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Keysight Technologies, Inc. - Quarter Report: 2018 April (Form 10-Q)

Table of Contents

UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
WASHINGTON, D.C. 20549
FORM 10-Q
 
(MARK ONE) 
x QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934. 
FOR THE QUARTERLY PERIOD ENDED APRIL 30, 2018 
OR 
¨ TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934. 
FOR THE TRANSITION PERIOD FROM              TO        
 COMMISSION FILE NUMBER: 001-36334
 KEYSIGHT TECHNOLOGIES, INC.
(EXACT NAME OF REGISTRANT AS SPECIFIED IN ITS CHARTER)
DELAWARE
 
46-4254555
(State or other jurisdiction of
 
(IRS employer
incorporation or organization)
 
Identification no.)
 
 
 
1400 FOUNTAINGROVE PARKWAY
 
 
SANTA ROSA, CALIFORNIA
 
95403
(Address of principal executive offices)
 
(Zip Code)
 
Registrant’s telephone number, including area code: (800) 829-4444  
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days.  Yes x  No ¨
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Web site, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files).  Yes x  No ¨
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, or a smaller reporting company. See definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer,” “smaller reporting company,” and “emerging growth company” in Rule 12b-2 of the exchange act.
Large accelerated filer x
 
Accelerated filer ¨
 
 
 
Non-accelerated filer ¨
 
Smaller reporting company ¨
 
 
 
(do not check if a smaller reporting company)
 
Emerging growth company ¨
 
If an emerging growth company, indicate by check mark if the registrant has elected not to use the extended transition period for complying with any new or revised financial accounting standards provided pursuant to Section13(a)of the Exchange Act. ¨
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act).  Yes ¨ No x 
The number of shares of common stock outstanding at June 4, 2018 was 187,919,243



Table of Contents

KEYSIGHT TECHNOLOGIES, INC.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
 
 
 
 
Page
Number
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

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PART I
— FINANCIAL INFORMATION
 
ITEM 1. CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (UNAUDITED)
 
KEYSIGHT TECHNOLOGIES, INC.
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS
(in millions, except per share data)
(Unaudited)
 
 
Three Months Ended
 
Six Months Ended
 
April 30,
 
April 30,
 
2018
 
2017
 
2018
 
2017
Net revenue:
 

 
 

 
 
 
 
Products
$
830

 
$
634

 
$
1,514

 
$
1,240

Services and other
160

 
119

 
313

 
239

Total net revenue
990

 
753

 
1,827

 
1,479

Costs and expenses:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Cost of products
367

 
273

 
704

 
527

Cost of services and other
80

 
67

 
153

 
135

Total costs
447

 
340

 
857

 
662

Research and development
156

 
119

 
302

 
227

Selling, general and administrative
299

 
256

 
588

 
469

Other operating expense (income), net
(12
)
 
(4
)
 
(15
)
 
(83
)
Total costs and expenses
890

 
711

 
1,732

 
1,275

Income from operations
100

 
42

 
95

 
204

Interest income
2

 
2

 
5

 
3

Interest expense
(21
)
 
(24
)
 
(43
)
 
(36
)
Other income (expense), net
2

 
2

 
3

 
3

Income before taxes
83

 
22

 
60

 
174

Provision (benefit) for income taxes
19

 
(27
)
 
(98
)
 
16

Net income
$
64

 
$
49

 
$
158

 
$
158

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Net income per share:
 

 
 

 
 
 
 
Basic
$
0.34

 
$
0.28

 
$
0.84

 
$
0.91

Diluted
$
0.34

 
$
0.27

 
$
0.83

 
$
0.90

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Weighted average shares used in computing net income per share:
 
 
 
 
 
 
Basic
188

 
177

 
187

 
174

Diluted
190

 
179

 
190

 
176


The accompanying notes are an integral part of these condensed consolidated financial statements.


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KEYSIGHT TECHNOLOGIES, INC.
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME
(in millions)
(Unaudited)
 
Three Months Ended
 
Six Months Ended
 
April 30,
 
April 30,
 
2018
 
2017
 
2018
 
2017
Net income
$
64

 
$
49

 
$
158

 
$
158

Other comprehensive income (loss):
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Unrealized gain (loss) on investments, net of tax benefit of $1, $1, $1 and zero

 

 
(2
)
 
4

Unrealized gain (loss) on derivative instruments, net of tax benefit (expense) of zero, zero, zero and $(1)

 
(1
)
 
2

 
1

Amounts reclassified into earnings related to derivative instruments, net of tax expense of zero, $1, zero and $1
(1
)
 

 
(3
)
 
1

Foreign currency translation, net of tax benefit (expense) of zero
(13
)
 
9

 
28

 
(15
)
Net defined benefit pension cost and post retirement plan costs:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Change in actuarial net loss, net of tax expense of $4, $5, $7 and $18
11

 
12

 
21

 
40

Change in net prior service credit, net of tax benefit of $2, $2, $3 and $4
(4
)
 
(4
)
 
(8
)
 
(8
)
Other comprehensive income (loss)
(7
)
 
16

 
38

 
23

Total comprehensive income
$
57

 
$
65

 
$
196

 
$
181


The accompanying notes are an integral part of these condensed consolidated financial statements.


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KEYSIGHT TECHNOLOGIES, INC.
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEET
(in millions, except par value and share data)

 
April 30,
2018
 
October 31,
2017
 
(unaudited)
 
 
ASSETS
 

 
 

Current assets:
 

 
 

Cash and cash equivalents
$
784

 
$
818

Accounts receivable, net
579

 
547

Inventory
597

 
588

Other current assets
229

 
224

Total current assets
2,189

 
2,177

Property, plant and equipment, net
546

 
530

Goodwill
1,891

 
1,882

Other intangible assets, net
754

 
855

Long-term investments
59

 
63

Long-term deferred tax assets
203

 
186

Other assets
281

 
240

Total assets
$
5,923

 
$
5,933

LIABILITIES AND EQUITY
 
 
 
Current liabilities:
 

 
 

Current portion of long-term debt
$

 
$
10

Accounts payable
240

 
211

Employee compensation and benefits
241

 
217

Deferred revenue
347

 
291

Income and other taxes payable
47

 
28

Other accrued liabilities
78

 
62

Total current liabilities
953

 
819

Long-term debt
1,789

 
2,038

Retirement and post-retirement benefits
309

 
309

Long-term deferred revenue
119

 
101

Other long-term liabilities
230

 
356

Total liabilities
3,400

 
3,623

Commitments and contingencies (Note 13)


 


Stockholders’ equity:
 

 
 

Preferred stock; $0.01 par value; 100 million shares authorized; none issued and outstanding

 

Common stock; $0.01 par value; 1 billion shares authorized; 190 million shares at April 30, 2018 and 188 million shares at October 31, 2017 issued
2

 
2

Treasury stock at cost; 3.1 million shares at April 30, 2018 and 2.3 million shares at October 31, 2017
(102
)
 
(62
)
Additional paid-in-capital
1,837

 
1,786

Retained earnings
1,205

 
1,041

Accumulated other comprehensive loss
(419
)
 
(457
)
Total stockholders' equity
2,523

 
2,310

Total liabilities and equity
$
5,923

 
$
5,933

 
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these condensed consolidated financial statements.

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KEYSIGHT TECHNOLOGIES, INC.
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS
(in millions)
(Unaudited)
 
Six Months Ended
 
April 30,
 
2018
 
2017
Cash flows from operating activities:
 

 
 

Net income
$
158

 
$
158

Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:
 

 
 

Depreciation and amortization
157

 
73

Share-based compensation
34

 
31

Debt issuance expense

 
9

Deferred tax benefit
(237
)
 
(13
)
Excess and obsolete inventory-related charges
11

 
6

Gain on sale of assets and divestiture
(8
)
 
(8
)
Asset impairment

 
7

Pension curtailment and settlement gains

 
(68
)
Other non-cash expenses, net
5

 
1

Changes in assets and liabilities:
 

 
 

Accounts receivable
(31
)
 
10

Inventory
(18
)
 
(10
)
Accounts payable
20

 
(17
)
Employee compensation and benefits
23

 

Retirement and post-retirement benefits
(22
)
 
(6
)
Deferred revenue
71

 
30

Income taxes payable
125

 
(7
)
Other assets and liabilities
(6
)
 
(32
)
Net cash provided by operating activities
282

 
164

 
 
 
 
Cash flows from investing activities:
 

 
 

Investments in property, plant and equipment
(58
)
 
(33
)
Proceeds from sale of property, plant and equipment

 
8

Change in restricted cash and cash equivalents, net

 
1

Proceeds from sale of investments

 
4

Proceeds from divestiture
12

 

Acquisition of businesses and intangible assets, net of cash acquired
(3
)
 
(1,622
)
Net cash used in investing activities
(49
)
 
(1,642
)
 
 
 
 
Cash flows from financing activities:
 

 
 

Proceeds from issuance of common stock under employee stock plans
33

 
21

Proceeds from issuance of common stock under public offering

 
444

Payment of taxes related to net share settlement of equity awards
(16
)
 
(11
)
Proceeds from short-term borrowings
40

 
170

Proceeds from issuance of long-term debt

 
1,069

Payment of debt issuance costs

 
(16
)
Repayment of debt and credit facility
(300
)
 

Treasury stock repurchases
(28
)
 

Net cash provided (used) by financing activities
(271
)
 
1,677

 
 
 
 
Effect of exchange rate movements
4

 
1

 
 
 
 
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents
(34
)
 
200

Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period
818

 
783

Cash and cash equivalents at end of period
$
784

 
$
983


The accompanying notes are an integral part of these condensed consolidated financial statements.

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KEYSIGHT TECHNOLOGIES, INC.
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(UNAUDITED)

1.
OVERVIEW, BASIS OF PRESENTATION AND SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
Overview. Keysight Technologies, Inc. ("we", "us", "Keysight" or the "company"), incorporated in Delaware on December 6, 2013, is a measurement company providing electronic design and test solutions to communications and electronics industries. Following the acquisition of Ixia on April 18, 2017, the company also provides testing, visibility, and security solutions, strengthening applications across physical and virtual networks for enterprises, service providers, and network equipment manufacturers.
Our fiscal year-end is October 31, and our fiscal quarters end on January 31, April 30 and July 31. Unless otherwise stated, these dates refer to our fiscal year and fiscal quarters.
Basis of Presentation. We have prepared the accompanying financial statements pursuant to the rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC"). Certain information and footnote disclosures normally included in financial statements prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles in the U.S. ("GAAP") have been condensed or omitted pursuant to such rules and regulations. The accompanying financial statements and information should be read in conjunction with our Annual Report on Form 10-K.
In the opinion of management, the accompanying condensed consolidated financial statements contain all normal and recurring adjustments necessary to state fairly our condensed consolidated balance sheet as of April 30, 2018 and October 31, 2017, condensed consolidated statement of comprehensive income for the three and six months ended April 30, 2018 and 2017, condensed consolidated statement of operations for the three and six months ended April 30, 2018 and 2017, and condensed consolidated statement of cash flows for the six months ended April 30, 2018 and 2017.
Use of Estimates. The preparation of condensed consolidated financial statements in accordance with GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the amounts reported in our condensed consolidated financial statements and accompanying notes. Management bases its estimates on historical experience and various other assumptions believed to be reasonable. Although these estimates are based on management’s knowledge of current events and actions that may impact the company in the future, actual results may be different from the estimates. Our critical accounting policies are those that affect our financial statements materially and involve difficult, subjective or complex judgments by management. Those policies are revenue recognition, inventory valuation, share-based compensation, retirement and post-retirement plan assumptions, valuation of goodwill and other intangible assets, warranty, restructuring, and accounting for income taxes.
Land Sale. On April 30, 2014 we entered into a binding contract to sell land in the United Kingdom ("U.K.") that resulted in the transfer of three separate land tracts in May 2014, November 2015 and November 2016 for £21 million. In the six months ended April 30, 2017, we recognized a gain of $8 million on the sale of the land tracts in other operating expense (income).
Restricted Cash. As of April 30, 2018 and October 31, 2017, restricted cash of approximately $2 million consisted of deposits held as collateral against bank guarantees and is classified within other assets in the condensed consolidated balance sheet.
Update to Significant Accounting Policies. There have been no material changes to our significant accounting policies, as compared to the significant accounting policies described in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended October 31, 2017.
2. NEW ACCOUNTING PRONOUNCEMENTS
Accounting Standards Update ("ASU") 2014-09, Revenue From Contracts With Customers. In May 2014, the Financial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB") issued guidance which will replace numerous requirements in GAAP, including industry-specific requirements, and provide companies with a single revenue recognition model for recognizing revenue from contracts with customers. The core principle of the new standard is that a company should recognize revenue to show the transfer of promised goods or services to customers in an amount that reflects the consideration to which the company expects to be entitled in exchange for those goods or services. In July 2015, the FASB deferred the effective date by one year to December 15, 2017 for annual reporting periods beginning after that date. The FASB also permitted early adoption of the standard, but not before the original effective date of December 15, 2016. During 2016, the FASB issued several amendments to the standard, including clarification to the guidance on reporting revenues as a principal versus an agent, identifying performance obligations, accounting for intellectual property licenses, assessing collectability, presentation of sales taxes, impairment testing for contract costs and disclosure of performance obligations.

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The two permitted transition methods under the new standard are (1) the full retrospective method, in which case the standard would be applied to each prior reporting period presented, and the cumulative effect of applying the standard would be recognized at the earliest period shown, or (2) the modified retrospective method, in which case the cumulative effect of applying the standard would be recognized at the date of initial application. We currently anticipate adopting the standard on November 1, 2018 under the modified retrospective transition method. Based on the progress to date, we have not identified any material impacts of the new standard on the amount and timing of revenue recognition to our consolidated statement of operations. We expect recognition of revenue for a majority of customer contracts to remain substantially unchanged. While we are continuing to assess all potential impacts of the standard, we currently believe the most significant impact relates to our accounting for software license revenue, as under the new standard we expect to recognize software license revenue at the time of delivery rather than over the contractual term since control of the software license is transferred, and our performance obligation is satisfied at that point in time. The new standard will also require certain costs, primarily sales-related commissions on contracts greater than one year in duration, to be capitalized rather than expensed as currently.
ASU 2016-02, Leases. In February 2016, the FASB issued guidance that will require organizations that lease assets to recognize assets and liabilities for leases with lease terms of more than 12 months. Consistent with current GAAP, the recognition, measurement, and presentation of expenses and cash flows arising from a lease by a lessee primarily will depend on its classification as a finance or operating lease. However, unlike current GAAP, which requires only capital leases to be recognized on the balance sheet, the new guidance will require both types of leases to be recognized on the balance sheet. We expect our leases designated as operating leases in Note 17 to the consolidated financial statements in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended October 31, 2017 will be reported on the consolidated balance sheets upon adoption. The standard is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2018, and interim periods within those fiscal years. Early adoption is permitted. We are evaluating the impact of adopting this guidance on our consolidated financial statements.
ASU 2016-09, Improvements to Employee Share-Based Payment Accounting. In March 2016, the FASB issued guidance that amends the accounting for stock-based compensation and requires excess tax benefits and deficiencies to be recognized as a component of income tax expense rather than equity. The inclusion of excess tax benefits and deficiencies as a component of income tax expense will increase volatility within our provision for income taxes as the amount of excess tax benefits or deficiencies from stock-based compensation awards depends on our stock price at the date the awards vest. This guidance also requires excess tax benefits and deficiencies to be presented as operating activity in the statement of cash flows and allows an entity to make an accounting policy election to either estimate expected forfeitures or to account for them as they occur. We adopted this guidance during the first quarter of 2018 and elected to recognize forfeitures as they occur. As a result, a $6 million cumulative-effect adjustment was recorded directly to retained earnings as of November 1, 2017, the beginning of the annual period of adoption, with a corresponding reduction to deferred tax liabilities. Additionally, we reported an income tax benefit of $2 million for the six months ended April 30, 2018 due to recognition of excess tax benefits from share-based compensation.
We elected to apply the presentation requirements for cash flows related to excess tax benefits and employee taxes paid for withheld shares retrospectively to all periods presented, which resulted in the following change to our previously reported condensed consolidated statement of cash flows for the six months ended April 30, 2017:
 
Six Months Ended
April 30, 2017
 
As Originally
Reported
 
As
Adjusted
 
Change
 
(in millions)
Net cash provided by operating activities
$
151

 
$
164

 
$
13

Net cash provided by financing activities
$
1,690

 
$
1,677

 
$
(13
)
ASU 2017-07 Improving the Presentation of Net Periodic Pension Cost and Net Periodic Postretirement Benefit Cost. In March 2017, the FASB issued guidance that requires the service cost component of net periodic pension cost and net periodic postretirement benefit cost to be included in operating expenses (together with other employee compensation costs) and the other components of the cost to presented in the statement of operations separately from the service cost component and outside of income from operations. The standard is effective for annual and interim periods beginning after December 31, 2017. Early adoption is permitted. We currently anticipate adopting the standard on November 1, 2018. See Note 12 herein and Note 15 to the consolidated financial statements in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended October 31, 2017 for the amount of each component of net periodic pension and postretirement benefit costs we have reported historically. The amounts of net periodic pension and postretirement benefit costs in these filings are not necessarily indicative of future amounts that may arise in years following implementation of the new accounting pronouncement.

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ASU 2017-09, Scope of Modification Accounting. In May 2017, the FASB issued guidance that clarifies when changes to the terms or conditions of a share-based payment award must be accounted for as modifications. Specifically, an entity would not apply modification accounting if the fair value, vesting conditions, and classification of the awards are the same immediately before and after the modification. The standard is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 31, 2017, and interim periods within those fiscal years. Early adoption is permitted. We do not expect a material impact to our consolidated financial statements due to the adoption of this guidance.
ASU 2017-12, Targeted Improvements to Accounting for Hedging Activities. In August 2017, the FASB issued guidance to enable entities to better portray the economics of their risk management activities in the financial statements and enhance transparency and understandability of hedge results. The standard is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2018, and interim periods within those fiscal years. Early adoption is permitted. We are evaluating the impact of adopting this guidance on our consolidated financial statements.
ASU 2018-02, Reclassification of Certain Tax Effects from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income. In February 2018, the FASB issued guidance that allows a reclassification from accumulated other comprehensive income to retained earnings for stranded tax effects resulting from the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act enacted in December 2017. The standard is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2018. Early adoption is permitted. We are evaluating the impact of adopting this guidance on our consolidated financial statements.
Other amendments to GAAP that have been issued by the FASB or other standards-setting bodies that do not require adoption until a future date are not expected to have a material impact on our consolidated financial statements upon adoption.
3. ACQUISITIONS
Acquisition of Ixia

On April 18, 2017, pursuant to the terms of an Agreement and Plan of Merger dated January 30, 2017, between Keysight and Ixia (the "Merger Agreement"), we acquired all of the outstanding common stock of Ixia for $1,622 million, net of $72 million of cash acquired, pursuant to an exchange offer for $19.65 per share (the "Merger Consideration"). We funded the acquisition with a combination of cash and proceeds from debt and equity financings. As a result of the acquisition, Ixia became a wholly-owned subsidiary of Keysight. Accordingly, the results of Ixia are included in Keysight's consolidated financial statements from the date of the acquisition and are reported in the Ixia Solutions Group operating segment.
The following table summarizes the allocation of the purchase price to the estimated fair values of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed on the closing date of April 18, 2017 (in millions):
Cash and cash equivalents
$
72

Short-term investments
44

Accounts receivable
91

Inventory
107

Other current assets
34

Property, plant and equipment
50

Goodwill
1,117

Other intangible assets
744

Other assets
4

Total assets acquired
2,263

Accounts payable
(10
)
Employee compensation and benefits
(32
)
Deferred revenue
(35
)
Income and other taxes payable
(1
)
Other accrued liabilities
(32
)
Other long-term liabilities
(459
)
Net assets acquired
$
1,694

A portion of the overall purchase price was allocated to acquired intangible assets. Amortization expense associated with acquired intangible assets is not deductible for tax purposes. Therefore, a deferred tax liability of approximately $186 million was established primarily for the future amortization of these intangibles and is included in "other long-term liabilities" in the table above.

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All goodwill was assigned to the Ixia Solutions Group. We do not expect the goodwill recognized or any potential impairment charges in the future to be deductible for income tax purposes.
Valuation of Intangible Assets Acquired
The components of other intangible assets acquired in connection with the Ixia acquisition were as follows (in millions):
 
Estimated Fair Value
 
Estimated useful life
Developed product technology
$
423

 
4 years
Customer relationships
234

 
7 years
Tradenames and trademarks
12

 
3 years
Backlog
8

 
90 days
Total intangible assets subject to amortization
677

 
 
In-process research and development
67

 
 
Total intangible assets
$
744

 
 
Acquisition and integration costs directly related to the Ixia acquisition were recorded in the condensed consolidated statement of operations as follows:
 
Three Months Ended
 
Six Months Ended
 
April 30,
 
April 30,
 
2018
 
2017
 
2018
 
2017
 
(in millions)
Cost of products and services
$
1

 
$

 
$
3

 
$

Research and development

 

 
1

 

Selling, general and administrative
14

 
15

 
29

 
17

Other income (expense), net

 
9

 

 
9

Total acquisition and integration costs
$
15

 
$
24

 
$
33

 
$
26


In addition, for the three and six months ended April 30, 2017, we incurred $28 million of acquisition-related compensation expense to redeem certain of Ixia's outstanding unvested stock awards as of the date of the Merger Agreement that were determined to relate to post-merger service periods.
Acquisition of ScienLab
On August 31, 2017, we acquired all of the outstanding common stock of ScienLab for $60 million, net of $2 million of cash acquired. As a result of the acquisition, ScienLab became a wholly-owned subsidiary of Keysight. Accordingly, the results of ScienLab are included in Keysight's consolidated financial statements from the date of the acquisition and are reported in the Electronic Industrial Solutions Group operating segment.
The following table summarizes the preliminary allocation of the purchase price to the estimated fair values of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed on the closing date of August 31, 2017 (in millions):
Cash and cash equivalents
$
2

Accounts receivable
3

Inventory
16

Other current assets
1

Goodwill
23

Other intangible assets
40

Total assets acquired
85

Accounts payable
(1
)
Deferred revenue
(3
)
Income and other taxes payable
(2
)
Current portion of long-term debt
(1
)
Other long-term liabilities
(16
)
Net assets acquired
$
62


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As additional information becomes available, we may revise the preliminary purchase price allocation during the remainder of the measurement period (which will not exceed 12 months from the acquisition date). Any such revisions or changes may be material.
A portion of the overall purchase price was allocated to acquired intangible assets. Amortization expense associated with acquired intangible assets is not deductible for tax purposes. Therefore, a deferred tax liability of approximately $13 million was established primarily for the future amortization of these intangibles and is included in "other long-term liabilities" in the table above.
All goodwill was assigned to the Electronic Industrial Solutions Group. We do not expect the goodwill recognized or any potential impairment charges in the future to be deductible for income tax purposes.
Valuation of Intangible Assets Acquired
The components of intangible assets acquired in connection with the ScienLab acquisition were as follows (in millions):
 
Estimated Fair Value
 
Estimated useful life
Developed product technology
$
33

 
6 years
Customer relationships
4

 
5 years
Non-compete agreements
1

 
3 years
Tradenames and trademarks
1

 
3 years
Backlog
1

 
6 months
Total intangible assets
$
40

 
 
Acquisition and integration costs directly related to the ScienLab acquisition totaled zero and $1 million for the three and six months ended April 30, 2018, respectively, which were recorded in selling, general and administrative expenses. There were no acquisition and integration costs directly related to the ScienLab acquisition for the three and six months ended April 30, 2017.
Supplemental Pro Forma Information
The following represents pro forma operating results as if Ixia had been included in the company's condensed consolidated statements of operations as of the beginning of fiscal 2017. Pro forma results of operations for ScienLab have not been presented because the effects of the acquisition were not material to the company’s financial results.
 
 
Six Months Ended
in millions, except per share amounts
 
April 30, 2017
Net revenue
 
$
1,698

Net income
 
$
90

Net income per share - Basic
 
$
0.49

Net income per share - Diluted
 
$
0.48

The unaudited pro forma financial information for the six months ended April 30, 2017 combines the historical results of Keysight and Ixia for the six months ended April 30, 2017, assuming that the companies were combined as of November 1, 2016 and include business combination accounting effects from the acquisition including amortization and depreciation charges from acquired intangible assets, property plant and equipment, interest expense on the financing transactions used to fund the acquisition and acquisition-related transaction costs and tax-related effects. The pro forma information as presented above is for informational purposes only and is not indicative of the results of operations that would have been achieved if the acquisition had taken place at the beginning of fiscal 2017.
4.     SHARE-BASED COMPENSATION
Keysight accounts for share-based awards in accordance with the provisions of the authoritative accounting guidance, which requires the measurement and recognition of compensation expense for all share-based payment awards made to our employees and directors, including employee stock option awards, restricted stock units ("RSUs"), employee stock purchases made under our Employee Stock Purchase Plan (“ESPP”) and performance share awards granted to selected members of our senior management under the Long-Term Performance (“LTP”) Program based on estimated fair values. 

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The impact of share-based compensation on our results was as follows:

Three Months Ended
 
Six Months Ended

April 30,
 
April 30,
 
2018
 
2017
 
2018
 
2017
 
(in millions)
Cost of products and services
$
4

 
$
3

 
$
7

 
$
6

Research and development
2

 
2

 
6

 
6

Selling, general and administrative
9

 
8

 
21

 
19

Total share-based compensation expense
$
15

 
$
13

 
$
34

 
$
31

 At both April 30, 2018 and 2017, there was no share-based compensation capitalized within inventory.
The following assumptions were used to estimate the fair value of LTP Program grants:
 
Three Months Ended
 
Six Months Ended
 
April 30,
 
April 30,
 
2018
 
2017
 
2018
 
2017
LTP Program:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Volatility of Keysight shares
25
%
 
26
%
 
25
%
 
27
%
Volatility of selected index
14
%
 
15
%
 
14
%
 
15
%
Price-wise correlation with selected peers
57
%
 
57
%
 
57
%
 
57
%
Awards granted under the LTP Program are based on a variety of targets, such as total shareholder return (TSR) or financial metrics such as operating margin, cost synergies and others. Awards based on TSR were valued using a Monte Carlo simulation model, and awards based on financial metrics were valued based on the market price of Keysight’s common stock on the date of grant. Monte Carlo simulation fair value models require the use of highly subjective and complex assumptions, including the option’s expected life and the price volatility of the underlying stock. The estimated fair value of restricted stock awards is determined based on the market price of Keysight’s common stock on the date of grant. We did not grant any option awards for the three and six months ended April 30, 2018 and 2017, respectively.
5.     INCOME TAXES
The company’s effective tax rate was an expense of 22.5 percent and a benefit of 162.8 percent for the three and six months ended April 30, 2018, respectively. The income tax expense was $19 million and income tax benefit was $98 million for the three and six months ended April 30, 2018, respectively. The income tax expense for the three months ended April 30, 2018 included a net discrete expense of $11 million, and the income tax benefit for the six months ended April 30, 2018 included a net discrete benefit of $104 million, primarily due to $103 million discrete tax benefit resulting from changes in U.S. tax law. The increase in tax expense for the three months ended April 30, 2018 is primarily due to provisional adjustments to the discrete impact recorded for the U.S. tax law change related to the one-time toll charge, as discussed below.
The company’s effective tax rate was a benefit of 126.1 percent and an expense of 9.0 percent for the three and six months ended April 30, 2017, respectively. Income tax benefit was $27 million and income tax expense was $16 million for the three and six months ended April 30, 2017, respectively. The income tax provision for the three and six months ended April 30, 2017 included a net discrete expense of $8 million and $31 million, respectively, primarily related to $22 million of tax resulting from the transfer of a portion of the Japanese Employees’ Pension Fund (see Note 12).
Keysight benefits from tax incentives in several jurisdictions, most significantly in Singapore, that have granted us tax incentives that require renewal at various times in the future. The tax incentives provide lower rates of taxation on certain classes of income and require thresholds of investments and employment or specific types of income in those jurisdictions.  The Singapore tax incentive is due for renewal in fiscal 2024.
For the majority of our entities, the open tax years for the IRS, state and most foreign audit authorities are from August 1, 2014 through the current tax year. For certain acquired U.S. entities, the tax years generally remain open back to year 2009. For foreign entities, the tax years remain open, at most, back to the year 2007. Given the number of years and numerous matters that remain subject to examination in various tax jurisdictions, we are unable to estimate the range of possible changes to the balance of our unrecognized tax benefits.
The company is being audited in Malaysia for the 2008 tax year. Although this tax year pre-dates our spin-off from Agilent, pursuant to the agreement between Agilent and Keysight pertaining to tax matters, as finalized at the time of separation, for certain

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entities, including Malaysia, any historical tax liability is the responsibility of Keysight. In the fourth quarter of fiscal 2017, Keysight paid income taxes and penalties of $68 million on gains related to intellectual property rights, although we are currently in the process of appealing to the Special Commissioners of Income Tax in Malaysia. The company believes there are numerous defenses to the current assessment; the statute of limitations for the 2008 tax year in Malaysia was closed and the income in question is exempt from tax in Malaysia. The company is disputing this assessment and pursuing all avenues to resolve this issue favorably for the company.
On December 22, 2017, the U.S. government enacted comprehensive Federal tax legislation commonly known as the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (the “Tax Act”). The Tax Act includes significant changes to the U.S. corporate income tax system, including but not limited to: the transition of U.S. international taxation from a worldwide tax system to a modified territorial tax system, which will result in a one-time U.S. tax liability on those earnings which have not previously been repatriated to the U.S. (the “Transition Tax”); creation of new minimum taxes such as the Global Intangible Low Taxed Income (“GILTI”) tax and the base erosion anti-abuse tax; a federal corporate income tax rate reduction from 35 percent to 21 percent; and limitations on the deductibility of interest expense and executive compensation.
The corporate tax rate reduction is effective as of January 1, 2018. Since the company has a fiscal year rather than a calendar year, it is subject to rules relating to transitional tax rates. As a result, the company’s fiscal year 2018 federal statutory rate will be a blended rate of 23.34 percent.
Due to the complexities involved in accounting for the enactment of the Tax Act, the SEC staff has issued Staff Accounting Bulletin 118 (“SAB 118”) directing companies to consider the impact of the Tax Act as “provisional” when they do not have the necessary information available, prepared or analyzed (including computations) in reasonable detail to complete the accounting for the change in tax law. For the amounts which the company was able to reasonably estimate, the company has recognized a provisional discrete income tax benefit of approximately $117 million as of January 31, 2018. The discrete benefit was decreased by $14 million for the three months ending April 30, 2018, resulting in a discrete income tax benefit of $103 million for the six months ending April 30, 2018. The discrete benefit of $103 million is made up of a one-time reduction in net deferred tax liabilities and corresponding income tax benefit of approximately $304 million due to the re-measurement of U.S. income taxes recorded on the undistributed earnings of foreign subsidiaries that were not considered permanently reinvested. This was offset by approximately $190 million of income tax expense and corresponding long-term income tax payable due to the one-time toll charge. The company also estimated a one-time reduction in net deferred tax assets and corresponding income tax expense of approximately $11 million due to the re-measurement of the U.S. deferred tax assets at the lower 21 percent U.S. federal corporate income tax rate. The one-time transition tax is based in part on cash levels on various comparable measurement dates, one of which is our October 31, 2018 fiscal year end. As a result, the company’s estimation and calculation of the transition tax will change until the last measurement date occurs and as federal and state tax authorities provide further guidance. The reduction in the discrete benefit recorded for the three months ended April 30, 2018 is due to changes to the estimate in the one-time toll charge from refinements in estimates of foreign earnings and foreign cash balances.
We have not completed our accounting for the income tax effects of certain elements of the Tax Act, including the new GILTI tax. Due to the complexity of these new tax rules, we are continuing to evaluate these provisions of the Tax Act and whether such taxes are recorded as a current-period expense when incurred or whether such amounts should be factored into a company’s measurement of its deferred taxes. As a result, we have not included an estimate of the tax expense/benefit related to these items for the period ended April 30, 2018.
We are continuing to evaluate the Tax Act and its requirements, as well as its application to our business and its impact on our effective tax rate. In accordance with SAB 118, the estimated discrete income tax benefit of $103 million represents our best estimate based on interpretation of the Tax Act. We are able to make reasonable estimates of the impact of the deemed repatriation transition tax, the remeasurement of the deferred tax liability recorded on the undistributed earnings of foreign subsidiaries that were not considered reinvested, and the reduction in the U.S. corporate income tax rate. The final impact of the Tax Act may differ from these estimates, due to, among other things, changes in our interpretations and assumptions, additional guidance that may be issued by the U.S. Treasury, additional analysis of foreign earnings inherited from acquisitions, and changes to U.S. state conformance to the U.S. federal tax law change. In accordance with SAB 118, the estimated discrete income tax benefit of $103 million is considered provisional and any subsequent adjustment to these amounts will be recorded to tax expense in the quarter in which the analysis is complete, but no later than December 22, 2018.

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6. NET INCOME PER SHARE
The following is a reconciliation of the numerator and denominator of the basic and diluted net income per share computations for the periods presented below:
 
Three Months Ended
 
Six Months Ended
 
April 30,
 
April 30,
 
2018
 
2017
 
2018
 
2017
 
(in millions)
Numerator:
 

 
 

 
 
 
 
Net income
$
64

 
$
49

 
$
158

 
$
158

Denominator:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Basic weighted-average shares
188

 
177

 
187

 
174

Potential common shares— stock options and other employee stock plans
2

 
2

 
3

 
2

Diluted weighted-average shares
190

 
179

 
190

 
176

 
The dilutive effect of share-based awards is reflected in diluted net income per share by application of the treasury stock method. We exclude stock options with exercise prices greater than the average market price of our common stock from the calculation of diluted earnings per share because the effect would be anti-dilutive. For the three and six months ended April 30, 2018 and 2017, we excluded no options from the calculation of diluted earnings per share. In addition, we exclude stock options, ESPP shares, LTP Program and restricted stock awards, of which the combined exercise price and unamortized fair value collectively was greater than the average market price of our common stock because the effect would be anti-dilutive. For the three and six months ended April 30, 2018, we excluded approximately 15,000 shares and 6,000 shares, respectively. For the three and six months ended April 30, 2017, we excluded approximately 10,000 shares and 42,000 shares, respectively.
7. SUPPLEMENTAL CASH FLOW INFORMATION
Net cash paid for income taxes was $11 million and $34 million for the six months ended April 30, 2018 and 2017, respectively. Cash paid for interest was $41 million and $22 million for the six months ended April 30, 2018 and 2017, respectively. For the six months ended April 30, 2017, we also paid fees of $9 million in connection with a bridge loan facility that were amortized to interest expense and classified as financing activity. The following table summarizes our non-cash investing and financing activities that are not reflected in the condensed consolidated statement of cash flows:
 
Six months ended
 
April 30,
 
2018
 
2017
 
(in millions)
Non-cash investing activities
 
 
 
Capital expenditures in accounts payable
$
(9
)
 
$
(5
)
Capital expenditures in other long-term liabilities

 
2

 
$
(9
)
 
$
(3
)
Non-cash financing activities
 
 
 
Treasury stock repurchases, pending settlement, in other accrued liabilities
$
(12
)
 
$

 


 


8. INVENTORY
 
April 30,
2018
 
October 31,
2017
 
(in millions)
Finished goods
$
277

 
$
286

Purchased parts and fabricated assemblies
320

 
302

Total inventory
$
597

 
$
588

Inventory-related excess and obsolescence charges recorded in total cost of products were $11 million and $6 million for the six months ended April 30, 2018 and April 30, 2017, respectively.

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9.
GOODWILL AND OTHER INTANGIBLE ASSETS
Goodwill balances and the movements for each of our reportable operating segments as of and for the six months ended April 30, 2018 were as follows:
 
Communications Solutions Group
 
Electronic Industrial Solutions Group
 
Ixia Solutions Group
 
Services Solutions Group
 
Total
 
(in millions)
Goodwill as of October 31, 2017
$
441

 
$
240

 
$
1,117

 
$
84

 
$
1,882

Foreign currency translation impact
8

 
2

 

 

 
10

Divestiture

 
(1
)
 

 

 
(1
)
Goodwill as of April 30, 2018
$
449

 
$
241

 
$
1,117

 
$
84

 
$
1,891


Other intangible assets as of April 30, 2018 and October 31, 2017 consisted of the following:
 
Other Intangible Assets as of April 30, 2018
 
Other Intangible Assets as of October 31, 2017
 
Gross
Carrying
Amount
 
Accumulated
Amortization
and
Impairments
 
Net Book
Value
 
Gross
Carrying
Amount
 
Accumulated
Amortization
and
Impairments
 
Net Book
Value
 
(in millions)
Developed technology
$
830

 
$
331

 
$
499

 
$
808

 
$
252

 
$
556

Backlog
13

 
13

 

 
13

 
12

 
1

Trademark/Tradename
33

 
11

 
22

 
33

 
8

 
25

Customer relationships
304

 
80

 
224

 
304

 
61

 
243

Non-compete agreements
1

 

 
1

 
1

 

 
1

Total amortizable intangible assets
1,181

 
435


746

 
1,159

 
333

 
826

In-Process R&D
8

 

 
8

 
29

 

 
29

Total
$
1,189

 
$
435

 
$
754

 
$
1,188

 
$
333

 
$
855

During the six months ended April 30, 2018, we recognized a $1 million reduction to goodwill due to divestiture-related activity. During the six months ended April 30, 2018, there was a $1 million foreign exchange translation impact to other intangible assets. During the six months ended April 30, 2018, we transferred $21 million from in-process R&D to developed technology as projects were successfully completed. During the six months ended April 30, 2017, we recorded an impairment charge of $7 million related to the cancellation of an in-process R&D project.
Amortization of other intangible assets was $51 million and $102 million for the three and six months ended April 30, 2018, respectively. Amortization of other intangible assets was $18 million and $29 million for the three and six months ended April 30, 2017, respectively. Future amortization expense related to existing finite-lived purchased intangible assets is estimated to be $102 million for the remainder of 2018, $203 million for 2019, $196 million for 2020, $128 million for 2021, $52 million for 2022 and $65 million thereafter.
10. FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS
The authoritative guidance defines fair value as the price that would be received from selling an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date. When determining the fair value measurements for assets and liabilities required or permitted to be recorded at fair value, we consider the principal or most advantageous market and assumptions that market participants would use when pricing the asset or liability.
Fair Value Hierarchy
The guidance establishes a fair value hierarchy that prioritizes inputs used in valuation techniques into three levels. A financial instrument’s categorization within the fair value hierarchy is based upon the lowest level of input that is significant to the fair value measurement. There are three levels of inputs that may be used to measure fair value:
Level 1- applies to assets or liabilities for which there are quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities. 
Level 2- applies to assets or liabilities for which there are inputs other than quoted prices included within Level 1 that are observable, either directly or indirectly, for the asset or liability such as: quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities in active

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markets; quoted prices for identical or similar assets or liabilities in less active markets; or other inputs that can be derived principally from, or corroborated by, observable market data.
Level 3- applies to assets or liabilities for which there are unobservable inputs to the valuation methodology that are significant to the measurement of the fair value of the assets or liabilities.
Financial Assets and Liabilities Measured at Fair Value on a Recurring Basis
Financial assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis as of April 30, 2018 and October 31, 2017 were as follows:
 
Fair Value Measurements at April 30, 2018
 
 Fair Value Measurements at October 31, 2017
 
Total
 
Level 1
 
Level 2
 
Level 3
 
Total
 
Level 1
 
Level 2
 
Level 3
 
(in millions)
Assets:
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

Short-term
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

Cash equivalents
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Money market funds
$
335

 
$
335

 
$

 
$

 
$
403

 
$
403

 
$

 
$

Derivative instruments (foreign exchange contracts)
7

 

 
7

 

 
6

 

 
6

 

Long-term
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Trading securities
12

 
12

 

 

 
13

 
13

 

 

Available-for-sale investments
30

 
30

 

 

 
34

 
34

 

 

Total assets measured at fair value
$
384

 
$
377

 
$
7

 
$

 
$
456

 
$
450

 
$
6

 
$

Liabilities:
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

Short-term
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Derivative instruments (foreign exchange contracts)
$
3

 
$

 
$
3

 
$

 
$
1

 
$

 
$
1

 
$

Long-term
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Deferred compensation liability
12

 

 
12

 

 
13

 

 
13

 

Total liabilities measured at fair value
$
15

 
$

 
$
15

 
$

 
$
14

 
$

 
$
14

 
$


Our money market funds, trading securities, and available-for-sale investments are generally valued using quoted market prices and therefore are classified within Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy. Our deferred compensation liability is classified as Level 2 because the inputs used in the calculations are observable, although the values are not directly based on quoted market prices. Our derivative financial instruments are classified within Level 2 as there is not an active market for each hedge contract, but the inputs used to calculate the value of the instruments are tied to active markets.
Trading securities (which are earmarked to pay the deferred compensation liability) and deferred compensation liability are reported at fair value, with gains or losses resulting from changes in fair value recognized currently in earnings. Investments designated as available-for-sale and certain derivative instruments are reported at fair value, with unrealized gains and losses, net of tax, included in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss). Realized gains and losses from the sale of these instruments are recorded in earnings.
11.
DERIVATIVES
We are exposed to foreign currency exchange rate fluctuations and interest rate changes in the normal course of our business. As part of our risk management strategy, we use derivative instruments, primarily forward contracts and purchased options, to hedge economic and/or accounting exposures resulting from changes in foreign currency exchange rates.
Cash Flow Hedges
We enter into foreign exchange contracts to hedge our forecasted operational cash flow exposures resulting from changes in foreign currency exchange rates. These foreign exchange contracts, carried at fair value, have maturities between one and twelve months. These derivative instruments are designated and qualify as cash flow hedges under the criteria prescribed in the authoritative guidance. Ineffectiveness in the three and six months ended April 30, 2018 and 2017 was not significant.

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Other Hedges
Additionally, we enter into foreign exchange contracts to hedge monetary assets and liabilities that are denominated in currencies other than the functional currency of our subsidiaries. These foreign exchange contracts are carried at fair value and do not qualify for hedge accounting treatment and are not designated as hedging instruments.
Our use of derivative instruments exposes us to credit risk to the extent that the counterparties may be unable to meet the terms of the agreement. We do, however, seek to mitigate such risks by limiting our counterparties to major financial institutions that are selected based on their credit ratings and other factors. We have established policies and procedures for mitigating credit risk that include establishing counterparty credit limits, monitoring credit exposures, and continually assessing the creditworthiness of counterparties.
A number of our derivative agreements contain threshold limits to the net liability position with counterparties and are dependent on our corporate credit rating determined by the major credit rating agencies. The counterparties to the derivative instruments may request collateralization, in accordance with derivative agreements, on derivative instruments in net liability positions.
The aggregate fair value of all derivative instruments with credit-risk-related contingent features that were in a net liability position as of April 30, 2018 was $2 million. The credit-risk-related contingent features underlying these agreements had not been triggered as of April 30, 2018.
There were 118 foreign exchange forward contracts open as of April 30, 2018 that were designated as cash flow hedges. There were 64 foreign exchange forward contracts as of April 30, 2018 that were not designated as hedging instruments. The aggregated notional amounts by currency and designation as of April 30, 2018 were as follows:
 
 
Derivatives in Cash Flow
Hedging Relationships
 
Derivatives Not Designated as Hedging Instruments
 
 
Forward
Contracts
 
Forward
Contracts
Currency
 
Buy/(Sell)
 
Buy/(Sell)
 
 
(in millions)
Euro
 
$

 
$
40

British Pound
 

 
(25
)
Singapore Dollar
 
12

 
1

Malaysian Ringgit
 
71

 
(5
)
Japanese Yen
 
(85
)
 
(55
)
Other currencies
 
(15
)
 
(4
)
Total
 
$
(17
)
 
$
(48
)
Derivative instruments are subject to master netting arrangements and are disclosed gross in the balance sheet in accordance with the authoritative guidance. The gross fair values and balance sheet location of derivative instruments held in the condensed consolidated balance sheet as of April 30, 2018 and October 31, 2017 were as follows:
Fair Values of Derivative Instruments
Asset Derivatives
 
Liability Derivatives
 
 
Fair Value
 
 
 
Fair Value
Balance Sheet Location
 
April 30,
2018
 
October 31,
2017
 
Balance Sheet Location
 
April 30,
2018
 
October 31,
2017
(in millions)
Derivatives designated as hedging instruments:
 
 

 
 

 
 
 
 

 
 

Cash flow hedges
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Foreign exchange contracts
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Other current assets
 
$
4

 
$
5

 
Other accrued liabilities
 
$
1

 
$

Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments:
 
 

 
 

 
 
 
 

 
 

Foreign exchange contracts
 
 

 
 

 
 
 
 

 
 

Other current assets
 
3

 
1

 
Other accrued liabilities
 
2

 
1

Total derivatives
 
$
7

 
$
6

 
 
 
$
3

 
$
1


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The effect of derivative instruments for foreign exchange contracts designated as hedging instruments and for those not designated as hedging instruments in our condensed consolidated statement of operations was as follows:
 
Three Months Ended
 
Six Months Ended
 
April 30,
 
April 30,
 
2018
 
2017
 
2018
 
2017
 
(in millions)
Derivatives designated as hedging instruments:
 

 
 

 
 
 
 
Cash Flow Hedges
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Foreign exchange contracts:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Gain (loss) recognized in accumulated other comprehensive income
$

 
$
(1
)
 
$
2

 
$
2

Gain (loss) reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income into cost of products
$
1

 
$
(1
)
 
$
3

 
$
(2
)
Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Gain (loss) recognized in other income (expense), net
$

 
$

 
$
1

 
$
2

The estimated amount of existing net gain at April 30, 2018 expected to be reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income to cost of products within the next twelve months is $2 million.
12. RETIREMENT PLANS AND POST-RETIREMENT BENEFIT PLANS
For the three and six months ended April 30, 2018 and 2017, our net pension and post-retirement benefit cost (benefit) were comprised of the following:
 
Pensions
 
 
 
U.S. Defined Benefit Plans
 
Non-U.S. Defined Benefit
Plans
 
U.S. Post-Retirement
Benefit Plan
 
Three Months Ended April 30,
 
2018
 
2017
 
2018
 
2017
 
2018
 
2017
 
(in millions)
Service cost—benefits earned during the period
$
6

 
$
6

 
$
4

 
$
4

 
$
1

 
$

Interest cost on benefit obligation
6

 
5

 
6

 
5

 
1

 
2

Expected return on plan assets
(9
)
 
(9
)
 
(23
)
 
(18
)
 
(3
)
 
(3
)
Amortization:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  Net actuarial loss
3

 
3

 
7

 
8

 
4

 
6

  Prior service credit
(2
)
 
(1
)
 

 
(1
)
 
(4
)
 
(4
)
Net periodic benefit cost (benefit)
$
4

 
$
4

 
$
(6
)
 
$
(2
)
 
$
(1
)
 
$
1

 
Pensions
 
 
 
 
 
U.S. Defined Benefit Plans
 
Non-U.S. Defined Benefit
Plans
 
U.S. Post-Retirement
Benefit Plan
 
Six Months Ended April 30,
 
2018
 
2017
 
2018
 
2017
 
2018
 
2017
 
(in millions)
Service cost—benefits earned during the period
$
12

 
$
11

 
$
7

 
$
8

 
$
1

 
$

Interest cost on benefit obligation
12

 
10

 
12

 
11

 
3

 
4

Expected return on plan assets
(18
)
 
(17
)
 
(44
)
 
(37
)
 
(7
)
 
(6
)
Amortization:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  Net actuarial loss
6

 
7

 
13

 
17

 
8

 
11

  Prior service credit
(4
)
 
(3
)
 

 
(1
)
 
(7
)
 
(8
)
Settlement gain

 

 

 
(68
)
 

 

Net periodic benefit cost (benefit)
$
8

 
$
8

 
$
(12
)
 
$
(70
)
 
$
(2
)
 
$
1

We did not contribute to our U.S. Defined Benefit Plans and U.S. Post-Retirement Benefit Plan during the three and six months ended April 30, 2018 and 2017. We contributed $7 million and $16 million to our Non-U.S. Defined Benefit Plans during the three and six months ended April 30, 2018, respectively, and we contributed $8 million and $15 million to our Non-U.S. Defined Benefit Plans during the three and six months ended April 30, 2017, respectively.

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For the remainder of 2018, we are evaluating the potential tax benefits of contributing to our U.S. Defined Benefit Plans, and we expect to contribute $17 million to our non-U.S. Defined Benefit Plans.
On December 15, 2016, we transferred a portion of the assets and obligations of our Japanese Employees’ Pension Fund ("EPF") to the Japanese government. The remaining portion of the EPF was transferred to a new Keysight Japan corporate defined benefit pension plan. The difference between the obligations settled with the government of $142 million and the assets transferred to the government of $51 million resulted in an increase in the funded status of the new defined benefit pension plan of $91 million. The settlement resulted in a gain of $68 million which is included in other operating expense (income) in the consolidated statement of operations. Previously accrued salary progression of $4 million was derecognized at the time of settlement.
13. WARRANTY, COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES
Standard Warranty
Effective December 1, 2017, the Keysight warranty on products sold through direct sales channel is primarily one year. Warranties for products sold through distribution channels continue to be primarily three years. We accrue for standard warranty costs based on historical trends in warranty charges. The accrual is reviewed regularly and periodically adjusted to reflect changes in warranty cost estimates. Estimated warranty charges are recorded within cost of products at the time related product revenue is recognized.
Activity related to the standard warranty accrual, which is included in other accrued and other long-term liabilities in our condensed consolidated balance sheet, is as follows:
 
Six Months Ended
 
April 30,
 
2018
 
2017
 
(in millions)
Beginning balance
$
45

 
$
44

Accruals for warranties including change in estimate
18

 
15

Settlements made during the period
(17
)
 
(15
)
Ending balance
$
46


$
44

 
 
 
 
Accruals for warranties due within one year
$
26

 
$
23

Accruals for warranties due after one year
20

 
21

Ending balance
$
46

 
$
44

Commitments
There were no material changes during the six months ended April 30, 2018 to the operating and capital lease commitments reported in the company’s 2017 Annual Report on Form 10-K.
Contingencies
We are involved in lawsuits, claims, investigations and proceedings, including, but not limited to, patent, commercial and environmental matters, which arise in the ordinary course of business. There are no matters pending that we currently believe are reasonably possible of having a material impact to our business, consolidated financial condition, results of operations or cash flows.

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14. DEBT
Short-Term Debt
Revolving Credit Facility
On February 15, 2017, we entered into an amended and restated credit agreement (the “Revolving Credit Facility”) that replaced our existing $450 million unsecured credit facility dated September 15, 2014. The Revolving Credit Facility provides for a $450 million, five-year unsecured revolving credit facility that will expire on February 15, 2022 and bears interest at an annual rate of LIBOR + 1.30%. In addition, the Revolving Credit Facility permits us to increase the total commitments under this credit facility by up to $150 million in the aggregate on one or more occasions upon request. We may use amounts borrowed under the facility for general corporate purposes. During the six months ended April 30, 2018, we borrowed and repaid $40 million of borrowings outstanding under the Revolving Credit Facility. As of April 30, 2018, we had no borrowings outstanding under the Revolving Credit Facility. We were in compliance with the covenants of the Revolving Credit Facility during the six months ended April 30, 2018.
Long-Term Debt
The following table summarizes the components of our long-term debt:
 
April 30, 2018
 
October 31, 2017
 
(in millions)
2019 Senior Notes at 3.30% ($500 face amount less unamortized costs of $1 and $2)
$
499

 
$
498

2024 Senior Notes at 4.55% ($600 face amount less unamortized costs of $4 and $4)
596

 
596

2027 Senior Notes at 4.60% ($700 face amount less unamortized costs of $6 and $6)
694

 
694

Senior Unsecured Term loan

 
260

 
1,789

 
2,048

Less: Current portion of long-term debt

 
10

Total
$
1,789

 
$
2,038

There have been no changes to the principal, maturity, interest rates and interest payment terms of the senior notes during the six months ended April 30, 2018 as compared to the senior notes described in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended October 31, 2017.
Senior Unsecured Term Loan
On February 15, 2017, we entered into a term credit agreement that provides for a three-year $400 million senior unsecured term loan that bears interest at an annual rate of LIBOR + 1.50%. The term loan was drawn upon the closing of the Ixia acquisition. On February 27, 2018, we fully repaid borrowings outstanding under the term loan of $260 million and terminated the term credit agreement.
As of April 30, 2018 and October 31, 2017, we had $24 million and $26 million, respectively, of outstanding letters of credit unrelated to the credit facility that were issued by various lenders.
The fair value of our long-term debt, calculated from quoted prices that are primarily Level 1 inputs under the accounting guidance fair value hierarchy, was above the carrying value by approximately $20 million and $91 million as of April 30, 2018 and October 31, 2017, respectively.
15. STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY
Stock Repurchase Program
On March 6, 2018, the Board of Directors approved a new stock repurchase program authorizing the purchase of up to $350 million of the company’s common stock, replacing a previously approved 2016 program authorizing the purchase of up to $200 million of the company’s common stock. Under the new program, shares may be purchased from time to time, subject to general business and market conditions and other investment opportunities, through open market purchases, privately negotiated transactions or other means. All such shares and related costs are held as treasury stock and accounted for at trade date using the cost method. The stock repurchase program may be commenced, suspended or discontinued at any time at the company’s discretion and does not have an expiration date.

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For the six months ended April 30, 2018, we repurchased 773,352 shares of common stock for $40 million. All such shares and related costs are held as treasury stock and accounted for at trade date using the cost method. There were $12 million stock repurchases pending settlement as of April, 30 2018.
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss
Changes in accumulated other comprehensive loss by component and related tax effects for the three and six months ended April 30, 2018 and 2017 were as follows:
 
 
Unrealized gain on equity securities
 
Foreign currency translation
 
Net defined benefit pension cost and post retirement plan costs
 
Unrealized gains (losses) on derivatives
 
Total
 
 
 
 
Actuarial losses
 
Prior service credits
 
 
 
 
(in millions)
As of January 31, 2018
 
$
12

 
$
2

 
$
(458
)
 
$
31

 
$
1

 
$
(412
)
Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications
 
(1
)
 
(13
)
 
1

 

 

 
(13
)
Amounts reclassified out of accumulated other comprehensive loss
 

 

 
14

 
(6
)
 
(1
)
 
7

Tax (expense) benefit
 
1

 

 
(4
)
 
2

 

 
(1
)
Other comprehensive income (loss)
 

 
(13
)
 
11

 
(4
)
 
(1
)
 
(7
)
As of April 30, 2018
 
$
12

 
$
(11
)
 
$
(447
)
 
$
27

 
$

 
$
(419
)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
As of October 31, 2017
 
$
14

 
$
(39
)
 
$
(468
)
 
$
35

 
$
1

 
$
(457
)
Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications
 
(3
)
 
28

 
1

 

 
2

 
28

Amounts reclassified out of accumulated other comprehensive loss
 

 

 
27

 
(11
)
 
(3
)
 
13

Tax (expense) benefit
 
1

 

 
(7
)
 
3

 

 
(3
)
Other comprehensive income (loss)
 
(2
)
 
28

 
21

 
(8
)
 
(1
)
 
38

As of April 30, 2018
 
$
12

 
$
(11
)
 
$
(447
)
 
$
27

 
$

 
$
(419
)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
As of January 31, 2017
 
$
14

 
$
(53
)
 
$
(618
)
 
$
46

 
$

 
$
(611
)
Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications
 
(1
)
 
9

 

 

 
(1
)
 
7

Amounts reclassified out of accumulated other comprehensive loss
 

 

 
17

 
(6
)
 
1

 
12

Tax (expense) benefit
 
1

 

 
(5
)
 
2

 
(1
)
 
(3
)
Other comprehensive income (loss)
 
$

 
$
9

 
$
12

 
$
(4
)
 
$
(1
)
 
$
16

As of April 30, 2017
 
$
14

 
$
(44
)
 
$
(606
)
 
$
42

 
$
(1
)
 
$
(595
)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
As of October 31, 2016
 
$
10

 
$
(29
)
 
$
(646
)
 
$
50

 
$
(3
)
 
$
(618
)
Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications
 
4

 
(15
)
 
24

 

 
2

 
15

Amounts reclassified out of accumulated other comprehensive loss
 

 

 
34

 
(12
)
 
2

 
24

Tax (expense) benefit
 

 

 
(18
)
 
4

 
(2
)
 
(16
)
Other comprehensive income (loss)
 
4

 
(15
)
 
40

 
(8
)
 
2

 
23

As of April 30, 2017
 
$
14

 
$
(44
)
 
$
(606
)
 
$
42

 
$
(1
)
 
$
(595
)

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Reclassifications out of accumulated other comprehensive loss for the three and six months ended April 30, 2018 and 2017 were as follows:
Details about Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss Components
 
Amounts Reclassified from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss
 
Affected Line Item in Statement of Operations
 
 
Three Months Ended
 
Six Months Ended
 
 
 
 
April 30,
 
April 30,
 
 
 
 
2018
 
2017
 
2018
 
2017
 
 
 
 
(in millions)
 
 
Unrealized gain (loss) on derivatives
 
$
1

 
$
(1
)
 
$
3

 
$
(2
)
 
Cost of products
 
 

 
1

 

 
1

 
Provision for income taxes
 
 
1

 

 
3

 
(1
)
 
Net of income tax
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Net defined benefit pension cost and post retirement plan costs:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  Actuarial net loss
 
(14
)
 
(17
)
 
(27
)
 
(34
)
 
 
  Prior service credits
 
6

 
6

 
11

 
12

 
 
 
 
(8
)
 
(11
)
 
(16
)
 
(22
)
 
Total before income tax
 
 
2

 
3

 
4

 
6

 
Provision for income taxes
 
 
(6
)
 
(8
)
 
(12
)
 
(16
)
 
Net of income tax
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Total reclassifications for the period
 
$
(5
)
 
$
(8
)
 
$
(9
)
 
$
(17
)
 
 
An amount in parentheses indicates a reduction to income and an increase to the accumulated other comprehensive loss.
Reclassifications of prior service benefit and actuarial net loss in respect of retirement plans and post retirement pension plans are included in the computation of net periodic cost (see Note 12, "Retirement Plans and Post-Retirement Pension Plans").
16. SEGMENT INFORMATION
We provide electronic design and test instruments and systems and related software, software design tools, and related services that are used in the design, development, manufacture, installation, deployment and operation of electronics equipment. Related services include start-up assistance, instrument productivity and application services and instrument calibration and repair. Additionally, we provide test, security and visibility solutions that validate, secure and optimize networks and applications from engineering concept to live deployment. We also offer customization, consulting and optimization services throughout the customer's product life cycle.
On April 18, 2017, we completed the acquisition of Ixia, which became our fourth reportable operating segment, the Ixia Solutions Group (“ISG”). As a result, Keysight now has four segments, Communications Solutions Group, Electronic Industrial Solutions Group, Ixia Solutions Group and Services Solutions Group.
Our operating segments were determined based primarily on how the chief operating decision maker views and evaluates our operations. Segment operating results are regularly reviewed by the chief operating decision maker to make decisions about resources to be allocated to each segment and to assess performance. Other factors, including market separation and customer specific applications, go-to-market channels, products and services and manufacturing are considered in determining the formation of these operating segments.
Descriptions of our four reportable operating segments are as follows:
The Communications Solutions Group serves customers spanning the worldwide commercial communications end market, which includes internet infrastructure, and the aerospace, defense and government end market. The group provides electronic design and test software, instruments, and systems used in the simulation, design, validation, manufacturing, installation and optimization of electronic equipment.
The Electronic Industrial Solutions Group provides test and measurement solutions across a broad set of electronic industrial end markets, focusing on high-value applications in the automotive and energy industry and measurement solutions for semiconductor design and manufacturing, consumer electronics, education and general electronics manufacturing. The group provides electronic design and test software, instruments, and systems used in the simulation, design, validation, manufacturing, installation and optimization of electronic equipment.
The Ixia Solutions Group helps customers validate the performance and security resilience of their networks and associated applications. The test, visibility and security solutions help organizations and their customers strengthen their physical and virtual

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networks. Enterprises, service providers, network equipment manufacturers, and governments worldwide rely on the group's solutions to validate new products before shipping and secure ongoing operation of their networks with better visibility and security. The group’s solutions consist of high-performance hardware platforms, software applications, and services, including warranty and maintenance offerings.
The Services Solutions Group provides repair, calibration and consulting services, and remarkets used Keysight equipment. In addition to providing repair and calibration support for Keysight equipment, we also calibrate non-Keysight equipment. The group serves the same markets as Keysight’s Communications Solutions and Electronic Industrial Solutions Groups, providing industry-specific services to deliver complete Keysight solutions and help customers reduce their total cost of ownership for their design and test equipment.
A significant portion of the segments' expenses, other than the Ixia Solutions Group expenses, arise from shared services and infrastructure that we have historically provided to the segments in order to realize economies of scale and to efficiently use resources. These expenses, collectively called corporate charges, include costs of centralized research and development, legal, accounting, real estate, insurance services, information technology services, treasury and other corporate infrastructure expenses. Charges are allocated to the segments, and the allocations have been determined on a basis that we consider to be a reasonable reflection of the utilization of services provided to or benefits received by the segments. The Ixia Solutions Group will not be allocated these shared services and infrastructure charges for the current fiscal year.
The following tables reflect the results of our reportable operating segments under our management reporting system. These results are not necessarily in conformity with GAAP. The performance of each segment is measured based on several metrics, including income from operations. These results are used, in part, by the chief operating decision maker in evaluating the performance of, and in allocating resources to, each of the segments.
The profitability of each of the segments is measured after excluding share-based compensation expense, restructuring and related costs, amortization of acquisition-related balances, acquisition and integration costs, separation and related costs, pension settlement and curtailment gains, northern California wildfire-related costs, interest income, interest expense and other items as noted in the reconciliations below.
 
Communications Solutions Group
 
Electronic Industrial Solutions Group
 
Ixia Solutions Group
 
Services Solutions Group
 
Total Segments
 
(in millions)
Three Months Ended April 30, 2018:
 
 
 

 
 
 
 

 
 

Total net revenue
$
535

 
$
255

 
$
82

 
$
118

 
$
990

Amortization of acquisition-related balances
1

 

 
8

 

 
9

Total segment revenue
$
536

 
$
255

 
$
90

 
$
118

 
$
999

Segment income (loss) from operations
$
126

 
$
67

 
$
(7
)
 
$
18

 
$
204

Three Months Ended April 30, 2017:
 
 
 

 
 
 
 

 
 

Total net revenue
$
423

 
$
220

 
$
8

 
$
102

 
$
753

Amortization of acquisition-related balances
1

 

 
4

 

 
5

Total segment revenue
$
424

 
$
220

 
$
12

 
$
102

 
$
758

Segment income (loss) from operations
$
75

 
$
57

 
$
(2
)
 
$
17

 
$
147

 
Communications Solutions Group
 
Electronic Industrial Solutions Group
 
Ixia Solutions Group
 
Services Solutions Group
 
Total Segments
 
(in millions)
Six Months Ended April 30, 2018:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Total net revenue
$
955

 
$
458

 
$
190

 
$
224

 
$
1,827

Amortization of acquisition-related balances
1

 

 
27

 

 
28

Total segment revenue
$
956

 
$
458

 
$
217

 
$
224

 
$
1,855

Segment income from operations
$
185

 
$
104

 
$
11

 
$
35

 
$
335

Six Months Ended April 30, 2017:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Total net revenue
$
857

 
$
412

 
$
8

 
$
202

 
$
1,479

Amortization of acquisition-related balances
1

 

 
4

 

 
5

Total segment revenue
$
858

 
$
412

 
$
12

 
$
202

 
$
1,484

Segment income (loss) from operations
$
147

 
$
99

 
$
(2
)
 
$
31

 
$
275


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The following table reconciles reportable operating segments’ income from operations to our total enterprise income before taxes:
 
Three Months Ended
 
Six Months Ended
 
April 30,
 
April 30,
 
2018
 
2017
 
2018
 
2017
 
(in millions)
Total reportable operating segments' income from operations
$
204

 
$
147

 
$
335

 
$
275

Share-based compensation expense
(15
)
 
(13
)
 
(34
)
 
(31
)
Restructuring and related costs
(11
)
 
(1
)
 
(13
)
 
(3
)
Amortization of acquisition-related balances
(65
)
 
(26
)
 
(154
)
 
(36
)
Acquisition and integration costs
(17
)
 
(21
)
 
(36
)
 
(27
)
Acquisition-related compensation expense

 
(28
)
 

 
(28
)
Separation and related costs
(1
)
 
(8
)
 
(2
)
 
(14
)
Pension curtailment and settlement gains

 

 

 
68

Northern California wildfire-related costs

 

 
(7
)
 

Other
5

 
(8
)
 
6

 

Income from operations, as reported
100

 
42

 
95

 
204

Interest income
2

 
2

 
5

 
3

Interest expense
(21
)
 
(24
)
 
(43
)
 
(36
)
Other income (expense), net
2

 
2

 
3

 
3

Income before taxes, as reported
$
83

 
$
22

 
$
60

 
$
174

There has been no material change in total assets by segment since October 31, 2017.
17.
IMPACT OF NORTHERN CALIFORNIA WILDFIRES
During the week of October 8, 2017, wildfires in northern California adversely impacted the Keysight corporate headquarters site in Santa Rosa, CA. Our headquarters was under mandatory evacuation for more than three weeks, and while direct damage to our core facilities was limited, our buildings did experience some smoke and other fire-related impacts. Cleaning and restoration efforts are progressing, and re-occupancy is well underway. To ensure business continuity, the company leased temporary office space to support employees who could not immediately reoccupy the site. Keysight is insured for the damage caused by the fire. Due to the strong response and execution of our teams, we have recovered from the shipment disruption issues related to the wildfires, and full recovery is expected in the second half of the year.
For the three and six months ended April 30, 2018, we recognized costs of zero and $7 million, respectively, net of $32 million and $63 million, respectively, of estimated insurance recoveries. Expenses were for cleaning and other direct costs related to recovery from this event.
A summary of the net charges in the consolidated statement of operations resulting from the impact of the fire is shown below:
 
Three Months Ended April 30, 2018
 
Six Months Ended April 30, 2018
 
(in millions)
Cost of products and services
$

 
$
5

Research and development

 
1

Selling, general and administrative

 
1

Total
$

 
$
7

As of April 30, 2018, we have received insurance proceeds of $40 million and have a receivable of $25 million at April 30, 2018 for losses and expenses for which insurance reimbursement is probable. The receivable is included in other current assets in the condensed consolidated balance sheet. In addition, we made investments in property, plant and equipment of $9 million for the six months ended April 30, 2018, related to recovery from the northern California wildfires, which is expected to be covered by insurance. In many cases, our insurance coverage exceeds the amount of these covered losses, but no gain contingencies have been recognized as our ability to realize those gains remains uncertain for financial reporting purposes. We currently estimate that insurance recovery will range from $90 million to $115 million, which we believe will cover our expected losses and expenses related to the wildfires. There may be a difference in timing of costs incurred and the related insurance reimbursement.

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ITEM 2. MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS (UNAUDITED)
 The following discussion should be read in conjunction with the condensed consolidated financial statements and notes thereto included elsewhere in this Form 10-Q and our Annual Report on Form 10-K. This report contains forward-looking statements including, without limitation, statements regarding trends, seasonality, cyclicality and growth in, and drivers of, the markets we sell into, our strategic direction, our future effective tax rate and tax valuation allowance, earnings from our foreign subsidiaries, remediation activities, new product and service introductions, the ability of our products to meet market needs, changes to our manufacturing processes, the use of contract manufacturers, the impact of local government regulations on our ability to pay vendors or conduct operations, our liquidity position, our ability to generate cash from operations, growth in our businesses, our investments, the potential impact of adopting new accounting pronouncements, our financial results, our purchase commitments, our contributions to our pension plans, the selection of discount rates and recognition of any gains or losses for our benefit plans, our cost-control activities, savings and headcount reduction recognized from our restructuring programs and other cost saving initiatives, and other regulatory approvals, the integration of our completed acquisitions and other transactions, our transition to lower-cost regions, the existence of economic instability, and our and the combined group’s estimated or anticipated future results of operations, that involve risks and uncertainties. Our actual results could differ materially from the results contemplated by these forward-looking statements due to various factors, including but not limited to those risks and uncertainties discussed in Part II Item 1A and elsewhere in this Form 10-Q.
Basis of Presentation
The financial information presented in this Form 10-Q is not audited and is not necessarily indicative of our future consolidated financial position, results of operations, comprehensive income or cash flows. Our fiscal year-end is October 31, and our fiscal quarters end on January 31, April 30 and July 31. Unless otherwise stated, these dates refer to our fiscal year and fiscal quarter periods.
Overview and Executive Summary
Keysight Technologies, Inc. ("we," "us," "Keysight" or the "company”), incorporated in Delaware on December 6, 2013, is a measurement company providing electronic design and test solutions to communications and electronics industries. We provide electronic design and test instrumentation systems and related software, software design tools, and services that are used in the design, development, manufacture, installation, deployment, validation, optimization and secure operation of electronics systems. Related services include start-up assistance, instrument productivity, application services and instrument calibration and repair. We also offer customization, consulting and optimization services throughout the customer's product lifecycle.
We invest in product development to address the changing needs of the market and facilitate growth. We are investing in research and development to design measurement solutions that will satisfy the changing needs of our customers. These opportunities are being driven by evolving technology standards and the need for faster data rates and new form factors.
On April 18, 2017, we completed the acquisition of Ixia, which became our fourth reportable operating segment, the Ixia Solutions Group (“ISG”). The group provides testing, visibility and security solutions, strengthening applications across physical and virtual networks for enterprises, service providers and network equipment manufacturers. As a result, Keysight now has four segments, Communications Solutions Group, Electronic Industrial Solutions Group, Ixia Solutions Group and Services Solutions Group. Also, our global team of experts provides startup assistance, consulting, optimization and application support across all of our end markets.
Three and six months ended April 30, 2018 and 2017
Total orders for the three and six months ended April 30, 2018 were $987 million and $1,951 million, respectively, an increase of 23 percent and 30 percent, respectively, when compared to the same periods last year, and an increase of 20 percent and 28 percent, respectively, excluding the impact of currency fluctuations. Orders associated with acquisitions, including Ixia, accounted for 11 percentage points and 16 percentage points of order growth for the three and six months ended April 30, 2018, respectively, when compared to the same periods last year.
Net revenue of $990 million and $1,827 million for the three and six months ended April 30, 2018 increased 31 percent and 24 percent when compared to the same periods last year and increased 29 percent and 21 percent, respectively, excluding the impact of currency fluctuations. Acquisitions, including Ixia, added approximately 10 percentage points and 13 percentage points to revenue growth for the three and six months ended April 30, 2018, respectively. The Communications Solutions Group led the revenue growth with overall strength across all markets, combined with strong growth in the Electronic Industrial Solutions Group and the Services Solutions Group. The disruption from the northern California wildfires impacted the seasonality of revenue in

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the first half of fiscal 2018. Due to the strong response and execution of our teams, we have recovered from the shipment disruption issues related to the wildfires, and full recovery is expected in the second half of the year.
Net income for the three and six months ended April 30, 2018 was $64 million and $158 million, respectively, compared to $49 million and $158 million, respectively, for the corresponding periods last year. Net income was flat for the six months ended April 30, 2018, as higher revenue volume and favorable impacts from new U.S. tax legislation offset one-time gains from a Japan pension settlement and land sale in the six months ended April 30, 2017, increases in current-period amortization of acquisition-related balances, acquisition and integration costs and people-related costs.
Impact of Northern California Wildfires
During the week of October 8, 2017, wildfires in northern California adversely impacted the Keysight corporate headquarters site in Santa Rosa, CA. Our headquarters was under mandatory evacuation for more than three weeks, and while direct damage to our core facilities was limited, our buildings did experience some smoke and other fire-related impacts. Cleaning and restoration efforts are progressing, and re-occupancy is well underway. To ensure business continuity, the company leased temporary office space to support employees who could not immediately reoccupy the site. Keysight is insured for the damage caused by the fire.
For the three and six months ended April 30, 2018, we recognized costs of zero and $7 million, respectively, net of $32 million and $63 million, respectively, of estimated insurance recoveries. Expenses included primarily cleaning and other direct costs related to recovery from this event.
As of April 30, 2018, we have received insurance proceeds of $40 million and have a receivable of $25 million at April 30, 2018 for losses and expenses for which insurance reimbursement is probable. The receivable is included in other current assets in the condensed consolidated balance sheet. In addition, we made investments in property, plant and equipment of $9 million for the six months ended April 30, 2018, related to recovery from the northern California wildfires, which is expected to be covered by insurance. In many cases, our insurance coverage exceeds the amount of these covered losses, but no gain contingencies have been recognized as our ability to realize those gains remains uncertain for financial reporting purposes. We currently estimate that insurance recovery will range from $90 million to $115 million, which we believe will cover our expected losses and expenses related to the wildfires. There may be a difference in timing of costs incurred and the related insurance reimbursement.
Outlook
Looking forward, we believe our investments in R&D combined with our completed acquisitions, which have expanded our technology portfolio and the size of our addressable market, position Keysight for growth. We remain focused on delivering value through innovative solutions targeted at faster growing markets where customers are investing in next-generation digital and electronic technologies. Internally, we are continuously working to improve operational efficiency within, and across, all functions. 
Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates
Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations is based upon our condensed consolidated financial statements, which have been prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles in the U.S. GAAP ("GAAP"). The preparation of financial statements in accordance with GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the amounts reported in our condensed consolidated financial statements and accompanying notes. Our critical accounting policies are those that affect our financial statements materially and involve difficult, subjective or complex judgments by management. Those policies are revenue recognition, inventory valuation, share-based compensation, retirement and post-retirement plan assumptions, valuation of goodwill and other intangible assets, warranty, restructuring and accounting for income taxes. For a detailed description of our critical accounting policies and estimates, see "Item 7. Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations" in Part II of our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended October 31, 2017. Management bases estimates on historical experience and various other assumptions believed to be reasonable. Although these estimates are based on management's best knowledge of current events and actions that may impact the company in the future, actual results may be different from the estimates.
Adoption of New Pronouncements
 
See Note 2, “New Accounting Pronouncements,” to the condensed consolidated financial statements for a description of new accounting pronouncements.
 

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Foreign Currency
Our revenues, costs and expenses, and monetary assets and liabilities are exposed to changes in foreign currency exchange rates as a result of our global operating and financing activities. We hedge revenues, expenses and balance sheet exposures that are not denominated in the functional currencies of our subsidiaries on a short-term and anticipated basis. The result of the hedging has been included in our consolidated statement of operations. We experience some fluctuations within individual lines of the consolidated balance sheet and consolidated statement of operations because our hedging program is not designed to offset the currency movements in each category of revenues, expenses, monetary assets and liabilities. Our hedging program is designed to hedge currency movements on a relatively short-term basis of up to a rolling twelve-month period. Therefore, we are exposed to currency fluctuations over the longer term. To the extent that we are required to pay for all, or portions, of an acquisition price in foreign currencies, we may enter into foreign exchange contracts to reduce the risk that currency movements will impact the U.S. dollar cost of the transaction.
Results from Operations

Orders and Net Revenue
In general, recorded orders represent firm purchase commitments from our customers with established terms and conditions for products and services. Consistent with our strategy, we are seeing an increase in solution sales, which have a longer order-to-revenue conversion cycle; however, the majority of recorded orders will be delivered within six months.
Revenue reflects the delivery and acceptance of the products and services as defined on the customer's terms and conditions. Cancellations are recorded in the period received from the customer and historically have not been material.
 
Three Months Ended
 
Six Months Ended

Year over Year Change
 
April 30,
 
April 30,

Three
 
Six
 
2018
 
2017
 
2018
 
2017

Months
 
Months
 
(in millions)
 
 
 
Orders
$
987

 
$
805

 
$
1,951

 
$
1,500

 
23%
 
30%
Net revenue:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Products
$
830

 
$
634

 
$
1,514

 
$
1,240

 
31%
 
22%
Services and other
160

 
119

 
313

 
239

 
34%
 
31%
Total net revenue
$
990

 
$
753

 
$
1,827

 
$
1,479


31%
 
24%

Orders
Total orders of $987 million and $1,951 million for the three and six months ended April 30, 2018 increased 23 percent and 30 percent, respectively, when compared to the same periods last year, and increased 20 percent and 28 percent, respectively, excluding the impact of currency fluctuations. Orders associated with acquisitions accounted for 11 percentage points and 16 percentage points, respectively, of order growth for the three and six months ended April 30, 2018 when compared to the same periods last year. For the three and six months ended April 30, 2018, orders grew across all geographies.
Net Revenue
The following table provides the percent change in net revenue for the three and six months ended April 30, 2018 by geographic region including and excluding the impact of currency changes as compared to the same period last year.
 
Year over Year % Change
 
Three Months Ended
 
Six Months Ended
 
April 30, 2018
 
April 30, 2018
Geographic Region
actual
 
currency adjusted
 
actual
 
currency adjusted
Americas
46
%
 
46
%
 
38
%
 
38
%
Europe
38
%
 
30
%
 
27
%
 
21
%
Japan
31
%
 
26
%
 
10
%
 
8
%
Asia Pacific ex-Japan
15
%
 
13
%
 
11
%
 
9
%
Total net revenue
31
%
 
29
%
 
24
%
 
21
%
Net revenue of $990 million and $1,827 million for the three and six months ended April 30, 2018 increased 31 percent and 24 percent, respectively, when compared to the same periods last year and increased 29 percent and 21 percent, respectively,

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excluding the impact of currency fluctuations. Revenue associated with acquisitions accounted for 10 percentage points and 13 percentage points of revenue growth for the three and six months ended April 30, 2018, respectively, when compared to the same periods last year.
Revenue from the Communications Solutions Group represented approximately 54 percent and 52 percent of total revenue for the three and six months ended April 30, 2018, respectively, and increased 27 percent and 11 percent year-over-year, respectively. For the three months ended April 30, 2018, the Communications Solutions Group's contribution to total revenue growth was an increase of 15 percentage points, with growth across all geographies primarily driven by overall business strength combined with recovery from the northern California wildfires. For the six months ended April 30, 2018, the Communications Solutions Group's contribution to total revenue growth was an increase of 7 percentage points, primarily driven by overall business strength. Growth in the Americas, Asia Pacific excluding Japan and Europe was partially offset by decline in Japan.
Revenue from the Electronic Industrial Solutions Group represented approximately 26 percent and 25 percent of total revenue for the three and six months ended April 30, 2018, respectively, and grew 16 percent and 11 percent year-over-year, respectively. For the three months ended April 30, 2018, the Electronic Industrial Solutions Group's contribution to total revenue growth was an increase of 4 percentage points, with growth in Europe, the Americas and Japan partially offset by decline in Asia Pacific excluding Japan. For the six months ended April 30, 2018, the Electronic Industrial Solutions Group's contribution to total revenue growth was an increase of 3 percentage points, with growth in Europe, the Americas and Japan partially offset by decline in Asia Pacific excluding Japan.
Revenue from the Ixia Solutions Group represented approximately 8 percent and 11 percent of total revenue for the three and six months ended April 30, 2018, respectively. For the three and six months ended April 30, 2018, the Ixia Solutions Group's contribution to total revenue growth was 10 percentage points and 12 percentage points, respectively. The Ixia Solutions Group revenue for the three and six months ended April 30, 2017 includes activity for 13 days during the period, from the date of acquisition, April 18, 2017.
Revenue from the Services Solutions Group represented approximately 12 percent of total revenue and contributed 2 percentage points in the total revenue growth for both the three and six months ended April 30, 2018. For the three and six months ended April 30, 2018, growth in the Americas, Asia Pacific excluding Japan, and Japan was partially offset by decline in Europe.
Costs and Expenses
 
Three Months Ended
 
Six Months Ended

Year over Year Change
 
April 30,
 
April 30,

Three
 
Six
 
2018
 
2017
 
2018
 
2017

Months
 
Months
Total gross margin
54.9
%
 
54.8
%
 
53.1
%
 
55.2
%
 
— ppts
 
(2) ppts
Operating margin
10.1
%
 
5.5
%
 
5.2
%
 
13.8
%
 
5 ppts
 
(9) ppts

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
in millions
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Research and development
$
156

 
$
119

 
$
302

 
$
227

 
30%
 
33%
Selling, general and administrative
$
299

 
$
256

 
$
588

 
$
469

 
17%
 
26%
Other operating expense (income), net
$
(12
)
 
$
(4
)
 
$
(15
)
 
$
(83
)
 
230%
 
(82)%
 
Gross margin was flat and decreased 2 percentage points for the three and six months ended April 30, 2018, respectively, compared to the same periods last year. For the three months ended April 30, 2018, gains related to revenue volume were offset by increases in amortization of acquisition-related balances. For the six months ended April 30, 2018, gross margin decline was primarily driven by increases in amortization of acquisition-related balances, partially offset by gains related to revenue volume and favorable mix.
Research and development expense increased 30 percent and 33 percent for the three and six months ended April 30, 2018, respectively, compared to the same periods last year, driven by the addition of Ixia to the cost structure and an increase in people-related costs partially offset by one-time acquisition-related compensation expense in the same period last year. As a percentage of revenue, research and development expense was 16 percent and 17 percent for the three and six months ended April 30, 2018, respectively, as compared to 16 percent and 15 percent for the same periods last year. We remain committed to investment in research and development and have focused our development efforts on strategic opportunities in order to capture future growth.
Selling, general and administrative expenses increased 17 percent and 26 percent for the three and six months ended April 30, 2018, respectively, compared to the same periods last year. The increase in selling, general and administrative expenses is primarily driven by the addition of Ixia to our cost structure, increases in amortization of acquisition-related balances, people-

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related costs and restructuring costs, and an unfavorable impact of foreign currency movements, partially offset by one-time acquisition-related compensation expense and separation and related costs in the same period last year.
Other operating expense (income), net for the three months ended April 30, 2018 and 2017 was income of $12 million and $4 million, respectively. The increase was driven by an $8 million gain from a small divestiture. For the six months ended April 30, 2018 and 2017, other operating expense (income), net, was income of $15 million and $83 million, respectively. The other operating income for the six months ended April 30, 2017 was largely driven by a $68 million gain from a Japan pension settlement and an $8 million gain on a land sale.
Operating margin for the three months ended April 30, 2018 increased 5 percentage points when compared to the same period last year, primarily driven by the gains related to revenue volume, partially offset by increases in amortization of acquisition-related balances and people-related costs. Operating margin for the six months ended April 30, 2018 decreased 9 percentage points when compared to the same period last year, primarily driven by one-time gains in the six months ended April 31, 2017 from a Japan pension settlement and land sale and current-period increases in amortization of acquisition-related balances, acquisition and integration costs, and people-related costs, partially offset by gains related to revenue volume.
As of April 30, 2018, our headcount was approximately 12,800 as compared to approximately 12,300 at April 30, 2017.
Interest Expense
Interest expense for the three and six months ended April 30, 2018 was $21 million and $43 million, respectively, as compared to $24 million and $36 million for the comparable periods last year. The increase in interest expense for the six-month period is primarily due to interest expense and amortization of debt issuance costs on $700 million of senior notes issued in April 2017 and interest on borrowings under a senior unsecured term loan.
Income Taxes
The company’s effective tax rate was an expense of 22.5 percent and a benefit of 162.8 percent for the three and six months ended April 30, 2018, respectively. The income tax expense was $19 million and income tax benefit was $98 million for the three and six months ended April 30, 2018, respectively. The income tax expense for the three months ended April 30, 2018 included a net discrete expense of $11 million, and the income tax benefit for the six months ended April 30, 2018 included a net discrete benefit of $104 million, primarily due to $103 million discrete tax benefit resulting from changes in U.S. tax law. The increase in tax expense for the three months ended April 30, 2018 is primarily due to adjustments to the discrete impact recorded for the U.S. tax law change related to the one-time toll charge.
The company’s effective tax rate was a benefit of 126.1 percent and an expense of 9.0 percent for the three and six months ended April 30, 2017, respectively. Income tax benefit was $27 million and income tax expense was $16 million for the three and six months ended April 30, 2017, respectively. The income tax provision for the three and six months ended April 30, 2017 included a net discrete expense of $8 million and $31 million, respectively, including $22 million of tax resulting from the transfer of a portion of the Japanese Employees’ Pension Fund (see Note 12).
Keysight benefits from tax incentives in several jurisdictions, most significantly in Singapore, that have granted us tax incentives that require renewal at various times in the future. The tax incentives provide lower rates of taxation on certain classes of income and require thresholds of investments and employment or specific types of income in those jurisdictions.  The Singapore tax incentive is due for renewal in fiscal 2024.
For the majority of our entities, the open tax years for the IRS, state and most foreign audit authorities are from August 1, 2014 through the current tax year. For certain acquired U.S. entities, the tax years generally remain open back to year 2009. For foreign entities, the tax years remain open, at most, back to the year 2007. Given the number of years and numerous matters that remain subject to examination in various tax jurisdictions, we are unable to estimate the range of possible changes to the balance of our unrecognized tax benefits.
The company is being audited in Malaysia for the 2008 tax year. Although this tax year pre-dates our spin-off from Agilent, pursuant to the agreement between Agilent and Keysight pertaining to tax matters, as finalized at the time of separation, for certain entities, including Malaysia, any historical tax liability is the responsibility of Keysight. In the fourth quarter of fiscal 2017, Keysight paid income taxes and penalties of $68 million on gains related to intellectual property rights, although we are currently in the process of appealing to the Special Commissioners of Income Tax in Malaysia. The company believes there are numerous defenses to the current assessment; the statute of limitations for the 2008 tax year in Malaysia was closed and the income in question is exempt from tax in Malaysia. The company is disputing this assessment and pursuing all avenues to resolve this issue favorably for the company.

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At April 30, 2018, our estimated annual effective tax rate is an expense of 7.9 percent excluding discrete items. We determine our interim tax provision using an estimated annual effective tax rate methodology except in jurisdictions where we anticipate a full year loss or we have a year-to-date ordinary loss for which no tax benefit can be recognized. In these jurisdictions, tax expense is computed separately. Our estimated annual effective tax rate differs from the U.S. statutory rate primarily due to the mix of earnings in non-U.S. jurisdictions taxed at lower rates, reserves for uncertain tax positions, the U.S. federal research and development tax credit, and the impact of permanent differences.
Segment Overview
Keysight has four reportable operating segments: Communications Solutions Group, Electronic Industrial Solutions Group, Ixia Solutions Group and Services Solutions Group. The Communications Solutions Group serves customers spanning the worldwide commercial communications end market, which includes internet infrastructure, and the aerospace, defense and government end market. The Electronic Industrial Solutions Group provides test and measurement solutions across a broad set of electronic industrial end markets. Ixia Solutions Group provides testing, visibility and security solutions, strengthening applications across physical and virtual networks for enterprises, service providers and network equipment manufacturers. The Services Solutions Group provides repair, calibration and consulting services, and remarkets used Keysight equipment. In addition, our global team of experts provides startup assistance, consulting, optimization and application support across all of our end markets.
The profitability of each segment is measured after excluding, among other things, charges related to the amortization of acquisition-related balances, the impact of restructuring and related costs, asset impairments, acquisition and integration costs, share-based compensation, separation and related costs, interest income and interest expense.
Communications Solutions Group
The Communications Solutions Group serves customers spanning the worldwide commercial communications end market and the aerospace, defense and government end market. The group provides electronic design and test software, instruments, and systems used in the simulation, design, validation, manufacturing, installation and optimization of electronic equipment.
Net Revenue

Three Months Ended
 
Six Months Ended

Year over Year Change

April 30,
 
April 30,

Three
 
Six

2018
 
2017
 
2018
 
2017

Months
 
Months

(in millions)
 
(in millions)
 

 
 
Net revenue
$
536

 
$
424

 
$
956

 
$
858

 
27%
 
11%
The Communications Solutions Group revenue for the three and six months ended April 30, 2018 increased 27 percent and 11 percent, respectively, when compared to the same periods last year, primarily driven by overall business strength. For the three months ended April 30, 2018, revenue growth was driven by overall strength in the aerospace, defense and government and commercial communication markets combined with recovery from the northern California wildfires. For the six months ended April 30, 2018, growth in the revenue was driven by overall strength in the aerospace, defense and government and commercial communications market. Due to the strong response and execution of our teams, we have recovered from the shipment disruption issues related to the wildfires, and full recovery is expected in the second half of the year.
Revenue from the commercial communications market represented approximately 60 percent and 59 percent of the total Communications Solutions Group revenue for the three and six months ended April 30, 2018, respectively, and increased 26 percent and 11 percent year-over-year, respectively. For the three months ended April 30, 2018, revenue grew across all geographies. For the six months ended April 30, 2018, revenue growth in the Americas and Asia Pacific excluding Japan was partially offset by declines in Japan and Europe when compared to the same period last year. The commercial communications market revenue growth was primarily driven by growth in 5G-related investments across the wireless ecosystem, with strong demand in network access and steady investments in the network and data center markets, while 4G spending has softened.
Revenue from the aerospace, defense and government market represented approximately 40 percent and 41 percent of the total Communications Solutions Group revenue for the three and six months ended April 30, 2018, respectively, and increased 27 percent and 12 percent year-over-year, respectively. For the three months ended April 30, 2018, revenue grew across all geographies. For the six months ended April 30, 2018, revenue growth in the Americas, Europe and Japan was partially offset by decline in Asia Pacific excluding Japan. The aerospace, defense and government market revenue growth was driven by overall improvement in the global economy and higher global defense spending.

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Gross Margin and Operating Margin
The following table shows the Communications Solutions Group margins, expenses and income from operations for the three and six months ended April 30, 2018 versus the three and six months ended April 30, 2017.

Three Months Ended
 
Six Months Ended

Year over Year Change

April 30,
 
April 30,

Three
 
Six

2018
 
2017
 
2018
 
2017

Months
 
Months
Total gross margin
61.7
%
 
61.3
%
 
61.3
%
 
60.9
%
 
— ppts
 
— ppts
Operating margin
23.5
%
 
17.6
%
 
19.3
%
 
17.1
%
 
6 ppts
 
2 ppts

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
in millions
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Research and development
$
87

 
$
73

 
$
167

 
$
149

 
19%
 
12%
Selling, general and administrative
$
120

 
$
114

 
$
238

 
$
231

 
5%
 
3%
Other operating expense (income), net
$
(2
)
 
$
(2
)
 
$
(4
)
 
$
(4
)
 
(4)%
 
(5)%
Income from operations
$
126

 
$
75

 
$
185

 
$
147

 
69%
 
26%
Gross margin for each of the three and six months ended April 30, 2018 was flat when compared to the same periods last year. For the three months ended April 30, 2018, gross margin gains from higher revenue volume were partially offset by an increase in variable people-related costs. For the six months ended April 30, 2018, gross margin gains from the higher revenue volume were partially offset by increase in variable people-related costs and unfavorable warranty and inventory charges.
Research and development expense for the three and six months ended April 30, 2018 increased 19 percent and 12 percent, respectively, compared to the same periods last year, primarily driven by an increase in people-related costs, continued investments in programs and infrastructure-related costs. We remain committed to investment in research and development and have focused our development efforts on strategic opportunities to capture future growth.
Selling, general and administrative expense for the three and six months ended April 30, 2018 increased 5 percent and 3 percent, respectively, compared to the same periods last year, primarily driven by an increase in people-related costs and infrastructure-related costs.
Other operating expense (income) for each of the three months ended April 30, 2018 and 2017 was income of $2 million. Other operating expense (income) for each of the six months ended April 30, 2018 and 2017 was income of $4 million.
Income from Operations
Income from operations for the three and six months ended April 30, 2018 increased $51 million and $38 million, respectively, on a corresponding revenue increase of $112 million and $98 million, respectively, when compared to the same periods last year.
Operating margin for the three and six months ended April 30, 2018 increased 6 percentage points and 2 percentage points, respectively, when compared to the same periods last year, driven by higher revenue volume partially offset by higher people-related costs and infrastructure-related costs.
Electronic Industrial Solutions Group
The Electronic Industrial Solutions Group provides test and measurement solutions across a broad set of electronic industrial end markets, focusing on high-value applications in the automotive and energy industry and measurement solutions for semiconductor design and manufacturing, consumer electronics, education and general electronics manufacturing. The group provides electronic design and test software, instruments, and systems used in the simulation, design, validation, manufacturing, installation and optimization of electronic equipment.

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Table of Contents

Net Revenue
 
Three Months Ended
 
Six Months Ended
 
Year over Year Change
 
April 30,
 
April 30,
 
Three
 
Six
 
2018
 
2017
 
2018
 
2017
 
Months
 
Months
 
(in millions)
 
(in millions)
 
 
 
 
Net revenue
$
255

 
$
220

 
$
458

 
$
412

 
16%
 
11%
The Electronic Industrial Solutions Group revenue for the three and six months ended April 30, 2018 increased 16 percent and 11 percent, respectively, when compared to the same periods last year, and grew 12 percent and 8 percent, respectively, excluding the impact of acquisitions. Revenue growth was driven by strong growth in the automotive and energy market and the general electronics measurement market, while the semiconductor measurement market was flat and grew slightly for the three and six months ended April 30, 2018, respectively. Strong revenue growth in Europe, the Americas and Japan was partially offset by a decline in Asia Pacific excluding Japan.
Gross Margin and Operating Margin
The following table shows the Electronic Industrial Solutions Group margins, expenses and income from operations for the three and six months ended April 30, 2018 versus the three and six months ended April 30, 2017.
 
Three Months Ended
 
Six Months Ended
 
Year over Year Change
 
April 30,
 
April 30,
 
Three
 
Six
 
2018
 
2017
 
2018
 
2017
 
Months
 
Months
Total gross margin
61.3
%
 
61.8
%
 
60.3
%
 
60.9
%
 
(1) ppts
 
(1) ppts
Operating margin
26.0
%
 
26.1
%
 
22.7
%
 
24.0
%
 
— ppts
 
(1) ppts
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
in millions
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Research and development
$
36

 
$
31

 
$
69

 
$
59

 
17%
 
18%
Selling, general and administrative
$
55

 
$
49

 
$
105

 
$
95

 
12%
 
10%
Other operating expense (income), net
$
(1
)
 
$
(1
)
 
$
(2
)
 
$
(2
)
 
(1)%
 
(4)%
Income from operations
$
67

 
$
57

 
$
104

 
$
99

 
16%
 
5%
Gross margin for each of the three and six months ended April 30, 2018 declined 1 percentage point when compared to the same periods last year, primarily driven by unfavorable revenue mix and an increase in people-related costs.
Research and development expense for the three and six months ended April 30, 2018 increased 17 percent and 18 percent, respectively, compared to the same periods last year, primarily driven by an increase in people-related costs, inclusion of costs of an acquired business and continued investments in leading-edge technologies and key growth opportunities in our end markets. We remain committed to investment in research and development and have focused our development efforts on strategic opportunities to capture future growth.
Selling, general and administrative expense for the three and six months ended April 30, 2018 increased 12 percent and 10 percent, respectively, compared to the same periods last year, primarily due to an increase in people-related costs, infrastructure-related costs and inclusion of costs of an acquired business.
Other operating expense (income) for each of the three months ended April 30, 2018 and 2017 was income of $1 million. Other operating expense (income) for each of the six months ended April 30, 2018 and 2017 was income of $2 million.
Income from Operations
Income from operations for the three and six months ended April 30, 2018 increased $10 million and $5 million, respectively, on a corresponding revenue increase of $35 million and $46 million, respectively, when compared to the same periods last year.
Operating margin for the three and six months ended April 30, 2018 was flat and declined 1 percentage point, respectively, when compared to the same periods last year. The operating margin decline for the six months ended April 30, 2018 was primarily driven by unfavorable revenue mix, higher people-related costs and inclusion of costs of an acquired business, partially offset by gains from higher revenue volume.

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Ixia Solutions Group
The Ixia Solutions Group helps customers validate the performance and security resilience of their networks and associated applications. The test,visibility and security solutions help organizations and their customers strengthen their physical and virtual networks. Enterprises, service providers, network equipment manufacturers, and governments worldwide rely on the group's solutions to validate new products before shipping and secure ongoing operation of their networks with better visibility and security. The group’s solutions consist of our high-performance hardware platforms, software applications, and services, including warranty and maintenance offerings.
 
Three Months Ended
 
Six Months Ended
 
Year over Year Change
 
April 30,
 
April 30,
 
Three
 
Six
 
2018
 
2017
 
2018
 
2017
 
Months
 
Months
Total gross margin
75.8
 %
 
77.1
 %
 
75.7
%
 
77.1
 %
 
 
Operating margin
(8.4
)%
 
(12.9
)%
 
5.1
%
 
(12.9
)%
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
in millions
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Net revenue
$
90

 
$
12

 
$
217

 
$
12

 
 
Research and development
$
30

 
$
4

 
$
55

 
$
4

 
 
Selling, general and administrative
$
46

 
$
7

 
$
98

 
$
7

 
 
Income (loss) from operations
$
(7
)
 
$
(2
)
 
$
11

 
$
(2
)
 
 
The Ixia Solutions Group operating results for the three and six months ended April 30, 2017 include activity for 13 days during the period, from the date of acquisition, April 18, 2017, through April 30, 2017.
For the three and six months ended April 30, 2018, revenue from the Ixia Solutions Group contributed 10 percentage points and 14 percentage points, respectively, to total Keysight revenue growth, and represented 9 percent and 12 percent, respectively, of total Keysight revenue.
During the second quarter of fiscal 2018, we completed an important phase of the Ixia integration, investing significant resources to upgrade their systems and processes for long-term value creation. This phase included the integration of our ERP, procurement, contract manufacturing, and trade and logistics activities to leverage Keysight’s scale. In addition, we consolidated sites to drive operational alignment and cost savings and absorbed many management and administrative functions for efficiency. These activities represented an enormous effort and stabilization took longer than expected, impacting the Ixia Solution Group's results for the three months ended April 30, 2018. Many of these integration issues are now resolved.
Services Solutions Group
The Services Solutions Group provides repair, calibration and consulting services, and remarkets used Keysight equipment. In addition to providing repair and calibration support for Keysight equipment, we also calibrate non-Keysight equipment. The group serves the same markets as Keysight’s Communications Solutions and Electronic Industrial Solutions Groups, providing industry-specific services to deliver complete Keysight solutions and help customers reduce their total cost of ownership for their design and test equipment. This segment was formerly reported as the company’s Customer Support and Services segment.
Net Revenue
 
Three Months Ended
 
Six Months Ended
 
Year over Year Change
 
April 30,
 
April 30,
 
Three
 
Six
 
2018
 
2017
 
2018
 
2017
 
Months
 
Months
 
(in millions)
 
(in millions)
 
 
 
 
Net revenue
$
118

 
$
102

 
$
224

 
$
202

 
15%
 
11%
The Services Solutions Group revenue for the three and six months ended April 30, 2018 increased 15 percent and 11 percent, respectively, when compared to the same periods last year, and grew 12 percent and 8 percent, respectively, excluding the impact of acquisitions. For the three months and six months ended April 30, 2018, the revenue increase was driven by strong growth in calibration services and sales of used equipment, combined with steady growth in repair services. Revenue growth in the Americas and Asia Pacific excluding Japan and Japan was partially offset by decline in Europe.

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Table of Contents

Gross Margin and Operating Margin
The following table shows the Services Solutions Group margins, expenses and income from operations for the three and six months ended April 30, 2018 versus the three and six months ended April 30, 2017.
 
Three Months Ended
 
Six Months Ended
 
Year over Year Change
 
April 30,
 
April 30,
 
Three
 
Six
 
2018
 
2017
 
2018
 
2017
 
Months
 
Months
Total gross margin
40.6
%
 
40.9
%
 
40.5
%
 
40.2
%
 
— ppts
 
— ppts
Operating margin
15.4
%
 
16.2
%
 
15.5
%
 
15.3
%
 
(1) ppt
 
— ppts
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
in millions
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Research and development
$

 
$
1

 
$
1

 
$
1

 
—%
 
20%
Selling, general and administrative
$
30

 
$
26

 
$
56

 
$
51

 
17%
 
11%
Other operating expense (income), net
$
(1
)
 
$
(1
)
 
$
(2
)
 
$
(1
)
 
(10)%
 
1%
Income from operations
$
18

 
$
17

 
$
35

 
$
31

 
9%
 
12%
Gross margin for the three months and six months ended April 30, 2018 was flat when compared to the same periods last year, as gains from higher revenue were offset by an increase in variable people-related costs.
Research and development expense for the three and six months ended April 30, 2018 was flat and increased 20 percent, respectively, compared to the same periods last year. For the six months ended April 30, 2018, the increase is primarily driven by investments in a new software application to enable enhanced service offerings.
Selling, general and administrative expense for the three and six months ended April 30, 2018 increased 17 percent and 11 percent, respectively, compared to the same periods last year primarily due to increases in infrastructure-related costs, people-related costs and investments in new tools.
Other operating expense (income) for each of the three months ended April 30, 2018 and 2017 was income of $1 million. Other operating expense (income) for the six months ended April 30, 2018 and 2017 was income of $2 million and $1 million, respectively.
Income from Operations
Income from operations for the three and six months ended April 30, 2018 increased $1 million and $4 million, respectively, on a corresponding revenue increase of $16 million and $22 million, respectively, when compared to the same periods last year.
Operating margin for the three and six months ended April 30, 2018 decreased 1 percentage point and was flat, respectively, when compared to the same periods last year, driven by flat gross margin, higher people-related costs, higher infrastructure-related costs and investments in sales resources.
FINANCIAL CONDITION
Liquidity and Capital Resources
Our financial position as of April 30, 2018 consisted of cash and cash equivalents of $784 million as compared to $818 million as of October 31, 2017.
As of April 30, 2018, approximately $729 million of our cash and cash equivalents was held outside of the U.S. in our foreign subsidiaries. Under U.S. tax legislation that was enacted on December 22, 2017, certain earnings currently held outside of the U.S. are deemed to be repatriated to the U.S., with foreign cash balances generally subject to an effective U.S. tax rate of 15.5 percent and certain cumulative foreign earnings in excess of foreign cash balances subject to an effective U.S. tax rate of 8 percent. Our cash and cash equivalents mainly consist of short-term deposits held at major global financial institutions, investments in institutional money market funds, and similar short duration instruments with original maturities of 90 days or less. We continuously monitor the creditworthiness of the financial institutions in which we invest our funds. We utilize a variety of funding strategies in an effort to ensure that our worldwide cash is available in the locations in which it is needed. Most significant international locations have access to internal funding through an offshore cash pool for working capital needs, in addition to temporary local overdraft and short-term working capital lines of credit for a few locations which are unable to access internal funding.

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We believe our cash and cash equivalents, cash generated from operations, and ability to access capital markets and credit lines will satisfy, for at least the next twelve months, our liquidity requirements, both globally and domestically, including the following: working capital needs, capital expenditures, business acquisitions, contractual obligations, commitments, principal and interest payments on debt, and other liquidity requirements associated with our operations. 
Net Cash Provided by Operating Activities
Cash flows from operating activities can fluctuate significantly from period to period as working capital needs and the timing of payments for income taxes, restructuring activities, pension funding, variable pay and other items impact reported cash flows.
Net cash provided by operating activities was $282 million for the six months ended April 30, 2018 compared to $164 million for the same period in 2017.
Net income was flat for the six months ended April 30, 2018 as compared to the same period last year. Non-cash adjustments declined $76 million due to a $224 million deduction for deferred tax benefits primarily related to changes in the U.S tax legislation, partially offset by an $84 million increase in depreciation and amortization expense, $68 million from a prior-period pension curtailment and settlement gain and $4 million from other miscellaneous non-cash activities.
The aggregate of accounts receivable, inventory and accounts payable used net operating cash of $29 million during the first six months of fiscal 2018 compared to cash used of $17 million in the comparable period last year. The amount of cash flow generated from or used by the aggregate of accounts receivable, inventory and accounts payable depends upon the cash conversion cycle, which represents the number of days that elapse from the day we pay for the purchase of raw materials and components to the collection of cash from our customers and can be significantly impacted by the timing of shipments and purchases, as well as collections and payments in a period.
The aggregate of employee compensation and benefits, income tax payable, deferred revenue and other assets and liabilities provided net operating cash of $213 million during the first six months of fiscal 2018 compared to cash used of $9 million in the comparable period last year. The difference is primarily due to an increase in income tax payable due to the impact of new U.S. tax legislation, higher variable compensation accruals and an increase in deferred revenue. For the six months ended April 30, 2018, we received insurance proceeds of $40 million for expenses associated with the northern California wildfires, which partially offset expenses of $63 million during the period. At April 30, 2018 our insurance receivable was $25 million for known losses for which insurance reimbursement is probable. In addition, in the six months ended April 30, 2018, we received insurance proceeds of $26 million for losses incurred in a 2016 warehouse fire in Singapore.
We did not contribute to our U.S. Defined Benefit Plans and U.S. Post-Retirement Benefit Plan during the six months ended April 30, 2018 and 2017. We contributed $16 million and $15 million to our Non-U.S. Defined Benefit Plans during the six months ended April 30, 2018, respectively. For the remainder of 2018, we are evaluating the potential tax benefits of contributing to our U.S. Defined Benefit Plans, and we expect to contribute $17 million to our non-U.S. Defined Benefit Plans.
Net Cash Used in Investing Activities
Net cash used in investing activities was $49 million for the six months ended April 30, 2018 as compared to $1,642 million for the same period last year. For the six months ended April 30, 2018, investments in property, plant and equipment were $58 million, which includes $9 million related to recovery from the northern California wildfires, compared to $33 million for the same period last year. We also received proceeds of $12 million from a small divestiture in the first half of fiscal 2018.
For the six months ended April 30, 2017, we paid $1,622 million, net of $72 million of cash acquired, for the acquisition of Ixia and related intangibles assets. We also received proceeds of $8 million from a land sale and $4 million from the sale of investments.
We anticipate total 2018 capital spending to be approximately $130 million, which is $58 million higher than capital spending in fiscal 2017. The 2018 plan provides $25 million to $35 million for fire-related recovery, which is expected to be covered by insurance, as well as additional investments for infrastructure improvements and equipment maintenance and upgrades for manufacturing and R&D.

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Net Cash Used in Financing Activities
Cash flows related to financing activities primarily consist of cash flows associated with the issuance of common stock, proceeds from and repayments of borrowings, issuance of common stock under employee stock plans, payment of taxes related to net share settlement of equity awards, treasury stock repurchases and debt issuance cost.
In the six months ended April 30, 2018, we used $271 million for financing activities primarily for a $260 million repayment of term loan borrowings, $28 million for treasury stock purchases and $16 million of tax payments related to net share settlement of equity awards, partially offset by proceeds of $33 million from issuance of common stock under employee stock plans.
On March 6, 2018, the Board of Directors approved a new stock repurchase program authorizing the purchase of up to $350 million of the company’s common stock, replacing a previously approved 2016 program authorizing the purchase of up to $200 million of the company’s common stock. The stock repurchase program may be commenced, suspended or discontinued at any time at the company’s discretion and does not have an expiration date.
For the six months ended April 30, 2017, net cash provided by financing activities was $1,677 million primarily due to proceeds received to fund the acquisition of Ixia, including $1,069 million from issuance of long-term debt, $170 million from short-term borrowings and $444 million from issuance of common stock under public offering.
Short-Term Debt
Revolving Credit Facility
On February 15, 2017, we entered into an amended and restated credit agreement (the “Revolving Credit Facility”) that replaced our existing $450 million unsecured credit facility dated September 15, 2014. The Revolving Credit Facility provides for a $450 million, five-year unsecured revolving credit facility that will expire on February 15, 2022 and bears interest at an annual rate of LIBOR + 1.30%. In addition, the Revolving Credit Facility permits us to increase the total commitments under this credit facility by up to $150 million in the aggregate on one or more occasions upon request. We may use amounts borrowed under the facility for general corporate purposes. During the six months ended April 30, 2018, we borrowed and repaid $40 million of borrowings outstanding under the Revolving Credit Facility. As of April 30, 2018, we had no borrowings outstanding under the Revolving Credit Facility. We were in compliance with the covenants of the Revolving Credit Facility during the six months ended April 30, 2018.
Long-Term Debt
There have been no changes to the principal, maturity, interest rates and interest payment terms of the outstanding senior notes in the six months ended April 30, 2018 as compared to the senior notes as described in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended October 31, 2017.
Senior Unsecured Term Loan
On February 15, 2017, we entered into a term credit agreement that provides for a three-year $400 million senior unsecured term loan that bears interest at an annual rate of LIBOR + 1.50%. The term loan was drawn upon the closing of the Ixia acquisition. On February 27, 2018, we fully repaid borrowings outstanding under the term loan of $260 million and terminated the term credit agreement.
Other
There were no material changes from our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended October 31, 2017, to our contractual commitments (including non-cancellable operating leases) in the first six months of 2018.
There were no material changes in our liabilities toward uncertain tax positions from our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended October 31, 2017. We are unable to accurately predict when these will be realized or released. However, it is reasonably possible that there could be significant changes to our unrecognized tax benefits in the next 12 months due to either the expiration of a statute of limitations or a tax audit settlement.
ITEM 3. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK
 
Quantitative and qualitative disclosures about market risk appear in “Item 7A. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk” in Part II of our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended October 31, 2017. There were no material changes during the six months ended April 30, 2018 to this information reported in the company’s 2017 Annual Report on Form 10-K.

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ITEM 4. CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES
Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures
Under the supervision and with the participation of our management, including the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, we have evaluated the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures as required by Exchange Act Rule 13a-15(b) as of the end of the period covered by this report. Based on that evaluation, the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer have concluded that these disclosure controls and procedures are effective.
Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting
There were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting during the six months ended April 30, 2018 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting. During this period, a majority of Ixia Solutions Group's financial activity was integrated into the existing Keysight internal control structure.
PART II — OTHER INFORMATION
 
ITEM 1. LEGAL PROCEEDINGS
 
We are involved in lawsuits, claims, investigations and proceedings, including, but not limited to, patent, commercial, employment and environmental matters, which arise in the ordinary course of business. There are no matters pending that we currently believe are probable of having a material impact to our business, consolidated financial condition, results of operations or cash flows.
ITEM 1A.  RISK FACTORS
Risks, Uncertainties and Other Factors That May Affect Future Results
Risks Related to Our Business
Depressed and uncertain general economic conditions may adversely affect our operating results and financial condition.
        Our business is sensitive to negative changes in general economic conditions, both inside and outside the United States. Global and regional economic uncertainty or depression may impact our business, resulting in:
reduced demand for our products, delays in the shipment of orders or increases in order cancellations;
increased risk of excess and obsolete inventories;
increased price pressure for our products and services; and
greater risk of impairment to the value, and a detriment to the liquidity, of our future investment portfolio.
In addition, global and regional macroeconomic developments, such as increased unemployment, decreased income, reduced access to credit, volatility in capital markets, decreased liquidity, uncertain or destabilizing national election results in the U.S., Europe, and Asia, and negative changes or volatility in general economic conditions in the U.S., Europe, and Asia could negatively affect our ability to conduct business in those territories. Financial difficulties experienced by our suppliers and customers, including distributors, due to economic volatility or negative changes could result in product delays and inventory issues. Economic risks related to accounts receivable could result in delays in collection and greater bad debt expense.
Our operating results and financial condition could be harmed if the markets into which we sell our products decline or do not grow as anticipated.
        Visibility into our markets is limited. Our quarterly sales and operating results are highly dependent on the volume and timing of technology-related spending and orders received during the fiscal quarter, which are difficult to forecast and may be canceled by our customers. In addition, our revenues and earnings forecasts for future fiscal quarters are often based on the expected seasonality or cyclicality of our markets. However, the markets we serve do not always experience the seasonality or cyclicality that we expect. Any decline in our customers' markets would likely result in a reduction in demand for our products and services. The broader semiconductor market is one of the drivers for our business, and therefore, a decrease in the semiconductor market could harm our business. Also, if our customers' markets decline, we may not be able to collect on outstanding amounts due to us. Such declines could harm our financial position, results of operations, cash flows and stock price, and could limit our profitability. Also, in such an environment, pricing pressures could intensify. Since a significant portion of our operating expenses is relatively fixed in nature due to sales, R&D and manufacturing costs, if we were unable to respond quickly enough, these pricing pressures could further reduce our operating margins.

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If we do not introduce successful new products and services in a timely manner to address increased competition, rapid technological changes and changing industry standards, our products and services will become obsolete, and our operating results will suffer.
        We generally sell our products in industries that are characterized by increased competition through frequent new product and service introductions, rapid technological changes and changing industry standards. In addition, many of the markets in which we operate are seasonal and cyclical. Without the timely introduction of new products, services and enhancements, our products and services will become technologically obsolete over time, in which case our revenue and operating results would suffer. The success of new products and services will depend on several factors, including but not limited to our ability to:
properly identify customer needs;
innovate and develop new technologies, services and applications;
successfully commercialize new technologies in a timely manner;
manufacture and deliver our products in sufficient volumes and on time;
differentiate our offerings from our competitors' offerings;
price our products competitively;
anticipate our competitors' development of new products, services or technological innovations; and control product quality in our manufacturing process.
Dependence on contract manufacturing and outsourcing other portions of our supply chain may adversely affect our ability to bring products to market and damage our reputation. Dependence on outsourced information technology and other administrative functions may impair our ability to operate effectively.
        As part of our efforts to streamline operations and to cut costs, we outsource aspects of our manufacturing processes and other functions and continue to evaluate additional outsourcing. If our contract manufacturers or other outsourcers fail to perform their obligations in a timely manner or at satisfactory quality levels, our ability to bring products to market and our reputation could suffer. For example, during a market upturn, our contract manufacturers may be unable to meet our demand requirements, which may preclude us from fulfilling our customers' orders on a timely basis. The ability of these manufacturers to perform is largely outside of our control. Additionally, changing or replacing our contract manufacturers or other outsourcees could cause disruptions or delays. In addition, we outsource significant portions of our information technology ("IT") and other administrative functions. Since IT is critical to our operations, any failure of our IT providers to perform could impair our ability to operate effectively. In addition to the risks outlined above, problems with manufacturing or IT outsourcing could result in lower revenues and unrealized efficiencies, and could impact our results of operations and stock price. Much of our outsourcing takes place in developing countries and, as a result, may be subject to geopolitical uncertainty.
Failure to adjust our purchases due to changing market conditions or failure to estimate our customers' demand could adversely affect our income.
        Our income could be harmed if we are unable to adjust our purchases to market fluctuations, including those caused by the seasonal or cyclical nature of the markets in which we operate. The sale of our products and services are dependent, to a large degree, on customers whose industries are subject to seasonal or cyclical trends in the demand for their products. For example, the consumer electronics market is particularly volatile, making demand difficult to anticipate. During a market upturn, we may not be able to purchase sufficient supplies or components to meet increasing product demand, which could materially affect our results. In the past, we have seen a shortage of parts for some of our products. In addition, some of the parts that require custom design are not readily available from alternate suppliers due to their unique design or the length of time necessary for design work. Should a supplier cease manufacturing such a component, we would be forced to reengineer our product. In addition to discontinuing parts, suppliers may also extend lead times, limit supplies or increase prices due to capacity constraints or other factors. In order to secure components for the production of products, we may continue to enter into non-cancellable purchase commitments with vendors, or at times make advance payments to suppliers, which could impact our ability to adjust our inventory to declining market demands. Prior commitments of this type have resulted in an excess of parts when demand for electronic products has decreased. If demand for our products is less than we expect, we may experience additional excess and obsolete inventories and be forced to incur additional charges.
Our operating results may suffer if our manufacturing capacity does not match the demand for our products.
Because we cannot immediately adapt our production capacity and related cost structures to rapidly changing market conditions, when demand does not meet our expectations, our manufacturing capacity will likely exceed our production requirements. If, during a general market upturn or an upturn in our business, we cannot increase our manufacturing capacity to meet product demand, we will not be able to fulfill orders in a timely manner, which could lead to order cancellations, contract breaches or indemnification obligations. This inability could materially and adversely limit our ability to improve our income, margin and

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operating results. By contrast, if, during an economic downturn, we had excess manufacturing capacity, then our fixed costs associated with excess manufacturing capacity would adversely affect our income, margins and operating results.
Industry consolidation and consolidation among our customer base may lead to increased competition and may harm our operating results.
There is potential for industry consolidation in our markets. As companies attempt to strengthen or hold their market positions in an evolving industry, companies could be acquired or may be unable to continue operations. Companies that are strategic alliance partners in some areas of our business may acquire or form alliances with our competitors, thereby reducing their business with us. We believe that industry consolidation may result in stronger competitors and could lead to more variability in our operating results and could have a material adverse effect on our business, operating results, and financial condition. Furthermore, particularly in the communications market, rapid consolidation would lead to fewer customers, with the effect that loss of a major customer could have a material impact on results not anticipated in a customer marketplace composed of more numerous participants.
Additionally, if there is consolidation among our customer base, our customers may be able to command increased leverage in negotiating prices and other terms of sale, which could adversely affect our profitability. In addition, if, as a result of increased leverage, customer pressures require us to reduce our pricing such that our gross margins are diminished, we could decide not to sell our products under such less favorable terms, which would decrease our revenue. Consolidation among our customer base may also lead to reduced demand for our products, replacement of our products by the combined entity with those of our competitors and cancellations of orders, each of which could harm our operating results.
Economic, political and other risks associated with international sales and operations could adversely affect our results of operations.
        Because we sell our products worldwide, our business is subject to risks associated with doing business internationally. We anticipate that revenue from international operations will continue to represent a majority of our total revenue. However, there can be no assurances that our international sales will continue at existing levels or grow in accordance with our effort to increase foreign market penetration. In addition, many of our employees, contract manufacturers, suppliers, job functions and manufacturing facilities are located outside the United States. Accordingly, our future results could be harmed by a variety of factors, including but not limited to:
interruption to transportation flows for delivery of parts to us and finished goods to our customers;
changes in foreign currency exchange rates;
changes in a specific country's or region's political, economic or other conditions;
trade protection measures, sanctions, retaliatory actions, tariffs and other barriers, policies that favor domestic industries, and import or export licensing requirements or restrictions;
negative consequences from changes in tax laws;
difficulty in staffing and managing widespread operations;
differing labor regulations;
differing protection of intellectual property;
unexpected changes in regulatory requirements; and
volatile political environments or geopolitical turmoil, including regional conflicts, terrorism, and war.
        We centralize most of our accounting processes at two locations: India and Malaysia. These processes include general accounting, inventory cost accounting, accounts payable and accounts receivables functions. If conditions change in those countries, it may adversely affect operations, including impairing our ability to pay our suppliers. Our results of operations, as well as our liquidity, may be adversely affected and possible delays may occur in reporting financial results. Additionally, our suppliers, vendors, partners, and other entities with whom we do business may have strong ties to doing business in China and their ability to supply materials to us or otherwise work with us is strongly affected by their ability to do business in China. If the U.S.-China relationship deteriorates or results in retaliatory actions, tariffs and increased barriers, or policies that favor domestic industries, then our operations may be adversely affected due to such changes in the economic and political ecosystem in which our suppliers, vendors, partners, and other entities with whom we do business operate.
        Additionally, we must comply with complex foreign and U.S. laws and regulations, such as the U.S. Foreign Corrupt Practices Act, the U.K. Bribery Act and other local laws prohibiting corrupt payments to governmental officials, and anti-competition regulations. Violations of these laws and regulations could result in fines and penalties, criminal sanctions, restrictions on our business conduct and on our ability to offer our products in one or more countries, and could also materially affect our brand, ability to attract and retain employees, international operations, business and operating results. Although we actively maintain policies and procedures designed to ensure ongoing compliance with these laws and regulations, there can be no assurance that our employees, contractors or agents will not violate these policies and procedures.

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        In addition, although we price and pay for most of our products in U.S. Dollars, many of our products are priced in local currencies and a significant amount of certain types of expenses, such as payroll, utilities, tax and marketing expenses, are paid in local currencies. Our hedging programs are designed to reduce, but not entirely eliminate, within any given 12-month period, the impact of currency exchange rate movements, including those caused by currency controls, which could impact our business, operating results and financial condition by resulting in lower revenue or increased expenses. However, for expenses beyond a 12-month period, our hedging strategy will not mitigate our exchange rate risk. In addition, our currency hedging programs involve third-party financial institutions as counterparties. The weakening or failure of these counterparties may adversely affect our hedging programs and our financial condition through, among other things, a reduction in the number of available counterparties, increasingly unfavorable terms or the failure of counterparties to perform under hedging contracts.
Key customers or large orders may expose us to additional business and legal risks that could have a material adverse impact on our operating results and financial condition.
        Certain key customers have substantial purchasing power and leverage in negotiating contractual arrangements with us. These customers may demand contract terms that differ considerably from our standard terms and conditions. Large orders may also include severe contractual liabilities for us if we fail to provide the quantity and quality of product at the required delivery times. While we attempt to contractually limit our potential liability under such contracts, we may have to agree to some or all of these types of provisions to secure these orders and to continue to grow our business. Such actions expose us to significant additional risks, which could result in a material adverse impact on our operating results and financial condition.
Our business will suffer if we are not able to retain and hire key personnel.
        Our future success depends partly on the continued service of our key research, engineering, sales, marketing, manufacturing, executive and administrative personnel. If we fail to retain and hire a sufficient number of these personnel, we may not be able to maintain or expand our business. The markets in which we operate are dynamic, and we may need to respond with reorganizations, workforce reductions and site closures from time to time. We believe our pay levels are competitive within the regions that we operate. However, there is also intense competition for certain highly technical specialties in geographic areas in which we operate, and it may become more difficult to retain key employees.
Any inability to complete acquisitions on acceptable terms could negatively impact our growth rate and financial performance.
Our ability to grow revenues, earnings and cash flow depends in part upon our ability to identify and successfully acquire and integrate businesses at appropriate prices and realize anticipated synergies and business performance. Appropriate targets for acquisition are difficult to identify and complete for a variety of reasons, including but not limited to, limited due diligence, high valuations, business and intellectual property evaluations, other interested parties, negotiations of the definitive documentation, satisfaction of closing conditions, the need to obtain antitrust or other regulatory approvals on acceptable terms, and availability of funding. The inability to close appropriate acquisitions on acceptable terms could adversely impact our growth rate, revenue, and financial performance.
Our acquisitions, strategic alliances, joint ventures and divestitures may result in financial results that are different than expected.
        In the normal course of business, we may engage in discussions with third parties relating to possible acquisitions, strategic alliances, joint ventures and divestitures. As a result of such transactions, our financial results may differ from our own or the investment community's expectations in a given fiscal quarter, or over the long term. If market conditions or other factors lead us to change our strategic direction, we may not realize the expected value from such transactions. Further, such transactions often have post-closing arrangements, including, but not limited to, post-closing adjustments, transition services, escrows or indemnifications, the financial results of which can be difficult to predict. In addition, acquisitions and strategic alliances may require us to integrate a different company culture, management team and business infrastructure. We may have difficulty developing, manufacturing and marketing the products of a newly acquired company in a way that enhances the performance of our businesses or product lines to realize the value from expected synergies. Depending on the size and complexity of an acquisition, the successful integration of the entity depends on a variety of factors, including but not limited to:
the retention of key employees and/or customers;
the management of facilities and employees in different geographic areas; and
the compatibility of our infrastructure, policies and organizations with those of the acquired company.
If we do not realize the expected benefits or synergies of such transactions, our consolidated financial position, results of operations, cash flows and stock price could be negatively impacted.        
In addition, effective internal controls are necessary for us to provide reliable and accurate financial reports and to effectively prevent fraud. We are devoting significant resources and time to comply with the internal control over financial reporting requirements of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002. However, we cannot be certain that these measures will ensure that we design,

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implement and maintain adequate control over our financial processes and reporting in the future, especially in the context of acquisitions of other businesses. Any difficulties in the assimilation of acquired businesses into our control system could harm our operating results or cause us to fail to meet our financial reporting obligations. Inferior internal controls could also cause investors to lose confidence in our reported financial information, which could have a negative effect on the trading price of our stock and our access to capital. All of these efforts require varying levels of management resources, which may divert our attention from other business operations.
We have outstanding debt and may incur other debt in the future, which could adversely affect our financial condition, liquidity and results of operations.
We currently have outstanding debt as well as availability to borrow under a revolving credit facility. We may borrow additional amounts in the future and use the proceeds from any future borrowing for general corporate purposes, future acquisitions, expansion of our business or repurchases of our outstanding shares of common stock.
Our incurrence of this debt, and increases in our aggregate levels of debt, may adversely affect our operating results and financial condition by, among other things:
requiring a portion of our cash flow from operations to make interest payments on this debt;
increasing our vulnerability to general adverse economic and industry conditions;
reducing the cash flow available to fund capital expenditures and other corporate purposes and to grow our business; and
limiting our flexibility in planning for, or reacting to, changes in our business and the industry.
Our current revolving credit facility and term loan imposes restrictions on us, including restrictions on our ability to create liens on our assets and the ability of our subsidiaries to incur indebtedness, and requires us to maintain compliance with specified financial ratios. Our ability to comply with these ratios may be affected by events beyond our control. In addition, the indenture governing our senior notes contains covenants that may adversely affect our ability to incur certain liens or engage in certain types of sale and leaseback transactions. If we breach any of the covenants and do not obtain a waiver from the lenders, then, subject to applicable cure periods, our outstanding indebtedness could be declared immediately due and payable.
Environmental contamination from past operations could subject us to unreimbursed costs and could harm on-site operations and the future use and value of the properties involved, and environmental contamination caused by ongoing operations could subject us to substantial liabilities in the future.
        Some of our properties are undergoing remediation by HP Inc. ("HP") for subsurface contaminations that were known at the time of Agilent's separation from HP in 1999. In connection with Agilent's separation from HP, HP and Agilent entered into an agreement pursuant to which HP agreed to retain the liability for this subsurface contamination, perform the required remediation and indemnify Agilent with respect to claims arising out of that contamination. Agilent has assigned its rights and obligations under this agreement to Keysight in respect of facilities transferred to us in the separation. As a result, HP will have access to a limited number of our properties to perform remediation. Although HP agreed to minimize interference with on-site operations at such properties, remediation activities and subsurface contamination may require us to incur unreimbursed costs and could harm on-site operations and the future use and value of the properties. In connection with the separation, Agilent will indemnify us directly for any liabilities related thereto. We cannot be sure that HP will continue to fulfill its remediation obligations or that Agilent will continue to fulfill its indemnification obligations.
        In connection with the separation from Agilent, Agilent also agreed to indemnify us for any liability associated with contamination from past operations at all properties transferred from Agilent to Keysight. We cannot be sure that Agilent will fulfill its indemnification obligations.
        Our current manufacturing processes involve the use of substances regulated under various international, federal, state and local laws governing the environment. As a result, we may become subject to liabilities for environmental contamination, and these liabilities may be substantial. Although our policy is to apply strict standards for environmental protection at our sites inside and outside the United States, even if the sites outside the United States are not subject to regulations imposed by foreign governments, we may not be aware of all conditions that could subject us to liability.
We and our customers are subject to various governmental regulations, compliance with which may cause us to incur significant expenses, and if we fail to maintain satisfactory compliance with certain regulations, we may be forced to recall products and cease their manufacture and distribution, and we could be subject to civil or criminal penalties.
        We and our customers are subject to various significant international, federal, state and local regulations, including, but not limited to, health and safety, packaging, product content, labor and import/export regulations. These regulations are complex, change frequently and have tended to become more stringent over time. We may be required to incur significant expenses to comply with these regulations or to remedy violations of these regulations. Any failure by us to comply with applicable government regulations could also result in cessation of our operations or portions of our operations, product recalls or impositions of fines

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and restrictions on our ability to carry on or expand our operations. If demand for our products is adversely affected or our costs increase, our business would suffer.
        Our products and operations are also often subject to the rules of industrial standards bodies, like the International Standards Organization, as well as regulation by other agencies such as the U.S. Federal Communications Commission. We also must comply with work safety rules. If we fail to adequately address any of these regulations, our businesses could be harmed.
Third parties may claim that we are infringing their intellectual property rights, and we could suffer significant litigation or licensing expenses or be prevented from selling products or services.
        From time to time, third parties may claim that one or more of our products or services infringe their intellectual property rights. We analyze and take action in response to such claims on a case-by-case basis. Any dispute or litigation regarding patents or other intellectual property could be costly and time-consuming due to the complexity of our technology and the uncertainty of intellectual property litigation and could divert our management and key personnel from business operations. A claim of intellectual property infringement could cause us to enter into a costly or restrictive license agreement (which may not be available under acceptable terms, or at all), require us to redesign certain of our products (which would be costly and time-consuming) and/or subject us to significant damages or an injunction against the development and sale of certain products or services. In certain of our businesses, we rely on third-party intellectual property licenses, and we cannot ensure that these licenses will be available to us in the future on terms favorable to us or at all.
Third parties may infringe our intellectual property rights, and we may suffer competitive injury or expend significant resources enforcing our intellectual property rights.
        Our success depends in part on our proprietary technology, including technology we obtained through acquisitions. We rely on various intellectual property rights, including patents, copyrights, trademarks and trade secrets, as well as confidentiality provisions and licensing arrangements, to establish our proprietary rights. If we do not enforce our intellectual property rights successfully, our competitive position may suffer, which could harm our operating results.
        Our pending patent, copyright and trademark registration applications may not be allowed or competitors may challenge the validity or scope of our patents, copyrights or trademarks. In addition, our patents, copyrights, trademarks and other intellectual property rights may not provide us with a significant competitive advantage. In preparation for the separation and distribution, we have applied for trademarks related to our new global brand name in various jurisdictions worldwide. Any successful opposition to our applications in material jurisdictions could impose material costs on us or make it more difficult to protect our brand. Different jurisdictions vary widely in the level of protection and priority they give to trademark and other intellectual property rights.
        We may be required to spend significant resources monitoring our intellectual property rights, and we may or may not be able to detect infringement of such rights by third parties. Our competitive position may be harmed if we cannot detect infringement and enforce our intellectual property rights in a timely manner, or at all. In some circumstances, we may choose to not pursue enforcement due to a variety of reasons. In addition, competitors may avoid infringement by designing around our intellectual property rights or by developing non-infringing competing technologies. Intellectual property rights and our ability to enforce them may be unavailable or limited in some countries, which could make it easier for competitors to capture market share and could result in lost revenues to the company. Furthermore, some of our intellectual property is licensed to others, which allows them to compete with us using that intellectual property.
We are or will be subject to ongoing tax examinations of our tax returns by the IRS and other tax authorities. An adverse outcome of any such audit or examination by the IRS or other tax authority could have a material adverse effect on our results of operations, financial condition and liquidity.
        We are or will be subject to ongoing tax examinations of our tax returns by the IRS and other tax authorities in various jurisdictions. We regularly assess the likelihood of adverse outcomes resulting from ongoing tax examinations to determine the adequacy of our provision for income taxes. These assessments can require considerable estimates and judgments. Intercompany transactions associated with the sale of inventory, services, intellectual property and cost sharing arrangements are complex and affect our tax liabilities. The calculation of our tax liabilities involves uncertainties in the application of complex tax laws and regulations in multiple jurisdictions. The outcomes of any tax examinations could have an adverse effect on our operating results and financial condition. Due to the complexity of tax contingencies, the ultimate resolution of any tax matters related to operations may result in payments greater or less than amounts accrued.
Our operations may be adversely impacted by changes in our business mix or changes in the tax legislative landscape.
        Our effective tax rate may be adversely impacted by, among other things, changes in the mix of our earnings among countries with differing statutory tax rates, changes in the valuation allowance of deferred tax assets, and changes in tax laws. We cannot give any assurance as to what our effective tax rate will be in the future because, among other things, there is uncertainty regarding

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the tax policies of the jurisdictions where we operate. Changes in tax laws, such as tax reform in the United States or changes in tax laws resulting from the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development’s (“OECD”) multi-jurisdictional plan of action to address “base erosion and profit shifting” and the taxation of the “Digital Economy” could impact our effective tax rate.
If tax incentives change or cease to be in effect, our income taxes could increase significantly.
        We benefit from tax incentives extended to certain of our foreign subsidiaries to encourage investment or employment. Several jurisdictions have granted us tax incentives that require renewal at various times in the future, the most significant being Singapore. We do not expect incentives granted by other jurisdictions to have a material impact on our financial statements. The Singapore tax incentive requires that specific conditions be satisfied, which include achieving thresholds of employment, ownership of certain assets, as well as specific types of investment activities within Singapore. We believe that we will satisfy such conditions in the future as needed, but cannot guarantee that such conditions will be satisfied. Our Singapore tax incentive is due for renewal in fiscal 2024, but we cannot guarantee that Singapore will not revoke the tax incentive earlier.
Singapore announced potential changes to its IP incentive programs in its 2017 budget. Such potential changes could result in a reduction in tax incentive benefits and an early termination of or changes to our existing Singapore incentive in 2021. Legislation implementing the changes to the Singapore IP incentive programs has not been finalized. It is unclear to what extent, if at all, such changes will impact our tax incentives or any specific conditions. We cannot guarantee that we will qualify for any new incentive regime or that such conditions will be satisfied.
        Our taxes could increase if the incentives are not renewed upon revocation or expiration. If we cannot or do not wish to satisfy all or portions of the tax incentive conditions, we may lose the related tax incentive and could be required to refund the benefits that the tax incentives previously provided. As a result, our effective tax rate could be higher than it would have been had we maintained the benefits of the tax incentives and could harm our operating results.
If we suffer a loss to our factories, facilities or distribution system due to a catastrophic event, our operations could be significantly harmed.
        Our factories, facilities and distribution system are subject to catastrophic loss due to fire, flood, terrorism or other natural or man-made disasters. In particular, several of our facilities could be subject to a catastrophic loss caused by earthquake or other natural disasters due to their locations. For example, our production facilities, headquarters and laboratories in California and our production facilities in Japan are all located in areas with above-average seismic activity. If any of these facilities were to experience a catastrophic loss, it could disrupt our operations, delay production, shipments and revenue and result in large expenses to repair or replace the facility. If such a disruption were to occur, we could breach our agreements, our reputation could be harmed and our business and operating results could be adversely affected. In addition, since we have consolidated our manufacturing facilities, we are more likely to experience an interruption to our operations in the event of a catastrophe in any one location. Although we carry insurance for property damage and business interruption, we do not carry insurance or financial reserves for interruptions or potential losses arising from earthquakes or terrorism. Also, our third-party insurance coverage will vary from time to time in both type and amount depending on availability, cost and our decision with respect to risk retention. Economic conditions and uncertainties in global markets may adversely affect the cost and other terms upon which we are able to obtain third-party insurance. If our third-party insurance coverage is adversely affected, or to the extent we have elected to self-insure, we may be at a greater risk that our operations will be harmed by a catastrophic loss.
If we experience a significant disruption in, or breach in security of, our information technology systems, our business could be adversely affected.
       We rely on several centralized information technology systems to provide products and services, maintain financial records, process orders, manage inventory, process shipments to customers and operate other critical functions. If we experience a prolonged system disruption in the information technology systems that involve our interactions with customers or suppliers, it could result in the loss of sales and customers and significant incremental costs, which could adversely affect our business. In addition, our information technology systems may be susceptible to damage, disruptions or shutdowns due to power outages, hardware failures, computer viruses, attacks by computer hackers, telecommunication failures, user errors, catastrophes or other unforeseen events. Furthermore, security breaches of our information technology systems could result in the misappropriation or unauthorized disclosure of confidential information belonging to the company or our employees, partners, customers or suppliers, which could result in significant financial or reputational damage to the company.
Man-made problems such as cybersecurity attacks, computer viruses or terrorism may disrupt our operations and harm our business, reputation and operating results.
Despite our implementation of network security measures, our network may be vulnerable to cybersecurity attacks, computer viruses, break-ins and similar disruptions. Our network security measures include, but are not limited to, the implementation of firewalls, antivirus protection, patches, log monitors, routine backups, offsite storage, network audits, and routine updates and

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modifications. We are routinely monitoring and developing our internal information technology systems to address these risks, but we may not be able to keep pace as new threats emerge. Cybersecurity attacks are evolving and include, but are not limited to, malicious software, attempts to gain unauthorized access to data, and other electronic security breaches that could lead to disruptions in systems, unauthorized release of confidential or otherwise protected information and corruption of data. Any such event could have a material adverse effect on our business, operating results and financial condition, and no assurance can be given that our efforts to reduce the risk of such attacks will be successful.
Our daily business operations require us to retain sensitive data such as intellectual property, proprietary business information and data related to customers, suppliers and business partners within our networking infrastructure. The ongoing maintenance and security of this information is pertinent to the success of our business operations and our strategic goals, and organizations like Keysight are susceptible to multiple variations of attacks on our networks on a daily basis.
 Our networking infrastructure and related assets may be subject to unauthorized access by hackers, employee errors, or other unforeseen activities. Such issues could result in the disruption of business processes, network degradation and system downtime, along with the potential that a third party will exploit our critical assets such as intellectual property, proprietary business information and data related to our customers, suppliers and business partners. To the extent that such disruptions occur, they may cause delays in the manufacture or shipment of our products and the cancellation of customer orders and, as a result, our business operating results and financial condition could be materially and adversely affected resulting in a possible loss of business or brand reputation.
In addition, the effects of war or acts of terrorism could have a material adverse effect on our business, operating results and financial condition. The continued threat of terrorism and heightened security and military action in response to this threat, or any future acts of terrorism, may cause further disruption to the economy and create further uncertainties in the economy. Energy shortages, such as gas or electricity shortages, could have similar negative impacts. To the extent that such disruptions or uncertainties result in delays or cancellations of customer orders or the manufacture or shipment of our products, our business, operating results and financial condition could be materially and adversely affected.
Our business and financial results may be adversely affected by various legal and regulatory proceedings.
        We are subject to legal proceedings, lawsuits and other claims in the normal course of business and could become subject to additional claims in the future, some of which could be material. The outcome of existing proceedings, lawsuits and claims may differ from our expectations because the outcomes of litigation are often difficult to reliably predict. Various factors or developments can lead us to change current estimates of liabilities and related insurance receivables where applicable, or permit us to make such estimates for matters previously not susceptible to reasonable estimates, such as a significant judicial ruling or judgment, a significant settlement, significant regulatory developments or changes in applicable law. A future adverse ruling, settlement or unfavorable development could result in charges that could adversely affect our business, operating results or financial condition.
We may need additional financing in the future to meet our capital needs or to make opportunistic acquisitions, and such financing may not be available on terms favorable to us, if at all, and may be dilutive to existing shareholders.
        We may need to seek additional financing for our general corporate purposes. For example, we may need to increase our investment in R&D activities or need funds to make acquisitions. We may be unable to obtain any desired additional financing on terms favorable to us, if at all. If adequate funds are not available on acceptable terms, we may be unable to fund our expansion, successfully develop or enhance products or respond to competitive pressures, any of which could negatively affect our business. If we finance acquisitions by issuing additional convertible debt or equity securities, our existing stockholders may experience share dilution, which could affect the market price of our stock. If we raise additional funds through the issuance of equity securities, our shareholders will experience dilution of their ownership interest. If we raise additional funds by issuing debt, we may be subject to further limitations on our operations and ability to pay dividends due to restrictive covenants.
Adverse conditions in the global banking industry and credit markets may adversely impact the value of our cash investments or impair our liquidity.
        Our cash and cash equivalents are invested or held in a mix of money market funds, time deposit accounts and bank demand deposit accounts. Disruptions in the financial markets may, in some cases, result in an inability to access assets such as money market funds that traditionally have been viewed as highly liquid. Any failure of our counterparty financial institutions or funds in which we have invested may adversely impact our cash and cash equivalent positions and, in turn, our results and financial condition.
Future investment returns on pension assets may be lower than expected or interest rates may decline, requiring us to make significant additional cash contributions to our future plans.
        We sponsor several defined benefit pension plans that cover many of our salaried and hourly employees. The Federal Pension Protection Act of 2006 requires that certain capitalization levels be maintained in each of the U.S. plans, and there may be similar funding requirements in the plans outside the United States. Because it is unknown what the investment return on and the fair

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value of our pension assets will be in future years or what interest rates and discount rates may be at any point in time, no assurances can be given that applicable law will not require us to make future material plan contributions. Any such contributions could adversely affect our financial condition.
Risks Related to Our Common Stock
Our share price may fluctuate significantly.
Our common stock is listed on NYSE under the ticker symbol “KEYS.” The market price of our common stock may fluctuate widely, depending on many factors, some of which may be beyond our control, including but not limited to:
actual or anticipated fluctuations in our operating results due to factors related to our business;
success or failure of our business strategy;
our quarterly or annual earnings, or those of other companies in our industry;
our ability to obtain third-party financing as needed;
announcements by us or our competitors of significant acquisitions or dispositions;
changes in accounting standards, policies, guidance, interpretations or principles;
the failure of securities analysts to cover our common stock;
changes in earnings estimates by securities analysts or our ability to meet those estimates;
the operating and share price performance of other comparable companies;
investor perception of our company;
natural or other disasters that investors believe may affect us;
overall market fluctuations;
results from any material litigation or government investigations;
changes in laws or regulations affecting our business; and
general economic conditions and other external factors.
Stock markets in general have experienced volatility that has often been unrelated to the operating performance of a particular company. These broad market fluctuations could adversely affect the trading price of our common stock.

In addition, when the market price of a company’s shares drops significantly, shareholders often institute securities class action lawsuits against the company. A lawsuit against us could cause us to incur substantial costs and could divert the time and attention of management and other resources.
We do not currently pay dividends on our common stock.
        We do not currently pay dividends on our common stock. The payment of any dividends in the future, and the timing and amount thereof, to our stockholders fall within the discretion of our board of directors. The board's decisions regarding the payment of dividends will depend on many factors, such as our financial condition, earnings, capital requirements, debt service obligations, restrictive covenants in our debt, industry practice, legal requirements, regulatory constraints and other factors that the board deems relevant. We cannot guarantee that we will pay a dividend in the future or continue to pay any dividends if we commence paying dividends.
Certain provisions in our amended and restated certificate of incorporation and bylaws, and of Delaware law, may prevent or delay an acquisition of the company, which could decrease the trading price of our common stock.
        Our amended and restated certificate of incorporation and amended and restated bylaws contain, and Delaware law contains, provisions that are intended to deter coercive takeover practices and inadequate takeover bids by making such practices or bids unacceptably expensive to the bidder and to encourage prospective acquirers to negotiate with our board of directors rather than to attempt a hostile takeover. These provisions include but are not limited to:
the inability of our shareholders to call a special meeting;
the inability of our shareholders to act without a meeting of shareholders;
rules regarding how shareholders may present proposals or nominate directors for election at shareholder meetings;
the right of our board to issue preferred stock without shareholder approval;

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the division of our board of directors into three classes of directors, with each class serving a staggered three-year term, and this classified board provision could have the effect of making the replacement of incumbent directors more time consuming and difficult;
a provision that shareholders may only remove directors with cause;
the ability of our directors, and not shareholders, to fill vacancies on our board of directors; and
the requirement that the affirmative vote of shareholders holding at least 80% of our voting stock is required to amend certain provisions in our amended and restated certificate of incorporation (relating to the number, term and removal of our directors, the filling of our board vacancies, the advance notice to be given for nominations for elections of directors, the calling of special meetings of shareholders, shareholder action by written consent, the ability of the board of directors to amend the bylaws, elimination of liability of directors to the extent permitted by Delaware law, exclusive forum for certain types of actions and proceedings that may be initiated by our shareholders and amendments of the certificate of incorporation) and certain provisions in our amended and restated bylaws (relating to the calling of special meetings of shareholders, the business that may be conducted or considered at annual or special meetings, the advance notice of shareholder business and nominations, shareholder action by written consent, the number, tenure, qualifications and removal of our directors, the filling of our board vacancies, director and officer indemnification and amendments of the bylaws).
        In addition, because we have not chosen to be exempt from Section 203 of the Delaware General Corporation Law (the "DGCL"), this provision could also delay or prevent a change of control that some shareholders may favor. Section 203 provides that, subject to limited exceptions, persons that acquire, or are affiliated with a person that acquires, more than 15% of the outstanding voting stock of a Delaware corporation (an "interested stockholder") shall not engage in any business combination with that corporation, including by merger, consolidation or acquisitions of additional shares, for a three-year period following the date on which the person became an interested stockholder, unless (i) prior to such time, the board of directors of such corporation approved either the business combination or the transaction that resulted in the stockholder becoming an interested stockholder; (ii) upon consummation of the transaction that resulted in the stockholder becoming an interested stockholder, the interested stockholder owned at least 85% of the voting stock of such corporation at the time the transaction commenced (excluding for purposes of determining the voting stock outstanding (but not the outstanding voting stock owned by the interested stockholder) the voting stock owned by directors who are also officers or held in employee benefit plans in which the employees do not have a confidential right to tender or vote stock held by the plan); or (iii) on or subsequent to such time the business combination is approved by the board of directors of such corporation and authorized at a meeting of shareholders by the affirmative vote of at least two-thirds of the outstanding voting stock of such corporation not owned by the interested stockholder.
        We believe these provisions will protect our shareholders from coercive or otherwise unfair takeover tactics by requiring potential acquirers to negotiate with our board of directors and by providing our board of directors with more time to assess any acquisition proposal. These provisions are not intended to make us immune from takeovers. However, these provisions will apply even if the offer may be considered beneficial by some shareholders and could delay or prevent an acquisition that our board of directors determines is not in the best interests of the company and our shareholders. These provisions may also prevent or discourage attempts to remove and replace incumbent directors.
Our amended and restated certificate of incorporation designates that the state courts in the State of Delaware or, if no state court located within the State of Delaware has jurisdiction, the federal court for the District of Delaware, as the sole and exclusive forum for certain types of actions and proceedings that may be initiated by our shareholders, which could discourage lawsuits against the company and our directors and officers.
Our amended and restated certificate of incorporation provide that unless the board of directors otherwise determines, the state courts in the State of Delaware or, if no state court located within the State of Delaware has jurisdiction, the federal court for the District of Delaware, will be the sole and exclusive forum for any derivative action or proceeding brought on our behalf, any action asserting a claim of breach of a fiduciary duty owed by any of our directors or officers to the company or our shareholders, any action asserting a claim against us or any of our directors or officers arising pursuant to any provision of the DGCL or Keysight's amended and restated certificate of incorporation or bylaws, or any action asserting a claim against us or any of our directors or officers governed by the internal affairs doctrine. This exclusive forum provision may limit the ability of our shareholders to bring a claim in a judicial forum that such shareholders find favorable for disputes with us or our directors or officers, which may discourage such lawsuits against us and our directors and officers.

Risks Related to the Acquisition of Ixia
We may not realize all of the anticipated benefits of the acquisition of Ixia or those benefits may take longer to realize than expected. We may also encounter significant unexpected difficulties in integrating the two businesses.
Our ability to realize the anticipated benefits of the acquisition of Ixia (the "Merger") will depend, to a large extent, on our ability to integrate our and Ixia’s businesses. The combination of two independent businesses is a complex, costly and time-

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consuming process. As a result, we will be required to devote significant management attention and resources to integrating Ixia’s business practices and operations with our existing business practices and operations. The integration process may disrupt the businesses and, if implemented ineffectively or if impacted by unforeseen negative economic or market conditions or other factors, we may not realize the full anticipated benefits of the Merger. Our failure to meet the challenges involved in integrating the two businesses to realize the anticipated benefits of the Merger could cause an interruption of, or a loss of momentum in, our activities and could adversely affect our results of operations.
In addition, the overall integration of the businesses may result in material unanticipated problems, expenses, liabilities, competitive responses, loss of customer relationships, and diversion of management's attention. The difficulties of combining the operations of the companies include but are not limited to:
the diversion of management's attention to integration matters;
difficulties in achieving anticipated cost savings, synergies, business opportunities and growth prospects from combining Ixia’s business with our business;
difficulties entering new markets or manufacturing in new geographies where we have no or limited direct prior experience;
difficulties in the integration of operations and systems;
difficulties in the assimilation of employees;
difficulties in managing the expanded operations of a significantly larger and more complex company;
successfully managing relationships with our strategic partners and supplier and customer base; and
challenges in maintaining existing, and establishing new, business relationships.
Many of these factors will be outside of our control and any one of them could result in increased costs, decreases in the amount of expected revenues and diversion of management's time and energy, which could materially impact the business, financial condition and our results of operations. In addition, even if the operations of our business and Ixia’s business are integrated successfully, we may not realize the full benefits of the Merger, including the synergies, cost savings or sales or growth opportunities that we expect. These benefits may not be achieved within the anticipated time frame, or at all. Furthermore, additional unanticipated costs may be incurred in the integration of the businesses. All of these factors could decrease or delay the expected accretive effect of the Merger and negatively impact us. As a result, we cannot be certain that the combination of our and Ixia’s businesses will result in the realization of the full benefits anticipated from the Merger.
Uncertainties associated with the Merger may cause a loss of employees and may otherwise materially adversely affect the future business and operations of the combined company.
The combined company’s success after the Merger will depend in part upon the ability of the combined company to retain executive officers and key employees. In some of the fields in which we and Ixia operate, there are only a limited number of people in the job market who possess the requisite skills and it may be increasingly difficult for the combined company to hire personnel over time.
Current and prospective employees of each company may experience uncertainty about their roles with the combined company following the Merger. In addition, key employees may depart because of issues relating to the uncertainty and difficulty of integration or a desire not to remain with the combined company following the Merger. The loss of services of any key personnel or the inability to hire new personnel with the requisite skills could restrict the ability of the combined company to develop new products or enhance existing products in a timely manner, to sell products to customers or to manage the business of the combined company effectively. Also, the business, financial condition and results of operations of the combined company could be materially adversely affected by the loss of any of its key employees, by the failure of any key employee to perform in his or her current position, or by the combined company’s inability to attract and retain skilled employees.
We and Ixia will incur direct and indirect costs as a result of the Merger.
We and Ixia will incur substantial expenses in connection with and as a result of completing the Merger and, over a period of time following the completion of the Merger, we further expect to incur substantial expenses in connection with coordinating our businesses, operations, policies and procedures and Ixia’s. While we have assumed that a certain level of transaction expenses will be incurred, factors beyond our control could affect the total amount or the timing of these expenses. Many of the expenses that will be incurred, by their nature, are difficult to estimate accurately.


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Risks Related to the Separation from Agilent
We will be subject to continuing contingent liabilities of Agilent following the separation.
        After the separation, there are several significant areas where the liabilities of Agilent may become our obligations. For example, under the Internal Revenue Code and the related rules and regulations, each corporation that was a member of the Agilent U.S. consolidated group during a taxable period or portion of a taxable period ending on or before the effective time of the distribution is severally liable for the U.S. federal income tax liability of the entire Agilent U.S. consolidated group for that taxable period. Consequently, if Agilent is unable to pay the consolidated U.S. federal income tax liability for a prior period, we could be required to pay the entire amount of such tax, which could be substantial and in excess of the amount allocated to it as agreed between us and Agilent at the time of separation. Other provisions of federal law establish similar liability for other matters, including laws governing tax-qualified pension plans, as well as other contingent liabilities.
There could be significant liability if the distribution is determined to be a taxable transaction.
        A condition to the distribution is that Agilent received an opinion of Baker & McKenzie LLP, tax counsel to Agilent, regarding the qualification of the separation and the distribution as a reorganization within the meaning of Sections 355(a) and 368(a)(1)(D) of the Code. The opinion relies on certain facts, assumptions, representations and undertakings from Agilent and Keysight, including those regarding the past and future conduct of the companies' respective businesses and other matters. If any of these facts, assumptions, representations or undertakings are incorrect or not satisfied, Agilent and its shareholders may not be able to rely on the opinion, and could be subject to significant tax liabilities. Notwithstanding the opinion of tax counsel, the IRS could determine on audit that the distribution is taxable if it determines that any of these facts, assumptions, representations or undertakings are not correct or have been violated or if it disagrees with the conclusions in the opinion.
        If the distribution were determined to be taxable for U.S. federal income tax purposes, Agilent and its shareholders that are subject to U.S. federal income tax could incur significant U.S. federal income tax liabilities. For example, if the distribution failed to qualify for tax-free treatment, Agilent would for U.S. federal income tax purposes be treated as if it had sold the Keysight common stock in a taxable sale for its fair market value, and Agilent's shareholders, who are subject to U.S. federal income tax, would be treated as receiving a taxable distribution in an amount equal to the fair market value of the Keysight common stock received in the distribution. In addition, if the separation and distribution failed to qualify for tax-free treatment under federal, state and local tax law and/or foreign tax law, Agilent and Keysight could each incur significant tax liabilities under U.S. federal, state, local and/or foreign tax law.
        Under the agreement between Agilent and Keysight pertaining to tax matters, as finalized at the time of separation, we are generally required to indemnify Agilent against taxes incurred by Agilent that arise as a result of our taking or failing to take, as the case may be, certain actions that result in the distribution failing to meet the requirements of a tax-free distribution under Section 355 of the Code. Under the agreement between Agilent and Keysight, as finalized at the time of separation, we may also be required to indemnify Agilent for other contingent tax liabilities, which could materially adversely affect our financial position.

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ITEM 2.  UNREGISTERED SALES OF EQUITY SECURITIES AND USE OF PROCEEDS
ISSUER PURCHASES OF EQUITY SECURITIES

The table below summarizes information about the company’s purchases, based on trade date; of its equity securities registered pursuant to Section 12 of the Exchange Act during the quarterly period ended April 30, 2018.
 Period
 
Total Number of Shares of Common Stock Purchased (1)
 
Weighted Average Price Paid per Share of Common Stock (2)
 
Total Number of Shares of Common Stock Purchased as Part of Publicly Announced Plans or Programs (1)
 
Maximum Approximate Dollar Value of Shares of Common Stock that May Yet Be Purchased Under the Program (1)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
February 1, 2018 through February 28, 2018
 

 
N/A
 

 
$
138,515,618

March 1, 2018 through March 31, 2018
 
386,369

 
$51.74
 
386,369

 
$
330,007,764

April 1, 2018 through April 30, 2018
 
386,983

 
$52.21
 
386,983

 
$
309,804,046

Total
 
773,352

 
$51.98
 
773,352

 
 
(1)
On March 6, 2018, the Board of Directors approved a new stock repurchase program authorizing the purchase of up to $350 million of the company’s common stock, replacing a previously approved 2016 program authorizing the purchase of up to $200 million of the company’s common stock, and of which $139 million remained. Under the new program, shares may be purchased from time to time, subject to general business and market conditions and other investment opportunities, through open market purchases, privately negotiated transactions or other means. All such shares and related costs are held as treasury stock and accounted for at trade date using the cost method.
(2)
The weighted average price paid per share of common stock does not include the cost of commissions.

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ITEM 6. EXHIBITS

Exhibit
 
 
Number
 
Description
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
101.INS
 
XBRL Instance Document
 
 
 
101.SCH
 
XBRL Schema Document
 
 
 
101.CAL
 
XBRL Calculation Linkbase Document
 
 
 
101.LAB
 
XBRL Labels Linkbase Document
 
 
 
101.PRE
 
XBRL Presentation Linkbase Document
 
 
 
101.DEF
 
XBRL Definition Linkbase Document

 


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KEYSIGHT TECHNOLOGIES, INC.

SIGNATURE
 
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.
 
Dated:
June 5, 2018
By:
/s/ Neil Dougherty
 
 
 
Neil Dougherty
 
 
 
Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer
 
 
 
(Principal Financial Officer)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Dated:
June 5, 2018
By:
/s/ John C. Skinner
 
 
 
John C. Skinner
 
 
 
Vice President and Corporate Controller
 
 
 
(Principal Accounting Officer)
 

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