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Mannatech Inc. (MTEX)
NASDAQ:MTEX
Risk Overview Q1, 2024
Risk Distribution
26% Legal & Regulatory
21% Finance & Corporate
21% Production
11% Tech & Innovation
11% Ability to Sell
11% Macro & Political
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
Mannatech 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.
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 Q1, 2024
Main Risk Category
Legal & Regulatory
With 10 Risks
Legal & Regulatory
With 10 Risks
Number of Disclosed Risks
38
No changes from last report
S&P 500 Average: 31
38
No changes from last report
S&P 500 Average: 31
Recent Changes
0Risks added
0Risks removed
0Risks changed
Since Mar 2024
0Risks added
0Risks removed
0Risks changed
Since Mar 2024
Number of Risk Changed
0
-2
From last reportS&P 500 Average: 3
0
-2
From last reportS&P 500 Average: 3
See the risk highlights of Mannatech 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 38
Legal & Regulatory
Total Risks: 10/38 (26%)Above Sector Average
Regulation4 | 10.5%
Regulation - Risk 1
If government regulations regarding network marketing change or are interpreted or enforced in a manner adverse to our business, we may be subject to new enforcement actions and material limitations regarding our overall business model.Regulation - Risk 2
If our network marketing activities do not comply with government regulations, our business could suffer.Many governmental agencies regulate our network marketing activities. A government agency's determination that our business or our independent associates have significantly violated a law or regulation could adversely affect our business. The laws and regulations for network marketing intend to prevent fraudulent or deceptive schemes. Our business faces constant regulatory scrutiny due to the interpretive and enforcement discretion given to regulators, periodic misconduct by our independent associates, adoption of new laws or regulations, and changes in the interpretation of new or existing laws or regulations.
In addition, in the past, and because of the industry in which we operate, we have experienced inquiries regarding specific independent associates.
Regulation - Risk 3
If we violate governmental regulations or fail to obtain necessary regulatory approvals, our operations could be adversely affected.Our operation is subject to extensive laws, governmental regulations, administrative determinations, court decisions, and similar constraints at the federal, state, and local levels in our domestic and foreign markets. These regulations primarily involve the following:
- the formulation, manufacturing, packaging, labeling, distribution, importation, sale, and storage of our products;- the health and safety of dietary supplements, cosmetics and foods;- trade practice laws and network marketing laws (e.g., licensing and registration requirements; regulations pertaining to commission payments);- our product claims and advertising by our independent associates;- our network marketing system;- pricing restrictions regarding transactions with our foreign subsidiaries or other related parties and similar regulations that affect our level of foreign taxable income;- the assessment of customs duties;- further taxation of our independent associates, which may obligate us to collect additional taxes and maintain additional records; and - export and import restrictions.
Any unexpected new regulations or changes in existing regulations could significantly restrict our ability to continue operations, which could adversely affect our business. For example, changes regarding health and safety and food and drug regulations for our nutritional products could require us to reformulate our products to comply with such regulations.
On May 4, 2022, the Company received notice from its customs broker that the FDA held, inspected, and took samples for testing from shipments imported from Costa Rica of its Ambrotose Life and Ambrotose Complex products. We cooperated with the FDA and supplied requested documentation from our third-party manufacturer. The products were eventually released with the exception of one lot of Ambrotose Life powder which was denied entry. There was an inconsistency in the results obtained by the FDA as compared to the results obtained by both the manufacturer and two independent labs engaged by the Company to conduct testing. Additionally, we engaged a food-safety expert to analyze the testing results. The third-party testing results were all within established specifications and at levels customarily seen with raw botanical powders. In addition to the extensive testing and analysis completed by the Company, the food safety expert reviewed FDA's test results, the two third-party labs' test results, and the documentation and testing from our manufacturer. The expert's report was included as an exhibit to the Company's response to the FDA. The expert's report concluded that the Company's analytical data from samples of the same lot that the FDA tested, supported a conclusion favoring the Company's results. However, on February 9, 2023, we received notice that the FDA was refusing admission of the product. We scheduled return of that lot to the manufacturer.
On October 3, 2022, the Company received notice that the Ambrotose Life powder product was being detained due to a labeling issue asserting that there are formatting issues on the supplement facts panel. The formatting issues, which have been corrected, centered on stating "O g" or "0%" instead of "< 1g" or less than "< 1%" for sugar and sodium, respectively. We were also asked to remove the statement, "Not a significant source of saturated fat, trans fat, cholesterol, protein, vitamin D, calcium, or iron." While the labeling issues raised by the FDA have been corrected, we continued to experience FDA holds and future holds and requested changes could cause delays within our supply chain resulting in potential back orders, which could reduce associate and customer confidence and have a negative impact on our sales.
In some foreign countries, nutritional products are considered foods, while other countries consider them drugs. Future health and safety or food and drug regulations could delay or prevent our introduction of new products or suspend or prohibit the sale of existing products in a given country or marketplace. In addition, if we expand into other foreign markets, our operations or products could also be affected by the general stability of such foreign governments and the regulatory environment relating to network marketing and our products. If our products are subject to high customs duties, our sales and competitive position could suffer as compared to locally produced goods. Furthermore, import restrictions in certain countries and jurisdictions could limit our ability to import products from the United States.
We operate a non-direct selling business in mainland China. In 2016, we formed our China subsidiary, Meitai. Unlike Mannatech's business operations in other markets, Meitai operates under a cross-border e-commerce model, where consumers in China can buy Mannatech products manufactured overseas via Meitai's website. Meitai is currently not a direct selling company in China nor can it operate under a multi-level marketing model in China. Products purchased on Meitai's website are for personal use and not for resale. Meitai offers a rewards program to incentivize existing customers to refer other customers to purchase products from Meitai's website. Customs regulations in China include purchase limits to ensure that purchased products are for personal consumption. Regulators in China may change how they interpret and enforce regulations regarding e-commerce sales and how goods are imported through the free trade zone for sale to consumers in China. As a result, there can be no assurance that the Chinese government's current or future interpretation and application of existing and new regulations will not negatively impact our business in China, result in regulatory investigations, or lead to fines or penalties against us.
On January 8, 2019, China's State Administration of Market Regulation, along with 12 other government ministries and agencies, jointly launched a nationwide "100-day campaign" to crack down on illegal practices involving health products, and in particular, those operating in the direct selling channel. The campaign was initiated amid growing controversies surrounding, Quanjian, a licensed direct selling company suspected of operating a pyramid scheme and engaging in marketing practices that exaggerated the effectiveness of its health products. Other direct selling firms operating in China were cautioned to stop making false or exaggerated health claims through public advertising and their distributors. As part of the 100-day campaign, China also suspended the registration, approval, and issuance of direct selling licenses. The 100-day campaign was completed on April 18, 2019. Subsequent to the campaign, Quanjian was fined approximately $14.0 million and its founder and chairman was sentenced to nine years in prison and assessed a fine of approximately $7.0 million. The suspension of issuing direct selling licenses continues.
Many direct selling companies operating in China are still experiencing negative effects to their business operations including limited sales meetings, media scrutiny, and unfavorable consumer sentiment towards direct selling companies. Chinese officials of various ministries and agencies stated that they will continue to monitor healthcare product and direct selling companies. The suspension on issuing direct selling licenses remains in effect and it is unclear whether there will be changes to the application processes if and when the suspension is lifted.
Regulation - Risk 4
Increased regulatory scrutiny of nutritional supplements as well as new regulations that are being adopted in some of our markets with respect to nutritional supplements could result in more restrictive regulations and harm our results if our supplements or advertising activities are found to violate existing or new regulations or if we are not able to effect necessary changes to our products in a timely and efficient manner to respond to new regulations.There has been an increasing movement in the United States and other markets to increase the regulation of dietary supplements, which could impose additional restrictions or requirements on us and increase the cost of doing business. On February 11, 2019, the FDA issued a statement from FDA Commissioner, Dr. Scott Gottlieb, regarding the agency's efforts to strengthen the regulation of dietary supplements. The FDA will be prioritizing and focusing resources on misbranded products bearing unproven claims to treat, cure, or mitigate disease. Commissioner Gottlieb established a Dietary Supplement Working Group tasked with reviewing the agency's organizational structure, process, procedures, and practices to identify opportunities to modernize the oversight of dietary supplements. Additionally, on December 21, 2015, the FDA created the ODSP. The creation of this new office elevates the FDA's program from its previous status as a division under the Office of Nutrition and Dietary Supplements. ODSP will continue to monitor the safety of dietary supplements. In markets outside of the United States, prior to commencing operations or marketing new products, we may be required to obtain approvals, registrations, licenses, or certifications from an agency comparable to the FDA for the specific market. Approvals or registration may require reformulation of our products or may be unavailable to us with respect to certain products or ingredients. We must also comply with product labeling regulations, which vary by jurisdiction.
In several of our markets, new regulations have been adopted, or are likely to be adopted, in the near-term that will impose new requirements, make changes in some classifications of supplements under the regulations, or limit the claims we can make. In addition, there has been increased regulatory scrutiny of nutritional supplements and marketing claims under existing and new regulations. In Europe, for example, we are unable to market supplements that contain ingredients that have not been previously marketed in Europe without going through an extensive registration and approval process. Europe is also expected to adopt additional regulations in the future to set new limits on acceptable levels of nutrients. South Africa has also implemented new "complementary medicine" legislation, which requires a significant dossier in order to register current and new products. Mannatech is working toward complying with the new legislation and is in contact with the Direct Selling Association in South Africa. In August 2016, the FDA published its revised draft guidance on Dietary Supplements: New Dietary Ingredient Notifications and Related Issues. If a company sells a dietary supplement containing an ingredient that FDA considers either not a dietary ingredient or a new dietary ingredient ("NDI") that needs an NDI notification, the agency may threaten or initiate enforcement against the Company. For example, it might send a warning letter that can trigger consumer lawsuits, demand a product recall, or even work with the Department of Justice to bring a criminal action. Our operations could be harmed if new guidance or regulations require us to reformulate products or effect new registrations, if regulatory authorities make determinations that any of our products do not comply with applicable regulatory requirements, if the cost of complying with regulatory requirements increases materially, or if we are not able to effect necessary changes to our products in a timely and efficient manner to respond to new regulations. In addition, our operations could be harmed if governmental laws or regulations are enacted that restrict the ability of companies to market or distribute nutritional supplements or impose additional burdens or requirements on nutritional supplement companies.
Litigation & Legal Liabilities2 | 5.3%
Litigation & Legal Liabilities - Risk 1
If we are exposed to product liability claims, we may be liable for damages and expenses, which could affect our overall financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.Litigation & Legal Liabilities - Risk 2
If we incur substantial liability from litigation, complaints, or enforcement actions or incur liabilities or penalties resulting from misconduct by our independent associates, our financial condition could suffer, and could have a negative impact on our profitability and growth prospects.Routine enforcement actions and complaints are common in our industry. Although we believe we fully cooperate with regulatory agencies and use various means to address misconduct by our independent associates, including maintaining policies and procedures to govern the conduct of our independent associates and conducting training seminars, it is still difficult to detect and correct all instances of misconduct. Violations of our policies and procedures by our independent associates could lead to litigation, formal or informal complaints, enforcement actions, and inquiries by various federal, state, or foreign regulatory authorities against us and/or our independent associates in each country. Because we have expanded into foreign countries, our policies and procedures for our independent associates differ depending on the different legal requirements of each country in which an independent associate does business. Any future litigation, complaints, and enforcement actions involving us and/or our independent associates could consume considerable amounts of financial and other corporate resources, which could have a negative impact on our business, profitability, and growth prospects.
Taxation & Government Incentives3 | 7.9%
Taxation & Government Incentives - Risk 1
An increase in the amount of commissions and incentives paid to independent associates could adversely affect our earnings.Taxation & Government Incentives - Risk 2
Taxation and transfer pricing affect our operations and we could be subjected to additional taxes, duties, interest, and penalties in material amounts, which could harm our business.As a multinational corporation, in many countries, including the United States, we are subject to transfer pricing and other tax regulations designed to ensure that our intercompany transactions are consummated at prices that reflect the economic reality of the relationship between our entities and have not been manipulated to produce a desired tax result, that appropriate levels of income are reported as earned by the local entities, and that we are taxed appropriately on such transactions. Regulators closely monitor our corporate structure, intercompany transactions, and how we effectuate intercompany fund transfers. If regulators challenge our corporate structure, transfer pricing methodologies or intercompany transfers, our operations may be harmed and our effective tax rate may increase. Scrutiny has increased with the advent of the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development Base Erosion and Profit Shifting project.
We are subject to income taxes in the U.S. and numerous international jurisdictions. Our income tax provision and cash tax liability in the future could be adversely affected by changes in earnings in countries with differing statutory tax rates, changes in the valuation of deferred tax assets and liabilities, changes in tax laws and the discovery of new information in the course of our tax return preparation process. We are also subject to ongoing tax audits. These audits can involve complex issues, which may require an extended period of time to resolve and can be highly judgmental. Tax authorities may disagree with certain tax reporting positions taken by us and, as a result, assess additional taxes against us. We regularly assess the likely outcomes of these audits in order to determine the appropriateness of our tax provision. The amounts ultimately paid upon resolution of these or subsequent tax audits could be materially different from the amount previously included in our income tax provision, and, therefore, could have a material impact on our profitability.
Taxation & Government Incentives - Risk 3
We may be held responsible for certain taxes or assessments relating to the activities of our independent associates, which could harm our financial condition and operating results.Our independent associates are subject to taxation and, in some instances, legislation or governmental agencies impose an obligation on us to collect taxes, such as value added taxes, and to maintain appropriate tax records. In addition, we are subject to the risk in some jurisdictions of being responsible for social security and similar social taxes with respect to our distributors. In the event that local laws and regulations require us to treat our independent distributors as employees, or if our distributors are deemed by local regulatory authorities to be our employees, rather than independent contractors, we may be held responsible for social security and/or related social taxes in those jurisdictions, plus any related assessments and penalties, which could harm our financial condition and operating results. Laws regarding independent contractor status in certain jurisdictions, including the U.S., continue to evolve and have been applied unfavorably to gig economy companies, platform companies, and some of our counterparts in the direct selling channel.
If federal, state, or local laws and regulations or the interpretation of those laws and regulations require us to treat our independent associates or Trulu affiliates as employees, or if they are deemed by local regulatory authorities in one or more of the jurisdictions in which we operate to be our employees rather than independent contractors, under existing laws and interpretations, we may be deemed to be responsible for a variety of obligations that are imposed upon employers relating to their employees, including social security and related taxes in those jurisdictions, wages, employee benefits, plus any related assessments and penalties, which could harm our financial position and operations.
Environmental / Social1 | 2.6%
Environmental / Social - Risk 1
The Company may, directly or indirectly, be affected by government laws and regulations related to climate change.Finance & Corporate
Total Risks: 8/38 (21%)Below Sector Average
Share Price & Shareholder Rights5 | 13.2%
Share Price & Shareholder Rights - Risk 1
Our stock price is volatile and may fluctuate significantly.Share Price & Shareholder Rights - Risk 2
Certain shareholders, directors, and officers own a significant amount of our stock, which could allow them to influence corporate transactions and other matters.As of December 31, 2023, our directors and executive officers collectively with their families and affiliates, beneficially owned approximately 45.1% of our total outstanding common stock. As a result, if two or more of these shareholders choose to act together based on their current share ownership, they may be able to control a significant percentage of the total outstanding shares of our common stock, which could affect the outcome of a shareholder vote on the election of directors, the adoption of stock option plans, the adoption or amendment of provisions in our articles of incorporation and bylaws, or the approval of mergers and other significant corporate transactions.
Share Price & Shareholder Rights - Risk 3
We have implemented anti-takeover provisions that may help discourage a change of control.Certain provisions in our articles of incorporation, bylaws, and the Texas Business Organizations Code help discourage unsolicited proposals to acquire our Company, even if the proposal may benefit our shareholders. Our articles of incorporation authorize the issuance of preferred stock without shareholder approval. Our Board of Directors has the power to determine the price and terms of any preferred stock. The ability of our Board of Directors to issue one or more series of preferred stock without shareholders' approval could deter or delay unsolicited changes of control by discouraging open market purchases of our common stock or a non-negotiated tender or exchange offer for our common stock. Discouraging open market purchases may be disadvantageous to our shareholders who may otherwise desire to participate in a transaction in which they would receive a premium for their shares.
In addition, other provisions may also discourage a change of control by means of a tender offer, open market purchase, proxy contest or otherwise. Our charter documents provide for three classes of directors on our Board of Directors with members of each class serving staggered three year terms. Our bylaws provide that directors are elected by a plurality vote and that directors can only be removed for cause upon the affirmative vote of the holders of a majority of the issued and outstanding shares entitled to be cast for the election of such directors. Furthermore, our bylaws establish advance notice requirements for nominations for election to our board of directors or for proposing matters that can be acted on by shareholders at shareholder meetings. In addition, the Texas Business Organization Code restricts, subject to exceptions, business combinations with any "affiliated shareholder." Any or all of these provisions could delay, deter or help prevent a takeover of our Company and could limit the price investors are willing to pay for our common stock.
Share Price & Shareholder Rights - Risk 4
Our failure to comply with The Nasdaq Global Select Market continued listing standards may adversely affect the price and liquidity of our shares of common stock as well as our ability to raise capital in the future.Our common stock is currently listed on The Nasdaq Global Select Market. Continued listing of a security on Nasdaq is conditioned upon compliance with various continued listing standards. There can be no assurance that we will continue to satisfy the requirements for maintaining listing on Nasdaq. If we are unsuccessful in maintaining compliance with the continued listing requirements of Nasdaq, then our common stock could be delisted. If our common stock is delisted and we cannot obtain listing on another major market or exchange, our common stock's liquidity would suffer, and we would likely experience reduced investor interest. Such factors may result in a decrease in our common stock's trading price. Delisting may also restrict us from issuing additional securities or securing financing.
As of the date of issuance of this report, we were in compliance with the continued listing requirements. However, we cannot assure you that we will be successful in continuing to meet all requisite continued listing criteria.
Share Price & Shareholder Rights - Risk 5
The reduced disclosure requirements applicable to us as a "smaller reporting company" may make our common stock less attractive to investors.We are a "smaller reporting company" as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act. As a smaller reporting company we prepare and file SEC forms similar to other SEC reporting companies; however, the information disclosed may differ and be less comprehensive. If some investors find our common stock less attractive as a result of less comprehensive information we may disclose pursuant to the exemptions available to us as a smaller reporting company, there may be a less active trading market for our common stock and our stock price may be more volatile than that of an otherwise comparable company that does not avail itself of the same or similar exemptions.
Circumstances and conditions may change. Accordingly, additional risks and uncertainties not currently known, or that we currently deem not material, may also adversely affect our business operations.
Accounting & Financial Operations1 | 2.6%
Accounting & Financial Operations - Risk 1
We are not required to pay dividends, and our Board of Directors may decide not to declare dividends in the future.Debt & Financing2 | 5.3%
Debt & Financing - Risk 1
We rely upon our existing cash balances and cash flow from operations to fund our business and meet our contractual obligations. In the event that we do not generate adequate cash flow from operations, we will need to raise money through a debt or equity financing, if available, or curtail operations.Debt & Financing - Risk 2
We are subject to liquidity risk, which could adversely affect our financial condition and results of operationsEffective liquidity management is essential for the operation of our business. Although we have implemented strategies to maintain sufficient and diverse sources of funding to accommodate planned, as well as unanticipated, changes in assets and liabilities, under various economic conditions, an inability to raise capital through operations and other sources could have a material adverse effect on our liquidity. Our access to funding sources in amounts adequate to finance our activities could be impaired by factors that affect us specifically or the direct selling industry in general. Factors that could detrimentally impact our access to liquidity sources include credit availability through commercial banking, foreign exchange controls, limitations on the repatriation of funds, and changes in currency policies or practices of foreign jurisdictions. Deterioration in economic conditions may increase our cost of funding and limit our access to some sources of liquidity.
Production
Total Risks: 8/38 (21%)Below Sector Average
Employment / Personnel5 | 13.2%
Employment / Personnel - Risk 1
Independent associates could fail to comply with our associate policies and procedures or make improper product, compensation, marketing or advertising claims that violate laws or regulations, which could result in claims against us that could harm our financial condition and operating results.Employment / Personnel - Risk 2
The loss of key management personnel could adversely affect our business, financial condition, results of operations or independent associate relations.We depend on the continued services of our executive officers and senior management team as they work closely with independent associate leaders and are responsible for our day-to-day operations. Our success depends in part on our ability to retain our executive officers, to compensate our executive officers at attractive levels, and to continue to attract additional qualified individuals to our management team. Although we have entered into employment agreements with certain senior executive officers, and do not believe that any of them are planning to leave or retire in the near term, we cannot assure you that our senior executive officers or members of our senior management team will remain with us. As previously disclosed, on January 8, 2024, we were notified by David A. Johnson, the Company's Chief Financial Officer, of his resignation from his position effective January 22, 2024. Additionally, as previously disclosed, on March 13, 2024, the Company announced the retirement of Alfredo (Al) Bala, the Chief Executive Officer, on April 1, 2024. Landen Fredrick will be promoted to President and Chief Executive Officer, and he will continue to serve as interim Chief Financial Officer. We are conducting a search for a permanent Chief Financial Officer, but there is no assurance that we will be able to identify, attract or hire a replacement in a timely manner. The loss or limitation of the services of any of our executive officers or members of our senior management team, including our regional and country managers, or the inability to attract additional qualified management personnel could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations, or independent associate relations.
Employment / Personnel - Risk 3
If we are unable to attract and retain independent associates, our business may suffer.Our future success depends largely upon our ability to attract and retain a large active base of independent associates and preferred customers. We rely on our non-employee independent associates to market and sell our products to customers to generate growth and to attract new independent associates who are interested in building a business. Our ability to increase sales depends on our ability to increase the number of customers in each of our markets around the world. Our success will also depend on our ability to retain and motivate our existing independent associates and attract new independent associates. We cannot give any assurances that the number of our independent associates will continue at their current levels or increase in the future. Several factors affect our ability to attract and retain independent associates and preferred customers, including:
- on-going motivation of our independent associates;- general economic conditions;- significant changes in the amount of commissions paid;- public perception and acceptance of the wellness industry;- public perception and acceptance of network marketing;- public perception and acceptance of our business and our products, including any negative publicity;- the limited number of people interested in pursuing network marketing as a business;- our ability to provide proprietary quality-driven products that the market demands; and - competition with other direct selling companies and gig economy companies in recruiting and retaining independent associates.
Employment / Personnel - Risk 4
The loss of key high-level independent associate leaders could negatively impact our associate growth and our revenue.As of December 31, 2023, we had approximately 145,000 active associates and preferred customer positions held by individuals who purchased our products and/or packs or paid associate fees within the last 12 months, of which 159 occupied the highest associate levels under our global compensation plan. These independent associate leaders are important in maintaining and growing our revenue. As a result, the loss of a high-level independent associate or a group of leading associates in the independent associates' networks of downlines, whether by their own choice or through disciplinary actions by us for violations of our policies and procedures, could negatively impact our associate growth and our revenue.
Employment / Personnel - Risk 5
Changes to our associate compensation arrangements could be viewed negatively by some independent associates, could cause failure to achieve desired long-term results and have a negative impact on revenue.Our associate compensation plan includes components that differ from market to market. We modify components of our compensation plan from time to time in an attempt to remain competitive and attractive to existing and potential independent associates, including such modifications:
- to address changing market dynamics;- to provide incentives to independent associates that are intended to help grow our business;- to conform to local regulations; and - to address other business needs.
However, changes could be viewed negatively by some independent associates, could cause failure to achieve desired long-term results and have a negative impact on revenue.
Supply Chain3 | 7.9%
Supply Chain - Risk 1
If our outside suppliers and manufacturers fail to supply products in sufficient quantities and in a timely fashion or fail to comply with our product safety and quality standards or applicable law, our business could suffer.Supply Chain - Risk 2
The loss of suppliers, shortages of raw materials or our failure to satisfy minimum purchase requirements could have an adverse effect on our business, financial condition, or results of operations.We depend on outside suppliers for raw materials. Our contract manufacturers acquire all of the raw materials for manufacturing our products from third-party suppliers. In the event we were to lose any significant suppliers and have trouble in finding or transitioning to alternative suppliers, it could result in product shortages or product back orders, which could harm our business. There can be no assurance that suppliers will be able to provide our contract manufacturers the raw materials in the quantities and at the appropriate level of quality that we request or at a price that we are willing to pay. We are also subject to delays caused by any interruption in the production of these materials including weather, disease, crop conditions, climate change, energy costs, currency fluctuations, logistics service capacities, transportation interruptions, and natural disasters or other catastrophic events. For example, in March 2020, the WHO declared the outbreak of COVID-19 as a pandemic, which spread throughout our international regions and throughout the United States. Beginning in 2020 and continuing through 2023, the Company experienced challenges in getting certain materials and ingredients to our contract manufacturers and finished products to our distribution centers resulting from reductions in global transportation capacity and other logistical issues within the supply chain. The extent to which COVID-related factors impact our future operations will depend on future developments, which are highly uncertain and cannot be predicted with confidence, including the continued use of updated COVID-19 vaccines, the impact of variants of COVID-19 and post-COVID conditions often referred to as "Long COVID" or "long-haul COVID," among others. In particular, the spread of new COVID-19 variants or other rapidly spreading communicable diseases globally could adversely impact our operations, including among others, our manufacturing and supply chain, sales and marketing and clinical trial operations and could have an adverse impact on our business and our financial results.
We maintain supply agreements with our suppliers and manufacturers. Certain of our supply agreements contain exclusivity clauses for the supply of certain raw materials and products, some of which are conditioned upon compliance with minimum purchase requirements. One of our supply agreements, under which the supplier provides us with certain aloe vera-based raw materials, requires us to purchase raw materials in an aggregate amount of $4.2 million through 2024. Failure to satisfy minimum purchase requirements could result in the loss of exclusivity, which could adversely affect our business.
Supply Chain - Risk 3
Challenges by private parties to the form of our network marketing system could harm our business.We may be subject to challenges by private parties, including our independent associates and preferred customers, to the form of our network marketing system or elements of our business. In the United States, the network marketing industry and regulatory authorities have relied on the implementation of distributor rules and policies designed to promote retail sales to protect consumers, prevent inappropriate activities, and distinguish between legitimate network marketing distribution plans and unlawful pyramid schemes. We have adopted rules and policies based on case law, rulings of the FTC, discussions with regulatory authorities in several states, and domestic and global industry standards. As a member of the U.S. DSA, we are required to adhere to a code of ethics that protects our associates and their customers, and ensures all DSA members remain accountable to regulators, consumers, independent distributors, and the public.
On January 4, 2019, the DSA established a third party self-regulatory program to be administered by the Council of Better Business Bureaus. The new entity, the Direct Selling Self-Regulatory Council ("DSSRC"), will engage in active monitoring of the entire direct selling marketplace, including websites and social media of direct selling companies and their respective independent distributors in the areas of income representations and product claims. The DSSRC will report potentially non-compliant companies to the appropriate government agencies and will manage consumer/company complaint resolution.
Legal and regulatory requirements concerning network marketing systems, however, involve a high level of subjectivity, are inherently fact-based, and are subject to judicial interpretation. Because of this, we can provide no assurance that we would not be harmed by the application or interpretation of statutes or regulations governing network marketing, particularly in any civil challenge by a current or former independent associate or preferred customer.
Tech & Innovation
Total Risks: 4/38 (11%)Above Sector Average
Innovation / R&D2 | 5.3%
Innovation / R&D - Risk 1
Our inability to develop and introduce new products that gain independent associate, preferred customer, and market acceptance could harm our business.Innovation / R&D - Risk 2
Our inability to develop products, sales platforms, affiliate opportunities, and other initiatives or maintain an affiliate salesforce and market acceptance for our new Trulu brand and products could harm our business.The failure of our Trulu brand and products to attract or gain acceptance from affiliates or consumers could negatively affect our operating results. Our operating results have been and could be adversely affected if the Trulu products, affiliate platform, and business opportunity do not generate sufficient enthusiasm and financial benefit to attract affiliates who are interested in selling the Trulu products, building a customer base, and promoting the affiliate program. In 2023, our Trulu product sales and affiliate participation were below expectations. Potential factors affecting interest in the Trulu affiliate program and its products include, among other things, perceived product quality and value, similarities to other products, product effectiveness, growth of the gig economy, perceived economic success in the affiliate business opportunity, our technology infrastructure and capabilities, restrictions in social or digital media for sharing products and attracting consumers, and regulatory restrictions on claims. If we are unable to anticipate changes in consumer preferences and trends, our business, financial condition, and operating results could be materially adversely affected. Additionally, if we are unable to anticipate changes in the gig and sharing economies and adapt our business opportunity accordingly, our ability to capture growth trends in the social-selling e-commerce marketplace could be materially adversely affected.
Trade Secrets1 | 2.6%
Trade Secrets - Risk 1
If we are unable to protect the proprietary rights of our products, our business could suffer.Technology1 | 2.6%
Technology - Risk 1
If our information technology system fails or if the implementation of new information technology systems is not executed efficiently and effectively, our business, financial position, and operating results could be adversely affected.Ability to Sell
Total Risks: 4/38 (11%)Below Sector Average
Competition1 | 2.6%
Competition - Risk 1
The global nutrition and skin care industries are intensely competitive and the strengthening of any of our competitors could harm our business.Demand2 | 5.3%
Demand - Risk 1
Concentration RiskDemand - Risk 2
Our failure to appropriately respond to changing consumer preferences and demand for new products or product enhancements could significantly harm our relationship with independent associates and preferred customers, our product sales, as well as our financial condition and operating results.Our business is subject to changing consumer trends and preferences, including rapid and frequent changes in demand for products, new product introductions, and enhancements. Our failure to accurately predict these trends could negatively impact consumer opinion of our products, which in turn could harm our independent associate and preferred customer relationships and cause the loss of sales. The success of our new product offerings and enhancements depends upon a number of factors, including our ability to:
- accurately anticipate consumer needs;- innovate and develop new products or product enhancements that meet these needs;- successfully commercialize new products or product enhancements in a timely manner;- price our products competitively;- manufacture and deliver our products in sufficient volumes and in a timely manner; and - differentiate our product offerings from those of our competitors.
If we do not introduce new products or make enhancements to meet the changing needs of our independent associates and preferred customers in a timely manner, some of our products could be rendered obsolete, which could negatively impact our revenues, financial condition, and operating results.
Brand / Reputation1 | 2.6%
Brand / Reputation - Risk 1
Adverse or negative publicity could cause our business to suffer.Macro & Political
Total Risks: 4/38 (11%)Below Sector Average
Economy & Political Environment1 | 2.6%
Economy & Political Environment - Risk 1
A downturn in the economy, including as a result of continuing COVID-related factors such as variants and post-COVID conditions, or other communicable and rapidly spreading diseases could affect consumer purchases of discretionary items such as the health and wellness products that we offer, which could have an adverse effect on our business, financial condition, profitability, and cash flows.International Operations1 | 2.6%
International Operations - Risk 1
If our international markets are not successful, our business could suffer.Natural and Human Disruptions1 | 2.6%
Natural and Human Disruptions - Risk 1
COVID-related factors and the possibility of other epidemics or rapidly spreading communicable disease may continue to negatively impact our business.Capital Markets1 | 2.6%
Capital Markets - Risk 1
Currency exchange rate fluctuations could reduce our overall profits.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.