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ROCKWELL AUTOMATION, INC - Quarter Report: 2018 March (Form 10-Q)

UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549 
_________________________________________
FORM 10-Q 
_________________________________________
QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF
THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the Quarterly Period Ended March 31, 2018
Commission file number 1-12383
_________________________________________
Rockwell Automation, Inc.
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)
_________________________________________
Delaware
 
25-1797617
(State or other jurisdiction
of incorporation or organization)
 
(I.R.S. Employer
Identification No.)
 
1201 South Second Street,
Milwaukee, Wisconsin
 
53204
(Address of principal executive offices)
 
(Zip Code)
+1 (414) 382-2000
Registrant’s telephone number, including area code 
_________________________________________
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days.    Yes  ☑    No  ☐
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 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files).    Yes  ☑    No  ☐
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, smaller reporting company, or an emerging growth company. See definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer,” “smaller reporting company,” and "emerging growth company" in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act. (Check one):
 
Large Accelerated Filer
☑
 
Accelerated Filer
☐
 
 
Non-accelerated Filer
☐ (Do not check if smaller reporting company)
 
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 Section 13(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  ☑
125,580,404 shares of registrant’s Common Stock, $1.00 par value, were outstanding on March 31, 2018.


Table of Contents
ROCKWELL AUTOMATION, INC.


INDEX
 
 
Page No.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 



2
PART I. FINANCIAL INFORMATION
Item 1. Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements

ROCKWELL AUTOMATION, INC.

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEET
(Unaudited)
(in millions, except per share amounts)


 
March 31,
2018
 
September 30,
2017
ASSETS
Current assets:
 
 
 
Cash and cash equivalents
$
1,433.9

 
$
1,410.9

Short-term investments
613.4

 
1,124.6

Receivables
1,163.1

 
1,135.5

Inventories
570.4

 
558.7

Other current assets
160.1

 
191.0

Total current assets
3,940.9

 
4,420.7

Property, net of accumulated depreciation of $1,577.8 and $1,511.9, respectively
557.2

 
583.9

Goodwill
1,104.3

 
1,077.7

Other intangible assets, net
230.9

 
238.0

Deferred income taxes
332.5

 
443.6

Other assets
347.8

 
397.8

Total
$
6,513.6

 
$
7,161.7

LIABILITIES AND SHAREOWNERS’ EQUITY
Current liabilities:
 
 
 
Short-term debt
$
308.5

 
$
350.4

Current portion of long-term debt
—

 
250.0

Accounts payable
630.0

 
623.2

Compensation and benefits
206.6

 
272.6

Advance payments from customers and deferred revenue
286.4

 
240.6

Customer returns, rebates and incentives
194.3

 
188.8

Other current liabilities
252.0

 
220.2

Total current liabilities
1,877.8

 
2,145.8

Long-term debt
1,229.8

 
1,243.4

Retirement benefits
873.6

 
892.5

Other liabilities
585.2

 
216.4

Commitments and contingent liabilities (Note 11)

 

Shareowners’ equity:
 
 
 
Common stock ($1.00 par value, shares issued: 181.4)
181.4

 
181.4

Additional paid-in capital
1,659.6

 
1,638.0

Retained earnings
5,880.9

 
6,103.4

Accumulated other comprehensive loss
(1,081.5
)
 
(1,179.2
)
Common stock in treasury, at cost (shares held: 55.8 and 53.0, respectively)
(4,693.2
)
 
(4,080.0
)
Total shareowners’ equity
1,947.2

 
2,663.6

Total
$
6,513.6

 
$
7,161.7

See Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.

3
Table of Contents
ROCKWELL AUTOMATION, INC.


CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS
(Unaudited)
(in millions, except per share amounts)


 
Three Months Ended
March 31,
 
Six Months Ended
March 31,
 
2018
 
2017
 
2018
 
2017
Sales
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Products and solutions
$
1,470.5

 
$
1,384.4

 
$
2,883.0

 
$
2,714.6

Services
180.7

 
169.9

 
354.8

 
330.0

 
1,651.2

 
1,554.3

 
3,237.8

 
3,044.6

Cost of sales
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Products and solutions
(838.8
)
 
(787.2
)
 
(1,622.0
)
 
(1,534.3
)
Services
(111.6
)
 
(110.6
)
 
(217.9
)
 
(211.5
)
 
(950.4
)
 
(897.8
)
 
(1,839.9
)
 
(1,745.8
)
Gross profit
700.8

 
656.5

 
1,397.9

 
1,298.8

Selling, general and administrative expenses
(389.2
)
 
(409.2
)
 
(778.5
)
 
(779.2
)
Other income
5.3

 
1.9

 
15.3

 
5.9

Interest expense
(17.3
)
 
(18.9
)
 
(37.3
)
 
(37.6
)
Income before income taxes
299.6

 
230.3

 
597.4

 
487.9

Income tax provision
(72.2
)
 
(40.8
)
 
(606.4
)
 
(83.7
)
Net income (loss)
$
227.4

 
$
189.5

 
$
(9.0
)
 
$
404.2

Earnings (loss) per share:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Basic
$
1.79

 
$
1.47

 
$
(0.07
)
 
$
3.14

Diluted
$
1.77

 
$
1.45

 
$
(0.07
)
 
$
3.11

Cash dividends per share
$
0.835

 
$
0.76

 
$
1.67

 
$
1.52

Weighted average outstanding shares:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Basic
126.9

 
128.7

 
127.6

 
128.5

Diluted
128.5

 
130.3

 
127.6

 
130.0

See Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.


4
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ROCKWELL AUTOMATION, INC.


CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME
(Unaudited)
(in millions)

 
Three Months Ended
March 31,
 
Six Months Ended
March 31,
 
2018
 
2017
 
2018
 
2017
Net income (loss)
$
227.4

 
$
189.5

 
$
(9.0
)
 
$
404.2

Other comprehensive income, net of tax:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Pension and other postretirement benefit plan adjustments (net of tax expense of $7.4, $12.4, $14.8 and $25.0)
20.2

 
23.8

 
40.4

 
48.3

Currency translation adjustments
76.5

 
60.8

 
60.4

 
(25.4
)
Net change in unrealized gains and losses on cash flow hedges (net of tax (benefit) expense of ($0.3), ($0.7), ($0.6) and $3.3)
(1.0
)
 
(3.6
)
 
(0.5
)
 
8.0

Net change in unrealized gains and losses on available-for-sale investments (net of tax benefit of $0.3, $0.0, $0.6 and $0.0)
(1.5
)
 
(0.1
)
 
(2.6
)
 
(0.1
)
Other comprehensive income
94.2

 
80.9

 
97.7

 
30.8

Comprehensive income
$
321.6

 
$
270.4

 
$
88.7

 
$
435.0

See Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.


5
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ROCKWELL AUTOMATION, INC.


CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS
(Unaudited)
(in millions)

 
Six Months Ended
March 31,
 
2018
 
2017
Operating activities:
 
 
 
Net (loss) income
$
(9.0
)
 
$
404.2

Adjustments to arrive at cash provided by operating activities:
 
 
 
Depreciation
68.5

 
65.4

Amortization of intangible assets
14.3

 
15.6

Share-based compensation expense
18.8

 
20.2

Retirement benefit expense
56.7

 
86.1

Pension contributions
(23.5
)
 
(28.5
)
Net loss on disposition of property
—

 
0.1

Changes in assets and liabilities, excluding effects of acquisitions and foreign
currency adjustments:
 
 
 
Receivables
(9.8
)
 
(16.4
)
Inventories
(7.9
)
 
(16.6
)
Accounts payable
7.2

 
20.0

Advance payments from customers and deferred revenue
42.8

 
33.2

Compensation and benefits
(67.7
)
 
51.2

Income taxes
508.6

 
(7.7
)
Other assets and liabilities
(4.9
)
 
(15.0
)
Cash provided by operating activities
594.1

 
611.8

 
 
 
 
Investing activities:
 
 
 
Capital expenditures
(56.2
)
 
(67.4
)
Acquisition of businesses, net of cash acquired
(9.9
)
 
(1.1
)
Purchases of investments
(276.6
)
 
(721.6
)
Proceeds from maturities of investments
690.3

 
422.1

Proceeds from sale of investments
155.3

 
6.1

Proceeds from sale of property
0.4

 
0.4

Cash provided by (used for) investing activities
503.3

 
(361.5
)
 
 
 
 
Financing activities:
 
 
 
Net repayment of short-term debt
(41.9
)
 
(75.1
)
Repayment of long-term debt
(250.0
)
 
—

Cash dividends
(213.5
)
 
(195.5
)
Purchases of treasury stock
(661.7
)
 
(185.0
)
Proceeds from the exercise of stock options
61.9

 
136.9

Other financing activities
1.8

 
—

Cash used for financing activities
(1,103.4
)
 
(318.7
)
 
 
 
 
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash
29.0

 
(17.2
)
 
 
 
 
Increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents
23.0

 
(85.6
)
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period
1,410.9

 
1,526.4

Cash and cash equivalents at end of period
$
1,433.9

 
$
1,440.8

See Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.

6
Table of Contents
ROCKWELL AUTOMATION, INC.

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(Unaudited)



1. Basis of Presentation and Accounting Policies
In the opinion of management of Rockwell Automation, Inc. ("Rockwell Automation" or "the Company"), the unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements contain all adjustments necessary to present fairly the financial position, results of operations and cash flows for the periods presented and, except as otherwise indicated, such adjustments consist only of those of a normal, recurring nature. These statements should be read in conjunction with our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2017. The results of operations for the three and six-month periods ended March 31, 2018, are not necessarily indicative of the results for the full year. All date references to years and quarters herein refer to our fiscal year and fiscal quarter unless otherwise stated.
Receivables
Receivables are stated net of an allowance for doubtful accounts of $23.1 million at March 31, 2018, and $24.9 million at September 30, 2017. In addition, receivables are stated net of an allowance for certain customer returns, rebates and incentives of $7.5 million at March 31, 2018, and $11.9 million at September 30, 2017.
Earnings Per Share
The following table reconciles basic and diluted earnings (loss) per share (EPS) amounts (in millions, except per share amounts):
 
Three Months Ended
March 31,
 
Six Months Ended
March 31,
 
2018
 
2017
 
2018
 
2017
Net income (loss)
$
227.4

 
$
189.5

 
$
(9.0
)
 
$
404.2

Less: Allocation to participating securities
(0.2
)
 
(0.2
)
 
—

 
(0.4
)
Net income (loss) available to common shareowners
$
227.2

 
$
189.3


$
(9.0
)
 
$
403.8

Basic weighted average outstanding shares
126.9

 
128.7

 
127.6

 
128.5

Effect of dilutive securities
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Stock options
1.4

 
1.3

 
—

 
1.3

Performance shares
0.2

 
0.3

 
—

 
0.2

Diluted weighted average outstanding shares
128.5

 
130.3

 
127.6

 
130.0

Earnings (loss) per share:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Basic
$
1.79

 
$
1.47

 
$
(0.07
)
 
$
3.14

Diluted
$
1.77

 
$
1.45

 
$
(0.07
)
 
$
3.11

For the six months ended March 31, 2018, 2.6 million potential common shares related to share-based compensation awards were excluded from the diluted EPS calculation because we recorded a net loss from continuing operations. Of these shares, 1.7 million would have been included in the calculation had we recorded net income from continuing operations in the six months ended March 31, 2018. For each of the three and six months ended March 31, 2018, 0.9 million shares related to share-based compensation awards were excluded from the diluted EPS calculation because they were antidilutive. For each of the three and six months ended March 31, 2017, 1.0 million shares related to share-based compensation awards were excluded from the diluted EPS calculation because they were antidilutive.
Non-Cash Investing and Financing Activities
Capital expenditures of $14.0 million and $17.6 million were accrued within accounts payable and other current liabilities at March 31, 2018 and 2017, respectively. At March 31, 2018 and 2017, there were $12.3 million and $7.0 million, respectively, of outstanding common stock share repurchases recorded in accounts payable that did not settle until the next fiscal quarter. These non-cash investing and financing activities have been excluded from cash used for capital expenditures and treasury stock purchases in the Condensed Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows.

7
Table of Contents
ROCKWELL AUTOMATION, INC.

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)
(Unaudited)

1. Basis of Presentation and Accounting Policies (continued)

Recent Accounting Pronouncements
In March 2017, the FASB issued a new standard regarding the presentation of net periodic pension and postretirement benefit costs. This standard requires the service cost component to be reported in the income statement in the same line item as other compensation costs arising from services rendered by the related employees during the period. The other components of net periodic benefit cost are required to be presented separately from the service cost component in either a separate line item or within another appropriate line item with disclosure of where those costs are recorded. This standard also requires that only the service cost component is eligible for capitalization, when applicable. This standard is effective for us for reporting periods starting October 1, 2018. We are currently evaluating the impact the adoption of this standard will have on our consolidated financial statements and related disclosures.
In February 2016, the FASB issued a new standard on accounting for leases that requires lessees to recognize right-of-use assets and lease liabilities for most leases, among other changes to existing lease accounting guidance. The new standard also requires additional qualitative and quantitative disclosures about leasing activities. This standard is effective for us for reporting periods beginning October 1, 2019. We are currently evaluating the impact the adoption of this standard will have on our consolidated financial statements and related disclosures.
In May 2014, the FASB issued a new standard on revenue recognition related to contracts with customers. This standard supersedes nearly all existing revenue recognition guidance and involves a five-step principles-based approach to recognizing revenue. The underlying principle is to recognize revenue when promised goods or services are transferred to customers in an amount that reflects the consideration that is expected to be received for those goods or services. The new standard will also require additional qualitative and quantitative disclosures about contracts with customers, significant judgments made in applying the revenue guidance, and assets recognized from the costs to obtain or fulfill a contract. We will adopt this new standard under the modified retrospective method in the first quarter of fiscal 2019, with the cumulative effect of initially applying the guidance recognized in retained earnings at the adoption date.
We have established a project plan and a cross-functional implementation team to adopt the new revenue standard. We are in the process of identifying and implementing necessary changes to accounting policies, processes, controls and systems to enable compliance with this new standard. We continue to evaluate the impact the adoption of this standard will have on our consolidated financial statements and related disclosures. Although we do not expect the effect of changes to our accounting for revenue and contract costs to be significant, we do expect the impacts will include changes to the timing of revenue currently recognized under the completed contract method, changes to the timing of revenue from software licenses bundled with services, and the capitalization of certain contract costs. We do expect an increase in qualitative and quantitative disclosures about contracts with customers, significant judgments made in applying the revenue guidance, and assets recognized from the costs to obtain or fulfill a contract. We also expect changes to our processes, controls and systems to enable compliance with this new standard.

8
Table of Contents
ROCKWELL AUTOMATION, INC.

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)
(Unaudited)

2. Share-Based Compensation
We recognized $10.2 million and $18.8 million of pre-tax share-based compensation expense during the three and six months ended March 31, 2018, respectively. We recognized $9.5 million and $20.2 million of pre-tax share-based compensation expense during the three and six months ended March 31, 2017, respectively. Our annual grant of share-based compensation takes place during the first quarter of each fiscal year. The number of shares granted to employees and non-employee directors and the weighted average fair value per share during the periods presented were (in thousands, except per share amounts):
 
Six Months Ended March 31,
 
2018
 
2017
 
Grants
 
Wtd. Avg.
Share
Fair Value
 
Grants
 
Wtd. Avg.
Share
Fair Value
Stock options
856

 
$
35.51

 
983

 
$
25.39

Performance shares
40

 
219.04

 
42

 
174.37

Restricted stock and restricted stock units
34

 
192.50

 
46

 
135.84

Unrestricted stock
7

 
183.76

 
8

 
128.35

3. Inventories
Inventories consist of (in millions):
 
 
March 31,
2018
 
September 30,
2017
Finished goods
$
221.0

 
$
218.7

Work in process
185.9

 
168.0

Raw materials
163.5

 
172.0

Inventories
$
570.4

 
$
558.7


9
Table of Contents
ROCKWELL AUTOMATION, INC.

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)
(Unaudited)

4. Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets
Changes in the carrying amount of goodwill for the six months ended March 31, 2018, are (in millions):
 
Architecture &
Software
 
Control
Products &
Solutions
 
Total
Balance as of September 30, 2017
$
417.2

 
$
660.5

 
$
1,077.7

Acquisition of business
6.8

 
—

 
6.8

Translation
5.0

 
14.8

 
19.8

Balance as of March 31, 2018
$
429.0

 
$
675.3

 
$
1,104.3


Other intangible assets consist of (in millions):
 
March 31, 2018
 
Carrying
Amount
 
Accumulated
Amortization
 
Net
Amortized intangible assets:
 
 
 
 
 
Computer software products
$
197.7

 
$
119.1

 
$
78.6

Customer relationships
118.0

 
67.2

 
50.8

Technology
109.0

 
62.7

 
46.3

Trademarks
33.8

 
23.9

 
9.9

Other
12.0

 
10.4

 
1.6

Total amortized intangible assets
470.5

 
283.3

 
187.2

Allen-Bradley® trademark not subject to amortization
43.7

 
—

 
43.7

Total
$
514.2

 
$
283.3

 
$
230.9

 
September 30, 2017
 
Carrying
Amount
 
Accumulated
Amortization
 
Net
Amortized intangible assets:
 
 
 
 
 
Computer software products
$
194.8

 
$
113.2

 
$
81.6

Customer relationships
114.5

 
61.5

 
53.0

Technology
104.8

 
57.9

 
46.9

Trademarks
32.3

 
21.1

 
11.2

Other
11.4

 
9.8

 
1.6

Total amortized intangible assets
457.8

 
263.5

 
194.3

Allen-Bradley® trademark not subject to amortization
43.7

 
—

 
43.7

Total
$
501.5

 
$
263.5

 
$
238.0

Estimated amortization expense is $27.9 million in 2018, $24.9 million in 2019, $21.9 million in 2020, $21.1 million in 2021 and $19.1 million in 2022.
We performed our annual evaluation of goodwill and indefinite life intangible assets for impairment as required by accounting principles generally accepted in the United States (U.S. GAAP) during the second quarter of 2018 and concluded that these assets are not impaired.

10
Table of Contents
ROCKWELL AUTOMATION, INC.

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)
(Unaudited)

5. Short-term Debt
Our short-term debt obligations primarily consist of commercial paper borrowings. Commercial paper borrowings outstanding were $308.0 million and $350.0 million at March 31, 2018, and September 30, 2017, respectively. The weighted average interest rate of the commercial paper outstanding was 2.00 percent and 1.26 percent at March 31, 2018, and September 30, 2017, respectively.
In December 2017, we repaid our $250.0 million 5.65% notes which were classified as the current portion of long-term debt at September 30, 2017.
6. Other Current Liabilities
Other current liabilities consist of (in millions):
 
March 31,
2018
 
September 30,
2017
Unrealized losses on foreign exchange contracts
$
36.6

 
$
31.3

Product warranty obligations
32.2

 
28.5

Taxes other than income taxes
48.6

 
42.7

Accrued interest
12.3

 
16.9

Income taxes payable
63.7

 
32.6

Other
58.6

 
68.2

Other current liabilities
$
252.0

 
$
220.2

7. Product Warranty Obligations
We record a liability for product warranty obligations at the time of sale to a customer based upon historical warranty experience. Most of our products are covered under a warranty period that runs for twelve months from either the date of sale or installation. We also record a liability for specific warranty matters when they become probable and reasonably estimable.
Changes in product warranty obligations are (in millions):
 
Six Months Ended
March 31,
 
2018
 
2017
Balance at beginning of period
$
28.5

 
$
28.0

Accruals for warranties issued during the current period
12.9

 
12.5

Adjustments to pre-existing warranties
2.7

 
(1.7
)
Settlements of warranty claims
(11.9
)
 
(12.2
)
Balance at end of period
$
32.2

 
$
26.6

 

11
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ROCKWELL AUTOMATION, INC.

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)
(Unaudited)

8. Investments
We invest in certificates of deposit, time deposits, commercial paper and other fixed income securities. All investments meeting the U.S. GAAP definition of a security were classified as available-for-sale as of March 31, 2018, and September 30, 2017. Unrealized gains and losses on available-for-sale investments are included in our Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheet as a component of accumulated other comprehensive loss, net of any deferred taxes. Realized gains and losses are included in net income.
Our investments consist of (in millions):
 
 
March 31,
2018
 
September 30,
2017
Certificates of deposit and time deposits
 
$
539.9

 
$
1,005.3

Commercial paper
 
4.5

 
20.3

Corporate debt securities
 
168.1

 
199.4

Government securities
 
78.5

 
116.8

Asset-backed securities
 
35.3

 
45.8

Total
 
$
826.3

 
$
1,387.6

Pre-tax gross unrealized gains and losses on available-for-sale investments were not material as of March 31, 2018. Pre-tax gross realized gains and losses on available-for-sale investments were not material for the three and six months ended March 31, 2018. At March 31, 2018, there were no outstanding purchases of investments recorded in accounts payable.
We evaluated all investments for which the fair value was less than amortized cost for impairment on an individual security basis at March 31, 2018. This assessment included consideration of our intent and ability to hold the security and the credit risks specific to each security. We determined that the declines in fair value of these investments were not other than temporary as of March 31, 2018, and accordingly we did not recognize any impairment charges in net income.
The table below summarizes the contractual maturities of our investments as of March 31, 2018 (in millions). Actual maturities may differ from the contractual maturities below as borrowers may have the right to prepay certain obligations.
 
 
Fair Value
Less than one year
 
$
613.4

Due in one to five years
 
212.9

Total
 
$
826.3

Classification of our investments as current or noncurrent is based on the nature of the investment and when the investment is reasonably expected to be realized. These investments were included in the following line items within the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheet (in millions):
 
 
March 31,
2018
 
September 30,
2017
Short-term investments
 
$
613.4

 
$
1,124.6

Other assets
 
212.9

 
263.0

Total
 
$
826.3

 
$
1,387.6


12
Table of Contents
ROCKWELL AUTOMATION, INC.

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)
(Unaudited)

8. Investments (continued)
Fair Value of Investments
U.S. GAAP defines fair value as the price that would be received for an asset or paid to transfer a liability (exit price) in an orderly transaction between market participants in the principal or most advantageous market for the asset or liability. U.S. GAAP also classifies the inputs used to measure fair value into the following hierarchy:
Level 1:
 
Quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities.
Level 2:
 
Quoted prices in active markets for similar assets or liabilities, quoted prices for identical or similar assets or liabilities in markets that are not active, or inputs other than quoted prices that are observable for the asset or liability.
Level 3:
 
Unobservable inputs for the asset or liability.
We recognize all available-for-sale investments at fair value in the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheet. The valuation methodologies used for our investments measured at fair value are described as follows.
Certificates of deposit and time deposits — These investments are stated at cost, which approximates fair value.
Commercial paper — These investments are stated at amortized cost, which approximates fair value.
Corporate debt securities — Valued at either the yields currently available on comparable securities of issuers with similar credit ratings or valued under a discounted cash flow approach that maximizes observable inputs, such as current yields of similar instruments, but includes adjustments for certain risks that may not be observable such as credit and liquidity risks.
Government securities — Valued at the most recent closing price on the active market on which the individual securities are traded or, absent an active market, utilizing observable inputs such as closing prices in less frequently traded markets.
Asset-backed securities — Valued using a discounted cash flow approach that maximizes observable inputs, such as current yields of benchmark instruments, but includes adjustments for certain risks that may not be observable such as credit and liquidity risks.

The methods described above may produce a fair value calculation that may not be indicative of net realizable value or reflective of future fair values. Furthermore, while we believe our valuation methods are appropriate and consistent with other market participants, the use of different methodologies or assumptions to determine the fair value of certain financial instruments could result in a different fair value measurement at the reporting date. We did not hold any Level 3 investments or have any transfers between levels of fair value measurements during the periods presented.

13
Table of Contents
ROCKWELL AUTOMATION, INC.

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)
(Unaudited)

8. Investments (continued)
Fair values of our investments were (in millions):
 
 
March 31, 2018
 
 
Level 1
 
Level 2
 
Level 3
 
Total
Certificates of deposit and time deposits
 
$
—

 
$
539.9

 
$
—

 
$
539.9

Commercial paper
 
—

 
4.5

 
—

 
4.5

Corporate debt securities
 
—

 
168.1

 
—

 
168.1

Government securities
 
68.4

 
10.1

 
—

 
78.5

Asset-backed securities
 
—

 
35.3

 
—

 
35.3

Total
 
$
68.4

 
$
757.9

 
$
—

 
$
826.3

 
 
September 30, 2017
 
 
Level 1
 
Level 2
 
Level 3
 
Total
Certificates of deposit and time deposits
 
$
—

 
$
1,005.3

 
$
—

 
$
1,005.3

Commercial paper
 
—

 
20.3

 
—

 
20.3

Corporate debt securities
 
—

 
199.4

 
—

 
199.4

Government securities
 
98.9

 
17.9

 
—

 
116.8

Asset-backed securities
 
—

 
45.8

 
—

 
45.8

Total
 
$
98.9

 
$
1,288.7

 
$
—

 
$
1,387.6


9. Retirement Benefits
The components of net periodic benefit cost are (in millions):
 
 
Pension Benefits
 
Three Months Ended
March 31,
 
Six Months Ended
March 31,
 
2018
 
2017
 
2018
 
2017
Service cost
$
22.4

 
$
24.2

 
$
44.6

 
$
48.3

Interest cost
39.0


37.8


77.8


75.6

Expected return on plan assets
(61.5
)

(56.2
)

(122.7
)

(112.4
)
Amortization:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Prior service cost (credit)
0.1

 
(1.1
)
 
0.3

 
(1.9
)
Net actuarial loss
28.4


38.2


56.7


76.2

Settlements
—

 
—

 
—

 
0.2

Net periodic benefit cost
$
28.4

 
$
42.9

 
$
56.7

 
$
86.0

 

 
Other Postretirement Benefits
 
Three Months Ended
March 31,
 
Six Months Ended
March 31,
 
2018
 
2017
 
2018
 
2017
Service cost
$
0.3

 
$
0.4

 
$
0.6

 
$
0.7

Interest cost
0.6

 
0.7

 
1.2

 
1.3

Amortization:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Prior service credit
(1.4
)
 
(1.5
)
 
(2.7
)
 
(3.0
)
Net actuarial loss
0.5

 
0.6

 
0.9

 
1.1

Net periodic benefit cost
$
—

 
$
0.2

 
$
—

 
$
0.1


14
Table of Contents
ROCKWELL AUTOMATION, INC.

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)
(Unaudited)


10. Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss
Changes in accumulated other comprehensive loss by component were (in millions):
Three Months Ended March 31, 2018
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Pension and other postretirement benefit plan adjustments, net of tax
 
Accumulated currency translation adjustments, net of tax
 
Net unrealized gains (losses) on cash flow hedges, net of tax
 
Net unrealized gains (losses) on available-for-sale investments, net of tax
 
Total accumulated other comprehensive loss, net of tax
Balance as of December 31, 2017
$
(906.8
)
 
$
(253.8
)
 
$
(13.9
)
 
$
(1.2
)
 
$
(1,175.7
)
Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications
—

 
76.5

 
(6.0
)
 
(1.5
)
 
69.0

Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss
20.2

 
—

 
5.0

 
—

 
25.2

Other comprehensive income (loss)
20.2

 
76.5

 
(1.0
)
 
(1.5
)
 
94.2

Balance as of March 31, 2018
$
(886.6
)
 
$
(177.3
)
 
$
(14.9
)
 
$
(2.7
)
 
$
(1,081.5
)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Six Months Ended March 31, 2018
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Pension and other postretirement benefit plan adjustments, net of tax
 
Accumulated currency translation adjustments, net of tax
 
Net unrealized gains (losses) on cash flow hedges, net of tax
 
Net unrealized gains (losses) on available-for-sale investments, net of tax
 
Total accumulated other comprehensive loss, net of tax
Balance as of September 30, 2017
$
(927.0
)
 
$
(237.7
)
 
$
(14.4
)
 
$
(0.1
)
 
$
(1,179.2
)
Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications
—

 
60.4

 
(9.4
)
 
(2.6
)
 
48.4

Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss
40.4

 
—

 
8.9

 
—

 
49.3

Other comprehensive income (loss)
40.4

 
60.4

 
(0.5
)
 
(2.6
)
 
97.7

Balance as of March 31, 2018
$
(886.6
)
 
$
(177.3
)
 
$
(14.9
)

$
(2.7
)
 
$
(1,081.5
)





15
Table of Contents
ROCKWELL AUTOMATION, INC.

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)
(Unaudited)

10. Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss (continued)
Changes in accumulated other comprehensive loss by component were (in millions):
Three Months Ended March 31, 2017
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Pension and other postretirement benefit plan adjustments, net of tax
 
Accumulated currency translation adjustments, net of tax
 
Net unrealized gains (losses) on cash flow hedges, net of tax
 
Net unrealized gains (losses) on available-for-sale investments, net of tax
 
Total accumulated other comprehensive loss, net of tax
Balance as of December 31, 2016
$
(1,215.3
)
 
$
(381.1
)
 
$
7.5

 
$
—

 
$
(1,588.9
)
Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications
—

 
60.8

 
(2.3
)
 
(0.1
)
 
58.4

Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss
23.8

 
—

 
(1.3
)
 
—

 
22.5

Other comprehensive income (loss)
23.8

 
60.8

 
(3.6
)
 
(0.1
)
 
80.9

Balance as of March 31, 2017
$
(1,191.5
)
 
$
(320.3
)
 
$
3.9

 
$
(0.1
)
 
$
(1,508.0
)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Six Months Ended March 31, 2017
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Pension and other postretirement benefit plan adjustments, net of tax
 
Accumulated currency translation adjustments, net of tax
 
Net unrealized gains (losses) on cash flow hedges, net of tax
 
Net unrealized gains (losses) on available-for-sale investments, net of tax
 
Total accumulated other comprehensive loss, net of tax
Balance as of September 30, 2016
$
(1,239.8
)
 
$
(294.9
)
 
$
(4.1
)
 
$
—

 
$
(1,538.8
)
Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications
0.7

 
(25.4
)
 
9.5

 
(0.1
)
 
(15.3
)
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss
47.6

 
—

 
(1.5
)
 
—

 
46.1

Other comprehensive income (loss)
48.3

 
(25.4
)
 
8.0

 
(0.1
)
 
30.8

Balance as of March 31, 2017
$
(1,191.5
)
 
$
(320.3
)
 
$
3.9

 
$
(0.1
)

$
(1,508.0
)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

16
Table of Contents
ROCKWELL AUTOMATION, INC.

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)
(Unaudited)

10. Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss (continued)
The reclassifications out of accumulated other comprehensive loss to the Condensed Consolidated Statement of Operations were (in millions):
 
Three Months Ended
March 31,
 
Six Months Ended
March 31,
 
Affected Line in the Condensed Consolidated Statement of Operations
 
2018
 
2017
 
2018
 
2017
 
 
Pension and other postretirement benefit plan adjustments:
Amortization of prior service credit
$
(1.3
)
 
$
(2.6
)
 
$
(2.4
)
 
$
(4.9
)
 
(a)
Amortization of net actuarial loss
28.9

 
38.8

 
57.6

 
77.3

 
(a)
Settlements
—

 
—

 
—

 
0.2

 
(a)
 
27.6

 
36.2

 
55.2

 
72.6

 
Income before income taxes
 
(7.4
)
 
(12.4
)
 
(14.8
)
 
(25.0
)
 
Income tax provision
 
$
20.2

 
$
23.8

 
$
40.4

 
$
47.6

 
Net income
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Net unrealized losses (gains) on cash flow hedges:
Forward exchange contracts
$
(0.8
)
 
$
1.0

 
$
(1.3
)
 
$
1.5

 
Sales
Forward exchange contracts
8.4

 
(2.6
)
 
14.3

 
(3.6
)
 
Cost of sales
Forward exchange contracts
(0.8
)
 
0.3

 
(1.0
)
 
0.6

 
Selling, general and administrative expenses
 
6.8

 
(1.3
)
 
12.0

 
(1.5
)
 
Income before income taxes
 
(1.8
)
 
—

 
(3.1
)
 
—

 
Income tax provision
 
$
5.0

 
$
(1.3
)
 
$
8.9

 
$
(1.5
)
 
Net income
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Total reclassifications
$
25.2

 
$
22.5

 
$
49.3

 
$
46.1

 
Net income
(a) Reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss into cost of sales and selling, general and administrative expenses. These components are included in the computation of net periodic benefit cost (income). See Note 9 for further information.

17
Table of Contents
ROCKWELL AUTOMATION, INC.

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)
(Unaudited)

11. Commitments and Contingent Liabilities
Various lawsuits, claims and proceedings have been or may be instituted or asserted against us relating to the conduct of our business, including those pertaining to product liability, environmental, safety and health, intellectual property, employment and contract matters. Although the outcome of litigation cannot be predicted with certainty and some lawsuits, claims or proceedings may be disposed of unfavorably to us, we believe the disposition of matters that are pending or have been asserted will not have a material effect on our business, financial condition or results of operations.
We (including our subsidiaries) have been named as a defendant in lawsuits alleging personal injury as a result of exposure to asbestos that was used in certain components of our products many years ago. Currently there are a few thousand claimants in lawsuits that name us as defendants, together with hundreds of other companies. In some cases, the claims involve products from divested businesses, and we are indemnified for most of the costs. However, we have agreed to defend and indemnify asbestos claims associated with products manufactured or sold by our former Dodge mechanical and Reliance Electric motors and motor repair services businesses prior to their divestiture by us, which occurred on January 31, 2007. We are also responsible for half of the costs and liabilities associated with asbestos cases against the former Rockwell International Corporation’s divested measurement and flow control business. But in all cases, for those claimants who do show that they worked with our products or products of divested businesses for which we are responsible, we nevertheless believe we have meritorious defenses, in substantial part due to the integrity of the products, the encapsulated nature of any asbestos-containing components, and the lack of any impairing medical condition on the part of many claimants. We defend those cases vigorously. Historically, we have been dismissed from the vast majority of these claims with no payment to claimants.
We have maintained insurance coverage that we believe covers indemnity and defense costs, over and above self-insured retentions, for claims arising from our former Allen-Bradley subsidiary. Our insurance carrier entered into a cost share agreement with us to pay the substantial majority of future defense and indemnity costs for Allen-Bradley asbestos claims. We believe that this arrangement will continue to provide coverage for Allen-Bradley asbestos claims throughout the remaining life of the asbestos liability.
We also have rights to historic insurance policies that provide indemnity and defense costs, over and above self-insured retentions, for claims arising out of certain asbestos liabilities relating to the divested measurement and flow control business. We initiated litigation against several insurers to pursue coverage for these claims, subject to each carrier's policy limits, and the case is now pending in Los Angeles County Superior Court. In September 2016, we entered into settlement agreements with certain insurance company defendants, and we continue to pursue our claims against the remaining defendants. We believe these settlement agreements will continue to provide partial coverage for these asbestos claims throughout the remaining life of asbestos liability.
The uncertainties of asbestos claim litigation make it difficult to predict accurately the ultimate outcome of asbestos claims. That uncertainty is increased by the possibility of adverse rulings or new legislation affecting asbestos claim litigation or the settlement process. Subject to these uncertainties and based on our experience defending asbestos claims, we do not believe these lawsuits will have a material effect on our business, financial condition or results of operations.
We have, from time to time, divested certain of our businesses. In connection with these divestitures, certain lawsuits, claims and proceedings may be instituted or asserted against us related to the period that we owned the businesses, either because we agreed to retain certain liabilities related to these periods or because such liabilities fall upon us by operation of law. In some instances, the divested business has assumed the liabilities; however, it is possible that we might be responsible for satisfying those liabilities if the divested business is unable to do so.
In connection with the spin-offs of our former automotive business, semiconductor systems business and avionics and communications business, the spun-off companies have agreed to indemnify us for substantially all contingent liabilities related to the respective businesses, including environmental and intellectual property matters.
In conjunction with the sale of our Dodge mechanical and Reliance Electric motors and motor repair services businesses, we agreed to indemnify Baldor Electric Company for costs and damages related to certain legal, legacy environmental and asbestos matters of these businesses arising before January 31, 2007, for which the maximum exposure would be capped at the amount received for the sale.

18
Table of Contents
ROCKWELL AUTOMATION, INC.

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)
(Unaudited)

11. Commitments and Contingent Liabilities (continued)
In many countries we provide a limited intellectual property indemnity as part of our terms and conditions of sale. We also at times provide limited intellectual property indemnities in other contracts with third parties, such as contracts concerning the development and manufacture of our products. As of March 31, 2018, we were not aware of any material indemnification claims where an unfavorable outcome was probable or reasonably possible. Historically, claims that have been made under the indemnification agreements have not had a material impact on our business, financial condition or results of operations; however, to the extent that valid indemnification claims arise in the future, future payments by us could be significant and could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition or results of operations in a particular period.
12. Income Taxes
At the end of each interim period, we estimate a base effective tax rate that we expect for the full fiscal year based on our most recent forecast of pre-tax income, permanent book and tax differences and global tax planning strategies. We use this base rate to provide for income taxes on a year-to-date basis, excluding the effect of significant unusual items and items that are reported net of their related tax effects in the period in which they occur.
Our base rate reflects a change in the U.S. federal statutory rate from 35 percent to 21 percent resulting from the enactment of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017 (the “Tax Act”) on December 22, 2017. The rate change was effective for us at the beginning of our fiscal year, using a blended rate for the annual period. As a result, the blended statutory tax rate for our fiscal year 2018 is 24.53 percent.
The effective tax rate was 24.1 percent and 101.5 percent in the three and six months ended March 31, 2018, respectively, compared to 17.7 percent and 17.2 percent in the three and six months ended March 31, 2017, respectively. The effective tax rate was lower than the U.S. statutory rate of 24.53 percent in the three months ended March 31, 2018 primarily because we benefited from lower non-U.S. tax rates, partially offset by provisional tax charges ($11.5 million or 3.8 percent) resulting from the Tax Act which are discussed below. The effective rate was higher than the U.S. statutory rate of 24.53 percent in the six months ended March 31, 2018 due to provisional tax charges ($491.2 million or 81.8 percent) resulting from the Tax Act. The effective tax rate was lower than the U.S. statutory rate of 35 percent in the three and six months ended March 31, 2017, primarily because we benefited from lower non-U.S. tax rates, and we also realized a benefit from discrete tax items.
Provisional Amounts
The Tax Act requires us to revalue our existing U.S. deferred tax balance to reflect the lower statutory tax rate and pay a one-time tax on earnings of certain foreign subsidiaries that were previously deferred from U.S. tax ("transition tax"). At March 31, 2018, we have not completed our accounting for the tax effects of the Tax Act; however, we have made reasonable estimates of its effects on our existing U.S. deferred tax balance and the transition tax and recorded provisional amounts which are included as a component of income tax expense from continuing operations, as discussed in more detail below.
We revalued our U.S. deferred tax assets and liabilities based on the rate at which they are expected to reverse in the future, which is either 24.53 percent for reversals in 2018 or 21 percent for reversals in 2019 and subsequent years. However, we are still analyzing certain aspects of the Tax Act and refining our calculations, which could potentially affect the valuation of these balances or potentially give rise to new deferred tax amounts. We have recorded a provisional amount of $94.2 million in the six months ended March 31, 2018, of which the entire amount was recorded in the three months ended December 31, 2017.
The Tax Act requires the transition tax to be computed based on our total post-1986 earnings and profits (“E&P”) at December 31, 2017, that were previously deferred from U.S. income tax. As a result, we are required to make reasonable estimates given our September 30 fiscal year. We have recorded provisional amounts of $11.5 million and $397.0 million for the transition tax liability for all of our foreign subsidiaries in the three and six months ended March 31, 2018, respectively. At March 31, 2018, we have recorded income taxes payable of $397.0 million related to the transition tax in the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheet, of which $34.7 million is recorded within other current liabilities, and $362.3 million is recorded within other liabilities because that portion is payable greater than twelve months from March 31, 2018.

19
Table of Contents
ROCKWELL AUTOMATION, INC.

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)
(Unaudited)

12. Income Taxes (continued)
The transition tax is applied to the balance of post-1986 E&P at rates of 15.5 percent for cash assets (as defined in the Tax Act) and 8 percent for non-cash assets measured at the higher of the balance at September 30, 2018 or the average of the ending balances at September 30, 2016, and September 30, 2017. Our reasonable estimates will change as a result of adjustments impacting E&P, and distributions and other transactions impacting cash. The Company anticipates that it will complete its accounting for the transition tax at December 31, 2018. These uncertainties form the basis for the Company’s provisional reporting based upon reasonable estimates at March 31, 2018.
The Company has historically accounted for the earnings of its foreign subsidiaries as being indefinitely reinvested under ASC 740-30. As a result of the broad changes to the U.S. international tax system under the Tax Act, the Company will begin to account for substantially all of its non-U.S. subsidiaries as being immediately subject to tax other than in certain limited circumstances. The Company has provided for taxes on the balance of historic and current earnings that may be subject to foreign withholding and U.S. state taxes. For future distributions related to historic earnings, we recorded deferred tax liabilities of $59.8 million related to foreign withholding taxes, and deferred tax assets of $59.8 million related to foreign tax credits attributable to the foreign withholding taxes. These provisional amounts are presented net within deferred income tax assets in the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheet as of March 31, 2018.  We have not yet completed our assessment of whether a portion of these assets and liabilities should be presented as gross amounts.
Unrecognized Tax Benefits
The amount of gross unrecognized tax benefits was $28.2 million and $31.1 million at March 31, 2018, and September 30, 2017, respectively, of which the entire amount would reduce our effective tax rate if recognized.
Accrued interest and penalties related to unrecognized tax benefits were $4.1 million and $4.0 million at March 31, 2018, and September 30, 2017, respectively. We recognize interest and penalties related to unrecognized tax benefits in the income tax provision.
We believe it is reasonably possible that the amount of gross unrecognized tax benefits could be reduced by up to $7.4 million in the next 12 months as a result of the resolution of tax matters in various global jurisdictions and the lapses of statutes of limitations. If all of the unrecognized tax benefits were recognized, the net reduction to our income tax provision, including the recognition of interest and penalties and offsetting tax assets, could be up to $8.5 million.
We conduct business globally and are routinely audited by the various tax jurisdictions in which we operate. We are no longer subject to U.S. federal income tax examinations for years before 2014 and are no longer subject to state, local and foreign income tax examinations for years before 2003.

20
Table of Contents
ROCKWELL AUTOMATION, INC.

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)
(Unaudited)

13. Business Segment Information
The following tables reflect the sales and operating results of our reportable segments (in millions):
 
 
Three Months Ended
March 31,
 
Six Months Ended
March 31,
 
2018
 
2017
 
2018
 
2017
Sales
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Architecture & Software
$
768.4

 
$
719.0

 
$
1,515.3

 
$
1,415.4

Control Products & Solutions
882.8

 
835.3

 
1,722.5

 
1,629.2

Total
$
1,651.2

 
$
1,554.3

 
$
3,237.8

 
$
3,044.6

Segment operating earnings
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Architecture & Software
$
218.2

 
$
190.6

 
$
442.8

 
$
399.2

Control Products & Solutions
126.9

 
105.4

 
257.8

 
213.4

Total
345.1

 
296.0

 
700.6

 
612.6

Purchase accounting depreciation and amortization
(4.5
)
 
(5.6
)
 
(8.9
)
 
(11.2
)
General corporate – net
(17.8
)
 
(21.4
)
 
(34.0
)
 
(36.3
)
Non-operating pension costs
(5.9
)
 
(19.8
)
 
(11.8
)
 
(39.6
)
Costs related to unsolicited Emerson proposals
—

 
—

 
(11.2
)
 
—

Interest expense
(17.3
)
 
(18.9
)
 
(37.3
)
 
(37.6
)
Income before income taxes
$
299.6

 
$
230.3

 
$
597.4

 
$
487.9

Among other considerations, we evaluate performance and allocate resources based upon segment operating earnings before income taxes, interest expense, costs related to corporate offices, non-operating pension costs, certain corporate initiatives, gains and losses from the disposition of businesses and purchase accounting depreciation and amortization. We incurred $11.2 million of third-party advisory fees in connection with our evaluation of unsolicited Emerson acquisition proposals in the first quarter of 2018. Depending on the product, intersegment sales within a single legal entity are either at cost or cost plus a mark-up, which does not necessarily represent a market price. Sales between legal entities are at an appropriate transfer price. We allocate costs related to shared segment operating activities to the segments using a methodology consistent with the expected benefit.

21

REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM
To the Board of Directors and Shareowners of
Rockwell Automation, Inc.
Milwaukee, Wisconsin
We have reviewed the accompanying condensed consolidated balance sheet of Rockwell Automation, Inc. and subsidiaries (the “Company”) as of March 31, 2018, and the related condensed consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive income for the three-month and six-month periods ended March 31, 2018 and 2017, and of cash flows for the six-month periods ended March 31, 2018 and 2017. These condensed consolidated interim financial statements are the responsibility of the Company’s management.
We conducted our reviews in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). A review of interim financial information consists principally of applying analytical procedures and making inquiries of persons responsible for financial and accounting matters. It is substantially less in scope than an audit conducted in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States), the objective of which is the expression of an opinion regarding the financial statements taken as a whole. Accordingly, we do not express such an opinion.
Based on our reviews, we are not aware of any material modifications that should be made to such condensed consolidated interim financial statements for them to be in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.
We have previously audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States), the consolidated balance sheet of Rockwell Automation, Inc. and subsidiaries as of September 30, 2017, and the related consolidated statements of operations, comprehensive income, cash flows, and shareowners’ equity for the year then ended (not presented herein); and in our report dated November 15, 2017, we expressed an unqualified opinion on those consolidated financial statements. In our opinion, the information set forth in the accompanying condensed consolidated balance sheet as of September 30, 2017 is fairly stated, in all material respects, in relation to the consolidated balance sheet from which it has been derived.
/s/ DELOITTE & TOUCHE LLP
Milwaukee, Wisconsin
May 2, 2018


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Item 2. Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations
Results of Operations
Forward-Looking Statements
This Quarterly Report contains statements (including certain projections and business trends) that are “forward-looking statements” as defined in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Words such as “believe”, “estimate”, “project”, “plan”, “expect”, “anticipate”, “will”, “intend” and other similar expressions may identify forward-looking statements. Actual results may differ materially from those projected as a result of certain risks and uncertainties, many of which are beyond our control, including but not limited to:
•
macroeconomic factors, including global and regional business conditions, the availability and cost of capital, commodity prices, the cyclical nature of our customers’ capital spending, sovereign debt concerns and currency exchange rates;
•
laws, regulations and governmental policies affecting our activities in the countries where we do business, including those related to tariffs, taxation, and trade controls;
•
the successful development of advanced technologies and demand for and market acceptance of new and existing products;
•
the availability, effectiveness and security of our information technology systems;
•
competitive products, solutions and services and pricing pressures, and our ability to provide high quality products, solutions and services;
•
a disruption of our business due to natural disasters, pandemics, acts of war, strikes, terrorism, social unrest or other causes;
•
our ability to manage and mitigate the risk related to security vulnerabilities and breaches of our products, solutions and services;
•
intellectual property infringement claims by others and the ability to protect our intellectual property;
•
the uncertainty of claims by taxing authorities in the various jurisdictions where we do business;
•
our ability to attract, develop, and retain qualified personnel;
•
our ability to manage costs related to employee retirement and health care benefits;
•
the uncertainties of litigation, including liabilities related to the safety and security of the products, solutions and services we sell;
•
our ability to manage and mitigate the risks associated with our solutions and services businesses;
•
disruptions to our distribution channels or the failure of distributors to develop and maintain capabilities to sell our products;
•
the successful integration and management of acquired businesses and technologies;
•
the availability and price of components and materials;
•
the successful execution of our cost productivity initiatives; and
•
other risks and uncertainties, including but not limited to those detailed from time to time in our Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) filings.
These forward-looking statements reflect our beliefs as of the date of filing this report. We undertake no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. See Item 1A, Risk Factors, of our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2017, for more information.
Non-GAAP Measures
The following discussion includes organic sales, total segment operating earnings and margin, Adjusted Income, Adjusted EPS, Adjusted Effective Tax Rate and free cash flow, which are non-GAAP measures. See Supplemental Sales Information for a reconciliation of reported sales to organic sales and a discussion of why we believe this non-GAAP measure is useful to investors. See Results of Operations for a reconciliation of income before income taxes to total segment operating earnings and margin and a discussion of why we believe these non-GAAP measures are useful to investors. See Results of Operations for a reconciliation of income from continuing operations, diluted EPS from continuing operations and effective tax rate to Adjusted Income, Adjusted EPS and Adjusted Effective Tax Rate, respectively, and a discussion of why we believe these non-GAAP measures are useful to investors. See Financial Condition for a reconciliation of cash flows from operating activities to free cash flow and a discussion of why we believe this non-GAAP measure is useful to investors.
 

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Overview
Rockwell Automation, Inc., a leader in industrial automation and information, makes its customers more productive and the world more sustainable. Overall demand for our products, solutions and services is driven by:
 
•
investments in manufacturing, including upgrades, modifications and expansions of existing facilities or production lines and new facilities or production lines;
•
investments in basic materials production capacity, which may be related to commodity pricing levels;
•
our customers’ needs for faster time to market, lower total cost of ownership, improved asset utilization and optimization, and enterprise risk management;
•
our customers’ needs to continuously improve quality, safety and sustainability;
•
industry factors that include our customers’ new product introductions, demand for our customers’ products or services, and the regulatory and competitive environments in which our customers operate;
•
levels of global industrial production and capacity utilization;
•
regional factors that include local political, social, regulatory and economic circumstances; and
•
the spending patterns of our customers due to their annual budgeting processes and their working schedules.
Long-term Strategy
Our strategy is to bring The Connected Enterprise to life. We integrate control and information across the enterprise to help industrial companies and their people be more productive. Our vision of being the most valued global provider of innovative industrial automation and information products, solutions and services is supported by our growth and performance strategy, which seeks to:
 
•
achieve organic sales growth in excess of the automation market by expanding our served market and strengthening our competitive differentiation;
•
diversify our sales streams by broadening our portfolio of products, solutions and services, expanding our global presence and serving a wider range of industries and applications;
•
grow market share by gaining new customers and by capturing a larger share of existing customers’ spending;
•
enhance our market access by building our channel capability and partner network;
•
acquire companies that serve as catalysts to organic growth by adding complementary technology, expanding our served market, or enhancing our domain expertise or market access;
•
deploy human and financial resources to strengthen our technology leadership and our intellectual capital business model;
•
continuously improve quality and customer experience; and
•
drive annual cost productivity.
By implementing the above strategy, we seek to achieve our long-term financial goals, including above-market organic sales growth, EPS growth above sales growth, return on invested capital in excess of 20 percent and free cash flow equal to about 100 percent of Adjusted Income. We expect acquisitions to add a percentage point or more per year, on average, to long-term sales growth.

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U. S. Industrial Economic Trends
In the second quarter of 2018, sales in the U.S. accounted for 54 percent of our total sales. The various indicators we use to gauge the direction and momentum of our served U.S. markets include:
•
The Industrial Production (IP) Index, published by the Federal Reserve, which measures the real output of manufacturing, mining and electric and gas utilities. The IP Index is expressed as a percentage of real output in a base year, currently 2012. Historically, there has been a meaningful correlation between the changes in the IP Index and the level of automation investment made by our U.S. customers in their manufacturing base.
•
The Manufacturing Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI), published by the Institute for Supply Management (ISM), which indicates the current and near-term state of manufacturing activity in the U.S. According to the ISM, a PMI measure above 50 indicates that the U.S. manufacturing economy is generally expanding while a measure below 50 indicates that it is generally contracting.
•
Industrial Equipment Spending, compiled by the Bureau of Economic Analysis, which provides insight into spending trends in the broad U.S. industrial economy. This measure over the longer term has proven to demonstrate a reasonable correlation with our domestic growth.
•
Capacity Utilization (Total Industry), published by the Federal Reserve, which measures plant operating activity. Historically, there has been a meaningful correlation between Capacity Utilization and levels of U.S. IP.
The table below depicts trends in these indicators since the quarter ended September 2016. In the second quarter of fiscal 2018, most of these U.S. economic indicators improved compared to the prior quarter. PMI was unchanged, but remained above 50, indicating a continued expansion in the U.S. manufacturing economy.
 
IP
Index
 
PMI
 
Industrial
Equipment
Spending
(in billions)
 
Capacity
Utilization
(percent)
Fiscal 2018 quarter ended:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
March 2018
106.4

 
59.3

 
254.8

 
77.6

December 2017
105.3

 
59.3

 
250.6

 
77.1

Fiscal 2017 quarter ended:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
September 2017
103.3

 
60.2

 
246.7

 
75.8

June 2017
103.7

 
56.7

 
241.7

 
76.2

March 2017
102.5

 
56.6

 
234.3

 
75.4

December 2016
102.2

 
54.3

 
229.0

 
75.3

Fiscal 2016 quarter ended:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
September 2016
102.0

 
51.4

 
226.0

 
75.2

Note: Economic indicators are subject to revision by the issuing organizations.
While we are optimistic that the impact of U.S. tax reform on our customers' investment decisions could benefit our future performance, it is too early to quantify any such benefits.
In March 2018, the U.S. Government imposed tariffs on steel and aluminum imports. While we have seen increases in the price of steel and aluminum as a result of these tariffs, we believe they will not have a material effect on our business, financial condition, or results of operations.
Also, the U.S. Government proposed potential tariffs on certain imports from China. In response, China proposed potential tariffs on certain imports into China. There remains a lot of uncertainty about the particulars of these tariffs. While no tariffs have been enacted yet, we are currently evaluating the potential impact such tariffs could have on our business, as well as mitigation opportunities in the event tariffs are imposed.

Non-U.S. Economic Trends
In the second quarter of 2018, sales to customers outside the U.S. accounted for 46 percent of our total sales. These customers include both indigenous companies and multinational companies with expanding global presence. In addition to the global factors previously mentioned in the "Overview" section, international demand, particularly in emerging markets, has historically been driven by the strength of the industrial economy in each region, investments in infrastructure and expanding consumer markets.

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We use changes in the respective countries' gross domestic product and industrial production as indicators of the growth opportunities in each region where we do business.
Recent economic forecasts increased the outlook for industrial production growth in fiscal 2018 in all regions, apart from in EMEA where growth is forecast to slow. In Asia Pacific, China's economy is stable, supported by robust retail sales and rising overseas demand, and economic growth in India continues to improve. In Latin America, higher commodity prices are supporting an increase in economic growth across the region, with Mexico also benefiting from a strong U.S. economy.

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Summary of Results of Operations
Sales in the second quarter of 2018 increased 6.2 percent compared to the second quarter of 2017. Organic sales increased 3.5 percent year over year. Currency translation increased sales by 3.9 percentage points, and the prior year divestiture reduced sales growth by 1.2 percentage points. Growth was broad-based across most regions. Heavy industries led by oil and gas, mining, metals, and semiconductor had the strongest growth.
The following is a summary of our results related to key growth initiatives:
 
•
Logix sales increased 9 percent year over year in the second quarter of 2018. Logix organic sales increased 5 percent year over year, and currency translation increased sales by 4 percentage points.
•
Process initiative sales increased 11 percent year over year in the second quarter of 2018. Process initiative organic sales increased 9 percent year over year, and currency translation increased sales by 2 percentage point.
•
Sales in emerging countries increased 12 percent year over year in the second quarter of 2018. Organic sales in emerging countries increased 7 percent year over year. Currency translation increased sales in emerging countries by 6 percentage points, and the prior year divestiture reduced sales in emerging countries by 1 percentage point.

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The following table reflects our sales and operating results for the three and six months ended March 31, 2018 and 2017 (in millions, except per share amounts and percentages):
 
 
Three Months Ended
March 31,
 
Six Months Ended
March 31,
 
2018
 
2017
 
2018
 
2017
Sales
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Architecture & Software
$
768.4

 
$
719.0

 
$
1,515.3

 
$
1,415.4

Control Products & Solutions
882.8

 
835.3

 
1,722.5

 
1,629.2

Total sales (a)
$
1,651.2

 
$
1,554.3

 
3,237.8

 
$
3,044.6

Segment operating earnings(1)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Architecture & Software
$
218.2

 
$
190.6

 
442.8

 
$
399.2

Control Products & Solutions
126.9

 
105.4

 
257.8

 
213.4

Total segment operating earnings(2) (b)
345.1

 
296.0

 
700.6

 
612.6

Purchase accounting depreciation and amortization
(4.5
)
 
(5.6
)
 
(8.9
)
 
(11.2
)
General corporate — net
(17.8
)
 
(21.4
)
 
(34.0
)
 
(36.3
)
Non-operating pension costs
(5.9
)
 
(19.8
)
 
(11.8
)
 
(39.6
)
Costs related to unsolicited Emerson proposals
—

 
—

 
(11.2
)
 
—

Interest expense
(17.3
)
 
(18.9
)
 
(37.3
)
 
(37.6
)
Income before income taxes (c)
299.6

 
230.3

 
597.4

 
487.9

Income tax provision
(72.2
)
 
(40.8
)
 
(606.4
)
 
(83.7
)
Net (loss) income
$
227.4

 
$
189.5

 
(9.0
)
 
$
404.2

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Diluted EPS
$
1.77

 
$
1.45

 
$
(0.07
)
 
$
3.11

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Adjusted EPS(3)
$
1.89

 
$
1.55

 
$
3.85

 
$
3.30

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Diluted weighted average outstanding shares for diluted EPS
128.5

 
130.3

 
127.6

 
130.0

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Diluted weighted average outstanding shares for adjusted EPS(3)
128.5

 
130.3

 
129.3

 
130.0

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Total segment operating margin(2) (b/a)
20.9
%
 
19.0
%
 
21.6
%
 
20.1
%
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Pre-tax margin (c/a)
18.1
%
 
14.8
%
 
18.5
%
 
16.0
%
 
(1)
See Note 13 in the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements for the definition of segment operating earnings.
(2)
Total segment operating earnings and total segment operating margin are non-GAAP financial measures. We exclude purchase accounting depreciation and amortization, general corporate – net, non-operating pension costs, costs related to the unsolicited Emerson proposals in the first quarter of fiscal 2018, interest expense and income tax provision because we do not consider these costs to be directly related to the operating performance of our segments. We believe that these measures are useful to investors as measures of operating performance. We use these measures to monitor and evaluate the profitability of our operating segments. Our measures of total segment operating earnings and total segment operating margin may be different from measures used by other companies.
(3)
Adjusted EPS is a non-GAAP earnings measure that excludes the non-operating pension costs and their related income tax effects, costs related to the unsolicited Emerson proposals in the first quarter of fiscal 2018 and their related tax effects, and the provisional tax effect of deemed repatriation of foreign earnings and the revaluation of net deferred tax assets due to the enactment of the Tax Act. See Adjusted Income, Adjusted EPS and Adjusted Effective Tax Rate Reconciliation for more information on this non-GAAP measure. Average diluted shares for adjusted EPS is a non-GAAP measure that includes 1.7 million dilutive shares that are excluded from GAAP average diluted shares in the six months ended March 31, 2018 because we recorded a net loss in the period.

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Purchase accounting depreciation and amortization and non-operating pension costs are not allocated to our operating segments because these costs are excluded from our measurement of each segment's operating performance for internal purposes. If we were to allocate these costs, we would attribute them to each of our segments as follows (in millions):
 
Three Months Ended
March 31,
 
Six Months Ended
March 31,
 
2018
 
2017
 
2018
 
2017
Purchase accounting depreciation and amortization
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Architecture & Software
$
1.7

 
$
1.6

 
$
3.3

 
$
3.2

Control Products & Solutions
2.5

 
3.7

 
5.0

 
7.5

Non-operating pension costs
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Architecture & Software
1.8

 
7.1

 
3.6

 
14.2

Control Products & Solutions
2.7

 
11.1

 
5.5

 
22.2

The decreases in non-operating pension costs in both segments for the three and six months ended March 31, 2018, were primarily due to a $200 million voluntary contribution in fiscal 2017 and other actuarial adjustments.

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Adjusted Income, Adjusted EPS and Adjusted Effective Tax Rate Reconciliation

Adjusted Income, Adjusted EPS and Adjusted Effective Tax Rate are non-GAAP earnings measures that exclude non-operating pension costs and their related income tax effects, costs related to the unsolicited Emerson proposals in the first quarter of fiscal 2018 and their related tax effects, and the provisional tax effect of deemed repatriation of foreign earnings and the revaluation of net deferred tax assets due to the enactment of the Tax Act. Non-operating pension costs include defined benefit plan interest cost, expected return on plan assets, amortization of actuarial gains and losses and the impact of any plan curtailments or settlements. These components of net periodic pension cost primarily relate to changes in pension assets and liabilities that are a result of market performance; we consider these and other excluded costs to be unrelated to the operating performance of our business. We believe that Adjusted Income, Adjusted EPS and Adjusted Effective Tax Rate provide useful information to our investors about our operating performance and allow management and investors to compare our operating performance period over period. Adjusted EPS is also used as a financial measure of performance for our annual incentive compensation. Our measures of Adjusted Income, Adjusted EPS and Adjusted Effective Tax Rate may be different from measures used by other companies. These non-GAAP measures should not be considered a substitute for income from continuing operations, diluted EPS and effective tax rate.

The following are the components of operating and non-operating pension costs (in millions):
 
Three Months Ended
March 31,
 
Six Months Ended
March 31,
 
2018
 
2017
 
2018
 
2017
Service cost
$
22.4

 
$
24.2

 
$
44.6

 
$
48.3

Amortization of prior service cost (credit)
0.1

 
(1.1
)
 
0.3

 
(1.9
)
Operating pension costs
22.5

 
23.1

 
44.9

 
46.4

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Interest cost
39.0

 
37.8

 
77.8

 
75.6

Expected return on plan assets
(61.5
)
 
(56.2
)
 
(122.7
)
 
(112.4
)
Amortization of net actuarial loss
28.4

 
38.2

 
56.7

 
76.2

Settlements
—

 
—

 
—

 
0.2

Non-operating pension costs
5.9

 
19.8

 
11.8


39.6

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Net periodic pension cost
$
28.4

 
$
42.9

 
$
56.7

 
$
86.0



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The following are reconciliations of income from continuing operations, diluted EPS from continuing operations and effective tax rate to Adjusted Income, Adjusted EPS and Adjusted Effective Tax Rate, respectively (in millions, except per share amounts and percentages):
 
Three Months Ended
March 31,
 
Six Months Ended
March 31,
 
2018

2017

2018

2017
Income (Loss) from continuing operations
$
227.4

 
$
189.5

 
$
(9.0
)
 
$
404.2

Non-operating pension costs
5.9

 
19.8

 
11.8

 
39.6

Tax effect of non-operating pension costs
(1.9
)
 
(7.3
)
 
(3.7
)
 
(14.5
)
Costs related to unsolicited Emerson proposals
—

 
—

 
11.2

 
—

Tax effect of costs related to unsolicited Emerson proposals
—

 
—

 
(3.1
)
 
—

Effect of deemed repatriation of foreign earnings due to the Tax Act1
11.5

 
—

 
397.0

 
—

Effect of net deferred tax asset revaluation due to the Tax Act1
—

 
—

 
94.2

 
—

Adjusted Income
$
242.9

 
$
202.0

 
$
498.4

 
$
429.3

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Diluted EPS from continuing operations
$
1.77

 
$
1.45

 
$
(0.07
)
 
$
3.11

Non-operating pension costs
0.04

 
0.15

 
0.08

 
0.30

Tax effect of non-operating pension costs
(0.01
)
 
(0.05
)
 
(0.03
)
 
(0.11
)
Costs related to unsolicited Emerson proposals
—

 
—

 
0.09

 
—

Tax effect of costs related to unsolicited Emerson proposals
—

 
—

 
(0.02
)
 
—

Effect of deemed repatriation of foreign earnings due to the Tax Act1
0.09

 
—

 
3.07

 
—

Effect of net deferred tax asset revaluation due to the Tax Act1
—

 
—

 
0.73

 
—

Adjusted EPS
$
1.89

 
$
1.55

 
$
3.85

 
$
3.30

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Effective tax rate
24.1
 %
 
17.7
%
 
101.5
 %
 
17.2
%
Tax effect of non-operating pension costs
0.2
 %
 
1.5
%
 
0.3
 %
 
1.4
%
Tax effect of costs related to unsolicited Emerson proposals
—
 %
 
—
%
 
0.1
 %
 
—
%
Effect of deemed repatriation of foreign earnings due to the Tax Act1
(3.8
)%
 
—
%
 
(66.4
)%
 
—
%
Effect of net deferred tax asset revaluation due to the Tax Act1
—
 %
 
—
%
 
(15.8
)%
 
—
%
Adjusted Effective Tax Rate
20.5
 %
 
19.2
%
 
19.7
 %
 
18.6
%
1These amounts, which are based on reasonable estimates, will require further adjustments as additional guidance from the U.S. Department of Treasury is provided, the Company’s assumptions change, or as further information and interpretations become available. Refer to Note 12 in the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements for further information regarding the effect of the enactment of the Tax Act on our financial condition and results of operations.

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Three and Six Months Ended March 31, 2018, Compared to Three and Six Months Ended March 31, 2017
 
 
Three Months Ended March 31,
 
Six Months Ended March 31,
(in millions, except per share amounts)
 
2018
 
2017
 
Change
 
2018
 
2017
 
Change
Sales
 
$
1,651.2

 
$
1,554.3

 
$
96.9

 
$
3,237.8

 
$
3,044.6

 
$
193.2

Income before income taxes
 
299.6

 
230.3

 
69.3

 
597.4

 
487.9

 
109.5

Diluted EPS
 
1.77

 
1.45

 
0.32

 
(0.07
)
 
3.11

 
(3.18
)
Adjusted EPS
 
1.89

 
1.55

 
0.34

 
3.85

 
3.30

 
0.55

Sales
Sales increased 6.2 percent and 6.3 percent year over year in the three and six months ended March 31, 2018, respectively. Organic sales increased 3.5 percent and 4.4 percent in the three and six months ended March 31, 2018, respectively. Currency translation increased sales by 3.9 percentage points and 3.2 percentage points, and the prior year divestiture reduced sales growth by 1.2 percentage points and 1.3 percentage points in the three and six months ended March 31, 2018, respectively.
Pricing contributed about half of one percentage point to sales growth in each of the three and six months ended March 31, 2018.
The table below presents our sales, attributed to the geographic regions based upon country of destination, and the percentage change from the same period a year ago (in millions, except percentages):
 
 
 
Change vs.
 
Change in Organic
Sales(1) vs.
 
Three Months Ended March 31, 2018
 
Three Months Ended March 31, 2017
 
Three Months Ended March 31, 2017
United States
$
888.0

 
2.2
%
 
3.6
 %
Canada
85.8

 
0.9
%
 
2.4
 %
Europe, Middle East and Africa (EMEA)
340.6

 
13.2
%
 
(1.1
)%
Asia Pacific
218.9

 
10.3
%
 
4.2
 %
Latin America
117.9

 
16.6
%
 
16.2
 %
Total Sales
$
1,651.2

 
6.2
%
 
3.5
 %
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Change vs.
 
Change in Organic
Sales(1) vs.
 
Six Months Ended
March 31, 2018
 
Six Months Ended March 31, 2017
 
Six Months Ended March 31, 2017
United States
$
1,739.9

 
3.0
%
 
4.5
 %
Canada
177.8

 
6.0
%
 
6.9
 %
Europe, Middle East and Africa (EMEA)
648.0

 
13.3
%
 
1.8
 %
Asia Pacific
433.4

 
7.3
%
 
2.8
 %
Latin America
238.7

 
12.4
%
 
12.2
 %
Total sales
$
3,237.8

 
6.3
%
 
4.4
 %
(1) Organic sales and organic sales growth exclude the effect of changes in currency exchange rates, acquisitions and divestitures. See Supplemental Sales Information for information on this non-GAAP measure.

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Three and Six Months Ended March 31, 2018, Compared to Three and Six Months Ended March 31, 2017  
•
United States sales increased in the three and six months ended March 31, 2018, mainly due to strength in heavy industries, partially offset by weakness in automotive.
•
Sales in Canada increased year over year in the three and six months ended March 31, 2018, led by growth in heavy industries.
•
EMEA sales were down slightly year over year in the three months ended March 31, 2018, but increased in the six months ended March 31, 2018, with growth in both mature and emerging countries.
•
Sales in Asia Pacific increased in the three and six months ended March 31, 2018, led by China.
•
Latin America sales increased in the three and six months ended March 31, 2018, led by Mexico.
General Corporate - Net
General corporate - net expenses were $17.8 million and $34.0 million in the three and six months ended March 31, 2018, respectively, compared to $21.4 million and $36.3 million in the three and six months ended March 31, 2017, respectively.
Income before Income Taxes
Income before income taxes increased 30 percent and 22 percent year over year in the three and six months ended March 31, 2018, respectively. Total segment operating earnings increased 17 percent and 14 percent in the three and six months ended March 31, 2018, respectively. The increases in income before income taxes and total segment operating earnings were primarily due to higher sales.
Income Taxes
The effective tax rate for the three months ended March 31, 2018, was 24.1 percent compared to 17.7 percent for the three months ended March 31, 2017. Our Adjusted Effective Tax Rate for the three months ended March 31, 2018, was 20.5 percent compared to 19.2 percent for the three months ended March 31, 2017. The increase in the effective tax rate was primarily due to lower favorable discrete tax items in the current quarter and provisional tax charges related to the transition tax on the deemed repatriation of foreign earnings ($11.5 million or 3.8 percent), partially offset by the impact of the lower U.S. statutory rate under the Tax Act. The increase in the Adjusted Effective Tax Rate was primarily due to lower favorable discrete tax items in the current quarter, partially offset by the impact of the lower U.S. statutory tax rate under the Tax Act. Refer to Note 12 in the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements for further information regarding the effect of the enactment of the Tax Act on our financial condition and results of operations.
The effective tax rate for the six months ended March 31, 2018, was 101.5 percent compared to 17.2 percent for the six months ended March 31, 2017. Our Adjusted Effective Tax Rate for the six months ended March 31, 2018, was 19.7 percent compared to 18.6 percent for the six months ended March 31, 2017. The increase in the effective tax rate was due to provisional tax charges related to the transition tax on the deemed repatriation of foreign earnings ($397.0 million or 66.4 percent) and the revaluation of net deferred tax assets ($94.2 million or 15.8 percent) resulting from the Tax Act. The increase in the Adjusted Effective Tax Rate was primarily due to lower favorable discrete tax items in the current year, partially offset by the impact of the lower U.S. statutory tax rate under the Tax Act. Refer to Note 12 in the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements for further information regarding the effect of the enactment of the Tax Act on our financial condition and results of operations.

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Three and Six Months Ended March 31, 2018, Compared to Three and Six Months Ended March 31, 2017
Architecture & Software
 
 
Three Months Ended March 31,
 
Six Months Ended March 31,
(in millions, except percentages)
 
2018
 
2017
 
Change
 
2018
 
2017
 
Change
Sales
 
$
768.4

 
$
719.0

 
$
49.4

 
 
$
1,515.3

 
$
1,415.4

 
$
99.9

 
Segment operating earnings
 
218.2

 
190.6

 
27.6

 
 
442.8

 
399.2

 
43.6

 
Segment operating margin
 
28.4
%
 
26.5
%
 
1.9

pts
 
29.2
%
 
28.2
%
 
1.0

pts 
Sales
Architecture & Software sales increased 6.9 percent and 7.1 percent year over year in the three and six months ended March 31, 2018, respectively. Architecture & Software organic sales increased 2.5 percent and 3.5 percent in the three and six months ended March 31, 2018, respectively. Currency translation increased sales by 4.4 percentage points and 3.6 percentage points in the three and six months ended March 31, 2018, respectively.
Growth in both reported and organic sales was broad-based across most regions for the three and six months ended March 31, 2018. Latin America and Canada were the strongest performing organic growth regions in the three and six months ended March 31, 2018.
Logix sales increased 9 percent year over year in each of the three and six months ended March 31, 2018. Logix organic sales increased 5 percent year over year in each of the three and six months ended March 31, 2018, while currency translation increased Logix sales by 4 percentage points in each period.
Operating Margin
Architecture & Software segment operating earnings increased 14 percent and 11 percent year over year in the three and six months ended March 31, 2018, respectively. Segment operating margin increased to 28.4 percent and 29.2 percent in the three and six months ended March 31, 2018, respectively, from 26.5 percent and 28.2 percent a year ago, primarily due to higher sales.

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Three and Six Months Ended March 31, 2018, Compared to Three and Six Months Ended March 31, 2017
Control Products & Solutions
 
 
Three Months Ended March 31,
 
Six Months Ended March 31,
(in millions, except percentages)
 
2018
 
2017
 
Change
 
2018
 
2017
 
Change
Sales
 
$
882.8

 
$
835.3

 
$
47.5

 
 
$
1,722.5

 
$
1,629.2

 
$
93.3

 
Segment operating earnings
 
126.9

 
105.4

 
21.5

 
 
257.8

 
213.4

 
44.4

 
Segment operating margin
 
14.4
%
 
12.6
%
 
1.8

pts
 
15.0
%
 
13.1
%
 
1.9

pts 
Sales
Control Products & Solutions sales increased 5.7 percent year over year in each of the three and six months ended March 31, 2018. Organic sales increased 4.4 percent and 5.1 percent in the three and six months ended March 31, 2018, respectively. Currency translation increased sales by 3.6 percentage points and 2.9 percentage points in the three and six months ended March 31, 2018, respectively, and the prior year divestiture reduced sales growth by 2.3 percent in each of the three and six months ended March 31, 2018.
All regions, except Canada and EMEA, experienced reported and organic sales growth in the three months ended March 31, 2018. EMEA grew on a reported sales basis in the three months ended March 31, 2018. All regions, except Canada, experienced reported and organic sales growth in the six months ended March 31, 2018. U.S. and Latin America were the strongest organic growth regions in the three and six months ended March 31, 2018.
Product sales remained flat year over year in the three months ended March 31, 2018, and increased 1 percent in the six months ended March 31, 2018. Product organic sales increased 2 percent and 4 percent in the three and six months ended March 31, 2018, respectively. Currency translation increased sales by 3 percentage points in each of the three and six months ended March 31, 2018. The prior year divestiture reduced sales growth by 5 percentage points in each of the three and six months ended March 31, 2018.
Sales in our solutions and services businesses increased 10 percent and 9 percent in the three and six months ended March 31, 2018, respectively. Organic sales in our solutions and services business increased 6 percent in each of the three and six months ended March 31, 2018. Currency translation increased sales by 4 percentage points and 3 percentage points in the three and six months ended March 31, 2018, respectively.
Operating Margin
Control Products & Solutions segment operating earnings increased 20 percent and 21 percent year over year in the three and six months ended March 31, 2018, respectively. Segment operating margin increased to 14.4 percent and 15.0 percent in the three and six months ended March 31, 2018, respectively, compared to 12.6 percent and 13.1 percent a year ago, primarily due to higher sales.

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Financial Condition
The following is a summary of our cash flows from operating, investing and financing activities, as reflected in the Condensed Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows (in millions): 
 
Six Months Ended
March 31,
 
2018
 
2017
Cash provided by (used for):
 
 
 
Operating activities
$
594.1

 
$
611.8

Investing activities
503.3

 
(361.5
)
Financing activities
(1,103.4
)
 
(318.7
)
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash
29.0

 
(17.2
)
Cash provided by (used for) continuing operations
$
23.0

 
$
(85.6
)
The following table summarizes free cash flow (in millions), which is a non-GAAP financial measure:
 
Six Months Ended
March 31,
 
2018
 
2017
Cash provided by operating activities
$
594.1

 
$
611.8

Capital expenditures
(56.2
)
 
(67.4
)
Free cash flow
$
537.9

 
$
544.4

Our definition of free cash flow takes into consideration capital investments required to maintain our businesses' operations and execute our strategy. Cash provided by continuing operating activities adds back non-cash depreciation expense to earnings but does not reflect a charge for necessary capital expenditures. Our definition of free cash flow excludes the operating cash flows and capital expenditures related to our discontinued operations, if any. Operating, investing and financing cash flows of our discontinued operations, if any, are presented separately in our statement of cash flows. In our opinion, free cash flow provides useful information to investors regarding our ability to generate cash from business operations that is available for acquisitions and other investments, service of debt principal, dividends and share repurchases. We use free cash flow, as defined, as one measure to monitor and evaluate our performance, including as a financial measure for our annual incentive compensation. Our definition of free cash flow may differ from definitions used by other companies.
Cash provided by operating activities was $594.1 million for the six months ended March 31, 2018, compared to $611.8 million for the six months ended March 31, 2017. Free cash flow was $537.9 million for the six months ended March 31, 2018, compared to $544.4 million for the six months ended March 31, 2017. The year over year decreases in cash provided by operating activities and free cash flow were primarily due to higher incentive compensation and income tax payments in the first half of fiscal 2018 compared to the first half of fiscal 2017.
We repurchased approximately 3.6 million shares of our common stock under our share repurchase program in the first six months of 2018. The total cost of these shares was $673.6 million, of which $12.3 million was recorded in accounts payable at March 31, 2018, related to shares that did not settle until April 2018. We had no unsettled share repurchases outstanding at September 30, 2017. We repurchased approximately 1.3 million shares of our common stock in the first six months of 2017. The total cost of these shares was $186.0 million, of which $7.0 million was recorded in accounts payable at March 31, 2017, related to shares that did not settle until April 2017. We expect to repurchase $1.2 billion of our common stock during fiscal year 2018. Our decision to repurchase shares in the remainder of 2018 will depend on business conditions, free cash flow generation, other cash requirements (including acquisitions) and stock price. On January 15, 2018, the Board of Directors authorized us to expend an additional $1.0 billion to repurchase shares of our common stock. During the three months ended March 31, 2018, we exhausted all of the April 2016 $1.0 billion share repurchase authorization, and began repurchasing shares of our common stock under the new January 2018 $1.0 billion authorization. At March 31, 2018, we had approximately $934.8 million remaining for share repurchases under the $1.0 billion share repurchase authorization approved by the Board of Directors on January 15, 2018. See Part II, Item 2, Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds, for additional information regarding share repurchases.

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Financial Condition (continued)
We expect future uses of cash to include working capital requirements, capital expenditures, additional contributions to our retirement plans, acquisitions of businesses, dividends to shareowners, repurchases of common stock and repayments of debt. We expect to fund future uses of cash with a combination of existing cash balances and short-term investments, cash generated by operating activities, commercial paper borrowings or a new issuance of debt or other securities.
At September 30, 2017, substantially all of our cash, cash equivalents and investments (funds) were held by non-U.S. subsidiaries where our undistributed earnings were indefinitely reinvested. Due to the enactment of the Tax Act in the first quarter of fiscal 2018, our previously undistributed foreign earnings were subject to a transition tax of approximately $397.0 million. Accordingly, these funds will not be subject to further U.S. tax if repatriated. Refer to Note 12 in the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements for further information regarding the effect of the enactment of the Tax Act of on our financial condition and results of operations.
In the second quarter of 2018, we repatriated $876 million to the U.S. from our foreign subsidiaries.  The repatriated funds were primarily used to repay outstanding commercial paper.  The source of these funds was cash and cash equivalents and from the liquidation of short and long-term investments.  Withholding and other taxes due as a result of the repatriation of these funds are not material. We anticipate repatriating additional amounts over the remainder of the fiscal year. 
In addition to cash generated by operating activities, we have access to existing financing sources, including the public debt markets and unsecured credit facilities with various banks. Our short-term debt obligations are primarily comprised of commercial paper borrowings. Commercial paper borrowings outstanding were $308.0 million at March 31, 2018, with a weighted average interest rate of 2.00 percent and weighted average maturity period of 5 days. Commercial paper borrowings outstanding were $350.0 million at September 30, 2017, with a weighted average interest rate of 1.26 percent and weighted average maturity period of 10 days.
At March 31, 2018, and September 30, 2017, our total current borrowing capacity under our unsecured revolving credit facility expiring in March 2020 was $1.0 billion. We can increase the aggregate amount of this credit facility by up to $350.0 million, subject to the consent of the banks in the credit facility. We did not borrow against this credit facility during the six months ended March 31, 2018. Borrowings under this credit facility bear interest based on short-term money market rates in effect during the period the borrowings are outstanding. The terms of this credit facility contain covenants under which we agree to maintain an EBITDA-to-interest ratio of at least 3.0 to 1.0. The EBITDA-to-interest ratio is defined in an amendment to the credit facility as the ratio of consolidated EBITDA (as defined in the amendment) for the preceding four quarters to consolidated interest expense for the same period.
Separate short-term unsecured credit facilities of approximately $131.0 million at March 31, 2018, were available to non-U.S. subsidiaries. Borrowings under our non-U.S. credit facilities at March 31, 2018 and 2017 were not significant. We were in compliance with all covenants under our credit facilities at March 31, 2018 and 2017. There are no significant commitment fees or compensating balance requirements under our credit facilities.
Among other uses, we can draw on our credit facility as a standby liquidity facility to repay our outstanding commercial paper as it matures. This access to funds to repay maturing commercial paper is an important factor in maintaining the short-term credit ratings set forth in the table below. Under our current policy with respect to these ratings, we expect to limit our other borrowings under our credit facility, if any, to amounts that would leave enough credit available under the facility so that we could borrow, if needed, to repay all of our then outstanding commercial paper as it matures.
The following is a summary of our credit ratings as of March 31, 2018:
 
Credit Rating Agency
 
Short-Term Rating       
 
Long-Term Rating       
 
Outlook    
Standard & Poor’s
 
A-1
 
A
 
Stable
Moody’s
 
P-2
 
A3
 
Stable
Fitch Ratings
 
F1
 
A
 
Stable
Our ability to access the commercial paper market, and the related costs of these borrowings, is affected by the strength of our credit ratings and market conditions. We have not experienced any difficulty in accessing the commercial paper market to date. If our access to the commercial paper market is adversely affected due to a change in market conditions or otherwise, we would expect to rely on a combination of available cash and our unsecured committed credit facility to provide short-term funding. In such event, the cost of borrowings under our unsecured committed credit facility could be higher than the cost of commercial paper borrowings.

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Financial Condition (continued)
We regularly monitor the third-party depository institutions that hold our cash and cash equivalents and short-term investments. We diversify our cash and cash equivalents among counterparties to minimize exposure to any one of these entities. In February 2017, we began investing in investment-grade fixed income securities, including corporate debt and government obligations, to provide further diversification. Refer to Note 8 in the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements for further discussion of these investments. Our emphasis is primarily on safety and liquidity of principal and secondarily on maximizing yield on those funds.
We use foreign currency forward exchange contracts to manage certain foreign currency risks. We enter into these contracts to hedge our exposure to foreign currency exchange rate variability in the expected future cash flows associated with certain third-party and intercompany transactions denominated in foreign currencies forecasted to occur within the next two years. We also use these contracts to hedge portions of our net investments in certain non-U.S. subsidiaries against the effect of exchange rate fluctuations on the translation of foreign currency balances to the U.S. dollar. In addition, we use foreign currency forward exchange contracts that are not designated as hedges to offset transaction gains or losses associated with some of our assets and liabilities resulting from intercompany loans or other transactions with third parties that are denominated in currencies other than our entities' functional currencies. Our foreign currency forward exchange contracts are usually denominated in currencies of major industrial countries. We diversify our foreign currency forward exchange contracts among counterparties to minimize exposure to any one of these entities.
Net gains and losses related to derivative forward exchange contracts designated as cash flow hedges offset the related gains and losses on the hedged items during the periods in which the hedged items are recognized in earnings.  During the three and six months ended March 31, 2018, we reclassified $6.8 million and $12.0 million, respectively, in pre-tax net losses related to cash flow hedges from accumulated other comprehensive loss into the Condensed Consolidated Statement of Operations. During the three and six months ended March 31, 2017, we reclassified $1.3 million and $1.5 million, respectively, in pre-tax net gains related to cash flow hedges from accumulated other comprehensive loss into the Condensed Consolidated Statement of Operations. We expect that approximately $18.4 million of pre-tax net unrealized losses on cash flow hedges as of March 31, 2018, will be reclassified into earnings during the next 12 months.
Information with respect to our contractual cash obligations is contained in Item 7, Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations, of our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2017. We believe that at March 31, 2018, there has been no material change to this information, except regarding the repayment of our $250.0 million 5.65% notes and regarding the transition tax required by the Tax Act as discussed in Note 5 and Note 12, respectively, in the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.




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Supplemental Sales Information
We translate sales of subsidiaries operating outside of the United States using exchange rates effective during the respective period. Therefore, changes in currency exchange rates affect our reported sales. Sales by acquired businesses also affect our reported sales. We believe that organic sales, defined as sales excluding the effects of changes in currency exchange rates and acquisitions, which is a non-GAAP financial measure, provides useful information to investors because it reflects regional and operating segment performance from the activities of our businesses without the effect of changes in currency exchange rates and acquisitions. We use organic sales as one measure to monitor and evaluate our regional and operating segment performance. We determine the effect of changes in currency exchange rates by translating the respective period’s sales using the same currency exchange rates that were in effect during the prior year. When we acquire businesses, we exclude sales in the current period for which there are no comparable sales in the prior period. When we divest a business, we exclude sales in the prior period for which there are no comparable sales in the current period. Organic sales growth is calculated by comparing organic sales to reported sales in the prior year, excluding divestitures. We attribute sales to the geographic regions based on the country of destination.
The following is a reconciliation of our reported sales by geographic region to organic sales (in millions):
 
Three Months Ended March 31, 2018
 
Three Months Ended
March 31, 2017
 
Sales
 
Effect of
Changes in
Currency
 
Sales
Excluding
Effect of
Changes in
Currency
 
Effect of
Acquisitions
 
Organic Sales      
 
Sales
 
Effect of Divestitures
 
Sales Excluding Divestitures
United States
$
888.0

 
$
(0.6
)
 
$
887.4

 
$
—

 
$
887.4

 
$
868.7

 
$
(12.1
)
 
$
856.6

Canada
85.8

 
(3.8
)
 
82.0

 
—

 
82.0

 
85.0

 
(4.9
)
 
80.1

EMEA
340.6

 
(42.8
)
 
297.8

 
—

 
297.8

 
301.0

 
—

 
301.0

Asia Pacific
218.9

 
(12.1
)
 
206.8

 
—

 
206.8

 
198.5

 
—

 
198.5

Latin America
117.9

 
(2.5
)
 
115.4

 
—

 
115.4

 
101.1

 
(1.8
)
 
99.3

Total Company Sales
$
1,651.2

 
$
(61.8
)
 
$
1,589.4

 
$
—

 
$
1,589.4

 
$
1,554.3

 
$
(18.8
)
 
$
1,535.5

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Six Months Ended March 31, 2018
 
Six Months Ended
March 31, 2017
 
Sales
 
Effect of
Changes in
Currency
 
Sales
Excluding
Effect of
Changes in
Currency
 
Effect of
Acquisitions
 
Organic Sales      
 
Sales
 
Effect of Divestitures
 
Sales Excluding Divestitures
United States
$
1,739.9

 
$
(1.3
)
 
$
1,738.6

 
$
—

 
$
1,738.6

 
$
1,688.8

 
$
(24.4
)
 
$
1,664.4

Canada
177.8

 
(8.2
)
 
169.6

 
—

 
169.6

 
167.7

 
(9.0
)
 
158.7

EMEA
648.0

 
(66.2
)
 
581.8

 
—

 
581.8

 
571.7

 
—

 
571.7

Asia Pacific
433.4

 
(17.9
)
 
415.5

 
—

 
415.5

 
404.1

 
—

 
404.1

Latin America
238.7

 
(4.6
)
 
234.1

 
—

 
234.1

 
212.3

 
(3.6
)
 
208.7

Total Company Sales
$
3,237.8

 
$
(98.2
)
 
$
3,139.6

 
$
—

 
$
3,139.6

 
$
3,044.6

 
$
(37.0
)
 
$
3,007.6



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Supplemental Sales Information (continued)
The following is a reconciliation of our reported sales by operating segment to organic sales (in millions): 
 
Three Months Ended March 31, 2018
 
Three Months Ended
March 31, 2017
 
Sales
 
Effect of
Changes in
Currency
 
Sales
Excluding
Effect of
Changes in
Currency
 
Effect of
Acquisitions
 
Organic Sales      
 
Sales
 
Effect of Divestitures
 
Sales Excluding Divestitures
Architecture & Software
$
768.4

 
$
(31.6
)
 
$
736.8

 
$
—

 
$
736.8

 
$
719.0

 
$
—

 
$
719.0

Control Products & Solutions
882.8

 
(30.2
)
 
852.6

 
—

 
852.6

 
835.3

 
(18.8
)
 
816.5

Total Company Sales
$
1,651.2

 
$
(61.8
)
 
$
1,589.4

 
$
—

 
$
1,589.4

 
$
1,554.3

 
$
(18.8
)
 
$
1,535.5

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Six Months Ended March 31, 2018
 
Six Months Ended
March 31, 2017
 
Sales
 
Effect of
Changes in
Currency
 
Sales
Excluding
Effect of
Changes in
Currency
 
Effect of
Acquisitions
 
Organic Sales      
 
Sales
 
Effect of Divestitures
 
Sales Excluding Divestitures
Architecture & Software
$
1,515.3

 
$
(49.8
)
 
$
1,465.5

 
$
—

 
$
1,465.5

 
$
1,415.4

 
$
—

 
$
1,415.4

Control Products & Solutions
1,722.5

 
(48.4
)
 
1,674.1

 
—

 
1,674.1

 
1,629.2

 
(37.0
)
 
1,592.2

Total Company Sales
$
3,237.8

 
$
(98.2
)
 
$
3,139.6

 
$
—

 
$
3,139.6

 
$
3,044.6

 
$
(37.0
)
 
$
3,007.6


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Critical Accounting Estimates
We have prepared the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States, which require us to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities at the date of the consolidated financial statements and revenues and expenses during the periods reported. These estimates are based on our best judgment about current and future conditions, but actual results could differ from those estimates. Information with respect to accounting estimates that are the most critical to the understanding of our financial statements as they could have the most significant effect on our reported results and require subjective or complex judgments by management is contained in Item 7, Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations, of our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2017. We believe that at March 31, 2018, there has been no material change to this information, except regarding the critical estimates involved in our accounting for the Tax Act as discussed in Note 12 in the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.
Environmental Matters
Information with respect to the effect of compliance with environmental protection requirements and resolution of environmental claims on us and our manufacturing operations is contained in Note 15 in the Consolidated Financial Statements in Item 8, Financial Statements and Supplementary Data, of our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2017. We believe that at March 31, 2018, there has been no material change to this information.
Recent Accounting Pronouncements
See Note 1 in the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements regarding recent accounting pronouncements.

Item 3. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk
Information with respect to our exposure to interest rate risk and foreign currency risk is contained in Item 7A, Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk, of our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2017. We believe that at March 31, 2018, there has been no material change to this information.
Item 4. Controls and Procedures
Disclosure Controls and Procedures: We, with the participation of our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, have evaluated the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures (as such term is defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (Exchange Act)) as of the end of the fiscal quarter covered by this report. Based on that evaluation, our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer have concluded that, as of the end of the fiscal quarter covered by this report, our disclosure controls and procedures were effective.
Internal Control Over Financial Reporting: There has not been any change in our internal control over financial reporting (as such term is defined in Exchange Act Rule 13a-15(f)) during the fiscal quarter to which this report relates that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting. In connection with our adoption of the new revenue recognition standard in the first quarter of fiscal 2019, we have implemented additional functionality within our enterprise-wide information technology system during the second quarter of fiscal 2018. Though no changes were required to our enterprise-wide general information technology controls, key automated controls have been implemented and manual review controls have been enhanced to address the module's specific functionality. Additional enhancements and modifications to internal controls over financial reporting could be required during the remainder of fiscal 2018.



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PART II. OTHER INFORMATION
Item 1. Legal Proceedings
Information with respect to our legal proceedings is contained in Item 3, Legal Proceedings, of our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2017. We believe that at March 31, 2018, there has been no material change to this information.
Item 1A. Risk Factors
Information about our most significant risk factors is contained in Item 1A, Risk Factors, of our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2017. We believe that at March 31, 2018, there has been no material change to this information.
 

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Item 2. Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds
Share Repurchases
The table below sets forth information with respect to purchases made by or on behalf of us of shares of our common stock during the three months ended March 31, 2018: 
Period
 
Total Number of Shares Purchased(1)
 
Average Price Paid Per Share(2)
 
Total Number of Shares Purchased as Part of Publicly Announced Plans or Programs
 
Maximum Approx. Dollar Value of Shares that May Yet Be Purchased Under the Plans or Programs(3)
January 1 - 31, 2018
 
319,450

 
$
201.01

 
317,566

 
$
1,335,981,099

February 1 - 28, 2018
 
959,821

 
187.19

 
959,446

 
1,156,380,533

March 1 - 31, 2018
 
1,230,000

 
180.11

 
1,230,000

 
934,847,766

Total
 
2,509,271

 
185.48

 
2,507,012

 
 

(1)
All of the shares purchased during the quarter ended March 31, 2018 were acquired pursuant to the repurchase programs described in (3) below, except for 2,259 shares that were acquired in January and February in connection with stock swap exercises of employee stock options.
(2)
Average price paid per share includes brokerage commissions.
(3)
On April 6, 2016, the Board of Directors approved a $1.0 billion share repurchase program, which was exhausted during the quarter ended March 31, 2018. On January 15, 2018, the Board of Directors authorized us to expend an additional $1.0 billion to repurchase shares of our common stock. Our repurchase program allows us to repurchase shares at management's discretion or at our broker’s discretion pursuant to a share repurchase plan subject to price and volume parameters.


 

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Table of Contents
ROCKWELL AUTOMATION, INC.


Item 6. Exhibits
(a) Exhibits:
 
 
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Exhibit 101
 
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Interactive Data Files.


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SIGNATURES
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.
 
 
 
 
ROCKWELL AUTOMATION, INC.
(Registrant)
 
 
 
 
Date:
May 2, 2018
 
By
 
/s/ PATRICK P. GORIS
 
 
 
 
 
Patrick P. Goris
Senior Vice President and
Chief Financial Officer
(Principal Financial Officer)
Date:
May 2, 2018
 
By
 
/s/ DAVID M. DORGAN
 
 
 
 
 
David M. Dorgan
Vice President and Controller
(Principal Accounting Officer)

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