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Applied Materials

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FY2014 Annual Report · Applied Materials
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annual report

FOLLOW US ONLINE AT:

WEBSITE: 

APPLIEDMATERIALS.COM

BLOG: 

BLOG.AMAT.COM

APPLIED VENTURES, LLC: 

APPLIEDMATERIALS.COM/ABOUT/VENTURES

Dear Fellow  Stockholders,

This is a period of reinvigorated innovation and growth in 
the electronic sector. Unprecedented technology advances 
provide tremendous opportunities for Applied Materials 
to create value for you, our stockholders, by extending 
our technology leadership and growing the company.  
We are uniquely positioned to apply our capabilities in 
precision materials engineering to enable our customers 
and outperform our markets.  In 2014, we grew sales in 
our semiconductor business by 25 percent and expanded 
our overall operating margins significantly.  These results 
reflect ongoing technology and capacity investments by 
our semiconductor and display customers, sustainable 
market share gains in growing markets, as well as 
significant improvements in our execution, efficiency and 
costs that we achieved while increasing investment in new 
product development.

 A FOUNDATION FOR LONG-TERM  
PROFITABLE GROWTH

Over the past two years, we have placed Applied on a 
trajectory of long-term profitable growth and improving 
financial performance.  The progress we are making 
towards our strategic and financial goals is made possible 
by strong support from our stockholders and outstanding 
contributions from our employees around the world.  We 
are fortunate to have a team that shares a passion to 
create value for customers and investors. 

In 2013, we aligned the business around our Precision 
Materials Engineering strategy, and took steps to shape a 
more competitive Company.

•  We increased our focus on areas that have the biggest 
impact for customers and generate the best returns  
for Applied. 

•  We shifted spending from low growth businesses  
and corporate expense to field resources and  
product development. 

•  We built a stronger organization, bringing in top 

industry talent, strengthening our business processes 
for repeatable success, and changing our structure to 
improve alignment and speed. 

•  We increased our market share, with 1.4 points of 

overall gains in calendar 2013.

•  And we invested in a pipeline of new products to 
enable customers’ road maps and drive long-term 
growth for Applied.

In 2014, we accelerated this strategy, and made strong 
progress towards our financial model. Our semiconductor 
business posted the highest revenue since fiscal 2007 and, 
for the calendar year, we expect to gain share or hold share 
in almost all of our businesses. We anticipate our largest 
gains in areas of the market that are growing the fastest. In 
Chemical Vapor Deposition (CVD), we believe we will win 
at least 3 points of share this past year, while in Etch we 
delivered nearly 2.5 times the sales achieved in 2012. These 
results demonstrate that Applied has the right strategy and 
the right team, and that we are improving execution and 
carrying strong momentum into 2015. 

Our merger with Tokyo Electron Limited will enable us 
to further accelerate this strategy.  Stockholders of both 
companies approved the merger in June and we are 
working to secure the remaining regulatory approvals as 
soon as possible to form a new combined company called 
Eteris.  Eteris will bring together complementary leading 
technologies and products to build an expanded set of 
capabilities in Precision Materials Engineering to solve  
our customers’ high-value problems better, faster and at 
lower cost. 

ACCELERATING MOMENTUM INTO 2015

As we look to 2015 and beyond, we see a market 
environment with expanded opportunities. Evolving trends 
in mobility and connectivity are driving industry growth and 
accelerating innovation in mobile chips, solid state storage 
and interactive displays.  

Global appetite for new and better mobile devices, with 
more features and longer battery life, fueled growth in 
wafer fabrication equipment spending in 2014, and our 
current view is that investment levels will be higher still 
in 2015.  In recent years, the foundries have been the 
biggest component of industry investment, building new 
factories to fulfill demand for advanced mobile chips and 
racing to introduce new technology that enables devices 
with higher performance and lower power consumption. 
This is very positive for Applied, as we have our strongest 
share positions at these customers and continue to make 
gains.  For foundries, the technology leadership battle is 
intensifying and we anticipate strong investment from 
customers in the coming years as they focus on winning 
the critical transition from planar 2D transistors to new 3D 
“FinFET” devices.

a p p l i e d   m at e r i a l s   2 0 1 4

a n n u a l   r e p o r t 

Mobility and cloud computing also drive increased demand 
for memory.  Memory manufacturers are investing more 
to meet consumer demand for mobile DRAM, and 2014 
was a year of strong investment in NAND – the two most 
common forms of advanced semiconductor memory.  
While the bulk of NAND capacity additions were focused 
on extending 2D technology, we saw initial investments  
in 3D NAND and we expect this spending to be broader  
and larger in 2015 as more customers introduce this  
next-generation technology.  The transition from  
2D memory to 3D materials-enabled devices is also very 
positive for Applied, expanding our available market by  
35 to 50 percent.

Through fiscal 2014, wafer starts and fab utilization 
increased and, as customers aggressively push factory 
output, we see expanded opportunities for our service 
business. We are building our capabilities in areas that help 
customers ramp complex new device technologies faster 
and at lower cost.  Our service organization is building 
momentum, and in fiscal 2014, delivered the highest orders 
and the highest operating margins since 2007.

The outlook for the display equipment market also  
remains very healthy. Attractive price points for Ultra High 
Definition ’4K’ TVs are driving a new TV refresh cycle,  
while average screen sizes are growing about twice as 
fast as historic rates. Demand for higher resolution, lower 
powered screens for mobile devices is also a key factor in 
display, and we are seeing strong orders for new technology. 
Our fourth quarter 2014 display revenues were at a  
three-year high, and we believe we are gaining share in our 
served available market. 

Deposition group delivered its highest annual revenues and 
operating margins since 2000, and we believe our Implant 
group is on track to reach its highest ever market share. 

In logic and memory, the acceleration of materials-enabled 
scaling is a major driver for Etch and Deposition. These are 
large growth opportunities for Applied Materials, where 
we are building strong momentum and gaining share. Our 
combined revenues in Etch and CVD grew by almost 50 
percent in calendar 2014 and we see strong customer pull 
for our next-generation technologies. 

DELIVERING STRONG RESULTS,  
OPENING NEW OPPORTUNITIES

For Applied Materials, fiscal 2014 was a year when we 
grew faster than our markets, and made significant progress 
towards our strategic and financial goals. We accelerated 
our product momentum, and strengthened the organization 
in key areas.  

As we look to the future, we see great opportunities as 
we are uniquely positioned to apply our differentiated 
capabilities in precision materials engineering to enable 
major technology transitions. We are only at the beginning 
of these inflections. The ramps in FinFET, 3D NAND and 
new display technology will be the next of multiple waves of 
investment by customers.

Our strategy is delivering results, and in order to fully 
capitalize on the great opportunities ahead, we remain 
highly focused on improving execution while driving 
alignment, speed and scale across the organization as we 
prepare to merge and form Eteris.

NEW TECHNOLOGY TRANSITIONS PLAY TO  
OUR STRENGTHS

Sincerely,

In both semiconductor and display, major changes in device 
technology provide a catalyst for our growth. FinFET and 
3D NAND represent the biggest technology transitions 
in decades and provide new opportunities for us. These 
complex inflections are enabled by materials innovation 
that plays directly to the core strengths of Applied 
Materials. These transitions create new precision materials 
engineering steps, expand our available market, and fuel 
demand for our leadership products that enable the latest 
transistor and interconnect devices. For example, our Epi 
business posted record sales in fiscal 2014,  our Metal 

a p p l i e d   m at e r i a l s   2 0 1 4

a n n u a l   r e p o r t 

Michael R. Splinter

Executive Chairman

December 31, 2014

Gary E. Dickerson

President and  

Chief Executive Officer

This Annual Report contains forward-looking statements, which are all statements other than those of historical fact, and actual results 

could differ materially.  Risk factors that could cause actual results to differ are set forth in the “Risk Factors” section of, and elsewhere 

in, our 2014 Form 10-K included in this report.  All forward-looking statements are based on management’s estimates, projections and 

assumptions as of the date hereof, and Applied Materials undertakes no obligation to update any such statements.

S TO C K H O L D E R S ’   I N F O R M AT I O N

INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM
KPMG LLP
Santa Clara, California

NUMBER OF REGISTERED STOCKHOLDERS
3,408 (as of December 12, 2014)

STOCK LISTING
Applied Materials, Inc. is traded on The NASDAQ 
Global Select Market®
NASDAQ Symbol: AMAT

TRANSFER AGENT
Mail correspondence to:
Computershare
Stockholder Services
P.O. Box 30170
College Station, TX 77842-3170

Send overnight correspondence to:
Computershare 
211 Quality Circle, Suite 210
College Station, TX 77845 

Online inquiries:
www-us.computershare.com/investor/Contact 

Tel: (312) 360–5186 or (877) 388–5186
Fax: (312) 601–4348

INVESTOR CONTACT
Investor Relations
Applied Materials, Inc.
3050 Bowers Avenue
P.O. Box 58039, M/S 1261
Santa Clara, California 95052–8039
Tel: (408) 748–5227 or (800) 882–0373
Fax: (408) 563–4606
Email: investor_relations@amat.com

CORPORATE HEADQUARTERS
Applied Materials, Inc.
3050 Bowers Avenue
Santa Clara, California 95054–3299

MAILING ADDRESS AND TELEPHONE
Applied Materials, Inc.
3050 Bowers Avenue
P.O. Box 58039
Santa Clara, California 95052–8039
Tel: (408) 727–5555

CORPORATE WEB SITE
Additional information can be found at  
www.appliedmaterials.com

a p p l i e d   m at e r i a l s   2 0 1 4

a n n u a l   r e p o r t 

 
[THIS PAGE INTENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK]

UNITED STATES SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
Form 10-K

(Mark one)

ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES
EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

For the fiscal year ended October 26, 2014 

or

TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES
EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

For the transition period from                     to                     

Commission file number 000-06920
Applied Materials, Inc.

(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

Delaware
(State or other jurisdiction of
incorporation or organization)
3050 Bowers Avenue, P.O. Box 58039
Santa Clara, California
(Address of principal executive offices)

94-1655526
(I.R.S. Employer
Identification No.)

95052-8039
(Zip Code)

Registrant’s telephone number, including area code:
(408) 727-5555
Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:

Title of Each Class
Common Stock, par value $.01 per share

Name of Each Exchange on Which Registered
The NASDAQ Stock Market LLC

Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act:
None

Indicate  by  check  mark  if  the  registrant  is  a  well-known  seasoned  issuer,  as  defined  in  Rule 405  of  the  Securities 

Act.    Yes  

        No  

Indicate  by  check  mark  if  the  registrant  is  not  required  to  file  reports  pursuant  to  Section 13  or  Section 15(d)  of  the 

Act.    Yes  

        No  

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 (§232.405 of this chapter) during the 
preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files).    Yes  

        No  

Indicate by check mark if disclosure of delinquent filers pursuant to Item 405 of Regulation S-K (§229.405 of this chapter) is 
not contained herein, and will not be contained, to the best of registrant’s knowledge, in definitive proxy or information statements 
incorporated by reference in Part III of this Form 10-K or any amendment to this Form 10-K.    

 Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, or a smaller 
reporting company. See the definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer” and “smaller reporting company” in Rule 12b-2 
of the Exchange Act.

Large accelerated filer 

Accelerated filer 

Non-accelerated filer 

(Do not check if a smaller reporting company)

Smaller reporting company 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Act).    Yes  
Aggregate market value of the voting stock held by non-affiliates of the registrant as of April 27, 2014, based upon the closing 

        No  

sale price reported by the NASDAQ Global Select Market on that date: $22,617,248,500 

Number of shares outstanding of the registrant’s Common Stock, $.01 par value, as of December 12, 2014: 1,221,471,983 
DOCUMENTS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE:
Portions of Part III will be provided in accordance with Instruction G(3) to Form 10-K no later than February 23, 2015.

Caution Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

This Annual Report on Form 10-K (report or Form 10-K) of Applied Materials, Inc. and its subsidiaries (Applied or the 
Company),  including  “Management’s  Discussion  and Analysis  of  Financial  Condition  and  Results  of  Operations”  in  Item 7, 
contains forward-looking statements that involve risks and uncertainties.

Examples of forward-looking statements include those regarding Applied’s future financial or operating results, cash flows 
and cash deployment strategies, declaration of dividends, share repurchases, business strategies and priorities, costs and cost 
controls, products, competitive positions, management's plans and objectives for future operations, research and development, 
strategic acquisitions and investments, the proposed business combination with Tokyo Electron Limited, growth opportunities, 
restructuring activities, backlog, working capital, liquidity, investment portfolio and policies, taxes, supply chain, manufacturing, 
properties,  legal  proceedings  and  claims,    customer  demand  and  spending,  end-use  demand,  market  and  industry  trends  and 
outlooks, general economic conditions, and other statements that are not historical facts, as well as their underlying assumptions. 
Forward-looking statements may contain words such as “may,” “will,” “should,” “could,” “would,” “expect,” “plan,” “anticipate,” 
“believe,” “estimate,” “potential” and “continue,” the negative of these terms, or other comparable terminology. All forward-
looking statements are subject to risks and uncertainties and other important factors, including those discussed in Part I, Item 1A, 
“Risk Factors,” below and elsewhere in this report.  These and many other factors could affect Applied’s future financial condition 
and operating results and could cause actual results to differ materially from expectations based on forward-looking statements 
made in this document or elsewhere by Applied or on its behalf. Forward-looking statements are based on management’s estimates, 
projections and expectations as of the date hereof, and Applied undertakes no obligation to revise or update any such statements.

The following information should be read in conjunction with the Consolidated Financial Statements and the accompanying 

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements included in this report.

2

APPLIED MATERIALS, INC.

FORM 10-K FOR THE FISCAL YEAR ENDED OCTOBER 26, 2014

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Item 1:

Item 1A:

Item 1B:

Item 2:

Item 3:

Item 4:

Item 5:

Item 6:

Item 7:

Item 7A:

Item 8:

Item 9:

Item 9A:

Item 9B:

Item 10:

Item 11:

Item 12:

Item 13:

Item 14:

Item 15:

PART I
Business. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Risk Factors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Unresolved Staff Comments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Properties. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Legal Proceedings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Mine Safety Disclosures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

PART II

Market for Registrant’s Common Equity, Related Stockholder Matters and Issuer Purchases of Equity 
Securities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Selected Financial Data . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations . . . . . . . . . .
Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Financial Statements and Supplementary Data . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Changes in and Disagreements with Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure . . . . . . . . . .
Controls and Procedures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Other Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

PART III
Directors, Executive Officers and Corporate Governance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Executive Compensation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related Stockholder Matters .
Certain Relationships and Related Transactions, and Director Independence . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Principal Accounting Fees and Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Page

4

18

28

29

30

30

30

32

33

58

58

58

59

59

60

60

60

62

62

PART IV
Exhibits, Financial Statement Schedules. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Signatures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

63

120

3

 
 
 
Item 1: 

Business

PART I

Incorporated in 1967, Applied, a Delaware corporation, provides manufacturing equipment, services and software to the 
global semiconductor, flat panel display, solar photovoltaic (PV) and related industries. Applied’s customers include manufacturers 
of semiconductor wafers and chips, flat panel liquid crystal and other displays, solar PV cells and modules, and other electronic 
devices. These customers may use what they manufacture in their own end products or sell the items to other companies for use 
in advanced electronic components. Applied’s fiscal year ends on the last Sunday in October.

Applied operates in four reportable segments: Silicon Systems Group, Applied Global Services, Display, and Energy and 
Environmental Solutions. Applied manages its business based upon these segments. A summary of financial information for each 
reportable segment is found in Note 16 of Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements. A discussion of factors that could affect 
operations is set forth under “Risk Factors” in Item 1A, which is incorporated herein by reference.

Net sales by reportable segment for the past three fiscal years were as follows:

2014

2013

2012

Silicon Systems Group . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Applied Global Services. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Display . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Energy and Environmental Solutions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Total . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $

Silicon Systems Group Segment

5,978

2,200

615

279

66%

24%

7%

3%

(In millions, except percentages)
$

4,775

64%

$

2,023

27%

538

173

7%

2%

5,536

2,285

473

425

64%

26%

5%

5%

9,072

100% $

7,509

100% $

8,719

100%

The  Silicon  Systems  Group  segment  develops,  manufactures  and  sells  manufacturing  equipment  used  to  fabricate 
semiconductor chips, also referred to as integrated circuits (ICs). Most chips are built on a silicon wafer base and include a variety 
of circuit components, such as transistors and other devices, that are connected by multiple layers of wiring (interconnects). Applied 
offers systems that perform various processes used in chip fabrication, including chemical vapor deposition (CVD), physical vapor 
deposition (PVD), etch, electrochemical deposition (ECD), rapid thermal processing (RTP), ion implantation, chemical mechanical 
planarization (CMP), epitaxy (Epi), wet cleaning, atomic layer deposition (ALD), wafer metrology and inspection, and systems 
that etch or inspect circuit patterns on masks used in the photolithography process. Applied’s semiconductor manufacturing systems 
are used by integrated device manufacturers and foundries to build and package memory, logic and other types of chips.

The majority of the Company's new equipment sales are for leading-edge technology for advanced 2X nanometer (nm) 
nodes and smaller dimensions. To build a chip, the transistors, capacitors and other circuit components are first created on the 
surface of the wafer by performing a series of processes to deposit and selectively remove portions of successive film layers. 
Similar processes are then used to build the layers of wiring structures on the wafer. As the density of the circuit components 
increases to enable greater computing capability in the same or smaller physical area, the complexity of building the chip also 
increases, necessitating more process steps to form smaller transistor structures and more intricate wiring schemes. Advanced chip 
designs require more than 500 steps involving these and other processes to complete the manufacturing cycle.

4

 
 
 
Today's advanced interconnects are made using copper as the main wiring material. Copper has low resistance and can carry 
a large amount of current in a small area, which allows signals to travel quickly. Applied is a leading supplier of systems for 
manufacturing  copper-based  interconnects,  including  equipment  for  depositing,  etching  and  planarizing  these  multi-layer 
structures.

To increase the speed of interconnect signals even further, low dielectric constant (low k) films are used to insulate the copper 
wiring. Applied provides systems for depositing low k dielectric films that enable higher device performance and longer battery 
life. 

The transistor is another key area of the chip where semiconductor manufacturers are improving their device designs to 
enhance  performance. Applied  has  technically-advanced  products  for  building  smaller  and  faster  transistors.  One  method  of 
enhancing chip performance is strain engineering, a technique that stretches or compresses the space between atoms, allowing 
electrical current to flow more quickly. Multiple strain films are typically used in advanced devices since they have an additive 
effect  on  increasing  transistor  speed. Applied  has  systems  to  enable  these  applications  using  CVD  and  epitaxial  deposition 
technologies.

Major chipmakers are integrating high dielectric constant (high-k) and metal materials and processes in their transistor gate 
structures to increase chip performance and reduce power consumption. Applied has fully characterized processes for building 
these high-k/metal gates. These solutions include an integrated gate stack tool that combines multiple critical steps in a single 
system, including a portfolio of metallization technologies using CVD, ALD and PVD processes.

To address the need for higher performance in a smaller space driven by new consumer products, a new type of chip packaging 
at wafer level is emerging, which enables three-dimensional (3D) ICs. Providing greater functionality in a smaller footprint, 3D 
ICs stack multiple chips together and electrically connect them using deep holes, called through-silicon via (TSV) structures. 
Applied has production-proven systems and processes required for advanced packaging, including etch, CVD, PVD, ECD, wafer 
cleaning and CMP systems. 

Most of Applied’s semiconductor equipment products are single-wafer systems with multiple process chambers attached to 
a base platform. This enables each wafer to be processed separately in its own environment, allowing precise process control, 
while the system’s multiple chambers enable simultaneous, high productivity manufacturing. Applied sells most of its single-
wafer,  multi-chamber  systems  on  eight  basic  platforms:  the  Endura®,,  Centura®,  Producer®,  CentrisTM,  Reflection®,  Raider®, 
VIISta® and Vantage® platforms. These platforms support ALD, CVD, ECD, PVD, etch, ion implantation, and RTP technologies.

Over time, the semiconductor industry has migrated to increasingly larger wafers to build chips. The predominant or common 
wafer size used today for volume production of advanced chips is 300 millimeter (mm), or 12-inch, wafers. Applied offers 300mm 
systems through its Silicon Systems Group segment. In addition, Applied offers earlier-generation 200mm systems, as well as 
products and services to support all of its systems, which are reported under its Applied Global Services segment.

The following discusses in more detail the portfolio of products and their associated process technology areas reported under 

the Silicon Systems Group segment.

Deposition

Deposition is a fundamental step in fabricating a chip. During deposition, layers of dielectric (an insulator), barrier, or 
electrically conductive (typically metal) films are deposited or grown on a wafer. Applied provides equipment to perform four 
types of deposition: ALD, CVD, ECD and PVD. In addition, Applied’s RTP systems can be used to perform certain types of 
dielectric deposition.

Atomic Layer Deposition

ALD is an advanced technology in which atoms are deposited one layer at a time to build chip structures. This technology 
enables customers to fabricate thin films of either conducting or insulating material with uniform coverage in nanometer-sized 
structures. One of the most critical areas of the transistor is its gate, which is built by depositing layers of dielectric films. At the 
22nm node and below, these film layers are so thin that they must be atomically engineered. The Applied Centura Integrated Gate 
Stack system features advanced ALD technology that builds ultrathin high-k film layers less than 2nm in thickness.

5

 
Chemical Vapor Deposition

CVD is used to deposit dielectric and metal films on a wafer. During the CVD process, gases that contain atoms of the 
material to be deposited react on the wafer surface, forming a thin film of solid material. Films deposited by CVD may be silicon 
oxide, single-crystal epitaxial silicon, amorphous silicon, silicon nitride, dielectric anti-reflective coatings, low k dielectric (for 
highly-efficient insulating materials), aluminum, titanium, titanium nitride, polysilicon, tungsten, refractory metals or silicides. 
Applied offers the following CVD products and technologies:

The Applied Producer CVD platform — The Producer high-throughput platform features Twin-Chamber® modules 
that have two single-wafer process chambers per unit. Up to three Twin-Chamber modules can be mounted on each Producer 
platform, giving it a simultaneous processing capacity of six wafers. Many dielectric CVD processes can be performed on this 
platform. The highest productivity model of this system is the Applied Producer GT, which features fast wafer handling performance 
and compact design.

Low  k  Dielectric  Films —  Low  k  dielectric  materials  are  used  in  copper-based  chip  designs  to  further  improve 
interconnect speed. Using conventional CVD equipment, the Applied Producer Black Diamond® family of low k systems provides 
customers  with  a  proven,  cost-effective  way  to  integrate  a  variety  of  low  k  films  into  advanced  interconnect  structures. The 
Company's latest third-generation low k technologies are featured on the Applied Producer Black Diamond 3 system and Applied 
Producer Nanocure 3 system. In addition, the Company offers its Applied Producer OnyxTM process, an innovative film treatment 
that optimizes the molecular structure of low k films. Together, these products are designed to enable smaller, higher performance 
and more power-efficient devices at 22nm and below.

Lithography-Enabling Solutions — Applied offers several technologies on the Producer system to help chipmakers 
extend their current 193nm lithography tools, including a line of Applied APF® (advanced patterning film) films and Applied 
DARC® (dielectric anti-reflective coating) films. Together, they provide a film stack with the precise dimensional control and 
compatibility needed to cost-effectively pattern nano-scale features without additional integration complexity.

Gap Fill Films — There are many steps during the chipmaking process in which extremely small and deep, or high 
aspect ratio (HAR), structures must be filled void-free with a dielectric film. Many of these applications include the deposition of 
silicon oxides in substrate isolation structures, contacts and interconnects. Applied's most advanced gap fill system is its Applied 
Producer Eterna™ FCVD™ system. Targeted for 20nm and below chips, the Eterna system delivers a liquid-like film that flows 
freely into virtually any structure to provide void-free dielectric fill.

Strain  Engineering  Solutions — The Applied  Producer  HARP™  system  plays  a  key  role  in  enhancing  transistor 
performance, enabling chipmakers to boost chip speed by depositing strain-inducing dielectric films. Offering the industry’s first 
integrated stress nitride deposition and ultraviolet (UV) cure solution, the Applied Producer Celera CVD delivers benchmark levels 
of high-stress tensile silicon nitride films. The Company also offers the Applied Centura SiNgenPlus low pressure CVD system 
for low temperature silicon nitride films. Used together, and in conjunction with silicon germanium (SiGe) films using Applied’s 
epitaxial deposition technologies, these systems can provide additive strain engineering benefits.

Through-Silicon Via Films — Applied offers products for TSV fabrication, including the Applied Producer InVia™ 
system. This product uses an innovative process to deposit the critical oxide liner film layer in HAR TSV structures, enabling 
robust electrical isolation of the TSV, which is vital for reliable device performance. For applications where higher temperatures 
can damage the manufacturing process, the Applied Producer Avila™ CVD system and Applied Producer OptivaTM CVD system 
allow high-quality dielectric film deposition at stable substrate temperatures.

3D NAND and FinFET Films — 3D NAND requires deposition technology for vertical gate formation and complex 
patterning  applications. Applied  offers  products  for  FinFET  and  3D  NAND  fabrication,  including  the Applied  Producer  XP 
PrecisionTM CVD system released in 2014, which addresses the deposition challenges presented by vertical 3D architectures. 
Designed for high-volume manufacturing, the XP Precision system combines production-proven Producer CVD technology with 
more efficient, faster processing chamber technology.

Copper Interconnect Encapsulation Solutions — In 2014, Applied introduced its Endura VoltaTM CVD Cobalt system 
for encapsulating copper interconnects in logic chips smaller than the 28nm node. The system deposits a conformal cobalt liner 
and selective cobalt capping layer to provide complete enclosure of copper lines, improving reliability while reducing yield-
limiting issues. 

6

 
Epitaxial Deposition — Epitaxial silicon (epitaxy or epi) is a layer of pure silicon grown in a uniform crystalline 
structure on the wafer to form a high quality base for the device circuitry. Epi technology is used in an increasing number of IC 
devices in both the wafer substrate and transistor areas of a chip to enhance speed. The Applied Centura Epi system integrates 
pre- and post-epi processes on the same system to improve film quality and reduce production costs. This system is also used for 
SiGe epi technology, which reduces power usage and increases speed in certain types of advanced chips. For emerging transistor 
designs, the Applied Centura RP Epi system offers selective epi processes to enable faster transistor switching through strain 
engineering techniques.

Polysilicon Deposition — Polysilicon is a type of silicon used to form portions of the transistor structure within the 
IC device. The Applied Centura Polygen™ LPCVD system is a single-wafer, multi-chamber product that deposits thin polysilicon 
films at high temperatures to create transistor gate structures. To address the challenging requirements of shrinking gate dimensions, 
the Applied  Centura  DPN  Gate  Stack  system  integrates  chambers  for  decoupled  plasma  nitridation  (DPN),  RTP  anneal,  and 
polysilicon deposition on one platform to enable superior film quality and material properties.

Tungsten Deposition — Tungsten is used in the contact area of a chip that connects the transistors to the wiring circuitry. 
In aluminum-based devices, tungsten is also used in the structures that connect the multiple layers of aluminum wiring. Applied 
has two products for depositing tungsten: the Applied Centura Sprint® Tungsten CVD system and the Applied Centura iSprint® 
ALD/CVD system which provide tungsten filling capability to 20nm and below.

Electrochemical Deposition

ECD is a process by which metal atoms from a chemical fluid (an electrolyte) are deposited on the surface of an immersed 
object. One application is to deposit copper in interconnect wiring structures. This process step follows the deposition of barrier 
and seed layers that prevent the copper from contaminating other areas of the device, improve the adhesion of the copper film and 
enable electrodeposition to occur. Another application is wafer level packaging for deposition of copper to fill TSV 3D chip-to-
chip connections. Applied offers special configurations of the Applied Raider system for these ECD applications.

Physical Vapor Deposition

PVD is a physical process in which atoms of a gas, such as argon, are accelerated toward a metal target. The metal atoms 
chip off, or sputter away, and are then deposited on the wafer. The Applied Endura PVD system offers various advanced metal 
deposition processes, including aluminum, aluminum alloys, cobalt, titanium nitride, tantalum/tantalum nitride, tungsten/tungsten 
nitride, nickel, vanadium and copper. Introduced 24 years ago, the Company's Applied Endura platform is the most successful 
metal deposition system in the history of the semiconductor industry.

The Applied Endura CuBS (copper barrier/seed) PVD system is widely used by customers for fabricating copper-based 
chips. The system deposits a tantalum-based barrier film that prevents copper material from entering other areas of the device and 
then a copper seed layer that primes the structure for the subsequent deposition of bulk copper. The Applied Endura CuBS RFX 
PVD system extends cost-effective CuBS technology to the 2Xnm node. The Applied Endura Avenir™ RF PVD system sequentially 
deposits the multiple metal film layers that form the heart of the industry’s new, faster, metal gate transistors. The Applied Endura 
iLB PVD/CVD system enables customers to shrink their speed-critical contact structures for 20nm and below devices. The Applied 
Endura AmberTM PVD system uses copper reflow technology to achieve rapid, void-free fill of interconnect structures at virtually 
any device node.

In 2014, Applied introduced the Endura VenturaTM PVD system, incorporating the latest industry-leading PVD technologies. 
The Ventura system supports the use of titanium in volume manufacturing as an alternative barrier material and expands Applied's 
comprehensive toolset for wafer level packaging applications, including through silicon vias, redistribution layers, and bump 
technology used to connect the die to the substrates.

Applied’s Endura system has also been used for many years in back-end applications to deposit metal layers before final 
bump or wire bonding packaging steps are performed. Additionally, the Applied Charger® UBM PVD system, which is specifically 
designed for under-bump metallization (UBM) and other back-end processes, features linear architecture for reliable performance 
and very high productivity at a low cost per wafer.

7

 
 
Etch

Etching is used many times throughout the IC manufacturing process to selectively remove material from the surface of a 
wafer. Before etching begins, the wafer is coated with a light-sensitive film, called photoresist. A photolithography process then 
projects the circuit pattern onto the wafer. Etching removes material only from areas dictated by the photoresist pattern. Applied 
offers systems for etching dielectric, metal, and silicon films to meet the requirements of advanced processing.

For etching silicon, the Applied Centris AdvantEdge™ Mesa™ system features eight process chambers for high wafer output 
and proprietary system intelligence software to assure every process on every chamber precisely matches. The system also saves 
on power, water and gas consumption, helping customers to lower operating costs and support their sustainable manufacturing 
initiatives. Chip manufacturers are also beginning to employ 3D architectures in advanced memory chips to provide higher-density 
storage capacity. These structures require the precise etching of exceptionally deep and narrow structures. To meet this industry 
requirement, Applied offers its Applied Centura AvatarTM dielectric etch system that can etch holes and trenches up to 80:1 depth-
to-width aspect ratios. Also for 3D chip manufacturing, the Applied Centura Silvia® system is specifically designed for etching 
small, deep holes for TSV applications.

Rapid Thermal Processing

RTP is a process in which a wafer is subjected to rapid bursts of intense heat that can take the wafer from room temperature 
to more than 1,000 degrees Celsius in less than 10 seconds. A rapid thermal process is used mainly for annealing, which modifies 
the  properties  of  deposited  films. The Applied  Centura  Radiance®Plus  and Applied Vantage®  RadOx™  RTP  systems  feature 
advanced RTP technology with differing platform designs. While the multi-chamber Centura platform offers exceptional process 
flexibility, the streamlined two-chamber Vantage platform is designed for dedicated high-volume manufacturing. These single-
wafer RTP systems are also used for growing high quality oxide and oxynitride films, deposition steps that traditional large batch 
furnaces can no longer achieve with the necessary precision and control.

Applied’s latest RTP systems address the critical need for controlling wafer temperature to increase chip performance and 
yield. The laser-based Applied Vantage Astra™ millisecond anneal system abruptly raises the surface temperature of the wafer 
locally to modify material properties at the atomic level. The Applied Vantage Vulcan system, the first RTP system to heat the 
wafer entirely from the backside, brings a new level of precision and control to the anneal process, allowing chipmakers to produce 
more high-performance devices per wafer.

Ion Implantation

Ion implantation is a key technology for forming transistors and is used many times during chip fabrication. During ion 
implantation, wafers are bombarded by a beam of electrically-charged ions, called dopants, which change the electrical properties 
of the exposed surface films. These dopants are accelerated to an energy that permits them to penetrate the substrate at a precise 
quantity and depth. Dopant concentration is determined by controlling the number of ions in the beam and the number of times 
the wafer passes through the beam, while the depth of the dopants is determined by the energy of the beam. Ion implantation 
systems may also be used in other areas of IC manufacturing to modify the material properties of the semiconductor devices, as 
well as in manufacturing crystalline-silicon solar cells.

Applied offers a line of single-wafer ion implantation equipment that covers the entire energy and current range required to 
manufacture advanced devices. The VIISta 3000XP implanter delivers the angle precision required for advanced high-energy 
applications, while the VIISta 900XP implanter provides medium current precision doping. The VIISta PLAD implanter enables 
manufacturers to rapidly implant high dopant concentrations over the entire wafer using a low-energy process that preserves 
sensitive circuit features in next-generation devices. The VIISta Trident high current ion implanter provides the precise dose and 
angle control needed for advanced transistor structures.

Chemical Mechanical Planarization

The  CMP  process  removes  material  from  a  wafer  to  create  a  flat  (planarized)  surface. This  process  allows  subsequent 
photolithography patterning and material deposition steps to occur with greater accuracy, resulting in more highly uniform film 
layers with minimal thickness variations. Applied has led the industry with its 300mm Applied Reflexion® LK system, with features 
such as integrated cleaning, film measurement and process control capabilities. 

Applied's latest CMP product, the Applied Reflexion LK PrimeTM, is a critical enabler for FinFET gate and  3D NAND 

staircase structures.

8

Metrology and Wafer Inspection

Applied offers several products for locating, measuring and analyzing defects and features on the wafer during various stages 
of the fabrication process. These systems enable customers to characterize and control critical dimension (CD) and defect issues, 
especially at advanced generation technology nodes.

Critical  Dimension  and  Defect  Review  Scanning  Electron  Microscopes  (CD-SEMs  and  DR-SEMs)  —  Scanning  electron 
microscopes  (SEMs)  use  an  electron  beam  to  form  images  of  microscopic  features  of  a  patterned  wafer  at  extremely  high 
magnification. Applied’s SEM products provide customers with full automation, along with the high accuracy and sensitivity 
needed for measuring very small CDs. The Applied VeritySEM® 4i+ metrology system uses proprietary SEM imaging technology 
to enable precise control of the lithography and etching processes, measuring CDs at a precision of less than 0.3nm. Applied’s 
OPC Check™ software for the VeritySEM system performs automated qualification of OPC-based (optical proximity correction) 
chip designs, significantly reducing mask verification time over conventional manual methods.

DR-SEMs review defects on the wafer (such as particles, scratches or residues) that are first located by a defect detection 
system and then classify the defects to identify their source. The high-throughput, fully automatic Applied SEMVision™ Defect 
Analysis products enable customers to use this technology as an integral part of their production lines to analyze critical defects 
with industry-leading throughput. The Applied SEMVision G6 system, designed to accelerate time-to-yield for leading-edge chip 
manufacturing at the 1Xnm node and beyond  and enhanced by the Purity™ Automatic Defect Classification (ADC), is the most 
advanced of the SEMVision family of products.

Wafer Inspection — Using deep ultraviolet (DUV) laser-based technology, defects can be detected on patterned wafers (wafers 
with printed circuit images) as they move between processing steps. Defects include particles, open circuit lines, and shorts between 
lines. The Applied UVision® 6 wafer inspection system detects yield-limiting defects in the critical patterning layers of logic and 
memory devices. 

Mask Making

Masks are used by photolithography systems to transfer microscopic circuit designs onto wafers. Since an imperfection in 
a mask may be replicated on the wafer, the mask must be virtually defect-free. Applied provides systems for etching and inspecting 
masks.

Applied's Tetra™ systems have been used by mask makers worldwide to etch the majority of high-end masks including 
28nm/14nm nodes. The Applied Centura Tetra EUV (extreme ultraviolet) Advanced Reticle Etch system fabricates leading-edge 
masks at 22nm and smaller dimensions. The Applied Aera3™ Mask inspection uses sophisticated aerial imaging technology that 
allows users to immediately see how the pattern on the mask will appear on the wafer, revealing only the defects most likely to 
print and significantly reducing inspection time. These systems also address the challenge of fabricating emerging EUV lithography 
masks.

9

Applied Global Services Segment

The Applied Global Services segment encompasses services, products and integrated solutions to optimize equipment and 
fab performance and productivity. Leveraging the Company's experience with complex manufacturing technology and processes, 
skilled  equipment  and  process  engineers  are  deployed  at  or  near  customer  sites  in  more  than  a  dozen  countries  to  support 
approximately 33,000 installed Applied semiconductor, display and solar manufacturing systems worldwide. Applied offers the 
following general types of services and products under the Applied Global Services segment:

Fab  and  Equipment  Services — Applied's  fab  and  equipment  services  are  designed  to  help  customers  improve  cost  of 
ownership, process control and device performance. They include corrective and preventive maintenance programs, comprehensive 
spare parts packages, and consulting and advanced service offerings. 

For example, Applied Performance Services offers customers comprehensive equipment support with performance-based 
pricing and predictable costs. This program includes Applied’s ExpertConnect remote diagnostic capability, providing specialized 
support  around  the  clock. Applied  FabVantage™  Consulting  Services  are  delivered  by  teams  of  technology,  equipment  and 
engineering experts who provide key insights to help customers solve some of their most difficult manufacturing challenges. 
Applied’s TechEdge™ advanced service offerings combine equipment and engineering expertise with software and connectivity 
technologies to address manufacturing issues like excursion control and predictive maintenance. 

Legacy  Systems  — Applied  offers  products  to  extend  the  performance  and  productive  life  of  200mm  semiconductor 
fabrication plants, including new and remanufactured 200mm equipment, system enhancements to lower cost of ownership and 
extend technology, and fab transition services. Applied’s 200mm systems are available in production-proven technologies that 
provide productive, cost-effective manufacturing solutions for mainstream, as well as specialty processes including micro-electro-
mechanical systems (MEMS), power transistors and image sensors.

Automation Systems — Applied offers automated factory-level and tool-level control software systems for semiconductor, 
display and solar manufacturing facilities. These enterprise solutions include manufacturing execution systems (MES) to automate 
the production of wafers, display and solar substrates; advanced process control systems; and scheduling and materials handling 
control systems.

Applied also offers computerized maintenance management systems, performance tracking, and modeling and simulation 
tools for improving asset utilization. Applied’s E3™ equipment engineering system solution, for example, integrates all critical 
equipment automation and process control components. 

Display Segment

Applied’s products for manufacturing liquid crystal displays (LCDs), organic light-emitting diodes (OLEDs), and other 
display technologies for televisions, personal computers (PCs), tablets, smartphones, and other consumer-oriented devices are 
reported under its Display segment. While similarities exist between the technologies utilized in chipmaking and display fabrication, 
the most significant differences are in the size and composition of the substrate. Substrates used to manufacture display panels 
can be more than 120 times larger in area than 300mm wafers and are made of glass, while wafers used in semiconductor fabrication 
are made of silicon.

Applied supplies systems that process and test different glass substrate sizes. To meet consumer demand for larger, more 
cost-effective LCD TVs, Applied’s generation (Gen) 10 systems can process substrates sized at approximately 2.85 x 3.05 meters, 
with each substrate enabling the production of up to six 65-inch LCD TV screens. 

Applied is also extending its core LCD technology to enable ultra-high resolution displays for next-generation smartphones, 
tablet PCs, and OLED TVs. These higher-performance displays are fabricated using newer materials such as low-temperature 
polysilicon (LTPS) and metal oxide films in the transistor layer of the panel to gain significantly faster switching speeds. Applied 
also offers plasma-enhanced CVD (PECVD) products for depositing LTPS films with its AKT PX family of systems, which are 
available for a range of display substrate sizes to enable manufacturers to achieve economies of scale. 

10

Applied also offers technology for fabricating advanced metal oxide-based transistors in displays. The AKT-PiVot™ PVD 
system, which features rotary cathode array technology, deposits indium gallium zinc oxide (IZGO) film to form the transistor 
channel. The AKT-PECVD system is used to deposit the dielectric film needed to insulate the transistor gate. Together, these 
systems offer a cost-effective solution for producing smaller, faster switching pixels to create higher resolution screens.

For manufacturing the color filter of LCD panels, Applied offers the AKT-NEW ARISTO™ system for transparent conductive 
oxide film deposition. The Applied AKT-AristoTwin system is used for manufacturing touch-enabled displays. The system's two 
independent processing tracks achieve more capacity with a smaller footprint than traditional platforms.

To complement these systems, Applied also offers a line of electron beam array test (EBT) systems for testing substrates 
during production for defective pixels and other imperfections, including the Gen-10 AKT-90K EBT product. Featuring one of 
the industry’s fastest and most accurate pixel test technologies, the EBT systems’ non-contact test technology enables the safe 
testing of thin film transistors (TFTs) used in high-value TV panels without damaging or scratching the display.

Energy and Environmental Solutions Segment

The Energy and Environmental Solutions segment includes systems for manufacturing wafer-based crystalline silicon (c-
Si) cells and modules. These systems are designed to increase the conversion efficiency and yields of solar PV devices in order 
to help reduce the cost per watt of solar generated electricity.

Solar equipment applications include:

Cell  manufacturing  — Applied  offers  a  comprehensive  line  of  automated  metallization  and  test  systems  for  c-Si  cell 

manufacturing. These systems include high-precision printing capability for increasing the efficiency of c-Si solar cells. 

Wafer manufacturing — Applied’s precision wafering systems crop and square silicon ingots into bricks and slice silicon 
bricks into thin wafers. These wafers are subsequently processed by cell manufacturing systems to create the PV cells used in 
making c-Si solar panels. 

Ion implantation — Applied offers ion implantation technology for c-Si cell manufacturing, a process that enables the volume 

production of high efficiency c-Si cells with better yield and reduced cost.

The Energy and Environmental Solutions segment also includes high-throughput, roll-to-roll vacuum web coating systems 
for high-performance deposition of a range of films on flexible substrates for flexible electronics, packaging and other applications. 
These include the SmartWEBTM system, a modular platform for sputtering multiple thin layers on  flexible roll-to-roll plastic 
substrates for manufacturing flexible touch panels, flexible displays, and other applications, at high throughput.

11

Backlog

Applied manufactures systems to meet demand represented by order backlog and customer commitments. Backlog consists 
of: (1) orders for which written authorizations have been accepted and assigned shipment dates are within the next 12 months, or 
shipment has occurred but revenue has not been recognized; and (2) contractual service revenue and maintenance fees to be earned 
within the next 12 months.

Backlog by reportable segment as of October 26, 2014 and October 27, 2013 was as follows:

2014

2013

(In millions, except percentages)

Silicon Systems Group . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Applied Global Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Display. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Energy and Environmental Solutions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Total. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $

1,400
775
593
149
2,917

$

48%
27%
20%
5%
100% $

1,295
591
361
125
2,372

55%
25%
15%
5%
100%

Applied’s backlog on any particular date is not necessarily indicative of actual sales for any future periods, due to the potential 
for customer changes in delivery schedules or cancellation of orders. Customers may delay delivery of products or cancel orders 
prior to shipment, subject to possible cancellation penalties. Delays in delivery schedules and/or a reduction of backlog during 
any particular period could have a material adverse effect on Applied’s business and results of operations.

Manufacturing, Raw Materials and Supplies

Applied’s manufacturing activities consist primarily of assembly, test and integration of various proprietary and commercial 
parts,  components  and  subassemblies  (collectively,  parts)  that  are  used  to  manufacture  systems. Applied  has  implemented  a 
distributed  manufacturing  model  under  which  manufacturing  and  supply  chain  activities  are  conducted  in  various  countries, 
including the United States, Europe, Israel, Singapore, Taiwan, and other countries in Asia, and assembly of some systems is 
completed at customer sites. Applied uses numerous vendors, including contract manufacturers, to supply parts and assembly 
services for the manufacture and support of its products. Although Applied makes reasonable efforts to assure that parts are available 
from multiple qualified suppliers, this is not always possible. Accordingly, some key parts may be obtained from only a single 
supplier  or  a  limited  group  of  suppliers. Applied  seeks  to  reduce  costs  and  to  lower  the  risks  of  manufacturing  and  service 
interruptions  by:  (1) selecting  and  qualifying  alternate  suppliers  for  key  parts;  (2) monitoring  the  financial  condition  of  key 
suppliers; (3) maintaining appropriate inventories of key parts; (4) qualifying new parts on a timely basis; and (5) locating certain 
manufacturing operations in close proximity to suppliers and customers.

Research, Development and Engineering

Applied’s  long-term  growth  strategy  requires  continued  development  of  new  products,  including  products  that  enable 
expansion  into  new  markets.  The  Company’s  significant  investment  in  research,  development  and  engineering  (RD&E)  has 
generally enabled it to deliver new products and technologies before the emergence of strong demand, thus allowing customers 
to incorporate these products into their manufacturing plans at an early stage in the technology selection cycle. Applied works 
closely with its global customers to design systems and processes that meet their planned technical and production requirements. 
Product development and engineering organizations are located primarily in the United States, as well as in Europe, Israel, Taiwan, 
and China. In addition, Applied outsources certain RD&E activities, some of which are performed outside the United States, 
primarily in India and Singapore. Process support and customer demonstration laboratories are located in the United States, China, 
Taiwan, Europe, and Israel.

Applied’s investments in RD&E for product development and engineering programs to create or improve products and 
technologies over the last three years were as follows: $1.4 billion (16 percent of net sales) in fiscal 2014, $1.3 billion (18 percent 
of net sales) in fiscal 2013, and $1.2 billion (14 percent of net sales) in fiscal 2012. Applied has spent an average of 13 percent of 
net sales in RD&E over the last five years. In addition to RD&E for specific product technologies, Applied maintains ongoing 
programs for automation control systems, materials research, and environmental control that are applicable to its products.

12

 
 
 
 
Marketing and Sales

Net sales by geographic region, determined by the location of customers' facilities to which products were shipped, were 

as follows:

2014

2013

2012

(In millions, except percentages)
$

Taiwan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
China . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Korea . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Japan. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Southeast Asia . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Asia Pacific . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
United States . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Europe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Total. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $

2,702
1,608
965
817
356
6,448
1,966
658
9,072

30%
18%
10%
9%
4%
71%
22%
7%
100%

$

2,640
787
924
685
320
5,356
1,473
680
7,509

35%
11%
12%
9%
4%
71%
20%
9%
100%

$

$

2,411
783
1,897
704
312
6,107
1,749
863
8,719

28%
9%
22%
8%
3%
70%
20%
10%
100%

Because of the highly technical nature of its products, Applied markets and sells products worldwide almost entirely through 

a direct sales force. Approximately 78 percent of Applied’s fiscal 2014 net sales were to regions outside of the United States.

General economic conditions impact Applied’s business and financial results. From time to time, the markets in which 
products are sold experience weak economic conditions that may negatively impact sales. Applied’s business is cyclical, based 
on  capital  equipment  investment  by  major  semiconductor,  flat  panel  display,  solar  PV  and  other  manufacturers.  Customers’ 
expenditures depend on many factors, including: anticipated market demand and pricing for semiconductors, display, solar cells 
and modules, and other substrates; the development of new technologies; customers’ factory utilization; capital resources and 
financing; government policies and incentives; and global and regional economic conditions. In addition, a significant driver in 
the semiconductor and display industries is end-demand for mobile consumer products, which is characterized by seasonality that 
impacts the timing of customer investments in manufacturing equipment and, in turn, Applied's business. 

Information  on  net  sales  to  unaffiliated  customers  and  long-lived  assets  attributable  to Applied’s  geographic  regions  is 
included in Note 16 of Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements. The following companies accounted for at least 10 percent of 
Applied’s net sales in fiscal 2014, 2013, or 2012, which were for products in multiple reportable segments.

Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company Limited. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

2014
21%
12%

2013
27%
13%

2012
16%
20%

Competition

The industries in which Applied operates are highly competitive and characterized by rapid technological change. Applied’s 
ability to compete generally depends on its ability to timely commercialize its technology, continually improve its products, and 
develop new products that meet constantly evolving customer requirements. Significant competitive factors include technical 
capability and differentiation, productivity, cost-effectiveness and the ability to support a  global customer base. The importance 
of these factors varies according to customers’ needs, including product mix and respective product requirements, applications, 
and  the  timing  and  circumstances  of  purchasing  decisions.  Substantial  competition  exists  in  all  areas  of Applied’s  business. 
Competitors range from small companies that compete in a single region, which may benefit from policies and regulations that 
favor domestic companies, to global, diversified companies. Applied’s ability to compete requires a high level of investment in 
RD&E, marketing and sales, and global customer support activities. Management believes that many of Applied’s products have 
strong competitive positions.

13

 
 
 
 
The competitive environment for each segment is described below.

The semiconductor industry has been increasingly driven by consumer demand for lower-cost electronic products with 
increased capability, particularly mobility devices such as smartphones and tablets. As a result, products within the Silicon Systems 
Group segment are subject to significant changes in customer requirements, including transitions to smaller dimensions, new 
materials and an increasing number of applications. While certain existing technologies may be adapted to new requirements, 
some applications create the need for an entirely different technological approach. The rapid pace of technological change can 
quickly diminish the value of current technologies and products and create opportunities for existing and new competitors. Applied 
offers a variety of technologically-differentiated products that must continuously evolve to satisfy customers’ requirements in 
order to compete effectively in the marketplace. Applied allocates resources among its numerous product offerings and therefore 
may decide not to invest in an individual product to the same degree as competitors who specialize in fewer products. There are 
a number of competitors serving the semiconductor manufacturing equipment industry, with some offering a single product line 
and others offering multiple product lines. These competitors range from suppliers serving a single region to global, diversified 
companies. The competitive environment for the Silicon Systems Group in fiscal 2014 reflected continued investment in the 
semiconductor industry driven by capacity demand for mobile computing. Foundry customers led capacity additions for advanced 
technology nodes and were the primary drivers for net sales of the Silicon Systems Group in fiscal 2014.   

Products and services within the Applied Global Services segment complement the Silicon Systems Group, Display, and 
Energy  and  Environmental  Solutions  segments’  products,  in  markets  that  are  characterized  by  demanding  worldwide  service 
requirements and a diverse group of numerous competitors. To compete effectively, Applied offers products and services to improve 
tool performance, lower overall cost of ownership, and increase the productivity and energy efficiency of customers’ fab operations. 
Significant  competitive  factors  include  productivity,  cost-effectiveness,  and  the  level  of  technical  service  and  support.  The 
importance of these factors varies according to customers’ needs and the type of products or services offered.  Industry conditions 
that affected Applied Global Services’ sales of spares and services in fiscal 2014 were principally semiconductor manufacturers' 
wafer starts and factory utilization rates.

Products in the Display segment are generally subject to strong competition from a number of major competitors primarily 
in Asia. Applied holds established market positions with its technically-differentiated LCD and OLED manufacturing solutions 
for PECVD, color filter PVD, PVD array, PVD touch panel, and TFT array testing, although its market position could change 
quickly  due  to  customers'  evolving  requirements.  The  competitive  environment  for  the  Display  segment  in  fiscal  2014  was 
characterized  by  an  increase  in  demand  for  TV  manufacturing  equipment,  particularly  in  China,  and  continued  demand  for 
equipment to manufacture displays for high-end mobile devices. Demand for larger LCD TVs continues to drive investment in 
display equipment, although the TV manufacturing sector remains susceptible to cyclical conditions. Important factors affecting 
the competitive position of Applied's Display products include: industry trends, Applied's ability to innovate and develop new 
products, and the extent to which Applied's products are technically-differentiated, as well as which customers within a highly 
concentrated customer base are making capital equipment investments and Applied's existing position at these customers.

Applied's  products  within  the  Energy  and  Environmental  Solutions  segment  compete  in  several  diverse  market  areas, 
including the c-Si solar equipment market. The solar equipment market has been characterized by significant pressure to reduce 
customers' overall production costs and improve performance. In fiscal 2014, the solar end-market demand continued to be robust, 
as the industry further reduced manufacturing costs, enabling PV-generated electricity to reach parity with retail electricity rates 
in an increasing number of areas around the world. However, investment levels in capital equipment remained low, with spending 
focused on upgrades and improving conversion efficiencies as global solar PV production capacity exceeds end-demand, and the 
rationalization of capacity will be an important factor in determining when supply and demand comes back into balance. Adding 
to market uncertainty are international trade actions that have resulted in the imposition of some import sanctions, with others still 
under consideration. With respect to its c-Si equipment products, Applied competes with a number of other companies, some of 
which have significant experience with solar applications and some of which are new entrants to the solar equipment market. The 
solar industry downturn has affected many of Applied's competitors and customers adversely, with some companies going through 
extensive financial and organizational restructuring, and in some instances ceasing operations.

14

Patents and Licenses

Management believes that Applied’s competitive position significantly depends upon the Company’s research, development, 
engineering,  manufacturing  and  marketing  capabilities,  and  not  just  on  its  patent  position.  However,  protection  of Applied’s 
technological assets through enforcement of its intellectual property rights, including patents, is important. Therefore, Applied’s 
practice is to file patent applications in the United States and other countries for inventions that Applied considers significant. 
Applied has approximately 10,500 patents in the United States and other countries, and additional applications are pending for 
new inventions. Although Applied does not consider its business materially dependent upon any one patent, the rights of Applied 
and the products made and sold under its patents, taken as a whole, are a significant element of Applied’s business. In addition to 
patents, Applied also possesses other intellectual property, including trademarks, know-how, trade secrets, and copyrights.

Applied enters into patent and technology licensing agreements with other companies when management determines that 
it is in Applied’s best interest to do so. Applied pays royalties under existing patent license agreements for the use, in several of 
its products, of certain patented technologies. Applied also receives royalties from licenses granted to third parties. Royalties 
received from or paid to third parties have not been, and are not expected to be, material to Applied’s consolidated results of 
operations.

In the normal course of business, Applied periodically receives and makes inquiries regarding possible patent infringement. 
In responding to such inquiries, it may become necessary or useful for Applied to obtain or grant licenses or other rights. However, 
there can be no assurance that such licenses or rights will be available to Applied on commercially reasonable terms, or at all. If 
Applied is not able to resolve or settle claims, obtain necessary licenses on commercially reasonable terms, and/or successfully 
prosecute or defend its position, Applied’s business, financial condition and results of operations could be materially and adversely 
affected.

Environmental Matters

Applied maintains a number of environmental, health, and safety programs that are primarily preventive in nature. As part 
of these programs, Applied regularly monitors ongoing compliance with applicable laws and regulations. In addition, Applied has 
trained personnel to conduct investigations of any environmental, health, or safety incidents, including, but not limited to, spills, 
releases, or possible contamination.

Compliance with federal, state and local environmental, health, and safety provisions, including, but not limited to, those 
regulating the discharge of materials into the environment, remedial agreements, and other actions relating to the environment 
have not had, and are not expected to have, a material effect on Applied’s capital expenditures, competitive position, financial 
condition, or results of operations.

The  most  recent  report  on Applied’s  environmental,  health,  and  safety  activities  can  be  found  in  the  Company’s  latest 
Citizenship Report on its website at http://www.appliedmaterials.com/company/corporate-responsibility/reports. The Citizenship 
Report is updated periodically. This website address is intended to be an inactive textual reference only. None of the information 
on, or accessible through, Applied’s website is part of this Form 10-K or is incorporated by reference herein.

Employees

At October 26, 2014, Applied employed approximately 14,000 regular employees and 950 temporary employees. In the 
high-technology industry, competition for highly-skilled employees is intense. Applied believes that its future success is highly 
dependent upon its continued ability to attract, retain, and motivate qualified employees. There can be no assurance that Applied 
will be able to attract, hire, assimilate, motivate, and retain a sufficient number of qualified employees.

15

Executive Officers of the Registrant

The following table and notes set forth information about Applied’s executive officers:

Name of Individual
Michael R. Splinter(1)
Gary E. Dickerson(2)
Randhir Thakur(3)
Ginetto Addiego(4)
Robert J. Halliday(5)
Thomas F. Larkins(6)
Omkaram Nalamasu(7)
Ali Salehpour(8)

Charles Read(9)

Position

Executive Chairman of the Board of Directors
President, Chief Executive Officer
Executive Vice President, General Manager, Silicon Systems
Senior Vice President, Engineering
Senior Vice President, Chief Financial Officer
Senior Vice President, General Counsel and Corporate Secretary
Senior Vice President, Chief Technology Officer
Senior Vice President, General Manager, New Markets and Service Group
Corporate Vice President, Corporate Controller and Chief Accounting Officer

(1)  Mr. Splinter,  age 64,  has  been  Executive  Chairman  of  the  Board  of  Directors  of Applied  since  September  2013  and 
Chairman of the Board of Directors since March 2009. Mr. Splinter served as Chief Executive Officer of Applied from 
April 2003 until September 2013, and also as President from April 2003 to June 2012. Prior to joining Applied, Mr. Splinter 
was an executive at Intel Corporation, a manufacturer of chips and computer, networking and communications products, 
where  he  held  a  number  of  positions,  including  Executive Vice  President  and  Director  of  Sales  and  Marketing,  and 
Executive Vice President and General Manager of the Technology and Manufacturing Group.

(2)  Mr. Dickerson,  age 57,  has  been  Chief  Executive  Officer  and  a  member  of  the  Board  of  Directors  of Applied  since 
September  2013.  Mr.  Dickerson  was  named  President  of Applied  in  June  2012,  after  joining Applied  following  its 
acquisition of Varian Semiconductor Equipment Associates, Inc. (Varian) in November 2011. Mr. Dickerson had served 
as Chief Executive Officer and a director of Varian since 2004. Prior to joining Varian in 2004, Mr. Dickerson served 18 
years with KLA-Tencor Corporation (KLA-Tencor), a supplier of process control and yield management solutions for 
the semiconductor and related industries, where he held a variety of operations and product development roles, including 
President and Chief Operating Officer. Mr. Dickerson started his semiconductor career in manufacturing and engineering 
management at General Motors' Delco Electronics Division and then AT&T, Inc.

(3)  Dr. Thakur, age 52, has been Executive Vice President, General Manager, Silicon Systems Group since December 2009, 
after serving as Senior Vice President, General Manager Silicon Systems Group since October 2009. He had served as 
Senior Vice President, General Manager, Thin Film Solar and Display, and Senior Vice President, General Manager, 
Strategic Operations since rejoining Applied in May 2008. Dr. Thakur previously was with Applied from 2000 to 2005 
in a variety of executive roles, including Group Vice President, General Manager for Front End Products. From September 
2005  to  May 2008,  Dr. Thakur  served  as  Executive  Vice  President  of  Technology  and  Fab  Operations  at  SanDisk 
Corporation, a data storage solutions manufacturer, and as head of SanDisk’s worldwide operations. Dr. Thakur also 
serves on the board of directors of Marvell Technology Group Ltd.

(4)  Dr. Addiego, age 55, has been Senior Vice President, Engineering since rejoining Applied in March 2014. He previously 
was with Applied from 1996 to 2005, leading various product groups as well as global organizations, including Global 
Operations, Manufacturing, Foundation Engineering, and Information Technology. From March 2011 to March 2014, 
Dr. Addiego was President and Chief Operating Officer of Ultra Clean Technology Corp., a supplier of critical subsystems 
for the semiconductor capital equipment, medical device, energy, research, and flat panel industries. From February 2005 
to  March  2011,  Dr. Addiego  worked  at  Novellus  Systems,  Inc.,  a  provider  of  advanced  process  equipment  for  the 
semiconductor industry, where he served as Executive Vice President and Chief Administrative Officer and Executive 
Vice President of Corporate Operations.

(5)  Mr.  Halliday,  age  60,  has  been  Senior  Vice  President,  Chief  Financial  Officer  of Applied  since  February  2013.  He 
previously served as a Group Vice President and General Manager in Applied’s Silicon Systems Group segment following 
the completion of Applied’s acquisition of Varian in November 2011. Mr. Halliday had served as Chief Financial Officer 
of Varian since 2001 and as an Executive Vice President of Varian since 2004. He was Varian's Treasurer from November 
2002 to October 2006 and from February 2009 to February 2010. 

16

 
(6)  Mr. Larkins, age 53, has been Senior Vice President, General Counsel and Corporate Secretary of Applied since November 
2012.    Previously,  Mr.  Larkins  was  employed  by  Honeywell  International  Inc.,  a  diversified  global  technology  and 
manufacturing company, where he was Vice President, Corporate Secretary and Deputy General Counsel from 2002 until 
joining Applied.  Mr. Larkins served in various other positions at Honeywell (formerly AlliedSignal) after joining the 
company in 1997.

(7)  Dr. Nalamasu, age 56, has been Senior Vice President, Chief Technology Officer since June 2013, and had served as 
Group Vice President, Chief Technology Officer from January 2012 to June 2013, and as Corporate Vice President, Chief 
Technology  Officer  from  January  2011  to  January  2012.  Upon  joining Applied  in  June  2006  until  January  2011, 
Dr. Nalamasu was an Appointed Vice President of Research and served as Deputy Chief Technology Officer and General 
Manager  for  the Advanced  Technologies  Group.  From  2002  to  2006,  Dr. Nalamasu  was  a  NYSTAR  distinguished 
professor of Materials Science and Engineering at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, where he also served as Vice President 
of Research from 2005 to 2006. Prior to Rensselaer, Dr. Nalamasu served in several leadership roles at Bell Laboratories. 

(8)  Mr. Salehpour, age 53, has been Senior Vice President, General Manager, New Markets and Service Group since September 
2013. He previously served as Group Vice President, General Manager Energy and Environmental Solutions and Display 
Business Groups, since joining Applied in November 2012. Prior to Applied, Mr. Salehpour worked at KLA-Tencor for 
16 years, where he served as a Senior Vice President and General Manager.

(9)  Mr. Read, age 48, has been Corporate Vice President, Corporate Controller and Chief Accounting Officer of Applied 
since joining the Company in September 2013. Prior to Applied, Mr. Read worked at Brocade Communications Systems, 
Inc., a provider of semiconductor and software-based network solutions, since October 2002, where he most recently 
served as Vice President, Corporate Controller. Prior to Brocade, Mr. Read worked at KPMG LLP, an audit, tax and 
advisory firm, from 1996 to 2002.

Available Information

Applied’s website is http://www.appliedmaterials.com. Applied makes available free of charge, on or through its website, 

its annual, quarterly and current reports, and any amendments to those reports, as soon as reasonably practicable after 
electronically filing such reports with, or furnishing them to, the SEC. This website address is intended to be an inactive textual 
reference only. None of the information on, or accessible through, Applied’s website is part of this Form 10-K or is 
incorporated by reference herein. 

17

Item 1A: 

Risk Factors

The following factors could materially and adversely affect Applied’s business, financial condition or results of operations 
and cause reputational harm, and they should be carefully considered in evaluating the Company and its business, in addition to 
other information presented elsewhere in this report.

The industries that Applied serves are volatile and difficult to predict.

As a supplier to the global semiconductor, flat panel display, and solar industries, Applied is subject to business cycles, the 
timing, length and volatility of which can be difficult to predict and which vary by reportable segment. These industries historically 
have been cyclical due to sudden changes in customers’ requirements for new manufacturing capacity and advanced technology, 
which  depend  in  part  on  customers’  capacity  utilization,  production  volumes,  access  to  affordable  capital,  end-use  demand, 
consumer  buying  patterns,  and  inventory  levels  relative  to  demand,  as  well  as  the  rate  of  technology  transitions  and  general 
economic conditions. These changes have affected the timing and amounts of customers’ purchases and investments in technology, 
and continue to affect Applied’s orders, net sales, operating expenses and net income.  

To meet rapidly changing demand in the industries it serves, Applied must accurately forecast demand and effectively manage 
its resources and production capacity for each of its segments as well as across multiple segments, and may incur unexpected or 
additional costs to align its business operations. During periods of increasing demand for its products, Applied must have sufficient 
manufacturing capacity and inventory to meet customer demand; effectively manage its supply chain; attract, retain and motivate 
a sufficient number of qualified employees; and continue to control costs. During periods of decreasing demand, Applied must 
reduce costs and align its cost structure with prevailing market conditions; effectively manage its supply chain; and motivate and 
retain key employees. 

Applied is exposed to risks associated with the uncertain global economy.

Uncertain global economic conditions and weak or moderate growth in China, Europe, and the United States, along with 
uncertainties in the financial markets, national debt and fiscal concerns in various regions, and government austerity measures, 
are posing challenges to the industries in which Applied operates. The markets for semiconductors and flat panel displays in 
particular  depend  largely  on  consumer  spending,  while  the  solar  market  depends  in  part  on  government  incentives  and  the 
availability of financing for PV installations. Economic uncertainty and related factors exacerbate negative trends in business and 
consumer spending and may cause certain Applied customers to push out, cancel, or refrain from placing orders for equipment or 
services, which may in turn reduce Applied's net sales, reduce backlog, and affect Applied’s ability to convert backlog to sales. 
Uncertain market conditions, difficulties in obtaining capital, or reduced profitability may also cause some customers to scale 
back operations, exit businesses, merge with other manufacturers, or file for bankruptcy protection and potentially cease operations, 
which can also result in lower sales and/or additional inventory or bad debt expense for Applied. These conditions may similarly 
affect key suppliers, which could impair their ability to deliver parts and result in delays for Applied’s products or added costs. In 
addition, these conditions may lead to strategic alliances by, or consolidation of, other equipment manufacturers, which could 
adversely affect Applied’s ability to compete effectively.

Uncertainty about future economic and industry conditions also makes it more challenging for Applied to forecast its operating 
results, make business decisions, and identify and prioritize the risks that may affect its businesses, sources and uses of cash, 
financial condition and results of operations. Applied may be required to implement additional cost reduction efforts, including 
restructuring activities, which may adversely affect Applied’s ability to capitalize on opportunities. In addition, Applied maintains 
an investment portfolio that is subject to general credit, liquidity, foreign exchange, market and interest rate risks. The risks to 
Applied’s investment portfolio may be exacerbated if financial market conditions deteriorate and, as a result, the value and liquidity 
of the investment portfolio, as well as returns on pension assets, could be negatively impacted and lead to impairment charges. 
Applied also maintains cash balances in various bank accounts globally in order to fund normal operations. If any of these financial 
institutions becomes insolvent, it could limit Applied’s ability to access cash in the affected accounts.

18

Applied is exposed to risks as a result of ongoing changes in the various industries in which it operates.

The global semiconductor, flat panel display, solar and related industries in which Applied operates are characterized by 
ongoing changes affecting some or all of these industries that impact demand for and/or the profitability of Applied's products, 
including:

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

the nature, timing and degree of visibility of changes in end demand for electronic products, including those related to 
fluctuations in consumer buying patterns tied to seasonality or the introduction of new products, and the effects of these 
changes on foundry and other customers’ businesses and, in turn, on demand for Applied’s products;

increasing  capital  requirements  for  building  and  operating  new  fabrication  plants  and  customers’  ability  to  raise  the 
necessary capital;

differences in growth rates among the semiconductor, display and solar industries;

the increasing importance of establishing, improving and maintaining strong relationships with customers;

the increasing cost and complexity for customers to move from product design to volume manufacturing, which may 
slow the adoption rate of new manufacturing technology;

the need to continually reduce the total cost of manufacturing system ownership, due in part to greater demand for lower-
cost consumer electronics compared to business information technology spending;

the heightened importance to customers of system reliability and productivity and the effect on demand for fabrication 
systems as a result of their increasing productivity, device yield and reliability;

•  manufacturers’ ability to reconfigure and re-use fabrication systems;

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

the increasing importance of, and difficulties in, developing products with sufficient differentiation to influence customers’ 
purchasing decisions;

requirements for shorter cycle times for the development, manufacture and installation of manufacturing equipment;

price and performance trends for semiconductor devices, displays and solar PVs, and the corresponding effect on demand 
for such products;

the increasing importance of the availability of spare parts to maximize the time that customers’ systems are available 
for production;

the increasing role for and complexity of software in Applied products; and

the increasing focus on reducing energy usage and improving the environmental impact and sustainability associated 
with manufacturing operations.

Applied is exposed to risks as a result of ongoing changes specific to the semiconductor industry.

The largest proportion of Applied’s consolidated net sales and profitability has been and continues to be derived from sales 
of manufacturing equipment by the Silicon Systems Group to the global semiconductor industry. In addition, a majority of the 
revenues of Applied Global Services is from sales of service products to semiconductor manufacturers. The semiconductor industry 
is  characterized  by  ongoing  changes  particular  to  this  industry  that  impact  demand  for  and/or  the  profitability  of Applied's 
semiconductor equipment and service products, including:

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

the increasing cost of research and development due to many factors, including: decreasing linewidths on a chip, the use 
of new materials, new and more complex device structures, more applications and process steps, increasing chip design 
costs, and the increasing cost and complexity of integrated manufacturing processes;

the need to reduce product development time, despite the increasing difficulty of technical challenges;

the growing number of types and varieties of semiconductors and number of applications across multiple substrate sizes;

the increasing cost and complexity for semiconductor manufacturers to move more technically advanced capability and 
smaller linewidths to volume manufacturing, and the resulting impact on the rates of technology transition and investment 
in capital equipment;

challenges in generating organic growth given semiconductor manufacturers’ levels of capital expenditures  and the 
allocation of capital investment to market segments that Applied does not serve, such as lithography, or segments where 
Applied's products have lower relative market presence;

• 

the importance of increasing market positions in under-penetrated segments, such as etch and inspection;

19

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

the growing demand for mobility products, such as tablets and smartphones, and corresponding industry investment in 
devices that require fewer Applied products to manufacture, such as NAND flash memory, than are needed to make  
devices used in other applications, such as DRAM for personal computers; 

the adoption of cloud-based memory storage particularly for mobility products, and the associated inhibiting effect on 
NAND bit growth rates;

the increasing frequency and complexity of technology transitions and inflections, such as 3-D transistors and advanced 
interconnects, and Applied’s ability to timely and effectively anticipate and adapt to these changes;

shorter cycle times between order placements by customers (particularly foundries) and product shipment, which may 
lead to inventory write-offs and manufacturing inefficiencies that decrease gross margin;

competitive factors that make it difficult to enhance position, including challenges in securing development-tool-of-
record (DTOR) and production-tool-of-record (PTOR) positions with customers;

shifts in sourcing strategies by computer and electronics companies that impact the equipment requirements of Applied's 
foundry customers;

the concentration of new wafer starts in Korea and Taiwan, where Applied’s service penetration and service-revenue-
per-wafer-start have been lower than in other regions; and

the increasing fragmentation of semiconductor markets, leading certain markets to become too small to support the cost 
of a new fabrication plant, while others require less technologically advanced products.

Applied must accurately forecast, and allocate appropriate resources and investment towards addressing, key technology 
changes and inflections, such as the transition to 20nm devices, in order to enable opportunities for gains. In addition, the proposed 
industry transition from 300mm to 450mm wafers presents opportunities as well as risks and uncertainties, including those related 
to cost, technical complexity, timing, and the resulting effect on demand for manufacturing equipment and services.

Applied is exposed to risks as a result of ongoing changes specific to the flat panel display industry.

The global flat panel display industry historically has experienced considerable volatility in capital equipment investment 
levels, due in part to the limited number of display manufacturers, the concentrated nature of end-use applications, excess production 
capacity relative to end-use demand, and panel manufacturer profitability. Industry growth has depended primarily on consumer 
demand for increasingly larger and more advanced TVs and, more recently, on demand for smartphones and other mobile devices, 
which demand is highly sensitive to cost and improvements in technologies and features. The display industry is characterized by 
ongoing changes particular to this industry that impact demand for and/or the profitability of Applied's display products, including:

• 

• 

• 

• 

the  timing  and  extent  of  an  expansion  of  manufacturing  facilities  in  China  by  Chinese  display  manufacturers  and 
manufacturers from other countries, and the ability of non-Chinese manufacturers to obtain government approvals on a 
timely basis;

the rate of transition to larger substrate sizes for TVs and the resulting effect on capital intensity in the industry and on 
Applied’s product differentiation, gross margin and return on investment;

the importance of new types of display technologies, such as low temperature polysilicon (LTPS), organic light-emitting 
diode (OLED) and metal oxide, and new touch panel films, such as anti-reflective and anti-fingerprint; and

uncertainty with respect to future display technology end-use applications and growth drivers.

20

Applied is exposed to risks as a result of ongoing changes specific to the solar industry.

Investment levels in capital equipment for the global solar industry have experienced considerable volatility. In recent years, 
global solar PV production capacity has exceeded end-use demand, causing customers to significantly reduce or delay investments 
in manufacturing capacity and new technology, or to cease operations. The global solar market is characterized by ongoing changes 
specific to this industry that impact demand for and/or the profitability of Applied’s solar products, including:

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

the need to continually decrease the cost-per-watt of electricity produced by solar PV products to at or below grid parity 
in  more  global  regions  by,  among  other  things,  reducing  operating  costs  and  increasing  throughputs  for  solar  PV 
manufacturing, and improving the conversion efficiency of solar PVs;

the variability and uncertainty of government energy policies and their effect in influencing the rate of growth of the solar 
PV market, including the availability and amount of incentives for solar power such as tax credits, feed-in tariffs, rebates, 
renewable portfolio standards that require electricity providers to sell a targeted amount of energy from renewable sources, 
and goals for solar installations on government facilities;

the number of solar PV manufacturers and amount of global production capacity for solar PVs, primarily in China;

the filing of regulatory unfair trade proceedings against solar PVs from China, where most of Applied’s solar equipment 
sales are concentrated, which has resulted in the assessment of duties on solar cells and modules imported from China 
and led to other trade-related conflicts and outcomes;

the varying levels of operating and industry experience among solar PV manufacturers and the resulting differences in 
the nature and extent of customer support services requested from Applied;

challenges associated with marketing and selling manufacturing equipment and services to a diverse and diffuse customer 
base;

the growth of market segments in which Applied does not participate, such as passivation and furnaces;

the availability and condition of used solar equipment, which impacts demand for new equipment;

complexities associated with government-affiliated entities as customers, for example in China;

the financial condition of solar PV customers and their access to affordable financing and capital; and

solar panel manufacturing overcapacity, which has led to weak industry operating performance and outlooks, deterioration 
of the solar equipment market, and a worsening of the financial condition of certain customers.

Applied must continually innovate, commercialize its products, and adapt its business and product offerings to respond to 

competition and rapid technological changes.

As Applied operates in a highly competitive environment in which innovation is critical, its future success depends on many 
factors, including the effective commercialization and customer acceptance of its equipment, services and related products. In 
addition, Applied must successfully execute its growth strategy, including enhancing its presence in existing markets, expanding 
into related markets, cultivating new markets and exceeding industry growth rates, while constantly improving its operational 
performance. The development, introduction and support of a broadening set of products in more collaborative, geographically 
diverse, open and varied competitive environments have grown more complex and expensive over time. Furthermore, new or 
improved products may entail higher costs and reduced profits. Applied’s performance may be adversely affected if it does not 
timely, cost-effectively and successfully:

• 

• 

• 

identify  and  address  technology  inflections,  market  changes,  new  applications,  customer  requirements  and  end-use 
demand;

develop new products (including disruptive technologies), improve and/or develop new applications for existing products, 
and  adapt  similar  products  for  use  by  customers  in  different  applications  and/or  markets  with  varying  technical 
requirements;

differentiate  its  products  from  those  of  competitors  and  any  disruptive  technologies,  meet  customers’  performance 
specifications, appropriately price products, and achieve market acceptance;

•  maintain operating flexibility to enable different responses to different markets, customers and applications;

• 

• 

enhance  its  worldwide  operations  across  all  business  segments  to  reduce  cycle  time,  enable  continuous  quality 
improvement, reduce costs, and enhance design for manufacturability and serviceability;

focus on product development and sales and marketing strategies that address customers' high value problems and foster 
strong customer relationships;

21

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

allocate resources, including people and R&D funding, among Applied’s products and between the development of new 
products and the enhancement of existing products, as most appropriate and effective for future growth;

reduce the cost and improve the productivity of capital invested in R&D activities;

accurately forecast demand, work with suppliers and meet production schedules for its products;

improve its manufacturing processes and achieve cost efficiencies across product offerings;

adapt to changes in value offered by companies in different parts of the supply chain;

qualify products for evaluation and, in turn, volume manufacturing with its customers; and

implement changes in its design engineering methodology, including those that enable reduction of material costs and 
cycle time, greater commonality of platforms and types of parts used in different systems, greater effectiveness of product 
life cycle management, and reduced energy usage and environmental impact.

Applied is exposed to risks associated with a highly concentrated customer base.

Applied’s semiconductor customer base historically has been, and is becoming even more, highly concentrated as a result 
of economic and industry conditions. In fiscal 2014, three semiconductor manufacturers accounted for approximately 54 percent 
of Silicon Systems Group net sales and two customers accounted for 33 percent of Applied’s consolidated net sales. Applied’s 
display customer base is also highly concentrated, while concentration within Applied’s solar customer base varies depending on 
the  product  line  but  is  increasing  due  to  challenging  industry  conditions. Applied’s  customer  base  is  also  geographically-
concentrated. See Item 2, “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations,” for tabular 
presentations of net sales by geographic region.

In addition, certain customers have experienced significant ownership or management changes, consolidated with other 
manufacturers,  outsourced  manufacturing  activities,  or  engaged  in  collaboration  or  cooperation  arrangements  with  other 
manufacturers. Customers have entered into strategic alliances or industry consortia that have increased the influence of key 
industry participants in technology decisions made by their partners. Also, certain customers are making an increasingly greater 
percentage  of  their  respective  industry’s  capital  equipment  investments.  Further,  claims  or  litigation  involving  key  industry 
participants have resulted and may continue to result in changes in their sourcing strategies and other outcomes. In this environment, 
contracts or orders from a relatively limited number of manufacturers have accounted for, and are expected to continue to account 
for,  a  substantial  portion  of Applied’s  business. The  mix  and  type  of  customers,  and  sales  to  any  single  customer,  may  vary 
significantly  from  quarter  to  quarter  and  from  year  to  year. As Applied’s  products  are  configured  to  customer  specifications, 
changing, rescheduling or canceling orders may result in significant, non-recoverable costs. If customers do not place orders, or 
they substantially reduce, delay or cancel orders, Applied may not be able to replace the business, which could have a material 
adverse effect on the Company’s results of operations. Major customers may also seek, and on occasion receive, pricing, payment, 
intellectual property-related, or other commercial terms that are less favorable to Applied. 

Applied is exposed to the risks of operating a global business.

In fiscal 2014, approximately 78 percent of Applied’s net sales were to customers in regions outside the United States. 
Moreover, China now represents the largest market for various electronic products, such as TVs, PCs, and smartphones. Certain 
of Applied’s R&D and manufacturing facilities, as well as suppliers to Applied, are also located outside the United States, including 
in Singapore, Taiwan, China, Korea, Israel, Germany and Italy. Applied is also expanding its business and operations in new 
countries. The global nature of Applied’s business and operations, combined with the need to continually improve the Company’s 
operating cost structure, presents challenges, including but not limited to those arising from:

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

varying regional and geopolitical business conditions and demands;

political and social attitudes, laws, rules, regulations and policies within countries that favor domestic companies over 
non-domestic companies, including customer- or government-supported efforts to promote the development and growth 
of local competitors;

customer- or government-supported efforts to influence Applied to conduct more of its operations and sourcing in a 
particular country, such as Korea and China;

variations among, and changes in, local, regional, national or international laws and regulations (including intellectual 
property, labor, tax, and import/export laws), as well as the interpretation and application of such laws and regulations;

global trade issues, including those related to the interpretation and application of import and export licenses, as well as 
international trade disputes;

22

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

positions  taken  by  governmental  agencies  regarding  possible  national  commercial  and/or  security  issues  posed  by 
international business operations;

fluctuating raw material, commodity, energy and shipping costs or shipping delays;

challenges associated with managing more geographically diverse operations and projects, which require an effective 
organizational structure and appropriate business processes, procedures and controls;

a more diverse workforce with different experience levels, cultures, customs, business practices and worker expectations;

variations in the ability to develop relationships with local customers, suppliers and governments;

fluctuations in interest rates and currency exchange rates, including the relative strength or weakness of the U.S. dollar 
against the Japanese yen, euro, Taiwanese dollar, Israeli shekel or Chinese yuan;

the need to provide sufficient levels of technical support in different locations around the world;

political instability, natural disasters (such as earthquakes, floods or storms), pandemics, social unrest, terrorism or acts 
of war in locations where Applied has operations, suppliers or sales, or that may influence the value chain of the industries 
that Applied serves;

the need for an effective business continuity plan if a disaster or other event occurs that could disrupt business operations;

the need to regularly reassess the size, capability and location of global infrastructure and make appropriate changes;

cultural and language differences;

difficulties and uncertainties associated with the entry into new countries;

hiring and integration of an increasing number of new workers, including in countries such as India and China;

the increasing need for the workforce to be more mobile and work in or travel to different regions;

uncertainties with respect to economic growth rates in various countries; and

uncertainties with respect to growth rates for the manufacture and sale of semiconductors, displays and solar PVs in the 
developing economies of certain countries.

Many of these challenges are present in China and Korea, which are experiencing significant growth of customers, suppliers 
and competitors to Applied. Applied further believes that China and Korea present large potential markets for its products and 
opportunity for growth over the long term, although at lower projected levels of profitability and margins for certain products than 
historically have been achieved in other regions. 

Applied is exposed to risks associated with business combinations, acquisitions and strategic investments.

Applied has made, and in the future may make, acquisitions of or investments in companies, technologies or products in 
existing, related or new markets for Applied. Business combinations, acquisitions and investments involve numerous risks that 
vary depending on their scale and nature, including but not limited to:

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

diversion of management’s attention from other operational matters;

contractual restrictions on the conduct of Applied’s business during the pendency of a proposed transaction;

inability to complete proposed transactions as anticipated or at all and any ensuing obligation to pay a termination fee;

the failure of acquired businesses to meet or exceed expected returns;

requirements imposed by government regulators in connection with their review of a transaction, which may include, 
among other things, divestitures and/or restrictions on the conduct of Applied’s existing business or the acquired business;

ineffective integration of operations, systems, technologies, products or employees, which can impact the ability to realize 
anticipated synergies or other benefits;

23

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

failure to commercialize purchased technologies;

initial dependence on unfamiliar supply chains or relatively small supply partners;

inability to capitalize on characteristics of new markets that may be significantly different from Applied’s existing markets 
and where competitors may have stronger market positions and customer relationships;

failure to attract, retain and motivate key employees;

the potential impact of the announcement or consummation of a proposed transaction on relationships with third parties;

potential changes in Applied’s credit rating, which could adversely impact the Company’s access to and cost of capital;

reductions in cash balances and/or increases in debt obligations to finance activities associated with a transaction, which 
reduce the availability of cash flow for general corporate or other purposes;

exposure to new operational risks, rules, regulations, worker expectations, customs and practices to the extent acquired 
businesses are located in regions where Applied has not historically conducted business;

challenges associated with managing new, more diverse and more widespread operations, projects and people;

inability to obtain and protect intellectual property rights in key technologies;

inadequacy or ineffectiveness of an acquired company’s internal financial controls, disclosure controls and procedures, 
and/or environmental, health and safety, anti-corruption, human resource, or other policies or practices;

impairment  of  acquired  intangible  assets  and  goodwill  as  a  result  of  changing  business  conditions,  technological 
advancements or worse-than-expected performance of the segment;

the risk of litigation or claims associated with a proposed or completed transaction;

unknown, underestimated and/or undisclosed commitments or liabilities; and

the inappropriate scale of acquired entities’ critical resources or facilities for business needs.

Applied also makes strategic investments in other companies, including companies formed as joint ventures, which may 
decline in value and/or not meet desired objectives. The success of these investments depends on various factors over which 
Applied may have limited or no control and, particularly with respect to joint ventures, requires ongoing and effective 
cooperation with strategic partners. The risks to Applied’s strategic investment portfolio may be exacerbated by unfavorable 
financial market and macroeconomic conditions and, as a result, the value of the investment portfolio could be negatively 
impacted and lead to impairment charges. 

The proposed business combination with Tokyo Electron Limited may not be completed or, if completed, the intended benefits 

may not be fully realized.

On September 24, 2013, Applied announced an agreement with Tokyo Electron Limited (TEL), a Japanese corporation and 
global supplier of semiconductor and flat panel display production equipment, and provider of technical support and services for 
semiconductor,  flat  panel  display  and  PV  panel  production  equipment,  to  effect  a  strategic  combination  of  their  respective 
businesses. Under the agreement, which was amended February 14, 2014, the closing of the transaction is subject to customary 
conditions, including regulatory approvals. The proposed business combination is subject to the risk factors described immediately 
above, including the risks that the combination may not be consummated in a timely manner or at all; that required  regulatory 
approvals may not be obtained or may be subject to conditions that reduce the estimated benefits of the combination; that the 
businesses, operations, systems, technologies, products or employees of Applied and TEL may not be integrated successfully; and, 
following completion of the transaction, that ineffective integration, changes in laws or regulations, including tax laws or other 
factors, may impact the combined company’s ability to realize anticipated synergies and benefits.

Operating in multiple industries, and the entry into new markets and industries, entail additional challenges and obligations.

As part of its growth strategy, Applied must successfully expand into related or new markets and industries, either with its 
existing products or with new products developed internally or obtained through acquisitions. The entry into different markets 
involves additional challenges, including those arising from:

• 

• 

• 

the need to devote additional resources to develop new products for, and operate in, new markets;

the need to develop new sales and technical marketing strategies, cultivate relationships with new customers and meet 
different customer service requirements;

differing rates of profitability and growth among multiple businesses;

•  Applied’s ability to anticipate demand, capitalize on opportunities, and avoid or minimize risks;

24

• 

• 

the  complexity  of  managing  multiple  businesses  with  variations  in  production  planning,  execution,  supply  chain 
management and logistics;

the adoption of new business models, business processes and systems;

•  Applied’s ability to rapidly expand or reduce its operations to meet increased or decreased demand, respectively, and the 

associated effect on working capital;

new materials, processes and technologies;

the need to attract, motivate and retain employees with skills and expertise in these new areas;

new and more diverse customers and suppliers, including some with limited operating histories, uncertain and/or limited 
funding, evolving business models and/or locations in regions where Applied does not have, or has limited, operations;

new or different competitors with potentially more financial or other resources, industry experience and/or established 
customer relationships;

entry into new industries and countries, with differing levels of government involvement, laws and regulations, and 
business, employment and safety practices;

third parties’ intellectual property rights; and

the need to comply with, or work to establish, industry standards and practices.

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

In  addition, Applied  from  time  to  time  receives  funding  from  United  States  and  other  government  agencies  for  certain 
strategic development programs to increase its research and development resources and address new market opportunities. As a 
condition to this government funding, Applied may be subject to certain record-keeping, audit, intellectual property rights-sharing 
and/or other obligations.

Manufacturing interruptions or delays could affect Applied’s ability to meet customer demand and lead to higher costs, 

while the failure to estimate customer demand accurately could result in excess or obsolete inventory.

Applied’s business depends on its timely supply of equipment, services and related products that meet the rapidly changing 
technical  and  volume  requirements  of  its  customers,  which  depends  in  part  on  the  timely  delivery  of  parts,  components  and 
subassemblies (collectively, parts) from suppliers, including contract manufacturers. Some key parts are subject to long lead-times 
and/or obtainable only from a single supplier or limited group of suppliers, and some sourcing or subassembly is provided by 
suppliers located in countries other than the countries where Applied conducts its manufacturing, including China and Korea. 
Cyclical industry conditions and the volatility of demand for manufacturing equipment increase capital, technical, operational and 
other risks for Applied and for companies throughout its supply chain. Further, these conditions may cause some suppliers to scale 
back operations, exit businesses, merge with other companies, or file for bankruptcy protection and possibly cease operations. 
Applied may also experience significant interruptions of its manufacturing operations, delays in its ability to deliver products or 
services, increased costs or customer order cancellations as a result of:

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

the failure or inability of suppliers to timely deliver sufficient quantities of quality parts on a cost-effective basis;

volatility in the availability and cost of materials, including rare earth elements;

difficulties or delays in obtaining required import or export approvals;

information technology or infrastructure failures; and

natural disasters or other events beyond Applied's control (such as earthquakes, floods or storms, regional economic 
downturns,  pandemics,  social  unrest,  political  instability,  terrorism,  or  acts  of  war),  particularly  where  it  conducts 
manufacturing.

If a supplier fails to meet Applied’s requirements concerning quality, cost, socially-responsible business practices, or other 
performance factors, Applied may transfer its business to alternative sources, which could entail manufacturing delays, additional 
costs, or other difficulties. In addition, if Applied needs to rapidly increase its business and manufacturing capacity to meet increases 
in demand or expedited shipment schedules, this may exacerbate any interruptions in Applied’s manufacturing operations and 
supply chain and the associated effect on Applied’s working capital. Moreover, if actual demand for Applied’s products is different 
than expected, Applied may purchase more/fewer parts than necessary or incur costs for canceling, postponing or expediting 
delivery of parts. If Applied purchases inventory in anticipation of customer demand that does not materialize, or if customers 
reduce or delay orders, Applied may incur excess inventory charges. 

25

The ability to attract, retain and motivate key employees is vital to Applied’s success.

Applied’s success, competitiveness and ability to execute on its global strategies and maintain a culture of innovation depend 
in large part on its ability to attract, retain and motivate key employees, especially in critical positions. Achieving this objective 
may be difficult due to many factors, including fluctuations in global economic and industry conditions, management changes, 
Applied’s  organizational  structure,  hiring  practices  of  competitors  and  other  companies,  cost  reduction  activities  (including 
workforce reductions and unpaid shutdowns), availability of career development opportunities, the ability to obtain necessary 
authorizations for workers to provide services outside their home countries, and the effectiveness of Applied’s compensation and 
benefit programs, including its share-based programs. Restructuring programs present particular challenges to the extent they 
involve the departure of knowledgeable and experienced employees and the resulting need to identify and train existing or new 
workers to perform necessary functions, which may result in unexpected costs, reduced productivity, and/or difficulties with respect 
to internal processes and controls.

Applied is exposed to various risks related to protection and enforcement of intellectual property rights.

Applied’s success depends in significant part on the protection of its intellectual property and other rights. Infringement of 
Applied’s  rights  by  a  third  party,  such  as  the  unauthorized  manufacture  or  sale  of  equipment  or  spare  parts,  could  result  in 
uncompensated lost market and revenue opportunities for Applied. Policing any unauthorized use of intellectual property is difficult 
and costly and Applied cannot be certain that the measures it has implemented will prevent  misuse. Applied’s intellectual property 
rights may not provide significant competitive advantages if they are circumvented, invalidated, rendered obsolete by the rapid 
pace of technological change, or if Applied does not adequately protect or assert these rights or obtain necessary licenses on 
commercially reasonable terms. Furthermore, the laws and practices of other countries, including China, India, Taiwan and Korea, 
permit the protection and enforcement of Applied’s rights to varying extents, which may not be sufficient to adequately protect 
Applied’s rights. In addition, changes in intellectual property laws or their interpretation, such as recent changes in U.S. patent 
laws, may impact Applied's ability to protect and assert its intellectual property rights, increase costs and uncertainties in the 
prosecution of patent applications and enforcement or defense of issued patents, and diminish the value of Applied's intellectual 
property.

Applied is exposed to risks related to cybersecurity threats and incidents.

In the conduct of its business, Applied collects, uses, transmits and stores data on information technology systems. This 
data includes confidential information belonging to Applied or its customers or other business partners, as well as personally-
identifiable information of individuals. Applied has experienced, and expects to continue to be subject to, cybersecurity threats 
and incidents, ranging from employee error or misuse to individual attempts to gain unauthorized access to information systems 
to sophisticated and targeted measures known as advanced persistent threats, none of which have been material to the Company 
to date. Applied devotes significant resources to network security, data encryption and other measures to protect its systems and 
data from unauthorized access or misuse. However, depending on their nature and scope, cybersecurity incidents could result in 
business disruption; the misappropriation, corruption or loss of confidential information and critical data (Applied's and that of 
third  parties);  reputational  damage;  litigation  with  third  parties;  diminution  in  the  value  of Applied's  investment  in  research, 
development and engineering; data privacy issues; and increased cybersecurity protection and remediation costs.

Applied is exposed to various risks related to legal proceedings.

Applied from time to time is, and in the future may be, involved in legal proceedings or claims regarding patent infringement, 
intellectual property rights, antitrust, environmental regulations, securities, contracts, product performance, product liability, unfair 
competition, misappropriation of trade secrets, employment, workplace safety, and other matters. Applied also on occasion receives 
notification from customers who believe that Applied owes them indemnification or other obligations related to claims made 
against such customers by third parties.

Legal  proceedings  and  claims,  whether  with  or  without  merit,  and  associated  internal  investigations,  may  (1) be  time-
consuming  and  expensive  to  prosecute,  defend  or  conduct;  (2) divert  management’s  attention  and  other Applied  resources; 
(3) inhibit Applied’s ability to sell its products; (4) result in adverse judgments for damages, injunctive relief, penalties and fines; 
and/or  (5) negatively  affect Applied’s  business.  There  can  be  no  assurance  regarding  the  outcome  of  current  or  future  legal 
proceedings, claims or investigations. 

26

   
The failure to successfully implement and conduct outsourcing activities and other operational initiatives could adversely 

affect results of operations.

To better align its costs with market conditions, locate closer to customers, enhance productivity, and improve efficiencies, 
Applied conducts certain engineering, software development, manufacturing, sourcing and other operations in regions outside the 
United States, including India, Taiwan, China, and Korea. Applied has implemented a distributed manufacturing model, under 
which certain manufacturing and supply chain activities are conducted in various countries, including the United States, Europe, 
Israel, Singapore, Taiwan and other countries in Asia, and assembly of some systems is completed at customer sites. In addition, 
Applied outsources certain functions to third parties, including companies in the United States, India, China, Korea, Malaysia and 
other  countries.  Outsourced  functions  include  contract  manufacturing,  engineering,  customer  support,  software  development, 
information technology support, finance and administrative activities. The expanding role of third party providers has required 
changes to Applied’s existing operations and the adoption of new procedures and processes for retaining and managing these 
providers, as well as redistributing responsibilities as warranted, in order to realize the potential productivity and operational 
efficiencies, assure quality and continuity of supply, and protect the intellectual property of Applied and its customers, suppliers 
and other partners. If Applied does not accurately forecast the amount, timing and mix of demand for products, or if contract 
manufacturers or other outsource providers fail to perform in a timely manner or at satisfactory quality levels, Applied’s ability 
to meet customer requirements could suffer, particularly during a market upturn.

In addition, Applied must regularly implement or update comprehensive programs and processes to better align its global 
organizations,  including  initiatives  to  enhance  the Asia  supply  chain  and  improve  back  office  and  information  technology 
infrastructure for more efficient transaction processing. Applied also is implementing a multi-year, company-wide program to 
transform certain business processes or extend established processes, including enhancements or replacements to certain enterprise 
resource planning (ERP) software systems. The implementation of additional functionality to the ERP system entails certain risks, 
including difficulties with changes in business processes that could disrupt Applied’s operations, such as its ability to track orders 
and timely ship products, project inventory requirements, manage its supply chain and aggregate financial and operational data. 
During transitions Applied must continue to rely on legacy information systems, which may be costly or inefficient, while the 
implementation of new initiatives may not achieve the anticipated benefits and may divert management’s attention from other 
operational activities, negatively affect employee morale, or have other unintended consequences.

If Applied does not effectively develop and implement its outsourcing and relocation strategies, if required export and other 
governmental approvals are not timely obtained, if Applied’s third party providers do not perform as anticipated, or if there are 
delays or difficulties in enhancing business processes, Applied may not realize anticipated productivity improvements or cost 
efficiencies, and may experience operational difficulties, increased costs (including energy and transportation), manufacturing 
interruptions or delays, inefficiencies in the structure and/or operation of its supply chain, loss of its intellectual property rights, 
quality issues, reputational harm, increased product time-to-market, and/or inefficient allocation of human resources.

Applied may incur impairment charges to goodwill or long-lived assets.

Applied has a significant amount of goodwill and other acquired intangible assets related to acquisitions. Goodwill and 
purchased intangible assets with indefinite useful lives are not amortized, but are reviewed for impairment annually during the 
fourth quarter of each fiscal year, and more frequently when events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying value 
of an asset may not be recoverable. The review compares the fair value for each of Applied’s reporting units to its associated 
carrying value, including goodwill. Factors that could lead to impairment of goodwill and intangible assets include adverse industry 
or economic trends, reduced estimates of future cash flows, declines in the market price of Applied common stock, changes in 
Applied’s strategies or product portfolio, and restructuring activities. Applied’s valuation methodology for assessing impairment 
requires management to make judgments and assumptions based on historical experience and projections of future operating 
performance. Applied may be required to record future charges to earnings during the period in which an impairment of goodwill 
or intangible assets is determined to exist.

27

Changes in tax rates or tax assets and liabilities could affect results of operations.

As a global company, Applied is subject to taxation in the United States and various other countries. Significant judgment 
is required to determine and estimate worldwide tax liabilities. Applied’s future annual and quarterly tax rates could be affected 
by numerous factors, including changes in the: (1) applicable tax laws; (2) amount and composition of pre-tax income in countries 
with differing tax rates; (3) plans of the Company to permanently reinvest certain funds held outside of the U.S.; and (4) valuation 
of Applied’s deferred tax assets and liabilities. As of October 26, 2014, Applied intends to permanently reinvest approximately 
$2.1 billion of these funds outside of the U.S. and does not plan to repatriate these funds.

To better align with the international nature of its business, Applied conducts certain manufacturing, supply chain, and other 
operations in Asia, bringing these activities closer to customers and reducing operating costs. Applied has received authorization 
to use tax incentives that provide that income earned in certain countries outside the U.S. will be subject to tax holidays or reduced 
income tax rates. To obtain the benefit of these tax incentives, Applied must meet requirements relating to various activities. 
Applied’s  ability  to  realize  benefits  from  these  incentives  could  be  materially  affected  if,  among  other  things,  applicable 
requirements are not met or Applied incurs net losses for which it cannot claim a deduction.

In addition, Applied is subject to regular examination by the Internal Revenue Service and other tax authorities, and from 
time  to  time  initiates  amendments  to  previously  filed  tax  returns. Applied  regularly  assesses  the  likelihood  of  favorable  or 
unfavorable outcomes resulting from these examinations and amendments to determine the adequacy of its provision for income 
taxes, which requires estimates and judgments. Although Applied believes its tax estimates are reasonable, there can be no assurance 
that the tax authorities will agree with such estimates. Applied may have to engage in litigation to achieve the results reflected in 
the estimates, which may be time-consuming and expensive. There can be no assurance that Applied will be successful or that 
any final determination will not be materially different from the treatment reflected in Applied’s historical income tax provisions 
and accruals.

Applied is subject to risks of non-compliance with environmental and safety regulations.

Applied is subject to environmental and safety regulations in connection with its global business operations, including but 
not limited to: regulations related to the development, manufacture and use of its products; recycling and disposal of materials 
used in its products or in producing its products; the operation of its facilities; and the use of its real property. The failure or inability 
to comply with existing or future environmental and safety regulations, such as those related to climate change, could result in: 
(1) significant  remediation  liabilities;  (2) the  imposition  of  fines;  (3) the  suspension  or  termination  of  the  development, 
manufacture, sale or use of certain of its products; (4) limitations on the operation of its facilities or ability to use its real property; 
and/or (5) a decrease in the value of its real property.

Applied is exposed to various risks related to the regulatory environment.

Applied is subject to various risks related to: (1) new, different, inconsistent or conflicting laws, rules and regulations that 
may  be  enacted  by  executive  order,  legislative  bodies  or  regulatory  agencies  in  the  countries  in  which Applied  operates; 
(2) disagreements  or  disputes  between  national  or  regional  regulatory  agencies  related  to  international  trade;  and  (3) the 
interpretation and application of laws, rules and regulations. As a public company with global operations, Applied is subject to 
the laws of multiple jurisdictions and the rules and regulations of various governing bodies, including those related to financial 
and  other  disclosures,  corporate  governance,  privacy,  and  anti-corruption.  Changes  and  ambiguities  in  laws,  regulations  and 
standards create uncertainty and challenges regarding compliance matters. Efforts to comply with new and changing regulations 
have resulted in, and are likely to continue to result in, increased general and administrative expenses and a diversion of management 
time and attention from revenue-generating activities to compliance activities.

Item 1B:  Unresolved Staff Comments

None.

28

 
Item 2: 

Properties

Information concerning Applied’s principal properties at October 26, 2014 is set forth below:

Location
Santa Clara, CA. . . . . . . . . . . Office, Plant & Warehouse

Type

Principal Use

Headquarters; Marketing;
Manufacturing; Distribution;
Research, Development,
Engineering; Customer
Support

Austin, TX. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Office, Plant & Warehouse

Manufacturing

Rehovot, Israel . . . . . . . . . . . Office, Plant & Warehouse

Singapore . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Office, Plant & Warehouse

Gloucester, MA . . . . . . . . . . . Office, Plant & Warehouse

Tainan, Taiwan . . . . . . . . . . . Office, Plant & Warehouse

Manufacturing; Research,
Development, Engineering;
Customer Support

Manufacturing and
Customer Support

Manufacturing; Research,
Development, Engineering;
Customer Support
Manufacturing and
Customer Support

Square
Footage

1,358,000
164,000

Ownership

Owned
Leased

1,676,000
145,000
381,000
5,400

408,000
11,000

315,000
125,000

Owned
Leased
Owned
Leased

Owned
Leased

Owned
Leased

320,000

Owned

Because of the interrelation of Applied’s operations, properties within a country may be shared by the segments operating 
within  that  country.  Products  in  the  Silicon  Systems  Group  are  manufactured  in  Austin,  Texas;  Singapore;  Gloucester, 
Massachusetts; and Rehovot, Israel. Remanufactured equipment products in the Applied Global Services segment are produced 
primarily in Austin, Texas. Products in the Display segment are manufactured in Tainan, Taiwan and Santa Clara, California. 
Products in the Energy and Environmental Solutions segment are primarily manufactured in Alzenau, Germany; Treviso, Italy; 
and Cheseaux, Switzerland.

In addition to the above properties, Applied also owns and leases offices, plants and/or warehouse locations in 75 locations 
throughout the world: 16 in Europe, 20 in Japan, 16 in North America (principally the United States), 7 in China, 3 in India, 7 in 
Korea, 3 in Southeast Asia, and 3 in Taiwan. These facilities are principally used for manufacturing; research, development and 
engineering; and marketing, sales and/or customer support.

Applied also owns a total of approximately 150 acres of buildable land in Texas, California, Massachusetts, Israel and Italy 

that could accommodate additional building space.

Applied considers the properties that it owns or leases as adequate to meet its current and future requirements. Applied 
regularly assesses the size, capability and location of its global infrastructure and periodically makes adjustments based on these 
assessments.

29

 
Item 3: 

Legal Proceedings

The information set forth under “Legal Matters” in Note 15 of Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements is incorporated 

herein by reference.

Item 4: 

Mine Safety Disclosures

None.

PART II

Item 5: 

Market for Registrant’s Common Equity, Related Stockholder Matters and Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

Market Information

The following table sets forth the high and low closing sale prices for the periods presented as reported on the NASDAQ 

Global Select Market.

Fiscal 2014
First quarter. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Second quarter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Third quarter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Fourth quarter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Fiscal 2013
First quarter. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Second quarter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Third quarter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Fourth quarter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $

Price Range

High

Low

18.01
20.84
23.27
23.11

12.83
14.15
16.69
18.10

$
$
$
$

$
$
$
$

16.50
16.72
18.67
18.92

10.15
12.80
14.40
14.97

Applied’s common stock is traded on the NASDAQ Global Select Market under the symbol AMAT. As of December 12, 

2014, there were 3,408 registered holders of Applied common stock.

30

 
 
 
 
Performance Graph

The performance graph below shows the five-year cumulative total stockholder return on Applied common stock during the 
period from October 25, 2009 through October 26, 2014. This is compared with the cumulative total return of the Standard & 
Poor’s 500 Stock Index and the RDG Semiconductor Composite Index over the same period. The comparison assumes $100 was 
invested on October 25, 2009 in Applied common stock and in each of the foregoing indices and assumes reinvestment of dividends, 
if any. Dollar amounts in the graph are rounded to the nearest whole dollar. The performance shown in the graph represents past 
performance and should not be considered an indication of future performance.

COMPARISON OF 5 YEAR CUMULATIVE TOTAL RETURN*

Among Applied Materials, Inc., the S&P 500 Index
and the RDG Semiconductor Composite Index

$250

$200

$150

$100

$50

$0

10/25/09

216

208

183

185

163

151

121

117

97

132

126

102

145

125

89

10/31/10

10/30/11

10/28/12

10/27/13

10/26/14

Applied Materials, Inc.

S&P 500

RDG Semiconductor Composite

*  
$100 invested on 10/25/09 in stock or 10/31/09 in index, including reinvestment of dividends.
Indexes calculated on month-end basis.

“S&P” is a registered trademark of Standard & Poor’s Financial Services LLC, a subsidiary of The McGraw-Hill Companies, Inc.

Applied Materials
S&P 500 Index
RDG Semiconductor Composite Index

100.00
100.00
100.00

97.43
116.52
121.00

101.85
125.94
132.42

88.54
145.09
124.95

151.43
184.52
163.20

183.29
216.39
207.93

10/25/2009

10/31/2010

10/30/2011

10/28/2012

10/27/2013

10/26/2014

Dividends

During fiscal 2014, Applied’s Board of Directors declared four quarterly cash dividends of $0.10 per share each. During 
fiscal 2013, Applied’s Board of Directors declared three quarterly cash dividends of $0.10 per share each and one quarterly cash 
dividend of $0.09 per share. During fiscal 2012, Applied’s Board of Directors declared three quarterly cash dividends of $0.09 
per share each and one quarterly cash dividend of $0.08. Dividends declared during fiscal 2014, 2013 and 2012 totaled $487 
million, $469 million and $438 million, respectively. Applied currently anticipates that it will continue to pay cash dividends on 
a quarterly basis in the future, although the declaration and amount of any future cash dividends are at the discretion of the Board 
of Directors and will depend on Applied’s financial condition, results of operations, capital requirements, business conditions and 
other factors, as well as a determination that cash dividends are in the best interests of Applied’s stockholders.

31

 
 
Repurchases of Applied Common Stock

During the fourth quarter of fiscal 2014, there were no shares of common stock repurchased by Applied. On March 5, 2012, 
the Board of Directors approved a stock repurchase program authorizing up to $3.0 billion in repurchases over the next three years, 
ending March 2015.  At October 26, 2014, $1.6 billion remained available for future stock repurchases under this repurchase 
program.

Item 6:  

Selected Financial Data

The  following  selected  financial  information  has  been  derived  from Applied’s  historical  audited  consolidated  financial 
statements and should be read in conjunction with the consolidated financial statements and the accompanying notes for the 
corresponding fiscal years:

Fiscal Year(1)

2014

2013

2012

2011

2010

(In millions, except percentages and per share amounts)

New orders . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Net sales . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Gross margin . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
(% of net sales) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Research, development and engineering. . . . . . . $
Operating income . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
(% of net sales) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Income before income taxes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Net income(2) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Earnings per diluted share(2) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Long-term debt . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Cash dividends declared per common share . . . . $
Total assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $

9,648

9,072

3,843
42.4

1,428

1,520

16.8

1,448

1,072

0.87

1,947

0.40

13,174

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

8,466

7,509

2,991
39.8

1,320

432

5.8

350

256

0.21

1,946

0.39

12,043

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

8,037

8,719

3,313
38.0

1,237

411

4.7

316

109

0.09

1,946

0.35

12,102

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

10,142

10,517

4,360
41.5

1,118

2,398

22.8

2,378

1,926

1.45

1,947

0.31

13,861

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

10,249

9,549

3,715
38.9

1,143

1,384

14.5

1,387

938

0.70

204

0.27

10,943

(1)  Each fiscal year ended on the last Sunday in October. Fiscal 2014, 2013, 2012 and 2011 each contained 52 weeks, while 

fiscal 2010 contained 53 weeks.

(2)  Fiscal 2014 amount differs from the unaudited consolidated financial statements included in Applied’s press release issued 
on November 13, 2014, reflecting an increase to provision for income taxes of $34 million and a decrease to earnings per 
diluted share of $0.03. This adjustment is not considered material and does not affect Applied’s previously announced Non-
GAAP Adjusted Results.

32

 
 
 
Item 7: 

Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations

Introduction

Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations (MD&A) is intended to facilitate 
an  understanding  of Applied’s  business  and  results  of  operations. This  MD&A  should  be  read  in  conjunction  with Applied’s 
Consolidated Financial Statements and the accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements included elsewhere in this 
Form 10-K.  The  following  discussion  contains  forward-looking  statements  and  should  also  be  read  in  conjunction  with  the 
cautionary statement set forth at the beginning of this Form 10-K. MD&A consists of the following sections:

•  Overview: a summary of Applied’s business and measurements

•  Results of Operations: a discussion of operating results

• 

Segment Information: a discussion of segment operating results

•  Business Combinations: a summary of announced or completed business combinations and acquisitions

•  Recent  Accounting  Pronouncements:  a  discussion  of  new  accounting  pronouncements  and  its  impact  to Applied's 

consolidated financial statements

•  Financial Condition, Liquidity and Capital Resources: an analysis of cash flows, sources and uses of cash, contractual 

obligations and financial position

•  Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements and Contractual Obligations

•  Critical  Accounting  Policies  and  Estimates:  a  discussion  of  critical  accounting  policies  that  require  the  exercise  of 

judgments and estimates

•  Non-GAAP Adjusted Results: a presentation of results reconciling GAAP to non-GAAP adjusted measures

Overview

Applied provides manufacturing equipment, services and software to the global semiconductor, flat panel display, solar 
photovoltaic (PV) and related industries. Applied’s customers include manufacturers of semiconductor wafers and chips, flat panel 
liquid crystal and other displays, solar PV cells and modules, and other electronic devices. These customers may use what they 
manufacture in their own end products or sell the items to other companies for use in advanced electronic components. Applied 
operates in four reportable segments: Silicon Systems Group, Applied Global Services, Display, and Energy and Environmental 
Solutions. A summary of financial information for each reportable segment is found in Note 16 of Notes to Consolidated Financial 
Statements. A discussion of factors that could affect Applied’s operations is set forth under “Risk Factors” in Part I, Item 1A, which 
is incorporated herein by reference. Product development and manufacturing activities occur primarily in the United States, Europe, 
Israel, and Asia. Applied’s broad range of equipment and service products are highly technical and are sold primarily through a 
direct sales force.

Applied’s results are driven primarily by worldwide demand for semiconductors, which in turn depends on end-user demand 
for electronic products. Each of Applied’s businesses is subject to cyclical industry conditions, as demand for manufacturing 
equipment and services can change depending on supply and demand for chips, display technologies, solar PVs and other electronic 
devices, as well as other factors, such as global economic and market conditions, and the nature and timing of technological 
advances in fabrication processes. In addition, a significant driver in the semiconductor and display industries is end-demand for 
mobile consumer products, which is characterized by seasonality that impacts the timing of customer investments in manufacturing 
equipment and, in turn, Applied's business. In light of these conditions, Applied's results can vary significantly year-over-year, as 
well as quarter-over-quarter.

Applied's strategic priorities for fiscal 2015 include growing its presence in wafer fab and display equipment and services, 

and improving profitability in solar, as well as expanding Applied's overall available market.

On September 24, 2013, Applied announced an agreement with Tokyo Electron Limited (TEL), a Japanese corporation and 
global supplier of semiconductor, and flat panel display production equipment, and provider of technical support and services for 
semiconductor, flat panel display and PV panel production equipment, to effect a combination of their respective businesses into 
a new combined company. The combination is expected to bring together leading technologies and products and create an expanded 
set of capabilities in precision materials engineering and patterning. In June 2014, the shareholders of Applied and TEL approved 
the proposed business combination. Under the agreement, which was amended February 14, 2014, the closing of the transaction 
is subject to customary conditions, including regulatory approvals.

33

 
Results of Operations

The following table presents certain significant measurements for the past three fiscal years:

Fiscal Year

2014

2013

2012

2014 over 2013

2013 over 2012

Change

New orders . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Net sales . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Gross margin . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Gross margin percent . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Operating income. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Operating margin . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Net income(1) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Earnings per diluted share(1) . . . . . . . . . . . $
Non-GAAP Adjusted Results . . . . . . .
Non-GAAP adjusted gross margin. . . . . $
Non-GAAP adjusted gross margin
percent . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Non-GAAP adjusted operating income . $
Non-GAAP adjusted operating margin
percent . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Non-GAAP adjusted net income . . . . . . $
Non-GAAP adjusted earnings per
diluted share . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $

9,648
9,072
3,843

42.4%
1,520
16.8%
1,072
0.87

4,002

44.1%

1,781

19.6%
1,314

1.07

$
$
$

$

$
$

$

$

$

$

(In millions, except per share amounts and percentages)
1,182
8,037
1,563
8,719
852
3,313

8,466
7,509
2,991

$
$
$

$
$
$

$
$
$

$

$
$

$

429
(1,210)
(322)

1.8 points

1.1 points

21

147
0.12

(406)

2.6 points

1,088

11.0 points

816
0.66

842

2.0 points

1.2 points

749

$

(347)

5.9 points

(2.1) points

596

0.48

$

$

(242)

(0.16)

39.8%
432
5.8%
256
0.21

3,160

42.1%

1,032

13.7%
718

0.59

$

$
$

$

$

$

$

38.0%
411
4.7%
109
0.09

3,566

40.9%

1,379

15.8%
960

0.75

$

$
$

$

$

$

$

(1)  Fiscal 2014 amount differs from the unaudited consolidated financial statements included in Applied’s press release issued 
on November 13, 2014, reflecting an increase to provision for income taxes of $34 million and a decrease to earnings per 
diluted share of $0.03. This adjustment is not considered material and does not affect Applied’s previously announced Non-
GAAP Adjusted Results.

Reconciliations of non-GAAP adjusted measures are presented under "Non-GAAP Adjusted Results" below. Fiscal 2014, 

2013 and 2012 each contained 52 weeks.

Mobility,  including  the  increasing  technological  functionality  of  mobile  devices,  continued  to  be  the  largest  driver  of 
semiconductor industry spending in fiscal 2014. During the year, demand for advanced mobile chips drove continued demand for 
semiconductor  equipment  by  foundry  customers.  In  addition,  demand  for  semiconductor  equipment  from  memory  customers 
improved  as  manufacturers  invested  in  technology  upgrades.  Mobility  also  represents  a  significant  driver  of  display  industry 
spending, which has resulted in continued manufacturing capacity expansion for mobile applications. Demand for larger LCD 
TVs  is  also  driving  investment  in  display  equipment,  although  the  TV  manufacturing  sector  remains  susceptible  to  cyclical 
conditions. Investment in solar equipment remained low during fiscal 2014, despite continued end-market growth, due to ongoing 
excess manufacturing capacity in the industry.

Applied expects the mobility trend to remain the main growth driver for the semiconductor industry, and in turn for the 
Silicon Systems Group, in 2015.  The growth in the semiconductor manufacturing equipment industry is expected to be driven by 
foundry and memory spending. Applied also expects display equipment investment to remain healthy in 2015.

Fiscal 2013 was characterized by strong demand for semiconductor equipment from foundry customers driven by demand 
for advanced mobile chips. In the second half of fiscal 2013, demand from foundry customers softened, reflecting seasonal consumer 
buying patterns for mobility products, while demand from memory and logic customers improved. Mobility also represented a 
significant driver of display industry spending, and demand for mobile display equipment remained strong during fiscal 2013. 
Fiscal 2013 was also characterized by a recovery in demand for TV manufacturing equipment compared to weak industry levels 
in fiscal 2012, resulting from higher consumer demand in emerging markets and for larger LCD TVs. Investment in solar equipment 
remained low during fiscal 2013 due to continued excess manufacturing capacity in the industry. 

34

 
 
 
 
 
 
Fiscal 2012 was characterized by significant fluctuations in demand for semiconductor equipment, coupled with an extremely 
weak market environment for display and solar equipment. Applied completed its acquisition of Varian Semiconductor Equipment 
Associates, Inc. (Varian) in the first quarter of fiscal 2012. Mobility was the greatest influence on semiconductor industry spending 
in fiscal 2012. Investment levels for display equipment were low in fiscal 2012 due to decreased capacity requirements for larger 
flat panel televisions, while demand for mobility products, such as smartphones and tablets, significantly influenced equipment 
spending. In the solar industry, fiscal 2012 was characterized by excess manufacturing capacity, which led to significantly reduced 
demand for crystalline-silicon (c-Si) equipment, as well as weak operating performance and outlook.

New Orders

New orders by reportable segment for the past three fiscal years were as follows:

2014

Change
2014 over 2013

2013

Change
2013 over 2012

2012

Silicon Systems Group . . $
Applied Global Services .

Display . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Energy and
Environmental Solutions.
Total. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $

6,132

2,433

845

64%

25%

9%

238

2%

9,648

100%

(In millions, except percentages)

11%

16%

20%

43%

14%

$

5,507

2,090

703

65%

25%

8%

166

2%

$

8,466

100%

4%

(8)%

157%

(15)%

5%

$

5,294

2,274

274

66%

28%

4%

195

2%

$

8,037

100%

New orders increased in fiscal 2014 from fiscal 2013 across all segments, primarily due to higher demand for semiconductor 
equipment, semiconductor spares and services, and display equipment.  New orders for the Silicon Systems Group and Applied 
Global Services continued to comprise a majority of Applied's consolidated total new orders.

New orders for fiscal 2013 increased compared to fiscal 2012, primarily due to a recovery in demand for display manufacturing 
equipment and increased demand in semiconductor equipment, partially offset by lower demand for service products, as well as 
depressed demand for c-Si solar equipment due to excess manufacturing capacity in the solar industry.

New orders by geographic region, determined by the product shipment destination specified by the customer, were as follows:

2014

Change
2014 over 2013

2013

Change
2013 over 2012

2012

Taiwan. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
China . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Korea . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Japan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Southeast Asia. . . . . . . . .

Asia Pacific. . . . . . . . . .

United States . . . . . . . . . .

Europe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

2,740

1,517

1,086

1,031

412

6,786

2,200

662

28%

16%

11%

11%

4%

70%

23%

7%

Total . . . . . . . . . . . . . $

9,648

100%

(In millions, except percentages)

(5)%

13%

19%

25%

17%

8%

55%

(10)%

14%

$

2,885

1,339

915

822

351

6,312

1,419

735

34%

16%

11%

10%

4%

75%

17%

8%

$

8,466

100%

34%

232%

(49)%

37%

24%

21%

(29)%

(10)%

5%

$

2,155

403

1,784

600

283

5,225

1,995

817

27%

5%

22%

7%

4%

65%

25%

10%

$

8,037

100%

The changes in new orders from customers in the United States, Japan, Taiwan and Korea for fiscal 2014 compared to fiscal 
2013 primarily reflected changes in customers mix in the Silicon Systems Group, while the increase in new orders from China 
resulted from increased demand from display manufacturing equipment.

The recovery in demand for display manufacturing equipment in fiscal 2013 led to the increase in new orders from customers 
in China. The change in the composition of new orders from customers in Taiwan, Korea, Japan and the United States was primarily 
related to changes in customer demand for semiconductor equipment.

35

 
 
 
 
 
 
Changes in backlog during fiscal 2014 and 2013 were as follows:

Beginning balance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
New orders . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Net sales . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Net adjustments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Ending balance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $

2014

2013

(In millions)

2,372

$

9,648
(9,072)
(31)
2,917

$

1,606

8,466
(7,509)
(191)
2,372

Backlog consists of: (1) orders for which written authorizations have been accepted and assigned shipment dates are within 
the  next  12 months,  or  shipment  has  occurred  but  revenue  has  not  been  recognized;  and  (2) contractual  service  revenue  and 
maintenance fees to be earned within the next 12 months. Applied’s backlog at any particular time is not necessarily indicative of 
actual sales for any future periods, due to the potential for customer changes in delivery schedules or cancellation of orders.  
Approximately 80 percent of the backlog as of the end of fiscal 2014 is anticipated to be shipped within the first two quarters of 
fiscal 2015.

Applied’s backlog was $2.9 billion at October 26, 2014 compared to $2.4 billion at October 27, 2013. Backlog adjustments 
were negative for fiscal 2014 and totaled $31 million, consisting of financial debookings, foreign exchange and other adjustments. 

Backlog by reportable segment as of October 26, 2014 and October 27, 2013 was as follows:

2014

Change
2014 over 2013

2013

Silicon Systems Group. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Applied Global Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Display . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Energy and Environmental Solutions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Total . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $

1,400
775
593
149
2,917

$

(In millions, except percentages)
8%
31%
64%
19%
23%

48%
27%
20%
5%
100%

$

1,295
591
361
125
2,372

55%
25%
15%
5%
100%

Backlog increased in fiscal 2014 from fiscal 2013 across all segments. The increase in backlog was primarily due to increases 
in  demand  for  display  manufacturing  equipment  and  semiconductor  spares  and  services.  In  the  fourth  quarter  of  fiscal  2014 
approximately 44 percent of net sales in the Silicon Systems Group, Applied’s largest business segment, were for orders received 
and shipped within the quarter, down from 49 percent in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2013.

36

 
 
 
Net Sales

Net sales by reportable segment for the past three fiscal years were as follows:

2014

Change
2014 over 2013

2013

Change
2013 over 2012

2012

Silicon Systems Group . . $
Applied Global Services .

Display . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Energy and
Environmental Solutions.
Total. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $

5,978

2,200

615

66%

24%

7%

279

3%

9,072

100%

(In millions, except percentages)

25%

9%

14%

61%

21%

$

4,775

2,023

538

64%

27%

7%

173

2%

$

7,509

100%

(14)%

(11)%

14%

(59)%

(14)%

$

5,536

2,285

473

64%

26%

5%

425

5%

$

8,719

100%

Net  sales  for  all  segments  increased  in  fiscal  2014  compared  to  fiscal  2013. The  increase  primarily  reflected  increased 
customer investments in semiconductor and display equipment, as well as semiconductor spares and services. The Silicon Systems 
Group remains the largest contributor of net sales.

For fiscal 2013 as compared to fiscal 2012, net sales in Display increased, reflecting the recovery of TV manufacturing 
equipment investment, while net sales across all other segments decreased.  The decrease primarily reflected continued excess 
manufacturing capacity in the solar industry and lower investments in semiconductor equipment, spares and services. 

Net sales by geographic region, determined by the location of customers' facilities to which products were shipped, were 

as follows:

2014

Change
2014 over 2013

2013

Change
2013 over 2012

2012

Taiwan. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
China . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Korea . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Japan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Southeast Asia. . . . . . . . .
Asia Pacific. . . . . . . . . .
United States . . . . . . . . . .
Europe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Total . . . . . . . . . . . . . $

2,702
1,608
965
817
356
6,448
1,966
658
9,072

30%
18%
10%
9%
4%
71%
22%
7%
100%

(In millions, except percentages)

2%
104%
4%
19%
11%
20%
33%
(3)%
21%

$

$

2,640
787
924
685
320
5,356
1,473
680
7,509

35%
11%
12%
9%
4%
71%
20%
9%
100%

9%
1%
(51)%
(3)%
3%
(12)%
(16)%
(21)%
(14)%

$

$

2,411
783
1,897
704
312
6,107
1,749
863
8,719

28%
9%
22%
8%
3%
70%
20%
10%
100%

Net sales from customers in China increased for fiscal 2014 compared to fiscal 2013 primarily due to greater investments 
in semiconductor, display and solar manufacturing equipment, while net sales from customers in the United States increased due 
to higher investments in semiconductor equipment.

The increase in net sales from customers in China in fiscal 2013 was primarily due to the recovery in demand for display 
manufacturing equipment. The changes in net sales from customers in Korea, the United States and Taiwan were primarily related 
to changes in customer demand for semiconductor equipment.

37

 
 
 
 
 
 
Gross Margin

Gross margins for the past three fiscal years were as follows:

2014

2013

2012

2014 over 2013

2013 over 2012

Change

Gross margin . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Gross margin (% of net sales) . . . . . . . .
Non-GAAP Adjusted Results . . . . . . .
Non-GAAP adjusted gross margin. . . . . $
Non-GAAP adjusted gross margin (%
of net sales) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

3,843

$

2,991

(In millions, except percentages)
3,313

$

$

852

$

(322)

42.4%

39.8%

38.0%

2.6 points

1.8 points

4,002

$

3,160

$

3,566

$

842

$

(406)

44.1%

42.1%

40.9%

2.0 points

1.2 points

Reconciliations of non-GAAP adjusted measures are presented under "Non-GAAP Adjusted Results" below.

Gross margin and non-GAAP gross margin increased in fiscal 2014 compared to fiscal 2013 primarily reflecting higher net 
sales, the recovery of a regional customs duty assessment charge recorded in fiscal 2013, sales of display and solar tools that had 
been written down previously, lower manufacturing costs and change in product mix.

Gross margin and non-GAAP adjusted gross margin decreased in fiscal 2013 compared to fiscal 2012 primarily reflecting 
lower sales. Gross margin percent and non-GAAP adjusted gross margin percent increased in fiscal 2013 compared to fiscal 2012 
despite lower sales, due primarily to lower inventory charges, a favorable product mix, and material cost reductions. Gross margin 
and non-GAAP adjusted gross margin during fiscal 2014, 2013 and 2012 included $53 million, $50 million and $54 million, 
respectively, of share-based compensation expense.

Research, Development and Engineering

Research, Development and Engineering (RD&E) expenses for the past three fiscal years were as follows:

2014

2013

2012

2014 over 2013

2013 over 2012

Change

Research, development and engineering $

1,428

$

1,320

$

(In millions)
1,237

$

108

$

83

Applied’s future operating results depend to a considerable extent on its ability to maintain a competitive advantage in the 
equipment and service products it provides. Management believes that it is critical to continue to make substantial investments in 
RD&E to assure the availability of innovative technology that meets the current and projected requirements of its customers’ most 
advanced designs. Applied has maintained and intends to continue its commitment to investing in RD&E in order to continue to 
offer new products and technologies. Development cycles range from 12 to 36 months depending on whether the product is an 
enhancement of an existing product, which typically has a shorter development cycle, or a new product, which typically has a 
longer development cycle. Most of Applied’s existing products resulted from internal development activities and innovations 
involving new technologies, materials and processes. In certain instances, Applied acquires technologies, either in existing or new 
product areas, to complement its existing technology capabilities and to reduce time to market. 

In  fiscal  2014, Applied  increased  its  investments  primarily  in  the  areas  of  3D  chip  technology  and  300mm  product 
development. Applied's 3D RD&E investments were focused on products for overcoming the challenges of FinFET and 3D NAND 
designs at sub-2x nanometer nodes and enabling cost-effective manufacturing of these high-performance 3D chips. Applied also 
developed new applications for its epitaxial technology to enable the industry’s transition to NMOS transistors at the 20nm node, 
thereby enabling chip makers to build faster devices and deliver next-generation mobile computing power.

38

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
RD&E expenses increased in fiscal 2014 compared to the prior year and also in fiscal 2013 compared to fiscal 2012, reflecting 
the impact of ongoing product development initiatives. As part of its growth strategy, Applied has taken certain actions, including 
workforce reductions and reprioritization of existing spend, to enable increased funding for investments in technical capabilities 
and critical RD&E programs in current and new markets, with a focus on semiconductor technologies. RD&E expense during 
fiscal 2014, 2013 and 2012 included $66 million, $53 million and $54 million, respectively, of share-based compensation expense. 

Marketing and Selling

Marketing and selling expenses for the past three fiscal years were as follows:

2014

2013

2012

2014 over 2013

2013 over 2012

Change

Marketing and selling . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $

423

$

433

$

(In millions)
481

$

(10) $

(48)

The  decrease  in  marketing  and  selling  expenses  for  fiscal  2014  compared  to  fiscal  2013  was  mainly  due  to  headcount 
reductions. The decrease in marketing and selling expenses for fiscal 2013 compared to fiscal 2012 was primarily attributable to 
savings from restructuring programs along with a reduction in the bad debt provision during the year as a result of lower risk 
exposures among display and solar customers. Marketing and selling expenses during fiscal 2014, 2013 and 2012 included $23 
million, $20 million and $22 million, respectively, of share-based compensation expense.

General and Administrative

General and administrative (G&A) expenses for the past three fiscal years were as follows:

2014

2013

2012

2014 over 2013

2013 over 2012

Change

General and administrative . . . . . . . . . . $

467

$

465

$

(In millions)
595

$

2

$

(130)

G&A expenses for fiscal 2014 increased slightly compared to fiscal 2013 primarily due to integration planning costs associated 
with the announced business combination with TEL, partially offset by a gain on the sale of foreign exchange option contracts 
associated with the business combination and proceeds from a favorable litigation outcome. The decrease in G&A for fiscal 2013 
compared to fiscal 2012 was primarily due to the absence of certain costs incurred during fiscal 2012 associated with the acquisition 
of Varian, savings from restructuring programs, and lower share-based compensation expense, partially offset by costs associated 
with the proposed business combination with TEL. G&A expenses during fiscal 2014, 2013 and 2012 included $35 million, $34 
million and $52 million  respectively, of share-based compensation expense.

39

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Impairment of Goodwill

In the fourth quarter of fiscal 2014, Applied performed an annual qualitative assessment to test goodwill for all of its reporting 
units for impairment. Applied determined that it was more likely than not that each of its reporting units' fair values exceeded its 
respective carrying values and that it was not necessary to perform the two-step goodwill impairment test for any of its reporting 
units.

During fiscal 2013 and 2012, the solar industry faced a deterioration in market conditions associated with manufacturing 
overcapacity and weak operating performance and outlook, resulting in uncertainties regarding the timing and nature of a recovery 
in solar capital equipment expenditures. Applied performed a two-step goodwill impairment test and, as a result, recorded $224 
million and $421 million of goodwill impairment charges in its Energy and Environmental Solutions segment in fiscal 2013 and 
2012, respectively.  In fiscal 2013, Applied also performed an impairment test for long-lived assets associated with the Energy 
and Environmental Solutions reporting unit and determined that the majority of intangible assets were impaired, mostly due to the 
lower long-term revenue and profitability outlook associated with products related to these intangible assets. Accordingly, during 
fiscal 2013, Applied recorded an impairment charge of $54 million related to these intangible assets, which was the amount by 
which the carrying value of these intangible assets exceeded their estimated fair value, based on discounted projected cash flows.

The evaluation of goodwill and intangible assets for impairment requires the exercise of significant judgment. In the event 
of future changes in business conditions, Applied will reassess and update its forecasts and estimates used in future impairment 
analyses. If the results of these analyses are lower than current estimates, a material impairment charge may result at that time. 

For further details, see Note 9 of Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

Restructuring and Asset Impairments

Restructuring and asset impairment expenses for the past three fiscal years were as follows:

2014

2013

2012

2014 over 2013

2013 over 2012

Change

(In millions)

Restructuring and asset impairments, net . . . . . $

5

$

63

$

168

$

(58) $

(105)

On  October  3,  2012, Applied  announced  a  restructuring  plan  (the  2012  Global  Restructuring  Plan)  to  realign  its  global 
workforce and enhance its ability to invest for growth. Under this plan, Applied implemented a voluntary retirement program and 
other workforce reduction actions that affected approximately 1,300 positions. As of January 26, 2014, principal activities related 
to this plan were complete.  During fiscal 2014, 2013 and 2012, Applied recognized $5 million, $39 million and $106 million, 
respectively, of employee-related costs in connection with the 2012 Global Restructuring Plan. Total costs incurred in implementing 
this plan were $150 million, none of which were allocated to the operating segments. 

On May 10, 2012, Applied announced a plan (the 2012 EES Restructuring Plan) to restructure its Energy and Environmental 
Solutions segment in light of challenging industry conditions affecting the solar photovoltaic and light-emitting diode (LED) 
equipment markets. As part of the 2012 EES Restructuring Plan, Applied relocated certain manufacturing, business operations 
and customer support functions of its precision wafering systems business and ceased LED development activities. This plan 
impacted approximately 300 positions globally. As of October 27, 2013, principal activities related to this plan were complete. 
Total costs incurred in implementing this plan were $87 million, of which $13 million were inventory-related charges. During 
fiscal 2013 and 2012, Applied recognized $26 million and $48 million, respectively, of restructuring and asset impairment charges 
in connection with the 2012 EES Restructuring Plan. As of October 26, 2014, there were no remaining severance accruals associated 
with restructuring reserves under this program.

Also in fiscal 2013 and 2012, Applied incurred $2 million and $14 million, respectively, of severance and other employee-

related costs in connection with the integration of Varian.

For further details, see Note 11 of Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

40

 
 
 
 
Interest Expense and Interest and Other Income, net

Interest expense and interest and other income, net for the past three fiscal years were as follows:

2014

2013

2012

2014 over 2013

2013 over 2012

Change

(In millions)

Interest expense . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Interest and other income, net . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $

95
23

$
$

95
13

$
$

95
$
— $

— $
$
10

—
13

Interest expenses incurred were primarily associated with the senior unsecured notes issued in June 2011 to fund a portion 
of the consideration and certain costs associated with the acquisition of Varian. Interest expense remained flat during fiscal 2014 
from the prior year and in fiscal 2013 compared to fiscal 2012.

Interest income primarily includes interest earned on cash and investments and realized gains on sale of securities. Interest 
and other income, net increased in fiscal 2014 compared to fiscal 2013 primarily due to realized gains on sales of securities recorded 
during fiscal 2014, partially offset by increased impairments of strategic investments. Interest and other income, net increased in 
fiscal 2013 from fiscal 2012 primarily due to decreased impairments of strategic investments. 

Income Taxes

Income tax expenses for the past three fiscal years were as follows:

2014

2013

2012

2014 over 2013

2013 over 2012

Change

Provision for income taxes. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Effective income tax rate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

$

376
26.0%

(In millions, except percentages)
94
26.9%

207
65.5% (0.9) point

$

$

282

(113)
$
(38.6) points

The  effective  tax  rate  for  fiscal  2014  was  lower  than  the  rate  for  fiscal  2013  due  primarily  to  nondeductible  goodwill 
impairment charges in fiscal 2013, offset by resolutions and changes related to prior years and expiration of the U.S. federal 
research and development tax credit.

The effective tax rate for fiscal 2013 was significantly lower than the rate for fiscal 2012 due primarily to the geographic 
composition of Applied's pre-tax income, lower nondeductible goodwill impairment charges, and reinstatement of the U.S. federal 
research and development tax credit retroactive to its expiration in December 2012. These reductions were partially offset by a 
lower benefit in fiscal 2013 from the U.S. federal domestic production deduction.

41

 
 
 
 
 
 
Segment Information

Applied reports financial results in four segments: Silicon Systems Group, Applied Global Services, Display, and Energy 
and Environmental Solutions. A description of the products and services, as well as financial data, for each reportable segment 
can be found in Note 16 of Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements. Applied does not allocate to its reportable segments certain 
operating  expenses  that  it  manages  separately  at  the  corporate  level.  These  unallocated  costs  include  costs  for  share-based 
compensation; certain management, finance, legal, human resource, and RD&E functions provided at the corporate level; and 
unabsorbed information technology and occupancy. In addition, Applied does not allocate to its reportable segments restructuring 
and asset impairment charges and any associated adjustments related to restructuring actions, unless these actions pertain to a 
specific reportable segment.

The results for each reportable segment are discussed below.

Silicon Systems Group Segment

The Silicon Systems Group segment includes semiconductor capital equipment for deposition, etch, ion implantation, rapid 
thermal processing, chemical mechanical planarization, metrology and inspection, and wafer packaging. Development efforts are 
focused on solving customers' key technical challenges in transistor, patterning, interconnect and packaging performance as devices 
scale to advanced technology nodes. The mobility trend remains the largest influence on industry spending, as it drives device 
manufacturers to continually improve their ability to deliver high-performance, low-power processors and affordable solid-state 
storage in a small form factor.

With the acquisition of Varian, Applied acquired ion implantation technology for semiconductor as well as c-Si solar cell 
manufacturing,  which  was  recorded  under  the  Silicon  Systems  Group  segment  in  fiscal  2012.  In  fiscal  2013, Applied  began 
marketing  the  solar  implant  products  commercially  through  its  Energy  and  Environmental  Solutions  segment. Accordingly, 
effective in the first quarter of fiscal 2013, Applied accounts for its solar implant products under the Energy and Environmental 
Solutions segment. The effect of the solar implant products was not material to the operations of either the Silicon Systems Group 
or Energy and Environmental Solutions segments.

Certain significant measures for the past three fiscal years were as follows:

2014

2013

2012

2014 over 2013

2013 over 2012

Change

New orders . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Net sales . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Book to bill ratio . . . . . . . .

Operating income . . . . . . . .

Operating margin . . . . . . . .
Non-GAAP Adjusted
Results . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Non-GAAP adjusted
operating income . . . . . . . . $
Non-GAAP adjusted
operating margin. . . . . . . . .

$

5,507

$

(In millions, except percentages and ratios)
625
5,294

11%

$

1,203

25%

$

213
(761)

4%

(14)%

6,132

5,978

1.0

1,391

4,775

1.2

876

5,536

1.0

1,243

515

59%

(367)

(30)%

23.3%

18.3%

22.5%

5.0 points

(4.2) points

1,565

$

1,050

$

1,537

515

49%

(487)

(32)%

26.2%

22.0%

27.8%

4.2 points

(5.8) points

Reconciliations of non-GAAP adjusted measures are presented under "Non-GAAP Adjusted Results" below.

42

 
 
 
The composition of new orders for the Silicon Systems Group by end use application for the past three fiscal years was as 

follows:

Foundry . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Memory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Logic and other . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

2014
52%
35%
13%
100%

2013
58%
27%
15%
100%

2012
62%
22%
16%
100%

One region accounted for at least 30 percent of total net sales for the Silicon Systems Group segment for one or more of 

the past three fiscal years:

2014

2013

2012

2014 over 2013

2013 over 2012

Change

Taiwan. . . . . . . . . . . . . $

2,186

$

2,171

$

1,744

$

15

1%

$

427

24%

(In millions, except percentages)

Customers in Taiwan accounted for 37 percent, 45 percent and 32 percent of total net sales for the Silicon Systems Group 
in fiscal 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively. Customers in the United States, China and Korea together contributed 47 percent, 37 
percent and 54 percent of the total net sales for this segment in fiscal 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively.

Financial results in the Silicon Systems Group for fiscal 2014 compared to fiscal 2013 reflected the overall increase in wafer 
fab equipment spending in the semiconductor industry.  The increase in new orders and net sales in fiscal 2014 compared to fiscal 
2013 primarily reflected increased demand and spending from memory customers, as well as continued demand from foundry 
customers. Three customers accounted for approximately 54 percent of net sales and three customers accounted for 75 percent of 
new orders in this segment in fiscal 2014. Operating income and non-GAAP adjusted operating income for fiscal 2014 increased 
compared to fiscal 2013, reflecting the increase in net sales, partially offset by changes in product mix and higher RD&E spend. 
In the fourth quarter of fiscal 2014, new orders were $1.3 billion, a decrease of 15 percent compared to the prior quarter, primarily 
due to lower orders from memory and foundry customers. Approximately 44 percent of net sales in the fourth quarter of fiscal 
2014 were for orders received and shipped within the quarter, which increased slightly from 43 percent in the third quarter of 
fiscal 2014. 

The increase in new orders in fiscal 2013 compared to fiscal 2012 primarily reflected increased demand from memory 
customers.  Net sales decreased in fiscal 2013 from the prior year due to overall decreased wafer fab equipment spending in the 
semiconductor industry. Three customers accounted for approximately 65 percent of new orders and net sales in this segment in 
fiscal 2013. Operating income and non-GAAP adjusted operating income for fiscal 2013 decreased compared to fiscal 2012, 
reflecting the decrease in net sales, changes in product mix and higher RD&E spend.

43

 
 
 
 
 
Applied Global Services Segment

The Applied Global Services segment encompasses integrated solutions to optimize equipment and fab performance and 
productivity, including spares, upgrades, services, remanufactured earlier generation equipment and factory automation software 
for semiconductor, display and solar products. Customer demand for products and services is fulfilled through a global distribution 
system with trained service engineers located in close proximity to customer sites.

Certain significant measures for the past three fiscal years were as follows:

2014

2013

2012

2014 over 2013

2013 over 2012

Change

New orders . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Net sales . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Book to bill ratio . . . . . . . .
Operating income . . . . . . . .
Operating margin . . . . . . . .
Non-GAAP Adjusted
Results . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Non-GAAP adjusted
operating income . . . . . . . .

Non-GAAP adjusted
operating margin. . . . . . . . .

$

$

2,433
2,200
1.1
573
26.0%

2,090
2,023
1.0
436
21.6%

$

(In millions, except percentages and ratios)
343
2,274
2,285
177
1.0
502
22.0%

31%
4.4 points

16%
9%

137

$

(184)
(262)

(8)%
(11)%

(66)

(13)%

(0.4) point

576

443

530

133

30%

(87)

(16)%

26.2%

21.9%

23.2%

4.3 points

(1.3) points

Reconciliations of non-GAAP adjusted measures are presented under "Non-GAAP Adjusted Results" below.

There were no individual regions that accounted for at least 30 percent of total net sales for the Applied Global Services 

segment for any of the past three fiscal years.

New orders and net sales for fiscal 2014 increased compared to fiscal 2013 mainly due to increased demand for semiconductor 
spares and services, as well as 200mm equipment systems and equipment upgrades. Operating income and non-GAAP adjusted 
operating income increased in fiscal 2014 compared to the prior year, reflecting the increase in net sales as well as the recovery 
of a regional customs duty assessment charge recorded in fiscal 2013.

For fiscal 2013, new orders and net sales decreased compared to fiscal 2012 due primarily to lower demand and investments 
for semiconductor spares and services. The decrease in net sales was also due to lower investments in display upgrades. Fiscal 
2012 net sales also included $85 million in sales for a thin film solar production line. Operating income and non-GAAP adjusted 
operating income decreased in fiscal 2013 compared to fiscal 2012, reflecting lower sales and a $20 million customs duty assessment, 
partially offset by lower operating expenses from spending controls.

44

 
 
 
Display Segment

The Display segment encompasses products for manufacturing liquid crystal displays (LCDs), organic light-emitting diodes 
(OLEDs), and other display technologies for TVs, personal computers (PCs), tablets, smart phones, and other consumer-oriented 
devices. The segment is focused on expanding its presence through technologically-differentiated equipment for manufacturing 
large-scale TVs; entry into new markets such as low temperature polysilicon (LTPS), metal oxide, and touch panel sectors; and 
development  of  products  that  enable  cost  reductions  through  productivity  and  uniformity.  Display  industry  growth  depends 
primarily on consumer demand for increasingly larger and more advanced LCD TVs and high resolution displays for next generation 
mobile devices.

Certain significant measures for the past three fiscal years were as follows:

2014

2013

2012

2014 over 2013

2013 over 2012

Change

New orders . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Net sales . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Book to bill ratio . . . . . . . .
Operating income . . . . . . . .
Operating margin . . . . . . . .
Non-GAAP Adjusted
Results . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Non-GAAP adjusted
operating income . . . . . . . . $
Non-GAAP adjusted
operating margin. . . . . . . . .

(In millions, except percentages and ratios)
142
77

20%
14%

$

$

845
615
1.4
129
21.0%

$

703
538
1.3
74
13.8%

274
473
0.6
25
5.3%

$

429
65

49

157%
14%

196%
8.5 points

55

74%
7.2 points

131

$

80

$

32

51

64%

48

150%

21.3%

14.9%

6.8%

6.4 points

8.1 points

Reconciliations of non-GAAP adjusted measures are presented under "Non-GAAP Adjusted Results" below.

The following regions accounted for at least 30 percent of total net sales for the Display segment for one or more of the past 

three fiscal years:

2014

2013

2012

2014 over 2013

2013 over 2012

Change

Taiwan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
China . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Korea . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $

22
491
99

$
$
$

50
260
175

$
$
$

(In millions, except percentages)
179
133
88

(28)
231
(76)

(56)%
89%
(43)%

$
$
$

$
$
$

(129)
127
87

(72)%
95%
99%

In fiscal 2014, 2013, and 2012, customers in China accounted for 80 percent, 48 percent and 28 percent, respectively, of the 
Display segment's total net sales. Customers in Korea and Taiwan together accounted for 20 percent of total net sales for the 
Display segment in fiscal 2014 compared to 42 percent in fiscal 2013, and 57 percent in fiscal 2012. The increase in net sales from 
customers in China reflected TV manufacturing capacity expansion, while the decrease in net sales from customers in Korea and 
Taiwan primarily related to lower sales of mobile display manufacturing equipment.

45

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
New orders and net sales for fiscal 2014 increased compared to the prior year reflecting strong TV manufacturing capacity 
expansions. Operating income and non-GAAP adjusted operating income increased over the prior year, due primarily to higher 
net sales, sales of tools for which inventory had been written down previously, better installation and warranty performance, and 
material and manufacturing cost reductions, partially offset by increased research and development expenses. Four customers 
accounted for approximately 87 percent of new orders for the Display segment in fiscal 2014, with two customers accounting for 
approximately 50 percent of new orders. Four customers accounted for approximately 77 percent of net sales for this segment in 
fiscal 2014, with one customer accounting for approximately 40 percent of net sales. In the fourth quarter of fiscal 2014, new 
orders were $130 million, down 56 percent from the prior quarter, primarily reflecting continued variability in industry order 
patterns. Net sales in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2014 were $190 million, up 60 percent compared to the prior quarter as a result 
of shipment of TV manufacturing equipment to customers in China.

Fiscal 2013 operating results reflected a recovery in demand for TV manufacturing equipment and continued demand for 
advanced mobile display equipment, which resulted in increased new orders, net sales, operating income and non-GAAP adjusted 
operating income compared to fiscal 2012. Two customers accounted for approximately 50 percent of net sales for the Display 
segment in fiscal 2013.

Energy and Environmental Solutions Segment

The Energy and Environmental Solutions segment includes products for fabricating crystalline-silicon (c-Si), solar PV wafers 
and cells, as well as high throughput roll-to-roll deposition equipment for flexible electronics, packaging and other applications. 
This business is focused on delivering solutions to generate and conserve energy, with an emphasis on lowering the cost to produce 
solar modules and increasing conversion efficiency. While end-demand for solar PVs has been robust over the last several years, 
investment in capital equipment remained low as global PV production capacity exceeds anticipated demand. The solar equipment 
environment improved slightly in fiscal 2014 compared to the previous year.

Certain significant measures for the past three fiscal years were as follows:

New orders . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Net sales . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Book to bill ratio . . . . . . . .

Operating income (loss) . . .

Operating margin . . . . . . . .
Non-GAAP Adjusted
Results . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Non-GAAP adjusted
operating income (loss) . . .
Non-GAAP adjusted
operating margin. . . . . . . . .

2014

2013

2012

2014 over 2013

2013 over 2012

Change

(In millions, except percentages and ratios)

238

279

0.9

15

$

166

173

1.0

$

195

425

0.5

$

72

106

43%

61%

$

(29)
(252)

(15)%

(59)%

(433)

(668)

448

103%

235

35%

5.4% (250.3)% (157.2)%

255.7 points

(93.1) points

21

(115)

(184)

136

118%

69

38%

7.5%

(66.5)%

(43.3)%

74.0 points

(23.2) points

Reconciliations of non-GAAP adjusted measures are presented under "Non-GAAP Adjusted Results" below.

46

 
 
 
The following region accounted for at least 30 percent of total net sales for the Energy and Environmental Solutions 

segment for one or more of the past three fiscal years:

2014

2013

2012

2014 over 2013

2013 over 2012

Change

China . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $

173

$

100

$

(In millions, except percentages)
210

73

$

73% $

(110)

(52)%

In fiscal 2014, customers in China accounted for 62 percent of total net sales for the Energy and Environmental Solutions 

segment compared to 58 percent in fiscal 2013, and 49 percent in fiscal 2012. 

New orders and net sales for fiscal 2014 increased compared to fiscal 2013 but remained at low levels due to continued 
excess manufacturing capacity in the solar industry. One customer accounted for approximately 23 percent of net sales for this 
segment during fiscal 2014. Operating margin and non-GAAP adjusted operating margin increased for fiscal 2014 compared to 
prior year, reflecting increased net sales, lower inventory charges, sales of solar tools that were written down previously and 
continued cost reduction measures, proceeds from a favorable litigation outcome, and spending controls. In the fourth quarter of 
fiscal 2014, new orders were $44 million, down from $66 million in the prior quarter, and net sales were $48 million, down 53 
percent from the prior quarter. 

Fiscal 2013 financial results continued to reflect excess manufacturing capacity in the solar industry, which resulted in low 
levels of new orders and net sales, and consequently an operating loss for the segment. Operating loss for fiscal 2013 included 
$278 million of goodwill and intangible asset impairment charges, as well as restructuring and asset impairment charges of $25 
million associated with the 2012 EES Restructuring Plan discussed above. Details on goodwill and intangible asset impairment 
and restructuring and asset impairment charges are also included in Note 9 and Note 11 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial 
Statements.

47

 
 
 
 
Business Combinations

Tokyo Electron Limited

On September 24, 2013, Applied and Tokyo Electron Limited (TEL) entered into a Business Combination Agreement, which 
was amended on February 14, 2014, to effect a strategic combination of their respective businesses into a new combined company. 
TEL, a Japanese corporation, is a global supplier of semiconductor and flat panel display production equipment, and a provider 
of technical support and services for semiconductor, flat panel display and photovoltaic panel production equipment. Under the 
terms of the Business Combination Agreement, TEL shareholders will receive 3.25 shares of the new combined company for every 
TEL share held. Applied shareholders will receive one share of the new combined company for every Applied share held. Based 
on the number of shares of Applied common stock and shares of TEL common stock expected to be issued and outstanding 
immediately prior to the closing of the transaction, it is anticipated that, immediately following the transaction, former Applied 
stockholders and former TEL shareholders will own approximately 68% and 32%, respectively, of the new combined company.

The new combined company, Eteris N.V., will have dual headquarters in Tokyo and Santa Clara and dual listing of its shares 
on the Tokyo Stock Exchange and NASDAQ, and will be incorporated in the Netherlands. In June 2014, the shareholders of 
Applied  and TEL  approved  the  proposed  business  combination. The  closing  of  the  transaction  remains  subject  to  customary 
conditions, including regulatory approvals. It is expected that the combined company will commence a $3.0 billion stock repurchase 
program targeted to be executed within 12 months following the closing of the transaction.

The Business Combination Agreement contains mutual pre-closing covenants, including the obligation of Applied and TEL to 
conduct their businesses in the ordinary course consistent in all material respects with past practices. The agreement also contains 
termination  rights  for Applied  and  TEL  and  provides  that  upon  certain  events,  such  as  a  termination  due  to  a  change  in 
recommendation by the other party or a termination relating to certain tax rulings, a termination fee of $400 million is payable.

Varian Semiconductor Equipment Associates, Inc.

On November 10, 2011, Applied completed the acquisition of Varian, a public company manufacturer of semiconductor 
processing equipment and the leading supplier of ion implantation equipment used by chip makers globally, for an aggregate 
purchase price of $4.2 billion in cash, net of cash acquired and assumed earned equity awards of $27 million, pursuant to an 
Agreement and Plan of Merger dated as of May 3, 2011.  Applied's primary reasons for this acquisition were to complement 
existing product offerings and to provide opportunities for future growth. The acquired business is primarily included in results 
for the Silicon Systems Group and Applied Global Services segments.

Applied funded the transaction with a combination of existing cash balances and debt. On June 8, 2011, Applied issued 
senior unsecured notes in the aggregate principal amount of $1.75 billion and used the net proceeds of the Notes to fund a portion 
of the consideration and certain costs associated with the acquisition. See Note 10 of Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements 
for additional discussion of long-term debt.

For further details, see Note 8 of Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

Recent Accounting Pronouncements

In  May  2014,  the  Financial Accounting  Standards  Board  (FASB)  issued  authoritative  guidance  that  requires  revenue 
recognition to depict the transfer of promised goods or services to a customer in an amount that reflects the consideration to which 
the entity expects to be entitled in exchange for those goods or services. This new standard will supersede most current revenue 
recognition guidance, including industry-specific guidance. The guidance becomes effective for Applied in the first quarter of 
fiscal 2018, and can be applied either retrospectively or as a cumulative-effect adjustment as of the date of adoption.  Early adoption 
is prohibited.  Applied is currently evaluating the effect of this new guidance on Applied's financial position and its ongoing 
financial reporting, including the selection of a transition method.

In April 2014, the FASB issued authoritative guidance that raises the threshold for a disposal transaction to qualify as a 
discontinued operation and requires additional disclosures about discontinued operations and disposals of individually significant 
components that do not qualify as discontinued operations. The authoritative guidance becomes effective prospectively for Applied 
in the first quarter of fiscal 2016.  Early adoption is permitted, but only for disposals that have not been reported in financial 
statements previously issued.

In July 2013, the FASB issued authoritative guidance that will require an unrecognized tax benefit to be presented as a 
reduction of a deferred tax asset for a net operating loss carryforward, a similar tax loss or a tax credit carryforward, with certain 
exceptions. The  authoritative  guidance  becomes  effective  for Applied  in  the  first  quarter  of  fiscal  2015,  with  early  adoption 
permitted. The guidance is not expected to have a significant impact on Applied's financial position.

48

Financial Condition, Liquidity and Capital Resources

Applied’s cash, cash equivalents and investments increased to $4.1 billion at October 26, 2014 from $2.9 billion at October 27, 

2013. 

Cash, cash equivalents and investments consist of the following:

Cash and cash equivalents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Short-term investments. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Long-term investments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Total cash, cash-equivalents and investments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $

October 26,
2014

October 27,
2013

(In millions)

3,002
160
935
4,097

$

$

1,711
180
1,005
2,896

Sources and Uses of Cash

A summary of cash provided by (used in) operating, investing, and financing activities is as follows:

2014

2013

2012

(In millions)

Cash provided by operating activities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Cash provided by (used in) investing activities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Cash used in financing activities. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $

1,800
$
(161) $
(348) $

$
623
215
$
(519) $

1,851
(4,660)
(1,754)

Operating Activities

Cash from operating activities for fiscal 2014 was $1.8 billion, which reflects net income adjusted for the effect of non-cash 
charges  and  changes  in  working  capital  components.  Non-cash  charges  included  depreciation,  amortization,  share-based 
compensation, unrealized loss on derivatives associated with announced business combination, restructuring and asset impairments 
and deferred income taxes. The increase in cash from operating activities from fiscal 2013 to fiscal 2014 was primarily due to 
higher business volume and improved working capital performance.

Applied discounted $29 million of letters of credit issued by customers in fiscal 2014. Applied did not utilize programs to 
discount letters of credit issued by customers in fiscal 2013 and 2012. Discounting of letters of credit depends on many factors, 
including the willingness of financial institutions to discount the letters of credit and the cost of such arrangements. Applied 
factored accounts receivable and discounted promissory notes of $45 million in fiscal 2014, and $93 million in fiscal 2012. There 
was no factoring of accounts receivable or discounting of promissory notes in fiscal 2013.

Applied’s working capital was $4.1 billion at October 26, 2014 and $3.2 billion at October 27, 2013.

Days sales, inventory and payable outstanding at the end of each of the periods indicated are:

Days sales outstanding . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Days inventory outstanding . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Days payable outstanding . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

2014

67
109
43

2013

75
108
44

2012

67
109
34

Days sales outstanding varies due to the timing of shipments and the payment terms. Days sales outstanding decreased at 
the end of fiscal 2014 compared to fiscal 2013 primarily due to an increase in revenue and better linearity. The days sales outstanding 
in fiscal 2012 included a favorable impact from the timing of the sale of thin film production line during the year. Days inventory 
outstanding remained flat in fiscal 2012, 2013 and 2014. The increase in days payable outstanding from fiscal 2012 to fiscal 2013 
primarily reflected an increase in accounts payable due to increase in inventory purchases near the end of the period to support 
projected customer demand.

49

 
 
 
 
Investing Activities

Applied used $161 million of cash in investing activities in fiscal 2014 and $4.7 billion in fiscal 2012. Applied generated 
$215 million in cash from investing activities in fiscal 2013. Capital expenditures were $241 million in fiscal 2014, $197 million 
in fiscal 2013, and $162 million in fiscal 2012. Capital expenditures in fiscal 2014 were primarily for demonstration and test 
equipment and infrastructure improvements in North America, including creation of a new pilot operation facility and distribution 
center. Capital expenditures in fiscal 2013 were primarily for demonstration and test equipment as well as laboratory tools and 
equipment upgrades in North America. Capital expenditures in fiscal 2012 were primarily for various information technology 
expenditures in North America, including the addition of Varian, and expansion of semiconductor assembly centers in Singapore. 
Proceeds from sales and maturities of investments, net of purchases of investments, totaled $67 million in fiscal 2014 and $406 
million in fiscal 2013, while purchases of investments, net of proceeds from sales and maturities of investments, totaled $308 
million in fiscal 2012. Investing activities also included investments in technology and acquisitions of companies to allow Applied 
to access new market opportunities or emerging technologies. In fiscal 2012, Applied acquired Varian for $4.2 billion, net of cash 
acquired. 

Applied’s investment portfolio consists principally of investment grade money market mutual funds, U.S. Treasury and 
agency securities, municipal bonds, corporate bonds and mortgage-backed and asset-backed securities, as well as equity securities. 
Applied regularly monitors the credit risk in its investment portfolio and takes appropriate measures, which may include the sale 
of certain securities, to manage such risks prudently in accordance with its investment policies.

Financing Activities

Applied used cash in financing activities in the amount of $348 million in fiscal 2014, $519 million in fiscal 2013, and $1.8 
billion in fiscal 2012 which activities included payment of cash dividends to stockholders and issuances and repurchases of common 
stock. Applied did not repurchase any shares of its common stock during fiscal 2014. Cash used to repurchase shares totaled $245 
million in fiscal 2013 and $1.4 billion in fiscal 2012. The majority of these repurchases were made under a share repurchase 
program approved in March 2012 by Applied’s Board of Directors authorizing up to $3.0 billion in repurchases over the next three 
years ending in March 2015, of which $1.6 billion remained available for future stock repurchases at October 26, 2014. Proceeds 
from stock issuances related to equity compensation awards were $137 million in fiscal 2014, $182 million in fiscal 2013, and 
$96 million in fiscal 2012.

During fiscal 2014, Applied’s Board of Directors declared four quarterly cash dividends of $0.10 per share each. During 
fiscal 2013, Applied’s Board of Directors declared three quarterly cash dividends of  $0.10 per share each and one quarterly cash 
dividend of $0.09 per share. During fiscal 2012, Applied’s Board of Directors declared three quarterly cash dividends of $0.09 
per share each and one quarterly cash dividend of $0.08 per share. Cash paid in dividends during fiscal 2014, 2013 and 2012 
amounted to $485 million, $456 million and $434 million, respectively. Applied currently anticipates that cash dividends will 
continue to be paid on a quarterly basis, although the declaration of any future cash dividend is at the discretion of the Board of 
Directors and will depend on Applied’s financial condition, results of operations, capital requirements, business conditions and 
other  factors,  as  well  as  a  determination  by  the  Board  of  Directors  that  cash  dividends  are  in  the  best  interests  of Applied’s 
stockholders.

Applied has credit facilities for unsecured borrowings in various currencies of up to $1.6 billion, of which $1.5 billion is 
comprised of a committed revolving credit agreement with a group of banks that is scheduled to expire in May 2017. This agreement 
provides for borrowings in United States dollars at interest rates keyed to one of the two rates selected by Applied for each advance 
and includes financial and other covenants. These covenants require Applied to maintain certain minimum financial ratios. Applied 
was in compliance with all such covenants at October 26, 2014. Remaining credit facilities in the amount of approximately $75 
million are with Japanese banks. Applied’s ability to borrow under these facilities is subject to bank approval at the time of the 
borrowing request, and any advances will be at rates indexed to the banks’ prime reference rate denominated in Japanese yen. No 
amounts were outstanding under any of these facilities at both October 26, 2014 and October 27, 2013, and Applied has not utilized 
these credit facilities. In connection with the proposed business combination with TEL, Applied intends to amend or replace its 
undrawn $1.5 billion unsecured revolving credit agreement.

In fiscal 2011, Applied established a short-term commercial paper program of up to $1.5 billion. At October 26, 2014 and 

October 27, 2013, Applied did not have any commercial paper outstanding.

50

Applied issued senior unsecured notes in the aggregate principal amount of $1.95 billion. The following table summarizes 

the notes issued:

Due Date

2.650% Senior Notes Due 2016 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
7.125% Senior Notes Due 2017 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
4.300% Senior Notes Due 2021 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
5.850% Senior Notes Due 2041 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

$

Principal
  Amount  

(In millions)

400
200
750
600
1,950

Effective
  Interest Rate  

Interest
Payment Dates

2.666%
7.190%
4.326%
5.879%

June 15, December 15
April 15, October 15
June 15, December 15
June 15, December 15

The indenture governing the notes includes certain covenants with which Applied was in compliance at October 26, 2014. 

See Note 10 of Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for additional discussion of long-term debt.

Others

During fiscal 2014 and 2013, Applied did not record any additional bad debt provision but released $16 million and $13 
million, respectively, of its allowance for doubtful accounts as a result of an overall lower risk profile of Applied's customers. 
While Applied believes that its allowance for doubtful accounts at October 26, 2014 is adequate, it will continue to closely monitor 
customer liquidity and economic conditions.

As of October 26, 2014, approximately $2.7 billion of cash, cash equivalents, and marketable securities held by foreign 
subsidiaries may be subject to U.S. taxes if repatriated for U.S. operations. Of this amount, Applied intends to permanently reinvest 
approximately $2.1 billion of these funds outside of the U.S. and does not plan to repatriate these funds. For the remaining cash, 
cash equivalents and marketable securities held by foreign subsidiaries, U.S. taxes have been provided for in the financial statements. 

Although cash requirements will fluctuate based on the timing and extent of factors such as those discussed above, Applied’s 
management believes that cash generated from operations, together with the liquidity provided by existing cash balances and 
borrowing capability, will be sufficient to satisfy Applied’s liquidity requirements for the next 12 months. For further details 
regarding Applied’s operating, investing and financing activities, see the Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows in this report.

For details on standby letters of credit and other agreements with banks, see Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements below.

51

 
 
 
 
Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

In the ordinary course of business, Applied provides standby letters of credit or other guarantee instruments to third parties 
as required for certain transactions initiated by either Applied or its subsidiaries. As of October 26, 2014, the maximum potential 
amount of future payments that Applied could be required to make under these guarantee agreements was approximately $46 
million. Applied has not recorded any liability in connection with these guarantee agreements beyond that required to appropriately 
account for the underlying transaction being guaranteed. Applied does not believe, based on historical experience and information 
currently available, that it is probable that any amounts will be required to be paid under these guarantee agreements.

Applied also has agreements with various banks to facilitate subsidiary banking operations worldwide, including overdraft 
arrangements, issuance of bank guarantees, and letters of credit. As of October 26, 2014, Applied Materials Inc. has provided 
parent guarantees to banks for approximately $102 million to cover these arrangements.

Applied also has operating leases for various facilities. Total rent expense was $37 million for fiscal 2014, $36 million for 

fiscal 2013, and $38 million for fiscal 2012.

Contractual Obligations

The following table summarizes Applied’s contractual obligations as of October 26, 2014:

Contractual Obligations

Long-term debt obligations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Interest expense associated with long-term debt
obligations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Operating lease obligations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Purchase obligations1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Other long-term liabilities2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Payments Due by Period

Total

Less Than
1  Year

1-3
Years

3-5
Years

More Than
5  Years

1,950

$

— $

(In millions)
600

$

— $

1,350

1,238

70

1,565

254

92

28

1,527

—

174

28

38

55

135

9

—

30

$

5,077

$

1,647

$

895

$

174

$

837

5

—

169

2,361

______________________ 
1  Represents Applied’s agreements to purchase goods and services consisting of Applied’s (a) outstanding purchase orders for 
goods and services; and (b) contractual requirements to make specified minimum payments even if Applied does not take 
delivery of the contracted goods.

2  Other long-term liabilities do not include noncurrent income taxes payable, noncurrent deferred income taxes payable and 

certain tax-related liabilities due to the uncertainty in the timing of future payments.

In addition to the contractual obligations disclosed above, Applied has certain tax obligations. Gross interest and penalties 
and unrecognized tax benefits that are not expected to result in payment or receipt of cash within one year have been reported as 
non-current liabilities on the Consolidated Balance Sheet. As of October 26, 2014, the gross liability for unrecognized tax benefits 
was $134 million. Increases or decreases to interest and penalties on uncertain tax positions are included in provision for income 
taxes in the Consolidated Statement of Operations. Interest and penalties related to uncertain tax positions were $25 million as of 
October 26, 2014 and $7 million as of October 27, 2013, and were classified as a noncurrent liability in the Consolidated Balance 
Sheets. At this time, Applied is unable to make a reasonably reliable estimate of the timing of payments in individual years due 
to uncertainties in the timing of tax audit outcomes and, accordingly, such amounts are not included in the above contractual 
obligations table.

52

 
 
 
Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates

The  preparation  of  consolidated  financial  statements  and  related  disclosures  in  conformity  with  accounting  principles 
generally accepted in the United States of America requires management to make judgments, assumptions and estimates that affect 
the amounts reported. Note 1 of Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements describes the significant accounting policies used in 
the preparation of the consolidated financial statements. Certain of these significant accounting policies are considered to be critical 
accounting policies.

A critical accounting policy is defined as one that is both material to the presentation of Applied’s consolidated financial 
statements and that requires management to make difficult, subjective or complex judgments that could have a material effect on 
Applied’s financial condition or results of operations. Specifically, these policies have the following attributes: (1) Applied is 
required to make assumptions about matters that are highly uncertain at the time of the estimate; and (2) different estimates Applied 
could reasonably have used, or changes in the estimate that are reasonably likely to occur, would have a material effect on Applied’s 
financial condition or results of operations.

Estimates  and  assumptions  about  future  events  and  their  effects  cannot  be  determined  with  certainty. Applied  bases  its 
estimates  on  historical  experience  and  on  various  other  assumptions  believed  to  be  applicable  and  reasonable  under  the 
circumstances. These estimates may change as new events occur, as additional information is obtained and as Applied’s operating 
environment changes. These changes have historically been minor and have been included in the consolidated financial statements 
as soon as they became known. In addition, management is periodically faced with uncertainties, the outcomes of which are not 
within its control and will not be known for prolonged periods of time. These uncertainties include those discussed in Part I, 
Item 1A, “Risk Factors.” Based on a critical assessment of its accounting policies and the underlying judgments and uncertainties 
affecting the application of those policies, management believes that Applied’s consolidated financial statements are fairly stated 
in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America, and provide a meaningful presentation 
of Applied’s financial condition and results of operations.

Management believes that the following are critical accounting policies and estimates:

Revenue Recognition

Applied recognizes revenue when all four revenue recognition criteria have been met: persuasive evidence of an arrangement 
exists; delivery has occurred or services have been rendered; sales price is fixed or determinable; and collectability is probable. 
Each sale arrangement may contain commercial terms that differ from other arrangements. In addition, Applied frequently enters 
into contracts that contain multiple deliverables. Judgment is required to properly identify the accounting units of the multiple 
deliverable transactions and to determine the manner in which revenue should be allocated among the accounting units. Moreover, 
judgment is used in interpreting the commercial terms and determining when all criteria of revenue recognition have been met in 
order for revenue recognition to occur in the appropriate accounting period. While changes in the allocation of the estimated sales 
price between the units of accounting will not affect the amount of total revenue recognized for a particular sales arrangement, 
any material changes in these allocations could impact the timing of revenue recognition, which could have a material effect on 
Applied’s financial condition and results of operations.

Warranty Costs

Applied provides for the estimated cost of warranty when revenue is recognized. Estimated warranty costs are determined 
by analyzing specific product, current and historical configuration statistics and regional warranty support costs. Applied’s warranty 
obligation is affected by product and component failure rates, material usage and labor costs incurred in correcting product failures 
during  the  warranty  period. As Applied’s  customer  engineers  and  process  support  engineers  are  highly  trained  and  deployed 
globally, labor availability is a significant factor in determining labor costs. The quantity and availability of critical replacement 
parts  is  another  significant  factor  in  estimating  warranty  costs.  Unforeseen  component  failures  or  exceptional  component 
performance can also result in changes to warranty costs. If actual warranty costs differ substantially from Applied’s estimates, 
revisions to the estimated warranty liability would be required, which could have a material adverse effect on Applied’s business, 
financial condition and results of operations.

Allowance for Doubtful Accounts

Applied maintains an allowance for doubtful accounts for estimated losses resulting from the inability of its customers to 
make required payments. This allowance is based on historical experience, credit evaluations, specific customer collection history 
and any customer-specific issues Applied has identified. Changes in circumstances, such as an unexpected material adverse change 
in a major customer’s ability to meet its financial obligation to Applied or its payment trends, may require Applied to further adjust 
its estimates of the recoverability of amounts due to Applied, which could have a material adverse effect on Applied’s business, 
financial condition and results of operations.

53

Inventory Valuation

Inventories are generally stated at the lower of cost or market, with cost determined on a first-in, first-out basis. The carrying 
value of inventory is reduced for estimated obsolescence by the difference between its cost and the estimated market value based 
upon assumptions about future demand. Applied evaluates the inventory carrying value for potential excess and obsolete inventory 
exposures by analyzing historical and anticipated demand. In addition, inventories are evaluated for potential obsolescence due 
to the effect of known and anticipated engineering change orders and new products. If actual demand were to be substantially 
lower than estimated, additional adjustments for excess or obsolete inventory may be required, which could have a material adverse 
effect on Applied’s business, financial condition and results of operations.

Goodwill and Intangible Assets

Applied reviews goodwill and intangible assets for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that 
the carrying amount of these assets may not be recoverable, and also annually reviews goodwill and intangibles with indefinite 
lives  for  impairment.  Intangible  assets,  such  as  purchased  technology,  are  generally  recorded  in  connection  with  a  business 
acquisition. The value assigned to intangible assets is usually based on estimates and judgments regarding expectations for the 
success and life cycle of products and technology acquired. If actual product acceptance differs significantly from the estimates, 
Applied may be required to record an impairment charge to reduce the carrying value of the reporting unit to its estimated fair 
value. The fair value of a reporting unit is estimated using both the income approach and the market approach taking into account 
such factors as future anticipated operating results and estimated cost of capital. Management uses significant judgment when 
assessing goodwill for potential impairment, especially in emerging markets. A severe decline in market conditions could result 
in an unexpected impairment charge for impaired goodwill, which could have a material adverse effect on Applied’s business, 
financial condition and results of operations.

Income Taxes

The effective tax rate is highly dependent upon the geographic composition of worldwide earnings, tax regulations governing 
each region, nondeductible expenses incurred in connection with acquisitions and availability of tax credits. Management carefully 
monitors the changes in many factors and adjusts the effective tax rate as required. If actual results differ from these estimates, 
Applied could be required to record a valuation allowance on deferred tax assets or adjust its effective tax rate, which could have 
a material adverse effect on Applied’s business, financial condition and results of operations.

Applied accounts for income taxes by recognizing deferred tax assets and liabilities using statutory tax rates for the effect 
of temporary differences between the book and tax bases of recorded assets and liabilities, net operating losses and tax credit 
carryovers. Deferred tax assets are also reduced by a valuation allowance if it is more likely than not that a portion of the deferred 
tax asset will not be realized. Management has determined that it is more likely than not that Applied’s future taxable income will 
be sufficient to realize its deferred tax assets, net of existing valuation allowance.

The calculation of tax liabilities involves significant judgment in estimating the impact of uncertainties in the application of 
complex tax laws. Resolution of these uncertainties in a manner inconsistent with Applied’s expectations could have a material 
impact on Applied’s results of operations and financial condition.

Non-GAAP Adjusted Results

Management uses non-GAAP adjusted results to evaluate operating and financial performance in light of business objectives 
and for planning purposes. Applied believes these measures enhance investors’ ability to review the Company’s business from the 
same perspective as management and facilitate comparisons of this period’s results with prior periods. The non-GAAP adjusted 
results presented below exclude the impact of the following, where applicable: certain items related to acquisitions or the announced 
business combination; restructuring charges and any associated adjustments; impairments of assets, goodwill, or investments; gain 
or loss on sale of strategic investments or facilities; and certain tax items. These non-GAAP adjusted measures are not in accordance 
with GAAP and may differ from non-GAAP methods of accounting and reporting used by other companies. The presentation of 
this additional information should not be considered a substitute for results prepared in accordance with GAAP.

54

The following tables present a reconciliation of the GAAP and non-GAAP adjusted consolidated results for the past three 

fiscal years:

UNAUDITED RECONCILIATION OF GAAP TO NON-GAAP ADJUSTED RESULTS

APPLIED MATERIALS, INC.

Non-GAAP Adjusted Gross Margin
Reported gross margin - GAAP basis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Certain items associated with acquisitions1. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Acquisition integration costs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Non-GAAP adjusted gross margin . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Non-GAAP adjusted gross margin percent (% of net sales) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Non-GAAP Adjusted Operating Income. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Reported operating income - GAAP basis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Impairment of goodwill and intangible assets. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Certain items associated with acquisitions1. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Acquisition integration costs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Loss (gain) on derivative associated with announced business combination, net. . . . . . . .
Certain items associated with announced business combination4 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Restructuring charges and asset impairments2, 3 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Gain on sale of facility . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Non-GAAP adjusted operating income. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Non-GAAP adjusted operating margin percent (% of net sales). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Non-GAAP Adjusted Net Income
Reported net income - GAAP basis5 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Impairment of goodwill and intangible assets. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Certain items associated with acquisitions1. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Acquisition integration costs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Loss (gain) on derivative associated with announced business combination, net. . . . . . . .
Certain items associated with announced business combination4 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Restructuring charges and asset impairments2, 3 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Impairment (gain on sale) of strategic investments, net . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Gain on sale of facility . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Reinstatement of federal R&D tax credit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Resolution of prior years’ income tax filings and other tax items5 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Income tax effect of non-GAAP adjustments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Non-GAAP adjusted net income . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

2014
2013
2012
(In millions, except percentages)

$ 3,843
158
1
$ 4,002

$ 2,991
166
3
$ 3,160

$ 3,313
253
—
$ 3,566

44.1%

42.1%

40.9%

$ 1,520
—
183
34
(30)
73
5
(4)
$ 1,781

$

432
278
201
38
7
17
63
(4)
$ 1,032

$

411
421
298
81
—
—
168
—
$ 1,379

19.6%

13.7%

15.8%

$ 1,072
—
183
34
(30)
73
5
(9)
(4)
—
28
(38)
$ 1,314

$

$

256
278
201
38
7
17
63
1
(4)
(13)
(24)
(102)
718

$

$

109
421
298
81
—
—
168
17
—
—
(22)
(112)
960

1 

2

3

4

5

These items are incremental charges attributable to completed acquisitions, consisting of amortization of purchased intangible assets.

Results for the twelve months ended October 27, 2013 included $39 million of employee-related costs, net, related to the restructuring 
program announced on October 3, 2012, and restructuring and asset impairment charges of $26 million related to the restructuring program 
announced on May 10, 2012, partially offset by a favorable adjustment of $2 million related to other restructuring plans.

Results for the twelve months ended October 28, 2012 included employee-related costs of $106 million related to the restructuring 
program announced on October 3, 2012, restructuring and asset impairment charges of $48 million related to the restructuring program 
announced on May 10, 2012, and severance charges of $14 million related to the integration of Varian.

These items are incremental charges related to the announced business combination agreement with Tokyo Electron Limited, consisting 
of acquisition-related and integration planning costs.

Fiscal  2014  amount  differs  from  the  unaudited  consolidated  financial  statements  included  in  Applied’s  press  release  issued on 
November 13, 2014, reflecting an increase to provision for income taxes of $34 million. This adjustment is not considered material and 
does not affect Applied’s previously announced Non-GAAP Adjusted Results.

55

 
UNAUDITED RECONCILIATION OF GAAP TO NON-GAAP ADJUSTED RESULTS

APPLIED MATERIALS, INC.

2014

2013
(In millions, except per share amounts)

2012

Non-GAAP Adjusted Earnings Per Diluted Share
Reported earnings per diluted share - GAAP basis1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Impairment of goodwill and intangible assets. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Certain items associated with acquisitions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Acquisition integration costs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Gain on derivative associated with announced business combination, net . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Certain items associated with announced business combination . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Restructuring charges and asset impairments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Impairment of strategic investments, net. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Reinstatement of federal R&D tax credit and resolution of prior years’ income tax 
filings and other tax items1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Non-GAAP adjusted earnings per diluted share . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Weighted average number of diluted shares . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

$

$

0.87
—
0.13
0.02
(0.02)
0.05
—
—

$

0.21
0.21
0.14
0.02
—
0.01
0.03
—

0.09
0.33
0.19
0.05
—
—
0.10
0.01

$

0.02
1.07
1,231

$

(0.03)
0.59
1,219

$

(0.02)
0.75
1,277

1

Fiscal  2014  amount  differs  from  the  unaudited  consolidated  financial  statements  included  in  Applied’s  press  release  issued on 
November 13, 2014, reflecting an increase to provision for income taxes of $34 million and a decrease to earnings per diluted share of 
$0.03. This adjustment is not considered material and does not affect Applied’s previously announced Non-GAAP Adjusted Results.

56

 
The following table presents a reconciliation of the GAAP and non-GAAP adjusted segment results for the past three fiscal 

years:

APPLIED MATERIALS, INC.
UNAUDITED RECONCILIATION OF GAAP TO NON-GAAP ADJUSTED RESULTS

2014

2013

2012

(In millions, except percentages)

SSG Non-GAAP Adjusted Operating Income

Reported operating income - GAAP basis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Certain items associated with acquisitions1. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Acquisition integration costs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Restructuring charges and asset impairments2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Non-GAAP adjusted operating income. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Non-GAAP adjusted operating margin percent (% of net sales). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

$

1,391

$

172

2

—

876

175

(2)

1

$ 1,243

253

37

4

1,565

$ 1,050

$ 1,537

26.2%

22.0 %

27.8 %

AGS Non-GAAP Adjusted Operating Income
Reported operating income - GAAP basis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Certain items associated with acquisitions1. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Restructuring charges and asset impairments2, 3 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Non-GAAP adjusted operating income. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Non-GAAP adjusted operating margin percent (% of net sales). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

$

Display Non-GAAP Adjusted Operating Income

Reported operating income - GAAP basis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Certain items associated with acquisitions1. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Non-GAAP adjusted operating income. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Non-GAAP adjusted operating margin percent (% of net sales). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

EES Non-GAAP Adjusted Operating Income (Loss)

Reported operating income (loss) - GAAP basis. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Certain items associated with acquisitions1. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Impairment of goodwill and intangible assets. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Restructuring charges and asset impairments2, 3 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Non-GAAP adjusted operating income (loss). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Non-GAAP adjusted operating margin percent (% of net sales). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

$

$

$

$

573

$

436

$

502

3

—

5

2

13

15

576

$

443

$

530

26.2%

21.9 %

23.2 %

129

2

131

$

$

74

6

80

$

$

25

7

32

21.3%

14.9 %

6.8 %

15

6

—

—

21

$

(433)

$

(668)

15

278

25

25

421

38

$

(115)

$

(184)

7.5%

(66.5)%

(43.3)%

1 

2

3

These items are incremental charges attributable to completed acquisitions, consisting of amortization of purchased intangible assets.

Results for the twelve months ended October 27, 2013 included restructuring and asset impairment charges of $26 million related to
the restructuring program announced on May 10, 2012 and severance charges of $2 million related to the integration of Varian.

Results for the twelve months ended October 28, 2012 included restructuring and asset impairment charges of $43 million related to
the restructuring program announced on May 10, 2012 and severance charges of $14 million related to the integration of Varian.

Note: The reconciliation of GAAP and non-GAAP adjusted segment results above does not include certain operating expenses 
that are managed separately at the corporate level and certain expenses that are not absorbed by the segments, which are reported 
within corporate and unallocated costs and included in consolidated operating income.

57

 
Item 7A:  Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

Applied is exposed to interest rate risk related to its investment portfolio and debt issuances. Applied’s investment portfolio 
includes fixed-income securities with a fair value of approximately $1.0 billion at October 26, 2014. These securities are subject 
to interest rate risk and will decline in value if interest rates increase. Based on Applied’s investment portfolio at October 26, 2014, 
an immediate 100 basis point increase in interest rates would result in a decrease in the fair value of the portfolio of approximately 
$16 million. While an increase in interest rates reduces the fair value of the investment portfolio, Applied will not realize the losses 
in the consolidated statement of operations unless the individual fixed-income securities are sold prior to recovery or the loss is 
determined to be other-than-temporary. At October 26, 2014, the carrying amount of debt issued by Applied was $1.9 billion with 
an estimated fair value of $2.2 billion. A hypothetical decrease in interest rates of 100 basis points would result in an increase in 
the fair value of Applied’s debt issuances of approximately $180 million at October 26, 2014.

Certain operations of Applied are conducted in foreign currencies, such as Japanese yen, euro, Israeli shekel, Taiwanese 
dollar and Swiss franc. Applied enters into currency forward exchange and option contracts to hedge a portion of, but not all, 
existing and anticipated foreign currency denominated transactions generally expected to occur within the next 24 months. Gains 
and losses on these contracts are generally recognized in income at the time that the related transactions being hedged are recognized. 
Because the effect of movements in currency exchange rates on currency forward exchange and option contracts generally offsets 
the related effect on the underlying items being hedged, these financial instruments are not expected to subject Applied to risks 
that would otherwise result from changes in currency exchange rates. Applied does not use derivative financial instruments for 
trading or speculative purposes.

In certain cases, Applied uses derivatives to hedge specific foreign currency exposures. During fiscal 2014 and 2013, as part 
of an overall risk management strategy, Applied purchased foreign exchange option contracts to limit its foreign exchange risk 
associated with the announced business combination with TEL in the event there is a significant weakening in the Japanese yen 
as compared to the U.S. dollar. The derivatives used to hedge the currency exposure did not qualify for hedge accounting treatment. 
At October 26, 2014, the fair value of the foreign exchange currency option contracts was approximately $52 million. Applied 
recorded an unrealized loss of $12 million during the fourth quarter of fiscal 2014 related to such contracts. Changes in the exchange 
rate between the U.S. dollar and the Japanese yen would impact Applied's consolidated financial statements.  The future maximum 
loss exposure on this option contract is generally limited to its fair value as of the most recent balance sheet date. For further 
details, see Note 5 of Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

Item 8:  Financial Statements and Supplementary Data

The consolidated financial statements required by this Item are set forth on the pages indicated at Item 15(a).

Item 9:  Changes in and Disagreements with Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure

None.

58

 
Item 9A: 

Controls and Procedures

Disclosure Controls and Procedures

As of the end of the period covered by this report, management of Applied conducted an evaluation, under the supervision 
and with the participation of Applied’s Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, of the effectiveness of the design and 
operation of Applied’s disclosure controls and procedures, as such term is defined in Rule 13a-15(e) of the Securities Exchange 
Act  of  1934  (the  Exchange Act).  Based  upon  that  evaluation, Applied’s  Chief  Executive  Officer  and  Chief  Financial  Officer 
concluded that Applied’s disclosure controls and procedures were effective as of the end of the period covered by this report in 
ensuring that information required to be disclosed was recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods 
specified in the SEC’s rules and forms, and to provide reasonable assurance that information required to be disclosed by Applied 
in such reports is accumulated and communicated to the Company’s management, including its Chief Executive Officer and Chief 
Financial Officer, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

Management’s Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting

Applied’s management is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting, as 
such term is defined in Rule 13a-15(f) of the Exchange Act. Under the supervision and with the participation of Applied’s Chief 
Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, management of Applied conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of Applied’s 
internal control over financial reporting based upon the framework in “Internal Control — Integrated Framework (1992)” issued 
by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission. Based on that evaluation, Applied’s management 
concluded that Applied’s internal control over financial reporting was effective as of October 26, 2014.

KPMG LLP, an independent registered public accounting firm, has audited the consolidated financial statements included 
in this Form 10-K and, as part of the audit, has issued a report, included herein, on the effectiveness of Applied’s internal control 
over financial reporting as of October 26, 2014.

Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting

During the fourth quarter of fiscal 2014, there were no changes in the internal control over financial reporting that materially 

affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, Applied’s internal control over financial reporting.

Inherent Limitations of Disclosure Controls and Procedures and Internal Control over Financial Reporting

It should be noted that any system of controls, however well designed and operated, can provide only reasonable, and not 
absolute, assurance that the objectives of the system will be met. In addition, the design of any control system is based in part 
upon certain assumptions about the likelihood of future events.

Item 9B:  Other Information

None

59

 
PART III

Item 10: 

Directors, Executive Officers and Corporate Governance

Except for the information regarding executive officers required by Item 401 of Regulation S-K (which is included in Part I, 
Item 1 of this Annual Report on Form 10-K, under “Executive Officers of the Registrant”) and code of ethics (which is set forth 
below), the information required by this item will be provided in accordance with Instruction G(3) to Form 10-K no later than 
February 23, 2015.

Applied has implemented the Standards of Business Conduct, a code of ethics with which every person who works for 
Applied and every member of the Board of Directors is expected to comply. If any substantive amendments are made to the 
Standards of Business Conduct or any waiver is granted, including any implicit waiver, from a provision of the code to Applied’s 
Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer or Chief Accounting Officer, Applied will disclose the nature of such amendment 
or waiver on its website or in a report on Form 8-K. The above information, including the Standards of Business Conduct, is 
available on Applied’s website under the Governance section at http://www.appliedmaterials.com/investor-relations. This website 
address is intended to be an inactive, textual reference only. None of the materials on, or accessible through, this website is part 
of this report or is incorporated by reference herein.

Item 11: 

Executive Compensation

The information required by this Item will be provided in accordance with Instruction G(3) to Form 10-K no later than 

February 23, 2015. 

Item 12: 

Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related Stockholder Matters

Except for the information regarding securities authorized for issuance under equity compensation plans (which is set forth 
below), the information required by this Item will be provided in accordance with Instruction G(3) to Form 10-K no later than 
February 23, 2015.

The  following  table  summarizes  information  with  respect  to  options  and  other  equity  awards  under Applied’s  equity 

compensation plans as of October 26, 2014:

Equity Compensation Plan Information

Plan Category

Equity compensation plans approved by
security holders . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Equity compensation plans not approved by
security holders . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Total . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

(a)
Number of
Securities to be
Issued Upon Exercise
of  Outstanding Options,
Warrants and
Rights(1)

(b)
Weighted Average
Exercise Price of
Outstanding Options,
Warrants and
Rights(2)

(In millions, except prices)

(c)
Number of  Securities
Available for Future
Issuance Under Equity
Compensation Plans
(Excluding Securities
Reflected in
Column(a))

34   

1 (4)
35   

$

$

$

15.06

5.85

10.87

167 (3)

11 (5)
178   

(1)  Includes only options, restricted stock units performance shares and performance units outstanding under Applied’s equity 

compensation plans, as no stock warrants or other rights were outstanding as of October 26, 2014.

(2)  The weighted average exercise price calculation does not take into account any restricted stock units, and performance 

shares or performance units as they have a de minimis purchase price.

(3)  Includes 23 million shares of Applied common stock available for future issuance under the Applied Materials, Inc. 
Employees’ Stock Purchase Plan. Of these 23 million shares, 1 million are subject to purchase during the purchase period 
in effect as of October 26, 2014.

(4)  Includes options to purchase 1 million shares of Applied common stock assumed through various mergers and acquisitions, 
after giving effect to the applicable exchange ratios. The assumed options had a weighted average exercise price of $5.85 
per share. No further shares are available for issuance under the plans under which these assumed awards were granted.

60

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
(5)  Includes 11 million shares of Applied common stock available for future issuance under the Applied Materials, Inc. Stock 
Purchase Plan for Offshore Employees. Of these 11 million shares, 1 million are subject to purchase during the purchase 
period in effect as of October 26, 2014.

Applied has the following equity compensation plans that have not been approved by stockholders:

Stock Purchase Plan for Offshore Employees. The Stock Purchase Plan for Offshore Employees (the Offshore ESPP) 
was adopted effective as of October 16, 1995 for the benefit of employees of Applied’s participating affiliates (other than United 
States citizens or residents). The Offshore ESPP provides for the grant of options to purchase shares of Applied common stock 
through payroll deductions pursuant to one or more offerings. The administrator of the Offshore ESPP (the Board of Directors of 
Applied or a committee appointed by the Board) determines the terms and conditions of all options prior to the start of an offering, 
including the purchase price of shares, the number of shares covered by the option and when the option may be exercised. All 
options granted as part of an offering must be granted on the same date.  As of October 26, 2014, a total of 36 million shares have 
been authorized for issuance under the Offshore ESPP, and 11 million shares remain available for issuance. 

Applied Materials Profit Sharing Scheme. The Applied Materials Profit Sharing Scheme was adopted effective July 3, 
1996 to enable employees of Applied Materials Ireland Limited and its participating subsidiaries to purchase Applied common 
stock at 100% of fair market value on the purchase date. Under this plan, eligible employees may elect to forego a certain portion 
of their base salary and certain bonuses they have earned and that otherwise would be payable in cash to purchase shares of Applied 
common stock at full fair market value. Since the eligible employees pay full fair market value for the shares, there is no reserved 
amount of shares under this plan and, accordingly, the table above does not include any set number of shares available for future 
issuance under the plan.

61

 
Item 13: 

Certain Relationships and Related Transactions, and Director Independence

The information required by this Item will be provided in accordance with Instruction G(3) to Form 10-K no later than 

February 23, 2015. 

Item 14: 

Principal Accounting Fees and Services

The information required by this Item will be provided in accordance with Instruction G(3) to Form 10-K no later than 

February 23, 2015. 

62

 
Item 15: 

Exhibits, Financial Statement Schedules

(a) The following documents are filed as part of this Annual Report on Form 10-K:

PART IV

(1) Financial Statements:

Reports of KPMG LLP, Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Consolidated Statements of Operations for each of the years in the three-year period ended
October 26, 2014 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income for each of the years in the three-year period ended 
October 26, 2014 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Consolidated Balance Sheets at October 26, 2014 and October 27, 2013 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Consolidated Statements of Stockholders’ Equity for each of the years in the three-year period ended 
October 26, 2014 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for each of the years in the three-year period ended 
October 26, 2014 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Page
Number

64

66

67

68

69

70

71

(2) Exhibits:

The exhibits listed in the accompanying Index to Exhibits are filed or incorporated by reference as part of 
this Annual Report on Form 10-K . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

116

All other schedules are omitted because they are not applicable or the required information is shown in the Consolidated 

Financial Statements or Notes thereto.

63

 
 
 
REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM

The Board of Directors and Stockholders
Applied Materials, Inc.:

We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of Applied Materials, Inc. and subsidiaries (the Company) 
as of October 26, 2014 and October 27, 2013, and the related consolidated statements of operations, comprehensive income, 
stockholders’ equity, and cash flows for each of the years in the 
period ended October 26, 2014. These consolidated 
financial statements are the responsibility of the Company’s management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these 
consolidated financial statements based on our audits.

We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United 
States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial 
statements are free of material misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and 
disclosures in the financial statements. An audit also includes assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates 
made by management, as well as evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. We believe that our audits provide a 
reasonable basis for our opinion.

In our opinion, the consolidated financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the financial 
position of Applied Materials, Inc. and subsidiaries as of October 26, 2014 and October 27, 2013, and the results of their operations 
period ended October 26, 2014, in conformity with U.S. generally 
and their cash flows for each of the years in the 
accepted accounting principles.

We also have audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States), 
Applied Materials, Inc.’s internal control over financial reporting as of October 26, 2014, based on criteria established in Internal 
Control - Integrated Framework (1992) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission 
(COSO), and our report dated December 17, 2014 expressed an unqualified opinion on the effectiveness of the Company’s internal 
control over financial reporting.

/S/    KPMG LLP
KPMG LLP

Santa Clara, California
December 17, 2014

64

REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM

The Board of Directors and Stockholders
Applied Materials, Inc.:

We have audited Applied Materials, Inc.’s (the Company) internal control over financial reporting as of October 26, 2014, 
based  on  criteria  established  in  Internal  Control  -  Integrated  Framework  (1992)  issued  by  the  Committee  of  Sponsoring 
Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). The Company’s management is responsible for maintaining effective internal 
control over financial reporting and for its assessment of the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting, included in 
the accompanying Management’s Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting in Item 9A. Our responsibility is to express 
an opinion on the Company’s internal control over financial reporting based on our audit.

We conducted our audit in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). 
Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether effective internal control 
over financial reporting was maintained in all material respects. Our audit included obtaining an understanding of internal control 
over financial reporting, assessing the risk that a material weakness exists, and testing and evaluating the design and operating 
effectiveness of internal control based on the assessed risk. Our audit also included performing such other procedures as we 
considered necessary in the circumstances. We believe that our audit provides a reasonable basis for our opinion.

A company’s internal control over financial reporting is a process designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the 
reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally 
accepted accounting principles. A company’s internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that 
(1) pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions 
of the assets of the company; (2) provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation 
of financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, and that receipts and expenditures of the 
company are being made only in accordance with authorizations of management and directors of the company; and (3) provide 
reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use, or disposition of the company’s 
assets that could have a material effect on the financial statements.

Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements. Also, 
projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because 
of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.

In our opinion, Applied Materials, Inc. maintained, in all material respects, effective internal control over financial reporting 
as of October 26, 2014, based on criteria established in Internal Control - Integrated Framework (1992) issued by the Committee 
of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO).

We also have audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States), 
the consolidated balance sheets of Applied Materials, Inc. and subsidiaries as of October 26, 2014 and October 27, 2013, and the 
related consolidated statements of operations, comprehensive income, stockholders’ equity, and cash flows for each of the years 
in the three-year period ended October 26, 2014, and our report dated December 17, 2014 expressed an unqualified opinion on 
those consolidated financial statements.

Santa Clara, California
December 17, 2014

/s/    KPMG LLP
KPMG LLP

65

 
APPLIED MATERIALS, INC.

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS

Fiscal Year

2014

2013

2012

Net sales . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Cost of products sold. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Gross margin . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Operating expenses: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Research, development and engineering . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Marketing and selling . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

General and administrative . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Impairment of goodwill and intangible assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Restructuring charges and asset impairments. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Total operating expenses. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Income from operations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Interest expense. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Interest and other income, net . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Income before income taxes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Provision for income taxes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Net income . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Earnings per share: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Basic. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Diluted . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $

Weighted average number of shares: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Basic. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Diluted . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

(In millions, except per share amounts)
9,072

7,509

$

$

5,229

3,843

1,428

423

467

—

5

2,323
1,520

95

23

1,448

376

1,072

0.88

0.87

1,215

1,231

$

$

$

4,518

2,991

1,320

433

465

278

63

2,559
432

95

13

350

94

256

0.21

0.21

1,202

1,219

$

$

$

8,719

5,406

3,313

1,237

481

595

421

168

2,902
411

95

—

316

207

109

0.09

0.09

1,266

1,277

See accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

66

 
 
APPLIED MATERIALS, INC.

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME

Fiscal Year

Net income . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Change in unrealized net gain on investments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Change in unrealized net gain on derivative investments . . . . . . .
Change in defined and postretirement benefit plans . . . . . . . . . . .
Change in cumulative translation adjustments. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Comprehensive income. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $

2014

2013

(In millions)

2012

1,072

$

256

$

109

(1)
(2)
(33)
(2)
(38)
1,034

9

1

18
(5)
23

$

279

$

(1)
1
(65)
(2)
(67)
42

See accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

67

APPLIED MATERIALS, INC.

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

ASSETS

Current assets:. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Cash and cash equivalents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Short-term investments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Accounts receivable, net . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Inventories . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Other current assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Total current assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Long-term investments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Property, plant and equipment, net . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Goodwill . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Purchased technology and other intangible assets, net. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Deferred income taxes and other assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

October 26,
2014

October 27,
2013

(In millions, except per share amounts)

3,002

$

160

1,670

1,567

568

6,967

935

861
3,304

951

156

1,711

180

1,633

1,413

705

5,642

1,005

850
3,294

1,103

149

Total assets. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $

13,174

$

12,043

LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY

Current liabilities:

Accounts payable and accrued expenses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Customer deposits and deferred revenue . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Total current liabilities. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Long-term debt . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Other liabilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Total liabilities. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Commitments and contingencies (Note 15)

Stockholders’ equity:

Preferred stock: $.01 par value per share; 1 shares authorized; no shares issued . . . .

Common stock: $.01 par value per share; 2,500 shares authorized; 1,221 and 1,204
shares outstanding at 2014 and 2013, respectively . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Additional paid-in capital. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Retained earnings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Treasury stock: 717 shares at 2014 and 2013, net . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Accumulated other comprehensive loss . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Total stockholders’ equity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

1,883

$

940

2,823

1,947

536

5,306

—

12

6,384

13,072
(11,524)
(76)
7,868

Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $

13,174

$

1,649

794

2,443

1,946

566

4,955

—

12

6,151

12,487
(11,524)
(38)
7,088

12,043

See accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

68

 
 
APPLIED MATERIALS, INC

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY

Common Stock

Shares

Amount

Additional
Paid-In
Capital

Retained
Earnings

Treasury Stock

Shares

Amount

Accumulated
Other
Comprehensive
Income (Loss)

$

5,616

$

13,029

573

$

(9,864) $

(In millions)

Balance at October 30, 2011 . . . . . . . . .

1,306

$

Net income . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Other comprehensive loss, net of tax .

Dividends . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Share-based compensation . . . . . . . . .

Stock options assumed in connection
with acquisition . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Issuance under stock plans, net of a
tax detriment of $12 and other . . . . . .

—

—

—

—

—

17

Common stock repurchases . . . . . . . .

(126)

Balance at October 28, 2012 . . . . . . . . .

1,197

$

Net income . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Other comprehensive income, net of
tax . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Dividends . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Share-based compensation . . . . . . . . .

Issuance under stock plans, net of a
tax benefit of $14 and other . . . . . . . .

—

—

—

—

25

Common stock repurchases . . . . . . . .

(18)

Balance at October 27, 2013 . . . . . . . . .

1,204

$

Net income . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Other comprehensive loss, net of tax .

Dividends . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Share-based compensation . . . . . . . . .

Issuance under stock plans, net of a
tax benefit of $27 and other . . . . . . . .

—

—

—

—

17

Balance at October 26, 2014 . . . . . . . . .

1,221

$

13

—

—

—

—

—

—

(1)

12

—

—

—

—

—

—

12

—

—

—

—

—

12

—

—

—

—

—

—

(1,415)

—

—

—

182

11

54

—

109

—

(438)

—

—

—

—

$

5,863

$

12,700

—

—

—

162

126

—

256

—

(469)

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

126

699

—

—

—

—

—

18

$ (11,279) $

(61) $

7,235

—

—

—

—

—

(245)

—

23

—

—

—

—

$

6,151

$

12,487

717

$ (11,524) $

(38) $

—

—

—

177

56

1,072

—

(487)

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

(38)

—

—

—

$

6,384

$

13,072

717

$ (11,524) $

(76) $

7,868

Total

$

8,800

109

(67)

(438)

182

11

54

(1,416)

6

—

(67)

—

—

—

—

—

256

23

(469)

162

126

(245)

7,088

1,072

(38)

(487)

177

56

See accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

69

  
 
 
APPLIED MATERIALS, INC.

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

Fiscal Year

2014

2013

2012

(In millions)

Cash flows from operating activities:
Net income . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Adjustments required to reconcile net income to cash provided by operating activities: .
Depreciation and amortization. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Impairment of goodwill and intangible assets. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Restructuring charges and asset impairments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Unrealized loss on derivative associated with announced business combination . . . . . .
Deferred income taxes and other . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Share-based compensation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Changes in operating assets and liabilities, net of amounts acquired:. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Accounts receivable . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Inventories . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Other assets. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Accounts payable and accrued expenses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Customer deposits and deferred revenue . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Income taxes payable . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Other liabilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Cash provided by operating activities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Cash flows from investing activities:

Capital expenditures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Cash paid for acquisitions, net of cash acquired . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Proceeds from sale of facilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Proceeds from sales and maturities of investments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Purchases of investments. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Cash provided by (used in) investing activities. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Cash flows from financing activities:

Proceeds from common stock issuances and others, net . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Common stock repurchases . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Payments of dividends to stockholders . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Cash used in financing activities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Cash and cash equivalents — beginning of year . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Cash and cash equivalents — end of year . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Supplemental cash flow information:

Cash payments for income taxes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Cash refunds from income taxes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Cash payments for interest . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $

1,072

$

256

$

375
—
5
21
36
177

(21)
(154)
5
79
146
142
(83)
1,800

(241)
(12)
25
878
(811)
(161)

137
—
(485)
(348)
—
1,291
1,711
3,002

195
111
92

$

$
$
$

410
278
63
7
(91)
162

(404)
(141)
(70)
21
39
57
36
623

(197)
(1)
7
1,013
(607)
215

182
(245)
(456)
(519)
—
319
1,392
1,711

196
102
92

$

$
$
$

109

422
421
168
—
222
182

493
679
46
(435)
(412)
(34)
(10)
1,851

(162)
(4,190)
—
1,019
(1,327)
(4,660)

96
(1,416)
(434)
(1,754)
(5)
(4,568)
5,960
1,392

243
79
94

See accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

70

 
APPLIED MATERIALS, INC.

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Note 1 

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies

Principles of Consolidation and Basis of Presentation

The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Applied Materials, Inc. and its subsidiaries (Applied or the 
Company) after elimination of intercompany balances and transactions. All references to a fiscal year apply to Applied’s fiscal 
year which ends on the last Sunday in October. Fiscal 2014, 2013 and 2012 contained 52 weeks each. Each fiscal quarter of 2014, 
2013 and 2012 contained 13 weeks.

Certain prior year amounts have been reclassified to conform to current year presentation.

Use of Estimates

The preparation of financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of 
America requires management to make judgments, estimates and assumptions that affect the amounts reported in the financial 
statements and accompanying notes. Actual results could differ materially from those estimates. On an ongoing basis, Applied 
evaluates its estimates, including those related to accounts receivable and sales allowances, fair values of financial instruments, 
inventories, intangible assets and goodwill, useful lives of intangible assets and property and equipment, fair values of share-based 
awards, and income taxes, among others. Applied bases its estimates on historical experience and on various other assumptions 
that are believed to be reasonable, the results of which form the basis for making judgments about the carrying values of assets 
and liabilities.

Cash Equivalents

All highly-liquid investments with a remaining maturity of three months or less at the time of purchase are considered to be 

cash equivalents. Cash equivalents consist primarily of investments in institutional money market funds.

Investments

All of Applied’s investments, except equity investments held in privately-held companies, are classified as available-for-
sale at the respective balance sheet dates. Investments classified as available-for-sale are recorded at fair value based upon quoted 
market prices, and any temporary difference between the cost and fair value of an investment is presented as a separate component 
of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss). The specific identification method is used to determine the gains and losses 
on investments. Interest earned on cash and investments, as well as realized gains and losses on sale of securities, are included in  
interest income in the accompanying Consolidated Statements of Operations.

Equity investments in privately-held companies are generally accounted for under the cost method of accounting and are 
periodically assessed for other-than-temporary impairment when an event or circumstance indicates that an other-than-temporary 
decline in value may have occurred.

Allowance for Doubtful Accounts

Applied maintains an allowance for doubtful accounts for estimated losses resulting from the inability of its customers to 
make required payments. This allowance is based on historical experience, credit evaluations, specific customer collection history 
and any customer-specific issues Applied has identified. Changes in circumstances, such as an unexpected material adverse change 
in a major customer’s ability to meet its financial obligation to Applied or its payment trends, may require Applied to further adjust 
its estimates of the recoverability of amounts due to Applied. Bad debt expense and any reversals are recorded in marketing and 
selling expense in the Consolidated Statement of Operations.

71

APPLIED MATERIALS, INC.

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)

Inventories

Inventories are stated at the lower of cost or market, with cost determined on a first-in, first-out (FIFO) basis. Applied adjusts 
inventory carrying value for estimated obsolescence equal to the difference between the cost of inventory and the estimated market 
value based upon assumptions about future demand and market conditions. Applied fully reserves for inventories and noncancelable 
purchase orders for inventory deemed obsolete. Applied performs periodic reviews of inventory items to identify excess inventories 
on hand by comparing on-hand balances to anticipated usage using recent historical activity as well as anticipated or forecasted 
demand. If estimates of customer demand diminish further or market conditions become less favorable than those projected by 
Applied, additional inventory adjustments may be required. 

Property, Plant and Equipment

Property, plant and equipment is stated at cost. Depreciation is provided over the estimated useful lives of the assets using 
the straight-line method. Estimated useful lives for financial reporting purposes are as follows: buildings and improvements, 3 to 
30 years;  demonstration  and  manufacturing  equipment,  3 to  5 years;  software,  3  to  5 years;  and  furniture,  fixtures  and  other 
equipment, 3 to 15 years. Land improvements are amortized over the shorter of 15 years or the estimated useful life. Leasehold 
improvements are amortized over the shorter of five years or the lease term.

Intangible Assets

Goodwill and indefinite-lived assets are not amortized, but are reviewed for impairment annually during the fourth quarter 
of each fiscal year and whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying value of an asset may not be 
recoverable. Purchased technology and other intangible assets are presented at cost, net of accumulated amortization, and are 
amortized over their estimated useful lives of 1 to 15 years using the straight-line method.

Long-Lived Assets

Applied reviews long-lived assets for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying 
amount of these assets or asset group may not be recoverable. Applied assesses these assets for impairment based on estimated 
future cash flows from these assets.

Research, Development and Engineering Costs

Research, development and engineering costs are expensed as incurred.

Sales and Value Added Taxes

Taxes collected from customers and remitted to governmental authorities are presented on a net basis in the accompanying 

Consolidated Statements of Operations.

Warranty

Applied provides for the estimated cost of warranty when revenue is recognized. Estimated warranty costs are determined 
by analyzing specific product, current and historical configuration statistics and regional warranty support costs. Applied's warranty 
obligation is affected by product and component failure rates, material usage and labor costs incurred in correcting product failures 
during the warranty period. If actual warranty costs differ substantially from Applied's estimates, revisions to the estimated warranty 
liability would be required.

Income Taxes

Income  tax  expense  is  based  on  pretax  earnings.  Deferred  tax  assets  and  liabilities  are  recognized  for  the  expected  tax 
consequences of temporary differences between the book and tax bases of recorded assets and liabilities, net operating losses and 
tax credit carryforwards.

Restructuring

From time to time, Applied initiates restructuring activities to appropriately align its cost structure relative to prevailing 
economic  and  industry  conditions  and  associated  customer  demand  as  well  as  in  connection  with  certain  acquisitions.  Costs 
associated with restructuring actions can include termination benefits and related charges in addition to facility closure, contract 
termination and other related activities. Costs associated with restructuring activities are included in restructuring charges and 
asset impairments in the Consolidated Statements of Operations. 

72

APPLIED MATERIALS, INC.

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)

Revenue Recognition

Applied recognizes revenue when all four revenue recognition criteria have been met: persuasive evidence of an arrangement 
exists; delivery has occurred or services have been rendered; seller’s price to buyer is fixed or determinable; and collectability is 
probable. Applied’s shipping terms are customarily FOB Applied shipping point or equivalent terms. Applied’s revenue recognition 
policy generally results in revenue recognition at the following points: (1) for all transactions where legal title passes to the customer 
upon shipment or delivery, Applied recognizes revenue upon passage of title for all products that have been demonstrated to meet 
product specifications prior to shipment; the portion of revenue associated with certain installation-related tasks is deferred, and 
that revenue is recognized upon completion of the installation-related tasks; (2) for products that have not been demonstrated to 
meet product specifications prior to shipment, revenue is recognized at customer technical acceptance; (3) for transactions where 
legal title does not pass at shipment or delivery, revenue is recognized when legal title passes to the customer, which is generally 
at customer technical acceptance; and (4) for arrangements containing multiple elements, the revenue relating to the undelivered 
elements is deferred using the relative selling price method utilizing estimated sales prices until delivery of the deferred elements. 
Applied limits the amount of revenue recognition for delivered elements to the amount that is not contingent on the future delivery 
of products or services, future performance obligations or subject to customer-specified return or adjustment. In cases where 
Applied has sold products that have been demonstrated to meet product specifications prior to shipment, Applied believes that at 
the time of delivery, it has an enforceable claim to amounts recognized as revenue. Spare parts revenue is generally recognized 
upon shipment, and services revenue is generally recognized over the period that the services are provided.

When a sales arrangement contains multiple elements, such as hardware and services and/or software products, Applied 
allocates revenue to each element based on a selling price hierarchy. The selling price for a deliverable is based on its vendor 
specific objective evidence (VSOE) if available, third party evidence (TPE) if VSOE is not available, or estimated selling price 
(ESP) if neither VSOE nor TPE is available. Applied generally utilizes the ESP due to the nature of its products. In multiple element 
arrangements  where  more-than-incidental  software  deliverables  are  included,  revenue  is  allocated  to  each  separate  unit  of 
accounting for each of the non-software deliverables and to the software deliverables as a group using the relative selling prices 
of each of the deliverables in the arrangement based on the aforementioned selling price hierarchy. If the arrangement contains 
more than one software deliverable, the arrangement consideration allocated to the software deliverables as a group is then allocated 
to each software deliverable using the guidance for recognizing software revenue.

Derivative Financial Instruments

Applied uses financial instruments, such as forward exchange and currency option contracts, to hedge a portion of, but not 
all, existing and anticipated foreign currency denominated transactions typically expected to occur within 24 months. The terms 
of currency instruments used for hedging purposes are generally consistent with the timing of the transactions being hedged. The 
purpose of Applied’s foreign currency management is to mitigate the effect of exchange rate fluctuations on certain foreign currency 
denominated revenues, costs and eventual cash flows. All of Applied’s derivative financial instruments are recorded at fair value 
based upon quoted market prices for comparable instruments. For derivative instruments designated and qualifying as cash flow 
hedges of anticipated foreign currency denominated transactions, the effective portion of the gain or loss on these hedges is reported 
as a component of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) in stockholders’ equity, and is reclassified into earnings when 
the hedged transaction affects earnings. If the transaction being hedged fails to occur, or if a portion of any derivative is ineffective, 
the gain or loss on the associated financial instrument is recorded promptly in earnings. For derivative instruments used to hedge 
existing foreign currency denominated assets or liabilities, the gain or loss on these hedges is recorded promptly in earnings to 
offset the changes in the fair value of the assets or liabilities being hedged. Applied does not use derivative financial instruments 
for trading or speculative purposes.

Foreign Currencies

As of October 26, 2014, primarily all of Applied’s subsidiaries use the United States dollar as their functional currency. 
Accordingly, assets and liabilities of these subsidiaries are remeasured using exchange rates in effect at the end of the period, 
except for non-monetary assets, such as inventories and property, plant and equipment, which are remeasured using historical 
exchange rates. Foreign currency-denominated revenues and costs are remeasured using average exchange rates for the period, 
except for costs related to those balance sheet items that are remeasured using historical exchange rates. The resulting remeasurement 
gains and losses are included in general and administrative expenses in the Consolidated Statements of Operations as incurred.

73

APPLIED MATERIALS, INC.

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)

Concentrations of Credit Risk

Financial instruments that potentially subject Applied to significant concentrations of credit risk consist principally of cash 
equivalents, investments, trade accounts receivable and derivative financial instruments used in hedging activities. Applied invests 
in a variety of financial instruments, such as, but not limited to, certificates of deposit, corporate and municipal bonds, United 
States Treasury and agency securities, and asset-backed and mortgage-backed securities, and, by policy, limits the amount of credit 
exposure with any one financial institution or commercial issuer. Applied performs ongoing credit evaluations of its customers’ 
financial condition and generally requires no collateral to secure accounts receivable. Applied maintains an allowance reserve for 
potentially uncollectible accounts receivable based on its assessment of the collectability of accounts receivable. Applied regularly 
reviews the allowance by considering factors such as historical experience, credit quality, age of the accounts receivable balances, 
and current economic conditions that may affect a customer’s ability to pay. In addition, Applied utilizes letters of credit to mitigate 
credit risk when considered appropriate. Applied is exposed to credit-related losses in the event of nonperformance by counterparties 
to derivative financial instruments, but does not expect any counterparties to fail to meet their obligations. In some instances, 
Applied has entered into security arrangements which require the counterparties to post collateral to further mitigate credit exposure.

Recent Accounting Pronouncements

In  May  2014,  the  Financial Accounting  Standards  Board  (FASB)  issued  authoritative  guidance  that  requires  revenue 
recognition to depict the transfer of promised goods or services to a customer in an amount that reflects the consideration to which 
the entity expects to be entitled in exchange for those goods or services. This new standard will supersede most current revenue 
recognition guidance, including industry-specific guidance. The guidance becomes effective for Applied in the first quarter of 
fiscal 2018, and can be applied either retrospectively or as a cumulative-effect adjustment as of the date of adoption.  Early adoption 
is prohibited. Applied is currently evaluating the effect of this new guidance on Applied's financial position, results of operations 
and its ongoing financial reporting, including the selection of a transition method.

In April 2014, the FASB issued authoritative guidance that raises the threshold for a disposal transaction to qualify as a 
discontinued operation and requires additional disclosures about discontinued operations and disposals of individually significant 
components that do not qualify as discontinued operations. The authoritative guidance becomes effective prospectively for Applied 
in the first quarter of fiscal 2016. Early adoption is permitted, but only for disposals that have not been reported in financial 
statements previously issued.

In July 2013, the FASB issued authoritative guidance that will require an unrecognized tax benefit to be presented as a 
reduction of a deferred tax asset for a net operating loss carryforward, a similar tax loss or a tax credit carryforward, with certain 
exceptions. The  authoritative  guidance  becomes  effective  for Applied  in  the  first  quarter  of  fiscal  2015,  with  early  adoption 
permitted. The guidance is not expected to have a significant impact on Applied's financial position.

74

APPLIED MATERIALS, INC.

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)

Note 2 

Earnings Per Share

Basic earnings per share is determined using the weighted average number of common shares outstanding during the period. 
Diluted earnings per share is determined using the weighted average number of common shares and potential common shares 
(representing the dilutive effect of stock options, restricted stock units, and employee stock purchase plan shares) outstanding 
during the period. Applied’s net income has not been adjusted for any period presented for purposes of computing basic or diluted 
earnings per share due to the Company’s non-complex capital structure. 

2014

2013

2012

(In millions, except per share amounts)

Numerator:

Net income . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $

1,072

$

256

$

109

Denominator:

Weighted average common shares outstanding . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Effect of dilutive stock options, restricted stock units and employee stock
purchase plan shares . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Denominator for diluted earnings per share . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Basic earnings per share . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Diluted earnings per share. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Potentially dilutive securities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

1,215

16

1,231

0.88

0.87

1

$

$

1,202

17

1,219

0.21

0.21

2

$

$

1,266

11

1,277

0.09

0.09

9

Potentially dilutive securities attributable to outstanding stock options and restricted stock units were excluded from the 
calculation of diluted earnings per share because the combined exercise price, average unamortized fair value and assumed tax 
benefits upon the exercise of options and the vesting of restricted stock units were greater than the average market price of Applied 
common stock, and therefore their inclusion would have been anti-dilutive.

75

 
 
APPLIED MATERIALS, INC.

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)

Note 3 

Cash, Cash Equivalents and Investments

Summary of Cash, Cash Equivalents and Investments

The following tables summarize Applied’s cash, cash equivalents and investments by security type:

October 26, 2014

Cash . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Cash equivalents:

Money market funds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Total Cash equivalents. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Total Cash and Cash equivalents. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Short-term and long-term investments:

U.S. Treasury and agency securities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Non-U.S. government securities* . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Municipal securities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Commercial paper, corporate bonds and medium-term
notes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Asset-backed and mortgage-backed securities . . . . . . . . .
Total fixed income securities. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Publicly traded equity securities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Equity investments in privately-held companies . . . . . . .
Total short-term and long-term investments . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Total Cash, Cash equivalents and Investments . . . . . . . . . . $

Cost

Gross
Unrealized
Gains

Gross
Unrealized
Losses

Estimated
Fair  Value

508

$

(In millions)
— $

— $

508

2,494
2,494
3,002

62
14
391

223
287
977
19
66
1,062
4,064

$

$

$
$

—
—
— $

— $
—
2

1
1
4
31
—
35
35

$
$

—
—
— $

— $
—
—

—
2
2
—
—
2
2

$
$

2,494
2,494
3,002

62
14
393

224
286
979
50
66
1,095
4,097

 _________________________
*     Includes agency debt securities guaranteed by non-U.S. governments, which consist of Germany and Canada.

76

 
 
APPLIED MATERIALS, INC.

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)

October 27, 2013

Cash . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Cash equivalents:

Money market funds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Municipal securities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Total Cash equivalents. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Total Cash and Cash equivalents. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Short-term and long-term investments:

U.S. Treasury and agency securities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Non-U.S. government securities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Municipal securities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Commercial paper, corporate bonds and medium-term
notes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Asset-backed and mortgage-backed securities . . . . . . . . .
Total fixed income securities. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Publicly traded equity securities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Equity investments in privately-held companies . . . . . . .
Total short-term and long-term investments . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Total Cash, Cash equivalents and Investments . . . . . . . . . . $

Maturities of Investments

Cost

Gross
Unrealized
Gains

Gross
Unrealized
Losses

Estimated
Fair  Value

611

$

(In millions)
— $

— $

611

1,095
5
1,100
1,711

170
11
379

218
268
1,046
27
76
1,149
2,860

$

$

$
$

—
—
—
— $

— $
—
2

2
2
6
33
—
39
39

$
$

—
—
—
— $

— $
—
—

1
2
3
—
—
3
3

$
$

1,095
5
1,100
1,711

170
11
381

219
268
1,049
60
76
1,185
2,896

The following table summarizes the contractual maturities of Applied’s investments at October 26, 2014:

Cost

Estimated
Fair  Value

Due in one year or less . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Due after one through five years . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
No single maturity date**. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

$

 _________________________

$

(In millions)
151
539
372
1,062

$

151
542
402
1,095

**     Securities with no single maturity date include publicly-traded and privately-held equity securities, and asset-backed and 
mortgage-backed securities.

77

 
 
 
 
 
APPLIED MATERIALS, INC.

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)

Gains and Losses on Investments

Gross realized gains and losses on sales of investments during fiscal 2014, 2013, and 2012 were as follows:

2014

2013

2012

(In millions)

Gross realized gains . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Gross realized losses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $

27
2

$
$

7
2

$
$

3
3

At October 26, 2014, gross unrealized losses related to Applied's investment portfolio were not material. Applied regularly 
reviews  its  investment  portfolio  to  identify  and  evaluate  investments  that  have  indications  of  possible  impairment.  Factors 
considered in determining whether an unrealized loss was considered to be temporary, or other-than-temporary and therefore 
impaired, include: the length of time and extent to which fair value has been lower than the cost basis; the financial condition, 
credit quality and near-term prospects of the investee; and whether it is more likely than not that Applied will be required to sell 
the security prior to recovery. Generally, the contractual terms of investments in marketable securities do not permit settlement at 
prices less than the amortized cost of the investments. Applied determined that the gross unrealized losses on its marketable 
securities at October 26, 2014, October 27, 2013 and October 28, 2012 were temporary in nature and therefore it did not recognize 
any impairment of its marketable securities for fiscal 2014, 2013 or 2012. During fiscal 2014, 2013 and 2012, Applied determined 
that certain of its equity investments held in privately-held companies were other-than-temporarily impaired and, accordingly, 
recognized impairment charges of $15 million, $6 million and $17 million, respectively. These impairment charges are included 
in interest and other income, net in the Consolidated Statement of Operations.

Unrealized gains and temporary losses on investments classified as available-for-sale are included within accumulated other 
comprehensive income (loss), net of any related tax effect. Upon realization, those amounts are reclassified from accumulated 
other comprehensive income (loss) to results of operations.

78

 
 
APPLIED MATERIALS, INC.

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)

Note 4  

Fair Value Measurements

Applied’s financial assets are measured and recorded at fair value, except for equity investments in privately-held companies. 
These equity investments are generally accounted for under the cost method of accounting and are periodically assessed for other-
than-temporary impairment when events or circumstances indicate that an other-than-temporary decline in value may have occurred. 
Applied’s nonfinancial assets, such as goodwill, intangible assets, and property, plant and equipment, are recorded at cost and are 
assessed for impairment when events or circumstances indicate that an other-than-temporary decline in value may have occurred.

Fair Value Hierarchy

Applied uses the following fair value hierarchy, which prioritizes the inputs to valuation techniques used to measure fair 
value into three levels and bases the categorization within the hierarchy upon the lowest level of input that is available and significant 
to the fair value measurement:

•  Level 1 — Quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities;
•  Level 2 — Inputs other than Level 1 that are observable, either directly or indirectly, such as quoted prices for similar 
assets or liabilities, quoted prices in markets that are not active, or other inputs that are observable or can be corroborated 
by observable market data for substantially the full term of the assets or liabilities; and

•  Level 3 — Unobservable inputs that are supported by little or no market activity and that are significant to the fair value 

of the assets or liabilities.

Applied’s investments consist primarily of debt securities that are classified as available-for-sale and recorded at their fair 
values. In determining the fair value of investments, Applied uses pricing information from pricing services that value securities 
based on quoted market prices and models that utilize observable market inputs. In the event a fair value estimate is unavailable 
from a pricing service, Applied generally obtains non-binding price quotes from brokers. Applied then reviews the information 
provided by the pricing services or brokers to determine the fair value of its short-term and long-term investments. In addition, to 
validate pricing information obtained from pricing services, Applied periodically performs supplemental analysis on a sample of 
securities. Applied reviews any significant unanticipated differences identified through this analysis to determine the appropriate 
fair value.

Investments with remaining effective maturities of 12 months or less from the balance sheet date are classified as short-term 
investments. Investments with remaining effective maturities of more than 12 months from the balance sheet date are classified 
as  long-term  investments. As  of  October 26,  2014,  substantially  all  of Applied’s  available-for-sale,  short-term  and  long-term 
investments were recognized at fair value that was determined based upon observable inputs.

79

 
APPLIED MATERIALS, INC.

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)

Assets Measured at Fair Value on a Recurring Basis

Financial assets (excluding cash balances) measured at fair value on a recurring basis are summarized below as of October 26, 

2014 and October 27, 2013:

October 26, 2014

October 27, 2013

Level 1

Level 2

Total

Level 1

Level 2

Total

(In millions)

Assets:
Money market funds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 2,494
U.S. Treasury and agency securities. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
43

Non-U.S. government securities. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Municipal securities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Commercial paper, corporate bonds and medium-term notes .

Asset-backed and mortgage-backed securities . . . . . . . . . . . . .

—

—

—

—

Publicly traded equity securities. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
50
Foreign exchange derivative assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
—
Total . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 2,587

$ — $ 2,494

$ 1,095

$ — $ 1,095

19

14

393

224

286

—
52

62

14

393

224

286

50
52

66

—

—

—

—

60
—

104

11

386

219

268

—
20

170

11

386

219

268

60
20

$

988

$ 3,575

$ 1,221

$ 1,008

$ 2,229

There were no transfers between Level 1 and Level 2 fair value measurements during fiscal 2014 and 2013 and Applied did 
not have any financial assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis within Level 3 fair value measurements as of October 26, 
2014 or October 27, 2013.

Assets and Liabilities Measured at Fair Value on a Non-recurring Basis

Equity investments in privately-held companies are generally accounted for under the cost method of accounting and are 
periodically assessed for other-than-temporary impairment when an event or circumstance indicates that an other-than-temporary 
decline in value may have occurred. If Applied determines that an other-than-temporary impairment has occurred, the investment 
will be written down to its estimated fair value based on available information, such as pricing in recent rounds of financing, 
current cash positions, earnings and cash flow forecasts, recent operational performance and any other readily available market 
data. Equity investments in privately-held companies totaled $66 million at October 26, 2014, of which $57 million of investments 
were accounted for under the cost method of accounting and $9 million of investments had been measured at fair value on a non-
recurring basis within Level 3 fair value measurements due to an other-than-temporary decline in value. Equity investments in 
privately-held companies totaled $76 million at October 27, 2013, of which $66 million of investments were accounted for under 
the cost method of accounting and $10 million of investments had been measured at fair value on a non-recurring basis within 
Level 3 fair value measurements due to an other-than-temporary decline in value.

During fiscal 2014, 2013 and 2012, Applied determined that certain of its equity investments held in privately-held companies 
were other-than-temporarily impaired and, accordingly, recognized impairment charges of $15 million, $6 million and  $17 million, 
respectively.

In  fiscal  2013  and  2012, Applied  recorded  goodwill  and  intangible  asset  impairment  charges  related  to  the  Energy  and 
Environmental Solutions segment. The inputs used to measure the fair value of goodwill and intangible assets of the Energy and 
Environmental Solutions segment are classified as a Level 3 fair value measurement due to the significance of unobservable inputs 
using company-specific information. The valuation methodology used to estimate the fair value of goodwill and intangible assets 
is discussed in Note 9, Goodwill, Purchased Technology and Other Intangible Assets.

Other

The carrying amounts of Applied’s financial instruments, including cash and cash equivalents, accounts receivable, notes 
payable, and accounts payable and accrued expenses, approximate fair value due to their short maturities. At October 26, 2014, 
the carrying amount of long-term debt was $1.9 billion and the estimated fair value was $2.2 billion. At October 27, 2013, the 
carrying amount of long-term debt was $1.9 billion and the estimated fair value was $2.1 billion. The estimated fair value of long-
term debt is determined by Level 2 inputs and is based primarily on quoted market prices for the same or similar issues.

80

 
 
 
 
APPLIED MATERIALS, INC.

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)

Note 5 

Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities

Derivative Financial Instruments

Applied conducts business in a number of foreign countries, with certain transactions denominated in local currencies, such 
as the Japanese yen, euro, Israeli shekel, Taiwanese dollar and Swiss franc. Applied uses derivative financial instruments, such as 
forward exchange contracts and currency option contracts, to hedge certain forecasted foreign currency denominated transactions 
expected to occur typically within the next 24 months. The purpose of Applied’s foreign currency management is to mitigate the 
effect of exchange rate fluctuations on certain foreign currency denominated revenues, costs and eventual cash flows. The terms 
of currency instruments used for hedging purposes are generally consistent with the timing of the transactions being hedged. 
Applied does not use derivative financial instruments for trading or speculative purposes.

Derivative instruments and hedging activities, including foreign currency exchange contracts, are recognized on the balance 
sheet at fair value. Changes in the fair value of derivatives that do not qualify for hedge treatment, as well as the ineffective portion 
of any hedges, are recognized currently in earnings. All of Applied’s derivative financial instruments are recorded at their fair 
value in other current assets or in accounts payable and accrued expenses.

Hedges related to anticipated transactions are designated and documented at the inception of the hedge as cash flow hedges 
and are typically entered into once per month. Cash flow hedges are evaluated for effectiveness quarterly. The effective portion 
of the gain or loss on these hedges is reported as a component of accumulated other comprehensive income or loss (AOCI) in 
stockholders’ equity and is reclassified into earnings when the hedged transaction affects earnings. The majority of the after-tax 
net income or loss related to derivative instruments included in AOCI at October 26, 2014 is expected to be reclassified into 
earnings within 12 months. Changes in the fair value of currency forward exchange and option contracts due to changes in time 
value are excluded from the assessment of effectiveness. Both ineffective hedge amounts and hedge components excluded from 
the assessment of effectiveness are recognized in earnings. If the transaction being hedged is no longer probable to occur, or if a 
portion of any derivative is deemed to be ineffective, Applied promptly recognizes the gain or loss on the associated financial 
instrument in general and administrative expenses. The amount recognized due to discontinuance of cash flow hedges that were 
probable not to occur by the end of the originally specified time period was not significant for fiscal 2014, 2013 or 2012.

Additionally,  forward  exchange  contracts  are  generally  used  to  hedge  certain  foreign  currency  denominated  assets  or 
liabilities. These derivatives are typically entered into once per month and are not designated for hedge accounting treatment. 
Accordingly, changes in the fair value of these hedges are recorded in earnings to offset the changes in the fair value of the assets 
or liabilities being hedged.

During the fourth quarters of fiscal 2013 and fiscal 2014, Applied purchased foreign exchange option contracts to limit its 
foreign exchange risk associated with the announced business combination with Tokyo Electron Limited (TEL). The derivatives 
used to hedge our currency exposure did not qualify for hedge accounting treatment. These derivatives are marked to market at 
the end of each reporting period with gains and losses recognized as general and administrative expenses. At October 27, 2013, 
the fair value of the foreign exchange option contracts was approximately $17 million, and the Company recognized an unrealized 
loss of $7 million during fiscal 2013 related to such contracts. During fiscal 2014, the derivatives purchased in fiscal 2013 were 
sold, and the Company recorded gains of $51 million and $42 million, respectively, for the three and twelve month periods ended 
October 26, 2014. Concurrently, during the fourth quarter of fiscal 2014, the Company purchased new foreign exchange option 
contracts for the same purpose with an extended maturity. At October 26, 2014, the fair value of the option contracts purchased 
in fiscal 2014 was approximately $52 million and Applied recorded an unrealized loss of $12 million in fiscal 2014 related to these  
option contracts. The cash flow impacts of these derivatives have been classified as operating cash flows in the Consolidated 
Statements of Cash Flows. To further mitigate credit exposure in connection with these foreign exchange option contracts, the 
Company  entered  into  security  arrangements  with  certain  counterparties,  which  require  the  counterparties  to  post  collateral 
amounting to the approximate fair value of the derivative contracts.  The cash collateral is included in cash and cash equivalents 
in the Consolidated Statements of Financial Position, with the corresponding liability included in accounts payable and accrued 
expenses. 

Other than the foreign exchange option contracts discussed in the preceding paragraph, the fair values of other derivative 

instruments at October 26, 2014 and October 27, 2013 were not material. 

81

 
APPLIED MATERIALS, INC.

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)

The effects of derivative instruments on the Consolidated Statements of Operations for fiscal 2014 and 2013  were as follows:

2014

2013

Effective Portion

Ineffective Portion
and Amount
Excluded from
Effectiveness
Testing

Effective Portion

Ineffective Portion
and Amount
Excluded from
Effectiveness
Testing

Location of Gain or
(Loss) Reclassified
from AOCI into
Income

Gain or
(Loss)
Recognized
in AOCI

Gain or (Loss)
Reclassified
from AOCI into
Income

Gain or (Loss)
Recognized in
Income

Gain or
(Loss)
Recognized
in AOCI

Gain or (Loss)
Reclassified
from AOCI into
Income

Gain or (Loss)
Recognized in
Income

(In millions)

Derivatives in Cash Flow
Hedging Relationships

Foreign exchange
contracts . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Cost of products
sold

Foreign exchange
contracts . . . . . . . . . . . . .

General and
administrative

Total . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

$

$

7

$

—

7

$

8

1

9

$

$

(2) $

29

$

21

$

(2)

(4) $

—

29

$

7

28

$

(3)

(1)

(4)

Location of Gain or
(Loss) Recognized
in Income

Amount of Gain or (Loss) 
Recognized in Income

2014

2013

(In millions)

Derivatives Not Designated as Hedging Instruments

Foreign exchange contracts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Total. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

General and
administrative

$

$

49

49

$

$

19

19

Credit Risk Contingent Features

If Applied’s credit rating were to fall below investment grade, it would be in violation of credit risk contingent provisions 
of the derivative instruments discussed above, and certain counterparties to the derivative instruments could request immediate 
payment on derivative instruments in net liability positions. The aggregate fair value of all derivative instruments with credit-risk 
related contingent features that were in a net liability position was immaterial as of October 26, 2014 and October 27, 2013.

Entering into foreign exchange contracts with banks exposes Applied to credit-related losses in the event of the banks’ 

nonperformance. However, Applied’s exposure is not considered significant.

82

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
APPLIED MATERIALS, INC.

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)

Note 6 

Accounts Receivable, Net

Applied has agreements with various financial institutions to sell accounts receivable and discount promissory notes from 
selected customers. Applied sells its accounts receivable without recourse. Applied, from time to time, also discounts letters of 
credit issued by customers through various financial institutions. The discounting of letters of credit depends on many factors, 
including the willingness of financial institutions to discount the letters of credit and the cost of such arrangements. Details of 
discounted  letters  of  credit,  factored  accounts  receivable  and  discounted  promissory  notes  for  fiscal  years  ended  October 26, 
2014, October 27, 2013 and October 28, 2012 were as follows:

2014

2013

2012

(In millions)

Discounted letters of credit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Factored accounts receivable and discounted promissory notes. . . . . . . . . . .
Total. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $

29
45
74

$

$

— $
—
— $

—
93
93

Financing charges on the sale of receivables  and discounting of letters of credit are included in  interest expense in the 

accompanying Consolidated Statements of Operations and were not material for all years presented.

Accounts receivable are presented net of allowance for doubtful accounts of $58 million at October 26, 2014 and $74 million 

at October 27, 2013. Changes in allowance for doubtful accounts were as follows:

Beginning balance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Provision. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Deductions1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Ending balance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $

2014

2013

2012

(In millions)
87
$

—
(13)
74

$

$

$

74

—
(16)
58

73

14

—

87

_____________________________
1 Fiscal 2014 and 2013 deductions represent releases of allowance for doubtful accounts credited to expense as a result of an overall lower risk 
profile of Applied's customers.

Applied sells its products principally to manufacturers within the semiconductor, display and solar industries. While Applied 
believes that its allowance for doubtful accounts is adequate and represents its best estimate as of October 26, 2014, it  continues 
to closely monitor customer liquidity and industry and economic conditions, which may result in changes to Applied’s estimates 
regarding collectability.

83

 
 
 
APPLIED MATERIALS, INC.

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)

Note 7 

Balance Sheet Detail

Inventories
Customer service spares . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Raw materials . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Work-in-process . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Finished goods . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

$

October 26,
2014

October 27,
2013

(In millions)

316
405
316
530
1,567

$

$

283
361
292
477
1,413

Included in finished goods inventory is $104 million at October 26, 2014, and $136 million at October 27, 2013, of newly-
introduced systems at customer locations where the sales transaction did not meet Applied’s revenue recognition criteria as set 
forth in Note 1. Finished goods inventory includes $192 million and $177 million of evaluation inventory at October 26, 2014 
and October 27, 2013, respectively.

October 26,
2014

October 27,
2013

(In millions)

Other Current Assets
Deferred income taxes, net . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Prepaid expenses. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Prepaid income taxes and income taxes receivable . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Other . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

$

232
172
79
85
568

$

$

323
135
178
69
705

Useful Life

(In years)

October 26,
2014

October 27,
2013

(In millions)

Property, Plant and Equipment, Net
Land and improvements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Buildings and improvements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Demonstration and manufacturing equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Furniture, fixtures and other equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Construction in progress . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Gross property, plant and equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Accumulated depreciation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

3-30
3-5
3-15

$

$

156
1,227
829
575
61
2,848
(1,987)
861

$

$

167
1,217
792
589
52
2,817
(1,967)
850

84

 
 
 
 
 
 
APPLIED MATERIALS, INC.

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)

Depreciation expense was $191 million, $211 million and $198 million for fiscal 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively.

During fiscal 2013 and 2012, fixed asset impairment charges of $12 million and $20 million, respectively were recorded in 
relation to the Energy and Environmental Solutions segment restructuring plan, as discussed in Note 11, Restructuring Charges 
and Asset Impairments.

Accounts Payable and Accrued Expenses
Accounts payable . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Compensation and employee benefits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Warranty . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Income taxes payable . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Dividends payable . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Other accrued taxes. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Interest payable. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Restructuring reserve . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Other . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

$

Customer Deposits and Deferred Revenue
Customer deposits. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Deferred revenue . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

$

October 26,
2014

October 27,
2013

(In millions)

613
524
113
142
122
51
30
9
279
1,883

$

$

582
417
102
73
121
41
30
39
244
1,649

October 26,
2014

October 27,
2013

(In millions)

286
654
940

$

$

175
619
794

Applied typically receives deposits on future deliverables from customers in the Energy and Environmental Solutions and 
Display segments. In certain instances, customer deposits may be received from customers in the Applied Global Services segment.

Other Liabilities
Deferred income taxes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Income taxes payable . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Defined and postretirement benefit plans . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Other . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

$

32
225
208
71
536

$

$

71
174
193
128
566

October 26,
2014

October 27,
2013

(In millions)

85

 
 
 
 
 
 
APPLIED MATERIALS, INC.

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)

Note 8 

Business Combinations

Tokyo Electron Limited

On September 24, 2013, Applied and TEL entered into a Business Combination Agreement, which was amended on February 
14, 2014, to effect a strategic combination of their respective businesses into a new combined company. TEL, a Japanese corporation, 
is a global supplier of semiconductor and flat panel display production equipment, and a provider of technical support and services 
for semiconductor, flat panel display and photovoltaic panel production equipment. Under the terms of the Business Combination 
Agreement,  TEL  shareholders  will  receive  3.25  shares  of  the  new  combined  company  for  every  TEL  share  held. Applied 
shareholders will receive one share of the new combined company for every Applied share held. Based on the number of shares 
of Applied common stock and shares of TEL common stock expected to be issued and outstanding immediately prior to the closing 
of the transaction, it is anticipated that, immediately following the transaction, former Applied stockholders and former TEL 
shareholders will own approximately 68% and 32%, respectively, of the new combined company. 

The new combined company, Eteris N.V., will have dual headquarters in Tokyo and Santa Clara, and dual listing of its shares 
on the Tokyo Stock Exchange and NASDAQ, and will be incorporated in the Netherlands. In June 2014, the shareholders of 
Applied  and TEL  approved  the  proposed  business  combination. The  closing  of  the  transaction  remains  subject  to  customary 
conditions, including regulatory approvals. It is expected that the combined company will commence a $3.0 billion stock repurchase 
program targeted to be executed within 12 months following the closing of the transaction.

The Business Combination Agreement contains mutual pre-closing covenants, including the obligation of Applied and 
TEL to conduct their businesses in the ordinary course consistent in all material respects with past practices. The agreement also 
contains termination rights for Applied and TEL and provides that upon certain events, such as a termination due to a change in 
recommendation by the other party or a termination relating to certain tax rulings, a termination fee of $400 million is payable. 

Varian Semiconductor Equipment Associates, Inc.

On November 10, 2011, Applied completed the acquisition of Varian, a public company manufacturer of semiconductor 
processing equipment and the leading supplier of ion implantation equipment used by chip makers globally, for an aggregate 
purchase price of $4.2 billion in cash, net of cash acquired and assumed earned equity awards of $27 million, pursuant to an 
Agreement and Plan of Merger dated as of May 3, 2011.

Applied allocated the purchase price of this acquisition to tangible and identifiable intangible assets acquired and liabilities 
assumed,  based  on  their  estimated  fair  values.  These  estimates  were  determined  through  established  and  generally  accepted 
valuation techniques. Applied recorded $2.6 billion in goodwill, of which $1.8 billion was allocated to the Silicon Systems Group 
segment, and the remainder was allocated to the Applied Global Services segment.

The following table summarizes the allocation of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed at the acquisition date:

Fair value of net tangible assets acquired. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Goodwill. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Purchased intangible assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Purchase price allocated . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $

892

2,604

1,365

4,861

Estimated Fair
Values

(In millions)

86

 
APPLIED MATERIALS, INC.

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)

The following table presents details of the purchase price allocated to purchased intangible assets of Varian at the acquisition 

date:

Developed technology . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Customer relationships. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
In-process technology . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Patents and trademarks. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Backlog. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Covenant not to compete . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Total purchased intangible assets. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Useful
Life

(In years)
1 - 7

15

10

1

2

Purchased
Intangible  Assets

(In millions)

$

$

987

150

142

69

7

10

1,365

Other

From time to time, Applied makes acquisitions of or investments in companies related to existing or new markets for Applied. 
Applied completed an acquisition during fiscal 2014 which was not significant to Applied's consolidated results of operations and 
financial position.  Substantially all of the consideration was allocated to goodwill and acquisition-related intangible assets. See 
Note 9 Goodwill, Purchased Technology and Other Intangible Assets for more information. 

87

 
APPLIED MATERIALS, INC.

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)

Note 9 

Goodwill, Purchased Technology and Other Intangible Assets

Goodwill and Purchased Intangible Assets

Applied’s methodology for allocating the purchase price relating to purchase acquisitions is determined through established 
and generally accepted valuation techniques. Goodwill is measured as the excess of the purchase price over the sum of the amounts 
assigned to tangible and identifiable intangible assets acquired less liabilities assumed. Applied assigns assets acquired (including 
goodwill) and liabilities assumed to one or more reporting units as of the date of acquisition. Typically, acquisitions relate to a 
single reporting unit and thus do not require the allocation of goodwill to multiple reporting units. If the products obtained in an 
acquisition are assigned to multiple reporting units, the goodwill is distributed to the respective reporting units as part of the 
purchase price allocation process.

Goodwill and purchased intangible assets with indefinite useful lives are not amortized, but are reviewed for impairment 
annually during the fourth quarter of each fiscal year and whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying 
value of an asset may not be recoverable. The process of evaluating the potential impairment of goodwill and intangible assets 
requires significant judgment, especially in emerging markets. Applied regularly monitors current business conditions and considers 
other factors including, but not limited to, adverse industry or economic trends, restructuring actions and lower projections of 
profitability that may impact future operating results.

To test goodwill for impairment, Applied first performs a qualitative assessment to determine whether it is more likely than 
not that the fair value of a reporting unit is less than its carrying value. If it is concluded that this is the case, Applied then performs 
the two-step goodwill impairment test. Otherwise, the two-step goodwill impairment test is not required. Under the two-step 
goodwill impairment test, Applied would, in the first step, compare the estimated fair value of each reporting unit to its carrying 
value. Applied determines the fair value of each of its reporting units based on a weighting of income and market approaches. If 
the carrying value of a reporting unit exceeds its fair value, Applied would then perform the second step of the impairment test in 
order to determine the implied fair value of the reporting unit’s goodwill. If Applied determines that the carrying value of a reporting 
unit’s goodwill exceeds its implied fair value, Applied would record an impairment charge equal to the difference. Applied’s 
reporting units are consistent with the reportable segments identified in Note 16, Industry Segment Operations, which are based 
on the manner in which Applied operates its business and the nature of those operations.

In the fourth quarter of fiscal 2014, Applied performed an annual qualitative assessment to test goodwill for all of its reporting 
units for impairment. Applied determined that it was more likely than not that each of its reporting units' fair values exceeded their 
respective carrying values and that it was not necessary to perform the two-step goodwill impairment test for any of its reporting 
units. 

During fiscal 2013 and 2012, the solar industry faced a deterioration in market conditions associated with manufacturing 
overcapacity and weak operating performance and outlook, resulting in uncertainties regarding the timing and nature of a recovery 
in solar capital equipment expenditures. Applied performed a two-step goodwill impairment test and, as a result, recorded $224 
million and $421 million of goodwill impairment charges in its Energy and Environmental Solutions segment in fiscal 2013 and 
2012, respectively. As of October 27, 2014, accumulated goodwill impairment charges amounted to $645 million all of which 
were recorded in the Energy and Environmental Solutions segment.

In fiscal 2013, Applied also performed an impairment test for long-lived assets associated with the Energy and Environmental 
Solutions reporting unit and determined that the majority of intangible assets were impaired, mostly due to the lower long-term 
revenue and profitability outlook associated with products related to these intangible assets. Accordingly, during fiscal 2013, 
Applied recorded an impairment charge of $54 million related to these intangible assets, which was the amount by which the 
carrying value of these intangible assets exceeded their estimated fair value, based on discounted projected cash flows.

88

 
APPLIED MATERIALS, INC.

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)

Applied utilized an equal weighting of both the discounted cash flow method of the income approach and the guideline 
company method of the market approach to estimate the fair value of the Energy and Environmental Solutions reporting unit. The 
estimates used in the impairment testing were consistent with the discrete forecasts that Applied uses to manage its business, and 
considered the significant developments that occurred during the quarter. Under the discounted cash flow method, cash flows 
beyond the discrete forecasts were estimated using a terminal growth rate, which considered the long-term earnings growth rate 
specific to the Energy and Environmental Solutions reporting unit. The estimated future cash flows were discounted to present 
value using a discount rate that was the value-weighted average of the reporting unit's estimated cost of equity and debt derived 
using both known and estimated market metrics, and was adjusted to reflect risk factors that considered both the timing and risks 
associated with the estimated cash flows. The tax rate used in the discounted cash flow method reflected the international structure 
currently in place, which is consistent with the market participant perspective. Under the guideline company method, market 
multiples  were  applied  to  forecasted  revenues  and  earnings  before  interest,  taxes,  depreciation  and  amortization. The  market 
multiples used were consistent with comparable publicly-traded companies. 

The evaluation of goodwill and intangible assets for impairment requires the exercise of significant judgment. In the event 
of future changes in business conditions, Applied will be required to reassess and update its forecasts and estimates used in future 
impairment analyses. If the results of these future analyses are lower than current estimates, a material impairment charge may 
result at that time. 

Details of goodwill and other indefinite-lived intangible assets were as follows:

October 26, 2014

October 27, 2013

Goodwill

Other
Intangible
Assets

Total

Goodwill

(In millions)

Other
Intangible
Assets

Total

Silicon Systems Group . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Applied Global Services. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Display . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Carrying amount. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $

2,151

$

103

$

2,254

$

2,151

$

142

$

1,027

126

6

18

1,033

144

1,027

116

—

—

2,293

1,027

116

3,304

$

127

$

3,431

$

3,294

$

142

$

3,436

Other intangible assets that are not subject to amortization consist primarily of in-process technology, which will be subject 
to  amortization  upon  commercialization. The  fair  value  assigned  to  in-process  technology  was  determined  using  the  income 
approach taking into account estimates and judgments regarding risks inherent in the development process, including the likelihood 
of  achieving  technological  success  and  market  acceptance.  If  an  in-process  technology  project  is  abandoned,  the  acquired 
technology attributable to the project will be written-off.

During  fiscal  2014,  goodwill  and  other  indefinite  lived  intangible  assets  decreased  by  $5  million  primarily  due  to 
commercialization of in-process technology in the Silicon Systems Group segment, partially offset by increases in goodwill and 
in-process technology as a result of an acquisition in the Display segment.  The acquisition is not material to the consolidated 
financial position and results of operations of Applied.

A summary of Applied's purchased technology and intangible assets is set forth below:

October 26,
2014

October 27,
2013

Purchased technology, net . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Intangible assets - finite-lived, net . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Intangible assets - indefinite-lived . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Total . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $

89

$

(In millions)
636
188
127
951

$

748
213
142
1,103

 
 
 
 
 
APPLIED MATERIALS, INC.

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)

Finite-Lived Purchased Intangible Assets

Applied amortizes purchased intangible assets with finite lives using the straight-line method over the estimated economic 

lives of the assets, ranging from 1 to 15 years.

Applied evaluates long-lived assets for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate the carrying value 
of an asset group may not be recoverable. Applied assesses the fair value of the assets based on the amount of the undiscounted 
future cash flow that the assets are expected to generate and recognizes an impairment loss when estimated undiscounted future 
cash flow expected to result from the use of the asset, plus net proceeds expected from disposition of the asset, if any, are less than 
the carrying value of the asset. When Applied identifies an impairment, Applied reduces the carrying value of the group of assets 
to comparable market values, when available and appropriate, or to its estimated fair value based on a discounted cash flow 
approach.

Intangible assets, such as purchased technology, are generally recorded in connection with a business acquisition. The value 
assigned to intangible assets is usually based on estimates and judgments regarding expectations for the success and life cycle of 
products and technology acquired. Applied evaluates the useful lives of its intangible assets each reporting period to determine 
whether events and circumstances require revising the remaining period of amortization. In addition, Applied reviews intangible 
assets for impairment when events or changes in circumstances indicate their carrying value may not be recoverable. Management 
considers such indicators as significant differences in actual product acceptance from the estimates, changes in the competitive 
and economic environments, technological advances, and changes in cost structure.

Details of finite-lived intangible assets were as follows:

October 26, 2014

October 27, 2013

Purchased
Technology

Other
Intangible
Assets

Total

Purchased
Technology

(In millions)

Other
Intangible
Assets

Total

Gross carrying amount:
Silicon Systems Group . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Applied Global Services. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Display . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Energy and Environmental Solutions. . . . . . . .
Gross carrying amount . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Accumulated amortization:
Silicon Systems Group . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Applied Global Services. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Display . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Energy and Environmental Solutions. . . . . . . .
Accumulated amortization . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Carrying amount. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $

1,346

$

252

$

1,598

$

1,301

$

252

$

1,553

28

110

5

44

33

17

72

143

22

28

110

5

44

33

15

72

143

20

1,489

$

346

$

1,835

$

1,444

$

344

$

1,788

(716) $

(24)

(110)

(3)

(853) $

636

$

(77) $
(44)
(31)
(6)
(158) $
$
188

(793) $
(68)
(141)
(9)
(1,011) $
$
824

(562) $
(23)
(110)
(1)
(696) $
$
748

(58) $
(42)
(29)
(2)
(131) $
$
213

(620)
(65)
(139)
(3)
(827)
961

90

 
 
 
 
 
APPLIED MATERIALS, INC.

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)

Details of amortization expense by segment for fiscal 2014, 2013 and 2012 were as follows:

2014

2013

2012

(In millions)

Silicon Systems Group . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Applied Global Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Display . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Energy and Environmental Solutions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Total. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $

173
3
2
6
184

$

$

172
5
6
16
199

For fiscal 2014, 2013 and 2012, amortization expense was charged to the following categories:

2014

2013

(In millions)

Cost of products sold. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Research, development and engineering. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Marketing and selling . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
General and administrative . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Total. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $

159
1
21
3
184

$

$

166
1
26
6
199

As of October 26, 2014, future estimated amortization expense is expected to be as follows:

$

$

$

$

2012

2015 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2016 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2017 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2018 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2019 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Thereafter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Total . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $

Amortization
Expense

(In millions)

183
9
7
25
224

185
1
30
8
224

182
175
171
170
30
96
824

91

 
 
 
 
 
APPLIED MATERIALS, INC.

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)

Note 10 

Borrowing Facilities and Long-Term Debt

Applied has credit facilities for unsecured borrowings in various currencies of up to $1.6 billion, of which $1.5 billion is 
comprised of a committed revolving credit agreement with a group of banks that is scheduled to expire in May 2017. This agreement 
provides for borrowings in United States dollars at interest rates keyed to one of the two rates selected by Applied for each advance 
and  includes  financial  and  other  covenants.  Remaining  credit  facilities  in  the  amount  of  approximately  $75  million  are  with 
Japanese banks. Applied’s ability to borrow under these facilities is subject to bank approval at the time of the borrowing request, 
and any advances will be at rates indexed to the banks’ prime reference rate denominated in Japanese yen. No amounts were 
outstanding under any of these facilities at both October 26, 2014 and October 27, 2013 and Applied has not utilized these credit 
facilities. In connection with the proposed business combination with TEL, Applied intends to amend or replace its undrawn $1.5 
billion unsecured revolving credit agreement. In fiscal 2011, Applied established a short-term commercial paper program of up 
to $1.5 billion. At October 26, 2014 and October 27, 2013, Applied did not have any commercial paper outstanding.

Long-term debt outstanding as of October 26, 2014 and October 27, 2013 was as follows:

Principal Amount

October 26,
2014

October 27,
2013

Effective
Interest Rate

Interest
Pay Dates

2.650% Senior Notes Due 2016 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
7.125% Senior Notes Due 2017 . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
4.300% Senior Notes Due 2021 . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
5.850% Senior Notes Due 2041 . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Total unamortized discount . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Total long-term debt. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $

$

(In millions)
400
200
750

600
1,950
(3)
1,947

$

400
200
750

600
1,950
(4)
1,946

2.666%
7.190%
4.326%

5.879%

June 15, December 15
April 15, October 15
June 15, December 15

June 15, December 15

92

 
 
 
 
 
APPLIED MATERIALS, INC.

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)

Note 11 

Restructuring Charges and Asset Impairments

From time to time, Applied initiates restructuring activities to appropriately align its cost structure relative to prevailing 
economic  and  industry  conditions  and  associated  customer  demand  as  well  as  in  connection  with  certain  acquisitions.  Costs 
associated with restructuring actions can include termination benefits and related charges in addition to facility closure, contract 
termination and other related activities.

The following table summarizes major components of the restructuring and asset impairment charges during fiscal 2014, 

2013 and 2012:

2012 Global Restructuring Plan

Severance and other employee-related costs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $

5

$

39

$

106

2014

2013

2012

(In millions)

2012 EES Restructuring Plan

Severance and other employee-related costs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Contract cancellation and other costs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Asset impairments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Others

Severance and other employee-related costs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Contract cancellation and other costs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Restructuring and asset impairment charges were recorded as follows:

—
—
—

—
—
5

$

8
6
12

2
(4)
63

$

2014

2013

(In millions)

Silicon Systems Group . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Applied Global Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Energy and Environmental Solutions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Corporate Unallocated . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Total. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $

— $
—
—
5
5

$

1
2
25
35
63

27
1
20

14
—
168

4
15
38
111
168

2012

$

$

$

93

 
 
 
APPLIED MATERIALS, INC.

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)

2012 Global Restructuring Plan 

On October 3, 2012, Applied announced a restructuring plan (the 2012 Global Restructuring Plan) to realign its global 
workforce and enhance its ability to invest for growth. Under this plan, Applied implemented a voluntary retirement program and 
other workforce reduction actions. The voluntary retirement program was available to certain U.S. employees who met minimum 
age and length of service requirements, as well as other business-specific criteria. Applied implemented other workforce reduction 
actions globally across multiple business segments and functions, the extent of which depended on the number of employees who 
participated in the voluntary retirement program and other considerations. A total of approximately 1,300 positions were affected 
under this plan. As of January 26, 2014, principal activities related to this plan were complete.

During fiscal 2014, 2013 and 2012, Applied recognized $5 million, $39 million and $106 million, respectively, of employee-
related costs in connection with the 2012 Global Restructuring Plan. Total costs incurred in implementing this plan were $150 
million, none of which were allocated to the operating segments. 

2012 EES Restructuring Plan 

On May 10, 2012, Applied announced a plan (the 2012 EES Restructuring Plan) to restructure its Energy and Environmental 
Solutions segment in light of challenging industry conditions affecting the solar photovoltaic and light-emitting diode (LED) 
equipment  markets. As  part  of  this  plan, Applied  relocated  certain  manufacturing,  business  operations  and  customer  support 
functions of its precision wafering systems business and ceased LED development activities. The 2012 EES Restructuring Plan 
also impacted certain LED support activities in the Applied Global Services segment. The 2012 EES Restructuring Plan impacted 
approximately 300 positions globally. As of October 27, 2013, principal activities related to this plan were complete. Total costs 
incurred in implementing this plan were $87 million, of which $13 million were inventory-related charges. 

During  fiscal  2013  and  2012, Applied  recognized  $26  million  and  $48  million  respectively,  of  restructuring  and  asset 
impairment  charges  in  connection  with  the  2012  EES  Restructuring  Plan.  These  costs  were  reported  in  the  Energy  and 
Environmental Solutions and Applied Global Services segments. As of October 26, 2014, there were no remaining severance 
accruals associated with restructuring reserves under this program.

Integration of Varian and Prior Year Restructuring Plans

During fiscal 2013 and 2012, Applied also recognized $2 million and $14 million, respectively, of severance and other 
employee-related costs in connection with the integration of Varian. These costs were reported in the Silicon Systems Group and 
Applied Global Services segments. As of October 26, 2014, there were no remaining severance accrual associated with restructuring 
reserves under this program.

94

APPLIED MATERIALS, INC.

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)

Changes in restructuring reserves for fiscal 2014, 2013, and 2012 were as follows:

2012 Global
Restructuring
Plan

2012 EES Restructuring Plan

Others

Severance and
Other
Employee-
Related Costs

Severance and
Other
Employee-
Related Costs

Contract
Cancellation
and Other
Costs

Severance
and Other
Employee-
Related
Costs

Contract
Cancellation
and Other
Costs

Total

Balance, October 30, 2011 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Provision for restructuring reserves . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Consumption of reserves . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Balance, October 28, 2012 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Provision for restructuring reserves . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Consumption of reserves . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Adjustment of restructuring reserves . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Balance, October 27, 2013 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Provision for restructuring reserves . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Consumption of reserves . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Adjustment of restructuring reserves . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Balance, October 26, 2014 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $

5

—

—

5

—
—
(4)
1

—

—

—

1

$

$

$

$

11

148
(26)
133

52
(136)
(10)
39

7
(35)
(2)
9

— $

— $

(In millions)
— $

6

$

1

—

1

8
(2)
(2)
5

—
(1)
—

$

$

14
(15)
5

2
(5)
—

$

2

$

—
(2)
—

4

$ — $

106

—

106

$

$

27
(11)
16

7
(18)
—

$

5

$

—
(5)
—

—

35
(111)
(4)
26

7
(27)
(2)
4

95

 
 
APPLIED MATERIALS, INC.

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)

Note 12 

Stockholders’ Equity, Comprehensive Income and Share-Based Compensation

Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)

Changes in the components of AOCI, net of tax, were as follows:

Unrealized
Gain on
Derivative
Instruments
Qualifying as
Cash Flow
Hedges

Unrealized
Gain on
Investments,
Net

Defined and
Postretirement
Benefit Plans

Cumulative
Translation
Adjustments

Total

(in millions)

Balance at October 27, 2013. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $

25

$

2

$

(72) $

7

$

Other comprehensive income (loss) before
reclassifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Amounts reclassified out of AOCI. . . . . . . . . . .
Other comprehensive loss, net of tax . . . . . . . . .
Balance at October 26, 2014. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $

8

(9)

(1)

24

$

4
(6)
(2)
— $

(36)
3
(33)
(105) $

(2)
—
(2)
5

$

(38)

(26)
(12)
(38)
(76)

Stock Repurchase Program

On March 5, 2012, Applied's Board of Directors approved a stock repurchase program authorizing up to $3.0 billion in 
repurchases over the next three years ending in March 2015.  Under this authorization, Applied purchases shares of its common 
stock on the open market. At October 26, 2014, $1.6 billion remained available for future stock repurchases under this repurchase 
program.

Applied did not repurchase any shares of its common stock during fiscal 2014. The following table summarizes Applied’s 

stock repurchases for fiscal 2013 and 2012:

2013

2012

Shares of common stock repurchased . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Cost of stock repurchased . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Average price paid per share. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $

(In millions, except per share
amounts)
18
245
13.60

126
1,416
11.22

$
$

Applied records treasury stock purchases under the cost method using the first-in, first-out (FIFO) method. Upon reissuance 
of treasury stock, amounts in excess of the acquisition cost are credited to additional paid in capital. If Applied reissues treasury 
stock at an amount below its acquisition cost and additional paid in capital associated with prior treasury stock transactions is 
insufficient to cover the difference between the acquisition cost and the reissue price, this difference is recorded against retained 
earnings. 

96

 
 
 
APPLIED MATERIALS, INC.

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)

Dividends

During fiscal 2014, Applied’s Board of Directors declared four quarterly cash dividends of $0.10 per share each. During 
fiscal 2013, Applied’s Board of Directors declared three quarterly cash dividends of  $0.10 per share each and one quarterly cash 
dividend of $0.09 per share. During fiscal 2012, Applied’s Board of Directors declared three quarterly cash dividends of $0.09 per 
share each and one quarterly cash dividend of $0.08 per share. Dividends declared during fiscal 2014, 2013 and 2012 amounted 
to $487 million, $469 million and $438 million, respectively. Applied currently anticipates that cash dividends will continue to be 
paid on a quarterly basis, although the declaration of any future cash dividend is at the discretion of the Board of Directors and 
will depend on Applied’s financial condition, results of operations, capital requirements, business conditions and other factors, as 
well as a determination by the Board of Directors that cash dividends are in the best interests of Applied’s stockholders.

Share-Based Compensation

Applied has a stockholder-approved equity plan, the Employee Stock Incentive Plan, which permits grants to employees of 
share-based awards, including stock options, restricted stock, restricted stock units, performance shares and performance units. In 
addition, the plan provides for the automatic grant of restricted stock units to non-employee directors and permits the grant of 
share-based awards to non-employee directors and consultants. Share-based awards made beginning in March 2012 under the plan 
may be subject to accelerated vesting under certain circumstances in the event of a change in control of Applied. Applied also has 
two Employee Stock Purchase Plans, one generally for United States employees and a second for employees of international 
subsidiaries (collectively, ESPP), which enable eligible employees to purchase Applied common stock.

During fiscal 2014, 2013, and 2012, Applied recognized share-based compensation expense related to stock options, ESPP 
shares, restricted stock, restricted stock units, performance shares and performance units. Total share-based compensation and 
related tax benefits were as follows:

Share-based compensation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Tax benefit recognized. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $

177
50

$
$

162
45

$
$

The effect of share-based compensation on the results of operations for fiscal 2014, 2013, and 2012 was as follows:

2014

2013

2012

(In millions)

2014

2013

2012

(In millions)

Cost of products sold. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Research, development, and engineering . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Marketing and selling . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
General and administrative . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Restructuring charge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Total. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $

53
66
23
35
—
177

$

$

50
53
20
34
5
162

$

$

182
52

54
54
22
52
—
182

The  cost  associated  with  share-based  awards  that  are  subject  solely  to  time-based  vesting  requirements,  less  expected 
forfeitures, is recognized over the awards’ service period for the entire award on a straight-line basis. The cost associated with 
performance-based equity awards is recognized for each tranche over the service period, based on an assessment of the likelihood 
that the applicable performance goals will be achieved.

At October 26, 2014, Applied had $241 million in total unrecognized compensation expense, net of estimated forfeitures, 
related to grants of share-based awards and shares issued under Applied’s ESPP, which will be recognized over a weighted average 
period of 2.5 years.  At October 26, 2014, there were 176 million shares available for grants of share-based awards under the 
Employee Stock Incentive Plan, and an additional 34 million shares available for issuance under the ESPP.

97

 
 
 
 
APPLIED MATERIALS, INC.

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)

Stock Options

Applied grants options to purchase, at future dates, shares of its common stock to employees and consultants. The exercise 
price of each stock option equals the fair market value of Applied common stock on the date of grant. Options typically vest over 
three to four years, subject to the grantee’s continued service with Applied through the scheduled vesting date, and expire no later 
than seven years from the grant date. The fair value of each option grant is estimated on the date of grant using the Black-Scholes 
option pricing model. This model was developed for use in estimating the value of publicly traded options that have no vesting 
restrictions and are fully transferable. Applied’s employee stock options have characteristics significantly different from those of 
publicly traded options. There were no stock options granted during fiscal 2014. The weighted average assumptions used in the 
model for the stock options granted and assumed are outlined below:

Stock Options:

Dividend yield. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Expected volatility . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Risk-free interest rate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Expected life (in years) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

2.7%

29.5%

1.44%

4.5

2.6%

38.7%

0.52%

3.3

2013

2012

Information with respect to stock options is as follows:

Aggregate intrinsic value of outstanding stock options. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Total intrinsic value of stock options exercised. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Total fair value of stock options vested . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Cash received from stock option exercises . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Actual tax benefit realized from options exercised . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $

Stock option activity for fiscal 2014, 2013 and 2012 was as follows:

2014

2013

2012

(In millions)
49
$

$

$

$

$

63

4

88

19

$

$

$

$

$

19

39

1

29

12

43

21

41

33

7

2014

2013

2012

Weighted
Average
Exercise
Price

Weighted
Average
Exercise
Price

Shares

Weighted
Average
Exercise
Price

Shares

Shares

(In millions, except per share amounts)

Outstanding, beginning of year. . . . . . . . . . . . .
Granted and assumed in Varian acquisition . . .
Exercised. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Canceled and forfeited . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Outstanding, end of year. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Exercisable, end of year . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

6
$
— $
(4) $
— $
$
$

2
1

9.12
—
7.85
—
10.87
7.97

$
21
1
$
(11) $
(5) $
$
6
$
5

10.53
15.06
8.16
17.62
9.12
7.90

$
30
5
$
(4) $
(10) $
$
21
$
20

13.05
4.85
7.30
16.76
10.53
10.71

98

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
APPLIED MATERIALS, INC.

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)

The following table summarizes information with respect to options outstanding and exercisable at October 26, 2014:

Options Outstanding

Options Exercisable

Range of
Exercise Prices

$3.36 — $9.99 . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

$10.00 — $15.06 . . . . . . . . . . . .

Options exercisable and
expected to become exercisable .

Weighted
Average
Exercise
Price

$

$

$

$

5.31

14.96

10.87

10.87

Weighted
Average
Remaining
Contractual
Life

(In years)

1.81

5.59

3.99

3.99

Number of
Shares

(In millions)
1

1

2

2

Aggregate
Intrinsic
Value

Number of
Shares

(In millions)
12
$

(In millions)
1

Weighted
Average
Exercise
Price

$

5.30

Aggregate
Intrinsic
Value

(In millions)
12
$

7

19

19

$

$

— $

14.71

1

$

7.97

$

2

14

Option prices at the lower end of the range were principally attributable to stock options assumed in connection with the 

Varian acquisition in fiscal year 2012.

Restricted Stock Units, Restricted Stock, Performance Shares and Performance Units

Restricted stock units are converted into shares of Applied common stock upon vesting on a one-for-one basis. Restricted 
stock has the same rights as other issued and outstanding shares of Applied common stock except these shares generally have no 
right to dividends and are held in escrow until the award vests. Performance shares and performance units are awards that result 
in a payment to a grantee, generally in shares of Applied common stock on a one-for-one basis if performance goals and/or other 
vesting criteria established by the Human Resources and Compensation Committee of Applied's Board of Directors (the Committee) 
are achieved or the awards otherwise vest. Restricted stock units, restricted stock, performance shares and performance units 
typically vest over four years and vesting is usually subject to the grantee’s continued service with Applied and, in some cases, 
achievement of specified performance goals. The compensation expense related to the service-based awards is determined using 
the fair market value of Applied common stock on the date of the grant, and the compensation expense is recognized over the 
vesting period. 

Restricted  stock,  performance  shares  and  performance  units  granted  to  certain  executive  officers  are    subject  to  the 
achievement of specified performance goals (performance-based awards). These performance-based awards become eligible to 
vest only if performance goals are achieved and then actually will vest only if the grantee remains employed by Applied through 
each  applicable  vesting  date. These  performance-based  awards  require  the  achievement  of  targeted  levels  of  adjusted  annual 
operating profit margin. For the fiscal 2013 performance-based awards, additional shares become eligible for time-based vesting 
if Applied achieves certain levels of total shareholder return (TSR) relative to a peer group, comprised of companies in the Standard 
& Poor's 500 Information Technology Index, measured at the end of a two-year period.

The fair value of these performance-based awards is estimated on the date of grant and assumes that the specified performance 
goals will be achieved. If the goals are achieved, these awards vest over a specified remaining service period of generally three or 
four years, provided that the grantee remains employed by Applied through each scheduled vesting date. If the performance goals 
are  not  met  as  of  the  end  of  the  performance  period,  no  compensation  expense  is  recognized  and  any  previously  recognized 
compensation expense is reversed. The expected cost of each award is reflected over the service period and is reduced for estimated 
forfeitures.

99

 
 
 
 
 
APPLIED MATERIALS, INC.

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)

A summary of the changes in restricted stock units, restricted stock, performance shares and performance units outstanding 

under Applied’s equity compensation plans during fiscal 2014, 2013 and 2012 are presented below:

Non-vested restricted stock units, restricted stock, performance
shares and performance units at October 30, 2011 . . . . . . . . . . .

Granted . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Vested . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Canceled . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Non-vested restricted stock units, restricted stock, performance
shares and performance units at October 28, 2012 . . . . . . . . . . .

Granted . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Vested . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Canceled . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Non-vested restricted stock units, restricted stock, performance
shares and performance units at October 27, 2013 . . . . . . . . . . .

Granted . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Vested . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Canceled . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Non-vested restricted stock units, restricted stock, performance
shares and performance units at October 26, 2014 . . . . . . . . . . .

Non-vested restricted stock units, restricted stock, performance
shares and performance units expected to vest . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Weighted
Average
Grant Date
Fair Value

Weighted
Average
Remaining
Contractual Term

Aggregate
Intrinsic
Value

Shares

(In millions, except per share amounts)

28

$

19
$
(9) $
(2) $

36

$

19
$
(11) $
(6) $

38

$

11
$
(13) $
(3) $

33

30

$

$

12.64

10.61

12.87

12.26

11.53

10.55

11.44

11.28

11.11

16.58

11.13

11.72

12.59

12.47

2.8 years $

345

2.6 years $

376

2.4 years $

662

2.3 years $

2.1 years $

698

630

At October 26, 2014, 1 million additional performance-based awards could be earned upon certain levels of achievement of 

Applied's TSR relative to a peer group at a future date.

The actual tax benefit realized for the tax deductions from vested restricted stock units totaled $61 million in fiscal 2014,  

$42 million in fiscal 2013 and $27 million in fiscal 2012.

100

 
 
APPLIED MATERIALS, INC.

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)

Employee Stock Purchase Plans

Under the ESPP, substantially all employees may purchase Applied common stock through payroll deductions at a price 
equal to 85 percent of the lower of the fair market value of Applied common stock at the beginning or end of each 6-month purchase 
period, subject to certain limits. Based on the Black-Scholes option pricing model, the weighted average estimated fair value of 
purchase rights under the ESPP was $4.56 per share for the year ended October 26, 2014, $3.08 per share for the year ended 
October 27, 2013 and $2.73 per share for the year ended October 28, 2012. The number of shares issued under the ESPP during 
fiscal October 26, 2014, October 27, 2013 and October 28, 2012 was 6 million, 7 million and 7 million, respectively. At October 26, 
2014, there were 34 million available for future issuance under the ESPP. Compensation expense is calculated using the fair value 
of the employees’ purchase rights under the Black-Scholes model. Underlying assumptions used in the model for fiscal 2014, 2013 
and 2012 are outlined in the following table:

ESPP:
Dividend yield . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Expected volatility. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Risk-free interest rate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Expected life (in years) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

2014

2013

2012

1.96%
26.3%
0.06%
0.5

2.80%
24.8%
0.09%
0.5

3.01%
29.6%
0.13%
0.5

Note 13 

Employee Benefit Plans

Employee Bonus Plans

Applied has various employee bonus plans. A discretionary bonus plan provides for the distribution of a percentage of pre-
tax income to Applied employees who are not participants in other performance-based incentive plans, up to a maximum percentage 
of  eligible  compensation.  Other  plans  provide  for  bonuses  to Applied’s  executives  and  other  key  contributors  based  on  the 
achievement of profitability and/or other specified performance criteria. Charges under these plans were $290 million for fiscal 
2014, $269 million for fiscal 2013, and $271 million charges for fiscal 2012.

Employee Savings and Retirement Plan

Applied’s Employee Savings and Retirement Plan (the 401(k) Plan) is qualified under Sections 401(a) and (k) of the Internal 
Revenue Code (the Code). Eligible employees may make salary deferral and catch-up contributions under the 401(k) Plan on a 
pre-tax basis and/or (effective as of the first payroll period beginning on or after December 22, 2012) on a Roth basis, subject to 
an annual dollar limit established by the Code.

Applied matches 100% of participant salary and/or Roth deferral contributions up to the first 3% of eligible contribution 
and then 50% of every dollar between 4% and 6% of eligible contribution. Applied does not make matching contributions on any 
catch-up contributions made by participants. Plan participants who were employed by Applied or any of its affiliates on or after 
January 1, 2010 became 100% vested in their Applied matching contribution account balances. Applied’s matching contributions 
under the 401(k) Plan were approximately $29 million, net of $1 million in forfeitures for fiscal 2014 and fiscal 2013 and $37 
million for fiscal 2012.

101

 
APPLIED MATERIALS, INC.

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)

Defined Benefit Pension Plans of Foreign Subsidiaries and Other Post-Retirement Benefits

Several  of Applied’s  foreign  subsidiaries  have  defined  benefit  pension  plans  covering  substantially  all  of  their  eligible 
employees. Benefits under these plans are typically based on years of service and final average compensation levels. The plans 
are managed in accordance with applicable local statutes and practices. Applied deposits funds for certain of these plans with 
insurance companies, pension trustees, government-managed accounts, and/or accrues the expense for the unfunded portion of 
the benefit obligation on its Consolidated Financial Statements. Applied’s practice is to fund the various pension plans in amounts 
sufficient to meet the minimum requirements as established by applicable local governmental oversight and taxing authorities. 
Depending on the design of the plan, local custom and market circumstances, the liabilities of a plan may exceed qualified plan 
assets. The differences between the aggregate projected benefit obligations and aggregate plan assets of these plans have been 
recorded as liabilities by Applied and are included in other liabilities and accrued expenses in the Consolidated Balance Sheets. 

Applied also has a U.S. post-retirement plan that provides certain medical and vision benefits to eligible retirees who are at 
least age 55 and whose years of service plus their age equals at least 65 at their date of retirement. An eligible retiree also may 
elect coverage for an eligible spouse or domestic partner who is not eligible for Medicare. Coverage under the plan generally ends 
for both the retiree and spouse or domestic partner upon becoming eligible for Medicare. In addition, Applied also has a post-
retirement benefit plan as a result of the acquisition of Varian. Applied’s liability under these post-retirement plans, which was 
included in other liabilities in the Consolidated Balance Sheets, was $34 million at October 26, 2014 and October 27, 2013.

102

 
APPLIED MATERIALS, INC.

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)

A summary of the changes in benefit obligations and plan assets, which includes post-retirement benefits, for fiscal October 

26, 2014 and October 27, 2013 is presented below.

Change in projected benefit obligation
Beginning projected benefit obligation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Service cost. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Interest cost. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Plan participants’ contributions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Actuarial (gain) loss . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Curtailments, settlements and special termination benefits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Foreign currency exchange rate changes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Benefits paid . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Plan amendments and business combinations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Ending projected benefit obligation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Ending accumulated benefit obligation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Range of assumptions to determine benefit obligations
Discount rate. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Rate of compensation increase . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Change in plan assets
Beginning fair value of plan assets. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Return on plan assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Employer contributions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Plan participants’ contributions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Foreign currency exchange rate changes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Divestitures, settlements and business combinations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Benefits paid . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Ending fair value of plan assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Funded status . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Amounts recognized in the consolidated balance sheets
Noncurrent asset . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Current liability. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Noncurrent liability. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Total . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Estimated amortization from accumulated other comprehensive loss into net
periodic benefit cost over the next fiscal year
Actuarial loss . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Prior service cost (credit) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Total . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Amounts recognized in accumulated other comprehensive loss
Net actuarial loss. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Prior service cost (credit) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Total . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Plans with projected benefit obligations in excess of plan assets
Projected benefit obligation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Fair value of plan assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Plans with accumulated benefit obligations in excess of plan assets
Accumulated benefit obligation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Fair value of plan assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $

103

2014

2013

(In millions, except percentages)

445
17
17
1
62
(26)
(22)
(12)
(3)
479
446

$

$
$

434
20
15
1
(16)
(8)
10
(10)
(1)
445
409

1.0% - 4.4%
2.0% - 4.0%

1.1% - 4.5%
2.0% - 4.7%

$

248
20
48
1
(11)
(26)
(12)
$
268
(211) $

$

17
(3)
(225)
(211) $

6
—
6

134
(1)
133

326
98

297
98

$

$

$

$

$
$

$
$

214
18
24
1
8
(7)
(10)
248
(197)

9
(4)
(202)
(197)

4
—
4

91
2
93

438
233

269
99

 
 
 
APPLIED MATERIALS, INC.

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)

Plan assets — allocation
Equity securities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Debt securities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Insurance contracts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Other investments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Cash . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

The following table presents a summary of the ending fair value of the plan assets:

2014

2013

39%
38%
15%
5%
3%

37%
36%
19%
5%
3%

October 26, 2014

October 27, 2013

Level 1

Level 2

Level 3

Total

Level 1

Level 2

Level 3

Total

Equity securities . . $
Debt securities. . . .
Insurance contracts
Other investments .
Cash. . . . . . . . . . . .
Total. . . . . . . . . . . . $

38
8
—
—
9
55

$

$

66
94
—
12
—
172

$

$

— $
—
41
—
—
41

$

$

(In millions)
104
102
41
12
9
268

$

27
6
—
—
7
40

$

$

65
84
—
12
—
161

$

$

— $
—
47
—
—
47

$

92
90
47
12
7
248

The following table presents the activity in Level 3 instruments during fiscal 2014 and 2013:

Balance, beginning of year . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Actual return on plan assets:

Relating to assets still held at reporting date . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Purchases, sales, settlements, net . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Currency impact . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Balance, end of year . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $

2014

2013

(In millions)

47

$

—
(2)
(4)
41

$

49

(1)
(4)
3

47

Applied’s investment strategy for its defined benefit plans is to invest plan assets in a prudent manner, maintaining well-
diversified portfolios with the long-term objective of meeting the obligations of the plans as they come due. Asset allocation 
decisions  are  typically  made  by  plan  fiduciaries  with  input  from Applied’s  international  pension  committee. Applied’s  asset 
allocation strategy incorporates a sufficient equity exposure in order for the plans to benefit from the expected better long-term 
performance of equities relative to the plans’ liabilities. Applied retains investment managers, where appropriate, to manage the 
assets of the plans. Performance of investment managers is monitored by plan fiduciaries with the assistance of local investment 
consultants.  The  investment  managers  make  investment  decisions  within  the  guidelines  set  forth  by  plan  fiduciaries.  Risk 
management practices include diversification across asset classes and investment styles, and periodic rebalancing toward target 
asset allocation ranges. Investment managers may use derivative instruments for efficient portfolio management purposes. Plan 
assets do not include any of Applied’s own equity or debt securities.

104

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
APPLIED MATERIALS, INC.

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)

A summary of the components of net periodic benefit costs and the weighted average assumptions used for net periodic 

benefit cost and benefit obligation calculations for fiscal 2014, 2013 and 2012 is presented below.

Components of net periodic benefit cost
Service cost . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Interest cost . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Expected return on plan assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Amortization of actuarial loss and prior service credit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Settlement and curtailment loss . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Net periodic benefit cost . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Weighted average assumptions
Discount rate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Expected long-term return on assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Rate of compensation increase . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

2014

2013

2012

(In millions, except percentages)

17

17
(14)
4

3

27

$

$

20

15
(12)
6

—

29

$

$

3.68%

5.64%
3.29%

3.46%

5.38%
3.07%

16

14
(11)
—

6

25

4.53%

5.91%
3.09%

Asset return assumptions are derived based on actuarial and statistical methodologies, from analysis of long-term historical 
data relevant to the country in which each plan is in effect and the investments applicable to the corresponding plan. The discount 
rate for each plan was derived by reference to appropriate benchmark yields on high quality corporate bonds, allowing for the 
approximate duration of both plan obligations and the relevant benchmark yields.

Future expected benefit payments for the pension plans and the post-retirement plan over the next ten fiscal years are as 

follows: 

2015 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
2016 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2017 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2018 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2019 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2020-2024. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

$

Company contributions to these plans for fiscal 2015 are expected to be approximately $9 million.

Benefit Payments

(In millions)

12
13
13
14
14
81
147

Executive Deferred Compensation Plans

Applied sponsors two unfunded deferred compensation plans, the Executive Deferred Compensation Plan (Predecessor 
EDCP) and the 2005 Executive Deferred Compensation Plan (2005 EDCP), under which certain employees may elect to defer a 
portion of their following year’s eligible earnings. The Predecessor EDCP was frozen as of December 31, 2004 such that no new 
deferrals could be made under the plan after that date and the plan would qualify for “grandfather” relief under Section 409A of 
the Code. The Predecessor EDCP participant accounts continue to be maintained under the plan and credited with deemed interest. 
The 2005 EDCP was implemented by Applied effective as of January 1, 2005 and is intended to comply with the requirements of 
Section 409A of the Code. The ability to elect new deferrals of compensation under the 2005 EDCP was suspended effective as 
of October 1, 2014. In addition, Applied also sponsors a non-qualified deferred compensation plan as a result of the acquisition 
of Varian. Amounts payable, including accrued deemed interest, totaled $40 million at October 26, 2014, of which $35 million 
was included in accounts payable and accrued expenses and $5 million was included in other liabilities in the Consolidated Balance 
Sheets. Amounts payable, including accrued deemed interest, totaled $49 million at October 27, 2013, which was included in other 
liabilities in the Consolidated Balance Sheets. Under the Predecessor EDCP and 2005 EDCP, in the event of change of control (as 
defined under these plans), the distribution of all deferred balances would be required.

105

 
 
 
 
APPLIED MATERIALS, INC.

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)

Note 14 

Income Taxes

The components of income before income taxes for fiscal 2014, 2013 and 2012 were as follows:

U.S. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Foreign . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

$

2014

2013

2012

(In millions)

612
836
1,448

$

$

194
156
350

$

$

The components of the provision for income taxes for fiscal 2014, 2013 and 2012 were as follows:

2014

2013

2012

(In millions)

Current:
U.S. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Foreign . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

State. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Deferred:

U.S. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Foreign . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

State. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

$

270

$

97

27

394

(9)
(3)
(6)
(18)
376

$

3

72

2

77

34
(19)
2

17

94

$

$

381
(65)
316

74

75

8

157

52
(4)
2

50

207

A reconciliation between the statutory U.S. federal income tax rate of 35 percent and Applied’s actual effective income tax 

rate for fiscal 2014, 2013 and 2012 is presented below:

Tax provision at U.S. statutory rate. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Resolutions from prior years’ income tax filings . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Effect of foreign operations taxed at various rates . . . . . . . . . . . .

State income taxes, net of federal benefit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Research and other tax credits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Production benefit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Acquisition costs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Goodwill impairment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Share-based compensation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Other . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

2014

2013

2012

35.0%

2.0
(10.9)
1.0
(0.3)
(1.3)
0.8

—

0.4
(0.7)
26.0%

35.0%
(4.7)
(21.1)
0.8
(5.4)
(1.0)
—

22.5

2.2
(1.4)
26.9%

35.0%
(6.0)
(8.5)
2.0
(1.0)
(8.0)
—

47.0

4.0

1.0

65.5%

The effective tax rate for fiscal 2014 was lower than the rate for fiscal 2013 due primarily to nondeductible goodwill impairment 
charges in fiscal 2013, offset by resolutions and changes related to prior years and expiration of the U.S. federal research and 
development tax credit. The effective tax rate for fiscal 2013 was significantly lower than the rate for fiscal 2012 due primarily 
to the geographic composition of Applied's pre-tax income, lower nondeductible goodwill impairment charges, and reinstatement 
of the U.S. federal research and development tax credit retroactive to its expiration in December 2012. These reductions were 
partially offset by a lower benefit in fiscal 2013 from the U.S. federal domestic production deduction.

106

 
 
 
 
 
 
APPLIED MATERIALS, INC.

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)

In the reconciliation between the statutory U.S. federal income tax rate and the actual effective income tax rate for fiscal 
2014, the effect of foreign operations taxed at various rates represents the difference between an income tax provision at the U.S. 
federal statutory income tax rate and the recorded income tax provision, with the difference expressed as a percentage of worldwide 
income before income taxes. This effect is substantially related to the tax effect of foreign income before income taxes generated 
in jurisdictions with lower statutory tax rates. The foreign operations with the most significant effective tax rate impact are Singapore 
and Israel. The fiscal 2014 statutory tax rates for Singapore and Israel are 17% and 26.5%, respectively. Applied has been granted 
tax holidays for both jurisdictions that expire in fiscal 2025 and fiscal 2017, respectively, excluding potential renewals and subject 
to certain conditions with which Applied expects to comply. The tax benefit arising from these tax holidays was $85 million for 
fiscal 2014 or $0.07 per diluted share.

Deferred income taxes reflect the net tax effects of temporary differences between the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities 
for financial reporting purposes and the amounts used for income tax purposes. The components of deferred income tax assets 
and liabilities were as follows:

Deferred tax assets:

Allowance for doubtful accounts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Inventory reserves and basis difference . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Installation and warranty reserves . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Accrued liabilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Deferred revenue . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Tax credits and net operating losses. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Deferred compensation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Share-based compensation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Fixed assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Other. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Gross deferred tax assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Valuation allowance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Total deferred tax assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Deferred tax liabilities:

Intangible assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Undistributed foreign earnings. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Foreign exchange . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Total gross deferred tax liabilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Net deferred tax assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $

October 26,
2014

October 27,
2013

(In millions)

26

$

128

18

123

32

160

44

57

16

27

631
(173)
458

(92)
(87)
(12)
(191)
267

$

27

134

14

138

27

182

33

60
(34)
13

594
(116)
478

(82)
(75)
(18)
(175)
303

The following table presents the breakdown between current and non-current net deferred tax assets and liabilities:

Current deferred tax asset . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Non-current deferred tax asset . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Current deferred tax liability . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Non-current deferred tax liability . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

$

October 26,
2014

October 27,
2013

(In millions)
232

$

67

—
(32)
267

$

323

53
(2)
(71)
303

107

 
 
 
 
APPLIED MATERIALS, INC.

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)

Current deferred tax liabilities are included in accounts payable and accrued expenses on the Consolidated Balance Sheets 

and non-current deferred tax liabilities are included in other liabilities on the Consolidated Balance Sheets.

A valuation allowance is recorded to reflect the estimated amount of deferred tax assets that may not be realized.  During 
fiscal 2014, the valuation allowance against current state research and development credit carryforwards increased by $39 million 
and the valuation allowance against foreign deferred tax assets increased by $18 million.

For fiscal 2014, U.S. income taxes have not been provided for approximately $2.7 billion of cumulative undistributed earnings 
of several foreign subsidiaries. Applied intends to reinvest these earnings indefinitely in operations outside of the U.S. If these 
earnings  were  distributed  to  the  United  States  in  the  form  of  dividends  or  otherwise,  or  if  the  shares  of  the  relevant  foreign 
subsidiaries were sold or otherwise transferred, Applied would be subject to additional U.S. income taxes (subject to an adjustment 
for foreign tax credits) and foreign withholding taxes. Determination of the amount of unrecognized deferred income tax liability 
related to these earnings is not practicable.

At October 26, 2014, Applied has state research and development tax credit carryforwards of $146 million, including $112 
million of credits that are carried over until exhausted and $34 million which are carried over for 15 years and begin to expire in 
fiscal 2021. Applied has a net operating loss carryover in state jurisdictions of $45 million which begin to expire in fiscal 2018.  
Management believes it is more likely than not that all loss and tax credit carryovers at October 26, 2014, net of valuation allowance, 
will be utilized in future periods.

Applied’s income taxes payable have been reduced by the tax benefits associated with employee stock option transactions. 
These benefits, credited directly to stockholders’ equity with a corresponding reduction to taxes payable, amounted to $27 million 
for fiscal 2014, $11 million for fiscal 2013, and $2 million for fiscal 2012.

Applied maintains liabilities for uncertain tax positions. These liabilities involve considerable judgment and estimation and 
are continuously monitored by management based on the best information available. A reconciliation of the beginning and ending 
balances of the total amounts of gross unrecognized tax benefits is as follows:

2014

2013

Beginning balance of gross unrecognized tax benefits. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Settlements with tax authorities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Lapses of statutes of limitation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Increases in tax positions for current year . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Increases in tax positions for prior years . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Decreases in tax positions for prior years. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Ending balance of gross unrecognized tax benefits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $

$

(In millions)
194
(143)
(2)
52
42
(9)
134

$

174
(15)
(15)
48
2
—
194

In the provision for income taxes in the Consolidated Statement of Operations, tax expense of $18 million was realized in 
fiscal  2014  and  a  tax  benefit  of  $1  million  was  realized  in  fiscal  2013 related  to  interest  and  penalties  on  unrecognized  tax 
benefits. The liability for interest and penalties was $25 million as of October 26, 2014 and $7 million as of October 27, 2013 and 
was classified as a non-current liability in the Consolidated Balance Sheets.

Included in the ending balance of unrecognized tax benefits for fiscal 2014 and fiscal 2013 are $124 million and $183 million, 
respectively,  of  tax  benefits  that,  if  recognized,  would  affect  the  effective  tax  rate. Also  included  in  the  ending  balance  of 
unrecognized tax benefits for fiscal 2014 and fiscal 2013 are $9 million and $10 million respectively, of tax benefits that, if 
recognized, would result in adjustments to other tax accounts, primarily deferred taxes.

In fiscal 2014, Applied received a refund of $18 million, including interest, as a result of settling an audit of fiscal 2008 
through fiscal 2012 in Korea, and received a refund of $17 million, including interest, as a result of settling an Internal Revenue 
Service (IRS) audit of Varian for fiscal 2010. These settlements resulted in the recognition of a tax benefit of $3 million in the 
Consolidated Statement of Operations. In fiscal 2013, Applied received a refund of $31 million, including interest, as a result of 
settling an IRS audit of fiscal 2008 and fiscal 2009. This resulted in the recognition of a tax benefit of $12 million in the Consolidated 
Statement of Operations. In fiscal 2013, Applied paid $14 million to the IRS as part of an ongoing audit of Varian for fiscal 2010 
through fiscal 2012. No tax expense or benefit was recognized. 

108

 
 
 
 
APPLIED MATERIALS, INC.

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)

A number of Applied’s tax returns remain subject to examination by taxing authorities. These include U.S. federal returns 
for fiscal 2010 and later years, California returns for fiscal 2010 and later years, tax returns for certain other states for fiscal 2010 
and later years, and tax returns in certain jurisdictions outside of the United States for fiscal 2007 and later years.

The timing of the resolution of income tax examinations, as well as the amounts and timing of various tax payments that 
may be part of the settlement process, is highly uncertain. This could cause large fluctuations in the balance sheet classification 
of  current  assets  and  non-current  assets  and  liabilities. Applied  continues  to  have  ongoing  negotiations  with  various  taxing 
authorities throughout the year.

Note 15  Warranty, Guarantees, Commitments and Contingencies 

Leases

Applied leases some of its facilities and equipment under non-cancelable operating leases and has options to renew most 
leases, with rentals to be negotiated. Total rent expense was $37 million for fiscal 2014, $36 million for fiscal 2013, and $38 
million for fiscal 2012.

As of October 26, 2014, future minimum lease payments are expected to be as follows:

Lease Payments

(In millions)

2015 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
2016 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2017 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2018 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2019 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Thereafter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

$

Warranty

Changes in the warranty reserves during fiscal 2014 and 2013 were as follows:

2014

2013

Beginning balance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Provisions for warranty. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Consumption of reserves . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Ending balance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $

$

(In millions)
102
115
(104)
113

$

28
18
10
6
3
5
70

119
103
(120)
102

Applied products are generally sold with a 12-month warranty period following installation. The provision for the estimated 
cost of warranty is recorded when revenue is recognized. Parts and labor are covered under the terms of the warranty agreement. 
The warranty provision is based on historical experience by product, configuration and geographic region. Quarterly warranty 
consumption is generally associated with sales that occurred during the preceding four quarters, and quarterly warranty provisions 
are generally related to the current quarter’s sales.

109

 
 
 
 
 
 
APPLIED MATERIALS, INC.

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)

Guarantees

In the ordinary course of business, Applied provides standby letters of credit or other guarantee instruments to third parties 
as required for certain transactions initiated by either Applied or its subsidiaries. As of October 26, 2014, the maximum potential 
amount of future payments that Applied could be required to make under these guarantee agreements was approximately $46 
million. Applied has not recorded any liability in connection with these guarantee agreements beyond that required to appropriately 
account for the underlying transaction being guaranteed. Applied does not believe, based on historical experience and information 
currently available, that it is probable that any amounts will be required to be paid under these guarantee agreements.

Applied also has agreements with various banks to facilitate subsidiary banking operations worldwide, including overdraft 
arrangements, issuance of bank guarantees, and letters of credit. As of October 26, 2014, Applied Materials Inc. has provided 
parent guarantees to banks for approximately $102 million to cover these arrangements.

Legal Matters

Korea Criminal Proceedings

In  2010, the Seoul Eastern District Court began hearings on indictments brought by the Seoul Prosecutor's Office for the 
Eastern District of Korea (the Prosecutor's Office) alleging that employees of several companies improperly received and used 
confidential information belonging to Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. (Samsung), a major Applied customer based in Korea. The 
individuals charged included the former head of Applied Materials Korea (AMK), who at the time of the indictment was a vice 
president of Applied Materials, Inc., and certain other AMK employees. Neither Applied nor any of its subsidiaries was named as 
a party to the proceedings. Hearings on these matters concluded in November 2012 and the Court issued its decision on February 
7, 2013. As part of the ruling, nine AMK employees (including the former head of AMK) were acquitted of all charges, while one 
AMK employee was found guilty on some of the charges and received a suspended jail sentence. The Prosecutor's Office and 
various individuals appealed the matter to the High Court. On June 20, 2014, the High Court rendered its decision, finding all 
defendants not guilty, including all ten AMK employees. The prosecutor has appealed the High Court decision to the Korean 
Supreme Court.

Other Matters

From  time  to  time,  Applied  receives  notification  from  third  parties,  including  customers  and  suppliers,  seeking 
indemnification, litigation support, payment of money or other actions by Applied in connection with claims made against them. 
In addition, from time to time, Applied receives notification from third parties claiming that Applied may be or is infringing or 
misusing their intellectual property or other rights. Applied also is subject to various other legal proceedings and claims, both 
asserted and unasserted, that arise in the ordinary course of business.

Although the outcome of the above-described matters, claims and proceedings cannot be predicted with certainty, Applied 

does not believe that any will have a material effect on its consolidated financial condition or results of operations.

110

 
APPLIED MATERIALS, INC.

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)

Note 16 

Industry Segment Operations

Applied’s  four  reportable  segments  are:  Silicon  Systems  Group,  Applied  Global  Services,  Display,  and  Energy  and 
Environmental Solutions. As defined under the accounting literature, Applied’s chief operating decision-maker has been identified 
as the President and Chief Executive Officer, who reviews operating results to make decisions about allocating resources and 
assessing performance for the entire Company. Segment information is presented based upon Applied’s management organization 
structure as of October 26, 2014 and the distinctive nature of each segment. Future changes to this internal financial structure may 
result in changes to Applied’s reportable segments.

Each  reportable  segment  is  separately  managed  and  has  separate  financial  results  that  are  reviewed  by Applied’s  chief 
operating decision-maker. Each reportable segment contains closely related products that are unique to the particular segment. 
Segment operating income is determined based upon internal performance measures used by Applied’s chief operating decision-
maker.

Applied derives the segment results directly from its internal management reporting system. The accounting policies Applied 
uses to derive reportable segment results are substantially the same as those used for external reporting purposes. Management 
measures the performance of each reportable segment based upon several metrics including orders, net sales and operating income. 
Management uses these results to evaluate the performance of, and to assign resources to, each of the reportable segments. Applied 
does not allocate to its reportable segments certain operating expenses that it manages separately at the corporate level, which 
include costs related to share-based compensation; certain management, finance, legal, human resources, and research, development 
and engineering functions provided at the corporate level; and unabsorbed information technology and occupancy. In addition, 
Applied does not allocate to its reportable segments restructuring and asset impairment charges and any associated adjustments 
related to restructuring actions, unless these actions pertain to a specific reportable segment. Segment operating income excludes 
interest income/expense and other financial charges and income taxes. Management does not consider the unallocated costs in 
measuring the performance of the reportable segments.

The Silicon Systems Group segment includes semiconductor capital equipment for etch, rapid thermal processing, deposition, 

chemical mechanical planarization, metrology and inspection, wafer packaging, and ion implantation.

The Applied  Global  Services  segment  includes  technically  differentiated  products  and  services  to  improve  operating 
efficiency, reduce operating costs and lessen the environmental impact of semiconductor, display and solar customers' factories. 
Applied Global Services’ products consist of spares, services, certain earlier generation products, remanufactured equipment, and 
products that have reached a particular stage in the product lifecycle. Customer demand for these products and services is fulfilled 
through a global distribution system with trained service engineers located in close proximity to customer sites.

The Display segment includes products for manufacturing LCDs, organic light-emitting diodes (OLEDs), and other display 

technologies for TVs, personal computers, tablets, smart phones, and other consumer-oriented devices.

The Energy and Environmental Solutions segment includes products for fabricating solar photovoltaic cells and modules, 

high throughput roll-to-roll deposition equipment for flexible electronics and other applications.

In November 2011, Applied completed its acquisition of Varian. Beginning in the first quarter of fiscal 2012, the acquired 
business is primarily included in the results for the Silicon Systems Group and Applied Global Services segments, with certain 
corporate functions included in corporate and unallocated costs.

With the acquisition of Varian, Applied acquired ion implantation technology for semiconductor as well as for c-Si solar 
cell manufacturing, which was recorded under the Silicon Systems Group segment in fiscal 2012. In fiscal 2013, Applied began 
marketing  the  solar  implant  products  commercially  through  its  Energy  and  Environmental  Solutions  segment. Accordingly, 
effective in the first quarter of fiscal 2013, Applied accounts for its solar implant products under the Energy and Environmental 
Solutions segment. The effect of the solar implant products was not material to the operations of either the Silicon Systems Group 
or Energy and Environmental Solutions segments.

111

 
APPLIED MATERIALS, INC.

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)

Information for each reportable segment as of October 26, 2014, October 27, 2013 and October 28, 2012 and for the fiscal 

years then ended, is as follows:

2014:

Silicon Systems Group. . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Applied Global Services . . . . . . . . . . . .
Display . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Energy and Environmental Solutions . .

Total Segment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $

2013:

Silicon Systems Group. . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Applied Global Services . . . . . . . . . . . .
Display . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Energy and Environmental Solutions . .

Total Segment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $

2012:

Silicon Systems Group. . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Applied Global Services . . . . . . . . . . . .
Display . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Energy and Environmental Solutions . .

Total Segment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $

Net Sales

Operating
Income  (Loss)

Depreciation/
Amortization

Capital
Expenditures

Segment
Assets

(In millions)

5,978
2,200
615
279
9,072

4,775
2,023
538
173
7,509

5,536
2,285
473
425
8,719

$

$

$

$

$

$

1,391
573
129
15
2,108

876
436
74
(433)
953

1,243
502
25
(668)
1,102

$

$

$

$

$

$

268
11
5
9
293

260
13
8
22
303

256
17
8
38
319

$

$

$

$

$

$

134
7
4
1
146

118
7
6
1
132

71
8
1
6
86

$

$

$

$

$

$

5,508
2,042
423
173
8,146

5,525
1,958
293
183
7,959

5,106
2,035
278
513
7,932

Operating results for fiscal 2014, 2013 and 2012 included restructuring charges and asset impairments as discussed in detail 

in Note 11, Restructuring Charges and Asset Impairments. 

Reconciliations of segment operating results to Applied consolidated totals for fiscal 2014, 2013 and 2012 are as follows:

2014

2013

2012

(In millions)

Total segment operating income . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Corporate and unallocated costs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Restructuring charges and asset impairments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Certain items associated with announced business combination .
Gain (loss) on derivative associated with announced business
combination. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Income from operations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $

$

2,108
(540)
(5)
(73)

30
1,520

$

$

953
(462)
(35)
(17)

(7)
432

$

1,102
(580)
(111)
—

—
411

Corporate and unallocated costs for fiscal 2012 included deal and other costs related to completed acquisitions of $45 million.

112

 
 
 
 
APPLIED MATERIALS, INC.

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)

Reconciliations of depreciation and amortization expense to Applied consolidated totals for fiscal 2014, 2013 and 2012 are 

as follows:

Total segment depreciation and amortization . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Depreciation on shared facilities and information technology assets . . . . . . . . . .
Consolidated depreciation and amortization. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $

293
82
375

$

$

303
107
410

$

$

Reconciliations of capital expenditures to Applied consolidated totals for fiscal 2014, 2013 and 2012 are as follows:

2014

2013

2012

(In millions)

Total segment capital expenditures. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Shared facilities and information technology assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Consolidated capital expenditures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $

146
95
241

$

$

132
65
197

$

$

2014

2013

2012

(In millions)

319
103
422

86
76
162

Reconciliations of segment assets to Applied consolidated totals as of October 26, 2014, and October 27, 2013 are as follows:

October 26,
2014

October 27,
2013

(In millions)

Total segment assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Cash and investments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Allowance for bad debts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Deferred income taxes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Other current assets. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Common property, plant and equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Other assets. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Consolidated total assets. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $

8,146
4,060
(58)
299
147
522
58
13,174

$

$

7,959
2,896
(74)
376
203
541
142
12,043

113

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
APPLIED MATERIALS, INC.

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)

For geographical reporting, revenue by geographic location is determined by the location of customers’ facilities to which 
products were shipped. Long-lived assets consist primarily of property, plant and equipment and equity-method investments, and 
are attributed to the geographic location in which they are located. Net sales and long-lived assets by geographic region were as 
follows:

Net Sales

Long-lived
Assets

(In millions)

2014:

United States . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Taiwan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
China . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Korea . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Japan. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Europe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Southeast Asia . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Total outside United States . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Consolidated total . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $

2013:

United States . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Taiwan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
China . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Korea . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Japan. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Europe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Southeast Asia . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Total outside United States . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Consolidated total . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $

2012:

United States . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Taiwan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
China . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Korea . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Japan. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Europe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Southeast Asia . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Total outside United States . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Consolidated total . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $

1,966
2,702
1,608
965
817
658
356
7,106
9,072

1,473
2,640
787
924
685
680
320
6,036
7,509

1,749
2,411
783
1,897
704
863
312
6,970
8,719

$

$

$

$

$

$

636
34
61
12
5
99
77
288
924

620
37
65
8
4
99
81
294
914

666
36
74
9
6
110
87
322
988

The following companies accounted for at least 10 percent of Applied’s net sales in fiscal 2014, 2013, or 2012, which were 

for products in multiple reportable segments.

Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company Limited. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

21%
12%

27%
13%

16%
20%

2014

2013

2012

114

 
 
 
APPLIED MATERIALS, INC.

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)

Note 17 

Unaudited Quarterly Consolidated Financial Data

2014:

Net sales. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Gross margin . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Net income. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Earnings per diluted share . . . . . . . . . . . $

2013:

Net sales. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Gross margin . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Net income (loss). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Earnings (loss) per diluted share . . . . . . $

First

Second

Third

Fourth

Fiscal Year

Fiscal Quarter

(In millions, except per share amounts)

2,190

891

253

0.21

1,573

582

34
0.03

$

$

$

$

$

$

$
$

2,353

1,001

262

0.21

1,973

$

$

$

$

$

808
$
(129) $
(0.11) $

2,265

992

301

0.24

1,975

806

168
0.14

$

$

$

$

$

$

$
$

2,264

959

256

0.21

1,988

795

183
0.15

$

$

$

$

$

$

$
$

9,072

3,843

1,072

0.87

7,509

2,991

256
0.21

115

 
 
 
 
 
These Exhibits are numbered in accordance with the Exhibit Table of Item 601 of Regulation S-K:

INDEX TO EXHIBITS

Exhibit No.

Description

2.1** Business Combination Agreement, dated as of September 24,

2013, between Applied Materials, Inc. and Tokyo Electron
Limited

Incorporated by Reference

Form
8-K

File No.
000-06920

Exhibit No.
2.1

Filing Date
9/24/2013

2.2** Amendment No.1 to Business Combination Agreement, dated

8-K

000-06920

2.1

2/18/2014

3.1

3.2

3.3

4.1

4.2

4.3

as of February 14, 2014, by and among Applied Materials,
Inc., Tokyo Electron Limited and TEL-Applied Holdings B.V.
Certificate of Incorporation of Applied Materials, Inc., as
amended and restated through March 10, 2009

Certificate of Designation, Preferences and Rights of the Terms
of the Series A Junior Participating Preferred Stock dated as of
July 9, 1999

Bylaws of Applied Materials, Inc., amended and restated to
December 6, 2011

Form of Indenture (including form of debt security) between
Applied Materials, Inc. and Harris Trust Company of
California, as Trustee

Indenture, dated June 8, 2011, by and between Applied
Materials, Inc. and U.S. Bank National Association, as Trustee

First Supplemental Indenture, dated June 8, 2011, by and
between Applied Materials, Inc. and U.S. Bank National
Association, as Trustee

10-Q

000-06920

3.1

6/3/2009

10-Q

000-06920

3(i)(a)

9/14/1999

8-K

000-06920

8-K

000-06920

8-K

000-06920

8-K

000-06920

3.1

4.1

4.1

4.2

12/7/2011

8/17/1994

6/10/2011

6/10/2011

10.1* Applied Materials, Inc. Executive Deferred Compensation
Plan, as amended and restated on April 1, 1995

10-Q

000-06920

10.24

6/7/1995

10.2*

10.3*

10.4

10.5

10.6

10.7*

10.8*

10.9*

Amendment No. 1 to the Applied Materials, Inc. Executive
Deferred Compensation Plan

Amendment No. 2 to the Applied Materials, Inc. Executive
Deferred Compensation Plan

Form of Indemnification Agreement between Applied
Materials, Inc. and Non-Employee Directors

Form of Indemnification Agreement between Applied
Materials, Inc. and certain of its officers

Applied Materials, Inc. Profit Sharing Scheme (Ireland)

Applied Materials, Inc. amended and restated Relocation
Policy
Amendment No. 3 to the Applied Materials, Inc. Executive
Deferred Compensation Plan

Amendment No. 4 to the Applied Materials, Inc. Executive
Deferred Compensation Plan

10-Q

000-06920

10.1

9/9/1998

10-Q

000-06920

10.2

9/9/1998

10-K

000-06920

10.44

1/31/2000

10-K

000-06920

10.46

1/31/2000

S-8

8-K

333-45011

4.1

1/27/1998

000-06920

10.46

10/31/2005

10-K

000-06920

10.46

12/14/2005

10-K

000-06920

10.47

12/14/2005

10.10* Applied Materials Inc. Employee Financial Assistance Plan,

10-Q

000-06920

10.58

3/3/2009

amended and restated as of December 18, 2008

10.11*

Form of Non-Qualified Stock Option Grant Agreement for use
under the Applied Materials Employee Stock Incentive Plan, as
amended

10-Q

000-06920

10.45

5/30/2007

10.12* Applied Materials, Inc. amended and restated 2005 Executive

8-K

000-06920

10.49

7/13/2007

Deferred Compensation Plan

116

 
Exhibit No.
10.13*

Description
Form of Non-Qualified Stock Option Grant Agreement for use
under the Applied Materials, Inc. Employee Stock Incentive
Plan, as amended

Incorporated by Reference

Form
10-K

File No.
000-06920

Exhibit No.
10.50

Filing Date
12/14/2007

10.14*

10.15

10.16

Form of Restricted Stock Agreement for use under the Applied
Materials, Inc. Employee Stock Incentive Plan, as amended

10-Q

000-06920

10.57

8/29/2008

Deed of Amendment to Applied Materials Profit Sharing
Scheme, dated February 7, 2006, to amend Clause 20 of the
Trust Deed thereunder

Deed of Amendment to Applied Materials Profit Sharing
Scheme, dated February 7, 2006, to amend the definition of
Eligible Employee in the First Schedule to the Trust Deed
thereunder.

10-K

000-06920

10.48

12/12/2008

10-K

000-06920

10.49

12/12/2008

10.17* Amendment No. 5 to the Applied Materials, Inc. Executive

10-K

000-06920

10.50

12/12/2008

Deferred Compensation Plan

10.18* Amendment No. 6 to the Applied Materials, Inc. Executive

10-Q

000-06920

10.59

3/3/2009

Deferred Compensation Plan

10.19* Amendment No. 1 to the Applied Materials, Inc. 2005

10-K

000-06920

10.51

12/12/2008

Executive Deferred Compensation Plan

10.20* Amendment No. 2 to the Applied Materials, Inc. 2005

10-Q

000-06920

10.60

3/3/2009

Executive Deferred Compensation Plan

10.21*

10.22*

10.23*

Form of Performance Shares Agreement for use under the
Applied Materials, Inc. Employee Stock Incentive Plan, as
amended

Form of Performance Shares Agreement for Nonemployee
Directors for use under the Applied Materials, Inc. Employee
Stock Incentive Plan, as amended

Form of Non-Qualified Stock Option Agreement for
Employees for use under the Applied Materials, Inc. Employee
Stock Incentive Plan, as amended

10-K

000-06920

10.56

12/12/2008

10-Q

000-06920

10.61

3/3/2009

10-Q

000-06920

10.63

3/3/2009

10.24* Amendment No. 7 to the Applied Materials, Inc. Executive

10-Q

000-06920

10.67

6/9/2010

Deferred Compensation Plan

10.25* Amendment No. 3 to the Applied Materials, Inc. 2005

10-Q

000-06920

10.68

6/9/2010

Executive Deferred Compensation Plan

10.26*

Form of Performance Share Agreement for use under the
Applied Materials, Inc. Employee Stock Incentive Plan, as
amended

10.27*

Form of Restricted Stock Agreement for use under the Applied
Materials, Inc. Employee Stock Incentive Plan, as amended
10.28* Amendment No. 8 to the Applied Materials, Inc. Executive

Deferred Compensation Plan

10-Q

000-06920

10.71

6/9/2010

10-Q

000-06920

10.72

6/9/2010

10-Q

000-06920

10.60

2/28/2011

10.29* Amendment No. 4 to the Applied Materials, Inc. 2005

10-Q

000-06920

10.61

2/28/2011

Executive Deferred Compensation Plan

10.30

10.31*

Credit Agreement, dated as of May 25, 2011, among Applied
Materials, Inc., JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A., as administrative
agent, and other lenders named therein

Form of Performance Unit Agreement for use under the
Applied Materials, Inc. Employee Stock Incentive Plan, as
amended

10.32* Applied Materials, Inc. Employee Stock Incentive Plan,
amended and restated effective March 6, 2012

10-Q/A 000-06920

10.64

11/18/2011

10-Q

000-06920

10.1

2/27/2012

8-K

000-06920

10.1

3/9/2012

117

Incorporated by Reference

Exhibit No.

Description

10.33* Applied Materials, Inc. Senior Executive Bonus Plan, amended

and restated effective March 6, 2012

Form
8-K

File No.
000-06920

Exhibit No.
10.2

Filing Date
3/9/2012

10.34*

10.35*

10.36*

10.37

Form of Restricted Stock Unit Agreement for use under the
amended and restated Applied Materials, Inc. Employee Stock
Incentive Plan
Form of Restricted Stock Unit Agreement for Nonemployee
Directors for use under the amended and restated Applied
Materials, Inc. Employee Stock Incentive Plan

Form of Performance Shares Agreement for use under the
amended and restated Applied Materials, Inc. Employee Stock
Incentive Plan

Amendment No. 1 and Extension Agreement, dated as of May
25, 2012, to Credit Agreement, dated as of May 25, 2011,
among Applied Materials, Inc., JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A. as
administrative agent, and other lenders named therein

10.38*

Form of Restricted Stock Agreement for use under the
amended and restated Applied Materials, Inc. Employee Stock
Incentive Plan

10.39* Applied Materials, Inc. Employees' Stock Purchase Plan,
amended and restated effective October 28, 2012

10-Q

000-06920

10.3

5/24/2012

10-Q

000-06920

10.4

5/24/2012

10-Q

000-06920

10.5

5/24/2012

8-K

000-06920

10.1

5/30/2012

10-Q

000-06920

10.3

8/23/2012

10-K

000-06920

10.54

12/5/2012

10.40* Applied Materials, Inc. Stock Purchase Plan for Offshore

10-K

000-06920

10.55

12/5/2012

Employees, amended and restated effective October 28, 2012

10.41

Extension Agreement, dated as of May 25, 2013, to Credit
Agreement, dated as of May 25, 2011, as amended, among
Applied Materials, Inc., JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A. as
administrative agent and the lenders parties thereto

8-K

000-06920

10.1

5/28/2013

10.42* Offer Letter, dated August 14, 2013, between Applied

10-Q

000-06920

10.2

8/22/2013

Materials, Inc. and Gary E. Dickerson

10.43* Offer Letter, dated August 15, 2013, between Applied

10-Q

000-06920

10.3

8/22/2013

Materials, Inc. and Michael R. Splinter

10.44*

Form of Non-Qualified Stock Option Agreement for
Employees for use under the Applied Materials, Inc. Employee
Stock Incentive Plan, as amended

10-Q

000-06920

10.4

8/22/2013

10.45* Offer Letter, dated May 3, 2011, between Applied Materials,

10-K

000-06920

10.52

12/4/2013

Inc. and Robert J. Halliday

10.46*

Form of Retention Bonus and Equity Award Amendment
Agreement entered into between Applied Materials, Inc. and
certain officers identified in the attached schedule

10-K

000-06920

10.53

12/4/2013

10.47* Retention and Equity Award Amendment Agreement, dated

10-Q

000-06920

10.1

2/20/2014

December 20, 2013, between Applied Materials, Inc. and
Michael R. Splinter

10.48*

Form of Performance Unit Agreement for use under the
Applied Materials, Inc. Employee Stock Incentive Plan, as
amended

10.49*
Form of Letter of Understanding for Long-Term Assignment†
10.50* Applied Materials, Inc. Applied Incentive Plan, amended and

restated effective October 28, 2013†

10.51* Amendment No. 5 to the Applied Materials, Inc. 2005

Executive Deferred Compensation Plan†

10-Q

000-06920

10.2

2/20/2014

118

Exhibit No.
21

23

24

31.1

31.2

32.1

32.2

Description

Form

File No.

Exhibit No.

Filing Date

Incorporated by Reference

Subsidiaries of Applied Materials, Inc. †

Consent of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm,
KPMG LLP†

Power of Attorney†

Certification of Chief Executive Officer Pursuant to
Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002†

Certification of Chief Financial Officer Pursuant to
Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002†

Certification Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted
pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002‡

Certification Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted
pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002‡

101.INS XBRL Instance Document‡

101.SCH XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document‡

101.CAL XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document‡

101.DEF XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document‡

101.LAB XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document‡

101.PRE XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document‡

*

Indicates a management contract or compensatory plan or arrangement, as required by Item 15(a)3.

**

†

‡

Schedules and certain exhibits to this agreement have been omitted pursuant to Item 601(b)(2) of Regulation S-K.
Applied hereby undertakes to furnish supplementally copies of any of the omitted schedules and exhibits upon request
by the Securities and Exchange Commission.

Filed herewith.

Furnished herewith.

119

Pursuant to the requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) 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.

SIGNATURES

APPLIED MATERIALS, INC.

By:

/S/    GARY E. DICKERSON

Gary E. Dickerson
President, Chief Executive Officer

Dated: December 17, 2014 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, this report has been signed below by the following 

persons on behalf of the registrant and in the capacities and on the dates indicated.

/S/    GARY E. DICKERSON

Gary E. Dickerson

/S/    ROBERT J. HALLIDAY

Robert J. Halliday
/S/    CHARLES W. READ

Charles W. Read

Directors:

*
Michael R. Splinter
*
Aart J. de Geus
*
Gary E. Dickerson
*
Stephen R. Forrest
*
Thomas J. Iannotti
*
Susan M. James
*
Alexander A. Karsner
*
Gerhard H. Parker
*
Dennis D. Powell
*
Willem P. Roelandts
*
James E. Rogers
*
Robert H. Swan

Title
President, Chief Executive Officer (Principal
Executive Officer)

Date
December 17, 2014

Senior Vice President, Chief
Financial Officer
(Principal Financial Officer)
Corporate Vice President, Corporate
Controller and Chief Accounting
Officer (Principal Accounting Officer)

December 17, 2014

December 17, 2014

Executive Chairman of the Board

December 17, 2014

Director

Director

Director

Director

Director

Director

Director

Director

Director

Director

Director

December 17, 2014

December 17, 2014

December 17, 2014

December 17, 2014

December 17, 2014

December 17, 2014

December 17, 2014

December 17, 2014

December 17, 2014

December 17, 2014

December 17, 2014

Representing a majority of the members of the Board of Directors.

* By

/s/    GARY E. DICKERSON

Gary E. Dickerson
Attorney-in-Fact**

** 

By authority of the power of attorney filed herewith.

120

 
 
 
© 2015 Applied Materials, Inc.  Applied Materials, the Applied Materials logo, and product names so 

designated are trademarks of Applied Materials, Inc. and/or its affiliates in the U.S. and other countries. 

Third party trademarks mentioned are the property of their respective owners. All rights reserved. 

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