UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, DC  20549

FORM 10-K

[x]          ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF
THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

For the fiscal year ended:  April 30, 20152018

OR

[  ]           TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE
THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934 (FEE REQUIRED)

For the transition period from to
Commission file number   001-11507


JOHN WILEY & SONS, INC.
(Exact name of Registrant as specified in its charter)


NEW YORK 13-5593032
State or other jurisdiction of incorporation or organization I.R.S. Employer Identification No.
   
111 River Street, Hoboken, NJ 07030
Address of principal executive offices Zip Code

 (201) 748-6000 
 Registrant’sRegistrant's telephone number including area code 

Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act: Title of each class Name of each exchange on which registered
Class A Common Stock, par value $1.00 per share New York Stock Exchange
Class B Common Stock, par value $1.00 per share New York Stock Exchange

 Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act: 
 None 
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Indicate by check mark if the registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act.  Yes    No
Yes |X|     No |    |

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or Section 15(d) of the Exchange Act.  Yes    No
Yes |   |     No |X |

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

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Web site, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files).  Yes    No
Yes |X|     No |    |

Indicate by check mark if disclosure of delinquent filers pursuant to Item 405 of Regulation S-K (§229.405 of this chapter) is not contained herein, and will not be contained, to the best of registrant’sregistrant's knowledge, in definitive proxy or information statements incorporated by reference in Part III of this Form 10-K or any amendment to this Form 10-K. |   |

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, or a smaller reporting company, or an emerging growth company. See 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 
Accelerated filer 
Non-accelerated filer 
Smaller reporting company 
(Do not check if a smaller reporting company)
Emerging growth company 
Large accelerated filer   |X|       Accelerated filer   |   |       Non-accelerated filer   |   |      Smaller reporting company   |   |

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

The aggregate market value of the voting stock held by non-affiliates of the registrant, computed by reference to the closing price as of the last business day of the registrant’sregistrant's most recently completed second fiscal quarter, October 31, 2014,2017, was approximately $2,703.5$2,453 million. The registrant has no non-voting common stock.

The number of shares outstanding of the registrant’sregistrant's Class A and Class B Common Stock as of May 31, 20152018 was 49,379,84348,346,657 and 9,482,0049,153,493 respectively.

DOCUMENTS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE

Portions of the registrant’sregistrant's definitive proxy statement for use in connection with its annual meeting of stockholders scheduled to be held on October 1, 2015,September 27, 2018, are incorporated by reference into Part III of this Form 10-K.
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JOHN WILEY AND& SONS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
FORM 10-K
FOR THE FISCAL YEAR ENDED APRIL 30, 20152018
INDEX


PART I PAGE
43
4-119
1114
1215
1315
Mine Safety Disclosures – Not Applicable15
16
   
PART II  
1317
1418
15-5619
57-5940
60-10042
10176
10176
10176
   
PART III  
101-10476
10477
104-10577
10577
10577
   
PART IV  
78
106-108Form 10-K Summary 79
   
  

31

PART I

Business
The Company, founded in 1807, was incorporated in the state of New York on January 15, 1904. As used herein the term “Company” means John Wiley & Sons, Inc., and its subsidiaries and affiliated companies, unless the context indicates otherwise.
The Company is a global provider of knowledge and knowledge-enabled services that improve outcomes in areas of research, professional practice and education. Through the Research segment, the Company provides digital and print scientific, technical, medical and scholarly journals, reference works, books, database services and advertising. The Professional Development segment provides digital and print books, employment talent solutions, online learning, assessment and training services, and test prep and certification. In Education, the Company provides print and digital content, and education solutions including online program management services for higher education institutions and course management tools for instructors and students. The Company takes full advantage of its content from all three core businesses in developing and cross-marketing products to its diverse customer base of researchers, professionals, students, and educators. The use of technology enables the Company to make its content efficiently more accessible to its customers around the world. The Company’s operations are primarily located in the United States, Canada, Europe, Asia, and Australia.
Further description of the Company’s business is incorporated herein by reference in the Management’s Discussion and Analysis section of this 10-K.
Employees
As of April 30, 2015, the Company employed approximately 4,900 persons on a full-time equivalent basis worldwide.
Financial Information About Business Segments
The note entitled “Segment Information” of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements and pages 15 through 50 of the Management’s Discussion and Analysis section of this Form 10-K are incorporated herein by reference.
Financial Information About Foreign and Domestic Operations and Export Sales
The note entitled “Segment Information” of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements and pages 25 and 26 of the Management’s Discussion and Analysis section of this Form 10-K are incorporated herein by reference.


Risk Factors
You should carefully consider all of the information set forth in this Form 10-K, including the following risk factors, before deciding to invest in any of the Company’s securities. The risks below are not the only ones the Company faces. Additional risks not currently known to the Company or that the Company presently deems immaterial may also impair its business operations. The Company’s business, financial condition, results of operations or prospects could be materially adversely affected by any of these risks.
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Cautionary Notice Regarding Forward-Looking Statements "Safe Harbor" Statement Underunder the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995:

This Form 10-K forreport contains "forward-looking statements" within the year ended April 30, 2015 contains certainmeaning of the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 concerning our business, consolidated financial condition and results of operations. The Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC") encourages companies to disclose forward-looking information so that investors can better understand a company's future prospects and make informed investment decisions. Forward-looking statements are subject to risks and uncertainties, many of which are outside our control, which could cause actual results to differ materially from these statements. Therefore, you should not rely on any of these forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements can be identified by such words as "anticipates," "believes," "plan," "assumes," "could," "should," "estimates," "expects," "intends," "potential," "seek," "predict," "may," "will" and similar references to future periods. All statements other than statements of historical facts included in this report regarding our strategies, prospects, financial condition, operations, costs, plans and objectives are forward-looking statements. Examples of forward-looking statements concerning the Company’sinclude, among others, statements we make regarding our fiscal year 2019 outlook, operations, performance, and financial condition. In addition, the Company provides forward-looking statements in other materials released to the public as well as oral forward-looking information. Statements which contain the words anticipate, expect, believes, estimate, project, forecast, plan, outlook, intend and similar expressions constitute forward-looking statements that involve risk and uncertainties. Reliance should not be placed on forward-looking statements, as actual results may differ materially from those in any forward-looking statements.
Any such forward-looking statements are based upon a number of assumptions and estimates that are inherently subject to uncertainties and contingencies, many of which are beyond theour control, of the Company, and are subject to change based on many important factors. Such factors include, but are not limited to (i) the level of investment in new technologies and products; (ii) subscriber renewal rates for the Company’sour journals; (iii) the financial stability and liquidity of journal subscription agents; (iv) the consolidation of book wholesalers and retail accounts; (v) the market position and financial stability of key retailers; (vi) the seasonal nature of the Company’s educationour educational business and the impact of the used-book market; (vii) worldwide economic and political conditions; (viii) the Company’sour ability to protect itsour copyrights and other intellectual property worldwide; (ix) theour ability of the Company to successfully integrate acquired operations and realize expected opportunities and (x) other factors detailed from time to time in the Company’sour filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The Company undertakesSEC. We undertake no obligation to update or revise any such forward-looking statements to reflect subsequent events or circumstances.

OperatingPlease refer to Part I, Item 1A, "Risk Factors," of our Annual Report on Form 10-K for important factors that we believe could cause actual results to differ materially from those in our forward-looking statements. Any forward-looking statement made by us in this report is based only on information currently available to us and Administrative Costs and Expensesspeaks only as of the date on which it is made. We undertake no obligation to publicly update any forward-looking statement, whether written or oral, that may be made from time to time, whether as a result of new information, future developments or otherwise.

Non-GAAP Financial Measures:

We present financial information that conforms to Generally Accepted Accounting Principles in the United States of America ("U.S. GAAP"). We also present financial information that does not conform to U.S. GAAP, which we refer to as non-GAAP.

In general,this report, we may present the following non-GAAP performance measures:

Adjusted Earnings Per Share "(Adjusted EPS)";
Free Cash Flow less product development spending;
Adjusted Operating Income and margin;
Adjusted Contribution to Profit and margin; and
Results on a constant currency basis.

Management uses these non-GAAP performance measures as supplemental indicators of our operating performance and financial position as well for internal reporting and forecasting purposes, when publicly providing its outlook, to evaluate our performance and calculate incentive compensation. We present these non-GAAP performance measures in addition to U.S. GAAP financial results because we believe that these non-GAAP performance measures provide useful information to certain investors and financial analysts for operational trends and comparisons across accounting periods. The use of these non-GAAP performance measures provides a consistent basis to evaluate operating profitability and performance trends by excluding items that we do not consider to be controllable activities for this purpose.

For example:
Adjusted EPS, Adjusted Operating Profit, and Adjusted Contribution to Profit provide a more comparable basis to analyze operating results and earnings and are measures commonly used by shareholders to measure our performance.
Free Cash Flow less Product Development Spending helps assess our ability, over the long term, to create value for our shareholders as it represents cash available to repay debt, pay common dividends and fund share repurchases and new acquisitions.
Results on a constant currency basis removes distortion from the effects of foreign currency movements to provide better comparability of our business trends from period to period. We measure our performance before the impact of foreign currency (or at "constant currency"), which means that we apply the same foreign currency exchange rates for the current and equivalent prior period.

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In addition, we have historically provided these or similar non-GAAP performance measures and understand that some investors and financial analysts find this information helpful in analyzing our operating margins, and net income and comparing our financial performance to that of our peer companies and competitors. Based on interactions with investors, we also believe that our non-GAAP performance measures are regarded as useful to our investors as supplemental to our U.S. GAAP financial results, and that there is no confusion regarding the adjustments or our operating performance to our investors due to the comprehensive nature of our disclosures. We have not provided our 2019 outlook for the most directly comparable U.S. GAAP financial measures, as they are not available without unreasonable effort due to the high variability, complexity, and low visibility with respect to certain items, including restructuring charges and credits, gains and losses on foreign currency, and other gains and losses. These items are uncertain, depend on various factors, and could be material to our consolidated results computed in accordance with U.S. GAAP.

Non-GAAP performance measures do not have standardized meanings prescribed by U.S. GAAP and therefore may not be comparable to the calculation of similar measures used by other companies, and should not be viewed as alternatives to measures of financial results under U.S. GAAP. The adjusted metrics have limitations as analytical tools and should not be considered in isolation from or as a substitute for U.S. GAAP information. It does not purport to represent any significantsimilarly titled U.S. GAAP information and is not an indicator of our performance under U.S. GAAP. Non-U.S. GAAP financial metrics that we present may not be comparable with similarly titled measures used by others. Investors are cautioned against placing undue reliance on these non-U.S. GAAP measures.

PART I

Item 1.Business

The Company, founded in 1807, was incorporated in the state of New York on January 15, 1904. Throughout this report, when we refer to "Wiley," the "Company," "we," "our," or "us," we are referring to John Wiley & Sons, Inc. and all of our subsidiaries, except where the context indicates otherwise.

Please refer to Part II, Item 8, "Financial Statements and Supplementary Data," for financial information about the Company and its subsidiaries, which is incorporated herein by reference. Also, when we cross reference to a "Note," we are referring to our "Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements," unless the context indicates otherwise.

We are a global research and learning company. Through the Research segment, we provide scientific, technical, medical, and scholarly journals, as well as related content and services, to academic, corporate, and government libraries, learned societies, and individual researchers and other professionals. The Publishing segment provides scientific, professional, and education books and related content in print and digital formats, as well as test preparation services and course workflow tools, to libraries, corporations, students, professionals, and researchers.  The Solutions segment provides online program management services for higher education institutions and learning, development, and assessment services for businesses and professionals. Our operations are primarily located in the United States ("U.S."), Canada, United Kingdom ("U.K."), Germany, Singapore, and Australia.

Business growth strategies include driving pricing and volume growth from existing journal and book brands and titles, as well as learning services related to education and professional development, the development of new journal titles or through publishing partnerships, technology and content acquisitions which complement our existing businesses, designing and implementing new methods of delivering products to our customers, and the development of new products and services.

Business Segments

We report our segment information in accordance with the provisions of Financial Accounting Standards Board Accounting Standards Codification Topic 280, "Segment Reporting" ("FASB ASC Topic 280"). Our segment reporting structure consists of three reportable segments, which are listed below, and a Corporate category:
Research;
Publishing; and
Solutions

Research:

Research's mission is to support researchers, professionals and learners in the discovery and use of research knowledge to help them achieve their goals in research, learning and practice.  Research provides scientific, technical, medical, and scholarly journals, as well as related content and services, to academic, corporate, and government libraries, learned societies, and individual researchers and other professionals. Journal publishing areas include the physical sciences and engineering, health sciences, social sciences and humanities and life sciences. Research also includes our acquisition of Atypon Systems, Inc. ("Atypon"), a publishing software and service provider that enables scholarly and professional societies and publishers to deliver, host, enhance, market, and manage their content on the web through the Literatum platform. 

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Research's customers include academic, corporate, government, and public libraries, funders of research, researchers, scientists, clinicians, engineers and technologists, scholarly and professional societies, and students and professors. Research's products are sold and distributed globally in digital and print formats through multiple channels, including research libraries and library consortia, independent subscription agents, direct sales to professional society members, and other customers. Publishing centers include Australia, China, Germany, India, the United Kingdom, and the United States. Research's revenue accounted for approximately 52% of our consolidated revenue in fiscal year 2018.

Research's major products are: Journal Subscriptions, Licensing, Reprints, Backfiles, and Other, Open Access and Publishing Technology Services (Atypon). The graphs below present Research revenue by product type for fiscal years 2018 and 2017:


Key growth strategies for the Research business include evolving and developing new licensing models for our institutional customers, developing new open access products and revenue streams, focusing resources on high-growth and emerging markets, and developing new digital products, services, and workflow solutions to meet the needs of researchers, authors, societies, and corporate customers.

Journal Subscriptions

We publish approximately 1,700 academic research journals. We sell journal subscriptions directly through our sales representatives, indirectly through independent subscription agents, through promotional campaigns, and through memberships in professional societies for those journals that are sponsored by societies. Journal subscriptions, making up approximately 38% of our consolidated fiscal year 2018 total company revenue, are primarily licensed through contracts for digital content available online through Wiley Online Library. In March 2018, we migrated our Wiley Online Library platform to our Literatum platform, which we acquired as part of our purchase of Atypon in fiscal year 2017. Contracts are negotiated by us directly with customers or their subscription agents. Licenses range from one to three years in duration and typically cover calendar years. Print journals are generally mailed to subscribers directly from independent printers. We do not own or manage printing facilities. Subscription revenue is generally collected in advance and deferred until we have fulfilled our obligation to the customer, at which time the revenue is earned.

Approximately 50% of Journal Subscription revenue is derived from publishing rights owned by us. Publishing alliances also play a major role in Research's success. Approximately 50% of Journal Subscription revenue is derived from publication rights that are owned by professional societies and published by us pursuant to a long-term contract (generally 5–10 years) or owned jointly with a professional society. These society alliances bring mutual benefit, with the societies gaining Wiley's publishing, marketing, sales, and distribution expertise, while Wiley benefits from being affiliated with prestigious societies and their members. Societies that sponsor or own such journals generally receive a royalty and/or other financial consideration. We may procure editorial services from such societies on a pre-negotiated fee basis. We also enter into agreements with outside independent editors of journals that define the duties of the editors and the fees and expenses for their services. Contributors of articles to our journal portfolio transfer publication rights to us or a professional society, as applicable. We publish the journals of many prestigious societies, including the American Cancer Society, the American Heart Association, the British Journal of Surgery Society, the European Molecular Biology Organization, the American Anthropological Association, the American Geophysical Union, and the German Chemical Society.

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Literatum, our online publishing platform for our Research segment, delivers integrated access to over 7 million articles from 1,700 journals, as well as 19,000 online books and hundreds of multi-volume reference works, laboratory protocols and databases. Wiley Online Library, which is delivered through our Literatum platform, provides the user with intuitive navigation, enhanced discoverability, expanded functionality, and a range of personalization options. Access to abstracts is free and full content is accessible through licensing agreements or as individual article purchases. Large portions of the content are provided free or at nominal cost to nations in the developing world through partnerships with certain non-profit organizations. Our online publishing platforms provide revenue growth opportunities through new applications and business models, online advertising, deeper market penetration, and individual sales and pay-per-view options. The Literatum platform hosts over 40% of the world's English language journals.

In 2017, Wiley saw an increase in impact factors across more than half of its indexed titles. An impact factor is an industry measure of the costsimportance of goodsa journal within its field and is determined based on the number of citations received by the journal, from other journals. According to the 2016 Journal Citation Reports ("JCR"), re-released in September 2017 by Clarivate Analytics, 66% of Wiley journals increased their impact factor between 2015 and 2016.  Wiley had 1,205 journals indexed (73% of the Wiley portfolio), with 11 Wiley titles receiving their first impact factor in this year's JCR release. In addition, 20 Wiley journals achieved a top-category rank, including CA:A Cancer Journal for Clinicians (Impact Factor of 187.040, ranked #1 in Oncology), World Psychiatry (Impact Factor of 26.561, ranked #1 in Psychiatry – an increase of 31% on last year) and WIREs Computational Molecular Science (Impact Factor of 14.016, ranked #1 in Mathematical & Computational Biology). The Clarivate Analytics index is a barometer of journal influence across the research community.

Licensing, Reprints, Backfiles, and Other

Licensing, Reprints, Backfiles, and Other includes advertising, backfile sales, the licensing of publishing rights, journal and article reprints, and individual article sales. We generate advertising revenue from print and online journal subscription products, our online publishing platform, Literatum, online events such as webinars and virtual conferences, community interest Web sites such as spectroscopyNOW.com, and other Web sites.  A backfile license provides access to a historical collection of Wiley journals, generally for a one-time fee. We also engage with international publishers and receive licensing revenue from photocopies, reproductions, translations, and other digital uses of our content. Journal and article reprints are primarily used by pharmaceutical companies and other industries for marketing and promotional purposes. Through the Article Select and PayPerView programs, we provide fee-based access to non-subscribed journal articles, content, book chapters, and major reference work articles. The Research business is also a provider of content and services providedin evidence-based medicine ("EBM"). Through our alliance with The Cochrane Collaboration, we publish The Cochrane Library, a premier source of high-quality independent evidence to inform healthcare decision-making. EBM facilitates the effective management of patients through clinical expertise informed by best practice evidence that is derived from medical literature.

Open Access

Under the Open Access business model, accepted research articles are published subject to payment of Author Publication Charges ("APCs"). All Open Access articles are immediately free to access online. Contributors of Open Access articles retain many rights and typically license their work under terms that permit re-use.

Open Access offers authors choices in how to share and disseminate their work, and it serves the needs of researchers who may be required by their research funder to make articles freely accessible without embargo. APCs are typically paid by the individual author or by the author's funder, and payments are often mediated by the author's institution. We provide specific workflows and infrastructure to authors, funders, and institutions to support the requirements of the Open Access model.

We offer two Open Access publishing models. The first of these is Hybrid Open Access where, upon payment of an APC, authors publishing in the majority of our paid subscription journals are offered, after article acceptance, the opportunity to make their individual research article openly available through the OnlineOpen service.

The second offering of the Open Access model is a growing portfolio of fully open access journals, also known as Gold Open Access Journals, in which all accepted articles are published subject to receipt of an APC. All Open Access articles are subject to the Companysame rigorous peer-review process applied to our subscription-based journals. As with our subscription portfolio, a number of the Gold Open Access Journals are published under contract for, or in partnership with, prestigious societies, including the American Geophysical Union, the American Heart Association, the European Molecular Biology Organization and the British Ecological Society. The Open Access portfolio spans life, physical, medical and social sciences and includes a choice of high impact journals and broad-scope titles that offer a responsive, author-centered service.

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Publishing:

Our Publishing segment acquires, develops, and publishes scientific, professional and education books and related content, as well as test preparation services and course workflow tools, to libraries, corporations, students, professionals, and researchers. Communities served include business, finance, accounting, workplace learning, management, leadership, technology, behavioral health, engineering/ architecture, science and medicine, and education.  Products are developed in print and digitally for worldwide distribution through multiple channels, including chain and online booksellers, libraries, colleges and universities, corporations, direct to consumer, Web sites, distributor networks and other online applications. Publishing centers include Australia, Germany, India, the United Kingdom, and the United States. Publishing accounted for approximately 34% of our consolidated revenue in fiscal year 2018.

Publishing revenue by product type are: STM (Scientific, Technical and Medical) and Professional Publishing, Education Publishing, Test Preparation and Certification, Course Workflow (WileyPLUS), and Licensing, Distribution, Advertising and Other. The graphs below present Publishing revenue by product type for fiscal years 2018 and 2017:

Key growth strategies for the Publishing business include developing and acquiring products and services to drive corporate development and professional career development, developing leading brands and franchises, executing strategic acquisitions and partnerships, and innovating digital book formats while expanding their global discoverability and distribution. We continue to implement strategies to manage declines in print revenue through cost improvement initiatives and focusing our efforts on growing its digital lines of business. We are continuing to perform portfolio reviews and workforce realignment, restructuring, and operational excellence initiatives. In certain areas, we will explore new formats or promote digital-only, and in other areas, we may rationalize our portfolio. Our approach is to continue to realign our cost structure to help mitigate the market changes that are contributing to revenue decline, and to sharpen our focus on high performing areas and digital opportunities, while improving operating efficiency.

Publishing

Book products accounted for approximately 26% of our consolidated fiscal year 2018 revenue. Categories include STM, Professional, and Education Publishing.

STM books are sold and distributed globally in digital and print formats through multiple channels, including research libraries and library consortia, independent subscription agents, direct sales to professional society members, bookstores, online booksellers, and other customers.

Professional books, which include business and finance, technology, and other professional categories, as well as the For Dummies brand, are sold to bookstores and online booksellers serving the general public, wholesalers who supply such bookstores, warehouse clubs, college bookstores, individual practitioners, industrial organizations and government agencies. We employ sales representatives who call upon independent bookstores, national and regional chain bookstores, and wholesalers. Sales of professional books also result from direct mail campaigns, telemarketing, online access, advertising, and reviews in periodicals.

Education textbooks and related supplementary material and digital products are sold primarily to bookstores and online booksellers serving both for-profit and nonprofit educational institutions (primarily colleges and universities), and direct-to-students. We employ sales representatives who call on faculty responsible for selecting books to be used in courses, and on the bookstores that serve such institutions and their students. The textbook business is seasonal, with the majority of textbook sales occurring during the July-through- October and December-through-January periods. There are active used and rental print textbook markets, which adversely affect the Company’s costssale of operation.new textbooks. We are exploring opportunities to expand into the print rental market through partnerships.

Book sales are generally made on a returnable basis with certain restrictions. We provide for estimated future returns on sales made during the year based on historical return experience and current market trends.

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Materials for book publications are obtained from authors throughout most of the world, utilizing the efforts of an editorial staff, outside editorial advisors, and advisory boards. Most materials are originated by the authors themselves or as a result of suggestion or solicitations by editors and advisors. We enter into agreements with authors that state the terms and conditions under which the materials will be published, the name in which the copyright will be registered, the basis for any royalties, and other matters. Most of the authors are compensated with royalties, which vary depending on the nature of the product. We may make advance royalty payments against future royalties to authors of certain publications. Royalty advances are reviewed for recoverability and a reserve for loss is maintained, if appropriate.

We continue to add new titles, revise existing titles, and discontinue the sale of others in the normal course of our business, and we also create adaptations of original content for specific markets based on customer demand. Our general practice is to revise our textbooks approximately every three years, if warranted, and to revise other titles as appropriate. Subscription-based products are updated on a more frequent basis.

We generally contract with independent printers and binderies globally for their services. Management believes that adequate printing and binding facilities and sources of paper and other required materials are available to it, and that it is not dependent upon any single supplier.

In fiscal year 2016, we entered into an agreement to outsource our US-based book distribution operations to Cengage Learning, with the continued aim of improving efficiency in our distribution activities and moving to a more variable cost model.  As of April 30, 2018, we had only one global warehousing and distribution facility remaining, which is in the United Kingdom.

We develop content in a digital format that can be used for both digital and print products, resulting in productivity and efficiency savings, and enabling print-on-demand delivery. Book content is available online through Wiley Online Library (delivered through our Literatum platform), WileyPLUS, Wiley Custom Select, and other proprietary platforms. Digital books are delivered to intermediaries, including Amazon, Apple, Google and Ingram/Vital-Source, for re-sale to individuals in various industry-standard formats, which are now the preferred deliverable for licensees of all types, including foreign language publishers. Digital books are also licensed to libraries through aggregators. Specialized formats for digital textbooks go to distributors servicing the academic market, and digital book collections are sold by subscription through independent third-party aggregators servicing distinct communities. Custom deliverables are provided to corporations, institutions, and associations to educate their employees, generate leads for their products, and extend their brands. Content from digital books is also used to create online articles, mobile apps, newsletters, and promotional collateral. This continual re-use of content improves margins, speeds delivery, and helps satisfy a wide range of customer needs. Our online presence not only enables us to deliver content online, but also to sell more books. The Companygrowth of online booksellers benefits us because they provide unlimited virtual "shelf space" for our entire backlist.

Publishing alliances and franchise products are important to our strategy. Professional publishing alliance partners include the AICPA, the CFA Institute, ACT (American College Test), IEEE, American Institute of Chemical Engineers, and many others.  Education publishing alliance partners include Microsoft®, Blackboard, Instructure, and the Culinary Institute of America. The ability to join Wiley's product development, sales, marketing, distribution, and technology with a partner's content, technology, and/or brand name has contributed to our success.

We also promote active and growing custom professional and education publishing programs. Our custom professional publications are used by professional organizations for internal promotional or incentive programs and include digital and print books written specifically for a significant investment in its employee basecustomer and customizations of existing publications to include custom cover art, such as imprints, messages, and slogans. More specific are customized For Dummies publications, which leverage the power of this well-known brand to meet the specific information needs of a wide range of organizations around the world. Our custom education publishing program offers an array of tools and services designed to put the creation of customized content in instructors' hands to create high-quality, affordable education solutions tailored to meet individual classroom needs. Through Wiley Custom Select, an online custom textbook system, instructors can build print and digital materials tailored to their specific course needs and add their own content to create a customized solution.

Course Workflow (WileyPLUS)

We offer high-quality online learning solutions, including WileyPLUS, a research-based, online environment for effective teaching and learning that is integrated with a complete digital textbook. WileyPLUS improves student learning through instant feedback, personalized learning plans, and self-evaluation tools, as well as a full range of course-oriented activities, including online planning, presentations, study, homework, and testing. In selected courses, WileyPLUS includes a personalized adaptive learning component, Orion, which is based on cognitive science. Orion helps to build student proficiency on topics while improving the effectiveness of their study time. It assists educators in identifying areas that need reinforcement and measures student engagement and proficiency throughout the course. WileyPLUS revenue is deferred and recognized over the timeframe that each student is enrolled in the course.

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Test Preparation and Certification

The Company offers competitive salariesTest Preparation and benefitsCertification business represents learning solutions and training activities that are delivered to customers directly through online digital delivery platforms.  Products include CPAExcel, a modular, digital platform comprised of online self-study, videos, mobile apps, and sophisticated planning tools to help professionals prepare for the CPA exam, and test preparation products for the CFA®, CMA, CIA®, CMT®, FRN®, FINRA, Banking, and PMP® exams. Revenue for these products and services is deferred until our obligation has been performed, typically when an online training program has been completed or over the timeframe covered by a license to use the online training and study materials.

Licensing, Distribution, Advertising, and Other

Marketing and distribution services are made available to other publishers under agency arrangements. We also engage in order to attractco-publishing titles with international publishers and retain the highly skilled workforce needed to sustainreceive licensing revenue from photocopies, reproductions, translations, and developdigital uses of our content. Wiley also realizes advertising revenue from branded Web sites (e.g., Dummies.com, etc.) and online applications.

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Solutions:

Our Solutions segment provides online program management services for higher education institutions and learning, development, and assessment services for businesses and professionals. Key growth strategies include developing new products and services required for growth. Employmentexisting university partners, increasing enrollments for online program management programs, signing new and benefit costsprestigious university partners, and developing new digital learning solutions by integrating our professional assessment products and services with our Corporate Learning content and technology.

Solutions revenue by product type are affectedEducation Services Online Program Management ("OPM"), Professional Assessment, and Corporate Learning. The graphs below present Solutions revenue by competitiveproduct type for fiscal years 2018 and 2017:
Education Services (OPM)

As student demand for online degree and certificate programs continues to increase, traditional institutions are partnering with OPM providers to develop and support these programs. Education Services (OPM) include market conditionsresearch, marketing, student recruitment, enrollment support, proactive retention support, academic services to design courses, faculty support, and access to the Engage Learning Management System, which facilitates the online education experience. Graduate degree programs include Business Administration, Finance, Accounting, Healthcare, Engineering, Communications, and others.  Revenue is derived from pre-negotiated contracts with institutions that provide for qualified individuals,a share of tuition generated from students who enroll in a program. Education Services (OPM) revenue is deferred and factors such as healthcare, pension and retirement benefit costs. The Companyrecognized over the timeframe that each student is a large paper purchaser, and paper prices may fluctuate significantly from time-to-time. To reduceenrolled in the impact of paper price increases, the Company relies upon multiple suppliers. The Company from time-to-time may hedge the exposure to fluctuations in price by entering into multi-year supply contracts.online degree program. As of April 30, 2015,2018, the Company’s consolidated paper inventory wasEducation Services (OPM) business had 34 university partners and 239 degree programs under contract.

Corporate Learning

The Corporate Learning business offers online learning and training solutions for global corporations, universities, and small and medium-sized enterprises, which are sold on a subscription or fee basis. Learning formats and modules on topics such as leadership, diversity, value creation, client orientation, change and corporate strategy are delivered on a cloud-based Learning Management System ("LMS") platform that hosts over 20,000 content assets (videos, digital learning modules, written files, etc.) in 17 languages. Its Mohive offering also provides a collaborative e-learning publishing and program creation system. Revenue growth is derived from legacy markets, such as France, England, and other European markets, and newer markets, such as the U.S. and Brazil. In addition, content and LMS offerings are continuously refreshed and expanded to serve a wider variety of customer needs.

Professional Assessment

Our professional assessment services include pre-hire screening and post-hire personality assessments, which are delivered to business customers through online digital delivery platforms, either directly or through an authorized distributor network of independent consultants, trainers, and coaches. Wiley's leadership assessment offerings also include Kouzes and Posner's Leadership Practices Inventory® and The Five Behaviors of a Cohesive TeamTM.

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Our assessment tools enable employers to optimize candidate selections and develop the full potential of their employees. These solutions include pre-hire assessments, including those designed to measure and match personality, knowledge, skills, managerial fit, loyalty, and values, and post-hire assessments, focused on measuring sales and managerial effectiveness, employee performance, and career potential. Professional Assessment revenue is deferred until the obligation has been performed, typically when an online assessment has been completed.

Employees

As of April 30, 2018, we employed approximately $4.7 million and there were no outstanding multi-year supply contracts.5,000 persons on a full-time equivalent basis worldwide.
 
ProtectionFinancial Information About Business Segments and Foreign and Domestic Operations and Export Sales

The information set forth in Note 18, "Segment Information," of Intellectual Property Rightsthe Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements and Item 7, "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations," of this Form 10-K are incorporated herein by reference.

Substantially
Item 1A.Risk Factors

You should carefully consider all of the Company’sinformation set forth in this Form 10-K, including the following risk factors, before deciding to invest in any of our securities. The risks below are the most significant risks we face, but are not the only risk factors we face. Additional risks not currently known to us or that we presently deem insignificant could impact our consolidated financial position and results of operations. Our business, consolidated financial position, and results of operations could be materially adversely affected by any of these risks. The trading price of our securities could decline due to any of these risks, and investors in our securities may lose all or part of their investment.

If we are unable to introduce new technologies, products, and services, our ability to be profitable may be adversely affected.

We must continue to invest in technology and other innovations to adapt and add value to our products and services to remain competitive. This is particularly true in the current environment, where investment in new technology is ongoing and there are rapid changes in the products competitors are offering, the products our customers are seeking, and our sales and distribution channels. In some cases, investments will take the form of internal development; in others, they may take the form of an acquisition. There are uncertainties whenever developing or acquiring new products and services, and it is often possible that such new products and services may not be launched, or, if launched, may not be profitable or as profitable as existing products and services.

The demand for digital and lower cost books could impact our sales volumes and pricing in an adverse way.

A common trend facing each of our businesses is the digitization of content and proliferation of distribution channels through the internet and other electronic means, which are replacing traditional print formats. The trend to digital content has also created contraction in the print book retail market which increases the risk of bankruptcy for certain retail customers, potentially leading to the disruption of short-term product supply to consumers, as well as potential bad debt write-offs. New distribution channels, such as digital formats, the internet, online retailers, and growing delivery platforms (e.g. tablets and e-readers), combined with the concentration of retailer power, present both risks and opportunities to our traditional publishing models, potentially impacting both sales volumes and pricing.

As the market has shifted to digital products, customer expectations for lower-priced products have increased due to customer awareness of reductions in production costs and the availability of free or low-cost digital content and products.  As a result, there has been pressure to sell digital versions of products at prices below their print versions.  Increased customer demand for lower prices could reduce our revenue.

We publish educational content for undergraduate, graduate, and advanced placement students, lifelong learners, and in Australia, for secondary school students. Due to growing student demand for less expensive textbooks, many college bookstores, online retailers and other entities offer used or rental textbooks to students at lower prices than new textbooks. The internet has made the used and rental textbook markets more efficient and has significantly increased student access to used and rental books.  Further expansion of the used and rental book markets could further adversely affect our sales of print textbooks, subsequently affecting our consolidated financial position and results of operations.

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A reduction in enrollment at colleges and universities could adversely affect the demand for our higher education products.

Enrollment in U.S. colleges and universities can be adversely affected by many factors, including changes in government and private student loan and grant programs, uncertainty about current and future economic conditions, increases in tuition, general decreases in family income and net worth, and a perception of uncertain job prospects for recent graduates. In addition, enrollment levels at colleges and universities outside the United States are influenced by global and local economic factors, local political conditions, and other factors that make predicting foreign enrollment levels difficult. Reductions in expected levels of enrollment at colleges and universities both within and outside the United States could adversely affect demand for our higher education products, which could adversely impact our consolidated financial position and results of operations.

The competitive pressures we face in our business, as well as our ability to retain our business relationships with our authors and professional societies, could adversely affect our consolidated financial position and results of operations.

We operate in highly competitive markets. Success and continued growth depend greatly on developing new products and the means to deliver them in an environment of rapid technological change. Attracting new authors and professional societies while retaining our existing business relationships is critical to our success. If we are unable to retain our existing business relationships with authors and professional societies, this could have an adverse impact on our consolidated financial position and results of operations.

Our intellectual property rights may not be protected, which could adversely affect our consolidated financial position and results of operations.

A substantial portion of our publications are protected by copyright, held either in the Company’sour name, in the name of the author of the work, or in the name of a sponsoring professional society. Such copyrights protect the Company’sour exclusive right to publish the work in many countries abroad for specified periods, in most cases, the author’sauthor's life plus 70 years, but in any event, a minimum of 50 years for works published after 1978. TheOur ability of the Company to continue to achieve itsour expected results depends, in part, upon the Company’sour ability to protect itsour intellectual property rights. The Company’sOur consolidated financial position and results of operations may be adversely affected by lack of legal and/or technological protections for its intellectual property in some jurisdictions and markets.

Adverse publicity could negatively impact our reputation, which could adversely affect our consolidated financial position and results of operations.
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Maintaining the Company’s Reputation
The Company’sOur professional customers worldwide rely upon many of the Company’sour publications to perform their jobs. It is imperative that the Companywe consistently demonstrates itsdemonstrate our ability to maintain the integrity of the information included in itsour publications. Adverse publicity, whether valid or not, valid, may reduce demand for our publications and adversely affect our consolidated financial position and results of operations.

In our journal publishing business we have a trade concentration and credit risk related to subscription agents, and in our book business the Company’s publications.industry has a concentration of customers in national, regional, and online bookstore chains. Changes in the financial position and liquidity of our subscription agents and customers, could adversely impact our consolidated financial position and results of operations.
Trade Concentration and Credit Risk

In the journal publishing business, subscriptions are primarily sourced through journal subscription agents who, acting as agents for library customers, facilitate ordering by consolidating the subscription orders/billings of each subscriber with various publishers. Cash is generally collected in advance from subscribers by the subscription agents and is principally remitted to the Companyus between the months of December and April. Although at fiscal year-end the Companywe had minimal credit risk exposure to these agents, future calendar-year subscription receipts from these agents are highly dependent on their financial conditionposition and liquidity. Subscription agents account for approximately 23%20% of total annual consolidated revenue and no one agent accounts for more than 10% of total annual consolidated revenue.

Swets Information Services, a global library subscription agent based in Amsterdam, declared bankruptcy in late September. While the bankruptcy had no material impact on the Company’s financial statements, future sourcing of journal subscriptions may be temporarily impacted. The impact to calendar year 2015 journal subscription revenue is expected to be approximately $5 million.
The Company’s non-journal subscriptionOur book business is not dependent upon a single customer.customer; however, the industry is concentrated in national, regional, and online bookstore chains. Although no one non-journalbook customer accounts for more than 8% of total consolidated revenue and 12%8% of accounts receivable at April 30, 2015,2018, the top 10 non-journalbook customers account for approximately 17%13% of total consolidated revenue and approximately 29%15% of accounts receivable at April 30, 2015. The Company maintains2018. We maintain approximately $25 million of trade credit insurance, subject to certain limitations, covering balances due from certain named customers, which expires in May, 2016.June 2019.

Changes in Lawslaws and Regulations That Could Adversely Affect the Company’s Businessregulations, including regulations related to open access, could adversely impact our consolidated financial position and results of operations.

The Company maintainsWe maintain operations in Asia, Australia, Canada, Europe, and the United States. The conduct of our business, including the sourcing of content, distribution, sales, marketing, and advertising, is subject to various laws and regulations administered by governments around the world. Changes in laws, regulations, or government policies, including tax regulations and accounting standards, may adversely affect the Company’sour future consolidated financial results.position and results of operations.

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The scientific research publishing industry generates much of its revenue from paid customer subscriptions to online and print journal content. There is debate within government, academic, and library communities whether such journal content should be made available for free, immediately or following a period of embargo after publication, referred to as “open access”."open access," For instance, certain governments are considering newand privately held funding bodies have implemented mandates that would require journal articles derived from government-funded research to be made available to the public at no cost after an embargo period. Open access can be achieved in two ways: Green, which enables authors to publish articles in subscription based journals and self–archive the author accepted version of the article for free public use after an embargo period, and Gold, which enables authors to publish their articles in journals that provide immediate free access to the final version of the article on the publisher’s websitepublisher's Web site, and elsewhere under permissive licensing terms, following payment of an article publication fee.Article Publication Charge ("APC"). These mandates have the potential to put pressure on subscription-based publications and favor business models funded by author fees or government and private subsidies.publications. If such regulations are widely implemented, the Company’s operatingour consolidated financial position and results of operations could be adversely affected.

To date, the majority of governments that have taken a position on Openopen access have favored the green model and have generally specified embargo periods of twelve months. The publishing community generally takes the view that this period should be sufficient to protect subscription revenues, provided that publishers’publishers' platforms offer sufficient added value to the article. Governments in Europe have been more supportive of the gold model, which thus far is generating incremental revenue for publishers with active open access programs. A number of European administrations are showing interest in a business model which combines the purchasing of subscription content with the purchase of open access publishing for authors in their country. This development removes an element of risk by fixing revenues from that market, provided that the terms, price, and rate of transition negotiated are acceptable.

A disruption or loss of data sources could limit our collection and use of certain kinds of information, which could adversely impact our communication with our customers.
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A number of our businesses rely extensively upon content and data from external sources. Data is obtained from public records, governmental authorities, customers and other information companies, including competitors. Legal regulations, such as the European Union's General Data Protection Regulation ("GDPR"), relating to internet communications, privacy and data protection, e-commerce, information governance, and use of public records, are becoming more prevalent worldwide. The disruption or loss of data sources, either because of changes in the law or because data suppliers decide not to supply them, may impose limits on our collection and use of certain kinds of information about individuals and our ability to communicate such information effectively with our customers. In addition, GDPR imposes a strict data protection compliance regime with severe penalties of up to 4% of worldwide revenue or €20 million, whichever is greater.

We may not realize the anticipated cost savings and benefits from, or our business may be disrupted by, our business transformation and restructuring efforts.
Business Transformation and Restructuring
The Company is transforming portions of itsWe continue to transform our business from a traditional publishing model to being a global provider of content-enabled solutions with a focus on digital products and services. The recentacquisitions of Deltak.edu, LLC (“Deltak”("Deltak"), Inscape Holdings, Inc. (“Inscape”), Efficient Learning Systems, Inc. (“ELS”("Inscape"), Profiles International (“Profiles”("Profiles"), and CrossKnowledge Group Limited (“CrossKnowledge”("CrossKnowledge") acquisitions,comprise our Solutions reporting segment and, along with the divestment of the Company’s consumer publishing programs, areAtypon Systems, Inc. ("Atypon") in our Research segment, which was acquired in September 2016, represent examples of strategic initiatives that were implemented as part of the Company’sour business transformation. The CompanyWe will continue to explore opportunities to develop new business models and enhance the efficiency of its organizational structure. The rapid pace and scope of change increases the risk that not all of our strategic initiatives will deliver the expected benefits within the anticipated timeframes. In addition, these efforts may somewhat disrupt the Company’sour business activities, which could adversely affect its operating results.our consolidated financial position and results of operations.

In fiscal year 2013, the Company initiated a programWe continue to restructure and realign itsour cost base with current and anticipated future market conditions. Significant risks associated with these actions that may impair the Company’sour ability to achieve the anticipated cost reductionssavings or that may disrupt itsour business include delays in the implementation of anticipated workforce reductions in highly regulated locations outside of the U.S., particularly in Europe and Asia; decreases in employee morale;morale, the failure to meet operational targets due to the loss of key employees;employees, and disruptions of third parties to whom we have outsourced business functions. In addition, the Company’sour ability to achieve the anticipated cost savings and other benefits from these actions within the expected timeframe is subject to many estimates and assumptions. These estimates and assumptions are subject to significant economic, competitive, and other uncertainties, some of which are beyond our control. If these estimates and assumptions are incorrect, if we experience delays, or if other unforeseen events occur, our business and consolidated financial position and results of operations could be adversely affected.

OutsourcingWe may not realize the anticipated cost savings and processing efficiencies associated with the outsourcing of Business Processescertain business processes.

The Company hasWe have outsourced certain business functions, principally in technology, content management, printing, manufacturing, warehousing, fulfillment, distribution, returns processing, and certain other transactional processing functions, to third-party service providers to achieve cost savings, and efficiencies. If these third-party service providers do not perform effectively, the Companywe may not be able to achieve the expectedanticipated cost savings, and depending on the function involved, we may experience business disruption or processing inefficiencies, all with potential adverse effects on the Company’s operating results.our consolidated financial position and results of operations.

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We may be susceptible to information technology risks that may adversely impact our business, consolidated financial position and results of operations.
Introduction of New Technologies, Products and Services
The Company must continue to invest in technology and other innovations to adapt and add value to its products and services to remain competitive. There are uncertainties whenever developing new products and services, and it is often possible that such new products and services may not be launched or if launched, may not be profitable or as profitable as existing products and services.
A common trend facing each of the Company’s businesses is the digitization of content and proliferation of distribution channels through the internet and other electronic means, which are replacing traditional print formats. The trend to digital books has also created contraction in the print book retail market which increases the risk of bankruptcy for certain retail customers, potentially leading to the disruption of short-term product supply to consumers as well as potential bad debt write-offs.  New distribution channels, such as digital formats, the internet, online retailers and growing delivery platforms (e.g. tablets and e-readers), combined with the concentration of retailer power, present both threats and opportunities to the Company’s traditional publishing models, potentially impacting both sales volumes and pricing. In addition, there is an enhanced risk associated with the illegal unauthorized replication and distribution of digital products.
Student Demand for Lower Cost Textbooks in Higher Education
The Company’s Education business publishes educational content for undergraduate, graduate and advanced placement students, lifelong learners and in Australia secondary school students. Due to growing student demand for less expensive textbooks, many college bookstores, online retailers and other entities offer used or rental textbooks to students at lower prices than new. It is uncertain how such sales of lower priced textbooks will impact the Company’s operating results.
Information Technology Risks

Information technology is a key part of the Company’sour business strategy and operations. As a business strategy, Wiley’sWiley's technology enables the Companyus to provide customers with new and enhanced products and services and is critical to the Company’sour success in migrating from print to digital business models. Information technology is also a fundamental component of all of our business processes;processes, collecting and reporting business data;data, and communicating internally and externally with customers, suppliers, employees, and others.

Our business is dependent on information technology systems to support our businesses. We provide internet-based products and services to our customers. We also use complex information technology systems and products to support our business activities, particularly in infrastructure, and as we move our products and services to an increasingly digital delivery platform.

We are continually improvingface technological risks associated with internet-based product and upgradingservice delivery in our computer systemsbusinesses, including with respect to information technology capability, reliability and software.  We are in the process of implementing a new Enterprise Resource Planning system as part of a multi-year plan to integrate and upgrade our operational and financial systems and processes.  The implementation of this global system will occur in phases over the next several years.  Implementation of a newsecurity, enterprise resource planning, system involves risksimplementations and uncertainties.  Any disruptions, delays,upgrades. Failures of our information technology systems and products (including because of operational failure, natural disaster, computer virus, or deficiencies inhacker attacks) could interrupt the design or implementationavailability of a new system, couldour internet-based products and services, result in increased costs, disruptionscorruption or loss of data or breach in operationssecurity, and result in liability or delays in the collection of cash fromreputational damage to our customers, as well as have an adverse effect onbrands and/or adversely impact our ability to timely report ourconsolidated financial results, all of which could materially adversely affect our business, financial condition,position and results of operations.

Information technology system failures, network disruptions and breaches of data security could significantly disrupt the operations of the Company. Management has designed and implemented policies, processes and controls to mitigate risks of information technology failure and to provide security from unauthorized access to our systems. In addition, the Company has in placewe have disaster recovery plans in place to maintain business continuity.  The size and complexity of our information technology and information security systems, and those of our third-party vendors with whom we contract, make such systems potentially vulnerable to cyber-attacks common to most industries from inadvertent or intentional actions by employees, vendors, or malicious third-parties.third parties. Such attacks are of ever-increasing levels of sophistication and are made by groups and individuals with a wide range of motives. While the Company haswe have taken steps to address these risks, there can be no assurance that a system failure, disruption, or data security breach would not adversely affect the Company’sour business and operating results.could have an adverse impact on our consolidated financial position and results of operations.

We are continually improving and upgrading our computer systems and software. We are in the process of implementing a new Enterprise Resource Planning ("ERP") system as part of a multi-year plan to integrate and upgrade our operational and financial systems and processes. As of April 30, 2018, we have completed the implementation of record-to-report, purchase-to-pay, and several other business processes within all locations and will continue to roll out additional processes and functionality of the ERP in phases over the next  year. Implementation of a new ERP system involves risks and uncertainties. Any disruptions, delays, or deficiencies in the design or implementation of a new system could result in increased costs, disruptions in operations, or delays in the collection of cash from our customers, as well as having an adverse effect on our ability to timely report our financial results, all of which could materially adversely affect our business, consolidated financial position and results of operations.

Cyber risk and the failure to maintain the integrity of our operational or security systems or infrastructure, or those of third parties with which we do business, could have a material adverse effect on our business, consolidated financial condition, and results of operations.

Cyber-attacks and hackers are becoming more sophisticated and pervasive. Our business is dependent on information technology systems to support our businesses. We provide internet-based products and services to our customers. We also use complex information technology systems and products to support our business activities, particularly in infrastructure and as we move our products and services to an increasingly digital delivery platform. Across our businesses, we hold personal data, including that of employees and customers.

Efforts to prevent cyber-attacks and hackers from entering our systems are expensive to implement and may limit the functionality of our systems. Individuals may try to gain unauthorized access to our systems and data for malicious purposes, and our security measures may fail to prevent such unauthorized access. Cyber-attacks and/or intentional hacking of our systems could adversely affect the performance or availability of our products, result in loss of customer data, adversely affect our ability to conduct business, or result in theft of our funds or proprietary information, the occurrence of which could have an adverse impact on our consolidated financial position and results of operations.

Fluctuations in interest rates and foreign currency exchange rates could materially impact our consolidated financial condition and results of operations.

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Competition for Market Share and Author and Society Relationships
The Company operates in highly competitive markets. Success and continued growth depends greatly on developing new products and the means to deliver them in an environment of rapid technological change. Attracting new authors and professional societies, while retaining our existing business relationships, are also critical to our success.
Interest Rate and Foreign Exchange Risk
Non-U.S. revenues, as well as our substantial non-U.S. net assets, expose the Company’sour consolidated results to volatility from changes in foreign currency exchange rate volatility. The percentagerates. Non-U.S. dollar denominated revenues accounted for 47% of Consolidated Revenueour total consolidated revenues for fiscal year 2015 recognized2018, which primarily includes revenues in the following currencies (on an equivalent U.S. dollar basis) were: approximately 55% U.S dollar; 29% British pound sterling; 8%sterling of 27% and euro and 8% other currencies.of 12%. In addition, our interest-bearing loans and borrowings are subject to risk from changes in interest rates. These risks and the measures we have taken to help containmitigate them are discussed in the Part II, Item 7A, "Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk,section" of this Annual Report on Form 10-K. The CompanyWe may, from time-to-time, usesuse derivative instruments to hedge such risks. Notwithstanding our efforts to foresee and mitigate the effects of changes in external market or fiscal circumstances, we cannot predict with certainty changes in foreign currency exchange rates and interest rates, inflation, or other related factors affecting our business.business, consolidated financial position and results of operations.

We may not be able to mitigate the impact of inflation and cost increases, which could have an adverse impact on our consolidated financial position and results of operations.

From time to time, we experience cost increases reflecting, in part, general inflationary factors. There is no guarantee that we can increase selling prices or reduce costs to fully mitigate the effect of inflation on our costs, which may adversely impact our consolidated financial position and results of operations.

Changes in tax laws, including the U.S. recently enacted comprehensive Federal tax legislation originally known as the Tax LegislationCuts and Jobs Act of 2017 (the "Tax Act"), could have a material impact on our consolidated financial position and results of operations.

The Company isWe are subject to tax laws within the jurisdictions in which it doeswe conduct business. ChangesIn addition to the recently enacted Tax Act in the U.S., changes in tax legislationlaws in other jurisdictions where we do business, such as the U.K. and Germany, could have a material impact on the Company’s financial results. There have been recent proposals to reform U.S. tax laws that would significantly impact how U.S. multinational corporations are taxed on earnings outsidethe taxation of the U.S.our non-U.S. earnings. This could have a material impact on the Company’sour consolidated financial position and results since a substantial portion of the Company’soperations as most of our income is earned outside the U.S. In addition, the Company iswe are subject to audit by tax authorities and are regularly audited by various tax authorities. Although we believe our tax estimates are reasonable, the final determination of tax audits could be materially different from our historical income tax provisions and accruals and could have a material impact on the Company’s net income, cash flowour consolidated financial position and financial position. See Note 13 (“Tax Audits”) for further details on the Company’s income tax audit in Germany.results of operations.
Business Risk in Developing, Emerging and Other Foreign Markets

The Company sells its productsfinal impacts of the Tax Act could be materially different from our current estimates.

The Tax Act was enacted on December 22, 2017. The provisions are broad and complex and depend upon future guidance as well any legislative action to customers inaddress questions. Our estimated amounts are based on information available at this time and our current understanding of the Middle East (including Iran and Syria), Africa (including Sudan), Cuba, and other developing markets where it does not have operating subsidiaries. In addition, approximately 13%Tax Act. The final transition impacts of Research journal articles are sourcedthe Tax Act may differ from authors in China. The Company does not own any assets or liabilities in these markets except for trade receivables. our estimate, possibly materially.

Challenges and uncertainties associated with operating in developing markets has a higher relative risk due to political instability, economic volatility, crime, terrorism, corruption, social and ethnic unrest, and other factors.factors, which may adversely impact our consolidated financial position and results of operations.

We sell our products to customers in certain sanctioned and previously sanctioned developing markets where we do not have operating subsidiaries. We do not own any assets or liabilities in these markets except for trade receivables. In fiscal year 2015, the Company2018, we recorded revenue and net profitsearnings of $0.8$4.8 million and $0.3$0.9 million, respectively, related to sales to Cuba, Sudan, Syria and Iran. While sales in these markets are not material to the Company’s businessour consolidated financial position and results of operations, adverse developments related to the risks associated with these markets may cause actual results to differ from historical and forecasted future consolidated operating results. Disruption in these markets could also trigger a decrease in consumer purchasing power, resulting in a reduced demand for our products.

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The Company hasWe have certain technology development operations in Russia related to software development and architecture, digital content production, and system testing services. Due to the political instability within the region, there is the potential for future government embargos and sanctions which could disrupt the Company’sour operations in thethis area. While the Company haswe have developed business continuity plans to address these issues, further adverse developments in the region could have a material impact on the Company’sour consolidated financial position and results of operations.

Approximately 16% of Research journal articles are sourced from authors in China. Any restrictions on exporting intellectual property could adversely affect our business and operating results.consolidated financial position and results of operations.

LiquidityChanges in global economic conditions could impact our ability to borrow funds and Global Economic Conditionsmeet our future financing needs.

Changes in global financial markets have not had, nor do we anticipate they will have, a significant impact on our liquidity. Due to our significant operating cash flow, financial assets, access to capital markets, and available lines of credit and revolving credit agreements, we continue to believe that we have the ability to meet our financing needs for the foreseeable future. As market conditions change, we will continue to monitor our liquidity position. However, there can be no assurance that our liquidity or our consolidated financial position and results of operations will not be adversely affected by possible future changes in global financial markets and global economic conditions. Similar to other global businesses, we face the potential effects of a global economic recession. Unprecedented market conditions including illiquid credit markets, volatile equity markets, dramatic fluctuations in foreign currency rates, and economic recession could affect future results.

Effects
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Changes in pension costs and related funding requirements may impact our consolidated financial position and results of Increases in Pension Costs and Funding Requirementsoperations.

The Company providesWe provide defined benefit pension plans for certain employees worldwide. The Company’sOur Board of Directors approved amendments to the U.S., Canada and U.K. defined benefit plans that froze or will freeze the plansfuture accumulation of benefits effective June 30, 2013, December 31, 2015, and April 30, 2015, respectively. The funding requirements and costs of these plans are dependent upon various factors, including the actual return on plan assets, discount rates, plan participant population demographics, and changes in pension regulations. Changes in these factors affect the Company’sour plan funding, cash flowconsolidated financial position, and results of operations.

EffectsWe may not be able to realize the expected benefits of Inflationour growth strategies, including successfully integrating acquisitions, which could adversely impact our consolidated financial position and Cost Increasesresults of operations.

The Company, from time to time, experiences cost increases reflecting, in part, general inflationary factors. There is no guarantee that the Company can increase selling prices or reduce costs to fully mitigate the effect of inflation on company costs.
Ability to Successfully Integrate Key Acquisitions
The Company’sOur growth strategy includes title, imprint, and other business acquisitions, including knowledge-enabled services, which complement the Company’sour existing businesses. Acquisitions may have a substantial impact on the Company’s revenues, costs, cash flows,our consolidated financial position and financial position.results of operations. Acquisitions involve risks and uncertainties, including difficulties in integrating acquired operations and in realizing expected opportunities;opportunities, cost synergies, diversions of management resources, and loss of key employees;employees, challenges with respect to operating new businesses; debt incurred in financing such acquisitions;businesses, and other unanticipated problems and liabilities.uncertainties.
 
As a result of acquisitions, we may record a significant amount of goodwill and other identifiable intangible assets and we may never realize the full carrying value of the related assets.
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ValuationAs a result of Goodwillacquisitions, we record a significant amount of goodwill and Intangible Assets
other identifiable intangible assets, including customer relationships, trademarks and developed technologies. At April 30, 2015, the Company2018, we had $962.4$1,019.8 million of goodwill and $917.6$848.1 million of intangible assets, of which $232.8 million are indefinite-lived intangible assets, on itsour consolidated balance sheet. The intangible assets are principally comprisedcomposed of content and publishing rights, customer relationships, and brands and trademarks. Failure to achieve business objectives and financial projections could result in an asset impairment charge, which would result in a non-cash charge to operating expenses.our consolidated results of operations. Goodwill and intangible assets with indefinite lives are tested for impairment on an annual basis and also when events or changes in circumstances indicate that impairment may have occurred. Intangible assets with determinable lives, which were $615.3 million at April 30, 2018, are tested for impairment only when events or changes in circumstances indicate that an impairment may have occurred. Determining whether an impairment exists can be difficult as a result of increased uncertainty and current market dynamics, and requires management to make significant management estimates and judgment. In addition, the potential for goodwill impairment is increased during periods of economic uncertainty. Anjudgments. A non-cash intangible asset impairment charge could have a material adverse effect on our consolidated financial position and results of operations.

If we are unable to retain key employees and other personnel, our consolidated financial condition or results of operations may be adversely affected.

We have a significant investment in our employees around the Company’s business, operating resultsworld. We offer competitive salaries and financial condition.benefits in order to attract and retain the highly skilled workforce needed to sustain and develop new products and services required for growth. Employment and benefit costs are affected by competitive market conditions for qualified individuals, and factors such as healthcare and retirement benefit costs.

Attracting and Retaining Key Employees
The Company isWe are highly dependent on the continued services of its Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officerkey employees who have in-depth market and other senior officers andbusiness knowledge and/or key employees.relationships with business partners. The loss of the services of skilledkey personnel for any reason and the Company’sour inability to replace them with suitable candidates quickly or at all, as well as any negative market perception resulting from such loss, could have a material adverse effect on the Company’sour business, operatingconsolidated financial position, and results and financial condition.  In addition, we are dependent upon our ability to continue to attract new employees with key skills to support business growth.
of operation. 

Item 1B.
Unresolved Staff Comments

None

1115


Properties

The Company occupiesWe occupy office, warehouse, and distribution facilities in various parts of the world, as listed below (excluding those locations with less than 10,000 square feet of floor area, none of which is considered material property). All of the buildings and the equipment owned or leased are believed to be in good operating condition and are generally fully utilized.suitable for the conduct of our business.

Location LocationPurposePurposeOwned or LeasedApprox. Sq. Ft.
United States:      
New JerseyUnited States:Corporate HeadquartersLeased303,000
  Office Leased185,000
IndianaOfficeLeased123,000
CaliforniaOfficeLeased29,000
MassachusettsOfficeLeased26,000
IllinoisOfficeLeased52,000
FloridaOfficeLeased58,000
MinnesotaOfficeLeased22,000
TexasOfficeLeased11,000
ColoradoOfficeLeased15,000
International:      
AustraliaNew JerseyCorporate HeadquartersOfficesLeased414,00034,000
Canada Office & WarehouseLeased185,00012,000
England Distribution Centers 
IndianaOfficeLeased108,000
 
CaliforniaOfficeLeased57,000
MassachusettsOfficeLeased42,000
IllinoisOfficeLeased42,000
FloridaOfficeLeased49,000
MinnesotaOfficesLeased16,000
TexasOfficesLeased41,000
ColoradoOfficeLeased15,000
International:
AustraliaOfficesLeased59,000
CanadaOfficeLeased17,000
EnglandWarehousesLeased297,000298,000
  OfficesLeased80,00080,000
  OfficesOwned70,000
Owned 70,000
France Offices 
Leased 32,000
GermanyOfficeOwned58,000104,000
  OfficeLeased18,000
JordanOfficeLeased24,000
Singapore OfficesLeased35,000
RussiaOfficeLeased24,000
ChinaOfficesLeased26,000
IndiaDistribution CentersLeased12,000
  Office Leased 31,000
Greece SingaporeOfficeOfficesLeased44,000
RussiaOfficeLeased18,000
IndiaOffice & WarehouseLeased16,000
ChinaOfficeLeased14,000
12


Item 3.
Legal Proceedings

The Companyinformation set forth in Note 14, "Commitments and Contingencies," of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements is incorporated herein by reference.

We are involved in routine litigation in the ordinary course of itsour business. In the opinion of management, the ultimate resolution of all pending litigation will not have a material effect upon theour consolidated financial conditionposition or results of operationsoperations.

Item 4.Mine Safety Disclosures

Not applicable

16

Executive Officers of the Company
Set forth below are the current executive officers of the Company. Each of the officers listed will serve until the next organizational meetings of the Board of Directors of the Company and until each of the respective successors are duly elected and qualified.

Name, Current and Former PositionsAge
First Elected to
Current Position
BRIAN A. NAPACK56December 2017
President and Chief Executive Officer and Director
March 2012 – Senior Advisor, Providence Equity Partners LLC
JOHN A. KRITZMACHER57July 2013
Chief Financial Officer and Executive Vice President, Operations
October 2012 – Senior Vice President of Business Operations, Organizational Planning & Structure at WebMD Health Corp
ARCHANA SINGH48June 2016
Executive Vice President and Chief Human Resources Officer
2014 – Chief Human Resources Officer, Hay Group
2012 – Vice President, Human Resources, Computer Science Corporation
GARY M. RINCK66September 2014
Executive Vice President, General Counsel
2004 – Senior Vice President, General Counsel
JUDY VERSES61October 2016
Executive Vice President, Research
October 2011 – President – Global Enterprise and Education, Rosetta Stone Inc.
ELLA BALAGULA 48October 2017
Executive Vice President, Knowledge & Learning
January 2013 – Senior Vice President and General Manager, Engineering Solutions, Elsevier
October 2009 – Senior Vice President, Engineering and Technology Markets, Elsevier
CHRISTOPHER F. CARIDI52March 2017
Senior Vice President, Corporate Controller and Chief Accounting Officer
March 2014 – Vice President Finance, Thomson Reuters
September 2009 – Vice President, Controller/Global Head of Accounting Operations, Thomson Reuters
VINCENT MARZANO55September 2014
Senior Vice President, Treasurer
September 2006 – Vice President, Treasurer
CLAY E. STOBAUGH60September 2014
Executive Vice President, Chief Marketing Officer & Government Affairs
October 2013 – Senior Vice President & Chief Marketing Officer
AREF MATIN59May 2018
Executive Vice President, Chief Technology Officer
February 2015 – Executive Vice President, Chief Technology Officer, Ascend Learning
July 2012 – Executive Vice President, Chief Technology Officer, Pearson Learning Technologies & Pearson Higher Education

17


PART II

Item 5.Market for the Company’s
Item 5. Market for Registrant's Common Equity, Related Stockholder Matters and Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

The Company’sOur Class A and Class B shares are listed on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbols JWa and JWb, respectively. Dividends per share and the market price range (based on daily closing prices) by fiscal quarter for the past two fiscal years were as follows:

  Class A Common Stock  Class B Common Stock 
     Market Price     Market Price 
  Dividends  High  Low  Dividends  High  Low 
2018                  
First Quarter $0.32  $55.70  $49.50  $0.32  $55.16  $51.65 
Second Quarter  0.32   56.00   51.50   0.32   54.91   51.76 
Third Quarter  0.32   68.40   54.40   0.32   67.00   54.86 
Fourth Quarter  0.32   67.85   60.70   0.32   67.42   61.90 
2017                        
First Quarter $0.31  $57.78  $47.68  $0.31  $57.41  $47.92 
Second Quarter  0.31   58.86   48.40   0.31   58.99   49.66 
Third Quarter  0.31   57.75   49.45   0.31   57.69   52.68 
Fourth Quarter  0.31   57.35   49.00   0.31   57.14   46.53 
  Class A Common StockClass B Common Stock
   Market Price Market Price
  DividendsHighLowDividendsHighLow
 2015      
 First Quarter $0.29 $62.05 $54.52 $0.29 $61.80 $54.35
 Second Quarter0.2960.4251.450.2961.0852.04
 Third Quarter0.2962.8556.480.2962.7556.37
 Fourth Quarter0.2965.2156.880.2965.1056.74
 2014      
 First Quarter $0.25 $45.13 $38.15 $0.25 $45.12$36.93
 Second Quarter0.2550.9543.640.2550.8043.79
 Third Quarter0.2556.7548.810.2556.3548.75
 Fourth Quarter0.2558.8351.630.2558.6851.82

On a quarterly basis, the Board of Directors considers the payment of cash dividends based upon its review of earnings, theour financial position, of the Company, and other relevant factors. As of April 30, 2015,May 31, 2018, the approximate number of holders of the Company’sour Class A and Class B Common Stock were 873777 and 7762, respectively, based on the holders of record.

During fiscal year 2017, our Board of Directors approved an additional share repurchase program of four million shares of Class A or B Common Stock. During the fourth quarter of fiscal year 2015,2018, we made the Company did not makefollowing purchases of Class A Common Stock under itsthis publicly announced stock repurchase program. As of April 30, 2015 the maximum number of shares that may be purchased under the program was 2,179,120.

  
Total Number
of Shares Purchased
  
Average Price
Paid Per Share
  
Total Number
of Shares Purchased
as Part of a Publicly
Announced Program
  
Maximum Number
of Shares that
May be Purchased
Under the Program
 
February 2018    $      3,242,891 
March 2018  101,620   64.39   101,620   3,141,271 
April 2018  60,800   63.95   60,800   3,080,471 
Total  162,420  $64.22   162,420   3,080,471 
 
1318



Selected Financial Data

  
For the Years Ended April 30, (a)
 
Dollars (in millions, except per share data) 2018  2017  2016  2015  2014 
Revenue $1,796.1  $1,718.5  $1,727.0  $1,822.4  $1,775.2 
Operating Income  239.5   206.2   188.1   237.7   206.7 
Net Income (a)  192.2   113.6   145.8   176.9   160.5 
Working Capital  (394.3)  (428.1)  (111.1)  (62.8)  60.1 
Deferred Revenue in Working Capital (b)  (486.4)  (436.2)  (426.5)  (372.1)  (385.7)
Total Assets  2,839.5   2,606.2   2,921.1   3,004.2   3,077.4 
Long-Term Debt  360.0   365.0   605.0   650.1   700.1 
Shareholders' Equity  1,190.6   1,003.1   1,037.1   1,055.0   1,182.2 
Per Share Data                    
Earnings Per Share                    
Basic $3.37  $1.98  $2.51  $3.01  $2.73 
Diluted $3.32  $1.95  $2.48  $2.97  $2.70 
Cash Dividends                    
Class A Common $1.28  $1.24  $1.20  $1.16  $1.00 
Class B Common $1.28  $1.24  $1.20  $1.16  $1.00 
                                                                                                                                                                                               For the Years Ended April 30,
Dollars in millions (except per share data)                                    2015                                    2014                                     2013                                     2012                                     2011
Revenue$1,822.4$1,775.2$1,760.8$1,782.7$1,742.6
Operating Income (a-c)237.7206.7199.4280.4248.1
Net Income (a-d)176.9160.5144.2212.7171.9
Working Capital (e)(62.8)60.1(32.2)(66.3)(228.9)
Deferred Revenue in Working Capital (e) (372.1)(385.7)(363.0)(342.0)(321.4)
Total Assets3,004.23,077.42,806.42,532.92,430.1
Long-Term Debt650.1700.1673.0475.0330.5
Shareholders’ Equity1,055.01,182.2988.41,017.6977.9
Per Share Data     
Earnings Per Share (a-d)     
Diluted
$2.97$2.70$2.39$3.47$2.80
Basic
$3.01$2.73$2.43$3.53$2.86
Cash Dividends     
Class A Common$1.16$1.00$0.96$0.80$0.64
Class B Common
$1.16$1.00$0.96$0.80$0.64

a)  (a)
In fiscalSee Item 7, "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations," for a discussion of the factors that contributed to our consolidated operating results for the three years 2015, 2014 and 2013, the Company recorded restructuring charges of $28.8 million ($20.3 million afterended April 30, 2018. Certain tax or $0.34 per share), $42.7 million ($28.3 million after tax or $0.48 per share) and $29.3 million ($19.8 million after tax or $0.33 per share), respectively, and related impairment charges in fiscal years 2014 and 2013 of $4.8 million ($3.4 million after tax or $0.06 per share) and $30.7 million ($21.1 million after tax or $0.35 per share), respectively.
b)  
In fiscal year 2013, the Company recorded a gain, net of losses, on the sale of certain Professional Development consumer publishing programs of $6.0 million ($2.6 million after tax or $0.04 per share).
c)  
In fiscal year 2011, the Company recorded a $9.3 million bad debt provision ($6.0 million after tax or $0.10 per share) related to the bankruptcy of a large book retailer “Borders”.
d)  Tax benefits and charges included in fiscal year results are as follows:2018 – 2014 include:
·  ·Fiscal year 2018 includes a favorable impact of $25.1 million ($0.43 per share) from the U.S. government enacted comprehensive Federal tax legislation originally known as the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017 (the "Tax Act"). Given the significant complexity of the Tax Act, anticipated guidance from the U.S. Treasury, and potential additional guidance from the SEC or the Financial Accounting Standards Board, these estimates may be adjusted within 12 months of the enactment date.
·Fiscal year 2017 includes the effect of the German Tax litigation of $49.1 million ($0.85 per share).
·Fiscal years 2014, 2013, 20122017, 2016, and 20112014 include tax benefits of $2.6 million, ($0.04 per share), $5.9 million ($0.10 per share), and $10.6 million ($0.18 per share), $8.4 million ($0.14 per share), $8.8 million ($0.14 per share), and $4.2 million ($0.07 per share), respectively, principally associated with consecutive tax legislation enacted in the United Kingdom that reduced the U.K. corporate income tax rates.
·  
·
Fiscal year 20122015 includes a non-recurring tax benefit of $7.5$3.1 million ($0.120.05 per share) related to tax deductions claimed on the reversalwrite-up of an incomecertain foreign tax reserve recorded in conjunction with the Blackwell acquisition.
assets to fair market value.
e)  (b)
The primary driver of the negative working capital is unearned deferred revenue related to subscriptions for which cash has been collected in advance. Cash received in advance for subscriptions is used by the Companyus for a number of purposes, including acquisitions;funding operating activities, acquisitions, debt repayments; funding operations;repayments, dividend payments;payments, and purchasingrepurchasing treasury shares. The deferred revenue will be recognized inas income aswhen the products are shipped or made available online to the customers over the term of the subscription.
subscription period.

1419


Management’sItem 7. Management's Discussion and Analysis of Business, Financial Condition and Results of Operations
The Company is a global provider of knowledge and knowledge-enabled services that improve outcomes in areas of research, professional practice and education. Through the Research segment, the Company provides digital and print scientific, technical, medical and scholarly journals, reference works, books, database services and advertising. The Professional Development segment provides digital and print books, employment talent solutions, online learning, assessment and training services, and test prep and certification. In Education, the Company provides print and digital content, and education solutions including online program management services for higher education institutions and course management tools for instructors and students. The Company takes full advantage of its content from all three core businesses in developing and cross-marketing products to its diverse customer base of researchers, professionals, students, and educators. The use of technology enables the Company to make its content efficiently more accessible to its customers around the world. The Company’s operations are primarily located in the United States, Canada, Europe, Asia, and Australia.
Business growth comes from a combination of organic growth from existing brands and titles; title, imprint and other business acquisitions which complement the Company’s existing businesses; designing and implementing new methods of delivering products to our customers; and the development of new products and services. The Company’s revenue grew at a compound annual rate of 1% over the past five years.
Core Businesses
Research:
The Company’s Research business serves the world’s research and scholarly communities and is the largest publisher for professional and scholarly societies.  Research’s mission is to support researchers, professionals and learners in the discovery and use of research knowledge to achieve results that help shape the future.  Research products include scientific, technical, medical and scholarly research journals, books, reference works, databases, clinical decision support tools, laboratory manuals and workflow tools, in the publishing areas of the physical sciences and engineering, health sciences, social science and humanities and life sciences. Research customers include academic, corporate, government, and public libraries; researchers; scientists; clinicians; engineers and technologists; scholarly and professional societies; and students and professors. The Company’s Research products are sold and distributed globally in digital and print formats through multiple channels, including research libraries and library consortia, independent subscription agents, direct sales to professional society members, bookstores, online booksellers and other customers. Publishing centers include Australia, Germany, India, the United Kingdom and the United States. Research accounted for approximately 57% of total Company revenue in fiscal year 2015 and generated revenue growth at a compound annual rate of 1% over the past five years.
Research revenue by product type includes Journal Subscriptions; Funded Access; Other Journal Revenue, which includes service charges for journal page counts and color charges and sales of journal licensing rights, backfiles and individual articles; Print Books; Digital Books; and Other Research Revenue, which includes journal reprint revenue, advertising, book licensing rights, distribution services and the sale of protocols.
15


The graph below presents Research revenue by product type for fiscal year 2015:
Key growth strategies for the Research business include evolvinginformation in our Management's Discussion and developing new licensing models for the Company’s institutional customers; developing new funded access revenue streams; focusing resources on high-growthAnalysis of Financial Condition and emerging markets; and developing new digital products, services and workflow solutions to meet the needsResults of researchers, authors, societies and corporate customers.
Approximately 52% of Journal Subscription revenue is derived from publishing rights owned by the Company. Publishing alliances also play a major role in Research’s success. Approximately 48% of Journal Subscription revenue is derived from publication rights which are owned by professional societies and published by the Company pursuant to a long-term contract or owned jointlyOperations ("MD&A") should be read together with a professional society. These society alliances bring mutual benefit, with the societies gaining Wiley’s publishing, marketing, sales and distribution expertise, while Wiley benefits from being affiliated with prestigious societies and their members. The Company publishes the journals of many prestigious societies, including the American Cancer Society, the American Heart Association, the British Journal of Surgery Society, the European Molecular Biology Organization, the American Anthropological Association, the American Geophysical Union and the German Chemical Society.
The Company’s Research business is a provider of content and services in evidence-based medicine (EBM). Through the Company’s alliance with The Cochrane Collaboration, the Company publishes The Cochrane Library, a premier source of high-quality independent evidence to inform healthcare decision-making, which provides the foundation for the Company’s growing suite of EBM products designed to improve patient healthcare. EBM facilitates the effective management of patients through clinical expertise informed by best practice evidence that is derived from medical literature.
Wiley Online Library, the online publishing platform for the Company’s Research business, is one of the world’s broadest and deepest multidisciplinary collections of online resources covering life, health and physical sciences, social science and the humanities. Built on the latest technology and designed with extensive input from scholars around the world, Wiley Online Library delivers seamless integrated access to over 7 million articles from approximately 1,600 journals, 16,000 online books, and hundreds of multi-volume reference works, laboratory protocols and databases. Wiley Online Library provides the user with intuitive navigation, enhanced discoverability, expanded functionality and a range of personalization options. Access to abstracts is free, full content is accessible through licensing agreements or as individual article purchases. Large portions of the content are provided free or at nominal cost to nations in the developing world through partnerships with certain non-profit organizations. Wiley Online Library also provides the Company with revenue growth opportunities through new applications and business models, online advertising, deeper market penetration and individual sales and pay-per-view options.
16

Full content Access on Wiley Online Library is sold through licenses with academic and corporate libraries, consortia and other academic, government and corporate customers. The Company offers a range of licensing options including customized suites of journal publications for individual customer needs as well as subscriptions for individual journal and online book publications. Licenses are typically sold in durations of one to three years. Through the Article Select and PayPerView programs, the Company provides fee-based access to non-subscribed journal content, book chapters and major reference work articles.
The Company offers an alternative digital journal subscription license model to subscribers in certain markets.  Under this alternative model, the Company provides access to all journal content published within a calendar year. Under the Company’s previous licensing model, a customer subscribed to a discrete number of online journal issues and revenue was recognized as each issue was made available online.
Wiley Online Library takes advantage of technology to update content frequently and to add new features and resources on an ongoing basis to increase the productivity of scientists, professionals and students. Two examples are EarlyView, through which customers can access individual articles well in advance of print publication, and the Wiley Journals Apps service, which enables users to access articlesour Consolidated Financial Statements and related content from over 200 titles on a tablet or other mobile device.
Wiley Open Access is the Company’s publishing program for open-access research articles. Under the Wiley Open Access business model, research articles submitted by authors are published and compiled by subject area into open-access journals. All research articles publishednotes set forth in Wiley Open Access journals are freely available to the general public on Wiley Online Library to read, download and share.  A publication service fee is charged upon acceptance of a research article by the Company, which may be paid by the individual author or by the author’s funder or institution. To actively support researchers and members who wish to publish in Wiley Open Access journals, an academic or research institution, society or corporation may fund the fee directly. In return for the service fee, the Company provides its customary publishing, editing, peer review, technology and distribution services. All accepted open-access articles are subject to the same rigorous peer-review process applied to the Company’s subscription based journals which are supported by the Company’s network of prestigious journals and societies. In addition to Wiley Open Access, the Company provides authors with the opportunity to make their individual research articles that were published within the Company’s paid subscription journals freely available to the general public through OnlineOpen on payment of an Article Payment Charge.
Professional Development (“PD”):
The Company’s Professional Development business acquires, develops and publishes professional information and content delivered through print and digital books, test preparation, assessments, online learning services and certification and training services. Communities served include business, finance, accounting, workplace learning, management, leadership, technology, behavioral health, engineering/architecture and education. Professional Development’s mission is to create products and services that help professionals worldwide learn, achieve results, and enhance their skills throughout their careers and enable corporations to maximize their investment in talent and individuals by having them become more effective in the workplace. Products are developed in print and digitally for worldwide distribution through multiple channels, including chain and online booksellers, libraries, colleges and universities, corporations, direct to consumer, websites, distributor networks and other online applications. Publishing centers include Australia, Germany, India, the United Kingdom and the United States. Professional Development accounted for approximately 22% of total Company revenue in fiscal year 2015 which declined at a compound annual rate of (1%) over the past five years, including the impact of the divested consumer publishing programs in fiscal year 2013 and the acquisitions of Inscape in fiscal year 2012, ELS in fiscal year 2013, Profiles in fiscal year 2014 and CrossKnowledge in fiscal year 2015.
17

Professional Development revenue by product type includes Print Books; Digital Books; Online Test Preparation and Certification; Assessments; Online Learning and Training; and Other Knowledge Services revenue, which includes the sales of licensing rights, subscription revenue and advertising and agency revenue.
The graph below presents PD revenue by product type for fiscal year 2015:

Key growth strategies for the Professional Development business include: developing and acquiring products and services to drive corporate development and professional career development; developing leading brands and franchises; executing strategic acquisitions and partnerships; innovating digital book formats while expanding their global discoverability and distribution; and creating advertising opportunities on the Company’s branded websites and online applications.  The Company has recently executed several initiatives focused on achieving these growth strategies which are described in more detail below.
Recent Acquisitions:
On May 1, 2014, the Company acquired CrossKnowledge for approximately $166 million in cash, net of cash acquired. CrossKnowledge is a learning solutions provider focused on leadership and managerial skills development that offers subscription-based, digital learning solutions for global corporations, universities, and small and medium-sized enterprises. CrossKnowledge’s solutions include a variety of managerial and leadership skills assessments, courses, certifications, content and executive training programs that are delivered on a cloud-based LMS platform with over 19,000 learning objects in 17 languages. CrossKnowledge serves over five million end-users in 80 countries. CrossKnowledge generated revenue of $42.0 million in fiscal year 2015.
On April 1, 2014, the Company acquired Profiles International (“Profiles”) for approximately $48 million in cash, net of cash acquired. Profiles provides pre-employment assessment and selection tools that enable employers to optimize candidate selections and develop the full potential of their employees. Solutions include pre-hire assessments, including those designed to measure and match personality, knowledge, skills, managerial fit, loyalty, and values; and post-hire assessments, focused on measuring sales and managerial effectiveness, employee performance and career potential. Profiles serves approximately 4,000 corporate clients and millions of end users in over 120 countries, with assessments available in 32 languages. Profiles generated revenue of $23.3 million in fiscal year 2015.
In November 2012, the Company acquired Efficient Learning Systems, Inc. (“ELS”) for approximately $24 million in cash, net of cash acquired. ELS is an e-learning system provider focused in the areas of professional finance and accounting.  ELS’ flagship product, CPAExcel, is a modular, digital platform comprised of online self-study, videos, mobile apps, and sophisticated planning tools that has helped over 65,000 professionals prepare for the CPA exam since 1998. The acquisition enhanced Wiley’s position in the growing CPA test preparation market and provided the Company with a scalable platform that can be leveraged globally across other areas of its Professional Development business. ELS generated revenue of $8.8 million in fiscal year 2015. In December 2013, the Company acquired Elan Guides for approximately $2.5 million, Elan Guides provides content in multiple formats to help prepare candidates for the CFA examinations.

In February 2012, Wiley acquired Inscape Holdings, Inc. (“Inscape”), a leading provider of assessment-based training solutions, for approximately $85 million in cash, net of cash acquired. The acquisition combined Wiley’s deep well of valuable content and global reach in leadership and training with Inscape’s talent development content, technology and distribution network, including the innovative EPIC online assessment-delivery platform and an elite global authorized distributor network of nearly 1,700 independent consultants, trainers, and coaches. Inscape’s solution-focused products are used in thousands of organizations, including major government agencies and Fortune 500 companies. Inscape generated revenue of $26.1 million in fiscal year 2015.
Inscape’s solutions-focused DiSC® offerings complement Wiley’s existing offerings, such as Kouzes and Posner’s Leadership Practices Inventory® and newly released The Five Behaviors of a Cohesive TeamTM, in the growing workplace learning industry. The combined assessment offerings increased the Company’s presence in the professional training and development arena. We believe Inscape’s competitive strengths will also advance a number of Professional Development’s major strategic goals. As a workplace learning business with more than 70% of revenue from a proprietary digital platform, Inscape enables Wiley to move more rapidly into digital delivery within the growing workplace learning and assessment market and build a significant market position in the category of leadership development. Inscape also enhanced Wiley’s global presence, serving customers around the world in more than 30 languages each year, with approximately 25% of fiscal year 2015 revenue generated outside the U.S through Inscape’s dedicated global distributor network.
Strategic Divestitures:
In fiscal year 2013, the Company divested a number of its consumer publishing assets as they no longer aligned with the Company’s long-term business strategy. Those assets included travel (including all of its interests in the Frommer’s, Unofficial Guides, and WhatsonWhen brands), culinary, CliffsNotes, Webster’s New World Dictionary and certain other consumer programs. During fiscal year 2013, the Company sold these publishing assets in a series of individual transactions for approximately $34 million. Fiscal year 2013 revenue and operating income associated with the operations of the assets sold were approximately $46 million and $16 million, respectively.
Publishing Alliances and Programs:
Publishing alliances and franchise products are central to the Company’s strategy. Professional Development alliance partners include Bloomberg Press, the American Institute of Architects, the Leader to Leader Institute, Fisher Investments, the CFA Institute, the BPO Certification Institute, Autodesk and many others.
The Company also promotes an active and growing Professional Development custom publishing program. Custom publications are typically used by organizations for internal promotional or incentive programs. The Company’s custom publications include digital and print books written specifically for a customer and customizations of Professional Development’s existing publications to include custom cover art, such as imprints, messages and slogans. Of special note are customized For Dummies publications, which leverage the power of this well-known brand to meet the specific information needs of a wide range of organizations around the world.
19

Education:
The Company’s Education business produces educational content and solutions, including course management tools for instructors and students and online program services for higher education institutions. Education’s mission is to help teachers teach and students learn by delivering personalized content, tools and services that demonstrate results to students, faculty and institutions throughout the world. Education offers learning solutions, innovative products and services principally delivered through college bookstores, online distributors and directly to institutions, with customers having access to content in digital and custom print formats,Part II, Item 8, as well as the traditional print textbook. Education’s cost-effective, flexible solutions are available in each of its publishing disciplines, including sciences, engineering, computer science, mathematics, business and accounting, statistics, geography, hospitality and the culinary arts, education, psychology and modern languages.
Education accounted for approximately 21% of total Company revenue in fiscal year 2015 and generated revenue growth at a compound annual rate of 6% over the past five years, including the acquisition of Deltak in fiscal year 2013.
Education revenue by product type includes Print Textbooks; Digital Books; Education Services (Deltak); Custom Products; Course Workflow Solutions (WileyPLUS), and Other Education revenue which includes revenue from the licensing of publishing content rights and other content adaptions.
The graph below presents Education revenue by product type for fiscal year 2015:
The Company continues to transform the Education business from a content publisher to an education solutions provider. Education’s key growth strategies include developing and acquiring digital products and solutions across the educational value chain; continuing the transformation of the business from traditional print products to digital and custom products and services; focusing on institutional relationships and direct-to-student digital products; and developing the Company’s online institutional education services model acquired with Deltak.
In October 2012, the Company acquired Deltak for approximately $220 million in cash, net of cash acquired. Deltak works in close partnership with leading colleges and universities to develop and support online degree and certificate programs. These new services position the Company as an online education services provider. Wiley now provides a complete solution to help higher education institutions transition their programs into valuable online experiences. We offer market research to validate degree or certification program demand, instructional design, marketing, student recruitment and retention services, and access to the Engage Learning Management System and Student Relationship Platform, with the goal of boosting the quality and efficacy of online and hybrid programs. The Company now has access to high-growth markets and a variety of capabilities and technologies for its expansion into custom online courses and curriculum development. The Company will leverage its strong reputation and financial stability for new program investment, to accelerate growth globally, to access professional consumers and corporations and to expand content and faculty development offerings. As of April 30, 2015, the Company had 38 partners and 200 degree programs under contract.  Deltak generated revenue of $81.6 million in fiscal year 2015.
20

Strategic partnerships and relationships with companies such as Microsoft®, Blackboard, Canvas, Snapwiz and the Culinary Institute of America are also an important component of Education’s growth strategy. The ability to join Wiley’s product development, sales, marketing, distribution and technology with a partner’s content, technology and/or brand name has contributed to Education’s success.
Education offers high-quality online learning solutions including WileyPLUS, a research-based, online environment for effective teaching and learning that is integrated with a complete digital textbook. WileyPLUS improves student learning through instant feedback, personalized learning plans, and self-evaluation tools as well as a full range of course-oriented activities, including online planning, presentations, study, homework and testing. In selected courses, WileyPlus includes a personalized adaptive learning component, Orion, which is based on cognitive science. Orion helps to build student proficiency on topics while improving the effectiveness of their study time. It assists educators in identifying areas that need reinforcement and measures student engagement and proficiency throughout the course.
Education promotes and supports the customization of its content. Wiley Custom Learning Solutions is a full-service custom publishing program that offers an array of tools and services designed to put content creation in instructors’ hands. Our suite of custom products empowers users to create high-quality, affordable education solutions tailored to meet individual classroom needs. Through Wiley Custom Select, an online custom textbook system, instructors can easily build print and digital materials tailored to their specific course needs and add their own content to create a customized solution derived from any one of the Company’s three business segments.
Knowledge-Enabled Products and Services:
Journal Products:
The Company publishes approximately 1,600 Research and Professional Development journals. Journal Subscription revenue and other related publishing income, such as Funded Access, advertising, backfile sales, the licensing of publishing rights, journal reprints and individual article sales accounted for approximately 45% of the Company’s consolidated fiscal year 2015 revenue. The journal portfolio includes titles owned by the Company, in which case they may or may not be sponsored by a professional society; titles owned jointly with a professional society; and titles owned by professional societies and published by the Company pursuant to long-term contracts.
The Company sells journal subscriptions directly through Company sales representatives; indirectly through independent subscription agents; through promotional campaigns; and through memberships in professional societies for those journals that are sponsored by societies. Journal subscriptions are primarily licensed through contracts for digital content delivered through the Company’s online platform, Wiley Online Library. Contracts are negotiated by the Company directly with customers or their subscription agents. Licenses range from one to three years in duration and typically cover calendar years. Print journals are generally mailed to subscribers directly from independent printers. The Company does not own or manage printing facilities. The print journal content is also available online via Wiley Online Library. Subscription revenue is generally collected in advance, and deferred until the related issue is shipped or made available online at which time the revenue is earned.
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Societies that sponsor or own such journals generally receive a royalty and/or other consideration. The Company may procure editorial services from such societies on a pre-negotiated fee basis. The Company also enters into agreements with outside independent editors of journals that state the duties of the editors, and the fees and expenses for their services. Contributors of articles to the Company’s journal portfolio transfer publication rights to the Company or a professional society, as applicable. Journal articles may be based on funded research through government or charitable grants. In certain cases the terms of the grant may require the grant holder to make articles (either the published version or an earlier unedited version) available free of charge to the general public, typically after an embargo period. Funded open accessdiscussion included above, "Cautionary Notice Regarding Forward-Looking Statements "Safe Harbor" Statement under the Company’s Wiley Open AccessPrivate Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995" and OnlineOpen business models facilitate the ability"Non-GAAP Financial Measures," along with Part I, Item 1A, "Risk Factors," of the grant holderthis Annual Report on Form 10-K.  All amounts and percentages are approximate due to comply.
The Company offers an alternative digital journal subscription license model to subscribersrounding and all dollars are in certain markets.  Under this alternative model, the Company provides access to all journal content published within a calendar year. Under the Company’s previous licensing model, a customer subscribedthousands, except per share amounts or where otherwise noted. When we cross-reference to a discrete number of online journal issues and revenue was recognized as each issue was made available online."Note," we are referring to our "Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements," unless the context indicates otherwise.

Book Products:
Book products and book related publishing revenue, such as advertising and the sale of publishing rights, accounted for approximately 32% of the Company’s consolidated fiscal year 2015 revenue.  Materials for book publications are obtained from authors throughout most of the world through the efforts of an editorial staff, outside editorial advisors, and advisory boards. Most materials are originated by the authors themselves or as a result of suggestion or solicitations by editors and advisors. The Company enters into agreements with authors that state the terms and conditions under which the materials will be published, the name in which the copyright will be registered, the basis for any royalties, and other matters. Most of the authors are compensated with royalties, which vary depending on the nature of the product. The Company may make advance payments against future royalties to authors of certain publications. Royalty advances are reviewed for recoverability and a reserve for loss is maintained, if appropriate.
The Company continues to add new titles, revise existing titles, and discontinue the sale of others in the normal course of its business, and also creates adaptations of original content for specific markets based on customer demand. The Company’s general practice is to revise its textbooks every two to five years, if warranted, and to revise other titles as appropriate. Subscription-based products are updated on a more frequent basis.
Professional books are sold to bookstores and online booksellers serving the general public; wholesalers who supply such bookstores; warehouse clubs; college bookstores for their non-textbook requirements; individual practitioners; and research institutions, libraries (including public, professional, academic, and other special libraries), industrial organizations, and government agencies. The Company employs sales representatives who call upon independent bookstores, national and regional chain bookstores and wholesalers. Sales of professional books also result from direct mail campaigns, telemarketing, online access, advertising and reviews in periodicals. Trade sales to bookstores and wholesalers are generally made on a returnable basis with certain restrictions. The Company provides for estimated future returns on sales made during the year based on historical return experience and current market trends.
Adopted textbooks and related supplementary material and digital products are sold primarily to bookstores and online booksellers, serving both for-profit and nonprofit educational institutions. The Company employs sales representatives who call on faculty responsible for selecting books to be used in courses, and on the bookstores that serve such institutions and their students. Textbook sales are generally made on a returnable basis with certain restrictions. The textbook business is seasonal, with the majority of textbook sales occurring during the June through August and November through January periods. There are active used and rental textbook markets, which adversely affect the sale of new textbooks.
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Like most other publishers, the Company generally contracts with independent printers and binderies globally for their services. The Company purchases its paper from independent suppliers and printers. The fiscal year 2015 weighted average U.S. paper prices decreased approximately 1% from fiscal year 2014. Approximately 76% of the Company’s paper inventory is held in the United States. Management believes that adequate printing and binding facilities, sources of paper and other required materials are available to it, and that it is not dependent upon any single supplier. Printed book products are distributed from both Company-operated warehouses and independent distributors.
The Company develops content in a digital format that can be used for both digital and print products, resulting in productivity and efficiency savings, and enabling print-on-demand delivery. Book content is available online through Wiley Online Library, WileyPLUS, Wiley Custom Select and other proprietary platforms.  Digital books are delivered to intermediaries including Amazon, Apple and Google, for re-sale to individuals in various industry-standard formats, which are now the preferred deliverable for licensees of all types, including foreign language publishers. Digital books are also licensed to libraries through aggregators. Specialized formats for digital textbooks go to distributors servicing the academic market, and digital book collections are sold by subscription through independent third-party aggregators servicing distinct communities. Custom deliverables are provided to corporations, institutions and associations to educate their employees, generate leads for their products, and extend their brands. Content from digital books is also used to create website articles, mobile apps, newsletters and promotional collateral. This continual re-use of content improves margins, speeds delivery and helps satisfy a wide range of customer needs. The Company’s online presence not only enables it to deliver content online, but also to sell more books. The growth of online booksellers benefits the Company because they provide unlimited virtual “shelf space” for the Company’s entire backlist.
Marketing and distribution services are made available to other publishers under agency arrangements. The Company also engages in co-publishing titles with international publishers. The Company also receives licensing revenue from photocopies, reproductions, translations, and digital uses of its content.
Solutions:
The Company believes that the demand for learning solutions will continue to increase for the foreseeable future.  In order to meet this demand and remain competitive, the Company is focused on delivering knowledge-enabled services, which improve learning, career and employment management and effectiveness for its target communities.  With the goal of servicing its customers across the arc of their careers the Company is creating new revenue streams through organic development and acquisition. The Deltak, Inscape, ELS, Profiles and CrossKnowledge acquisitions have enhanced the Company’s portfolio of knowledge-enabled services and provided the Company with new capabilities and expertise, including new channels to market and direct end-user engagement. The Inscape, ELS, Profiles and CrossKnowledge acquisitions highlight the Company’s focus on providing digital content; workflow solutions around professional career development and talent assessment, while the Deltak acquisition positions the Company as an online educational solutions provider with a variety of capabilities and technologies for its expansion into custom online course and curriculum development. In addition, Education’s WileyPLUS platform improves student learning through instant feedback, personalized learning plans and self-evaluation tools.
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Online Learning and Training:
The CrossKnowledge business represents the Company’s professional Online Learning and Training services.  This business offers subscription-based, digital learning solutions for global corporations, universities, and small and medium-sized enterprises, with revenues earned over the terms of the subscriptions. CrossKnowledge’s solutions include a variety of managerial and leadership topics such as leadership, diversity, value creation, client orientation, change and corporate strategy, that are delivered on a cloud-based LMS platform with over 19,000 learning objects in 17 languages. Its Mohive offering also provides a collaborative e-learning publishing and program creation system. Revenue growth is derived from legacy markets, such as Europe, Asia and the Nordics, and in newer markets, such as the U.S. and Latin America. In addition, content and LMS offerings are continuously refreshed and expanded to serve a wider variety of customer needs. Online Learning and Training revenue was approximately $42.0 million in fiscal year 2015.
Assessments:
The Inscape and Profiles businesses represent the core of the Company’s professional assessment services. These businesses offer a variety of online assessment offerings that are delivered to customers through online digital delivery platforms either directly or through an authorized distributor network of independent consultants, trainers and coaches. The Company’s professional assessment services offer highly flexible packages and modules for its customers that include online pre and post-hire assessments. Revenue for these products and services are deferred until the Company’s obligation has been performed, typically when an online assessment has been completed. Assessment revenue was approximately $56.8 million in fiscal year 2015.
Professional Online Test Preparation and Certifications:
The Company’s acquisitions of ELS and Elan Guides represent the Company’s professional Online Test Preparation and Certification services. These businesses offer a variety of online learning solutions and training activities that are delivered to customers directly through online digital delivery platforms.  ELS’ flagship product, CPAExcel, is a modular, digital platform comprised of online self-study, videos, mobile apps, and sophisticated planning tools to help professionals prepare for the CPA exam. Elan Guides provides content in multiple formats to help prepare candidates for the CFA examinations.  Revenue for these products and services are deferred until the Company’s obligation has been performed, typically when an online training program has been completed or over the timeframe covered by a license to use the online training and study materials. PD’s Online Test Preparation and Certification revenue was approximately $18.6 million in fiscal year 2015.
Education Services (Deltak):
As student demand continues to drive traditional schools to offer online degree and certificate programs, institutions are partnering with online program management businesses to develop and support these programs.  Through the Deltak acquisition, the Company has entered this high-growth market, accelerated its digital learning strategy and diversified the service offerings of its Education business to include both operational and academic solutions for higher education institutions. Through Deltak, the Company acquired capabilities and technologies to expand into custom online course and curriculum development. Deltak services include market research, marketing, student recruitment, enrollment support, proactive retention support, academic services to design courses, faculty support and access to the Deltak Engage Learning Management System.  Deltak’s online program management revenue is derived from pre-negotiated contracts with institutions that provide for a share of tuition generated from students who enroll in programs that Deltak develops and manages for its institutional partners. Online program management revenue is deferred and recognized over the timeframe that each student is enrolled in the online program. As of April 30, 2015 the Company had 38 partners and 200 degree programs under contract. Deltak generated revenue of $81.6 million in fiscal year 2015.
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Course Workflow Solutions (WileyPLUS):
Through Education’s WileyPLUS platform, the Company offers an online environment for effective teaching and learning that is fully integrated with a complete digital textbook. WileyPLUS improves student learning through instant feedback, personalized learning plans, and self-evaluation tools as well as a full range of course-oriented activities, including online planning, presentations, study, homework and testing.  WileyPLUS revenue is deferred and recognized over the timeframe that each student is enrolled in the online course. WileyPLUS revenue was approximately $54.2 million in fiscal year 2015.
Advertising Revenue:
The Company generates advertising revenue from print and online journal subscription products; its online publishing platform, Wiley Online Library; online events such as webinars and virtual conferences; community interest websites such as spectroscopyNOW.com and websites for the Company’s leading brands like Dummies.com. These revenues accounted for approximately 2% of the Company’s consolidated fiscal year 2015 revenue.
Advertisements are sold by company and independent sales representatives to advertising agencies representing the Company’s target customers. Typical customers include worldwide pharmaceutical companies; equipment manufacturers and distributors servicing the pharmaceutical industry; recruiters; and a variety of businesses targeting the Company’s leading brand customers. The Company’s advertising growth strategy focuses on increasing the volume of advertising on its online publishing platform; leveraging the brand recognition of its titles and society partnerships; the development of new advertising products such as online video promotions or event sponsorship arrangements; and advertising in new and emerging technologies such as the mobile devices market (i.e. applications for smartphones and tablets).
Global Operations
The Company’s publications and services are sold throughout most of the world through operations primarily located in Europe, Canada, Australia, Asia, and the United States. All operations market their indigenous publications, as well as publications produced by other publishing locations of the Company. The Company also markets publications through independent agents as well as independent sales representatives in countries not served by the Company. John Wiley & Sons International Rights, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of the Company, sells reprint and translations rights worldwide. The Company publishes or licenses others to publish its products, which are distributed throughout the world in many languages. Approximately 50% of the Company’s consolidated fiscal year 2015 revenue was billed in non-U.S. markets.
The global nature of the Company’s business creates an exposure to foreign currency. Each of the Company’s geographic locations sells products worldwide in multiple currencies. The percentage of Consolidated Revenue for fiscal year 2015 recognized in the following currencies (on an equivalent U.S. dollar basis) were: approximately 55% U.S dollar; 29% British pound sterling; 8% euro and 8% other currencies.
Competition and Economic Drivers within the Publishing Industry
The sectors of the publishing and information services industry in which the Company is engaged are competitive. The principal competitive criteria for the publishing industry are considered to be the following: product quality, customer service, suitability of format and subject matter, author reputation, price, timely availability of both new titles and revisions of existing books, digital availability of published products, and timely delivery of products to customers.
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The Company is in the top rank of publishers of research journals worldwide, a leading commercial research chemistry publisher; the leading professional society journal publisher; one of the leading publishers of university and college textbooks and related materials for the “hardside” disciplines, (i.e. sciences, engineering, and mathematics), and a leading publisher in its targeted Professional Development markets. The Company knows of no reliable industry statistics that would enable it to determine its share of the various international markets in which it operates.
Performance Measurements
The Company measures its performance based upon revenue, operating income, earnings per share and cash flow, excluding unusual or one-time events, and considering worldwide and regional economic and market conditions. The Company evaluates market share statistics for publishing programs in each of its businesses.  Research uses various reports to monitor competitor performance and industry financial metrics.  Specifically for Research journal titles, the Thomson Reuters® Journal Citation Reports are used as a key metric of a journal title’s influence in scientific publishing. For Professional Development, the Company evaluates market share statistics periodically published by BOOKSCAN, a statistical clearinghouse for book industry point of sale data in the United States. The statistics include survey data from all major retail outlets, online booksellers, mass merchandisers, small chain and independent retail outlets. For Education, the Company subscribes to Management Practices Inc., which publishes customized comparative sales reports, and also uses industry statistics and reports produced by the Association of American Publishers.
Results of Operations
Throughout this report, references to variances “excluding foreign exchange”, “currency neutral basis” and “performance basis” exclude both foreign currency translation effects and transactional gains and losses. Foreign currency translation effects are based on the change in average exchange rates for each reporting period multiplied by the current period’s volume of activity in local currency for each non-U.S. location.  For fiscal years 2015 and 2014, the average annual exchange rates to convert British pounds sterling to U.S. dollars were 1.60 in both periods; the average annual exchange rates to convert euros into U.S. dollars were 1.25 and 1.35, respectively; and the average annual exchange rates to convert Australian dollars into U.S. dollars were 0.86 and 0.93, respectively. Unless otherwise noted, all variance explanations below are on a currency neutral basis.

FISCAL YEAR 20152018 SUMMARY RESULTS

Revenue:

Revenue for fiscal year 20152018 increased 3%5% to $1,822.4$1,796.1 million, or 4% excluding the unfavorable impact of foreign exchange.1% on a constant currency basis as compared with prior year. The increase was mainly reflects incrementaldriven by an increase in Research revenue due to a full year of revenue from the recent acquisitions of CrossKnowledge Group, Ltd. (“CrossKnowledge”) ($42 million)Atypon acquisition in fiscal year 2018 and Profiles International (“Profiles”) ($21 million), growth in Education custom productsOpen Access and, workflow solutions ($12 million),to a lesser extent, higher Education Services (Deltak) ($11 million), the sale of an individually large journal backfile license ($10 million), journal subscriptions ($7 million), funded access(OPM) revenue ($5 million), growth in online test preparation ($3 million) and other ($9 million), mainly the licensing of research publication content,Solutions. These increases were partially offset by lower print booka decline in Publishing revenue, primarily in all three businesses ($46 million).STM and in Professional and Education Publishing, which reflected market conditions.

See the "Segment Operating Results" below for additional details on each segment's revenue and contribution to profit performance.

Cost of Sales and Gross Profit:Profit Margin:

Cost of sales for fiscal year 2015 decreased 1%2018 increased 5% to $499.7$485.2 million, butor 2% on a constant currency basis as compared with prior year. The increase was flat excluding the favorable impactprimarily a result of foreign exchange. Cost savings from outsourcinghigher revenues and procurement initiatives ($10 million), lower print volume ($5 million) and lower cost digital products ($5 million) were partially offset by incremental costs from acquisitions ($8 million), higher royalty ratescosts on society ownedResearch journals ($5 million), Education Services (Deltak) program growth ($3 million)due to title mix and an increase in new titles at a higher journal subscription volume ($3 million).royalty rate.
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Gross profit margin for fiscal year 2015 of 72.6%2018 was 120 basis points higher than73.0% and decreased slightly compared with the prior year due to cost savings from outsourcing and procurement initiatives and growthon a constant currency basis, primarily in digital products (90 basis points) and incremental revenue from higher margin acquisitions (60 basis points), partially offset by higher royalty rates on society owned journals (30 basis points).our Publishing segment as a result of the decline in revenue.

Operating and Administrative Expenses:

Operating and administrative expenses for fiscal year 2015 increased 4% to $1,005.02018 remained flat at $994.6 million, or 5% excluding the favorable impact of foreign exchange. The increase was mainly driven by incremental operating and administrative expenses from acquisitions ($54 million), higher technology costs related to investments in internal systems and digital platforms ($18 million) including continued development costs relatedbut decreased 1% on a constant currency basis as compared with prior year due to the Company’s new global Enterprise Resource Planning (“ERP”) system ($6 million), Education Services (Deltak) program growth ($16 million), other employment costs, principally merit ($3 million); the expiration of a real estate tax incentive related to the Hoboken headquarters ($3 million) and higher editorial costs in Research to support business growth ($2 million),following:
lower technology costs in the current year of $18 million associated with our ERP implementation and other reductions in outsourcing and system development consulting costs;
·a one-time pension settlement charge in the prior year related to changes in our retiree and long-term disability plans of $9 million; and
savings from operational excellence initiatives and restructuring activities.

These factors were partially offset by restructuring and other cost savings ($39 million) and lower accrued incentive compensation ($12 million).by:
one-time benefits in the prior year related to changes in our retiree and long-term disability plans of $4 million and a life insurance recovery of $2 million;
a full year of costs in fiscal year 2018 associated with the Atypon acquisition, which resulted in an incremental impact of $9 million;
an increase in strategy consultation costs in the current year of $7 million; and
an impairment charge in the current year related to one of our Publishing brands of $4 million.

Restructuring and Related Charges:

InBeginning in fiscal year 2013, the Companywe initiated a global program (the “Restructuring"Restructuring and Reinvestment Program”Program") to restructure and realign itsour cost base with current and anticipated future market conditions. The Company isWe are targeting a majority of the cost savings achieved to improve margins and earnings, while the remainder will be reinvested in high growthhigh-growth digital business opportunities.

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In fiscal years 20152018 and 2014, the Company2017, we recorded pre-tax restructuring charges of $28.8$29 million ($0.34 per share) and $42.7$13 million, ($0.48 per share), respectively, related to this program. These charges are reflected in Restructuring and Related Charges on the Consolidated Statements of Income and summarized in the following table (in thousands):table:

  2018  2017  
Total Charges
Incurred to Date
 
Charges by Segment:         
Research $5,257  $1,949  $25,413 
Publishing  6,443   1,596   38,931 
Solutions  3,695   1,787   6,247 
Corporate Expenses  13,171   8,023   95,919 
Total Restructuring and Related Charges $28,566  $13,355  $166,510 
             
Charges (Credits) by Activity:            
Severance $27,213  $8,386  $114,803 
Process reengineering consulting  1,815   148   20,629 
Other activities  (462)  4,821   31,078 
Total Restructuring and Related Charges $28,566  $13,355  $166,510 
     Total Charges
 2015 2014 Incurred to Date
Charges by Segment:     
   Research$4,555 $7,774 $15,225
   Professional Development4,385 11,860 22,529
   Education1,571 891 3,580
   Shared Services18,293 22,197 54,644
Total Restructuring Charges$28,804 $42,722 $95,978
      
      
Charges by Activity:     
   Severance$17,093 $25,962 $62,761
   Process reengineering consulting301 8,556 11,475
   Other activities11,410 8,204 21,742
Total Restructuring Charges$28,804 $42,722 $95,978

Other Activities mainly reflect lease and otherin 2017 reflects leased facility consolidations contract termination costs. The cumulative charge recorded to-date related tocosts, and the Restructuring and Reinvestment Programcurtailment of $96.0 million is expected to be fully recovered by April 30, 2016.certain defined benefit pension plans.
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Impairment Charges:
In fiscal year 2014, the Company terminated a multi-year software development program for an internal operations application due to a change in the Company’s longer-term enterprise systems plans. As a result, the Company recorded an asset impairment charge for previously capitalized software costs related to the program of $4.8 million ($0.06 per share).

Amortization of Intangibles:

Amortization of intangibles increased $6.5 million to $51.2 million infor fiscal year 2015 and2018 declined 3% to $48 million, or 5% on a constant currency basis compared with prior year. The decrease was mainly driven by Talent Solutions acquisitions in Professional Development.a result of the completion of amortization of certain acquired intangible assets.

Interest Expense/Income, Foreign Exchange and Other:Expense:

Interest expense for fiscal year 2015 increased $3.22018 decreased $4 million to $17.1 million. The increase$13 million on a reported and constant currency basis. This decrease was drivendue to lower average debt balances outstanding, partially offset by higher interest rates anda higher average debt due to acquisition financing. The Company’s average cost ofeffective borrowing in fiscal years 2015 and 2014 was 1.9% and 1.8%, respectively. In fiscal year 2015, the Company recognizedrate.

Foreign Exchange Transaction (Losses) Gains:

We reported foreign exchange transaction losses of $13 million for fiscal year 2018 compared to gains of $1.7$0.4 million mainly relatedin the prior year.  The losses in fiscal year 2018 were primarily due to the impact of the change in average foreign exchange rates as compared to the U.S. dollar on our intercompany receivables in the U.K. and Germany.third-party accounts receivable and payable balances.

Provision for Income Taxes:

The following table summarizes the effective tax rate for fiscal years 2018 and 2017:

  2018  2017 
Effective tax rate as reported  10.2%  40.5%
Estimated net impact in fiscal 2018 of non-recurring items from Tax Act  11.7    
Impact of unfavorable German court decision in fiscal 2017     (25.7)
Impact of reduction in U.K. statutory rate on deferred tax balances in fiscal 2017     1.3 
Effective tax rate excluding the impact of non-recurring items from the Tax Act in fiscal 2018 and the unfavorable German court decision and U.K. tax rate reduction in fiscal 2017  21.9%  16.1%

On December 22, 2017, the U.S. government enacted comprehensive Federal tax legislation originally known as the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017 (the "Tax Act").  In December 2017, the SEC staff issued Staff Accounting Bulletin No. 118, Income Tax Accounting Implications of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act ("SAB 118"), which allows us to record provisional amounts related to the effect of the Tax Act during a measurement period not to extend beyond one year of the enactment date. As the Tax Act was passed in December 2017, and ongoing guidance and accounting interpretation are expected over the 12 months following enactment, we consider the accounting of the transition tax, deferred tax re-measurements, and other items to be provisional due to the forthcoming guidance and our ongoing analysis of final data and tax positions. We expect to complete our analysis within the measurement period in accordance with SAB 118.

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The effective tax rate was lower in fiscal 2018 as compared with fiscal 2017 due to the estimated net tax benefit from non-recurring items in the Tax Act and the effect of the German Tax litigation in fiscal year 2017 as described below. Estimated non-recurring items in the Tax Act reduced our income tax expense by $25 million ($0.43/share) or a reduction in our effective tax rate of 11.7 percentage points for fiscal year 2018. Excluding the effect of the Tax Act, the rate was 21.9% for fiscal year 2018.

The rate excluding the benefit from the non-recurring items in the Tax Act was lower than the U.S. statutory rate for the year ended April 30, 2018, primarily due to lower rates applicable to non-U.S. earnings.

German Tax Litigation Expense: In fiscal 2017, the German Federal Fiscal Court affirmed a lower court decision disallowing deductions related to a stepped-up basis in certain assets. As a result, we incurred an income tax charge of approximately $49 million ($0.85 per share).

Deferred Tax Benefit from U.K. Statutory Tax Rate Change: In fiscal year 2016, the U.K. reduced its statutory rate to 19% beginning April 1, 2017 and 18% beginning April 1, 2020, and in fiscal year 2017, the U.K. further reduced its statutory rate beginning on April 1, 2020, from 18% to 17%. This resulted in a non-cash deferred tax benefit from the re-measurement of our applicable U.K. deferred tax balances of $6 million ($0.10 per share) in fiscal year 2016 and $3 million ($0.04 per share) in fiscal year 2017.

The Tax Act

On December 22, 2017, the U.S. government enacted comprehensive tax legislation. The Tax Act significantly revises the future ongoing U.S. corporate income tax system by, among other changes, the following:
·lowering the U.S. federal corporate income tax rate to 21% with a potentially lower rate for certain foreign derived income;
·accelerating deductions for certain business assets;
·changing the U.S. system from a worldwide tax system;
·requiring companies to pay a one-time transition tax on post-1986 unrepatriated cumulative non-U.S. earnings and profits ("E&P") of foreign subsidiaries;
·eliminating certain deductions such as the domestic production deduction;
·establishing limitations on the deductibility of certain expenses including interest and executive compensation; and
·creating new taxes on certain foreign earnings.

The key impacts for the period were the re-measurement of U.S. deferred tax balances to the new U.S. corporate tax rate and the accrual for the one-time transition tax liability. While we have not yet completed our assessment of the effects of the Tax Act, we are able to determine reasonable estimates for the impacts of these key items and reported provisional amounts for these items. In accordance with SAB 118, we are providing additional disclosures related to these provisional amounts.

Deferred tax balances – We remeasured our U.S. deferred tax assets and liabilities based on the federal rate at which they are expected to reverse in the future, generally 21% for reversals anticipated to occur after April 30, 2018. We are still analyzing certain aspects of the Tax Act and refining our calculations, including our estimates of expected reversals, which could affect the measurement of these balances and give rise to new deferred tax amounts. The provisional amount recorded related to the re-measurement of our net deferred tax liability was an estimated benefit of $47 million.

Foreign tax effects – In connection with the transition from a global tax system, the Tax Act establishes a mandatory deemed repatriation tax. The tax is computed using our post-1986 E&P that was previously deferred from U.S. income taxes.  The tax is based on the amount of foreign earnings held in cash equivalents and certain net assets, which are taxed at 15.5%, and those held in other assets, which are taxed at 8%. We recorded a provisional amount of $14.2 million. We also established an estimated valuation allowance of $6.5 million. This resulted in a corresponding decrease in deferred tax assets due to the utilization of foreign tax credit carryforwards. The determination of the transition tax requires further guidance as to its applicability to non-calendar year end taxpayers and analysis regarding the amount and composition of our historical foreign earnings. We no longer assert that we intend to permanently reinvest earnings outside the U.S. and accrued a provisional $2.0 million related to our estimated taxes from repatriating earnings with available cash. In addition, we accrued a $0.1 million provisional state tax liability, pending further guidance and legislative action from various states regarding conformity with the Tax Act.

The Tax Act reduces the Federal statutory tax rate from 35% to 21% effective January 1, 2018.  As a result, our U.S. federal statutory tax rate for our fiscal year ended April 30, 2018, is a blended rate of 30.4%. Other than the benefit from remeasuring our U.S. deferred tax assets and liabilities, the reduced rate did not have a significant impact on our effective tax rate for fiscal year 20152018.

We have not determined a reasonable estimate of the tax liability, if any, under the Tax Act for our remaining outside basis difference.  We will continue to evaluate our position for this matter as we finalize our Tax Act calculations.

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The Tax Act creates new taxes, effective for us on May 1, 2018, including a provision designed to tax global low taxed income ("GILTI") and a provision establishing new minimum taxes, such as the base erosion anti-abuse tax ("BEAT"). We continue to evaluate the Tax Act, but due to the complexity and incomplete guidance of various provisions, we have not completed our accounting for the income tax effects of certain elements of the Tax Act, including the new GILTI and BEAT taxes.  We have not yet determined whether such taxes should be recorded as a current-period expense when incurred or factored into the measurement of our deferred taxes.  As a result, we have not included an estimate of any tax expense or benefit related to these items for the year ended April 30, 2018.

Because of our estimated benefit from the Tax Act as well as other factors, we expect an approximate estimated effective tax rate of 23%–24% in fiscal year 2019. This effective tax rate excludes the tax impact of certain provision of the Tax Act whose impact is not yet known, as well as the tax impact of certain items we cannot yet provide. These items are not available without unreasonable effort due to the high variability, complexity, low visibility or uncertainty, including restructuring charges and credits, gains and losses on foreign currency, and other gains and losses.

Earnings Per Diluted Share ("EPS"):

EPS for fiscal year 2018 was 21.6%$3.32 per share compared to 17.9%with $1.95 per share in the prior year. InEPS results included the fourth quarter of fiscal year 2015, the Company recognized a non-recurring tax benefit of $3.1 million related to tax deductions claimed on the write up of certain foreign tax assets to fair market value. During fiscal year 2014, the Company recorded non-cash deferred tax benefits of $10.6 million ($0.18 per share), principally associated with new tax legislation enacted in the United Kingdom (“U.K”) that reduced the U.K. statutory income tax rates by 3%. The benefits reflect the measurement of all applicable U.K. deferred tax balances to the new income tax rates of 21% effective April 1, 2014 and 20% effective April 1, 2015. following items, which impacted comparability:

  2018  2017 
Restructuring and related charges $(0.39) $(0.15)
Foreign exchange losses on intercompany transactions  (0.15)  (0.01)
Estimated impact of the Tax Act  0.43    
Pension settlement     (0.09)
Unfavorable tax settlement     (0.85)
Deferred income tax benefit on U.K. tax rate change     0.04 
Total net impact $(0.11) $(1.06)

Excluding the impact of the tax benefits describeditems included above, the Company’s effective tax rate decreased from 23.3% to 22.9% principally due to higher non-U.S. tax benefits and lower U.K. income tax rates, partially offset by lower net tax reserve releases of $2.0 million.
Earnings Per Share:
Earnings per diluted shareAdjusted EPS for fiscal year 20152018 increased 10%14% to $2.97$3.43 per share. Excluding the impact of the fiscal year 2015 ($0.34share compared with $3.01 per share) and the fiscal year 2014 ($0.48 per share) restructuring charges,share in the prior year asset impairment charges ($0.06 per share), fiscal year 2015 ($0.05 per share) and fiscal year 2014 ($0.18 per share) non-recurring tax benefits and the unfavorable impact of foreign exchange ($0.11 per share), earnings per diluted shareyear. On a constant currency basis, Adjusted EPS increased 7%3%. The growth was mainly driven by company-wide restructuring and other cost savings, higher margin digital revenue and lower accrued incentive compensation, partially offset by the dilutive impacts of investments in CrossKnowledge and Education Services (Deltak) and costs incurred for the development of internal systems and digital platforms.

FISCAL YEAR 2015 SEGMENT OPERATING RESULTS:

  2018  2017  % Change  
% Change
w/o FX (a)
 
RESEARCH:            
Revenue:            
Journal Subscriptions $677,685  $639,720   6%   
Open Access  41,997   30,633   37%  34%
Licensing, Reprints, Backfiles, and Other  181,806   164,070   11%  8%
Total Journal Revenue $901,488  $834,423   8%  3%
                 
Publishing Technology Services (Atypon)  32,907   19,066   73%  73%
                 
Total Research Revenue $934,395  $853,489   9%  4%
                 
Cost of Sales  (247,654)  (219,773)  13%  8%
                 
Gross Profit $686,741  $633,716   8%  3%
Gross Profit Margin  73.5%  74.3%        
                 
Operating Expenses  (379,175)  (353,406)  7%  5%
Amortization of Intangibles  (26,829)  (26,133)  3%   
Restructuring Charges (See Note 6)  (5,257)  (1,949)        
                 
Contribution to Profit $275,480  $252,228   9%   
Contribution Margin  29.5%  29.6%        

As part of Wiley’s Restructuring and Reinvestment Program, during the first quarter of fiscal year 2015, the Company consolidated certain decentralized business functions (Content Management, Vendor Procurement Services, Marketing Services, etc.) into Shared Service and Administrative functions. These newly centralized service groups are part of the Company’s plan to reduce costs through efficiencies gained from standardized technology and centralized management. The costs of these functions were previously reported as direct operating expenses in each business segment but are now reported within the shared service functions. Prior year amounts have been restated to reflect the same reporting methodology. The Company uses occupied square footage of space; number of employees; units shipped; specific identification/activity-based; gross profit; revenue and number of invoices to allocate shared service costs to each business segment
(a)Adjusted to exclude Restructuring Charges

2823

               % change
RESEARCH:          2015              2014            % change             w/o FX (a)
     
Revenue:    
Research Communication:    
Journal Subscriptions $664,455 $667,3050%1%
Funded Access 22,388 17,67327%29%
Other Journal Revenue 126,942 113,92511%15%
  813,785798,9032%4%
Books and References:    
Print Books 101,872 114,135-11%-9%
Digital Books 45,550 47,693-4%-2%
  147,422 161,828-9%-7%
     
Other Research Revenue 79,588 83,618-5%-2%
     
Total Revenue $1,040,795 $1,044,3490%2%
     
Cost of Sales (275,487) (280,793)-2%-1%
     
Gross Profit $765,308 $763,5560%2%
Gross Profit Margin73.5%73.1%  
     
Direct Expenses (249,150) (248,175)0%2%
Amortization of Intangibles (28,190) (28,188)0%0%
Restructuring Charges (see Note 6) (4,555) (7,774)  
     
Direct Contribution to Profit $483,413 $479,4191%2%
Direct Contribution Margin46.4%45.9%  
     
Shared Services and Administrative Costs:    
Distribution and Operational Services (44,602) (45,773)-3%-1%
Technology and Content Management (99,696) (101,922)-2%-2%
Occupancy and Other (23,326) (25,997)-10%-9%
     
Contribution to Profit $315,789 $305,7273%5%
Contribution Margin30.3%29.3%  
(a)  Adjusted to exclude the fiscal year 2015 and 2014 Restructuring Charges
Revenue:

Research revenue for fiscal year 2015 of $1,040.8increased 9% to $934.4 million, was flator 4% on a constant currency basis as compared with the prior year, but increased 2% excluding the unfavorable impact of foreign exchange.year. The increase was driven by Journal Subscriptions, Other Journal Revenue and Funded Access, partially offset by declines in Print and Digital Books and Other Research Revenue. Journal Subscription revenue growth was driven by new subscriptions ($4 million), new titles ($2 million) and publication timing ($1 million). primarily due to:
a full year of revenue from Atypon, which was acquired in September 2016, of which $14 million was the incremental impact;
Open Access growth driven by the strong performance of existing titles and, to a lesser extent, new title launches; and
other Journal revenue increases, particularly in reprints, backfiles and the licensing of intellectual content.

As of April 30, 2015,2018, calendar year 20152018 journal subscription renewals were up approximately 1% over2% higher than calendar year 20142017 on a constant currency basis with approximately 97% of targeted business closed. Growthunder contract.

Gross Profit:

Gross profit increased 8% to $686.7 million, or 3% on a constant currency basis as compared with prior year. The increase was driven by higher revenues. Gross profit margin declined by 80 basis points due primarily to higher journal royalty costs associated with title mix and an increase in Other Journal Revenuenew titles at higher royalty rates. We anticipate that we will continue to experience gross margin pressure due to higher journal royalty rates in fiscal year 2019. To offset this gross margin pressure, we will continue to pursue additional operations efficiencies.

Contribution to Profit:

Contribution to profit increased 9% to $275.5 million as compared with prior year. On a constant currency basis and excluding restructuring charges, contribution to profit remained flat as compared with prior year as the increase in gross profit was fully offset by higher operating expenses.

The increase in operating expenses was primarily due to:
·a full year of costs in fiscal year 2018 from Atypon which resulted in an incremental impact of $9 million;
·higher employment-related costs of $5 million, which included higher incentive compensation from the achievement of certain financial goals and targets;
·higher content and editorial costs of $3 million; and
·an increase in product technology costs of $5 million.

These factors were partially offset by savings from operational excellence initiatives and restructuring activities.

Society Partnerships

For calendar year 2018, 15 new society contracts were signed, with combined annual revenue of approximately $14 million, and 10 society contracts were not renewed with combined annual revenue of approximately $3 million.

24

  2018  2017  % Change  
% Change
w/o FX (a)
 
PUBLISHING:            
Revenue:            
STM and Professional Publishing $287,315  $291,255   (1)%  (3)%
Education Publishing  187,178   196,343   (5)%  (6)%
Course Workflow (WileyPLUS)  59,475   62,348   (5)%  (5)%
Test Preparation and Certification  35,534   35,609       
Licensing, Distribution, Advertising and Other  48,146   47,894   1%  (2)%
                 
Total Publishing Revenue $617,648  $633,449   (2)%  (4)%
                 
Cost of Sales  (194,900)  (194,837)     (1)%
                 
Gross Profit $422,748  $438,612   (4)%  (5)%
Gross Profit Margin  68.4%  69.2%        
                 
Operating Expenses  (280,680)  (301,510)  (7)%  (8)%
Amortization of Intangibles  (8,108)  (9,803)  (17)%  (17)%
Restructuring Charges (see Note 6)  (6,443)  (1,596)        
Publishing brand impairment charge  (3,600)           
                 
Contribution to Profit $123,917  $125,703   (1)%  2%
Contribution Margin  20.1%  19.8%        

(a)Adjusted in fiscal year 2018 and 2017 to exclude Restructuring Charges, and in fiscal year 2018 also excludes a Publishing brand impairment charge.

Revenue:

Publishing revenue decreased 2% to $617.6 million, or 4% on a constant currency basis as compared with prior year. The decline was driven by lower print book revenues, particularly in Education Publishing, due to overall softness in the market as well as other retail options such as rental and digital. Also contributing to the decline in Publishing revenue was a decline in Course Workflow (WileyPLUS), primarily due to the timing of revenue recognition associated with multi-semester offerings, which are recognized in periods extending across two semesters.

Gross Profit:

Gross profit decreased 4% to $422.7 million, or 5% on a constant currency basis as compared with prior year. The decrease was mainly driven by the saledecline in revenues, partially offset by lower inventory costs due to cost savings initiatives.

Contribution to Profit:

Contribution to profit decreased 1% to $123.9 million as compared with prior year. On a constant currency basis and excluding restructuring charges and a brand impairment charge in the first quarter of an individually large journal backfile license ($10 million)fiscal year 2018, contribution to profit increased 2%. This was primarily due to lower operating expenses, which primarily savings from operational excellence initiatives and journal content rights ($6 million). Other Journal Revenue includes service charges to contributors, sales of journal licensing rights, backfiles and individual article sales.restructuring activities.

2925

  2018  2017  % Change  
% Change
w/o FX (a)
 
SOLUTIONS:            
Revenue:            
Education Services (OPM) $119,131  $111,638   7%  7%
Professional Assessment  61,094   59,868   2%  2%
Corporate Learning  63,835   60,086   6%  (1)%
                 
Total Solutions Revenue $244,060  $231,592   5%  3%
                 
Cost of Sales  (42,658)  (46,146)  (8)%  (11)%
                 
Gross Profit $201,402  $185,446   9%  7%
Gross Profit Margin  82.5%  80.1%        
                 
Operating Expenses  (162,317)  (155,104)  5%  3%
Amortization of Intangibles  (13,291)  (13,733)  (3)%  (6)%
Restructuring Charges (see Note 6)  (3,695)  (1,787)        
                 
Contribution to Profit $22,099  $14,822   49%  56%
Contribution Margin  9.1%  6.4%        

(a)Adjusted to exclude Restructuring Charges

Revenue:

Solutions revenue increased 5% to $244.1 million, or 3%, on a constant currency basis as compared with prior year, mainly driven by growth in Education Services (OPM) tuition revenue growth due to higher enrollments, partially offset by a decline in Corporate Learning (CrossKnowledge) where French government funding slowed for unemployment initiatives and blended learning programs.

Gross Profit:

Gross profit increased 9% to $201.4 million, or 7% on a constant currency basis as compared with prior year. The increase primarily reflected the impact of higher revenue.

A 240-basis-point improvement in gross profit margin was due to higher revenues and increased efficiency in recruiting Education Services (OPM) students, which resulted in lower recruitment costs.
 
Funded Access revenue, which represents article publication fees that provide for free accessContribution to author articles grew $4.7Profit:

Contribution to profit increased 49% to $22.1 million as compared with prior year. On a constant currency basis and excluding restructuring charges, contribution to profit increased 56%, primarily due to the improvement in gross profit partially offset by higher operating expenses, including higher advertising and marketing expenses of $6 million to support sales growth.

Education Services (OPM) Partners and Programs

As of April 30, 2018, we had 34 university partners and 239 programs under contract.

CORPORATE EXPENSES:

Corporate Expenses were $182.0 million and $186.6 million in fiscal year 20152018 and 2017, respectively. On a constant currency basis and excluding restructuring charges and a one-time pension settlement charge in the prior year, these expenses decreased 2%, primarily due to the following:
·lower technology costs of approximately $10 million driven by reduced spending on our ERP system and other reductions in depreciation, outsourcing, and systems development consulting costs; and
·savings from operational excellence initiatives and restructuring activities;
partially offset by:
·strategy consultation costs in the current year of $7.1 million; and
one-time benefits in the prior year related to changes in our retiree and long-term disability plans of $4.2 million and a life insurance recovery of $2 million.

26

FISCAL YEAR 2017 SUMMARY RESULTS

Revenue:

Revenue for fiscal year 2017 of $1,718.5 million was consistent with fiscal year 2016, but was 2% higher on a higher volumeconstant currency basis. This increase was primarily due to the following:
·the impact of the previously announced transition to time-based digital journal subscriptions for calendar year 2016 of $34 million;
·higher Solutions revenue of $28 million;
·incremental revenue from the acquisition of Atypon of $19 million; and
·growth in author-funded access of $7 million and other journal revenue of $4 million.

These factors were partially offset by a decline in Publishing revenue of articles published by$48 million, mainly in print books and the Company.  Print Books declined 9% to $101.9 million and Digital Books declined 2% to $45.6 million excluding the unfavorable impact of foreign exchange. Other Research Revenue,a large backfile sale in the prior year of $10 million.

As previously disclosed, we transitioned from issue-based to time-based journal subscription agreements for calendar year 2016. The transition to time-based digital journal subscription agreements shifted revenue from fiscal year 2016 to the remainder of calendar year 2016 (fiscal year 2017), which includesresulted in a favorable impact of approximately $34 million in fiscal year 2017. The change had no impact on cash flow from operations. We made these changes to simplify the contracting and administration of digital journal reprint revenue, advertising, book licensing rights, distribution services and the sale of protocols, decreased 2% to $79.6 million mainly due to lower journal reprint revenue ($2 million).subscriptions.
Revenue by Region is as follows:
                % of           % change
           2015            2014               Revenue            w/o FX
Revenue by Region:    
Americas$401,168 $408,00138%-2%
EMEA581,459 578,09956%3%
Asia-Pacific 58,168 58,2496%6%
Total Revenue $1,040,795 $1,044,349100%2%

Cost of Sales:Sales and Gross Profit:

Cost of Sales for fiscal year 20152017 decreased 1% to $460.8 million, but increased 2% to $275.5on a constant currency basis. This decrease was mainly driven by lower print book sales volume of $15 million or 1% excluding the favorable impact of foreign exchange. The decrease reflectsand lower inventory costs due to cost savings from outsourcing and procurement initiatives and lower cost digital products ($10 million),product mix of $5 million. These factors were partially offset by higher royalty rates on society owned journals ($5 million) and higher journal volume ($3 million).the following:
·incremental costs associated with the Atypon acquisition of $8 million;
Gross Profit:
·higher royalty costs due to the transition to time-based digital journal subscription agreements of $5 million and new journal titles of $4 million;
·higher Solutions sales volume of $5 million;
·higher Corporate Learning content development costs of $4 million;
·and Online Program Management employment costs of $3 million to support business growth.

Gross Profit Margin for fiscal year 2015 of 73.5% was 402017 increased 20 basis points higher than prior yearto 73.2% mainly due to cost savings from outsourcing and procurement initiatives and growthdriven by product mix in digital products (110 basis points), including the sale of an individually large digital journal backfile license,Research, partially offset by higher royalty rates on society owned journals (70 basis points).Online Program Management and Corporate Learning costs to support business growth.
 
Direct ExpensesOperating and Amortization:Administrative Expenses:

Direct ExpensesOperating and administrative expenses for fiscal year 2017 decreased 1% to $988.6 million, but increased 2% on a constant currency basis. This decrease was mainly driven by the following:
·benefits related to changes in our retiree and long-term disability health plans of $4 million;
·a life insurance recovery of $2 million in the current year and a disability settlement charge in the prior year of $2 million;
·lower advertising costs of $7 million due to title and volume reductions and timing;
·lower shipping and handling costs of $3 million;
·a market gain on nonqualified pension plan assets of $2 million; and
·restructuring and other cost savings.

The factors above were partially offset by the following:
·incremental costs associated with the Atypon acquisition of $14 million;
·a charge related to lump-sum payments offered to terminated vested employees within our U.S. defined benefit pension plans of $9 million;
·spending for our Enterprise Resource Planning ("ERP") and related systems of $6 million and other technology, development and maintenance costs of $4 million;
·increased headcount in Solutions of $4 million and Research of $3 million;
·higher incentive compensation of $8 million; and
·higher Solutions event promotional costs of $3 million.

27

Pension Plan Settlement:

We announced a voluntary, limited-time opportunity for terminated vested employees who are participants in the U.S. Employees' Retirement Plan of John Wiley & Sons, Inc. (the Pension Plan) to request early payment of their entire Pension Plan benefit in the form of a single lump sum payment. Eligible participants who wished to receive the lump sum payment were required to make an election by August 29, 2016. Approximately 780 eligible participants made the election to receive the lump sum, totaling $28 million which was paid from Pension Plan assets in October 2016. Settlement accounting rules were applied in the second quarter of fiscal year 2017, which resulted in a plan remeasurement and a recognition of a pro-rata portion of unamortized net actuarial loss of $9 million, which was recorded in Operating and Administrative Expenses in the Consolidated Statements of Income.

Restructuring and Related Charges:

Beginning in fiscal year 2013, we initiated a program (the "Restructuring and Reinvestment Program") to restructure and realign its cost base with current and anticipated future market conditions. We are targeting a majority of the cost savings achieved to improve margins and earnings, while the remainder will be reinvested in high-growth digital business opportunities.

In fiscal years 2017 and 2016, we recorded pre-tax restructuring charges of $13.4 million and $28.6 million, respectively, related to this program. These charges are reflected in Restructuring and Related Charges on the Consolidated Statements of Income and summarized in the following table:

  2017  2016 
Charges by Segment:      
Research $1,949  $2,982 
Publishing  1,596   4,507 
Solutions  1,787   1,042 
Corporate Expenses  8,023   20,080 
Total Restructuring and Related Charges $13,355  $28,611 
         
Charges by Activity:        
Severance $8,386  $16,443 
Process reengineering consulting  148   7,191 
Other activities  4,821   4,977 
Total Restructuring and Related Charges $13,355  $28,611 

Other Activities reflects leased facility consolidations, contract termination costs and the curtailment of certain defined benefit pension plans.

Amortization of Intangibles:

Amortization of intangibles for fiscal year 2017 was $49.7 million and consistent with the prior year period.
Interest Expense:

Interest expense for fiscal year 2017 increased $0.2 million to $16.9 million due to an increase in the average borrowing rate, partially offset by lower average debt balances outstanding.

Provision for Income Taxes:

The effective tax rate for fiscal year 2017 was 40.5%, compared to 16.6% in the prior year. The increase was due to the unfavorable German court decision described below. Excluding the expense related to that decision, the rate for fiscal year 2017 would have been 14.9%. The rate for fiscal year 2017, excluding the German court decision, was lower than the prior year's rate due to non-recurring foreign and domestic tax benefits and a favorable earnings mix, partially offset by the impact of non-cash deferred tax benefits related to legislation enacted in the U.K. In fiscal year 2016, the U.K. reduced its statutory rate to 19% beginning April 1, 2017, and 18% beginning April 1, 2020, and in fiscal year 2017, the U.K. further reduced its statutory rate beginning on April 1, 2020, from 18% to 17%.  This resulted in a tax benefit from the re-measurement of our applicable U.K. deferred tax balances of $5.9 million in fiscal year 2016 and $2.6 million in fiscal year 2017.

28

Unfavorable German Court Decision

In fiscal year 2003, we reorganized several of our German subsidiaries into a new operating entity which enabled us to increase ("step-up") the tax deductible net asset basis in certain assets and claim additional tax amortization deductions over 15 years beginning that fiscal year.

In May 2012, as part of its routine tax audit process, the German tax authorities challenged our tax position. In September 2014, we filed an appeal with the local finance court.  As required by German law, we paid all contested taxes and the related interest to avail ourselves of our right to defend our position. We made all required payments with cumulative total deposits of 56.6 million euros, including interest.

In October 2014, we received an unfavorable decision from the local finance court, which we appealed in January 2015 to the German Federal Fiscal Court. On September 26, 2016, we learned that the court denied our appeal and its tax position. No further appeals are available. As a result, we forfeited our deposit and incurred an income tax charge of $249.2$49 million. This one-time charge is included in our income tax expense for fiscal year 2017.

Earnings Per Share:

Earnings per diluted share for fiscal year 2017 was $1.95 per share, compared to $2.48 per share in the prior year. The decrease was mainly driven by the impact of the unfavorable German court tax decision described above ($0.85 per share), lower Publishing revenue, the impact of a large backfile sale in the prior year ($0.10 per share), a one-time charge related to the Pension Plan Settlement ($0.09 per share), lower non-cash deferred tax benefits related to changes in the U.K. corporate income tax rates ($0.06 per share), technology spending for our ERP and other related systems ($0.08 per share), and the unfavorable impact of foreign exchange translation ($0.04 per share).

Partially offsetting the decreases were the impact of the transition to time-based digital journal subscription agreements ($0.38 per share), lower restructuring charges in the current year ($0.17 per share), one-time tax benefits ($0.12 per share), and favorable employment cost reductions. The favorable employment cost reductions include the benefit for changes in our retiree and long-term disability health plans ($0.07 per share), a life insurance recovery in the current year ($0.02 per share) and a disability settlement charge in the prior year ($0.03 per share).

SEGMENT OPERATING RESULTS:

Effective August 1, 2016, we completed a number of changes to our organizational structure that resulted in a change in how we manage our businesses, allocate resources, and measure performance. As a result, we revised our segments into three new reporting segments to reflect how management currently reviews financial information and makes operating decisions. All prior period amounts have been restated to reflect the new reporting segment structure. The new reporting structure consists of Research (Journals and related content and services), Publishing (Books and related content, Course Workflow, and Test Preparation), and Solutions (Online Program Management, Corporate Learning, and Professional Assessment).

29


  2017  2016  % Change  
% Change
w/o FX (a)
 
RESEARCH:            
Revenue:            
Journal Subscriptions $639,720  $622,305   3%  6%
Open Access  30,633   25,671   19%  26%
Licensing, Reprints, Backfiles, and Other  164,070   178,802   (8)%  (3)%
Total Journal Revenue $834,423  $826,778   1%  4%
                 
Publishing Technology Services (Atypon)  19,066            
                 
Total Research Revenue $853,489  $826,778   3%  7%
                 
Cost of Sales  (219,773)  (214,972)  2%  6%
                 
Gross Profit $633,716  $611,806   4%  7%
Gross Profit Margin  74.3%  74.0%        
                 
Operating Expenses  (353,406)  (331,989)  6%  10%
Amortization of Intangibles  (26,133)  (24,725)  6%  13%
Restructuring Charges (See Note 6)  (1,949)  (2,982)        
                 
Contribution to Profit $252,228  $252,110      2%
Contribution Margin  29.6%  30.5%        

(a)Adjusted to exclude the fiscal year 2017 and 2016 Restructuring Charges

Revenue:

Research revenue for fiscal year 2017 increased 3% to $853.5 million, or 7% on a constant currency basis. This increase was mainly driven by the following:
·Journal Subscriptions revenue of $35 million due to the transition to time-based digital journal subscription agreements from issue-based;
·incremental revenue from the acquisition of Atypon of $19 million; and
·Author-Funded Access revenue growth of $7 million, reflecting new titles and increased business as well as growth associated with the Journal of American Heart Association.

These factors were partially offset by a decline in Licensing, Reprints, Backfiles, and Other of $6 million, primarily due to a large backfile sale in the prior year.

Excluding the transition to time-based revenue and the impact of foreign exchange, journal subscription revenue was consistent with the prior period. As of April 30, 2017, calendar year 2017 journal subscription renewals were 1% higher than calendar year 2016 on a currency neutral basis, with approximately 97% of targeted business under contract.

Platform Services includes publishing-software and services that enable scholarly and professional societies and publishers to deliver, host, enhance, market and manage their content on the web. In addition to providing its customers with dedicated technology resources, Atypon provides subscription licenses to its platform, Literatum, through contracts over one to five years in duration. Revenue is recognized evenly over the subscription period.

Cost of Sales:

Cost of Sales for fiscal year 2017 increased 2% to $219.8 million, or 6% on a constant currency basis. The increase was mainly driven by the following:
·incremental costs associated with the Atypon acquisition of $8 million;
·higher royalty costs due to the transition to time-based digital journal subscription agreements of $5 million; and
·society title growth of $4 million.

These factors were partially offset by lower inventory costs due to print run efficiency initiatives and increased digital products of $2 million and unfavorable product mix.

30

Gross Profit:

Gross Profit Margin increased 30 basis points to 74.3% in fiscal year 2017 due to favorable foreign exchange translation (20 basis points), lower journal production costs, and product mix.

Contribution to Profit:

Contribution to Profit for fiscal year 2017 of $252.2 million was flat with the prior year, but increased 2% on a constant currency basis and excluding Restructuring Charges. This increase was primarily due to the favorable impact of foreign exchange.increase in revenue discussed above, partially offset by increased operating expenses. The increase in operating expenses was mainly driven by higher editorial costs to support business growth ($3 million) and higher employment costs ($6 million), partially offset by lower accrued incentive compensation ($3 million). the following:
·incremental costs associated with the Atypon acquisition of $10 million;
·higher content-related costs to support business growth of $4 million; and
·higher employment costs of $3 million, mainly higher incentive compensation and increased headcount.

Amortization of Intangibles in fiscal year 20152017 increased 6% to $26.1 million, or 13% on a constant currency basis due to acquired publication rights of $28.2$2 million was flat withand the prior year.Atypon acquisition of $1 million.
Contribution to Profit:

Contribution to Profit for fiscal year 2015 increased 3%Margin was 29.6%, compared to $315.8 million, or 5% excluding30.5% in the current and prior year Restructuring Charges and the unfavorable impact of foreign exchange.  Revenue growth and cost savings from outsourcing and procurement initiatives were partially offset by higher royalty rates on society owned journals and higher employment costs.  Contribution Margin increased 100 basis points to 30.3% in fiscal year 2015 mainly due to cost savings from outsourcing and procurement initiatives and growth in digital products, partially offset by higher royalty rates on society owned journals.period.

Society Partnerships

For calendar year 2017, 6 new society contracts were signed, with combined annual revenue of approximately $9 million, and 15 society contracts were not renewed, with combined annual revenue of approximately $9 million.

Atypon Acquisition

On September 30, 2016, we acquired the net assets of Atypon, a Silicon Valley-based publishing-software company, for approximately $121 million in cash, net of cash acquired. Atypon is a publishing-software and service provider that enables scholarly and professional societies and publishers to deliver, host, enhance, market, and manage their content on the web. Atypon is headquartered in Santa Clara, CA, with approximately 260 employees in the U.S. and EMEA. Atypon provides services through Literatum, an innovative platform that primarily serves the scientific, technical, medical, and scholarly industry. This software gives publishers direct control over how their content is displayed, promoted, and monetized on the web. Atypon generated over $31 million in calendar year 2015 revenue. Literatum hosts nearly 9,000 journals, 13 million journal articles, and more than 1,800 publication Web sites for over 1,500 societies and publishers, accounting for a third of the world's English-language scholarly journal articles. 

PUBLISHING: 2017  2016  % Change  
% Change
w/o FX (a)
 
Revenue:            
STM and Professional Publishing $291,255  $330,984   (12)%  (9)%
Education Publishing  196,343   229,989   (15)%  (13)%
Course Workflow (WileyPLUS)  62,348   58,519   7%  7%
Test Preparation and Certification  35,609   28,115   27%  27%
Licensing, Distribution, Advertising, and Other  47,894   48,121      3%
                 
Total Publishing Revenue $633,449  $695,728   (9)%  (7)%
                 
Cost of Sales  (194,837)  (215,150)  (9)%  (7)%
                 
Gross Profit $438,612  $480,578   (9)%  (7)%
Gross Profit Margin  69.2%  69.1%        
                 
Operating Expenses  (301,510)  (338,675)  (11)%  (10)%
Amortization of Intangibles  (9,803)  (11,338)  (14)%  (10)%
Restructuring Charges (see Note 6)  (1,596)  (4,507)        
                 
Contribution to Profit $125,703  $126,058       
Contribution Margin  19.8%  18.1%        

·  (a)9 new society journals were signed with combined annual revenue of approximately $5 millionAdjusted to exclude the fiscal year 2017 and 2016 Restructuring Charges
·  45 renewals/extensions were signed with approximately $30 million in combined annual revenue
·  14 journals were not renewed with combined annual revenue of approximately $9 million

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The Company offers an alternative digital journal subscription license model to subscribers in certain markets.  Under this alternative model, the Company provides access to all journal content published within a calendar year. Under the Company’s previous licensing model, a customer subscribed to a discrete number of online journal issues and revenue was recognized as each issue was made available online. Based on the success of the program to date, the Company will expand its alternative model offering in calendar year 2016. The new time-based model will result in substantially all digital journal subscription revenue recognized on a straight-line basis over the calendar year.
Historically, journal publication timing has been skewed toward the front of a calendar year. Consequently, the Company estimates that expansion of the alternative license model will shift approximately $35 million of revenue and $0.35 of earnings per diluted share from fiscal year 2016 to fiscal year 2017. The underlying operational performance is expected to benefit from the lower administrative and contracting costs associated with the new model. The change will not impact free cash flow.
Journal Impact Index
In July 2014, the Company announced a continued increase in the number of its journal titles indexed in the Thomson Reuters® 2013 Journal Citation Reports (JCR).  A total of 1,202 Wiley titles were indexed, up from 1,193 in the previous year report.  27 Wiley journals achieved the top category rank, up from 25 in the previous year. The Thomson Reuters index is an important barometer of journal influence and impact.
               % change
PROFFESIONAL DEVELOPMENT (PD):           2015             2014            % change             w/o FX (a)
     
Revenue:    
Knowledge Services:    
Print Books $209,484 $231,984-10%-9%
Digital Books 49,822 53,764-7%-7%
Online Test Preparation and Certification 18,568 15,19222%22%
Other 30,370 29,8822%2%
  308,244 330,822-7%-6%
Talent Solutions:    
Assessment $56,762 $33,04772%72%
Online Learning and Training 42,017 -- 
  98,779 33,047199%199%
     
Total Revenue $407,023 $363,86912%13%
     
Cost of Sales (114,014) (111,911)2%3%
     
Gross Profit $293,009 $251,95816%17%
Gross Profit Margin72.0%69.2%  
     
Direct Expenses (134,538) (104,157)29%30%
Amortization of Intangibles (13,498) (6,965)94%94%
Restructuring Charges (see Note 6) (4,385) (11,860)  
     
Direct Contribution to Profit $140,588 $128,9769%8%
Direct Contribution Margin34.5%35.4%  
     
Shared Services and Administrative Costs:    
Distribution and Operational Services (30,838) (37,673)-18%-17%
Technology and Content Management (47,574) (50,374)-6%-6%
Occupancy and Other (24,060) (18,762)28%29%
     
Contribution to Profit $38,116 $22,16772%49%
Contribution Margin9.4%6.1%  
(a)  Adjusted to exclude the fiscal year 2015 and 2014 Restructuring Charges
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Revenue:

PDPublishing revenue for fiscal year 2015 increased 12%2017 decreased 9% to $407.0$633.4 million, or 13% excluding7% on a constant currency basis. This decline was driven by lower sales of STM and Professional Publishing of $40 million and Education Publishing of $34 million, and partially offset by growth in Course Workflow (WileyPlus) of $4 million, Test Preparation and Certification of $8 million, and Licensing, Distribution, Advertising and Other of $2 million.

The decline in Books and Reference Materials was mainly driven by softness in the unfavorablebook market, title reductions, and the impact of foreign exchange. Revenue includes incremental revenue froma large digital book sale in the Talent Solutions acquisitionsprior year of CrossKnowledge ($42 million)$4 million. Education books continue to be impacted by rental and Profiles ($21 million). Excluding revenue from both acquisitions, revenue decreased 6%other market forces, while STM and Professional Books also saw a continued decline in demand for print books.  Growth in Course Workflow (WileyPLUS) reflected continued focus on a currency neutral basis as declinesdigital course workflow with particular growth in Book sales, exceeded growth inaccounting courses. Online Test Preparation and Certification and other Assessment revenue. The decline in Book revenuegrowth was mainly driven by slow demand for backlist titles through retail and wholesale accounts and strategically planned reductions in front list titles.  Growth in Online Test Preparation and Certification reflects the additionproprietary sales of our new products, mainlycollege entrance examination ACT test preparation for the CFA and CMA exams, to the ELS Excel platform.  Growth in Assessment revenue excluding the acquisitions was approximately $2.4 million and driven by new Inscape assessment products and other professional test certification products. Licensing, Distribution, Advertising, and Other growth in Workplace Learning Solutions products. Other Knowledge Services revenue, which includes the salewas principally driven by licensing of licensing rights, subscription revenue and advertising and agency revenue, increased 2% to $30.4 million due to growth in licensing revenue.
intellectual property rights.

Revenue by Region is as follows:
               % of           % change
            2015             2014               Revenue          w/o FX
Revenue by Region:    
Americas $283,119 $285,37670%-1%
EMEA99,884 54,24025%86%
Asia-Pacific24,020 24,2535%2%
Total Revenue $407,023 $363,869100%13%
Cost of Sales:

Cost of Sales for fiscal year 2015 increased 2%2017 decreased 9% to $194.8 million, or 3% excluding7% on a constant currency basis reflecting the favorable impact of foreign exchange to $114.0 million. The increase was mainly driven by costs from new acquisitions ($8 million), partially offset bydecline in lower Print Book volume ($5 million).
sales volume.

Gross Profit:

Gross Profit Margin increased fromwas 69.2% to 72.0% in fiscal year 2015.  The improvement2017 and consistent with the prior year period.

Contribution to Profit:

Contribution to Profit was mainly driven$125.7 million in fiscal year 2017 and flat with the prior year period, both on a reported and constant currency basis and excluding Restructuring Charges. Lower print book revenue was offset by higher margin incrementaloperational efficiencies and restructuring and other cost savings. Contribution Profit Margin was 19.8%, compared to 18.1% in the prior year

  2017  2016  % Change  
% Change
w/o FX (a)
 
SOLUTIONS:            
Revenue:            
Education Services (OPM) $111,638  $96,469   16%  16%
Professional Assessment  59,868   57,370   4%  5%
Corporate Learning  60,086   50,692   19%  20%
                 
Total Solutions Revenue $231,592  $204,531   13%  14%
                 
Cost of Sales  (46,146)  (36,055)  28%  29%
                 
Gross Profit $185,446  $168,476   10%  10%
Gross Profit Margin  80.1%  82.4%        
                 
Operating Expenses  (155,104)  (149,741)  4%  4%
Amortization of Intangibles  (13,733)  (13,701)     1%
Restructuring Charges (see Note 6)  (1,787)  (1,042)        
                 
Contribution to Profit $14,822  $3,992   271%  224%
Contribution Margin  6.4%  2.0%        

(a)Adjusted to exclude the fiscal year 2017 and 2016 Restructuring Charges

Revenue:

Solutions revenue from the CrossKnowledge (150 basis points) and Profiles (140 basis points) acquisitions.
Direct Expenses and Amortization:
Direct Expenses for fiscal year 20152017 increased 29%13% to $134.5$231.6 million, or 30% excluding14% on a constant currency basis.

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Growth in Education Services (OPM) of $15 million primarily reflects the favorable impact of foreign exchange. The increaseincreased partners new revenue generating programs, higher enrollments and other related service revenue. As of April 30, 2017, Wiley had 39 university partners and 250 degree programs under contract compared to 38 university partners and 226 degree programs as of April 30, 2016. During fiscal year 2017, Wiley signed several new partners, including George Mason University, Seton Hall University, St. John's University, and the Vlerick Business School in Belgium.

Professional Assessment revenue growth of $3 million was driven by incremental operating expensesincreased post-hire assessment and retail revenue of $4 million, partially offset by a decline in pre-hire assessment revenue of $1 million following portfolio actions to optimize longer-term profitable growth.

The increase in Corporate Learning of $9 million reflected growth from Talent Solutions acquisitions ($40 million),existing customers in the core e-learning business, primarily in Europe.

Cost of Sales:

Cost of Sales for fiscal year 2017 increased 28% to $46.1 million, or 29% on a constant currency basis. This increase was mainly due to higher sales volume of $5 million, higher employment costs in Education Services (OPM) of $3 million, and higher content development costs for new assessment products ($1 million), merit increases ($1 million) and higher accrued incentive compensation ($1 million),in Corporate Learning of $4 million to support business growth. These factors were partially offset by restructuring and other cost savings ($12 million).  Amortization of Intangibles increased $6.5 million in fiscal year 2015 principally due to the Talent Solutions acquisitions of CrossKnowledge and Profiles.
savings.
Contribution to Profit:
Contribution to Profit increased 72% to $38.1 million in fiscal year 2015, or 49% on a currency neutral basis and excluding the current and prior year Restructuring Charges. The improvement was mainly driven by restructuring and other cost savings, partially offset by lower Book revenue and the dilutive impact of the CrossKnowledge acquisition.  Contribution Margin increased from 6.1% to 9.4% in fiscal year 2015, or 120 basis points on a currency neutral basis and excluding the Restructuring Charges. The increase was mainly driven by restructuring and other cost savings, partially offset by the dilutive impact of the CrossKnowledge acquisition.
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Acquisitions
·  On April 1, 2014, the Company acquired Profiles International (“Profiles”) for approximately $48 million in cash, net of cash acquired. Profiles provides pre-employment assessment and selection tools that enable employers to optimize candidate selections and develop the full potential of their employees. Solutions include pre-hire assessments, including those designed to measure and match personality, knowledge, skills, managerial fit, loyalty, and values; and post-hire assessments, focused on measuring sales and managerial effectiveness, employee performance and career potential. Profiles serves approximately 4,000 corporate clients and millions of end users in over 120 countries, with assessments available in 32 languages. Profiles revenue and operating income for fiscal year 2015 was $23.3 million and $1.0 million, respectively.
·  On May 1, 2014, the Company acquired CrossKnowledge Group Limited (“CrossKnowledge”) for approximately $166 million in cash, net of cash acquired. CrossKnowledge is a learning solutions provider focused on leadership and managerial skills development that offers subscription-based, digital learning solutions for global corporations, universities, and small and medium-sized enterprises. CrossKnowledge’s solutions include a variety of managerial and leadership topics such as leadership, diversity, value creation, client orientation, change and corporate strategy that are delivered on a cloud-based LMS platform with over 19,000 learning objects in 17 languages. CrossKnowledge serves over five million end-users in 80 countries. For the fiscal year ended April 30, 2015, CrossKnowledge’s revenue and operating loss included in Wiley’s results was $42.0 million and $5.1 million, respectively, including $4.6 million of acquisition amortization.
Collaborations and Alliances
·  CrossKnowledge announced an agreement with Gavisus, a Scandinavian-based digital learning and talent development company. CrossKnowledge will provide Gavisus with the technology to plan, design and deliver online leadership training to clients in Norway, Sweden and Denmark.
·  Wiley announced a strategic collaboration with SilverCloud Health, a global provider of online behavioral and wellness solutions. The partnership, which will provide a comprehensive range of therapeutic programs across behavioral health and long-term chronic disease management, brings together Wiley’s evidence-based psychological and wellness content and SilverCloud Health’s award-winning cloud-based technology platform. The first set of programs, released in 2015, will address Generalized Anxiety Disorder and Diabetes, conditions that affect more than 40 million people in the United States on a daily basis alone.
·  Wiley has partnered with Chinese Cultural University to distribute the CPAexcel test preparation platform in China.
·  The Institute of Management Accountants announced a partnership agreement in India with Wiley to offer Wiley’s Certified Management Accountant Exam (CMA) Learning System as part of a full offering that includes live training from Miles Professional Education, a major professional certification course provider in India.
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              % change
EDUCATION:           2015             2014            % change            w/o FX (a)
     
Revenue:    
Books:    
Print Textbooks$144,416$163,152-11%-9%
Digital Books34,03630,13713%15%
 178,452193,289-8%-6%
     
Custom Products50,62243,55616%16%
     
Course Workflow Solutions (WileyPLUS)54,22349,45910%11%
     
Education Services (Deltak)81,59570,17916%16%
     
Other Education Revenue9,73010,494-7%-7%
     
Total Revenue$374,622$366,9772%3%
     
Cost of Sales(110,182)(114,174)-3%-2%
     
Gross Profit$264,440$252,8035%6%
Gross Profit Margin70.6%68.9%  
     
Direct Expenses(127,472)(120,407)6%7%
Amortization of Intangibles(9,527)(9,527)0%0%
Restructuring Charges (see Note 6)(1,571)(891)  
     
Direct Contribution to Profit$125,870$121,9783%4%
Direct Contribution Margin33.6%33.2%  
     
Shared Services and Administrative Costs:    
Distribution and Operational Services(12,863)(15,685)-18%-16%
Technology and Content Management(52,954)(46,787)13%14%
Occupancy and Other(13,878)(11,719)18%19%
     
Contribution to Profit$46,175$47,787-3%1%
Contribution Margin12.3%13.0%  
(a)  Adjusted to exclude the fiscal year 2015 and 2014 Restructuring Charges
Revenue:
Education revenue for fiscal year 2015 increased 2% to $374.6 million, or 3% excluding the unfavorable impact of foreign exchange.  The growth was mainly driven by Education Services (Deltak), Custom Products, Course Workflow Solutions (WileyPLUS) and Digital Books, partially offset by a decline in Print Textbooks.  WileyPLUS revenue, which is earned ratably over the school semester, grew 10% in fiscal year 2015. Unearned deferred WileyPLUS revenue as of April 30, 2015 was $3.8 million. The decline in Print Textbooks reflects student’s preference for Digital Books and Custom Products, a decline in for-profit enrollments and impact from rental book programs.
Education Services (Deltak) accounted for 22% of total Education revenue in fiscal year 2015 compared to 19% in the prior year.  During the fiscal year, Wiley added 27 net programs and signed the University of Birmingham (UK), Manhattan College (US), University College Cork (Ireland), University of Delaware (US), and the largest partnership to-date, a university-wide agreement with one of America’s most prestigious institutions. As of April 30, 2015, Deltak had 38 partners and 200 degree programs under contract.
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Revenue by Region is as follows:
                % of           % change
           2015             2014               Revenue           w/o FX
Revenue by Region:    
Americas $300,174 $288,32980%5%
EMEA 19,265 19,3345%0%
Asia-Pacific 55,183 59,31415%-2%
Total Revenue $374,622 $366,977100%3%
Cost of Sales
Cost of Sales for fiscal year 2015 decreased 3% to $110.2 million, or 2% excluding the favorable impact of foreign exchange.  The decrease was mainly driven by lower composition costs from lower cost digital products ($3 million), lower royalty costs due to product mix ($2 million) and lower inventory obsolescence provisions ($1 million), partially offset by higher student recruitment costs in Education Services (Deltak) due to growth in new partners and programs ($3 million).

Gross Profit:

Gross Profit Margin for fiscal year 2015 improved 1702017 declined 230 basis points to 70.6%80.1%, principally due to lower compositionhigher content and employment costs from lower cost digital products (70 basis points), lower royalty costs due to product mix (60 basis points) and lower inventory obsolescence provisions (40 basis points).
Direct Expenses and Amortization:
Direct Expenses increased 6% to $127.5 million, or 7% excluding the favorable impact of foreign exchange.  The increase was mainly driven by costs associated withsupport new business growth in Corporate Learning and Education Services (Deltak) partner programs ($12 million), partially offset by restructuring and other cost savings ($2 million), lower accrued incentive compensation ($1 million) and lower editorial costs due to a reduced title count ($1 million)(OPM).  Amortization of Intangibles was $9.5 million in fiscal years 2015 and 2014.

Contribution to Profit:

Contribution to Profit for fiscal year 2015 decreased 3% to $46.2 million, but increased 1% on a currency neutral basis and excluding the current and prior year Restructuring Charges.  The increase was mainly due to digital revenue growth and cost savings initiatives, partially offset by continued investment in Education Services (Deltak) programs.  Contribution Margin decreased 70 basis points to 12.3% in fiscal year 2015, or 40 basis points on a currency neutral basis and excluding the Restructuring Charges.  The decline was mainly driven by continued investment in Education Services (Deltak) program development, partially offset by higher gross profit margins and restructuring and other cost savings.
SHARED SERVICES AND ADMINISTRATIVE COSTS:
The following table reflects total shared services and administrative costs by function, which are included in the Operating and Administrative Expenses line item in the Consolidated Statements of Income.  A portion of these costs are allocated to each segment above based on allocation methodologies described in Note 20.
35


              % Change
Dollars in thousands              2015                 2014           % Change          w/o FX (a)
     
Distribution and Operation Services$88,224$99,433-11%-10%
Technology and Content Management246,292241,3292%2%
Finance52,98854,468-3%-1%
Other Administration106,335101,4875%6%
Restructuring Charges (see Note 6)18,29322,197-18%-
Impairment Charges (see Note 7)-4,786--
Total$512,132$523,700-2%0%
(a)  Adjusted to exclude the fiscal year 2015 and 2014 Restructuring and fiscal year 2014 Impairment Charges
Shared Services and Administrative Costs for fiscal year 2015 decreased 2% to $512.1 million, but was flat on a currency neutral basis and excluding the current and prior year Restructuring Charges and prior year Asset Impairment Charges.
Distribution and Operation Services costs decreased mainly due to the outsourcing of certain warehousing ($8 million), lower print volume ($1 million) and lower accrued incentive compensation ($1 million). Technology and Content Management costs increased mainly due to investments in digital platforms and internal systems ($20 million), including approximately $6 million for the continued investment in the Company’s Enterprise Resource Planning System, incremental costs from Talent Solutions acquisitions ($7 million) and investments in new Education Services (Deltak) partners and programs ($2 million), partially offset by Content Management restructuring and other cost savings ($18 million) and lower accrued incentive compensation ($4 million). Finance costs decreased mainly due to lower employment costs ($4 million), partially offset by incremental costs from acquisitions ($3 million). Other Administration costs increased mainly due to incremental costs from the CrossKnowledge acquisition ($5 million) and the expiration of a real estate tax incentive related to the Company’s Hoboken headquarters ($3 million), partially offset by other ($2 million), mainly lower accrued incentive compensation.
LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES:
The Company’s Cash and Cash Equivalents balance was $457.4 million at the end of fiscal year 2015, compared with $486.4 million a year earlier.  Cash Provided by Operating Activities in fiscal year 2015 increased $6.9 million to $355.1 million principally due to lower income tax payments ($18 million), lower income tax deposits paid to German tax authorities ($7 million), lower employee retirement plan contributions ($6 million) and lower royalty advance payments ($5 million), partially offset by higher annual incentive compensation payments ($20 million), higher payments related to the Company’s restructuring programs ($4 million) and other working capital changes mainly due to timing.
Cash Used for Investing Activities in fiscal year 2015 was $279.7 million compared to $149.3 million in the prior year. Fiscal year 2015 includes the acquisition of CrossKnowledge for approximately $166 million in cash, net of cash acquired, while fiscal year 2014 includes the acquisition of Profiles for approximately $48 million, net of cash acquired. The acquisitions were funded through the use of the existing credit facility and available cash and did not have an impact on the Company’s ability to meet other operating, investing and financing needs.  During fiscal years 2015 and 2014, the Company received $1.1 million and $3.3 million of escrow proceeds, respectively, from the sale of certain consumer publishing assets in fiscal year 2013 which represented the final amounts due to the Company from the sale of those assets.
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Composition spending was $39.4$14.8 million in fiscal year 20152017, compared to $40.6with $4.0 million in the prior year. The decrease reflects lower spendingimprovement was mainly driven by revenue growth in all areas, partially offset by operating costs incurred to support new business growth in Education Services (OPM) and Research dueCorporate Learning. Contribution Margin was 6.4%, compared to cost reduction efficiencies2.0% in the prior year period.

Ranku acquisition:

In September 2016, Wiley acquired Ranku, a recruitment technology and lower planned title volume. Cash usedpredictive analytics software company for technology, propertyuniversities, community colleges, and equipment was $69.1state systems, for $5 million. Ranku has been a partner to more than 1,000 online degree programs at the undergraduate and graduate level. Ranku also offers tech-enabled reporting that helps universities forecast what curriculum to develop based on real-time consumer demand and the needs of the labor market. Ranku plays a critical role in supporting enrollment growth and market research at its partner institutions.

CORPORATE EXPENSES:

Corporate Expenses were $186.6 million and $194.0 million in fiscal year 2015 compared to $57.6 million2017 and 2016, respectively.  Excluding restructuring charges and a one-time pension settlement charge in the prior year.  The increase mainly reflects Deltak curriculum development costsfiscal 2017, these expenses decreased 2%, primarily due to growth in new partners and programs ($5 million), incremental capital spending for CrossKnowledge ($4 million), and capital spending on new leased facilities ($2 million).
Cash Used for Financing Activities was $61.0 millionone-time benefits in fiscal year 2015 as compared to $53.5 million in the prior year. The Company’s net debt (debt less cash and cash equivalents) increased $78.9 million from the prior year principally to fund the CrossKnowledge acquisition ($166 million). During fiscal year 2015, net debt borrowings were $47.7 million compared to $27.1 million in the prior year.  The total notional amount of the interest rate swap agreements associated with the Company’s revolving credit facilities was $300 million as of April 30, 2015.
To take advantage of more favorable interest rates available in the current market, on December 22, 2014, the Company entered into a $50 million 364-day U.S. dollar revolving credit facility reinstated every 30 days with Santander Bank, N.A. which is equally ranked with the Company’s existing agreement with Bank of America - Merrill Lynch and The Royal Bank of Scotland plc, and TD Bank, N.A.. The facility was fully drawn as of April 30, 2015. The borrowing rate is LIBOR plus a margin of 1.00%. The proceeds of the revolving credit facility were used to pay a portion of the Company’s existing revolving credit facilities and meet seasonal operating cash requirements.
On October 31, 2014, the Company entered into a U.S. dollar facility with TD Bank, N.A. which is equally ranked with the Company’s existing agreement with Bank of America - Merrill Lynch and The Royal Bank of Scotland plc, and Santander Bank. The new agreement consists of a $50 million 364-day revolving credit facility. The facility was fully drawn as of April 30, 2015. The borrowing rate is LIBOR plus an applicable margin ranging from 0.80% to 1.40%, and a facility fee will be due on any undrawn amounts ranging from 0.125% to 0.30%, both depending on the Company consolidated leverage ratio, as defined. The credit agreement contains certain restrictive covenants2017 related to the Company’s consolidated leverage ratiochanges in our retiree and interest coverage ratio, which the Company was in compliance with aslong-term disability plans of April 30, 2015. The proceeds$4 million, a life insurance recovery of the new revolving credit facility were used to pay a portion of the Company’s existing revolving credit facility$2 million, savings from operational excellence initiatives and meet seasonal operating cash requirements.restructuring activities.

During fiscal year 2015, the Company repurchased 1,082,502 shares of common stock at an average price of $57.26 compared to 1,248,030 shares at an average price of $50.79 in the prior year.  In fiscal year 2015, the Company increased its quarterly dividend to shareholders by 16% to $0.29 per share versus $0.25 per share in the prior year. Lower proceeds from the exercise of stock options reflect a lower volume of stock option exercises in fiscal year 2015 compared to the prior year.FISCAL YEAR 2019 OUTLOOK

Metric (amounts in millions, except EPS) FY18 Actual 
FY19 Expectation
Constant Currency
Revenue $1,796.1 Even with prior year
Adjusted EPS $3.43 Mid-single digit decline
Cash Provided by Operating Activities $381.8 High-single digit decline
Capital Expenditures $150.7 Modestly lower

The Company’s operating cash flow is affected by the seasonality and timing of receipts from its Research journal subscriptions and its Education business. Cash receipts for calendar year Research subscription journals occur primarily from December through April.  Reference is made to the Customer Credit Risk section, which follows, for a description of the impact on the Company as it relates to independent journal agents’ financial position and liquidity. Sales primarily in the U.S. higher education market tend to be concentrated in June through August, and again in November through January. Due to this seasonality, the Company normally requires increased funds for working capital from May through October.
·Wiley anticipates low-single digit revenue growth in Research and Solutions offset by a low-single digit revenue decline in Publishing.
·Adjusted EPS is expected to decline primarily due to increased investment in revenue growth initiatives, particularly in Research and Education Services.
·Cash Provided by Operating Activities reflects the impact of growth investments and substantially lower gains in working capital.
·Capital Expenditures are expected to decline modestly with the completion of our headquarters transformation. Increased investment is expected in areas of product development and business optimization.

3733


LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES:
Cash and Cash Equivalents held outside the U.S. were approximately $411.6 million as
Principal Sources of April 30, 2015. The balances in equivalent U.S. dollars were comprised primarily of pound sterling ($256 million), euros ($73 million), Australian dollars ($45 million), Singapore dollars ($34 million) and other ($4 million). Maintenance of these cash and cash equivalent balances outside the U.S. does not have a material impact on the liquidity or capital resources of the Company’s global, including U.S., operations. Cash and cash equivalent balances outside the U.S. may be subject to U.S. taxation, if repatriated. The Company intends to reinvest cash outside the U.S. except in instances where repatriating such earnings would result in no additional income tax.  Accordingly, the Company has not accrued for U.S. income tax on the repatriation of non-U.S. earnings.  It is not practical to determine the U.S. income tax liabilityLiquidity

We believe that would be payable if such cash and cash equivalents were not indefinitely reinvested.
As of April 30, 2015, the Company had approximately $750.1 million of debt outstanding and approximately $302.9 million of unused borrowing capacity under its Revolving Credit and other facilities. The Company believes that itsour operating cash flow, together with itsour revolving credit facilities and other available debt financing, will be adequate to meet itsour operating, investing, and financing needs in the foreseeable future, although there can be no assurance that continued or increased volatility in the global capital and credit markets will not impair itsour ability to access these markets on terms commercially acceptable. The Company doesWe do not have any off-balance-sheet debt.

As of April 30, 2018, we had cash and cash equivalents of $169.8 million, of which approximately $147.9 million, or 87% was located outside the U.S.  Maintenance of these cash and cash equivalent balances outside the U.S. does not have a material impact on the liquidity or capital resources of our operations. Notwithstanding the Tax Act which generally eliminated federal income tax on future cash repatriation to the U.S., cash repatriation may be subject to state and local taxes or withholding or similar taxes. We no longer intend to permanently reinvest cash outside the U.S. As described in Note 11, "Income Taxes," of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements, we accrued a provisional $2.0 million related to reversing our permanent reinvestment assertion related to estimated taxes from repatriating earnings and $0.1 million for state taxes related to the Tax Act, in addition to using foreign tax credits to offset a provisional deemed repatriation tax of $14.2 million. Other than the above accruals, we have no additional accrued liability for U.S. income tax on the repatriation of non-U.S. earnings and estimate that if such earnings were repatriated, the U.S. income tax liability would not be material to our consolidated financial position or results of operations.

As of April 30, 2018, we had approximately $360.0 million of debt outstanding and approximately $742.8 million of unused borrowing capacity under our Revolving Credit and other facilities.

Contractual Obligations and Commercial Commitments

A summary of contractual obligations and commercial commitments, excluding unrecognized tax benefits further described in Note 11, "Income Taxes," of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements, as of April 30, 2018 is as follows:

     Payments Due by Period 
  Total  
Within
Year 1
  
2–3
Years
  
4–5
Years
  
After 5
Years
 
Total Debt $360.0  $  $360.0  $  $ 
Interest on Debt (1)
  27.7   7.9   19.8       
Non-Cancelable Leases  259.3   31.2   54.4   37.2   136.5 
Minimum Royalty Obligations  531.8   97.3   166.2   124.7   143.6 
Other Operating Commitments  47.9   36.3   11.2   0.4    
Total $1,226.7  $172.7  $611.6  $162.3  $280.1 

(1)Interest on Debt includes the effect of our interest rate swap agreements and the estimated future interest payments on our unhedged variable rate debt, assuming that the interest rates as of April 30, 2018 remain constant until the maturity of the debt

Analysis of Historical Cash Flow

The Company’sfollowing table shows the changes in our Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows in the fiscal years ended April 30, 2018, 2017 and 2016.

  Year Ended April 30, 
  2018  2017  2016 
Net Cash Provided by Operating Activities $381,838  $314,903  $349,957 
Net Cash Used in Investing Activities  (177,411)  (243,010)  (151,395)
Net Cash Used in Financing Activities  (96,831)  (346,172)  (285,663)
Effect of Foreign Currency Exchange Rate Changes on Cash and Cash Equivalents  3,661   (31,011)  (6,534)

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Free Cash Flow less Product Development Spending helps assess our ability, over the long term, to create value for our shareholders, as it represents cash available to repay debt, pay common dividends, and fund share repurchases and new acquisitions. Below are the details of Free Cash Flow less Product Development Spending for the fiscal years ended April 30, 2018, 2017, and 2016:

  Year Ended April 30, 
  2018  2017  2016 
Net Cash Provided by Operating Activities $381,838  $314,903  $349,957 
Less: Additions to Technology, Property, and Equipment  (114,225)  (105,058)  (86,399)
Less: Product Development Spending  (36,503)  (43,603)  (44,578)
Free Cash Flow less Product Development Spending $231,110  $166,242  $218,980 

Net Cash Provided by Operating Activities

2018 compared to 2017

Net Cash Provided by Operating Activities in fiscal year 2018 increased $66.9 million from fiscal year 2017 to $381.8 million. This was primarily due to:
·a $40.7 million favorable impact on accounts payable from the timing of vendor payments;
·a $12.1 million favorable impact from lower employee retirement plan contributions; and
·a $15.7 million favorable impact on accounts receivable from the timing of customer payments.

The factors above were partially offset by a $15.0 million unfavorable impact from higher taxes paid in fiscal 2018 as compared with prior year.

Our negative working capital can be negative due to the seasonalitywas $394.3 million and $428.1 million as of its businesses.April 30, 2018, and April 30, 2017, respectively. The primary driver of the negative working capital is unearned deferred revenue related to subscriptions for which cash has been collected in advance. Cash received in advance for subscriptions is used by the Companyus for a number of purposes, including acquisitions;funding operating activities, acquisitions, debt repayments; funding operations;repayments, dividend payments;payments, and purchasingrepurchasing treasury shares. The deferred revenue will be recognized as income when the products are shipped or made available online to the customers over the term of the subscription.subscription period. Current liabilities as of April 30, 20152018 include $372.1$486.4 million of such deferred subscription revenue for which cash was collected in advance.

The $33.8 million change in working capital was primarily due to the seasonality of our businesses and the impact from the changes in accounts receivable and accounts payable discussed above. For fiscal year 2019, working capital performance from accounts receivable and accounts payable is expected to be in line with fiscal year 2018.

2017 compared to 2016

Net Cash Provided by Operating Activities in fiscal year 2017 decreased $35.1 million from fiscal year 2016, to $314.9 million, principally due to lower accounts and royalties payable of $24 million due to the timing of vendor payments, higher accounts receivable of $15 million due to the timing of customer payments, higher incentive compensation payments of $5 million, and higher employee retirement plan contributions of $5 million. These factors were partially offset by lower payments related to our restructuring programs of $7 million, lower income tax payments of $5 million, and other working capital changes.

Net Cash Used in Investing Activities

2018 compared to 2017

Net Cash Used in Investing Activities in fiscal year 2018 was $177.4 million, compared to $243.0 million in the prior year. The decrease in net cash used in investing activities in fiscal year 2018 was primarily due to:
·our investment in fiscal year 2017 in acquisitions of $125.9 million compared to no investments in fiscal year 2018. Fiscal year 2017 includes cash used for the acquisitions of Atypon ($121 million) and Ranku ($5 million), net of cash acquired;
partially offset by:
·$60.4 million in proceeds we received in fiscal year 2017 related to the settlement of a foreign exchange forward contract that was entered into in fiscal year 2016 to manage foreign currency exposures on intercompany loans.

Projected capital spending for Technology, Property, and Equipment and CompositionProduct Development Spending for fiscal year 20162018 is forecast to be approximately $110$100 million and $38$35 million, respectively. Fiscal year 2016 Technology, Property and Equipment spending includes approximately $35 million related to new enterprise resource systems to enable future operating efficiency gains and spending to transform the Company's Hoboken headquarters to enable consolidation and productivity gains. Projected spending for author advances, which is classified as an operating activity, for fiscal year 2016 is forecast to be approximately $100 million.
FISCAL YEAR 2014 SUMMARY RESULTS
Revenue:
Revenue$127 million for fiscal year 2014 increased 1%2018.

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2017 compared to $1,775.2 million.  The growth mainly reflects incremental revenue from the acquisitions of Deltak ($31 million), ELS ($4 million) and Profiles ($2 million); growth2016

Net Cash Used in journal subscriptions ($23 million); and growth in digital books ($20 million) and other digital products, partially offset by a reduction in revenue due to the divestment of the consumer publishing programsInvesting Activities in fiscal year 2013 ($46 million) and declines in print book revenue in each of the three businesses ($50 million).  Deltak and ELS were acquired by the Company in October and November 2012, respectively, while Profiles2017 was acquired in April 2014.
Cost of Sales and Gross Profit:
Cost of Sales for fiscal year 2014 decreased 5% to $506.9 million.  The decrease reflects a reduction in costs due to the divestment of the consumer publishing programs ($30 million), restructuring and other cost savings ($5 million) and other, mainly lower cost digital products ($7 million), partially offset by higher royalty rates on society owned journals ($10 million) and incremental operating costs from acquisitions ($9 million).
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Gross profit for fiscal year 2014 of 71.4% was 160 basis points higher than prior year due to the impact of the divested consumer publishing programs (90 basis points), restructuring and other cost savings (30 basis points), incremental revenue from higher margin acquisitions (20 basis points) and digital products, partially offset by higher royalty rates on society owned journals (60 basis points).
Operating and Administrative Expenses:
Operating and administrative expenses for fiscal year 2014 increased 4% to $969.5 million.  The increase was mainly driven by incremental operating and administrative expenses from acquisitions ($29 million); higher employment costs ($32 million) including accrued incentive compensation; higher technology costs ($26 million); and higher operating expenses to support business growth in Deltak ($6 million); and other, mainly lower property tax incentives ($4 million), partially offset by restructuring and other cost savings ($46 million) and a reduction related to the divestment of the consumer publishing programs ($15 million).

Restructuring Charges:
In fiscal years 2014 and 2013, the Company recorded pre-tax restructuring charges of $42.7$243.0 million, or $28.3 million after tax ($0.48 per share) and $29.3 million, or $19.8 million after tax ($0.33 per share), respectively, which are described in more detail below:
Restructuring and Reinvestment Program
In fiscal year 2013, the Company initiated a program (the “Restructuring and Reinvestment Program”) to restructure and realign its cost base with current and anticipated future market conditions. A portion of the costs savings will improve margin and earnings while the remainder will be reinvested in high growth digital business opportunities. The restructuring programs generated approximately $46 million in cost savings during fiscal year 2014, a portion of which was reinvested into higher growth digital opportunities as planned.
The following table summarizes the pre-tax restructuring charges related to this program (in thousands):
     Total Charges
 2014 2013 Incurred to Date
Charges by Segment:     
   Research$7,774 $2,896 $10,670
   Professional Development11,860 6,284 18,144
   Education891 1,118 2,009
   Shared Services22,197 14,154 36,351
Total Restructuring Charges$42,722 $24,452 $67,174
      
Charges by Activity:     
   Severance$25,962 $19,706 $45,668
   Process reengineering consulting8,556 2,618 11,174
   Other activities8,204 2,128 10,332
Total Restructuring Charges$42,722 $24,452 $67,174
The fiscal year 2014 Restructuring Charges for Research and Professional Development are net of credits of approximately $1.0 million and $1.2 million, respectively, related to the reversal of severance provisions previously recorded by the Company.  The credits reflect employees who have accepted different positions within the Company, or who voluntarily resigned. Other Activities for fiscal year 2014 mainly reflect lease and other contract termination costs, while the fiscal year 2013 Other Activities principally include termination/curtailment costs related to the U.S. defined benefit pension plan.
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Other Restructuring Programs
As part of the Company’s ongoing transition and transformation to digital products and services, certain activities were identified in the first quarter of fiscal year 2013 that were discontinued, outsourced, or relocated to lower cost regions.  As a result, the Company recorded a pre-tax restructuring charge of approximately $4.8 million, or $3.5 million after tax ($0.06 per share), in fiscal year 2013 for redundancy and separation benefits.  Approximately $3.0 million, $1.3 million and $0.2 million of the restructuring charge was recorded within the Research, PD and Education reporting segments, respectively, with the remainder recognized in Shared Service costs.  The charge was fully recovered as of April 30, 2014.
Impairment Charges:
In fiscal years 2014 and 2013, the Company recorded pre-tax impairment charges of $4.8 million, or $3.4 million after tax ($0.06 per share) and $30.7 million, or $21.0 million after tax ($0.35 per share), respectively, which are described in more detail below:
Fiscal Year 2014
Technology Investments
In fiscal year 2014, the Company terminated a multi-year software development program for an internal operations application due to a change in the Company’s longer-term enterprise systems plans. As a result, the Company recorded an asset impairment charge for previously capitalized software costs related to the program of $4.8 million, or $3.4 million after tax ($0.06 per share).
Fiscal Year 2013
Consumer Publishing Programs
The Company began accounting for its culinary, CliffsNotes, and Webster’s New World Dictionary consumer publishing programs as Assets Held for Sale in the second quarter of fiscal year 2013. Accordingly, the Company recorded a pre-tax impairment charge of $12.1 million, or $7.5 million after tax ($0.12 per share), in the second quarter of fiscal year 2013 to reduce the carrying value of the assets within these programs to approximately $9.9 million, which represented their fair value based on the estimated sales price, less costs to sell. On November 5, 2012, the Company completed a sale to Houghton Mifflin Harcourt for $11.0 million in cash, which approximated the carrying value of related assets sold. In addition, in the second quarter of fiscal year 2013, the Company recorded a pre-tax impairment charge of $3.4 million, or $2.1 million after tax ($0.04 per share) to reduce the carrying value of inventory and royalty advances within its other consumer publishing programs to their estimated realizable value.
Controlled Circulation Publishing Assets
In fiscal year 2013, the Company identified certain controlled circulation publishing programs that no longer aligned with the Company’s long-term strategy, shifting key resources from these programs to other publishing programs within the Research segment. As a result, the Company performed an impairment test on the intangible assets related to these controlled circulation publishing programs in fiscal year 2013, which resulted in a $9.9 million pre-tax impairment charge, or $8.2 million after tax ($0.14 per share). The intangible assets principally consisted of acquired publication rights. The impairment charge resulted in a full write-off of the carrying value of these intangible assets based on their estimated fair values as determined by the Company utilizing a discounted cash flow analysis.

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Technology Investments
In fiscal year 2013, the Company identified certain technology investments which no longer fit the Company’s technology strategy. As a result, the Company recorded an asset impairment charge of $5.3 million, or $3.2 million after-tax ($0.05 per share), to write-off the full carrying value of the related assets.
Amortization of Intangibles:
Amortization of intangibles increased $2.7 million to $44.7 million in fiscal year 2014 mainly driven by incremental amortization related to the fiscal year 2013 acquisition of Deltak.
Gain (Net of Losses) on Sale of Consumer Publishing Programs:
Sale of Travel Publishing Program:
On August 31, 2012, the Company sold its travel publishing program, including all of its interests in the Frommer’s, Unofficial Guides, and WhatsonWhen brands to Google, Inc. (“Google”) for $22 million in cash, of which $3.3 million was held in escrow. The escrow was released to the Company in fiscal year 2014. As a result, the Company recorded a $9.8 million pre-tax gain on the sale, or $6.2 million after tax ($0.10 per share), fiscal year 2013. In connection with the sale, the Company also entered into a transition services agreement which ended on December 31, 2013.  Fees earned by the Company in fiscal year 2013 in connection with the service agreement were $0.5 million.
Sale of Culinary, CliffsNotes and Webster’s New World Publishing Programs:
On November 5, 2012, the Company completed the sale of the Company’s culinary, CliffsNotes, and Webster’s New World Dictionary consumer publishing programs to Houghton Mifflin Harcourt (“HMH”) for $11.0 million in cash, which approximated the carrying value of related assets sold, of which $1.1 million was held in escrow. The escrow was released to the Company in May 2014. In connection with the sale, the Company also entered into a transition services agreement which ended on March 5, 2013.  Fees earned by the Company in fiscal year 2013 in connection with the service agreement were approximately $1.5 million.
Sale of Other Consumer Publishing Programs:
In the fourth quarter of fiscal year 2013, the Company completed the sale of its other consumer publishing programs to various buyers for approximately $1 million in cash and a limited future royalty interest. The Company recorded a $3.8 million pre-tax loss on the sales, or $3.6 million after tax ($0.06 per share) in fiscal year 2013.
Interest Expense/Income, Foreign Exchange and Other:
Interest expense for fiscal year 2014 increased $0.8 million to $13.9 million.  The increase was driven by higher average debt mainly due to acquisition financing ($2 million), partially offset by lower interest rates.  The Company’s average cost of borrowing in fiscal years 2014 and 2013 was 1.8% and 2.0%, respectively.  In fiscal year 2013, the Company recognized foreign exchange transaction losses of $2.0 million mainly on intercompany debt.
41

Provision for Income Taxes:
The effective tax rate for fiscal year 2014 was 17.9% compared to 22.8%$151.4 million in the prior year. During the first quarters of fiscal years 2014 and 2013, the Company recorded non-cash deferred tax benefits of $10.6 million ($0.18 per share) and $8.4 million ($0.14 per share), respectively, principally associated with new tax legislation enacted in the United Kingdom (“U.K.”) that reduced the U.K. statutory income tax rates by 3% and 2%, respectively. The benefits recognized by the Company reflect the remeasurement of all applicable U.K. deferred tax balances to the new income tax rates of 21% effective April 1, 2014 and 20% effective April 1, 2015.  In fiscal year 2013, the Company recorded a tax charge of $2.12017, we invested $125.9 million ($0.04 per share) duein acquisitions, compared to changes in the Company’s ability to take certain deductions in the U.S.  Excluding the impact of the tax benefits and charges described above, the Company’s effective tax rate decreased from 26.2% to 23.3% principally due to a higher proportion of income from lower tax jurisdictions; lower U.K. income tax rates and a $2.5 million tax reserve release in the current year.
Earnings Per Share:
Earnings per diluted share for fiscal year 2014 increased 13% to $2.70 per share due to the favorable impact of foreign exchange ($0.02 per share); lower impairment charges ($0.29 per share); higher deferred tax benefits related to the changes in the U.K. corporate income tax rates ($0.04 per share); and the prior year tax charge ($0.04 per share), partially offset by higher restructuring charges ($0.15 per share) and the prior year gain (net of losses) on sale of the consumer publishing programs ($0.04 per share).  In addition, higher margin digital revenue, restructuring savings and lower tax rates were partially offset by higher accrued incentive compensation and technology costs.
FISCAL YEAR 2014 SEGMENT RESULTS:
As part of Wiley’s Restructuring and Reinvestment Program, during the first quarter of fiscal year 2015, the Company consolidated certain decentralized business functions (Content Management, Vendor Procurement Services, Marketing Services, etc.) into Shared Service and Administrative functions. These newly centralized service groups are part of the Company’s plan to reduce costs through efficiencies gained from standardized technology and centralized management. The costs of these functions were previously reported as direct operating expenses in each business segment but are now reported within the shared service functions. The amounts for fiscal years 2014 and 2013 have been restated to reflect the same reporting methodology used in fiscal year 2015. The Company uses occupied square footage of space; number of employees; units shipped; specific identification/activity-based; gross profit; revenue and number of invoices to allocate shared service costs to each business segment.
42


             % change
RESEARCH:          2014            2013          % change            w/o FX (a)
     
Revenue:    
Research Communication:    
Journal Subscriptions$667,305$641,5634%4%
Funded Access17,6736,221184%180%
Other Journal Revenue113,925112,0412%2%
 798,903759,8255%5%
Books and References:    
Print Books114,135127,894-11%-11%
Digital Books47,69336,85629%27%
 161,828164,750-2%-2%
     
Other Research Revenue83,61885,250-2%-3%
     
Total Revenue$1,044,349$1,009,8253%3%
     
Cost of Sales(280,793)(271,402)3%3%
     
Gross Profit$763,556$738,4233%3%
Gross Profit Margin73.1%73.1%  
     
Direct Expenses(248,175)(243,675)2%2%
Amortization of Intangibles(28,188)(26,916)5%6%
Restructuring Charges (see Note 6)(7,774)(5,911)  
Impairment Charges (see Note 7)-(9,917)  
     
Direct Contribution to Profit$479,419$452,0046%3%
Direct Contribution Margin45.9%44.8%  
     
Shared Services and Administrative Costs:    
Distribution and Operational Services(45,773)(45,699)
0%
0%
Technology and Content Management(101,922)(92,794)10%11%
Occupancy and Other(25,997)(25,666)1%2%
     
Contribution to Profit$305,727$287,8456%1%
Contribution Margin29.3%28.5%  
(a)  Adjusted to exclude the fiscal year 2014 and 2013 Restructuring Charges and the fiscal year 2013 Impairment Charges

Revenue:
Research revenue for fiscal year 2014 increased 3% to $1,044.3 million.  The growth was mainly driven by Journal Subscriptions, Digital Books and Funded Access fees, partially offset by a decline in Print Books. Journal Subscription revenue growth was driven by new society business ($10 million), new subscriptions ($9 million) and the timing of revenue associated with a pilot for a new subscription licensing model ($3 million). As notednone in the prior fiscalyear. Fiscal year a change in subscription licensing terms for a group2017 includes the acquisitions of customers affected the timing of subscription revenue but had no impact on full calendar year revenue. As of April 30, 2014, calendar year 2014 journal subscription renewals were up approximately 2% over calendar year 2013 on a constant currency basis with 96% of targeted business closed for the 2014 calendar year.
The decline in Print BooksAtypon ($14 million) was partially offset by growth in Digital Books ($10 million) reflecting customers’ preference for digital books. Funded Access revenue, which represents article publication fees from authors that provide immediate free access to the author’s article on the Company’s website, grew $11.5 million in fiscal year 2014.
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Revenue by Region is as follows:
               % of           % change
           2014             2013               Revenue            w/o FX
Revenue by Region:    
Americas $408,001 $388,21739%5%
EMEA 578,099 557,28055%2%
Asia-Pacific 58,249 64,3286%-2%
Total Revenue $1,044,349 $1,009,825100%3%
Cost of Sales:
Cost of Sales for fiscal year 2014 increased 3% to $280.8 million mainly driven by higher royalties on new society business ($10121 million) and higher Journal Subscription volumeRanku ($75 million), partially offset by lower cost digital products ($6 million) and cost savings initiatives ($4 million).
Gross Profit:
Gross Profit Margin for fiscal year 2014net of 73.1% was flat with the prior year as higher margin digital revenue and cost savings initiatives were offset by higher royalty rates on new society journals (100 basis points).
Direct Expenses and Amortization:
Direct Expenses for fiscal year 2014 increased 2% to $248.2 million. The increase was driven by higher accrued incentive compensation ($5 million); and other employment costs ($4 million); higher editorial costs due to new society business ($2 million); partially offset by restructuring and other cost savings ($7 million). Functionally, Direct Expenses for fiscal year 2014 included editorial/composition (67%); marketing/sales (29%); and administrative and other (4%) costs, while fiscal year 2013 included editorial/composition (67%); marketing/sales (31%); and administrative and other (2%) costs.
Amortization of Intangibles increased $1.3 million to $28.2 millioncash acquired. Other acquisitions in fiscal year 2014 mainly due toboth periods reflect the acquisition of publication rights for new society journals.

Contribution to Profit:
Contribution to Profit for fiscal year 2014 increased 6% to $305.7 million, or 1% excluding the favorable impact of foreign exchange, current and prior year Restructuring Charges and the prior year Impairment Charges.  Contribution Margin increased 80 basis points to 29.3%, or 10 basis points on a currency neutral basis and excluding the Restructuring and Impairment Charges. Revenue growth, restructuring savings and lower distribution costs were partially offset by higher Technology costs and higher employment costs, including accrued incentive compensation.
Society Partnerships
·  7 new society journals were signed with combined annual revenue of approximately $11 million
·  85 renewals/extensions were signed with approximately $40 million in combined annual revenue
·  11 journals were lost or not renewed with combined annual revenue of approximately $7 million
Impact Factors
In July 2013, Wiley announced a continued increase in the proportion of its journal titles indexed in the Thomson Reuters® 2012 Journal Citation Reports (JCR), with 1,192 (approximately 77%) titles now indexed, up from 1,156 in the 2011 JCR. Wiley titles now account for the largest share of indexed journals in 50 categories.  In addition, one-in-five Wiley journals is now ranked in the top 10 of their respective categories. The Thomson Reuters index is an important barometer of journal quality.
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Other Key Developments
·  Wiley and Information Handling Services Inc. (NYSE: IHS), a global informatics company, announced a licensing agreement in August 2013. Under the agreement, IHS will add Wiley digital books, databases and major reference works to IHS’s collection of technical documents spanning engineering standards and related industry and technical knowledge.
·  In January 2014, Wiley announced a collaboration with the technology company Knode Inc. (“Knode”) to provide customized portals to learned societies and other academic organizations worldwide.  Wiley’s cloud-based portal is populated with more than 20 million documents and millions of expert profiles. Researchers are using Knode to find experts, identify and connect with collaborators, and promote their expertise to the world. For society executives and institutional research managers, custom analytics provide aggregated views of research expertise and output.
              % change
PROFFESIONAL DEVELOPMENT (PD):              2014              2013            % change             w/o FX (a)
     
Revenue:    
Knowledge Services:    
Print Books $231,984$260,030-11%-10%
Digital Books 53,76445,69018%18%
Online Test Preparation and Certification 15,1927,76596%96%
Other 29,88231,282-4%-3%
 330,822344,767-4%-4%
     
Talent Solutions:    
Assessment33,04726,17326%26%
Online Learning and Training----
 33,04726,17326%26%
     
Divested Consumer Publishing Programs-45,555-100%-100%
     
Total Revenue $363,869$416,495-13%-12%
     
Cost of Sales(111,911)(151,239)-26%-26%
     
Gross Profit$251,958$265,256-5%-5%
Gross Profit Margin69.2%63.7%  
     
Direct Expenses(104,157)(117,831)-12%-12%
Amortization of Intangibles(6,965)(8,092)-14%-14%
Restructuring Charges (see Note 6)(11,860)(7,537)  
Impairment Charges (see Note 7)-(15,521)  
Gain on Sale of Consumer Publishing Programs (see Note 8)-5,983  
Direct Contribution to Profit$128,976$122,2585%2%
Direct Contribution Margin35.4%29.4%  
     
Shared Services and Administrative Costs:    
Distribution and Operational Services(37,673)(40,625)-7%-8%
Technology and Content Management(50,374)(55,505)-9%-9%
Occupancy and Other(18,762)(17,473)7%7%
     
Contribution to Profit$22,167$8,655156%38%
Contribution Margin6.1%2.1%  

(a)  Adjusted to exclude the fiscal year 2014 and 2013 Restructuring Charges and the fiscal year 2013 Impairment Charges and Net Gain on Sale of the Consumer Publishing Programs
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Revenue:
PD revenue for fiscal year 2014 decreased 13% to $363.9 million, or 12% excluding the unfavorable impact of foreign exchange.  The declineProduct Development Spending was driven by the divestment of the consumer publishing programs in fiscal year 2013 ($46 million) and declines in Print Book revenue ($28 million), partially offset by growth in Online Test Preparation and Certification ($7 million), Assessments ($7 million) and Digital Books ($8 million). Excluding divested consumer title revenue, Print book revenue of $232.0 million decreased 11% in fiscal year 2014 reflecting lower demand for technology titles due to weak consumer acceptance of recent software releases and the planned reduction of certain non-divested consumer titles. Online Test Preparation and Certification revenue growth reflects incremental revenue from the acquisition of ELS ($4 million) and growth in other Online Training and Assessment products. Assessment revenue growth reflects higher revenue from Inscape ($3 million) and incremental revenue from the Profiles acquisition ($2 million).
Revenue by Region is as follows:
               % of          % change
           2014             2013               Revenue          w/o FX
Revenue by Region:    
Americas $285,376 $328,59378%-13%
EMEA 54,240 57,24315%-7%
Asia-Pacific 24,253 30,6597%-16%
Total Revenue $363,869 $416,495100%-12%

Cost of Sales:
Cost of Sales for fiscal year 2014 decreased 26% to $111.9 million.  The decline was driven by the divested consumer publishing programs ($30 million), lower cost digital products ($6 million) and lower print book sales volume in the continuing business ($4 million), partially offset by incremental costs associated with the ELS acquisition ($1 million).
Gross Profit:
Gross Profit Margin increased from 63.7% to 69.2% in fiscal year 2014.  The improvement was mainly driven by the divestment of the low margin consumer publishing programs (360 basis points), higher margin revenue from the ELS and Profiles acquisitions (20 basis points) and higher margin digital products and cost reduction initiatives.
Direct Expenses and Amortization:
Direct expenses for fiscal year 2014 declined 12% to $104.2 million. The decrease was driven by restructuring and other cost savings ($16 million) and the divestment of the consumer publishing programs ($15 million), partially offset by incremental costs from the ELS and Profiles acquisitions ($5 million), employment costs ($3 million), business transformation consulting costs ($2 million) and higher other costs, mainly promotion costs for digital products ($2 million). Functionally, Direct Expenses for fiscal year 2014 included editorial/composition (50%); marketing/sales (43%); and administrative and other (7%) costs, while fiscal year 2013 included editorial/composition (52%); marketing/sales (41%); and administrative and other (7%) costs.
Amortization of intangibles decreased $1.1 million to $7.0$43.6 million in fiscal year 2014 principally due to intangible assets that have become fully amortized.
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Contribution to Profit:
Contribution to Profit increased from $8.7 million to $22.2 million in fiscal year 2014.  Contribution Margin increased from 2.1% to 6.1% in fiscal year 2014.  Excluding the current and prior year Restructuring Charges, the prior year Impairment Charge and the Net Gain on Sale of the Consumer Publishing Programs, Contribution Margin increased 320 basis points mainly due to online training and assessment growth; digital margin improvement; partially offset by higher employment and technology costs.
Acquisitions
·  On January 13, 2014, the Company acquired the assets of Elan Guides, an early-stage Chartered Financial Analyst (“CFA”) test preparation company.  Elan’s CFA materials will be incorporated into Wiley’s CPA Excel test preparation platform.  Terms were not disclosed.
·  On April 1, 2014, the Company acquired Profiles International (“Profiles”) for approximately $48 million in cash, net of cash acquired. Profiles provides pre-employment assessment and selection tools that enable employers to optimize candidate selections and develop the full potential of their employees. Solutions include pre-hire assessments, including those designed to measure and match personality, knowledge, skills, managerial fit, loyalty, and values; and post-hire assessments, focused on measuring sales and managerial effectiveness, employee performance and career potential. Founded in 1991 and based in Waco, Texas, Profiles serves approximately 4,000 corporate clients and millions of end users in over 120 countries, with assessments available in 32 languages. Profiles reported approximately $27 million of revenue and approximately $5 million of operating income in its fiscal year ended December 31, 2013.  Profiles contributed $1.9 million to the Company’s revenue for fiscal year 2014.
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             % change
EDUCATION:              2014              2013           % change           w/o FX (a)
     
Revenue:    
Books:    
Print Textbooks$163,152$184,078-11%-8%
Digital Books30,13725,37319%21%
 193,289209,451-8%-5%
     
Custom Products43,55639,36911%11%
     
Course Workflow Solutions (WileyPLUS)49,45941,00721%22%
     
Education Services (Deltak)70,17933,744108%108%
     
Other Education Revenue10,49410,887-4%-1%
     
Total Revenue$366,977$334,45810%12%
     
Cost of Sales(114,174)(109,588)4%6%
     
Gross Profit$252,803$224,87012%15%
Gross Profit Margin68.9%67.2%  
     
Direct Expenses(120,407)(101,363)19%17%
Amortization of Intangibles(9,527)(6,975)37%37%
Restructuring Charges (see Note 6)(891)(1,288)  
     
Direct Contribution to Profit$121,978$115,2446%11%
Direct Contribution Margin33.2%34.5%  
     
Shared Services and Administrative Costs:    
Distribution and Operational Services(15,685)(15,068)4%2%
Technology and Content Management(46,787)(39,735)18%16%
Occupancy and Other(11,719)(8,471)38%36%
     
Contribution to Profit$47,787$51,970-8%5%
Contribution Margin13.0%15.5%  
(a)  Adjusted to exclude the fiscal year 2014 and 2013 Restructuring Charges
Revenue:
Education revenue for fiscal year 2014 increased 10% to $367.0 million, or 12% excluding the unfavorable impact of foreign exchange.  The growth was driven by $36 million of incremental revenue from Education Services (Deltak) ($31 million due to acquisition), higher revenue from Course Workflow Solutions (WileyPLUS) ($9 million), Custom Products ($4 million) and Digital Books ($5 million), partially offset by a decline in Print Textbooks ($15 million).  The decline in Print Textbooks reflects student preference for digital products, including WileyPLUS.
Education Services (Deltak):
Education Services (Deltak) accounted for 19% of total Education revenue in fiscal year 20142017, compared to 10% in the prior year.  As of April 30, 2014, Deltak had 37 institutions under contract, 122 programs generating revenue and 52 programs under contract and in development but not yet generating revenue. As of April 30, 2013, Deltak had 31 institutions under contract, 100 programs generating revenue and 46 in development but not yet generating revenue.

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Revenue by Region is as follows:
                % of        % change
            2014             2013               Revenue          w/o FX
Revenue by Region:    
Americas $288,329 $250,59879%15%
EMEA 19,334 19,3885%-1%
Asia-Pacific 59,314 64,47216%1%
Total Revenue $366,977 $334,458100%12%
Cost of Sales
Cost of Sales for fiscal year 2014 increased 4% to $114.2$44.6 million or 6% excluding the favorable impact of foreign exchange.  The increase was mainly driven by incremental costs from the Deltak acquisition ($7 million), partially offset by restructuring savings ($1 million).
Gross Profit:
Gross Profit Margin for fiscal year 2014 improved 170 basis points to 68.9% principally due to the Deltak acquisition (130 basis points) and higher margin digital products (40 basis points).
Direct Expenses and Amortization:
Direct Expenses increased 19% to $120.4 million in fiscal year 2014, or 17% excluding the favorable impact of foreign exchange. The increase was due to incremental costs from the Deltak acquisition ($20 million), increased Deltak costs to support new online course and curriculum development and programs ($6 million) and higher accrued incentive compensation ($4 million), partially offset by restructuring and other cost savings ($8 million). Functionally, Direct Expenses for fiscal year 2014 included marketing/sales (67%); editorial/composition (24%); and administrative and other (9%) costs, while fiscal year 2013 included marketing/sales (59%); editorial/composition (30%); and administrative and other (11%) costs.
Amortization of Intangibles increased $2.6 million to $9.5 million in fiscal year 2014 primarily due to acquired intangible assets associated with Deltak.
Contribution to Profit:
Contribution to Profit for fiscal year 2014 decreased 8% to $47.8 million, but increased 5% excluding  the unfavorable impact of foreign exchange and the current and prior year Restructuring Charges.  Contribution Margin decreased 250 basis points to 13.0% mainly due to Deltak’s continued investment in new university programs that are not yet generating revenue (260 basis points), higher accrued incentive compensation and higher Technology costs, partially offset by restructuring and other cost savings and higher margin digital revenue.
SHARED SERVICES AND ADMINISTRATIVE COSTS:
The following table reflects total shared services and administrative costs by function, which are included in the Operating and Administrative Expenses line item in the Consolidated Statements of Income.  A portion of these costs are allocated to each segment above based on allocation methodologies described in Note 20.
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          % Change
Dollars in thousands                   2014                 2013       % Change       w/o FX (a)
     
Distribution and Operation Services$99,433$103,831-4%-5%
Technology and Content Management241,329225,2247%7%
Finance54,46849,02911%11%
Other Administration101,48792,19810%10%
Restructuring Charges (see Note 6)22,19714,557  
Impairment Charges (see Note 7)4,7865,241  
Total$523,700$490,0807%4%
(a) Adjusted to exclude the fiscal year 2014 and 2013 Restructuring and Impairment Charges
Shared services and administrative costs for fiscal year 2014 increased 7% to $523.7 million, or 4% excluding the favorable impact of foreign exchange and the Restructuring and Impairment Charges. Shared Service and Administration Costs in the current year reflected the effect of the restructuring program and other cost savings ($14 million). Distribution and Operation Services costs decreased due to lower print volume ($4 million) and lower warehouse costs ($2 million) partially offset by transformation consulting costs ($3 million). Technology and Content Management costs increased due to higher spending on project management, consulting, software development and licensing and maintenance including incremental costs from the Deltak acquisition ($3 million). Finance costs increased due to higher accrued incentive compensation. Other Administration costs increased mainly due to higher employment costs ($5 million), a lower property tax incentive ($3 million), incremental costs from the Deltak acquisition ($1 million) and higher professional fees ($1 million).
LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES:
The Company’s Cash and Cash Equivalents balance was $486.4 million at the end of fiscal year 2014, compared with $334.1 million a year earlier. Cash Provided by Operating Activities in fiscal year 2014 increased $11.2 million to $348.2 million principally due to lower income tax deposits paid to German tax authorities ($30 million) as discussed in Note 13 and the timing of vendor payments ($13 million), partially offset by higher payments related to the Company’s restructuring programs ($22 million), higher income tax payments ($8 million) and other, mainly timing. The comparison to prior year Deferred Revenue mainly reflects the acceleration of cash collections in the prior year. An income tax deposit of $42.1 million for disputed taxes in Germany was paid in the prior year period, whereas $12.0 million was paid in the current period. The Company has made all required income tax payments to date.
Cash used for Investing Activities for fiscal year 2014 was $149.3 million compared to $342.5 million in fiscal year 2013.  In fiscal year 2014, the Company invested $54.5 million in acquisitions, compared to $263.3 million in the prior year.  Fiscal year 2014 includes the acquisition of Profiles ($48 million), while fiscal year 2013 includes the Deltak ($220 million) and ELS ($24 million) acquisitions. During fiscal year 2013, the Company received proceeds of $29.9 million from selling certain consumer publishing assets comprised primarily of the travel program for $22 million, and the Culinary, CliffsNotes and Webster’s New World consumer publishing programs for $11 million, of which $3.3 million and $1.1 million were held in escrow, respectively. During fiscal year 2014, the Company received $3.3 million of the escrow proceeds, with the remaining $1.1 million collected in May 2014.
Composition spending was $40.6 million in fiscal year 2014 compared to $50.4 million in fiscal year 2013.  The decrease reflects reduced spending in all three businesses and was driven by a reduction in title count and the one-time development of certain digital Research products in the prior year. Cash used for technology, property and equipment decreased to $57.6was $105.1 million in fiscal year 20142017, compared to $86.4 million in the prior year.  The increase mainly duereflects capital spending related to lowerthe renovation of our headquarters ($21 million) and increased spending on leasehold improvementsERP and furniturerelated systems ($1 million), partially offset by lower capital spending on other computer software ($9 million).

In fiscal year 2017, we received $60.4 million in proceeds related to the settlement of a foreign exchange forward contract that was entered into in fiscal year 2016 to manage foreign currency exposures on intercompany loans. Prior to its settlement, the notional amount of the foreign exchange forward contract was 274 million pounds sterling.

As discussed in more detail in Note 11, "Income Taxes," of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements, in fiscal year 2017, we received an unfavorable decision from the German Federal Fiscal Court that resulted in the forfeiture of cumulative deposits made by us to German tax authorities of approximately 56.6 million euros (approximately $61.7 million). The deposits were included in the Income Tax Deposits line item on the Consolidated Statements of Financial Position and equipment.are no longer reimbursable to us.

Net Cash Used in Financing Activities
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2018 compared to 2017

Net Cash used forUsed in Financing Activities was $53.5$96.8 million in fiscal year 2014, as2018 compared to cash provided of $90.4$346.2 million in fiscal year 2013. The Company’s2017. This decrease in cash used was due to lower net debt (debt less cash and cash equivalents) decreased $125.1repayments in fiscal year 2018. Net debt repayments in fiscal year 2018 were $8.6 million fromcompared to $240.0 million in the prior year.

During fiscal year 2014, net debt borrowings were $27.1 million compared to $198.0 million in fiscal year 2013. The net borrowings in fiscal year 2014 included funds borrowed to finance the Profiles acquisition, while fiscal year 2013 included funds borrowed to finance the Deltak and ELS acquisitions.  These acquisitions were funded through the use of the existing credit facility and available cash and did not have an impact on the Company’s ability to meet other operating, investing and financing needs. The total notional amount of the interest rate swap agreements associated with the Company’s revolving credit facility was $300 million as of April 30, 2014.
In fiscal year 2014, the Company2018, we repurchased 1,248,030713,177 shares of common stock at an average price of $50.79$55.65, compared to 1,846,873953,188 shares at an average price of $39.92$52.80 in the prior year. As of April 30, 2018, we had authorization from our Board of Directors to purchase up to 3,080,471 additional shares.

2017 compared to 2016

Net Cash Used in Financing Activities was $346.2 million in fiscal year 2013.2017, compared to $285.7 million in the prior year. During fiscal year 2017, net debt repayments were $240.0 million compared to $145.1 million in the prior year. Our net debt (debt less cash and cash equivalents) increased $65.3 million from the prior year to $306.5 million.

During fiscal year 2017, we repurchased 953,188 shares of common stock at an average price of $52.80, compared to 1,432,284 shares at an average price of $48.86 in the prior year. As of April 30, 2017, we had authorization from our Board of Directors to purchase up to 3,793,648 additional shares. In fiscal year 2014, the Company2017, we increased itsour quarterly dividend to shareholders by 4%3% to $0.25$0.31 per share, versus $0.24$0.30 per share in the prior year. Higher proceeds from the exercise of stock options reflectsmainly reflected a higher volume of stock option exercises in fiscal year 20142017 compared to the prior year.

RECENTLY ISSUED STATEMENTS OF FINANCIAL ACCOUNTING STANDARDS, ACCOUNTING GUIDANCE, AND DISCLOSURE REQUIREMENTS

We are subject to numerous recently issued statements of financial accounting standards, accounting guidance, and disclosure requirements. The Company’s operating cash flow is affected by the seasonalityinformation set forth in Note 2, "Summary of Significant Accounting Policies, Recently Issued and timing of receipts from its Research journal subscriptions and its Education business. Cash receipts for calendar year Research subscription journals occur primarily from December through April.  Reference is made to the Customer Credit Risk section, which follows, for a descriptionRecently Adopted Accounting Standards," of the impact on the Company as it relatesNotes to independent journal agents’ financial positionConsolidated Financial Statements of this Form 10-K is incorporated by reference, and liquidity. Sales primarily in the U.S. higher education market tend to be concentrated in June through August, and again in November through January. Due to this seasonality, the Company normally requires increased funds for working capital from May through September.describes these new accounting standards.
Cash and Cash Equivalents held outside the U.S. were approximately $474.4 million as of April 30, 2014, a portion of which was used to acquire CrossKnowledge on May 1, 2014 (see Note 21). The balances were comprised primarily of Pound Sterling, Euros, and Australian dollars. Maintenance of these cash and cash equivalent balances outside the U.S. does not have a material impact on the liquidity or capital resources of the Company’s global, including U.S., operations. Cash and cash equivalent balances outside the U.S. may be subject to U.S. taxation, if repatriated. The Company intends to reinvest cash outside the U.S. except in instances where repatriating such earnings would result in no additional income tax.  Accordingly, the Company has not accrued for U.S. income tax on the repatriation of non-U.S. earnings.  It is not practical to determine the U.S. income tax liability that would be payable if such cash and cash equivalents were not indefinitely reinvested.
On April 4, 2014 the Company increased its credit limit under the Revolving Credit Facility from $825 million to $940 million which matures on November 2, 2016.  As of April 30, 2014, the Company had approximately $700 million of debt outstanding and approximately $253 million of unused borrowing capacity under its Revolving Credit and other facilities.  The Company believes that its operating cash flow, together with its revolving credit facilities and other available debt financing, will be adequate to meet its operating, investing and financing needs in the foreseeable future, although there can be no assurance that continued or increased volatility in the global capital and credit markets will not impair its ability to access these markets on terms commercially acceptable.  The Company does not have any off-balance-sheet debt.
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The Company’s working capital can be negative due to the seasonality of its businesses. The primary driver of the negative working capital is unearned deferred revenue related to subscriptions for which cash has been collected in advance. Cash received in advance for subscriptions is used by the Company for a number of purposes including acquisitions; debt repayments; funding operations; dividend payments; and purchasing treasury shares. The deferred revenue will be recognized in income as the products are shipped or made available online to the customers over the term of the subscription. Current liabilities as of April 30, 2014 include $385.7 million of such deferred subscription revenue for which cash was collected in advance.

CRITICAL ACCOUNTING POLICIES AND ESTIMATES:

The preparation of the Company’s financial statementsour Consolidated Financial Statements and related disclosures in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the U.S. GAAP requires our management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amountamounts of assets and liabilities, the disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities as of the date of the financial statements and reported amounts of revenue and expenses during the reporting period. Management continually evaluatesThese estimates include, among other items, assessing the basiscollectability of receivables, the use and recoverability of inventory, assumptions used in the calculation of income taxes, useful lives and recoverability of tangible assets and goodwill and other intangible assets, assumptions used in our defined benefit pension plans and other post-employment benefit plans, costs for its estimates.incentive compensation, and accruals for commitments and contingencies. We review these estimates and assumptions periodically using historical experience and other factors and reflect the effects of any revisions on the Consolidated Financial Statements in the period we determine any revisions to be necessary. Actual results could differ from those estimates, which could affect the reported results. Note 2, "Summary of Significant Accounting Policies, Recently Issued and Recently Adopted Accounting Standards" of the “Notes"Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements”Statements" includes a summary of the significant accounting policies and methods used in preparation of our Consolidated Financial Statements. Set forth below is a discussion of the Company’sour more critical accounting policies and methods.

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Revenue Recognition: The Company recognizesWe recognize revenue when the following criteria are met: persuasive evidence that an arrangement exists; delivery has occurred, or services have been rendered;rendered, the price to the customer is fixed or determinable; and collectability is reasonably assured.  If all of the above criteria have been met, revenue is recognized upon shipment of products or when services have been rendered. Revenue related to journal subscriptions and other products and services that areis generally collected in advance areis deferred and recognized as earned primarilyover the term of the subscription, when the related issue is shipped or made available online, or the service is rendered.rendered, in accordance with contractual terms. Collectability is evaluated based on the amount involved, the credit history of the customer, and the status of the customer’scustomer's account with the Company.us.

The Company offers an alternativeWe transitioned from issue-based to time-based digital journal subscription license model to subscribersagreements starting in certain markets.calendar year 2016. Under this alternativenew model, the Company provideswe provide access to all journal content published within a calendar year and recognize revenue on a straight-line basis over the calendar year. Under the Company’sour previous licensing model, a customer subscribed to a discrete number of online journal issues and revenue was recognized as each issue was made available online. Based onWe made these changes to simplify the successcontracting and administration of the program to date, the Company will expand its alternative model offering in calendar year 2016. The new time-based model will result in substantially allour digital journal subscription revenue recognized on a straight-line basis over the calendar year.subscriptions.

When a product is sold with multiple deliverables, the Company accountswe account for each deliverable within the arrangement as a separate unit of accounting due to the fact that each deliverable is also sold on a stand-alone basis. The total consideration of a multiple-element arrangement is allocated to each unit of accounting based on the price charged by the Companyus when it is sold separately. The Company’sOur multiple deliverable arrangements principally include WileyPLUS the, an online course management tool for the Company’s Education business whichthat includes a complete print or digital textbook for the course;course, negotiated licenses for bundles of digital content available on Wiley Online Library, the online publishing platform for the Company’sour Research business;business, and test preparation, assessment, certification and training services sold by the Professional Development business which can include bundles of print and digital content and online workflow solutions. In March 2018, we migrated our Wiley Online Library platform to Atypon's Literatum platform, which we acquired in fiscal year 2017.

The Company entersWe enter into contracts for the resale of itsour content through a third party where the Company iswe are not the primary obligor of the arrangement because it iswe are not responsible for fulfilling the customer’s order;customer's order, handling customer requests or claims, and/or maintainsmaintaining credit risk. The Company recognizesWe recognize revenue for the sale of itsour content, net of any commission owed to the third partythird-party seller, or taxes, which are remitted to government authorities.

In May 2014, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (the "FASB") issued ASU 2014-09 "Revenue from Contracts with Customers" (Topic 606) ("ASU 2014-09"), which supersedes most existing revenue recognition guidance. We adopted ASU 2014-09 on May 1, 2018. See Note 2, "Summary of Significant Accounting Policies, Recently Issued and Recently Adopted Accounting Standards," of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements, under the caption "Recently Adopted Accounting Standards" for details of our adoption of ASU 2014-09.
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Allowance for Doubtful Accounts: The estimated allowance for doubtful accounts is based on a review of the aging of the accounts receivable balances, historical write-off experience, credit evaluations of customers, and current market conditions. A change in the evaluation of a customer’scustomer's credit could affect the estimated allowance. The allowance for doubtful accounts is shown as a reduction of Accounts Receivable inon the Consolidated Statements of Financial Position and amounted to $8.3$10.1 million and $7.9$7.2 million as of April 30, 20152018 and 2014,2017, respectively.

Sales Return Reserve:Reserves: The estimated allowance forprocess that we use to determine our sales returns and the related reserve provision charged against revenue is based on a reviewapplying an estimated return rate to current year returnable print book sales. This rate is based upon an analysis of theactual historical return patterns, as well as current market trendsexperience in the businessesvarious markets and geographic regions in which we operate.do business. We collect, maintain, and analyze significant amounts of sales returns data for large volumes of homogeneous transactions. This allows us to make reasonable estimates of the amount of future returns. All available data is utilized to identify the returns by market and as to which fiscal year the sales returns apply. This enables management to track the returns in detail and identify and react to trends occurring in the marketplace, with the objective of being able to make the most informed judgments possible in setting reserve rates. Associated with the estimated sales return reserves, the Companywe also includesinclude a related reduction in inventory and royalty costs as a result of the expected returns.
Net print book sales return reserves amounted to $25.3$18.6 million and $28.6$24.3 million as of April 30, 20152018 and 2014,2017, respectively.

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The reserves are reflected in the following accounts of the Consolidated Statements of Financial Position – (decrease) increase (decrease):as of April 30:

  2018  2017 
Accounts Receivable $(28,302) $(34,769)
Inventories $4,626  $4,727 
Royalties Payable $(5,048) $(5,741)
Decrease in Net Assets $(18,628) $(24,300)
               2015                2014 
Accounts Receivable$(37,300)$(41,102) 
Inventories6,5556,774 
Accounts and Royalties Payable(5,405)(5,695) 
Decrease in Net Assets$(25,340)$(28,633) 

A one percent change in the estimated sales return rate could affect net income by approximately $2.4$1.6 million. A change in the pattern or trends in returns could affect the estimated allowance.

Reserve for Inventory Obsolescence:Obsolescence Inventories are carried at the lower of cost or market.: A reserve for inventory obsolescence is estimated based on a review of damaged, obsolete, or otherwise unsalable inventory. The review encompasses historical unit sales trends by title;title, current market conditions, including estimates of customer demand compared to the number of units currently on hand;hand, and publication revision cycles. A change in sales trends could affect the estimated reserve. The inventory obsolescence reserve is reported as a reduction of the Inventories balance inon the Consolidated Statements of Financial Position and amounted to $21.9$18.2 million and $25.1$21.1 million as of April 30, 20152018 and 2014,2017, respectively.

Allocation of Acquisition Purchase Price to Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed:Assumed: In connection with acquisitions, the Company allocateswe allocate the cost of the acquisition to the assets acquired and the liabilities assumed based on the estimates of fair value for such items, including intangible assets and technology acquired. Such estimates include discounted estimated cash flows to be generated by those assets and the expected useful lives based on historical experience, current market trends, and synergies to be achieved from the acquisition and the expected tax basis of assets acquired. The CompanyWe may use a third partythird-party valuation consultant to assist in the determination of such estimates.

Goodwill and Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets: Goodwill is reviewed for possible impairment at least annually on a reporting unit level during the excessfourth quarter of each year. A review of goodwill may be initiated before or after conducting the purchase price paid over the fair value of the net assets of the business acquired.  Indefinite-lived intangible assets primarily consist of brands, trademarks, content and publishing rights and are typically characterized by intellectual property with a long and well-established revenue stream resulting from strong and well-established imprint/brand recognition in the market. Goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets are not amortized but are reviewed annually for impairment, or more frequentlyannual analysis if events or changes in circumstances indicate the asset might be impaired. The Company evaluates the recoverability of indefinite-lived intangible assets by comparing the faircarrying value of the intangible asset to its carrying value.goodwill may no longer be recoverable.

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To evaluate the recoverability of goodwill, the Company primarily uses a two-step impairment test approach at the reporting unit level. In the first step, the estimated fair value of the entireA reporting unit is compared to its carrying value including goodwill. If the fair valueoperating segment unless, at businesses one level below that operating segment– the "component" level–discrete financial information is prepared and regularly reviewed by management, and the component has economic characteristics that are different from the economic characteristics of the reporting unit is less than the carrying value, a second step is performed to determine the charge for goodwill impairment. In the second step, the Company determines an implied fair valueother components of the operating segment, in which case the component is the reporting unit’s goodwill by determining the fair valueunit.

As part of the individual assets and liabilities (including any previously unrecognized intangible assets)annual impairment test, we may conduct an assessment of the reporting unit other than goodwill. The resulting implied fair value of the goodwill is compared to the carrying amount and an impairment charge is recognized for the difference.
In certain circumstances, the Company uses a qualitative assessment as an alternative to the two-step test approach. Under this approach certain market, industry and financial performance factors are considered to determine whether it is more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit is less than its carrying amount. In a qualitative assessment, we would consider the macroeconomic conditions, including any deterioration of general conditions and industry and market conditions, including any deterioration in the environment where the reporting unit operates, increased competition, changes in the products/services and regulatory and political developments, cost of doing business, overall financial performance, including any declining cash flows and performance in relation to planned revenues and earnings in past periods, other relevant reporting unit specific facts, such as changes in management or key personnel or pending litigation, and events affecting the reporting unit, including changes in the carrying value of net assets.

If thatan optional qualitative goodwill impairment assessment is not performed, we are required to determine the case,fair value of each reporting unit using the two-step process. In step one, we compare the fair value of each of our reporting units with goodwill to its carrying value, including the goodwill allocated to the reporting unit. If the fair value of the reporting unit exceeds its carrying value, there is no indication of impairment and no further testing is required. If the fair value of the reporting unit is less than the carrying value, we must perform step two of the impairment test to measure the amount of impairment loss, if any. In step two, the reporting unit's fair value is allocated to all of the assets and liabilities of the reporting unit, including any unrecognized intangible assets, in a hypothetical analysis that calculates the implied fair value of goodwill in the same manner as if the reporting unit were being acquired in a business combination. If the implied fair value of the reporting unit's goodwill is less than the carrying value, the difference is recorded as an impairment loss.

We use a fair value approach describedto test goodwill for impairment. We must recognize a non-cash impairment charge for the amount, if any, by which the carrying amount of goodwill exceeds its implied fair value. We derive an estimate of fair values for each of our reporting units using a combination of an income approach and a market approach, each based on an applicable weighting. We assess the applicable weighting based on such factors as current market conditions and the quality and reliability of the data. Absent an indication of fair value from a potential buyer or similar specific transactions, we believe that the use of these methods provides a reasonable estimate of a reporting unit's fair value.

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Fair value computed by these methods is arrived at using a number of factors, including projected future operating results, anticipated future cash flows, effective income tax rates, comparable marketplace data within a consistent industry grouping, and the cost of capital. There are inherent uncertainties, however, related to these factors and to our judgment in applying them to this analysis. Nonetheless, we believe that the combination of these methods provides a reasonable approach to estimate the fair value of our reporting units. Assumptions for sales, net earnings, and cash flows for each reporting unit were consistent among these methods.

Annual Goodwill Impairment Test

During the third quarter of 2018, we completed step one of our annual goodwill impairment test for our reporting units. We concluded that the fair values of these reporting units were above their carrying values and, therefore, there was no indication of impairment.

During the fourth quarter of 2018, we voluntarily changed our annual impairment assessment date from January 31 to February 1 for all of our reporting units and our indefinite-lived intangible assets. This change is then performedbeing made to improve alignment of impairment testing procedures with year-end financial reporting, our annual business planning and budgeting process and the multi-year strategic forecast, which begins in the fourth quarter of each year. As a result, the goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible asset impairment testing will reflect the result of inputs from each of the businesses in the development of the budget and forecast process, including the impact of seasonality of our financial results. Accordingly, management considers this accounting change preferable. This change does not accelerate, delay, avoid, or cause an impairment charge, nor does this change result in adjustments to previously issued financial statements.

In connection with the change in the date of the annual goodwill impairment test, we completed a qualitative assessment of the goodwill by reporting unit as of February 1, 2018 and concluded that it was more likely than not that the fair value of each of the reporting units exceeded its carrying amount. In addition, we completed a qualitative assessment of our indefinite lived intangible assets as of February 1, 2018 and concluded that it was more likely than not that the fair value of each of the indefinite lived intangible assets exceeded its carrying amount.

Income Approach Used to Determine Fair Values

The income approach is based upon the present value of expected cash flows. Expected cash flows are converted to present value using factors that consider the timing and risk of the future cash flows. The estimate of cash flows used is prepared on an unleveraged debt-free basis. We use a discount rate that reflects a market-derived weighted average cost of capital. We believe that this approach is appropriate because it provides a fair value estimate based upon the reporting unit's expected long-term operating and cash flow performance. The projections are based upon our best estimates of projected economic and market conditions over the related period including growth rates, estimates of future expected changes in operating margins, and cash expenditures. Other significant estimates and assumptions include terminal value long-term growth rates, provisions for income taxes, future capital expenditures, and changes in future cashless, debt-free working capital.

Market Approach Used to Determine Fair Values

The market approach used estimates the fair value of the reporting unit by applying multiples of operating performance measures to the reporting unit's operating performance (the "Guideline Public Company Method"). These multiples are derived from comparable publicly-traded companies with similar investment characteristics to the reporting unit, and such comparable data are reviewed and updated as needed annually. We believe that this approach is appropriate because it provides a fair value estimate using multiples from entities with operations and economic characteristics comparable to our reporting units and the Company.

The key estimates and assumptions that are used to determine fair value under this market approach include current and forward 12-month operating performance results, as applicable, and the selection of the relevant multiples to be applied. Under the Guideline Public Company Method, a control premium, or an amount that a buyer is usually willing to pay over the current market price of a publicly traded company, is considered and applied, to the calculated equity values to adjust the public trading value upward for a 100% ownership interest, where applicable.

In order to assess the reasonableness of the calculated fair values of our reporting units, we also compare the sum of the reporting units' fair values to our market capitalization and calculate an implied control premium (the excess of the sum of the reporting units' fair values over the market capitalization). We evaluate the recoverabilitycontrol premium by comparing it to control premiums of goodwill.recent comparable market transactions. If the implied control premium is not reasonable in light of these recent transactions, we will reevaluate our fair value estimates of the reporting units by adjusting the discount rates and/or other assumptions.

39

If our assumptions and related estimates change in the future, or if we change our reporting unit structure or other events and circumstances change (such as a sustained decrease in the price of our common stock, a decline in current market multiples, a significant adverse change in legal factors or business climates, an adverse action or assessment by a regulator, heightened competition, strategic decisions made in response to economic or competitive conditions, or a more-likely-than-not expectation that a reporting unit or a significant portion of a reporting unit will be sold or disposed of), we may be required to record impairment charges in future periods. Any impairment charges that we may take in the future could be material to our consolidated results of operations and financial condition.
See Note 10, "Goodwill and Intangible Assets," of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for details of our goodwill balance and the goodwill review performed in 2018 and other related information.

Intangible Assets with Finite Lives and Other Long-Lived Assets:Finite-lived intangible assets principally consist of brands, trademarks, content and publication rights, customer relationships, and non-compete agreements and are amortized over their estimated useful lives. The most significant factors in determining the estimated lifelives of these intangibles isare the history and longevity of the brands, trademarks, and content and publication rights acquired combined with the strength of cash flows. Content and publication rights, trademarks, customer relationships, and brands with finite lives are amortized on a straight-line basis over periods ranging from 52 to 40 years. Non-compete agreements are amortized over the terms of the individual agreement, generally up to 5 years.

Intangible assets with finite lives as of April 30, 2018, are amortized on a straight line basis over the following weighted average estimated useful lives: content and publishing rights – 32 years;30 years, customer relationships – 19 years;20 years, brands and trademarks – 11 years;15 years, non-compete agreements – 5 years.

Assets with finite lives are only evaluated for impairment upon a significant change in the operating or macroeconomic environment. In these circumstances, if an evaluation of the projected undiscounted cash flows indicates impairment, the asset is written down to its estimated fair value based on the discounted future cash flows.

Share-Based Compensation:Stock-Based Compensation The Company recognizes share-based: We recognize stock-based compensation expense based on the fair value of the share-basedstock-based awards on the grant date, reduced by an estimate offor future forfeited awards. As such, share-basedstock-based compensation expense is only recognized for those awards that are expected to ultimately vest. The fair value of share-basedstock-based awards is recognized in net income on a straight-line basis over the requisite service period. The grant date fair value for stock options iswas estimated using the Black-Scholes option-pricing model. The determination of the assumptions used in the Black-Scholes model requires the Companyrequired us to make significant judgments and estimates, which include the expected life of an option, the expected volatility of the Company’sour Common Stock over the estimated life of the option, a risk-free interest rate, and the expected dividend yield. Judgment iswas also required in estimating the amount of share-basedstock-based awards that may be forfeited. Share-basedStock-based compensation expense associated with performance-based stock awards is based on actual financial results for targets established three years in advance. The cumulative effect on current and prior periods of a change in the estimated number of performance share awards, or estimated forfeiture rate, is recognized as an adjustment to earnings in the period of the revision. If actual results differ significantly from estimates, the Company’s share-basedour stock-based compensation expense and consolidated results of operations could be impacted.

54

Retirement Plans: The Company providesWe provide defined benefit pension plans for certain employees worldwide. The Company’sOur Board of Directors approved amendments to the U.S., Canada and U.K. defined benefit plans that froze the plansfuture accumulation of benefits effective June 30, 2015,2013, December 31, 2015, and April 30, 2015, respectively. Under the amendments, no new employees will be permitted to enter these plans and no additional benefits for current participants for future services will be accrued after the effective dates of the amendments.

The accounting for benefit plans is highly dependent on assumptions concerning the outcome of future events and circumstances, including compensation increases,discount rates, long-term return rates on pension plan assets, healthcare cost trends, discount ratescompensation increases and other factors. In determining such assumptions, the Company consultswe consult with outside actuaries and other advisors.

The discount rates for the U.S., United KingdomCanada and CanadianU.K. pension plans are based on the derivation of a single-equivalent discount rate using a standard spot rate curve and the timing of expected benefit payments as of the balance sheet date. The spot rate curve is based upon a portfolio of Moody’s-ratedMoody's-rated Aa3 (or higher) corporate bonds. The discount rates for other non-U.S. plans are based on similar published indices with durations comparable to that of each plan’splan's liabilities. The expected long-term rates of return on pension plan assets are estimated using market benchmarks for equities, real estate, and bonds applied to each plan’splan's target asset allocation and are estimated by asset class, including an anticipated inflation rate. The expected long-term rates are then compared to the historic investment performance of the plan assets as well as future expectations and estimated through consultation with investment advisors and actuaries. Salary growth and healthcare cost trend assumptions are based on the Company’sour historical experience and future outlook. While the Company believeswe believe that the assumptions used in these calculations are reasonable, differences in actual experience or changes in assumptions could materially affect the expense and liabilities related to theour defined benefit pension plans of the Company.plans. A hypothetical one percent increase in the discount rate would impactincrease net income and decrease the accrued pension liability by approximately $4.8$1.9 million and $133.3$143.4 million, respectively. A one percent decrease in the discount rate would impactdecrease net income and increase the accrued pension liability by approximately $6.6$1.0 million and $162.3$177.9 million, respectively. A one percent change in the expected long termlong-term rate of return would affect net income by approximately $3.3$4.7 million.
Recently Issued Accounting Standards:  In May 2014, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) issued ASU 2014-09 "Revenue From Contracts with Customers" (Topic 606) (“ASU 2014-09”), and the International Accounting Standards Board (“IASB”) published its equivalent standard, International Financial Reporting Standard (“IFRS”) 15, “Revenue from Contracts with Customers”. These joint comprehensive new revenue recognition standards will supersede most existing revenue recognition guidance and are intended to improve and converge revenue recognition and related financial reporting requirements. The standard is effective for the Company on May 1, 2017 with early adoption prohibited. The standard allows for either “full retrospective” adoption, meaning the standard is applied to all periods presented, or “cumulative effect” adoption, meaning the standard is applied only to the most current period presented in the financial statements. The Company is currently assessing whether the adoption of the guidance will have a significant impact on its consolidated financial statements.

5540

In April 2015, the FASB issued ASU 2015-03 "Interest- Imputation of Interest (Subtopic 835-30): Simplifying the Presentation of Debt Issuance Costs" (“ASU 2015-03”). The ASU requires that debt issuance costs related to a recognized debt liability be presented on the balance sheet as a direct deduction from the carrying amount of that debt liability. Previously, debt issuance costs were recognized as assets on the balance sheet. The recognition and measurement guidance for debt issuance costs are not affected by the amendments in this ASU.  The standard is effective for the Company on May 1, 2016, with early adoption permitted, and requires retrospective application to all prior periods presented in the financial statements. Although the new guidance will have no impact on the Company’s results of operations, the debt issuance costs presented as assets within the Company’s Consolidated Statement of Financial Position ($1.4 million as of April 30, 2015) will be reclassified as reductions of the related debt liability when the guidance is adopted.
In April 2015, the FASB issued ASU 2015-05 "Intangibles- Goodwill and Other- Internal-Use Software (Subtopic 350-40): Customer’s Accounting for Fees Paid in Cloud Computing Arrangements" (“ASU 2015-05”). Cloud computing arrangements represent the delivery of hosted services over the internet which includes software, platforms, infrastructure and other hosting arrangements. The ASU provides criteria to determine whether the cloud computing arrangement includes a software license. If the criteria are met, the customer will capitalize the fee attributable to the software license portion of the arrangement as internal-use software. If the arrangement does not include a software license, it should be treated as a service contract and expensed as services are received. The standard is effective for the Company on May 1, 2016 with early adoption permitted. An entity can elect to adopt either prospectively for all arrangements entered into after the effective date or retrospectively. The Company is currently assessing whether the adoption of the guidance will have a significant impact on its consolidated financial statements.
Contractual Obligations and Commercial Commitments
A summary of contractual obligations and commercial commitments, excluding unrecognized tax benefits further described in Note 13, as of April 30, 2015 is as follows (in thousands):
  Payments Due by Period 
  Within2-34-5After 5
 TotalYear 1YearsYearsYears
      
Total Debt$750.1$100.0$650.1$-$-
Interest on Debt1
18.812.56.3--
Non-Cancelable Leases341.738.167.153.2183.3
Minimum Royalty Obligations223.571.397.939.015.3
Other Operating Commitments73.317.230.125.70.3
Total$1,407.4$239.1$851.5$117.9$198.9
1Interest on Debt includes the effect of the Company’s interest rate swap agreements and the estimated future interest payments on the Company’s unhedged variable rate debt, assuming that the interest rates as of April 30, 2015 remain constant until the maturity of the debt.

56

Item 7A. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk
Item 7A.Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk

The Company isWe are exposed to market risk primarily related to interest rates, foreign exchange, and credit risk. It is the Company’sour policy to monitor these exposures and to use derivative financial investments and/or insurance contracts from time to time to reduce fluctuations in earnings and cash flows when it is deemed appropriate to do so. The Company doesWe do not use derivative financial instruments for trading or speculative purposes.

Interest Rates:

The CompanyFrom time to time, we may use interest rate swaps, collars, or options to manage our exposure to fluctuations in interest rates.

We had $750.0$360.0 million of variable rate loans outstanding at April 30, 2015,2018, which approximated fair value.

The information set forth in Note 13, "Derivatives Instruments and Activities," of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements under the caption "Interest Rate Contracts," is incorporated herein by reference.

On August 15, 2014, the CompanyApril 4, 2016, we entered into ana forward starting interest rate swap agreement whichthat fixed a portion of the variable interest due on itsa variable rate loans outstanding.debt renewal on May 16, 2016. Under the terms of the agreement, the Company payswe pay a fixed rate of 0.65%0.92% and receivesreceive a variable rate of interest based on one-month LIBOR (as defined) from the counterparty, which is reset every month for a two-yearthree-year period ending AugustMay 15, 2016.2019. As of April 30, 2015,2018, the notional amount of the interest rate swap was $150.0$350.0 million.
On January 15, 2014, the Company entered into an interest rate swap agreement which fixed a portion of the variable interest due on its variable rate loans outstanding. Under the terms of the agreement, the Company pays a fixed rate of 0.47% and receives a variable rate of interest based on one-month LIBOR (as defined) from the counterparty which is reset every month for a two-year period ending January 15, 2016. As of April 30, 2015, the notional amount of the interest rate swap was $150.0 million.

It is management’smanagement's intention that the notional amount of interest rate swaps be less than the variable rate loans outstanding during the life of the derivatives.  During fiscal year 2015, the Company2018, we recognized a lossgain on itsour hedge contracts of approximately $1.7$1.5 million, which is reflected in Interest Expense inon the Consolidated StatementsStatement of Income.  At April 30, 2015,2018, the fair value of the outstanding interest rate swaps was a deferred lossgain of $0.6$5.1 million. Based on the maturity dates of the contracts, approximately $0.2contract, the entire deferred gain of $5.1 million and $0.4 million of the deferred loss was recorded in Other Accrued Liabilities and Other Long-Term Liabilities, respectively.Assets. On an annual basis, a hypothetical one percent change in interest rates for the $450.0$10 million of unhedged variable rate debt as of April 30, 20152018, would affect net income and cash flow by approximately $2.8$0.1 million.

Foreign Exchange Rates:

Fluctuations in the currencies of countries where the Company operateswe operate outside the U.S. may have a significant impact on financial results. The Company isWe are primarily exposed to movements in British pound sterling, euros, Canadian and Australian dollars, and certain currencies in Asia. The Statements of Financial Position of non-U.S. business units are translated into U.S. dollars using period-end exchange rates for assets and liabilities and weighted-averageweighted average exchange rates for revenues and expenses. The percentage of Consolidated Revenue for fiscal year 20152018 recognized in the following currencies (on an equivalent U.S. dollar basis) were: approximately 55%were approximately: 53% U.S dollar; 29%dollar, 27% British pound sterling; 8%sterling, 12% euro, and 8%9% other currencies.

The Company’sOur significant investments in non-U.S. businesses are exposed to foreign currency risk. Adjustments resulting from translating assets and liabilities are reported as a separate component of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss within Shareholders’Shareholders' Equity under the caption Foreign Currency Translation Adjustment. During fiscal year 2015, the Company2018, we recorded foreign currency translation lossesgains in other comprehensive income of approximately $180.2$67.6 million primarily as a resultdue to the  strengthening of the weakening of the U.S. dollar relative to the British pound sterling relative to the U.S. dollar and, euro.to a lesser extent, the strengthening of the euro relative to the U.S. dollar.
57


Exchange rate gains or losses related to foreign currency transactions are recognized as transaction gains or losses inon the Consolidated Statements of Income as incurred. Under certain circumstances, the Companywe may enter into derivative financial instruments in the form of foreign currency forward contracts to hedge against specific transactions, including intercompany purchases and loans. The Company does not use derivative financial instruments for trading or speculative purposes.

The CompanyWe may enter into forward exchange contracts to manage the Company’sour exposure on certain foreign currency denominated assets and liabilities.  The forward exchange contracts are marked to market through Foreign Exchange Transaction Gains and Losses on the Consolidated Statements of Income, and carried at their fair value on the Consolidated Statements of Financial Position. Foreign currency denominated assets and liabilities are remeasured at spot rates in effect on the balance sheet date, with the effects of changes in spot rates reported in Foreign Exchange Transaction Gains and Losses. As of April 30, 20152018, and 2014, the Company2017, we did not maintain any open forward contracts. During fiscal years 2013 through 2015, the Company did not designate any

Our foreign currency forward exchange contracts as hedges under current accounting standards as the benefits of doing so were not material due to the short-term nature of the contracts. The fair value changesare described in Note 13, "Derivatives Instruments and Activities," which is contained in the forward exchange contracts substantially mitigatedNotes to Consolidated Financial Statements, under the changes in the value of the applicable foreign currency denominated assets and liabilities. For fiscal years 2015, 2014 and 2013, the losses recognized on the forward contracts were $11.2 million, $0.4 million, and $0.6 million, respectively.caption "Foreign Currency Contracts," is incorporated herein by reference.

41

Customer Credit Risk:

In the journal publishing business, subscriptions are primarily sourced through journal subscription agents who, acting as agents for library customers, facilitate ordering by consolidating the subscription orders/billings of each subscriber with various publishers. Cash is generally collected in advance from subscribers by the subscription agents and is principally remitted to the Companyus between the months of December and April. Although at fiscal year-end the Companywe had minimal credit risk exposure to these agents, future calendar-year subscription receipts from these agents are highly dependent on their financial condition and liquidity. Subscription agents account for approximately 23%20% of total annual consolidated revenue and no one agent accounts for more than 10% of total annual consolidated revenue.

Swets Information Services, a global library subscription agent based in Amsterdam, declared bankruptcy in late September. While the bankruptcy had no material impact on the Company’s financial statements, future sourcing of journal subscriptions may be temporarily impacted. The impact to calendar year 2015 journal subscription revenue is expected to be on the order of $5 million.
The Company’s non-journal subscriptionOur book business is not dependent upon a single customer.customer; however, the industry is concentrated in national, regional, and online bookstore chains. Although no one non-journalbook customer accounts for more than 8% of total consolidated revenue and 12%8% of accounts receivable at April 30, 2015,2018, the top 10 non-journalbook customers account for approximately 17%13% of total consolidated revenue and approximately 29%15% of accounts receivable at April 30, 2015. The Company maintains2018. We maintain approximately $25 million of trade credit insurance, subject to certain limitations, covering balances due from certain named customers, which expires in May, 2016.June 2019, covering all billings through that date.

Disclosure of Certain Activities Relating to Iran:

The European Union, Canada and United Statesthe U.S. have imposed sanctions on business relationships with Iran, including restrictions on financial transactions and prohibitions on direct and indirect trading with listed “designated"designated persons." In fiscal year 2015, the Company2018, we recorded revenue and net profitsearnings of approximately $1.5$4.6 million and $0.5$0.9 million, respectively, related to the sale of scientific and medical content to certain publicly funded universities, hospitals, and institutions that meet the definition of the “Government"Government of Iran”Iran" as defined under section 560.304 of title 31, Code of Federal Regulations. The Company hasWe have assessed itsour business relationship and transactions with Iran and believes it isbelieve we are in compliance with the regulations governing the sanctions. The Company intendsWe intend to continue in these or similar sales as long as they continue to be consistent with all applicable sanctions-related regulations.

5842


“Safe Harbor” Statement Under the
Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995
This report contains certain forward-looking statements concerning the Company’s operations, performance, and financial condition. Reliance should not be placed on forward-looking statements, as actual results may differ materially from those in any forward-looking statements.  Any such forward-looking statements are based upon a number of assumptions and estimates that are inherently subject to uncertainties and contingencies, many of which are beyond the control of the Company, and are subject to change based on many important factors. Such factors include, but are not limited to (i) the level of investment in new technologies and products; (ii) subscriber renewal rates for the Company’s journals; (iii) the financial stability and liquidity of journal subscription agents; (iv) the consolidation of book wholesalers and retail accounts; (v) the market position and financial stability of key retailers; (vi) the seasonal nature of the Company’s education business and the impact of the used-book market; (vii) worldwide economic and political conditions; (viii) the Company’s ability to protect its copyrights and other intellectual property worldwide; (ix) the ability of the Company to successfully integrate acquired operations and realize expected opportunities and (x) other factors detailed from time to time in the Company’s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission.  The Company undertakes no obligation to update or revise any such forward-looking statements to reflect subsequent events or circumstances.

59

Item 8.Financial Statements and Supplementary Data
Item 8. 
The following Consolidated Financial Statements and Supplementary DataNotes are filed as part of this report.

John Wiley & Sons, Inc. and Subsidiaries

44
Financial Statements
46
47
48
49
50
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
51
51
57
58
58
58
59
59
60
60
62
65
66
67
67
70
73
73
75
Financial Statement Schedule
80

MANAGEMENT’S
43


MANAGEMENT'S REPORT ON INTERNAL CONTROL OVER FINANCIAL REPORTING

To our Shareholders
John Wiley and& Sons, Inc.:

The management of John Wiley and& Sons, Inc. and subsidiaries is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting, as such term is defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f).

Under the supervision and with the participation of our management, we conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting based on the framework in Internal Control – Integrated Framework (1992)(2013) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). Based on our evaluation under the framework in Internal Control – Integrated Framework issued by COSO, our management concluded that our internal control over financial reporting was effective as of April 30, 2015.2018.

Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting: There

We are in the process of implementing a new global enterprise resource planning system ("ERP") that will enhance our business and financial processes and standardize our information systems. We have completed the implementation of record-to-report, purchase-to-pay and several other business processes within all locations and will continue to roll out the ERP in phases over the next year.

As with any new information system we implement, this application, along with the internal controls over financial reporting included in this process, will require testing for effectiveness. In connection with this ERP implementation, we are updating our internal controls over financial reporting, as necessary, to accommodate modifications to our business processes and accounting procedures. We do not believe that the ERP implementation will have an adverse effect on our internal control over financial reporting.

Except as described above, there were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting during fiscal year 2015.2018.

The effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting as of April 30, 20152018 has been audited by KPMG LLP, an independent registered public accounting firm, as stated in their report which is included herein.

The Company’sCompany's Corporate Governance Principles, Committee Charters, Business Conduct and Ethics Policy and the Code of Ethics for Senior Financial Officers are published on our web site at www.wiley.com under the “About"About Wiley—Investor Relations—Corporate Governance”Governance" captions.  Copies are also available free of charge to shareholders on request to the Corporate Secretary, John Wiley & Sons, Inc., 111 River Street, Hoboken, NJ 07030-5774.

/s/ Mark AllinBrian A. Napack 
Mark AllinBrian A. Napack 
President and
Chief Executive Officer 

/s/ John A. Kritzmacher 
John A. Kritzmacher 
Executive Vice PresidentChief Financial Officer and 
Chief Financial OfficerExecutive Vice President, Operations

/s/ Christopher F. Caridi 
/s/ Edward J. Melando
Edward J. MelandoChristopher F. Caridi 
Senior Vice President, Corporate Controller and 
Chief Accounting Officer 
  
June 26, 201529, 2018 

6044


Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

The Board of Directors and Shareholders
John Wiley & Sons, Inc.:

Opinion on the Consolidated Financial Statements

We have audited the accompanying consolidated statements of financial position of John Wiley & Sons, Inc. (the “Company”) and subsidiaries (the "Company") as of April 30, 20152018 and 2014, and2017, the related consolidated statements of income, comprehensive (loss) income, cash flows, and shareholders’shareholders' equity for each of the years in the three-year period ended April 30, 2015. In connection with our audits of2018, and the consolidated financial statements, we also have audited Schedule II of this Form 10-K.  These consolidated financial statementsrelated notes and financial statement schedule areII (collectively, the responsibility of the Company’s management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these consolidated"consolidated financial statements and financial statement schedule based on our audits.
We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States)statements"). 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 includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. An audit also includes assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.
In our opinion, the consolidated financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of John Wiley & Sons, Inc. and subsidiariesthe Company as of April 30, 20152018 and 2014,2017, and the results of theirits operations and theirits cash flows for each of the years in the three-year period ended April 30, 2015,2018, in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles. Also in our opinion, the related financial statement schedule, when considered in relation to the basic consolidated financial statements taken as a whole, presents fairly, in all material respects, the information set forth therein.

We also have audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) ("PCAOB"), John Wiley & Sons, Inc.’sthe Company's internal control over financial reporting as of April 30, 2015,2018, based on criteria established in Internal Control – Integrated Framework (1992) (2013) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission, (COSO)”), and our report dated June 26, 201529, 2018, expressed an unqualified opinion on the effectiveness of the Company’sCompany's internal control over financial reporting.

Basis for Opinion

These consolidated financial statements are the responsibility of the Company's management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these consolidated financial statements based on our audits. We are a public accounting firm registered with the PCAOB and are required to be independent with respect to the 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 PCAOB. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the consolidated financial statements are free of material misstatement, whether due to error or fraud. Our audits included performing procedures to assess the risks of material misstatement of the consolidated 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 regarding the amounts and disclosures in the consolidated financial statements. Our audits also included evaluating the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall presentation of the consolidated financial statements. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.

/s/ KPMG LLP

We have served as the Company's auditor since 2002.
 

(signed) KPMG LLP
Short Hills, New Jersey
York, New York
June 26, 2015
29, 2018
6145


Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

The Board of Directors and Shareholders
John Wiley & Sons, Inc.:

Opinion on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting

We have audited John Wiley & Sons, Inc.’s and subsidiaries' (the "Company") internal control over financial reporting as of April 30, 2015,2018, based on criteria established in Internal Control – Integrated Framework (1992)(2013) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). John Wiley & Sons, Inc.’sCommission. In our opinion, the Company maintained, in all material respects, effective internal control over financial reporting as of April 30, 2018, based on criteria established in Internal Control – Integrated Framework (2013) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission.

We also have audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) (PCAOB), the consolidated statements of financial position of the Company as of April 30, 2018 and 2017, the related consolidated statements of income, comprehensive income, cash flows, and shareholders' equity for each of the years in the three-year period ended April 30, 2018, and the related notes (and financial statement schedule II) (collectively, the "consolidated financial statements"), and our report dated June 29, 2018 expressed an unqualified opinion on those consolidated financial statements.

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’sManagement's Report onOn Internal Control Over Financial Reporting. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Company’sCompany's internal control over financial reporting based on our audit. We are a public accounting firm registered with the PCAOB and are required to be independent with respect to the 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 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 of internal control over financial reporting included obtaining an understanding of internal control over financial reporting, assessing the risk that a material weakness exists, and testing and evaluating the design and operating effectiveness of internal control based on the assessed risk. Our audit also included performing such other procedures as we considered necessary in the circumstances. We believe that our audit provides a reasonable basis for our opinion.

Definition and Limitations of Internal Control Over Financial Reporting

A company’scompany's internal control over financial reporting is a process designed 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’scompany'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’scompany'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 effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.

/s/ KPMG LLP

New York, New YorkIn our opinion, John Wiley & Sons, Inc. maintained, in all material respects, effective internal control over financial reporting as of April 30, 2015, based on criteria established in
June 29, 2018

Internal Control – Integrated Framework (1992) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission.46

We also have audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States), the consolidated statements of financial position of
John Wiley & Sons, Inc. and subsidiaries as of April 30, 2015 and 2014, andSubsidiaries
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF FINANCIAL POSITION
Dollars in thousands

  April 30, 
  2018  2017 
Assets:      
Current Assets      
Cash and cash equivalents $169,773  $58,516 
Accounts receivable, net  212,377   188,679 
Inventories  39,489   47,852 
Prepaid and other current assets  58,332   64,688 
Total Current Assets  479,971   359,735 
         
Product Development Assets  78,814   80,385 
Royalty Advances  37,058   28,320 
Technology, Property & Equipment  289,934   243,058 
Intangible Assets  848,071   828,099 
Goodwill  1,019,801   982,101 
Other Non-Current Assets  85,802   84,519 
Total Assets $2,839,451  $2,606,217 
         
Liabilities and Shareholders' Equity:        
Current Liabilities        
Accounts payable $90,097  $76,335 
Royalties payable  73,007   62,871 
Deferred revenue  486,353   436,235 
Accrued employment costs  116,179   98,185 
Accrued income taxes  13,927   22,222 
Accrued pension liability  5,598   5,776 
Other accrued liabilities  89,150   86,232 
Total Current Liabilities  874,311   787,856 
         
Long-Term Debt  360,000   365,000 
Accrued Pension Liability  190,301   214,597 
Deferred Income Tax Liabilities  143,518   160,491 
Other Long-Term Liabilities  80,764   75,136 
Total Liabilities  1,648,894   1,603,080 
Shareholders' Equity        
Preferred Stock, $1 par value: Authorized – 2 million, Issued – 0      
Class A Common Stock, $1 par value: Authorized – 180 million, Issued – 70,110,603 in 2018 and 70,086,003 in 2017  70,111   70,086 
Class B Common Stock, $1 par value:  Authorized – 72 million, Issued – 13,071,067 in 2018 and 13,095,667 in 2017  13,071   13,096 
Additional paid-in capital  407,120   387,896 
Retained earnings  1,834,057   1,715,423 
Accumulated other comprehensive (loss):        
Foreign currency translation adjustment  (251,573)  (319,212)
Unamortized retirement costs, net of tax  (191,026)  (190,502)
Unrealized gain on interest rate swap, net of tax  3,019   2,427 
   (439,580)  (507,287)
Less: Treasury Shares At Cost (Class A – 21,853,257 in 2018 and 22,096,970 in 2017, Class B – 3,917,574 in 2018 and 3,917,574 in 2017)  (694,222)  (676,077)
Total Shareholders' Equity  1,190,557   1,003,137 
Total Liabilities and Shareholders' Equity $2,839,451  $2,606,217 

See accompanying notes to the related consolidated statements of income, comprehensive income, cash flows and shareholders’ equity for each of the years in the three-year period ended April 30, 2015, and our report dated June 26, 2015 expressed an unqualified opinion on thoseaudited consolidated financial statements.

(signed) KPMG LLP
47

Short Hills, New Jersey
June 26, 2015John Wiley & Sons, Inc. and Subsidiaries
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME
Dollars in thousands, except per share data

  For the Years Ended April 30, 
  2018  2017  2016 
Revenue $1,796,103  $1,718,530  $1,727,037 
             
Costs and Expenses            
Cost of sales  485,220   460,756   466,177 
Operating and administrative expenses  994,552   988,597   994,372 
Restructuring and related charges  28,566   13,355   28,611 
Amortization of intangibles  48,230   49,669   49,764 
Total Costs and Expenses  1,556,568   1,512,377   1,538,924 
             
Operating Income  239,535   206,153   188,113 
             
Interest Expense  (13,274)  (16,938)  (16,707)
Foreign Exchange Transaction (Losses) Gains  (12,819)  421   473 
Interest and Other Income  489   1,480   2,914 
             
Income Before Taxes  213,931   191,116   174,793 
Provision for Income Taxes  21,745   77,473   29,011 
             
Net Income $192,186  $113,643  $145,782 
             
Earnings Per Share            
Basic $3.37  $1.98  $2.51 
Diluted $3.32  $1.95  $2.48 
             
Cash Dividends Per Share            
Class A Common $1.28  $1.24  $1.20 
Class B Common $1.28  $1.24  $1.20 
             
Weighted Average Number of Common Shares Outstanding            
Basic  57,043   57,337   57,998 
Diluted  57,888   58,199   58,734 

See accompanying notes to the audited consolidated financial statements.

6248


John Wiley & Sons, Inc. and Subsidiaries
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME
Dollars in thousands

  For the Years Ended April 30, 
  2018  2017  2016 
Net Income $192,186  $113,643  $145,782 
             
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss):            
Foreign currency translation adjustment  67,639   (51,292)  (21,066)
Unrealized retirement costs, net of tax benefit of $252, $3,286, and $8,807, respectively  (524)  (11,097)  (19,971)
Unrealized gain (loss) on interest rate swaps, net of tax (provision) benefit of $(459), $(1,709), and $10, respectively  592   2,788   (16)
Total Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)  67,707   (59,601)  (41,053)
             
Comprehensive Income $259,893  $54,042  $104,729 

See accompanying notes to the audited consolidated financial statements.

49


CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF FINANCIAL POSITION
John Wiley & Sons, Inc., and Subsidiaries April 30,
Dollars in thousands 2015 2014
Assets:    
Current Assets    
Cash and cash equivalents$457,441$486,377
Accounts receivable 147,183 149,733
Inventories 63,779 75,495
Prepaid and other 72,516 78,057
Total Current Assets 740,919 789,662
     
Product Development Assets 69,589 82,940
Technology, Property & Equipment 193,010 188,718
Intangible Assets 917,621 984,661
Goodwill 962,367 903,665
Income Tax Deposits 57,098 64,037
Other Assets 63,639 63,682
Total Assets$3,004,243$3,077,365
     
Liabilities and Shareholders’ Equity:    
Current Liabilities    
Short-term debt$100,000$-
Accounts and royalties payable 161,465 142,534
Deferred revenue 372,051 385,654
Accrued employment costs 93,922 118,503
Accrued income taxes 9,484 13,324
Accrued pension liability 4,594 4,671
Other accrued liabilities 62,167 64,901
Total Current Liabilities 803,683 729,587
     
Long-Term Debt 650,090 700,100
Accrued Pension Liability 209,727 164,634
Deferred Income Tax Liabilities 198,947 222,482
Other Long-Term Liabilities 86,756 78,314
Shareholders’ Equity    
Preferred Stock, $1 par value: Authorized - 2 million, Issued - zero - -
Class A Common Stock, $1 par value: Authorized - 180 million,    
Issued – 69,797,994 69,798 69,798
Class B Common Stock, $1 par value:  Authorized - 72 million,    
Issued – 13,392,268 13,392 13,392
Additional paid-in capital 353,018 327,588
Retained earnings 1,597,439 1,489,069
Accumulated other comprehensive (loss):    
Foreign currency translation adjustment (246,854) (66,664)
Unamortized retirement costs, net of tax (159,434) (123,025)
Unrealized loss on interest rate swap, net of tax (345) (602)
  1,627,014 1,709,556
Less Treasury Shares At Cost (Class A – 20,441,767 and 20,231,118;    
Class B – 3,910,264 and 3,906,707) (571,974) (527,308)
Total Shareholders’ Equity 1,055,040 1,182,248
Total Liabilities and Shareholders’ Equity$3,004,243$3,077,365
 
The accompanying notes are an integral part of the consolidated financial statements.
John Wiley & Sons, Inc. and Subsidiaries
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
Dollars in thousands

  For the Years Ended April 30, 
  2018  2017  2016 
Operating Activities         
Net Income $192,186  $113,643  $145,782 
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:            
Amortization of intangibles  48,230   49,669   49,764 
Amortization of product development spending  41,432   40,209   39,658 
Depreciation of technology, property, and equipment  64,327   66,683   66,427 
Restructuring charges  28,566   13,355   28,611 
Deferred income tax benefit on U.K. rate changes     (2,575)  (5,859)
Stock-based compensation expense  11,244   17,552   16,105 
Excess tax benefits from stock-based compensation     (414)  (1,027)
Employee retirement plan expense  7,388   13,169   14,323 
Royalty advances  (122,602)  (112,370)  (110,135)
Earned royalty advances  116,620   114,647   109,102 
Impairment of publishing brand  3,600       
Foreign currency gains (losses)  12,819   (421)  (473)
Unfavorable tax litigation     49,029    
One-time pension settlement     8,842    
Other non-cash (credits) charges  (30,752)  (6,450)  1,936 
Income tax deposits        (1,151)
Changes in Operating Assets and Liabilities            
Accounts receivable, net  (14,209)  (29,886)  (14,456)
Inventories  13,517   8,003   3,571 
Accounts payable  16,543   (24,182)  7,169 
Royalties payable  3,664   4,325   (3,172)
Deferred revenue  36,243   22,692   66,983 
Income taxes payable  (565)  19,479   (7,091)
Restructuring payments  (30,595)  (22,854)  (29,864)
Other accrued liabilities  1,022   10,367   14,968 
Employee retirement plan contributions  (27,550)  (39,687)  (34,214)
Other  10,710   2,078   (7,000)
Net Cash Provided by Operating Activities  381,838   314,903   349,957 
Investing Activities            
Product development spending  (36,503)  (43,603)  (44,578)
Additions to technology, property, and equipment  (114,225)  (105,058)  (86,399)
Acquisitions of publication rights and other  (26,683)  (28,842)  (20,418)
Businesses acquired in purchase transactions, net of cash acquired     (125,924)   
Proceeds from settlement of foreign exchange forward contracts     60,417    
Net Cash Used in Investing Activities  (177,411)  (243,010)  (151,395)
Financing Activities            
Repayment of long-term debt  (467,915)  (923,007)  (460,085)
Repayment of short-term debt        (150,000)
Borrowing of long-term debt  459,304   683,000   415,000 
Borrowing of short-term debt        50,000 
Purchase of treasury shares  (39,688)  (50,326)  (69,977)
Change in book overdrafts  (4,191)  (214)  1,725 
Cash dividends  (73,542)  (71,545)  (69,896)
Debt financing costs        (3,362)
Net proceeds (payments) from exercise of stock options and other  29,201   15,506   (95)
Excess tax benefits from stock-based compensation     414   1,027 
Net Cash Used in Financing Activities  (96,831)  (346,172)  (285,663)
Effects of Exchange Rate Changes on Cash  3,661   (31,011)  (6,534)
Cash and Cash Equivalents            
Increase/(Decrease) for year  111,257   (305,290)  (93,635)
Balance at beginning of year  58,516   363,806   457,441 
Balance at end of year  169,773   58,516   363,806 
Cash Paid During the Year for            
Interest $12,221  $15,733  $15,050 
Income taxes, net $48,709  $33,674  $38,579 

See accompanying notes to the audited consolidated financial statements.

6350


John Wiley & Sons, Inc. and Subsidiaries
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY
Dollars in thousands

  
Common Stock
Class A
  
Common Stock
Class B
  
Additional
Paid-in Capital
  
Retained
Earnings
  
Treasury
Stock
  
Accumulated Other
Comprehensive Loss
  
Total
Shareholder's Equity
 
Balance at April 30, 2015 $69,798  $13,392  $353,018  $1,597,439  $(571,974) $(406,633) $1,055,040 
                             
Restricted Shares Issued under Stock-based Compensation Plans        (3,152)     3,325      173 
Net (Payments)/Proceeds from Exercise of Stock Options and Other        1,700      (1,795)     (95)
Excess Tax Benefits from Stock-based Compensation        1,027            1,027 
Stock-based Compensation Expense        16,105            16,105 
Purchase of Treasury Shares              (69,977)     (69,977)
Class A Common Stock Dividends           (58,658)        (58,658)
Class B Common Stock Dividends           (11,238)        (11,238)
Comprehensive Income (Loss)           145,782      (41,053)  104,729 
Balance at April 30, 2016 $69,798  $13,392  $368,698  $1,673,325  $(640,421) $(447,686) $1,037,106 
                             
Restricted Shares Issued under Stock-based Compensation Plans        (7,617)     8,013      396 
Net Proceeds from Exercise of Stock Options and Other        8,849      6,657      15,506 
Excess Tax Benefits from Stock-based Compensation        414            414 
Stock-based Compensation Expense        17,552            17,552 
Purchase of Treasury Shares              (50,326)     (50,326)
Class A Common Stock Dividends           (60,143)        (60,143)
Class B Common Stock Dividends           (11,402)        (11,402)
Common Stock Class Conversions  288   (296)              (8)
Comprehensive Income (Loss)           113,643      (59,601)  54,042 
Balance at April 30, 2017 $70,086  $13,096  $387,896  $1,715,423  $(676,077) $(507,287) $1,003,137 
                             
Restricted Shares Issued under Stock-based Compensation Plans        (7,646)  (10)  7,968      312 
Net Proceeds from Exercise of Stock Options and Other        15,686      13,515      29,201 
Stock-based Compensation Expense        11,184      60      11,244 
Purchase of Treasury Shares              (39,688)     (39,688)
Class A Common Stock Dividends           (61,813)        (61,813)
Class B Common Stock Dividends           (11,729)        (11,729)
Common Stock Class Conversions  25   (25)               
Comprehensive Income           192,186      67,707   259,893 
Balance at April 30, 2018 $70,111  $13,071  $407,120  $1,834,057  $(694,222) $(439,580) $1,190,557 

See accompanying notes to the audited consolidated financial statements.

51


 
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME
 
John Wiley & Sons, Inc., and Subsidiaries For the years ended April 30,
Dollars in thousands, except per share data 2015 2014 2013
       
Revenue$1,822,440$1,775,195$1,760,778
       
Costs and Expenses      
Cost of sales 499,683 506,879 532,232
Operating and administrative expenses 1,005,000 969,456 933,148
Restructuring charges 28,804 42,722 29,293
Impairment charges - 4,786 30,679
Amortization of intangibles 51,214 44,679 41,982
Total Costs and Expenses 1,584,701 1,568,522 1,567,334
       
Net Gain on Sale of Consumer Publishing Programs - - 5,983
       
Operating Income 237,739 206,673 199,427
       
Interest expense (17,077) (13,916) (13,078)
Foreign exchange transaction gains (losses) 1,742 (8) (2,041)
Interest income and other 3,057 2,785 2,614
       
Income Before Taxes 225,461 195,534 186,922
Provision for Income Taxes 48,593 35,024 42,697
       
Net Income$176,868$160,510$144,225
       
Earnings Per Share      
Diluted$2.97$2.70$2.39
Basic 3.01 2.73 2.43
       
Cash Dividends Per Share      
Class A Common$1.16$1.00$0.96
Class B Common 1.16 1.00 0.96
       
Average Shares      
Diluted 59,594 59,514 60,224
Basic 58,733 58,635 59,447
       
The accompanying notes are an integral part of the consolidated financial statements.

64

 
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME
 
John Wiley & Sons, Inc., and Subsidiaries For the years ended April 30,
Dollars in thousands 2015 2014 2013
       
Net Income$176,868$160,510$144,225
       
Other Comprehensive (Loss) Income:      
Foreign currency translation adjustment (180,190) 67,875 (38,558)
Unrealized retirement costs net of tax (provision) benefit of $15,779; $(12,946) and $16,145, respectively (36,409) 20,099 (39,743)
Unrealized gain on interest rate swaps net of tax (provision) of $(157); $(225) and $(48), respectively 257 367 79
Total Other Comprehensive (Loss) Income (216,342) 88,341 (78,222)
       
Comprehensive (Loss) Income$(39,474)$248,851$$66,003
       
 
 
 
The accompanying notes are an integral part of the consolidated financial statements.

65


CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
 
John Wiley & Sons, Inc., and Subsidiaries For the years ended April 30,
Dollars in thousands 2015 2014 2013
Operating Activities      
Net Income$176,868$160,510$144,225
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities      
Amortization of intangibles 51,214 44,679 41,982
Amortization of composition costs 40,639 45,097 51,517
Depreciation of technology, property and equipment 62,072 58,321 56,017
Restructuring  and impairment charges 28,804 47,508 59,972
Net gain on sale of consumer publishing programs - - (5,983)
Deferred tax benefits on U.K. rate changes - (10,634) (8,402)
Share-based compensation 13,617 12,851 11,928
(Excess) shortfalls in tax benefits from share-based compensation (3,191) 1,466 (193)
Employee retirement plan expense 22,599 30,454 35,938
Royalty advances (103,136) (107,639) (105,335)
Earned royalty advances 108,314 107,529 100,691
Other non-cash credits, net (8,046) (3,626) (3,708)
Income tax deposit (5,280) (11,968) (42,077)
Changes in Operating Assets and Liabilities      
Source (Use), excluding acquisitions      
Accounts receivable 4,488 18,558 18,118
Inventories 9,696 11,146 11,501
Accounts and royalties payable 31,305 7,297 (5,748)
Deferred revenue 3,913 (750) 32,822
Income taxes payable 8,330 (14,131) 1,429
Restructuring payments (32,341) (28,276) (5,641)
Other accrued liabilities (10,901) 30,581 (6,121)
Employee retirement plan contributions (28,503) (33,889) (36,704)
Other (15,339) (16,860) (9,191)
Cash Provided by Operating Activities 355,122 348,224 337,037
Investing Activities      
Composition spending (39,421) (40,568) (50,434)
Additions to technology, property and equipment (69,121) (57,564) (58,704)
Acquisitions, net of cash acquired (172,229) (54,515) (263,272)
Proceeds from sale of consumer publishing programs 1,100 3,300 29,942
Cash Used for Investing Activities (279,671) (149,347) (342,468)
Financing Activities      
Repayment of long-term debt (711,654) (658,224) (472,500)
Borrowings of long-term debt 659,369 685,324 670,500
Borrowing of short-term debt 100,000 - -
Purchase of treasury stock (61,981) (63,393) (73,721)
Change in book overdrafts (6,711) (12,354) (451)
Cash dividends (68,498) (58,953) (57,426)
Proceeds from exercise of stock options and other 25,326 55,532 23,806
Excess (shortfalls ) in tax benefits from share-based compensation 3,191 (1,466) 193
Cash (Used for) Provided by Financing Activities (60,958) (53,534) 90,401
Effects of Exchange Rate Changes on Cash (43,429) 6,894 (10,660)
Cash and Cash Equivalents      
(Decrease) Increase for year (28,936) 152,237 74,310
Balance at beginning of year 486,377 334,140 259,830
Balance at end of year 457,441 486,377 334,140
Cash Paid During the Year for      
Interest$14,875$12,511$12,081
Income taxes, net$45,646$63,815$56,021
       
The accompanying notes are an integral part of the consolidated financial statements

66


CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY
 
Common
Stock
Class A
Common
Stock
Class B
Additional
Paid-in
Capital
Retained
Earnings
Treasury
Stock
Accumulated
Other Comp-
rehensive
Income
(Loss)
Total
Share-
holder’s
Equity
 
 
John Wiley & Sons, Inc., and Subsidiaries
Dollars in thousands
        
Balance at April 30, 2012$69,753$13,437$271,809$1,300,713$(437,734)$(200,410)$1,017,568
        
Restricted Shares Issued under Share-based Compensation Plans  (5,936) 5,559 (377)
Proceeds from Exercise of Stock Options and other  12,768 11,420 24,188
Excess Tax Benefits from Share-based Compensation  193   193
Share-based compensation expense  11,928   11,928
Purchase of Treasury Shares    (73,721) (73,721)
Class A Common Stock Dividends   (48,290)  (48,290)
Class B Common Stock Dividends   (9,136)  (9,136)
Common Stock Class Conversions40(40)    -
Comprehensive Income (Loss)   144,225 (78,222)66,003
        
Balance at April 30, 2013$69,793$13,397$290,762$1,387,512$(494,476)$(278,632)$988,356
        
Restricted Shares Issued under Share-based Compensation Plans  (5,962) 6,144 182
Proceeds from Exercise of Stock Options and other  31,403 24,417 55,820
Shortfall in Tax Benefits from Share-based Compensation  (1,466)   (1,466)
Share-based compensation expense  12,851   12,851
Purchase of Treasury Shares    (63,393) (63,393)
Class A Common Stock Dividends   (51,842)  (51,842)
Class B Common Stock Dividends   (7,111)  (7,111)
Common Stock Class Conversions5(5)    -
Comprehensive Income   160,510 88,341248,851
        
Balance at April 30, 2014$69,798$13,392$327,588$1,489,069$(527,308)$(190,291)$1,182,248
        
Restricted Shares Issued under Share-based Compensation Plans  (3,471) 4,085 614
Proceeds from Exercise of Stock Options and other  12,093 13,230 25,323
Excess Tax Benefits from Share-based Compensation  3,191   3,191
Share-based compensation expense  13,617   13,617
Purchase of Treasury Shares    (61,981) (61,981)
Class A Common Stock Dividends   (57,541)  (57,541)
Class B Common Stock Dividends   (10,957)  (10,957)
Common Stock Class Conversions--    -
Comprehensive Income (Loss)   176,868 (216,342)(39,474)
        
Balance at April 30, 2015$69,798$13,392$353,018$1,597,439$(571,974)$(406,633)$1,055,040
 
The accompanying notes are an integral part of the consolidated financial statements.
67

John Wiley & Sons, Inc. and Subsidiaries
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

Note 1 – Description of Business

The Company, founded in 1807, was incorporated in the state of New York on January 15, 1904. As used hereinThroughout this report, when we refer to "Wiley," the term “Company” means"Company," "we," "our," or "us," we are referring to John Wiley & Sons, Inc., and itsall of our subsidiaries, and affiliated companies, unlessexcept where the context indicates otherwise.

The Company isWe are a global provider of knowledgeresearch and knowledge-enabled services that improve outcomes in areas of research, professional practice and education.learning company. Through the our Research segment, the Company provides digital and printwe provide scientific, technical, medical, and scholarly journals, reference works, books, databaseas well as related content and services, to academic, corporate, and advertising.government libraries, learned societies, and individual researchers and other professionals. The Professional DevelopmentPublishing segment provides digitalscientific, professional, and printeducation books employment talent solutions, online assessment and training services, and test prep and certification. In Education, the Company providesrelated content in print and digital content,formats, as well as test preparation services and education solutions includingcourse workflow tools, to libraries, corporations, students, professionals, and researchers. The Solutions segment provides online program management services for higher education institutions and course management toolslearning, development, and assessment services for instructorsbusinesses and students. The Company takes full advantage of its content from all three core businesses in developing and cross-marketing products to its diverse customer base of researchers, professionals, students, and educators. The use of technology enables the Company to make its content efficiently more accessible to its customers around the world. The Company’sprofessionals. We have operations are primarily located in the United States, Canada, Europe, Asia,United Kingdom, Germany, Singapore, and Australia.

Note 2 - – Summary of Significant Accounting Policies, Recently Issued, and Recently Adopted Accounting Standards

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies

PrinciplesBasis of Consolidation: The consolidated financial statementsPresentation:

Our Consolidated Financial Statements include all of the accounts of the Company. InvestmentsCompany and our subsidiaries. We have eliminated all significant intercompany transactions and balances in entitiesconsolidation. All amounts are in which the Company has at least a 20%, but less than a majority interest, are accounted for using the equity method of accounting. Investments in entities in which the Company has less than a 20% ownershipthousands, except per share amounts, and in which it does not exercise significant influence are accounted for using the cost method of accounting. All intercompany accounts and transactionsapproximate due to rounding.

Reclassifications:

Certain prior year amounts have been eliminated in consolidation.reclassified to conform to the current year's presentation.

Use of Estimates:

The preparation of the Company’s financial statementsour Consolidated Financial Statements and related disclosures in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United StatesU.S. GAAP requires our management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities, andthe disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities as of the date of the financial statements and reported amounts of revenue and expenses during the reporting period. These estimates include, among other items, assessing the collectability of receivables, the use and recoverability of inventory, assumptions used in the calculation of income taxes, useful lives and recoverability of tangible assets and goodwill and other intangible assets, assumptions used in our defined benefit pension plans and other post-employment benefit plans, costs for incentive compensation, and accruals for commitments and contingencies. We review these estimates and assumptions periodically using historical experience and other factors and reflect the effects of any revisions on the Consolidated Financial Statements in the period we determine any revisions to be necessary. Actual results could differ from those estimates.

Reclassifications: Certain prior year amounts have been reclassified to conform to the current year’s presentation.
Book Overdrafts:

Under the Company’sour cash management system, a book overdraft balance exists for the Company’sour primary disbursement accounts. This overdraft represents uncleared checks in excess of cash balances in individual bank accounts. The Company’sOur funds are transferred from other existing bank account balances or from lines of credit as needed to fund checks presented for payment. As of April 30, 20152018 and 2014,2017, book overdrafts of $16.1$13.1 million and $22.8$17.6 million, respectively, were included in Accounts and Royalties Payable inon the Consolidated Statements of Financial Position.

Revenue Recognition:The Company recognizes

We recognize revenue when the following criteria are met: persuasive evidence that an arrangement exists;exists, delivery has occurred, or services have been rendered; the price to the customer is fixed or determinable; and collectability is reasonably assured. If all of the above criteria have been met, revenue is recognized upon shipment of products or when services have been rendered. Revenue related to journal subscriptions and other products and services that areis generally collected in advance areis deferred and recognized as earned primarilyover the term of the subscription, when the related issue is shipped or made available online, or the service is rendered.rendered, in accordance with contractual terms. Collectability is evaluated based on the amount involved, the credit history of the customer, and the status of the customer’scustomer's account with the Company.us.

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The Company offers an alternativeWe transitioned from issue-based to time-based digital journal subscription license model to subscribersagreements starting in certain markets.calendar year 2016. Under this alternativenew model, the Company provideswe provide access to all journal content published within a calendar year and recognize revenue on a straight-line basis over the calendar year. Under the Company’sour previous licensing model, a customer subscribed to a discrete number of online journal issues and revenue was recognized as each issue was made available online. Based onWe made these changes to simplify the successcontracting and administration of the program to date, the Company will expand its alternative model offering in calendar year 2016. The new time-based model will result in substantially allour digital journal subscription revenue recognized on a straight-line basis over the calendar year.subscriptions.

When a product is sold with multiple deliverables, the Company accountswe account for each deliverable within the arrangement as a separate unit of accounting due to the fact that each deliverable is also sold on a stand-alone basis. The total consideration of a multiple-element arrangement is allocated to each unit of accounting based on the price charged by the Companyus when it is sold separately. The Company’sOur multiple deliverable arrangements principally include WileyPLUS, thean online course management tool for the Company’s Education business whichthat includes a complete print or digital textbook for the course;course, negotiated licenses for bundles of digital content available on Wiley Online Library, the online publishing platform for the Company’sour Research business;business, and test preparation, assessment, certification and training services sold by the Professional Development business which can include bundles of print and digital content and online workflow solutions. In March 2018, we migrated our Wiley Online Library platform to Atypon's Literatum platform, which we acquired in fiscal year 2017.

The Company entersWe enter into contracts for the resale of itsour content through a third partyparties where the Company iswe are not the primary obligor of the arrangement because it iswe are not responsible for fulfilling the customer’s order;customer's order, handling customer requests or claims, and/or maintainsmaintaining credit risk. The Company recognizesWe recognize revenue for the sale of itsour content, net of any commission owed to the third partythird-party seller, or taxes, which are remitted to government authorities.

In May 2014, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (the "FASB") issued ASU 2014-09 "Revenue from Contracts with Customers" (Topic 606) ("ASU 2014-09"), which supersedes most existing revenue recognition guidance. We adopted ASU 2014-09 on May 1, 2018.   See the caption below, "Recently Adopted Accounting Standards" for details of our adoption of ASU 2014-09.

Cash Equivalents:

Cash equivalents consist of highly liquid investments with an original maturity of three months or less at the time of purchase and are stated at cost, plus accrued interest, which approximates market value.value, because of the short-term maturity of the instruments.

Allowance for Doubtful Accounts:

The estimated allowance for doubtful accounts is based on a review of the aging of the accounts receivable balances, historical write-off experience, credit evaluations of customers, and current market conditions. A change in the evaluation of a customer’scustomer's credit could affect the estimated allowance. The allowance for doubtful accounts is shown as a reduction of Accounts Receivable inon the Consolidated Statements of Financial Position and amounted to $8.3$10.1 million and $7.9$7.2 million as of April 30, 20152018 and 2014,2017, respectively.

Sales Return Reserves:

The process which the Company usesthat we use to determine itsour sales returns and the related reserve provision charged against revenue is based on applying an estimated return rate to current year returnable print book sales. This rate is based upon an analysis of actual historical return experience in the various markets and geographic regions in which the Company doeswe do business. The Company collects, maintainsWe collect, maintain and analyzesanalyze significant amounts of sales returns data for large volumes of homogeneous transactions. This allows the Companyus to make reasonable estimates of the amount of future returns. All available data is utilized to identify the returns by market and as to which fiscal year the sales returns apply. This enables management to track the returns in detail and identify and react to trends occurring in the marketplace, with the objective of being able to make the most informed judgments possible in setting reserve rates. Associated with the estimated sales return reserves, the Companywe also includesinclude a related reduction in inventory and royalty costs as a result of the expected returns. Net print book sales return reserves amounted to $25.3$18.6 million and $28.6$24.3 million as of April 30, 20152018 and 2014,2017, respectively.
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The reserves are reflected in the following accounts of the Consolidated Statements of Financial Position – (decrease) increase (decrease) as of April 30:

  2018  2017 
Accounts Receivable $(28,302) $(34,769)
Inventories $4,626  $4,727 
Royalties Payable $(5,048) $(5,741)
Decrease in Net Assets $(18,628) $(24,300)

               2015                 2014 
Accounts Receivable$(37,300)$(41,102) 
Inventories6,5556,774 
Accounts and Royalties Payable(5,405)(5,695) 
Decrease in Net Assets$(25,340)$(28,633) 
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Inventories:

Inventories are carried at the lower of cost or market. U.S. book inventories aggregating $35.7$24.0 million and $41.3$31.5 million at April 30, 20152018 and 2014,2017, respectively, are valued using the last-in, first-out (LIFO) method. All other inventories are valued using the first-in, first-out (FIFO) method.

Reserve for Inventory Obsolescence:

A reserve for inventory obsolescence is estimated based on a review of damaged, obsolete, or otherwise unsalable inventory. The review encompasses historical unit sales trends by title;title, current market conditions, including estimates of customer demand compared to the number of units currently on hand;hand, and publication revision cycles. The inventory obsolescence reserve is reported as a reduction of the Inventories balance inon the Consolidated Statements of Financial Position and amounted to $21.9$18.2 million and $25.1$21.1 million as of April 30, 20152018 and 2014,2017, respectively.

Product Development Assets: 

Product development assets consist of book composition costs and royalty advances.other product development costs. Costs associated with developing a book publication are expensed until the product is determined to be commercially viable. CompositionBook composition costs represent the costs incurred to bring an edited commercial manuscript to publication, which include typesetting, proofreading, design, illustration costs, and digital formatting. CompositionBook composition costs are capitalized and are generally amortized on a double-declining basis over their estimated useful lives, ranging from 1 to 3 years. Other product development costs represent the costs incurred in developing software, platforms, and digital content to be sold and licensed to third parties. Other product development costs are capitalized and generally amortized on a straight-line basis over their estimated useful lives. As of April 30, 2018, the weighted average estimated useful life of other product development costs was approximately 6 years.

Royalty Advances:

Royalty advances are capitalized and, upon publication, are expensed as royalties earned based on sales of the published works. Royalty advances are reviewed for recoverability and a reserve for loss is maintained, if appropriate.

Shipping and Handling Costs:

Costs incurred for third party shipping and handling are reflected in the Operating and Administrative Expenses line item inon the Consolidated Statements of Income. The CompanyWe incurred $42.5$33.7 million, $42.2$39.1 million, and $46.0$40.5 million in shipping and handling costs in fiscal years 2015, 20142018, 2017, and 2013,2016, respectively.

Advertising Expense:

Advertising costs are expensed as incurred. The CompanyWe incurred $40.8$68.3 million, $35.2$61.4 million and $29.2$54.1 million in advertising costs in fiscal years 2015, 20142018, 2017, and 2013, respectively.2016, respectively, and these costs are included in Operating and Administrative Expenses on the Consolidated Statements of Income.

Technology, Property, and Equipment:

Technology, property, and equipment is recorded at cost. Major renewals and improvements are capitalized, while maintenance and repairs are expensed as incurred.

Technology, property and equipment is depreciated using the straight-line method based upon the following estimated useful lives: Computer Software – 3 to 10 years, Computer Hardware – 3 to 5 years; Buildings and Leasehold Improvements – the lesser of the estimated useful life of the asset up to 40 years or the duration of the lease; Furniture, Fixtures, and Fixtures - 3 to 10 years; Computer Hardware and Software -Warehouse Equipment – 3 to 10 years.
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Costs incurred for computer software developed or obtained for internal use are capitalized during the application development stage and expensed as incurred during the preliminary project and post-implementation stages. Costs incurred during the application development stage include costs of materials and services and payroll and payroll-related costs for employees who are directly associated with the software project. Such costs are amortized over the expected useful life of the related software, which is generally 3 to 6 years. Costs related to the investment in our Enterprise Resource Planning and related systems are amortized over an expected useful life of 10 years. Maintenance, training, and upgrade costs that do not result in additional functionality are expensed as incurred.

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Allocation of Acquisition Purchase Price to Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed:

In connection with acquisitions, the Company allocateswe allocate the cost of the acquisition to the assets acquired and the liabilities assumed based on the estimates of fair value for such items, including intangible assets and technology acquired. Such estimates include discounted estimated cash flows to be generated by those assets and the expected useful lives based on historical experience, current market trends, and synergies to be achieved from the acquisition and the expected tax basis of assets acquired. The CompanyWe may use a third partythird-party valuation consultant to assist in the determination of such estimates.

Goodwill and Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets:

Goodwill isrepresents the excess of the purchase price paid overaggregate of the following: (1) consideration transferred, (2) the fair value of any noncontrolling interest in the acquiree, and (3) if the business combination is achieved in stages, the acquisition-date fair value of our previously held equity interest in the acquiree over the net assets of the business acquired.  acquisition-date amounts of the identifiable assets acquired and the liabilities assumed.

Indefinite-lived intangible assets primarily consist of brands, trademarks, content, and publishing rights and are typically characterized by intellectual property with a long and well-established revenue stream resulting from strong and well-established imprint/brand recognition in the market.

We use the acquisition method of accounting for all business combinations and do not amortize goodwill or intangible assets with indefinite useful lives. Goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets with indefinite useful lives are not amortized but are reviewedtested for possible impairment annually for impairment,during the fourth quarter of each fiscal year, or more frequently if events or changes in circumstances indicate that the asset might be impaired. The Company evaluates the recoverability of indefinite-lived intangible assets by comparing the fair value of the intangible asset to its carrying value.

To evaluate the recoverability of goodwill, the Company uses a two-step impairment test approach at the reporting unit level. In the first step, the estimated fair value of the entire reporting unit is compared to its carrying value including goodwill. If the fair value of the reporting unit is less than the carrying value, a second step is performed to determine the charge for goodwill impairment. In the second step, the Company determines an implied fair value of the reporting unit’s goodwill by determining the fair value of the individual assets and liabilities (including any previously unrecognized intangible assets) of the reporting unit other than goodwill. The resulting implied fair value of the goodwill is compared to the carrying amount and an impairment charge is recognized for the difference.
In certain circumstances, the Company uses a qualitative assessment as an alternative to the two-step test approach. Under this approach certain market, industry and financial performance factors are considered to determine whether it is more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit is less than its carrying amount. If that is the case, the two-step approach described above is then performed to evaluate the recoverability of goodwill.
Intangible Assets with Finite Lives and Other Long-Lived Assets:

Finite-lived intangible assets principally consist of brands, trademarks, content and publication rights, customer relationships, and non-compete agreements and are amortized over their estimated useful lives. The most significant factors in determining the estimated lives of these intangibles are the history and longevity of the brands, trademarks, and content and publication rights acquired combined with the strength of cash flows. Content and publication rights, trademarks, customer relationships, and brands with finite lives are amortized on a straight-line basis over periods ranging from 52 to 40 years. Non-compete agreements are amortized over the terms of the individual agreement, generally up to 5 years.
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Intangible assets with finite lives as of April 30, 20152018, are amortized on a straight line basis over the following weighted average estimated useful lives: content and publishing rights – 32 years;30 years, customer relationships – 19 years;20 years, brands and trademarks – 11 years;15 years, non-compete agreements – 5 years.

Assets with finite lives are only evaluated for impairment upon a significant change in the operating or macroeconomic environment. In these circumstances, if an evaluation of the projected undiscounted cash flows indicates impairment, the asset is written down to its estimated fair value based on the discounted future cash flows.

Derivative Financial Instruments:The Company, from

From time to time, enterswe enter into foreign exchange forward exchange and interest rate swap contracts as a hedge against foreign currency asset and liability commitments, changes in interest rates, and anticipated transaction exposures, including intercompany purchases. All derivatives are recognized as assets or liabilities and measured at fair value.  Derivatives that are not determined to be effective hedges are adjusted to fair value with a corresponding adjustment to earnings. The Company doesWe do not use financial instruments for trading or speculative purposes.

Foreign Currency Gains/Losses: The Company maintains

We maintain operations in many non-U.S. locations. Assets and liabilities are translated into U.S. dollars using end of periodend-of-period exchange rates and revenues and expenseexpenses are translated into U.S. dollars using weighted average rates. The Company’sOur significant investments in non-U.S. businesses are exposed to foreign currency risk. Foreign currency translation adjustments are reported as a separate component of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss within Shareholders’Shareholders' Equity. During fiscal year 2015, the Company2018, we recorded $180.2$67.6 million of foreign currency translation lossesgains primarily due to the strengthening of the U.S. dollarBritish pound sterling relative to the British pound sterling,U.S. dollar and, to a lesser extent, the strengthening of the euro and Australian dollar.relative to the U.S. dollar. Foreign currency transaction gains or losses are recognized inon the Consolidated Statements of Income as incurred.

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Stock-Based Compensation: The Company recognizes share-based

We recognize stock-based compensation expense based on the fair value of the share-basedstock-based awards on the grant date, reduced by an estimate for future forfeited awards.  As such, share-basedstock-based compensation expense is only recognized for those awards that are expected to ultimately vest. The fair value of share-basedstock-based awards is recognized in net income on a straight-line basis over the requisite service period. Share-basedThe grant date fair value for stock options is estimated using the Black-Scholes option-pricing model. The determination of the assumptions used in the Black-Scholes model required us to make significant judgments and estimates, which include the expected life of an option, the expected volatility of our Common Stock over the estimated life of the option, a risk-free interest rate, and the expected dividend yield. Judgment was also required in estimating the amount of stock-based awards that may be forfeited. Stock-based compensation expense associated with performance-based stock awards is based on actual financial results for targets established three years in advance. The cumulative effect on current and prior periods of a change in the estimated number of performance share awards, or estimated forfeiture rate, is recognized as an adjustment to earnings in the period of the revision. If actual results differ significantly from estimates, our stock-based compensation expense and consolidated results of operations could be impacted.

Recently Adopted Accounting Standards

In May 2017, the FASB issued ASU 2017-09, "Compensation— Stock Compensation (Topic 718): Scope of Modification Accounting," which clarifies when changes to the terms or conditions of a share-based payment award require an entity to apply modification accounting. Under the new guidance, modification accounting is only required if the fair value, vesting conditions or classification (equity or liability) of the new award are different from the original award immediately before the original award is modified. We adopted ASU 2017-09 on May 1, 2018. The new guidance must be applied prospectively to awards modified on or after the adoption date. The future impact of ASU 2017-09 will be dependent on the nature of future stock award modifications.

In March 2017, the FASB issued ASU 2017-07, "Compensation—Retirement Benefits (Topic 715): Improving the Presentation of Net Periodic Pension Cost and Net Periodic Postretirement Benefit Cost." The guidance requires that the service cost component of net pension and postretirement benefit costs be reported in the same line item as other compensation costs arising from services rendered by the pertinent employees during the period, while the other components of net benefit costs must be reported separately from the service cost component and below operating income. The guidance also allows only the service cost component to be eligible for capitalization when applicable. We adopted ASU 2017-07 on May 1, 2018. The new guidance must be applied retrospectively for the presentation of net benefit costs in the income statement and prospectively for the capitalization of the service cost component of net benefit costs. Our net pension and postretirement costs for the fiscal year ended April 30, 2018, includes approximately $8.1 million of net benefits that, upon adoption will be reclassified from operating income to a line item below operating income. Our net pension and retirement costs for the fiscal year ended April 30, 2017, includes $5.3 million of net charges that will be reclassified from operating income to a line item below operating income upon adoption.

In January 2017, the FASB issued ASU 2017-01, "Business Combinations (Topic 805): Clarifying the Definition of a Business", which clarifies the definition of a business in order to allow for the evaluation of whether transactions should be accounted for as acquisitions or disposals of assets or business. We adopted ASU 2017-01 on May 1, 2018.  The future impact of ASU 2017-01 will be dependent upon the nature of future acquisitions or dispositions made by us.

In November 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-18, Statement of Cash Flows (Topic 230): Restricted Cash. ASU 2016-18 requires that entities include restricted cash and restricted cash equivalents with cash and cash equivalents in the beginning-of-period and end-of-period total amounts shown on the Statement of Cash Flows. We adopted ASU 2016-18 on May 1, 2018. Retrospective transition method is to be applied to each period presented. The adoption of ASU 2016-18 did not have a material impact to our consolidated financial statements.

In October 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-16, "Income Taxes (Topic 740): Intra-Entity Transfers of Assets Other than Inventory", which simplifies the accounting for the income tax consequences of intra-entity transfers of assets other than inventory. Current U.S. GAAP prohibits the recognition of current and deferred income taxes for an intra-entity asset transfer until the asset has been sold to an outside party. The new guidance states that an entity should recognize the income tax consequences of an intra-entity transfer of an asset other than inventory when the transfer occurs. Consequently, the amendments in this Standard eliminate the exception for an intra-entity transfer of an asset other than inventory. We adopted ASU 2016-16 on May 1, 2018. The adoption of ASU 2016-16 did not have a material impact to our consolidated financial statements.

In August 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-15, "Statement of Cash Flows (Topic 230): Classification of Certain Cash Receipts and Cash Payments," which provides clarification on classifying a variety of activities within the Statement of Cash Flows. We adopted ASU 2016-15 on May 1, 2018. The adoption of ASU 2016-15 did not have a material impact to our consolidated statements of cash flows.

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Recently Issued Accounting Standards:In January 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-01, "Financial Instruments—Overall (Subtopic 825-10): Recognition and Measurement of Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities." Subsequently, the FASB issued ASU 2018-03, "Technical Corrections and Improvements to Financial Instruments-Overall."  ASU 2016-01 requires equity investments except those under the equity method of accounting to be measured at fair value with the changes in fair value recognized in net income. The amendment simplifies the impairment assessment of equity investments without readily determinable fair values by requiring a qualitative assessment to identify impairment. In addition, it also requires enhanced disclosures about investments. We adopted ASU 2016-01 on May 1, 2018. The adoption of ASU 2016- 01 did not have a material impact to our consolidated financial statements.

In May 2014, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”)FASB issued ASU 2014-09, "Revenue from Contracts with Customers" (Topic 606) (“ASU 2014-09”), and the International Accounting Standards Board (“IASB”) published its equivalent standard, International Financial Reporting Standard (“IFRS”) 15, “Revenue from Contracts with Customers”. These joint comprehensive new revenue recognition standards will supersedewhich superseded most existing revenue recognition guidance and are intended to improve and converge revenue recognition and related financial reporting requirements. The standard is effective for the Companyguidance. We adopted ASU 2014-09 on May 1, 2017 with early adoption prohibited.2018. The standard allows for either “full retrospective”"full retrospective" adoption, meaning the standard is applied to all periods presented, or “cumulative effect”"modified retrospective" adoption, meaning the standard is applied only to the most current period presented in the financial statements. Subsequently, the FASB issued ASU 2016-08, "Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606) – Principal versus Agent Considerations", ASU 2016-10, "Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606) – Identifying Performance Obligations and Licensing", ASU 2016-12, "Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606) – Narrow Scope Improvements and Practical Expedients", and ASU 2016-20, "Technical Corrections and Improvements to Topic 606, Revenue from Contracts with Customers," which provide clarification and additional guidance related to ASU 2014-09. We also adopted ASU 2016-08, ASU 2016-10, ASU 2016-12, and ASU 2016-20 with ASU 2014-09 on May 1, 2018.

We utilized a comprehensive approach to assess the impact of the standard on our contract portfolio by reviewing our current accounting policies and practices to identify differences that would result from applying the new standard to our revenue contracts.

We adopted the new revenue standard as of May 1, 2018, using the modified retrospective method. The Company is currently assessing whetheradoption of the standard did not have a material impact to our consolidated revenues, financial position, or results of operations. Accordingly, we will record an immaterial net increase to opening retained earnings upon adoption resulting from the acceleration of revenue recognized under the standard.

Although the adoption of the guidance will have a significant impact on itsnew revenue standard is not material to our consolidated financial statements.position, or results of operations, there are certain components of our revenue where the standard changes the timing of when revenue is recognized compared to our historical policies due to: (i) perpetual licenses granted in connection with other deliverables, previously recognized over the life of the associated subscription for future content, which we will now recognize the revenue at a point in time, which is when access is granted, (ii) customers' unexercised rights, which was previously recognized at the end of a pre-determined period for situations where we have received a nonrefundable payment for a customer to receive a good or service and the customer has not exercised such right, which we will now recognize such breakage amounts as revenue in proportion to the pattern of rights exercised by the customer, (iii) recognition of royalties in the period of usage, and (iv) recognition of certain arrangements with minimum guarantees on a time-based (straight-line) basis due to a stand-ready obligation to provide additional rights to content.
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In addition, the adoption of the standard results in the discontinuance of the historical practice of presenting accounts receivable and deferred revenue balances on a net basis for some of our subscription licensing agreements where we have invoiced a customer in advance of the related revenue being recognized and payment has not yet been received.  As of April 2015,30, 2018, the amounts that were netted down from accounts receivable and deferred revenue were $59.5 million.

Effective April 30, 2017, we adopted ASU 2015-17 "Income Taxes (Topic 740): Balance Sheet Classification of Deferred Taxes." ASU 2015-17 requires that deferred tax liabilities and assets be classified as noncurrent in a classified statement of financial position. We elected to adopt this standard prospectively and thus prior period balances were not adjusted. As of April 30, 2017, there were $0.8 million of current deferred tax assets reported within Prepaid and Other Current Assets on the Consolidated Statements of Financial Position.

In March 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2015-03 "Interest- Imputation2016-09, "Compensation—Stock Compensation (Topic 718): Improvements to Employee Share-Based Payment Accounting," which simplifies the accounting for share-based payment transactions, including income taxes, classification of Interest (Subtopic 835-30): Simplifying the Presentation of Debt Issuance Costs" (“ASU 2015-03”). The ASU requires that debt issuance costs related to a recognized debt liability be presentedawards as either equity or liabilities, and classification on the balance sheet asstatement of cash flows. The new guidance also allows an entity to make an accounting policy election to account for forfeitures when they occur or to estimate the number of awards that are expected to vest with a direct deductionsubsequent true up to actual forfeitures (current U.S. GAAP). We adopted ASU 2016-09 on a prospective basis on May 1, 2017.  As a result of the adoption:

·Excess income tax benefits and deficiencies from stock-based compensation are now recognized as a discrete item within the Provision for Income Taxes in the Consolidated Statements of Income, rather than Additional Paid-In-Capital on the Consolidated Statements of Financial Position, and amounted to $1.6 million for fiscal year 2018.
·Excess income tax benefits and deficiencies are no longer considered when applying the treasury stock method for computing diluted shares outstanding, which resulted in an increase in diluted shares outstanding of less than 0.1 million.
·Excess income tax benefits and deficiencies are now classified as an Operating Activity on the Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows. There were no excess tax benefits recorded in operating activities for fiscal year 2018, while $0.4 million were recorded in Financing Activities for fiscal year 2017.
·We have elected to continue estimating expected forfeitures in determining stock compensation expense each period.

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Recently Issued Accounting Standards

In February 2018, the FASB issued ASU 2018-02 "Income Statement—Reporting Comprehensive Income (Topic 220): Reclassification of Certain Tax Effects from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income," which allows a reclassification from accumulated other comprehensive income to retained earnings for stranded tax effects resulting from the carrying amount of that debt liability. Previously, debt issuance costs were recognized as assets on the balance sheet. The recognitionTax Cuts and measurement guidance for debt issuance costs are not affected by the amendments in this ASU.Jobs Act.  The standard is effective for the Companyus on May 1, 2016,2019, and interim periods within that fiscal year, with early adoption permitted, and requires retrospective application to all prior periods presented inpermitted. We are currently assessing the financial statements.  Althoughimpact the new guidance will have no impact on the Company’s results of operations, the debt issuance costs presented as assets within the Company’s Consolidated Statement of Financial Position ($1.4 million as of April 30, 2015) will be reclassified as reductions of the related debt liability when the guidance is adopted.our consolidated financial statements.

In April 2015,August 2017, the FASB issued ASU 2015-05 "Intangibles- Goodwill2017-12, "Derivatives and Other- Internal-Use Software (Subtopic 350-40)Hedging (Topic 815): Customer’sTargeted Improvements to Accounting for Fees PaidHedging Activities," to simplify and improve the application and financial reporting of hedge accounting. The guidance eases the requirements for measuring and reporting hedge ineffectiveness, and clarifies that changes in Cloud Computing Arrangements" (“ASU 2015-05”). Cloud computing arrangements represent the deliveryfair value of hosted services overhedging instruments for cash flow, net investment, and fair value hedges should be reflected in the internet which include software, platforms, infrastructure and other hosting arrangements. The ASU provides criteria to determine whethersame income statement line item as the cloud computing arrangement includes a software license. If the criteria are met, the customer will capitalize the fee attributable to the software license portionearnings effect of the arrangementhedged item. The guidance also permits entities to designate specific components in cash flow and interest rate hedges as internal-use software. If the arrangement does not include a software license, it should be treated as a service contract and expensed as services are received.hedged risk, instead of using total cash flows. The standard is effective for the Companyus on May 1, 20162019, with early adoption permitted. An entity can elect to adopt either prospectively for all arrangements entered into after the effective date or retrospectively. The Company isWe are currently assessing whether the adoption ofimpact the new guidance will have a significant impact on itsour consolidated financial statements.

In January 2017, the FASB issued ASU 2017-04, "Intangibles–Goodwill and Other (Topic 350): "Simplifying the Test for Goodwill Impairment", which simplifies the measurement of a potential goodwill impairment charge by eliminating the requirement to calculate an implied fair value of the goodwill based on the fair value of a reporting unit's other assets and liabilities. The new guidance eliminates the implied fair value method and instead measures a potential impairment charge based on the excess of a reporting unit's carrying value compared to its fair value. The impairment charge cannot exceed the total amount of goodwill allocated to that reporting unit. The standard is effective for us on May 1, 2020, with early adoption permitted. Based on our most recent annual goodwill impairment test completed in fiscal year 2018, we expect no initial impact on adoption.

In June 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-13, "Financial Instruments—Credit Losses (Topic 326), Measurement of Credit Losses on Financial Instruments." ASU 2016-13 requires entities to measure all expected credit losses for most financial assets held at the reporting date based on an expected loss model which includes historical experience, current conditions, and reasonable and supportable forecasts. Entities will now use forward-looking information to better form their credit loss estimates. ASU 2016-13 also requires enhanced disclosures to help financial statement users better understand significant estimates and judgments used in estimating credit losses, as well as the credit quality and underwriting standards of an entity's portfolio. ASU 2016-13 is effective for us on May 1, 2020, including interim periods within those fiscal periods, with early adoption permitted. We are currently assessing the impact the new guidance will have on our consolidated financial statements.

In February 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-02, "Leases (Topic 842)". ASU 2016-02 requires an entity to recognize a right-of-use asset and lease liability for all leases with terms of more than 12 months. Recognition, measurement, and presentation of expenses will depend on classification as a finance or operating lease. Similar modifications have been made to lessor accounting in-line with revenue recognition guidance. The standard is effective for us on May 1, 2019, with early adoption permitted. Adoption requires application of the new guidance to the beginning of the earliest period presented using a modified retrospective approach. We are currently assessing the impact the new guidance will have on our consolidated financial statements.

Note 3 – Reconciliation of Weighted Average Shares Outstanding

A reconciliation of the shares used in the computation of earnings per share for the years ended April 30 follows (in thousands):follows:

  2018  2017  2016 
Weighted Average Shares Outstanding  57,181   57,531   58,253 
Less:  Unvested Restricted Shares  (138)  (194)  (255)
Shares Used for Basic Earnings Per Share  57,043   57,337   57,998 
Dilutive Effect of Stock Options and Other Stock Awards  845   862   736 
Shares Used for Diluted Earnings Per Share  57,888   58,199   58,734 
                       2015                         2014                         2013
Weighted Average Shares Outstanding59,00458,92559,672
Less:  Unearned Restricted Shares(271)(290)(225)
Shares Used for Basic Earnings Per Share58,73358,63559,447
Dilutive Effect of Stock Options and Other Stock Awards861879777
Shares Used for Diluted Earnings Per Share59,59459,51460,224

Since their inclusion in the calculation of diluted earnings per share would have been anti-dilutive, options to purchase 178,144, 389,400244,590, 301,527 and 2,716,244336,803 shares of Class A Common Stock have been excluded for fiscal years 2015, 20142018, 2017 and 2013,2016, respectively. In addition, for fiscal years 20152018, 2017 and 2013 unearned2016 unvested restricted shares of 2,50026,740, none and 23,000,15,200 respectively, have been excluded as their inclusion would have been anti-dilutive.

7358

Note 4-4 – Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss

Changes in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss by component, net of tax, for the fiscal years ended April 30, 20152018 and 20142017, were as follows (in thousands):follows:

  
Foreign Currency
Translation Adjustment
  
Unamortized
Retirement Costs
  
Interest
Rate Swaps
  Total 
Balance at April 30, 2016 $(267,920) $(179,405) $(361) $(447,686)
Other comprehensive (loss) income before reclassifications  (51,292)  (18,458)  2,735   (67,015)
Amounts reclassified from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss     7,361   53   7,414 
Total other comprehensive (loss) income  (51,292)  (11,097)  2,788   (59,601)
Balance at April 30, 2017 $(319,212) $(190,502) $2,427  $(507,287)
Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications  67,639   (4,979)  1,739   64,399 
Amounts reclassified from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss     4,455   (1,147)  3,308 
Total other comprehensive income (loss)  67,639   (524)  592   67,707 
Balance at April 30, 2018 $(251,573) $(191,026) $3,019  $(439,580)
 Foreign Unamortized Interest  
 Currency Retirement Rate  
 Translation Costs Swaps Total
        
Balance at April 30, 2013$(134,539) $(143,124) $(969) $(278,632)
Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications67,875 10,464 (431) 77,908
Reclassification of amounts to Consolidated Statements of Income- 9,635 798 10,433
Total other comprehensive income67,875 20,099 367 88,341
Balance at April 30, 2014$(66,664) $(123,025) $(602) $(190,291)
Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications(180,190) (42,347) (783) (223,320)
Reclassification of amounts to Consolidated Statements of Income- 5,938 1,040 6,978
Total other comprehensive income (loss)(180,190) (36,409) 257 (216,342)
Balance at April 30, 2015$(246,854) $(159,434) $(345) $(406,633)

For the fiscal years ended April 30, 20152018 and 2014,2017, pre-tax actuarial losses included in Unamortized Retirement Costs of approximately $7.8$5.9 million and $13.4$11.1 million, respectively, were amortized from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss and recognized as pension expense in Operating and Administrative Expenses inon the Consolidated Statements of Income.

Note 5 – Acquisitions

CrossKnowledge:Atypon:

On May 1, 2014,September 30, 2016, we acquired the Company acquired CrossKnowledge Group Limited (“CrossKnowledge”net assets of Atypon Systems, Inc. ("Atypon"), a Silicon Valley-based publishing-software company, for approximately $166$121 million in cash, net of cash acquired. CrossKnowledge is a learning solutions provider focusedWe finalized our purchase accounting for Atypon on leadershipJuly 31, 2017, and managerial skills development that offers subscription-based, digital learning solutions for global corporations, universities,there were no material changes in the purchase accounting allocation compared to April 30, 2017. We recorded the fair value of the assets acquired and small and medium-sized enterprises. CrossKnowledge’s solutions include a variety of managerial and leadership skills assessments, courses, certifications, content and executive training programs that are deliveredliabilities assumed on a cloud-based LMS platform with over 19,000 learning objects in 17 languages. CrossKnowledge serves over five million end-users in 80 countries. CrossKnowledge reported approximately $37the acquisition date, which included $48 million of revenue and approximately $5intangible assets. Goodwill of $70 million of operating income in its fiscal year ended June 30, 2013. For the fiscal year ended April 30, 2015, CrossKnowledge’swas recorded, which is deductible for tax purposes.

Atypon's revenue and operating loss included in Wiley’sour results was $42.0for fiscal year 2018 were $32.9 million and $5.1$2.7 million, respectively.  The $166 million purchase price was allocated to identifiable long-lived intangible assets, mainly customer relationshipsAtypon's revenue and content ($63.0 million); technology ($6.3 million); long-term deferred tax liabilities ($21.5 million); negative working capital ($4.3 million); and goodwill ($122.5 million). The fair value of intangible assets and technology acquired was based on management’s assessment performed with the assistance of a third party valuation consultant. Goodwill represents the excess of the purchase price over the fair value of net assets acquired and comprises the estimated value of CrossKnowledge’s workforce, unidentifiable intangible assets and the fair value of expected synergies. None of the goodwill is deductibleoperating loss included in our results for tax purposes. The identifiable long-lived intangible assets are primarily amortized over a weighted average estimated useful life of approximately 15 years. The acquisition was funded through the use of the Company’s existing credit facility and available cash balances. The Company finalized its purchase accounting for CrossKnowledge as of April 30, 2015.
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Profiles International:
On April 1, 2014, the Company acquired all of the stock of Profiles International (“Profiles”) for approximately $47.5 million in cash, net of cash acquired.  Profiles provides pre-employment assessment and selection tools that enable employers to optimize candidate selections and develop the full potential of their employees. Solutions include pre-hire assessments, including those designed to measure and match personality, knowledge, skills, managerial fit, loyalty, and values; and post-hire assessments, focused on measuring sales and managerial effectiveness, employee performance and career potential. Profiles serves approximately 4,000 corporate clients and millions of end users in over 120 countries, with assessments available in 32 languages. The $47.5 million purchase price was allocated to identifiable long-lived intangible assets, mainly customer relationships and assessment content ($22.9 million); technology; ($2.7 million); long-term deferred tax liabilities ($9.7 million); a credit to short-term deferred tax assets ($2.9 million); negative working capital ($5.9 million) and goodwill ($40.4 million). The fair value of intangible assets and technology acquired was based on management’s assessment performed with the assistance of a third party valuation consultant. Goodwill represents the excess of the purchase price over the fair value of net assets acquired and comprises the estimated value of Profile’s workforce, unidentifiable intangible assets and the fair value of expected synergies. None of the goodwill is deductible for tax purposes. The identifiable long-lived intangible assets are primarily amortized over a weighted average estimated useful life of approximately 13 years. The Company finalized its purchase accounting for Profiles as of March 31, 2015. Profiles contributed $23.3fiscal year 2017 were $19.1 million and $1.9$3.5 million, to the Company’s revenue for fiscal years 2015 and 2014, respectively.

Efficient Learning Systems:
On November 1, 2012, the Company acquired all of the stock of Efficient Learning Systems, Inc. (“ELS”) for approximately $24 million in cash, net of cash acquired. ELS is an e-learning system provider focused in the areas of professional finance and accounting.  ELS’ flagship product, CPAexcel, is a modular, digital platform comprised of online self-study, videos, mobile apps, and sophisticated planning tools that has helped over 65,000 professionals prepare for the CPA exam since 1998. The $24 million purchase price was allocated to identifiable long-lived intangible assets ($6.5 million); technology ($3.6 million); long-term deferred tax liabilities ($2.9 million); and Goodwill ($17.0 million); with the remainder allocated to working capital. The fair value of intangible assets and technology acquired was based on management’s assessment performed with the assistance of a third party valuation consultant. Goodwill represents the excess of the purchase price over the fair value of net assets acquired and comprises the estimated value of ELS’ workforce, unidentifiable intangible assets and the fair value of expected synergies. None of the goodwill is deductible for tax purposes. The identifiable long-lived intangible assets are primarily amortized over a weighted average estimated useful life of approximately 15 years. The Company finalized its purchase accounting for ELS as of April 30, 2013.  ELS contributed $8.8 million, $8.0 million, and $3.7 million to the Company’s revenue for fiscal years 2015, 2014 and 2013, respectively.
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Deltak:
On October 25, 2012, the Company acquired all of the stock of Deltak.edu, LLC (“Deltak”) for approximately $220 million in cash, net of cash acquired. Deltak works in close partnership with leading colleges and universities to develop and support online degree and certificate programs. The business provides technology platforms and services including market research to validate program demand, instructional design, marketing, and student recruitment and retention services to leading national and regional colleges and universities throughout the United States.  The $220 million purchase price was allocated to identifiable long-lived intangible assets ($99.4 million) comprised primarily of institutional relationships; long-term deferred tax liabilities ($34.4 million); and Goodwill ($150.0 million); with the remainder allocated to technology and working capital. The fair value of intangible assets and technology acquired was based on management’s assessment performed with the assistance of a third party valuation consultant. Goodwill represents the excess of the purchase price over the fair value of net assets acquired and comprises the estimated value of Deltak’s workforce, unidentifiable intangible assets and the fair value of expected synergies. None of the goodwill is deductible for tax purposes. The identifiable long-lived intangible assets are primarily amortized over a weighted average estimated useful life of approximately 20 years. The Company finalized its purchase accounting for Deltak as of April 30, 2013. Deltak contributed $81.6 million, $70.2 million, and $33.7 million to the Company’s revenue for fiscal years 2015, 2014 and 2013, respectively.
Unaudited proforma financial information has not been presented for any of these acquisitions since the effects of the acquisitions were not material individually or in the aggregate.
Note 6 – Restructuring and Related Charges

In fiscal years 2015, 20142018, 2017 and 2013, the Company2016, we recorded pre-tax restructuring and related charges of $28.8$28.6 million, or $20.3$13.4 million, after tax ($0.34 per share), $42.7and $28.6 million, or $28.3 million after tax ($0.48 per share) and $29.3 million, or $19.8 million after tax ($0.33 per share), respectively, which are reflected in the Restructuring and Related Charges line item inon the Consolidated Statements of Income and described in more detail below:

Restructuring and Reinvestment Program:

InBeginning in fiscal year 2013, the Companywe initiated a global program (the “Restructuring"Restructuring and Reinvestment Program”Program") to restructure and realign itsour cost base with current and anticipated future market conditions. The Company isWe are targeting a majority of the expected cost savings achieved to improve margins and earnings, while the remainder will be reinvested in high growthhigh-growth digital business opportunities.

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The following table summarizestables summarize the pre-tax restructuring charges related to this program (in thousands):program:

  2018  2017  2016  
Total Charges
Incurred to Date
 
Charges by Segment:            
Research $5,257  $1,949  $2,982  $25,413 
Publishing  6,443   1,596   4,507   38,931 
Solutions  3,695   1,787   1,042   6,247 
Corporate Expenses  13,171   8,023   20,080   95,919 
Total Restructuring and Related Charges $28,566  $13,355  $28,611  $166,510 
                 
Charges (Credits) by Activity:                
Severance $27,213  $8,386  $16,443  $114,803 
Process Reengineering Consulting  1,815   148   7,191   20,629 
Other Activities  (462)  4,821   4,977   31,078 
Total Restructuring and Related Charges $28,566  $13,355  $28,611  $166,510 
 2015 2014 2013 Total Charges Incurred to Date
Charges by Segment:       
Research$4,555 $7,774 $2,896 $15,225
Professional Development4,385 11,860 6,284 22,529
Education1,571 891 1,118 3,580
Shared Services18,293 22,197 14,154 54,644
Total Restructuring Charges$28,804 $42,722 $24,452 $95,978
        
Charges by Activity:       
Severance$17,093 $25,962 $19,706 $62,761
Process reengineering consulting301 8,556 2,618 11,475
Other activities11,410 8,204 2,128 21,742
Total Restructuring Charges$28,804 $42,722 $24,452 $95,978

Other Activities mainly reflect leasein 2017 and other2016 reflects leased facility consolidations, contract termination costs, and the curtailment of the U.K. and Canadiancertain defined benefit pension plans in fiscal year 2015 and the U.S defined benefit pension plan in fiscal year 2013.plans.

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The following table summarizes the activity for the Restructuring and Reinvestment Program liability infor fiscal year 2015 (in thousands):2018:
  Foreign 
                   April 30,  Translation &                   April 30,
                     2014                   Charges                Payments Reclassifications                    2015 April 30, 2017  Charges  Payments  
Foreign Translation
and Reclassification
  April 30, 2018 
Severance$29,255$17,093$(26,716) $(838)$18,794 $10,082  $27,213  $(21,197) $1,181  $17,279 
Process reengineering consulting722301(1,024) 1-
Other activities4,99511,410(4,601) 5511,859
Process Reengineering Consulting     1,815   (1,815)      
Other Activities  12,708   (462)  (7,583)  (1,891)  2,772 
Total$34,972$28,804$(32,341) $(782)$30,653 $22,790  $28,566  $(30,595) $(710) $20,051 

The restructuring liability for accrued Severanceseverance costs of $17.3 million is reflected in Accrued Employment Costs inon the Consolidated Statements of Financial Position while the liability for Process reengineering consulting costs are reflected in Other Accrued Liabilities.Position. Approximately $0.3$0.9 million and $11.6$1.9 million of the Other Activities are reflectedincluded in Other Accrued Liabilities and Other Long-Term Liabilities, respectively.respectively on the Consolidated Statements of Financial Position. The amount included in Other Long-Term Liabilities that relates to Other Activities is expected to be paid starting in 2020 until 2022.

Other Restructuring Programs:
As part of the Company’s ongoing transition and transformation to digital products and services, certain activities were identified in fiscal year 2013 that were discontinued, outsourced, or relocated to lower cost regions.  As a result, the Company recorded a pre-tax restructuring charge of approximately $4.8 million, or $3.5 million after tax ($0.06 per share), for redundancy and separation benefits. Approximately $3.0 million, $1.3 million and $0.2 million of the restructuring charge was recorded within the Research, Professional Development and Education reporting segments, respectively, with the remainder recognized in Shared Services costs. In fiscal year 2014, the Company completed all remaining payments under the program.
Note 7 – Impairment Charges
Technology Investments
In fiscal year 2014, the Company terminated a multi-year software development program for an internal operations application due to a change in the Company’s longer-term enterprise systems plans. As a result, the Company recorded an asset impairment charge for previously capitalized software costs related to the program of $4.8 million, or $3.4 million after tax ($0.06 per share).
In fiscal year 2013, the Company identified certain technology investments which no longer fit the Company’s technology strategy. As a result, the Company recorded an asset impairment charge of $5.3 million, or $3.2 million after-tax ($0.05 per share), to write-off the full carrying value of the related assets.
Consumer Publishing Programs
In fiscal year 2013, the Company began accounting for its culinary, CliffsNotes, and Webster’s New World Dictionary consumer publishing programs as Assets Held for Sale. The Company recorded an impairment charge of $12.1 million, or $7.5 million after tax ($0.12 per share), in fiscal year 2013 to reduce the carrying value of the assets within these programs to approximately $9.9 million, which represented their fair value based on the estimated sales price, less costs to sell. As discussed in Note 8, on November 5, 2012, the Company completed a sale to Houghton Mifflin Harcourt for $11.0 million in cash, which approximated the carrying value of related assets sold.
In addition, in fiscal year 2013, the Company recorded a pre-tax impairment charge of $3.4 million, or $2.1 million after tax ($0.04 per share) to reduce the carrying value of inventory and royalty advances within its other consumer publishing programs to their estimated realizable value.
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Controlled Circulation Publishing Assets
In fiscal year 2013, the Company identified certain controlled circulation publishing programs that no longer aligned with the Company’s long-term strategy, shifting key resources from these programs to other publishing programs within the Research segment. As a result, the Company performed an impairment test on the intangible assets related to these controlled circulation publishing programs in fiscal year 2013, which resulted in a $9.9 million impairment charge, or $8.2 million after tax ($0.14 per share). The intangible assets principally consisted of acquired publication rights. The impairment charge resulted in a full write-off of the carrying value of these intangible assets based on their estimated fair values as determined by the Company utilizing a discounted cash flow analysis.
Note 8 – Gain (Net of Losses) on Sale of Consumer Publishing Programs
Sale of Travel Publishing Program
On August 31, 2012, the Company sold its travel publishing program, including all of its interests in the Frommer’s, Unofficial Guides, and WhatsonWhen brands to Google, Inc. for $22 million in cash, of which $3.3 million was held in escrow. As a result, the Company recorded a $9.8 million pre-tax gain on the sale, or $6.2 million after tax ($0.10 per share), in fiscal year 2013. In connection with the sale, the Company also entered into a transition services agreement which ended on December 31, 2013. Fees earned by the Company in fiscal year 2013 in connection with the service agreement were $0.5 million. The escrow was released to the Company in fiscal year 2014.
Sale of Culinary, CliffsNotes and Webster’s New World Publishing Programs
On November 5, 2012, the Company completed the sale of the Company’s culinary, CliffsNotes, and Webster’s New World Dictionary consumer publishing programs to Houghton Mifflin Harcourt for $11.0 million in cash, which approximated the carrying value of related assets sold, of which $1.1 million was held in escrow.  In connection with the sale, the Company also entered into a transition services agreement which ended on March 5, 2013.  Fees earned by the Company in fiscal year 2013 in connection with the service agreement were $1.5 million. The escrow was released to the Company in fiscal year 2015.
Sale of Other Consumer Publishing Programs
In the fourth quarter of fiscal year 2013, the Company completed the sale of its other consumer publishing programs to various buyers for approximately $1.0 million in cash and a limited future royalty interest. The Company recorded an aggregate $3.8 million pre-tax loss on the sales, or $3.6 million after tax ($0.06 per share) in fiscal year 2013.
Note 9 – Inventories

Inventories at April 30 were as follows (in thousands):follows:
  2018  2017 
Finished Goods $36,503  $38,329 
Work-in-Process  2,139   7,078 
Paper and Other Materials  550   650 
   39,192   46,057 
Inventory Value of Estimated Sales Returns  4,626   4,727 
LIFO Reserve  (4,329)  (2,932)
Total Inventories $39,489  $47,852 
                            2015                           2014 
Finished Goods$52,705$62,071 
Work-in-Process6,5526,041 
Paper, Cloth, and Other4,6765,476 
 63,93373,588 
Inventory Value of Estimated Sales Returns6,5556,774 
LIFO Reserve(6,709)(4,867) 
Total Inventories$63,779$75,495 

See Note 2, Summary"Summary of Significant Accounting Policies, - SalesRecently Issued and Recently Adopted Accounting Standards," under the caption "Sales Return Reserves," for a discussion of the Inventory Value of Estimated Sales Returns. Finished Goods are net of a reserve for inventory obsolescence of $18.2 million and $21.1 million as of April 30, 2018 and 2017, respectively.

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Note 108 – Product Development Assets

Product development assets consisted of the following at April 30 (in thousands):30:

  2018  2017 
Book Composition Costs $24,887  $28,884 
Other Product Development Costs  53,927   51,501 
Total $78,814  $80,385 
 
                           2015                             2014 
Composition Costs$41,280$45,603 
Royalty Advances28,30937,337 
Total$69,589$82,940 
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CompositionBook composition costs are net of accumulated amortization of $198.2$188.7 million and $201.4$172.6 million as of April 30, 20152018 and 2014,2017, respectively. Other Product Development Costs are net of accumulated amortization of $49.4 million and $33.5 million as of April 30, 2018 and 2017, respectively.

Note 119 – Technology, Property, and Equipment

Technology, property and equipment consisted of the following at April 30 (in thousands):30:

  2018  2017 
Capitalized Software $390,774  $356,907 
Computer Hardware  57,493   60,467 
Buildings and Leasehold Improvements  121,381   103,774 
Furniture, Fixtures, and Warehouse Equipment  60,869   55,106 
Land and Land Improvements  3,678   3,354 
   634,195   579,608 
Accumulated Depreciation and Amortization  (344,261)  (336,550)
Total $289,934  $243,058 

                           2015                           2014 
Capitalized Software and Computer Hardware$460,199$396,512 
Buildings and Leasehold Improvements86,22594,018 
Furniture, Fixtures and Warehouse Equipment60,46051,449 
Land and Land Improvements3,8204,367 
 610,704546,346 
Accumulated Depreciation(417,694)(357,628) 
Total$193,010$188,718 
The following table details our depreciation and amortization expense for technology, property and equipment for the fiscal years ended April 30:

  2018  2017  2016 
Capitalized Software Amortization Expense $45,449  $48,343  $49,642 
Depreciation and Amortization Expense, Excluding Capitalized Software  18,878   18,340   16,785 
Total Depreciation and Amortization Expense for Technology, Property, and Equipment $64,327  $66,683  $66,427 

The net book value of capitalized software costs was $121.9$198.0 million and $103.9$192.7 million as of April 30, 20152018 and 2014,2017, respectively. Depreciation expense recognized in

In fiscal years 2015, 2014, and 2013 foryear 2018, we wrote off approximately $51.8 million of fully depreciated capitalized software costs was approximately $42.1 million, $36.5 million and $33.1 million, respectively.computer hardware that were no longer in use.

Note 12 -10 – Goodwill and Intangible Assets

Goodwill

The following table summarizes the activity in goodwill by segment as of April 30 (in thousands):30:

  2017  
Foreign
Translation
Adjustment
  2018 
Research $437,928  $25,491  $463,419 
Publishing  283,192   12,209   295,401 
Solutions  260,981      260,981 
Total $982,101  $37,700  $1,019,801 

                  2014AcquisitionsForeign Translation Adjustment                2015
Research$485,1812,921$(40,776)$447,326
Professional Development     268,658         124,036(27,479)       365,215
Education      149,826--       149,826
Total$903,665$126,957$(68,255)$962,367
We review goodwill for impairment on a reporting unit basis annually during the third quarter of each year, using a measurement date of January 31, and whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate the carrying value of goodwill may not be recoverable. While we are permitted to conduct a qualitative assessment to determine whether it is necessary to perform a two-step quantitative goodwill impairment test, for our annual goodwill impairment test in the third quarter of 2018, 2017, and 2016, we performed a quantitative test for all of our reporting units.

The acquisitions for Professional Development mainly reflectgoodwill impairment test involves a two-step process. In step one, we compare the CrossKnowledge acquisition.fair value of each of our reporting units to its carrying value, including the goodwill allocated to the reporting unit. If the fair value of the reporting unit exceeds its carrying value, there is no indication of impairment and no further testing is required. If the fair value of the reporting unit is less than the carrying value, we must perform step two of the impairment test to measure the amount of impairment loss, if any. In step two, the reporting unit's fair value is allocated to all of the assets and liabilities of the reporting unit, including any unrecognized intangible assets, in a hypothetical analysis that calculates the implied fair value of goodwill in the same manner as if the reporting unit was being acquired in a business combination. If the implied fair value of the reporting unit's goodwill is less than the carrying value, the difference is recorded as an impairment loss.

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2018 Annual Impairment Test as of January 31, 2018

During the third quarter of 2018, we completed step one of our annual goodwill impairment test for our reporting units. We concluded that the fair values of these reporting units were above their carrying values and, therefore, there was no indication of impairment.

We estimated the fair value of these reporting units using a weighting of fair values derived from an income and a market approach. Under the income approach, we determined the fair value of a reporting unit based on the present value of estimated future cash flows. Cash flow projections are based on management's estimates of revenue growth rates and operating margins, taking into consideration industry and market conditions. The discount rate used is based on a weighted average cost of capital adjusted for the relevant risk associated with the characteristics of the business and the projected cash flows. The market approach estimates fair value based on market multiples of current and forward 12-month operating performance results, as applicable, derived from comparable publicly traded companies with similar operating and investment characteristics as the reporting unit.

As noted above, the fair value determined under step one of the goodwill impairment test completed in the third quarter of 2018 exceeded the carrying value for each reporting unit. Therefore, there was no impairment of goodwill. However, if the fair value decreases in future periods, we may fail step one of the goodwill impairment test and be required to perform step two. In performing step two, the fair value would have to be allocated to all of the assets and liabilities of the reporting unit. Therefore, any potential goodwill impairment charge would be dependent upon the estimated fair value of the reporting unit at that time and the outcome of step two of the impairment test. The fair values of the assets and liabilities of the reporting unit, including the intangible assets, could vary depending on various factors.

The future occurrence of a potential indicator of impairment, such as a decrease in expected net earnings, adverse equity market conditions, a decline in current market multiples, a decline in our common stock price, a significant adverse change in legal factors or business climates, an adverse action or assessment by a regulator, unanticipated competition, strategic decisions made in response to economic or competitive conditions, or a more-likely-than-not expectation that a reporting unit or a significant portion of a reporting unit will be sold or disposed of, could require an interim assessment for some or all of the reporting units before the next required annual assessment. In the event of significant adverse changes of the nature described above, we might have to recognize a non-cash impairment of goodwill, which could have a material adverse effect on our consolidated financial condition.

We also review our indefinite-lived intangible assets for impairment annually, which consists of brands and trademarks and certain acquired publishing rights. During the third quarter of 2018, we completed our annual impairment test related to the indefinite lived intangible assets.  We concluded that the fair values of these indefinite-lived intangible assets were above their carrying values and, therefore, there was no indication of impairment.

Change in Annual Impairment Assessment Date

During the fourth quarter of 2018, we voluntarily changed our annual impairment assessment date from January 31 to February 1 for all of our reporting units and our indefinite-lived intangible assets. This change was made to improve alignment of impairment testing procedures with year-end financial reporting, our annual business planning and budgeting process and the multi-year strategic forecast, which begins in the fourth quarter of each year. As a result, the goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible asset impairment testing will reflect the result of inputs from each of the businesses in the development of the budget and forecast process, including the impact of seasonality of our financial results. Accordingly, management considers this accounting change preferable. This change does not accelerate, delay, avoid, or cause an impairment charge, nor does this change result in adjustments to previously issued financial statements.

In connection with the change in the date of the annual goodwill impairment test, we completed a qualitative assessment of the goodwill by reporting unit as of February 1, 2018, and concluded that it was more likely than not that the fair value of each of the reporting units exceeded its carrying amount. In addition, we also completed a qualitative assessment of our indefinite-lived intangible assets as of February 1, 2018, and concluded that it was more likely than not that the fair value of each of the indefinite-lived intangible assets exceeded its carrying amount.

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Intangibles

Intangible assets as of April 30 were as follows (in thousands):follows:

  2018  2017 
  Cost  
Accumulated
Amortization
  
Accumulated
Impairment
  Net  Cost  
Accumulated
Amortization
  Net 
Intangible Assets with Determinable Lives                     
Content and Publishing Rights $824,146  $(387,386) $  $436,760  $775,520  $(353,923) $421,597 
Customer Relationships  212,020   (50,291)     161,729   233,872   (64,756)  169,116 
Brands and Trademarks  32,111   (16,011)     16,100   35,554   (18,359)  17,195 
Covenants not to Compete  1,499   (844)     655   2,377   (1,420)  957 
   1,069,776   (454,532)     615,244   1,047,323   (438,458)  608,865 
Intangible Assets with Indefinite Lives                            
Brands and Trademarks  142,189      (3,600)  138,589   135,061      135,061 
Content and Publishing Rights  94,238         94,238   84,173      84,173 
  $1,306,203  $(454,532) $(3,600) $848,071  $1,266,557  $(438,458) $828,099 
  2015 2014
  
 
Cost
Accumulated
Amortization
 
 
Cost
Accumulated
Amortization
Intangible Assets with Determinable Lives      
Content and Publishing Rights    $781,618   $(299,022)    $834,932$(299,105)
Customer Relationships 225,239(43,967) 195,085(32,790)
Brands & Trademarks 30,008(13,225) 24,000(9,284)
Covenants not to Compete 1,343(677) 1,490(767)
  1,038,208(356,891) 1,055,507(341,946)
Intangible Assets with Indefinite Lives      
Brands & Trademarks 152,332- 164,202-
Content and Publishing Rights 83,972- 106,898-
  $1,274,512$(356,891) $1,326,607$(341,946)

Based on the current amount of intangible assets subject to amortization and assuming current foreign exchange rates, the estimated amortization expense for each of the succeeding five fiscal years are as follows: 2016 - $48 million; 2017 - $47 million; 20182019$44 million; 2019 - $41$48.2 million, 2020 – $43.6 million, 2021 – $41.4 million, 2022 – $36.4 million, and 2020 - $352023 – $32.7 million.

In conjunction with a business review performed in the Publishing segment associated with the restructuring activities in the first quarter of fiscal year 2018, we identified an indefinite-lived brand with forecasted cash flows that did not exceed its carrying value. As a result, an impairment charge of $3.6 million was recorded in the first quarter of fiscal year 2018 to reduce the carrying value of the brand to its fair value of $1.2 million, which will now be amortized over an estimated useful life of 5 years. This impairment charge was included in Operating and Administrative Expenses on the Consolidated Statements of Income.

Note 13 -11 – Income Taxes

The provisions for income taxes for the years ended April 30 were as follows (in thousands):follows:

  2018  2017  2016 
Current Provision         
U.S. – Federal $(2,216) $912  $(5,365)
International  46,112   105,228   31,958 
State and Local  961   100   1,657 
Total Current Provision $44,857  $106,240  $28,250 
Deferred Provision (Benefit)            
U.S. – Federal $(26,062) $(13,852) $6,625 
International  2,420   (15,330)  (6,459)
State and Local  530   415   595 
Total Deferred (Benefit) Provision $(23,112) $(28,767) $761 
Total Provision $21,745  $77,473  $29,011 
                          2015                          2014                           2013
Current Provision   
US – Federal $27,137 $13,541 $23,835
International27,61334,51934,019
State and Local  1,007  (733)2,091
Total Current Provision$55,757$47,327$59,945
Deferred Provision (Benefit)   
US – Federal$(7,554)$(1,748)$(11,312)
International606(10,008)(5,553)
State and Local(216)(547)(383)
Total Deferred (Benefit) $(7,164) $(12,303) $(17,248)
Total Provision$48,593$35,024$42,697

International and United States pretax income for the years ended April 30 2015 were as follows (in thousands):follows:

                       2015                       2014                          2013 2018  2017  2016 
International  $165,085  $159,442  $156,114 $219,178  $192,910  $159,152 
United States60,37636,09230,808  (5,247)  (1,794)  15,641 
Total $225,461 $195,534 $186,922 $213,931  $191,116  $174,793 
 
8063

The Company’sOur effective income tax rate as a percentage of pretax income differed from the U.S. federal statutory rate as shown below:

  2018  2017  2016 
U.S. Federal Statutory Rate  30.4%  35.0%  35.0%
German Tax Litigation Expense     25.7    
Benefit from Lower Taxes on Non-U.S. Income  (8.4)  (12.7)  (14.6)
State Income Taxes, Net of U.S. Federal Tax Benefit  0.4   0.1   0.8 
U.S. Tax Reform  (11.7)      
Deferred Tax Benefit From U.K. Statutory Tax Rate Change     (1.3)  (3.4)
Tax Credits and Related Benefits  (1.7)  (6.2)  (1.6)
Tax Adjustments and Other  1.2   (0.1)  0.4 
Effective Income Tax Rate  10.2%  40.5%  16.6%

                           2015                            2014                            2013
U.S. Federal Statutory Rate35.0%35.0%35.0%
Benefit from Lower Taxes on Non-U.S. Income(11.9)(10.8)(9.3)
State Income Taxes, Net of U.S. Federal Tax Benefit0.30.40.6
Deferred Tax Benefit From Statutory Tax Rate Change-(5.4)(4.5)
Tax Adjustments and Other(1.8)(1.3)1.0
Effective Income Tax Rate21.6%17.9%22.8%
Note: A substantial portion of our income is earned outside the U.S. in jurisdictions with lower statutory income tax rates than our U.S. statutory rate in 2018 including: U.K. (63%), Germany (25%), and Australia (7%).

On December 22, 2017, the U.S. government enacted comprehensive Federal tax legislation originally known as the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017 (the "Tax Act").  In December 2017, the SEC staff issued Staff Accounting Bulletin No. 118, Income Tax Accounting Implications of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act ("SAB 118"), which allows us to record provisional amounts related to the effect of the Tax Act during a measurement period not to extend beyond one year of the enactment date. As the Tax Act was passed late in December 2017, and ongoing guidance and accounting interpretation are expected over the 12 months following enactment, we consider the accounting of the transition tax, deferred tax re-measurements and other items to be provisional due to the forthcoming guidance and our ongoing analysis of final data and tax positions. We expect to complete our analysis within the measurement period in accordance with SAB 118.

The effective tax rate for fiscal year 2018 was lower than fiscal 2017 due to the estimated net tax benefit from non-recurring items in the Tax Act and the effect of the German Tax litigation in fiscal year 2017 as described below. Estimated non-recurring items in the Tax Act reduced our income tax expense by $25.1 million ($0.43/share) or a reduction in our effective tax rate of 11.7 percentage points for fiscal year 2018.  Excluding the effect of the Tax Act, the rate was 21.9% for fiscal year 2018.

The rate excluding the benefit from the non-recurring items in the Tax Act was lower than the U.S. statutory rate for the year ended April 30, 2018, primarily due to lower rates applicable to non-U.S. earnings. 

German Tax Litigation Expense: In fiscal 2017, the German Federal Fiscal Court affirmed a lower court decision disallowing deductions related to a stepped-up basis in certain assets. As a result, we incurred an income tax charge of approximately $49 million ($0.85 per share).

Deferred Tax Benefit from U.K. Statutory Tax Rate Change: In fiscal years 2014year 2016, the U.K. reduced its statutory rate to 19% beginning April 1, 2017, and 2013,18% beginning April 1, 2020, and in fiscal year 2017, the Company recordedU.K. further reduced its statutory rate beginning on April 1, 2020, from 18% to 17%. This resulted in a non-cash deferred tax benefitsbenefit from the re-measurement of $10.6 million ($0.18 per share), and $8.4 million ($0.14 per share), respectfully, principally associated with new tax legislation enacted in the United Kingdom (“U.K.”) that reduced the U.K. statutory income tax rates by 3% and 2%, respectively. The benefits reflect the measurement of allour applicable U.KU.K. deferred tax balances to the new income tax rates of 21% effective April 1, 2014$5.9 million ($0.10 per share) in fiscal year 2016 and 20% effective April 1, 2015.$2.6 million ($0.04 per share) in fiscal year 2017.

Tax Adjustments and Other:In fiscal years 2015, 2014 and 2013, the Companyyear 2018, we recorded a tax benefitsbenefit of $0.7$0.6 million $2.6 million and $0.7 million, respectively, related to the expiration of the statute of limitations andor favorable resolutions of certain federal, state, and foreign tax matters with tax authorities. In addition,No benefit was recorded in fiscal year 2015, the Company recognized2017 and a non-recurring tax benefit of $3.1$1.3 million was recorded in fiscal year 2016 related to such matters.

The Tax Act

On December 22, 2017, the U.S. government enacted comprehensive tax legislation. The Tax Act significantly revises the future ongoing U.S. corporate income tax system by, among other changes, the following:
·lowering the U.S. federal corporate income tax rate to 21% with a potentially lower rate for certain foreign derived income;
·accelerating deductions for certain business assets;
·changing the U.S. system from a worldwide tax system;
·requiring companies to pay a one-time transition tax on post-1986 unrepatriated cumulative non-U.S. earnings and profits ("E&P") of foreign subsidiaries;
·eliminating certain deductions such as the domestic production deduction;
·establishing limitations on the deductibility of certain expenses including interest and executive compensation; and
·creating new taxes on certain foreign earnings.
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The key impacts for the period were the re-measurement of U.S. deferred tax balances to the new U.S. corporate tax rate and the accrual for the one-time transition tax liability. While we have not yet completed our assessment of the effects of the Tax Act, we are able to determine reasonable estimates for the impacts of these key items and reported provisional amounts for these items.  In accordance with SAB 118, we are providing additional disclosures related to these provisional amounts.

Deferred tax balances – We remeasured our U.S. deferred tax assets and liabilities based on the federal rate at which they are expected to reverse in the future, generally 21% for reversals anticipated to occur after April 30, 2018.  We are still analyzing certain aspects of the Tax Act and refining our calculations, including our estimates of expected reversals, which could affect the measurement of these balances and give rise to new deferred tax amounts.  The provisional amount recorded related to the re-measurement of our net deferred tax liability was an estimated benefit of $47 million.

Foreign tax effects – In connection with the transition from a global tax system, the Tax Act establishes a mandatory deemed repatriation tax. The tax is computed using our post-1986 E&P that was previously deferred from U.S. income taxes.  The tax is based on the amount of foreign earnings held in cash equivalents and certain net assets, which are taxed at 15.5%, and those held in other assets, which are taxed at 8%. We recorded a provisional amount of $14.2 million. We also established an estimated valuation allowance of $6.5 million. This resulted in a corresponding decrease in deferred tax assets due to the utilization of foreign tax credit carryforwards. The determination of the transition tax requires further guidance as to its applicability to non-calendar year end taxpayers and analysis regarding the amount and composition of our historical foreign earnings. We no longer assert that we intend to permanently reinvest earnings outside the U.S. and accrued a provisional $2.0 million related to our estimated taxes from repatriating earnings with available cash. In addition, we accrued a $0.1 million provisional state tax deductions claimedliability, pending further guidance and legislative action from various states regarding conformity with the Tax Act.

The Tax Act reduces the Federal statutory tax rate from 35% to 21% effective January 1, 2018.  As a result, our U.S. federal statutory tax rate for our fiscal year ended April 30, 2018, is a blended rate of 30.4%. Other than the benefit from remeasuring our U.S. deferred tax assets and liabilities, the reduced rate did not have a significant impact on our effective tax rate for fiscal year 2018

We have not determined a reasonable estimate of the write-uptax liability, if any, under the Tax Act for our remaining outside basis difference.  We will continue to evaluate our position for this matter as we finalize our Tax Act calculations.

The Tax Act creates new taxes, effective for us on May 1, 2018, including a provision designed to tax global low taxed income ("GILTI") and a provision establishing new minimum taxes, such as the base erosion anti-abuse tax ("BEAT"). We continue to evaluate the Tax Act, but due to the complexity and incomplete guidance of various provisions, we have not completed our accounting for the income tax effects of certain foreignelements of the Tax Act, including the new GILTI and BEAT taxes. We have not yet determined whether such taxes should be recorded as a current-period expense when incurred or factored into the measurement of our deferred taxes.  As a result, we have not included an estimate of any tax assets to fair market value. In fiscal 2013, in addition to the taxexpense or benefit recorded of $0.7 million, the Company recorded a tax charge of $2.1 million due to published IRS tax positions related to these items for the Company’s ability to take certain deductions in the U.S.year ended April 30, 2018.

Accounting for Uncertainty in Income Taxes:

As of April 30, 20152018 and April 30, 2014,2017, the total amount of unrecognized tax benefits were $19.3$6.8 million and $23.8$6.1 million, respectively, of which $3.0$0.6 million and $3.2$0.4 million represented accruals for interest and penalties recorded as additional tax expense in accordance with the Company’sour accounting policy. Within the income tax provision for both fiscal years 20152018 and 2014, the Company2017, we recorded net interest expense on reserves for unrecognized and recognized tax benefits of $0.5$0.2 million and $0.1$0.3 million respectively. As of April 30, 20152018, and April 30, 2014,2017, the total amount of unrecognized tax benefits that would reduce the Company’sour income tax provision, if recognized, were approximately $18.8$6.8 million and $23.2$6.1 million, respectively. The Company doesDuring the year ended April 30, 2017, our tax position with respect to certain assets in Germany was finally rejected by the German Federal Fiscal Court.  Substantially, all of the reduction for prior year tax positions in the table below relates to the resolution of that matter. We do not expect any significant changes to the unrecognized tax benefits within the next twelve months.

A reconciliation of the unrecognized tax benefits included within the Other Long-Term Liabilities line item inon the Consolidated Statements of Financial Position follows (in thousands):follows:

                           2015                           2014 2018  2017 
Balance at May 1st$23,826$25,501 $6,124  $19,863 
Additions for Current Year Tax Positions503934  1,372   2,566 
Additions for Prior Year Tax Positions5191,070  69   31,802 
Reductions for Prior Year Tax Positions(595)(3,209)  (38)   
Foreign Translation Adjustment(4,207)1,111  45   (419)
Payments-(496)
Payments and Settlements  (124)  (47,688)
Reductions for Lapse of Statute of Limitations(697)(1,085)  (615)   
Balance at April 30th $19,349 $23,826 $6,833  $6,124 
 
8165


 
Tax Audits:
The Company files
We file income tax returns in the U.S. and various states and non-U.S. tax jurisdictions. The Company’sOur major taxing jurisdictions include the United States, the United Kingdom, and Germany. The Company isExcept for one immaterial item, we are no longer subject to income tax examinations for years prior to fiscal year 2010(2013) in the major jurisdictions in which the Company iswe are subject to tax. The Company’sOur last completed U.S. federal tax audit was for fiscal years 20062011 through 2009,2013, which resulted in minimal adjustments principally related to temporary differences. The IRS is currently auditing the fiscal year 2013 U.S. Federal income tax return.

In fiscal year 2003, the Company merged several of its German subsidiaries into a new operating entity which enabled the Company to increase (“step-up”) the tax deductible net asset basis of the merged subsidiaries to fair market value. The expected tax benefits to be derived from the step-up are approximately 50 million euros claimed as amortization over 15 years beginning in fiscal year 2003.
In May 2012, as part of its routine tax audit process, the German tax authorities filed a challenge to the Company’s tax position with respect to the amortization of certain stepped-up assets. Under German tax law, the Company must pay all contested taxes and the related interest to have the right to defend its position. As a result, the Company made deposits of five million and nine million euros in fiscal years 2015 and 2014, respectively, related to amortization claimed on certain “stepped-up” assets. The Company has made all required payments to date with total deposits paid of 48 million euros through April 30, 2015. The Company expects that it will be required to deposit additional amounts up to ten million euros plus interest for tax returns to be filed in future periods until the issue is resolved.
In October 2014, the Company received an unfavorable decision from the local finance court and is in the process of appealing the court decision. The Company’s management and its advisors continue to believe that the Company is “more likely than not” to successfully defend that the tax treatment was proper and in accordance with German tax regulations. As such, the Company has not recorded any charges related to the loss of the step-up benefit. The Company filed its appeal in January 2015. Resolution of the appeal is expected to take 18 to 24 months from January 2015. If the Company is ultimately successful, as expected, the tax deposits will be returned with 6% simple interest, based on current German legislation. As of April 30, 2015, the USD equivalent of the deposits and accrued interest was $57.1 million, which is recorded as Income Tax Deposits in the Consolidated Statements of Financial Position. The Company records the accrued interest income at 6% within the Provision for Income Taxes in the Consolidated Statements of Income which amounted to $1.8 million, $1.7 million and $0.9 million for fiscal years 2015, 2014 and 2013, respectively.
Deferred Taxes:

Deferred taxes result from temporary differences in the recognition of revenue and expense for tax and financial reporting purposes.

It is more likely than not that the results of future operations will generate sufficient taxable income to realize the net deferred tax assets. The significant components of deferred tax assets and liabilities at April 30 were as follows (in thousands):follows:

  2018  2017 
Net Operating Losses $8,976  $5,453 
Reserve for Sales Returns and Doubtful Accounts  2,506   8,331 
Accrued Employee Compensation  20,096   34,305 
Foreign and Federal Credits  31,109   15,472 
Other Accrued Expenses  4,632   14,303 
Retirement and Post-Employment Benefits  39,160   56,633 
Total Gross Deferred Tax Assets $106,479  $134,497 
Less Valuation Allowance  (8,811)  (1,300)
Total Deferred Tax Assets $97,668  $133,197 
         
Prepaid Expenses and Other Current Assets $(3,203) $(16,385)
Unremitted Foreign Earnings  (1,985)   
Intangible and Fixed Assets  (231,869)  (272,008)
Total Deferred Tax Liabilities $(237,057) $(288,393)
         
Net Deferred Tax Liabilities $(139,389) $(155,196)
         
Reported As        
Non-current Deferred Tax Assets $4,129  $5,295 
Non-current Deferred Tax Liabilities  (143,518)  (160,491)
Net Deferred Tax Liabilities $(139,389) $(155,196)

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The decrease in net deferred tax liabilities is primarily attributable to the re-measurement of our U.S. deferred tax liabilities related to the Tax Act as well as foreign and federal credit carryforwards, net of an estimated $6.5 million valuation allowance related to the Tax Act, for fiscal year ended April 30, 2018. We have concluded that after valuation allowances, it is more likely than not that we will realize substantially all of the net deferred tax assets at April 30, 2018. In assessing the need for a valuation allowance, we take into account related deferred tax liabilities and estimated future reversals of existing temporary differences, future taxable earnings and tax planning strategies to determine which deferred tax assets are more likely than not to be realized in the future. Changes to tax laws, statutory tax rates and future taxable earnings can have an impact on our valuation allowances.

                         2015                        2014
   
Inventories       $5,230$5,494
Intangible and Fixed Assets       297,323303,003
Total Deferred Tax Liabilities$302,553$308,497
   
Net Operating Losses$4,599$6,538
Reserve for Sales Returns and Doubtful Accounts6,9227,965
Accrued Employee Compensation28,09333,227
Other Accrued Expenses14,5839,981
Retirement and Post-Employment Benefits62,38546,902
Total  Deferred Tax Assets$116,582$104,613
Net Deferred Tax Liabilities$185,971$203,884
   
Reported As  
Current Deferred Tax Assets$9,981$11,836
Non-current Deferred Tax Assets2,9956,762
Non-current  Deferred  Tax Liabilities198,947222,482
Net Deferred Tax Liabilities$185,971$203,884
A $2.3 million valuation allowance has also been provided based on the uncertainty of utilizing the tax benefits related to our deferred tax assets for state and, to a small extent, Federal net operating loss carry forwards. As of April 30, 2018, we have apportioned state net operating loss carryforwards totaling $81 million, with a tax effected value of $4.8 million net of federal benefits, expiring in various amounts over one to 20 years.

Pretax earnings of a non-U.S. subsidiary or affiliate are subjectWe no longer intend to U.S. taxation when repatriated. The Company intends topermanently reinvest earnings outside the U.S. except in instances where repatriating, As such, earnings would result in no additional tax. Accordingly,we established a $2.0 million permanent reinvestment assertion related to the Company has not recognized U.S. tax expense on non-U.S. earnings. At April 30, 2015, the accumulated undistributed earnings of non-U.S. subsidiaries approximated $732 million. It is not practical to determine the U.S. income tax liabilityestimated taxes that would be payable if such earnings were not indefinitely reinvested.incurred upon repatriating our non-U.S. earnings.

Note 14 -12 – Debt and Available Credit Facilities

As of April 30, 20152018 and 2014, the Company’s2017, our debt of approximately $750.1$360.0 million and $700.1$365.0 million, respectively, consisted of amounts due under the followingour revolving credit facilities:facilities.

As of April 30, 2015 and 2014, the Company maintained
66

We have a revolving credit facilityagreement ("RCA") with a syndicated bank group led by Bank of America - Merrill Lynch andAmerica. The Royal Bank of Scotland as joint lead arrangers and Bank of America as administrative agent. The agreement currentlyRCA consists of a $940 million$1.1 billion five-year senior revolving credit facility due on November 2, 2016.payable March 1, 2021. Under the agreement,RCA, which can be drawn in multiple currencies, the Company haswe have the option of borrowing at the following floating interest rates:  (i) at a rate based on the London Interbank Offered Rate (“LIBOR”("LIBOR") plus an applicable margin ranging from 1.05%0.98% to 1.65%1.50%, depending on the Company’sour consolidated leverage ratio, as defined, or (ii) for U.S. dollar-denominated loans only, at the lender’slender's base rate plus an applicable margin ranging from zero to 0.65%0.45%, depending on the Company’sour consolidated leverage ratio. The lender’slender's base rate is defined as the highest of (i) the U.S. federal funds effective rate plus a  0.50% margin, (ii) the Eurocurrency rate, as defined, plus a 1.00% margin, or (iii) the Bank of America prime lending rate. In addition, the Company payswe pay a facility fee ranging from 0.20%0.15% to 0.35%0.25% depending on the Company’sour consolidated leverage ratio. The CompanyWe also hashave the option to request an additional credit limit increase of up to $160$350 million in minimum increments of $50 million, subject to the approval of the lenders. The credit agreementRCA contains certain restrictive covenants related to the Company’sour consolidated leverage ratio and interest coverage ratio, which the Company waswe were in compliance with as of April 30, 2015.2018 and 2017. Due to the fact that there are no principal payments due until the end of the agreement in fiscal year 2017, the Company has2021, we have classified itsour entire debt obligation related to this facility as long-term which was approximately $650.0 million and $700.1 million as of April 30, 20152018 and 2014, respectively.2017.

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On October 31, 2014, the Company entered into a U.S. dollar facility with TD Bank, N.A. which is equally ranked with the Company’s existing agreement with Bank of America - Merrill Lynch and The Royal Bank of Scotland plc, and Santander Bank. The new agreement consists of a $50 million 364-day revolving credit facility. The facility was fully drawn as of April 30, 2015. The borrowing rate is LIBOR plus an applicable margin ranging from 0.80% to 1.40%, and a facility fee will be due on any undrawn amounts ranging from 0.125% to 0.30%, both depending on the Company consolidated leverage ratio, as defined. The credit agreement contains certain restrictive covenants related to the Company’s consolidated leverage ratio and interest coverage ratio, which the Company was in compliance with as of April 30, 2015. The proceeds of the new revolving credit facility were used to pay a portion of the Company’s existing revolving credit facility and meet seasonal operating cash requirements.
On December 22, 2014, the Company entered into a $50 million 364-day U.S. dollar revolving credit facility reinstated every 30 days with Santander Bank, N.A. which is equally ranked with the Company’s existing agreement with Bank of America - Merrill Lynch and The Royal Bank of Scotland plc, and TD Bank, N.A.. The facility was fully drawn as of April 30, 2015. The borrowing rate is LIBOR plus a margin of 1.00%. The proceeds of the new revolving credit facility were used to pay a portion of the Company’s existing revolving credit facilities and meet seasonal operating cash requirements.
The Company and its subsidiariesWe have other lines of credit aggregating $13.0$2.8 million at various interest rates. Outstanding borrowings under these credit lines were approximately $0.1 million as of April 30, 2015. There were no outstanding borrowings under these credit lines as ofat April 30, 2014.2018 and 2017.

The Company’sOur total available lines of credit as of April 30, 20152018, were approximately $1,053.0 million,$1.1 billion, of which approximately $302.9 million$0.7 billion was unused. The weighted average interest rates on total debt outstanding during fiscal years 20152018 and 20142017 were 1.93%2.44% and 1.82%2.19%, respectively. As of April 30, 20152018 and 2014,2017, the weighted average interest rates for the total debt were 1.77%2.58% and 1.99%2.74%, respectively. Based on estimates of interest rates currently available to the Companyus for loans with similar terms and maturities, the fair value of the Company’sour debt approximates its carrying value.

Note 1513 – Derivative Instruments and Activities

The Company, fromFrom time-to-time, enterswe enter into forward exchange and interest rate swap contracts as a hedge against foreign currency asset and liability commitments, changes in interest rates, and anticipated transaction exposures, including intercompany purchases. All derivatives are recognized as assets or liabilities and measured at fair value. Derivatives that are not determined to be effective hedges are adjusted to fair value with a corresponding adjustment to earnings. The Company doesWe do not use financial instruments for trading or speculative purposes.

Interest Rate Contracts:
The Company
We had $750.0$360.0 million of variable rate loans outstanding at April 30, 2015,2018, which approximated fair value. As of April 30, 20152018 and 2014,2017, the interest rate swap agreements we maintained by the Company were designated as fully effective cash flow hedges as defined under Accounting Standards Codification (“ASC”) 815 “Derivatives"Derivatives and Hedging.”Hedging" ("ASC 815"). As a result, there was no impact on the Company’sour Consolidated Statements of Income from changes in the fair value of the interest rate swaps, as they were fully offset by changes in the interest expense on the underlying variable rate debt instruments. Under ASC 815, fully effective derivative instruments that are designated as cash flow hedges have changes in their fair value recorded initially within Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss inon the Consolidated Statements of Financial Position. As interest expense is recognized based on the variable rate loan agreements, the corresponding deferred gain or loss on the interest rate swaps is reclassified from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss to Interest Expense inon the Consolidated Statements of Income. It is management’smanagement's intention that the notional amount of interest rate swaps be less than the variable rate loans outstanding during the life of the derivatives.
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On August 15, 2014, the CompanyApril 4, 2016, we entered into ana forward starting interest rate swap agreement, which fixed a portion of the variable interest due on itsa variable rate loans outstanding.debt renewal on May 16, 2016. Under the terms of the agreement, the Company payswe will pay a fixed rate of 0.65%0.92% and receives a variable rate of interest based on one-month LIBOR (as defined) from the counterparty which is reset every month for a two-yearthree-year period starting May 16, 2016, ending AugustMay 15, 2016.2019. As of April 30, 2015,2018, the notional amount of the interest rate swap was $150.0$350.0 million.

On JanuaryAugust 15, 2014, the Companywe entered into an interest rate swap agreement, which fixed a portion of the variable interest due on its variable rate loans outstanding. Under the terms of the agreement, the Company pays a fixed rate of 0.47% and receives a variable rate of interest based on one-month LIBOR (as defined) from the counterparty which is reset every month for a two-year period ending January 15, 2016. As of April 30, 2015 and 2014, the notional amount of the interest rate swap was $150.0 million.
On March 30, 2012, the Company entered into an interest rate swap agreement which fixed a portion of the variable interest due on itsour variable rate loans outstanding. Under the terms of the agreement, which expired on March 31, 2015, the CompanyAugust 15, 2016, we paid a fixed rate of 0.645%0.65% and received a variable rate of interest based on one-month LIBOR (as defined) from the counterparty which was reset every month for a three-year period. As of April 30, 2014,two-year period ending August 15, 2016. Prior to expiration the notional amount of the interest rate swap was $150.0 million.

The Company recordsWe record the fair value of itsour interest rate swaps on a recurring basis using Level 2 inputs of quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities in active markets. The fair value of the interest rate swaps as of April 30, 20152018 and 20142017, was a deferred lossgain of $0.6$5.1 million and $1.0$3.9 million, respectively. Based on the maturity dates of the contracts, approximately $0.2 million and $0.7 million of the entire deferred lossesgain as of April 30, 20152018 and 2014 were2017, was recorded inwithin Other Accrued Liabilities, with the remaining deferred losses in each period of $0.4 million and $0.3 million recorded in Other Long-Term Liabilities, respectively.Non-Current Assets. The pre-tax (gains) losses that were reclassified from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss intoto Interest Expense for fiscal years 2015, 20142018, 2017, and 20132016 were $1.7$(1.5) million, $1.3$1.1 million, and $1.6$0.9 million, respectively. Based on the amount in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss at April 30, 2015,2018, approximately $0.4$3.7 million, net of tax, of unrecognized lossgains would be reclassified into net income in the next twelve months.

67

Foreign Currency Contracts:
The Company
We may enter into forward exchange contracts to manage the Company’sour exposure on certain foreign currency denominated assets and liabilities. The forward exchange contracts are marked to market through Foreign Exchange Transaction (Losses) Gains (Losses) inon the Consolidated Statements of Income, and carried at their fair value inon the Consolidated Statements of Financial Position. Foreign currency denominated assets and liabilities are remeasured at spot rates in effect on the balance sheet date, with the effects of changes in spot rates reported in Foreign Exchange Transaction (Losses) Gains (Losses).  on the Consolidated Statements of Income.

As of April 30, 20152018 and 2014, the Company2017, we did not maintain any open forward contracts. During fiscal years 2013 through 2015, the Company did not designate anyAs of April 30, 2016, there were two open forward exchange contracts as hedges under current accounting standards aswith notional amounts of 31 million euros and 274 million pounds sterling to manage foreign currency exposures on intercompany loans. These contracts matured in May 2016 and February 2017, respectively. As of April 30, 2016, the benefits of doing so were not material due to the short-term naturefair value of the contracts.open forward exchange contracts was a gain of approximately $1.3 million and recorded within Prepaid and other current assets. The fair value changes inof the open forward exchange contracts substantially mitigated the changes in the value of the applicable foreign currency denominated assets and liabilities.was measured on a recurring basis using Level 2 inputs. For fiscal years 2015, 20142017 and 2013,2016, the lossesgains recognized on forward contracts were $11.2 million, $0.4$59.0 million and $0.6$1.3 million, respectively.

85

Note 16 -14 – Commitment and Contingencies

The following schedule shows the composition of net rent expense for operating leases (in thousands):leases:

  2018  2017  2016 
Minimum Rental $31,451  $35,464  $37,206 
Less: Sublease Rentals  (708)  (626)  (597)
Total $30,743  $34,838  $36,609 

 201520142013
Minimum Rental$39,748$40,929$41,899
Less: Sublease Rentals(639)(642)(554)
Total$39,109$40,287$41,345
FutureAt April 30, 2018, estimated future minimum paymentsannual rental commitments under operatingnon-cancelable real and personal property leases, were $341.7 million at April 30, 2015. Annual minimum payments under these leases for fiscal years 2016 through 2020 are approximately $38.1 million, $35.6 million, $31.4 million, $27.6 million, and $25.6 million, respectively. as follows:

Fiscal Year 
Amount
(in millions)
 
2019 $31.2 
2020  28.9 
2021  25.5 
2022  21.0 
2023  16.2 
Thereafter  136.5 
Total $259.3 

Rent expense associated with operating leases that include scheduled rent increases and tenant incentives, such as rent holidays or leasehold improvement allowances, are recorded on a straight-line basis over the term of the lease. During the first quarter of fiscal year 2015, the Company renewed the lease for its corporate headquarters in Hoboken, New Jersey. The lease renewal is an operating lease which commences on July 1, 2017 and extends the current lease through March 31, 2033. As a result of the renewal, the Company’s total future minimum payments under the new lease will be $223.0 million, with annual minimum payments of $14.4 million in fiscal years 2018 through 2020.

The Company isWe are involved in routine litigation in the ordinary course of itsour business. A provision for litigation is accrued when information available to the Companyus indicates that it is probable a liability has been incurred and the amount of loss can be reasonably estimated. Significant judgment may be required to determine both the probability and estimates of loss. When the amount of the loss can only be estimated within a range, the most likely outcome within that range is accrued. If no amount within the range is a better estimate than any other amount, the minimum amount within the range is accrued. When uncertainties exist related to the probable outcome of litigation and/or the amount or range of loss, the Company doeswe do not record a liability, but disclosesdisclose facts related to the nature of the contingency and possible losses if management considers the information to be material. Reserves for legal defense costs are recordedrecognized when management believes such future costs will be material.incurred. The accruals for loss contingencies and legal costs are reviewed regularly and may be adjusted to reflect updated information on the status of litigation and advice of legal counsel.  In the opinion of management, the ultimate resolution of all pending litigation as of April 30, 20152018, will not have a material effect upon theour consolidated financial condition or results of operations of the Company.operations.

Over the past few years, the Company has from time to time faced claims from photographers or agencies that the Company has used photographs without licenses or beyond licensed permissions.  The Company has insurance coverage for a significant portion of such claims.  The Company does not believe that its exposure to such claims either individually or in the aggregate is material.
Note 17 -15 – Retirement Plans

The Company and its principal subsidiariesWe have retirement plans that cover substantially all employees. The plans generally provide for employee retirement between the ages of 60 and 65, and benefits based on length of service and compensation, as defined.
 
8668

Recent Plan Curtailments
The Company’sOur Board of Directors approved plan amendments that froze the U.S. Employees’ Retirement Plan, Supplemental Benefit Plan, and Supplemental Executive Retirement Plan, effective June 30, 2013.  These plans are U.S. defined benefit plans. Under the amendments, no new employees are permitted to enter these plans and no additional benefits for current participants for future services will be accrued after June 30, 2013.  As a result of freezing the U.S. defined benefit plans, the Company changed the amortization period from the average expected future service period of active plan participants to the average expected life of plan participants. This amendments decreased the pension benefit liabilities by $18.2 million, and resulted in an after-tax decrease in accumulated other comprehensive loss of $11.3 million. The Company also recorded a pension plan curtailment expense of $2.7 million in fiscal year 2013 as a result of the approved plan amendments, which represented a write-off of the unrecognized prior service cost for the U.S. plans. The curtailment expense is included within the fiscal year 2013 Restructuring Charges line item in the Consolidated Statements of Income.following retirement plans:
·Retirement Plan for the Employees of John Wiley & Sons, Canada was frozen effective December 31, 2015;
The Company’s Board of Directors approved plan amendments that will freeze the Retirement Plan for the Employees of John Wiley & Sons, Canada, effective December 31, 2015. Under the amendments, no new employees will be permitted to enter this plan as of December 31, 2015 and no additional benefits for current participants for future services will be accrued after December 31, 2015.  The Company recorded a one-time pension plan benefit of $0.6 million in the third quarter of fiscal year 2015 as a result of the plan amendments. The curtailment benefit is included within the fiscal year 2015 Restructuring Charges line item in the Consolidated Statements of Income.
·Retirement Plan for the Employees of John Wiley & Sons, Ltd., a U.K. plan was frozen effective April 30, 2015 and;
·U.S. Employees' Retirement Plan, Supplemental Benefit Plan, and Supplemental Executive Retirement Plan, were frozen effective June 30, 2013.
The Company’s Board of Directors approved plan amendments that froze the Retirement Plan for the Employees of John Wiley & Sons, Ltd., a U.K. plan effective April 30, 2015. Under the amendments, no new employees will be permitted to enter this plan and no additional benefits for current participants for future services will be accrued after April 30, 2015. While there was no significant amount recorded for the curtailment, there was a resulting concession with employees to contribute an additional $0.8 million to the Company’s defined contribution plans. This contribution was recognized in the Restructuring charges line item in the Company’s Consolidated Statements of Income.
The Company maintainsWe maintain the Supplemental Executive Retirement Plan for certain officers and senior management which provides for the payment of supplemental retirement benefits after the termination of employment for 10 years or in a lifetime annuity. Under certain circumstances, including a change of control as defined, the payment of such amounts could be accelerated on a present value basis. Future accrued benefits to the Plan have been discontinued as noted above.

87

The components of net pension expense (income) for the defined benefit plans and the weighted-averageweighted average assumptions were as follows (in thousands):follows:
               2015               2014               2013 2018  2017  2016 
     U.S.   Non-U.S.      U.S.     Non-U.S.          U.S.  Non-U.S. U.S.  Non-U.S.  U.S.  Non-U.S.  U.S.  Non-U.S. 
Service Cost $           -$5,942  $          -$8,066 $12,701$6,204 $  $960  $  $967  $  $1,455 
Interest Cost13,15917,417 12,61317,144 12,03215,784  11,666   13,876   12,398   14,449   13,612   16,446 
Expected Return on Plan Assets(13,782)(22,654) (14,838)(21,607) (12,927)(17,975)  (13,154)  (26,385)  (14,053)  (21,173)  (14,756)  (25,088)
Net Amortization of Prior Service Cost and Transition Asset(115)68 -124 854127
Net Amortization of Prior Service Cost  (154)  57   (154)  54   (154)  55 
Recognized Net Actuarial Loss1,4706,299 5,6817,490 6,0503,905  2,289   3,832   2,622   2,553   2,240   2,475 
Curtailment/Settlement Loss-(428) -79 2,681-  -   19   8,842      1,857    
Net Pension Expense$732$6,644 $3,456$11,296 $21,391$8,045
Net Pension Expense (Income) $647  $(7,641) $9,655  $(3,150) $2,799  $(4,657)
                             
Discount Rate4.7%4.2% 4.2% 4.7%5.0%  4.1%  2.6%  4.0%  3.5%  4.2%  3.5%
Rate of Compensation IncreaseN/A3.2% N/A3.2% 3.1%3.4%  N/A   3.0%  N/A   3.0%  N/A   3.0%
Expected Return on Plan Assets6.8%6.7% 8.0%6.7% 8.0%6.8%  6.8%  6.5%  6.8%  6.7%  6.8%  6.7%

We announced a voluntary, limited-time opportunity for terminated vested employees who are participants in the U.S. Employees' Retirement Plan of John Wiley & Sons, Inc. (the "Pension Plan") to request early payment of their entire Pension Plan benefit in the form of a single lump sum payment. Eligible participants who wished to receive the lump sum payment were required to make an election by August 29, 2016. Approximately 780 eligible participants made the election to receive the lump sum totaling $28.3 million which was paid from pension plan assets in October 2016. Settlement accounting rules were applied, which resulted in a plan remeasurement and recognition of a pro-rata portion of unamortized net actuarial loss of $8.8 million which was recorded in Operating and Administrative Expenses on the Consolidated Statements of Income in fiscal year 2017. The curtailment/settlement loss in fiscal year 2016 of $1.9 million, noted above, related to a disability payment made subject to terms of the our Supplemental Executive Retirement Plan.

The projected benefit obligation, accumulated benefit obligation, and fair value of plan assets for the retirement plans with accumulated benefit obligations in excess of plan assets were $813.3$820.4 million, $773.4$787.6 million and $598.9$624.4 million, respectively, as of April 30, 20152018, and $711.0$800.1 million, $676.9$753.3 million, and $546.3$579.7 million, respectively, as of April 30, 2014.2017.

The Recognized Net Actuarial Loss for each fiscal year is calculated using the “corridor method”"corridor method," which reflects the amortization of the net loss at the beginning of the fiscal year in excess of 10% of the greater of the market value of plan assets or the projected benefit obligation. As a result of freezing the U.S. defined benefit plans in fiscal year 2014, the Company changed theThe amortization period for the U.S. defined benefit plans from the average expected future service period of active plan participants tois based on the average expected life of plan participants resulting in an approximately $1.2 million annual reduction in pension expense.participants.

The Company recognizesWe recognize the overfunded or underfunded status of defined benefit postretirement plans, measured as the difference between the fair value of plan assets and the projected benefit obligation, inon the Consolidated Statements of Financial Position. The change in the funded status of the plan is recognized withinin Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss inon the Consolidated Statements of Financial Position. Plan assets and obligations are measured at fair value as of the Company’sour balance sheet date.

The amounts in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss that are expected to be recognized as components of net periodic benefit cost during the next fiscal year are as follows (in thousands):follows:

  U.S.  Non-U.S.  Total 
Actuarial Loss $1,905  $3,998  $5,903 
Prior Service Cost  (154)  61   (93)
Total $1,751  $4,059  $5,810 
 United StatesNon-U.S.Total 
Actuarial Loss$2,152$2,479$4,631 
Prior Service Cost(154)54(100) 
Total$1,998$2,533$4,531 

 
8869

The following table sets forth the changes in and the status of the Company’sour defined benefit plans’plans' assets and benefit obligations:

  2018  2017 
  U.S.  Non-U.S.  U.S.  Non-U.S. 
CHANGE IN PLAN ASSETS            
Fair Value of Plan Assets, Beginning of Year $200,001  $390,133  $215,923  $352,484 
Actual Return on Plan Assets  15,352   2,780   17,345   75,432 
Employer Contributions  5,020   8,385   10,463   14,041 
Employee Contributions            
Settlements     (239)  (28,258)   
Benefits Paid  (15,390)  (15,909)  (15,472)  (9,487)
Foreign Currency Rate Changes     34,298      (42,337)
Fair Value, End of Year $204,983  $419,448  $200,001  $390,133 
CHANGE IN PROJECTED BENEFIT OBLIGATION                
Benefit Obligation, Beginning of Year $(290,785) $(519,588) $(336,908) $(461,161)
Service Cost     (960)     (967)
Interest Cost  (11,666)  (13,876)  (12,398)  (14,449)
Actuarial Gains (Losses)  7,417   23,528   14,791   (105,151)
Benefits Paid  15,390   15,909   15,472   9,487 
Foreign Currency Rate Changes     (45,938)     52,653 
Settlements and Other     239   28,258    
Benefit Obligation, End of Year $(279,644) $(540,686) $(290,785) $(519,588)
Underfunded Status, End of Year $(74,661) $(121,238) $(90,784) $(129,455)
AMOUNTS RECOGNIZED ON THE STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL POSITION                
Other Noncurrent Assets           134 
Current Pension Liability  (4,818)  (780)  (4,977)  (799)
Noncurrent Pension Liability  (69,843)  (120,458)  (85,807)  (128,790)
Net Amount Recognized in Statement of Financial Position $(74,661) $(121,238) $(90,784) $(129,455)
AMOUNTS RECOGNIZED IN ACCUMULATED OTHER COMPREHENSIVE LOSS (BEFORE TAX) CONSIST OF                
Net Actuarial (Losses) $(82,636) $(183,316) $(94,539) $(171,601)
Prior Service Cost Gains (Losses)  2,562   (441)  2,716   (448)
Total Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss $(80,074) $(183,757) $(91,823) $(172,049)
Change in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss $11,749  $(11,708) $29,394  $(32,221)
WEIGHTED AVERAGE ASSUMPTIONS USED IN DETERMINING ASSETS AND LIABILITIES                
Discount Rate  4.3%  2.6%  4.1%  2.6%
Rate of Compensation Increase  N/A   3.0%  N/A   3.0%
Accumulated Benefit Obligations $(279,644) $(507,932) $(290,785) $(472,841)
Dollars in thousands20152014
CHANGE IN PLAN ASSETSU.S.Non-U.S.U.S.Non-U.S.
Fair Value of Plan Assets, Beginning of Year$207,986$351,092$186,527$306,689
Actual Return on Plan Assets23,16660,99722,10115,459
Employer Contributions3,9729,7019,60810,396
Employee Contributions-1,566-1,770
Settlements-(2,353)-(437)
Benefits Paid(12,158)(7,118)(10,250)(10,005)
Foreign Currency Rate Changes-(37,309)-27,220
Fair Value, End of Year$222,966$376,576$207,986$351,092
CHANGE IN PROJECTED BENEFIT OBLIGATION    
Benefit Obligation, Beginning of Year$(285,659)$(442,703)$(307,659)$(394,278)
Service Cost-(5,942)-(8,066)
Interest Cost(13,159)(17,417)(12,613)(17,144)
Employee Contributions-(1,566)-(1,770)
Actuarial Gain (Loss)(45,868)(83,782)24,3631,350
Benefits Paid12,1587,11810,25010,005
Foreign Currency Rate Changes-52,513-(33,237)
Curtailment-7,321--
Amendments and Other3,140--437
Benefit Obligation, End of Year$(329,388)$(484,458)$(285,659)$(442,703)
Funded Status$(106,422)$(107,882)$(77,673)$(91,611)
AMOUNTS RECOGNIZED IN THE STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL POSITION:   
Other Noncurrent Assets-17-21
Current Pension Liability(4,086)(508)(4,091)(580)
Noncurrent Pension Liability(102,336)(107,391)(73,582)(91,052)
 Net Amount Recognized in Statement of Financial Position$(106,422)$(107,882)$(77,673)$(91,611)
AMOUNTS RECOGNIZED IN ACCUMULATED OTHER COMPREHENSIVE LOSS (before tax) CONSIST OF: 
Net Actuarial Loss$(103,017)$(128,280)$(68,005)$(107,540)
Prior Service Cost3,024(555)-(966)
Total Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss$(99,993)$(128,835)$(68,005)$(108,506)
Change in Accumulated Other Comprehensive  Loss$(31,988)$(20,329)$37,306$(5,384)
WEIGHTED AVERAGE ASSUMPTIONS USED IN DETERMINING ASSETS AND LIABILITIES:
Discount Rate4.2%3.5%4.7%4.2%
Rate of Compensation IncreaseN/A3.0%N/A3.2%
Accumulated Benefit Obligations$(329,389)$(444,561)$(285,661)$(402,225)
89

Basis for determining discount rate:
The discount rates for the United States, United Kingdom and Canadian pension plans were based on the derivation of a single-equivalent discount rate using a standard spot rate curve and the timing of expected benefit payments. The spot rate curve used is based upon a portfolio of Moody’s-rated Aa3 (or higher) corporate bonds. The discount rates for the other international plans were based on similar published indices with durations comparable to that of each plan’s liabilities.
Basis for determining the expected asset return:
The expected long-term rates of return were estimated using market benchmarks for equities, real estate, and bonds applied to each plan’s target asset allocation and are estimated by asset class including an anticipated inflation rate. The expected long-term rates are then compared to the historic investment performance of the plan assets as well as future expectations and estimated through consultation with investment advisors and actuaries.

Pension plan assets/investments:

The investment guidelines for the defined benefit pension plans are established based upon an evaluation of market conditions, plan liabilities, cash requirements for benefit payments, and tolerance for risk. Investment guidelines include the use of actively and passively managed securities. The investment objective is to ensure that funds are available to meet the plan’splans benefit obligations when they are due. The investment strategy is to invest in high quality and diversified equity and debt securities to achieve our long-term expectation. The plans’plans' risk management practices provide guidance to the investment managers, including guidelines for asset concentration, credit rating and liquidity.  Asset allocation favors a balanced portfolio, with a global aggregated target allocation of approximately 50%49% equity securities, 49%50% fixed income securities and cash, and 1% real estate. Due to volatility in the market, the target allocation is not always desirable and asset allocations will fluctuate between acceptable ranges of plus or minus 5%. The CompanyWe regularly reviewsreview the investment allocations and periodically rebalancesrebalance investments to the target allocations. The Company categorizes itsWe categorize our pension assets into three levels based upon the assumptions (inputs) used to price the assets. Level 1 provides the most reliable measure of fair value, whereas Level 3 generally requires significant management judgment. The three levels are defined as follows:

·  Level 1: Unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical assets.
·  Level 2: Observable inputs other than those included in Level 1. For example, quoted prices for similar assets in active markets or quoted prices for identical assets in inactive markets.
·  Level 3: Unobservable inputs reflecting assumptions about the inputs used in pricing the asset.

9070

The CompanyWe did not maintain any level 3 assets during fiscal years 20152018 and 2014.2017. In accordance with ASU 2015-07, "Fair Value Measurement ("Topic 820"), certain investments that are measured at fair value using the net asset value ("NAV") per share (or its equivalent) practical expedient do not have to be classified in the fair value hierarchy. We adopted ASU 2015-07 in fiscal year 2018 and it was applied retrospectively to all periods presented. The fair value amounts presented in the following tables are intended to permit reconciliation of the fair value hierarchy to the amounts presented for the total pension benefit plan assets. The following tables set forth, by level within the fair value hierarchy, pension plan assets at their fair value as of April 30 (in thousands):30:

  2018  2017 
  Level 1  Level 2  Total  Level 1  Level 2  Total 
U.S. Plan Assets                  
Investments measured at NAV:                  
Global Equity Securities: Limited Partnership       $95,933        $91,397 
Fixed Income Securities: Commingled Trust Funds        100,295         95,922 
Other: Real Estate Commingled Trust Fund        8,755         12,682 
Total Assets at NAV       $204,983        $200,001 
                     
Non-U.S. Plan Assets                    
Equity Securities:                    
U.S. Equities $  $31,203  $31,203  $  $28,598  $28,598 
Non-U.S. Equities     96,387   96,387      85,961   85,961 
Balanced Managed Funds     91,743   91,743   10,196   69,453   79,649 
Fixed Income Securities: Commingled Funds     197,804   197,804      187,797   187,797 
Other:                        
Real Estate/Other     549   549      489   489 
Cash and Cash Equivalents  1,762      1,762   7,639      7,639 
Total Non-U.S. Plan Assets $1,762  $417,686  $419,448  $17,835  $372,298  $390,133 
Total Plan Assets $1,762  $417,686  $624,431  $17,835  $372,298  $590,134 
                          2015                           2014
 Level 1Level 2Total Level 1Level 2Total
U.S. Plan Assets       
Equity Securities:       
U.S. Commingled Funds$         -$68,671$68,671 $         -$76,534$76,534
Non-U.S. Commingled Funds-38,33638,336 -32,81532,815
Fixed Income Commingled Funds-105,363105,363 -85,33585,335
Real Estate-10,59610,596 -13,30213,302
Total U.S. Plan Assets$         -$222,966$222,966 $         -$207,986$207,986
        
Non-U.S. Plan Assets       
Equity Securities:       
U.S. Equities$         -$25,551$25,551 $         -$24,384$24,384
Non-U.S. Equities-80,01480,014 -73,25073,250
Balanced Managed Funds10,29566,70777,002 11,28466,96678,250
Fixed Income Funds:-190,344190,344 -164,948164,948
Other:       
Real Estate/Other-489489 -7,4557,455
Cash and Cash Equivalents3,176-3,176 2,805-2,805
Total Non-U.S. Plan Assets$13,471$363,105$376,576 $14,089$337,003$351,092
Total Plan Assets$13,471$586,071$599,542 $14,089$544,989$559,078

Expected employer contributions to the defined benefit pension plans in fiscal year 20162019 will be approximately $12.5$15.6 million, including $8.3$10.7 million of minimum amounts required for the Company’sour non-U.S. plans. From time to time, the Companywe may elect to make voluntary contributions to itsour defined benefit plans to improve their funded status.

Benefit payments to retirees from all defined benefit plans are expected to approximate $20.7 millionbe the following in fiscalthe year 2016, $22.1 million in fiscal year 2017, $23.5 million in fiscal year 2018, $23.7 million in fiscal year 2019, $25.5 million in fiscal year 2020 and $149.2 million for fiscal years 2021 through 2025.indicated:

Fiscal Year U.S.  Non-U.S.  Total 
2019 $15,435  $8,489  $23,924 
2020  15,589   9,657   25,246 
2021  14,322   10,535   24,857 
2022  14,550   12,109   26,659 
2023  14,947   12,619   27,566 
2024-2028  75,428   75,332   150,760 
Total $150,271  $128,741  $279,012 

The Company providesWe provide contributory life insurance and health care benefits, subject to certain dollar limitations, for substantially all of itsour eligible retired U.S. employees. The retiree health benefit is no longer available for any employee who retires after December 31, 2017. This resulted in a curtailment gain of $2.5 million which was recognized in the Operating and Administrative Expenses line item in our Consolidated Statement of Income in fiscal year 2017. The cost of such benefits is expensed over the years the employee renders service and is not funded in advance. The accumulated post-retirement benefit obligation recognized inon the Consolidated Statements of Financial Position as of April 30, 20152018 and 20142017, was $6.7$1.8 million and $6.2$1.7 million, respectively. Annual (credits) expenses for these plans for fiscal years 2015, 20142018, 2017, and 20132016 were $0.7$(0.1) million, $0.9$(0.2) million and $0.8$0.2 million, respectively.

The Company hasWe have defined contribution savings plans. The CompanyOur contribution is based on employee contributions and the level of Companyour match. The CompanyWe may make discretionary contributions to all employees as a group. The employer cash contributions to these plans were approximately $14.8 million, $13.9 million and $9.2 million in fiscal years 2015, 2014, and 2013 respectively. Approximately $0.8 million of the fiscal year 2015 contributions were reflected in the Restructuring Charges line item as they were related to contractual obligations resulting from the curtailment of the U.K. defined benefit pension plan. The expense recorded for these plans was approximately $15.2$14.4 million, $15.7$15.5 million, and $9.2$16.2 million in fiscal years 2015, 2014,2018, 2017, and 20132016 respectively.

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Note 1816Share-BasedStock-Based Compensation

All equity compensation plans have been approved by shareholders. Under the 2014 Key Employee Stock Plan, (“("the Plan”Plan"), qualified employees are eligible to receive awards that may include stock options, performance-based stock awards, and other restricted stock awards. Under the Plan, a maximum number of 86.5 million shares of Companyour Class A stock may be issued. As of April 30, 2015,2018, there were approximately 6,166,8164,791,733 securities remaining available for future issuance under the Plan. The Company issuesWe issue treasury shares to fund awards issued under the Plan.
 
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Stock Option Activity:

Under the terms of the Company’sour stock option plan, the exercise price of stock options granted may not be less than 100% of the fair market value of the stock at the date of grant. Options are exercisable over a maximum period of 10 years from the date of grantgrant. For fiscal years 2015 and prior, options generally vest 50% on the fourth and fifth anniversary date after the award is granted. For fiscal year 2016, options vest 25% per year on April 30. We did not grant any stock option awards in fiscal year 2018 and 2017. Under certain circumstances relating to a change of control, as defined, the right to exercise options outstanding may be accelerated.

The following table provides the estimated weighted average fair value for options granted each periodin fiscal year 2016 using the Black-Scholes option-pricing model and the significant weighted average assumptions used in their determination. The expected life represents an estimate of the period of time stock options will be outstanding based on the historical exercise behavior of option recipients. The risk-free interest rate is based on the corresponding U.S. Treasury yield curve in effect at the time of the grant. The expected volatility is based on the historical volatility of the Company’sour Common Stock price over the estimated life of the option, while the dividend yield is based on the expected dividend payments to be made by the Company.
 
For the Years
Ended April 30,
 2015 2014 2013
Fair Value of Options on Grant Date$16.97 $10.12 $12.26
      
Weighted Average assumptions:     
Expected Life of Options (years)7.2 7.4 7.3
Risk-Free Interest Rate2.2% 2.1% 1.2%
Expected Volatility30.9% 30.5% 30.2%
Expected Dividend Yield1.9% 2.5% 2.0%
Fair Value of Common Stock on Grant Date$59.70 $39.53 $48.06
us.

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  2016 
Fair Value of Options on Grant Date $14.77 
     
Weighted Average assumptions:    
Expected Life of Options (years)  7.2 
Risk-Free Interest Rate  2.1%
Expected Volatility  29.7%
Expected Dividend Yield  2.1%
Fair Value of Common Stock on Grant Date $55.99 

A summary of the activity and status of the Company’sour stock option plans follows:
 
  2015
 2014 
 
2013
 2018  2017  2016 
Options (in 000’s)Weighted Average Exercise Price
Weighted Average Remaining Term
(in years)
Aggregate
Intrinsic Value (in millions)
 Options (in 000’s)Weighted Average Exercise Price Options (in 000’s)Weighted Average Exercise Price 
Number
of Options
(in 000's)
  
Weighted
Average
Exercise Price
  
Weighted Average
Remaining Term
(in years)
  
Aggregate
Intrinsic Value
(in millions)
  
Number
of Options
(in 000's)
  
Weighted
Average
Exercise Price
  
Number
of Options
(in 000's)
  
Weighted
Average
Exercise Price
 
Outstanding at Beginning of Year2,508$42.34   3,732$42.85 4,130$40.74  1,429  $47.39         1,966  $46.62   1,921  $45.50 
Granted189$59.70   322$39.53 394$48.06    $           $   166  $55.99 
Exercised(747)$38.32   (1,421)$42.57 (784)$34.44  (788) $45.97         (469) $43.74   (103) $40.22 
Expired or Forfeited(29)$49.32   (125)$47.65 (8)$35.00  (30) $54.24         (68) $49.91   (18) $51.02 
Outstanding at End of Year1,921$45.505.7$22.4 2,508$42.34 3,732$42.85  611  $48.88   3.3  $10.4   1,429  $47.39   1,966  $46.62 
Exercisable at End of Year815$42.314.0$11.9 1,191$39.16 2,166$42.45  530  $47.43   4.2  $9.8   1,064  $46.04   1,140  $45.22 
Vested and Expected to Vest in the Future at April 301,872$42.915.7$23.2 2,432$42.38 3,603$42.93  599  $48.90   3.3  $10.2   1,249  $45.88   1,925  $46.61 

The intrinsic value is the difference between the Company’sour common stock price and the option grant price. The total intrinsic value of options exercised during fiscal years 2015, 20142018, 2017, and 20132016 was $16.1$10.4 million, $12.4$20.5 million, and $10.6$1.5 million, respectively. The total grant date fair value of stock options vested during fiscal year 20152018 and 2017 was $4.8 million.$13.4 and $19.3 million, respectively.

As of April 30, 2015,2018, there was $4.1$0.5 million of unrecognized share-based compensation expense related to stock options, which is expected to be recognized over a period up to 5 years, or 2.0 years1 year and on a weighted average basis.

 
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The following table summarizes information about stock options outstanding and exercisable at April 30, 2015:2018:

   Options Outstanding  Options Exercisable 
Range of Exercise Prices  
Number
of Options
(in 000's)
  
Weighted Average
Remaining Term
(in years)
  
Weighted
Average
Exercise Price
  
Number
of Options
(in 000's)
  
Weighted
Average
Exercise Price
 
$35.04   11   1.2  $35.04   11  $35.04 
$39.53 to $40.02   226   3.1  $39.62   226  $39.62 
$47.55 to $49.55   130   3.0  $48.71   130  $48.71 
$55.99 to $59.70   244   3.8  $58.12   163  $58.05 
Total/Average   611   3.3  $48.88   530  $47.43 
 Options Outstanding Options Exercisable
 
 
Range of
Exercise Prices
 
Number of Options
(in 000’s)
 
Weighted Average Remaining Term (in years)
 
Weighted Average Exercise Price
 
 
Number of Options
(in 000’s)
 
Weighted Average Exercise Price
$33.05 to $35.041663.7$34.74 166$34.74
$38.55 to $40.026395.9$39.71 329$39.88
$47.55 to $49.559385.2$48.67 320$48.76
$59.701789.2$59.70 --
Total/Average1,9215.7$45.50 815$42.31

Performance-Based and Other Restricted Stock Activity:

Under the terms of the Company’sour long-term incentive plans, performance-based restricted stockunit awards are payable in restricted shares of the Company’sour Class A Common Stock upon the achievement of certain three-year financial performance-based targets. During each three-year period, the Company adjustswe adjust compensation expense based upon itsour best estimate of expected performance. TheFor fiscal years 2015 and prior, restricted performance shares vest 50% on the first and second anniversary date after the award is earned. For fiscal years 2016 and 2017, restricted performance shares vest 50% on June 30 following the end of the three-year performance cycle and 50% on April 30 of the following year. Beginning in fiscal year 2018, restricted performance share units vest 100% on June 30 following the end of the three-year performance cycle.

The CompanyWe may also grant individual restricted unit awards payable in restricted shares of the Company’sour Class A Common Stock to key employees in connection with their employment. TheFor fiscal years 2015 and prior, the restricted shares generally vest 50% at the end of the fourth and fifth years following the date of the grant. Starting with fiscal year 2016 grants, restricted shares vest ratably 25% per year.
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Under certain circumstances relating to a change of control or termination, as defined, the restrictions would lapse and shares would vest earlier.

Activity for performance-based and other restricted stock awards during fiscal years 2015, 20142018, 2017, and 20132016 was as follows (shares in thousands):

  2018  2017  2016 
  
Restricted
Shares
  
Weighted Average
Grant Date Value
  
Restricted
Shares
  
Restricted
Shares
 
 
Nonvested Shares at Beginning of Year
  913  $51.85   915   752 
Granted  525  $53.59   509   289 
Change in Shares Due to Performance  (107) $55.70   (67)  86 
Vested and Issued  (318) $49.47   (267)  (154)
Forfeited  (152) $52.40   (177)  (58)
Nonvested Shares at End of Year  861  $53.22   913   915 
 2015 20142013
 Restricted SharesWeighted Average Grant Date Value Restricted SharesRestricted Shares
 
Nonvested Shares at Beginning of Year
 
745
 
$43.40
 
 
837
 
1,042
Granted363$59.23 348296
Change in shares due to performance(65)$39.18 (92)(227)
Vested and Issued(159)$42.46 (256)(237)
Forfeited(132)$48.85 (92)(37)
Nonvested Shares at End of Year752$50.64 745837

As of April 30, 2015,2018, there was $23.0$31.1 million of unrecognized share-based compensation cost related to performance-based and other restricted stock awards, which is expected to be recognized over a period up to 54 years, or 3.32.2 years on a weighted average basis.

Compensation expense for restricted stock awards is measured using the closing market price of the Company’sour Class A Common Stock at the date of grant. The total grant date value of shares vested during fiscal years 2015, 20142018, 2017, and 20132016 was $6.8$15.7 million, $9.7$12.1 million, and $9.0$7.2 million, respectively.

President and CEO New Hire Equity Awards

On October 17, 2017, we announced Brian A. Napack as the new President and Chief Executive Officer of Wiley effective December 4, 2017 (the "Commencement Date").  Upon the Commencement Date, Mr. Napack also became a member of our Board of Directors (the "Board").  In connection with his appointment, Wiley and Mr. Napack entered into an employment offer letter (the "Employment Agreement"). 

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The Employment Agreement provides that beginning with the fiscal year 2018–2020 performance cycle, eligibility to participate in annual grants under our Executive Long-Term Incentive Program (ELTIP). Targeted long-term incentive for this cycle is equal to 300% of base salary, or $2.7 million. Sixty percent of the ELTIP value will be delivered in the form of target performance share units and forty percent in restricted share units. The grant date fair value for restricted share units was $59.15 per share and included 20,611 restricted share units, which vest 25% each year starting on April 30, 2018 to April 30, 2021. In addition, there was a performance share unit award with a target of 30,916 units and a grant date fair value of $59.15. The performance metrics are based on cumulative EBITDA for fiscal year 2018-2020 and cumulative normalized free cash flow for fiscal year 2018–2020.

The awards are described in further detail in Mr. Napack's Employment Agreement filed with the SEC as Exhibit 10.1 to our Current Report on Form 8-K filed on October 17, 2017.

In addition, the Employment Agreement provides for a sign-on grant of restricted share units, with a grant value of $4.0 million, converted to shares using our Class A closing stock price as of the Commencement Date, and vesting in two equal installments on the first and second anniversaries of the employment date. The grant date fair value for this award was $59.15 per share and included 67,625 units at the date of grant. Grants are subject to forfeiture in the case of voluntary termination prior to vesting and accelerated vesting in the case of earlier termination of employment without Cause, due to death or Disability or Constructive Discharge, or upon a Change in Control (as such terms are defined in the Employment Agreement).

The awards are described in further detail in Mr. Napack's Employment Agreement filed with the SEC as Exhibit 10.1 to our Current Report on Form 8-K filed on October 17, 2017.

Director Stock Awards:

Under the terms of the Company’sour 2014 Director Stock Plan (the “Director Plan”"Director Plan"), each non-employee director receives an annual award of Class A Common Stock equal in value to 100% of the annual director retainer fee (excluding additional retainer fees paid to committee chairpersons)chairpersons and Chairman of the Board), based on the stock price at the close of the New York Stock Exchange on the date of grant. The granted shares may not be sold or transferred during the time the non-employee director remains a director. There were 12,131; 12,40819,900, 20,243, and 13,43719,559 shares awarded under the Director Plan for fiscal years 2015, 20142018, 2017, and 2013,2016, respectively.

Note 19 -17 – Capital Stock and Changes in Capital Accounts

Each share of the Company’sour Class B Common Stock is convertible into one share of Class A Common Stock. The holders of Class A stock are entitled to elect 30% of the entire Board of Directors and the holders of Class B stock are entitled to elect the remainder. On all other matters, each share of Class A stock is entitled to one tenth of one vote and each share of Class B stock is entitled to one vote.

During fiscal year 2014, the2017, our Board of Directors of the Company approved aan additional share repurchase program for an additionalof four million shares of Class A or Class B Common Stock. DuringWe repurchased in fiscal year 2015, the Company repurchased 1,082,5022018 713,177 Class A shares at an average price of $57.26$55.65 per share. In fiscal year 2017 we repurchased 953,188 shares, which included 952,667 Class A shares and 521 Class B shares at an average price of $52.80 per share. As of April 30, 2015, the Company has2018, we had authorization from itsour Board of Directors to purchase up to 2,179,1203,080,471 additional shares.

Note 20 -18 – Segment Information

The Company’s operations are primarily located in the United States, Canada, Europe, Asia and Australia.  Below is a descriptionOur segment reporting structure consists of the Company’s three operating segments:
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Research serves the world’s research and scholarly communities and is the largest publisher for professional and scholarly societies. Research products include scientific, technical, medical and scholarly research journals, books, reference works, databases, clinical decision support tools, laboratory manuals and workflow tools, in the publishing areas of the physical sciences and engineering, health sciences, social science and humanities and life sciences. Research customers include academic, corporate, government, and public libraries; researchers; scientists; clinicians; engineers and technologists; scholarly and professional societies; and students and professors. The Company’s Research products are sold and distributed globally in digital and print formats through multiple channels, including research libraries and library consortia, independent subscription agents, direct sales to professional society members, bookstores, online booksellers and other customers. Publishing centers include Australia, China, Germany, India, the United Kingdom and the United States.
Professional Development acquires, develops and publishes professional information and content delivered through print and digital books, test preparation, assessments, online learning solutions and certification and training services. Communities served include business, finance, accounting, workplace learning, management, leadership, technology, behavioral health, engineering/architecture and education. Products are developed in print and digitally for worldwide distribution through multiple channels, including chain and online booksellers, libraries, colleges and universities, corporations, direct to consumer, websites, distributor networks and other online applications. Publishing centers include Australia, Germany, India, the United Kingdom and the United States.
Education produces education content and solutions, including online program management for higher education institutions and course management tools for instructors and students. Education offers learning solutions, innovative products and services principally delivered through college bookstores and online distributors, with customers having access to content in digital and custom print formats, as well as the traditional print textbook. Education’s cost-effective, flexible solutions are available in each of its publishing disciplines, including sciences, engineering, computer science, mathematics, business and accounting, statistics, geography, hospitality and the culinary arts, education, psychology and modern languages.  Publishing centers include Asia, Australia, Canada, India, the United Kingdom and the United States.
Shared Services - The Company reports financial data for shared service functions,reportable segments, which are centrally managed for the benefit of the three global businesses, including Distributionlisted below and Operation Services, Technology and Content Management, Occupancy and Other Administration support.
As part of Wiley’s Restructuring and Reinvestment Program, during the first quarter of fiscal year 2015, the Company consolidated certain decentralized business functions (Content Management, Vendor Procurement Services, Marketing Services, etc.) into Shared Service and Administrative functions. These newly centralized service groups are part of the Company’s plan to reduce costs through efficiencies gained from standardized technology and centralized management. The costs of these functions were previously reporteda Corporate category as direct operating expenses in each business segment but are now reported within the shared service functions. Prior year amounts have been restated to reflect the same reporting methodology. The Company uses occupied square footage of space; number of employees; units shipped; specific identification/activity-based; gross profit; revenue and number of invoices to allocate shared service costs to each business segment.
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follows:

Research;
Publishing; and
Solutions

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Segment information is as follows (in thousands):follows:
 For the years ended April 30,
 201520142013
RESEARCH:
   
    
Revenue$1,040,795$1,044,349$1,009,825
    
Direct Contribution to Profit483,413479,419452,004
Allocated Shared Services and Administrative Costs:   
Distribution and Operation Services(44,602)(45,773)(45,699)
Technology and Content Management(99,696)(101,922)(92,794)
Occupancy and Other(23,326)(25,997)(25,666)
Contribution to Profit$315,789$305,727$287,845
    
PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT:   
    
Revenue$407,023$363,869$416,495
    
Direct Contribution to Profit140,588128,976122,258
Allocated Shared Services and Administrative Costs:   
Distribution and Operation Services(30,838)(37,673)(40,625)
Technology and Content Management(47,574)(50,374)(55,505)
Occupancy and Other(24,060)(18,762)(17,473)
Contribution to Profit$38,116$22,167$8,655
    
EDUCATION:   
    
Revenue$374,622$366,977$334,458
    
Direct Contribution to Profit125,870121,978115,244
Allocated Shared Services and Administrative Costs:   
Distribution and Operation Services(12,863)(15,685)(15,068)
Technology and Content Management(52,954)(46,787)(39,735)
Occupancy and Other(13,878)(11,719)(8,471)
Contribution to Profit$46,175$47,787$51,970
    
Total Contribution to Profit$400,080$375,681$348,470
    
Unallocated Shared Services and Administrative Costs(161,856)(169,008)(149,043)
Foreign Exchange Transaction Gains(Losses)1,742(8)(2,041)
Interest Expense & Other, Net(14,020)(11,131)(10,464)
Income Before Taxes$225,946$195,534$186,922

  For the Years Ended April 30, 
  2018  2017  2016 
Revenue:         
Research $934,395  $853,489  $826,778 
Publishing  617,648   633,449   695,728 
Solutions  244,060   231,592   204,531 
Total Revenue $1,796,103  $1,718,530  $1,727,037 
             
Contribution to Profit:            
Research $275,480  $252,228  $252,110 
Publishing  123,917   125,703   126,058 
Solutions  22,099   14,822   3,992 
Total Contribution to Profit $421,496  $392,753  $382,160 
Corporate Expenses  (181,961)  (186,600)  (194,047)
Operating Income $239,535  $206,153  $188,113 
 
The following table reflects total shared services and administrative costs by function, which are reported in Allocated and Unallocated Shared Services and Administrative Costs above.
 For the years ended April 30,
SHARED SERVICES AND ADMINISTRATIVE COSTS:201520142013
Distribution and Operation Services$88,224$99,433$103,831
Technology and Content Management246,292241,329225,224
Finance52,98854,46849,029
Other Administration106,335101,48792,198
Restructuring Charges (see Note 6)18,29322,19714,557
Impairment Charges (see Note 7)-4,7865,241
Total$512,132$523,700$490,080
  For the Years Ended April 30, 
Total Revenue by Product/Service 2018  2017  2016 
Journals Subscriptions $677,685  $639,720  $622,305 
Open Access  41,997   30,633   25,671 
Licensing, Reprints, Backfiles, and Other (Research segment)  181,806   164,070   178,802 
Publishing Technology Services (Atypon)  32,907   19,066    
STM and Professional Publishing  287,315   291,255   330,984 
Education Publishing  187,178   196,343   229,989 
Course Workflow (WileyPLUS)  59,475   62,348   58,519 
Test Preparation and Certification  35,534   35,609   28,115 
Licensing, Distribution, Advertising, and Other (Publishing segment)  48,146   47,894   48,121 
Education Services (OPM)  119,131   111,638   96,469 
Professional Assessment  61,094   59,868   57,370 
Corporate Learning  63,835   60,086   50,692 
Total $1,796,103  $1,718,530  $1,727,037 
             
Total Assets            
Research $1,238,178  $1,133,846  $1,235,609 
Publishing  575,033   582,339   672,987 
Solutions  563,489   575,068   439,554 
Corporate  462,751   314,964   572,946 
Total $2,839,451  $2,606,217  $2,921,096 
             
Expenditures for Long Lived Assets            
Research $(7,538) $(154,189) $(20,418)
Publishing  (23,666)  (29,420)  (35,966)
Solutions  (16,786)  (21,210)  (23,344)
Corporate  (102,738)  (98,608)  (71,667)
Total $(150,728) $(303,427) $(151,395)
             
Depreciation and Amortization            
Research $33,655  $29,330  $26,410 
Publishing  39,495   43,831   47,108 
Solutions  27,703   26,792   22,927 
Corporate  53,136   56,608   59,404 
Total $153,989  $156,561  $155,849 
9675

In the first quarter of fiscal year 2015, the Company modified its segment product/service revenue categories to reflect recent changes to the business, including acquisitions and restructuring. All prior periods have been revised to reflect the new categorization as follows:
 For the years ended April 30,
Total Revenue by Product/Service201520142013
Research Communications    $813,785   $798,903     $759,825
Books and Custom Print Products    635,802    684,421     719,290
Education Services (Deltak)      81,595      70,179       33,744
Talent Solutions      98,779      33,047       26,173
Course Workflow Solutions (Wiley Plus)      54,223      49,459       41,007
Other    138,256    139,186     180,739
Total Revenue By Product Service  $1,822,440 $1,775,195   $1,760,778
    
Total Assets   
Research$1,246,673$1,392,373$1,371,082
Professional Development695,859554,146520,703
Education430,733455,848422,658
Corporate/Shared Services630,978674,998491,932
Total$3,004,243$3,077,365$2,806,375
    
Expenditures for Long Lived Assets   
Research$18,288$23,311$33,817
Professional Development179,17459,83743,587
Education14,18811,935240,283
Corporate/Shared Services69,12157,56454,723
Total$280,771$152,647$372,410
    
Depreciation and Amortization   
Research$57,992$62,664$60,049
Professional Development31,94328,54235,434
Education38,92840,02333,937
Corporate/Shared Services25,06216,86820,096
Total$153,925$148,097$149,516
Export sales from the United States to unaffiliated customers amounted to approximately $168.0 million, $169.0 million and $150.3 million in fiscal years 2015, 2014 and 2013, respectively. The pretax income for consolidated operations outside the United States was approximately $165.1 million, $159.4 million and $156.1 million in fiscal years 2015, 2014 and 2013, respectively.

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Revenue from external customers based on the location of the customer and long-lived assets by geographic area were as follows (in thousands):
 
 
Revenue
 
Long-Lived Assets
(Technology, Property & Equipment)
 
 2015 2014 2013 2015 2014 2013 
United States  $920,166   $937,106   $911,838   $143,786   $135,711   $134,107 
United Kingdom142,680 127,716 123,827 24,711 32,286 31,093 
Germany83,714 89,107 84,737 9,781 12,877 12,492 
Japan84,420 80,074 84,586 21 40 138 
China45,159 41,581 38,651 307 516 756 
India39,494 39,953 41,720 180 172 274 
Australia80,380 79,453 79,958 1,696 2,712 3,533 
France57,492 25,376 24,041 6,720 - - 
Canada56,949 61,559 66,440 70 729 1,092 
Other Countries311,986 293,270 304,980 5,738 3,675 6,140 
Total$1,822,440 $1,775,195 $1,760,778 $193,010 $188,718 $189,625 
follows:

  Revenue  
Long-Lived Assets
(Technology, Property and Equipment)
 
  2018  2017  2016  2018  2017  2016 
United States $913,852  $786,574  $884,185  $249,542  $208,572  $166,878 
United Kingdom  147,406   189,479   153,442   20,955   21,368   23,246 
Germany  98,404   75,090   69,676   9,259   8,770   9,629 
Japan  81,572   62,674   76,930   72   75   35 
Australia  78,270   66,309   78,786   1,454   591   1,041 
China  53,076   39,653   52,815   229   270   244 
Canada  55,568   50,740   50,243   3,635   1,232   1,617 
France  51,826   44,760   49,970   635   335   2,211 
India  41,637   34,306   38,208   1,437   245   234 
Other Countries  274,492   368,945   272,782   2,716   1,600   2,329 
Total $1,796,103  $1,718,530  $1,727,037  $289,934  $243,058  $207,464 

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Note 19 – Supplementary Quarterly Financial Information - Results By Quarter (Unaudited)

Amounts in millions, except per share data 2018  2017 
Revenue      
First Quarter $411.4  $404.3 
Second Quarter  451.7   425.6 
Third Quarter  455.7   436.4 
Fourth Quarter  477.3   452.2 
Fiscal Year $1,796.1  $1,718.5 
         
Gross Profit        
First Quarter $296.7  $290.8 
Second Quarter  331.9   314.0 
Third Quarter  330.5   320.1 
Fourth Quarter  351.8   332.9 
Fiscal Year $1,310.9  $1,257.8 
         
Operating Income        
First Quarter $14.5  $43.8 
Second Quarter  82.8   47.7 
Third Quarter  67.4   51.2 
Fourth Quarter  74.8   63.5 
Fiscal Year $239.5  $206.2 
         
Net Income        
First Quarter $9.2  $31.0 
Second Quarter  60.0   (11.5)
Third Quarter  68.8   47.4 
Fourth Quarter  54.2   46.7 
Fiscal Year $192.2  $113.6 
$ In millions, except per share data 2015   2014  
         
Revenue        
First Quarter$437.9  $411.0  
Second Quarter 477.0   449.2  
Third Quarter 465.9   457.9  
Fourth Quarter 441.6   457.1  
Fiscal Year$1,822.4  $1,775.2  
         
Gross Profit        
First Quarter$313.9  $291.2  
Second Quarter 342.4   318.8  
Third Quarter 341.7   327.4  
Fourth Quarter 324.8   330.9  
Fiscal Year$1,322.8  $1,268.3  
         
Operating Income        
First Quarter (a)$49.6  $35.6  
Second Quarter (b) 76.1   50.2  
Third Quarter (c) 54.0   73.4  
Fourth Quarter (d) 58.0   47.5  
Fiscal Year$237.7  $206.7  
         
Net Income        
First Quarter (a)$33.7  $35.9  
Second Quarter (b) 53.8   36.2  
Third Quarter (c) 42.5   52.5  
Fourth Quarter (d) 46.9   35.9  
Fiscal Year$176.9  $160.5  
         
  2015 2014
Income Per Share Diluted Basic Diluted Basic
First Quarter (a)$0.56$0.57$0.61$0.61
Second Quarter (b) 0.90 0.91 0.61 0.62
Third Quarter (c) 0.72 0.73 0.88 0.89
Fourth Quarter (d) 0.79 0.80 0.60 0.61
Fiscal Year$2.97$3.01$2.70$2.73

  2018  2017 
  Basic  Diluted  Basic  Diluted 
Earnings Per Share (1)
            
First Quarter $0.16  $0.16  $0.54  $0.53 
Second Quarter  1.06   1.04   (0.20)  (0.20)
Third Quarter  1.21   1.19   0.83   0.82 
Fourth Quarter  0.95   0.93   0.82   0.81 
Fiscal Year $3.37  $3.32  $1.98  $1.95 

a)  (1)InThe sum of the first quarter of fiscal year 2014,quarterly earnings per share amounts may not agree to the Company recorded a restructuring charge of $7.8 million ($0.08 per share) under its restructuring programs. In the first quarter of fiscal year 2014, the Company recorded deferred tax benefits of $10.6 million ($0.18 per share), associated with tax legislation enacted in the United Kingdom that reduced the U.K. corporate income tax rates by 3%.respective annual amounts due to rounding.
 
b)  In the second quarter of fiscal year 2014, the Company recorded a restructuring charge of $15.3 million ($0.17 per share) related to its restructuring programs and an asset impairment charge of $4.8 million ($0.06 per share) related to certain technology investments.
c)  In the third quarters of fiscal years 2015 and 2014, the Company recorded restructuring charges of $24.0 million ($0.28 per share) and $4.3 million ($0.05 per share) related to its restructuring programs, respectively.
d)  In the fourth quarters of fiscal years 2015 and 2014, the Company recorded restructuring charges related to its restructuring programs of $4.9 million ($0.07 per share) and $15.4 million ($0.17 per share), respectively. In the fourth quarter of fiscal year 2015, the Company recorded a non-recurring tax benefit of $3.1 million ($0.05 per share) related to tax deductions claimed on the write-up of certain foreign tax assets to fair market value.

76

Schedule II
JOHN WILEY & SONS, INC., AND SUBSIDIARIES
VALUATION AND QUALIFYING ACCOUNTS
FOR THE YEARS ENDED APRIL 30, 2015, 2014, AND 2013

(Dollars in thousands)
  Additions/ (Deductions)  
 
 
Description
Balance at Beginning
of Period
Charged to
Expenses
and Other
Deductions
From
Reserves(2)
Balance
at End of
Period
Year Ended April 30, 2015    
Allowance for Sales Returns (1)
$28,633$52,848$56,141$25,340
Allowance for Doubtful Accounts$7,946
$3,100(3)
$2,756$8,290
Allowance for Inventory Obsolescence$25,087$17,655$20,841$21,901
Year Ended April 30, 2014    
Allowance for Sales Returns (1)
$31,834$52,770$55,971$28,633
Allowance for Doubtful Accounts$7,360$2,441$1,855$7,946
Allowance for Inventory Obsolescence$28,243$18,202$21,358$25,087
Year Ended April 30, 2013    
Allowance for Sales Returns (1)
$35,773$74,793$78,732$31,834
Allowance for Doubtful Accounts$6,850$1,863$1,353$7,360
Allowance for Inventory Obsolescence$33,932$19,930$25,619$28,243
(1)Allowance for Sales Returns represents anticipated returns net of a recovery of inventory and royalty costs. The provision is reported as a reduction of gross sales to arrive at revenue and the reserve balance is reported as a reduction of Accounts Receivable with a corresponding increase in Inventories and a reduction in Accounts and Royalties Payable (See Note 2).
(2)Deductions from reserves include foreign exchange translation adjustments and accounts written off, less recoveries.
(3)Additions to Allowance for Doubtful Accounts includes approximately $2 million related to the CrossKnowledge acquisition on May 1, 2014.


Item 9.       Changes in and Disagreements with Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure
Item 9.Changes in and Disagreements with Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure

None

Item 9A.    Controls and Procedures
Item 9A.Controls and Procedures

Disclosure Controls and Procedures: The Company's Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, together with the Chief Accounting Officer and other members of the Company's management, have conducted an evaluation of the Company’sCompany's disclosure controls and procedures as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (the “Exchange Act”"Exchange Act") as of the end of the period covered by this report. Based on this evaluation, the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer have concluded that the Company's disclosure controls and procedures were effective to ensure that information required to be disclosed by the Company in reports filed or submitted under the Exchange Act is (i) recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified by the Securities and Exchange Commission's rules and forms and (ii) accumulated and communicated to the Company’sCompany's management, including its Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

Management’sManagement's Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting: Our Management is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting, as such term is defined in Rule 13a-15(f) of the Exchange Act.  Under the supervision and with the participation of our management, including our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, we conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting based upon the framework in Internal Control – Integrated Framework (1992)(2013) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission. Based on that evaluation, our management concluded that our internal control over financial reporting is effective as of April 30, 2015.2018.

KPMG LLP, an independent registered public accounting firm, has audited the consolidated financial statements included in this Annual Report on Form 10-K and, as part of their audit, has issued their report, included herein, on the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting.

Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting: ThereWe are in the process of implementing a new global enterprise resource planning system ("ERP") that will enhance our business and financial processes and standardize our information systems. We have completed the implementation of record-to-report, purchase-to-pay and several other business processes within all locations and will continue to roll out the ERP in phases over the next year.

As with any new information system we implement, this application, along with the internal controls over financial reporting included in this process, will require testing for effectiveness. In connection with this ERP implementation, we are updating our internal controls over financial reporting, as necessary, to accommodate modifications to our business processes and accounting procedures. We do not believe that the ERP implementation will have an adverse effect on our internal control over financial reporting.

Except as described above, there were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting in the fourth quarter of fiscal year 20152018 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.

Item 9B.    Other Information
Item 9B.Other Information

None
 
PART III

Item 10.Directors, Executive Officers and Corporate Governance
Item 10.     Directors,
For information with respect to Executive Officers and Corporate Governanceof the Company, see "Executive Officers of the Company" as set forth in Part I of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.

The name, age, and background of each of the directors nominated for election are contained under the caption “Election"Election of Directors”Directors" in the Proxy Statement for our 20152018 Annual Meeting of Shareholders (“2015("2018 Proxy Statement”Statement") and are incorporated herein by reference.

Information on the audit committee financial experts is contained in the 20152018 Proxy Statement under the caption “Report"Report of the Audit Committee”Committee" and is incorporated herein by reference.
77

Information on the Audit Committee Charter is contained in the 20152018 Proxy Statement under the caption “Committees"Committees of the Board of Directors and Certain Other Information concerning the Board."

Information with respect to the Company’sCompany's Corporate Governance principles is publicly available on the Company’sCompany's Corporate Governance websiteWeb site at https://www.wiley.com/WileyCDA/Section/id-301708.html.en-us/corporategovernance.
Executive Officers
Set forth below are the executive officers of the Company as of April 30, 2015. Each of the officers listed will serve until the next organizational meetings of the Board of Directors of the Company and until each of the respective successors are duly elected and qualified.
PETER BOOTH WILEY - 72
September 2002 - Chairman of the Board, John Wiley and Sons, Inc. (Director since 1984)
STEPHEN M. SMITH –60
May 2011 - President and Chief Executive Officer, John Wiley and Sons, Inc. (succeeded by Mark Allin, effective June 1, 2015
June 2009 - Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer – responsible for all publishing, editorial, sales and marketing and business development activities globally.

MARK J. ALLIN – 54
February 2015- Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer- responsible for strategy and operations for all of Wiley’s businesses. (succeeded Steve Smith as President and Chief Executive Officer, effective June 1, 2015.)
September 2014 – Executive Vice President, Professional Development
August 2010 - Senior Vice President, Professional Development – responsible for leading the Company’s global Professional Development business.
January 2010 - Vice President and Chief Operating Officer, Professional and Trade – responsible for PD profitability and marketing operations.
JOHN A. KRITZMACHER – 54
July 2013 – Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, John Wiley & Sons Inc. – responsible for the Company’s worldwide financial organization, strategic planning and business development, internal audit, customer service, distribution and investor relations.
October 2012 - Senior Vice President of Business Operations, Organizational Planning & Structure at WebMD Health Corp
October 2008 - Chief Financial Officer and Executive Vice President of Global Crossing Ltd
PATRIK U. DYBERG – 51
September 2014 – Executive Vice President and Chief Technology Officer
February 2012 – Senior Vice President and Chief Technology Officer – responsible for leading the Company’s global technology functions.
June 2009 – Senior Vice President, Global Solutions Development of LexisNexis – responsible for the development and maintenance of a large suite of customer-facing products.


MARY-JO O’LEARY – 52
September 2014 – Executive Vice President, Human Resources
May 2013 – Senior Vice President, Human Resources
October 2012 – Vice President and Director, Human Resources – responsible for working with the Senior Vice President, Human Resources to manage the Company’s Global Human Resources organization.
July 2003 – Vice President, Marketing & Sales – responsible for managing the sales, marketing and custom publishing functions for the Company’s Education business.
JOSEPH S. HEIDER – 56
September 2014 – Executive Vice President, Global Education
May 2011 - Senior Vice President, Education – responsible for leading the Company’s worldwide Education business.
January 2011 - Senior Vice President, US Higher Education – responsible for leading the Company’s US  Higher Education business.
May 2010 - Vice President and Chief Operating Officer, Higher Education – responsible for  leading the Company’s US Higher Education Product Development and New Business Development and Production Groups.
GARY M. RINCK – 63
September 2014 – Executive Vice President, General Counsel
2004 – Senior Vice President, General Counsel – responsible for all of the Company’s legal and corporate governance functions at Wiley.
PHILIP CARPENTER – 59
May 2015 – Executive Vice President, Research – responsible for leading the Company’s worldwide journals publishing business.
September 2014 – Senior Vice President and Managing Director, Research Communications
May 2013 – Vice President and Managing Director, Research Communications – responsible for leading the Company’s worldwide journals publishing business, as part of the broader Research organization.
December 2007 – Vice President and Managing Director, SSH– responsible for leading the Company’s worldwide Social Sciences and Humanities journals publishing business, as part of the broader Research organization.
VINCENT MARZANO – 52
September 2014 – Senior Vice President, Treasurer
September 2006 - Vice President, Treasurer – responsible for global treasury operations, insurable risk management, accounts receivable, and credit and collections.
EDWARD J. MELANDO – 59
January 2013 – Senior Vice President, Corporate Controller– and Chief Accounting Officer – responsible for Financial Reporting, Taxes, and Financial Shared Services.
2002 - Vice President, Corporate Controller– responsible for Financial Reporting, Taxes and the Financial Shared Services.


REED ELFENBEIN – 61
May 2015 – Executive Vice President, International Development and Global Research Sales
May 2014 - Senior Vice President, International Development and Global Research Sales
October 2012 – Senior Vice President, International Development and STMS – leads team responsible for increasing market share in growing and emerging markets and leads the worldwide Research sales team.
February 2007 – Vice President and Managing Director, Sales and Marketing – responsible for leading the domestic and international sales and marketing teams.

CLAY E. STOBAUGH – 57
September 2014 – Executive Vice President & Chief Marketing Officer
October 2013 - Senior Vice President & Chief Marketing Officer
August 2011 – Senior Vice President, Corporate Marketing – responsible for strategic marketing and customer relationship management.

JOHN W. SEMEL – 44
May 2015- Executive Vice President and Chief Strategy Officer- responsible for developing, prioritizing, and implementing strategies that drive business growth.
February 2009 – Senior Vice President, Planning and Development – responsible for global acquisitions and divestitures, strategic investments, strategic planning, corporate alliances and business development.

EDWARD J. MAY – 52
November 2013 - Corporate Secretary – responsible for Board administration and compliance with corporate regulatory requirements.
October 2012 - Director of Corporate Governance, Tyco International Ltd. – responsible for the governance structure and ERM program at Tyco International Ltd.

Item 11.     Executive Compensation
Item 11.Executive Compensation

Information on compensation of the directors and executive officers is contained in the 20152018 Proxy Statement under the captions “Directors’ Compensation”"Directors' Compensation" and “Executive"Executive Compensation," respectively, and is incorporated herein by reference.

Item 12.     Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related Stockholder Matters
Item 12.Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related Stockholder Matters

Information on the beneficial ownership reporting for the directors and executive officers is contained under the caption “Section"Section 16(a) Beneficial Ownership Reporting Compliance”Compliance" within the “Beneficial"Beneficial Ownership of Directors and Management”Management" section of the 20152018 Proxy Statement and is incorporated herein by reference. Information on the beneficial ownership reporting for all other shareholders that own 5% of more of the Company’sCompany's Class A or Class B Common Stock is contained under the caption “Voting"Voting Securities, Record Date, Principal Holders”Holders" in the 20152018 Proxy Statement and is incorporated herein by reference.


The following table summarizes the Company’sCompany's equity compensation plan information as of April 30, 2015:2018:

Plan Category 
Number of
Securities to be
Issued Upon Exercise
of Outstanding Options,
Warrants and Rights (1)
  
Weighted Average
Exercise Price of
Outstanding Options,
Warrants and Rights
  
Number of
Securities Remaining
Available for Future
Issuance Under Equity
Compensation Plans (2)
 
Equity compensation plans approved by shareholders  1,472,520  $48.88   4,791,733 

 Plan Category 
Number of
securities to be
issued upon
exercise of
outstanding
options, warrants
and rights
 
Weighted-average
exercise price of
outstanding
options, warrants
and rights
 
Number of
securities remaining
available for future
issuance under equity
compensation plans
        
 Equity compensation plans approved by shareholders 2,672,963(1) $45.50 6,166,816
(1)This amount includes the following awards issued under the 2014 Key Employee Stock Plan:
(1) This amount includes the following awards issued under the 2009 Key Employee Stock Plan:

·  1,921,019611,418 shares issuable upon the exercise of outstanding stock options with a weighted average exercise price of $45.50$48.88
·  751,944861,102 non-vested performance-based and other restricted stock awards. Since these awards have no exercise price, they are not included in the weighted average exercise price calculation.

(2)
Per the terms of the 2014 Key Employee Stock Plan ("Plan"), a total of 6,500,000 shares shall be authorized for awards granted under the Plan, less one (1) share for every one (1) share that was subject to an option or stock appreciation right granted after April 30, 2014 under the 2009 Key Employee Stock Plan and 1.76 Shares for every one (1) share that was subject to an award other than an option or stock appreciation right granted after April 30, 2014 under the 2009 Key Employee Stock Plan. Any shares that are subject to options or stock appreciation rights shall be counted against this limit as one (1) share for every one (1) share granted, and any shares that are subject to awards other than options or stock appreciation rights shall be counted against this limit as 1.76 Shares for every one (1) share granted. After the Effective Date of the Plan, no awards may be granted under the 2009 Key Employee Stock Plan. 

All of the Company’sCompany's equity compensation plans are approved by shareholders.

Item 13.     Certain Relationships and Related Transactions, and Director Independence
Item 13.Certain Relationships and Related Transactions, and Director Independence

Information on related party transactions and the policies and procedures for reviewing and approving related party transactions are contained under the caption “Transactions"Transactions with Related Persons”Persons" within the “Board"Board and Committee Oversight of Risk”Risk" section of the 20152018 Proxy Statement and are incorporated herein by reference.

Information on director independence is contained under the caption “Director Independence”"Director Independence" within the “Board"Board of Directors and Corporate Governance”Governance" section of the 20152018 Proxy Statement.

Item 14.     Principal Accountant Fees and Services
Item 14.Principal Accounting Fees and Services

Information required by this item is contained in the 20152018 Proxy Statement under the caption “Report"Report of the Audit Committee”Committee" and is incorporated herein by reference.

78


PART IV

Item 15.     Exhibits, Financial Statement Schedules and Reports on Form 8-K
Item 15.Exhibits and Financial Statement Schedules

(a)
See Index to Consolidated Financial Statements and Schedules are included in the attached indexSchedule of this Annual Report on page 3Form 10-K and are filed as part of this report.
(b)
Reports on Form 8-K submitted to the Securities and Exchange Commission since the filing of the Company’s 10-Q on March 11, 2015:
Exhibits
Announcement of the officer change issued on Form 8-K dated April 15, 2015.
Announcement of Mark Allin appointment issued on Form 8-K dated June 1, 2015.
Earnings release on the fiscal year 2015 results issued on Form 8-K dated June 16, 2015, which included certain condensed financial statements of the Company.
(c)
Exhibits
3.1
Restated Certificate of Incorporation (incorporated by reference to the Company’sCompany's Report on Form 10-K for the year ended April 30, 1992).
3.2
Certificate of Amendment of the Certificate of Incorporation dated October 13, 1995 (incorporated by reference to the Company’sCompany's Report on Form 10-K for the year ended April 30, 1997)1996).
3.3
Certificate of Amendment of the Certificate of Incorporation dated as of September 1998 (incorporated by reference to the Company’sCompany's Report on Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended October 31, 1998).
3.4
Certificate of Amendment of the Certificate of Incorporation dated as of September 1999 (incorporated by reference to the Company’sCompany's Report on Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended October 31, 1999).
By-Laws as Amended and Restated By-Laws dated as of September 2007 (incorporated by reference to the Company’s Report on Form 10-K for the year ended April 30, 2008).
10.1
10.2
Agreement of the Lease dated as of July 14, 2014 between Hub Properties Trust as Landlord, an independent third party and John Wiley and Sons, Inc as Tenant (incorporated by reference to the Company’sCompany's Report on Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended July 31, 2014).
10.3
2014 Director Stock Plan (incorporated by reference to the Company’sCompany's Report on Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended October 31, 2014).
10.4
2014 Executive Annual Incentive Plan (incorporated by reference to the Company’sCompany's Report on Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended October 31, 2014).
10.5
Amended 2014 Key Employee Stock Plan (incorporated by reference to the Company’sCompany's Report on Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended October 31, 2014).
10.6
Supplemental Executive Retirement Plan as Amended and Restated effective as of January 1, 2009 (incorporated by reference to the Company’sCompany's Report on Form 10-K for the year ended April 30, 2010).
10.7
Amendments A and B to the Supplemental Executive Retirement Plan as Amended and Restated Effective January 1, 2009 (incorporated by reference to the Company’sCompany's Report on Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended July 31, 2010).
10.8
2013 (incorporated by reference to the Company's Report on Form 10-K for the year ended April 30, 2013)
10.9
Supplemental Benefit Plan Amended and Restated as of January 1, 2009, including amendments through August 1, 2010 (incorporated by reference to the Company’sCompany's Report on Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended January 31, 2011).
10.10
2013(incorporated by reference to the Company's Report on Form 10-K for the year ended April 30, 2013).
10.11
Deferred Compensation Plan as Amended and Restated Effective as of January 1, 2008 (incorporated by reference to the Company’sCompany's Report on Form 10-K for the year ended April 30, 2010).

10.12
2013 (incorporated by reference to the Company's Report on Form 10-K for the year ended April 30, 2013).
10.13
Deferred Compensation Plan for Directors’Directors' 2005 & After Compensation (incorporated by reference to the Report on Form 8-K, filed December 21, 2005).
Form of the Fiscal Year 20162019 Qualified Executive Long Term Incentive Plan.
Form of the Fiscal Year 20162019 Qualified Executive Annual Incentive Plan.
Form of the Fiscal Year 20162019 Executive Annual Strategic Milestones Incentive Plan.
10.17
Form of the Fiscal Year 20152018 Qualified Executive Long Term Incentive Plan (incorporated by reference to the Company’sCompany's Report on Form 10-K for the year ended April 30, 2014)2017).
10.18
Form of the Fiscal Year 20152018 Qualified Executive Annual Incentive Plan (incorporated by reference to the Company’sCompany's Report on Form 10-K for the year ended April 30, 2014)2017).
10.19
Form of the Fiscal Year 20152018 Executive Annual Strategic Milestones Incentive Plan (incorporated by reference to the Company’sCompany's Report on Form 10-K for the year ended April 30, 2014)2017).
10.20
Form of the Fiscal Year 20142017 Qualified Executive Long Term Incentive Plan (incorporated by reference to the Company’sCompany's Report on Form 10-K for the year ended April 30, 2013)2016).
10.21
Form of the Fiscal Year 20142017 Qualified Executive Annual Incentive Plan (incorporated by reference to the Company’sCompany's Report on Form 10-K for the year ended April 30, 2013)2016).
10.22
Form of the Fiscal Year 20142017 Executive Annual Strategic Milestones Incentive Plan (incorporated by reference to the Company’sCompany's Report on Form 10-K for the year ended April 30, 2013)2016).
10.23
Senior Executive Employment Agreement to Arbitrate dated as of April 29, 2003 (incorporated by reference to the Company’sCompany's Report on Form 10-K for the year ended April 30, 2003).
10.24
Senior Executive Non-competition and Non-Disclosure Agreement dated as of April 29, 2003 (incorporated by reference to the Company’sCompany's Report on Form 10-K for the year ended April 30, 2003).
10.25
Senior executive Employment Agreement dated as of September 17, 2010 and effective as of May 1, 2011, between Stephen M. Smith and the Company (incorporated by reference to the Company’s Report on Form 8-K dated as of September 22, 2010).
10.26
Senior Executive Employment Agreement dated as of April 15, 2015 between Mark Allin and the Company (incorporated by reference to the Company’sCompany's Report on Form 8-K dated as of April 15, 2015).
10.26
Separation and Release Agreement, effective June 9, 2017, between Mark Allin, former President and Chief Executive Officer and the Company (incorporated by reference to the Company's Report on Form 10-Q for the period ended July 31, 2017).
10.27
Senior executive Employment Agreement dated as of May 20, 2013 between John A. Kritzmacher and the Company (incorporated by reference to the Company’sCompany's Report on Form 8-K dated as of June 4, 2013).
10.28
Addendum to the Employment Agreement, effective June 26, 2017, between John A. Kritzmacher, and the Company (incorporated by reference to the Company's Report on Form 10-Q for the period ended July 31, 2017).
10.29
Senior executive Employment Agreement letter dated as of March 15, 2004, between Gary M. Rinck and the Company (incorporated by reference to the Company’sCompany's Report on Form 10-K for the year ended April 30, 2011).
10.29*
Senior executive Employment Agreement dated as of November 1, 2011 between Joseph S. Heider and the Company.
10.30
Senior executive Employment AgreementLetter dated asMay 11, 2017 between Matthew Kissner, Interim President and Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of May 1, 2010 between Steven J. Mironthe Board and the Company (incorporated by reference to the Company’sCompany's Report on Form 10-K10-Q for the yearperiod ended April 30, 2011)July 31, 2017).
21*10.31
Employment Letter dated October 12, 2017 between Brian A. Napack, President and Chief Executive Officer, and the Company (incorporated by reference to the Company's Report on Form 10-Q for the period ended October 31, 2017).
Computation of Ratio of Earnings to Fixed Charges.
List of Subsidiaries of the Company
Company.
23*
Consent of KPMG LLP
LLP.
31.1*
Certification of Chief Executive Officer pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
31.2*
Certification of the Chief Financial Officer pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
32.1*
Certification of the Chief Executive Officer pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
32.2*
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.INS
XBRL Instance Document
101.SCH
XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document
101.CAL
XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document
101.DEFXBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document
101.LAB
XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document
101.PRE
XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document
101.DEF
XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document

*Filed herewith

Item 16. Form 10-K Summary

None.
 
79

Schedule II
JOHN WILEY & SONS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
VALUATION AND QUALIFYING ACCOUNTS
FOR THE YEARS ENDED APRIL 30, 2018, 2017, AND 2016
(Dollars in thousands)

Description 
Balance at
Beginning of Period
  
Charged to
Expenses and Other
  
Deductions
From Reserves(2)
  
Balance at
End of Period
 
Year Ended April 30, 2018            
Allowance for Sales Returns (1)
 $24,300  $(3,486) $2,186  $18,628 
Allowance for Doubtful Accounts $7,186  $5,439  $2,518  $10,107 
Allowance for Inventory Obsolescence $21,096  $9,182  $12,085  $18,193 
Year Ended April 30, 2017                
Allowance for Sales Returns (1)
 $19,861  $53,482  $49,043  $24,300 
Allowance for Doubtful Accounts $7,254  $2,913  $2,981  $7,186 
Allowance for Inventory Obsolescence $21,968  $9,538  $10,410  $21,096 
Year Ended April 30, 2016                
Allowance for Sales Returns (1)
 $25,340  $56,094  $61,573  $19,861 
Allowance for Doubtful Accounts $8,290  $698  $1,734  $7,254 
Allowance for Inventory Obsolescence $21,901  $15,167  $15,100  $21,968 

(1)Allowance for Sales Returns represents anticipated returns net of a recovery of inventory and royalty costs. The provision is reported as a reduction of gross sales to arrive at revenue and the reserve balance is reported as a reduction of Accounts Receivable with a corresponding increase in Inventories and a reduction in Royalties Payable (See Note 2).
(2)Deductions from reserves include foreign exchange translation adjustments, accounts written off, less recoveries and items removed from inventory.
80

SIGNATURES

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

  JOHN WILEY & SONS, INC. 
  (Company) 
    
Dated:  June 26, 201529, 2018By:/s/ Mark AllinBrian A. Napack 
  Mark AllinBrian A. Napack 
  President and
Chief Executive 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 Company and in the capacities and on the dates indicated.

Signatures Titles Dated
     
/s/ Mark AllinBrian A. Napack President and Chief Executive Officer and June 26, 201529, 2018
Mark AllinBrian A. Napack Director  
     
/s/ John A. Kritzmacher Executive Vice PresidentChief Financial Officer and June 26, 201529, 2018
John A. Kritzmacher Chief Financial OfficerExecutive Vice President, Operations  
     
/s/ Edward J. MelandoChristopher F. Caridi Senior Vice President, Corporate Controller and June 26, 201529, 2018
Edward J. MelandoChristopher F. Caridi Chief Accounting Officer  
     
/s/ Peter Booth WileyMatthew S. Kissner DirectorChairman of the Board June 26, 201529, 2018
Peter Booth WileyMatthew S. Kissner    
     
/s/ Jesse C. Wiley Manager, Business Development Client Solutions and June 26, 201529, 2018
Jesse C. Wiley Director  
     
/s/ William J. Pesce Director June 26, 201529, 2018
William J. Pesce    
     
/s/ William B. Plummer Director June 26, 201529, 2018
William B. Plummer    
 
/s/ Kalpana RainaDirectorJune 26, 2015
Kalpana Raina
     
/s/ Mari J. Baker Director June 26, 201529, 2018
Mari J. Baker    
     
/s/ Mathew S. KissnerDavid C. Dobson Director June 26, 201529, 2018
Mathew S. KissnerDavid C. Dobson    
     
/s/ Raymond W. McDaniel, Jr. Director June 26, 201529, 2018
Raymond W. McDaniel, Jr.    
     
/s/ Eduardo R. MenascéGeorge D. Bell Director June 26, 201529, 2018
Eduardo R. MenascéGeorge D. Bell    
     
/s/ George BellLaurie A. Leshin Director June 26, 201529, 2018
George BellLaurie A. Leshin
/s/ William PenceDirectorJune 29, 2018
William Pence    


Exhibit 21
SUBSIDIARIES OF JOHN WILEY & SONS, INC. (1)
As of April 30, 2015
Jurisdiction
In Which
Incorporated
John Wiley & Sons International Rights, Inc.Delaware
Deltak.edu, LLCDelaware
Wiley Brasil Divulgacao De Materiais Didaticos LTDA
Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Brazil
Delaware
Wiley Publishing Services, Inc.
Wiley Subscription Services, Inc.
Delaware
Delaware
Inscape Publishing LLCDelaware
Profiles Talent Management Group, LLCTexas
Profiles International, LLCTexas
Wiley Publishing LLCDelaware
Wiley India Private Ltd.India
WWL Corp.Delaware
Wiley International, LLCDelaware
John Wiley & Sons UK LLPUnited Kingdom
John Wiley & Sons UK 2 LLPUnited Kingdom
Wiley Japan KKJapan
Wiley Europe Investment Holdings, Ltd.United Kingdom
Wiley U.K. (Unlimited Co.)United Kingdom
Wiley Europe Ltd.United Kingdom
John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.United Kingdom
John Wiley & Sons Singapore Pte. Ltd.Singapore
John Wiley & Sons Commercial Service (Beijing) Co., Ltd.China
J Wiley Ltd.United Kingdom
     John Wiley & Sons GmbHGermany
Wiley-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaAGermany
CrossKnowledge Group LimitedUnited Kingdom
CrossKnowledge Inc.Delaware
E-Learning SASFrance
Epistema SarlFrance
Wiley Heyden Ltd.United Kingdom
Wiley Distribution Services Ltd.United Kingdom
Blackwell Publishing (Holdings) Ltd.United Kingdom
Blackwell Science Ltd.United Kingdom
Blackwell Science (Overseas Holdings)United Kingdom
John Wiley & Sons A/SDenmark
Blackwell Verlag GmbHGermany
Wiley Publishing Japan KKJapan
Blackwell Publishing (HK) Ltd.Hong Kong
Wiley Publishing Australia Pty Ltd.Australia
John Wiley and Sons Australia, Ltd.Australia
Wiley Publishing Asia Pty. LtdAustralia
John Wiley & Sons Canada LimitedCanada
John Wiley & Sons (HK) LimitedHong Kong
Wiley Publishing CanadaCanada
Simulated Biomolecular Systems, Inc.Canada
(1)\ The names of other subsidiaries that would not constitute a significant subsidiary in the aggregate have been omitted.


81

Exhibit 23


CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM



The Board of Directors and Shareholders
John Wiley & Sons, Inc.:
We consent to the incorporation by reference in Registration Statement Nos. 33-62605 and 333-167697 on Form S-8 of John Wiley & Sons, Inc. (the “Company”) of our reports dated June 26, 2015, with respect to the consolidated statements of financial position of John Wiley & Sons, Inc. as of April 30, 2015 and 2014, and the related consolidated statements of income, comprehensive income, cash flows and shareholders’ equity for each of the years in the three-year period ended April 30, 2015, and the related financial statement schedule, and the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting as of April 30, 2015, which reports appear in the April 30, 2015 annual report on Form 10-K of John Wiley & Sons, Inc.

/s/  KPMG LLP

Short Hills, New Jersey
June 26, 2015