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Atento S.A. (ATTOF)
:ATTOF
US Market
Holding ATTOF?
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Atento (ATTOF) Risk Factors

81 Followers
Public companies are required to disclose risks that can affect the business and impact the stock. These disclosures are known as “Risk Factors”. Companies disclose these risks in their yearly (Form 10-K), quarterly earnings (Form 10-Q), or “foreign private issuer” reports (Form 20-F). Risk factors show the challenges a company faces. Investors can consider the worst-case scenarios before making an investment. TipRanks’ Risk Analysis categorizes risks based on proprietary classification algorithms and machine learning.

Atento disclosed 47 risk factors in its most recent earnings report. Atento reported the most risks in the “Finance & Corporate” category.

Risk Overview Q4, 2022

Risk Distribution
47Risks
38% Finance & Corporate
19% Macro & Political
13% Production
13% Ability to Sell
11% Legal & Regulatory
6% Tech & Innovation
Finance & Corporate - Financial and accounting risks. Risks related to the execution of corporate activity and strategy
This chart displays the stock's most recent risk distribution according to category. TipRanks has identified 6 major categories: Finance & corporate, legal & regulatory, macro & political, production, tech & innovation, and ability to sell.

Risk Change Over Time

2020
Q4
S&P500 Average
Sector Average
Risks removed
Risks added
Risks changed
Atento Risk Factors
New Risk (0)
Risk Changed (0)
Risk Removed (0)
No changes from previous report
The chart shows the number of risks a company has disclosed. You can compare this to the sector average or S&P 500 average.

The quarters shown in the chart are according to the calendar year (January to December). Businesses set their own financial calendar, known as a fiscal year. For example, Walmart ends their financial year at the end of January to accommodate the holiday season.

Risk Highlights Q4, 2022

Main Risk Category
Finance & Corporate
With 18 Risks
Finance & Corporate
With 18 Risks
Number of Disclosed Risks
47
-42
From last report
S&P 500 Average: 31
47
-42
From last report
S&P 500 Average: 31
Recent Changes
34Risks added
76Risks removed
2Risks changed
Since Dec 2022
34Risks added
76Risks removed
2Risks changed
Since Dec 2022
Number of Risk Changed
2
No changes from last report
S&P 500 Average: 3
2
No changes from last report
S&P 500 Average: 3
See the risk highlights of Atento in the last period.

Risk Word Cloud

The most common phrases about risk factors from the most recent report. Larger texts indicate more widely used phrases.

Risk Factors Full Breakdown - Total Risks 47

Finance & Corporate
Total Risks: 18/47 (38%)Above Sector Average
Share Price & Shareholder Rights8 | 17.0%
Share Price & Shareholder Rights - Risk 1
Added
Future equity issuances may dilute the holdings of ordinary shareholders and could materially affect the market price of our ordinary shares.
We may in the future decide to offer additional equity to raise capital or for other purposes. Any such offering could reduce the proportionate ownership and voting interests of holders of our ordinary shares, as well as our earnings per ordinary share and net asset value per ordinary share. Future sales of substantial amounts of our ordinary shares in the public market, whether by us or by our existing shareholders, or the perception that sales could occur, may adversely affect the market price of our shares, which could decline significantly.
Share Price & Shareholder Rights - Risk 2
Added
The delisting of our ordinary shares from the New York Stock Exchange may impact your ability to transfer our ordinary shares.
On July 21, 2023, the Company received a letter from the New York Stock Exchange ("NYSE") communicating that the NYSE has initiated proceedings to delist Atento's ordinary shares from the NYSE. The NYSE initiated the delisting proceedings after determining that the average market capitalization of Atento's ordinary shares fell below $15 million over a 30 trading-day period under Section 802.01B of the NYSE Listed Company Manual. The NYSE also indefinitely suspended trading of Atento's ordinary shares effective July 21, 2023. Atento does not intend to appeal to the NYSE's determination. Atento's ordinary shares are quoted on the appropriate tier of the over the counter ("OTC") market. The Company's ticker symbol on the OTC "ATTOF". The delisting will only affect the shares of Atento S.A. at a holding company level and so will not affect business operations. Atento will continue to have reporting obligations under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. On August 18, 2023 the entire class of Ordinary shares of Atento S.A. was retired from listing and registration on the New York Stock Exchange. As a result of the delisting of our ordinary shares from the NYSE, the volume of trading in our shares has been reduced and may remain limited, which will have a negative impact on your ability to sell or transfer our ordinary shares on terms that are acceptable to you, or at all.
Share Price & Shareholder Rights - Risk 3
Added
The market price of our ordinary shares has been volatile in recent periods and may continue to be volatile.
The market price of our ordinary shares has experienced a significant decline in recent years. Additionally, as a result of the delisting of our ordinary shares from the NYSE, our ordinary shares are now trading over the counter only. As a result, the volume of trading in our ordinary shares has significantly declined and may further decline, which will contribute to volatility in the price of our ordinary shares. In addition, our shareholders may experience future decreases in the value of our ordinary shares held by them, or a complete loss of their investment. The price of our ordinary shares may continue to fluctuate in in response to several factors, including those listed elsewhere in this "Risk Factors" section and others, such as: - variations in our operating performance and the performance of our competitors;- actual or anticipated fluctuations in our quarterly or annual operating results;- changes in our revenue estimates or recommendations by securities analysts;- publication of research reports by securities analysts about us or our competitors or our industry;- our failure or the failure of our competitors to meet analysts' projections or guidance that we or our competitors may give to the market;- additions or departures of key personnel;- strategic decisions by us or our competitors, such as acquisitions, divestitures, spinoffs, joint ventures, strategic investments or changes in business strategy;- announcement of technological innovations by us or our competitors;- the passage of legislation, changes in interpretations of laws or other regulatory events or developments affecting us;- speculation in the press or investment community;- changes in accounting principles;- terrorist acts, acts of war or periods of widespread civil unrest;- changes in general market and economic conditions;- changes or trends in our industry;- investors' perception of our prospects; and - adverse resolution of any new or pending litigation against us. In the past, securities class action litigation has often been initiated against companies following periods of volatility in their stock price. This type of litigation could result in substantial costs and divert our management's attention and resources and could also require us to make substantial payments to satisfy judgments or to settle or defend litigation. As of the date of this report the Company are not aware of any lawsuit filed by investors.
Share Price & Shareholder Rights - Risk 4
Added
We are a Luxembourg public limited liability company (société anonyme) and it may be difficult for you to obtain or enforce judgments against us or our executive officers and directors in the United States.
We are organized under the laws of the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg. Most of our assets are located outside the United States. Furthermore, some of our directors and officers named in this Annual Report reside outside the United States and most of their assets are located outside the United States. As a result, investors may find it difficult to effect service of process within the United States upon us or these persons or to enforce outside the United States judgments obtained against us or these persons in U.S. courts, including judgments in actions predicated upon the civil liability provisions of the U.S. federal securities laws. Likewise, it may also be difficult for an investor to enforce in U.S. courts judgments obtained against us or these persons in courts located in jurisdictions outside the United States, including actions predicated upon the civil liability provisions of the U.S. federal securities laws. It may also be difficult for an investor to bring an original action in a Luxembourg court predicated upon the civil liability provisions of the U.S. federal securities laws against us or these persons. Luxembourg law, furthermore, does not recognize a shareholder's right to bring a derivative action on behalf of the Company except where such shareholder or a group of shareholders holds shares representing at least ten percent (10%) of the Company's share capital at the annual general meeting of shareholders of the Company resolving upon the discharge to be granted to the directors. As there is no treaty in force on the reciprocal recognition and enforcement of judgments in civil and commercial matters between the United States and the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg, courts in Luxembourg will not automatically recognize and enforce a final judgment rendered by a U.S. court. The enforceability in Luxembourg courts of judgments entered by U.S. courts will depend upon the conditions set forth in the Luxembourg procedural code, which may include the following: - the judgment of the U.S. court is enforceable (exécutoire) in the United States;- the U.S. court had jurisdiction over the subject matter leading to the judgment (that is, its jurisdiction was in compliance both with Luxembourg private international law rules and with the applicable domestic U.S. federal or state jurisdictional rules);- the U.S. court has applied to the dispute the substantive law designated by the Luxembourg conflict of law rules (although one first instance decision rendered in Luxembourg-which had not been appealed-no longer applies this condition);- the judgment was granted following proceedings where the counterparty had the opportunity to appear, and if appeared, there was no violation of the rights of the defendant;- the U.S. court has acted in accordance with its own procedural rules; and - the judgment of the U.S. court does not contravene Luxembourg international public policy. Our directors and officers, past and present, are entitled to indemnification from us to the fullest extent permitted by Luxembourg law against liability and all expenses reasonably incurred or paid by him/her in connection with any losses or liabilities, claim, action, suit or proceeding in which he/she is involved by virtue of his/her being or having been a director or officer and against amounts paid or incurred by him in the settlement thereof, subject to limited exceptions. To the extent allowed by law, the rights and obligations among us and any of our current or former directors and officers will be governed exclusively by the laws of Luxembourg and subject to the jurisdiction of the Luxembourg courts, unless such rights or obligations do not relate to or arise out of their capacities as directors or officers. Although there is doubt as to whether U.S. courts would enforce such a provision in an action brought in the United States under U.S. securities laws, such provision could make enforcing judgments obtained outside Luxembourg more difficult to enforce against our assets in Luxembourg or in jurisdictions that would apply Luxembourg law.
Share Price & Shareholder Rights - Risk 5
Added
As a foreign private issuer, we are permitted to, and rely on exemptions from certain corporate governance standards applicable to U.S. issuers, including the requirement that a majority of an issuer's directors consist of independent directors. This may afford less protection to holders of our ordinary shares.
The New York Stock Exchange listing rules require listed companies to have, among other things, a majority of their board members be independent, and to have independent director oversight of executive compensation, nomination of directors and corporate governance matters. As a foreign private issuer, however, while we intend to comply with these requirements within the permitted phase-in periods, we are permitted to follow home country practice in lieu of the above requirements. Luxembourg law, the law of our home country, does not require that a majority of our board consist of independent directors or the implementation of a nominating and corporate governance committee, and our board may thus in the future not include, or include fewer, independent directors than would be required if we were subject to the New York Stock Exchange listing rules, or they may decide that it is in our interest not to have a Compensation Committee or Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee, or have such committees governed by practices that would not comply with New York Stock Exchange listing rules. Since a majority of our board of directors may not consist of independent directors if we decide to rely on the foreign private issuer exemption to the New York Stock Exchange listing rules, our board's approach may, therefore, be different from that of a board with a majority of independent directors, and as a result, the management oversight of our Company could, in the future, be more limited than if we were subject to the New York Stock Exchange listing rules. Moreover, we are not required to file periodic reports and financial statements with the SEC as frequently or as promptly as companies that are not foreign private issuers whose securities are registered under the U.S. Exchange Act. In addition, we are not required to comply with Regulation FD, which restricts the selective disclosure of material information. As a result, our shareholders may not have access to information they deem important, which may result in our shares being less attractive to investors.
Share Price & Shareholder Rights - Risk 6
Added
Future sales of our ordinary shares, or the perception in the public markets that these sales may or may not occur, could impact our share price.
The market price of our ordinary shares could decline as a result of sales of a large number of our ordinary shares in the market, and the perception that these sales could occur may also depress the market price of our ordinary shares. We have 15.4 million ordinary shares outstanding as of December 31, 2022. Pursuant to an agreement, the major shareholders of Atento agreed that during the 24-month period following its acquisition will not sell, assign, transfer, pledge hypothecate, encumber or otherwise dispose of the shares without the written permission of the Issuer. In 2022 Atento has announced that it has extended its director nomination lock-up agreements by another 12-months until June 22, 2023, after this limitation all of our outstanding ordinary shares may be sold in the public market by existing stockholders subject to applicable volume and other limitations imposed under federal securities laws. Sales of our ordinary shares or pursuant to registration rights may make it more difficult for us to sell equity securities in the future at a time and at a price that we deem appropriate. These sales, or the perception that such sales could occur, also could cause the market price for our ordinary shares to fall and make it more difficult for you to sell our ordinary shares. As of the date of this report no extended lock-up agreements is expected to be announced.
Share Price & Shareholder Rights - Risk 7
Our shareholders may have more difficulty protecting their interests than they would as shareholders of a U.S. corporation.
Our corporate affairs are governed by our articles of association and by the laws governing public limited liability companies organized under the laws of the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg. The rights of our shareholders and the responsibilities of our directors and officers under Luxembourg law are different from those applicable to a corporation incorporated in the United States. Luxembourg law and regulations in respect of corporate governance matters might not be as protective of minority shareholders as state corporation laws in the United States. Therefore, our shareholders may have more difficulty in protecting their interests in connection with actions taken by our directors and officers or our principal shareholders than they would as shareholders of a corporation incorporated in the United States.
Share Price & Shareholder Rights - Risk 8
Added
Equity interest in the Company will be diluted as a result of the Restructuring Plan.
In connection with the Restructuring Plan, we will issue new equity interests in the Company or its subsidiaries that will significantly dilute the holdings of ordinary shareholders. This will reduce the proportionate ownership and voting interests of holders of our ordinary shares, as well as our earnings per ordinary share and net asset value per ordinary share, and could have a negative impact on the future market value of our ordinary shares.
Accounting & Financial Operations4 | 8.5%
Accounting & Financial Operations - Risk 1
Added
Our actual financial results may vary significantly from the projections filed with the High Court of Justice of England and Wales.
In connection with the Restructuring Plan, we were required to prepare projected financial information to the English Court. At the time they were last filed with the English Court, the projections reflected numerous assumptions concerning anticipated future performance and prevailing and anticipated market and economic conditions that were and continue to be beyond our control and that may not materialize. Projections are inherently subject to uncertainties and to a wide variety of significant business, economic and competitive risks. Consequently, there can be no assurance that the results or developments contemplated by the Restructuring Plan will occur or, even if they do occur, that they will have the anticipated effects on us or our business or operations. The failure of any such results or developments to materialize as anticipated could materially adversely affect the successful execution of the Restructuring Plan.
Accounting & Financial Operations - Risk 2
Our results of operations could be adversely affected if we are unable to maintain effective internal controls and procedures.
Any internal and disclosure controls and procedures, no matter how well conceived and operated, can provide only reasonable, not absolute, assurance that the objectives of the control system are met. The design of a control system must consider the benefits of controls relative to their costs. Inherent limitations within a control system include the realities that judgments in decision-making can be faulty, and that breakdowns can occur because of simple errors or mistakes. Additionally, controls can be circumvented by individuals acting alone or in collusion with others to override controls. Accordingly, because of the inherent limitations in the design of a cost-effective control system, misstatements due to error or fraud may occur and may not always be prevented or detected in a timely way. In connection with the preparation of the audited consolidated financial statements as of and for the year ended December 31, 2022, we identified evidence of internal control deficiencies which have been classified as a material weaknesses in our internal controls over financial reporting (refer to section 15 (b) of this report to further information about material weaknesses identified). A material weakness is a deficiency, or combination of deficiencies, in internal control over financial reporting such that there is a reasonable possibility that a material misstatement in our annual financial statements will not be prevented or detected on a timely basis. We intend to implement the appropriate remedial actions to mitigate the risk of future errors in our consolidated financial statements as disclosed in section 15 (b) of this report. We cannot assure you that our efforts will be effective, that we will be able to remedy this material weakness or that we will be able to prevent any future material weakness or significant deficiency in our internal control over financial reporting. Failure to remedy any material weakness in our internal controls over financial reporting, or to implement or maintain other effective control systems required of public companies in the United States, could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations and could also restrict our future access to capital markets and reduce or eliminate the trading market for our shares.
Accounting & Financial Operations - Risk 3
Added
Any determination to pay dividends is at the discretion of our board of directors, and we may not pay any dividends. Accordingly, investors may only realize future gains on their investments if the price of their ordinary shares increases.
On September 21, 2017, the Board of Directors approved a dividend policy for the Company with a goal of paying annual cash dividend pay-outs in line with industry peers and practices. The declaration and payment of any interim dividends is subject to approval of Atento's corporate bodies and will be determined based upon, amongst other things, Atento's performance, growth opportunities, cash flow, contractual covenants, applicable legal requirements, and liquidity factors. The Board of Directors intends to review the dividend policy regularly and, accordingly, is subject to change at any time.
Accounting & Financial Operations - Risk 4
We may incur non-cash goodwill and deferred tax asset impairment charges in the future.
We carry a significant goodwill balance on our balance sheet. We test goodwill for impairment annually as of December 31 and at other times if events have occurred or circumstances exist that indicate the carrying value of goodwill may no longer be recoverable. Also, the Company regularly reviews its deferred tax assets for recoverability and determines if a portion or all of a deferred tax asset will not be realized. The determination as to whether a deferred tax asset will be realized is made on a jurisdictional basis and is based on the evaluation of positive and negative evidence. This evidence includes historical pretax and taxable income, projected future taxable income, the expected timing of the reversal of existing temporary differences and the implementation of tax planning strategies. Projected future taxable income is based on expected results and assumptions as to the jurisdiction in which the income will be earned. The expected timing of the reversals of existing temporary differences is based on current tax law and the Company's tax methods of accounting. The result of the impairment test performed for the year ended December 31, 2021 was an impairment charge of $2.0 million of the goodwill related to the Argentine subsidiary triggered by the Macroeconomic crisis and hyperinflation in the country. The result of the impairment test performed for the year ended December 31, 2022 was an impairment charge of $12,8 million of the Goodwill related to Brazil and Peru subsidiaries and an impairment charge of $5,0 million in the net assets of the Argentina subsidiary triggered by the Macroeconomic crisis and hyperinflation in the country. For the year ended December 31, 2022, due to the uncertainty regarding the future performance of the business of the subsidiaries located in Brazil, Mexico and Spain, we have considered that it is not probable that the future taxable profit made by these subsidiaries in the coming years, will be enough to offset the deferred tax asset recognized in previous years.. Additionally, in the short term, there are no expected significant capital structure changes or corporate reorganizations that could affect the Company's capacity to offset tax credits. The result of the deferred tax recoverability test performed for the year ended December 31, 2022, was an impairment charge of $78 million related to Brazilian, Mexican subsidiaries (excluding unrecognized DTA). No further DTA should be recognized by the Company until the future results expected show a strong capacity to offset the existing tax credits. Although no indications of other goodwill and other deferred tax asset impairments have been identified, there can be no assurance that we will not incur impairment charges in the future, particularly in the event of a prolonged economic slowdown. A significant impairment could have a material adverse effect on our results of operations.
Debt & Financing5 | 10.6%
Debt & Financing - Risk 1
You may not be able to participate in equity offerings, and you may not receive any value for rights that we may grant.
Pursuant to Luxembourg law on commercial companies, dated August 10, 1915, as amended (the "Luxembourg Corporate Law"), existing shareholders are generally entitled to preemptive subscription rights in the event of capital increases and issues of shares against cash contributions. However, our articles of association provide that preemptive subscription rights can be limited, waived or cancelled by our board of directors for a period ending on the fifth anniversary of the date of publication of the notarial deed recording the minutes of the extraordinary general shareholders' meeting which adopted the authorized capital of the Company in the Recueil électronique des sociétés et associations approving an increase of the share capital by the board of directors within the limits of the authorized share capital, which publication has occurred on December 3, 2014. The general meeting of our shareholders may renew, expand or amend such authorization. See Item IOB "Articles of association" for additional detail.
Debt & Financing - Risk 2
Added
If we are unable to fund our working capital requirements and new investments, our business, financial condition, results of operations and prospects could be adversely affected.
The CRM BPO industry is characterized by high working capital requirements and the need to make new investments in operating sites and employee resources to meet the evolving requirements of our clients. Similar to our competitors in this industry, we incur costs related to investments in infrastructure to provide our services and to the hiring and training of employees, such expenses being historically incurred before revenue is generated. In addition, we are exposed to adverse changes in our main clients' payment policies, which could have a material adverse impact on our ability to fund our working capital needs. During the year ended December 31, 2022, our average days sales outstanding ("DSO") was approximately 74 (70 in 2021). If our key clients implement policies which extend the payment terms of our invoices, our working capital levels could be adversely affected, and our finance costs may increase. If we are unable to fund our working capital requirements, access financing at competitive prices or make investments to meet the expanding business of our existing and potential new clients, our business, financial condition, results of operations and prospects could be adversely affected.
Debt & Financing - Risk 3
Added
Our existing debt may affect our flexibility in operating and developing our business and our ability to satisfy our obligations.
As of December 31, 2022, we had total indebtedness of $743.3 million. Our level of indebtedness may have significant negative effects on our future operations, including: - impairing our ability to obtain additional financing in the future (or to obtain such financing on acceptable terms) for working capital, capital expenditure, acquisitions, or other important needs;- requiring us to dedicate a substantial portion of our cash flow to the payment of principal and interest on our indebtedness, which could impair our financial liquidity and reduce the availability of our cash flow to fund working capital, capital expenditure, acquisitions and other important needs;- increasing the possibility of an event of default under the financial and operating covenants contained in our debt instruments; and - limiting our ability to adjust to rapidly changing conditions in the industry, reducing our ability to withstand competitive pressures and making us more vulnerable to a downturn in general economic conditions or business than our competitors with less debt. Our financing arrangements contain a number of covenants and restrictions, including limits on our ability and our subsidiaries' ability to incur additional debt, pay dividends and make certain investments. Complying with these covenants may cause us to take actions that make it more difficult to successfully execute our business strategy and we may face competition from companies not subject to such restrictions. Moreover, our failure to comply with these covenants could result in an event of default or refusal by our creditors to renew certain of our loans. As announced on June 30, 2023, the Company entered into a binding restructuring support agreement with certain major financial stakeholders that provides a path to a comprehensive restructuring transaction to significantly deleverage the Company's balance sheet. See more details in Consolidated Financial Statements Note 31 - Subsequent Events.
Debt & Financing - Risk 4
Added
The discontinuation of LIBOR, and the establishment and utilization of alternative reference rates, may adversely affect the interest we pay on floating rate indebtedness and other instruments.
Effective January 2022, LIBOR is not expect to be used to issue new loans in the U.S. and was officially discontinued after June 30, 2023 as a floating rate benchmark. As of December 31, 2022, 3.5% of our outstanding indebtedness was tied to LIBOR. To the extent interest payments are linked to LIBOR at the time of its discontinuation, the applicable floating interest rate will be determined using the alternative methods then set forth under the applicable agreements. At the date of this report, the company does not have any debt tied to LIBOR, following the Company debt structure after the restructuring support plan (see Note 31 of the consolidated financial statements). The Company expects that the LIBOR alternative rate, in case of any Company´s new debts, will be based on the Secured Overnight Financing Rate ("SOFR") because SOFR is a financing rate based on overnight funding transactions secured by U.S. Treasury securities, it differs fundamentally from USD LIBOR. SOFR has a limited history, having been first published in April 2018.
Debt & Financing - Risk 5
Added
We may not have sufficient cash to maintain our operations following the Restructuring Plan.
We face considerable uncertainty regarding the adequacy of our liquidity and capital resources. In addition to the cash required to fund our ongoing operations, we have incurred significant professional fees and other expenses in connection with the Restructuring Plan and expect that such fees and other expenses will continue throughout the Restructuring Plan process. Even obtaining the Exit Financing (as defined in Note 31 of the consolidated financial statements) in connection with the Restructuring Plan, we cannot provide any assurance that our cash on hand and cash flow from operations will be sufficient to fund our operations and allow us to satisfy our obligations following the Restructuring Plan. Additionally, there is no guarantee that we will be able to obtain additional financing in the future on acceptable terms or at all. We have experienced a number of events in recent years that have resulted in a reduction in our ability to obtain debt financing, including a ratings downgrade, the restriction of available credit facilities with financial institutions, a reduction in our cash and cash equivalents, a decline in operational performance, and the breach of certain debt covenants. In addition, other factors such as the competitive environment we face and macroeconomic factors such as rising interest rates, may adversely affect the availability and terms of funding that might be available to us during, and upon completion of, the Restructuring Plan. As a result, we may not be able to obtain financing at rates acceptable to us, or at all, to fund current operations on completion of the Restructuring Plan. In the event we need funds to execute our strategy, we could have limited access to liquidity, which would have negative consequences for our long-term business plan and on our ability to sustain our operations.
Corporate Activity and Growth1 | 2.1%
Corporate Activity and Growth - Risk 1
Changed
The consolidation of the potential users of CRM BPO services may adversely affect our business, financial condition, results of operations and prospects.
Consolidation of existing and potential users of CRM BPO services may decrease the number of clients who contract our services. Any significant reduction in or elimination of the use of the services we provide because of consolidation would result in reduced net revenue to us and could harm our business. Such consolidation may encourage clients to apply increasing pressure on us to lower the prices we charge for our services, which could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations and prospects.
Macro & Political
Total Risks: 9/47 (19%)Above Sector Average
Economy & Political Environment4 | 8.5%
Economy & Political Environment - Risk 1
Added
The Brazilian government exercises significant influence over the Brazilian economy. This influence, as well as Brazilian political and economic conditions, could adversely impact our business, financial condition, results of operations and prospects.
For the years ended December 31, 2020, 2021 and 2022, revenue from our operations in Brazil accounted for 43.2%, 39.2% and 41,2% of our total revenue, respectively, and EBITDA from our operations in Brazil accounted for 48.5%, 35.3% and 49.2% of our total EBITDA, respectively (in each case, before holding company level revenue, expense and consolidation adjustments). Historically, the Brazilian government has frequently intervened in the Brazilian economy and occasionally made drastic changes in policy and regulations. The Brazilian government's actions to control inflation and implement macroeconomic policies have in the past often involved wage and price controls, currency devaluations, capital controls and limits on imports, among other things. Our business, financial condition, results of operations and prospects may be adversely affected by changes in policies or regulations, and economic conditions such as: - devaluations and other currency fluctuations;- inflation and interest rates;- liquidity of domestic capital and lending markets;- energy shortages;- exchange controls and restrictions on remittances abroad (such as those that were briefly imposed in 1989 and early 1990);- monetary and tax policy;- minimum wage policy; and - other political, diplomatic, social and economic developments in or affecting Brazil. The Brazilian currency has been devalued over the last 5 years. Throughout this period, the Brazilian government has implemented various economic plans and used various exchange rate policies, including sudden devaluations, periodic mini devaluations (such as daily adjustments), exchange controls, dual exchange rate markets and a floating exchange rate system. From time to time, there have been significant fluctuations in the exchange rate between the Brazilian currency and the U.S. dollar and other currencies. In recent years, there have been considerable changes in tax policy in Brazil, including tax increases that have impacted our business, and further changes have been proposed. Uncertainty over whether possible changes in policies or rules affecting these or other factors may contribute to economic uncertainties in Brazil, which could adversely affect our business, financial condition, results of operations and prospects.
Economy & Political Environment - Risk 2
Added
Any deterioration in global market and economic conditions, especially in Latin America, and, particularly in the telecommunications and financial services industries from which we generate most of our revenue, may adversely affect our business, financial condition, results of operations and prospects.
Global market and economic conditions, including in Latin America, in the past several years have presented volatility and increasing risk perception, with tighter credit conditions and recession or slower growth in most major economies continuing into 2023. Our results of operations are affected directly by the level of business activity of our clients, which in turn is affected by the level of economic activity in the industries and markets that they serve. Many of our clients' industries are especially vulnerable to any crisis in the financial and credit markets or to economic downturns. For the year ended December 31, 2022, 42,9% of our revenue was derived from clients in the telecommunications industry, with 31,7% of our revenue derived from Telefónica, and 25,4% of our revenue was derived from clients in the financial services industry, including insurance businesses. Our business and future growth largely depend on continued demand for our services from clients in these industries. As our business has grown, we have become increasingly exposed to adverse changes in general global economic conditions, which may result in reductions in spending by our clients and their customers. Global economic concerns such as the varying pace of global economic recovery continue to create uncertainty and unpredictability and may have an adverse effect on the cost and availability of credit, leading to decreased spending by businesses. Any deterioration of general economic conditions, or weak economic performance in the economies of the countries in which we operate, particularly in Brazil and the Americas may have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations and prospects. Brazil and the Americas, for example, comprised 84.4%, 83.0% and 83.2% of our revenue respectively, for the years ended December 31, 2020, 2021 and 2022. In addition, key markets such as the telecommunications and financial services industries comprised 68,3% of our revenue for the year ended December 31, 2022.
Economy & Political Environment - Risk 3
Potential global and economics impacts of Eastern Europe conflict in 2022.
Armed conflict between Russia and Ukraine began in the latter country in February 2022, with restrictive sanctions subsequently implemented by the EU and U.S. against Russia, creating global security concerns that can have a lasting impact on regional and global economies. The sanctions on Russia also are likely to have a substantial impact on the global economy and financial markets, with significant spill over to other countries. In many countries, the crisis is creating an adverse shock in terms of both inflation and economic activity, amid already elevated price pressures. As of December 31, 2022, we did not operate in these countries. However, the Company is monitoring any possible effects which could result in operational and financial risks conditions.
Economy & Political Environment - Risk 4
Added
Potential global and economics impacts of Israeli-Palestinian conflict in 2023.
On October 7, 2023 Israel formally declared war against Hamas, starting an military operation in Gaza, the effect on global financial markets will depend on the involvement of other major regional powers. Until the date, if it remains contained and without military involvement of other countries, the impact on the global economy will be largely limited to higher oil prices. As of December 31, 2022, we did not operate in these countries. However, the Company is monitoring any possible effects which could result in operational and financial risks conditions.
International Operations1 | 2.1%
International Operations - Risk 1
Changed
A substantial portion of our revenue, operations and investments are in Latin America and we are therefore exposed to risks inherent in operating and investing in the region.
For the year ended December 31, 2022, we derived 42% of our revenue from the Americas and 41,2% from Brazil. Our operations and investments in the Americas and Brazil are subject to various risks related to the economic, political and social conditions of the countries in which we operate, including risks related to the following: - inconsistent regulations, licensing and legal requirements may increase our cost of operations as we endeavor to comply with myriad of laws that differ from one country to another in an unpredictable and adverse manner;- currencies may be devalued or may depreciate or currency restrictions or other restraints on transfer of funds may be imposed;- the effects of inflation and currency depreciation and fluctuation may require certain of our subsidiaries to undertake a mandatory recapitalization;- certain governments may expropriate or nationalize assets or increase their participation in companies;- certain governments may impose burdensome regulations, taxes or tariffs;- political changes may lead to changes in the business environments in which we operate.
Natural and Human Disruptions3 | 6.4%
Natural and Human Disruptions - Risk 1
Added
We have significant global operations and face risks related to health epidemics that could impact our sales and operating results.
Our business could be adversely affected by the effects of a widespread outbreak of contagious disease, as the recent outbreak of respiratory illness caused by coronavirus (COVID-19 virus). Any outbreak of contagious diseases, and other adverse public health developments, could have a material adverse effect on our business operations. These could include temporary closures of our facilities or the facilities of our customers (which may be mandated by local health or government authorities), a disruption of supply chain for our customers, the temporary suspension of operations by us or our customers, travel restrictions on our employees and other disruptions to our business. Additionally, because our revenues are, in part, tied to the revenues of our customers, any impact on the business or revenues of our customers may result in an impact on our own business or revenues. A significant outbreak of contagious diseases in the human population could result in a widespread health crisis that could adversely affect the economies and financial markets of many countries, resulting in an economic downturn that could affect demand for our services and likely impact our operating results and cash flows.
Natural and Human Disruptions - Risk 2
Added
The Company's results of operations, cash flows and financial condition could be affected by severe weather and other geological events in the locations where the Company's customers, suppliers or regulators operate.
The Company may be impacted by severe variability in weather patterns and other geological events (including as a result of climate change), including drought, earthquakes, storms, flood, fires, water deficiency, rising mean temperatures or rising sea levels, that could disrupt the Company's operations or the operations of the Company's customers, suppliers, data service providers and regulators. Extreme and prolonged changes in rainfall patterns and an increase in temperatures can influence production and droughts can influence the increase in fires and devastation. It may impair or delay the operation, development, provisions or delivery of the Company's products and services. Additionally, they can also cause a reduction in revenue and an increase in costs due to negative impacts on our employees, suppliers and customers, such as an increase in absenteeism. Additionally, disruptions experienced by the Company's regulators due to natural disasters or otherwise could delay the Company's introduction of new products or entry into new jurisdictions where regulatory approval is necessary. While the Company insures against certain business interruption risks, the Company cannot assure that such insurance will compensate the Company for any losses incurred because of natural or other disasters. Any serious disruption to the Company's operations, or those of the Company's customers, suppliers, data service providers, or regulators, could have a material adverse effect on the Company's results of operations, cash flows and financial condition. The current level of carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases in the atmosphere is a growing concern and it may cause adverse impacts on global temperatures, such as instability on weather patterns and the frequency and severity of extreme weather and natural disasters. It could result in increasing costs with energy, transportation and raw material costs and may require Company to make additional investments in facilities and equipment due to increased regulatory pressures.
Natural and Human Disruptions - Risk 3
Added
Natural events, including pandemics or disease outbreaks, wars, cyberattacks, terrorist attacks and other acts of violence involving any of the countries in which we or our clients have operations could adversely affect our operations and client confidence.
Natural events (such as floods, earthquakes and disease outbreaks), terrorist attacks and other acts of violence or war may adversely disrupt our operations, lead to economic weakness in the countries in which they occur and affect worldwide financial markets, and could potentially lead to economic recession in our markets, which could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations and prospects. These events could adversely affect our clients' levels of business activity and precipitate sudden significant changes in regional and global economic conditions and cycles. These events also pose significant risks to our people and to our business operations around the world. If we experience a temporary or permanent interruption in our operations at one or more of our data or contact centers, through natural disaster, casualties, operating malfunction, cyberattack, terrorist attack, sabotage or other causes, we may be unable to provide the services we are contractually committed to deliver. Failure to provide contracted services could result in contractual damages or clients' termination or renegotiation of their contracts. The results of these incidents could include, but are not limited to, business interruption, disclosure of non-public information, decreased customer revenues, misstated financial data, liability for stolen assets or information, increased cybersecurity protection costs, litigation and reputational damage adversely affecting customer confidence. Although we maintain internal controls to protect our company and our clients from events that could interrupt our delivery of services, there is no guarantee that such controls will be effective or that any interruption will not be prolonged. Any prolonged interruption in our ability to provide services to our clients for which our plans and precautions fail to adequately protect us could have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations and financial condition.
Capital Markets1 | 2.1%
Capital Markets - Risk 1
Added
Fluctuations in, or devaluation of, the local currencies in the countries in which we operate against the U.S. dollar could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations and prospects.
As of December 31, 2022, the majority of our revenue was generated in countries that use currencies other than the U.S. dollar, mostly the local currencies of the Latin American countries in which we operate (particularly, currencies such as the Brazilian Reais, the Mexican Peso, the Chilean Peso and the Argentinean Peso). Both Brazil and Mexico have experienced inflation and currency volatility in the past and Argentina is classified as a hyperinflationary economy. We report our financial results in U.S. dollars and our results of operations would be adversely affected if these local currencies depreciate significantly against the U.S. dollar, which may also affect the comparability of our financial results from period to period, as we convert our subsidiaries' statements of financial position into U.S. dollars from local currencies at the period-end exchange rate, and statements of operations and cash flows at average exchange rates for the year, except for Argentina. Conversely, where we provide offshore services to U.S. clients and our revenue is earned in U.S. dollars, an appreciation in the currency of the country in which the services are provided could result in an increase in our costs in proportion to the revenue we earn for those services. The exchange rates between these local currencies and the U.S. dollar have changed substantially in recent years and may fluctuate substantially in the future. For the years ended December 31, 2020, 2021 and 2022, these fluctuations had a significant effect on our results of operations. In addition, future government action, including changes in interest rates and monetary policy or intervention in the currency exchange markets and other government actions to adjust the value of the local currency may trigger inflation and other adverse economic conditions. For example, governmental measures to control inflation may include maintaining a tight monetary policy with high interest rates, thereby restricting the availability of credit and reducing economic growth. As a result, interest rates may fluctuate significantly. Furthermore, losses incurred based on the exchange rate used for reporting purposes may be exacerbated if regulatory restrictions are imposed when these currencies are converted into U.S. dollars. The occurrence of such fluctuations, devaluations or other currency risks could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations and prospects.
Production
Total Risks: 6/47 (13%)Below Sector Average
Manufacturing2 | 4.3%
Manufacturing - Risk 1
Added
Our ability to provide our services depends in part upon the quality and reliability of the facilities, machinery and equipment provided by our technology and telecommunications providers, our reliance on a limited number of suppliers of such technology and the services and products of our clients.
The success of our business depends in part on our ability to provide high quality and reliable services, which in part depends on the proper functioning of facilities, machinery, and equipment (including appropriate hardware and software and technological applications) provided by third parties and our reliance on a limited number of suppliers of such technology, and is, therefore, beyond our control. We also depend on the communication services provided by local communication companies in the countries in which we operate, and any significant disruptions in these services would adversely affect our business. If these or other third-party providers fail to maintain their equipment properly or fail to provide proper services in a timely or reliable manner our clients may experience service interruptions. If interruptions adversely affect our services or the perceived quality and reliability of our services, we may lose client relationships or be forced to make significant unplanned investments in the purchase of additional equipment from other providers to ensure that we can continue to provide high quality and reliable services to our clients. In addition, if one or more of the limited number of suppliers of our technology could not deliver or provide us with the requisite technology on a timely basis, our clients could suffer further interruptions. Any such interruptions may have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations and prospects. In addition, in some areas of our business, we depend upon the quality and reliability of the services and products of our clients which we help to sell to their end-customers. If the services and products we provide to our clients experience technical difficulties, we may have a harder time selling these services and products to other clients, which may have an adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations and prospects.
Manufacturing - Risk 2
Added
If our services do not comply with the quality standards required by our clients or we are in breach of our obligations under our agreements with our clients, our clients may assert claims for reduced payments to us or substantial damages against us, which could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations and prospects.
Most of our contracts with clients contain service level and performance requirements, including requirements relating to the quality of our services and the timing and quality of responses to the client's customer inquiries. In some cases, the quality of services that we provide is measured by quality assurance indicators and surveys which are based in part on the results of direct monitoring by our clients of interactions between our employees and their customers. Failure to consistently meet service requirements of a customer or errors made by our employees while delivering services to customers could disrupt our client's business and result in a reduction in revenue or a claim for substantial damages against us. For example, some of our agreements stipulate standards of service that, if not met by us, would result in lower payments to us. We also enter variable pricing arrangements with certain clients and the quality of services provided may be a component of the calculation of the total amounts received from such clients under these arrangements. In addition, in connection with our service contracts, certain representations may be made, including representations relating to the quality of our services, the ability of our employees and our project management techniques. A failure or inability to meet these requirements or a breach of such representations could seriously damage our reputation and affect our ability to attract new business or result in a claim for damages against us, which could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations and prospects.
Employment / Personnel4 | 8.5%
Employment / Personnel - Risk 1
We are a party to a number of labor disputes related to our operations mainly in Brazil.
Atento has been named in numerous labor-related disputes initiated by Atento's employees or former employees for various reasons, including dismissals or claims concerning employment conditions, in general, our internal structuring, reorganizations and operational shutdowns. In addition, we are regularly party to ongoing disputes with local tax authorities and social security authorities in the jurisdictions in which we operate. In the normal course of business, we are also party to various other lawsuits and regulatory proceedings, including, among other matters, daily and general work routines, overtime rules, health and safety in the workplace, and commercial claims. The estimated amount involved in these claims total $53.9 million, of which $13.5 million have been classified as probable, $28.2 million classified as possible and $12.2 million classified as remote, based on inputs from external and internal advisors as well as historical statistics. In connection with such disputes, Atento Brasil and its affiliates have, in accordance with local laws, deposited $17.2 million with the Brazilian courts as security for claims made by employees or former employees. In addition, considering the levels of litigation in Brazil and our experience with these types of claims, as of December 31, 2022, we have recognized around nine million dollars of provisions. If our provisions for any labor claims against Atento are insufficient or these claims rise significantly in the future, this could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations and prospects. See "Item 8. Financial Information-A. Consolidated Statements and Other Financial Information-Legal Proceedings".
Employment / Personnel - Risk 2
Our success depends on our key employees.
Our success depends on the continued service and performance of our executive officers and other key personnel in each of our business units and corporate sites. There is competition for experienced senior management and personnel with expertise in the CRM BPO industry, and we may not be able to retain our key personnel or recruit skilled personnel with appropriate qualifications and experience. Although we have entered into employment contracts with our executive officers, it may not be possible to require specific performance under a contract for personal services, and in any event, these agreements do not ensure the continued service of these executive officers. The loss of key members of our personnel, particularly to competitors, could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations and prospects. See discussion of this cybersecurity incident in our Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations.
Employment / Personnel - Risk 3
Added
If we experience challenges with respect to labor relations, our overall operating costs and profitability could be adversely affected and our reputation could be harmed.
While we believe we have good relations with our employees, any work disruptions or collective labor actions may have an adverse impact on our services. Collective bargaining agreements are generally renegotiated every one to three years with the principal labor unions in many of the countries in which we operate. If these labor negotiations are not successful or we otherwise fail to maintain good relations with employees, we could suffer a strike or other significant work stoppage or other form of industrial action, which could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations, prospects and reputation.
Employment / Personnel - Risk 4
Added
Increases in employee expenses as well as changes to labor laws could reduce our profit margin.
Employee benefit expenses are our largest expense and accounted for $1,060.4 million in 2020, $1,102.7 million in 2021 and $1,087.9 million in 2022, or 75.1%, 76.1% and 78.3%, respectively, of our revenue in those periods. Employee salaries and benefits expenses in many of the countries in which we operate, principally in Latin America, have increased during the periods presented in this Annual Report as a result of economic growth, changes in applicable laws, increased demand for CRM BPO services and increased competition for trained employees such as employees at our service delivery centers in Latin America. We will attempt to control costs associated with salaries and benefits as we continue to add capacity, but we may not be successful in doing so. We may need to increase salaries more significantly and rapidly than in previous periods to remain competitive, which may have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations and prospects. Wage increases or other expenses related to the termination of our employees may reduce our profit margins and have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations and prospects. If we expand our operations into new jurisdictions, we may be subject to increased operating costs, including higher employee benefit expenses in these new jurisdictions relative to our current operating costs, which could have a negative effect on our results of operations. Furthermore, most of the countries in which we operate have labor protection laws, including statutorily mandated minimum annual wage increases, legislation that imposes financial obligations on employers and laws governing the employment of workers. These labor laws in one or more of the key jurisdictions in which we operate, particularly Brazil, may be modified in the future in a way that is detrimental to our business. If these labor laws become more stringent, or if there are continued increases in statutory minimum wages or higher labor costs in these jurisdictions, it may become more difficult for us to discharge employees or cost effectively downsize our operations as our level of activity fluctuates, both of which would likely have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations and prospects. In particular, Brazil regulators have approved changes in the payroll exemption policy, which benefited most of the country´s sectors. The modifications were made by Law 13,670, dated May 30, 2018. Taxation on the gross revenue of call center companies, with a 3% tax on gross revenue, was maintained. In 2021, by Law 14.288/21 an extension of the benefit was made and will be in force at least 2023. In 2023 by Law 334/2023, the Brazilian regulators began a discussion for an extension of the benefit until 2027, currently is under brazilian president approval. For our economic activity, it is much more advantageous to collect a portion ranging from 1% to 4.5% on gross revenue, called Social Security Contribution on Gross Revenue (CPRB), as stipulated by the law, than to collect a 20% social security contribution on total payroll, as occurs with companies outside the tax exemption system.
Ability to Sell
Total Risks: 6/47 (13%)Below Sector Average
Competition1 | 2.1%
Competition - Risk 1
The CRM BPO market is very competitive.
Our industry is very competitive, and we expect competition to remain intense from several sources in the future. We believe the principal competitive factors in the markets in which we operate are industry expertise, service quality, price, and the ability to add value to a client's business. We face competition primarily from other CRM BPO companies and IT services companies. In addition, the trend toward offshore outsourcing, international expansion by foreign and domestic competitors and continued technological changes may result in new and different competitors entering our existing markets. These competitors may include entrants from the communications, software and data networking industries or entrants in geographical locations with lower costs than those in which we operate. Some of these existing and future competitors may have greater financial, human and other resources, longer operating histories, greater technological expertise and more established relationships in the industries that we currently serve or may serve in the future. In addition, some of our competitors may enter strategic or commercial relationships among themselves or with larger, more established companies to increase their ability to address the needs of existing customers and reduce operating costs or enter similar arrangements with potential clients. Further, trends of consolidation in our industry and among CRM BPO competitors may result in new competitors with greater scale, a broader geographic footprint, better technologies and price efficiencies attractive to our clients and potential clients. Increased competition, our inability to compete successfully, and pricing pressures or loss of market share could result in reduced operating profit margins which could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations and prospects.
Demand2 | 4.3%
Demand - Risk 1
Added
If our clients decide to enter or further expand their own CRM BPO businesses in the future or current trends towards providing CRM BPO services and/or outsourcing activities slow or are reversed, it may materially adversely affect our business, results of operations, financial condition and prospects.
None of our current agreements with our clients prevent them from competing with us in our CRM BPO business and none of our clients have entered any non-compete agreements with us. Our current clients may seek to provide CRM BPO services similar to those we provide. Some clients conduct CRM BPO services for other parts of their own businesses and for third parties. Any decision by our key clients to enter into or further expand their CRM BPO business activities in the future could cause us to lose valuable clients and suppliers and may materially adversely affect our business, financial condition, results of operations and prospects. Moreover, we have based our strategy of future growth on certain assumptions regarding our industry, legal framework, services and future demand in the market for such services. However, the trend to outsource business processes may not continue and could be reversed by factors beyond our control, including negative perceptions of outsourcing activities or government regulations against outsourcing activities. In addition, our business may be adversely affected by potential new laws and regulations prohibiting or limiting outsourcing of certain core business activities of our clients in key jurisdictions in which we conduct our business, such as in Brazil. The introduction of such laws and regulations or a change in interpretation of existing laws and regulations could adversely affect our business, financial condition, results of operations and prospects.
Demand - Risk 2
Added
Telefónica S.A., certain of its affiliates and a few other major clients account for a significant portion of our revenue and any loss of a large portion of business from these clients could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations and prospects.
We derive a significant portion of our revenue from companies within Telefónica S.A. group and other major client groups. For the years ended December 31, 2020, 2021 and 2022, we generated 31.8%, 32.0% and 31.7%, respectively, of our revenue from the services provided to the Telefónica S.A. group. Our contracts with Telefónica S.A. companies in Brazil and Spain comprised 56.5%, 56.1% and 57.5%, respectively, of our revenue from Telefónica S.A. group for the years ended December 31, 2020, 2021 and 2022. Our 15 largest client groups (including Telefónica S.A. group) on a consolidated basis accounted for a total of 64% of our revenue for the year ended December 31, 2022. We are party to a master services agreement (the "MSA") with Telefónica S.A. for the provision of certain CRM BPO services to Telefónica S.A. companies which governs the services agreements entered with Telefónica S.A. companies. Although the MSA is an umbrella agreement which governs our services agreements with Telefónica S.A. companies, the expiration of the MSA does not automatically result in a termination of any of the local services agreements in force after those dates. While our service contracts with the Telefónica S.A. companies have traditionally been renewed, there can be no assurance that such contracts will be renewed upon their expiration. As of the date of this report The company completed the renegotiation with Telefónica S.A for a renewal of MSA agreements including an extension for more two years until December 31, 2025. In addition, there can be no assurance that the volume of work to be performed by us for the various Telefónica S.A. companies will not vary significantly from year to year in the aggregate, particularly since we are not the exclusive outsourcing provider for the Telefónica S.A. Consequently, our revenue or margins from the Telefónica S.A. may decrease in the future. A number of factors other than the price and quality of our work and the services we provide could result in the loss or reduction of business from Telefónica S.A. companies, including the impacts of adverse macro-economic conditions on Telefónica S.A.'s business, and we cannot predict the timing or occurrence of any such event. For example, a Telefónica S.A. company may demand price reductions, increased quality standards, change its CRM BPO strategy, or under certain circumstances transfer some or all the work and services we currently provide to Telefónica S.A. own structure. The loss of a significant part of our revenue derived from these clients, particularly Telefónica S.A., as a result of the occurrence of one or more of the above events would have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations and prospects.
Sales & Marketing3 | 6.4%
Sales & Marketing - Risk 1
Added
We have a long selling cycle for our CRM BPO services that requires significant investments and management resources, and a long implementation cycle that requires significant resource commitments.
We have a long selling cycle for our CRM BPO services, which requires significant investment of capital, resources, and time by both our clients and us. Before committing to use our services, potential clients require us to spend substantial time and resources educating them as to the value of our services and assessing the feasibility of integrating our systems and processes with theirs. Our clients then evaluate our services before deciding whether to use them. Therefore, our selling cycle, which generally ranges from six to 12 months, is subject to many risks and delays over which we have little or no control, including our clients' decision to choose alternatives to our services (such as other providers or in-house offshore resources) and the timing of our clients' budget cycles and approval processes. Implementing our services involves a significant commitment of resources over an extended time from both our clients and us. Our clients may also experience delays in obtaining internal approvals or delays associated with technology or system implementations, thereby delaying further the implementation process. Our current and future clients may not be willing or able to invest the time and resources necessary to implement our services, and we may fail to close sales with potential clients to which we have devoted significant time and resources, which could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations and prospects.
Sales & Marketing - Risk 2
Our profitability will suffer if we are not able to maintain our pricing and/or control costs.
Our profit margins, and therefore our profitability, is largely a function of our level of activity and the rates we are able to charge for our services. If we are unable to maintain the pricing for our services and/or an appropriate seat utilization rate, without corresponding cost reductions, our profitability will decline. The pricing and levels of activity we are able to achieve are affected by a number of factors, including our clients' perceptions of our ability to add value through our services, the length of time it takes for service volume of new clients to ramp up, competition, the introduction of new services or products by us or our competitors, our ability to accurately estimate, attain and sustain revenue from client contracts, margins and cash flows over increasingly longer contract periods and general economic and political conditions.
Sales & Marketing - Risk 3
Our key clients have significant leverage over our business relationships, upon which we are dependent.
We are dependent upon the business relationships we have developed with our clients. Our service contracts generally allow our clients to modify such relationships and our commensurate level of work. Typically, the initial term of our service contracts is one to two years. Generally, our specific service contracts provide for early termination, in some cases without cause, by either party, provided 30 to 90 days prior written notice is given. Clients may also unilaterally reduce the use and number of services under our contracts without penalty. The termination or reduction in services by a substantial percentage or a significant reduction in the price of these contracts could adversely affect our business and reduce our margins. The revenue generated from our 15 largest client groups (including Telefónica S.A. companies) for the year ended December 31, 2022 represented 64% of our revenue. Excluding revenue generated from the Telefónica S.A., our next 15 largest client groups for the year ended December 31, 2022 represented in aggregate 34,6% of our revenue. In addition, a contract termination or significant reduction in the services contracted with us by a major client could result in a higher-than-expected number of unassigned employees, which would increase our employee benefit expenses associated with terminating employees. We may not be able to replace any major client that elects to terminate or not to renew its contract with us, which would have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations and prospects.
Legal & Regulatory
Total Risks: 5/47 (11%)Below Sector Average
Regulation2 | 4.3%
Regulation - Risk 1
Added
Our business operations are subject to various regulations and changes to these regulations or enactment of new regulations could require us to make additional expenditures, restrict our business operations or expose us to significant fines or penalties in the case of noncompliance with such regulations.
Our business operations must be conducted in accordance with several sometimes-conflicting government regulations, including but not limited to, data protection laws and consumer laws, and labor conditions laws, as well as trade restrictions and sanctions, tariffs, taxation, data privacy and labor relations. Furthermore, specific sectorial regulation may also affect our activities and have a material impact on our revenues. In Mexico the so-called labor outsourcing law was approved in 2021 which has had a considerable impact on our business activities in that country. Other Latin American countries may approve similar regulations in the coming years which may also have a material impact on our business. In addition to the above, Atento is also subject to data protection laws, which we are typically required to manage, protect, utilize and store sensitive or confidential customer data in connection with the services we provide. Under the terms of our client contracts, we represent that we will keep such information confidential in compliance with regulations. Furthermore, we are subject to local data protection laws, consumer laws and/or "do not call list" regulations in most of the countries in which we operate, all of which may require us to make additional expenditures to ensure compliance with these regulations. We also believe that we will be subject to additional laws and regulations in the future that may be stricter than those currently in force to protect consumers and end users. We seek to implement measures to protect sensitive and confidential customer data in accordance with client contracts and data protection laws and consumer laws. If any person, including any of our employees, penetrates our network security or otherwise mismanages or misappropriates sensitive or confidential customer data, we could be subject to significant fines for breaching privacy or data protection and consumer laws or lawsuits from our clients or their customers for breaching contractual confidentiality provisions which could result in negative publicity, legal liability, loss of clients and damage to our reputation, each of which could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations and prospects. In addition, our business operations may be impacted if current regulations are made stricter or more broadly applied or if new regulations are adopted. Violations of these regulations could impact on our reputation and result in financial liability, criminal prosecution, unfavorable publicity, restrictions on our ability to process information and breach of our contractual commitments. Any broadening of current regulations or the introduction of new regulations may require us to make additional expenditures, restrict our business operations or expose us to significant fines or penalties, even the temporary shut down on our facilities. Any such violations or changes in regulations could, as a result, have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations and prospects.
Regulation - Risk 2
Luxembourg insolvency laws may offer our shareholders less protection than they would have under U.S. insolvency laws.
As a company organized under the laws of the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg and with our registered office in Luxembourg, we are subject to Luxembourg insolvency laws in the event any insolvency proceedings are initiated against us including, among other things, Regulation (EU) 2015/848 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 20 May 2015 on insolvency proceedings. Should courts in another European country determine that the insolvency laws of that country apply to us in accordance with and subject to such EU regulations, the courts in that country could have jurisdiction over the insolvency proceedings initiated against us. Insolvency laws in Luxembourg or the relevant other European country, if any, may offer our shareholders less protection than they would have under U.S. insolvency laws and make it more difficult for them to recover the amount they could expect to recover in a liquidation under U.S. insolvency laws.
Taxation & Government Incentives3 | 6.4%
Taxation & Government Incentives - Risk 1
Added
We may be classified as a passive foreign investment company, which could result in adverse U.S. federal income tax consequences to U.S. Holders of our ordinary shares.
Based on the composition of our income, assets and operations, we do not expect to be treated as a passive foreign investment company ("PFIC") for U.S. federal income tax purposes for the current taxable year or in the foreseeable future. However, the application of the PFIC rules is subject to uncertainty in several respects, and we cannot assure you the U.S. Internal Revenue Service will not take a contrary position. Furthermore, this is a factual determination that must be made annually after the close of each taxable year. If we are a PFIC for any taxable year during which a "U.S. Holder" a beneficial owner of ordinary shares that is for U.S. federal income tax purposes: (a) an individual who is a citizen or resident of the U.S.; (b) a corporation (or other entity taxable as a corporation for U.S. federal income tax purposes) created or organized in or under the laws of the U.S., any state thereof or the District of Columbia; (c) an estate the income of which is subject to U.S. federal income taxation regardless of its source; or (d) a trust (i) if a court within the U.S. can exercise primary supervision over its administration, and one or more U.S. persons have the authority to control all of the substantial decisions of that trust, or (ii) that was in existence on August 20, 1996 and validly elected under applicable Treasury Regulations to continue to be treated as a domestic trust that holds our ordinary shares, certain adverse U.S. federal income tax consequences could apply to such U.S. Holder.
Taxation & Government Incentives - Risk 2
Added
Tax matters, new legislation, the interpretation thereof and actions by tax authorities may have an adverse effect on our operations, effective tax rate, inability to utilize tax credits available to us, financial condition, results of operations and prospects.
We may not be able to predict our future tax liabilities due to the international nature of our operations, as we are subject to the complex and varying tax laws and rules of several foreign jurisdictions. Our results of operations and financial condition could be adversely affected if tax contingencies are resolved adversely or if we become subject to increased levels of taxation. We are subject to tax laws in numerous foreign jurisdictions where we operate. The integrated nature of our worldwide operations can produce conflicting claims from revenue authorities in different countries as to the profits to be taxed in the individual countries, including disputes relating to transfer pricing. Our tax expense and cash tax liability in the future could be adversely affected by numerous factors, including, but not limited to, changes in tax laws, regulations, accounting principles or interpretations and the potential adverse outcome of tax examinations and pending tax related litigation. Changes in the valuation of deferred tax assets and liabilities, which may result from a decline in our profitability or changes in tax rates or legislation, could have a material adverse effect on our tax expense, or in our capacity to take advantage of operating losses or other tax credits. The governments of foreign jurisdictions from which we deliver services may assert that certain of our clients have a "permanent establishment" in such foreign jurisdictions because of the activities we perform on their behalf, particularly those clients that exercise control over or have substantial dependency on our services. Such an assertion could affect the size and scope of the services requested by such clients in the future. Transfer pricing regulations to which we are subject require that any transaction among us and our subsidiaries be on arm's length terms. If the applicable tax authorities were to determine that the transactions among us and our subsidiaries do not meet arm's length criteria, we may incur increased tax liability, including accrued interest and penalties. Such adverse determinations and changes in tax laws or regulations could increase our tax expenses. The Mexican government enacted labor and tax laws in April 2021 that prohibit the outsourcing of workers. Mexico's outsourcing regulation is designed to bring more workers into Mexico's formal economy and to reclaim the rights of workers who have not received adequate protection as subcontractors. In the context of our entities in Mexico, regulations on outsourcing have direct financial and operational impact due to the process of directly employing our own workforce and to reallocating employees to another group's affiliates in Mexico.
Taxation & Government Incentives - Risk 3
Added
If we are unable to accurately predict our future tax liabilities or become subject to increased levels of taxation or our tax contingencies are unfavorably resolved, our results of operations and financial condition could be adversely affected.
Due to the global nature of our operations, we are subject to the complex and varying tax laws and rules of several jurisdictions and have material tax-related contingent liabilities that are difficult to predict or quantify. In preparing our financial statements, we calculate our effective income tax rate based on current tax laws and regulations and our estimated taxable income within each of these jurisdictions. Any changes in tax laws or regulations in the jurisdictions in which we do business, including the United States and Brazil, or changes in how the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act in United States or other tax laws are implemented or interpreted, could further increase our effective tax rate, further restrict our ability to repatriate undistributed offshore earnings, or impose new restrictions, costs or prohibitions on our current practices and reduce our results of operations and adversely affect our cash flows. We may be unable even to take advantage of operating losses or other tax credits to the full extent available or at all due to changes in tax regulations or our results of operations. In the recent years, tax authorities around the world have increased their scrutiny of company tax fillings and have become more rigid in exercising any discretion they may have. As part of this, the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development ("OECD") has proposed a number of tax laws changes under its Base Erosion and Profit Shifting ("BEPS") Action Plans to address issues of transparency, coherence and substance. At the European Union level, the European Commission has adopted its Anti-Tax avoidance Directive ("ATAD"), which seeks to prevent tax avoidance by companies and to ensure that companies pay appropriate taxes in the markets where profits are effectively made, and business is effectively performed. In this context on December 22, 2021, the European Commission presented its proposed directive for the implementation of a 15% global minimum tax rate. We are also subject to tax inspections, including with respect to transfer pricing, and our tax positions may be challenged by tax authorities. Although we believe that our current tax provisions are reasonable and appropriate, there can be no assurance that these items will be settled for the amounts accrued, that additional tax exposures will not be identified in the future or that additional tax reserves will not be necessary for any such exposures. Any increase in the amount of taxation incurred as a result of challenges to our tax filing positions could result in a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations and financial condition. Prompted by Brazil's current economic and political turmoil, the tax authorities have intensified the number of tax inspections. The judicial and administrative courts, for their part, have been extremely careful in ruling out tax liabilities. As a result, several tax issues are now on their agenda, including goodwill amortization expenses and corporate restructuring and tax planning, to name a few. Given this scenario, there are risks and uncertainties regarding the decisions taken by the Conselho Administrativo de Recursos Fiscais (the Brazilian Tax Appeal Administrative Council, "CARF"), which could negatively impact the Brazil tax environment and consequently us.
Tech & Innovation
Total Risks: 3/47 (6%)Below Sector Average
Cyber Security1 | 2.1%
Cyber Security - Risk 1
Added
Cyberattacks and operational frauds, including unauthorized disclosure of sensitive or confidential client and customer data, whether through breach of our computer systems or otherwise, could expose us to protracted and costly litigation and cause us to lose clients.
There are risks related to losing clients, reputational harm and increases of global insurance policy premiums due to operational frauds. Atento delivers its services to its clients through a complex technological platform that integrates many aspects of information technology, including powerful telephonic, hardware and software. The Company ensures that requisite security and insurance coverage are applied in the context of its activities. The Company requests that each subsidiary adhere to internal data security and protection standards, as well as to international security and quality standards, however in our regular course of business Atento operates client systems that might not comply with our Company's IT Security rules. While we take actions to improve our controls, it is possible that our technology controls over our client's operations and other practices we follow may not prevent fraud on our platforms. If any person, including any of our employees, negligently disregards or intentionally breaches our established controls with respect to such data or otherwise mismanages or misappropriates that data, we could be subject to monetary damages, fines and/or criminal prosecution. Failure of security controls related to client or customer information and data, whether through system failure, employee negligence, fraud or misappropriation, could damage our reputation and cause us to lose clients. We are typically required to collect sensitive data in connection with our services, including names, addresses, social security numbers, credit card account numbers, checking and savings account numbers and payment history records, such as account closures and returned checks. As the complexity of information infrastructure continues to grow, the potential risk of security breaches and cyberattacks increases. Such breaches can lead to shutdowns or system interruptions, and potential unauthorized disclosure of sensitive or confidential information. We are also subject to numerous laws and regulations designed to protect this information. Laws and regulations that impact on our business are increasing in complexity, change frequently, and at times conflict among the various jurisdictions where we do business. In addition, many of our service agreements with our clients do not include any limitation on our liability to clients with respect to breaches of our obligation to keep the information we receive confidential. We take precautions to protect confidential client and customer data. Penetration of the network security of our data centers could have a negative impact on our reputation, which could have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations, financial condition and prospects. In 2021, the Company was the target of a cybersecurity incident which disrupted our IT systems in Brazil. As a result of detection measures already in place, we detected the attempted cybersecurity attack on these systems and implemented procedures to isolate and suspend access to the systems and those of customers in Brazil, in order to avoid risks associated with sensitive and confidential data and information collected by Atento, procedures that prevented unauthorized access to this data and information. However, we may be subject to future cybersecurity or IT attacks or disruptions in the future, and there is no guarantee that we will timely detect, prevent, or mitigate the effects of such attacks. Such attacks could result in the temporary suspension of services provided to clients or the broader disruptions of our business operations.
Technology2 | 4.3%
Technology - Risk 1
Added
Our business depends in part on our capacity to invest in technology and the costs of technology and telecommunications services, which we rely on from third parties, could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations and prospects.
The CRM BPO industry in which we operate is subject to the periodic introduction of new technologies which often can enable us to service our clients more efficiently and cost effectively. Our business success is partly linked to our ability to recognize these new technological innovations from industry-leading providers of such technologies and to apply these technological innovations to our business. If we do not recognize the importance of new technologies to our business in a timely manner or are not committed to investing in and developing such new technologies and applying these to our business, our current products and services may be less attractive to existing and new clients, and we may lose market share to competitors who have recognized these trends and invested in such technologies. There can be no assurance that we will have sufficient capacity or capital to meet these challenges. Any such failure to recognize the importance of such technologies or a decision not to invest and develop such technologies that keeps pace with evolving industry standards and changing client demands could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations and prospects. In addition, any increases in the cost of telecommunications services and products provided by third parties, including telecommunications equipment, software, IT products and related IT services and call center workstations have a direct effect on our operating costs. The cost of telecommunications services is subject to several factors, including changes in regulations and the telecommunications market as well as competitive factors, for example, the concentration and bargaining power of technology and telecommunications suppliers, most of which are beyond our control or which we cannot predict. The increase in the costs of these essential services and products could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations and prospects.
Technology - Risk 2
Added
Damage or disruptions to our key technology systems and facilities either through events beyond or within our control that adversely affect our clients' businesses, could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations and prospects.
Our key technology systems and facilities may be damaged in natural disasters such as earthquakes or fires or subject to damage or compromise from human error, technical disruptions, power failure, computer glitches and viruses, telecommunications failures, adverse weather conditions and other unforeseen events, all of which are beyond our control, or through bad service or poor performance which are within our control. Such events may cause disruptions to information systems, electrical power and telephone service for sustained periods. Any significant failure, damage or destruction of our equipment or systems, or any major disruptions to basic infrastructure such as power and telecommunications systems in the locations in which we operate, could impede our ability to provide services to our clients and thus adversely affect their businesses, have a negative impact on our reputation and may cause us to incur substantial additional expenses to repair or replace damaged equipment or facilities. While we currently have property damage insurance and cyberattack insurance in force, our insurance coverage may not be sufficient to guarantee costs of repairing the damage caused from such disruptive events and such events may not be covered under our policies. Prolonged disruption of our services, even if due to events beyond our control, could also entitle our clients to terminate their contracts with us, which would have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations and prospects.
See a full breakdown of risk according to category and subcategory. The list starts with the category with the most risk. Click on subcategories to read relevant extracts from the most recent report.

FAQ

What are “Risk Factors”?
Risk factors are any situations or occurrences that could make investing in a company risky.
    The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) requires that publicly traded companies disclose their most significant risk factors. This is so that potential investors can consider any risks before they make an investment.
      They also offer companies protection, as a company can use risk factors as liability protection. This could happen if a company underperforms and investors take legal action as a result.
        It is worth noting that smaller companies, that is those with a public float of under $75 million on the last business day, do not have to include risk factors in their 10-K and 10-Q forms, although some may choose to do so.
          How do companies disclose their risk factors?
          Publicly traded companies initially disclose their risk factors to the SEC through their S-1 filings as part of the IPO process.
            Additionally, companies must provide a complete list of risk factors in their Annual Reports (Form 10-K) or (Form 20-F) for “foreign private issuers”.
              Quarterly Reports also include a section on risk factors (Form 10-Q) where companies are only required to update any changes since the previous report.
                According to the SEC, risk factors should be reported concisely, logically and in “plain English” so investors can understand them.
                  How can I use TipRanks risk factors in my stock research?
                  Use the Risk Factors tab to get data about the risk factors of any company in which you are considering investing.
                    You can easily see the most significant risks a company is facing. Additionally, you can find out which risk factors a company has added, removed or adjusted since its previous disclosure. You can also see how a company’s risk factors compare to others in its sector.
                      Without reading company reports or participating in conference calls, you would most likely not have access to this sort of information, which is usually not included in press releases or other public announcements.
                        A simplified analysis of risk factors is unique to TipRanks.
                          What are all the risk factor categories?
                          TipRanks has identified 6 major categories of risk factors and a number of subcategories for each. You can see how these categories are broken down in the list below.
                          1. Financial & Corporate
                          • Accounting & Financial Operations - risks related to accounting loss, value of intangible assets, financial statements, value of intangible assets, financial reporting, estimates, guidance, company profitability, dividends, fluctuating results.
                          • Share Price & Shareholder Rights – risks related to things that impact share prices and the rights of shareholders, including analyst ratings, major shareholder activity, trade volatility, liquidity of shares, anti-takeover provisions, international listing, dual listing.
                          • Debt & Financing – risks related to debt, funding, financing and interest rates, financial investments.
                          • Corporate Activity and Growth – risks related to restructuring, M&As, joint ventures, execution of corporate strategy, strategic alliances.
                          2. Legal & Regulatory
                          • Litigation and Legal Liabilities – risks related to litigation/ lawsuits against the company.
                          • Regulation – risks related to compliance, GDPR, and new legislation.
                          • Environmental / Social – risks related to environmental regulation and to data privacy.
                          • Taxation & Government Incentives – risks related to taxation and changes in government incentives.
                          3. Production
                          • Costs – risks related to costs of production including commodity prices, future contracts, inventory.
                          • Supply Chain – risks related to the company’s suppliers.
                          • Manufacturing – risks related to the company’s manufacturing process including product quality and product recalls.
                          • Human Capital – risks related to recruitment, training and retention of key employees, employee relationships & unions labor disputes, pension, and post retirement benefits, medical, health and welfare benefits, employee misconduct, employee litigation.
                          4. Technology & Innovation
                          • Innovation / R&D – risks related to innovation and new product development.
                          • Technology – risks related to the company’s reliance on technology.
                          • Cyber Security – risks related to securing the company’s digital assets and from cyber attacks.
                          • Trade Secrets & Patents – risks related to the company’s ability to protect its intellectual property and to infringement claims against the company as well as piracy and unlicensed copying.
                          5. Ability to Sell
                          • Demand – risks related to the demand of the company’s goods and services including seasonality, reliance on key customers.
                          • Competition – risks related to the company’s competition including substitutes.
                          • Sales & Marketing – risks related to sales, marketing, and distribution channels, pricing, and market penetration.
                          • Brand & Reputation – risks related to the company’s brand and reputation.
                          6. Macro & Political
                          • Economy & Political Environment – risks related to changes in economic and political conditions.
                          • Natural and Human Disruptions – risks related to catastrophes, floods, storms, terror, earthquakes, coronavirus pandemic/COVID-19.
                          • International Operations – risks related to the global nature of the company.
                          • Capital Markets – risks related to exchange rates and trade, cryptocurrency.
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