tiprankstipranks
Betterware De Mexico, S.A. De C.V (BWMX)
:BWMX
US Market
Holding BWMX?
Track your performance easily

Betterware de Mexico (BWMX) Risk Factors

130 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.

Betterware de Mexico disclosed 45 risk factors in its most recent earnings report. Betterware de Mexico reported the most risks in the “Legal & Regulatory” category.

Risk Overview Q4, 2023

Risk Distribution
45Risks
29% Legal & Regulatory
24% Finance & Corporate
22% Macro & Political
9% Production
9% Ability to Sell
7% 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

S&P500 Average
Sector Average
Risks removed
Risks added
Risks changed
Betterware de Mexico 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, 2023

Main Risk Category
Legal & Regulatory
With 13 Risks
Legal & Regulatory
With 13 Risks
Number of Disclosed Risks
45
S&P 500 Average: 31
45
S&P 500 Average: 31
Recent Changes
3Risks added
2Risks removed
9Risks changed
Since Dec 2023
3Risks added
2Risks removed
9Risks changed
Since Dec 2023
Number of Risk Changed
9
S&P 500 Average: 3
9
S&P 500 Average: 3
See the risk highlights of Betterware de Mexico 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 45

Legal & Regulatory
Total Risks: 13/45 (29%)Above Sector Average
Regulation8 | 17.8%
Regulation - Risk 1
Changed
The regulatory environment in which we operate is evolving, and our operations may be modified or otherwise adversely affected by regulatory changes, subjective interpretations of laws or an inability to work effectively with national and local government agencies.
Although we review applicable local laws in developing our plans, our efforts to comply with them may be harmed by an evolving regulatory climate and subjective interpretation of laws by the authorities. Any determination that our operations or activities are not in compliance with applicable regulations could negatively impact our business and our reputation with regulators in the markets in which we operate.
Regulation - Risk 2
Changed
Laws and regulations may restrict our direct sales efforts and adversely affect our revenue and profitability.
Various government agencies throughout the world regulate direct sales practices. These laws and regulations are generally intended to prevent fraudulent or deceptive schemes, often referred to as "pyramid" schemes, that compensate participants for recruiting additional participants irrespective of product sales and/or which do not involve legitimate products. The laws and regulations in our current markets often: - impose on us order cancellations, product returns, inventory buy-backs and cooling-off rights for consumers, distributors, leaders and consultants;- require us or our distributors, leaders and consultants to register with governmental agencies;- impose on us reporting requirements to regulatory agencies; and/or - require us to ensure that distributors, leaders and consultants are not being compensated solely based upon the recruitment of new of them. Complying with these rules and regulations can be difficult and requires the devotion of significant resources on the Group's part. In addition, Mexico could change its laws or regulations to negatively affect or prohibit completely network or direct sales efforts. Government agencies and courts in Mexico may also use their powers and discretion in interpreting and applying laws in a manner that limits our ability to operate or otherwise harms our business. If any governmental authority were to bring a regulatory enforcement action against the Group that interrupts our business, our revenue and earnings would likely suffer.
Regulation - Risk 3
Our business and results of operations may be adversely affected by the increased strain on our resources from complying with the reporting, disclosure and other requirements applicable to public companies in the United States promulgated by the U.S. Government, Nasdaq or other relevant regulatory authorities.
Compliance with existing, new and changing corporate governance and public disclosure requirements adds uncertainty to our compliance policies and increases our costs of compliance. Changing laws, regulations and standards include those relating to accounting, corporate governance and public disclosure, including the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act, the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, new SEC regulations and the Nasdaq listing guidelines. Application of these laws, regulations and guidelines may evolve over time as new guidance is provided by regulatory and governing bodies. In particular, compliance with Section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 ("Section 404") and related regulations regarding required assessment of internal controls over financial reporting and our external auditor's audit of that assessment, requires the commitment of significant financial and managerial resources. We also expect the regulations to increase our legal and financial compliance costs and to make it more difficult to attract and retain qualified officers and members of our board of directors, particularly to serve on our audit committee, and make some activities more difficult, time-consuming and costly. Existing, new and changing corporate governance and public disclosure requirements could result in continuing uncertainty regarding compliance matters and higher costs of compliance as a result of ongoing revisions to such governance standards. Our efforts to comply with evolving laws, regulations and standards have resulted in, and are likely to continue to result in, increased general and administrative expenses. In addition, new laws, regulations and standards regarding corporate governance may make it more difficult for our company to obtain director and officer liability insurance. Further, our board members and senior management could face an increased risk of personal liability in connection with their performance of their duties. As a result, we may face difficulties attracting and retaining qualified board members and senior management, which could harm our business. If we fail to comply with new or changed laws or regulations and standards differ, our business and reputation may be materially adversely affected.
Regulation - Risk 4
Our products are subject to federal, state and international regulations that could have a material adverse effect on our business, prospects, results of operations, financial condition and/or cash flows.
Our business is subject to numerous laws, regulations and trade policies. We are subject to regulation by the FTC and the FDA in the U.S., as well as various other federal, state, local and foreign regulatory authorities, including those in the countries in which the Company operates. Our facility located in Queretaro, Mexico is registered with the FDA as a drug manufacturing establishment, permitting the manufacture of cosmetics and other beauty-care products that contain over-the-counter drug ingredients, such as sunscreens, anti-perspirant deodorants and anti-dandruff hair-care products. Regulations in the U.S., the EU, Canada and other countries in which we operate are designed to protect consumers or the environment, such as regulations enacted to address the impacts of climate change, have an increasing influence on our product claims, ingredients and packaging. To the extent federal, state, local and/or foreign regulatory changes occur in the future, whether due to changes in applicable laws or regulations or evolving interpretations and enforcement policies by regulatory authorities, they could require us to reformulate or discontinue certain of our products or revise its product packaging or labeling, any of which could result in, among other things, increased our costs, delays in product launches, product returns or recalls and lower net sales, and therefore could have a material adverse effect on our business, prospects, results of operations, financial condition and/or cash flows.
Regulation - Risk 5
Our distributors, leaders and consultants are independent contractors and not employees. If regulatory authorities were to determine, however, that our distributors, leaders and consultants are legally our employees, we could have significant liability under social benefit laws.
Distributors, leaders and consultants are self-employed and are not our employees. Periodically, the question of the legal status of our distributors, leaders and consultants has arisen, usually with regard to possible coverage under social benefit laws that would require us to make regular contributions to social benefit funds. We cannot guarantee there will not be a future judicial or administrative determination adverse to the current criteria, which would substantial and materially adversely affect our business, results of operations and financial condition.
Regulation - Risk 6
Changed
As a "foreign private issuer" under the rules and regulations of the SEC, Betterware is permitted to, and is expected to, file less or different information with the SEC than a company incorporated in the United States or otherwise subject to these rules and is permitted to follow certain home country corporate governance practices in lieu of certain Nasdaq requirements applicable to U.S. issuers.
Betterware is considered a "foreign private issuer" under the Securities Exchange Act (the "Exchange Act") and therefore exempt from certain rules under the Exchange Act, including the proxy rules, which impose certain disclosure and procedural requirements for proxy solicitations for U.S. and other issuers. Moreover, the Group is not required to file periodic reports and financial statements with the SEC as frequently or within the same time frames as U.S. companies with securities registered under the Exchange Act. We currently prepare our financial statements in accordance with IFRS. The Group is not required to file financial statements prepared in accordance with or reconciled to U.S. GAAP so long as our financial statements are prepared in accordance with IFRS. The Group is not required to comply with Regulation FD, which imposes restrictions on the selective disclosure of material information to shareholders. In addition, BWM's officers, directors and principal shareholders are exempt from the reporting and short-swing profit recovery provisions of Section 16 of the Exchange Act and the rules under the Exchange Act with respect to their purchases and sales of Company securities. In addition, as a "foreign private issuer" whose shares are listed on Nasdaq, the Company is permitted to, and is expected to, follow certain home country corporate governance practices in lieu of certain Nasdaq requirements. A foreign private issuer must disclose in its annual reports filed with the SEC each Nasdaq requirement with which it does not comply followed by a description of its applicable home country practice. As a Mexican corporation listed on Nasdaq, the Company is permitted to follow our home country practice with respect to the composition of the board of directors and nominations committee and executive sessions. Unlike the requirements of Nasdaq, the corporate governance practices and requirements in Mexico do not require the Company to (i) have a majority of its board of directors to be independent, (ii) establish a nominations committee, and (iii) hold regular executive sessions where only independent directors shall be present. Such home country practices of Mexico may afford less protection to holders of Company shares than under U.S. standards. The Company could lose its status as a "foreign private issuer" under current SEC rules and regulations if more than 50% of the Company's outstanding voting securities become directly or indirectly held of record by U.S. holders and one of the following is true: (i) the majority of the Company's directors or executive officers are U.S. citizens or residents; (ii) more than 50% of the Company's assets are located in the United States; or (iii) the Company's business is administered principally in the United States. If the Company loses its status as a foreign private issuer in the future, it will no longer be exempt from the rules described above and, among other things, will be required to file periodic reports and annual and quarterly financial statements as if it were a company incorporated in the United States. If this were to happen, the Company would likely incur substantial costs in fulfilling these additional regulatory requirements and members of the Company's management would likely have to divert time and resources from other responsibilities to ensuring these additional regulatory requirements are fulfilled.
Regulation - Risk 7
Added
We are subject to anti-corruption, anti-bribery, anti-money laundering, and antitrust laws and regulations in Mexico.
We are subject to anti-corruption, anti-bribery, anti-money laundering, antitrust and other international laws and regulations and are required to comply with the applicable laws and regulations of Mexico. In addition, we are subject to regulations on economic sanctions that restrict our dealings with certain sanctioned countries, individuals, and entities. There can be no assurance that our internal policies and procedures will be sufficient to prevent or detect all inappropriate practices, fraud, or violations of law by our affiliates, employees, directors, officers, partners, agents, and service providers or that any such persons will not take actions in violation of our policies and procedures. Any violations by us of anti-bribery and anti-corruption laws or sanctions regulations could have a material adverse effect on our business, reputation, results of operations and financial condition.
Regulation - Risk 8
Added
If the Mexican government imposes exchange controls and/or other similar restrictions, the Mexican economy and our operations may be negatively affected.
In the past, the Mexican economy has experienced a balance of payment deficits and shortages in foreign exchange reserves. There can be no assurance that the Mexican government will not institute a restrictive exchange control policy or other restrictions. If the Mexican government imposes exchange controls and/or other similar restrictions, the Mexican economy and our operations may be negatively affected.
Taxation & Government Incentives3 | 6.7%
Taxation & Government Incentives - Risk 1
Changes in taxes and other assessments may adversely affect us.
The legislatures and tax authorities in the tax jurisdictions in which we are subject to tax regularly enact reforms to the tax and other assessment regimes to which we, our distributors, leaders and consultants, and our customers are subject. Such reforms include changes in tax rates and, occasionally, enactment of temporary taxes, the proceeds of which are earmarked for designated governmental purposes. In addition, the interpretation of tax laws by courts and taxation authorities is constantly evolving. The effects of these changes and any other changes that result from enactment of additional tax reforms or changes to the manner in which current tax laws are applied cannot be quantified and there can be no assurance that any such reforms or changes would not have an adverse effect upon our business directly or indirectly (e.g., by affecting the business of our consultants and representatives). For example, Latin American governments have often increased taxes or changed tax legislation as a response to macroeconomic crises or other developments affecting their respective jurisdictions. These and any other possible future changes in tax policy laws in the countries where we are subject to tax may adversely affect our business, financial condition, and results of operations. In December 2021, the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development "OECD" released the pillar two model rules (the Global Anti-Base Erosion Proposal, or "GloBE") to reform international corporate taxation. Large multinational enterprises within the scope of the rules are required to calculate their GloBE effective tax rate for each jurisdiction where they operate. They will be liable to pay a top-up tax for the difference between their GloBE effective tax rate per jurisdiction and the 15% minimum rate. As of December 31, 2023, the Group is not within the scope of the pillar two model rules because this legislation has not been enacted in the jurisdictions where it operates. Since pillar two legislation is not effective at the reporting date, the Group has no current tax exposure; however, the Group will be analyzing the potential implications of the application of the pillar two rules, including evaluating whether the requirements in each jurisdiction qualify as income taxes under the scope of IAS 12. We cannot provide any assurance regarding the effect, if any, that such rules would have on our results of operations or financial condition.
Taxation & Government Incentives - Risk 2
If Betterware is characterized as a passive foreign investment company, or a PFIC, adverse U.S. federal income tax consequences may result for U.S. holders of Company shares.
Based on the projected composition of our income and assets, including goodwill, it is not expected that the Company will be a PFIC for the foreseeable future. However, the tests for determining PFIC status are applied annually after the close of the taxable year, and it is difficult to predict accurately future income and assets relevant to this determination. Accordingly, there can be no assurance that the Company will not be considered a PFIC for any taxable year. If the Company is a PFIC for any year during which a U.S. holder holds Company shares, a U.S. holder generally would be subject to additional taxes (including taxation at ordinary income rates and an interest charge) on any gain realized from a sale or other disposition of the Company shares and on any "excess distributions" received from the Company. Certain elections may be available that would result in alternative treatments of the Company shares. We urge U.S. holders to consult their own tax advisors regarding the possible application of the PFIC rules to the ownership of Company shares.
Taxation & Government Incentives - Risk 3
An investor may be subject to adverse U.S. federal income tax consequences in the event the IRS were to disagree with the U.S. federal income tax consequences described herein.
The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017, or the TCJA, was signed into law on December 22, 2017. The TCJA changes many of the U.S. corporate and international tax provisions, and certain of the provisions are unclear. No ruling has been or will be requested from the IRS as to any U.S. federal income tax consequences described herein. The IRS may disagree with the descriptions of U.S. federal income tax consequences contained herein, and its determination may be upheld by a court. Any such determination could subject an investor or the Company to adverse U.S. federal income tax consequences that would be different than those described herein. Accordingly, each prospective investor is urged to consult a tax advisor with respect to the specific tax consequences of the acquisition, ownership and disposition of the Company's securities, including the applicability and effect of state, local or non-U.S. tax laws, as well as U.S. federal tax laws.
Environmental / Social2 | 4.4%
Environmental / Social - Risk 1
Environmental, social and corporate governance (ESG) issues, including those related to climate change and sustainability, may have an adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations and damage our reputation.
There is an increasing focus from certain investors, customers, consumers, employees and other stakeholders concerning ESG matters. Additionally, public interest and legislative pressure related to public companies' ESG practices continue to grow. If our ESG practices fail to meet regulatory requirements or investor, customer, consumer, employee or other stakeholders' evolving expectations and standards for responsible corporate citizenship in areas including environmental stewardship, support for local communities, board of director and employee diversity, human capital management, employee health and safety practices, product quality, supply chain management, corporate governance and transparency, our reputation, brand and employee retention may be negatively impacted, and our customers and suppliers may be unwilling to continue to do business with us. See "Company Information-Environment, Social and Governance." Customers, consumers, investors and other stakeholders are increasingly focusing on environmental issues, including climate change, energy and water use, plastic waste and other sustainability concerns. Concern over climate change may result in new or increased legal and regulatory requirements to reduce or mitigate impacts to the environment. Changing customer and consumer preferences or increased regulatory requirements may result in increased demands or requirements regarding plastics and packaging materials, including single-use and non-recyclable plastic products and packaging, other components of our products and their environmental impact on sustainability, or increased customer and consumer concerns or perceptions (whether accurate or inaccurate) regarding the effects of substances present in certain of our products. Complying with these demands or requirements could cause us to incur additional manufacturing, operating or product development costs. On March 6, 2024, the Securities and Exchange Commission issued the final rule on The Enhancement and Standardization of Climate-Related Disclosures for Investors. This rule mandates the disclosure of information regarding a registrant's climate-related risks that have materially impacted or are reasonably likely to have a material impact on, its business strategy, results of operations, or financial condition. Although we will not be subject to the new disclosure requirements until 2026, the Group is currently assessing the impact of this rule for disclosure to investors. If we do not adapt to or comply with new regulations, or fail to meet evolving investor, industry or stakeholder expectations and concerns regarding ESG issues, investors may reconsider their capital investment in our Company, and customers and consumers may choose to stop purchasing our products, which could have a material adverse effect on our reputation, business, results of operations or financial condition.
Environmental / Social - Risk 2
Changed
We are subject to environmental laws and regulations risks that could affect our business, results of operations and financial condition.
Our operations are subject to a wide range of environmental laws and regulations in each of the jurisdictions in which we operate. These laws and regulations impose increasingly rigorous environmental protection standards. According to Mexican General Law of Ecological Balance and Environmental Protection (Ley General de Equilibrio Ecológico y la Protección al Ambiente or LGEEPA in Spanish), organizations must comply with the following, among others: (i) guarantee the human right of every person to a healthy environment for their development and well-being; (ii) the preservation, restoration and improvement of the environment; (iii) the preservation and protection of biodiversity, as well as the establishment and administration of protected natural areas; (iv) the sustainable use, preservation and, where appropriate, restoration of soil, water and other natural resources, so that they are compatible for obtaining economic benefits and the activities of society with the preservation of the ecosystems; and (v) prevention and control of air, water and soil pollution, among others. The establishment of these controls and security measures exposes us to a risk of significant environmental costs and responsibilities, such as taxes, investment in equipment and technology, investment in spaces for development and well-being, fines and penalties. In addition, we are exposed to the fact that, over time, these laws and regulations may become more stringent over existing ones, which could lead to the imposition of new risks and costs resulting in a decrease in our profitability. Environmental requirements can restrict trade which could lead to increased transportation and import costs for the products we sell to our customers.
Finance & Corporate
Total Risks: 11/45 (24%)Below Sector Average
Share Price & Shareholder Rights6 | 13.3%
Share Price & Shareholder Rights - Risk 1
There can be no assurance that Betterware will be able to comply with the continued listing standards of Nasdaq.
Betterware's shares are listed on Nasdaq under the symbol "BWMX." If Nasdaq delists the Company's securities from trading on its exchange for failure to meet the listing standards, the Company and its shareholders could face significant material adverse consequences including: - a limited availability of market quotations for the Company's securities;- a determination that the Company shares are "penny stock" which will require brokers trading in the Company shares to adhere to more stringent rules, possibly resulting in a reduced level of trading activity in the secondary trading market for the Company's shares;- a limited amount of analyst coverage; and - a decreased ability to issue additional securities or obtain additional financing in the future.
Share Price & Shareholder Rights - Risk 2
You may have difficulty enforcing your rights against Betterware and our directors and executive officers.
Betterware is a company incorporated in Mexico. Most of our directors and executive officers are non-residents of the U.S. You may be unable to effect service of process within the U.S. on Betterware, its directors and executive officers. In addition, as all of our assets and substantially all of the assets of our directors and executive officers are located outside of the U.S., you may be unable to enforce against BWM and our directors and executive officers' judgments obtained in the U.S. courts, including judgments predicated upon civil liability provisions of the U.S. federal securities laws or state securities laws. There is also doubt as to the enforceability, in original actions in Mexican courts, of liabilities including those predicated solely on U.S. federal securities laws and as to the enforceability in Mexican courts of judgments of U.S. courts obtained in actions, including those predicated upon the civil liability provisions of U.S. federal securities laws. There is no bilateral treaty currently in effect between the United States and Mexico that covers the reciprocal enforcement of civil foreign judgments. In the past, Mexican courts have enforced judgments rendered in the United States by virtue of the legal principles of reciprocity and comity, consisting of the review in Mexico of the United States judgment, in order to ascertain, among other matters, whether Mexican legal principles of due process and public policy (orden público) have been complied with, without reviewing the merits of the subject matter of the case.
Share Price & Shareholder Rights - Risk 3
The Amended and Restated Charter of Betterware provides for the exclusive jurisdiction of the federal courts in Mexico City, Mexico for substantially all disputes between the Company and its shareholders, which could limit Company shareholders' ability to obtain a favorable judicial forum for disputes with the Company or its directors, officers, other employees or shareholders.
The Amended and Restated Charter of the Company provides for the exclusive jurisdiction of the federal courts located in Mexico City, Mexico for the following civil actions: - any action between the Company and its shareholders; and - any action between two or more shareholders or groups of shareholders of the Company regarding any matters relating to the Company. This exclusive jurisdiction provision may limit a shareholder's ability to bring a claim in a judicial forum that it finds favorable for disputes with the Company or any of its directors, officers, other employees or shareholders, which may discourage lawsuits with respect to such claims, although the Company's shareholders will not be deemed to have waived the Company's compliance with U.S. federal securities laws and the rules and regulations thereunder applicable to foreign private issuers. Alternatively, if a court were to find the exclusive jurisdiction provision contained in the Amended and Restated Charter to be inapplicable or unenforceable in an action, the Company may incur additional costs associated with resolving such action in other jurisdictions, which could harm the Company's business, operating results and financial condition. The exclusive jurisdiction provision would not prevent derivative shareholder actions based on claims arising under U.S. federal securities laws from being raised in a U.S. court and would not prevent a U.S. court from asserting jurisdiction over such claims. However, there is uncertainty whether a U.S. court would enforce the exclusive jurisdiction provision for actions for breach of fiduciary duty and other claims.
Share Price & Shareholder Rights - Risk 4
The anti-takeover protections included in our Bylaws and others provided under Mexican Law may deter potential acquirors.
Our bylaws provide that, subject to certain exceptions as explained below, prior written approval from the board of directors shall be required for any person, or group of persons to acquire, directly or indirectly, any of our common shares or rights to our common shares, by any means or under any title whether in a single event or in a set of consecutive events, such that its total shares or rights to shares would represent 20% or more of our outstanding shares. These provisions could make it substantially more difficult for a third party to acquire control of us. These provisions in our bylaws may discourage certain types of transactions involving the acquisition of our securities. These provisions could discourage transactions in which our shareholders might otherwise receive a premium for their shares over the then current market price. Holders of our securities who acquire shares in violation of these provisions will not be able to vote, or receive dividends, distributions or other rights in respect of, these securities and would be obligated to pay us a penalty. For a description of these provisions, see "Item 10. Additional Information-Bylaws--Anti-takeover Protections."
Share Price & Shareholder Rights - Risk 5
Our controlling shareholder may have interests that conflict with your interests.
As of the date of this annual report, Campalier owns approximately 53.91% of our outstanding Ordinary Shares. As the controlling shareholder, Campalier may take actions that are not in the best interests of the Group's other shareholders. These actions may be taken in many cases even if they are opposed by the Group's other shareholders. In addition, this concentration of ownership may discourage, delay or prevent a change in control which could deprive you of an opportunity to receive a premium for your Ordinary Shares as part of a sale of the Group.
Share Price & Shareholder Rights - Risk 6
Changed
If securities or industry analysts do not publish or cease publishing research or reports about Betterware, our business, or markets, or if they change their recommendations regarding the Company shares adversely, the price and trading volume of the Company's shares could decline.
The trading market for the Company's shares is influenced by the research and reports that industry or securities analysts may publish about the Company, our business, market, or competitors. Securities and industry analysts do not currently, and may never, publish research on the Company. If no securities or industry analysts commence coverage of the Company, the price and trading volume of the Company shares would likely be negatively impacted. If any of the analysts who may cover the Company change their recommendation regarding the Company's shares adversely or provide more favorable relative recommendations about the Company's competitors, the price of the Company's shares would likely decline. If any analyst who may cover the Company were to cease coverage of the Company or fail to regularly publish reports on it, the Company could lose visibility in the financial markets, which in turn could cause our share price or trading volume to decline.
Accounting & Financial Operations2 | 4.4%
Accounting & Financial Operations - Risk 1
Goodwill, property, plant and equipment and intangible assets represent a significant portion of the Group's statement of financial position, and our operating results may suffer from possible impairments.
Goodwill, property, plant and equipment and intangible assets in our statement of financial position derived from past business combinations carried out by the Group, are further explained in the notes to the consolidated financial statements located elsewhere in this annual report. Goodwill and intangible assets with indefinite useful lives are tested for impairment at least annually. Property, plant and equipment and intangible assets with definite useful lives are tested for impairment whenever there is an indication that these assets may be impaired. In the case of an impairment, we will recognize charges to our operating results based on the impairment assessment processes. In addition, future acquisitions may be made by the Group and a portion of the purchase price of these acquisitions may be allocated to acquired goodwill, property, plant and equipment and intangible assets. An impairment on property, plant and equipment or goodwill of acquired businesses could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition and results of operations.
Accounting & Financial Operations - Risk 2
Changed
Material weaknesses have been identified in Betterware's internal control over financial reporting, and if we fail to establish and maintain proper and effective internal controls over financial reporting, our results of operations and our ability to operate our business may be materially adversely affected.
As of December 31, 2023, our management assessed the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting based on the criteria for effective internal control over financial reporting established in Internal Control – Integrated Framework, issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission in 2013. Our management concluded that we did not design and maintain effective controls over the (i) the effectiveness of the controls over the business combination process, specifically, we did not design and maintain controls to determine the ongoing impairment assessment; (ii) the effectiveness of the controls in the period-end financial reporting and consolidation process, as we did not design and maintain formal accounting policies, procedures and controls to ensure complete, accurate and timely reporting in the consolidated financial statements; and; and (iii) the effectiveness of certain information technology ("IT") general controls for information systems that are relevant to the preparation of our consolidated financial statements. We are in the process of implementing several measures to strengthen our internal control over financial reporting such as the deployment of IT applications to enable and automate the consolidation and ITGC process. For details of the controls and remediation plan, see "Item 15-Controls and Procedures-Disclosure Controls and Procedures." At the end of 2021, the Company changed its status from an emerging growth company to a large, accelerated filer. At the end of 2022, the Company changed its status to an accelerated filer and maintained that status during 2023 and at the end of 2023. The Company continues working on the implementation of a formal internal control over financial reporting program based on a top-down risk assessment ensure the existence of controls over significant accounts, processes, applications and IT environments. See "Item 15-Controls and Procedures-Disclosure Controls and Procedures." If we fail to establish and maintain proper and effective internal controls over financial reporting or fail to adequately resolve our existing material weaknesses, our results of operations and our ability to operate our business may be materially adversely affected.
Debt & Financing1 | 2.2%
Debt & Financing - Risk 1
Our indebtedness and any future inability to meet any of our obligations under our indebtedness, could adversely affect us by reducing our flexibility to respond to changing business and economic conditions.
As of December 31, 2023, we had Ps.5,504 million of outstanding indebtedness (current and non-current borrowings and leases). We rely on obtaining financing and refinancing of existing indebtedness in order to operate our business, implement our strategy and grow our business. Recent disruptions in the global credit markets and their effect on the global and Mexican economies could materially adversely affect our business. We may also incur additional working capital lines of credit to meet future financing needs, subject to certain restrictions under our indebtedness, which would increase our total indebtedness. We may be unable to generate sufficient cash flow from operations and future borrowings, and other financing may be unavailable in an amount sufficient to enable us to fund our current and future financial obligations or our other liquidity needs, which would have a material adverse effect on our business, prospects, financial condition, liquidity and results of operations as well as reduce the availability of our cash flow to fund working capital, operations, capital expenditures, dividend payments, strategic acquisitions, expansion of our operations and other business activities. Our indebtedness could have material negative consequences on our business, prospects, financial condition, liquidity, results of operations and cash flows, including the following: - limitations on our ability to obtain additional debt financing sufficient to fund growth, such as working capital and capital expenditures requirements or to meet other cash requirements, in particular during periods in which credit markets are weak;- a downgrade in our credit ratings;- a limitation on our flexibility to plan for, or react to, competitive challenges in our business and industry;- the possibility that we are put at a competitive disadvantage relative to competitors with less debt or debt with more favorable terms than us, and competitors that may be in a more favorable position to access additional capital resources and withstand economic downturns;- limitations on our ability to execute business development activities to support our strategies or ability to execute restructuring as necessary; and - limitations on our ability to invest in recruiting, retaining, and servicing our distributors, leaders and consultants. Certain of our indebtedness contain customary covenants, including, among other things, limits on the ability of the company and any restricted subsidiary to, subject to certain exceptions, incur liens, incur debt, merge, consolidate or dispose of all or substantially all of its assets.
Corporate Activity and Growth2 | 4.4%
Corporate Activity and Growth - Risk 1
Our revenue and profitability may be affected if we fail to acquire new companies or integrate those that we have already acquired, such as JAFRA.
We consider acquisitions a useful instrument to complement our organic growth. We opportunistically explore acquiring other businesses and assets, such as the JAFRA Acquisition. However, we may face financial, managerial and operational challenges, including diversion of management attention and resources needed for existing operations, difficulties with integrating acquired businesses, such as JAFRA, integration of different corporate cultures, increased expenses, potential dilution of our brand, assumption of unknown liabilities, potential disputes with the sellers and the need to evaluate the financial systems of and establish internal controls for acquired entities. Further, we seek out acquisitions of companies that maintain the same high quality standards that we maintain, and if we misjudge or overestimate products quality standards, we may not be able to use these products or implement the strategies that were the primary reason for the corresponding acquisition, such as may be the case with the JAFRA Acquisition, which would lead to a significant loss both financially and in time spent by our teams trying to integrate the products or implement the strategy. In addition, our ability to realize the benefits we anticipate from our acquisition activities, including the JAFRA Acquisition, including any anticipated sales growth, cost synergies and other anticipated benefits, will depend in large part upon whether we are able to integrate such businesses efficiently and effectively. Integration is an ongoing process, and we may not be able to fully integrate such businesses smoothly or successfully, and the process may take longer than expected. Further, the integration of certain operations and the differences in operational culture following such activity will continue to require the dedication of significant management resources, which may distract management's attention from day-to-day business operations. There may also be unasserted claims or assessments that we failed or were unable to discover or identify in the course of performing due diligence investigations of target businesses. While we normally negotiate representation and warranties and related indemnification in relation to such acquisitions, these may not be enough to cover our exposure if a significant liability arises in connection with any acquisition agreement, including the JAFRA Acquisition. We cannot assure you that these indemnification provisions will protect us fully or at all, and as a result we may face unexpected liabilities that could adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations. If we are unable to successfully integrate the operations of JAFRA, or any other acquired business, into our business, we may be unable to realize the sales growth, cost synergies and other anticipated benefits of such transactions, and our business, results of operations and cash flow could be materially adversely affected.
Corporate Activity and Growth - Risk 2
Because of the costs and difficulties inherent in managing cross-border business operations, our results of operations may be negatively impacted.
Managing our business, operations, personnel or assets in multiple jurisdictions is challenging and costly. Management may be inexperienced in cross-border business practices and unaware of significant differences in accounting rules, legal regimes and labor practices. Even with a seasoned and experienced management team, the costs and difficulties inherent in managing cross-border business operations, personnel and assets can be significant (and much higher than in a purely domestic business) and may negatively impact our financial and operational performance.
Macro & Political
Total Risks: 10/45 (22%)Above Sector Average
Economy & Political Environment7 | 15.6%
Economy & Political Environment - Risk 1
Changed
Since more that 90% our operations are concentrated in Mexico, we are subject to political, economic, legal, and regulatory risks specific to Mexico and are vulnerable to an economic downturn, other changes in market conditions, acts of violence, or natural disasters in s in Mexico which may adversely affect our business and results of operations.
Currently, almost all of our operations are conducted, and almost all of our customers are located, in Mexico. Accordingly, our ability to raise revenues, our financial condition and results of operations are substantially dependent on the economic conditions prevailing in Mexico. As a result, our business may be significantly affected by the Mexican economy's general condition, by the depreciation of the Mexican peso, by inflation and high interest rates in Mexico, or by political developments in Mexico. Declines in growth, high rates of inflation and high interest rates in Mexico have a generally adverse effect on our operations. If inflation in Mexico increases while economic growth slows, our business, results of operations and financial condition will be affected. In addition, high interest rates and economic instability could increase our costs of financing. For the years ended December 31, 2021, 2022 and 2023, GDP in Mexico grew by 4.8%, decreased by 3.9% and increased by 3.1% respectively. During 2023, Mexico's sovereign debt rating has been confirmed and a stable outlook has been maintained. We cannot ensure that the rating agencies will not announce an outlook revision and/or any downgrades of Mexico or any of its state-owned companies. These revisions and downgrades could adversely affect the Mexican economy and, consequently, our business, financial condition, operating results and prospects. In the event that the Mexican economy continues to experience a deterioration of economic conditions such as rising inflation, additional interest rate increases, downgrade of sovereign debt, among other factors, the activities, financial situation, operating results, cash flows and/or prospects of the Group, could be adversely and significantly affected. Developments in other countries could materially affect the Mexican economy and, in turn, our business, financial condition and results of operations. Mexico's economy is vulnerable to global market downturns and economic slowdowns. The global economy, including Mexico's economy, has been materially and adversely affected by a significant lack of liquidity, disruption in the credit markets, reduced business activity, rising unemployment, interest rates changes and erosion of consumer confidence during the global pandemic and its effects. This situation has had a direct adverse effect on the purchasing power of our customers in Mexico. The macroeconomic environment in which we operate is beyond our control, and the future economic environment may continue to be less favorable than in recent years. There is no assurance of a strong economic recovery or that the current economic conditions will ameliorate. The risks associated with current and potential changes in the Mexican economy are significant and could have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operation and financial condition. The market prices of securities issued by companies with Mexican operations are affected to varying degrees by the economic and market situation in other places, including the United States, China, the rest of Latin America and other countries with emerging markets. Therefore, investors' reactions to events in any of these countries could have an adverse effect on the market price of securities issued by companies with Mexican operations. Past economic crises that have occurred in the United States, China or in countries with emerging markets could cause a decrease in the levels of interest in the securities issued by companies with Mexican operations. In the past, the emergence of adverse economic conditions in other emerging countries has led to capital flight and, consequently, to decreases in the value of foreign investments in Mexico. The financial crisis that arose in the United States during the third quarter of 2008, unleashed a global recession that directly and indirectly affected the economy and the Mexican stock markets and caused, among other things, fluctuations in purchase prices the sale of securities issued by publicly traded companies, shortage of credit, budget cuts, economic slowdowns, volatility in exchange rates, and inflationary pressures. Financial problems or an increase in risk related to investment in emerging economies or a perception of risk could limit foreign investment in Mexico and adversely affect the Mexican economy. Mexico has historically experienced uneven periods of economic growth and the economy as a whole has recently been adversely affected by the current expectation of a recession or slowdown in the United States and other countries' economies. There can be no assurance that the overall business environment in which we operate will improve and we cannot predict the impact any future economic downturn could have on our results of operations and financial condition. However, consumer demand generally decreases during economic downturns, which will negatively affect our business, results of operations and financial condition.
Economy & Political Environment - Risk 2
Inflation could adversely affect our business and results of operations.
The impact of geopolitical developments such as the Russia-Ukraine conflict and Israeli-Palestinian conflict, and the global supply chain disruptions could increase uncertainty in the outlook of near-term and long-term economic activity, including whether inflation will continue and how long, and at what rate. An increase in inflation could raise our costs for commodities, labor, materials and services and other costs required to grow and operate our business, and failure to secure these on reasonable terms may adversely impact our financial condition. Additionally, increases in inflation could cause global economic uncertainty and uncertainty about the interest rate environment, which may make it more difficult, costly or dilutive for us to secure additional financing. A failure to adequately respond to these risks could have a material adverse impact on our financial condition, results of operations or cash flows.
Economy & Political Environment - Risk 3
The political situation in Mexico could negatively affect our operating results.
In Mexico, political instability has been a determining factor in business investment. Significant changes in laws, public policies and/or regulations could affect Mexico's political and economic situation, which could, in turn, adversely affect our business. Mexican political events may affect our business operations. President Lopez Obrador's political party and its allies hold a majority in the Chamber of Deputies (Cámara de Diputados) and the Senate (Senado de la República) and have a strong influence in various local legislatures. The federal administration has significant power to implement substantial changes in law, policy, and regulations in Mexico, including Constitutional reforms, which could affect our business, results of operations, financial condition, and prospects. We cannot predict whether potential changes in Mexican governmental and economic policy could adversely affect Mexico's economic conditions or the sector in which we operate. We cannot provide any assurances that political developments in Mexico, over which we have no control, will not have an adverse effect on our business, results of operations, financial condition, and prospects. Social and political instability in or affecting Mexico could adversely affect our business, financial condition, and results of operations, as well as market conditions and prices of our securities. These and other future developments in the Mexican political or social environment may cause disruptions to our business operations and decreases in our sales and net income. We cannot predict the impact that economic, social and political instability in or affecting Mexico could adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations, as well as market conditions and prices of our securities. These and other future developments, over which we have no control, in the Mexican economic, political or social environment may cause disruptions to our business operations and decreases in our sales and net income.
Economy & Political Environment - Risk 4
Investments in Mexican companies entail substantial risk; the Mexican government has exercised, and continues to exercise, an important influence on the Mexican economy.
Investments in Mexico carry significant risks, including the risk of expropriation or nationalization laws being enacted or imposing exchange controls, price controls, taxes, inflationary, hyperinflationary, exchange rate risk, credit risk, among other governmental or political restrictions. We are incorporated under the laws of Mexico and most of our operations and assets are located in Mexico. As a consequence of the foregoing, our financial condition and results of operations could be negatively affected. The Mexican government has exercised, and continues to exercise, a strong influence on the country's economy. Consequently, Mexican federal government actions and policies related to the economy, state-owned and controlled companies, and financial institutions, could have a significant impact on private sector entities in general, including us, in particular and on market conditions, prices and returns on Mexican securities, including counterparty risk. The Mexican federal government has made major policy and regulatory changes and may do so again in the future. Actions to control inflation and other regulations and policies have involved, among other measures, an increase in interest rates, changes in fiscal policies, price controls, currency devaluations, capital controls and limits on imports. Tax and labor legislation, in particular, in Mexico is subject to continuous change, and we cannot guarantee that the Mexican government will maintain current economic or other policies in force or if any changes to such laws and policies would have a material adverse effect on us or on our financial performance. The measures adopted by the government could have a significant effect on private sector entities in general, as well as on the market situation and on the price of our shares. Additionally, the Mexican federal government has implemented protectionist policies in the past and could implement certain national policies in the future that could restrict our operations, including restrictions on imports from certain countries.
Economy & Political Environment - Risk 5
Mexico is an emerging market economy, with attendant risks to our results of operations and financial condition.
The Mexican government has exercised, and continues to exercise, significant influence over the Mexican economy. Accordingly, Mexican governmental actions concerning the economy and state-owned enterprises could have a significant impact on Mexican private sector entities in general, as well as on market conditions, prices and returns on Mexican securities. The national elections held on July 2, 2018 ended six years of rule by the Institutional Revolutionary Party or PRI with the election of President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador, a member of the Morena Party, and resulted in the increased representation of opposition parties in the Mexican Congress and in mayoral and gubernatorial positions. Multiparty rule is still relatively new in Mexico and could result in economic or political conditions that could materially and adversely affect our operations. We cannot predict the impact that this political landscape will have on the Mexican economy. Furthermore, our financial condition, results of operations and prospects and, consequently, the market price for our shares, may be affected by currency fluctuations, rising inflation, rising interest rates, price controls, regulation, taxation, social instability and other political, social and economic developments in or affecting Mexico. The Mexican economy in the past has suffered balance of payment deficits and shortages in foreign exchange reserves. There are currently no exchange controls in Mexico; however, Mexico has imposed foreign exchange controls in the past. Pursuant to the provisions of the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement, if Mexico experiences serious balance of payment difficulties or the threat thereof in the future, Mexico would have the right to impose foreign exchange controls on investments made in Mexico, including those made by U.S. and Canadian investors. Securities of companies in emerging market countries tend to be influenced by economic and market conditions in other emerging market countries. Emerging market countries, including Argentina and Venezuela, have recently been experiencing significant economic downturns and market volatility. These events could have adverse effects on the economic conditions and securities markets of other emerging market countries, including Mexico.
Economy & Political Environment - Risk 6
Economic and political developments in Mexico and the United States may adversely affect Mexican economic policy.
Mexico's economy is vulnerable to global market downturns and economic slowdowns. Moreover, Mexico's economy is largely influenced by economic conditions in the United States and Canada as a result of various factors, including the volume of commercial transactions under the United States–Mexico–Canada Agreement (the "USMCA") and the level of U.S. investments in Mexico. Therefore, events and conditions that affect the U.S. economy can also directly and indirectly affect our business, financial condition, and results of operations. The global economy, including Mexico and the United States, has been materially and adversely affected by a significant lack of liquidity, disruption in the credit markets, reduced business activity, rising unemployment, a decline in interest rates, and erosion of consumer confidence during recent periods of recession. This situation has had a direct adverse effect on the purchasing power of our customers in Mexico. The macroeconomic environment in which we operate is beyond our control, and the future economic environment may continue to be less favorable than in recent years. The risks associated with current and potential changes in the Mexican and United States economies are significant and could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, and results of operations. Likewise, any action taken by the current U.S. or Mexico administrations, including changes to the USMCA and/or other U.S. government policies that may be adopted by the U.S. administration, could have a negative impact on the Mexican economy, such as reductions in the levels of remittances, reduced commercial activity or bilateral trade or declining foreign direct investment in Mexico. In addition, increased or perceptions of increased economic protectionism in the United States, Mexico and other countries could potentially lead to lower levels of trade and investment and economic growth, which could have a similarly negative impact on the Mexican economy. These economic and political consequences could adversely affect our business, results of operations and financial condition. We cannot make assurances that any events in the United States or elsewhere will not materially and adversely affect us.
Economy & Political Environment - Risk 7
Added
Our business may be significantly affected by the Mexican economy's general condition, by the depreciation of the peso, inflation, and high-interest rates in Mexico.
Declines in growth, high rates of inflation, and high-interest rates in Mexico could materially adversely affect our business. If inflation in Mexico increases while economic growth slows, our business, results of operations, and financial condition will be affected. In addition, high-interest rates and economic instability could increase our costs of financing. In the past, the rating agencies rating Mexico have downgraded Mexico and/or placed Mexico on negative outlooks. On June 16, 2023, Fitch Ratings affirmed Mexico's Long-Term (LT) Foreign Currency (FC) Issuer Default Rating (IDR) at ‘BBB-'; with a stable rating outlook. On July 14, 2023, Moody's assigned Mexico a rating of Baa2; with a stable rating outlook. We cannot ensure that the rating agencies will not announce additional downgrades of Mexico in the future. These downgrades could adversely affect the Mexican economy and, consequently, our business, financial condition, results of operations, and prospects. In addition, increased inflation would raise our cost of funding, which we may not be able to fully pass on to our customers, given that doing so could adversely affect our business. Our financial condition and profitability may be adversely affected by the level of, and fluctuations in, interest rates, which affect our ability to earn a spread between the interest received on our loans or the rentals and fees charged on our leases and the cost of our funding. Although we have taken measures to minimize the potential impact of inflation by ensuring that the majority of our liabilities have fixed interest rates, if the rate of inflation increases or becomes uncertain and unpredictable, our business, financial condition and results of operations could be adversely affected.
International Operations1 | 2.2%
International Operations - Risk 1
Any adverse changes in our business operations in Mexico would adversely affect our revenue and profitability.
The following factors, among others, could harm our business in Mexico: - worsening economic conditions, including a recession in the United States and/or Mexico;- fluctuations in currency exchange rates and inflation;- longer collection cycles;- potential adverse changes in tax laws or price controls;- changes in labor conditions;- burdens and costs of compliance with a variety of laws;- political, social and economic instability;- increases in taxation; and - outbreaks of disease and health epidemics, such as the COVID-19 pandemic.
Natural and Human Disruptions1 | 2.2%
Natural and Human Disruptions - Risk 1
Changed
Security risks in Mexico could increase, and this could adversely affect the Mexican economy and our business, financial condition, and results of operations.
In recent years, Mexico has experienced a period of increasing criminal activity and particularly high homicide rates, primarily due to organized crime. The presence of violence among drug cartels, and between drug cartels and the Mexican law enforcement and armed forces, or an increase in other types of crime, pose a risk to our business, and could negatively impact business continuity. This situation in Mexico could worsen if the economy continues to deteriorate.
Capital Markets1 | 2.2%
Capital Markets - Risk 1
Currency exchange rate fluctuations, particularly with respect to the US dollar/Mexican peso exchange rate, could lower margins.
The value of the Mexican peso has been subject to significant fluctuations with respect to the U.S. dollar in the past and may be subject to significant fluctuations in the future. Historically, BWM has been able to raise their prices generally in line with local inflation, thereby helping to mitigate the effects of devaluations of the Mexican peso. However, BWM may not be able to maintain this pricing policy in the future, or future exchange rate fluctuations may have a material adverse effect on our ability to pay suppliers. Given Betterware's inability to predict the degree of exchange rate fluctuations, it cannot estimate the effect these fluctuations may have upon future reported results, product pricing or our overall financial condition. Although we attempt to reduce our exposure to short-term exchange rate fluctuations by using foreign currency exchange contracts, we cannot be certain that these contracts or any other hedging activity will effectively reduce exchange rate exposure. In particular, BWM currently employs a hedging strategy comprised of forwards U.S. dollar–Mexican peso derivatives that are designed to protect us against devaluations of the Mexican peso. The hedging contracts cover 100% of the home organization product needs until December 2024. In addition, we generally purchase our hedging instruments on a rolling twelve-month basis; instruments protecting it to the same or a similar extent may not be available in the future on reasonable terms. Unprotected declines in the value of the Mexican peso against the U.S. dollar will adversely affect our ability to pay our dollar-denominated expenses, including our supplier obligations.
Production
Total Risks: 4/45 (9%)Below Sector Average
Manufacturing1 | 2.2%
Manufacturing - Risk 1
Disruptions or delays at our facility in Queretaro, Mexico could have a material adverse effect on our business, particularly with respect to the beauty and personal care segment.
Our facility in Queretaro, Mexico, manufactures a substantial portion of the products of our beauty and personal care segment, which accounted for 84.3% of JAFRA sales, and as of December 31, 2023, represented 56% of our total sales at a consolidated level. Significant unscheduled downtime or a reduction in capacity at this facility, whether due to equipment breakdowns, power failures, natural disasters (due to climate change or otherwise), pandemics, weather conditions hampering delivery schedules, shortages of raw materials and products, technology disruptions or other disruptions, including those caused by transitioning manufacturing across these facilities, or any other cause could have a material adverse effect on our ability to provide products to our leaders, consultants and customers, which could have a material adverse effect on our sales, business, prospects, reputation, results of operations, financial condition and/or cash flows. Additionally, some of our employees at this facility are members of labor unions. In the past, we have experienced labor-union related work strikes in Mexico which have affected our operations. Also, negotiating labor contracts, either for new locations or to replace expiring contracts, is time consuming or may not be accomplished on a timely basis. If we are unable to satisfactorily negotiate those labor contracts with the labor unions on terms acceptable to us or without a strike or work stoppage, our business could be materially adversely affected. Any strike or work stoppage could disrupt our business, adversely affecting our results of operations and our public image could be materially adversely affected by such labor disputes. In addition, existing labor contracts may not prevent a strike or work stoppage, and any such work stoppage could have a material adverse effect on our business.
Employment / Personnel1 | 2.2%
Employment / Personnel - Risk 1
If we are unable to retain our existing, or recruit new, independent distributors, leaders and consultants, our results of operations could be negatively affected.
We distribute almost all of our products through our independent distributors, leaders and consultants, and we depend on them directly for the sale of our products. We experience high turnover among distributors, leaders and consultants from year to year since they can terminate their services at any time. As a result, we need to make significant efforts to retain existing distributors, leaders, and consultants and to recruit or attract others. To increase our revenue, we must increase the number and/or the productivity of our distributors, leaders and consultants. The number and productivity of our distributors, leaders and consultants also depends on several additional factors, including: - adverse publicity regarding of any company of the Group, our products or our distribution channel;- aggressive new competitors in the market looking to increase their market share;- failure to motivate our distributors, leaders and consultants with new products;- failure to provide an attractive compensation plan for distributors, leaders and consultants;- issues with the quality of new products;- the public's perception of our products;- competition for distributors, leaders and consultants from other direct selling companies;- the public's perception of our distributors, leaders and consultants, and direct selling businesses in general; and - general economic and business conditions. Our operations would be harmed if we fail to generate continued interest and enthusiasm among our distributors, leaders and consultants or we fail to attract new ones, or if our distributors, leaders and consultants are unable to operate due to internal or external factors. The number of our active distributors, leaders and consultants, may not increase and could decline in the future. Our operating results could be harmed if existing and new business opportunities and products do not generate sufficient interest to retain existing distributors, leaders and consultants or to recruit new ones.
Supply Chain1 | 2.2%
Supply Chain - Risk 1
We depend on multiple contract manufacturers mostly located in China, and the loss of the services provided by any of our manufacturers could harm our business and results of operations.
We outsource product manufacturing to third-party contractors located mainly in China. During the year 2023, products supplied by Chinese manufacturers accounted for approximately +91% of BWM's revenues. If these suppliers have unscheduled downtime or are unable to fulfill their obligations under these manufacturing agreements because of political or regulatory restrictions, equipment breakdowns, labor strikes, natural disasters, health diseases on health epidemics or pandemics, or any other cause, this could adversely affect our overall business, results of operations and financial condition. Also, although we provide all of the formulations used to manufacture our products, we have limited control over the manufacturing process itself. As a result, any difficulties encountered by the third-party manufacturer that result in product defects, production delays, cost overruns, or the inability to fulfill orders on a timely basis, due to, for instance, sanctions or blocks imposed on Chinese products, could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.
Costs1 | 2.2%
Costs - Risk 1
Changed
Volatility in costs, along with delays and disruptions in the supply of materials and services, could have a material adverse effect on our business, prospects, results of operations, financial condition and/or cash flows.
We purchase raw materials, including essential oils, alcohols, chemicals, containers and packaging components, from various third-party suppliers. Substantial cost increases delays and the unavailability of raw materials or other commodities, as a result of continued global supply chain disruptions, and higher costs for energy, transportation and other necessary services have adversely affected and may continue to adversely affect our beauty and personal care segment profit margins if we are unable to wholly or partially offset them, such as by achieving cost efficiencies in its supply chain, manufacturing and/or distribution activities. In addition, we purchase certain finished goods, raw materials, packaging and other components from single-source suppliers or a limited number of suppliers and if we are required to find alternative sources of supply, these new suppliers may have to be qualified under applicable industry, governmental and Company-mandated vendor standards, which can require additional investment and be time-consuming. Any significant disruption to our manufacturing or sourcing of products or raw materials, packaging and other components for any reason (including the continued global supply chain disruptions) could materially impact our inventory levels and interrupt and delay our supply of products to our leaders and consultants. Such events, if not promptly remedied, could have a material adverse effect on our business, prospects, reputation, results of operations, financial condition and/or cash flows.
Ability to Sell
Total Risks: 4/45 (9%)Below Sector Average
Competition1 | 2.2%
Competition - Risk 1
Competition could have a material adverse effect on our business, prospects, results of operations, financial condition and/or cash flows.
The markets in which we operate are competitive. Our results of operations may be harmed by market conditions and competition in the future. Many competitors have greater name recognition and financial resources than we have, which may give them a competitive advantage. We compete against a number of multi-national manufacturers, some of which are larger and have substantially greater resources than us, and which may therefore have the ability to spend more aggressively than us on new business acquisitions, research and development activities, technological advances to evolve in their e-commerce capabilities and advertising, promotional, social media and/or marketing activities and have more flexibility than us to respond to changing business and economic conditions. Also, our products compete directly with branded, premium retail products. We currently do not have significant patent or other proprietary protection, and competitors may introduce products with the same ingredients that we use in our products. We also compete with other companies for distributors, leaders and consultants. Some of these competitors have a longer operating history, better name recognition and greater financial resources than we do. Some of our competitors have also adopted and could continue to adopt some of our business strategies. Consequently, to successfully compete in this market and attract and retain distributors, leaders and consultants, we must ensure that our business opportunities and compensation plans are financially rewarding. We may not be able to continue to successfully compete in this market for distributors, leaders and consultants, which would ultimately affect our business operations.
Sales & Marketing2 | 4.4%
Sales & Marketing - Risk 1
A decline in our customers' purchasing power or consumer confidence or in customers' financial condition and willingness to spend could materially and adversely affect our business.
The sale of our products strongly correlates to the level of consumer spending generally, and thus is significantly affected by the general state of the economy and the ability and willingness of consumers to spend on discretionary items. Reduced consumer confidence and spending generally may result in reduced demand for our products and limitations on our ability to maintain or increase prices. A decline in economic conditions or general consumer spending in any of our major markets could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.
Sales & Marketing - Risk 2
The loss of key high-level distributors, leaders or consultants could negatively impact our growth and our revenue.
As of December 31, 2023, BWM had approximately 741,170 active associates and 41,825 distributors, and JAFRA had approximately 498,853 and 20,512 active consultants and leaders, respectively. BWM's distributors and JAFRA's leaders and consultants, together with their extensive networks of downline distributors or leaders, account for an important part of our net revenue. As a result, the loss of a high-level distributors, leaders or consultants, could negatively impact our network growth and our net revenue.
Brand / Reputation1 | 2.2%
Brand / Reputation - Risk 1
If the industry in which we operate, our business or our products are subject to adverse publicity, our business may suffer.
We are very dependent upon our distributors, leaders, consultants and the general public perception of the overall integrity of our business, as well as the safety and quality of our products and similar products distributed by other companies. The number and motivation of our distributors, leaders and consultants and the acceptance by the general public of our products may be negatively affected by adverse publicity regarding: - the legality of network-marketing systems in general or our network-marketing system specifically;- the safety and quality of our products;- regulatory investigations of our products;- the actions of our distributors, leaders and consultants;- management of our distributors, leaders and distributors; and - the direct selling industry. Any event that negatively affects the general public perception of our industry, business or products could have a material effect on our results of operations.
Tech & Innovation
Total Risks: 3/45 (7%)Below Sector Average
Innovation / R&D2 | 4.4%
Innovation / R&D - Risk 1
Failure of our technology initiatives to create sustained enthusiasm in our distributors, leaders and consultants and incremental cost savings could negatively impact our business.
We constantly develop and implement strategies to continue using technology to attract distributors, leaders and consultants and provide them new technology to facilitate taking orders of our products. In certain demographic markets, we have experienced some success implementing our technology strategies to improve our operating efficiency. However, any cost savings from our technology strategies may not prove to be significant, or we may not be successful in adapting and implementing these strategies to other markets in which we operate. This could result in our inability to service our distributors, leaders and consultants in the manner they expect, which could ultimately affect our results of operations.
Innovation / R&D - Risk 2
Failure to successfully develop new products could harm our business.
An important component of our business is our ability to develop new products that create enthusiasm among our customers. If we fail to introduce new products planned for the future, our distributors, leaders and consultants' productivity could be harmed. In addition, if our new products fail to gain market acceptance, are restricted by regulatory requirements, or have quality problems, this would harm our results of operations. Factors that could affect our ability to continue to introduce new products include, among others, government regulations, proprietary protections of competitors that may limit our ability to offer comparable products and any failure to anticipate changes in consumer tastes and buying preferences.
Technology1 | 2.2%
Technology - Risk 1
We are dependent on information and communication technologies, and our systems and infrastructures face certain risks, including cybersecurity risks.
The operation of complex infrastructures and the coordination of the many actors involved in our operation require the use of several highly specialized information systems, including both our own information technology systems and those of third-party service providers, such as systems that monitor our operations or the status of our facilities, communication systems to inform the public, access control systems and closed circuit television security systems, infrastructure monitoring systems and radio and voice communication systems used by our personnel. In addition, our accounting and fixed assets, payroll, budgeting, human resources, supplier and commercial, hiring, payments and billing systems and our websites are key to our functioning. The proper functioning of these systems is critical to our operations and business management. These systems may, from time to time, require modifications or improvements as a result of changes in technology, the growth of our business and the functioning of each of these systems. The risk of cyber-crime continues to increase across all industries and geographies as infiltrating technology is becoming increasingly sophisticated. If we are unable to prevent a significant cyber-attack, such attack could materially disrupt our operations, damage our reputation and lead to regulatory penalties and financial losses. To prevent such disruptions to our operations we have implemented a multi-layer security framework, from strategic corporate policies to operational procedures and controls. To support this framework, we use sophisticated technologies to secure our perimeter, computing equipment, networks, servers, storage and databases. Information technology systems cannot be completely protected against certain events such as natural disasters, fraud, computer viruses, hacking, communication failures, equipment breakdown, software errors and other technical problems. However, our security framework allows us to minimize and manage these risks through the use of enabling technologies such as, but not limited to, firewalls, mail & web filtering, end point protection, antivirus and anti-malware, access lists, encryption and hardening. In addition, our business operations routine involves gathering personal information about vendors, distributors, leaders, consultants, customers and employees among others, through the use of information technologies. Breaches of our systems or those of our third-party contractors, or other failures to protect such information, could expose such people's personal information to unauthorized use. Any such event could give rise to a significant potential liability and reputational harm. During 2023, we experienced an increased number of non-material phishing attempts which consisted of fake e-mails requesting minor payments and/or confidential information and e-mails with malicious files that we were able to successfully quarantine and contain, as well as sporadic attempted attacks, that were minor and unsuccessful, on our infrastructure. None of such incidents were material nor had any significant effect on our business or operations. However, we cannot guarantee any future events will not affect our operations or customers. We are constantly seeking to improve and strengthen our security strategy by aligning it with Security Frameworks and Best Practices such as NIST and ISO 27000.
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.
                          What am I Missing?
                          Make informed decisions based on Top Analysts' activity
                          Know what industry insiders are buying
                          Get actionable alerts from top Wall Street Analysts
                          Find out before anyone else which stock is going to shoot up
                          Get powerful stock screeners & detailed portfolio analysis