax liabilities under the 2007 Tax Sharing Agreement. Costs and expenses associated with the management of these shared tax liabilities are generally shared equally among the parties.
The 2012 Tax Sharing Agreement provides that we, Tyco and ADT will share (i) certain pre-Distribution income tax liabilities that arise from adjustments made by tax authorities to our, Tyco’s and ADT’s U.S. income tax returns, and (ii) payments required to be made by Tyco with respectlaw making significant changes to the 2007 Tax Sharing Agreement (the liabilities in clauses (i)Internal Revenue Code. Changes include, but are not limited to, a corporate tax rate decrease from 35% to 21% effective for tax years beginning after December 31, 2017, the transition of U.S international taxation from a worldwide tax system to a territorial system, and (ii) collectively, "Shared Tax Liabilities"). Tyco is responsible fora one-time transition tax on the first $500 millionmandatory deemed repatriation of Shared Tax Liabilities. Ascumulative foreign earnings as of December 31, 2015, Tyco has paid $63.0 million of Shared Tax Liabilities. We and ADT will share 42% and 58%, respectively,2017. For 2018, the Company considered in its annual effective tax rate additional provisions of the next $225 million of Shared Tax Liabilities. We, ADTAct including changes to the deduction for executive compensation and Tyco will share 20%interest expense, a tax on global intangible low-taxed income provisions (“GILTI”), 27.5%the base erosion anti-abuse tax, and 52.5%, respectively, of Shared Tax Liabilities above $725 million. Costsa deduction for foreign-derived intangible income. The Company has elected to treat tax on GILTI income as a period cost and expenses associated withhas therefore included it in its annual effective tax rate.
Given the management of Shared Tax Liabilities will generally be shared 20% by us, 27.5% by ADT and 52.5% by Tyco. Under these tax sharing agreements, the amount ultimately assessed would have to be in excess of $1.85 billion before we would be required to pay anysignificance of the amounts assessed.Act, Staff Accounting Bulletin No. 118 (“SAB 118”) was issued to address the application of U.S. GAAP in situations when a registrant does not have the necessary information available, prepared, or analyzed (including

73

Pentair plc and Subsidiaries
Notes to consolidated financial statements


Incomputations) in reasonable detail to complete the eventaccounting for certain income tax effects of the Distribution,Act. SAB 118 allows registrants to record provisional amounts during a one year “measurement period.” The measurement period is deemed to have ended earlier when the spin-offregistrant has obtained, prepared, and analyzed the information necessary to finalize its accounting. During the measurement period, impacts of ADT, or certain internal transactions undertaken in connection therewith were determinedthe law are expected to be taxable asrecorded at the time a result of actions taken after the Distribution by us, ADT or Tyco, the party responsible for such failure would be responsible for all taxes imposed on us, ADT or Tyco as a result thereof. Taxes resulting from the determination that the Distribution, the spin-off of ADT, or any internal transaction is taxable are referred to herein as "Distribution Taxes." If such failure is not the result of actions taken after the Distribution by us, ADT or Tyco, then we, ADT and Tyco would be responsible for any Distribution Taxes imposed on us, ADT or Tyco as a result of such determination in the same manner and in the same proportions as the Shared Tax Liabilities. ADT will have sole responsibility for any income tax liability arising as a result of Tyco’s acquisition of Brink’s Home Security Holdings, Inc. ("BHS") in May 2010, including any liability of BHS under the tax sharing agreement between BHS and The Brink’s Company dated October 31, 2008 (collectively, the "BHS Tax Liabilities"). Costs and expenses associated with the management of Shared Tax Liabilities, Distribution Taxes and BHS Tax Liabilities will generally be shared 20% by us, 27.5% by ADT and 52.5% by Tyco. We are responsible for all of our own taxes that are not shared pursuant to the 2012 Tax Sharing Agreement’s sharing formulae. In addition, Tyco and ADT are responsible for their tax liabilities that are not subject to the 2012 Tax Sharing Agreement’s sharing formula.
The 2012 Tax Sharing Agreement also provides that, if any party were to default in its obligation to another party to pay its share of the distribution taxes that arise as a result of no party’s fault, each non-defaulting party would be required to pay, equally with any other non-defaulting party, the amounts in default. In addition, if another party to the 2012 Tax Sharing Agreement that is responsiblereasonable estimate for all or a portion of anthe effects can be made, and provisional amounts can be recognized and adjusted as information becomes available, prepared, or analyzed.
The Company calculated its best estimate of the impact of the Act in its December 31, 2017 income tax liability were to defaultprovision in accordance with its paymentunderstanding of such liability tothe Act and guidance available as of the date of the filing of the 2017 Annual Report on Form 10-K and as a taxing authority, we could be legally liable under applicable tax law for such liabilities and required to make additional tax payments. Accordingly, under certain circumstances, we may be obligated to pay amounts in excess of our agreed-upon share of our, Tyco’s and ADT’s tax liabilities.
Tax authorities, including the Internal Revenue Service ("IRS"), have raised issues and proposed tax adjustments, in particular with respect to tax years preceding the 2007 Separation, in connection with examinations of Tyco’s and its subsidiaries’result recorded a provisional income tax returns. expense of $2.2 million in the fourth quarter of 2017, the period in which the legislation was enacted. We subsequently recorded a $3.6 million decrease to the provisional income tax expense in the third quarter of 2018, resulting in a $1.4 million net decrease to income tax expense as a result of the Act.
The issuesamount related to the remeasurement of certain deferred tax assets and proposed adjustmentsliabilities based on the rates at which they are generallyexpected to reverse in the future was a decrease to income tax expense of $28.0 million. The amount related to the one-time transition tax on the mandatory deemed repatriation of foreign earnings was an increase to income tax expense of $26.6 million. No additional income taxes have been provided for any remaining undistributed foreign earnings not subject to the sharing provisions of the 2007 Tax Sharing Agreement which may require Tycotransition tax, or any additional outside basis difference inherent in these entities, as these amounts continue to make a payment to a taxing authority, Medtronic or TE Connectivity. In connection with U.S. federal tax audits, the IRS has raised a number of issues and proposed adjustments for periods beginning with the 1997 tax year. Although Tyco has resolve substantially all of the issues and adjustments proposed by the IRS for tax years through 2007, it has not been able to resolve matters related to the treatment of certain intercompany debt transactions during the period. As described below, Tyco has entered into a settlement with the IRS intended to resolve the intercompany debt issues for Tyco’s 1997 - 2000 audit cycle; however, the ultimate resolution of these matters is uncertain and could resultbe indefinitely reinvested in Tyco being responsible for a greater amount than it expects under the 2007 Tax Sharing Agreement.foreign operations.
On July 1, 2013, Tyco announced that the IRS issued Notices of Deficiency ("Tyco IRS Notices") to Tyco asserting that several of Tyco's former U.S. subsidiaries collectively owe additional taxes of $883.3 million plus penalties of $154.0 million based on audits of the 1997 through 2000 tax years of Tyco and its subsidiaries as they existed at that time. These amounts exclude interest and do not reflect the impact on subsequent periods if the IRS's position described below is ultimately successful.
The IRS asserted in the Tyco IRS Notices that substantially all of Tyco's intercompany debt originated during the 1997 - 2000 period should not be treated as debt for U.S. federal income tax purposes, and has disallowed interest and related deductions recognized on U.S. income tax returns for those periods totaling approximately $2.9 billion. If the IRS is successful in asserting its claim, it would have an adverse impact on interest deductions related to the same Tyco intercompany debt in subsequent time periods, totaling approximately $6.6 billion, which Tyco has advised us that it expects the IRS to disallow. Under the 2012 Tax Sharing Agreement, Tyco has the right to administer, control, and settle all U.S. income tax audits for periods prior to and including the Distribution. Tyco has filed petitions with the U.S. Tax Court contesting the IRS proposed adjustments and a trial date has been set for October 2016.11.    Benefit Plans
On January 19, 2016, Tyco announced that it had entered into Stipulations of Settled Issues with the IRS intended to resolve all disputes related to the intercompany debt issues for Tyco’s 1997 - 2000 audit cycle currently before the U.S. Tax Court. The Stipulations of Settled Issues are contingent upon the IRS Appeals Division applying the same settlement to all intercompany debt issues on appeal for subsequent audit cycles (2001 - 2007) and, if applicable, review by the U.S. Congress Joint Committee on Taxation. Tyco further disclosed that if finalized, the tentative resolution would cover all aspects of the controversy described above and before the Appeals Division of the IRS, and would result in a total cash payment to the IRS in the range of $475 million to $525 million, which includes all interest and penalties, and that this payment would be subject to the sharing formulas described above in the 2007 and 2012 Tax Sharing Agreements with Pentair not being responsible for any payment related to this amount. However, we cannot provide any assurance that the conditions precedent to this settlement will be met, that the intercompany debt dispute is settled with the IRS or that the IRS will consistently apply the terms of the settlement to all of Tyco's U.S. income tax returns filed subsequent to 2000.
If the IRS should successfully assert its position, our share of the collective liability, if any, would be determined pursuant to the 2007 Tax Sharing Agreement and the 2012 Tax Sharing Agreement. Any payment that Tyco is required to make under the 2007

74

Pentair plc and Subsidiaries
Notes to consolidated financial statements


Tax Sharing Agreement, including if the IRS were to prevail with respect to the matter set forth above, could result in a material liability for us under the 2012 Tax Sharing Agreement. To the extent we are responsible for any liability under the 2012 Tax Sharing Agreement, and indirectly the 2007 Tax Sharing Agreement, there could be a material adverse impact on our financial condition, results of operations, cash flows or our effective tax rate in future reporting periods.
13.Benefit Plans
Pension and other post-retirement plans
We sponsor U.S. and Non-U.S.non-U.S. defined-benefit pension and other post-retirement plans. Pension benefits are based principally on an employee’s years of service and/or compensation levels near retirement. In addition, we provide certain post-retirement health care and life insurance benefits. Generally, the post-retirement health care and life insurance plans require contributions from retirees.
In November 2017, our Board of Directors authorized the termination of the Pentair Salaried Plan (the “Salaried Plan”), a U.S. qualified pension plan, effective December 2007, we announced that we31, 2017. The Salaried Plan participants will not be freezing certain U.S. pension plansadversely affected by the plan termination. Those participants whose plan benefits were not in pay status as of July 1, 2018 were given the opportunity to elect a lump sum (or monthly annuity) payment during a special election window. Payments of $171.9 million were made to participants who elected to receive a lump sum during this window. For all participants whose Salaried Plan benefits were not paid in lump sum, the Company will purchase an annuity for them with an annuity provider within 120 days after all required government approvals for the Salaried Plan termination have been received. The termination is expected to be completed in 2019.
At December 31, 2017.2018, the projected benefit obligation of the Salaried Plan was $175.9 million and the plan assets were $153.7 million. Due to the changing nature of these assumptions, it is at least reasonably possible that changes in these assumptions will occur in the near term and, due to the uncertainties inherent in setting assumptions, that the effect of such changes could be material to the financial statements.
As described in Note 1, during the first quarter of 2018, the Company adopted ASU 2017-07. As a result, service costs are classified as employee compensation costs within Cost of goods sold and Selling, general and administrative expense within the Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income. All other components of net periodic benefit expense are classified within Other (income) expense for the periods presented.
The information herein relates to defined-benefit pension and other post-retirement plans of our continuing operations only.
Pentair plc and Subsidiaries
Notes to consolidated financial statements


Obligations and funded status
The following tables present reconciliations of plan benefit obligations, fair value of plan assets and the funded status of pension plans and other post-retirement plans as of and for the years ended December 31, 20152018 and 2014:2017:
U.S. pension plans Non-U.S. pension plans 
Other post-retirement
plans
Pension plans 
Other post-retirement
plans
In millions20152014 20152014 2015201420182017 20182017
Change in benefit obligations        
Benefit obligation beginning of year$416.2
$346.9
 $505.2
$462.0
 $41.5
$42.4
$473.8
$423.8
 $17.5
$18.9
Service cost14.0
13.1
 9.6
7.4
 0.2
0.2
4.1
11.7
 

Interest cost14.9
15.4
 14.2
17.3
 1.5
1.7
11.5
16.4
 0.6
0.7
Actuarial loss (gain)(39.1)50.1
 (9.5)73.0
 (0.9)0.3
(23.6)41.4
 (1.4)(0.1)
Foreign currency translation

 (31.6)(36.6) 

(0.2)0.6
 

Benefits paid(9.1)(9.3) (17.9)(17.9) (3.5)(3.1)(187.7)(20.1) (1.8)(2.0)
Benefit obligation end of year$396.9
$416.2
 $470.0
$505.2
 $38.8
$41.5
$277.9
$473.8
 $14.9
$17.5
Change in plan assets        
Fair value of plan assets beginning of year$343.9
$285.8
 $309.7
$286.5
 $
$
$382.8
$352.3
 $
$
Actual return on plan assets(11.1)63.7
 4.2
35.2
 

(21.4)42.4
 

Company contributions4.0
3.7
 17.2
20.9
 3.5
3.1
7.1
6.3
 1.8
2.0
Foreign currency translation

 (11.5)(15.0) 

(0.1)1.9
 

Benefits paid(9.1)(9.3) (17.9)(17.9) (3.5)(3.1)(187.7)(20.1) (1.8)(2.0)
Fair value of plan assets end of year$327.7
$343.9
 $301.7
$309.7
 $
$
$180.7
$382.8
 $
$
Funded status        
Benefit obligations in excess of the fair value of plan assets$(69.2)$(72.3) $(168.3)$(195.5) $(38.8)$(41.5)$(97.2)$(91.0) $(14.9)$(17.5)
Amounts recorded in the Consolidated Balance Sheets were as follows:
U.S. pension plans Non-U.S. pension plans 
Other post-retirement
plans
Pension plans 
Other post-retirement
plans
In millions20152014 20152014 2015201420182017 20182017
Other non-current assets$0.5
$2.7
 $6.1
$6.5
 $
$
Current liabilities(4.1)(4.0) (4.0)(4.7) (3.3)(3.4)$(28.3)$(6.1) $(1.7)$(1.9)
Non-current liabilities(65.6)(71.0) (170.4)(197.3) (35.5)(38.1)(68.9)(84.9) (13.2)(15.6)
Benefit obligations in excess of the fair value of plan assets$(69.2)$(72.3) $(168.3)$(195.5) $(38.8)$(41.5)$(97.2)$(91.0) $(14.9)$(17.5)
The accumulated benefit obligation for all defined benefit plans was $840.0$275.0 million and $887.5$470.4 million at December 31, 20152018 and 2014,2017, respectively.
 

75

Pentair plc and Subsidiaries
Notes to consolidated financial statements


Information for pension plans with an accumulated benefit obligation or projected benefit obligation in excess of plan assets as of December 31 was as follows:
Projected benefit obligation
exceeds the fair value
of plan assets
 
Accumulated benefit  obligation
exceeds the fair value of
plan assets
Projected benefit obligation
exceeds the fair value
of plan assets
 
Accumulated benefit  obligation
exceeds the fair value of
plan assets
In millions20152014 2015201420182017
20182017
U.S. pension plans   
Projected benefit obligation$86.4
$92.5
 $86.4
$92.5
$277.9
$473.8

$270.6
$464.9
Fair value of plan assets16.6
17.5
 16.6
17.5
180.7
382.8

173.7
374.5
Accumulated benefit obligationN/A
N/A
 82.4
85.1
N/A
N/A

268.3
462.3
Non-U.S. pension plans
 
Projected benefit obligation$430.4
$460.0
 $422.7
$453.2
Fair value of plan assets256.0
258.1
 248.8
252.3
Accumulated benefit obligationNA
N/A
 409.8
440.9
Pentair plc and Subsidiaries
Notes to consolidated financial statements


Components of net periodic benefit expense (income) for our pension plans for the years ended December 31 were as follows:
U. S. pension plans Non-U.S. pension plans
In millions201520142013 201520142013201820172016
Service cost$14.0
$13.1
$15.6
 $9.6
$7.4
$8.4
$4.1
$11.7
$12.8
Interest cost14.9
15.4
14.3
 14.2
17.3
17.9
11.5
16.4
16.5
Expected return on plan assets(10.0)(10.5)(9.7) (15.6)(15.9)(15.2)(7.6)(11.6)(11.5)
Amortization of prior year service cost (benefit)

0.4
 

(0.2)
Net actuarial (gain) loss(18.0)(3.1)(18.3) (0.8)50.3
(30.0)
Net periodic benefit expense (income)$0.9
$14.9
$2.3
 $7.4
$59.1
$(19.1)
Net actuarial loss (gain)5.2
8.4
(11.5)
Net periodic benefit expense$13.2
$24.9
$6.3
Components of net periodic benefit expense (income) for our other post-retirement plans for the years ended December 31 2018, 2017 and 2016, were as follows:not material.
 Other post-retirement plans
In millions201520142013
Service cost$0.2
$0.2
$0.3
Interest cost1.5
1.7
1.9
Amortization of prior year service benefit

(0.8)
Net actuarial (gain) loss(0.9)0.3
(15.9)
Net periodic benefit expense (income)$0.8
$2.2
$(14.5)


76

Pentair plc and Subsidiaries
Notes to consolidated financial statements


Assumptions
Weighted-averageThe following table provides the weighted-average assumptions used to determine benefit obligations as of December 31 were as follows:
 U.S. pension plans Non-U.S. pension plans 
Other post-retirement
plans
Percentages201520142013 201520142013 201520142013
Discount rate4.21%3.63%4.51% 3.20%3.04%4.13% 3.95%3.60%4.35%
Rate of compensation increase4.00%4.00%4.00% 2.87%2.95%3.02% 

Weighted-average assumptions used to determineand net periodic benefit expense (income) for years ended December 31 werecost as follows:
 U.S. pension plans Non-U.S. pension plans 
Other post-retirement
plans
Percentages201520142013 201520142013 201520142013
Discount rate3.63%4.51%3.67% 3.04%4.13%3.85% 3.60%4.35%3.40%
Expected long-term return on plan assets3.65%4.56%3.75% 5.32%5.95%5.98% 
Rate of compensation increase4.00%4.00%4.37% 2.95%3.02%3.02% 
Uncertainty in the securities markets and U.S. economy could result in investment returns less than those assumed. Should the securities markets decline or medical and prescription drug costs increase at a rate greater than assumed, we would expect increasing annual combined netthey pertain to our pension and other post-retirement costs for the next several years. Should actual experience differ from actuarial assumptions, the projected pension benefit obligation and net pension cost and accumulated other post-retirement benefit obligation and other post-retirement benefit cost would be affected in future years.plans.
 Pension plans
Other post-retirement
plans
 201820172016
201820172016
Benefit obligation assumptions (1)
Discount rate3.73%4.00%3.92%
3.95%3.40%3.80%
Rate of compensation increase3.77%3.96%3.95%
NANANA
Net periodic benefit expense assumptions       
Discount rate4.00%3.94%4.12% 3.40%3.80%3.95%
Expected long-term return on plan assets4.17%4.05%4.19% NANANA
Rate of compensation increase3.96%3.96%3.93% NANANA

(1)
The benefit obligation for the Salaried Plan as of December 31, 2018 and 2017 were determined using assumptions reflecting the termination of the plan. As a result, the weighted-average assumptions for the pension plans reflected in the table above do not include the Salaried Plan.
Discount rates
The discount rate reflects the current rate at which the pension liabilities could be effectively settled at the end of the year based on our December 31 measurement date. The discount rate was determined by matching our expected benefit payments to payments from a stream of bonds rated AA or higher available in the marketplace, adjusted to eliminate the effects of call provisions. This produced a weighted-average discount rate for our U.S. pension plans of 4.21%, 3.63% and 4.51% in 2015, 2014 and 2013, respectively. The discount rates on our non-U.S. pension plans ranged from 0.50% to 4.25%, 0.50% to 4.25% and 0.50% to 5.00% in 2015, 2014 and 2013, respectively. There are no known or anticipated changes in our discount rate assumptions that will impact our pension expense in 2016.2019.
Expected rates of return
Our expected rates of return on U.S. pension plan assets were 3.65%, 4.56% and 3.75% for 2015, 2014 and 2013, respectively. The expected rates of return on non-U.S. pension plan assets ranged from 1.00% to 6.00%, 1.00% to 6.40% and 1.00% to 6.50% in 2015, 2014 and 2013, respectively. The expected rate of return is designed to be a long-term assumption that may be subject to considerable year-to-year variance from actual returns. In developing the expected long-term rate of return, we considered our historical returns, with consideration given to forecasted economic conditions, our asset allocations, input from external consultants and broader longer-termlong-term market indices. U.S. pensionPension plan assets yielded returns of (3.20)(5.60)%, 22.30%12.00% and (9.90)%7.40% in 2015, 20142018, 2017 and 2013,2016, respectively. As a result of our de-risking strategy to reduce U.S. pension plan liability, we anticipate the expected rate of return on our U.S. funded pension plans will continue to be consistent with the discount rate utilized. Any difference in the expected rate and actual returns will be included with the actuarial gain or loss recorded in the fourth quarter when our plans are remeasured.
Healthcare cost trend rates
The assumed healthcare cost trend rates for other post-retirement plans as of December 31 were as follows:
2015201420182017
Healthcare cost trend rate assumed for following year7.4%6.8%6.2%6.6%
Rate to which the cost trend rate is assumed to decline (the ultimate trend rate)4.4%4.5%4.4%4.4%
Year the cost trend rate reaches the ultimate trend rate2038
2027
2038
2038

77

Pentair plc and Subsidiaries
Notes to consolidated financial statements


The assumed healthcare cost trend rates can have a significant effect on the amounts reported for healthcare plans. A one-percentage-point change in the assumed healthcare cost trend rates would have the following effects as of and for the year ended December 31, 2015:2018:
One Percentage PointOne Percentage Point
In millionsIncreaseDecreaseIncreaseDecrease
Increase (decrease) in annual service and interest cost$0.1
$(0.1)$
$
Increase (decrease) in other post-retirement benefit obligations0.9
(0.8)0.6
(0.5)
Pension plans assets
Objective
The primary objective of our investment strategy is to meet the pension obligation to our employees at a reasonable cost to us. This is primarily accomplished through growth of capital and safety of the funds invested.
During 2012, we adopted an investment strategy for our U.S. pension plans with a primary objective of preserving the funded status of the U.S. plans. This was achieved through investments in fixed interest instruments with interest rate sensitivity characteristics closely reflecting the interest rate sensitivity of our benefit obligations. Shifting of allocations away from equities to liability hedging fixed income investments, by reinvesting in fixed income instruments as equity investments were redeemed, was completed during 2013. As of December 31, 2015, the U.S. pension plans have an approximately 98 percent allocation to fixed income investments.
Asset allocation
Our actual overall asset allocation for our U.S. and non-U.S. pension plans as compared to our investment policy goals as of December 31 was as follows:
U.S. pension plansActual Target
Actual Target20182017 20182017
Percentages20152014 20152014
Fixed income98%97% 100%100%87%98% 95%97%
Alternative2%3% 

5%2% 5%3%
Cash8%% %%
 Non-U.S. pension plans
 Actual Target
Percentages20152014 20152014
Equity securities40%40% 46%45%
Fixed income51%53% 54%55%
Alternative7%5% 

Cash2%2% 

While the target allocations do not have a percentage allocated to cash, the plan assets will always include some cash due to cash flow requirements.

78

Pentair plc and Subsidiaries
Notes to consolidated financial statements


Fair value measurement
The fair values of our pension plan assets and their respective levels in the fair value hierarchy as of December 31, 20152018 and December 31, 20142017 were as follows:
December 31, 2015December 31, 2018
In millionsLevel 1Level 2Level 3TotalLevel 1Level 2Level 3Total
Cash and cash equivalents$2.9
$3.4
$
$6.3
$
$12.0
$
$12.0
Fixed income:

Corporate and non U.S. government
381.5

381.5

102.3

102.3
U.S. treasuries
52.0

52.0

18.7

18.7
Mortgage-backed securities
5.8

5.8
Other
37.2

37.2

16.5

16.5
Global equity securities:
Mid cap equity
3.4

3.4
Large cap equity
43.2

43.2
International equity
74.4

74.4
Other investments
21.5
4.1
25.6


9.3
9.3
Total fair value of plan assets$2.9
$622.4
$4.1
$629.4
Total investments at fair value$
$149.5
$9.3
$158.8
Investments measured at NAV
21.9
Total
$180.7

December 31, 2014December 31, 2017
In millionsLevel 1Level 2Level 3TotalLevel 1Level 2Level 3Total
Cash and cash equivalents$3.1
$4.5
$
$7.6
Fixed income:
 
Corporate and non U.S. government
373.6

373.6
$
$262.8
$
$262.8
U.S. treasuries
70.7

70.7

43.2

43.2
Mortgage-backed securities
8.3

8.3

3.3

3.3
Other
45.5

45.5

37.0

37.0
Global equity securities:
Mid cap equity
3.1

3.1
Large cap equity
43.7

43.7
International equity
77.0

77.0
Other investments
17.4
6.7
24.1


9.4
9.4
Total fair value of plan assets$3.1
$643.8
$6.7
$653.6
Total investments at fair value$
$346.3
$9.4
$355.7
Investments measured at NAV 27.1
Total $382.8

Pentair plc and Subsidiaries
Notes to consolidated financial statements


 Valuation methodologies used for investments measured at fair value were as follows:
Cash and cash equivalents: Cash consists of cash held in bank accounts and was classified asis considered a Level 1.1 investment. Cash equivalents consist of investments in commingled funds valued based on observable market data. Such investments were classified as Level 2.
Fixed income: Investments in corporate bonds, government securities, mortgages and asset backed securities were valued based upon quoted market prices for similar securities and other observable market data. Investments in commingled funds were generally valued at the net asset value of units held at the end of the period based upon the value of the underlying investments as determined by quoted market prices or by a pricing service. Such investments were classified as Level 2.
Global equity securities: Investments in commingled funds were valued at the net asset value of units held at the end of the period based upon the value of the underlying investments as determined by quoted market prices or by a pricing service. Such investments were classified as Level 2.
Other investments: Other investments include investments in commingled funds with diversified investment strategies. Investments in commingled funds that were valued at the net asset value of units held at the end of the

79

Pentair plc and Subsidiaries
Notes to consolidated financial statements


period based upon the value of the underlying investments as determined by quoted market prices or by a pricing service were classified as Level 2. Investments in commingled funds that were valued based on unobservable inputs due to liquidation restrictions were classified as Level 3.
The following tables present a reconciliation ofActivity for our Level 3 pension plan assets held during the years ended December 31, 20152018 and 2014, respectively:
In millions
January 1,
2015
Net realized
and unrealized
gains (losses)
Net issuances
and
settlements
Net transfers
into (out of)
level 3
December 31, 2015
Other investments$6.7
$(0.3)$(2.3)$
$4.1

In millions
January 1,
2014
Net realized
and unrealized
gains (losses)
Net issuances
and
settlements
Net transfers
into (out of)
level 3
December 31, 2014
Other investments$19.0
$0.7
$(11.8)$(1.2)$6.7
2017 was not material.
Cash flows
Contributions
Pension contributions from continuing operations totaled $21.2$7.1 million and $24.6$6.3 million in 20152018 and 2014,2017, respectively. Our 2016We anticipate our 2019 pension contributions are expected to be approximately $32.0$29.9 million, which includes the planned termination of the Salaried Plan. The changing nature of the termination assumptions used to $40.0 million.value the Salaried Plan may cause 2019 pension contributions to be higher or lower than expected. The 20162019 expected contributions will equal or exceed our minimum funding requirements.
Estimated future benefit payments
The following benefit payments, which reflect expected future service or payout from termination, as appropriate, are expected to be paid by the plans for the years ended December 31 as follows:
In millions
U.S. pension
plans
Non-U.S.
pension plans
Other post-
retirement
plans
Pension Plans
Other post-
retirement
plans
2016$12.6
$14.4
$3.3
201713.4
15.8
3.2
201816.0
16.8
3.2
201918.5
18.3
3.1
$183.0
$1.7
202019.4
19.7
3.0
7.2
1.6
20217.2
1.6
20227.3
1.5
20236.8
1.4
Thereafter112.0
103.2
13.4
36.2
5.4
Savings plan
We have a 401(k) plan (the "401(k) plan"“401(k) plan”) with an employee share ownership ("ESOP"(“ESOP”) bonus component, which covers certain union and all non-union U.S. employees who meetmet certain age requirements. Under the 401(k) plan, eligible U.S. employees maycould voluntarily contribute a percentage of their eligible compensation. We match contributions made by employees who meetmet certain eligibility and service requirements. Our

As of January 1, 2018, the 401(k) company match contribution was changed to a dollar-for-dollar (100%) matching contribution ison up to 5% of employee eligible earnings, contributed as before-tax contributions. This change replaced the ESOP component discussed below and offers the same 5% total company match.

During 2017 and 2016, the 401(k) matching contribution was 100% of eligible employee contributions for the first 1% of eligible compensation and 50% of the next 5% of eligible compensation.
InDuring 2018, 2017 and 2016, in addition to the matching contribution, all employees who meetmet certain service requirements receivereceived a discretionary ESOP contribution equal to 1.5% of annual eligible compensation.
Additionally, we had a 401(k) plan acquired as part of the Merger (the "Flow 401(k) plan") which covered certain union and all non-union U.S. employees who met certain age requirements. On December 31, 2013, the Flow 401(k) plan merged intoOur combined expense for the 401(k) plan and all employees covered by the Flow 401(k) plan became fully vestedESOP was $23.4 million, $27.9 million and $27.1 million in their Flow 401(k) plan employer matching contributions2018, 2017 and all future employer matching contributions were made under the 401(k) plan matching contribution formula. Under the Flow 401(k) plan, eligible U.S. employees could voluntarily contribute a percentage of their eligible compensation. We matched contributions made by employees who met certain eligibility and service requirements. Our matching contribution was 500% of eligible employee contributions for the first 1% of eligible compensation. Additional company match was based on years of service, as follows: an additional 1% match at 10 – 19 years of service, an additional 2% match at 20 – 24 years, an additional 3% match at 25 – 29 years and an additional 4% match at 30+ years. Participants were 100% vested in the employer match after 3 years of service.2016, respectively.

80

Pentair plc and Subsidiaries
Notes to consolidated financial statements


Our combined expense for the 401(k) plan, the Flow 401(k) plan and the ESOP was $26.5 million, $21.5 million and $26.8 million in 2015, 2014 and 2013, respectively.
Other retirement compensation
Total other accrued retirement compensation, primarily related to deferred compensation and supplemental retirement plans, was $65.8$28.2 million and $70.2$29.6 million as of December 31, 20152018 and 2014,2017, respectively, and is included in Pension and other post-retirement compensation and benefits and Other non-current liabilities in the Consolidated Balance Sheets.
Multi-employer defined benefit plans
We participate in a number of multi-employer defined benefit plans on behalf of certain employees. Pension expense related to multi-employer plans was not material in 2015, 2014 and 2013.12.    Shareholders’ Equity
14.Shareholders’ Equity
Authorized shares
Our authorized share capital consists of 426.0 million ordinary shares with a par value of $0.01 per share.
Ordinary shares held in treasury
In August 2015, we canceled all of our ordinary shares held in treasury. At the time of the cancellation, we held 19.1 million ordinary shares in treasury at a cost of $1.2 billion.
Share repurchases
Prior to the closing of the Merger, our Board of Directors, and Tyco as our sole shareholder, authorized the repurchase of our ordinary shares with a maximum aggregate value of $400.0 million following the closing of the Merger. This authorization did not have an expiration date. On October 1, 2012, our Board of Directors authorized the repurchase of our ordinary shares with a maximum aggregate value of $800.0 million. This authorization expired on December 31, 2015 and was in addition to the $400.0 million share repurchase authorization. There is no remaining availability under the 2012 authorizations.
In December 2013, the Board of Directors authorized the repurchase of our ordinary shares up to a maximum dollar limit of $1.0 billion. This authorization is in addition to the combined $1.2 billion 2012 share repurchase authorizations. The authorization expires on December 31, 2016. There is no remaining availability under the 2013 authorization.
In December 2014, the Board of Directors authorized the repurchase of our ordinary shares up to a maximum dollar limit of $1.0 billion. This authorization is in additionbillion (the “2014 Authorization). On May 8, 2018, the Board of Directors authorized the repurchase of our ordinary
shares up to a maximum dollar limit of $750.0 million (the “2018 Authorization”), replacing the 2012 and 2013 share repurchase authorizations.2014 Authorization. The authorization2018
Authorization expires on DecemberMay 31, 2019.2021.
During the year ended December 31, 2015,2017, we repurchased 3.13.0 million of our ordinary shares for $200.0 million under the 2014 authorizationAuthorization.
During the year ended December 31, 2018, we repurchased 10.2 million of our shares for $500.0 million, of which 2.2 million shares, or $150.0 million, and 8.0 million shares, or $350.0 million, were repurchased pursuant to the 2014 and 2018 Authorizations, respectively.
As of December 31, 2018, we had $800.0$400.0 million remaining availabilityavailable for share repurchases under the 2014 authorization.2018 Authorization.
Dividends payable
On December 8, 2015,10, 2018, the Board of Directors declared a quarterly cash dividend of $0.33$0.18 that was paid on February 12, 20168, 2019 to shareholders of record at the close of business on January 29, 2016.25, 2019. Additionally, the Board of Directors approved a plan to increase the 2016pay an annual cash dividend to $1.34, which is intended to be paidof $0.72 in four quarterly installments of $0.33 in each of the first and second quarters of 2016 and $0.34 in each of the third and fourth quarters of 2016.2019. As a result, the balance of dividends payable included in Other current liabilities on our Consolidated Balance Sheets was $59.6$30.8 million at December 31, 2015.2018. Dividends paid per ordinary share were $1.28, $1.10$1.05, $1.38 and $0.96$1.34 for the years ended December 31, 2015, 20142018, 2017 and 2013,2016, respectively.
15.Share Plans
13.    Share Plans
Share-based compensation expense
Total share-based compensation expense for 2015, 20142018, 2017 and 20132016 was as follows:
December 31December 31
In millions201520142013201820172016
Restricted stock units$21.6
$22.6
$20.2
$8.9
$17.5
$17.3
Stock options11.4
11.0
10.9
4.6
10.5
10.4
Performance share units7.4
11.6
6.5
Total share-based compensation expense$33.0
$33.6
$31.1
$20.9
$39.6
$34.2

81

Pentair plcOf the total share-based compensation expense noted above, $3.4 million, $7.6 million and Subsidiaries$11.5 million for the years ended December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016, respectively, was reported as part of Income from discontinued operations, net of tax.
Notes to consolidated financial statements


Share incentive plans
Prior to the Merger,In 2012, our Board of Directors, approved, and Tyco International Ltd. (“Tyco”) as our sole shareholder at the time, approved the Pentair plc 2012 Stock and Incentive Plan (the "2012 Plan"“2012 Plan”). The 2012 Plan became effective on September 28, 2012 and authorizes the issuance of 9.0 million of our ordinary shares. The shares may be issued as new shares or from shares held in treasury. Prior to the cancellation of our shares held in treasury in August 2015, our practice was to settle equity-based awards from shares held in treasury. Subsequent to the cancellation, ourOur practice is to settle equity-based awards by issuing new shares. The 2012 Plan terminates in September 2022. The 2012 Plan allows for the granting to our officers, directors, employees and consultants of non-qualified stock options, incentive stock options, stock appreciation rights, performance shares, performance units, restricted shares, restricted stock units, deferred stock rights, annual incentive awards, dividend equivalent units and other equity-based awards.
Pentair plc and Subsidiaries
Notes to consolidated financial statements


The 2012 Plan is administered by our compensation committee (the "Committee"“Committee”), which is made up of independent members of our Board of Directors. Employees eligible to receive awards under the 2012 Plan are managerial, administrative or other key employees who are in a position to make a material contribution to the continued profitable growth and long-term success of our company. The Committee has the authority to select the recipients of awards, determine the type and size of awards, establish certain terms and conditions of award grants and take certain other actions as permitted under the 2012 Plan. The 2012 Plan prohibits the Committee from re-pricing awards or cancellingcanceling and reissuing awards at lower prices.
The 2008 Omnibus Stock Incentive Plan as Amended and Restated (the "2008 Plan") terminated upon the completion of the Merger. Prior grants of restricted stock units and stock options made under the 2008 Plan and earlier stock incentive plans outstanding at completion of the Merger were converted into equity-based awards with respect to our ordinary shares and were assumed by us on the terms in effect at the time of grant and are outstanding under the 2012 Plan.
Non-qualified and incentive stock options
Under the 2012 Plan, we may grant stock options to any eligible employee with an exercise price equal to the market value of the shares on the dates the options were granted. Options generally vest one-third each year over a three-year period commencing on the grant date and expire 10 years after the grant date.
Restricted shares and restricted stock units
Under the 2012 Plan, eligible employees may be awarded restricted shares or restricted stock units of our common stock. Restricted shares and restricted stock units generally vest three to four years after issuance,one-third each year over a three-year period commencing on the grant date, subject to continuous employment and certain other conditions. Restricted shares and restricted stock units are valued at market value on the date of grant and are expensed over the vesting period.
Stock appreciation rights, performance shares and performance units
Under the 2012 Plan, the Committee is permitted to issue these awards which are generally earned over a three-year vesting period and tied to specific financial metrics. In December 2015, the Committee approved the granting of PSUs to certain employees that vest based on the satisfaction of a three-year service period and the achievement of certain performance metrics over that same period. Upon vesting, PSU holders receive dividends that accumulate during the vesting period. The fair value of these PSUs is determined based on the closing market price of the Company’s ordinary shares at the date of grant. Compensation expense is recognized over the period an employee is required to provide service based on the estimated vesting of the PSUs granted. The estimated vesting of the PSUs is based on the probability of achieving certain financial performance metrics during the three year vesting period.
Stock options
The following table summarizes stock option activity under all plans for the year ended December 31, 2015:2018:
Shares and intrinsic value in millionsNumber of shares
Weighted-
average
exercise
price
Weighted-
average
remaining
contractual life
(years)
Aggregate
intrinsic
value
Number of shares
Weighted-
average
exercise
price
Weighted-
average
remaining
contractual life
(years)
Aggregate
intrinsic
value
Outstanding as of January 1, 20155.7
$39.08
  
Outstanding as of January 1, 20185.2
$28.80


Granted0.7
65.30
  0.5
45.42


Exercised(0.7)35.27
  (0.8)23.52


Forfeited(0.1)64.52
  (0.1)43.77


Outstanding as of December 31, 20155.6
$42.55
4.8$61.7
Options exercisable as of December 31, 20154.4
$35.93
3.9$61.7
Options expected to vest as of December 31, 20151.2
$65.24
8.1$
Spin-off adjustment(0.7)


Outstanding as of December 31, 20184.1
$35.77
5.2$20.6
Options exercisable as of December 31, 20183.0
$33.93
4.0$19.5
Options expected to vest as of December 31, 20181.1
$40.55
8.2$1.2
Fair value of options granted
The weighted average grant date fair value of options granted under Pentair plans in 2015, 20142018, 2017 and 20132016 was estimated to be $16.40, $23.23$10.92, $12.59 and $13.96$9.74 per share, respectively. The total intrinsic value of options that were exercised during 2015, 20142018, 2017 and 20132016 was $20.8$18.2 million, $34.8$34.3 million and $68.9$27.1 million, respectively. At December 31, 2015,2018, the total unrecognized

82

Pentair plc and Subsidiaries
Notes to consolidated financial statements


compensation cost related to stock options was $16.4$7.8 million. This cost is expected to be recognized over a weighted average period of 1.62.1 years.
Pentair plc and Subsidiaries
Notes to consolidated financial statements


We estimated the fair value of each stock option award on the date of grant using a Black-Scholes option pricing model, modified for dividends and using the following weighted average assumptions:
December 31December 31
2015 2014 20132018
2017 2016
Risk-free interest rate1.60%
1.44% 0.69%2.58%
1.65% 1.56%
Expected dividend yield1.97%
1.46% 2.01%1.56%
2.35% 2.49%
Expected share price volatility30.4%
35.3% 36.0%24.8%
26.9% 27.3%
Expected term (years)6.0

5.6
 5.7
6.1

6.3
 5.9
These estimates require us to make assumptions based on historical results, observance of trends in our share price, changes in option exercise behavior, future expectations and other relevant factors. If other assumptions had been used, share-based compensation expense, as calculated and recorded under the accounting guidance, could have been affected.
We based the expected life assumption on historical experience as well as the terms and vesting periods of the options granted. For purposes of determining expected volatility, we considered a rolling average of historical volatility measured over a period approximately equal to the expected option term. The risk-free rate for periods that coincide with the expected life of the options is based on the U.S. Treasury Department yield curve in effect at the time of grant.
Cash received from option exercises for the years ended December 31, 2015, 20142018, 2017 and 20132016 was $28.7$19.5 million, $46.6$46.0 million and $102.3$31.6 million, respectively. The actual tax benefit realized for the tax deductions from option exercisesexercised totaled $4.8$5.6 million, $8.3$7.8 million and $23.5$5.5 million for the years ended December 31, 2015, 20142018, 2017 and 2013,2016, respectively.
Restricted stock units
The following table summarizes restricted stock unit activity under all plans for the year ended December 31, 2015:2018:
Shares in millions
Number of
shares
Weighted
average
grant date
fair value
Number of
shares
Weighted
average
grant date
fair value
Outstanding as of January 1, 20151.1
$50.55
Outstanding as of January 1, 20180.6
$39.44
Granted0.3
63.45
0.2
45.46
Vested(0.5)48.25
(0.6)43.89
Forfeited(0.1)54.89
Outstanding as of December 31, 20150.8
$55.64
Conversion of PSUs0.5

Spin-off adjustment(0.2)
Outstanding as of December 31, 20180.5
$41.74
As of December 31, 2015,2018, there was $32.0$18.4 million of unrecognized compensation cost related to restricted share compensation arrangements granted under the 2012 Plan and previous plans. That cost is expected to be recognized over a weighted-average period of 1.71.0 years. The total fair value of shares vested during the years ended December 31, 2015, 20142018, 2017 and 2013,2016, was $26.0$24.4 million, $26.3$21.7 million and $23.4$27.2 million, respectively. The actual tax benefit realized for the year ended December 31, 2018 was $0.7 million. There were no actual tax benefits realized related to restricted share compensation arrangements totaled $2.4 million, $3.1 million and $7.2 million for the years ended December 31, 2015, 20142017 and 2013, respectively.2016.
16.Segment Information
We classify our operations into thePerformance share units
The following business segments based primarily on types of products offered and markets served:
Valves & Controls — The Valves & Controls segment designs, manufactures, markets and services valves, fittings, automation and controls and actuatorstable summarizes performance share unit activity under all plans for the energy and industrial verticals.year ended December 31, 2018:
Flow & Filtration Solutions - The Flow & Filtration Solutions segment designs, manufactures, markets and services solutions for the toughest filtration, separation, flow and fluid management challenges in agriculture, food and beverage processing, water supply and disposal and a variety of industrial applications.
Shares in millions
Number of
shares
Weighted
average
grant date
fair value
Outstanding as of January 1, 20180.5
$29.53
Granted0.1
45.42
Conversion to RSUs(0.5)
Outstanding as of December 31, 20180.1
$45.42

83

Pentair plc and Subsidiaries
Notes to consolidated financial statements


The expense recognized each period is dependent upon our estimate of the number of shares that will ultimately be issued. As of December 31, 2018, there was $4.3 million of unrecognized compensation cost related to performance share compensation arrangements granted under the 2012 Plan and previous plans. That cost is expected to be recognized over a weighted-average period of 2.2 years. The actual tax benefit realized for the year ended December 31, 2018 was $0.2 million. There were no actual tax benefits realized for the years ended December 31, 2017 and 2016.
Electrical separation
In connection with the Separation and Distribution, the Company adjusted its outstanding equity awards on May 1, 2018 in accordance with the Employee Matters Agreement between Pentair and nVent. The outstanding awards will continue to vest over the original vesting period, which is generally three years from the grant date.

The RSUs, PSUs, and stock option awards issued before May 9, 2017 (the date of Pentair’s announcement of its intention to separate its Water and Electrical businesses) were converted into awards of both Pentair and nVent regardless of which company the award holder was employed by immediately after the Separation. These awards were converted as follows:

Restricted stock units: For every unvested Pentair RSU award held, the holder received one nVent RSU.

Performance share units: Pentair PSUs were converted to Pentair RSUs immediately after the Distribution. The PSUs granted in 2016 were converted at rate of 125% of target, and the PSUs granted in 2017 were converted at a rate of 100% of target. For every converted RSU, the shareholder also received one nVent RSU. The converted RSUs retain the original vesting schedule of the awarded PSUs.

Stock options: Every holder of unexercised (vested and unvested) Pentair stock options received both adjusted stock options of Pentair and stock options of nVent, with the number of underlying shares and the exercise price adjusted accordingly to preserve the overall intrinsic value of the awards. The number of Pentair stock options was converted based upon the ratio of Pentair’s pre-Distribution stock price divided by the sum of the Pentair and nVent post-Distribution closing prices. The exercise price for the converted Pentair stock options was adjusted based on the Pentair post-Distribution closing price divided by the Pentair pre-Distribution closing price.

The number of new nVent stock options awarded is the same as the converted number of Pentair stock options calculated as described above. The exercise price for the new nVent stock options was calculated based on nVent’s post-Distribution closing price divided by the Pentair pre-Distribution closing price.
Generally, unvested awards issued after May 9, 2017 were converted to awards of the Company that the shareholder was employed by immediately after the Separation, with adjustments to the number of underlying shares as appropriate to preserve the intrinsic value of such awards immediately prior to the Distribution. The adjustment of the underlying shares was based on the ratio of Pentair’s pre-Distribution stock price divided by the post-Distribution closing price of the respective company’s ordinary shares. The exercise prices of the stock options were converted using the inverse ratio in a manner designed to preserve the intrinsic value of such awards.
14.    Segment Information
Effective May 1, 2018, we reorganized our business segments to reflect a new operating structure, resulting in a change to our reporting segments. All prior period amounts related to the segment change have been retrospectively reclassified to conform to the new presentation. As part of this reorganization the legacy Water Qualitysegment was separated into three reportable business segments:
Aquatic Systems - The Water Quality This segment manufactures and sells a complete line of energy-efficient residential and commercial pool equipment and accessories including pumps, filters, heaters, lights, automatic controls, automatic cleaners, maintenance equipment and pool accessories. Applications for our Aquatic Systems products include residential and commercial pool maintenance, pool repair, renovation, service and construction and aquaculture solutions.
Filtration SolutionsThis segment designs, manufactures markets and services innovativesells water systemand fluid treatment products and systems, including pressure tanks and vessels, control valves, activated carbon products, conventional filtration products, point-of-entry and point-of-use systems, gas recovery solutions, to meetmembrane bioreactors, wastewater reuse systems and advanced membrane filtration and separation systems into the global residential, industrial and commercial markets. These products are used in a range of applications, including use in fluid management challenges infiltration, ion exchange, desalination, food and beverage, water, swimming poolsfood service and aquaculture applications.separation technologies for the oil and gas industry. 
Pentair plc and Subsidiaries
Notes to consolidated financial statements


Technical SolutionsFlow Technologies — The Technical SolutionsThis segment designs, manufactures markets and servicessells products that guardranging from light duty diaphragm pumps to high-flow turbine pumps and protect somesolid handling pumps while serving the global residential, commercial and industrial markets. These pumps are used in a range of the world’s most sensitive electricalapplications, including residential and electronic equipment, as well as heat management solutions designed to provide thermal protection to temperature sensitivemunicipal wells, water treatment, wastewater solids handling, pressure boosting, fluid applicationsdelivery, circulation and engineered electricaltransfer, fire suppression, flood control, agricultural irrigation and fastening products for electrical, mechanical and civil applications.crop spray.
Other — Other is primarily composed of unallocated corporate expenses, our captive insurance subsidiary and intermediate finance companies.
The accounting policies of our reporting segments are the same as those described in the summary of significant accounting policies. We evaluate performance based on the net sales and segment income (loss) and use a variety of ratios to measure performance of our reporting segments. These results are not necessarily indicative of the results of operations that would have occurred had each segment been an independent, stand-alone entity during the periods presented. During the third quarter of 2015, we revised our definition of segment income to exclude intangible amortization to better reflect how management assesses performance of the business. Segment income (loss) represents equity income of unconsolidated subsidiaries and operating income (loss) exclusive of intangible amortization, certain acquisition related expenses, costs of restructuring activities, "mark-to-market" gain/loss for pension and other post-retirement plans, impairments and other unusual non-operating items.
Financial information by reportable segment is included in the following summary:
 201520142013 201520142013
In millionsNet sales Segment income (loss)
Valves & Controls$1,840.1
$2,377.3
$2,451.7
 $223.0
$398.5
$349.3
Flow & Filtration Solutions1,441.6
1,603.1
1,651.8
 185.1
199.5
202.4
Water Quality Systems1,381.5
1,356.4
1,269.3
 281.8
253.3
227.9
Technical Solutions1,809.3
1,728.1
1,663.4
 395.0
378.1
342.0
Other(23.5)(25.9)(36.5) (83.7)(93.7)(108.4)
Consolidated$6,449.0
$7,039.0
$6,999.7
 $1,001.2
$1,135.7
$1,013.2
 201820172016 201820172016
In millionsNet sales Segment income (loss)
Aquatic Systems$1,026.1
$939.6
$877.8
 $277.6
$254.1
$217.4
Filtration Solutions1,001.0
990.6
976.3
 168.5
154.5
138.4
Flow Technologies936.7
914.2
923.5
 145.6
140.6
141.6
Other1.3
1.3
3.0
 (54.9)(52.7)(56.0)
Consolidated (1)
$2,965.1
$2,845.7
$2,780.6
 $536.8
$496.5
$441.4
 201520142013 201520142013
In millions
Identifiable assets (1)
 Depreciation
Valves & Controls$3,243.3
$4,045.2
$4,198.2
 $58.3
$59.0
$64.0
Flow & Filtration Solutions1,822.8
2,040.0
2,311.7
 23.6
23.7
23.4
Water Quality Systems1,801.7
1,828.3
1,851.1
 21.7
21.9
20.3
Technical Solutions4,488.4
2,117.3
2,093.4
 27.6
24.2
23.6
Other500.8
624.4
1,288.9
 8.3
9.9
10.0
Consolidated$11,857.0
$10,655.2
$11,743.3
 $139.5
$138.7
$141.3
 201520142013
In millionsCapital expenditures
Valves & Controls$43.0
$45.9
$67.2
Flow & Filtration Solutions20.4
24.9
32.2
Water Quality Systems21.1
20.6
31.5
Technical Solutions47.4
24.0
16.2
Other2.4
14.2
22.9
Consolidated$134.3
$129.6
$170.0

(1)
One customer in the Aquatic Systems segment, Pool Corporation, represented approximately 15% of our consolidated net sales in 2018, 2017 and 2016.
 201820172016 201820172016 201820172016
In millions
Identifiable assets (1)
 Capital expenditures Depreciation
Aquatic Systems$1,304.2
$1,323.0
$1,238.0
 $10.6
$9.6
$12.0
 $8.1
$10.6
$9.8
Filtration Solutions1,232.4
1,333.3
1,362.4
 16.6
19.2
17.8
 23.2
21.6
23.7
Flow Technologies1,003.6
1,010.8
865.2
 10.3
7.3
11.0
 13.1
13.4
13.3
Other266.3
4,966.6
8,069.2
 10.7
3.0
2.5
 5.3
5.2
6.2
Consolidated$3,806.5
$8,633.7
$11,534.8
 $48.2
$39.1
$43.3
 $49.7
$50.8
$53.0

(1)
All cash and cash equivalents and assets held for sale are included in "Other."“Other.”

The following table presents a reconciliation of consolidated segment income to consolidated income from continuing operations before income taxes:
84

In millions201820172016
Segment income$536.8
$496.5
$441.4
Restructuring and other(31.8)(28.2)(7.8)
Intangible amortization(34.9)(36.4)(35.4)
Pension and other post-retirement mark-to-market (loss) gain(3.6)(8.5)12.0
Trade name and other impairment(12.0)(15.6)
Loss on sale of businesses(7.3)(4.2)(3.9)
Loss on early extinguishment of debt(17.1)(101.4)
Interest expense, net(32.6)(87.3)(140.1)
Corporate allocations(11.0)(36.7)(39.4)
Deal related costs and expenses(2.0)

Other expense(4.7)(5.4)(5.9)
Income from continuing operations before income taxes$379.8
$172.8
$220.9
Pentair plc and Subsidiaries
Notes to consolidated financial statements


The following table presents a reconciliation of consolidated segment income to consolidated operating income:
In millions201520142013
Segment income$1,001.2
$1,135.7
$1,013.2
Deal related costs and expenses(14.3)

Inventory step-up and customer backlog(35.7)
(86.6)
Restructuring and other(120.9)(109.6)(119.9)
Intangible amortization, excluding customer backlog(121.4)(114.0)(110.9)
Pension and other post-retirement mark-to-market gain (loss)23.0
(49.9)63.2
Goodwill and trade name impairment(554.7)
(11.0)
Redomicile related expenses
(10.3)(5.4)
Operating income$177.2
$851.9
$742.6
The following tables present certain geographic information by region:
 201520142013 201520142013
In millionsNet sales Long-lived assets
U.S.$3,091.0
$3,103.6
$2,981.7
 $381.4
$350.0
$365.4
Western Europe1,141.5
1,355.5
1,373.8
 324.5
340.0
393.9
Developing (1)
1,425.6
1,662.0
1,733.8
 158.6
180.9
193.3
Other Developed (2)
790.9
917.9
910.4
 78.3
79.1
91.7
Consolidated$6,449.0
$7,039.0
$6,999.7
 $942.8
$950.0
$1,044.3
(1) - Developing includes China, Eastern Europe, Latin America, the Middle East and Southeast Asia.
(2) - Other Developed includes Australia, Canada and Japan.
Net sales are based on the geographic destination of the sale. Long-lived assets represent property, plant15.    Commitments and equipment, net of related depreciation. Net sales shipped to and long-lived assets held in Ireland for each year presented above were not material.Contingencies
We offer a broad array of products and systems to multiple markets and customers for which we do not have the information systems to track revenues by primary product category. However, our net sales by segment are representative of our sales by major product category. We sell our products through various distribution channels including wholesale and retail distributors, original equipment manufacturers and home centers. No customer accounted for more than 10% of net sales in 2015, 2014, or 2013.
17.Commitments and Contingencies
Operating lease commitments
Net rental expense under operating leases was as follows:
Years ended December 31Years ended December 31
In millions201520142013201820172016
Gross rental expense$54.8
$68.7
$76.0
$30.4
$29.7
$29.0
Sublease rental income(0.9)(1.3)(0.9)(0.4)(0.2)(0.5)
Net rental expense$53.9
$67.4
$75.1
$30.0
$29.5
$28.5
Future minimum lease commitments under non-cancelable operating leases, principally related to facilities, machinery, equipment and vehicles as of December 31, 20152018 were as follows:
In millions20162017201820192020ThereafterTotal
Minimum lease payments$45.1
$33.4
$25.3
$20.2
$15.1
$23.3
$162.4
Minimum sublease rentals(0.8)(0.8)(0.5)(0.4)(0.2)
(2.7)
Net future minimum lease commitments$44.3
$32.6
$24.8
$19.8
$14.9
$23.3
$159.7


85

Pentair plc and Subsidiaries
Notes to consolidated financial statements


Asbestos matters
Our subsidiaries and numerous other companies are named as defendants in personal injury lawsuits based on alleged exposure to asbestos-containing materials. These cases typically involve product liability claims based primarily on allegations of manufacture, sale or distribution of industrial products that either contained asbestos or were attached to or used with asbestos-containing components manufactured by third-parties. Each case typically names between dozens to hundreds of corporate defendants. While we have observed an increase in the number of these lawsuits over the past several years, including lawsuits by plaintiffs with mesothelioma-related claims, a large percentage of these suits have not presented viable legal claims and, as a result, have been dismissed by the courts. Our historical strategy has been to mount a vigorous defense aimed at having unsubstantiated suits dismissed, and, where appropriate, settling suits before trial. Although a large percentage of litigated suits have been dismissed, we cannot predict the extent to which we will be successful in resolving lawsuits in the future.
As of December 31, 2015, there were approximately 4,100 claims outstanding against our subsidiaries. This amount includes adjustments for claims that are not actively being prosecuted. This amount is not adjusted for claims that identify incorrect defendants, or duplicate other actions. In addition, the amount does not include certain claims pending against third parties for which we have been provided an indemnification.
Periodically, we perform an analysis with the assistance of outside counsel and other experts to update our estimated asbestos-related assets and liabilities. Our estimate of the liability and corresponding insurance recovery for pending and future claims and defense costs is based on our historical claim experience and estimates of the number and resolution cost of potential future claims that may be filed. Our legal strategy for resolving claims also impacts these estimates.
Our estimate of asbestos-related insurance recoveries represents estimated amounts due to us for previously paid and settled claims and the probable reimbursements relating to our estimated liability for pending and future claims. In determining the amount of insurance recoverable, we consider a number of factors, including available insurance, allocation methodologies and the solvency and creditworthiness of insurers.
Our estimated liability for asbestos-related claims was $237.9 million and $249.1 million as of December 31, 2015 and 2014, respectively, and was recorded in Other non-current liabilities in the Consolidated Balance Sheets for pending and future claims and related defense costs. Our estimated receivable for insurance recoveries was $111.0 million and $115.8 million, respectively, at December 31, 2015 and 2014 and was recorded in Other non-current assets in the Consolidated Balance Sheets.
The amounts recorded by us for asbestos-related liabilities and insurance-related assets are based on our strategies for resolving our asbestos claims and currently available information as well as estimates and assumptions. Key variables and assumptions include the number and type of new claims filed each year, the average cost of resolution of claims, the resolution of coverage issues with insurance carriers, the amounts of insurance and the related solvency risk with respect to our insurance carriers, and the indemnifications we have provided to third parties. Furthermore, predictions with respect to these variables are subject to greater uncertainty in the latter portion of the projection period. Other factors that may affect our liability and cash payments for asbestos-related matters include uncertainties surrounding the litigation process from jurisdiction to jurisdiction and from case to case, reforms of state or federal tort legislation and the applicability of insurance policies among subsidiaries. As a result, actual liabilities or insurance recoveries could be significantly higher or lower than those recorded if assumptions used in our calculations vary significantly from actual results.
Environmental matters
We are involved in or have retained responsibility and potential liability for environmental obligations and legal proceedings related to our current business and, including pursuant to certain indemnification obligations, related to certain formerly owned businesses. We are responsible, or alleged to be responsible, for ongoing environmental investigation and/or remediation of sites in several countries. These sites are in various stages of investigation and/or remediation and at some of these sites our liability is considered de minimis. We received notification from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and from similar state and non-U.S. environmental agencies, that several sites formerly or currently owned and/or operated by us, and other properties or water supplies that may be or may have been impacted from those operations, contain disposed or recycled materials or waste and require environmental investigation and/or remediation. Those sites include instances where we have been identified as a potentially responsible party under U.S. federal, state and/or non-U.S. environmental laws and regulations. For several formerly owned businesses, we have also received claims for indemnification from purchasers of these businesses.
Our accruals for environmental matters are recorded on a site-by-site basis when it is probable that a liability has been incurred and the amount of the liability can be reasonably estimated, based on current law and existing technologies. It can be difficult to estimate reliably the final costs of investigation and remediation due to various factors. In our opinion, the amounts accrued are appropriate based on facts and circumstances as currently known. Based upon our experience, current information regarding known contingencies and applicable laws, we have recorded reserves for these environmental matters of $22.8 million and $31.4 million as of December 31, 2015 and 2014, respectively. We do not anticipate these environmental conditions

86

Pentair plc and Subsidiaries
Notes to consolidated financial statements


will have a material adverse effect on our financial position, results of operations or cash flows. However, unknown conditions, new details about existing conditions or changes in environmental requirements may give rise to environmental liabilities that will exceed the amount of our current reserves and could have a material adverse effect in the future.
In millions20192020202120222023ThereafterTotal
Minimum lease payments$23.2
$17.6
$13.3
$11.1
$9.5
$13.8
$88.5
Minimum sublease rentals(0.7)(0.6)(0.6)(0.6)(0.6)(0.6)(3.7)
Net future minimum lease commitments$22.5
$17.0
$12.7
$10.5
$8.9
$13.2
$84.8
Other matters
In addition to the matters described above, from time to time, we are subject to disputes, administrative proceedings and other claims arising out ofrelating to the normal conduct of our business. These matters generally relateinclude, without limitation, claims relating to commercial or contractual disputes arising out ofwith suppliers, customers or parties to acquisitions and divestitures, intellectual property matters, environmental, safety and health matters, product liability, the use or installation of our products, product liability litigation, personal injury claims, commercial and contract disputesconsumer matters, and employment relatedand labor matters. On the basis of information currently available to it, management does not believe that existing proceedings and claims will have a material impact on our Consolidated Financial Statements. However, litigation is unpredictable, and we could incur judgments or enter into settlements for current or future claims that could adversely affect our financial statements.
Warranties and guarantees
In connection with the disposition of our businesses or product lines, we may agree to indemnify purchasers for various potential liabilities relating to the sold business, such as pre-closing tax, product liability, warranty, environmental, or other obligations. The subject matter, amounts and duration of any such indemnification obligations vary for each type of liability indemnified and may vary widely from transaction to transaction.
Generally, the maximum obligation under such indemnifications is not explicitly stated and as a result, the overall amount of these obligations cannot be reasonably estimated. Historically, we have not made significant payments for these indemnifications. We believe that if we were to incur a loss in any of these matters, the loss would not have a material effect on our financial condition orposition, results of operations.operations or cash flows.
We recognize, at the inception of a guarantee, a liability for the fair value of the obligation undertaken in issuing the guarantee. In connection with the disposition of the Valves & Controls business, we agreed to indemnify Emerson Electric Co. for certain pre-closing tax liabilities. In 2017, we recorded a liability representing the fair value of our expected future obligation for this matter.
We provide service and warranty policies on our products. Liability under service and warranty policies is based upon a review of historical warranty and service claim experience. Adjustments are made to accruals as claim data and historical experience warrant.
Pentair plc and Subsidiaries
Notes to consolidated financial statements


The changes in the carrying amount of service and product warranties for the years ended December 31, 20152018, 2017 and 20142016 were as follows:
Years ended December 31Years ended December 31
In millions20152014201820172016
Beginning balance$66.4
$56.0
$38.1
$36.3
$44.6
Service and product warranty provision61.7
75.3
50.8
60.8
55.2
Payments(66.3)(62.1)(54.6)(59.6)(64.2)
Foreign currency translation(2.0)(2.8)(0.4)0.6
0.7
Ending balance$59.8
$66.4
$33.9
$38.1
$36.3
Stand-by letters of credit, bank guarantees and bonds
In certain situations, Tyco guaranteed performance by the flow control business of Pentair Ltd. (“Flow Control’s performanceControl”) to third parties or provided financial guarantees for financial commitments of Flow Control. In situations where Flow Control and Tyco were unable to obtain a release from these guarantees in connection with the spin-off of Flow Control from Tyco, we will indemnify Tyco for any losses it suffers as a result of such guarantees.
In disposing of assets or businesses, we often provide representations, warranties and indemnities to cover various risks including unknown damage to the assets, environmental risks involved in the sale of real estate, liability to investigate and remediate environmental contamination at waste disposal sites and manufacturing facilities and unidentified tax liabilities and legal fees related to periods prior to disposition. We do not have the ability to reasonably estimate the potential liability due to the inchoate and unknown nature of these potential liabilities. However, we have no reason to believe that these uncertainties would have a material adverse effect on our financial position, results of operations or cash flows.
In the ordinary course of business, we are required to commit to bonds, letters of credit and bank guarantees that require payments to our customers for any non-performance. The outstanding face value of these instruments fluctuates with the value of our projects in process and in our backlog. In addition, we issue financial stand-by letters of credit primarily to secure our performance to third parties under self-insurance programs.

87As of December 31, 2018 and 2017, the outstanding value of bonds, letters of credit and bank guarantees totaled $123.6 million and $129.2 million, respectively.

Pentair plc and Subsidiaries
Notes to consolidated financial statements


As of December 31, 2015 and 2014, the outstanding value of bonds, letters of credit and bank guarantees totaled $402.2 million and $370.1 million, respectively.16.    Selected Quarterly Data (Unaudited)
18.Selected Quarterly Data (Unaudited)
The following tables present 20152018 and 20142017 quarterly financial information:
20152018
In millions, except per-share data
First
Quarter
Second
Quarter
Third
Quarter
Fourth
Quarter
Full
Year
First
Quarter
Second
Quarter
 
Third
Quarter
Fourth
Quarter
Full
Year
Net sales$1,475.0
$1,661.2
$1,552.1
$1,760.7
$6,449.0
$732.6
$780.6
 $711.4
$740.5
$2,965.1
Gross profit510.2
566.2
540.1
569.3
2,185.8
253.3
282.6
 243.8
268.0
1,047.7
Operating income (loss)171.2
217.9
180.0
(391.9)177.2
Net income (loss) from continuing operations118.2
153.9
115.2
(452.3)(65.0)
Operating income92.7
122.6
 108.4
113.0
436.7
Net income from continuing operations58.4
77.9
(1) 
91.2
94.2
321.7
Income (loss) from discontinued operations, net of tax(4.3)(1.3)
0.9
(4.7)44.5
(36.4) 18.9
(1.3)25.7
Loss from sale / impairment of discontinued operations, net of tax
(4.8)
(1.9)(6.7)
Net income (loss)113.9
147.8
115.2
(453.3)(76.4)
Earnings (loss) per ordinary share (1)
 
Net income102.9
41.5
 110.1
92.9
347.4
Earnings (loss) per ordinary share (2)
   
Basic    
Continuing operations$0.66
$0.85
$0.64
$(2.51)$(0.36)$0.33
$0.44
 $0.52
$0.55
$1.83
Discontinued operations(0.03)(0.03)
(0.01)(0.06)0.24
(0.21) 0.11
(0.01)0.15
Basic earnings (loss) per ordinary share$0.63
$0.82
$0.64
$(2.52)$(0.42)
Basic earnings per ordinary share$0.57
$0.23
 $0.63
$0.54
$1.98
Diluted    
Continuing operations$0.65
$0.84
$0.63
$(2.51)$(0.36)$0.32
$0.44
 $0.52
$0.54
$1.81
Discontinued operations(0.03)(0.03)
(0.01)(0.06)0.25
(0.21) 0.11
(0.01)0.15
Diluted earnings (loss) per ordinary share$0.62
$0.81
$0.63
$(2.52)$(0.42)
Diluted earnings per ordinary share$0.57
$0.23
 $0.63
$0.53
$1.96

 2014
In millions, except per-share data
First
Quarter
Second
Quarter
Third
Quarter
Fourth
Quarter
Full
Year
Net sales$1,644.0
$1,834.1
$1,758.4
$1,802.5
$7,039.0
Gross profit564.1
646.3
624.7
627.9
2,463.0
Operating income182.1
226.4
267.4
176.0
851.9
Net income from continuing operations125.5
159.2
192.5
129.8
607.0
Income (loss) from discontinued operations, net of tax(1.3)2.3
1.6
(9.0)(6.4)
Loss from sale / impairment of discontinued operations, net of tax(5.6)
(380.1)
(385.7)
Net income (loss)118.6
161.5
(186.0)120.8
214.9
Earnings (loss) per ordinary share (1)
     
Basic     
Continuing operations$0.64
$0.82
$1.01
$0.71
$3.19
Discontinued operations(0.04)0.02
(1.99)(0.05)(2.06)
Basic earnings (loss) per ordinary share$0.60
$0.84
$(0.98)$0.66
$1.13
Diluted     
Continuing operations$0.63
$0.81
$1.00
$0.70
$3.14
Discontinued operations(0.04)0.01
(1.95)(0.05)(2.03)
Diluted earnings (loss) per ordinary share$0.59
$0.82
$(0.95)$0.65
$1.11
(1)
Includes decrease of $17.1 million related to loss on early extinguishment of debt.
(2)
Amounts may not total to annual earnings because each quarter and year are calculated separately based on basic and diluted weighted-average ordinary shares outstanding during that period.

88

 2017
In millions, except per-share data
First
Quarter
Second
Quarter
 
Third
Quarter
 
Fourth
Quarter
 
Full
Year
Net sales$683.3
$754.0
 $687.6
 $720.8
 $2,845.7
Gross profit223.7
273.6
 236.5
 253.7
 987.5
Operating income61.9
129.2
 101.8
 85.4
 378.3
Net income (loss) from continuing operations12.7
(3.4)
(1) 
49.0
 55.8
(2) 
114.1
Income from discontinued operations, net of tax75.0
66.5
 78.2
 151.6
 371.3
Gain (loss) from sale of discontinued operations, net of tax
200.6
 (1.7) (17.8) 181.1
Net income87.7
263.7
 125.5
 189.6
 666.5
Earnings (loss) per ordinary share (3)
        
Basic        
Continuing operations$0.07
$(0.02) $0.27
 $0.32
 $0.63
Discontinued operations0.41
1.47
 0.42
 0.73
 3.04
Basic earnings per ordinary share$0.48
$1.45
 $0.69
 $1.05
 $3.67
Diluted        
Continuing operations$0.07
$(0.02) $0.27
 $0.30
 $0.62
Discontinued operations0.41
1.45
 0.41
 0.74
 3.01
Diluted earnings per ordinary share$0.48
$1.43
 $0.68
 $1.04
 $3.63

(1)
Includes decrease of $101.4 million related to loss on early extinguishment of debt.
(2)
Includes decrease of $15.6 million due to trade name and other impairment and $8.5 million related to a “mark-to-market” actuarial loss on pension and other post-retirement benefit plans.
(3)
Amounts may not total to annual earnings because each quarter and year are calculated separately based on basic and diluted weighted-average ordinary shares outstanding during that period.
Pentair plc and Subsidiaries
Notes to consolidated financial statements


Fourth quarter 2015 includes decreases in operating income due to goodwill and trade name impairment charges in Valves & Controls of $554.7 million, restructuring and other costs of $70.1 million and an inventory fair value step-up related to the ERICO Acquisition of $32.8 million. Fourth quarter 2015 also includes an increase in operating income of $23.0 million related to "mark-to-market" actuarial gains on pension and other post-retirement benefit plans for 2015.
Fourth quarter 2014 includes a decrease in operating income of $49.9 million related to "mark-to-market" actuarial losses on pension and other post-retirement benefit plans for 2014. Fourth quarter 2013 also includes decreases in operating income due to restructuring costs of $35.5 million.17.    Supplemental Guarantor Information
Second quarter 2014 includes decreases in operating income due to restructuring costs of $35.4 million. First quarter 2014 includes decreases in operating income due to restructuring costs of $17.4 million.
19.Supplemental Guarantor Information
Effective upon the Redomicile, Pentair plc (the "Parent“Parent Company Guarantor"Guarantor”) and Pentair Investments Switzerland GmbH (the "Subsidiary Guarantor"“Subsidiary Guarantor”), fully and unconditionally, guarantee the Notes of Pentair Finance S.A.S.à r.l. (the "Subsidiary Issuer"“Subsidiary Issuer”). The Subsidiary Guarantor is a Switzerland limited liability company formed in April 2014 and 100 percent-owned subsidiary of the Parent Company Guarantor. The Subsidiary Issuer is a Luxembourg public limited liability company formed in January 2012 and 100 percent-owned subsidiary of the Subsidiary Guarantor. The guarantees provided by the Parent Company Guarantor and Subsidiary Guarantor are joint and several.
The following supplemental financial information sets forth the Company'sCompany’s Condensed Consolidating Statement of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss) and Condensed Consolidating Statement of Cash Flows for the years ended December 31, 2015, 20142018, 2017 and 20132016 and Condensed Consolidating Balance Sheet as of December 31, 20152018 and 2014.2017. Condensed Consolidating financial information for Pentair plc, Pentair Investments Switzerland GmbH and Pentair Finance S.A.S.à r.l. on a stand-alone basis is presented using the equity method of accounting for subsidiaries.
Prior to the Redomicile, the Notes of the Subsidiary Issuer were guaranteed, fully and unconditionally, by the former parent company, Pentair Ltd. The supplemental financial information for the reporting periods prior to Redomicile are presented under this previous guarantee structure.


89

Pentair plc and Subsidiaries
Notes to consolidated financial statements


Pentair plc and Subsidiaries
Condensed Consolidating Statement of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss)
Year Ended December 31, 20152018
 
In millions
Parent
Company
Guarantor
Subsidiary
Guarantor
Subsidiary
Issuer
Non-guarantor
Subsidiaries
Eliminations
Consolidated
Total
Parent
Company
Guarantor
Subsidiary
Guarantor
Subsidiary
Issuer
Non-guarantor
Subsidiaries
Eliminations
Consolidated
Total
Net sales$
$
$
$6,449.0
$
$6,449.0
$
$
$
$2,965.1
$
$2,965.1
Cost of goods sold


4,263.2

4,263.2



1,917.4

1,917.4
Gross profit


2,185.8

2,185.8



1,047.7

1,047.7
Selling, general and administrative33.7
2.2
5.3
1,293.1


1,334.3
11.8
0.9
1.2
520.4

534.3
Research and development


119.6

119.6



76.7

76.7
Impairment of goodwill and trade names


554.7

554.7
Operating (loss) income(33.7)(2.2)(5.3)218.4

177.2
(11.8)(0.9)(1.2)450.6

436.7
Loss (earnings) from continuing operations of investment in subsidiaries26.0
22.4
(13.0)
(35.4)
(333.5)(333.4)(376.5)
1,043.4

Other (income) expense:
 
 
Loss on sale of businesses, net


3.2

3.2
Equity income of unconsolidated subsidiaries


(2.8)
(2.8)
Interest income

(80.6)(35.1)109.7
(6.0)
Interest expense
1.4
126.3
90.7
(109.7)108.7
Loss on sale of businesses


7.3

7.3
Loss on early extinguishment of debt

17.1


17.1
Net interest (income) expense
(1.0)24.8
8.8

32.6
Other income


(0.1)
(0.1)
Income (loss) from continuing operations before income taxes(59.7)(26.0)(38.0)162.4
35.4
74.1
321.7
333.5
333.4
434.6
(1,043.4)379.8
Provision for income taxes5.3


133.8

139.1



58.1

58.1
Net income (loss) from continuing operations(65.0)(26.0)(38.0)28.6
35.4
(65.0)321.7
333.5
333.4
376.5
(1,043.4)321.7
Loss from discontinued operations, net of tax


(4.7)
(4.7)
Loss from sale / impairment of discontinued operations, net of tax


(6.7)
(6.7)
Income from discontinued operations, net of tax


25.7

25.7
Earnings (loss) from discontinued operations of investment in subsidiaries(11.4)(11.4)(11.4)
34.2

25.7
25.7
25.7

(77.1)
Net income (loss)$(76.4)$(37.4)$(49.4)$17.2
$69.6
$(76.4)$347.4
$359.2
$359.1
$402.2
$(1,120.5)$347.4
Comprehensive income (loss), net of tax  
Net income (loss)$(76.4)$(37.4)$(49.4)$17.2
$69.6
$(76.4)$347.4
$359.2
$359.1
$402.2
$(1,120.5)$347.4
Changes in cumulative translation adjustment(264.9)(264.9)(264.9)(264.9)794.7
(264.9)10.0
10.0
10.0
10.0
(30.0)10.0
Changes in market value of derivative financial instruments0.2
0.2
0.2
0.2
(0.6)0.2
Changes in market value of derivative financial instruments, net of tax4.8
4.8
4.8
4.8
(14.4)4.8
Comprehensive income (loss)$(341.1)$(302.1)$(314.1)$(247.5)$863.7
$(341.1)$362.2
$374.0
$373.9
$417.0
$(1,164.9)$362.2


90

Pentair plc and Subsidiaries
Notes to consolidated financial statements


Pentair plc and Subsidiaries
Condensed Consolidating Balance Sheet
December 31, 20152018
 
In millions
Parent
Company
Guarantor
Subsidiary
Guarantor
Subsidiary
Issuer
Non-guarantor
Subsidiaries
Eliminations
Consolidated
Total
Parent
Company
Guarantor
Subsidiary
Guarantor
Subsidiary
Issuer
Non-guarantor
Subsidiaries
Eliminations
Consolidated
Total
Assets
Current assets  
Cash and cash equivalents$
$
$0.1
$126.2
$
$126.3
$0.1
$
$0.1
$74.1
$
$74.3
Accounts and notes receivable, net0.1


1,167.6

1,167.7
4.6


483.6

488.2
Inventories


1,174.3

1,174.3



387.5

387.5
Other current assets25.2
12.8
2.1
310.1
(37.9)312.3
3.4

2.2
99.2
(15.4)89.4
Total current assets25.3
12.8
2.2
2,778.2
(37.9)2,780.6
8.1

2.3
1,044.4
(15.4)1,039.4
Property, plant and equipment, net


942.8

942.8



272.6

272.6
Other assets
 
 
Investments in subsidiaries4,495.6
4,486.1
10,151.1

(19,132.8)
1,903.8
2,036.1
2,675.7

(6,615.6)
Goodwill


5,255.4

5,255.4



2,072.7

2,072.7
Intangibles, net


2,490.1

2,490.1



276.3

276.3
Other non-current assets12.6

208.5
354.2
(187.2)388.1
23.3

696.1
729.7
(1,303.6)145.5
Total other assets4,508.2
4,486.1
10,359.6
8,099.7
(19,320.0)8,133.6
1,927.1
2,036.1
3,371.8
3,078.7
(7,919.2)2,494.5
Total assets$4,533.5
$4,498.9
$10,361.8
$11,820.7
$(19,357.9)$11,857.0
$1,935.2
$2,036.1
$3,374.1
$4,395.7
$(7,934.6)$3,806.5
Liabilities and Equity
Current liabilities  
Current maturities of long-term debt and short-term borrowings$
$
$
$0.7
$
$0.7
Accounts payable0.6

0.3
577.9


578.8
$0.9
$
$
$377.7
$
$378.6
Employee compensation and benefits0.4
0.1

262.4

262.9
0.2


111.5

111.7
Other current liabilities61.7
1.5
27.1
591.7
(37.9)644.1
47.6
1.5
4.4
290.3
(15.4)328.4
Total current liabilities62.7
1.6
27.4
1,432.7
(37.9)1,486.5
48.7
1.5
4.4
779.5
(15.4)818.7
Other liabilities  
Long-term debt453.3
1.7
4,556.0
(114.5)(187.2)4,709.3
29.9
130.8
1,333.9
596.6
(1,303.6)787.6
Pension and other post-retirement compensation and benefits


287.2

287.2



90.0

90.0
Deferred tax liabilities

3.1
841.1

844.2



105.9

105.9
Other non-current liabilities8.7


512.3

521.0
20.5


147.7

168.2
Total liabilities524.7
3.3
4,586.5
2,958.8
(225.1)7,848.2
99.1
132.3
1,338.3
1,719.7
(1,319.0)1,970.4
Equity4,008.8
4,495.6
5,775.3
8,861.9
(19,132.8)4,008.8
1,836.1
1,903.8
2,035.8
2,676.0
(6,615.6)1,836.1
Total liabilities and equity$4,533.5
$4,498.9
$10,361.8
$11,820.7
$(19,357.9)$11,857.0
$1,935.2
$2,036.1
$3,374.1
$4,395.7
$(7,934.6)$3,806.5



91

Pentair plc and Subsidiaries
Notes to consolidated financial statements


Pentair plc and Subsidiaries
Condensed Consolidating Statement of Cash Flows
Year Ended December 31, 20152018
 
In millions
Parent
Company
Guarantor
Subsidiary
Guarantor
Subsidiary
Issuer
Non-guarantor
Subsidiaries
Eliminations
Consolidated
Total
Parent
Company
Guarantor
Subsidiary
Guarantor
Subsidiary
Issuer
Non-guarantor
Subsidiaries
Eliminations
Consolidated
Total
Operating activitiesOperating activities Operating activities 
Net cash provided by (used for) operating activities$(43.0)$(48.7)$(5.8)$767.1
$69.7
$739.3
$266.3
$362.1
$370.6
$637.7
$(1,197.6)$439.1
Investing activities  
Capital expenditures


(134.3)
(134.3)


(48.2)
(48.2)
Proceeds from sale of property and equipment


27.3

27.3



0.2

0.2
Payments due to sale of businesses and other


(12.8)
(12.8)
Acquisitions, net of cash acquired


(1,913.9)
(1,913.9)


(0.9)
(0.9)
Net intercompany loan activity

891.0
(295.0)(596.0)

94.1
181.0
1,655.7
(1,930.8)
Other


(3.6)
(3.6)
Net cash provided by (used for) investing activities of continuing operations

891.0
(2,319.5)(596.0)(2,024.5)
94.1
181.0
1,594.0
(1,930.8)(61.7)
Net cash provided by (used for) investing activities of discontinued operations


59.0

59.0



(7.1)
(7.1)
Net cash provided by (used for) investing activities

891.0
(2,260.5)(596.0)(1,965.5)
94.1
181.0
1,586.9
(1,930.8)(68.8)
Financing activities  
Net receipts of short-term borrowings


(2.3)
(2.3)
Net receipts of commercial paper and revolving long-term debt

346.9
16.6

363.5
Proceeds from long-term debt

1,714.8


1,714.8
Net receipts (repayments) of commercial paper and revolving long-term debt

41.9
(2.2)
39.7
Repayment of long-term debt

(350.0)(6.6)
(356.6)

(675.1)

(675.1)
Debt issuance costs

(26.8)

(26.8)
Premium paid on early extinguishment of debt

(16.0)

(16.0)
Transfer of cash to nVent


(74.2)
(74.2)
Distribution of cash from nVent

993.6


993.6
Net change in advances to subsidiaries471.7
48.7
(2,553.7)1,507.0
526.3

407.7
(456.2)(874.6)(2,205.3)3,128.4

Excess tax benefits from share-based compensation


6.0

6.0
Shares issued to employees, net of shares withheld3.0


16.4

19.4
13.3




13.3
Repurchases of ordinary shares(200.0)



(200.0)(500.0)



(500.0)
Dividends paid(231.7)



(231.7)(187.2)



(187.2)
Other

(2.0)

(2.0)
Net cash provided by (used for) financing activities43.0
48.7
(868.8)1,537.1
526.3
1,286.3
(266.2)(456.2)(532.2)(2,281.7)3,128.4
(407.9)
Change in cash held for sale


27.0

27.0
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents

(16.4)(27.8)
(44.2)

(19.3)17.9

(1.4)
Change in cash and cash equivalents


15.9

15.9
0.1

0.1
(12.2)
(12.0)
Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of year

0.1
110.3

110.4



86.3

86.3
Cash and cash equivalents, end of year$
$
$0.1
$126.2
$
$126.3
$0.1
$
$0.1
$74.1
$
$74.3



92

Pentair plc and Subsidiaries
Notes to consolidated financial statements


Pentair plc and Subsidiaries
Condensed Consolidating Statement of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss)
Year Ended December 31, 20142017

In millions
Parent
Company
Guarantor
Subsidiary
Guarantor
Subsidiary
Issuer
Non-guarantor
Subsidiaries
Eliminations
Consolidated
Total
Parent
Company
Guarantor
Subsidiary
Guarantor
Subsidiary
Issuer
Non-guarantor
Subsidiaries
Eliminations
Consolidated
Total
Net sales$
$
$
$7,039.0
$
$7,039.0
$
$
$
$2,845.7
$
$2,845.7
Cost of goods sold


4,576.0

4,576.0



1,858.2

1,858.2
Gross profit


2,463.0

2,463.0



987.5

987.5
Selling, general and administrative25.3
2.6
7.7
1,458.2

1,493.8
9.0
0.6

526.4

536.0
Research and development


117.3

117.3



73.2

73.2
Operating (loss) income(25.3)(2.6)(7.7)887.5

851.9
(9.0)(0.6)
387.9

378.3
Loss (earnings) from continuing operations of investment in subsidiaries(615.5)(619.7)(611.1)
1,846.3

(122.2)(122.2)(283.4)
527.8

Other (income) expense:  
Loss on sale of businesses, net


0.2

0.2
Equity income of unconsolidated subsidiaries


(1.2)
(1.2)
Interest income

(92.3)(40.2)128.8
(3.7)
Interest expense0.7
2.1
95.6
102.7
(128.8)72.3
Loss on sale of businesses


4.2

4.2
Loss on early extinguishment of debt

91.0
10.4

101.4
Net interest (income) expense
(0.6)70.7
17.2

87.3
Other expense


12.6

12.6
Income (loss) from continuing operations before income taxes589.5
615.0
600.1
826.0
(1,846.3)784.3
113.2
122.2
121.7
343.5
(527.8)172.8
Provision for income taxes(17.5)(0.5)(2.4)197.7

177.3
Provision (benefit) for income taxes(0.9)

59.6

58.7
Net income (loss) from continuing operations607.0
615.5
602.5
628.3
(1,846.3)607.0
114.1
122.2
121.7
283.9
(527.8)114.1
Income from discontinued operations, net of tax


(6.4)
(6.4)


371.3

371.3
Loss from sale of discontinued operations, net of tax


(385.7)
(385.7)
Gain from sale of discontinued operations, net of tax


181.1

181.1
Earnings (loss) from discontinued operations of investment in subsidiaries(392.1)(392.1)(392.1)
1,176.3

552.4
552.4
552.4

(1,657.2)
Net income (loss)$214.9
$223.4
$210.4
$236.2
$(670.0)$214.9
$666.5
$674.6
$674.1
$836.3
$(2,185.0)$666.5
Comprehensive income (loss), net of tax  
Net income (loss)$214.9
$223.4
$210.4
$236.2
$(670.0)$214.9
$666.5
$674.6
$674.1
$836.3
$(2,185.0)$666.5
Changes in cumulative translation adjustment(336.3)(336.3)(336.3)(336.3)1,008.9
(336.3)497.5
497.5
497.5
497.5
(1,492.5)497.5
Changes in market value of derivative financial instruments(0.4)(0.4)(0.4)(0.4)1.2
(0.4)
Changes in market value of derivative financial instruments, net of tax(4.6)(4.6)(4.6)(4.6)13.8
(4.6)
Comprehensive income (loss)$(121.8)$(113.3)$(126.3)$(100.5)$340.1
$(121.8)$1,159.4
$1,167.5
$1,167.0
$1,329.2
$(3,663.7)$1,159.4

93

Pentair plc and Subsidiaries
Notes to consolidated financial statements


Pentair plc and Subsidiaries
Condensed Consolidating Balance Sheet
December 31, 20142017

In millions
Parent
Company
Guarantor
Subsidiary
Guarantor
Subsidiary
Issuer
Non-guarantor
Subsidiaries
Eliminations
Consolidated
Total
Parent
Company
Guarantor
Subsidiary
Guarantor
Subsidiary
Issuer
Non-guarantor
Subsidiaries
Eliminations
Consolidated
Total
Assets
Current assets  
Cash and cash equivalents$
$
$0.1
$110.3
$
$110.4
$
$
$
$86.3
$
$86.3
Accounts and notes receivable, net


1,206.8
(0.9)1,205.9



483.1

483.1
Inventories


1,130.4

1,130.4



356.9

356.9
Other current assets
17.6
2.0
367.6
(20.4)366.8
10.8
1.8
1.5
109.6
(9.2)114.5
Current assets held for sale


80.6

80.6



708.0

708.0
Total current assets
17.6
2.1
2,895.7
(21.3)2,894.1
10.8
1.8
1.5
1,743.9
(9.2)1,748.8
Property, plant and equipment, net


950.0

950.0



279.8

279.8
Other assets  
Investments in subsidiaries4,733.0
4,893.8
7,612.2

(17,239.0)
5,205.1
5,109.6
7,156.1

(17,470.8)
Goodwill


4,741.9

4,741.9



2,112.8

2,112.8
Intangibles, net


1,608.1

1,608.1



321.8

321.8
Other non-current assets80.2

1,381.8
345.0
(1,370.8)436.2
2.2
94.1
614.0
1,360.0
(1,889.4)180.9
Non-current assets held for sale


24.9

24.9



3,989.6

3,989.6
Total other assets4,813.2
4,893.8
8,994.0
6,719.9
(18,609.8)6,811.1
5,207.3
5,203.7
7,770.1
7,784.2
(19,360.2)6,605.1
Total assets$4,813.2
$4,911.4
$8,996.1
$10,565.6
$(18,631.1)$10,655.2
$5,218.1
$5,205.5
$7,771.6
$9,807.9
$(19,369.4)$8,633.7
Liabilities and Equity
Current liabilities  
Current maturities of long-term debt and short-term borrowings$
$
$
$6.7
$
$6.7
Accounts payable0.9


583.1
(0.9)583.1
$1.4
$
$
$320.1
$
$321.5
Employee compensation and benefits0.2
0.6

304.7

305.5
0.4


115.4

115.8
Other current liabilities120.6
2.2
10.9
595.8
(20.4)709.1
99.6
0.4
9.4
301.1
(9.2)401.3
Current liabilities held for sale


35.1

35.1



360.8

360.8
Total current liabilities121.7
2.8
10.9
1,525.4
(21.3)1,639.5
101.4
0.4
9.4
1,097.4
(9.2)1,199.4
Other liabilities  
Long-term debt11.4
175.6
2,860.6
1,320.6
(1,370.8)2,997.4
48.4

2,652.8
628.9
(1,889.4)1,440.7
Pension and other post-retirement compensation and benefits


322.0

322.0



96.4

96.4
Deferred tax liabilities

2.9
525.4

528.3



108.6

108.6
Other non-current liabilities16.3


481.4

497.7
30.5


183.3

213.8
Non-current liabilities held for sale


6.5

6.5



537.0

537.0
Total liabilities149.4
178.4
2,874.4
4,181.3
(1,392.1)5,991.4
180.3
0.4
2,662.2
2,651.6
(1,898.6)3,595.9
Equity4,663.8
4,733.0
6,121.7
6,384.3
(17,239.0)4,663.8
5,037.8
5,205.1
5,109.4
7,156.3
(17,470.8)5,037.8
Total liabilities and equity$4,813.2
$4,911.4
$8,996.1
$10,565.6
$(18,631.1)$10,655.2
$5,218.1
$5,205.5
$7,771.6
$9,807.9
$(19,369.4)$8,633.7



94

Pentair plc and Subsidiaries
Notes to consolidated financial statements


Pentair plc and Subsidiaries
Condensed Consolidating Statement of Cash Flows
Year Ended December 31, 20142017

In millions
Parent
Company
Guarantor
Subsidiary
Guarantor
Subsidiary
Issuer
Non-guarantor
Subsidiaries
Eliminations
Consolidated
Total
Parent
Company
Guarantor
Subsidiary
Guarantor
Subsidiary
Issuer
Non-guarantor
Subsidiaries
Eliminations
Consolidated
Total
Operating activities  
Net cash provided by (used for) operating activities$169.0
$208.6
$207.0
$1,093.8
$(670.0)$1,008.4
$678.3
$676.1
$656.2
$794.6
$(2,185.0)$620.2
Investing activities  
Capital expenditures


(129.6)
(129.6)


(39.1)
(39.1)
Proceeds from sale of property and equipment


13.1

13.1



3.7

3.7
Proceeds from sale of businesses, net


0.3

0.3
Proceeds from sale of businesses and other

2,765.6
(6.2)
2,759.4
Acquisitions, net of cash acquired


(12.3)
(12.3)


(45.9)
(45.9)
Net intercompany loan activity

37.8
112.2
(150.0)

(58.9)103.7
172.5
(217.3)
Other


0.2

0.2
Net cash provided by (used for) investing activities of continuing operations
(58.9)2,869.3
85.0
(217.3)2,678.1
Net cash provided by (used for) investing activities from discontinued operations


(47.7)
(47.7)
Net cash provided by (used for) investing activities

37.8
(16.1)(150.0)(128.3)
(58.9)2,869.3
37.3
(217.3)2,630.4
Financing activities  
Net repayments on short-term borrowings


0.5

0.5
Net receipts of commercial paper and revolving long-term debt

458.7
9.9

468.6
Proceeds from long-term debt


2.2

2.2
Net receipts (repayments) of commercial paper and revolving long-term debt

(914.7)1.6

(913.1)
Repayment of long-term debt


(16.8)
(16.8)

(1,917.8)(91.5)
(2,009.3)
Debt issuance costs

(3.1)

(3.1)
Premium paid on early extinguishment of debt

(86.0)(8.9)
(94.9)
Net change in advances to subsidiaries741.1
(208.6)(747.3)(605.2)820.0

(263.8)(617.2)(680.8)(840.5)2,402.3

Excess tax benefits from share-based compensation


12.6

12.6
Shares issued to employees, net of shares withheld


37.0

37.0
37.2




37.2
Repurchases of ordinary shares(699.2)

(450.8)
(1,150.0)(200.0)



(200.0)
Dividends paid(211.4)



(211.4)(251.7)



(251.7)
Distributions to noncontrolling interest


(134.7)
(134.7)
Other


(0.8)
(0.8)
Net cash provided by (used for) financing activities(169.5)(208.6)(291.7)(1,145.3)820.0
(995.1)(678.3)(617.2)(3,599.3)(940.1)2,402.3
(3,432.6)
Change in cash held for sale


(5.4)
(5.4)
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents


(30.6)
(30.6)

73.8
(17.0)
56.8
Change in cash and cash equivalents(0.5)
(46.9)(98.2)
(145.6)


(130.6)
(130.6)
Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of year0.5

47.0
208.5

256.0



216.9

216.9
Cash and cash equivalents, end of year$
$
$0.1
$110.3
$
$110.4
$
$
$
$86.3
$
$86.3








95

Pentair plc and Subsidiaries
Notes to consolidated financial statements



Pentair plc and Subsidiaries
Condensed Consolidating Statement of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss)
Year Ended December 31, 20132016

In millions
Parent
Company
Guarantor
Subsidiary
Issuer
Non-guarantor
Subsidiaries
Eliminations
Consolidated
Total
Net sales$
$
$6,999.7
$
$6,999.7
Cost of goods sold

4,629.6

4,629.6
Gross profit

2,370.1

2,370.1
Selling, general and administrative21.0
13.3
1,459.4

1,493.7
Research and development

122.8

122.8
Impairment of trade names

11.0

11.0
Operating (loss) income(21.0)(13.3)776.9

742.6
Loss (earnings) from continuing operations of investment in subsidiaries(539.0)(508.6)
1,047.6

Other (income) expense:     
Gain on sale of businesses, net  (20.8)
(20.8)
Equity income of unconsolidated subsidiaries

(2.0)
(2.0)
Interest income
(99.2)(53.4)148.2
(4.4)
Interest expense5.6
106.0
111.9
(148.2)75.3
Income (loss) from continuing operations before income taxes and noncontrolling interest512.4
488.5
741.2
(1,047.6)694.5
Provision (benefit) for income taxes0.7
1.4
174.9

177.0
Net income (loss) from continuing operations before noncontrolling interest511.7
487.1
566.3
(1,047.6)517.5
Income from discontinued operations, net of tax

25.9

25.9
Loss from sale of discontinued operations, net of tax

(0.8)
(0.8)
Earnings (loss) from discontinued operations of investment in subsidiaries25.1
25.1

(50.2)
Net income (loss) before noncontrolling interest536.8
512.2
591.4
(1,097.8)542.6
Noncontrolling interest

5.8

5.8
Net income (loss) attributable to Pentair plc$536.8
$512.2
$585.6
$(1,097.8)$536.8
Net income (loss) from continuing operations attributable to Pentair plc$511.7
$487.1
$560.5
$(1,047.6)$511.7
Comprehensive income (loss), net of tax     
Net income (loss) before noncontrolling interest$536.8
$512.2
$591.4
$(1,097.8)$542.6
Changes in cumulative translation adjustment(31.3)(31.3)(29.1)62.6
(29.1)
Amortization of pension and other post-retirement prior service cost(0.4)(0.4)(0.4)0.8
(0.4)
Changes in market value of derivative financial instruments(0.3)(0.3)(0.3)0.6
(0.3)
Total comprehensive income (loss)504.8
480.2
561.6
(1,033.8)512.8
Less: Comprehensive income (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interest

8.0

8.0
Comprehensive income (loss) attributable to Pentair plc$504.8
$480.2
$553.6
$(1,033.8)$504.8
In millions
Parent
Company
Guarantor
Subsidiary
Guarantor
Subsidiary
Issuer
Non-guarantor
Subsidiaries
Eliminations
Consolidated
Total
Net sales$
$
$
$2,780.6
$
$2,780.6
Cost of goods sold


1,821.5

1,821.5
Gross profit


959.1

959.1
Selling, general and administrative12.6

1.2
517.6

531.4
Research and development


73.3

73.3
Operating (loss) income(12.6)
(1.2)368.2

354.4
Loss (earnings) from continuing operations of investment in subsidiaries(189.4)(189.4)(301.5)
680.3

Other (income) expense:      
Loss on sale of businesses


3.9

3.9
Net interest expense

110.9
29.2

140.1
Other income


(10.5)
(10.5)
Income (loss) from continuing operations before income taxes176.8
189.4
189.4
345.6
(680.3)220.9
Provision (benefit) for income taxes(1.4)

44.1

42.7
Net income (loss) from continuing operations178.2
189.4
189.4
301.5
(680.3)178.2
Income from discontinued operations, net of tax


343.4

343.4
Gain from sale of discontinued operations, net of tax


0.6

0.6
Earnings (loss) from discontinued operations of investment in subsidiaries344.0
344.0
344.0

(1,032.0)
Net income (loss)$522.2
$533.4
$533.4
$645.5
$(1,712.3)$522.2
Comprehensive income (loss), net of tax      
Net income (loss)$522.2
$533.4
$533.4
$645.5
$(1,712.3)$522.2
Changes in cumulative translation adjustment(83.0)(83.0)(83.0)(83.0)249.0
(83.0)
Changes in market value of derivative financial instruments, net of tax(8.3)(8.3)(8.3)(8.3)24.9
(8.3)
Comprehensive income (loss)$430.9
$442.1
$442.1
$554.2
$(1,438.4)$430.9




96

Pentair plc and Subsidiaries
Notes to consolidated financial statements


Pentair plc and Subsidiaries
Condensed Consolidating Statement of Cash Flows
Year Ended December 31, 20132016

In millions
Parent
Company
Guarantor
Subsidiary
Issuer
Non-guarantor
Subsidiaries
Eliminations
Consolidated
Total
Parent
Company
Guarantor
Subsidiary
Guarantor
Subsidiary
Issuer
Non-guarantor
Subsidiaries
Eliminations
Consolidated
Total
Operating activities  
Net cash provided by (used for) operating activities$534.2
$514.0
$977.5
$(1,097.8)$927.9
$595.7
$541.7
$532.9
$903.4
$(1,712.3)$861.4
Investing activities  
Capital expenditures

(170.0)
(170.0)


(43.3)
(43.3)
Proceeds from sale of property and equipment

6.0

6.0



18.8

18.8
Proceeds from sale of businesses and other


(5.1)
(5.1)
Acquisitions, net of cash acquired

(92.4)
(92.4)


(25.0)
(25.0)
Proceeds from sale of business, net

43.5

43.5
Other

1.7

1.7
Net intercompany loan activity

667.3
(191.0)(476.3)
Net cash provided by (used for) investing activities of continuing operations

667.3
(245.6)(476.3)(54.6)
Net cash provided by (used for) investing activities of discontinued operations


(67.2)
(67.2)
Net cash provided by (used for) investing activities

(211.2)
(211.2)

667.3
(312.8)(476.3)(121.8)
Financing activities  
 
Net receipts (repayments) of commercial paper and revolving long-term debt
104.2


104.2


(385.8)0.5

(385.3)
Proceeds from long-term debt

0.7

0.7
Repayment of long-term debt

(7.4)
(7.4)


(0.7)
(0.7)
Debt issuance costs
(1.4)

(1.4)
Debt extinguishment costs




Net change in advances to subsidiaries(339.5)(569.8)(188.5)1,097.8

(372.8)(541.7)(842.3)(431.8)2,188.6

Excess tax benefits from share-based compensation

16.8

16.8
Shares issued to employees, net of shares withheld

80.0

80.0
20.7




20.7
Repurchases of ordinary shares

(715.8)
(715.8)
Dividends paid(194.2)


(194.2)(243.6)



(243.6)
Distributions to noncontrolling interest

(2.0)
(2.0)
Other


8.8

8.8
Net cash provided by (used for) financing activities(533.7)(467.0)(816.2)1,097.8
(719.1)(595.7)(541.7)(1,228.1)(423.2)2,188.6
(600.1)
Change in cash held for sale


1.1

1.1
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents

21.0

21.0


27.8
(55.1)
(27.3)
Change in cash and cash equivalents0.5
47.0
(28.9)
18.6


(0.1)113.4

113.3
Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of year

237.4

237.4


0.1
103.5

103.6
Cash and cash equivalents, end of year$0.5
$47.0
$208.5
$
$256.0
$
$
$
$216.9
$
$216.9



97




ITEM 9. CHANGES IN AND DISAGREEMENTS WITH ACCOUNTANTS ON ACCOUNTING AND FINANCIAL DISCLOSURE
None.
ITEM 9A.  CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES
Our management, with the participation of our Chief Executive Officer and our Chief Financial Officer, evaluated the effectiveness of the design and operation of our disclosure controls and procedures as of the end of the year ended December 31, 2015,2018, pursuant to Rule 13a-15(b) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 ("(“the Exchange Act"Act”). Based upon their evaluation, our Chief Executive Officer and our Chief Financial Officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures were effective as of the year ended December 31, 20152018 to ensure that information required to be disclosed by us in the reports we file or submit under the Exchange Act is recorded, processed, summarized and reported, within the time periods specified in the Securities and Exchange Commission’s rules and forms and to ensure that information required to be disclosed by us in the reports we file or submit under the Exchange Act is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our principal executive and principal financial officers, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosures.
Management’s Annual Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting
The report of management required under this ITEM 9A is contained in ITEM 8 of this Annual Report on Form 10-K under the caption "Management’s“Management’s Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting."
Attestation Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
The attestation report required under this ITEM 9A is contained in ITEM 8 of this Annual Report on Form 10-K under the caption "Report“Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm."
Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting
There was no change in our internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the quarter ended December 31, 20152018 that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.
ITEM 9B.  OTHER INFORMATION
None.

 

98




PART III

ITEM 10. DIRECTORS, EXECUTIVE OFFICERS AND CORPORATE GOVERNANCE
Information required under this item with respect to directors is contained in our Proxy Statement for our 20162019 annual general meeting of shareholders under the captions "Corporate“Corporate Governance Matters," "Proposal” “Proposal 1 Re-elect Eleven Director Nominees"Nominees” and "Section“Section 16(a) Beneficial Ownership Reporting Compliance"Compliance” and is incorporated herein by reference.
Information required under this item with respect to executive officers is contained in Part I of this Form 10-K under the caption "Executive“Executive Officers of the Registrant."
Our Board of Directors has adopted Pentair’s Code of Business Conduct and Ethics and designated it as the code of ethics for the Company’s Chief Executive Officer and senior financial officers. The Code of Business Conduct and Ethics also applies to all employees and directors in accordance with New York Stock Exchange Listing Standards. We have posted a copy of Pentair’s Code of Business Conduct and Ethics on our website at http://pentair.com/en/about-us/leadership/corporate-governance. We intend to satisfy the disclosure requirements under Item 5.05 of Form 8-K regarding amendments to or waivers from, Pentair’s Code of Business Conduct and Ethics by posting such information on our website at http://pentair.com/en/about-us/leadership/corporate-governance.
We are not including the information contained on our website as part of, or incorporating it by reference into, this report.
ITEM 11. EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION
Information required under this item is contained in our Proxy Statement for our 20162019 annual general meeting of shareholders under the captions "Corporate“Compensation Discussion and Analysis,” “Compensation Committee Report,” “Executive Compensation Tables” and “Corporate Governance Matters — Committees of the Board — Compensation Committee," "Corporate Governance Matters — Compensation Committee Interlocks and Insider Participation," "Compensation Discussion and Analysis," "Compensation Committee Report," "Executive Compensation" and "Director Compensation"- Director Compensation” and is incorporated herein by reference.

99




ITEM 12. SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT AND RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS
Information required under this item with respect to security ownership is contained in our Proxy Statement for our 20162019 annual general meeting of shareholders under the caption "Security Ownership"“Security Ownership” and is incorporated herein by reference.
The following table summarizes, as of December 31, 2015,2018, information about compensation plans under which our equity securities are authorized for issuance:
Plan category
Number of securities to
be issued upon exercise
of outstanding options,
warrants and rights
(a)
 
Weighted-average
exercise price of
outstanding options,
warrants and rights
(b)
 
Number of securities
remaining available for
future issuance under
equity compensation
plans (excluding
securities reflected in
column (a))
(c)
 
Number of securities to
be issued upon exercise
of outstanding options,
warrants and rights
(a)
 
Weighted-average
exercise price of
outstanding options,
warrants and rights
(b)
 
Number of securities
remaining available for
future issuance under
equity compensation
plans (excluding
securities reflected in
column (a))
(c)
 
Equity compensation plans approved by security holders:            
2012 Stock and Incentive Plan 3,005,781
(1) 
$58.47
(2) 
6,493,423
(3) 
2,972,041
(1) 
$38.84
(2) 
4,453,028
(3) 
2008 Omnibus Stock Incentive Plan
2,341,053
(4) 
32.78
(2) 

(5) 
1,017,891
(4) 
23.10
(2) 

(5) 
2004 Omnibus Stock Incentive Plan
994,661
 32.74
 
(5) 
Outside Directors Non-qualified Stock Option Plan 140,000
 33.63
 
(5) 
Total6,481,495
 $42.79
(2) 
6,493,423
 3,989,932
 $34.41
(2) 
4,453,028
 
(1)
Consists of 2,186,6532,602,660 shares subject to stock options, and 819,128100,028 shares subject to restricted stock units.units, and 269,353 shares subject to performance share awards.
(2)
Represents the weighted average exercise price of outstanding stock options and does not take into account outstanding restricted stock units or performance share units.
(3)
Represents securities remaining available for issuance under the 2012 Stock and Incentive Plan.
(4)
Consists of 2,297,7541,017,891 shares subject to stock options and 43,299 shares subject to restricted stock units.options.
(5)
The 2008 Omnibus Stock Incentive Plan was terminated in connection with the Merger. The 2004 Omnibus Plan and the Directors Plan were terminated in 2008. Options previously granted under these plans and restricted2012. Restricted stock units previously granted under the 2008 Omnibus Stock Incentive Plan remain outstanding, but no further options or shares may be granted or issued under eitherthis plan.
ITEM 13.  CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED TRANSACTIONS AND DIRECTOR INDEPENDENCE
Information required under this item is contained in our Proxy Statement for our 20162019 annual general meeting of shareholders under the captions "Corporate“Proposal 1 Re-elect Director Nominees - Director Independence” and “Corporate Governance Matters — Board Governance," "Corporate Governance Matters — Independent Directors,"- The Board’s Role and "Corporate Governance Matters —Responsibilities - Policies and Procedures Regarding Related Person Transactions"Transactions” and is incorporated herein by reference.
ITEM 14.  PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTING FEES AND SERVICES
Information required under this item is contained in our Proxy Statement for our 20162019 annual general meeting of shareholders under the caption "Proposal“Proposal 3 Ratify, by Non-Binding Advisory Vote, the Appointment of Deloitte & Touche LLP as the Independent AuditorsAuditor of Pentair plc and to Authorize, by Binding Vote, the Audit and Finance Committee of the Board of Directors to Set the Auditors Remuneration"Auditor’s Remuneration” and is incorporated herein by reference.

100




PART IV
ITEM 15.    EXHIBITS AND FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULES
(a) List of documents filed as part of this report:
 
(1) Financial Statements
Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss) for the years ended December 31, 2015, 20142018, 2017 and 20132016
Consolidated Balance Sheets as of December 31, 20152018 and 20142017
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the years ended December 31, 2015, 20142018, 2017 and 20132016
Consolidated Statements of Changes in Equity for the years ended December 31, 2015, 20142018, 2017 and 20132016
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
 
(2) Financial Statement Schedule
Schedule II — Valuation and Qualifying Accounts
All other schedules for which provision is made in the applicable accounting regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission have been omitted because they are not applicable or the required information is shown in the financial statements or notes thereto.
 
(3) Exhibits
The exhibits of this Annual Report on Form 10-K included herein are set forth on the attached Exhibit Index.below.

101



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, on February 26, 2016.
PENTAIR PLC
By/s/ John L. Stauch
John L. Stauch
Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, this report has been signed below by the following persons on behalf of the Registrant and in the capacities indicated, on February 26, 2016.
SignatureTitle
/s/  Randall J. HoganChairman and Chief Executive Officer
Randall J. Hogan
/s/  John L. StauchExecutive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer
John L. Stauch
/s/  Mark C. BorinChief Accounting Officer and Treasurer
Mark C. Borin
*Director
Glynis A. Bryan
*Director
Jerry W. Burris
*Director
Carol Anthony (John) Davidson
*Director
Jacques Esculier
*Director
T. Michael Glenn
*Director
David H. Y. Ho
*Director
David A. Jones
*Director
Ronald L. Merriman
*Director
William T. Monahan
*Director
Billie I. Williamson
*By/s/  Angela D. Jilek
Angela D. Jilek
Attorney-in-fact

102



Schedule II — Valuation and Qualifying Accounts
Pentair plc and Subsidiaries
In millions
Beginning
balance
Additions charged (reductions credited) to costs and expenses
Deductions (1)
Other
changes (2)
Ending
balance
Allowances for doubtful accounts
Year ended December 31, 2015$42.5
$21.0
$7.1
$(4.6)$51.8
Year ended December 31, 2014$58.7
$(1.2)$11.5
$(3.5)$42.5
Year ended December 31, 2013$14.0
$49.7
$2.4
$(2.6)$58.7
(1)Uncollectible accounts written off, net of recoveries
(2)Result of foreign currency effects


103



EXHIBIT INDEX
Exhibit
Number
 Exhibit
2.1 
Share Purchase Agreement, and Plan of Merger, dated August 14, 2015, among18, 2016, by and between Emerson Electric Co. and Pentair plc Pentair Lionel Acquisition Co., Pentair Lionel Merger Sub, Inc. and ERICO Global Company (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 2.1 in the Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q of Pentair plc filed with the Commission on October 25, 2016 (File No. 001-11625)).
Separation and Distribution Agreement, dated as of April 27, 2018, by and between Pentair plc and nVent Electric plc (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 2.1 to the Current Report on Form 8-K of Pentair plc filed with the Commission on August 18, 2015April 30, 2018) (File No. 001-11625)).
   
3.1 Tax Matters Agreement, dated as of April 27, 2018, by and between Pentair plc and nVent Electric plc (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 2.2 to the Current Report on Form 8-K of Pentair plc filed with the Commission on April 30, 2018 (File No. 001-11625)).
Transition Services Agreement, dated as of April 27, 2018, by and between Pentair plc and nVent Electric plc (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 2.3 to the Current Report on Form 8-K of Pentair plc filed with the Commission on April 30, 2018 (File No. 001-11625)).
Employee Matters Agreement, dated as of April 27, 2018, by and between Pentair plc and nVent Electric plc (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 2.4 to the Current Report on Form 8-K of Pentair plc filed with the Commission on April 30, 2018 (File No. 001-11625)).
Amended and Restated Memorandum and Articles of Association of Pentair plc (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 into the Current Report on Form 8-K of Pentair plc filed with the Commission on June 3, 2014May 9, 2017 (File No. 001-11625)).
   
 Indenture, dated as of September 24, 2012, among Pentair Finance S.A. (formerly Tyco Flow Control International Finance S.A.) (as Issuer), Pentair Ltd. (as Guarantor) and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association (as Trustee) (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.1 in the Current Report on Form 8-K of Pentair Ltd. filed with the Commission on September 28, 2012 (File No. 001-11625)).
   
First Supplemental Indenture, dated as of September 24, 2012, among Pentair Finance S.A. (formerly Tyco Flow Control International Finance S.A.) (as Issuer), Pentair Ltd. (as Guarantor), Pentair, Inc. and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association (as Trustee) (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.2 in the Current Report on Form 8-K of Pentair Ltd. filed with the Commission on September 28, 2012 (File No. 001-11625)).
4.3 Second Supplemental Indenture, dated as of September 24, 2012, among Pentair Finance S.A. (formerly Tyco Flow Control International Finance S.A.) (as Issuer), Pentair Ltd. (as Guarantor), Pentair, Inc. and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association (as Trustee) (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.3 in the Current Report on Form 8-K of Pentair Ltd. filed with the Commission on September 28, 2012 (File No. 001-11625)).


   
4.4 Fourth Supplemental Indenture, dated as of November 26, 2012, among Pentair Finance S.A. (as Issuer), Pentair Ltd. (as Guarantor) and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association (as Trustee) (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.2 in the Current Report on Form 8-K of Pentair Ltd. filed with the Commission on November 28, 2012 (File No. 001-11625)).
   
4.5 Fifth Supplemental Indenture, dated as of December 18, 2012, among Pentair Finance S.A. (as Issuer), Pentair Ltd. (as Guarantor) and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association (as Trustee) (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.1 in the Current Report on Form 8-K of Pentair Ltd. filed with the Commission on December 18, 2012 (File No. 001-11625)).
   
4.6 Sixth Supplemental Indenture, dated as of May 20, 2014, among Pentair Finance S.A., Pentair Ltd., Pentair Investments Switzerland GmbH, Pentair plc and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association, as trustee (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.3 in the Current Report on Form 8-K of Pentair plc filed with the Commission on May 20, 2014 (File No. 001-11625)).
   
Seventh Supplemental Indenture, dated as of May 26, 2017, among Pentair Finance S.A., Pentair plc, Pentair Investments Switzerland GmbH and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association as trustee (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.1 to the Current Report on Form 8-K of Pentair plc filed with the Commission on May 31, 2017 (File No. 001-11625)).
 Senior Indenture, dated May 2, 2011 by and among Pentair, Inc. and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.5 to Pentair, Inc.’s Registration Statement on Form S-3 (Registration 333-173829)).
   
 First Supplemental Indenture, dated as of May 9, 2011, among Pentair, Inc., the guarantors named therein and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.2 in the Current Report on Form 8-K of Pentair, Inc. filed with the Commission on May 9, 2011 (File No. 000-04689)).
   
 Third Supplemental Indenture, dated October 1, 2012, among Pentair Ltd., Pentair, Inc. and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association, as trustee (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.1 in the Current Report on Form 8-K of Pentair Ltd. filed with the Commission on October 1, 2012 (File No. 001-11625)).
   
 Fourth Supplemental Indenture, dated as of December 17, 2012, among Pentair, Inc. (as Issuer), Pentair Ltd. (as Guarantor) and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association (as Trustee) (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.2 in the Current Report on Form 8-K of Pentair Ltd. filed with the Commission on December 18, 2012 (File No. 001-11625)).
   
 Fifth Supplemental Indenture, dated as of May 20, 2014, among Pentair, Inc., Pentair Ltd., Pentair Investments Switzerland GmbH, Pentair plc and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association, as trustee (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.2 in the Current Report on Form 8-K of Pentair plc filed with the Commission on May 20, 2014 (File No. 001-11625)).
   
 Amended and Restated Credit Agreement,Sixth Supplemental Indenture, dated as of October 3, 2014May 26, 2017, among Pentair, Inc., Pentair plc, Pentair Investments Switzerland GmbH Pentair Finance, S.A., Pentair, Inc. and the lenders and agents party theretoWells Fargo Bank, National Association, as trustee (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.1 in4.2 to the Current Report on Form 8-K of Pentair plc filed with the Commission on October 3, 2014May 31, 2017 (File No. 001-11625)).
   

104



 First Amendment,Credit Agreement, dated as of August 28, 2015,April 25, 2018, among Pentair plc, Pentair Investments Switzerland GmbH, Pentair Finance S.A.S.à r.l., Pentair, Inc. and the lenders and agents party thereto (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.1 to the Current Report on Form 8-K of Pentair plc filed with the SECCommission on September 3, 2015April 30, 2018) (File No. 001-11625)).
   
Second Amendment, dated as of September 2, 2015, among Pentair, Pentair Investments Switzerland GmbH, Pentair Finance S.A. and the lenders and agents party thereto (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.2 to the Current Report on Form 8-K of Pentair plc filed with the Commission on September 3, 2015 (File No. 001-11625)).
4.15 Indenture, dated as of September 16, 2015, among Pentair Finance S.A. (as Issuer), Pentair plc (as Parent and Guarantor), Pentair Investments Switzerland GmbH (as Guarantor) and U.S. Bank National Association (as Trustee) (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.1 to the Current Report on Form 8-K of Pentair plc filed with the Commission on September 16, 2015 (File No. 001-11625)).
   
4.16First Supplemental Indenture, dated as of September 16, 2015, among Pentair Finance S.A. (as Issuer), Pentair plc (as Parent and Guarantor), Pentair Investments Switzerland GmbH (as Guarantor) and U.S. Bank National Association (as Trustee) (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.2 to the Current Report on Form 8-K of Pentair plc filed with the SEC on September 16, 2015 (File No. 001-11625)).
4.17 Second Supplemental Indenture, dated as of September 16, 2015, among Pentair Finance S.A. (as Issuer), Pentair plc (as Parent and Guarantor), Pentair Investments Switzerland GmbH (as Guarantor) and U.S. Bank National Association (as Trustee) (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.3 to the Current Report on Form 8-K of Pentair plc filed with the Commission on September 16, 2015 (File No. 001-11625)).
   
4.18 Third Supplemental Indenture, dated as of September 16, 2015, among Pentair Finance S.A. (as Issuer), Pentair plc (as Parent and Guarantor), Pentair Investments Switzerland GmbH (as Guarantor) and U.S. Bank National Association (as Trustee) (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.4 to the Current Report on Form 8-K of Pentair plc filed with the Commission on September 16, 2015 (File No. 001-11625)).
   


4.19
 Fourth Supplemental Indenture, dated as of September 17, 2015, among Pentair Finance S.A. (as Issuer), Pentair plc (as Parent and Guarantor), Pentair Investments Switzerland GmbH (as Guarantor) and U.S. Bank National Association (as Trustee) (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.2 to the Current Report on Form 8-K of Pentair plc filed with the Commission on September 17, 2015 (File No. 001-11625)).
   
Fifth Supplemental Indenture, dated as of May 26, 2017, among Pentair Finance S.A., Pentair plc, Pentair Investments Switzerland GmbH and U.S. Bank National Association, as trustee (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.3 to the Current Report on Form 8-K of Pentair plc filed with the Commission on May 31, 2017 (File No. 001-11625)).
 Tax Sharing Agreement, dated September 28, 2012 by and among Pentair Ltd., Tyco International Ltd. and The ADT Corporation (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 in the Current Report on Form 8-K of Pentair Ltd. filed with the Commission on September 28, 2012 (File No. 001-11625)).
   
 Pentair plc 2012 Stock and Incentive Plan, as amended and restated effective as of January 1, 2017. (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 in10.2 to the CurrentAnnual Report on Form 8-K10-K of Pentair plc filed withfor the Commission on June 3, 2014year ended December 31, 2016 (File No. 001-11625)).*
   
 Form of Executive Officer Stock Option Grant Agreement for grants made prior to January 1, 2017 (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.7 in the Current Report on Form 8-K of Pentair plc filed with the Commission on June 3, 2014 (File No. 001-11625)).*
   
 Form of Executive Officer Restricted Stock Unit Grant Agreement for grants made prior to January 1, 2017 (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.8 in the Current Report on Form 8-K of Pentair plc filed with the Commission on June 3, 2014 (File No. 001-11625)).*
   
Form of Executive Officer Performance Unit Grant Agreement (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.9 in the Current Report on Form 8-K of Pentair plc filed with the Commission on June 3, 2014 (File No. 001-11625)).*
10.6 Form of Non-Employee Director Stock Option Grant Agreement (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.10 in the Current Report on Form 8-K of Pentair plc filed with the Commission on June 3, 2014 (File No. 001-11625)).*
   
10.7 Form of Non-Employee Director Restricted Stock Unit Grant Agreement (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.11 in the Current Report on Form 8-K of Pentair plc filed with the Commission on June 3, 2014 (File No. 001-11625)).*
   
10.8 Form of Performance Share Units Grant Agreement.Agreement for grants made during 2016 (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.8 in the Annual Report on Form 10-K of Pentair plc filed with the Commission on February 26, 2016 (File No. 001-11625)).*
   
10.9 Pentair plc 2008 Omnibus Stock Incentive Plan, as amended and restated effective as of January 1, 2017 (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.2 in10.9 to the CurrentAnnual Report on Form 8-K10-K of Pentair plc filed withfor the Commission on June 3, 2014year ended December 31, 2016 (File No. 001-11625)).*
   
10.10 Pentair plc Omnibus Stock Incentive Plan, as amended and restated (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.3 in the Current Report on Form 8-K of Pentair plc filed with the Commission on June 3, 2014 (File No. 001-11625)).*
   
10.11 Pentair plc Outside Directors Nonqualified Stock Option Plan, as amended and restated (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.4 in the Current Report on Form 8-K of Pentair plc filed with the Commission on June 3, 2014 (File No. 001-11625)).*
   

105



10.12 Form of Assignment and Assumption Agreement, among Pentair, Inc., Pentair Ltd. and the executive officers of Pentair Ltd. relating to Key Executive Employment and Severance Agreement (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.12 in the Current Report on Form 8-K of Pentair Ltd. filed with the Commission on October 1, 2012 (File No. 001-11625)).*
   
10.13Form of Key Executive Employment and Severance Agreement for Randall J. Hogan (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.10 in the Annual Report on Form 10-K of Pentair, Inc. for the year ended December 31, 2008 (File No. 000-04689)).*
10.14 Form of Key Executive Employment and Severance Agreement for John L. Stauch and Mark C. Borin and Angela D. Jilek (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1210.1 in the AnnualQuarterly Report on Form 10-K10-Q of Pentair Inc.plc for the yearquarter ended December 31, 2008June 30, 2018 (File No. 000-04689)001-11625)).*
   
10.15 Form of Key Executive Employment and Severance Agreement for KarlKarly R. Frykman and Alok MaskaraJohn H. Jacko (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1710.2 in the AnnualQuarterly Report on Form 10-K10-Q of Pentair Ltd.plc for the quarter ended December 31, 2013June 30, 2018 (File No. 001-11625)).*
   
10.16 Form of Key Executive Employment and Severance Agreement for BethKarla C. Robertson, Kelly A. Wozniak.*
10.17Form of Letter regarding RSU GrantsBaker and Waiver of Certain KEESA Rights, between Pentair, Inc. and certain executives of Pentair, Inc., dated March 27, 2012Philip M. Rolchigo (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.110.3 in the CurrentQuarterly Report on Form 8-K10-Q of Pentair Inc. filed withplc for the Commission on Marchquarter ended June 30, 20122018 (File No. 000-04689)001-11625)).*
   
10.18 Pentair plc Compensation Plan for Non-Employee Directors, as amended and restated (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.6 in the Current Report on Form 8-K of Pentair plc filed with the Commission on June 3, 2014 (File No. 001-11625)).*
   
10.19 Pentair plc Employee Stock Purchase and Bonus Plan, as amended and restated (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.5 in the Current Report on Form 8-K of Pentair plc filed with the Commission on June 3, 2014 (File No. 001-11625)).*restated*
   
10.20 Pentair, Inc. Non-Qualified Deferred Compensation Plan, effective January 1, 1996 (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.17 in the Annual Report on Form 10-K of Pentair, Inc. for the year ended December 31, 2005 (File No. 000-04689)).as amended and restated.*


   
10.21 Trust Agreement for Pentair, Inc. Non-Qualified Deferred Compensation Plan between Pentair, Inc. and Fidelity Management Trust Company (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.18 contained in the Annual Report on Form 10-K of Pentair, Inc. for the year ended December 31, 1995 (File No. 000-04689)).*
   
10.22Amendment effective August 23, 2000 to Pentair, Inc. Non-Qualified Deferred Compensation Plan effective January 1, 1996 (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.8 in the Current Report on Form 8-K of Pentair, Inc. filed with the Commission on September 21, 2000 (File No. 000-04689)).*
10.23Pentair, Inc. Non-Qualified Deferred Compensation Plan effective January 1, 2009, as amended and restated (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.12 in the Current Report on Form 8-K of Pentair plc filed with the Commission on June 3, 2014 (File No. 001-11625)).*
10.24 Pentair, Inc. 1999 Supplemental Executive Retirement Plan as Amended and Restated effective August 23, 2000 (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.2 in the Current Report on Form 8-K of Pentair, Inc. filed with the Commission on September 21, 2000 (File No. 000-04689)).*
   
10.25 Pentair, Inc. Supplemental Executive Retirement Plan effective January 1, 2009, as amended and restated (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.13 in the Current Report on Form 8-K of Pentair plc filed with the Commission on June 3, 2014 (File No. 001-11625)).*
   
10.26 Pentair, Inc. Restoration Plan as Amended and Restated effective August 23, 2000 (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.3 in the Current Report on Form 8-K of Pentair, Inc. filed with the Commission on September 21, 2000 (File No. 000-04689)).*
   
10.27 Pentair, Inc. Restoration Plan effective January 1, 2009, as amended and restated (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.14 in the Current Report on Form 8-K of Pentair plc filed with the Commission on June 3, 2014 (File No. 001-11625)).*
   
10.28 Form of Deed of Indemnification for directors and executive officers of Pentair plc (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.15 in the Current Report on Form 8-K of Pentair plc filed with the Commission on June 3, 2014 (File No. 001-11625)).*
   
10.29 Form of Indemnification Agreement for directors and executive officers of Pentair plc (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.16 in the Current Report on Form 8-K of Pentair plc filed with the Commission on June 3, 2014 (File No. 001-11625)).*
   

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10.30 Letter agreement, dated September 7, 2015, among Pentair plc, Edward P. Garden, Matthew Peltz, Brian Baldwin and Trian Fund Management, L.P. (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Current Report on Form 8-K of Pentair plc filed with the SEC on September 8, 2015 (File No. 001-11625)).
10.31SeparationExecutive Officer Key Talent Award Agreement dated February 1, 2015, between Pentair Management Company and Netha N. Johnson. (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.30 to the Annual Report on Form 10-K of Pentair plc filed with the SEC on February 24, 2015 (File No. 001-11625)).*
10.32Separation Agreement, dated February 16, 2015, between Pentair Management Company and Todd R. Gleason.(Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.30 to the Annual Report on Form 10-K of Pentair plc filed with the SEC on February 24, 2015 (File No. 001-11625)).*
10.33Separation Agreement, dated September 18, 2015, between Pentair Management Company and Philip Pejovich (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.2 to the Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q of Pentair plc filed withfor the SEC on October 20, 2015quarter ended March 31, 2018 (File No. 001-11625)).*
   
10.34 SeparationForm of Executive Officer Stock Option Grant Agreement dated September 3, 2015, betweenfor grants made on or after January 1, 2017 and prior to February 26, 2018 (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.31 to the Annual Report on Form 10-K of Pentair Management Companyplc for the year ended December 31, 2016 (File No. 001-11625)).*
Form of Executive Officer Restricted Stock Unit Grant Agreement for grants made on or after January 2, 2017 and Christopher Stevensprior to February 26, 2018 (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.32 to the Annual Report on Form 10-K of Pentair plc for the year ended December 31, 2016 (File No. 001-11625)).*
Form of Executive Officer Performance Unit Grant Agreement for grants made on or after January 1, 2017 and prior to February 26, 2018 (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.33 to the Annual Report on Form 10-K of Pentair plc for the year ended December 31, 2016 (File No. 001-11625)).*
Form of Executive Officer Restricted Stock Unit Award Agreement for grants made on or after February 26, 2018 (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.3 to the Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q of Pentair plc filed withfor the SEC on October 20, 2015quarter ended March 31, 2018 (File No. 001-11625)).*
   
10.35 SeparationForm of Executive Officer Stock Option Award Agreement for grants made on or after February 26, 2018 (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.4 to the Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q of Pentair plc for the quarter ended March 31, 2018 (File No. 001-11625)).*
Form of Executive Officer Performance Stock Unit Award Agreement for grants made on or after February 26, 2018 and prior to January 1, 2019 (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.5 to the Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q of Pentair plc for the quarter ended March 31, 2018 (File No. 001-11625)).*
Form of Executive Officer Performance Stock Unit Award Agreement for grants made on or after January 1, 2019.*
Retirement Agreement, dated as of January 22, 2016,March 14, 2018, between Pentair Management Companyplc and Frederick S. KouryRandall J. Hogan (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Current Report on Form 8-K of Pentair plc filed with the Commission on January 28, 2016March 15, 2018 (File No. 001-11625)).*
   
 List of Pentair plc subsidiaries.
   
 Consent of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm — Deloitte & Touche LLP.
   
 Power of attorney.
   
 Certification of Chief Executive Officer.
   
 Certification of Chief Financial Officer.
   


 Certification of Chief Executive Officer, Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as Adopted Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
   
 Certification of Chief Financial Officer, Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as Adopted Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
   
101 
The following materials from Pentair plc’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 20152018 are filed herewith, formatted in XBRL (Extensible Business Reporting Language): (i) the Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss) for the years ended December 31, 2015, 20142018, 2017 and 2013,2016, (ii) the Consolidated Balance Sheets as of December 31, 20152018 and 2014,2017, (iii) the Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the years ended December 31, 2015, 20142018, 2017 and 2013,2016, (iv) the Consolidated Statements of Changes in Equity for the years ended December 31, 2015, 20142018, 2017 and 20132016 and (v) the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements.
*Denotes a management contract or compensatory plan or arrangement.

ITEM 16.  FORM 10-K SUMMARY
None.


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, on February 19, 2019.
107
PENTAIR PLC
By/s/ Mark C. Borin
Mark C. Borin
Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, this report has been signed below by the following persons on behalf of the Registrant and in the capacities indicated, on February 19, 2019.
SignatureTitle
/s/  John L. StauchPresident and Chief Executive Officer, Director
John L. Stauch
/s/  Mark C. BorinExecutive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer
Mark C. Borin
/s/  Ademir SarcevicSenior Vice President and Chief Accounting Officer
Ademir Sarcevic
*Director
Glynis A. Bryan
*Director
Jacques Esculier
*Director
T. Michael Glenn
*Director
Theodore L. Harris
*Director
David A. Jones
*Director
Michael T. Speetzen
*Director
Billie I. Williamson

*By/s/ Karla C. Robertson
Karla C. Robertson
Attorney-in-fact



Schedule II — Valuation and Qualifying Accounts
Pentair plc and Subsidiaries
In millions
Beginning
balance
Additions charged (reductions credited) to costs and expenses
Deductions (1)
Other
changes (2)
Ending
balance
Allowances for doubtful accounts
Year ended December 31, 2018$10.0
$1.1
$0.9
$2.4
$12.6
Year ended December 31, 2017$9.0
$2.3
$2.2
$0.9
$10.0
Year ended December 31, 2016$13.7
$(1.2)$3.9
$0.4
$9.0

(1)
Uncollectible accounts written off, net of recoveries
(2)
Result of foreign currency effects


95