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Fortive

ftv · NYSE Industrials
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Ticker ftv
Exchange NYSE
Sector Industrials
Industry Industrial - Machinery
Employees 10,000+
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FY2018 Annual Report · Fortive
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FORTIVE CORPORATION   
2017 ANNUAL REPORT 
ACCELERATING PROGRESS

“Our culture is enduring.  
It permeates our organization 
and empowers all of us to 
improve each and every day.”

James A. Lico 
President and Chief Executive Officer

S e n s i n g
T e c h n o l ogies
1 3 %

Transp

orta

tio

ct Realizatio n  3

u
d
o
r
P

%

0

5

%

7

7 %

ntation 4

e
m
u
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t
s
n

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l

a

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o

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s

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e

f

o

r

P

TOTAL SALES

$6.7
BILLION*

I

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l

T
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c
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n
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lo

gies 53%

%
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A

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Fiel

DIstribution 18%
Franchise

n

T

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h

n

o

l

o

g

i

e

s

5

3
%

A
uto

C
o
m

mation and Specialty
ponents 29

%

* Sales increased 6.9%  
in the year ended 
December 31, 2017.  
Core revenues increased 
4.5% over the same period.

Financial Highlights for Fiscal Year Ended December 31, 2017

OPERATING  
PROFIT  
MARGIN 

20.4%

NET EARNINGS

$1,045
MILLION

DILUTED NET  
EARNINGS  
PER SHARE

$2.96

Operating profit margin increased 40 bps  
in the year ended December 31, 2017.   
Core operating margin expanded 110  
basis points over the same period.

Net earnings for the year ended  
December 31, 2017 increased 19.7%.   
Adjusted net earnings increased 16.7%  
over the same period.

Diluted net earnings per share for the year  
ended December 31, 2017 increased 17.9%.  
Adjusted diluted net earnings per share  
increased 14.7% over the same period.

CASH  
DIVIDEND RATE 
PER SHARE

$0.28

FREE  
CASH FLOW

$1,040
MILLION

SHARE PRICE

$72.35

AS OF 12/29/2017 
CLOSE

Fortive declared regular quarterly cash  
dividends of $0.07 per share or an annual  
payout of $0.28 per share.

Free cash flow increased 3.3% in the year ended 
December 31, 2017, reflecting a free cash flow 
conversion ratio of 107% for the same period.

During 2017, our stock price increased almost  
35% compared to a 19% increase by the  
S&P 500 index.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
FORTIVE

SALES BY REGION

Fortive is a diversified industrial growth company comprised of 
FORTIVE
Professional Instrumentation and Industrial Technologies businesses 
that are recognized leaders in attractive markets. Fortive’s well-known 
FORTIVE
brands hold leading positions in field solutions, transportation 
technologies, sensing, product realization, automation and specialty, 
FORTIVE
and franchise distribution markets. With a culture rooted in continuous 
improvement, the core of our company’s operating model is the 
Fortive Business System.

Prof. Instrumentation

PROFESSIONAL INSTRUMENTATION

Prof. Instrumentation
Prof. Instrumentation
Measurement and monitoring that yields actionable intelligence.  
* Part of Advanced Instrumentation and Solutions

Field Solutions

Field Solutions
Field Solutions

FIELD SOLUTIONS*

Our field solutions businesses deliver offline and connected hardware 
and software solutions that keep critical industrial, power and health 
infrastructure running smoothly, without interruption.

Product Realization

PRODUCT REALIZATION*

Product Realization
Product Realization
When it’s time to convert breakthrough concepts into advanced 
finished products, our product realization businesses supply engineers 
with the tools, modules, software and services to get it done.

Sensing Technologies

SENSING TECHNOLOGIES

Sensing Technologies
Our sensing technologies businesses make precise operational 
Sensing Technologies
measurements possible by combining material science with innovative 
hardware and software.

Industrial Technologies

INDUSTRIAL TECHNOLOGIES

Technical equipment, components, software and services for global 
manufacturing, repair and transportation markets.

Industrial Technologies
Industrial Technologies

Transportation Technologies

TRANSPORTATION TECHNOLOGIES

Transportation Technologies
Transportation Technologies

From fleet operations and remote fuel management to safe 
dispensing and secure payments, our industry-leading transportation 
technologies keep the world moving.

A&S Components

AUTOMATION & SPECIALTY COMPONENTS

A&S Components
A&S Components
Our automation and specialty businesses supply mission-critical 
components and equipment for industrial automation, robotics, 
medical devices and other precision control applications.

Franchise Distribution

FRANCHISE DISTRIBUTION

Franchise Distribution
Our franchise distribution businesses offer mobile distribution of 
Franchise Distribution
high-end tools and diagnostic equipment, as well as wheel service 
equipment for the automotive aftermarket.

58%

16%

23%

5%

5%

5%

10%

10%

10%

16%
10% 5%
16%
10% 5%

5%

23%

5% 5%

23%

5%

5% 5%

10% 5%

5%

5% 5%

15%

15%

15%

25%
SALES BY END MARKET

58%

58%

50%

50%

50%

25%

25%

5%

5%

5%

25%

25%

25%

15%

15%

15%

5%

5%

5%

45%

45%

35%

45%

35%

35%

25%

25%

25%

50%

50%

50%

20%

20%

20%

71%

16%

16%

10%

5%

16%

10%

10%

5%

5%

10%

10%

10%

15%

15%

15%

19%

19%
35%
19%
35%

35%

12%

12%

15%

12%

15%

15%

10% 5%

10% 5%

10% 5%

10%

10%

10%

15%

15%

15%

10%

71%

5% 5% 5%

5%

71%

10%

5% 5% 5%

5%

10%

5% 5% 5%

5%

3%

3%

3%

5%

5%

5%

4%

4%
5%
4%
5%

20%

20%

20%

10%

10%

10%

5%

8%

8%
10%
8%
10%

10%

15% 2%

15% 2%

15% 2%

29%

29%

5%

29%

5%

5%

32%

32%

15%

32%

15%

15%

15%

15%

15%

30%

30%

30%

12%

12%
45%
12%
45%

45%

45%

45%

45%

63%

63%

63%

57%

57%

57%

48%

48%

5%

48%

5%

5%

5%

5%

5%

25%

25%

25%

16%

16%

16%

17%

17%

17%

4%

4%

4%

15%

15%

15%

5% 5%

5% 5%

5% 5%

21%

21%

21%

7%

7%
10% 5%
7%
10% 5%

10% 5%

20%

20%

35%

20%

35%

35%

4%

4%

4%

1%

1%

1%

20%

20%

20%

15%

15%

15%

28%

28%

10%

28%

10%

10%

5%

5%

5%

5%

5%

5%

85%

85%

85%

20%

20%

20%

99%

99%
100%
99%
100%

100%

SALES BY REGION

SALES BY END MARKET

Sales by end market, presented above in increments of five percentage points, are estimates by management 
based on assumed participation by Fortive in the selected industries.

North America

Retail Fueling

Utilites & Power

Western Europe

High Growth Markets

Industrial  
& Manufacturing

Vehicle Repair

Rest of World

Automotive

A&D 

Medical

Communications  
& Electronics

Logistics  
& Supply Chain 

Other

O&G / Mining

Consumer

Semiconductor

Food & Beverage

Government

Facilities

2017 Fortive Annual Report

3

3%10%5%5%4%5%8%15%2%5%4%20%7%4%25%100%5%3%10%5%5%4%5%8%15%2%5%4%20%7%4%25%100%5%3%10%5%5%4%5%8%15%2%5%4%20%7%4%25%100%5%A message to  
our shareholders

Fellow Shareholders,

When we launched Fortive in July of 2016, we established 
our vision of an industrial growth company, with the 
Fortive Business System (FBS) as our foundation for 
success. Our sharpened strategic focus was centered 
around superior customer satisfaction, accelerated 
innovation and portfolio-strengthening capital 
deployment. Having completed our first full year as  
an independent company, we are proud to say that we 
have made tremendous progress toward those goals.  
As we wrap up a year defined by outperformance, we  
are confident that the best is yet to come for Fortive. 

OUR 2017 RESULTS
We are pleased with our teams’ accomplishments as 
they entered this year well prepared to take advantage 
of our unique exposure to secular growth opportunities.  
Accelerating our business strategy around these 
trends, combined with the power of FBS, allowed us to 
demonstrate organic and inorganic performance ahead 
of our peers.   

•  Market share gains and industry-leading 

innovations across our businesses drove core 
revenue growth of 4.5% and reported revenue 
growth of 6.9%.

•  Continued application of FBS helped expand  

core operating margin by 110 basis points.

•  Our laser focus on working capital productivity 

resulted in a 107% free cash flow conversion ratio. 

•  We delivered top-tier adjusted net earnings  

growth of over 15%. 

•  We executed our strategy and M&A playbook, 
deploying $1.6 billion of capital toward several 
acquisitions that enhance our portfolio. 

We are excited to have Landauer, Industrial Scientific 
and Orpak join Fortive this past year. While each of 
these teams expands our capabilities differently, what 
the businesses have in common reflects our focus on 
building a portfolio with higher recurring revenue and 
extensive software and service exposure, greater stability 
and faster growth.   

James A. Lico
President and Chief Executive Officer

ESSENTIAL TECHNOLOGY FOR THE PEOPLE  
WHO ACCELERATE PROGRESS

OUR EXTRAORDINARY TEAM BRINGS  

OUR SHARED PURPOSE TO LIFE

At Fortive, our culture is enduring. It establishes our 
openness to change and our will to improve all that we 
do. It is deliberate, time-tested and rooted in our shared 
purpose and values. We live our purpose and values in 
a deeper way—a way that is uniquely Fortive—to ensure 
that we are building the company we want for the future. 

While we are equally dedicated to each of our values, 
2017 was a particularly significant year for teams across 
Fortive. That is why this year’s annual report emphasizes:   
We build extraordinary teams for extraordinary results. 

Creating essential technology starts with our teams— 
extraordinary people who are constantly questioning, 
learning and experimenting. Our people want to 
innovate, solve challenging problems and make an 
impact on our customers’ success. We use FBS to fuel our 
continuous improvement mindset to make that happen. 

We drive harder to achieve the next breakthrough—like at 
Tektronix, where our team used FBS to develop a unique 

go-to-market plan that drove accelerated demand for 
the new 5 Series Mixed-Signal Oscilloscope. We rise to 
meet the next challenge—like at Gilbarco Veeder-Root, 
where our team’s effective execution in the high growth 
markets is driving continued outperformance. We search 
for the next opportunity to make an impact—like at Setra, 
where a focus on team building and career development 
has resulted in best-in-class employee engagement while 
achieving record core growth. 

OUR YEAR AHEAD
2018 will be an important year for us to further 
demonstrate our strength and define our future as 
Fortive. We will continue building a great company at an 
accelerated pace and driving outperformance across 
our key metrics. Through the lens of our shared purpose 
and values, we will focus on the following strategic and 
cultural priorities:

Culture of Continuous Improvement At Fortive, we don’t 
just drive outstanding performance in manufacturing. 
FBS is constantly evolving to drive improvements in 
every area of our business—from sales and marketing, to 
game-changing innovation, to employee engagement. 
FBS has also become a key driver of our digital strategy. 
In the past, this has meant executing digital go-to-
market strategies, or enhancing our portfolio with 
connected devices and software as a service. However, 
a transformation is occurring in many of our markets. 
To stay ahead, we must use data to anticipate trends, 
innovate more quickly by spending time with customers, 
and fill our innovation pipeline with solutions to their 
toughest challenges. Thoughtful application of FBS  
is the way we move fast, drive improvements, and 
accelerate outperformance.

Portfolio Enhancement One of the ways We Compete for 
Shareholders is by building our portfolio to deliver long-
term results. We value our shareholders and will continue 
to identify and invest in the areas of our portfolio that 
best accelerate growth and profitability—from both an 
organic and inorganic perspective. 

•  Innovation is the hallmark of our shared purpose, 

and an important part of our ability to drive growth 
in the short and long term. We will continue 
to deepen our understanding of what comes 
next for our customers, and invest in our teams’ 
ability to develop and deliver solutions that solve 
tomorrow’s challenges.

•  Our experienced team is armed with a strong 
balance sheet and a proven playbook that will 
help us deliver consistent deployment of capital to 

enhance our portfolio. We have a broad and active 
cultivation funnel that is focused on strong brands 
with attractive growth and margin profiles. Equally 
as important, we seek companies that are a good 
cultural match, particularly related to FBS.

•  We look for unique opportunities to create 

shareholder value. Recently, we announced 
plans to merge our Automation and Specialty 
businesses—Kollmorgen, Thomson, Portescap 
and Jacobs Vehicle Systems—with Altra Industrial 
Motion in a tax-efficient transaction to make Altra 
a pure-play, global leader in power transmission 
and motion control. This is not only a step in 
moving our portfolio toward higher growth and 
increased software as-a-service exposure, it also 
adds significantly to our M&A capacity and creates 
exceptional value for our shareholders. We expect 
to close by the end of 2018.

Employee Experience We are committed to accelerating 
employee engagement around the world. It’s about 
ongoing learning, challenging the status quo, solving 
problems together, and making a difference. Our 
employee value proposition—For you. For us. For growth.—
is our promise to help our teams be successful every 
day by ensuring safe, diverse and supportive work 
environments, resources for professional learning, and 
openings for personal growth and impact. It differentiates 
us and establishes Fortive as a place where great people 
want to do their best work. 

As we embark on another year of growing Fortive, we are 
conscious of your expectations for our success. However, 
the highest expectations we face are those we set for 
ourselves. To us, success is defined by more than just 
financial outperformance. It is delivering outstanding 
results for our customers, shareholders, and team in a 
purpose-driven and socially responsible way. 

We are creating essential technologies, inspiring our 
customers and accelerating progress all over the world. 
Our people are empowered by our culture and our FBS 
toolset to drive long-term growth. And I cannot imagine a 
better team with which to build a promising future. 

Thanks for putting your trust in us.

James A. Lico 
President and Chief Executive Officer

2017 Fortive Annual Report

5

 
 
 
OUR SHARED PURPOSE 

Essential technology for the  
people who accelerate progress

By deepening our understanding of each 
of our values, we bring to life technology 
solutions that have a profound impact  
on the world. 

The world’s demand for better, bolder, groundbreaking 
technology is advancing at an unprecedented rate. The 
Fortive team creates the technology that keeps the world 
moving forward. We dive deeper. We learn faster. We work 
smarter. We care more deeply for our customers. All in the 
pursuit of progress.

Fortive’s rich and rewarding culture  
revolves around our dedication  
to our shared purpose.

We believe in our teams and empower them to make a 
difference for our communities, our customers and each 
other. We are inspired by our customers’ missions and 
challenges, and create transformative solutions to help 
them achieve their goals. We draw strength from our 
continuous improvement mindset, and relish the impact it 
has on both our individual and company growth. We drive 
real results, building a better company every day using 
the Fortive Business System. 

Our shared purpose is  
grounded in our values. 

2017 Fortive Annual Report

7

OUR VALUES

We Build Extraordinary Teams  
for Extraordinary Results

At Fortive, we believe in our team’s ability to move the 
world forward. Our employees are always leaning into 
the next challenge, imagining the next breakthrough, 
and designing the next innovation. We know that a 
stronger team means a stronger Fortive, and we invest in 
our people to make growth happen. This is our promise 
to our employees: 

Building Great Places to Work 

Setra achieved best-in-class levels of trust and engagement on our 
annual employee engagement survey. These results stem from a 
renewed emphasis on recognizing team and individual victories, 
and empowering leaders at every level of the organization with 
development opportunities. Setra’s focus on people is promoting  
high achievement, with the team returning record core revenue 
growth in 2017. 

Supporting Our Communities

Serving as a springboard for ongoing community involvement and 
donations, Fortive held our first annual “Day of Caring” with employees 
contributing an estimated 150,000 volunteer hours through over 200 
team events in over 90 global locations. Our Portescap India team came 
together to organize evenings of fun for children at a local cancer center. 
The team continued its service by supporting innovation at local technology 
non-profits, providing career guidance to children, and protecting the 
environment through clean-ups, tree planting and education.

Inspiring Our Future 

The Tektronix team launched its breakthrough 5 Series Mixed 
Signal Oscilloscope to help engineers develop the world’s most 
sophisticated systems—from smart watches to electric vehicles. 
The team conducted deep market research and used powerful FBS 
tools, like Voice of Customer and Speed Design Review, to tailor its 
development and commercialization approaches every step of the 
way. With numerous distinguished awards to its name, this significant 
market innovation is also growing market share for Tektronix.

Customer Success  
Inspires Our Innovation

We partner with our customers to create tomorrow’s essential technologies, 
fueling their success and creating sustainable advantage. We accelerate 
progress together. 

Working in electrical boxes packed with wires presents a daily challenge 
and safety hazard for our customers. Fluke responded with another 
industry-first technology, the T6, to eliminate test leads and simplify 
grounding, so electricians can measure voltage easily and accurately, 
without compromising their safety.

Kaizen Is Our Way of Life

Kaizen, or continuous improvement, is a critical driver of our growth and 
the cornerstone of our culture. With the Fortive Business System as our 
foundation, we learn from our successes and failures, grow as individuals 
and teams, and always seek ways to improve. 

At Fortive, continuous improvement is an essential part of who we are, 
evidenced by over 1,000 kaizens held companywide in 2017. This mindset 
starts at the top and was reinforced during our annual CEO Kaizen, where 
over 20 teams invested a week of focused work, tackling their most 
challenging problems. Results ranged from gross margin improvement in 
production cells in Thomson’s Tianjin, China location, to the creation of 
multi-million dollar sales funnels at Teletrac Navman.  

We Compete for Shareholders

We value our shareholders’ commitment to our purpose. We dedicate 
ourselves to earning their loyalty every day when we look for the most 
effective ways to serve our customers, improve our performance and  
fuel innovation.

The acquisition of Industrial Scientific (ISC), a leader in portable gas 
detection solutions and a safety-as-a-service pioneer, marks a significant 
acceleration in our strategy. ISC contributes 65% recurring revenue and 
strengthens our menu of connected solutions for critical maintenance 
and safety applications. Joining Fortive equips ISC with the technological, 
operational and financial resources to pursue an even more aggressive 
path to achieving its vision: eliminating death on the job by 2050.

2017 Fortive Annual Report

9

2017 Form 10-K

UNITED STATES 
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION 
Washington, D.C. 20549 
________________________________________________ 

FORM 10-K 

(Mark One) 

(cid:58)(cid:3)ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934 

For the fiscal year ended December 31, 2017 

OR 

(cid:134)(cid:3)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 1-37654 
 ________________________________________________ 
FORTIVE CORPORATION 

(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter) 

Delaware 

(State or Other Jurisdiction of 
Incorporation or Organization) 

6920 Seaway Blvd 
Everett, WA 
(Address of Principal Executive Offices) 

47-5654583 
(I.R.S. Employer 
Identification Number) 

98203 
(Zip Code) 

Registrant’s telephone number, including area code: (425) 446 - 5000 

Securities Registered Pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act: 

Title of Each Class 
Common Stock $.01 par value 

Name of Each Exchange On Which Registered 
New York Stock Exchange 

Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act: 

NONE 

(Title of Class) 

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

Yes (cid:95) No (cid:134) 

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 (cid:134) No (cid:95) 

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 (cid:95) No (cid:134) 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Web site, if any, every 
Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T during the preceding 12 
months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files). Yes (cid:95) No (cid:134) 

 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
Indicate by check mark if disclosure of delinquent filers pursuant to Item 405 of Regulation S-K 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 (cid:134) 

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

Large accelerated filer           (cid:95) 

  Accelerated filer                         (cid:133) 

Non-accelerated filer             (cid:133) 

  (Do not check if a smaller reporting company) 

  Smaller reporting company        (cid:133) 

  Emerging growth company        (cid:133) 

If an emerging growth company, indicate by check mark if the registrant has elected not to use the extended transition period 
for complying with any new or revised financial accounting standards provided pursuant to Section 13(a) of the Exchange Act. 
(cid:134) 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act). Yes (cid:134) No (cid:58) 

As of February 21, 2018 there were 348,031,654 shares of Registrant’s common stock outstanding.  The aggregate market 
value of common stock held by non-affiliates of the Registrant as of June 30, 2017 was $19.4 billion, based upon the closing 
price of the Registrant’s common stock on the New York Stock Exchange. 

 ____________________________________ 

DOCUMENTS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE 

Part III incorporates certain information by reference from the Registrant’s proxy statement for its 2018 annual meeting of 
stockholders to be filed pursuant to Regulation 14A within 120 days after Registrant’s fiscal year-end.  With the exception of 
the sections of the 2018 Proxy Statement specifically incorporated herein by reference, the 2018 Proxy Statement is not deemed 
to be filed as part of this Form 10-K. 

   
 
   
   
 
   
   
 
   
TABLE OF CONTENTS 

Page 

Information Relating to Forward-looking Statements 

Part 1.   

Item 1.  Business 
Item 1A.  Risk Factors 
Item 1B.  Unresolved Staff Comments 
Properties 
Item 2. 
Item 3.  Legal Proceedings 
Item 4.  Mine Safety Disclosures 

Executive Officers of the Registrant 

Part 2.   

Item 5.  Market for Registrant's Common Equity, Related Stockholder Matters and Issuer Purchases of 

Equity Securities 
Selected Financial Data 

Item 6. 
Item 7.  Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations 
Item 7A.  Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk 
Item 8. 
Item 9.  Changes in and Disagreements with Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure 
Item 9A.  Controls and Procedures 
Item 9B.  Other Information 

Financial Statements and Supplementary Data 

Part 3.   

Item 10.  Directors, Executive Officers and Corporate Governance 
Item 11.  Executive Compensation 
Item 12.  Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related Stockholder 

Matters 

Item 13.  Certain Relationships and Related Transactions, and Director Independence 
Item 14.  Principal Accountant Fees and Services 

Part 4.   

Item 15.  Exhibits and Financial Schedules 
Item 16.  Form 10-K Summary 

1 

2 
9 
21 
21 
21 
21 
22 

23 

24 
24 
44 
45 
91 
91 
91 

91 
92 

92 

92 
92 

93 
93 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
INFORMATION RELATING TO FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS 

Certain statements included or incorporated by reference in this Annual Report, in other documents we file with or furnish to 
the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”), in our press releases, webcasts, conference calls, materials delivered to 
shareholders and other communications, are “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the United States federal 
securities laws.  All statements other than historical factual information are forward-looking statements, including without 
limitation statements regarding: projections of revenue, expenses, profit, profit margins, tax rates, tax provisions, cash flows, 
pension and benefit obligations and funding requirements, our liquidity position or other financial measures; management’s 
plans and strategies for future operations, including statements relating to anticipated operating performance, cost reductions, 
restructuring activities, new product and service developments, competitive strengths or market position, acquisitions, 
divestitures, strategic opportunities, securities offerings, stock repurchases, dividends and executive compensation; growth, 
declines and other trends in markets we sell into; new or modified laws, regulations and accounting pronouncements; 
outstanding claims, legal proceedings, tax audits and assessments and other contingent liabilities; foreign currency exchange 
rates and fluctuations in those rates; impact on changes to tax laws; general economic and capital markets conditions; the 
timing of any of the foregoing; assumptions underlying any of the foregoing; and any other statements that address events or 
developments that we intend or believe will or may occur in the future.  Terminology such as “believe,” “anticipate,” “should,” 
“could,” “intend,” “will,” “plan,” “expect,” “estimate,” “project,” “target,” “may,” “possible,” “potential,” “forecast” and 
“positioned” and similar references to future periods are intended to identify forward-looking statements, although not all 
forward-looking statements are accompanied by such words.  Forward-looking statements are based on assumptions and 
assessments made by our management in light of their experience and perceptions of historical trends, current conditions, 
expected future developments and other factors they believe to be appropriate.  These forward-looking statements are subject to 
a number of risks and uncertainties, including but not limited to the risks and uncertainties set forth under “Item 1A. Risk 
Factors” in this Annual Report. 

Forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and actual results may differ materially from the results, 
developments and business decisions contemplated by our forward-looking statements.  Accordingly, you should not place 
undue reliance on any such forward-looking statements.  Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date of the report, 
document, press release, webcast, call, materials or other communication in which they are made.  We do not assume any 
obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events and 
developments or otherwise. 

PART I 

ITEM 1. BUSINESS 

General 

Fortive Corporation is a diversified industrial growth company encompassing businesses that are recognized leaders in 
attractive markets.  Our well-known brands hold leading positions in advanced instrumentation and solutions, transportation 
technology, sensing, automation and specialty, and franchise distribution markets.  Our businesses design, develop, service, 
manufacture and market professional and engineered products, software and services for a variety of end markets, building 
upon leading brand names, innovative technology and significant market positions.  Our research and development, 
manufacturing, sales, distribution, service and administrative facilities are located in more than 50 countries across North 
America, Asia Pacific, Europe and Latin America. 

We are guided by our shared purpose to deliver essential technology for the people who accelerate progress, and we are united 
by our culture of continuous improvement and bias for action that embody the Fortive Business System (“FBS”).  Through 
rigorous application of our proprietary FBS set of growth, lean, and leadership tools and processes, we continuously improve 
business performance in the critical areas of innovation, product development and commercialization, global supply chain, 
sales and marketing and leadership development.  Our commitment to FBS and goal of creating long-term shareholder value 
have enabled us to drive customer satisfaction and profitability; significant improvements in innovation, growth and operating 
margins; and disciplined acquisitions to execute strategy and expand our portfolio into new and attractive markets. 

Our 2017 sales by geographic destination (geographic destination refers to the geographic area where the final sale to our 
customer is made) were: North America, 58% (including 55% in the United States); Europe, 19%; Asia Pacific, 19%, and all 
other regions, 4%.  For additional information regarding sales by geography, please refer to Note 17 to the Consolidated and 
Combined Financial Statements included in this Annual Report. 

Fortive Corporation is a Delaware corporation and was incorporated in 2015 in connection with the separation of Fortive from 
Danaher Corporation (“Danaher” or “Former Parent”) on July 2, 2016 as an independent, publicly-traded company, listed on 

2 

 
the New York Stock Exchange (the “Separation”).  The Separation was effectuated through a pro-rata dividend distribution on 
July 2, 2016 of all of the then-outstanding shares of common stock of Fortive Corporation to the holders of common stock of 
Danaher as of June 15, 2016.  In this Annual Report, the terms “Fortive” or the “Company” refer to either Fortive Corporation 
or to Fortive Corporation and its consolidated subsidiaries, as the context requires. 

Reportable Segments 

The table below describes the percentage of sales attributable to each of our two segments over each of the last three years 
ended December 31, 2017.  For additional information regarding sales, operating profit and identifiable assets by segment, 
please refer to Note 17 to the Consolidated and Combined Financial Statements included in this Annual Report. 

Professional Instrumentation 
Industrial Technologies 

Professional Instrumentation 

2017 

2016 

2015 

47 %  
53 %  

46 %  
54 %  

48 % 
52 % 

Our Professional Instrumentation segment offers essential products, software and services used to create actionable intelligence 
by measuring and monitoring a wide range of physical parameters in industrial applications, including electrical current, radio 
frequency signals, distance, pressure, temperature, radiation, and hazardous gases.  Customers for these products and services 
include industrial service, installation and maintenance professionals, designers and manufacturers of electronic devices and 
instruments, medical technicians, safety professionals and other customers for whom precision, reliability and safety are critical 
in their specific applications.  2017 sales for this segment by geographic destination were: North America, 50%; Europe, 18%; 
Asia Pacific, 26%, and all other regions, 6%.  

Our Professional Instrumentation segment consists of our Advanced Instrumentation & Solutions and Sensing Technologies 
businesses.  Our Advanced Instrumentation & Solutions business was primarily established through the acquisitions of 
Qualitrol in the 1980s, Fluke Corporation in 1998, Pacific Scientific Company in 1998, Tektronix in 2007, Invetech in 2007, 
Keithley Instruments in 2010, eMaint in 2016, Industrial Scientific in 2017, Landauer in 2017 and numerous bolt-on 
acquisitions. 

Advanced Instrumentation & Solutions 

Our Advanced Instrumentation & Solutions business consists of: 

Field Solutions  Our field solutions products include a variety of compact professional test tools, thermal imaging and 
calibration equipment for electrical, industrial, electronic and calibration applications, online condition-based monitoring 
equipment; portable gas detection equipment, consumables, and software as a service (SaaS) offerings including safety/user 
behavior,  asset management, and compliance monitoring; subscription-based technical, analytical, and compliance services to 
determine  occupational and environmental radiation exposure; and computerized maintenance management software for 
critical infrastructure  in utility, industrial, energy, construction, public safety, mining, and healthcare applications.  These 
products and associated software solutions measure voltage, current, resistance, power quality, frequency, pressure, 
temperature, radiation, hazardous gas and air quality, among other parameters. Typical users of these products and software 
include electrical engineers, electricians, electronic technicians, safety professionals, medical technicians, network technicians, 
first-responders, and industrial service, installation and maintenance professionals. The business also makes and sells 
instruments, controls and monitoring and maintenance systems used by maintenance departments in utilities and industrial 
facilities to monitor assets, including transformers, generators, motors and switchgear. Products are marketed under a variety of 
brands, including FLUKE, FLUKE BIOMEDICAL, FLUKE NETWORKS, INDUSTRIAL SCIENTIFIC, LANDAUER and 
QUALITROL. 

Product Realization  Our product realization services and products help developers and engineers across the end-to-end product 
creation cycle from concepts to finished products.  Our test, measurement and monitoring products are used in the design, 
manufacturing and development of electronics, industrial, video and other advanced technologies.  Typical users of these 
products and services include research and development engineers who design, de-bug, monitor and validate the function and 
performance of electronic components, subassemblies and end-products, and video equipment manufacturers, content 
developers and broadcasters.  The business also provides a full range of design, engineering and manufacturing services and 
highly-engineered, modular components to enable conceptualization, development and launch of products in the medical 
diagnostics, cell therapy and consumer markets.  Finally, the business designs, develops, manufactures and markets critical, 
highly-engineered energetic materials components in specialized vertical applications.  Products and services are marketed 

3 

 
 
 
 
under a variety of brands, including INVETECH, KEITHLEY, PACIFIC SCIENTIFIC ENERGETIC MATERIALS 
COMPANY, SONIX and TEKTRONIX. 

Competition in the Advanced Instrumentation & Solutions business is based on a number of factors, including the reliability, 
performance, ruggedness, ease of use, ergonomics and aesthetics of the product, the service provider’s relevant expertise with 
particular technologies and applications, as well as the other factors described under “-Competition.” Sales in the segment are 
generally made through independent distributors and direct sales personnel. 

Sensing Technologies 

Our Sensing Technologies business offers devices that sense, monitor and control operational or manufacturing variables, such 
as temperature, pressure, level, flow, turbidity and conductivity.  Users of these products span a wide variety of industrial and 
manufacturing markets, including medical equipment, food and beverage, marine, industrial, off-highway vehicles, building 
automation and semiconductors.  Our competitive advantage in these markets is based on our ability to apply advanced sensing 
technologies to a variety of customer needs, many of which are in demanding operating environments.  Our modular products 
and agile supply chain enable rapid customization of solutions for unique operational requirements and which meet the lead-
time needs of our customers.  Competition in the business is based on a number of factors, including technology, application 
design expertise, lead time, channels of distribution, brand awareness, as well as the other factors described under “-
Competition.” Products in this business are marketed under a variety of brands, including ANDERSON-NEGELE, GEMS and 
SETRA.  Sales in the segment are generally made through direct sales personnel and independent distributors. 

Manufacturing facilities of our Professional Instrumentation segment are located in North America, Europe and Asia. 

Industrial Technologies 

Our Industrial Technologies segment offers critical technical equipment, components, software and services for manufacturing, 
repair and transportation markets worldwide.  We offer fueling, environmental, field payment, vehicle tracking and fleet 
management solutions that are used in retail, commercial, and private fleet applications, as well as precision motion-control and 
other specialty products and solutions that enable manufacturing and other process industries around the world to operate more 
effectively and efficiently.  Customers for these products and services include retail and commercial fueling operators, fleet 
owners, industrial machine original equipment manufacturers (“OEMs”), commercial auto-repair businesses and other 
industrial customers.  2017 sales for this segment by geographic destination were: North America, 63%; Europe, 19%; Asia 
Pacific, 13%, and all other regions, 5%. 

Our Industrial Technologies segment consists of our Transportation Technologies, Automation & Specialty Components and 
Franchise Distribution businesses.  Our Transportation Technologies business originated with the acquisition of Veeder-Root in 
the 1980s and subsequently expanded through additional acquisitions, including the acquisitions of Gilbarco in 2002, Navman 
Wireless in 2012, Teletrac in 2013, ANGI Energy Systems in 2014, Global Traffic Technologies in 2016, Orpak Systems in 
2017 and numerous bolt-on acquisitions.  Our Automation & Specialty Components business was primarily established through 
the acquisitions of Kollmorgen Corporation in 2000 and Thomson Industries in 2002, as well as numerous other acquisitions.  
Our Franchise Distribution business was established through the acquisitions of Matco Tools and Hennessy Industries in 1986. 

Transportation Technologies 

Our Transportation Technologies business is a leading worldwide provider of solutions and services focused on fuel dispensing, 
remote fuel management, point-of-sale and payment systems, environmental compliance, vehicle tracking and fleet 
management, and traffic management.  This business consists of: 

Retail/Commercial Fueling  Our retail/commercial petroleum products include environmental monitoring and leak detection 
systems; vapor recovery equipment; fuel dispenser systems for petroleum and compressed natural gas; point-of-sale and secure 
and automated electronic payment technologies for retail petroleum stations; submersible turbine pumps; and remote 
monitoring and outsourced fuel management software as a service (“SaaS”) offerings, including compliance services, fuel 
system maintenance, fleet management software solutions, and inventory planning and supply chain support.  Typical users of 
these products include independent and company-owned retail petroleum stations, high-volume retailers, convenience stores, 
and commercial vehicle fleets.  Our retail/commercial petroleum products are marketed under a variety of brands, including 
ANGI, GASBOY, GILBARCO, GILBARCO AUTOTANK, ORPAK and VEEDER-ROOT. 

Telematics  Our telematics products include vehicle tracking and fleet management hardware and software solutions offered as 
SaaS that fleet managers use to position and dispatch vehicles, manage fuel consumption and promote vehicle safety, 
compliance, operating efficiency and productivity.  Typical users of these solutions span a variety of industries and include 

4 

 
businesses and other organizations that manage vehicle fleets. Our telematics products are marketed under a variety of brands, 
including TELETRAC NAVMAN. 

Customers in this line of business choose suppliers based on a number of factors, including product features, performance and 
functionality, the supplier’s geographic coverage and the other factors described under “-Competition.” Sales are generally 
made through independent distributors and our direct sales personnel. 

Automation & Specialty Components 

Our Automation & Specialty Components business provides a wide range of electromechanical and electronic motion control 
products (including standard and custom motors, drives and controls) and mechanical components (such as ball screws, linear 
bearings, clutches/brakes and linear actuators), as well as supplemental braking systems for commercial vehicles.  The 
automation products are sold in various precision motion markets, such as the markets for packaging equipment, medical 
equipment, metal forming equipment, robotics and food and beverage processing applications.  Customers are typically 
systems integrators who use our products in production and packaging lines and OEMs that integrate our products into their 
machines and systems.  Customers in this industry choose suppliers based on a number of factors, including product 
performance, the breadth of the supplier’s product offering, the ability to rapidly develop custom solutions for complex 
customer requirements, the geographic coverage offered by the supplier and the other factors described under “-Competition.” 
The business is also a leading worldwide supplier of supplemental braking systems for commercial vehicles, selling JAKE 
BRAKE brand engine retarders for class 6 through 8 vehicles and bleeder and exhaust brakes for class 3 through 7 vehicles.  
Customers are primarily major OEMs of class 3 through class 8 vehicles, and typically choose suppliers based on their 
technical expertise and total cost of ownership.  Products in this business are marketed under a variety of brands, including 
DYNAPAR, HENGSTLER, JAKE BRAKE, KOLLMORGEN, PORTESCAP and THOMSON.  Sales are generally made 
through direct sales personnel and independent distributors. 

Franchise Distribution 

Our Franchise Distribution business consists of: 

Professional Tools  We manufacture and distribute professional tools, toolboxes and automotive diagnostic equipment and 
software through our network of franchised mobile distributors, who sell primarily to professional mechanics under the 
MATCO brand.  Professional mechanics typically select tools based on relevant innovative features and the other factors 
described under “-Competition.” 

Wheel Service Equipment  We produce a full-line of wheel service equipment including brake lathes, tire changers, wheel 
balancers, and wheel weights under various brands including the COATS brands.  Typical users of these products are 
automotive tire and repair shops.  Sales are generally made through direct sales personnel and independent distributors.  
Competition in the wheel service equipment business is based on the factors described under “-Competition.” 

Manufacturing facilities of our Industrial Technologies businesses are located in North America, South America, Europe and 
Asia. 

The following discussion includes information common to both of our segments. 

************************************ 

Materials 

Our manufacturing operations employ a wide variety of raw materials, including electronic components, steel, plastics and 
other petroleum-based products, cast iron, aluminum and copper.  Prices of oil and gas affect our costs for freight and utilities.  
We purchase raw materials from a large number of independent sources around the world.  No single supplier is material, 
although for some components that require particular specifications or qualifications there may be a single supplier or a limited 
number of suppliers that can readily provide such components.  We utilize a number of techniques to address potential 
disruption in and other risks relating to our supply chain, including in certain cases the use of safety stock, alternative materials 
and qualification of multiple supply sources.  During 2017 we had no raw material shortages that had a material effect on our 
business.  For a further discussion of risks related to the materials and components required for our operations, please refer to 
“Item 1A. Risk Factors.” 

Intellectual Property 

We own numerous patents, trademarks, copyrights and trade secrets and licenses to intellectual property owned by others.  
Although in aggregate our intellectual property is important to our operations, we do not consider any single patent, trademark, 

5 

 
copyright, trade secret or license to be of material importance to any segment or to the business as a whole.  From time to time 
we engage in litigation to protect our intellectual property rights.  For a discussion of risks related to our intellectual property, 
please refer to “Item 1A. Risk Factors.”  All capitalized brands and product names throughout this document are trademarks 
owned by, or licensed to, Fortive. 

Competition 

We believe that we are a leader in many of our served markets.  Although our businesses generally operate in highly 
competitive markets, our competitive position cannot be determined accurately in the aggregate or by segment, since none of 
our competitors offer all of the same product and service lines or serve all of the same markets as we do.  Because of the range 
of the products and services we sell and the variety of markets we serve, we encounter a wide variety of competitors, including 
well-established regional competitors, competitors who are more specialized than we are in particular markets, as well as larger 
companies or divisions of larger companies with substantial sales, marketing, research, and financial capabilities.  We face 
increased competition in a number of our served markets as a result of the entry of competitors based in low-cost 
manufacturing locations, and increasing consolidation in particular markets.  The number of competitors varies by product and 
service line.  Our management believes that we have a market leadership position in most of the markets we serve.  Key 
competitive factors vary among our businesses and product and service lines, but include the specific factors noted above with 
respect to each particular business and typically also include price, quality, performance, delivery speed, applications expertise, 
distribution channel access, service and support, technology and innovation, breadth of product, service and software offerings 
and brand name recognition.  For a discussion of risks related to competition, please refer to “Item 1A. Risk Factors.” 

Seasonal Nature of Business 

General economic conditions impact our business and financial results, and certain of our businesses experience seasonal and 
other trends related to the industries and end markets that they serve.  For example, capital equipment sales are often stronger in 
the fourth calendar quarter and sales to OEMs are often stronger immediately preceding and following the launch of new 
products.  However, as a whole, we are not subject to material seasonality. 

Working Capital 

We maintain an adequate level of working capital to support our business needs.  There are no unusual industry practices or 
requirements relating to working capital items in either of our reportable segments.  In addition, our sales and payment terms 
are generally similar to those of our competitors. 

Backlog 

The following sets forth the unfulfilled orders attributable to each of our segments as of December 31 ($ in millions): 

Professional Instrumentation 
Industrial Technologies 
Total 

2017 

2016 

662     $ 
671    
1,333     $ 

566  
632  
1,198  

$ 

$ 

We expect that a majority of the unfilled orders as of December 31, 2017 will be delivered to customers within three to four 
months of such date.  Given the relatively short delivery periods and rapid inventory turnover that are characteristic of most of 
our products and the shortening of product life cycles, we believe that backlog is indicative of short-term revenue performance 
but not necessarily a reliable indicator of medium or long-term revenue performance. 

Employee Relations 

As of December 31, 2017, we employed approximately 26,000 persons, of whom approximately 13,000 were employed in the 
United States and approximately 13,000 were employed outside of the United States.  Of our United States employees, 
approximately 1,500 were hourly-rated, unionized employees.  Outside the United States, we have government-mandated 
collective bargaining arrangements and union contracts in certain countries, particularly in Europe where certain of our 
employees are represented by unions and/or works councils.  The Company believes that its relationship with employees is 
good.   

6 

 
 
 
Research and Development (“R&D”) 

We believe that our competitive position is maintained and enhanced through the development and introduction of new 
products and services that incorporate improved features and functionality, better performance, smaller size and weight, lower 
cost, or some combination of these factors.  We invest substantially in the development of new products.  We conduct R&D 
activities for the purpose of designing and developing new products and applications that address customer needs and emerging 
trends, as well as enhancing the functionality, effectiveness, ease of use and reliability of our existing products.  Our R&D 
efforts include internal initiatives and those that use licensed or acquired technology.  We expect to continue investing in R&D 
at a rate consistent with our historical trends, with the goal of maintaining or improving our competitive position, and entering 
new markets.  The following sets forth our R&D expenditures over each of the last three years ended December 31, by segment 
and in the aggregate ($ in millions): 

Professional Instrumentation 
Industrial Technologies 
Total 

2017 

2016 

2015 

$ 

$ 

238     $ 
168    
406     $ 

229     $ 
156    
385     $ 

232  
146  
378  

We generally conduct R&D activities on a business-by-business basis, primarily in North America, Asia and Europe.  We 
anticipate that we will continue to make significant expenditures for R&D as we seek to provide a continuing flow of 
innovative products to maintain and improve our competitive position.  For a discussion of the risks related to the need to 
develop and commercialize new products and product enhancements, please refer to “Item 1A. Risk Factors.”  Customer-
sponsored R&D was not material in 2017, 2016 or 2015. 

Government Contracts 

Although the substantial majority of our revenue in 2017 was from customers other than governmental entities, each of our 
segments has agreements relating to the sale of products to government entities.  As a result, we are subject to various statutes 
and regulations that apply to companies doing business with governments and government-owned entities.  For a discussion of 
risks related to government contracting requirements, please refer to “Item 1A. Risk Factors.” 

Regulatory Matters 

We face extensive government regulation both within and outside the United States relating to the development, manufacture, 
marketing, sale and distribution of our products, software and services.  The following sections describe certain significant 
regulations that we are subject to.  These are not the only regulations that our businesses must comply with.  For a description 
of the risks related to the regulations that our businesses are subject to, please refer to “Item 1A. Risk Factors.” 

Environmental Laws and Regulations 

Our operations and properties are subject to laws and regulations relating to environmental protection, including those 
governing air emissions, water discharges and waste management, and workplace health and safety.  For a discussion of the 
environmental laws and regulations that our operations, products and services are subject to and other environmental 
contingencies, please refer to Note 14 to the Consolidated and Combined Financial Statements included in this Annual Report.    
For a discussion of risks related to compliance with environmental and health and safety laws and risks related to past or future 
releases of, or exposures to, hazardous substances, please refer to “Item 1A. Risk Factors.” 

Export/Import Compliance 

We are required to comply with various U.S. export/import control and economic sanctions laws, such as: 

•  

•  

the International Traffic in Arms Regulations administered by the U.S. Department of State, Directorate of Defense 
Trade Controls, which, among other things, impose license requirements on the export from the United States of 
defense articles and defense services listed on the United States Munitions List; 

the Export Administration Regulations administered by the U.S. Department of Commerce, Bureau of Industry and 
Security, which, among other things, impose licensing requirements on the export, in-country transfer and re-export of 
certain dual-use goods, technology and software (which are items that have both commercial and military or 
proliferation applications); 

7 

 
 
 
 
•  

the regulations administered by the U.S. Department of Treasury, Office of Foreign Assets Control, which implement 
economic sanctions imposed against designated countries, governments and persons based on United States foreign 
policy and national security considerations; and 

•  

the import regulations administered by U.S. Customs and Border Protection. 

Other nations’ governments have implemented similar export/import control and economic sanction regulations, which may 
affect our operations or transactions subject to their jurisdictions.  For a discussion of risks related to export/import control and 
economic sanctions laws, please refer to “Item 1A. Risk Factors.” 

International Operations 

Our products and services are available in markets worldwide, and our principal markets outside the United States are in 
Europe and Asia.  We also have operations around the world, and this geographic diversity allows us to draw on the skills of a 
worldwide workforce, provides greater stability to our operations, allows us to drive economies of scale, provides revenue 
streams that may help offset economic trends that are specific to individual economies and offers us an opportunity to access 
new markets for products.  In addition, we believe that our future growth depends in part on our ability to continue developing 
products and sales models that successfully target high-growth markets. 

The table below describes annual revenue derived from customers outside the United States as a percentage of total sales for 
the year ended December 31, by segment and in the aggregate, based on geographic destination: 

Professional Instrumentation 
Industrial Technologies 
Total 

2017 

2016 

2015 

52 %  
39 %  
45 %  

52 %  
37 %  
44 %  

51 % 
39 % 
45 % 

The table below describes long-lived assets located outside the United States as of December 31, as a percentage of total long-
lived assets, by segment and in the aggregate (including assets held for sale): 

Professional Instrumentation 
Industrial Technologies 
Total 

2017 

2016 

2015 

16 %  
32 %  
22 %  

21 %  
22 %  
21 %  

21 % 
25 % 
23 % 

For additional information related to revenues and long-lived assets by country, please refer to Note 17 to the Consolidated and 
Combined Financial Statements and for information regarding deferred taxes by geography, please refer to Note 11 to the 
Consolidated and Combined Financial Statements. 

The manner in which our products and services are sold outside the United States differs by business and by region.  Most of 
our sales in non-U.S. markets are made by our subsidiaries located outside the United States, though we also sell directly from 
the United States into non-U.S. markets through various representatives and distributors and, in some cases, directly.  In 
countries with low sales volumes, we generally sell through representatives and distributors. 

Financial information about our international operations is contained in Note 17 to the Consolidated and Combined Financial 
Statements and information about the effects of foreign currency fluctuations on our business is set forth in “Item 7. 
Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations.”  For a discussion of risks related to 
our non-U.S. operations and foreign currency exchange, please refer to “Item 1A. Risk Factors.” 

Major Customers 

No customer accounted for more than 10% of consolidated sales in 2017, 2016 or 2015. 

Available Information 

We maintain an internet website at www.fortive.com.  We make available free of charge on the website our annual reports on 
Form 10-K, quarterly reports on Form 10-Q and current reports on Form 8-K and amendments to those reports, filed or 
furnished pursuant to Section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Exchange Act, as soon as reasonably practicable after filing such material 
with, or furnishing such material to, the SEC.  Our internet site and the information contained on or connected to that site are 
not incorporated by reference into this Form 10-K. 

8 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
ITEM 1A. RISK FACTORS 

You should carefully consider the risks and uncertainties described below, together with the information included elsewhere in 
this Annual Report on Form 10-K and other documents we file with the SEC.  The risks and uncertainties described below are 
those that we have identified as material, but are not the only risks and uncertainties facing us.  Our business is also subject to 
general risks and uncertainties that affect many other companies, such as market conditions, economic conditions, geopolitical 
events, changes in laws, regulations or accounting rules, fluctuations in interest rates, terrorism, wars or conflicts, major 
health concerns, natural disasters or other disruptions of expected business conditions.  Additional risks and uncertainties not 
currently known to us or that we currently believe are immaterial also may impair our business, including our results of 
operations, liquidity and financial condition. 

Risks Related to Our Business 

Conditions in the global economy, the markets we serve and the financial markets may adversely affect our business and 
financial statements. 

Our business is sensitive to general economic conditions.  Slower global economic growth, actual or anticipated default on 
sovereign debt, changes in global trade policies, volatility in the currency and credit markets, high levels of unemployment and 
underemployment, reduced levels of capital expenditures, changes in government fiscal and monetary policies, government 
deficit reduction and budget negotiation dynamics, sequestration, other austerity measures, political and social instability, 
natural disasters, terrorist attacks, and other challenges that affect the global economy adversely affect us and our distributors, 
customers and suppliers, including having the effect of: 

•  

•  

•  

•  

•  

•  

reducing demand for our products, software and services, limiting the financing available to our customers and suppliers, 
increasing order cancellations and resulting in longer sales cycles and slower adoption of new technologies; 

increasing the difficulty in collecting accounts receivable and the risk of excess and obsolete inventories; 

increasing price competition in our served markets; 

supply interruptions, which could disrupt our ability to produce our products; 

increasing the risk of impairment of goodwill and other long-lived assets, and the risk that we may not be able to fully 
recover the value of other assets such as real estate and tax assets; and 

increasing the risk that counterparties to our contractual arrangements will become insolvent or otherwise unable to fulfill 
their contractual obligations which, in addition to increasing the risks identified above, could result in preference actions 
against us. 

In addition, adverse general economic conditions may lead to instability in U.S. and global capital and credit markets, including 
market disruptions, limited liquidity and interest rate volatility.  If we are unable to access capital and credit markets on terms 
that are acceptable to us or our lenders are unable to provide financing in accordance with their contractual obligations, we may 
not be able to make certain investments or acquisitions or fully execute our business plans and strategies.  Furthermore, our 
suppliers and customers are also dependent upon the capital and credit markets.  Limitations on the ability of customers, 
suppliers or financial counterparties to access credit at interest rates and on terms that are acceptable to them could lead to 
insolvencies of key suppliers and customers, limit or prevent customers from obtaining credit to finance purchases of our 
products and services and cause delays in the delivery of key products from suppliers. 

If growth in the global economy or in any of the markets we serve slows for a significant period, if there is significant 
deterioration in the global economy or such markets, if there is instability in global capital and credit markets, or if 
improvements in the global economy do not benefit the markets we serve, our business and financial statements could be 
adversely affected. 

Our growth could suffer if the markets into which we sell our products and services decline, do not grow as anticipated or 
experience cyclicality. 

Our growth depends in part on the growth of the markets which we serve, and visibility into our markets is limited (particularly 
for markets into which we sell through distribution).  Our quarterly sales and profits depend substantially on the volume and 
timing of orders received during the fiscal quarter, which are difficult to forecast.  Any decline or lower than expected growth 
in our served markets could diminish demand for our products and services, which could adversely affect our financial 
statements.  Certain of our businesses operate in industries that may experience periodic, cyclical downturns.  In addition, in 
certain of our businesses demand depends on customers’ capital spending budgets, and product and economic cycles can affect 

9 

 
the spending decisions of these entities.  Demand for our products and services is also sensitive to changes in customer order 
patterns, which may be affected by announced price changes, changes in incentive programs, new product introductions and 
customer inventory levels.  Any of these factors could adversely affect our growth and results of operations in any given period. 

We face intense competition and if we are unable to compete effectively, we may experience decreased demand and 
decreased market share.  Even if we compete effectively, we may be required to reduce prices for our products and services. 

Many of our businesses operate in industries that are intensely competitive and have been subject to consolidation.  Because of 
the range of the products and services we sell and the variety of markets we serve, we encounter a wide variety of competitors; 
please see the section entitled “Business-Competition” for additional details.  In order to compete effectively, we must retain 
longstanding relationships with major customers and continue to grow our business by establishing relationships with new 
customers, continually developing new or enhanced products and services to maintain and expand our brand recognition and 
leadership position in various product and service categories and penetrating new markets, including high-growth markets.  Our 
failure to compete effectively and/or pricing pressures resulting from competition may adversely impact our financial 
statements, and our expansion into new markets may result in greater-than-expected risks, liabilities and expenses. 

Changes in industry standards and governmental regulations may reduce demand for our products or services or increase 
our expenses. 

We compete in markets in which we and our customers must comply with supranational, federal, state, local and other 
jurisdictional regulations, such as regulations governing health and safety, the environment and electronic communications, and 
market standardizations, such as the Europay, MasterCard and Visa (“EMV”) global standard.  We develop, configure and 
market our products and services to meet customer needs created by these regulations and standards.  These regulations and 
standards are complex, change frequently, have tended to become more stringent over time and may be inconsistent across 
jurisdictions.  Any significant change or delay in implementation in any of these regulations or standards (or in the 
interpretation, application or enforcement thereof) could reduce or delay demand for our products and services, increase our 
costs of producing or delay the introduction of new or modified products and services, or could restrict our existing activities, 
products and services.  In addition, in certain of our markets our growth depends in part upon the introduction of new 
regulations or implementation of industry standards on the timeline we expect.  In these markets, the delay or failure of 
governmental and other entities to adopt or enforce new regulations or industry standards, or the adoption of new regulations or 
industry standards which our products and services are not positioned to address, could adversely affect demand.  In addition, 
regulatory deadlines or industry standard implementation timelines may result in substantially different levels of demand for 
our products and services from period to period. 

Any inability to consummate acquisitions at our anticipated rate and at appropriate prices could negatively impact our 
growth rate and stock price. 

Our ability to grow revenues, earnings and cash flow at or above our anticipated rates depends in part upon our ability to 
identify and successfully acquire and integrate businesses at appropriate prices and realize anticipated synergies.  We may not 
be able to consummate acquisitions at rates anticipated, which could adversely impact our growth rate and our stock price.  
Promising acquisitions are difficult to identify and complete for a number of reasons, including high valuations, competition 
among prospective buyers, the availability of affordable funding in the capital markets and the need to satisfy applicable 
closing conditions and obtain antitrust and other regulatory approvals on acceptable terms.  In addition, competition for 
acquisitions may result in higher purchase prices.  Changes in accounting or regulatory requirements or instability in the credit 
markets could also adversely impact our ability to consummate acquisitions. 

Our growth depends in part on the timely development and commercialization, and customer acceptance, of new and 
enhanced products and services based on technological innovation. 

We generally sell our products and services in industries that are characterized by rapid technological changes, frequent new 
product introductions and changing industry standards.  If we do not develop innovative new and enhanced products and 
services on a timely basis, our offerings will become obsolete over time and our competitive position and financial statements 
will suffer.  Our success will depend on several factors, including our ability to: 

•  

•  

•  

correctly identify customer needs and preferences and predict future needs and preferences; 

allocate our research and development funding to products and services with higher growth prospects; 

anticipate and respond to our competitors’ development of new products and services and technological innovations; 

•   differentiate our offerings from our competitors’ offerings and avoid commoditization; 

10 

 
•  

innovate and develop new technologies and applications, and acquire or obtain rights to third-party technologies that may 
have valuable applications in our served markets; 

•   obtain adequate intellectual property rights with respect to key technologies before our competitors do; 

•  

successfully commercialize new technologies in a timely manner, price them competitively and cost-effectively 
manufacture and deliver sufficient volumes of new products of appropriate quality on time; and 

•  

stimulate customer demand for and convince customers to adopt new technologies. 

In addition, if we fail to accurately predict future customer needs and preferences or fail to produce viable technologies, we 
may invest heavily in research and development of products and services that do not lead to significant revenue, which would 
adversely affect our profitability.  Even if we successfully innovate and develop new and enhanced products and services, we 
may incur substantial costs in doing so, and our profitability may suffer. 

Our reputation, ability to do business and financial statements may be impaired by improper conduct by any of our 
employees, agents or business partners. 

We cannot provide assurance that our internal controls and compliance systems will always protect us from acts committed by 
employees, agents or business partners of ours (or of businesses we acquire or partner with) that would violate U.S. and/or non-
U.S. laws, including the laws governing payments to government officials, bribery, fraud, kickbacks and false claims, sales and 
marketing practices, conflicts of interest, competition, export and import compliance, money laundering and data privacy.  In 
particular, the U.S. Foreign Corrupt Practices Act, the U.K. Bribery Act and similar anti-bribery laws in other jurisdictions 
generally prohibit companies and their intermediaries from making improper payments to government officials for the purpose 
of obtaining or retaining business, and we operate in many parts of the world that have experienced governmental corruption to 
some degree.  Any such improper actions or allegations of such acts could damage our reputation and subject us to civil or 
criminal investigations in the United States and in other jurisdictions and related shareholder lawsuits, could lead to substantial 
civil and criminal, monetary and non-monetary penalties and could cause us to incur significant legal and investigatory fees.  In 
addition, though we rely on our suppliers to adhere to our supplier standards of conduct, material violations of such standards 
of conduct could occur that could have a material effect on our financial statements. 

Our acquisition of businesses, joint ventures and strategic relationships could negatively impact our financial statements. 

As part of our business strategy we acquire businesses and enter other strategic relationships in the ordinary course, some of 
which may be material; please see “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” 
(“MD&A”) for additional details.  These acquisitions and strategic relationships involve a number of financial, accounting, 
managerial, operational, legal, compliance and other risks and challenges, including the following, any of which could 
adversely affect our financial statements: 

•  

any acquired business, technology, service or product could under-perform relative to our expectations and the price that 
we paid for it, or not perform in accordance with our anticipated timetable; 

•   we may incur or assume significant debt in connection with our acquisitions or strategic relationships; 

•  

acquisitions or strategic relationships could cause our financial results to differ from our own or the investment 
community’s expectations in any given period, or over the long-term; 

•   pre-closing and post-closing earnings charges could adversely impact operating results in any given period, and the impact 

may be substantially different from period to period; 

•  

acquisitions or strategic relationships could create demands on our management, operational resources and financial and 
internal control systems that we are unable to effectively address; 

•   we could experience difficulty in integrating personnel, operations and financial and other controls and systems and 

retaining key employees and customers; 

•   we may be unable to achieve cost savings or other synergies anticipated in connection with an acquisition or strategic 

relationship; 

•   we may assume by acquisition or strategic relationship unknown liabilities, known contingent liabilities that become 
realized, known liabilities that prove greater than anticipated, internal control deficiencies or exposure to regulatory 
sanctions resulting from the acquired company’s activities.  The realization of any of these liabilities or deficiencies may 

11 

 
increase our expenses, adversely affect our financial position or cause us to fail to meet our public financial reporting 
obligations; 

•  

•  

in connection with acquisitions, we may enter into post-closing financial arrangements such as purchase price adjustments, 
earn-out obligations and indemnification obligations, which may have unpredictable financial results; 

in connection with acquisitions, we have recorded significant goodwill and other intangible assets on our balance sheet.  If 
we are not able to realize the value of these assets, we may be required to incur charges relating to the impairment of these 
assets; and 

•   we may have interests that diverge from those of strategic partners and we may not be able to direct the management and 
operations of the strategic relationship in the manner we believe is most appropriate, exposing us to additional risk. 

The indemnification provisions of acquisition agreements by which we have acquired companies may not fully protect us 
and as a result we may face unexpected liabilities. 

Certain of the acquisition agreements by which we have acquired companies require the former owners to indemnify us against 
certain liabilities related to the operation of the company before we acquired it.  In most of these agreements, however, the 
liability of the former owners is limited and certain former owners may be unable to meet their indemnification responsibilities.  
We cannot assure you that these indemnification provisions will protect us fully or at all, and as a result we may face 
unexpected liabilities that adversely affect our financial statements. 

Divestitures or other dispositions could negatively impact our business, and contingent liabilities from businesses that we 
have sold could adversely affect our financial statements. 

We continually assess the strategic fit of our existing businesses and may divest or otherwise dispose of businesses that are 
deemed not to fit with our strategic plan or are not achieving the desired return on investment.  These transactions pose risks 
and challenges that could negatively impact our business.  For example, when we decide to sell or otherwise dispose of a 
business or assets, we may be unable to do so on satisfactory terms within our anticipated timeframe or at all, and even after 
reaching a definitive agreement to sell or dispose a business the sale is typically subject to satisfaction of pre-closing conditions 
which may not become satisfied.  In addition, divestitures or other dispositions may dilute our earnings per share, have other 
adverse financial and accounting impacts and distract management, and disputes may arise with buyers.  In addition, we have 
retained responsibility for and/or have agreed to indemnify buyers against some known and unknown contingent liabilities 
related to a number of businesses we have sold or disposed.  The resolution of these contingencies has not had a material effect 
on our financial statements but we cannot be certain that this favorable pattern will continue. 

Our operations, products and services expose us to the risk of environmental, health and safety liabilities, costs and 
violations that could adversely affect our reputation and financial statements. 

Our operations, products and services are subject to environmental laws and regulations, which impose limitations on the 
discharge of pollutants into the environment and establish standards for the use, generation, treatment, storage and disposal of 
hazardous and non-hazardous wastes.  We must also comply with various health and safety regulations in the United States and 
abroad in connection with our operations.  In addition, some of our operations require the controlled use of hazardous or 
energetic materials in the development, manufacturing or servicing of our products.  We cannot assure you that our 
environmental, health and safety compliance program has been or will at all times be effective.  Failure to comply with any of 
these laws could result in civil and criminal, monetary and non-monetary penalties and damage to our reputation.  In addition, 
we cannot provide assurance that our costs of complying with current or future environmental protection and health and safety 
laws will not exceed our estimates or adversely affect our financial statements.  Moreover, any accident that results in 
significant personal injury or property damage, whether occurring during development, manufacturing, servicing, use, or 
storage of our products, may result in significant production interruption, delays or claims for substantial damages caused by 
personal injuries or property damage, harm to our reputation, and reduction in morale among our employees, any of which may 
adversely and materially affect our results of operations. 

In addition, we may incur costs related to remedial efforts or alleged environmental damage associated with past or current 
waste disposal practices or other hazardous materials handling practices.  We are also from time to time party to personal injury 
or other claims brought by private parties alleging injury due to the presence of or exposure to hazardous substances.  We may 
also become subject to additional remedial, compliance or personal injury costs due to future events such as changes in existing 
laws or regulations, changes in agency direction or enforcement policies, developments in remediation technologies, changes in 
the conduct of our operations and changes in accounting rules.  For additional information regarding these risks, please refer to 
Note 14 to the Consolidated and Combined Financial Statements.  We cannot assure you that our liabilities arising from past or 
future releases of, or exposures to, hazardous substances will not exceed our estimates or adversely affect our reputation and 

12 

 
financial statements or that we will not be subject to additional claims for personal injury or remediation in the future based on 
our past, present or future business activities.   

Our businesses are subject to extensive regulation; failure to comply with those regulations could adversely affect our 
financial statements and reputation. 

In addition to the environmental, health, safety, anticorruption and other regulations noted above, our businesses are subject to 
extensive regulation by U.S. and non-U.S. governmental and self-regulatory entities at the supranational, federal, state, local 
and other jurisdictional levels, including the following: 

•   we are required to comply with various import laws and export control and economic sanctions laws, which may affect our 

transactions with certain customers, business partners and other persons and dealings between our employees and 
subsidiaries.  In certain circumstances, export control and economic sanctions regulations may prohibit the export of 
certain products, services and technologies.  In other circumstances, we may be required to obtain an export license before 
exporting the controlled item.  Compliance with the various import laws that apply to our businesses can restrict our access 
to, and increase the cost of obtaining, certain products and at times can interrupt our supply of imported inventory;  

•   we also have agreements to sell products and services to government entities and are subject to various statutes and 

regulations that apply to companies doing business with government entities.  The laws governing government contracts 
differ from the laws governing private contracts.  For example, many government contracts contain pricing and other terms 
and conditions that are not applicable to private contracts.  Our agreements with government entities may be subject to 
termination, reduction or modification at the convenience of the government or in the event of changes in government 
requirements, reductions in federal spending and other factors, and we may underestimate our costs of performing under 
the contract.  Government contracts that have been awarded to us following a bid process could become the subject of a 
bid protest by a losing bidder, which could result in loss of the contract.  We are also subject to investigation and audit for 
compliance with the requirements governing government contracts; and 

•   we are also required to comply with increasingly complex and changing data privacy regulations in multiple jurisdictions 

that regulate the collection, use, protection and transfer of personal data, including the transfer of personal data between or 
among countries.  Many of these foreign data privacy regulations (including the General Data Protection Regulation 
effective in the European Union in May 2018) are more stringent than those in the U.S.  We may also face audits or 
investigations by one or more domestic or foreign government agencies relating to our compliance with these regulations.  
An adverse outcome under any such investigation or audit could subject us to fines or other penalties.  That or other 
circumstances related to our collection, use and transfer of personal data could cause a loss of reputation in the market 
and/or adversely affect our business and financial position. 

These are not the only regulations that our businesses must comply with.  The regulations we are subject to have tended to 
become more stringent over time and may be inconsistent across jurisdictions.  We, our representatives and the industries in 
which we operate may at times be under review and/or investigation by regulatory authorities.  Failure to comply (or any 
alleged or perceived failure to comply) with the regulations referenced above or any other regulations could result in civil and 
criminal, monetary and non-monetary penalties, and any such failure or alleged failure (or becoming subject to a regulatory 
enforcement investigation) could also damage our reputation, disrupt our business, limit our ability to manufacture, import, 
export and sell products and services, result in loss of customers and disbarment from selling to certain federal agencies and 
cause us to incur significant legal and investigatory fees.  Compliance with these and other regulations may also affect our 
returns on investment, require us to incur significant expenses or modify our business model or impair our flexibility in 
modifying product, marketing, pricing or other strategies for growing our business.  Our products and operations are also often 
subject to the rules of industrial standards bodies such as the International Standards Organization, and failure to comply with 
these rules could result in withdrawal of certifications needed to sell our products and services and otherwise adversely impact 
our financial statements.  For additional information regarding these risks, please refer to the section entitled “Business-
Regulatory Matters.” 

International economic, political, legal, compliance and business factors could negatively affect our financial statements. 

In 2017, approximately 45% of our sales were derived from customers outside the United States.  In addition, many of our 
manufacturing operations, suppliers and employees are located outside the United States.  Since our growth strategy depends in 
part on our ability to further penetrate markets outside the United States and increase the localization of our products and 
services, we expect to continue to increase our sales and presence outside the United States, particularly in high-growth 
markets.  Our international business (and particularly our business in high-growth markets) is subject to risks that are 
customarily encountered in non-U.S. operations, including: 

•  

interruption in the transportation of materials to us and finished goods to our customers; 

13 

 
•   differences in terms of sale, including payment terms; 

•  

•  

local product preferences and product requirements; 

changes in a country’s or region’s political or economic conditions, including changes in relationship with the United 
States; 

•  

trade protection measures, embargoes and import or export restrictions and requirements; 

•   unexpected changes in laws or regulatory requirements, including negative changes in tax laws; 

•  

•  

•  

limitations on ownership and on repatriation of earnings and cash; 

the potential for nationalization of enterprises; 

limitations on legal rights and our ability to enforce such rights; 

•   difficulty in staffing and managing widespread operations; 

•   differing labor regulations; 

•   difficulties in implementing restructuring actions on a timely or comprehensive basis; and 

•   differing protection of intellectual property. 

Any of these risks could negatively affect our financial statements and growth. 

We may be required to recognize impairment charges for our goodwill and other intangible assets. 

As of December 31, 2017, the net carrying value of our goodwill and other intangible assets totaled approximately $6.4 billion.  
In accordance with generally accepted accounting principles in the United States of America (“GAAP”), we periodically assess 
these assets to determine if they are impaired.  Significant negative industry or economic trends, disruptions to our business, 
inability to effectively integrate acquired businesses, unexpected significant changes or planned changes in use of our assets, 
changes in the structure of our business, divestitures, market capitalization declines, or increases in associated discount rates 
may impair our goodwill and other intangible assets.  Any charges relating to such impairments would adversely affect our 
results of operations in the periods recognized. 

Foreign currency exchange rates may adversely affect our financial statements. 

Sales and purchases in currencies other than the U.S. dollar expose us to fluctuations in foreign currencies relative to the U.S. 
dollar and may adversely affect our financial statements.  Increased strength of the U.S. dollar increases the effective price of 
our products sold in U.S. dollars into other countries, which may require us to lower our prices or adversely affect sales to the 
extent we do not increase local currency prices.  Decreased strength of the U.S. dollar could adversely affect the cost of 
materials, products and services we purchase overseas.  Sales and expenses of our non-U.S. businesses are also translated into 
U.S. dollars for reporting purposes and the strengthening or weakening of the U.S. dollar could result in unfavorable translation 
effects.  In addition, certain of our businesses may transact in a currency other than the business’ functional currency, and 
movements in the transaction currency relative to the functional currency could also result in unfavorable exchange rate effects.  
We also face exchange rate risk from our investments in subsidiaries owned and operated in foreign countries. 

Changes in our effective tax rates or exposure to additional income tax liabilities or assessments could affect our 
profitability.  In addition, audits by tax authorities could result in additional tax payments for prior periods. 

We are subject to income and transaction taxes in the United States and in multiple foreign jurisdictions.  Because we have a 
wide range of statutory tax rates in the multiple jurisdictions in which we operate, any changes in our geographical source of 
earnings could materially impact our consolidated effective tax rate.  Furthermore, a change in the tax laws of the jurisdictions 
where we operate could result in a material increase in our tax expense.  In addition, foreign remittance taxes have not been 
provided for on undistributed earnings of certain of our non-U.S. subsidiaries to the extent such earnings are considered to be 
indefinitely reinvested in the operations of those subsidiaries.  If our intentions regarding reinvestment of such earnings change, 
then our income tax expense could increase.  On December 22, 2017, the U.S. enacted comprehensive tax reform commonly 
referred to as the Tax Cut and Jobs Act (“TCJA”).  The TCJA represents one of the most significant overhauls to the US federal 
tax code since 1986 according to the SEC.  The TCJA includes numerous provisions that affect businesses and introduces 
changes that impact U.S. corporate tax rates, business-related exclusions, deductions, and credits.  In addition, pursuant to the 
interpretive guidance in Staff Accounting Bulletin No. 118, we prepared and recorded tax accounting for the year ended 

14 

 
December 31, 2017 applying tax laws in effect prior to the application of the provisions of the TCJA and recorded provisional 
estimates for all the effects of the TCJA.  As a result of any further guidance and regulations pertaining to TCJA, and as we 
complete our analysis, the provisional estimates may be subject to adjustments, which adjustments may have a material adverse 
effect on our financial results during the period in which such adjustments are determined. 

Further changes in the tax laws of foreign jurisdictions could arise as a result of the base erosion and profit shifting project 
undertaken by the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (“OECD”), which represents a coalition of 
member countries.  The OECD has issued a series of reports recommending changes to numerous long-standing tax principles, 
many of which are being adopted by various countries in which we do business.  Changes in relation to international tax reform 
could increase uncertainty in the corporate tax area and may adversely affect our provision for income taxes.  In addition, the 
amount of income taxes we pay is subject to ongoing audits by U.S. federal, state and local tax authorities and by non-U.S. tax 
authorities.  Due to the potential for changes to tax laws (or changes to the interpretation thereof) and the ambiguity of tax laws, 
the subjectivity of factual interpretations, the complexity of our intercompany arrangements and other factors, our estimates of 
income tax liabilities may differ from actual payments or assessments.  If these audits result in payments or assessments 
different from our reserves, our future results may include unfavorable adjustments to our tax liabilities and our financial 
statements could be adversely affected.  If we determine to repatriate earnings from foreign jurisdictions that have been 
considered permanently re-invested under existing accounting standards, it could also increase our effective tax rate. 

We have incurred a significant amount of debt, and our debt will increase further if we incur additional debt and do not 
retire existing debt. 

As of December 31, 2017, we had approximately $4.1 billion of long-term debt on a consolidated basis.   We may also obtain 
additional long-term debt and lines of credit to meet future financing needs.  Our debt level and related debt service obligations 
could have negative consequences, including: 

•  

requiring us to dedicate significant cash flow from operations to the payment of principal and interest on our debt, which 
would reduce the funds we have available for other purposes, such as acquisitions; 

•   making it more difficult for us to satisfy our obligations with respect to our debt; 

•   placing us at a competitive disadvantage compared to our competitors that are not as highly leveraged; 

•  

•  

•  

•  

limiting our ability to borrow additional funds; 

reducing our flexibility in planning for or reacting to changes in our business and market conditions; 

exposing us to interest rate risk since a portion of our debt obligations are at variable rates; and 

resulting in an event of default if we fail to satisfy our obligations under our debt or fail to comply with the financial or 
restrictive covenants contained in our debt instruments, which event of default could result in all of our debt becoming 
immediately due and payable and could permit certain of our lenders to foreclose on our assets securing such debt. 

Our ability to satisfy our obligations depends on our future operating performance and on economic, financial, competitive and 
other factors beyond our control.  Our business may not generate sufficient cash flow to meet these obligations.  If we are 
unable to service our debt or obtain additional financing, we may be forced to delay strategic acquisitions, capital expenditures 
or research and development expenditures.  We may not be able to obtain additional financing on terms acceptable to us or at 
all. 

Additionally, the agreements governing our debt require that we maintain certain financial ratios, and contain affirmative and 
negative covenants that restrict our activities by, among other limitations, limiting our ability to incur additional indebtedness, 
make investments, create liens, sell assets and enter into transactions with affiliates.  The covenants in our credit agreement 
include a debt-to-EBITDA ratio.  Specifically, the credit agreement requires us to maintain as of the end of any fiscal quarter a 
consolidated net leverage ratio of debt to consolidated EBITDA (as defined in the credit agreement) of less than 3.50 to 1.00 or, 
for four consecutive quarters immediately following the consummation of any qualified acquisition, less than 3.75 to 1.00.  In 
addition, the credit agreement requires us to maintain a consolidated interest coverage ratio of consolidated EBITDA to interest 
expense of greater than 3.50 to 1.00 as of the end of any fiscal quarter. 

Our ability to comply with these restrictions and covenants may be affected by events beyond our control.  Our failure to 
comply with any of these restrictions or covenants may result in an event of default under the applicable debt instrument, which 
could permit acceleration of the debt under that instrument and require us to prepay that debt before its scheduled due date.  
Also, an acceleration of the debt under one of our debt instruments would trigger an event of default under other of our debt 
instruments. 

15 

 
We are subject to a variety of litigation and other legal and regulatory proceedings in the course of our business that could 
adversely affect our financial statements. 

We are subject to a variety of litigation and other legal and regulatory proceedings incidental to our business (or the business 
operations of previously owned entities), including claims for damages arising out of the use of products or services and claims 
relating to intellectual property matters, employment matters, tax matters, commercial disputes, competition and sales and 
trading practices, environmental matters, personal injury, insurance coverage and acquisition or divestiture-related matters, as 
well as regulatory investigations or enforcement.  We may also become subject to lawsuits as a result of past or future 
acquisitions or as a result of liabilities retained from, or representations, warranties or indemnities provided in connection with, 
divested businesses.  These lawsuits may include claims for compensatory damages, punitive and consequential damages 
and/or injunctive relief.  The defense of these lawsuits may divert our management’s attention, we may incur significant 
expenses in defending these lawsuits, and we may be required to pay damage awards or settlements or become subject to 
equitable remedies that could adversely affect our operations and financial statements.  Moreover, any insurance or 
indemnification rights that we may have may be insufficient or unavailable to protect us against such losses.  In addition, 
developments in proceedings in any given period may require us to adjust the loss contingency estimates that we have recorded 
in our financial statements, record estimates for liabilities or assets that we were previously unable to estimate or pay cash 
settlements or judgments.  Any of these developments could adversely affect our financial statements in any particular period.  
We cannot assure you that our liabilities in connection with litigation and other legal and regulatory proceedings will not 
exceed our estimates or adversely affect our financial statements and reputation. 

If we do not or cannot adequately protect our intellectual property, or if third parties infringe our intellectual property 
rights, we may suffer competitive injury or expend significant resources enforcing our rights. 

We own numerous patents, trademarks, copyrights, trade secrets and other intellectual property and licenses to intellectual 
property owned by others, which in aggregate are important to our business.  The intellectual property rights that we obtain, 
however, may not be sufficiently broad or otherwise may not provide us a significant competitive advantage, and patents may 
not be issued for pending or future patent applications owned by or licensed to us.  In addition, the steps that we and our 
licensors have taken to maintain and protect our intellectual property may not prevent it from being challenged, invalidated, 
circumvented, designed-around or becoming subject to compulsory licensing, particularly in countries where intellectual 
property rights are not highly developed or protected.  In some circumstances, enforcement may not be available to us because 
an infringer has a dominant intellectual property position or for other business reasons, or countries may require compulsory 
licensing of our intellectual property.  We also rely on nondisclosure and noncompetition agreements with employees, 
consultants and other parties to protect, in part, trade secrets and other proprietary rights.  There can be no assurance that these 
agreements will adequately protect our trade secrets and other proprietary rights and will not be breached, that we will have 
adequate remedies for any breach, that others will not independently develop substantially equivalent proprietary information 
or that third parties will not otherwise gain access to our trade secrets or other proprietary rights.  Our failure to obtain or 
maintain intellectual property rights that convey competitive advantage, adequately protect our intellectual property or detect or 
prevent circumvention or unauthorized use of such property and the cost of enforcing our intellectual property rights could 
adversely impact our competitive position and financial statements. 

Third parties may claim that we are infringing or misappropriating their intellectual property rights and we could suffer 
significant litigation expenses, losses or licensing expenses or be prevented from selling products or services. 

From time to time, we receive notices from third parties alleging intellectual property infringement or misappropriation.  Any 
dispute or litigation regarding intellectual property could be costly and time-consuming due to the complexity of many of our 
technologies and the uncertainty of intellectual property litigation.  Our intellectual property portfolio may not be useful in 
asserting a counterclaim, or negotiating a license, in response to a claim of infringement or misappropriation.  In addition, as a 
result of such claims of infringement or misappropriation, we could lose our rights to critical technology, be unable to license 
critical technology or sell critical products and services, be required to pay substantial damages or license fees with respect to 
the infringed rights or be required to redesign our products at substantial cost, any of which could adversely impact our 
competitive position and financial statements.  Even if we successfully defend against claims of infringement or 
misappropriation, we may incur significant costs and diversion of management attention and resources, which could adversely 
affect our financial statements. 

A significant disruption in, or breach in security of, our information technology systems could adversely affect our business. 

We rely on information technology systems, some of which are managed by third parties and some of which are managed on a 
decentralized, independent basis by our operating companies, to process, transmit and store electronic information (including 
sensitive data such as confidential business information and personally identifiable data relating to employees, customers and 
other business partners), and to manage or support a variety of critical business processes and activities.  These systems may be 

16 

 
damaged, disrupted or shut down due to attacks by computer hackers, nation states, cyber-criminals, computer viruses, 
employee error or malfeasance, power outages, hardware failures, telecommunication or utility failures, catastrophes or other 
unforeseen events, and in any such circumstances our system redundancy and other disaster recovery planning may be 
ineffective or inadequate.  In addition, security breaches of our systems (or the systems of our customers, suppliers or other 
business partners) could result in the misappropriation, destruction or unauthorized disclosure of confidential information or 
personal data belonging to us or to our employees, partners, customers or suppliers.  Like many multinational corporations, our 
information technology systems have been subject to computer viruses, malicious codes, unauthorized access and other cyber-
attacks and we expect to be subject to similar incidents in the future as such attacks become more sophisticated and frequent.  
Any of the attacks, breaches or other disruptions or damage described above could interrupt our operations, delay production 
and shipments, result in theft of our and our customers’ intellectual property and trade secrets, damage customer and business 
partner relationships and our reputation or result in defective products or services, legal claims and proceedings, liability and 
penalties under privacy laws and increased costs for security and remediation, each of which could adversely affect our 
business and financial statements. 

Defects and unanticipated use or inadequate disclosure with respect to our products (including software) or services could 
adversely affect our business, reputation and financial statements. 

Manufacturing or design defects impacting safety, cybersecurity or quality issues (or the perception of such issues) for our 
products and services can lead to personal injury, death, property damage, data loss or other damages.  These events could lead 
to recalls or safety or other public alerts, result in product or service downtime or the temporary or permanent removal of a 
product or service from the market and result in product liability or similar claims being brought against us.  Recalls, 
downtime, removals and product liability and similar claims (regardless of their validity or ultimate outcome) can result in 
significant costs, as well as negative publicity and damage to our reputation that could reduce demand for our products and 
services. 

Adverse changes in our relationships with, or the financial condition, performance, purchasing patterns or inventory levels 
of, key distributors and other channel partners could adversely affect our financial statements. 

Certain of our businesses sell a significant amount of their products to key distributors and other channel partners that have 
valuable relationships with customers and end-users.  Some of these distributors and other partners also sell our competitors’ 
products or compete with us directly, and if they favor competing products for any reason they may fail to market our products 
effectively.  Adverse changes in our relationships with these distributors and other partners, or adverse developments in their 
financial condition, performance or purchasing patterns, could adversely affect our financial statements.  The levels of 
inventory maintained by our distributors and other channel partners, and changes in those levels, can also significantly impact 
our results of operations in any given period.  In addition, the consolidation of distributors and customers in certain of our 
served industries could adversely impact our profitability. 

Our financial results are subject to fluctuations in the cost and availability of commodities that we use in our operations. 

As discussed in the section entitled “Business-Materials,” our manufacturing and other operations employ a wide variety of 
components, raw materials and other commodities.  Prices for and availability of these components, raw materials and other 
commodities have fluctuated significantly in the past.  Any sustained interruption in the supply of these items could adversely 
affect our business.  In addition, due to the highly competitive nature of the industries that we serve, the cost-containment 
efforts of our customers and the terms of certain contracts we are party to, if commodity prices rise we may be unable to pass 
along cost increases through higher prices.  If we are unable to fully recover higher commodity costs through price increases or 
offset these increases through cost reductions, or if there is a time delay between the increase in costs and our ability to recover 
or offset these costs, we could experience lower margins and profitability and our financial statements could be adversely 
affected. 

If we cannot adjust our manufacturing capacity or the purchases required for our manufacturing activities to reflect 
changes in market conditions and customer demand, our profitability may suffer.  In addition, our reliance upon sole or 
limited sources of supply for certain materials, components and services could cause production interruptions, delays and 
inefficiencies. 

We purchase materials, components and equipment from third parties for use in our manufacturing operations.  Our income 
could be adversely impacted if we are unable to adjust our purchases to reflect changes in customer demand and market 
fluctuations, including those caused by seasonality or cyclicality.  During a market upturn, suppliers may extend lead times, 
limit supplies or increase prices.  If we cannot purchase sufficient products at competitive prices and quality and on a timely 
enough basis to meet increasing demand, we may not be able to satisfy market demand, product shipments may be delayed, our 
costs may increase or we may breach our contractual commitments and incur liabilities.  Conversely, in order to secure supplies 
for the production of products, we sometimes enter into noncancelable purchase commitments with vendors, which could 

17 

 
impact our ability to adjust our inventory to reflect declining market demands.  If demand for our products is less than we 
expect, we may experience additional excess and obsolete inventories and be forced to incur additional charges and our 
profitability may suffer. 

In addition, some of our businesses purchase certain requirements from sole or limited source suppliers for reasons of quality 
assurance, cost effectiveness, availability or uniqueness of design.  If these or other suppliers encounter financial, operating or 
other difficulties or if our relationship with them changes, we might not be able to quickly establish or qualify replacement 
sources of supply.  The supply chains for our businesses could also be disrupted by supplier capacity constraints, bankruptcy or 
exiting of the business for other reasons, decreased availability of key raw materials or commodities and external events such 
as natural disasters, pandemic health issues, war, terrorist actions, governmental actions and legislative or regulatory changes.  
Any of these factors could result in production interruptions, delays, extended lead times and inefficiencies. 

Because we cannot always immediately adapt our production capacity and related cost structures to changing market 
conditions, our manufacturing capacity may at times exceed or fall short of our production requirements.  Any or all of these 
problems could result in the loss of customers, provide an opportunity for competing products to gain market acceptance and 
otherwise adversely affect our profitability. 

Our restructuring actions could have long-term adverse effects on our business. 

In recent years, we have implemented multiple, significant restructuring activities across our businesses to adjust our cost 
structure, and we may engage in similar restructuring activities in the future.  These restructuring activities and our regular 
ongoing cost reduction activities (including in connection with the integration of acquired businesses) reduce our available 
talent, assets and other resources and could slow improvements in our products and services, adversely affect our ability to 
respond to customers and limit our ability to increase production quickly if demand for our products increases.  In addition, 
delays in implementing planned restructuring activities or other productivity improvements, unexpected costs or failure to meet 
targeted improvements may diminish the operational or financial benefits we realize from such actions.  Any of the 
circumstances described above could adversely impact our business and financial statements. 

Work stoppages, union and works council campaigns and other labor disputes could adversely impact our productivity and 
results of operations. 

We have certain U.S. collective bargaining units and various non-U.S. collective labor arrangements.  We are subject to 
potential work stoppages, union and works council campaigns and other labor disputes, any of which could adversely impact 
our productivity, results of operations and reputation. 

If we suffer loss to our facilities, supply chains, distribution systems or information technology systems due to catastrophe 
or other events, our operations could be seriously harmed. 

Our facilities, supply chains, distribution systems and information technology systems are subject to catastrophic loss due to 
fire, flood, earthquake, hurricane, public health crisis, war, terrorism or other natural or man-made disasters.  If any of these 
facilities, supply chains or systems were to experience a catastrophic loss, it could disrupt our operations, delay production and 
shipments, result in defective products or services, damage customer relationships and our reputation and result in legal 
exposure and large repair or replacement expenses.  The third-party insurance coverage that we maintain will vary from time to 
time in both type and amount depending on cost, availability and our decisions regarding risk retention, and may be unavailable 
or insufficient to protect us against losses. 

Certain provisions in our amended and restated certificate of incorporation and bylaws, and of Delaware law, may prevent 
or delay an acquisition of our company, which could decrease the trading price of our common stock. 

Our amended and restated certificate of incorporation (“Restated Certificate of Incorporation”) and amended and restated 
bylaws (“Amended and Restated Bylaws”) contain, and Delaware law contains, provisions that are intended to deter coercive 
takeover practices and inadequate takeover bids and to encourage prospective acquirers to negotiate with the Board of Directors 
(the “Board”) rather than to attempt an unsolicited takeover not approved by the Board.  These provisions include, among 
others: 

•  

•  

•  

•  

the inability of our shareholders to call a special meeting; 

the inability of our shareholders to act by written consent; 

rules regarding how shareholders may present proposals or nominate directors for election at shareholder meetings; 

the right of the Board to issue preferred stock without shareholder approval; 

18 

 
•  

•  

the ability of our directors, and not shareholders, to fill vacancies (including those resulting from an enlargement of the Board) 
on the Board; and 

the requirement that the affirmative vote of shareholders holding at least 80% of our voting stock is required to amend our 
amended and restated bylaws and certain provisions in our amended and restated certificate of incorporation. 

In addition, because we have not chosen to be exempt from Section 203 of the Delaware General Corporation Law (the 
“DGCL”), this provision could also delay or prevent a change of control that you may favor.  Section 203 provides that, subject 
to limited exceptions, persons that acquire, or are affiliated with a person that acquires, more than 15% of the outstanding 
voting stock of a Delaware corporation (an “interested stockholder”) shall not engage in any business combination with that 
corporation, including by merger, consolidation or acquisitions of additional shares, for a three-year period following the date 
on which the person became an interested stockholder, unless (i) prior to such time, the board of directors of such corporation 
approved either the business combination or the transaction that resulted in the stockholder becoming an interested stockholder; 
(ii) upon consummation of the transaction that resulted in the stockholder becoming an interested stockholder, the interested 
stockholder owned at least 85% of the voting stock of such corporation at the time the transaction commenced (excluding for 
purposes of determining the voting stock outstanding (but not the outstanding voting stock owned by the interested 
stockholder) the voting stock owned by directors who are also officers or held in employee benefit plans in which the 
employees do not have a confidential right to tender or vote stock held by the plan); or (iii) on or subsequent to such time the 
business combination is approved by the board of directors of such corporation and authorized at a meeting of shareholders by 
the affirmative vote of at least two-thirds of the outstanding voting stock of such corporation not owned by the interested 
stockholder. 

We believe these provisions will protect our shareholders from coercive or otherwise unfair takeover tactics by requiring 
potential acquirers to negotiate with the Board and by providing the Board with more time to assess any acquisition proposal.  
These provisions are not intended to make our company immune from takeovers. 

However, these provisions will apply even if the offer may be considered beneficial by some shareholders and could delay or 
prevent an acquisition that the Board determines is not in the best interests of our company and our shareholders.  These 
provisions may also prevent or discourage attempts to remove and replace incumbent directors. 

Changes in U.S. GAAP could adversely affect our reported financial results and may require significant changes to our 
internal accounting systems and processes. 

We prepare our consolidated financial statements in conformity with U.S. GAAP.  These principles are subject to interpretation 
by the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”), the SEC and various bodies formed to interpret and create appropriate 
accounting principles and guidance.  The FASB issued new accounting standards for revenue recognition and accounting for 
leases.  These and other such standards may result in different accounting principles, which may significantly impact our 
reported results or could result in volatility of our financial results. 

Our amended and restated certificate of incorporation designates the state courts in the State of Delaware or, if no state 
court located within the State of Delaware has jurisdiction, the federal court for the District of Delaware, as the sole and 
exclusive forum for certain types of actions and proceedings that may be initiated by our shareholders, which could 
discourage lawsuits against us and our directors and officers. 

Our amended and restated certificate of incorporation provides that unless the Board otherwise determines, the state courts in 
the State of Delaware or, if no state court located within the State of Delaware has jurisdiction, the federal court for the District 
of Delaware, will be the sole and exclusive forum for any derivative action or proceeding brought on behalf of our company, 
any action asserting a claim of breach of a fiduciary duty owed by any of our directors or officers to our company or our 
shareholders, any action asserting a claim against our company or any of our directors or officers arising pursuant to any 
provision of the DGCL or our amended and restated certificate of incorporation or bylaws, or any action asserting a claim 
against our company or any of our directors or officers governed by the internal affairs doctrine.  This exclusive forum 
provision may limit the ability of our shareholders to bring a claim in a judicial forum that such shareholders find favorable for 
disputes with our company or our directors or officers, which may discourage such lawsuits against our company and our 
directors and officers. 

19 

 
Risks Related to the Separation 

Potential indemnification liabilities to Danaher pursuant to our separation agreement with Danaher could materially and 
adversely affect our businesses, financial condition, results of operations and cash flows. 

Our separation agreement with Danaher, among other things, provides for indemnification obligations (for uncapped amounts) 
designed to make us financially responsible for substantially all liabilities that may exist relating to our business activities, 
whether incurred prior to or after the Separation.  If we are required to indemnify Danaher under the circumstances set forth in 
the separation agreement, we may be subject to substantial liabilities. 

In connection with the Separation, Danaher has indemnified us for certain liabilities.  However, there can be no assurance 
that the indemnity will be sufficient to insure us against the full amount of such liabilities, or that Danaher’s ability to 
satisfy its indemnification obligation will not be impaired in the future. 

Pursuant to the separation agreement and certain other agreements with Danaher, Danaher has agreed to indemnify us for 
certain liabilities.  However, third parties could also seek to hold us responsible for any of the liabilities that Danaher has 
agreed to retain, and there can be no assurance that the indemnity from Danaher will be sufficient to protect us against the full 
amount of such liabilities, or that Danaher will be able to fully satisfy its indemnification obligations.  In addition, Danaher’s 
insurers may attempt to deny coverage to us for liabilities associated with certain occurrences of indemnified liabilities prior to 
the Separation.  Moreover, even if we ultimately succeed in recovering from Danaher or such insurance providers any amounts 
for which we may be held liable, we may be temporarily required to bear these losses.  Each of these risks could negatively 
affect our businesses, financial position, results of operations and cash flows. 

There could be significant liability if the Separation fails to qualify as a tax-free transaction for U.S. federal income tax 
purposes. 

It was a condition to the distribution of all of our shares of common stock to the holders of Danaher common stock in 
connection with the Separation that Danaher receive an opinion of Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom LLP, tax counsel to 
Danaher, regarding the qualification of the distribution, together with certain related transactions, as a transaction that is tax-
free to Danaher and Danaher’s shareholders, for U.S. federal income tax purposes, within the meaning of Sections 355(a) and 
368(a)(1)(D) of the Code.  The opinion relied on certain facts, assumptions, representations and undertakings from Danaher and 
us, including those regarding the past and future conduct of the companies’ respective businesses and other matters.  If any of 
these facts, assumptions, representations or undertakings are incorrect or not satisfied, Danaher may not be able to rely on the 
opinion, and Danaher and its shareholders could be subject to significant tax liabilities.  Notwithstanding the opinion of tax 
counsel, the Internal Revenue Service (“IRS”) could determine on audit that the distribution is taxable if it determines that any 
of these facts, assumptions, representations or undertakings are not correct or have been violated or if it disagrees with the 
conclusions in the opinion. 

Under the tax matters agreement between Danaher and us, we are required to indemnify Danaher against taxes incurred by 
Danaher that arise as a result of our taking or failing to take, as the case may be, certain actions that result in the distribution 
failing to meet the requirements of a tax-free distribution under Section 355 of the Code.  Under the tax matters agreement 
between Danaher and us, we may also be required to indemnify Danaher for other contingent tax liabilities, which could 
materially adversely affect our financial position.  Even if we are not responsible for tax liabilities of Danaher under the tax 
matters agreement, we nonetheless could be liable under applicable tax law for such liabilities if Danaher were to fail to pay 
them.  If we are required to pay any liabilities under the circumstances set forth in the tax matters agreement or pursuant to 
applicable tax law, the amounts may be significant. 

We may not be able to engage in certain corporate transactions for a two-year period after the Separation. 

To preserve the tax-free treatment for U.S. federal income tax purposes to Danaher of the Separation, under the tax matters 
agreement that we entered into with Danaher, we are restricted from taking any action that prevents the distribution from being 
tax-free for U.S. federal income tax purposes.  Under the tax matters agreement, until July 2, 2018, we are subject to specific 
restrictions on our ability to enter into acquisition, merger, liquidation, sale and stock redemption transactions with respect to 
our stock.  These restrictions may limit our ability to pursue certain strategic transactions or other transactions that we may 
believe to be in the best interests of our shareholders or that might increase the value of our business.  These restrictions do not 
limit the acquisition of other businesses by us for cash consideration.  In addition, under the tax matters agreement, we may be 
required to indemnify Danaher against any such tax liabilities as a result of the acquisition of our stock or assets, even if it does 
not participate in or otherwise facilitate the acquisition. 

20 

 
Certain of our executive officers and directors may have actual or potential conflicts of interest because of their equity 
interest in Danaher. 

Because of their current or former positions with Danaher, certain of our executive officers and directors own equity interests in 
Danaher.  In addition, certain of our directors are currently serving on the Danaher board of directors.  Continuing ownership of 
shares of Danaher common stock and equity awards, or service as a director at both companies could create, or appear to 
create, potential conflicts of interest if we and Danaher face decisions that could have implications for both Danaher and us. 

Potential liabilities may arise due to fraudulent transfer considerations, which would adversely affect our financial 
condition and our results of operations. 

In connection with the Separation, Danaher undertook several corporate restructuring transactions which, together with the 
Separation, may be subject to federal and state fraudulent conveyance and transfer laws.  If, under these laws, a court were to 
determine that, at the time of the Separation, any entity involved in these restructuring transactions or the Separation: 

•   was insolvent; 

•   was rendered insolvent by reason of the Separation; 

•   had remaining assets constituting unreasonably small capital; or 

•  

intended to incur, or believed it would incur, debts beyond its ability to pay these debts as they matured, 

then the court could void the Separation, in whole or in part, as a fraudulent conveyance or transfer.  The court could then 
require our shareholders to return to Danaher some or all of the shares of our common stock issued in the distribution, or 
require Danaher or us, as the case may be, to fund liabilities of the other company for the benefit of creditors.  The measure of 
insolvency will vary depending upon the jurisdiction whose law is being applied.  Generally, however, an entity would be 
considered insolvent if the fair value of its assets was less than the fair value of its liabilities or if it incurred debt beyond its 
ability to repay the debt as that debt matures. 

ITEM 1B. UNRESOLVED STAFF COMMENTS 

Not applicable. 

ITEM 2. PROPERTIES 

Our corporate headquarters is located in Everett, Washington in a facility that we own.  As of December 31, 2017, our facilities 
included approximately 110 significant facilities, which are used for manufacturing, distribution, warehousing, research and 
development, general administrative and/or sales functions.  Approximately 58 of these facilities are located in the United 
States in over 20 states and approximately 52 are located outside the United States in over 20 countries, including Canada and 
countries in Asia Pacific, Europe and Latin America.  These facilities cover approximately 11 million square feet, of which 
approximately 7 million square feet are owned and approximately 4 million square feet are leased.  Particularly outside the 
United States, facilities may serve more than one business segment and may be used for multiple purposes, such as 
administration, sales, manufacturing, warehousing and/or distribution.  The number of significant facilities by business segment 
is: Professional Instrumentation, 54; and Industrial Technologies, 56. 

We consider our facilities suitable and adequate for the purposes for which they are used and do not anticipate difficulty in 
renewing existing leases as they expire or in finding alternative facilities.  We believe our properties and equipment have been 
well-maintained.  Please refer to Note 13 to the Consolidated and Combined Financial Statements for additional information 
with respect to our lease commitments.    

ITEM 3. LEGAL PROCEEDINGS 

We are, from time to time, subject to a variety of litigation and other legal and regulatory proceedings and claims incidental to 
our business.  Based upon our experience, current information and applicable law, we do not believe that these proceedings and 
claims will have a material effect on our financial position, results of operations or cash flows. 

ITEM 4. MINE SAFETY DISCLOSURES 

Not applicable. 

21 

 
EXECUTIVE OFFICERS OF THE REGISTRANT 

Set forth below are the names, ages, positions and experience of our executive officers as of February 27, 2018.  All of our 
executive officers hold office at the pleasure of our Board. 

Name 
James A. Lico 
Patrick J. Byrne 
Martin Gafinowitz 
Barbara B. Hulit 
Charles E. McLaughlin 
Patrick K. Murphy 
William W. Pringle 
Raj Ratnakar 
Jonathan L. Schwarz 
Peter C. Underwood 
Stacey A. Walker 
Emily A. Weaver 

Age 
52 
57 
59 
51 
56 
56 
50 
50 
46 
48 
47 
46 

  Position 
  President and Chief Executive Officer 
  Senior Vice President 
  Senior Vice President 
  Senior Vice President 
  Senior Vice President – Chief Financial Officer 
  Senior Vice President 
  Senior Vice President 
  Vice President – Strategic Development 
  Vice President – Corporate Development 
  Senior Vice President – General Counsel and Secretary 
  Senior Vice President – Human Resources 
  Vice President – Chief Accounting Officer 

  Officer Since 

2016 
2016 
2016 
2016 
2016 
2016 
2016 
2016 
2016 
2016 
2016 
2016 

James A. Lico has served as Chief Executive Officer and President, as well as a member of the Board since July 2016.   Prior to 
July 2016, Mr. Lico served in leadership positions in a variety of different functions and businesses at Danaher after joining 
Danaher in 1996, including as Executive Vice President from 2005 to 2016. 

Patrick J. Byrne has served as a Senior Vice President of Fortive since July 2016.  Prior to July 2016, Mr. Byrne served as 
President of Danaher’s Tektronix business from July 2014 to July 2016, after serving as Chief Technology Officer and Vice 
President-Strategy and Business Development for Danaher’s Test and Measurement segment from 2012 to July 2014.  Prior to 
joining Danaher, he served as Chief Executive Officer of Intermec Technologies, a manufacturer of automated identification 
and data capture equipment, from 2007 until 2012. 

Martin Gafinowitz has served as a Senior Vice President of Fortive since July 2016.  Prior to July 2016, Mr. Gafinowitz served 
as Senior Vice President-Group Executive of Danaher from March 2014 to July 2016 after serving as Vice President-Group 
Executive of Danaher from 2005 to March 2014. 

Barbara B. Hulit has served as a Senior Vice President since July 2016.  Prior to July 2016, Ms. Hulit served as Senior Vice 
President - Danaher Business System Office for Danaher from January 2013 to July 2016 and as President of Fluke 
Corporation from May 2005 to January 2013. 

Charles E. McLaughlin has served as Senior Vice President, Chief Financial Officer since July 2016.  Prior to July 2016, Mr. 
McLaughlin served as Senior Vice President-Diagnostics Group CFO for Danaher’s Diagnostics business from May 2012 to 
July 2016, and as Senior Vice President-Chief Financial Officer of Danaher’s Beckman Coulter business from July 2011 to July 
2016. 

Patrick K. Murphy has served as Senior Vice President of Fortive since July 2016.  Prior to July 2016, Mr. Murphy served as a 
Group President of Danaher after joining Danaher in March 2014 until July 2016.  Prior to joining Danaher, he served as CEO 
of Nidec Motor Corporation and President of the ACIM (Appliance, Commercial and Industrial Motor) Business Unit of Nidec 
Corporation, a manufacturer of commercial, industrial, and appliance motors and controls, from 2010 until October 2013. 

William W. Pringle has served as a Senior Vice President of Fortive since July 2016.  Prior to July 2016, Mr. Pringle served as 
Senior Vice President-Fluke and Qualitrol for Danaher from October 2015 to July 2016 and as President of Danaher’s Fluke 
business from July 2013 to July 2016, after serving as President-Fluke Industrial Group from May 2012 to July 2013.  Prior to 
joining Danaher, Mr. Pringle served in a series of progressively more responsible roles with Whirlpool Corporation, a 
manufacturer of home appliances, from 2008 until May 2012, including most recently as Senior Vice President-Integrated 
Business Units. 

Raj Ratnakar has served as Vice President, Strategic Development of Fortive since July 2016.  Prior to July 2016, Mr. Ratnakar 
served as a Vice President-Strategic Development of Danaher from August 2012 to July 2016.  Prior to joining Danaher, he 
served as Vice President of Corporate Strategy for Tyco Electronics, a global manufacturing company, from 2009 until August 
2012. 

22 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Jonathan L. Schwarz has served as Vice President, Corporate Development of Fortive since July 2016.  Prior to July 2016, Mr. 
Schwarz served as Vice President-Corporate Development of Danaher from 2010 to July 2016. 

Peter C. Underwood has served as Senior Vice President, General Counsel and Secretary of Fortive since May 2016.  Prior to 
joining Fortive, Mr. Underwood served as Vice President, General Counsel and Secretary of Regal Beloit Corporation, a 
manufacturer of electric motors, from 2010 through May 2016. 

Stacey A. Walker has served as a Senior Vice President, Human Resources of Fortive since July 2016.  Prior to July 2016, Ms. 
Walker served as Vice President-Talent Management of Danaher from January 2014 to July 2016 after serving as Vice 
President-Talent Planning from December 2012 to December 2013 and as Vice President-Human Resources for Danaher’s 
Chemtreat business from 2008 to November 2012. 

Emily A. Weaver has served as Vice President, Chief Accounting Officer of Fortive since July 2016.  Prior to July 2016, Ms. 
Weaver served as Vice President-Finance of Danaher from April 2013 to July 2016.  Prior to joining Danaher, she served as 
Deputy Controller of GE Transportation, a unit of General Electric, a global manufacturing company, from 2010 until March 
2013. 

PART II 

ITEM 5. MARKET FOR THE REGISTRANT’S COMMON EQUITY, RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS AND 
ISSUER PURCHASES OF EQUITY SECURITIES 

Our common stock has been traded on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol FTV since July 2, 2016.  As of 
February 21, 2018, there were approximately 2,500 holders of record of our common stock.  The high and low common stock 
prices per share as reported on the New York Stock Exchange, and the dividends declared per share, in each case for the periods 
described below, were as follows: 

First quarter 
Second quarter 
Third quarter 
Fourth quarter 

Third quarter 
Fourth quarter 

High 

60.41    $ 
65.21    $ 
71.07    $ 
75.69    $ 

High 

54.34    $ 
56.24    $ 

$ 
$ 
$ 
$ 

$ 
$ 

2017 

Low 

  Dividends Per Share 
0.07  
0.07  
0.07  
0.07  

52.99    $ 
59.54    $ 
62.05    $ 
70.01    $ 

2016 

Low 

  Dividends Per Share 
0.07  
0.07  

46.29    $ 
46.81    $ 

Our payment of dividends in the future will be determined by our Board and will depend on business conditions, our earnings 
and other factors. 

Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities 

Neither the Company nor any “affiliated purchaser” repurchased any shares of Fortive common stock during the fourth quarter 
of fiscal year ended December 31, 2017.  

Recent Issuances of Unregistered Securities 

None 

23 

 
 
 
 
 
 
   
   
 
 
 
ITEM 6. SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA 
($ in millions, except per share information) 

Sales 
Operating profit 
Earnings before income taxes 
Net earnings 
Net earnings per share: 

Basic 
Diluted 

Dividends declared and paid per share 
Total assets 
Total long-term debt 

As of and for the Year Ended December 31 

2017 

2016 

2015 

2014 

$  6,656.0     $  6,224.3     $  6,178.8     $  6,337.2    
1,245.3    
1,279.2   (a) 
883.4   (a) 

1,269.7    
1,269.7    
863.8    

1,354.9    
1,284.2    
1,044.5    

1,246.0    
1,197.0    
872.3    

2013 
$  5,961.9  
1,143.2  
1,143.2  
830.9  

3.01    
2.96    
0.28    
10,500.6    

2.52    
2.51    
0.14    
8,189.8    

2.50    
2.50    
—    
7,210.6    

$  4,056.2     $  3,358.0     $ 

—     $ 

2.56    
2.56    
—    
7,355.6    
—    

$ 

2.41  
2.41  
—  
7,240.1  
—  

(a) Includes $34 million ($26 million after-tax or $0.08 per diluted share) gain on sale of our electric vehicle systems 
(“EVS”)/hybrid product line. 

ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF 
OPERATIONS 

Fortive is a diversified industrial growth company comprised of Professional Instrumentation and Industrial Technologies 
segments and encompassing businesses that are recognized leaders in attractive markets.  Our well-known brands hold leading 
positions in advanced instrumentation and solutions, transportation technology, sensing, automation and specialty, and 
franchise distribution markets.  Our businesses design, develop, service, manufacture and market professional and engineered 
products, software and services for a variety of end markets, building upon leading brand names, innovative technology and 
significant market positions.  Our research and development, manufacturing, sales, distribution, service and administrative 
facilities are located in more than 50 countries across North America, Asia Pacific, Europe and Latin America. 

This MD&A is designed to provide a reader of our financial statements with a narrative from the perspective of management.  
Our MD&A is divided into seven sections: 

•   Basis of Presentation  

•   Overview 

•   Results of Operations 

•   Financial Instruments and Risk Management 

•   Liquidity and Capital Resources 

•   Critical Accounting Estimates 

•   New Accounting Standards 

BASIS OF PRESENTATION 

We completed the Separation from Danaher Corporation on July 2, 2016, the first day of our fiscal third quarter of 2016.  
Before that date, Fortive was a wholly-owned subsidiary of Danaher and our businesses were comprised of certain Danaher 
operating units.  Danaher transfered these businesses to us prior to the Separation.  The Separation was completed in the form 
of a pro rata distribution by Danaher to its stockholders of record on June 15, 2016, of all of the outstanding shares of Fortive 
held by Danaher.  Fortive was incorporated in the state of Delaware on November 10, 2015 in order to facilitate the Separation. 

In connection with the Separation, on July 1, 2016, we entered into agreements that govern the Separation and the relationships 
between the parties following the Separation, including an employee matters agreement, a tax matters agreement, an 
intellectual property matters agreement, a Danaher Business System license agreement and a transition services agreement 
(collectively the “Agreements”). 

24 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
   
   
 
 
 
 
   
   
   
 
 
The accompanying consolidated and combined financial statements present our historical financial position, results of 
operations, changes in equity and cash flows in accordance with GAAP.  The combined financial statements for periods prior to 
the Separation were derived from Danaher’s consolidated financial statements and accounting records and prepared in 
accordance with GAAP for the preparation of carved-out combined financial statements.  Through the date of the Separation, 
all revenues and costs as well as assets and liabilities directly associated with Fortive have been included in the combined 
financial statements.  Prior to the Separation, the combined financial statements also included allocations of certain general, 
administrative, sales and marketing expenses and cost of sales from Danaher’s corporate office and from other Danaher 
businesses to the Company and allocations of related assets, liabilities, and the Former Parent’s investment, as applicable.  The 
allocations were determined on a reasonable basis; however, the amounts are not necessarily representative of the amounts that 
would have been reflected in the financial statements had the Company been an entity that operated independently of Danaher 
during the applicable periods.  Related party allocations prior to the Separation, including the method for such allocation, are 
discussed further in Note 18 to the Consolidated and Combined Financial Statements. 

Following the Separation, the consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Fortive and those of our wholly-owned 
subsidiaries and no longer include any allocations from Danaher.  

Prior to the Separation, these consolidated and combined financial statements may not be indicative of our results had we been 
a separate stand-alone entity throughout the periods presented, nor are the results stated herein indicative of what our financial 
position, results of operations and cash flows may be in the future. 

OVERVIEW 

General 

Please see “Item 1. Business – General” included in this Annual Report for a discussion of the Company’s strategies for 
delivering long-term shareholder value.  Fortive is a multinational business with global operations.  During 2017, 
approximately 45% of our sales were derived from customers outside the United States.  As a diversified industrial growth 
company with global operations, our businesses are affected by worldwide, regional and industry-specific economic and 
political factors.  Our geographic and industry diversity, as well as the range of our products, software and services, typically 
help limit the impact of any one industry or the economy of any single country (except for the United States) on our operating 
results.  Given the broad range of products manufactured, software and services provided and geographies served, we do not 
use any indices other than general economic trends to predict the overall outlook for the Company.  Our individual businesses 
monitor key competitors and customers, including to the extent possible their sales, to gauge relative performance and the 
outlook for the future. 

As a result of our geographic and industry diversity, we face a variety of opportunities and challenges, including technological 
development in most of the markets we serve, the expansion and evolution of opportunities in high-growth markets, trends and 
costs associated with a global labor force and consolidation of our competitors.   We define high-growth markets as developing 
markets of the world experiencing extended periods of accelerated growth in gross domestic product and infrastructure which 
include Eastern Europe, the Middle East, Africa, Latin America and Asia with the exception of Japan and Australia.  We operate 
in a highly competitive business environment in most markets, and our long-term growth and profitability will depend in 
particular on our ability to expand our business across geographies and market segments, identify, consummate and integrate 
appropriate acquisitions, develop innovative and differentiated new products, services and software, expand and improve the 
effectiveness of our sales force and continue to reduce costs and improve operating efficiency and quality, and effectively 
address the demands of an increasingly regulated environment.  We are making significant investments, organically and 
through acquisitions, to address technological change in the markets we serve and to improve our manufacturing, research and 
development and customer-facing resources in order to be responsive to our customers throughout the world. 

In this report, references to sales from existing businesses refers to sales from operations calculated according to GAAP but 
excluding (1) sales impacts from acquired businesses, (2) sales impacts from the Separation and (3) the impact of currency 
translation.  References to sales or operating profit attributable to acquisitions or acquired businesses refer to GAAP sales or 
operating profit, as applicable, from acquired businesses recorded prior to the first anniversary of the acquisition less the 
amount of sales or operating profit, as applicable, attributable to certain divested businesses or product lines not considered 
discontinued operations prior to the first anniversary of the divestiture.  Sales impacts from the Separation refer to sales to or 
from Danaher made under agreements entered into, or terminated, in connection with the Separation prior to the first 
anniversary of the Separation.  The portion of sales attributable to the impact of currency translation is calculated as the 
difference between (a) the period-to-period change in sales (excluding sales from acquired businesses or the Separation) and (b) 
the period-to-period change in sales (excluding sales from acquired businesses or the Separation) after applying the current 
period foreign exchange rates to the prior year period.  Sales from existing businesses should be considered in addition to, and 

25 

 
not as a replacement for or superior to, sales, and may not be comparable to similarly titled measures reported by other 
companies. 

Management believes that reporting the non-GAAP financial measure of sales from existing businesses provides useful 
information to investors by helping identify underlying growth trends in our business and facilitating easier comparisons of our 
sales performance with our performance in prior and future periods and to our peers.  We exclude the effect of acquisitions and 
divestiture related items (including the impact of agreements with Danaher that were entered into or terminated in connection 
with the Separation) because the nature, size and number of such transactions can vary dramatically from period to period and 
between us and our peers.  In addition, we exclude the impact of agreements that were terminated, or entered into, in 
connection with the Separation because we believe that excluding such impact may be useful to investors in assessing our 
operational performance independent of the impact on sales to or from Danaher resulting primarily from the Separation.  We 
exclude the effect of currency translation from sales from existing businesses because currency translation is not under 
management’s control and is subject to volatility.  Management believes the exclusion of the effect of acquisition and 
divestiture (including Separation-related items) and currency translation may facilitate assessment of underlying business 
trends and may assist in comparisons of long-term performance.  References to sales volume refer to the impact of both price 
and unit sales. 

Business Performance and Outlook 

While differences exist among our businesses, on an overall basis, demand for our hardware and software products, and 
services increased during 2017 as compared to 2016 resulting in aggregate year-over-year sales growth of 6.9% and sales 
growth from existing businesses of 4.5%.  Our continued investments in sales growth initiatives and new product introductions, 
as well as increased demand in high-growth markets and stabilization of market conditions in developed markets and other 
business-specific factors discussed below contributed to overall sales growth from existing businesses across the majority of 
our businesses in the period.  On a year-over-year basis, sales growth from existing businesses in the Professional 
Instrumentation segment was driven by strong demand in the businesses within both Advanced Instrumentation & Solutions 
and Sensing Technologies.  Year-over-year sales growth from existing businesses in the Industrial Technologies segment was 
led by increased demand in Automation & Specialty Components and Transportation Technologies businesses driven by 
demand for industrial automation solutions and demand for dispensers and payment systems in the United States and Europe.  
The Europay, Mastercard and Visa (“EMV”) global standards are expected to continue to drive demand for dispensers and 
payment systems over the next several years, however, we do not expect it to be a significant component of year-over-year 
growth during the first half of 2018; we will continue to closely monitor this market dynamic and customer behavior. 

Geographically, sales from existing businesses grew at a low-single digit rate in developed markets and at a low-double digit 
rate in high-growth markets during 2017 as compared to 2016.  Year-over-year sales from existing businesses grew at a rate in 
the mid-teens in China, at a mid-single digit rate in Western Europe and at a low-single digit rate in North America.  We expect 
overall sales from existing businesses to grow on a year-over-year basis during 2018 but remain cautious about challenges due 
to macro-economic and geopolitical uncertainties, including global uncertainties related to monetary, fiscal and trade policies, 
as well as other factors identified in “Item 1A. Risk Factors.” 

Acquisitions 

On October 19, 2017, by a merger of Fern Merger Sub Inc., a Delaware corporation and an indirect wholly owned subsidiary of 
Fortive, into Landauer, Inc., a Delaware corporation (“Landauer”), we acquired all of the outstanding shares of common stock 
for $67.25 per share in cash, for a total purchase price of approximately $770 million, net of acquired cash (the “Landauer 
Acquisition”).  Landauer is a leading global provider of subscription-based technical and analytical readers to determine 
occupational and environmental radiation exposure, as well as a leading domestic provider of outsourced medical physics 
services.  Landauer is headquartered in Glenwood, Illinois, and is now part of the Professional Instrumentation segment.  
Landauer generated annual revenues of approximately $143 million in 2016.  We financed the Landauer Acquisition with 
available cash and proceeds from the issuance of U.S. dollar and euro-denominated commercial paper.  We preliminarily 
recorded approximately $514 million of goodwill related to the Landauer Acquisition. 

In addition to the Landauer Acquisition, during 2017, we acquired all the outstanding shares of common stock of Industrial 
Scientific Corporation (“ISC”) on August 25, 2017 and the remaining 80% of Orpak Systems Limited (“Orpak”) on August 31, 
2017, in which we previously had an ownership interest, for total consideration of $800 million in cash, net of cash acquired.  
The acquisition of the remaining 80% interest also resulted in the revaluation of our prior interest, and we recorded a gain from 
acquisition of $15.3 million.  The businesses acquired complement existing units of both our segments.  The aggregate annual 
sales of these businesses at the time of their respective acquisitions, in each case based on the company’s revenues for its last 
completed fiscal year prior to the acquisition, were approximately $246 million.  We preliminarily recorded an aggregate of 
$521 million of goodwill related to these acquisitions.   

26 

 
Our 2017 earnings reflect the impact of additional pretax charges of approximately $12 million associated with fair value 
adjustments to acquired inventory, equipment, and deferred revenue related to the acquisitions. 

During 2016, we acquired three businesses for total consideration of $190 million in cash, net of cash acquired.  The businesses 
acquired complement existing units of both our segments.  The aggregate annual sales of these businesses at the time of their 
respective acquisitions, in each case based on the acquired company’s revenues for its last completed fiscal year prior to the 
acquisition, were approximately $47 million.  We recorded an aggregate of $113 million of goodwill related to these 
acquisitions. 

During 2015, we acquired two businesses for total consideration of $37 million in cash, net of cash acquired.  The businesses 
acquired complement existing units of both our segments.  The aggregate annual sales of these businesses at the time of their 
respective acquisitions, in each case based on the acquired company’s revenues for its last completed fiscal year prior to the 
acquisition, were approximately $18 million.  We recorded an aggregate of $21 million of goodwill related to these 
acquisitions. 

RESULTS OF OPERATIONS 

Components of Sales Growth 

Total revenue growth (GAAP) 
Existing businesses (Non-GAAP) 
Acquisitions (a) (Non-GAAP) 
Currency exchange rates (Non-GAAP) 

2017 vs. 2016 

2016 vs. 2015 

6.9 %  
4.5 %  
2.1 %  
0.3 %  

0.7 % 
1.0  % 
0.7  % 
(1.0 )% 

(a) Includes the impact from both acquisitions and the Separation 

Refer to —Professional Instrumentation and —Industrial Technologies sections below for further discussion of year-over-year 
sales growth. 

Operating Profit Margins 

Operating profit margins were 20.4% for the year ended December 31, 2017, an increase of 40 basis points as compared to 
20.0% in 2016.  Year-over-year operating profit margin comparisons were favorably impacted by: 

•   Higher 2017 sales volumes, incremental year-over-year cost savings associated with restructuring and productivity 

improvement initiatives, lower year-over-year intangible asset amortization due to certain intangible assets, primarily 
in our Professional Instrumentation segment, being fully amortized, costs associated with various growth investments 
made in 2016 and changes in currency exchange rates, net of the incremental year-over-year costs associated with 
various product development and sales and marketing growth investments and increased general and administrative 
costs required to operate as a stand-alone public company:  110 basis points 

Year-over-year operating profit margin comparisons were unfavorably impacted by: 

•   Acquisition-related transaction costs and acquisition-related restructuring:  30 basis points 

•   The incremental year-over-year net dilutive effect of acquired businesses:  40 basis points 

Operating profit margins were 20.0% for the year ended December 31, 2016, a decrease of 50 basis points as compared to 
20.5% in 2015.  Year-over-year operating profit margin comparisons were unfavorably impacted by: 

•   The incremental year-over-year costs associated with various product development, sales and marketing growth 

investments and increased general and administrative costs required to operate as a stand-alone public company and 
higher year-over-year costs associated with restructuring actions and changes in currency exchange rates, net of higher 
2016 sales volumes, the incremental year-over-year cost savings associated with the restructuring actions and 
continuing productivity improvement initiatives taken in 2015 and 2016, and the incrementally favorable impact of the 
impairment of certain trade names used in the Industrial Technologies segment in 2015 and 2016:  40 basis points 

•   The incremental net dilutive effect of acquired businesses:  10 basis points. 

27 

 
 
 
 
   
   
Business Segments 

Sales by business segment for the year ended December 31 are as follows ($ in millions): 

Professional Instrumentation 
Industrial Technologies 
Total 

PROFESSIONAL INSTRUMENTATION 

2017 
3,139.1     $ 
3,516.9    
6,656.0     $ 

2016 
2,891.6     $ 
3,332.7    
6,224.3     $ 

2015 
2,974.2  
3,204.6  
6,178.8  

$ 

$ 

The Professional Instrumentation segment consists of our Advanced Instrumentation & Solutions and Sensing Technologies 
businesses.  The Advanced Instrumentation & Solutions businesses provide product realization and field solutions services and 
products.  Field solutions include a variety of compact professional test tools, thermal imaging and calibration equipment for 
electrical, industrial, electronic and calibration applications, online condition-based monitoring equipment; portable gas 
detection equipment, consumables, and software as a service (SaaS) offerings including safety/user behavior,  asset 
management, and compliance monitoring; subscription-based technical, analytical, and compliance services to determine  
occupational and environmental radiation exposure; and computerized maintenance management software for critical 
infrastructure  in utility, industrial, energy, construction, public safety, mining, and healthcare applications.   Product realization 
services and products help developers and engineers across the end-to-end product creation cycle from concepts to finished 
products and also include highly-engineered energetic materials components in specialized vertical applications.  Our Sensing 
Technologies business offers devices that sense, monitor and control operational or manufacturing variables, such as 
temperature, pressure, level, flow, turbidity and conductivity. 

Professional Instrumentation Selected Financial Data 

($ in millions) 
Sales 
Operating profit 
Depreciation 
Amortization 
Operating profit as a % of sales 
Depreciation as a % of sales 
Amortization as a % of sales 

Components of Sales Growth 

Total revenue growth (GAAP) 
Existing businesses (Non-GAAP) 
Acquisitions (a) (Non-GAAP) 
Currency exchange rates (Non-GAAP) 

(a) Includes the impact from both acquisitions and the Separation 

2017 COMPARED TO 2016 

$ 

For the Year Ended December 31 

  $ 

2017 
3,139.1  
709.7  
41.9  
40.1  
22.6 %  
1.3 %  
1.3 %  

  $ 

2016 
2,891.6  
642.3  
35.6  
63.8  
22.2 %  
1.2 %  
2.2 %  

2015 
2,974.2  
694.8  
35.2  
68.3  
23.4 % 
1.2 % 
2.3 % 

2017 vs. 2016 

2016 vs. 2015 

8.6 %  
5.5 %  
3.0 %  
0.1 %  

(2.8 )% 
(2.2 )% 
0.4  % 
(1.0 )% 

Year-over-year price increases in the segment contributed 0.6% to sales growth during 2017 as compared to 2016 and are 
reflected as a component of the change in sales from existing businesses. 

Sales from existing businesses in the segment’s Advanced Instrumentation & Solutions businesses grew at a mid-single digit 
rate during 2017 as compared to 2016.  Year-over-year sales from existing businesses of field solutions products and services 
grew at a mid-single digit rate during 2017 as compared to 2016 due to increased demand for industrial test equipment, network 
tools and online condition-based monitoring equipment.  Year-over-year sales from existing businesses of product realization 
solutions grew at a high-single digit rate during 2017 driven primarily by continued growth in the semiconductor and consumer 
electronics end markets as well as increased demand for oscilloscopes and new product introductions but were partly offset by 
a decline in demand for design, engineering and manufacturing services.  Sales in the segment’s energetic materials business 

28 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
   
also contributed to growth during 2017.  Geographically, demand from existing businesses increased on a year-over-year basis 
in Asia, driving strong growth in high-growth markets, as well as in Western Europe and North America. 

Sales from existing businesses in the segment’s Sensing Technologies businesses grew at a mid-single digit rate during 2017 as 
compared to 2016.  Increased year-over-year demand in the industrial end market was partly offset by lower demand in the 
medical end market.  Geographically, increases in demand on a year-over-year basis were driven by growth in Asia, North 
America and Western Europe. 

Operating profit margin increased 40 basis points during 2017 as compared to 2016.  Year-over-year operating profit margin 
comparisons were favorably impacted by: 

•   Higher 2017 sales volumes, incremental year-over-year cost savings associated with restructuring and productivity 

improvement initiatives, lower year-over-year intangible asset amortization due to certain intangible assets being fully 
amortized and changes in currency exchange rates, net of incremental year-over-year costs associated with various 
product development and sales and marketing growth investments, the positive impact in 2016 of a transition services 
agreement related to a disposition made by Danaher prior to the Separation and incremental year-over-year bad debt 
charges:  190 basis points 

Year-over-year operating profit margin comparisons were unfavorably impacted by: 

•   Acquisition-related transaction costs and acquisition-related restructuring:  70 basis points 

•   The incremental year-over-year net dilutive effect of acquired businesses:  80 basis points 

2016 COMPARED TO 2015 

Year-over-year price increases in the segment contributed 0.5% to sales growth during 2016 as compared to 2015 and are 
reflected as a component of the change in sales from existing businesses. 

Sales from existing businesses in the segment’s Advanced Instrumentation & Solutions businesses declined at a low-single 
digit rate during 2016 as compared to 2015.  The business continued to experience stabilization in demand during the second 
half of 2016 as compared to the first half 2016, and reported increased demand from existing businesses in the second half of 
2016 as compared to the comparable prior year period.  Geographically, sales from existing businesses declined in the United 
States and Latin America, partly offset by increases in China and Western Europe.  Demand for field solutions products and 
services declined at a low-single digit rate during 2016 as compared to 2015 with year-over-year sales declines during the first 
half of the year partly offset by year-over-year sales growth during the second half of 2016.  During 2016, year-over-year 
demand increased for online condition-based monitoring equipment and network tools as well as for thermography equipment 
in China, while demand decreased for calibration and biomedical equipment.  On a year-over-year basis, industrial product 
sales for field solutions products and services declined during 2016 but grew during the second half of 2016 compared to the 
comparable period in 2015, reflecting a stabilization in end customer demand.  Year-over-year sales of product realization 
services and products declined at a mid-single digit rate during 2016 as compared to 2015.  Declines in some major product 
realization product lines were partly offset by growth in education and defense-related end markets and semiconductor and 
communications end markets in China as well as increased demand for precision electrical measurement products and video 
network monitoring products.  Demand for design, engineering and manufacturing services increased on a year-over-year basis 
but slowed during the second half of 2016. 

Sales from existing businesses in the segment’s Sensing Technologies businesses declined at a low-single digit rate during 2016 
as compared to 2015.  Demand in these businesses continued to stabilize throughout the year and delivered high-single digit 
growth on a year-over-year basis during the fourth quarter of 2016.  Sales declines during 2016 for control products were 
partially offset by increased sales of sensing products primarily in the food and beverage, medical equipment and heating and 
air conditioning end-markets.  Geographically, sales from existing businesses decreased on a year-over-year basis in North 
America, partly offset by improved demand in Asia. 

Operating profit margins decreased 120 basis points during 2016 as compared to 2015.  The following factors unfavorably 
impacted year-over-year operating profit margin comparisons: 

•   Lower 2016 sales volumes (offset by price increases), increased costs associated with various product development 
and sales and marketing growth investments and changes in currency exchange rates, net of incremental year-over-
year cost savings associated with restructuring and productivity improvement initiatives and the impact of lower 
amortization related to acquired intangible assets:  90 basis points  

•   The incremental net dilutive effect in 2016 of acquired businesses:  30 basis points. 

29 

 
INDUSTRIAL TECHNOLOGIES 

The Industrial Technologies segment consists of our Transportation Technologies, Automation & Specialty Components and 
Franchise Distribution businesses.  Our Transportation Technologies business is a leading worldwide provider of solutions and 
services focused on fuel dispensing, remote fuel management, point-of-sale and payment systems, environmental compliance, 
vehicle tracking and fleet management, and traffic management.  The Automation & Specialty Components business provides a 
wide range of electromechanical and electronic motion control products and mechanical components, as well as supplemental 
braking systems for commercial vehicles.  Our Franchise Distribution business manufactures and distributes professional tools 
and a full-line of wheel service equipment. 

Industrial Technologies Selected Financial Data 

($ in millions) 
Sales 
Operating profit 
Depreciation 
Amortization 
Operating profit as a % of sales 
Depreciation as a % of sales 
Amortization as a % of sales 

Components of Sales Growth 

Total revenue growth (GAAP) 
Existing businesses (Non-GAAP) 
Acquisitions (a) (Non-GAAP) 
Currency exchange rates (Non-GAAP) 

$ 

For the Year Ended December 31 

  $ 

2017 
3,516.9  
718.7  
60.9  
25.2  
20.4 %  
1.7 %  
0.7 %  

  $ 

2016 
3,332.7  
667.4  
53.8  
21.9  
20.0 %  
1.6 %  
0.7 %  

2015 
3,204.6  
617.2  
52.9  
20.5  
19.3 % 
1.7 % 
0.6 % 

2017 vs. 2016 

2016 vs. 2015 

5.5 %  
3.6 %  
1.5 %  
0.4 %  

4.0 % 
4.1  % 
0.9  % 
(1.0 )% 

(a) Includes the impact from acquisitions, divestitures, and the Separation 

2017 COMPARED TO 2016 

Year-over-year price increases in the segment contributed 0.2% to sales growth during 2017 as compared to 2016 and are 
reflected as a component of the change in sales from existing businesses. 

Sales from existing businesses in the segment’s Transportation Technologies businesses grew at a low-single digit rate during 
2017 as compared to 2016 due primarily to strong demand for dispensers and payment systems in both the United States and 
Europe partly offset by decreased year-over-year EMV-related demand for indoor point-of-sale systems in the United States as 
customers had largely upgraded to products that support indoor EMV requirements in the prior year in response to the indoor 
liability shift.  We expect EMV deadlines to continue to drive demand for the next several years, however, we do not expect this 
to be a significant component of year-over-year growth during the first half of 2018; we will continue to closely monitor this 
market dynamic and customer behavior.  Geographically, sales from existing businesses increased on a year-over-year basis in 
Europe, Latin America and the United States, partially offset by declines in the Asia-Pacific region. 

Sales from existing businesses in the segment’s Automation & Specialty Components businesses grew at a mid-single digit rate 
during 2017 as compared to 2016 due primarily to increased year-over-year demand in industrial and robotics end markets in 
China, Western Europe and the United States.  Year-over-year demand for engine retarder products was strong in China, and 
demand in the United States improved sequentially throughout the year. 

Sales from existing businesses in the segment’s Franchise Distribution businesses grew at a low-single digit rate during 2017 as 
compared to 2016.  Increased year-over-year demand for hardline and diagnostic tools was partially offset by a decline in 
demand for powered and tool storage products. 

Operating profit margin increased 40 basis points during 2017 as compared to 2016.  Year-over-year operating profit margin 
comparisons were favorably impacted by: 

30 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
   
•   Higher 2017 sales volumes, incremental year-over-year cost savings associated with restructuring and productivity 

improvement initiatives, costs associated with various growth investments made in 2016 and changes in currency 
exchange rates, partially offset by incremental year-over-year costs associated with various product development and 
sales and marketing growth investments:  60 basis points 

Year-over-year operating profit margin comparisons were unfavorably impacted by: 

•   The incremental year-over-year net dilutive effect of acquired businesses:  20 basis points 

2016 COMPARED TO 2015 

Year-over-year price increases in the segment contributed 0.3% to sales growth during 2016 as compared to 2015 and are 
reflected as a component of the change in sales from existing businesses. 

Sales from existing businesses in the segment’s Transportation Technologies businesses grew at a high-single digit rate during  
2016 as compared to 2015, due primarily to strong demand for dispenser, payment and point-of-sale systems, environmental 
compliance products as well as vehicle and fleet management products, partly offset by weaker year-over-year demand for 
compressed natural gas products.  As expected, beginning in the second half of 2016, the business began to experience reduced 
EMV-related demand for indoor point-of-sale solutions, as customers had largely upgraded to products that support indoor 
EMV requirements in the prior year in response to the indoor liability shift.  However, demand increased on a year-over-year 
basis for dispensers and payment systems as customers in the United States continued to upgrade equipment driven primarily 
by the EMV deadlines related to outdoor payment systems.  Geographically, sales from existing businesses continued to 
increase on a year-over-year basis in the United States and to a lesser extent in Asia and Western Europe. 

Sales from existing businesses in the segment’s Automation & Specialty Components business declined at a low-single digit 
rate during 2016 as compared to 2015.  The businesses experienced sequential year-over-year improvement in demand during 
the second half of 2016 as compared to the first half of 2016.  During 2016, year-over-year demand declined for engine retarder 
products due primarily to weakness in the North American heavy-truck market, partly offset by strong growth in China and 
Europe.  In addition, year-over-year demand declined in certain medical and defense related end markets which were partly 
offset by increased year-over-year demand for industrial automation products particularly in China.  Geographically, sales from 
existing businesses in the segment’s Automation & Specialty Components businesses declined in North America, partly offset 
by growth in Western Europe and China. 

Sales from existing businesses in the segment’s Franchise Distribution business grew at a mid-single digit rate during 2016, as 
compared to 2015, due primarily to continued net increases in franchisees as well as continued growth in demand for 
professional tool products and tool storage products, primarily in the United States.  This growth was partly offset by year-
over-year declines in wheel service equipment sales during 2016. 

Operating profit margins increased 70 basis points during 2016 as compared to 2015.  The following factors favorably 
impacted year-over-year operating profit margin comparisons: 

•   Higher 2016 sales volumes, pricing improvements, incremental year-over-year cost savings associated with 

restructuring and productivity improvement initiatives and the incrementally favorable impact of the impairment of 
certain tradenames used in the segment in 2015 and 2016, net of costs associated with various growth investments, 
product development and sales and marketing growth investments, higher year-over-year costs associated with 
restructuring actions and changes in currency exchange rates:  65 basis points  

•   The incremental net accretive effect in 2016 of acquired businesses: 5 basis points 

COST OF SALES AND GROSS PROFIT 

($ in millions) 
Sales 
Cost of sales 
Gross profit 
Gross profit margin 

For the Year Ended December 31 

$ 

  $ 

2017 
6,656.0  
(3,357.5 )   
3,298.5  

  $ 

2016 
6,224.3  
(3,191.5 )   
3,032.8  

2015 
6,178.8  
(3,178.8 ) 
3,000.0  

49.6 %  

48.7 %  

48.6 % 

The year-over-year increase in cost of sales during 2017 as compared to 2016 is due primarily to the impact of higher year-
over-year sales volumes and changes in currency exchange rates partly offset by incremental year-over-year cost savings 

31 

 
 
 
 
 
 
associated with restructuring and productivity improvement initiatives, material cost and supply chain improvement actions, 
and costs associated with various growth investments made in 2016. 

The year-over-year increase in cost of sales during 2016 as compared to 2015 is due primarily to the impact of  higher year-
over-year sales volumes, incremental year-over-year costs associated with various growth investments and restructuring 
actions, partly offset by the effect of a strong U.S. dollar and the incremental year-over-year cost savings associated with 
restructuring and continued productivity, material cost and supply chain improvement actions. 

The year-over-year increase in gross profit (and the related 90 basis point increase in gross profit margin) during 2017 as 
compared to 2016 is due primarily to the favorable impact of pricing improvements and higher year-over-year sales volumes, 
incremental year-over-year cost savings associated with restructuring and productivity improvement initiatives, material cost 
and supply chain improvement actions and costs associated with various growth investments made in 2016, and changes in 
currency exchange rates. 

The year-over year increase in gross profit (and the related 10 basis point increase in gross profit margin) during 2016 as 
compared to 2015 is due primarily to the favorable impact of pricing improvements and higher year-over-year sales volumes, 
incremental year-over-year cost savings associated with restructuring actions, continued productivity and material cost and 
supply chain improvement actions, partly offset by incremental year-over-year costs associated with various growth 
investments and higher year-over-year costs associated with restructuring actions. 

OPERATING EXPENSES 

($ in millions) 
Sales 
Sales, general and administrative (“SG&A”) expenses 
Research and development (“R&D”) expenses 
SG&A as a % of sales 
R&D as a % of sales 

$ 

For the Year Ended December 31 

  $ 

2017 
6,656.0  
1,537.6  
406.0  
23.1 %  
6.1 %  

  $ 

2016 
6,224.3  
1,402.0  
384.8  
22.5 %  
6.2 %  

2015 
6,178.8  
1,352.6  
377.7  
21.9 % 
6.1 % 

SG&A expenses increased during 2017 as compared to 2016 due primarily to continued investments in our sales and marketing 
growth initiatives, increased acquisition-related transaction costs and increased general and administrative costs required to 
operate as a stand-alone public company as compared to the allocations derived from Danaher in periods prior to the 
Separation, which primarily impacted the first half of 2017 as compared to the first half of 2016.  These increases were partly 
offset by incremental year-over-year cost savings associated with restructuring and productivity improvement initiatives and 
lower year-over-year intangible asset amortization due to certain intangible assets, primarily in our Professional 
Instrumentation segment, being fully amortized.  SG&A expenses as a percentage of sales increased 60 basis points in 2017 as 
compared to 2016. 

SG&A expenses increased during 2016 as compared to 2015 due primarily to the increased general and administrative costs 
required to operate as a stand-alone public company as compared to the allocations derived from Danaher in periods prior to 
the Separation, continued investments in sales and marketing growth initiatives and incremental year-over-year costs associated 
with restructuring actions, partly offset by incremental year-over-year cost savings associated with restructuring and 
productivity improvement initiatives and the incrementally favorable impact of year-over-year impairment charges recorded 
during 2016 and 2015 related to certain tradenames used in the Industrial Technologies segment.   SG&A expense as a 
percentage of sales increased 60 basis points in 2016 as compared to 2015. 

R&D expenses (consisting principally of internal and contract engineering personnel costs) increased during 2017 as compared 
to 2016 due to incremental year-over-year investments in our product development initiatives.  On a year-over-year basis, R&D 
expenses as a percentage of sales decreased 10 basis points due primarily to the impact of sales growing at a faster rate than 
R&D expenses during the period.  R&D expenses as a percentage of sales increased 10 basis points on a year-over-year basis in 
2016 as compared to 2015.  Incremental year-over-year increases in investments in our product development initiatives were 
the primary contributors to this increase.  

INTEREST COSTS 

For a discussion of our outstanding indebtedness, refer to Note 9 to the Consolidated and Combined Financial Statements. 

Interest expense of $94 million was recorded during 2017 compared to $49 million during 2016.  Before the Separation, we 
depended on Danaher for all of our working capital and financing requirements under Danaher’s centralized approach to cash 

32 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
management and financing of operations of its subsidiaries, and, as such, did not have any outstanding debt prior to June 20, 
2016.  As a result, with the exception of cash, cash equivalents and borrowings clearly associated with Fortive and related to 
the Separation, we recorded no interest expense in our combined condensed financial statements for periods prior to the 
Separation.  In the event that additional liquidity is required, particularly in connection with acquisitions, we may enter into 
additional borrowings under our commercial paper programs or credit facilities and/or access the capital markets.  If we enter 
into such additional financing transactions, the amount of annual interest expense will increase. 

INCOME TAXES 

General 

Income tax expense and deferred tax assets and liabilities reflect management’s assessment of future taxes expected to be paid 
on items reflected in our financial statements.  We record the tax effect of discrete items and items that are reported net of their 
tax effects in the period in which they occur. 

On December 22, 2017, the U.S. enacted comprehensive tax reform commonly referred to as the Tax Cut and Jobs Act (the 
“TCJA”).  The TCJA represents a significant overhaul to the U.S. federal tax code.  The TCJA impacts, among other things, 
U.S. corporate tax rates, business-related exclusions, deductions, and credits.  The TCJA is expected to have a favorable impact 
on our financial statements for the foreseeable future.  In addition, we expect the TCJA to have a favorable impact in our future 
ability to engage in acquisition activities. 

Our effective tax rate can be affected by, among others, changes in the mix of earnings in countries with differing statutory tax 
rates (including as a result of business acquisitions and dispositions), changes in the valuation of deferred tax assets and 
liabilities, accruals related to contingent tax liabilities and period-to-period changes in such accruals, the results of audits and 
examinations of previously filed tax returns (as discussed below), the expiration of statutes of limitations, the implementation 
of tax planning strategies, tax rulings, court decisions, settlements with tax authorities and changes in tax laws, including 
legislative policy changes that may result from the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development’s (“OECD”) 
initiative on Base Erosion and Profit Shifting. 

The OECD has issued significant global tax policy changes that include both expanded reporting as well as technical global tax 
policy changes.  Many countries in which we operate have implemented tax law and administrative changes that align with 
many aspects of the OECD policy guidelines.  A number of the expanded reporting requirements were initially due in 2017, 
based upon 2016 results and we have taken comprehensive measures to address the requirements of these changes in global tax 
policy.  We do not expect these global tax policy changes to have a significant impact on our results of operations or cash flows.    
The majority of our operations are located in the U.S. 

We conduct business globally, and, as part of our global business, we file numerous income tax returns in the U.S. federal, state 
and foreign jurisdictions.  The countries in which we have a significant presence that have had lower statutory tax rates than the 
United States include China, Germany and the United Kingdom.  Our ability to obtain a tax benefit from lower statutory tax 
rates outside of the United States is dependent on our levels of taxable income in these foreign countries and under current U.S. 
tax law.  We believe that a change in the statutory tax rate of any individual foreign country would not have a material effect on 
our financial statements given the geographic dispersion of our taxable income. 

The amount of income taxes we pay is subject to audit by federal, state and foreign tax authorities, which may result in 
proposed assessments.  We review our global tax positions on a quarterly basis.  Based on these reviews, the results of 
discussions and resolutions of matters with certain tax authorities, tax rulings and court decisions and the expiration of statutes 
of limitations reserves for contingent tax liabilities are accrued or adjusted as necessary.  For a discussion of risks related to 
these and other tax matters, please refer to “Item 1A. Risk Factors.” 

We are routinely examined by various domestic and international taxing authorities.  In connection with the Separation, we 
entered into the Agreements with Danaher, including a tax matters agreement.  The tax matters agreement distinguishes 
between the treatment of tax matters for “Joint” filings compared to “Separate” filings prior to the Separation.  “Joint” filings 
involve legal entities, such as those in the United States, that include operations from both Danaher and the Company.  By 
contrast, “Separate” filings involve certain entities (primarily outside of the United States), that exclusively include either 
Danaher’s or the Company’s operations, respectively.  In accordance with the tax matters agreement, Danaher is liable for and 
has indemnified Fortive against all income tax liabilities involving “Joint” filings for periods prior to the Separation.  The 
Company remains liable for certain pre-Separation income tax liabilities including those related to the Company’s “Separate” 
filings. 

Pursuant to U.S. tax law, the Company’s initial U.S. federal income tax return was filed during October 2017 for the short 
taxable year July 2, 2016 through December 31, 2016.  We expect to file our first full year U.S. federal income tax return for 

33 

 
2017 with the IRS during October 2018.  The IRS has not yet begun an examination of the Company.  Our operations in certain 
foreign jurisdictions remain subject to routine examination for tax years 2008 to 2017. 

Comparison of the Years Ended December 31, 2017, 2016 and 2015 

Our effective tax rate for the years ended December 31, 2017, 2016 and 2015 was 18.7%, 27.1% and 32.0%, respectively. 

Our estimated effective tax rate including provisional estimates of the TCJA for 2017 differs from the U.S. federal statutory rate 
of 35.0% due primarily to net favorable impacts associated with the TCJA, our earnings outside the United States that are 
indefinitely reinvested and taxed at rates lower than the U.S. federal statutory rate, the impact of credits and deductions 
provided by law, state tax impacts, and favorable adjustments related to differences between estimates included in the 2016 
provision and amounts calculated on the 2016 U.S. income tax return filed in October 2017.   

Our effective tax rates for 2016 and 2015 differ from the U.S. federal statutory rate of 35.0% due primarily to our earnings 
outside the United States that are indefinitely reinvested and taxed at rates lower than the U.S. federal statutory rate, and the 
impact of credits and deductions provided by law.  The effective tax rate for 2016 includes benefits from the release of reserves 
resulting from expirations of statutes of limitations, primarily from periods prior to the Separation. 

For periods prior to the Separation, current income tax liabilities related to entities which filed jointly with Danaher are 
assumed to be immediately settled with Danaher and are relieved through Former Parent’s investment.  Income tax expense and 
other income tax related information contained in the consolidated and combined financial statements are presented as if we 
filed a separate tax return.  The separate tax return method applies the accounting guidance for income taxes to the standalone 
financial statements as if we were a standalone taxpayer for the periods prior to the Separation.  The calculation of our income 
taxes on a separate income tax return basis requires considerable judgment, estimates and allocations. 

COMPREHENSIVE INCOME 

Comprehensive income increased by $442 million in 2017 as compared to 2016, due primarily to favorable changes in foreign 
currency translation adjustments of $260 million and net earnings that were higher by $172 million.  In addition, we recorded 
favorable pension benefit adjustments of $2 million in 2017 compared to unfavorable adjustments of $8 million in 2016. 

Comprehensive income decreased by $9 million in 2016 as compared to 2015, due primarily to unfavorable pension benefit 
adjustments of $8 million in 2016 compared to favorable pension benefit adjustments of $18 million in 2015, partially offset by 
net earnings that were higher by $9 million and favorable changes in foreign currency translation adjustments of $8 million. 

INFLATION 

The effect of inflation on our revenues and net earnings was not significant in any of the years ended December 31, 2017, 2016 
or 2015. 

FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS AND RISK MANAGEMENT 

We are exposed to market risk from changes in interest rates, foreign currency exchange rates, credit risk and commodity 
prices, each of which could impact our financial statements.  We generally address our exposure to these risks through our 
normal operating and financing activities.  In addition, our broad-based business activities help to reduce the impact that 
volatility in any particular area or related areas may have on our operating profit as a whole. 

Interest Rate Risk 

We manage interest cost using a mixture of fixed-rate and variable-rate debt.  A change in interest rates on long-term debt 
impacts the fair value of our fixed-rate long-term debt but not our earnings or cash flows because the interest on such debt is 
fixed.  Generally, the fair market value of fixed-rate debt will increase as interest rates fall and decrease as interest rates rise.   
As of December 31, 2017, an increase of 100 basis points in interest rates would have decreased the fair value of our fixed-rate 
long-term debt by approximately $176 million.   

As of December 31, 2017, our variable-rate debt obligations consisted primarily of U.S. dollar and Euro-denominated 
commercial paper and term loan borrowings (refer to Note 9 to the Consolidated and Combined Financial Statements for 
information regarding our outstanding indebtedness as of December 31, 2017).  As a result, our primary interest rate exposure 
results from changes in short-term interest rates.  As these shorter duration obligations mature, we anticipate issuing additional 
short-term commercial paper obligations and term loans to refinance all or part of these borrowings.  The annual effective rate 
associated with outstanding U.S. dollar term loan borrowings and U.S. dollar and Euro-denominated commercial paper for the 
year ended December 31, 2017 was approximately 2.24%, 1.47% and (0.06)%, respectively.  For the period during which the 

34 

 
Yen term loan borrowings were outstanding during 2017 the annual effective rate was approximately 0.50%.  In addition, we 
recorded interest expense of $15.7 million on these variable-rate obligations.  A hypothetical 15 basis points increase in market 
interest rates as of December 31, 2017 on our variable-rate debt obligations would have increased our interest expense by $5.3 
million in 2017. 

Foreign Currency Exchange Rate Risk 

We face transactional exchange rate risk from transactions with customers in countries outside of the United States and from 
intercompany transactions between affiliates.  Transactional exchange rate risk arises from the purchase and sale of goods and 
services in currencies other than our functional currency or the functional currency of an applicable subsidiary.  We also face 
translational exchange rate risk related to the translation of financial statements of our foreign operations into U.S. dollars, our 
functional currency.  Costs incurred and sales recorded by subsidiaries operating outside of the United States are translated into 
U.S. dollars using exchange rates effective during the respective period.  As a result, we are exposed to movements in the 
exchange rates of various currencies against the U.S. dollar.  The effect of a change in currency exchange rates on our net 
investment in international subsidiaries is reflected in the accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) component of equity.   
A 10% depreciation in major currencies relative to the U.S. dollar as of December 31, 2017 would have resulted in a reduction 
of stockholders’s equity of approximately $204 million. 

Currency exchange rates positively impacted 2017 reported sales by 0.3% as compared to 2016, as the U.S. dollar was, on 
average, stronger against most major currencies during 2017 as compared to exchange rate levels during 2016.  If the exchange 
rates in effect as of December 31, 2017 were to prevail throughout 2018, currency exchange rates would positively impact 2018 
estimated sales by approximately 1.4% relative to our performance in 2017.  In general, additional weakening of the U.S. dollar 
against other major currencies would further positively impact our sales and results of operations on an overall basis and any 
strengthening of the U.S. dollar against other major currencies would adversely impact our sales and results of operations. 

We have generally accepted the exposure to exchange rate movements without using derivative financial instruments to manage 
this risk.  Both positive and negative movements in currency exchange rates against the U.S. dollar will therefore continue to 
affect the reported amount of sales, profit, and assets and liabilities in our consolidated and combined financial statements. 

Credit Risk 

We are exposed to potential credit losses in the event of nonperformance by counterparties to our financial instruments.   
Financial instruments that potentially subject us to credit risk consist of cash and temporary investments, and receivables from 
customers.  We place cash and temporary investments with various high-quality financial institutions throughout the world and 
exposure is limited at any one institution.  Although we typically do not obtain collateral or other security to secure these 
obligations, we regularly monitor the third party depository institutions that hold our cash and cash equivalents.  We emphasize 
safety and liquidity of principal over yield on those funds. 

In addition, concentrations of credit risk arising from receivables from customers are limited due to the diversity of our 
customers.  Our businesses perform credit evaluations of their customers’ financial conditions as appropriate and also obtain 
collateral or other security when appropriate. 

Commodity Price Risk 

For a discussion of risks relating to commodity prices, refer to “Item 1A. Risk Factors.” 

LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES 

We assess our liquidity in terms of our ability to generate cash to fund our operating, investing and financing activities.  We 
generate substantial cash from operating activities and believe that our operating cash flow and other sources of liquidity will 
be sufficient to allow us to continue to invest in existing businesses, consummate strategic acquisitions, make interest payments 
on our outstanding indebtedness, and manage our capital structure on a short and long-term basis. 

Yen Variable Interest Rate Term Loan 

On August 24, 2017, we entered into a term loan agreement that provides for a five-year ¥13.8 billion senior unsecured term 
facility (“Yen Term Loan”) that expires on August 24, 2022.  We borrowed the entire ¥13.8 billion available under this facility 
on August 28, 2017, which yielded net proceeds of approximately $126 million.  The Yen Term Loan bears interest at a rate 
equal to LIBOR plus 50 basis points, provided however that LIBOR may not be less than zero for the purposes of the Yen Term 
Loan.  As of December 31, 2017, borrowings under the Yen Term Loan bear an interest rate of 0.50% per annum.  During the 
period of 2017 in which the Yen Term Loan was outstanding, the annual effective rate was approximately 0.50%.  The Yen 
Term Loan is pre-payable at our option, and re-borrowing is not permitted once the term loan is repaid. 

35 

 
The terms and conditions, including covenants, applicable to the the Yen Term Loan are substantially similar to those 
applicable to the senior unsecured revolving credit facility established in 2016 (the “Revolving Credit Facility”) as described in 
Note 9 of the Consolidated and Combined Financial Statements. 

Shelf Registration Statement 

On June 12, 2017, we filed a shelf registration statement on Form S-3 with the SEC (the “Shelf Registration Statement”) that 
registers an indeterminate amount of debt securities, common stock, preferred stock, warrants, depositary shares, purchase 
contracts and units that may be issued in the future in one or more offerings.  Unless otherwise specified in the corresponding 
prospectus supplement, we expect to use net proceeds realized from future securities issuances off the Shelf Registration 
Statement for general corporate purposes, including without limitation repayment or refinancing of debt or other corporate 
obligations, acquisitions, capital expenditures, dividends and working capital. 

2016 Financing Transactions 

During 2016, we completed the following financing transactions: 

•   Entered into a credit agreement with a syndicate of banks providing for a three-year $500 million senior term 

facility that expires on June 16, 2019  (the “Term Facility”) and a five-year $1.5 billion Revolving Credit Facility 
that expires on June 16, 2021.  We borrowed the entire $500 million of loans under the Term Facility; 

•   Completed the private placement of $2.5 billion of senior unsecured notes in multiple series with maturity dates 

ranging from June 15, 2019 to June 15, 2046 (collectively, the “Private Notes”); and  

•   Established U.S. dollar and Euro-denominated commercial paper programs (collectively the “Commercial Paper 

Programs”) supported by the Revolving Credit Facility.  

Approximately $3.0 billion of the net proceeds of these financings activities was paid to Danaher in June 2016 as a cash 
dividend in connection with the Separation.  Refer to Note 9 of the Consolidated and Combined Financial Statements for more 
information related to our long-term indebtedness. 

Registration Rights Agreement 

In connection with the issuance of the Private Notes, we entered into a registration rights agreement, pursuant to which we 
were obligated to use commercially reasonable efforts to file with the SEC, and cause to be declared effective, a registration 
statement with respect to an offer to exchange each series of Private Notes for registered notes (“Registered Notes”) with 
substantially identical terms (“Exchange Offer”).  Accordingly, on May 5, 2017 we filed a Form S-4 with the SEC (the 
“Registration Statement”), which Registration Statement was declared effective on May 17, 2017.  On May 17, 2017, we 
launched the Exchange Offer, which expired on June 14, 2017.  All Private Notes were tendered and exchanged for Registered 
Notes in the Exchange Offer. 

Other 

Prior to the Separation, we were dependent upon Danaher for all of our working capital and financing requirements under 
Danaher’s centralized approach to cash management and financing of operations of its subsidiaries.  With the exception of 
cash, cash equivalents and borrowings clearly associated with Fortive and related to the Separation, including the financial 
transactions described above, financial transactions relating to our business operations during the period prior to the Separation 
were accounted for through the Former Parent’s investment, net (“Former Parent’s Investment”) account.  Accordingly, none of 
our Former Parent’s cash, cash equivalents or debt at the corporate level was assigned to us in the financial statements for the 
periods prior to the Separation.  As a result of the Separation, we no longer participate in Danaher’s cash management and 
financing operations. 

36 

 
Overview of Cash Flows and Liquidity 

Following is an overview of our cash flows and liquidity: 

($ in millions) 
Net cash provided by operating activities 

Cash paid for acquisitions 
Payments for additions to property, plant and equipment 
Proceeds from sale of real property 
All other investing activities 

Net cash used in investing activities 

Net proceeds from borrowings (maturities of 90 days or less) 
Proceeds from borrowings (maturities longer than 90 days) 
Payment of dividends 
Cash dividend paid to Former Parent 
Net transfers to Former Parent 
All other financing activities 

Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities 

Operating Activities 

Year Ended December 31, 

2017 

2016 

2015 

1,176.4     $ 

1,136.9     $ 

1,009.0  

(1,556.6 )   $ 
(136.1 )  
21.5    
1.5    
(1,669.7 )   $ 

557.6     $ 
125.9    
(97.2 )  
—    
—    
13.4    
599.7     $ 

(190.1 )   $ 
(129.6 )  
9.0    
(0.1 )  
(310.8 )   $ 

375.2     $ 

2,978.1    
(48.4 )  
(3,000.0 )  
(301.4 )  
0.3    
3.8     $ 

(37.1 ) 
(120.1 ) 
2.3  
(19.2 ) 
(174.1 ) 

—  
—  
—  
—  
(834.9 ) 
—  
(834.9 ) 

$ 

$ 

$ 

$ 

$ 

Cash flows from operating activities can fluctuate significantly from period-to-period as working capital needs and the timing 
of payments for income taxes, restructuring activities, pension funding and other items impact reported cash flows. 

Cash flows from operations were approximately $1,176 million in 2017, an increase of $40 million, or approximately 3%, as 
compared to 2016.  This year-over-year change in operating cash flows was primarily attributable to the following factors: 

•   2017 operating cash flows benefited from higher net earnings as compared to 2016.  Net earnings for 2017 benefited 
from a year-over-year increase in operating profits of $109 million, a $15 million non-cash gain from acquisition and 
an $8 million gain on the sale of property.  These were partially offset by a year-over-year increase in interest expense 
and other of $37 million primarily associated with debt issued in June 2016 in connection with the Separation.  The 
year-over-year increase in operating profit was not significantly impacted by changes in depreciation and 
amortization, which  are noncash expenses that decrease earnings without a corresponding impact to operating cash 
flows. 

•   The aggregate of accounts receivable, inventories and trade accounts payable used $26 million of operating cash flows 
during 2017 compared to providing $13 million of cash during 2016.  The amount of cash flow generated from or used 
by the aggregate of accounts receivable, inventories and trade accounts payable depends upon how effectively we 
manage the cash conversion cycle, which effectively represents the number of days that elapse from the day we pay 
for the purchase of raw materials and components to the collection of cash from our customers and can be 
significantly impacted by the timing of collections and payments in a period. 

•   Net earnings includes a benefit of  $70 million representing our provisional estimate of the impacts of the TCJA.  This 
benefit did not impact cash flows in 2017.  In addition, we have provisionally estimated $135 million for the one-time 
transition tax on cumulative foreign earnings.  Under the provisions of the TCJA, companies are permitted to elect to 
pay this transition tax over an eight-year period without interest.  We expect to make that election, which payment will 
impact our cash flow in the applicable periods.  For a discussion of the estimated impact of TCJA to 2017 results, see 
“—Income Taxes.” 

37 

 
 
 
 
 
 
   
   
 
 
   
   
Cash flows from operations increased $128 million during 2016 as compared to 2015.  This year-over-year change in operating 
cash flows was primarily attributable to the following factors: 

•   2016 operating cash flows benefited from higher net earnings as compared to 2015.  

•   The aggregate of accounts receivable, inventories and trade accounts payable generated $13 million of operating cash 

flows during 2016, compared to the $26 million used in operations during 2015.  

•   The aggregate of prepaid expenses and other assets and accrued expenses and other liabilities provided $35 million of 
operating cash flows during 2016, compared to the $61 million used in operations during 2015.  The timing of cash 
payments for income taxes and various employee related liabilities drove the majority of this change.   

Investing Activities 

Cash flows relating to investing activities consist primarily of cash used for acquisitions and capital expenditures.  Net cash 
used in investing activities was approximately $1,670 million during 2017 compared to approximately $311 million and $174 
million of net cash used in 2016 and 2015, respectively.  For a discussion of our acquisitions refer to “—Overview.” 

Capital expenditures are made primarily for increasing capacity, replacing equipment, supporting product development 
initiatives, improving information technology systems and purchase of equipment that is used in operating-type lease 
arrangements with customers.  Capital expenditures totaled $136 million in 2017, $130 million in 2016 and $120 million in 
2015.  The change in capital expenditures is due primarily to timing of investments and, in 2017, increased year-over-year 
expenditures on equipment leased to customers under operating-type leases, which contribute to our recurring revenue base.  In 
2018, we expect capital spending to be between approximately $125 million and $135 million, though actual expenditures will 
ultimately depend on business conditions. 

Financing Activities and Indebtedness 

Cash flows from financing activities consist primarily of cash flows associated with the issuance and repayments of 
commercial paper and other debt, payments of quarterly cash dividends to shareholders and, prior to the Separation, net 
payments and transfers to Former Parent.  Financing activities generated cash of $600 million in 2017 compared to 
approximately $4 million of cash provided in 2016.  In 2017, we received net proceeds from the issuance of commercial paper 
under the Commercial Paper Programs of $558 million, received proceeds from borrowings of $126 million and paid $97 
million of cash dividends to shareholders.  In 2016, we incurred approximately $3.4 billion of indebtedness offset by $3.3 
billion of payments and net transfers to Former Parent.   We no longer make any net transfers to Former Parent as a result of the 
Separation. 

We generally expect to satisfy any short-term liquidity needs that are not met through operating cash flows and available cash 
primarily through issuances of commercial paper under the Commercial Paper Programs.  Credit support for the Commercial 
Paper Programs is provided by the Revolving Credit Facility.  We classified our borrowings outstanding under the Commercial 
Paper Programs as long-term debt in the accompanying Consolidated Balance Sheet as of December 31, 2017, as we have the 
intent and ability, as supported by availability under the Revolving Credit Facility, to refinance these borrowings for at least one 
year from the balance sheet date.  As commercial paper obligations mature, we may issue additional short-term commercial 
paper obligations to refinance all or part of these borrowings. 

The carrying value of total debt outstanding as of December 31, 2017 was approximately $4.1 billion.  We had $1.5 billion 
available under the Revolving Credit Facility as of December 31, 2017.  Of this amount, approximately $948 million was being 
used to backstop outstanding U.S. and Euro commercial paper balances.  Accordingly, we had the ability to incur an additional 
$551 million of indebtedness under the Revolving Credit Facility as of December 31, 2017.  Refer to Note 9 to the 
Consolidated and Combined Financial Statements for information regarding our financing activities and indebtedness. 

The availability of the Revolving Credit Facility as a standby liquidity facility to repay maturing commercial paper is an 
important factor in maintaining the existing credit ratings of the Commercial Paper Programs.  We expect to limit any 
borrowings under the Revolving Credit Facility to amounts that would leave sufficient credit available under the facility to 
allow us to borrow, if needed, to repay all of the outstanding commercial paper as it matures. 

As of December 31, 2017, commercial paper outstanding under the U.S. dollar-denominated commercial paper program had an 
annual effective rate of 1.74% and a weighted average remaining maturity of approximately 23 days.  As of December 31, 
2017, commercial paper outstanding under the Euro-denominated commercial paper program had an annual effective rate 
of (0.08)%  and a weighted average remaining maturity of approximately 32 days.   

38 

 
Net cash provided by financing activities was $4 million in 2016 as compared to using $835 million in 2015, due primarily to 
our incurrence of approximately $3.4 billion of indebtedness in 2016, as described above, offset by the $3.0 billion dividend 
paid to Danaher in connection with the Separation.  In addition, year-over-year net transfers to Former Parent decreased by 
approximately $534 million.  

Dividends 

On November 2, 2017, we declared a regular quarterly dividend of $0.07 per share paid on December 29, 2017 to holders of 
record on November 24, 2017.  Aggregate cash payments for the dividends paid to shareholders during the year ended 
December 31, 2017 were $97.2 million and were recorded as dividends to shareholders in the Consolidated and Combined 
Statements of Changes in Equity and the Consolidated and Combined Statements of Cash Flows. 

On January 23, 2018, we declared a regular quarterly dividend of $0.07 per share payable on March 29, 2018 to holders of 
record on February 23, 2018. 

Cash and Cash Requirements 

As of December 31, 2017, we held approximately $962.1 million of cash and cash equivalents that were invested in highly 
liquid investment-grade instruments with a maturity of 90 days or less with an annual effective rate of less than 1.0%.  
Substantially all of the cash was held outside of the United States.   

We have cash requirements to support working capital needs, capital expenditures and acquisitions, pay interest and service 
debt, pay taxes and any related interest or penalties, fund our restructuring activities and pension plans as required, pay 
dividends to shareholders and support other business needs or objectives.  With respect to our cash requirements, we generally 
intend to use available cash and internally generated funds to meet these cash requirements, but in the event that additional 
liquidity is required, particularly in connection with acquisitions, we may also borrow under our commercial paper programs or 
credit facilities, enter into new credit facilities and either borrow directly thereunder or use such credit facilities to backstop 
additional borrowing capacity under our commercial paper programs and/or access the capital markets.  We also may from time 
to time access the capital markets, including to take advantage of favorable interest rate environments or other market 
conditions. 

The TCJA that was enacted in December 2017 is expected to materially improve our U.S. liquidity through lower corporate tax 
rates and enhanced cash repatriation.  The TCJA eliminated the U.S. tax cost for qualified repatriation beginning in 2018.  Pre-
2018 foreign cumulative earnings remain subject to foreign remittance taxes.  As a result of the TCJA, we expect to repatriate 
an estimated $275 million subject to an estimated $6 million in foreign remittance taxes.  This excludes foreign earnings: 1) 
required as working capital for local operating needs, 2) subject to local law restrictions, 3) subject to high foreign remittance 
tax costs, 4) previously invested in physical assets or acquisitions, or 5) intended for future acquisitions/growth.  We expect to 
apply this same approach to post-TCJA incremental foreign cash balances beginning in 2018. 

As of December 31, 2017, we recorded a current liability for the funds we have or intend to repatriate under the TCJA final 
transition tax.  Conversely, we have made an election regarding the amount of earnings that we do not intend to repatriate due 
to local working capital needs, local law restrictions, high foreign remittance costs, previous investments in physical assets and 
acquisitions, or future growth needs.  Such earnings are intended for indefinite foreign reinvestment and no provision for non-
U.S. income taxes has been made.  The amount of income taxes that may be applicable to such earnings is not readily 
determinable given the unknown duration of local law restrictions as applicable to such earnings, unknown changes in foreign 
tax law that may occur during the restriction periods, and the various alternatives we could employ if we repatriated these 
earnings.  The cash that our foreign subsidiaries hold for indefinite reinvestment is generally used to finance foreign operations 
and investments, including acquisitions.  We expect the TCJA to have a favorable impact in our future ability to engage in 
acquisition activities. 

As of December 31, 2017, we believe that we have sufficient liquidity to satisfy our cash needs, including our cash needs in the 
United States.   

During 2017, we contributed $11 million to our non-U.S. defined benefit pension plans.  During 2018, our cash contribution 
requirements for our non-U.S. defined benefit pension plans are expected to be approximately $10 million.  We do not expect to 
make contributions to the U.S. plan during 2018.  The ultimate amounts to be contributed depend upon, among other things, 
legal requirements, underlying asset returns, the plan’s funded status the anticipated tax deductibility of the contribution, local 
practices, market conditions, interest rates and other factors. 

Until the Separation, we were dependent upon Danaher for all of our working capital and financing requirements under 
Danaher’s centralized approach to cash management and financing of operations of its subsidiaries.  Because we were part of 

39 

 
Danaher for the periods prior to Separation, no cash, cash equivalents and borrowings were included in the consolidated and 
combined financial statements at December 31, 2015.  For all periods prior to the Separation, other financial transactions 
relating to our business operations were accounted for through the Former Parent’s Investment account. 

Contractual Obligations 

The following table sets forth, by period due or year of expected expiration, as applicable, a summary of our contractual 
obligations as of December 31, 2017 under (1) long-term debt obligations, (2) leases, (3) purchase obligations and (4) other 
long-term liabilities reflected on our balance sheet under GAAP.  Certain of our acquisitions may involve the potential payment 
of contingent consideration.  The table below does not reflect any such obligations, as the timing and amounts of any such 
payments are uncertain.  Refer to “—Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements” for a discussion of other contractual obligations that are 
not reflected in the table below.  

($ in millions) 
Debt and leases: 

Long-term debt obligations (a)(b) 
Capital lease obligations(b) 

$ 

Total long-term debt 
Interest payments on long-term debt and 
capital lease obligations (c) 
Operating lease obligations (d) 
Other: 
Purchase obligations (e) 
Other long-term liabilities reflected on 
the balance sheet under GAAP (f)(g) 

Total 

Total 

Less than 
one year 

1-3 years 

3-5 years 

More than 
5 years 

4,071.0     $ 
3.4    
4,074.4    

982.4 
152.1    

351.8    

—     $ 
0.1    
0.1    

800.0     $ 
0.8    
800.8    

1,821.0     $ 
0.6    
1,821.6    

75.2 
43.2    

332.0    

142.0 
63.0    

19.5    

112.3 
25.9    

0.2    

1,450.0  
1.9  
1,451.9  

652.9 
20.0  

0.1  

1,033.9 
6,594.6     $ 

$ 

— 
450.5     $ 

119.8 
1,145.1     $ 

82.5 
2,042.5     $ 

831.6 
2,956.5  

(a) As described in Note 9 to the Consolidated and Combined Financial Statements. 
(b) Amounts do not include interest payments.  Interest on long-term debt and capital lease obligations is reflected in a separate 

line in the table. 

(c) Interest payments on long-term debt are projected for future periods using the interest rates in effect as of December 31, 
2017.  Certain of these projected interest payments may differ in the future based on changes in market interest rates.  
(d) Includes future minimum lease payments for operating leases having initial or remaining noncancelable lease terms in 

excess of one year.  Certain leases require us to pay real estate taxes, insurance, maintenance and other operating expenses 
associated with the leased premises.  These future costs are not included in the schedule above. 

(e) Consist of agreements to purchase goods or services that are enforceable and legally binding on us and that specify all 

significant terms, including fixed or minimum quantities to be purchased, fixed, minimum or variable price provisions and 
the approximate timing of the transaction. 

(f) Primarily consist of obligations under product service and warranty policies and allowances, performance and operating 

cost guarantees, estimated environmental remediation costs, self-insurance and litigation claims, post-retirement benefits, 
pension benefit obligations, net tax liabilities and deferred compensation obligations.  The timing of cash flows associated 
with these obligations is based upon management’s estimates over the terms of these arrangements and is largely based 
upon historical experience. 

(g) Includes non-contractual obligations of $71 million of noncurrent gross unrecognized tax benefits.  However, the timing of 
these liabilities is uncertain, and therefore, they have been included in the “more Than 5 Years” column.  Also includes our 
provisional estimate of our obligation under the TCJA for the transition tax on cumulative foreign earnings and profits, 
which we expect to pay over eight years.  Refer to Note 11 to the Consolidated and Combined Financial Statements for 
additional information on unrecognized tax benefits. 

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements 

The following table sets forth, by period due or year of expected expiration, as applicable, a summary of our off-balance sheet 
commitments as of December 31, 2017: 

($ in millions) 
Guarantees 

Amount of Commitment Expiration per Period 

Total 

Less Than 
One Year 

1-3 Years 

4-5 Years 

More Than 
5 Years 

$ 

146.0     $ 

82.2     $ 

31.9     $ 

4.4     $ 

27.5  

40 

 
 
 
 
 
 
   
   
   
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
   
   
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
   
   
   
 
 
 
 
 
Guarantees consist primarily of outstanding standby letters of credit, bank guarantees and performance and bid bonds.  These 
guarantees have been provided in connection with certain arrangements with vendors, customers, financing counterparties and 
governmental entities to secure our obligations and/or performance requirements related to specific transactions. 

Other Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements 

We have, from time to time, divested certain of our businesses and assets.  In connection with these divestitures, we often 
provide representations, warranties and/or indemnities to cover various risks and unknown liabilities, such as claims for 
damages arising out of the use of products or relating to intellectual property matters, commercial disputes, environmental 
matters or tax matters.  We have not included any such items in the contractual obligations table above because they relate to 
unknown conditions and we cannot reasonably estimate the potential liabilities from such matters, but we do not believe it is 
reasonably possible that any such liability will have a material effect on our financial statements.  In addition, as a result of 
these divestitures, as well as restructuring activities, certain properties leased by us have been sublet to third parties.  In the 
event any of these third parties vacate any of these premises, we would be legally obligated under master lease arrangements.   
We believe the financial risk of default by such sub-lessors is individually and in the aggregate not material to our financial 
statements. 

In the normal course of business, we periodically enter into agreements that require us to indemnify customers, suppliers or 
other business partners for specific risks, such as claims for injury or property damage arising out of our products or services or 
claims alleging that our products, services or software infringe third party intellectual property.  We have not included any such 
indemnification provisions in the contractual obligations table above.  Historically, we have not experienced significant losses 
on these types of indemnification obligations. 

Our Restated Certificate of Incorporation requires us to indemnify to the full extent authorized or permitted by law any person 
made, or threatened to be made a party to any action or proceeding by reason of his or her service as a director or officer of the 
Company, or by reason of serving at the request of the Company as a director or officer of any other entity, subject to limited 
exceptions.  Our Amended and Restated Bylaws provide for similar indemnification rights.  In addition, we have executed with 
each of our directors and executive officers an indemnification agreement which provides for substantially similar 
indemnification rights and under which we have agreed to pay expenses in advance of the final disposition of any such 
indemnifiable proceeding.   While we maintain insurance for this type of liability, a significant deductible applies to this 
coverage and any such liability could exceed the amount of the insurance coverage. 

Legal Proceedings 

Please refer to Note 14 to the Consolidated and Combined Financial Statements for information regarding legal proceedings 
and contingencies, and for a discussion of risks related to legal proceedings and contingencies, please refer to “Item 1A. Risk 
Factor” 

CRITICAL ACCOUNTING ESTIMATES 

Management’s discussion and analysis of our financial condition and results of operations is based upon our consolidated and 
combined financial statements, which have been prepared in accordance with GAAP.  The preparation of these financial 
statements requires management to make estimates and judgments that affect the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, 
revenues and expenses, and related disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities.  We base these estimates and judgments on 
historical experience, the current economic environment and on various other assumptions that are believed to be reasonable 
under the circumstances.  Actual results may differ materially from these estimates and judgments. 

We believe the following accounting estimates are most critical to an understanding of our financial statements.  Estimates are 
considered to be critical if they meet both of the following criteria: (1) the estimate requires assumptions about material matters 
that are uncertain at the time the estimate is made, and (2) material changes in the estimate are reasonably likely from period to 
period.  For a detailed discussion on the application of these and other accounting estimates, refer to Note 2 to the Consolidated 
and Combined Financial Statements. 

Accounts Receivable:  We maintain allowances for doubtful accounts to reflect probable credit losses inherent in our portfolio 
of receivables.  Determination of the allowances requires us to exercise judgment about the timing, frequency and severity of 
credit losses that could materially affect the allowances for doubtful accounts and, therefore, net income.  The allowances for 
doubtful accounts represent management’s best estimate of the credit losses expected from our trade accounts, contract and 
financing receivable portfolios.  The level of the allowances is based on many quantitative and qualitative factors including 
historical loss experience by receivable type, portfolio duration, delinquency trends, economic conditions and credit risk 
quality.  We regularly perform detailed reviews of our accounts receivable portfolio to determine if an impairment has occurred 
and to assess the adequacy of the allowances.  If the financial condition of our customers were to deteriorate with a severity, 

41 

 
frequency and/or timing different from our assumptions, additional allowances would be required and our financial statements 
would be adversely impacted. 

Inventories:  We record inventory at the lower of cost or net realizable value, which is the estimated selling price in the ordinary 
course of business, less reasonably predictable costs of completion, disposal and transportation.  We estimate the net realizable 
value of our inventory based on assumptions of future demand and related pricing.  Estimating the net realizable value of 
inventory is inherently uncertain because levels of demand, technological advances and pricing competition in many of our 
markets can fluctuate significantly from period to period due to circumstances beyond our control.  If actual market conditions 
are less favorable than those we projected, we could be required to reduce the value of our inventory, which would adversely 
impact our financial statements.   Refer to Note 4 to the Consolidated and Combined Financial Statements. 

Acquired Intangibles:  Our business acquisitions typically result in the recognition of goodwill, in-process R&D and other 
intangible assets, which affect the amount of future period amortization expense and possible impairment charges that we may 
incur.  Refer to Notes 2, 3 and 6 to the Consolidated and Combined Financial Statements for a description of our policies 
relating to goodwill, acquired intangibles and acquisitions. 

In performing our goodwill impairment testing, we estimate the fair value of our reporting units primarily using a market based 
approach.  We estimate fair value based on multiples of earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization 
(“EBITDA”) determined by current trading market multiples of earnings for companies operating in businesses similar to each 
of our reporting units, in addition to recent market available sale transactions of comparable businesses.  In evaluating the 
estimates derived by the market based approach, we make judgments about the relevance and reliability of the multiples by 
considering factors unique to our reporting units, including operating results, business plans, economic projections, anticipated 
future cash flows, and transactions and marketplace data as well as judgments about the comparability of the market proxies 
selected.  In certain circumstances we also evaluate other factors including results of the estimated fair value utilizing a 
discounted cash flow analysis (i.e., an income approach), market positions of the businesses, comparability of market sales 
transactions and financial and operating performance in order to validate the results of the market approach.  The discounted 
cash flow model requires judgmental assumptions about projected revenue growth, future operating margins, discount rates and 
terminal values.  There are inherent uncertainties related to these assumptions and management’s judgment in applying them to 
the analysis of goodwill impairment. 

In 2017, we had thirteen reporting units for goodwill impairment testing.  Reporting units resulting from recent acquisitions 
generally present the highest risk of impairment.  We believe the impairment risk associated with these reporting units generally 
decreases as we integrate these businesses and better position them for potential future earnings growth.  The carrying value of 
the goodwill included in each individual reporting unit ranges from $7 million to $1.1 billion.  Our annual goodwill impairment 
analysis in 2017 indicated that in all instances, the fair values of our reporting units exceeded their carrying values and 
consequently did not result in an impairment charge.  The excess of the estimated fair value over carrying value (expressed as a 
percentage of carrying value for the respective reporting unit) for each of our reporting units as of the annual testing date 
ranged from approximately 0% to approximately 1200%.  In order to evaluate the sensitivity of the fair value calculations used 
in the goodwill impairment test, we applied a hypothetical 10% decrease to the fair values of each reporting unit and compared 
those hypothetical values to the reporting unit carrying values.  Based on this hypothetical 10% decrease, the excess of the 
estimated fair value over carrying value (expressed as a percentage of carrying value for the respective reporting unit) for each 
of our reporting units ranged from approximately -10% to approximately 1060%.  After applying the hypothetical 10% 
decrease, only one reporting unit’s hypothetical fair value was below its carrying value.  We evaluated other factors relating to 
the fair value of this reporting unit including, as applicable, results of the estimated fair value using an income approach, 
market positions of the businesses, comparability of market sales transactions and financial and operating performance, and we 
concluded no impairment charge was required. 

We review identified intangible assets for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the related 
carrying amounts may not be recoverable.  Determining whether an impairment loss occurred requires a comparison of the 
carrying amount to the sum of undiscounted cash flows expected to be generated by the asset.  We also test intangible assets 
with indefinite lives at least annually for impairment.  These analyses require management to make judgments and estimates 
about future revenues, expenses, market conditions and discount rates related to these assets. 

If actual results are not consistent with management’s estimates and assumptions, goodwill and other intangible assets may be 
overstated and a charge would need to be taken against net earnings which would adversely affect our financial statements. 

Contingent Liabilities:  As discussed in Note 14 to the Consolidated and Combined Financial Statements, we are, from time to 
time, subject to a variety of litigation and similar contingent liabilities incidental to our business (or the business operations of 
previously owned entities).  We recognize a liability for any contingency that is known or probable of occurrence and 
reasonably estimable.  These assessments require judgments concerning matters such as litigation developments and outcomes, 

42 

 
the anticipated outcome of negotiations, the number of future claims and the cost of both pending and future claims.  In 
addition, because most contingencies are resolved over long periods of time, liabilities may change in the future due to various 
factors, including those discussed in Note 14 to the Consolidated and Combined Financial Statements.  If the reserves we 
established with respect to these contingent liabilities are inadequate, we would be required to incur an expense equal to the 
amount of the loss incurred in excess of the reserves, which would adversely affect our financial statements. 

Revenue Recognition:  We derive revenues from the sale of products and services.  Refer to Note 2 to the Consolidated and 
Combined Financial Statements for a description of our revenue recognition policies. 

Although most of our sales agreements contain standard terms and conditions, certain agreements contain multiple elements or 
non-standard terms and conditions.  As a result, judgment is sometimes required to determine the appropriate accounting, 
including whether the deliverables specified in these agreements should be treated as separate units of accounting for revenue 
recognition purposes, and, if so, how the consideration should be allocated among the elements and when to recognize revenue 
for each element.  We allocate revenue to each element in the contractual arrangement based on the selling price hierarchy that, 
in some instances, may require us to estimate the selling price of certain deliverables that are not sold separately or where third 
party evidence of pricing is not observable.  Our estimate of selling price impacts the amount and timing of revenue recognized 
in multiple element arrangements. 

On January 1, 2018, we adopted Accounting Standards Update (“ASU”) No. 2014-09, Revenue from Contracts with Customers 
(Topic 606), which supersedes nearly all existing revenue recognition guidance. Refer to ‘New Accounting Standards’ in Note 2 
to the Consolidated and Combined Financial Statements for additional information on our adoption of this ASU. 

If our judgments regarding revenue recognition prove incorrect, our reported revenues in particular periods may be adversely 
affected. Historically, our estimates of revenue have been materially correct. 

Corporate Allocations:  Prior to the Separation we operated as part of Danaher and not as a stand-alone company.  Accordingly, 
we had been allocated certain shared costs which are reflected as expenses in the combined financial statements for the periods 
prior to the Separation.  We consider the allocation methodologies used to be reasonable and appropriate reflections of the 
related expenses attributable to the Company for purposes of the combined financial statements.  Refer to Note 18 to the 
Consolidated and Combined Financial Statements for a description of the pre-Separation allocations from Danaher and related 
party transactions. 

Stock-Based Compensation:  For a description of our stock-based compensation accounting practices, refer to Note 15 to our 
Consolidated and Combined Financial Statements.  Determining the appropriate fair value model and calculating the fair value 
of stock-based payment awards require subjective assumptions, including the expected life of the awards, stock price volatility 
and expected forfeiture rate.  Given our limited trading history following the Separation, stock price volatility used to calculate 
the fair value of stock-based payment awards in the post-Separation period was estimated based on an average historical stock 
price volatility of a group of peer companies.  The assumptions used in calculating the fair value of stock-based payment 
awards represent our best estimates, but these estimates involve inherent uncertainties and the application of judgment.  If 
actual results are not consistent with our assumptions and estimates, our equity-based compensation expense could be 
materially different in the future. 

Pension:  For a description of our pension accounting practices, refer to Note 10 to the Consolidated and Combined Financial 
Statements.  Certain of our non-U.S. employees participate in noncontributory defined benefit pension plans.  Calculations of 
the amount of pension costs and obligations depend on the assumptions used in the actuarial valuations, including assumptions 
regarding discount rates, expected return on plan assets, rates of salary increases, health care cost trend rates, mortality rates, 
and other factors.  If the assumptions used in calculating pension and other post-retirement benefits costs and obligations are 
incorrect or if the factors underlying the assumptions change (as a result of differences in actual experience, changes in key 
economic indicators or other factors), our financial statements could be materially affected.  A 50 basis point reduction in the 
discount rates used for the plans during 2017 would have increased the net obligation by $27 million ($21 million on an after 
tax basis) from the amounts recorded in the financial statements as of December 31, 2017. 

Our plan assets consist of various insurance contracts, equity and debt securities as determined by the administrator of each 
plan.  The estimated long-term rate of return for the plans was determined on a plan by plan basis based on the nature of the 
plan assets and ranged from 1.8% to 6.0%.  If the expected long-term rate of return on plan assets during 2017 was reduced by 
50 basis points, pension expense in 2017 would have increased by $1.0 million ($0.8 million on an after-tax basis). 

Income Taxes:  For a description of our income tax accounting policies, refer to Notes 2 and 11 to the Consolidated and 
Combined Financial Statements. 

43 

 
 
On December 22, 2017, the SEC issued Staff Accounting Bulletin No. 118 (“SAB 118”) that provides guidance on the financial 
statement implications of the TCJA.  Pursuant to SAB 118 interpretive guidance, we prepared and recorded tax accounting for 
the year ended December 31, 2017 applying tax laws in effect prior to the application of the provisions of the TCJA; and we 
also recorded provisional estimates (as defined in SAB 118) for all the effects of the TCJA.  Elections have been made on 
accounting policies and practices related to the TCJA, except that we are evaluating the accounting treatment related to the new 
TCJA global intangible low-taxed income (“GILTI”) rules in our financial statements and have not yet made a policy decision 
regarding whether to record deferred taxes.  SAB 118 provides for a one-year measurement period and we intend to complete 
the accounting for the TCJA impacts within that time frame.  As of December 31, 2017, we have not recorded any measurement 
period adjustments. 

We establish valuation allowances for our deferred tax assets if it is more likely than not that some or all of the deferred tax 
asset will not be realized.  As such, we make judgments and estimates regarding: (1) the timing and amount of the reversal of 
taxable temporary differences, (2) expected future taxable income, and (3) the impact of tax planning strategies.  Future 
changes to tax rates would also impact the amounts of deferred tax assets and liabilities and could have an adverse impact on 
our financial statements. 

We recognize tax benefits from uncertain tax positions only if, in our assessment, it is more likely than not that the tax position 
will be sustained on examination by the taxing authorities, based on the technical merits of the position.  The tax benefits 
recognized in the financial statements from such positions are measured based on the largest benefit that has a greater than 50% 
likelihood of being realized upon ultimate settlement.  Judgment is required in evaluating tax positions and determining income 
tax provisions.  We re-evaluate the technical merits of our tax positions and may recognize an uncertain tax benefit in certain 
circumstances, including when: (i) a tax audit is completed; (ii) applicable tax laws change, including a tax case ruling or 
legislative guidance; or (iii) the applicable statute of limitations expires. 

In addition, certain of our tax returns are currently subject to review by tax authorities (see “—Results of Operations – Income 
Taxes” and Note 11 to the Consolidated and Combined Financial Statements).  We believe the positions taken in these returns 
are in accordance with the relevant tax laws.  However, the outcome of these audits is uncertain and could result in us being 
required to record charges for prior year tax obligations which could have a material adverse impact on our financial 
statements, including our effective tax rate. 

An increase in our 2017 effective tax rate of 1.0% would have resulted in an additional income tax provision for the fiscal year 
ended December 31, 2017 of $13 million. 

NEW ACCOUNTING STANDARDS 

For a discussion of new accounting standards relevant to our businesses, refer to Note 2 to the Consolidated and Combined 
Financial Statements. 

ITEM 7A. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK 

The information required by this item is included under “Item 7. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial 
Condition and Results of Operations.” 

44 

 
ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA 

Report of Management on Fortive Corporation’s Internal Control Over Financial Reporting 

The management of the Company is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial 
reporting for the Company.  Internal control over financial reporting is defined in Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f) promulgated 
under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. 

The Company’s management assessed the effectiveness of the Company’s internal control over financial reporting as of 
December 31, 2017.  In making this assessment, the Company’s management used the criteria set forth by the Committee of 
Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (“COSO”) in “Internal Control-Integrated Framework” (2013 
framework).  Based on this assessment, management concluded that, as of December 31, 2017, the Company’s internal control 
over financial reporting is effective. 

The Company completed the acquisitions of Industrial Scientific Corporation (“ISC”) on August 25, 2017, Orpak Systems 
Limited (“Orpak”) on August 31, 2017, and Landauer Incorporated (“Landauer”) on October 19, 2017.  Since the Company has 
not yet fully incorporated the internal controls and procedures of ISC, Orpak, or Landauer into the Company’s internal control 
over financial reporting, management excluded ISC, Orpak, and Landauer from its assessment of the effectiveness of the 
Company’s internal control over financial reporting as of and for the year ended December 31, 2017.  Collectively, ISC, Orpak, 
and Landauer constituted less than 20% of the Company’s total assets as of December 31, 2017 and less than 5% of the 
Company’s total revenues for the year ended December 31, 2017.  

The Company’s independent registered public accounting firm has issued an audit report on the effectiveness of the Company’s 
internal control over financial reporting. This report dated February 27, 2018 appears on page 46 of this Form 10-K. 

45 

 
Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm 

To the Shareholders and the Board of Directors of Fortive Corporation 

Opinion on Internal Control over Financial Reporting 

We have audited Fortive Corporation and subsidiaries’ internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2017, based 
on criteria established in Internal Control-Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the 
Treadway Commission (2013 framework), as applicable (the COSO criteria). In our opinion, Fortive Corporation and 
subsidiaries (the Company) maintained, in all material respects, effective internal control over financial reporting as of 
December 31, 2017, based on the COSO criteria. 

As indicated in the accompanying Report of Management on Fortive Corporation's Internal Control Over Financial Reporting, 
management's assessment of and conclusion on the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting did not include the 
internal controls of Industrial Scientific Corporation (“ISC”), Orpak Systems Limited (“Orpak”), and Landauer Incorporated 
(“Landauer”), which are included in the 2017 consolidated and combined financial statements of the Company. Collectively, 
ISC, Orpak, and Landauer constituted less than 20% of the Company’s total assets as of December 31, 2017 and less than 5% 
of the Company’s total revenues for the year ended December 31, 2017. Our audit of internal control over financial reporting of 
the Company also did not include an evaluation of the internal control over financial reporting of ISC, Orpak, and Landauer. 

We also have audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) 
(PCAOB), the consolidated balance sheets of Fortive Corporation and subsidiaries  as of December 31, 2017 and 2016, the 
related consolidated and combined statements of earnings, comprehensive income, changes in equity and cash flows for each of 
the three years in the period ended December 31, 2017, and the related notes and financial statement schedule listed in the 
Index at Item 15(a)(2) and our report dated February 27, 2018 expressed an unqualified opinion thereon. 

Basis for Opinion 

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 Report of 
Management on Fortive Corporation’s Internal Control Over Financial Reporting. Our responsibility is to express an opinion 
on the Company’s internal control over financial reporting based on our audit. We are a public accounting firm registered with 
the PCAOB and are required to be independent with respect to the Company in accordance with the U.S. federal securities laws 
and the applicable rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission and the PCAOB. 

We conducted our audit in accordance with the standards of the PCAOB. 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, testing and evaluating the design and operating effectiveness of internal control based on the 
assessed risk, and performing such other procedures as we considered necessary in the circumstances. We believe that our audit 
provides a reasonable basis for our opinion. 

Definition and Limitations of Internal Control Over Financial Reporting 

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. 

46 

 
 
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. 

/s/ Ernst & Young LLP 
Seattle, Washington 

February 27, 2018 

47 

 
 
 
Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm 

To the Shareholders and the Board of Directors of Fortive Corporation 

Opinion on the Financial Statements 

We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of Fortive Corporation and subsidiaries (the Company) as of 
December 31, 2017 and 2016, the related consolidated and combined statements of earnings, comprehensive income, changes 
in equity and cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2017, and the related notes and financial 
statement schedule listed in the Index at Item 15(a)(2) (collectively referred to as the “consolidated and combined financial 
statements”). In our opinion, the consolidated and combined financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the 
financial position of the Company at December 31, 2017 and 2016, and the results of its operations and its cash flows for each 
of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2017, in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles.  

We also have audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) 
(PCAOB), the Company’s internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2017, based on criteria established in 
Internal Control-Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission 
(2013 framework) and our report dated February 27, 2018 expressed an unqualified opinion thereon. 

Basis for Opinion 

These financial statements are the responsibility of the Company's management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on 
the Company’s financial statements based on our audits. We are a public accounting firm registered with the PCAOB and are 
required to be independent with respect to the Company in accordance with the U.S. federal securities laws and the applicable 
rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission and the PCAOB. 

We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the PCAOB. Those standards require that we plan and perform the 
audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement, whether due to 
error or fraud. Our audits included performing procedures to assess the risks of material misstatement of the financial 
statements, whether due to error or fraud, and performing procedures that respond to those risks. Such procedures included 
examining, on a test basis, evidence regarding the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. Our audits also included 
evaluating the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall 
presentation of the financial statements. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion. 

/s/ Ernst & Young LLP 

We have served as the Company’s auditor since 2015. 

Seattle, Washington 

February 27, 2018  

48 

 
 
 
FORTIVE CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES 
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS 
($ and shares in millions, except per share amounts) 

ASSETS 
Current assets: 

Cash and equivalents 
Accounts receivable less allowance for doubtful accounts of $44.1 million and $47.8 
million at December 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016, respectively 
Inventories 
Prepaid expenses and other current assets 

Total current assets 
Property, plant and equipment, net 
Other assets 
Goodwill 
Other intangible assets, net 

Total assets 

LIABILITIES AND EQUITY 
Current liabilities: 

Trade accounts payable 
Accrued expenses and other current liabilities 

Total current liabilities 
Other long-term liabilities 
Long-term debt 
Equity: 

Preferred stock:  $0.01 par value, 15 million shares authorized; no shares issued or 
outstanding 
Common stock:  $0.01 par value, 2.0 billion shares authorized; 348.2 million and 346.0 
million issued; 347.8 million and 345.9 million outstanding at December 31, 2017 and 
December 31, 2016, respectively 
Additional paid-in capital 
Retained earnings 
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) 

Total Fortive stockholders’ equity 
Noncontrolling interests 

Total stockholders’ equity 
Total liabilities and equity 

As of December 31 

2017 

2016 

$ 

962.1     $ 

803.2  

1,143.6 
580.6    
250.5    
2,936.8    
712.5    
476.8    
5,098.5    
1,276.0    
10,500.6     $ 

727.5     $ 
874.8    
1,602.3    
1,033.9    
4,056.2    

945.4 
544.6  
195.5  
2,488.7  
547.6  
427.2  
3,979.0  
747.3  
8,189.8  

666.2  
800.3  
1,466.5  
674.3  
3,358.0  

— 

— 

3.5 
2,444.1    
1,350.3    
(7.6 )  
3,790.3    
17.9    
3,808.2    
10,500.6     $ 

3.5 
2,427.2  
403.0  
(145.8 ) 
2,687.9  
3.1  
2,691.0  
8,189.8  

$ 

$ 

$ 

See the accompanying Notes to the Consolidated and Combined Financial Statements. 

49 

 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
   
 
 
 
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
FORTIVE CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES 
CONSOLIDATED AND COMBINED STATEMENTS OF EARNINGS 
($ and shares in millions, except per share amounts) 

Sales 
Cost of sales 

Gross profit 
Operating costs: 

Selling, general and administrative expenses 
Research and development expenses 

Operating profit 
Non-operating income (expense): 

Gain from acquisition 
Interest expense and other 

Earnings before income taxes 
Income taxes 

Net earnings 

Net earnings per share: 

Basic 
Diluted 

Average common stock and common equivalent shares outstanding: 

Basic 
Diluted 

Year Ended December 31 

2017 

2016 

2015 

$ 

6,656.0     $ 
(3,357.5 )  
3,298.5    

6,224.3     $ 
(3,191.5 )  
3,032.8    

(1,537.6 )  
(406.0 )  
1,354.9    

(1,402.0 )  
(384.8 )  
1,246.0    

15.3    
(86.0 )  
1,284.2    
(239.7 )  
1,044.5     $ 

—    
(49.0 )  
1,197.0    
(324.7 )  
872.3     $ 

3.01     $ 
2.96     $ 

2.52     $ 
2.51     $ 

347.5    
352.6    

345.7    
347.3    

$ 

$ 
$ 

6,178.8  
(3,178.8 ) 
3,000.0  

(1,352.6 ) 
(377.7 ) 
1,269.7  

—  
—  
1,269.7  
(405.9 ) 
863.8  

2.50  
2.50  

345.2  
345.2  

See the accompanying Notes to the Consolidated and Combined Financial Statements. 

50 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
   
 
   
   
 
   
   
 
   
   
 
FORTIVE CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES 
CONSOLIDATED AND COMBINED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME 
($ in millions) 

Net earnings 
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of income taxes: 

Foreign currency translation adjustments 
Pension adjustments 

Total other comprehensive income (loss), net of income taxes 
Comprehensive income 

$ 

Year Ended December 31 

2017 

2016 

2015 

$ 

1,044.5     $ 

872.3     $ 

863.8  

136.6    
1.6    
138.2    
1,182.7     $ 

(123.8 )  
(7.6 )  
(131.4 )  
740.9     $ 

(131.7 ) 
17.8  
(113.9 ) 
749.9  

See the accompanying Notes to the Consolidated and Combined Financial Statements. 

51 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
   
 
FORTIVE CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES 
CONSOLIDATED AND COMBINED STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN EQUITY 
($ and shares in millions) 

Balance, January 1, 2015 
Net earnings for the year 
Net transfers to Former Parent 
Other comprehensive loss 
Former Parent common stock-based 
award activity 
Changes in noncontrolling interest 

Balance, December 31, 2015 
Net earnings for the year 
Recapitalization 
Cash dividend paid to Former Parent 
Dividends to shareholders 
Net transfers to Former Parent 
Noncash adjustments to Former 
Parent’s investment, net 
Other comprehensive loss 
Former Parent common stock-based 
award activity 
Fortive common stock-based award 
activity 
Changes in noncontrolling interests 

Balance, December 31, 2016 
Net earnings for the year 
Dividends to shareholders 
Separation related adjustments 
Other comprehensive loss 
Fortive common stock-based award 
activity 
Changes in noncontrolling interests 

Balance, December 31, 2017 

Accumulated 
Other 
Comprehensive 
Income (Loss) 

Noncontrolling 
Interests 

Former 
Parent’s 
Investment, 
Net 
5,129.8    
863.8    
(834.9 )  
—    

Retained 
Earnings   
—    
—    
—    
—    

Common Stock 

Shares 

  Amount 
—    
—    
—    
—    

—    
—    
—    
—    

— 
—    
—    
—    
345.2    
—    
—    
—    

— 
—    

— 

0.7 
—    
345.9    
—    
—    
—    
—    

— 
—    
—    
—    
3.5    
—    
—    
—    

— 
—    

— 

— 
—    
3.5    
—    
—    
—    
—    

Additional 
Paid-In 
Capital 

—    
—    
—    
—    

— 
—    
—    
—    
—    
—    
—    
—    

2,381.3 
—    

— 

45.9 
—    
2,427.2    
—    
—    
(50.2 )  
—    

— 
—    
—    
451.4    
—    
—    
(48.4 )  
—    

— 
—    

— 

— 
—    
403.0    
1,044.5    
(97.2 )  
—    
—    

99.5    
—    
—    
(113.9 )  

— 
—    
(14.4 )  
—    
—    
—    
—    
—    

— 
(131.4 )  

35.2 
—    
5,193.9    
420.9    
(3.5 )  
(3,000.0 )  
—    
(301.4 )  

(2,332.3 )  
—    

22.4 

— 

— 
—    
—    
—    
—    
—    
—    

— 
—    
(145.8 )  
—    
—    
—    
138.2    

1.9 
—    
347.8     $ 

67.1 
— 
—    
—    
3.5     $  2,444.1     $  1,350.3     $ 

— 
—    

— 
—    
—     $ 

— 
—    
(7.6 )   $ 

3.2  
—  
—  
—  

— 
(0.2 ) 
3.0  
—  
—  
—  
—  
—  

— 
—  

— 

— 
0.1  
3.1  
—  
—  
—  
—  

— 
14.8  
17.9  

See the accompanying Notes to the Consolidated and Combined Financial Statements. 

52 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
FORTIVE CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES 
CONSOLIDATED AND COMBINED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS 
($ in millions) 

Cash flows from operating activities: 

Net earnings 
Noncash items: 

Depreciation 
Amortization 
Stock-based compensation expense 
Gain from acquisition 
Gain on sale of real property 
Impairment charge on intangible assets 

Change in deferred income taxes 
Change in accounts receivable, net 
Change in inventories 
Change in trade accounts payable 
Change in prepaid expenses and other assets 
Change in accrued expenses and other liabilities 

Net cash provided by operating activities 
Cash flows from investing activities: 
Cash paid for acquisitions 
Payments for additions to property, plant and equipment 
Proceeds from sale of real property 
All other investing activities 
Net cash used in investing activities 
Cash flows from financing activities: 

Net proceeds from borrowings (maturities of 90 days or less) 
Proceeds from borrowings (maturities longer than 90 days) 
Payment of dividends 
Cash dividend paid to Former Parent 
Net transfers to Former Parent 
All other financing activities 

Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities 
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and equivalents 
Net change in cash and equivalents 
Beginning balance of cash and equivalents 
Ending balance of cash and equivalents 

Year Ended December 31 

2017 

2016 

2015 

$ 

1,044.5     $ 

872.3     $ 

863.8  

108.8    
65.3    
48.6    
(15.3 )  
(8.0 )  
2.3    
(78.2 )  
(65.4 )  
14.3    
24.9    
(100.4 )  
135.0    
1,176.4    

(1,556.6 )  
(136.1 )  
21.5    
1.5    
(1,669.7 )  

557.6    
125.9    
(97.2 )  
—    
—    
13.4    
599.7    
52.5    
158.9    
803.2     $ 
962.1     $ 

90.7    
85.7    
45.3    
—    
—    
4.8    
(10.0 )  
24.8    
(28.7 )  
17.2    
(16.3 )  
51.1    
1,136.9    

(190.1 )  
(129.6 )  
9.0    
(0.1 )  
(310.8 )  

375.2    
2,978.1    
(48.4 )  
(3,000.0 )  
(301.4 )  
0.3    
3.8    
(26.7 )  
803.2    

—     $ 
803.2     $ 

88.1  
88.8  
35.2  
—  
—  
12.0  
8.0  
(51.8 ) 
(27.7 ) 
53.6  
(61.3 ) 
0.3  
1,009.0  

(37.1 ) 
(120.1 ) 
2.3  
(19.2 ) 
(174.1 ) 

—  
—  
—  
—  
(834.9 ) 
—  
(834.9 ) 
—  
—  
—  
—  

$ 
$ 

See the accompanying Notes to the Consolidated and Combined Financial Statements. 

53 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
   
 
   
   
 
   
   
 
   
   
 
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED AND COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 

NOTE 1. BUSINESS OVERVIEW AND BASIS OF PRESENTATION  

Fortive Corporation (“Fortive” or “the Company”) is a diversified industrial growth company encompassing businesses that are 
recognized leaders in attractive markets.  Our well-known brands hold leading positions in advanced instrumentation and 
solutions, transportation technology, sensing, automation and specialty, and franchise distribution markets.  Our businesses 
design, develop, service, manufacture and market professional and engineered products, software and services for a variety of 
end markets, building upon leading brand names, innovative technology and significant market positions.   

Our research and development, manufacturing, sales, distribution, service and administrative facilities are located in more than 
50 countries. 

We report our results in two separate business segments consisting of Professional Instrumentation and Industrial Technologies.  
The Professional Instrumentation segment consists of our Advanced Instrumentation & Solutions and Sensing Technologies 
businesses.  The Advanced Instrumentation & Solutions businesses provide product realization and field solutions services and 
products.  Field solutions include a variety of compact professional test tools, thermal imaging and calibration equipment for 
electrical, industrial, electronic and calibration applications, online condition-based monitoring equipment; portable gas 
detection equipment, consumables, and software as a service (SaaS) offerings including safety/user behavior,  asset 
management, and compliance monitoring; subscription-based technical, analytical, and compliance services to determine  
occupational and environmental radiation exposure; and computerized maintenance management software for critical 
infrastructure  in utility, industrial, energy, construction, public safety, mining, and healthcare applications.   Product realization 
services and products help developers and engineers across the end-to-end product creation cycle from concepts to finished 
products and also include highly-engineered energetic materials components in specialized vertical applications.  Our Sensing 
Technologies business offers devices that sense, monitor and control operational or manufacturing variables, such as 
temperature, pressure, level, flow, turbidity and conductivity. 

The Industrial Technologies segment consists of our Transportation Technologies, Automation & Specialty Components and 
Franchise Distribution businesses.  Our Transportation Technologies business is a leading worldwide provider of solutions and 
services focused on fuel dispensing, remote fuel management, point-of-sale and payment systems, environmental compliance, 
vehicle tracking and fleet management, and traffic management.  The Automation & Specialty Components business provides a 
wide range of electromechanical and electronic motion control products and mechanical components, as well as supplemental 
braking systems for commercial vehicles.  Our Franchise Distribution business manufactures and distributes professional tools 
and a full line of wheel service equipment. 

Basis of Presentation 

Prior to our separation from Danaher Corporation (“Danaher” or “Former Parent”) on July 2, 2016 (the “Separation”), our 
businesses were comprised of certain Danaher operating units (the “Fortive Businesses”).  On July 1, 2016, Danaher 
contributed the net assets of the Fortive Businesses to Fortive Corporation, formerly a wholly-owned subsidiary of Danaher.  In 
addition, in connection with the Separation, we paid a cash dividend to Danaher in the amount of $3.0 billion and the 100 
shares of our common stock held by Danaher were recapitalized into 345,237,561 shares of Fortive common stock.  On July 2, 
2016, all of these shares were distributed to Danaher stockholders.  Following the Separation, Danaher no longer owned any of 
our shares.  Common stock outstanding used to compute per share amounts in the Consolidated and Combined Statements of 
Earnings for periods prior to July 1, 2016 have been retroactively adjusted to give effect to this recapitalization.  Fortive 
Corporation was incorporated on November 10, 2015, accordingly, we had no shares or common equivalent shares outstanding 
prior to that date.  The total number of shares outstanding immediately after the recapitalization described above was 345.2 
million and is utilized for the calculation of both basic and diluted net earnings per share (“EPS”) for all periods prior to the 
Separation.  

In connection with the Separation, on July 1, 2016, we entered into a separation and distribution agreement with Danaher as 
well as various other related agreements (collectively the “Agreements”) that govern the Separation and the relationships 
between the parties following the Separation, including an employee matters agreement, a tax matters agreement, an 
intellectual property matters agreement, a Danaher Business System (“DBS”) license agreement and a transition services 
agreement (“TSA”).  

Prior to the Separation, we were dependent upon Danaher for all of our working capital and financing requirements under 
Danaher’s centralized approach to cash management and financing of operations of its subsidiaries.  With the exception of 
cash, cash equivalents and borrowings clearly associated with Fortive and related to the Separation, including the financial 
transactions described below, financial transactions relating to our business operations during the periods prior to the 
Separation were accounted for through our Former Parent’s investment, net (“Former Parent’s Investment”) account.  

54 

 
Accordingly, none of the Former Parent’s cash, cash equivalents or debt at the corporate level was assigned to us in the 
financial statements for the periods prior to the Separation. 

The accompanying consolidated and combined financial statements present our historical financial position, results of 
operations, changes in equity and cash flows in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States 
of America (“GAAP”).  Certain reclassifications have been made to prior year financial information to conform to the current 
period presentation.  The combined financial statements for periods prior to the Separation were derived from Danaher’s 
consolidated financial statements and accounting records and prepared in accordance with GAAP for the preparation of carved-
out combined financial statements.  Through the date of the Separation, all revenues and costs as well as assets and liabilities 
directly associated with Fortive have been included in the combined financial statements.  Prior to the Separation, the combined 
financial statements also included allocations of certain general, administrative, sales and marketing expenses and cost of sales 
from Danaher’s corporate office and from other Danaher businesses to the Company and allocations of related assets, 
liabilities, and the Former Parent’s investment, as applicable.  The allocations were determined on a reasonable basis; however, 
the amounts are not necessarily representative of the amounts that would have been reflected in the financial statements had the 
Company been an entity that operated independently of Danaher during the applicable periods.  Related party allocations prior 
to the Separation, including the method for such allocation, are discussed further in Note 18. 

Following the Separation, the consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Fortive and those of our wholly-owned 
subsidiaries and no longer include any allocations from Danaher.  Accordingly: 

•   The Consolidated Balance Sheets at December 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016 consist of our consolidated balances. 

•   The Consolidated Statement of Earnings, Statement of Comprehensive Income, Statement of Changes in Equity and 

Statement of Cash Flows for the year ended December 31, 2017 consist of our consolidated results. 

•   The Consolidated and Combined Statement of Earnings, Statement of Comprehensive Income, Statement of Changes 
in Equity and Statement of Cash Flows for the year ended December 31, 2016 consist of our consolidated results for 
the six months ended December 31, 2016 and the combined results of the Fortive Businesses for the six months ended 
July 1, 2016. 

•   The Consolidated and Combined Statement of Earnings, Statement of Comprehensive Income, Statement of Changes 
in Equity and Statement of Cash Flows for the year ended December 31, 2015 consist of the combined activity of the 
Fortive Businesses. 

Our consolidated and combined financial statements may not be indicative of our results had we been a separate stand-alone 
entity throughout the periods presented, nor are the results stated herein indicative of what our financial position, results of 
operations and cash flows may be in the future. 

All significant transactions between the Company and Danaher have been included in the accompanying consolidated and 
combined financial statements for all periods presented.  Cash transactions with Danaher prior to the Separation are reflected in 
the accompanying Consolidated and Combined Statements of Changes in Equity as “Net transfers to Former Parent” and “Cash 
dividend paid to Former Parent.”  In addition, the accumulated net effect of intercompany transactions between us and Danaher 
or Danaher affiliates for periods prior to the Separation are included in “Noncash adjustments to Former Parent’s investment, 
net.” 

On July 2, 2016, in connection with the Separation, Former Parent’s Investment was redesignated within stockholders’ equity 
and allocated between common stock and additional paid-in capital based on the number of our common shares outstanding at 
the distribution date.  The Agreements include a “Wrong-Pockets Provision” that allows the parties to make adjustments to 
ensure the Separation-related transactions were executed in accordance with the Agreements.  In periods subsequent to the 
Separation, we may have made and may continue to make adjustments to balances transferred at the Separation date in 
accordance with the Wrong-Pockets Provision.  Any such adjustments are recorded through stockholders’ equity. 

The financial statements include our accounts and the accounts of our subsidiaries.  All intercompany balances and transactions 
have been eliminated upon consolidation.  The consolidated and combined financial statements also reflect the impact of non-
controlling interests.  Noncontrolling interests do not have a significant impact on our consolidated and combined results of 
operations, therefore net earnings and net earnings per share attributable to noncontrolling interests are not presented separately 
in our Consolidated and Combined Statements of Earnings.  Net earnings attributable to noncontrolling interests have been 
reflected in selling, general and administrative expenses (“SG&A”) and were insignificant in all periods presented. 

55 

 
NOTE 2. SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES   

Use of Estimates—The preparation of financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires management to make estimates 
and judgments that affect the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, revenues and expenses, and related disclosure of contingent 
assets and liabilities.  We base these estimates on historical experience, the current economic environment and on various other 
assumptions that are believed to be reasonable under the circumstances.  However, uncertainties associated with these estimates 
exist and actual results may differ from these estimates. 

Cash and Equivalents—We consider all highly liquid investments with a maturity of three months or less at the date of 
purchase to be cash equivalents. 

Accounts Receivable and Allowances for Doubtful Accounts—All trade accounts are reported on the accompanying 
Consolidated Balance Sheets adjusted for any write-offs and net of allowances for doubtful accounts.  The allowances for 
doubtful accounts represent management’s best estimate of the credit losses expected from our trade accounts, contract and 
financing receivable portfolios.  Determination of the allowances requires management to exercise judgment about the timing, 
frequency and severity of credit losses that could materially affect the provision for credit losses and, therefore, net earnings.  
We regularly perform detailed reviews of our portfolios to determine if an impairment has occurred and evaluate the 
collectability of receivables based on a combination of financial and qualitative factors that may affect customers’ ability to 
pay, including customers’ financial condition, collateral, debt-servicing ability, past payment experience and credit bureau 
information.  In circumstances where we are aware of a specific customer’s inability to meet its financial obligations, a specific 
reserve is recorded against amounts due to reduce the recognized receivable to the amount reasonably expected to be collected.  
Additions to the allowances for doubtful accounts are charged to current period earnings, amounts determined to be 
uncollectible are charged directly against the allowances, while amounts recovered on previously written-off accounts increase 
the allowances.  If the financial condition of our customers were to deteriorate, resulting in an impairment of their ability to 
make payments, additional reserves would be required.  We do not believe that accounts receivable represent significant 
concentrations of credit risk because of the diversified portfolio of individual customers and geographical areas.  We recorded 
$38 million, $31 million and $32 million of expense associated with doubtful accounts for the years ended December 31, 2017, 
2016 and 2015, respectively. 

Included in other assets on the Consolidated Balance Sheets as of December 31, 2017 and 2016 are $248 million and $214 
million of net aggregate financing receivables, respectively.  Financing receivables are evaluated for impairment collectively in 
broad groupings that represent homogeneous portfolios based on the underlying nature and risks. 

Inventory Valuation—Inventories include the costs of material, labor and overhead.  Domestic inventories are stated at the 
lower of cost or net realizable value primarily using the first-in, first-out (“FIFO”) method with certain businesses applying the 
last-in, first-out method (“LIFO”) to value inventory.  Inventories held outside the United States are stated at the lower of cost 
or net realizable value primarily using the FIFO method. 

Property, Plant and Equipment—Property, plant and equipment are carried at cost.  The provision for depreciation has been 
computed principally by the straight-line method based on the estimated useful lives of the depreciable assets as follows: 

Category 
Buildings 
Leased assets and leasehold improvements 

Machinery and equipment 

Useful Life 
30 years 
Amortized over the lesser of the economic life of the 
asset or the term of the lease 
3 – 10 years 

Estimated useful lives are periodically reviewed and, when appropriate, changes to estimates are made prospectively.  
Amortization of capital lease assets is included in depreciation expense as a component of SG&A. 

Other Assets—Other assets principally include noncurrent financing receivables, deferred tax assets and other investments. 

Fair Value of Financial Instruments—Our financial instruments consist primarily of accounts receivable and obligations under 
trade accounts payable and short and long-term debt.  Due to their short-term nature, the carrying values for accounts 
receivable, trade accounts payable and short-term debt approximate fair value.  Refer to Note 7 for the fair values of our other 
obligations. 

Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets—Goodwill and other intangible assets result from our acquisition of existing businesses.  
In accordance with accounting standards related to business combinations, goodwill is not amortized, however, certain definite-
lived identifiable intangible assets, primarily customer relationships and acquired technology, are amortized over their 
estimated useful lives.  Intangible assets with indefinite lives are not amortized.  In-process research and development 

56 

 
 
 
 
 
(“IPR&D”) is initially capitalized at fair value and when the IPR&D project is complete, the asset is considered a finite-lived 
intangible asset and amortized over its estimated useful life.  If an IPR&D project is abandoned, an impairment loss equal to the 
value of the intangible asset is recorded in the period of abandonment.  We review identified intangible assets for impairment 
whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the related carrying amounts may not be recoverable.  We also test 
intangible assets with indefinite lives at least annually for impairment.  Refer to Note 3 and Note 6 for additional information 
about our goodwill and other intangible assets. 

Revenue Recognition—As described above, we derive revenues primarily from the sale of Professional Instrumentation and 
Industrial Technologies products and services.  For revenue related to a product or service to qualify for recognition, there must 
be persuasive evidence of an arrangement with a customer, delivery must have occurred or the services must have been 
rendered, the price to the customer must be fixed and determinable and collectability of the associated fee must be reasonably 
assured.  Our principal terms of sale are FOB Shipping Point, or equivalent, and, as such, we primarily record revenue for 
product sales upon shipment.  Sales arrangements entered with delivery terms that are not FOB Shipping Point are not 
recognized upon shipment and the delivery criteria for revenue recognition is evaluated based on the associated shipping terms 
and customer obligations.  If any significant obligation to the customer with respect to a sales transaction remains to be fulfilled 
following shipment (typically installation or acceptance by the customer), revenue recognition is deferred until such obligations 
have been fulfilled.  Returns for products sold are estimated and recorded as a reduction of revenue at the time of sale.  
Customer allowances and rebates, consisting primarily of volume discounts and other short-term incentive programs, are 
recorded as a reduction of revenue at the time of sale because these allowances reflect a reduction in the purchase price.  
Product returns, customer allowances and rebates are estimated based on historical experience and known trends.  Revenue 
related to separately priced extended warranty and product maintenance agreements is deferred when appropriate and 
recognized as revenue over the term of the agreement. 

Revenues for contractual arrangements consisting of multiple elements (i.e., deliverables) are recognized for the separate 
elements when the product or services that are part of the multiple element arrangement have value on a stand-alone basis and, 
in arrangements that include a general right of refund relative to the delivered element, performance of the undelivered element 
is considered probable and substantially in our control.  Certain customer arrangements include multiple elements, typically 
hardware, installation, training, consulting, services and/or post contract support (“PCS”).  Generally, these elements are 
delivered within the same reporting period, except PCS or other services, for which revenue is recognized over the service 
period.  We allocate revenue to each element in the arrangement using the selling price hierarchy and based on each element’s 
relative selling price.  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 if neither VSOE or TPE is available.  
We consider relevant internal and external market factors in cases where we are required to estimate selling prices.  Allocation 
of the consideration is determined at the arrangements’ inception. 

Shipping and Handling—Shipping and handling costs are included as a component of cost of sales.  Revenue derived from 
shipping and handling costs billed to customers is included in sales. 

Advertising—Advertising costs are expensed as incurred. 

Research and Development—We conduct research and development activities for the purpose of developing new products, 
enhancing the functionality, effectiveness, ease of use and reliability of our existing products and expanding the applications for 
which uses of our products are appropriate.  Research and development costs are expensed as incurred. 

Restructuring—We periodically initiate restructuring activities to appropriately position our cost base relative to prevailing 
economic conditions and associated customer demand as well as in connection with certain acquisitions.  Costs associated with 
restructuring actions can include one-time termination benefits and related charges in addition to facility closure, contract 
termination and other related activities.  We record the cost of the restructuring activities when the associated liability is 
incurred.  Refer to Note 12 for additional information. 

Foreign Currency Translation and Transactions—Exchange rate adjustments resulting from foreign currency transactions are 
recognized in net earnings, whereas effects resulting from the translation of financial statements are reflected as a component of 
accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) within stockholders’ equity.  Assets and liabilities of subsidiaries operating 
outside the United States with a functional currency other than U.S. dollars are translated into U.S. dollars using year end 
exchange rates and income statement accounts are translated at weighted average exchange rates.  Net foreign currency 
transaction gains or losses were not material in any of the years presented. 

57 

 
 
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)—  Foreign currency translation adjustments are generally not adjusted for 
income taxes as they relate to indefinite investments in non-U.S. subsidiaries.  The changes in accumulated other 
comprehensive income (loss) by component are summarized below ($ in millions): 

Foreign 
currency  
translation  
adjustments 

Pension & post-  
retirement  
plan benefit  
adjustments (b) 

Total 

$ 

182.9    $ 

(83.4 )   $ 

99.5  

Balance, January 1, 2015 
Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications: 

Increase (decrease) 
Income tax impact 

Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications, net of 
income taxes 
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income 
(loss): 

Increase (decrease) 
Income tax impact 

Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income 
(loss), net of income taxes: 
Net current period other comprehensive income (loss): 
Balance, December 31, 2015 
Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications: 

Increase (decrease) 
Income tax impact 

Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications, net of 
income taxes 
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income 
(loss): 

Increase (decrease) 
Income tax impact 

Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income 
(loss), net of income taxes 
Net current period other comprehensive income (loss) 
Balance, December 31, 2016 
Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications: 

Increase (decrease) 
Income tax impact 

Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications, net of 
income taxes 
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income 
(loss): 

Increase (decrease) 
Income tax impact 

Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income 
(loss), net of income taxes: 
Net current period other comprehensive income (loss): 
Balance, December 31, 2017 

$ 

(131.7 )  
—    

(131.7 )  

—    
—    

— 
(131.7 )  
51.2    

(123.8 )  
—    

(123.8 )  

—    
—    

— 
(123.8 )  
(72.6 )  

136.6    
—    

136.6 

—    
—    

— 
136.6    
64.0     $ 

17.6    
(5.0 )  

12.6 

6.9   (a) 
(1.7 )  

5.2 
17.8    
(65.6 )  

(13.8 )  
2.0    

(11.8 )  

5.5   (a) 
(1.3 )  

4.2 
(7.6 )  
(73.2 )  

(3.5 )  
0.9    

(2.6 )  

5.5   (a) 
(1.3 )  

4.2 
1.6    
(71.6 )   $ 

(114.1 ) 
(5.0 ) 

(119.1 ) 

6.9  
(1.7 ) 

5.2 
(113.9 ) 
(14.4 ) 

(137.6 ) 
2.0  

(135.6 ) 

5.5  
(1.3 ) 

4.2 
(131.4 ) 
(145.8 ) 

133.1  
0.9  

134.0 

5.5  
(1.3 ) 

4.2 
138.2  
(7.6 ) 

(a) This accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) component is included in the computation of net periodic pension 

cost (refer to Note 10 for additional details). 

(b) Includes balances relating to non-U.S. employee defined benefit plans, supplemental executive retirement plans and other 

postretirement employee benefit plans. 

58 

 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation—We account for stock-based compensation by measuring the cost of employee 
services received in exchange for all equity awards granted, including stock options, restricted stock units (“RSUs”) and 
performance stock units (“PSUs”), based on the fair value of the award as of the grant date.  We had no stock-based 
compensation plans prior to the Separation; however certain of our employees had participated in Danaher’s stock-based 
compensation plans (“Danaher Plans”).  The expense associated with our employees who participated in the Danaher Plans was 
allocated to us in the accompanying Consolidated and Combined Statements of Earnings for the associated periods prior to the 
Separation.  Equity-based compensation expense is recognized net of an estimated forfeiture rate on a straight-line basis over 
the requisite service period of the award, except that in the case of RSUs, compensation expense is recognized using an 
accelerated attribution method.  Refer to Note 15 for additional information on the stock-based compensation plans. 

Pension—We measure our pension assets and obligations to determine the funded status as of year end, and recognize an asset 
for an overfunded status or a liability for an underfunded status on our balance sheet.  Changes in the funded status of the 
pension plans are recognized in the year in which the changes occur and are reported in other comprehensive income (loss).  
Refer to Note 10 for additional information on our pension plans including a discussion of actuarial assumptions, our policy for 
recognizing associated gains and losses and the method used to estimate service and interest cost components. 

Income Taxes—As discussed in Note 11, for periods prior to the Separation, current income tax liabilities are assumed to be 
immediately settled with Danaher and are relieved through Former Parent's Investment.  Income tax expense and other income 
tax related information contained in the consolidated and combined financial statements are presented as if we filed a separate 
tax return.  The separate tax return method applies the accounting guidance for income taxes to the standalone financial 
statements as if we had been a standalone taxpayer for the periods prior to the Separation.  The calculation of our income taxes 
on a separate income tax return basis requires considerable judgment, estimates, and allocations. 

In accordance with GAAP, deferred tax assets and liabilities are determined based on the difference between the financial 
statement and tax basis of assets and liabilities using enacted rates expected to be in effect during the year in which the 
differences reverse.  Deferred tax assets generally represent items that can be used as a tax deduction or credit in our tax return 
in future years for which the tax benefit has already been reflected on our Consolidated and Combined Statements of Earnings.  
We establish valuation allowances for our deferred tax assets if, in our assessment, it is more likely than not that some or all of 
the deferred tax asset will not be realized.  Deferred tax liabilities generally represent items that have already been taken as a 
deduction on our tax return but have not yet been recognized as an expense in our Consolidated and Combined Statements of 
Earnings.  The effect on deferred tax assets and liabilities due to a change in tax rates is recognized in income tax expense in 
the period that includes the enactment date.  The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (the “TCJA”), enacted in December 2017, reduced the 
U.S. Corporate tax rate from 35% to 21%, has resulted in a material reduction in our net deferred tax liabilities.  We recognize 
tax benefit from uncertain tax positions only if it is more likely than not that the tax position will be sustained on examination 
by the taxing authorities, based on the technical merits of the position.  The tax benefits recognized in the consolidated and 
combined financial statements from such positions are measured based on the largest benefit that has a greater than 50% 
likelihood of being realized upon ultimate settlement.  Judgment is required in evaluating tax positions and determining income 
tax provisions.  We reevaluate the technical merits of our tax positions and may recognize an uncertain tax benefit in certain 
circumstances, including when: (1) a tax audit is completed; (2) applicable tax laws change, including a tax case ruling or 
legislative guidance; or (3) the applicable statute of limitations expires.  We recognize potential accrued interest and penalties 
associated with unrecognized tax positions in income tax expense.  Refer to Note 11 for additional information. 

New Accounting Standards 

In May 2017, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) issued Accounting Standards Update (“ASU”) No. 2017-09, 
Compensation—Stock Compensation (Topic 718): Scope of Modification Accounting, which provided clarity on which changes 
to the terms or conditions of share-based payment awards require an entity to apply the modification accounting provisions 
required in Topic 718.  This standard is effective for us beginning January 1, 2018.  We do not expect the adoption of this 
standard will have a material impact on our financial statements. 

In March 2017, the FASB issued ASU No. 2017-07, Compensation—Retirement Benefits (Topic 715): Improving the 
Presentation of Net Periodic Pension Cost and Net Periodic Postretirement Benefit Cost, which aims to improve the 
presentation of net periodic pension cost.  Under current accounting standards, all components of net periodic pension costs are 
aggregated and reported in cost of sales or selling, general and administrative expenses in the financial statements.  Under the 
new standard we will be required to report only the service cost component in cost of sales or selling, general and 
administrative expenses; the other components of net periodic pension costs (which include interest costs, expected return on 
plan assets and amortization of net gain or loss) will be required to be presented in non-operating expenses.  The presentation 
requirement of this standard is effective for us beginning January 1, 2018 using a retrospective transition approach and provides 
for certain practical expedients.  We do not expect the adoption of this standard will have a material impact to our financial 
statements. 

59 

 
In January 2017, the FASB issued ASU No. 2017-04, Intangibles—Goodwill and Other (Topic 350): Simplifying the Test for 
Goodwill Impairment, which aims to simplify the subsequent measurement of goodwill by removing Step 2 of the current 
goodwill impairment test, which requires a hypothetical purchase price allocation.  Under the new standard, an impairment loss 
will be recognized in the amount by which a reporting unit's carrying value exceeds its fair value, not to exceed the carrying 
amount of goodwill.  This standard is effective for us prospectively beginning January 1, 2020, with early adoption permitted.  
We are currently evaluating the impact of this standard on our financial statements. 

In October 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-16, Income Taxes (Topic 740): Intra-Entity Transfers of Assets Other Than 
Inventory, which aims to improve the accounting for the income tax consequences of intra-entity transfers of assets other than 
inventory.  Current guidance prohibits the recognition of current and deferred income taxes for an intra-entity asset transfer 
until the asset has been sold to an outside party.  ASU 2016-16 provides that an entity should recognize both the current and 
deferred income tax consequences of an intra-entity transfer of an asset other than inventory when the transfer occurs.  This 
standard is effective for us beginning January 1, 2018 using a modified retrospective transition approach through a cumulative-
effect adjustment directly to retained earnings as of the beginning of the period of adoption.  We do not expect the adoption of 
this standard will have a material impact to our financial statements. 

In August 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-15, Statement of Cash Flows (Topic 230): Classification of Certain Cash 
Receipts and Cash Payments, which clarifies the classification and presentation of eight specific cash flow issues in the 
statement of cash flows.  In November 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-18, Statement of Cash Flows (Topic 230): 
Restricted Cash, which clarifies that restricted cash and restricted cash equivalents should be included in cash and cash 
equivalents in the statement of cash flows.  These standards are effective for us beginning January 1, 2018 (with early adoption 
permitted) using a retrospective transition approach, unless impracticable.  Although the assessment of the impact of the new 
standards has not yet completed, we do not anticipate the adoption of these standards to have a material impact on our financial 
statements. 

In June 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-13, Financial Instruments-Credit Losses (Topic 326): Measurement of Credit 
Losses on Financial Instruments, which amends the impairment model by requiring entities to use a forward-looking approach, 
based on expected losses, to estimate credit losses on certain types of financial instruments, including trade receivables.  This 
standard is effective for us beginning January 1, 2020, with early adoption permitted.  We are currently evaluating the impact of 
this standard on our financial statements. 

In February 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-02, Leases (Topic 842), which will require, among other items, lessees to 
recognize a right-of-use asset and a lease liability for most leases.  The standard also requires disclosures by lessees and lessors 
about the amount, timing and uncertainty of cash flows arising from leases.  The accounting applied by a lessor is largely 
unchanged from that applied under the current standard.  This standard is effective for us beginning January 1, 2019 (with early 
adoption permitted) using a modified retrospective transition approach and provides for certain practical expedients.  In 
September 2017, the FASB issued ASU No. 2017-13, Revenue Recognition (Topic 605), Revenue from Contracts with 
Customers (Topic 606), Leases (Topic 840), and Leases (Topic 842), which provided additional implementation guidance on the 
previously issued ASUs.  We are currently evaluating the impact of this standard on our financial statements. 

In May 2014, the FASB issued ASU No. 2014-09, Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606), which impacts 
virtually all aspects of an entity’s revenue recognition.  The core principle of the new standard is that revenue should be 
recognized to depict the transfer of promised goods or services to customers in an amount that reflects the consideration to 
which the entity expects to be entitled in exchange for those goods or services.  During 2016 and 2017, the FASB issued several 
amendments to the standard, including clarification to the guidance on reporting revenues as a principal versus an agent, 
identifying performance obligations, accounting for intellectual property licenses, assessing collectability, presentation of sales 
taxes, impairment testing for contract costs, disclosure of performance obligations and provided additional implementation 
guidance.  We adopted this standard beginning January 1, 2018 using the modified retrospective method.  The new standard 
will also require additional disclosures intended to provide users of financial statements comprehensive information about the 
nature, amount, timing and uncertainty of revenue and cash flows from customer contracts, including judgments and changes in 
judgments and assets recognized from costs incurred to obtain or fulfill a contract. 

We have completed our assessment and quantified the impact of the new revenue standard on our financial statements and 
related disclosures.  The recognition of revenue for the majority of customer contracts remained substantially unchanged, and 
for the customer contracts that changed we determined the impact to the financial statements to be immaterial.  We have 
identified and implemented appropriate changes to our processes, systems and controls to support recognition and disclosure 
under the new standard.  Furthermore, our disclosures will be expanded to meet the new standard’s disclosure objectives. 

60 

 
NOTE 3. ACQUISITIONS  

We continually evaluate potential acquisitions that either strategically fit with our existing portfolio or expand our portfolio into 
a new and attractive business area.  We have completed a number of acquisitions that have been accounted for as purchases and 
have resulted in the recognition of goodwill in our financial statements.  This goodwill arises because the purchase prices for 
these businesses reflect a number of factors including the future earnings and cash flow potential of these businesses, the 
multiple to earnings, cash flow and other factors at which similar businesses have been purchased by other acquirers, the 
competitive nature of the processes by which we acquired the businesses, the avoidance of the time and costs which would be 
required (and the associated risks that would be encountered) to enhance our existing offerings to key target markets and 
develop new and profitable businesses, and the complementary strategic fit and resulting synergies these businesses bring to 
existing operations. 

We make an initial allocation of the purchase price at the date of acquisition based upon our understanding of the fair value of 
the acquired assets and assumed liabilities.  We obtain this information during due diligence and through other sources.  In the 
months after closing, as we obtain additional information about these assets and liabilities, including through tangible and 
intangible asset appraisals, and learn more about the newly acquired business, we are able to refine the estimates of fair value 
and more accurately allocate the purchase price.  Only items identified as of the acquisition date are considered for subsequent 
adjustment.  We are in the process of obtaining valuations of certain acquired assets and evaluating the tax impact in connection 
with certain acquisitions.  We make appropriate adjustments to purchase price allocations prior to completion of the applicable 
measurement period, as required. 

The following briefly describes our acquisition activity for the three years ended December 31, 2017. 

On October 19, 2017, by a merger of Fern Merger Sub Inc., a Delaware corporation and an indirect wholly owned subsidiary of 
Fortive, into Landauer, Inc., a Delaware corporation (“Landauer”), we acquired all of the outstanding shares of common stock 
for $67.25 per share in cash, for a total purchase price of approximately $760 million, net of acquired cash (the “Landauer 
Acquisition”).  Landauer is a leading global provider of subscription-based technical and analytical readers to determine 
occupational and environmental radiation exposure, as well as a leading domestic provider of outsourced medical physics 
services.  Landauer is headquartered in Glenwood, Illinois, and is now part of the Professional Instrumentation segment.  
Landauer generated annual revenues of approximately $143 million in 2016.  We financed the Landauer Acquisition with 
available cash and proceeds from the issuance of U.S. dollar and euro-denominated commercial paper.  We preliminarily 
recorded approximately $514 million of goodwill related to the Landauer Acquisition. 

In addition to the Landauer Acquisition, during 2017, we acquired all the outstanding shares of common stock of Industrial 
Scientific Corporation (“ISC”) on August 25, 2017 and the remaining 80% of Orpak Systems Limited (“Orpak”) on August 31, 
2017, in which we previously had an ownership interest, for total consideration of $800 million in cash, net of cash acquired.  
The acquisition of the remaining 80% interest also resulted in the revaluation of our prior interest, and we recorded a gain from 
acquisition of $15.3 million.  The businesses acquired complement existing units of both our segments.  The aggregate annual 
sales of these businesses at the time of their respective acquisitions, in each case based on the company’s revenues for its last 
completed fiscal year prior to the acquisition, were approximately $246 million.  We preliminarily recorded an aggregate of 
$521 million of goodwill related to these acquisitions. 

During 2016, we acquired three businesses for total consideration of $190 million in cash, net of cash acquired.  The businesses 
acquired complement existing units of both our segments.  The aggregate annual sales of these businesses at the time of their 
respective acquisitions, in each case based on the acquired company’s revenues for its last completed fiscal year prior to the 
acquisition, were approximately $47 million.  We recorded an aggregate of $113 million of goodwill related to these 
acquisitions. 

During 2015, we acquired two businesses for total consideration of $37 million in cash, net of cash acquired.  The businesses 
acquired complement existing units of both our segments.  The aggregate annual sales of these businesses at the time of their 
respective acquisitions, in each case based on the acquired company’s revenues for its last completed fiscal year prior to the 
acquisition, were approximately $18 million.  We recorded an aggregate of $21 million of goodwill related to these 
acquisitions. 

61 

 
The following summarizes the estimated fair values of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed at the date of acquisition for 
all acquisitions consummated during the years ended December 31 ($ in millions): 

2017 

2016 

2015 

Accounts receivable 
Inventories 
Property, plant and equipment 
Goodwill 

$ 

103.7    $ 
37.3    
137.1    
1,035.2    

Other intangible assets, primarily customer relationships, trade names and technology 
Trade accounts payable 
Other assets and liabilities, net 
Previously held investment 
Net cash consideration 

$ 

587.8 
(18.7 )  
(289.0 )  
(36.8 )  
1,556.6     $ 

5.2    $ 
2.2    
0.6    
113.2    

82.7 
(1.5 )  
(12.3 )  
—    
190.1     $ 

2.8  
3.1  
1.0  
21.2  

13.0 
(0.9 ) 
(3.1 ) 
—  
37.1  

The following summarizes the estimated fair values of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed at the date of acquisition for 
the individually significant acquisitions in 2017 discussed above, and all of the other 2017 acquisitions as a group ($ in 
millions): 

Landauer 

Others 

Accounts receivable 
Inventories 
Property, plant and equipment 
Goodwill 

$ 

Other intangible assets, primarily customer relationships, trade names and technology 
Trade accounts payable 
Other assets and liabilities, net 
Previously held investment 
Net cash consideration 

$ 

31.2     $ 
5.0    
23.1    
514.4    

293.0 
(3.1 )  
(106.9 )  
—    
756.7     $ 

72.5     $ 
32.3    
114.0    
520.8    

Total 

103.7  
37.3  
137.1  
1,035.2  

294.8 
(15.6 )  
(182.1 )  
(36.8 )  
799.9     $ 

587.8 
(18.7 ) 
(289.0 ) 
(36.8 ) 
1,556.6  

During 2017, related to these three acquisitions, we incurred approximately $19 million of pretax transaction-related costs, 
primarily banking fees, legal fees, amounts paid to other third-party advisers, and other change in control costs.  These amounts 
are recorded in SG&A.  We recorded certain adjustments to the preliminary purchase price allocations during 2017 resulting in 
a net decrease of $56 million to goodwill.  Revenue and operating profit attributable to the acquisitions was immaterial for the 
year ended December 31, 2017. 

Transaction-related costs and acquisition-related fair value adjustments were not material to earnings in 2016 or 2015. 

Pro Forma Financial Information (Unaudited) 

The unaudited pro forma information for the periods set forth below gives effect to the 2017 and 2016 acquisitions as if they 
had occurred as of January 1, 2016.  The pro forma information is presented for informational purposes only and is not 
necessarily indicative of the results of operations that actually would have been achieved had the acquisitions been 
consummated as of that time ($ in millions except per share amounts): 

Sales 
Net earnings 
Diluted net earnings per share 

$ 
$ 
$ 

2017 

2016 

6,928.2    $ 
1,022.2    $ 
2.90    $ 

6,636.8  
845.4  
2.43  

62 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
NOTE 4. INVENTORIES  

The classes of inventory as of December 31 are summarized as follows ($ in millions): 

Finished goods 
Work in process 
Raw materials 
Total 

2017 

2016 

217.2     $ 
78.9    
284.5    
580.6     $ 

198.3  
79.3  
267.0  
544.6  

$ 

$ 

As of December 31, 2017 and 2016, the difference between inventories valued at LIFO and the value of that same inventory if 
the FIFO method had been used was not significant.  The liquidation of LIFO inventory did not have a significant impact on 
our results of operations in any period presented. 

NOTE 5. PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENT  

The classes of property, plant and equipment as of December 31 are summarized as follows ($ in millions): 

Land and improvements 
Buildings and leasehold improvements 
Machinery and equipment 

Gross property, plant and equipment 
Less: accumulated depreciation 

Property, plant and equipment, net 

2017 

2016 

67.8     $ 
389.7    
1,341.8    
1,799.3    
(1,086.8 )  

712.5     $ 

63.5  
340.8  
1,147.5  
1,551.8  
(1,004.2 ) 
547.6  

$ 

$ 

Total depreciation expense was $109 million, $91 million and $88 million for the years ended December 31, 2017, 2016 and 
2015, respectively.  Capital expenditures totaled $136 million, $130 million and $120 million for the years ended December 31, 
2017, 2016 and 2015, respectively.  There was no capitalized interest related to capitalized expenditures in any period. 

NOTE 6. GOODWILL AND OTHER INTANGIBLE ASSETS  

As discussed in Note 3, goodwill arises from the purchase price for acquired businesses exceeding the fair value of tangible and 
intangible assets acquired less assumed liabilities.  We assess the goodwill of each of our reporting units for impairment at least 
annually as of the first day of the fourth quarter and as “triggering” events occur that indicate that it is more likely than not that 
an impairment exists.  We elected to bypass the optional qualitative goodwill assessment allowed by applicable accounting 
standards and performed a quantitative impairment test for all reporting units as this was determined to be the most effective 
method to assess for impairment across a large spectrum of reporting units. 

We estimate the fair value of our reporting units primarily using a market approach, based on multiples of earnings before 
interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (“EBITDA”) determined by current trading market multiples of earnings for 
companies operating in businesses similar to each of our reporting units, in addition to recent market available sale transactions 
of comparable businesses. In certain circumstances we also evaluate other factors including results of the estimated fair value 
utilizing a discounted cash flow analysis (i.e., an income approach), market positions of the businesses, comparability of 
market sales transactions and financial and operating performance in order to validate the results of the market approach.  If the 
estimated fair value of the reporting unit is less than its carrying value, we must perform additional analysis to determine if the 
reporting unit’s goodwill has been impaired. 

In 2017, we had thirteen reporting units for goodwill impairment testing.  The carrying value of the goodwill included in each 
individual reporting unit ranges from $7 million to approximately $1.1 billion.  No goodwill impairment charges were recorded 
for the years ended December 31, 2017, 2016 and 2015 and no “triggering” events have occurred subsequent to the 
performance of the 2017 annual impairment test.  The factors used by management in its impairment analysis are inherently 
subject to uncertainty.  If actual results are not consistent with management’s estimates and assumptions, goodwill and other 
intangible assets may be overstated and a charge would need to be taken against net earnings.  

63 

 
 
 
 
 
The following is a rollforward of our goodwill by segment ($ in millions): 

Balance, January 1, 2016 

Attributable to 2016 acquisitions 
Foreign currency translation & other 

Balance, December 31, 2016 

Attributable to 2017 acquisitions 
Foreign currency translation & other 

Balance, December 31, 2017 

Professional 
Instrumentation 

Industrial 
Technologies 

Total 

$ 

$ 

2,400.6     $ 
61.3    
(38.2 )  
2,423.7    
851.8    
55.5    
3,331.0     $ 

1,548.4     $ 
51.9    
(45.0 )  
1,555.3    
183.4    
28.8    
1,767.5     $ 

3,949.0  
113.2  
(83.2 ) 
3,979.0  
1,035.2  
84.3  
5,098.5  

Finite-lived intangible assets are amortized over the shorter of their legal or estimated useful lives.  The following summarizes 
the gross carrying value and accumulated amortization for each major category of intangible asset as of December 31 ($ in 
millions): 

Finite-lived intangibles: 

Patents and technology 
Customer relationships and other intangibles 

Total finite-lived intangibles 
Indefinite-lived intangibles: 

Trademarks and trade names 

Total intangibles 

2017 

2016 

Gross Carrying 
Amount 

Accumulated 
Amortization 

Gross Carrying 
Amount 

Accumulated 
Amortization 

$ 

$ 

376.6    $ 

1,221.9    
1,598.5    

434.6    
2,033.1    $ 

(255.0 )  $ 
(502.1 )  
(757.1 )  

301.0    $ 
734.9    
1,035.9    

—    
(757.1 )  $ 

389.6    
1,425.5    $ 

(240.1 ) 
(438.1 ) 
(678.2 ) 

—  
(678.2 ) 

During 2017 and 2016, we acquired finite-lived intangible assets, consisting primarily of customer relationships, with a 
weighted average life of 13 years and 14 years, respectively.  Refer to Note 3 for additional information on the intangible assets 
acquired. 

Total intangible amortization expense in 2017, 2016 and 2015 was $65 million, $86 million and $89 million, respectively.  
Based on the intangible assets recorded as of December 31, 2017, amortization expense is estimated to be $97 million during 
2018, $93 million during 2019, $88 million during 2020, $85 million during 2021 and $81 million during 2022. 

NOTE 7. FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS  

Accounting standards define fair value based on an exit price model, establish a framework for measuring fair value where our 
assets and liabilities are required to be carried at fair value and provide for certain disclosures related to the valuation methods 
used within a valuation hierarchy as established within the accounting standards.  This hierarchy prioritizes the inputs into three 
broad levels as follows.  Level 1 inputs are quoted prices (unadjusted) in active markets for identical assets or liabilities.  Level 
2 inputs are quoted prices for similar assets and liabilities in active markets, quoted prices for identical or similar assets in 
markets that are not active, or other observable characteristics for the asset or liability, including interest rates, yield curves and 
credit risks, or inputs that are derived principally from, or corroborated by, observable market data through correlation.  Level 3 
inputs are unobservable inputs based on our assumptions.  A financial asset or liability’s classification within the hierarchy is 
determined based on the lowest level input that is significant to the fair value measurement in its entirety. 

Financial liabilities that are measured at fair value on a recurring basis were as follows ($ in millions): 

December 31, 2017 

Deferred compensation liabilities 

December 31, 2016 

Deferred compensation liabilities 

Quoted Prices 
in Active 
Market 
(Level 1) 

Significant 
Other 
Observable 
Inputs 
(Level 2) 

Significant 
Unobservable 
Inputs 
(Level 3) 

Total 

—     $ 

—     $ 

20.9    

14.8    

—     $ 

—     $ 

20.9  

14.8  

64 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
   
   
 
   
   
   
 
 
 
 
 
   
   
   
 
   
   
   
 
Certain of our management employees participate in our nonqualified deferred compensation programs that permit such 
employees to defer a portion of their compensation, on a pretax basis, until after their termination of employment.  All amounts 
deferred under such plans are unfunded, unsecured obligations and are presented as a component of our compensation and 
benefits accrual included in other long-term liabilities in the accompanying Consolidated Balance Sheets.  Participants may 
choose among alternative earning rates for the amounts they defer, which are primarily based on investment options within our 
defined contribution plans for the benefit of U.S. employees (“401(k) Programs”) (except that the earnings rates for amounts 
contributed unilaterally by the Company are entirely based on changes in the value of Fortive common stock).  Changes in the 
deferred compensation liability under these programs are recognized based on changes in the fair value of the participants’ 
accounts, which are based on the applicable earnings rates. 

Fair Value of Financial Instruments 

The carrying amounts and fair values of financial instruments as of December 31 were as follows ($ in millions): 

Long-term borrowings 

2017 

2016 

Carrying Amount 

Fair 
Value 

  Carrying Amount 

Fair 
Value 

$ 

4,056.2     $ 

4,051.8     $ 

3,358.0     $ 

3,321.4  

As of December 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016, long-term borrowings were categorized as Level 1. 

The fair value of long-term borrowings was based on quoted market prices.  The difference between the fair value and the 
carrying amounts of long-term borrowings may be attributable to changes in market interest rates and/or our credit ratings 
subsequent to the incurrence of the borrowing.  The fair values of cash and cash equivalents, trade accounts receivable, net and 
trade accounts payable approximate their carrying amounts due to the short-term maturities of these instruments. 

Refer to Note 10 for information related to the fair value of the Company-sponsored defined benefit pension plan assets. 

NOTE 8. ACCRUED EXPENSES AND OTHER LIABILITIES   

Accrued expenses and other liabilities as of December 31 were as follows ($ in millions): 

Compensation and post retirement benefits 
Claims, including self-insurance and litigation 
Pension benefit obligations 
Taxes, income and other 
Deferred revenue 
Sales and product allowances 
Warranty 
Other 

Total 

2017 

2016 

Current 

Long-term 

Current 

Long-term 

269.8     $ 
20.6    
10.3    
87.1    
213.4    
40.7    
68.0    
164.9    
874.8     $ 

65.2     $ 
70.9    
137.3    
616.3    
86.9    
—    
1.4    
55.9    
1,033.9     $ 

202.4     $ 
30.2    
9.9    
63.5    
204.6    
45.7    
63.1    
180.9    
800.3     $ 

49.8  
52.6  
127.4  
344.0  
80.1  
—  
1.9  
18.5  
674.3  

$ 

$ 

65 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
NOTE 9. FINANCING  

The carrying value of the components of our debt as of December 31 were as follows ($ in millions): 

U.S. dollar-denominated commercial paper 
Euro-denominated commercial paper 
U.S. dollar variable interest rate term loan due 2019 
Yen variable interest rate term loan due 2022 
1.80% senior unsecured notes due 2019 
2.35% senior unsecured notes due 2021 
3.15% senior unsecured notes due 2026 
4.30% senior unsecured notes due 2046 
Other 
Long-term debt 

2017 

2016 

665.1     $ 
282.7    
500.0    
122.4    
298.9    
745.9    
891.0    
546.8    
3.4    
4,056.2     $ 

347.9  
26.8  
500.0  
—  
298.3  
744.8  
890.1  
546.8  
3.3  
3,358.0  

$ 

$ 

Debt discounts, premiums and issuance costs of $18.2 million and $20.1 million as of December 31, 2017 and December 31, 
2016, respectively, have been netted against the aggregate principal amounts of the components of debt table above. 

Yen Variable Interest Rate Term Loan 

On August 24, 2017, we entered into a new term loan agreement that provides for a five-year ¥13.8 billion senior unsecured 
term facility (“Yen Term Loan”) that expires on August 24, 2022.  We borrowed the entire ¥13.8 billion available under this 
facility on August 28, 2017, which yielded net proceeds of approximately $126 million.  The Yen Term Loan bears interest at a 
rate equal to LIBOR plus 50 basis points, provided however that LIBOR may not be less than zero for the purposes of the Yen 
Term Loan.  As of December 31, 2017, borrowings under the Yen Term Loan bear an interest rate of 0.50% per annum.  During 
the period of 2017 in which the Yen Term Loan was outstanding, the annual effective rate was approximately 0.50%.  The Yen 
Term Loan is pre-payable at our option, and re-borrowing is not permitted once the term loan is repaid. 

The terms and conditions, including covenants, applicable to the the Yen Term Loan are substantially similar to those 
applicable to the senior unsecured revolving credit facility established in 2016 (the “Revolving Credit Facility”) as described 
below. 

Shelf Registration Statement 

On June 12, 2017, we filed a shelf registration statement on Form S-3 with the SEC (the “Shelf Registration Statement”) that 
registers an indeterminate amount of debt securities, common stock, preferred stock, warrants, depositary shares, purchase 
contracts and units that may be issued in the future in one or more offerings.  Unless otherwise specified in the corresponding 
prospectus supplement, we expect to use net proceeds realized from future securities issuances off the Shelf Registration 
Statement for general corporate purposes, including without limitation repayment or refinancing of debt or other corporate 
obligations, acquisitions, capital expenditures and dividends, and working capital. 

Credit Facilities 

On June 16, 2016, we entered into a credit agreement with a syndicate of banks that provides for a three-year $500 million 
senior term facility that expires on June 16, 2019 (the “Term Facility”) and a a five-year $1.5 billion Revolving Credit Facility 
that expires on June 16, 2021 (together with the Term Facility, the “Credit Agreement”).  We borrowed the entire $500 million 
of loans under the Term Facility. 

The Revolving Credit Facility is subject to a one year extension option at our request and with the consent of the lenders.  The 
Credit Agreement also contains an option permitting us to request an increase in the amounts available under the Credit 
Agreement of up to an aggregate additional $500 million.  

Borrowings under the Credit Agreement (other than bid loans under the Revolving Credit Facility) bear interest at a rate equal 
(at our option) to either (1) a LIBOR-based rate (the “LIBOR-Based Rate”), or (2) the highest of (a) the Federal funds rate plus 
1/2 of 1%, (b) the prime rate and (c) the LIBOR-Based Rate plus 1%, plus in each case a margin that varies according to our 
long-term debt credit rating.  We are obligated to pay an annual facility fee for the Revolving Credit Facility of between 9.0 and 
25.0 basis points varying according to our long-term debt credit rating.  

66 

 
 
 
The Credit Agreement requires us to maintain a consolidated net leverage ratio of debt to Consolidated EBITDA (as defined in 
the Credit Agreement) of less than 3.50 to 1.00 and a consolidated interest coverage ratio of Consolidated EBITDA (as defined 
in the Credit Agreement) to interest expense of greater than 3.50 to 1.00 as of the end of any fiscal quarter.  The Credit 
Agreement also contains customary representations, warranties, conditions precedent, events of default, indemnities and 
affirmative and negative covenants.  As of December 31, 2017, we were in compliance with all covenants under the Credit 
Agreement and had no borrowings outstanding under the Revolving Credit Facility. 

We borrowed the entire $500 million of variable rate loans under the Term Facility.  As of December 31, 2017 borrowings 
under the Term Facility bear an interest rate of 2.69% per annum.  The annual effective rate of the Term Facility during 2017 
was 2.24%.  The term loan is pre-payable at our option, and re-borrowing is not permitted once the term loan is repaid. 

Commercial Paper Programs 

We generally satisfy any short-term liquidity needs that are not met through operating cash flows and available cash primarily 
through issuances of commercial paper under our U.S. dollar and Euro-denominated commercial paper programs.  Under these 
programs, we may issue unsecured promissory notes with maturities not exceeding 397 and 183 days, respectively.  Interest 
expense on the notes is paid at maturity and is generally based on our credit ratings at the time of issuance and prevailing short-
term interest rates. 

The details of our Commercial Paper Programs as of December 31, 2017 were as follows ($ in millions): 

U.S. dollar-denominated 
Euro-denominated 

$ 
$ 

Carrying Value 

  Annual effective rate   
1.74  %  
(0.08 )%  

665.1    
282.7    

Weighted average 
remaining maturity 
(in days) 

23 
32 

Credit support for the Commercial Paper Programs is provided by the Revolving Credit Facility.  The availability of the 
Revolving Credit Facility as a standby liquidity facility to repay maturing commercial paper is an important factor in 
maintaining the Commercial Paper Programs’ existing credit ratings.  We expect to limit any borrowings under the Revolving 
Credit Facility to amounts that would leave sufficient credit available under the facility to allow us to borrow, if needed, to 
repay all of the outstanding commercial paper as it matures. 

Our ability to access the commercial paper market, and the related costs of these borrowings, is affected by the strength of our 
credit rating and market conditions.  Any downgrade in our credit rating would increase the cost of borrowing under our 
commercial paper programs and the Credit Agreement, and could limit or preclude our ability to issue commercial paper.  If our 
access to the commercial paper market is adversely affected due to a downgrade, change in market conditions or otherwise, we 
would expect to rely on a combination of available cash, operating cash flow and the Revolving Credit Facility to provide 
short-term funding.  In such event, the cost of borrowings under the Revolving Credit Facility could be higher than the historic 
cost of commercial paper borrowings. 

We classified our borrowings outstanding under the Commercial Paper Programs as of December 31, 2017 as long-term debt in 
the accompanying Consolidated Balance Sheets as we had the intent and ability, as supported by availability under the 
Revolving Credit Facility referenced above, to refinance these borrowings for at least one year from the balance sheet date. 

Proceeds from borrowings under the commercial paper programs are typically available for general corporate purposes, 
including acquisitions.  However, proceeds from our initial issuances of U.S. dollar-denominated commercial paper were used 
to pay fees and expenses related to the financing activities described below. 

Long-Term Indebtedness 

On June 20, 2016, we completed the private placement of each of the following series of senior unsecured notes (the “Private 
Notes”) to qualified institutional buyers under Rule 144A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “Securities Act”) and 
outside the United States to non-U.S. persons in compliance with Regulation S under the Securities Act: 

•   $300 million aggregate principal amount of senior notes due June 15, 2019 (the “2019 Notes”) issued at 99.893% of 

their principal amount and bearing interest at the rate of 1.80% per year. 

•   $750 million aggregate principal amount of senior notes due June 15, 2021 issued at 99.977% of their principal 

amount and bearing interest at the rate of 2.35% per year. 

67 

 
 
•   $900 million aggregate principal amount of senior notes due June 15, 2026 issued at 99.644% of their principal 

amount and bearing interest at the rate of 3.15% per year. 

•   $350 million and $200 million aggregate principal amounts of senior notes due June 15, 2046 issued at 99.783% and 

101.564%, respectively, of their principal amounts and bearing interest at the rate of 4.30% per year. 

Interest on the Private Notes is payable semi-annually in arrears on June 15 and December 15 of each year.  

We received net proceeds, after underwriting discounts and arrangement fees from the issuance of the Private Notes and Term 
Facility, of approximately $3.0 billion and used these funds to make a $3.0 billion cash dividend payment to Danaher in 
connection with the Separation. 

In connection with the issuance of the Private Notes, we entered into a registration rights agreement, pursuant to which we 
were obligated to use commercially reasonable efforts to file with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, and cause to 
be declared effective, a registration statement with respect to an offer to exchange each series of Private Notes for registered 
notes (“Registered Notes”) with substantially identical terms (“Exchange Offer”).  Accordingly, on May 5, 2017 we filed a 
Form S-4 with the SEC (the “Registration Statement”), which Registration Statement was declared effective on May 17, 2017.  
On May 17, 2017, we launched the Exchange Offer, which expired on June 14, 2017.  All Private Notes were tendered and 
exchanged for Registered Notes in the Exchange Offer. 

Covenants and Redemption Provisions Applicable to Registered Notes 

We may redeem the Registered Notes of the applicable series, in whole or in part, at any time prior to the dates specified in the 
Registered Notes indenture (the “Call Dates”) by paying the principal amount and the “make-whole” premium specified in the 
Registered Notes indenture, plus accrued and unpaid interest.  Additionally, with the exception of the 2019 Notes, which have 
Call Dates equal to the contractual maturity of the note, we may redeem all or any part of the Registered Notes of the 
applicable series on or after the Call Dates without paying the “make-whole” premium specified in the Registered Notes 
indenture. 

Registered Notes Series 
1.80% senior unsecured notes due 2019 
2.35% senior unsecured notes due 2021 
3.15% senior unsecured notes due 2026 
4.30% senior unsecured notes due 2046 

Call Dates 

June 15, 2019 
May 15, 2021 
March 15, 2026 
December 15, 2045 

If a change of control triggering event occurs, we will, in certain circumstances, be required to make an offer to repurchase the 
Registered Notes at a purchase price equal to 101% of the principal amount, plus accrued and unpaid interest.  A change of 
control triggering event is defined as the occurrence of both a change of control and a rating event, each as defined in the 
Registered Notes indenture.  Except in connection with a change of control triggering event, the Registered Notes do not have 
any credit rating downgrade triggers that would accelerate the maturity of the Registered Notes. 

The Registered Notes contain customary covenants, including limits on the incurrence of certain secured debt and 
sale/leaseback transactions.  None of these covenants are considered restrictive to our operations and as of December 31, 2017, 
we were in compliance with all of our covenants. 

68 

 
Other 

We made interest payments of $92 million during 2017 compared to $44 million during 2016.    

There are no minimum principal payments due under our total long-term debt during 2018.  The future minimum principal 
payments due are presented in the following table: 

2019 
2020 
2021 
Thereafter 
Total principal payments (a) 

Term 
Loan 

  Registered Notes   

Total 

500.0     $ 
—    
—    
122.4    
622.4     $ 

300.0     $ 
—    
750.0    
1,450.0    
2,500.0     $ 

800.0  
—  
750.0  
1,572.4  
3,122.4  

$ 

$ 

(a) Not included in the table above are net discounts, premiums and issuance costs associated with the Private Notes, the 
Registered Notes and the Commercial Paper Programs, which totaled $18.2 million as of December 31, 2017, and have 
been recorded as an offset to the carrying amount of the related debt in the accompanying Consolidated Balance Sheet as of 
December 31, 2017.  In addition, the table above does not include principal balances of $948.6 million under the 
Commercial Paper Programs and other financing balances of $3.4 million. 

Prior to the Separation, we were dependent on Danaher for all of our working capital and financing requirements under 
Danaher’s centralized approach to cash management and financing of operations of its subsidiaries. Financing transactions 
related to our business operations during the period prior to the Separation were accounted for through the Former Parent’s 
Investment account.  Accordingly, none of Danaher’s debt at the corporate level was assigned to us as of July 2, 2016.  

69 

 
 
 
 
   
   
NOTE 10. PENSION PLANS  

Certain of our non-U.S. employees participate in noncontributory defined benefit pension plans.  In general, our policy is to 
fund these plans based on considerations relating to legal requirements, underlying asset returns, the plan’s funded status, the 
anticipated deductibility of the contribution, local practices, market conditions, interest rates and other factors.  During 2017, 
we completed the acquisition of a company with a frozen U.S. pension plan, and, as such, there are no ongoing benefit accruals 
associated with the acquired U.S. pension plan.  Prior to the completed acquisition we did not have any U.S. noncontributory 
defined benefit pension plans. 

The following sets forth the funded status of our plans as of the most recent actuarial valuations using measurement dates of 
December 31 ($ in millions): 

U.S. Pension Benefits   
2017 

Non-U.S. Pension Benefits 

2017 

2016 

$ 

Change in pension benefit obligation: 

Benefit obligation at beginning of year 
Service cost 
Interest cost 
Employee contributions 
Benefits paid and other 
Plan combinations/acquisitions 
Actuarial loss (gain) 
Amendments, settlements and curtailments 
Foreign exchange rate impact 

Benefit obligation at end of year 

Change in plan assets: 

Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year 
Actual return on plan assets 
Employer contributions 
Employee contributions 
Amendments and settlements 
Benefits paid and other 
Plan combinations/acquisitions 
Foreign exchange rate impact 

Fair value of plan assets at end of year 

Funded status 

$ 

—     $ 
—    
0.3    
—    
(0.2 )  
33.1    
0.5    
—    
—    
33.7    

—    
0.5    
—    
—    
—    
(0.2 )  
25.5    
—    
25.8    
(7.9 )   $ 

335.4     $ 
4.0    
5.9    
1.5    
(11.1 )  
1.5    
(10.7 )  
(17.6 )  
36.0    
344.9    

198.1    
(9.4 )  
10.6    
1.5    
(5.1 )  
(11.1 )  
0.9    
19.7    
205.2    
(139.7 )  $ 

326.9  
3.5  
7.4  
1.5  
(12.8 ) 
2.8  
32.2  
(1.6 ) 
(24.5 ) 
335.4  

196.7  
17.9  
10.7  
1.5  
(0.5 ) 
(12.8 ) 
1.8  
(17.2 ) 
198.1  
(137.3 ) 

The difference between the accumulated benefit obligation and the projected benefit obligation as of December 31, 2017 and 
2016 is immaterial. 

Weighted average assumptions used to determine benefit obligations at date of measurement 

Discount rate 
Rate of compensation increase 

U.S. Pension Plans 

2017 

3.73 

Non-U.S. Pension Plans 

2017 

2016 

%  
N/A  

1.96 %  
2.31 %  

1.91 % 
2.89 % 

70 

 
 
 
 
 
 
   
   
 
   
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
Components of net periodic pension cost 

($ in millions) 
Service cost 
Interest cost 
Expected return on plan assets 
Amortization of net loss 
Net curtailment and settlement loss recognized 

Net periodic pension cost 

U.S. Pension Benefits   
2017 

Non-U.S. Pension Benefits 

2017 

2016 

$ 

$ 

—     $ 
0.3    
(0.3 )  
—    
—    
—     $ 

4.0    $ 
5.9    
(7.4 )  
4.6    
0.9    
8.0    $ 

3.5  
7.4  
(8.1 ) 
5.3  
0.2  
8.3  

Net periodic pension costs are included in cost of sales and SG&A in the accompanying Consolidated and Combined 
Statements of Earnings according to the classification of the participant’s compensation. 

Included in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) as of December 31, 2017 are the following amounts that have not 
yet been recognized in net periodic pension cost: unrecognized prior service cost of $0.1 million ($0.1 million, net of tax) and 
unrecognized actuarial losses of approximately $95 million ($73 million, net of tax).  The unrecognized prior service cost 
included in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) and expected to be recognized in net periodic pension cost during 
the year ending December 31, 2018 is immaterial.  The actuarial losses included in accumulated other comprehensive income 
(loss) and expected to be recognized in net periodic pension cost during the year ending December 31, 2018 is $4 million ($3 
million, net of tax).  The unrecognized losses are calculated as the difference between the actuarially determined projected 
benefit obligation, the value of the plan assets and the accumulated contributions in excess of net periodic pension cost as of 
December 31, 2017.  No plan assets are expected to be returned to us during the year ending December 31, 2018. 

Weighted average assumptions used to determine net periodic pension cost at date of measurement 

Discount rate 
Expected return on plan assets 
Rate of compensation increase 

U.S. Pension Plans 

2017 

3.83 
5.75 

Non-U.S. Pension Plans 

2017 

2016 

%  
%  
N/A  

1.91 %  
3.58 %  
2.89 %  

2.63 % 
4.19 % 
2.77 % 

The discount rates reflect the market rate on December 31 for high-quality fixed-income investments with maturities 
corresponding to our benefit obligations and is subject to change each year.  For non-U.S. plans rates appropriate for each plan 
are determined based on investment grade instruments with maturities approximately equal to the average expected benefit 
payout under the plan. 

The expected rates of return reflects the asset allocation of the plans.  This rate is based primarily on broad publicly-traded-
equity and fixed-income indices and forward-looking estimates of active portfolio and investment management.  The expected 
rates of return on asset assumptions for the non-U.S. plans were determined on a plan-by-plan basis based on the composition 
of assets and ranged from 1.75% to 6.00% in both 2017 and 2016. 

Plan Assets 

Plan assets are invested in various insurance contracts and equity and debt securities as determined by the administrator of each 
plan.  Some of these investments, consisting of mutual funds and other private investments, are valued using the net asset value 
(“NAV”) method as a practical expedient.  The investments valued using the NAV method are allocated across a broad array of 
funds and diversify the portfolio.  The value of the plan assets directly affects the funded status of our pension plans recorded in 
the financial statements. 

71 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
The fair values of our pension plan assets as of December 31, 2017, by asset category were as follows ($ in millions): 

Quoted Prices in 
Active Market 
(Level 1) 

Significant Other 
Observable Inputs 
(Level 2) 

Significant 
Unobservable 
Inputs 
(Level 3) 

Total 

$ 

$ 

5.6    $ 

—    
—    
—    
5.6    $ 

—    $ 

0.3    
9.7    
1.8    
11.8    $ 

Cash and equivalents 
Fixed income securities: 
Corporate bonds 

Mutual funds 
Insurance contracts 

Total 
Investments measured at NAV(a): 

Mutual funds 
Other private investments 

Total assets at fair value 

—    $ 

—    
—    
—    
—    $ 

 $ 

5.6  

0.3  
9.7  
1.8  
17.4  

211.7  
1.9  
231.0  

(a) The fair value amounts presented in the table above are intended to permit reconciliation of the fair value hierarchy to the 

total fair value of plan assets. 

The fair values of our pension plan assets as of December 31, 2016, by asset category were as follows ($ in millions): 

Quoted Prices in 
Active Market 
(Level 1) 

Significant Other 
Observable Inputs 
(Level 2) 

Significant 
Unobservable 
Inputs 
(Level 3) 

Total 

$ 

$ 

4.4     $ 

—    
—    
—    
4.4     $ 

—     $ 

0.3    
7.7    
1.4    
9.4     $ 

Cash and equivalents 
Fixed income securities: 
Corporate bonds 

Mutual funds 
Insurance contracts 

Total 
Investments measured at NAV(a): 

Mutual funds 
Other private investments 

Total assets at fair value 

—     $ 

—    
—    
—    
—     $ 

 $ 

4.4  

0.3  
7.7  
1.4  
13.8  

179.8  
4.5  
198.1  

(a) The fair value amounts presented in the table above are intended to permit reconciliation of the fair value hierarchy to the 

total fair value of plan assets. 

Certain mutual funds are valued at the quoted closing price reported on the active market on which the individual securities are 
traded.  Common stock, corporate bonds and mutual funds that are not traded on an active market are valued at quoted prices 
reported by investment brokers and dealers based on the underlying terms of the security and comparison to similar securities 
traded on an active market. 

Certain mutual funds and other private investments are valued using NAV based on the information provided by the asset fund 
managers, which reflects the plan’s share of the fair value of the net assets of the investment.  Depending on the nature of the 
assets, the underlying investments are valued using a combination of either discounted cash flows, earnings and market 
multiples, third party appraisals or through reference to the quoted market prices of the underlying investments held by the 
venture, partnership or private entity where available.  In addition, some of these investments have limits on their redemption to 
monthly, quarterly, semiannually or annually and may require up to 90 days prior written notice.  Valuation adjustments reflect 
changes in operating results, financial condition or prospects of the applicable portfolio company. 

The methods described above may produce a fair value estimate that may not be indicative of net realizable value or reflective 
of future fair values.  Furthermore, while we believe the valuation methods are appropriate and consistent with the methods 
used by other market participants, the use of different methodologies or assumptions to determine the fair value of certain 
financial instruments could result in a different fair value measurement at the reporting date. 

72 

 
 
 
 
 
 
   
   
   
 
   
   
   
 
   
   
 
 
   
   
 
 
   
   
 
 
   
   
   
 
 
 
 
 
   
   
   
 
   
   
   
 
   
   
 
 
   
   
 
 
   
   
 
 
   
   
  
Expected Contributions 

During 2017, we contributed $11 million to our non-U.S. defined benefit pension plans.  During 2018, our cash contribution 
requirements for our non-U.S. defined benefit pension plans are expected to be approximately $10 million.  We do not expect to 
make contributions to the U.S. plan during 2018. 

The following sets forth benefit payments to participants, which reflect expected future service, as appropriate, expected to be 
paid by the plans in the periods indicated ($ in millions): 

2018 
2019 
2020 
2021 
2022 
2023-2027 

Defined Contribution Plans 

$ 

U.S. Pension Plans 

  Non-U.S. Pension Plans   

All Pension Plans 

1.1     $ 
1.3    
1.3    
1.5    
1.6    
9.0    

13.2     $ 
13.1    
14.0    
13.9    
15.7    
73.5    

14.3  
14.4  
15.3  
15.4  
17.3  
82.5  

We administer and maintain 401(k) Programs.  Contributions are determined based on a percentage of compensation.  We 
recognized compensation expense for our participating U.S. employees in the 401(k) Programs totaling $52 million in 2017, 
$50 million in 2016 and $26 million in 2015. 

NOTE 11. INCOME TAXES 

Tax Cuts and Jobs Act 

On December 22, 2017, the SEC issued Staff Accounting Bulletin No. 118 (“SAB 118”) that provides guidance on the financial 
statement implications of the TCJA.  Pursuant to SAB 118 interpretive guidance, we prepared and recorded tax accounting for 
the year ended December 31, 2017 applying tax laws in effect prior to the application of the provisions of the TCJA; and we 
also recorded provisional estimates (as defined in SAB 118) for all the effects of the TCJA.  Elections have been made on 
accounting policies and practices related to the TCJA, except as noted below.  SAB 118 requires that we disclose the following:  

•   We have recorded provisional estimates in these financial statements to account for the impact of the TCJA on 
deferred tax balances (the “Deferred Tax Revaluation”) as described below, the transition tax on cumulative foreign 
earnings and profits (the “Transition Tax”), and the international aspects, including revised foreign tax credit computational 
requirements (the “International Impacts”).  Provisional estimates have been presented in accordance with SAB 118 because 
the timeframe between passage of the TCJA and the filing deadlines was insufficient to complete the tax accounting 
adjustments for our over 300 legal entities.  The tax accounting adjustments involve a highly complex analysis of the TCJA 
legislation and Conference Committee legislative history.  The TCJA has wide-ranging international and domestic tax 
impacts. 

•  
Further, the International Impacts and the corporate tax rate reduction net of base broadening provisions, is expected to 
increase our U.S. liquidity.  We are evaluating the accounting treatment related to the new TCJA global intangible low-taxed 
income (“GILTI”) rules in our financial statements and have not yet made a policy decision regarding whether to record 
deferred taxes.  

•  
The additional information needed to complete the accounting requirements under the TCJA includes interpretive 
guidance from the IRS for clarification of terminology, guidance for the numerous inconsistencies between the new statute, 
Conference Agreement, and prior law, as well as the interaction between numerous international tax law changes.  After 
reasonable interpretative guidance has been developed, we expect to gather and interpret additional factual information 
specific to our businesses.  

SAB 118 provides for a one-year measurement period and we intend to complete the accounting for the TCJA impacts 

•  
within that time frame.  As of December 31, 2017, we have not recorded any measurement period adjustments.  

•   We have separately presented our provisional estimates in the tables below, including existing current and deferred tax 
amounts. 

73 

 
 
Earnings and Income Taxes 

Earnings before income taxes for the years ended December 31 were as follows ($ in millions): 

United States 
International 
Total 

2017 

2016 

2015 

816.7    $ 
467.5    
1,284.2    $ 

812.9     $ 
384.1    
1,197.0     $ 

913.8  
355.9  
1,269.7  

$ 

$ 

The provision for income taxes for the years ended December 31 were as follows ($ in millions): 

Current: 

Federal U.S. 
Non-U.S. 
State and local 

Deferred: 

Federal U.S. 
Non-U.S. 
State and local 
Income tax provision 

2017 

2016 

2015 

$ 

$ 

215.9     $ 
88.7    
13.3    

(79.5 )  
(2.2 )  
3.5    
239.7    $ 

227.4     $ 
74.6    
32.7    

(4.6 )  
(3.0 )  
(2.4 )  
324.7     $ 

310.8  
54.3  
32.8  

(4.0 ) 
12.7  
(0.7 ) 
405.9  

The 2017 current federal provision for income taxes above includes provisional estimates related to one-time amount payable 
to the U.S. for the Transition Tax of $135 million.  Under the provisions of the TCJA, a company is permitted to elect to pay 
this liability over an eight-year period without interest.  We expect to make that election.  

We recorded provisional estimates of the Deferred Tax Revaluation which was recorded to reflect the reduction in the U.S. 
corporate income tax rate from 35 percent to 21 percent.  In accordance with accounting guidance, we measure deferred tax 
assets and liabilities using enacted tax rates that will apply in the years in which the temporary differences are expected to be 
recovered or paid.  Our 2017 deferred federal and state income tax provisions include a provisionally estimated tax benefit of 
$205 million related to the Deferred Tax Revaluation.  This amount also includes provisional estimates of deferred tax expense 
related to the acceleration of depreciation for certain assets placed into service after September 27, 2017. 

74 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
   
 
   
   
Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities 

All deferred tax assets and liabilities have been classified as noncurrent deferred tax liabilities and are included in other assets 
and other long-term liabilities in the accompanying Consolidated Balance Sheets.  Deferred income tax assets and liabilities as 
of December 31 were as follows ($ in millions): 

2017 

2016 

Deferred Tax Assets: 

Allowance for doubtful accounts 
Inventories 
Pension benefits 
Environmental and regulatory compliance 
Other accruals and prepayments 
Deferred service income 
Warranty services 
Stock compensation expense 
Tax credit and loss carryforwards 
Other 
Valuation allowances 

Total deferred tax assets 
Deferred Tax Liabilities: 

Property, plant and equipment 
Insurance, including self-insurance 
Goodwill and other intangibles 
Other 

Total deferred tax liabilities 
Provisional estimate of the deferred tax asset revaluation 
Provisional estimate of the deferred tax liability revaluation 

Net deferred tax liability 

$ 

$ 

22.0     $ 
31.3    
41.2    
17.7    
35.2    
14.5    
29.0    
36.4    
61.4    
7.3    
(27.7 )  
268.3    

(79.9 )  
(138.7 )  
(607.6 )  
(20.0 )  
(846.2 )  
(54.5 )  
274.0    
(358.4 )  $ 

28.5  
33.0  
49.1  
18.9  
44.2  
10.5  
27.1  
31.7  
74.0  
8.0  
(26.7 ) 
298.3  

(33.2 ) 
(85.2 ) 
(416.5 ) 
(10.0 ) 
(544.9 ) 
—  
—  
(246.6 ) 

Our deferred tax assets are reduced by a valuation allowance if, based on the weight of available evidence, it is more likely than 
not (a likelihood of more than 50 percent) that some portion or all of the deferred tax assets will not be realized.  We evaluate 
the realizability of deferred income tax assets for each of the jurisdictions in which we operate.  If we experience cumulative 
pretax income in a particular jurisdiction in the three-year period including the current and prior two years, we normally 
conclude that the deferred income tax assets will more likely than not be realizable and no valuation allowance is recognized, 
unless known or planned operating developments would lead management to conclude otherwise.  However, if we experience 
cumulative pretax losses in a particular jurisdiction in the three-year period including the current and prior two years, we then 
consider a series of factors in the determination of whether the deferred income tax assets can be realized.  These factors 
include historical operating results, known or planned operating developments, the period of time over which certain temporary 
differences will reverse, consideration of the utilization of certain deferred income tax liabilities, tax law carryback capability 
in the particular country, and prudent and feasible tax planning strategies.  After evaluation of these factors, if the deferred 
income tax assets are expected to be realized within the tax carryforward period allowed for that specific country, we would 
conclude that no valuation allowance would be required.  To the extent that the deferred income tax assets exceed the amount 
that is expected to be realized within the tax carryforward period for a particular jurisdiction, we established a valuation 
allowance. 

Applying the above methodology, valuation allowances have been established for certain deferred income tax assets to the 
extent they are not expected to be realized within the particular tax carryforward period. 

Deferred taxes associated with U.S. entities consist of net deferred tax liabilities of approximately $375 million and $293 
million inclusive of valuation allowances of $12 million and $16 million as of December 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016, 
respectively.  Deferred taxes associated with non-U.S. entities consist of net deferred tax assets of $17 million and $46 million 
inclusive of valuation allowances of $16 million and $11 million as of December 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016, 

75 

 
 
 
 
   
 
   
respectively.  During 2017, our valuation allowance increased by $1 million primarily due to valuation allowances related to 
foreign net operating losses. 

As of December 31, 2017, our U.S. and non-U.S. net operating loss carryforwards totaled $226 million, of which $78 million is 
related to federal net operating loss carryforwards, $40 million is related to state net operating loss carryforwards, and $108 
million is related to non-U.S. net operating loss carryforwards.  Included in deferred tax assets as of December 31, 2017 are tax 
benefits for U.S. and non-U.S. net operating loss carryforwards totaling $44 million, before applicable valuation allowances of 
$16 million.  Certain of these losses can be carried forward indefinitely and others can be carried forward to various dates from 
2018 through 2037.  Recognition of some of these loss carryforwards is subject to an annual limit, which may cause them to 
expire before they are used. 

As of December 31, 2017, our U.S. and non-U.S. tax credit carryforwards totaled $17 million of which is primarily related to 
U.S. tax credit carryforwards.  A valuation allowance was also established as of December 31, 2017 for $12 million of certain 
tax credit carryforwards from the Separation. 

Effective Income Tax Rate 

The effective income tax rate for the years ended December 31 varies from the U.S. statutory federal income tax rate as 
follows: 

Statutory federal income tax rate 
Increase (decrease) in tax rate resulting from: 
State income taxes (net of federal income tax benefit) 
Foreign income taxed at lower rate than U.S. statutory rate 
Separation related adjustments for final resolution of uncertain tax positions 
Research and experimentation credits and federal domestic production deduction 
Other 

Effective income tax rate prior to the impact of the TCJA 

Deferred Tax Revaluation 
Transition Tax 

Total provisional estimates related to the TCJA 

Percentage of Pretax Earnings 

2017 

2016 

2015 

35.0  %  

35.0  %  

35.0  % 

0.7  %  
(5.0 )%  
—  %  
(2.9 )%  
(3.6 )%  
24.2  %  

(16.0 )%  
10.5  %  
(5.5 )%  

1.7  %  
(4.7 )%  
(1.9 )%  
(2.5 )%  
(0.5 )%  
27.1  %  

—  %  
—  %  
—  %  

1.8  % 
(4.6 )% 
—  % 
(2.1 )% 
1.9  % 
32.0  % 

—  % 
—  % 
—  % 

Estimated effective income tax rate including provisional estimates of the 
TCJA 

18.7 % 

27.1 %  

32.0 % 

Our estimated effective tax rate including provisional estimates of the TCJA for 2017 differs from the U.S. federal statutory rate 
of 35.0% due primarily to net favorable impacts associated with the TCJA, our earnings outside the United States that are 
indefinitely reinvested and taxed at rates lower than the U.S. federal statutory rate, the impact of credits and deductions 
provided by law, state tax impacts, and favorable adjustments related to differences between estimates included in the 2016 
provision and amounts calculated on the 2016 U.S. income tax return filed in October 2017.   

Our effective tax rates for 2016 and 2015 differ from the U.S. federal statutory rate of 35.0% due primarily to our earnings 
outside the United States that are indefinitely reinvested and taxed at rates lower than the U.S. federal statutory rate, and the 
impact of credits and deductions provided by law.  The effective tax rate for 2016 includes benefits from the release of reserves 
resulting from expirations of statutes of limitations, primarily from periods prior to the Separation.  

We conduct business globally, and, as part of our global business, we file numerous income tax returns in the U.S. federal, state 
and foreign jurisdictions.  The countries in which we have a significant presence that have had lower statutory tax rates than the 
United States include China, Germany and the United Kingdom.  Our ability to obtain a tax benefit from lower statutory tax 
rates outside of the United States is dependent on our levels of taxable income in these foreign countries and under current U.S. 
tax law.  We believe that a change in the statutory tax rate of any individual foreign country would not have a material effect on 
our financial statements given the geographic dispersion of our taxable income. 

We made income tax payments of $253 million and $149 million during the years ended December 31, 2017 and December 31, 
2016, respectively. 

76 

 
 
 
 
 
 
   
   
 
 
  
   
 
 
  
   
 
Unrecognized Tax Benefits 

As of December 31, 2017, gross unrecognized tax benefits totaled $59 million ($69 million, net of the impact of $4 million of 
indirect tax benefits offset by $14 million associated with interest and penalties).  As of December 31, 2016, gross 
unrecognized tax benefits totaled $29 million ($35 million, net of the impact of $7 million of indirect tax benefits offset by $13 
million associated with interest and penalties).  We recognized approximately $2 million in potential interest and penalties 
associated with uncertain tax positions during 2017, and this amount was not significant during 2016.  We recognized $8 
million in potential interest and penalties associated with uncertain tax positions during 2015.  To the extent taxes are not 
assessed with respect to uncertain tax positions, substantially all amounts accrued (including interest and penalties and net of 
indirect offsets) will be reduced and reflected as a reduction of the overall income tax provision.  Unrecognized tax benefits and 
associated accrued interest and penalties are included in our income tax provision. 

A reconciliation of the beginning and ending amount of unrecognized tax benefits, excluding amounts accrued for potential 
interest and penalties, is as follows ($ in millions): 

Unrecognized tax benefits, beginning of year 
Additions based on tax positions related to the current year 
Additions for tax positions of prior years 
Reductions for tax positions of prior years 
Lapse of statute of limitations 
Settlements 
Effect of foreign currency translation 
Separation related adjustments (a) 

Unrecognized tax benefits, end of year 

$ 

$ 

2017 

2016 

2015 

28.6    $ 
25.3    
7.8    
(1.9 )  
(3.3 )  
(0.6 )  
1.9    
1.2    
59.0    $ 

169.9     $ 
6.0    
0.4    
(1.2 )  
(1.3 )  
(0.6 )  
(0.4 )  
(144.2 )  

28.6     $ 

167.2  
18.4  
9.7  
(13.4 ) 
(5.5 ) 
(1.5 ) 
(5.0 ) 
—  
169.9  

(a) Unrecognized tax benefits were reduced by $144 million in 2016 related to positions taken prior to the Separation for which 
Danaher, as the Former Parent, is the primary obligor and is responsible for settlement and payment of the tax expenses.  

We are routinely examined by various domestic and international taxing authorities.  In connection with the Separation, we 
entered into the Agreements with Danaher, including a tax matters agreement.  The tax matters agreement distinguishes 
between the treatment of tax matters for “Joint” filings compared to “Separate” filings prior to the Separation.  “Joint” filings 
involve legal entities, such as those in the United States, that include operations from both Danaher and the Company.  By 
contrast, “Separate” filings involve certain entities (primarily outside of the United States), that exclusively include either 
Danaher’s or the Company’s operations, respectively.  In accordance with the tax matters agreement, Danaher is liable for and 
has indemnified Fortive against all income tax liabilities involving “Joint” filings for periods prior to the Separation.  The 
Company remains liable for certain pre-Separation income tax liabilities including those related to the Company’s “Separate” 
filings. 

Pursuant to U.S. tax law, the Company’s initial U.S. federal income tax return was filed during October 2017 for the short 
taxable year July 2, 2016 through December 31, 2016.  We expect to file our first full year U.S. federal income tax return for 
2017 with the Internal Revenue Service (“IRS”) during 2018.  The IRS has not yet begun an examination of the Company.  Our 
operations in certain foreign jurisdictions remain subject to routine examination for tax years 2008 to 2017. 

Repatriation and Unremitted Earnings 

The TCJA eliminated the U.S. tax cost for qualified repatriation beginning in 2018.  Pre-2018 foreign cumulative earnings 
remain subject to foreign remittance taxes.  As a result of the TCJA, we expect to repatriate an estimated $275 million subject 
to an estimated $6 million in foreign remittance taxes.  This excludes foreign earnings: 1) required as working capital for local 
operating needs, 2) subject to local law restrictions, 3) subject to high foreign remittance tax costs, 4) previously invested in 
physical assets or acquisitions, or 5) intended for future acquisitions/growth. For most of our foreign operations, we make an 
assertion regarding the amount of earnings in excess of intended repatriation that are expected to be held for indefinite 
reinvestment.  No provisions for foreign remittance taxes have been made with respect to earnings that are planned to be 
reinvested indefinitely.  The amount of foreign remittance taxes that may be applicable to such earnings is not readily 
determinable given local law restrictions that may apply to a portion of such earnings, unknown changes in foreign tax law that 
may occur during the restriction period, and the various tax planning alternatives we could employ if we repatriated these 
earnings.  As of December 31, 2017, the basis difference based upon earnings that we plan to reinvest indefinitely outside of the 
United States for which foreign deferred taxes have not been provided was estimated at $1,225 million. 

77 

 
 
 
 
 
 
  
   
The TCJA imposed a final U.S. tax on cumulative earnings from our foreign operations that we have previously made an 
assertion regarding the amount of such earnings intended for indefinite reinvestment.  Therefore, as of December 31, 2017, the 
basis difference for which U.S. deferred taxes have not been provided is $0.  Beginning in 2018, the basis difference will begin 
to grow again to the extent we make the assertion.  However, the TCJA expansion of the U.S. worldwide tax system is expected 
to significantly reduce future annual increases to the assertion. 

Separation from Danaher 

Prior to the Separation, our operating results were included in Danaher’s various consolidated U.S. federal and certain state 
income tax returns, as well as certain non-U.S. returns.  For periods prior to the Separation, our combined financial statements 
reflect income tax expense and deferred tax balances as if we had filed tax returns on a standalone basis separate from Danaher.  
The separate return method applies the accounting guidance for income taxes to the standalone financial statements as if we 
were a separate taxpayer and a standalone enterprise for the first half of 2016 and for prior periods.  For periods prior to the 
Separation, our pretax operating results exclude any intercompany financing arrangements between entities and include any 
transactions with Danaher as if it were an unrelated party. 

NOTE 12. RESTRUCTURING AND OTHER RELATED CHARGES   

Restructuring and other related charges for the years ended December 31 were as follows ($ in millions): 

Employee severance related 
Facility exit and other related 
Impairment charges 

Total restructuring and other related charges 

2017 

2016 

2015 

14.2    $ 
2.5    
2.3    
19.0    $ 

14.7     $ 
2.6    
4.8    
22.1     $ 

11.8  
0.5  
12.0  
24.3  

$ 

$ 

Substantially all restructuring activities initiated in 2017 were completed by December 31, 2017.  We expect substantially all 
cash payments associated with remaining termination benefits recorded in 2017 will be paid during 2018.  Substantially all 
planned restructuring activities related to the 2016 and 2015 plans have been completed.  Impairment charges in 2017, 2016 
and 2015 related to certain trade names used in the Industrial Technologies segment.  

The nature of our restructuring and related activities initiated in 2017, 2016 and 2015 were broadly consistent throughout our 
segments and focused on improvements in operational efficiency through targeted workforce reductions and facility 
consolidations and closures.  We incurred these costs to position ourselves to provide superior products and services to our 
customers in a cost efficient manner, and taking into consideration broad economic uncertainties. 

Restructuring and other related charges recorded for the years ended December 31 by segment were as follows ($ in millions): 

Professional Instrumentation 
Industrial Technologies 

Total 

2017 

2016 

2015 

12.8    $ 
6.2    
19.0    $ 

6.8     $ 
15.3    
22.1     $ 

9.4  
14.9  
24.3  

$ 

$ 

The table below summarizes the accrual balance and utilization by type of restructuring cost associated with our 2017 and 2016 
restructuring actions ($ in millions):  

Balance 
as of 
January 1, 
2016 

Costs 
Incurred 

Paid/ 
Settled 

Balance 
as of 
December 
31, 2016 

Costs 
Incurred 

Paid/ 
Settled 

Balance as 
of December 
31, 2017 

Employee severance and related  $ 
Facility exit and other related 

Total 

$ 

10.6     $ 
0.9    
11.5     $ 

14.7     $ 
7.4    
22.1     $ 

(15.7 )   $ 
(7.2 )  
(22.9 )   $ 

9.6     $ 
1.1    
10.7     $ 

14.2     $ 
4.8    
19.0     $ 

(13.8 )   $ 
(5.1 )  
(18.9 )   $ 

10.0  
0.8  
10.8  

78 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
The restructuring and other related charges incurred during 2017 include cash charges of $17 million and $2 million of noncash 
charges.  The restructuring and other related charges incurred during 2016 included cash charges of $17 million and and $5 
million of noncash charges.  The restructuring and other related charges incurred during 2015 included $12 million each of cash 
and noncash charges.  These charges are reflected in the following captions in the accompanying Consolidated and Combined 
Statements of Earnings ($ in millions): 

Cost of sales 
Selling, general and administrative expenses 

Total 

NOTE 13. LEASES AND COMMITMENTS   

2017 

2016 

2015 

2.0     $ 
17.0    
19.0     $ 

8.1     $ 
14.0    
22.1     $ 

5.9  
18.4  
24.3  

$ 

$ 

Our operating leases extend for varying periods of time up to twenty years and, in some cases, contain renewal options that 
would extend existing terms beyond twenty years.  Future minimum rental payments for all operating leases having initial or 
remaining noncancelable lease terms in excess of one year are $43 million in 2018, $37 million in 2019, $26 million in 2020, 
$15 million in 2021, $11 million in 2022 and $20 million thereafter.  Total rent expense for all operating leases was $53 
million, $52 million and $53 million for the years ended December 31, 2017, 2016 and 2015, respectively. 

We generally accrue estimated warranty costs at the time of sale.  In general, manufactured products are warranted against 
defects in material and workmanship when properly used for their intended purpose, installed correctly, and appropriately 
maintained.  Warranty period terms depend on the nature of the product and range from ninety days up to the life of the 
product.  The amount of the accrued warranty liability is determined based on historical information such as past experience, 
product failure rates or number of units repaired, estimated cost of material and labor, and in certain instances estimated 
property damage.  The accrued warranty liability is reviewed on a quarterly basis and may be adjusted as additional information 
regarding expected warranty costs becomes known. 

The following is a rollforward of our accrued warranty liability ($ in millions): 

Balance, January 1, 2016 

Accruals for warranties issued during the year 
Settlements made 
Additions due to acquisitions 
Effect of foreign currency translation 

Balance, December 31, 2016 

Accruals for warranties issued during the year 
Settlements made 
Additions due to acquisitions 
Effect of foreign currency translation 

Balance, December 31, 2017 

NOTE 14. LITIGATION AND CONTINGENCIES  

$ 

$ 

$ 

61.0  
59.6  
(56.0 ) 
0.5  
(0.1 ) 
65.0  
75.0  
(72.3 ) 
1.6  
0.1  
69.4  

We are, from time to time, subject to a variety of litigation and other proceedings incidental to our business, including lawsuits 
involving claims for damages arising out of the use of our products, software and services, claims relating to intellectual 
property matters, employment matters, commercial disputes, and personal injury as well as regulatory investigations or 
enforcement.  We may also become subject to lawsuits as a result of past or future acquisitions or as a result of liabilities 
retained from, or representations, warranties or indemnities provided in connection with divested businesses.  Some of these 
lawsuits may include claims for punitive and consequential as well as compensatory damages.  Based upon our experience, 
current information and applicable law, we do not believe that these proceedings and claims will have a material adverse effect 
on our financial position, results of operations or cash flows. 

While we maintain workers compensation, property, cargo, automobile, crime, fiduciary, product, general, and directors’ and 
officers’ liability insurance (and have acquired rights under similar policies in connection with certain acquisitions) that cover a 
portion of these claims, this insurance may be insufficient or unavailable to cover such losses.  In addition, while we believe we 
are entitled to indemnification from third parties for some of these claims, these rights may also be insufficient or unavailable 
to cover such losses.  We maintain third party insurance policies up to certain limits to cover certain liability costs in excess of 

79 

 
 
 
 
predetermined retained amounts.  For most insured risks, we purchase outside insurance coverage only for severe losses (stop 
loss insurance) and reserves must be established and maintained with respect to amounts within the self-insured retention. 

In accordance with accounting guidance, we record a liability in the consolidated and combined financial statements for loss 
contingencies when a loss is known or considered probable and the amount can be reasonably estimated.  If the reasonable 
estimate of a known or probable loss is a range, and no amount within the range is a better estimate than any other, the 
minimum amount of the range is accrued.  If a loss does not meet the known or probable level but is reasonably possible and a 
loss or range of loss can be reasonably estimated, the estimated loss or range of loss is disclosed.  These reserves consist of 
specific reserves for individual claims and additional amounts for anticipated developments of these claims as well as for 
incurred but not yet reported claims.  The specific reserves for individual known claims are quantified with the assistance of 
legal counsel and outside risk insurance professionals where appropriate.  In addition, outside risk insurance professionals may 
assist in the determination of reserves for incurred but not yet reported claims through evaluation of our specific loss history, 
actual claims reported, and industry trends among statistical and other factors.  Reserve estimates are adjusted as additional 
information regarding a claim becomes known.  While we actively pursue financial recoveries from insurance providers, we do 
not recognize any recoveries until realized or until such time as a sustained pattern of collections is established related to 
historical matters of a similar nature and magnitude.  If risk insurance reserves we have established are inadequate, we would 
be required to incur an expense equal to the amount of the loss incurred in excess of the reserves, which would adversely affect 
our net earnings.  Refer to Note 8 for information about the amount of our accruals for self-insurance and litigation liability. 

In addition, our operations, products and services are subject to environmental laws and regulations in various jurisdictions, 
which impose limitations on the discharge of pollutants into the environment and establish standards for the generation, use, 
treatment, storage and disposal of hazardous and non-hazardous wastes.  A number of our operations involve the handling, 
manufacturing, use or sale of substances that are or could be classified as hazardous materials within the meaning of applicable 
laws.  We must also comply with various health and safety regulations in both the United States and abroad in connection with 
our operations.  Compliance with these laws and regulations has not had and, based on current information and the applicable 
laws and regulations currently in effect, is not expected to have a material effect on our capital expenditures, earnings or 
competitive position, and we do not anticipate material capital expenditures for environmental control facilities. 

In addition to environmental compliance costs, from time to time, we incur costs related to alleged damages associated with 
past or current waste disposal practices or other hazardous materials handling practices.  For example, generators of hazardous 
substances found in disposal sites at which environmental problems are alleged to exist, as well as the current and former 
owners of those sites and certain other classes of persons, are subject to claims brought by state and federal regulatory agencies 
pursuant to statutory authority.  We have received notification from the United States Environmental Protection Agency, and 
from state and non-U.S. environmental agencies, that conditions at certain sites where we and others previously disposed of 
hazardous wastes and/or are or were property owners require clean-up and other possible remedial action, including sites where 
we have been identified as a potentially responsible party under United States federal and state environmental laws.  We have 
projects underway at a number of current and former facilities, in both the United States and abroad, to investigate and 
remediate environmental contamination resulting from past operations.  Remediation activities generally relate to soil and/or 
groundwater contamination and may include pre-remedial activities such as fact-finding and investigation, risk assessment, 
feasibility study and/or design, as well as remediation actions such as contaminant removal, monitoring and/or installation, 
operation and maintenance of longer-term remediation systems.  From time to time we are also party to personal injury or other 
claims brought by private parties alleging injury due to the presence of, or exposure to, hazardous substances. 

We have recorded a provision for environmental investigation and remediation and environmental-related claims with respect 
to sites we and our subsidiaries owned or formerly owned and third party sites where we have been determined to be a 
potentially responsible party.  We generally make an assessment of the costs involved for our remediation efforts based on 
environmental studies, as well as our prior experience with similar sites.  The ultimate cost of site cleanup is difficult to predict 
given the uncertainties of our involvement in certain sites, uncertainties regarding the extent of the required cleanup, the 
availability of alternative cleanup methods, variations in the interpretation of applicable laws and regulations, the possibility of 
insurance recoveries with respect to certain sites and the fact that imposition of joint and several liability with right of 
contribution is possible under the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation and Liability Act of 1980 and other 
environmental laws and regulations.  If we determine that potential liability for a particular site or with respect to a personal 
injury claim is known or considered probable and reasonably estimable, we accrue the total estimated loss, including 
investigation and remediation costs, associated with the site or claim.  As of December 31, 2017, we had a reserve of $8 million 
included in accrued expenses and other liabilities on the Consolidated Balance Sheets for environmental matters that are known 
or considered probable and reasonably estimable, which reflects our best estimate of the costs to be incurred with respect to 
such matters. 

All reserves have been recorded without giving effect to any possible future third party recoveries.  While we actively pursue 
insurance recoveries, as well as recoveries from other potentially responsible parties, we do not recognize any insurance 

80 

 
recoveries for environmental liability claims until realized or until such time as a sustained pattern of collections is established 
related to historical matters of a similar nature and magnitude. 

As of December 31, 2017 and 2016, we had approximately $146 million and $111 million, respectively, of guarantees 
consisting primarily of outstanding standby letters of credit, bank guarantees and performance and bid bonds.  These guarantees 
have been provided in connection with certain arrangements with vendors, customers, financing counterparties and 
governmental entities to secure our obligations and/or performance requirements related to specific transactions.  We believe 
that if the obligations under these instruments were triggered, they would not have a material effect on our financial statements. 

NOTE 15. STOCK BASED COMPENSATION 

In connection with the Separation and the employee matters agreement, the Company adopted the 2016 Stock Incentive Plan 
(the “Stock Plan”) that became effective upon the Separation.  Outstanding equity awards of Danaher held by our employees at 
the Separation date (the “Converted Awards”) were converted into or replaced with Fortive equity awards (the “Conversion 
Awards”) under the Stock Plan based on the “concentration method,” and were adjusted to maintain the economic value 
immediately before and after the distribution date using the relative fair market value of Danaher and Fortive common stock 
based on their respective closing prices as of July 1, 2016.  There was no incremental stock-based compensation expense 
recorded as a result of this equity award conversion. 

The Stock Plan provides for the grant of stock appreciation rights, RSUs, PSUs, performance-based restricted stock awards 
(“RSAs”) and performance stock awards (“PSAs”) (collectively, “Stock Awards”), stock options or any other stock-based 
award.  A total of 23 million shares of our common stock have been authorized for issuance under the Stock Plan.  As of 
December 31, 2017, approximately 8 million shares of our common stock remain available for issuance under the Stock Plan.  
Stock options under the Stock Plan generally vest pro rata over a five-year period and terminate 10 years from the grant date, 
though the specific terms of each grant are determined by the Compensation Committee of our Board of Directors.  Our 
executive officers and certain other employees may be awarded stock options with different vesting criteria and stock options 
granted to non-employee directors are fully vested as of the grant date.  Exercise prices for stock options granted under the 
Stock Plan were equal to the closing price of Fortive’s common stock on the NYSE on the date of grant, while stock options 
issued as Conversion Awards were priced to maintain the economic value before and after the Separation. 

RSUs and RSAs issued under the Stock Plan provide for the issuance of common stock at no cost to the holder.  RSUs granted 
to employees under the Stock Plan generally provide for time-based vesting over a five year period, although certain employees 
may be awarded RSUs with different time-based vesting criteria, and RSAs granted to members of our senior management are 
also subject to performance-based vesting criteria.  RSUs granted to non-employee directors under the Stock Plan vest on the 
earlier of the first anniversary of the grant date or the date of, and immediately prior to, the next annual meeting of our 
shareholders following the grant date.  However, the underlying shares are not issued until the earlier of the director’s death or 
the first day of the seventh month following the director’s retirement from the Board of Directors (the “Board”).  Prior to 
vesting, RSUs granted under the Stock Plan do not have dividend equivalent rights, do not have voting rights and the shares 
underlying the RSUs are not considered issued or outstanding.  RSAs granted under the Stock Plan have all of the same 
dividend, voting and other rights corresponding to all other common stock, provided, however, that the dividends payable on 
the RSAs will accrue and be delivered at the time of delivery of the shares upon vesting of the RSA. 

During 2016, PSAs were granted under the Stock Plan as Conversion Awards that vest based on our total shareholder return 
ranking relative to the S&P 500 Index over the performance period remaining on the corresponding Converted Awards, as well 
as Danaher’s total shareholder return prior to the Separation. 

The equity compensation awards generally vest only if the employee is employed by us (or in the case of directors, the director 
continues to serve on the Board) on the vesting date or in other limited circumstances.  To cover the exercise of stock options, 
vesting of RSUs and PSUs and issuances of RSAs and PSAs, we generally issue shares authorized but previously unissued, 
although we may instead issue treasury shares; provided, however, that, either type of issuance would equally reduce the 
number of shares available under our Stock Plan. 

We account for stock-based compensation by measuring the cost of employee services received in exchange for all equity 
awards granted based on the fair value of the award as of the grant date.  We recognize the compensation expense over the 
requisite service period (which is generally the vesting period but may be shorter than the vesting period, for example, if the 
employee becomes retirement eligible before the end of the vesting period).  The fair value of RSUs is calculated using the 
closing price of Fortive common stock on the date of grant, adjusted for the impact of RSUs not having dividend rights prior to 
vesting.  The fair value of RSAs is calculated using the closing price of Fortive common stock on the date of grant.  The fair 
value of the PSUs and PSAs is calculated using a Monte Carlo pricing model.  The fair value of the stock options granted is 
calculated using a Black-Scholes Merton (“Black-Scholes”) option pricing model. 

81 

 
In connection with the exercise of certain stock options and the vesting of Stock Awards issued under the Stock Plan, a number 
of our shares sufficient to fund statutory minimum tax withholding requirements have been withheld from the total shares 
issued or released to the award holder (though under the terms of the Stock Plan, the shares are considered to have been issued 
and are not added back to the pool of shares available for grant).  During the year ended December 31, 2017, approximately 
243 thousand shares of Fortive common stock with an aggregate value of approximately $15 million, were withheld to satisfy 
this requirement.  The tax withholding is treated as a reduction in additional paid-in capital in the accompanying Consolidated 
and Combined Statement of Changes in Equity. 

We had no stock-based compensation plans prior to the Separation; however certain of our employees participated in the 
Danaher Plans, which provided for the grants of stock options, PSUs, and RSUs among other types of awards.  Prior to the 
Separation, Danaher allocated stock-based compensation expense to the Company based on Fortive employees participating in 
the Danaher Plans.  This is reflected  in the accompanying Consolidated and Combined Statements of Earnings for periods 
prior to the Separation. 

Outstanding performance-based RSUs and PSUs of Danaher held by our employees with pending performance goals of 
Danaher at the Separation date were canceled and replaced with Fortive RSAs and PSAs with comparable value, performance 
goals and vesting requirements.  All other terms of these equity awards continued unchanged following the conversion or 
replacement. 

Stock-based Compensation Expense 

Stock-based compensation has been recognized as a component of SG&A in the accompanying Consolidated and Combined 
Statements of Earnings.  Prior to the Separation, Danaher allocated stock-based compensation expense to the Company based 
on Fortive employees participating in the Danaher Plans.  Following the Separation, the amount of stock-based compensation 
expense recognized during a period is based on the portion of the awards that are ultimately expected to vest.  We estimate pre-
vesting forfeitures at the time of grant by analyzing historical data and revise those estimates in subsequent periods if actual 
forfeitures differ from those estimates.  Ultimately, the total expense recognized over the vesting period will equal the fair value 
of awards that actually vest.  Accordingly, the amounts presented for the years ended December 31, 2017, 2016 and 2015 may 
not be indicative of our results had we been a separate stand-alone entity throughout the periods presented. 

The following summarizes the components of our stock-based compensation expense under the Stock Plan and the Danaher 
Plans for the years ended December 31 ($ in millions): 

$ 

Stock Awards: 

Pretax compensation expense 
Income tax benefit 

Stock Award expense, net of income taxes 
Stock options: 

Pretax compensation expense 
Income tax benefit 

Stock option expense, net of income taxes 
Total stock-based compensation: 

Pretax compensation expense 
Income tax benefit 

Total stock-based compensation expense, net of income taxes 

$ 

2017 

2016 

2015 

29.4     $ 
(9.6 )  
19.8    

19.2    
(6.4 )  
12.8    

48.6    
(16.0 )  
32.6     $ 

28.1     $ 
(9.3 )  
18.8    

17.2    
(5.8 )  
11.4    

45.3    
(15.1 )  
30.2     $ 

22.5  
(7.5 ) 
15.0  

12.7  
(4.3 ) 
8.4  

35.2  
(11.8 ) 
23.4  

When stock options are exercised by the employee or Stock Awards vest, we derive a tax deduction measured by the excess of 
the market value on such date over the grant date price.  As of January 1, 2017, we prospectively adopted ASU No. 2016-09, 
Compensation—Stock Compensation (Topic 718).  During the year ended December 31, 2017, we realized a tax benefit of $32 
million related to stock options that were exercised and Stock Awards that vested.  Accordingly, we recorded the excess of the 
tax benefit related to the exercise of stock options and vesting of Stock Awards over the expense recorded for financial 
statement reporting purposes (the “Excess Tax Benefit”) as a component of income tax expense and as an operating cash inflow 
in the accompanying consolidated and combined financial statements.  During the year ended December 31, 2017, such Excess 
Tax Benefit was $20 million related to stock options that were exercised and Stock Awards that vested.   

Prior to the adoption of ASU No. 2016-09, we realized a tax benefit of $36 million and $33 million during the years ended 
December 31, 2016 and 2015, respectively, related to stock options that were exercised and Stock Awards that vested.  The 
Excess Tax Benefit was recorded as a component of equity in the consolidated and combined financial statements.  For the six 

82 

 
 
 
 
 
   
   
 
   
   
 
   
   
months ended December 31, 2016, the Excess Tax Benefit was recorded as an increase to additional paid-in capital and is 
reflected as a financing cash inflow in the accompanying Consolidated and Combined Statements of Cash Flows.  Prior to the 
Separation, the Excess Tax Benefit was recorded as an increase to Former Parent’s Investment. 

The following summarizes the unrecognized compensation cost for the Stock Plan awards as of December 31, 2017.  This 
compensation cost is expected to be recognized over a weighted average period of approximately three years, representing the 
remaining service period related to the awards.  Future compensation amounts will be adjusted for any changes in estimated 
forfeitures ($ in millions): 

Stock Awards 
Stock options 

Total unrecognized compensation cost 

Stock Options 

$ 

$ 

39.5  
40.4  
79.9  

The following summarizes the assumptions used in the Black-Scholes model to value stock options granted under the Stock 
Plan and the Danaher Plans during the years ended December 31: 

Risk-free interest rate 
Volatility (a) 
Dividend yield (b) 
Expected years until exercise 

2017 

2016 

2015 

1.90% - 2.26%  
20.9 %  
0.5 %  
5.5 - 8.0  

1.21% - 1.77%  
24.3 %  
0.6 %  
5.5 - 8.0  

1.6% - 2.2% 
24.3 % 
0.6 % 
5.5 - 8.0 

(a) Weighted average volatility post-Separation was estimated based on an average historical stock price volatility of a group of 
peer companies given our limited trading history.  Weighted average volatility for periods prior to the Separation was based 
on implied volatility from traded options on Danaher’s stock and the historical volatility of Danaher’s stock. 

(b) The dividend yield post-Separation is calculated by dividing our annual dividend, based on the most recent quarterly 

dividend rate, by Fortive’s closing stock price on the grant date.  The dividend yields for periods prior to the Separation 
were calculated by dividing Danaher’s annual dividend, based on the most recent quarterly dividend rate, by the closing 
stock price on the grant date. 

83 

 
 
 
 
 
 
   
   
 
The following summarizes option activity under the Stock Plan and the Danaher Plans for the years ended December 31, 2017, 
2016 and 2015 (in millions, except price per share and numbers of years): 

Weighted 
Average 
Exercise 
Price 

Weighted 
Average 
Remaining 
Contractual 
Term 
(years) 

Aggregate 
Intrinsic 
Value 

Options 

Outstanding as of January 1, 2015 

Granted 
Exercised 
Canceled/forfeited 

Outstanding as of December 31, 2015 

Granted 
Exercised 
Canceled/forfeited 
Aggregate impact of conversion related to the Separation (a) 

Outstanding as of December 31, 2016 

Granted 
Exercised 
Canceled/forfeited 

Outstanding as of December 31, 2017 
Vested and expected to vest as of December 31, 2017 (b) 
Vested as of December 31, 2017 

6.3     $ 
0.9    
(1.2 )  
(0.2 )  
5.8    
1.8      
(1.6 )    
(0.8 )    
5.5      
10.7    
1.9    
(1.2 )  
(0.5 )  
10.9     $ 
10.6     $ 
5.2     $ 

47.66      
87.96      
35.28      
58.77      
56.00      

33.23      
58.07    
24.77    
45.12    
38.09    
37.66    
28.64    

6.3   $ 

6.2   $ 
4.5   $ 

372.8  
365.3  
228.5  

(a) The “Aggregate impact of conversion related to the Separation” represents the additional stock options issued as a result of 
the Separation by applying the “concentration method” to convert employee options based on the ratio of the fair value of 
Danaher and Fortive common stock calculated using the closing prices as of July 1, 2016. 

(b) The “expected to vest” options are the net unvested options that remain after applying the forfeiture rate assumption to total 

unvested options. 

The weighted average exercise price of stock options granted, exercised, and canceled/forfeited is not included in the table 
above for the full year ended December 31, 2016 as activity during this period included the Conversion Awards.  The weighted 
average exercise price of Fortive stock options granted, exercised, and canceled/forfeited during the six months ended 
December 31, 2016 was $51.84, $26.13, and $40.57, respectively.  

The aggregate intrinsic values in the table above represent the total pretax intrinsic value (the difference between the closing 
stock price of Fortive common stock on the last trading day of 2017 and the exercise price, multiplied by the number of in-the-
money options) that would have been received by the option holders had all option holders exercised their options on 
December 31, 2017.  The amount of aggregate intrinsic value will change based on the price of Fortive’s common stock.   

Options outstanding as of December 31, 2017 are summarized below (in millions; except price per share and numbers of 
years): 

Exercise Price 
$12.83 - $23.78 
$23.79 - $29.75 
$29.76 - $42.17 
$42.18 - $57.25 
$57.26 - $71.85 
Total shares 

Outstanding 

Vested 

Average 
Exercise 
Price 

Average 
Remaining 
Life 
(in years) 

Shares 

Average 
Exercise 
Price 

Shares 

1.4     $ 
1.6    
2.4    
3.7    
1.8     $ 
10.9      

17.11    
25.00    
34.77    
43.73    
58.11    

2  
4  
6  
8  
9  

1.4     $ 
1.6    
1.4    
0.8    
—     $ 
5.2      

17.11  
25.00  
34.26  
43.77  
—  

84 

 
 
 
 
 
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
   
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
The following summarizes aggregate intrinsic value and cash receipts related to stock option exercise activity under the Stock 
Plan and the Danaher Plans for the years ended December 31 (in millions): 

Aggregate intrinsic value of stock options exercised 
Cash receipts from stock options exercised(a) 

2017 

2016 

2015 

$ 
$ 

50.3    $ 
31.2    $ 

77.5    $ 
59.9    $ 

73.4  
51.2  

(a) Cash receipts prior to the Separation were recorded as an increase to Former Parent's Investment. These amounts were 

$53.3 million in 2016 and $51.2 million in 2015. 

Stock Awards 

The following summarizes information related to Stock Award activity under the Stock Plan and the Danaher Plans for the 
years ended December 31, 2017, 2016 and 2015 (in millions; except price per share): 

Number of 
Stock Awards 

Weighted Averag
e 
Grant-Date 
Fair Value 

61.75  
86.14  
51.56  
64.58  
72.24  

1.1     $ 
0.3    
(0.2 )  
(0.1 )  
1.1    
0.6      
(0.4 )    
(0.3 )    
1.2      
2.2    
0.6    
(0.7 )  
(0.1 )  
2.0     $ 

Unvested as of January 1, 2015 

Granted 
Vested 
Forfeited 

Unvested as of December 31, 2015 

Granted 
Vested 
Forfeited 
Aggregate impact of conversion related to the Separation (a) 

Granted 
Vested 
Forfeited 

Unvested as of December 31, 2016 

39.20  
57.79  
35.96  
43.94  
45.92  
(a) The “Aggregate impact of conversion related to the Separation” represents the additional Stock Awards issued as a result of 

Unvested as of December 31, 2017 

the Separation by applying the “concentration method” to convert Stock Awards based on the ratio of the fair value of 
Danaher and Fortive common stock calculated using the closing prices as of July 1, 2016. 

The weighted average grant date fair value of Stock Awards granted, vested, and forfeited is not included in the table above for 
the full year ended December 31, 2016 as activity during this period included the conversion of Stock Awards under the 
Danaher Plans into awards under the Stock Plan.  The weighted average grant date fair value of Stock Awards granted, vested, 
and forfeited during the six months ended December 31, 2016 was $46.25, $33.01, and $39.59, respectively. 

NOTE 16. CAPITAL STOCK AND EARNINGS PER SHARE  

Capital Stock 

Under our amended and restated certificate of incorporation, as of July 1, 2016, our authorized capital stock consists of 2.0 
billion common shares with a par value of $0.01 per share and 15 million preferred shares with a par value of $0.01 per share.  
As of December 31, 2015, Danaher owned all 100 shares of Fortive common stock that were issued and outstanding.  On 
July 1, 2016, the 100 outstanding shares of Fortive common stock held by Danaher were recapitalized into 345,237,561 shares 
of Fortive common stock held by Danaher.  On July 2, 2016, Danaher distributed 100 percent of Fortive outstanding common 
stock to its stockholders.  No preferred shares were issued or outstanding on December 31, 2017. 

Each share of our common stock entitles the holder to one vote on all matters to be voted upon by common stockholders.  Our 
Board is authorized to issue shares of preferred stock in one or more series and has discretion to determine the rights, 
preferences, privileges and restrictions, including voting rights, dividend rights, conversion rights, redemption privileges and 
liquidation preferences, of each series of preferred stock.  The Board’s authority to issue preferred stock with voting rights or 
conversion rights that, if exercised, could adversely affect the voting power of the holders of common stock, could potentially 
discourage attempts by third parties to obtain control of the Company through certain types of takeover practices. 

85 

 
 
 
 
 
 
   
   
 
 
 
 
   
On November 2, 2017, we declared a regular quarterly dividend of $0.07 per share paid on December 29, 2017 to holders of 
record on November 24, 2017.  Aggregate cash payments for the dividends paid to shareholders during the year ended 
December 31, 2017 were $97.2 million and were recorded as dividends to shareholders in the Consolidated and Combined 
Statements of Changes in Equity and the Consolidated and Combined Statements of Cash Flows. 

On January 23, 2018, we declared a regular quarterly dividend of $0.07 per share payable on March 29, 2018 to holders of 
record on February 23, 2018. 

Net earnings per share 

Basic EPS is calculated by dividing net earnings by the weighted average number of shares of common stock outstanding for 
the applicable period.  Diluted EPS is similarly calculated, except that the calculation includes the dilutive effect of the 
assumed issuance of shares under stock-based compensation plans except where the inclusion of such shares would have an 
anti-dilutive impact.  For the year ended December 31, 2017 the anti-dilutive options to purchase shares excluded from the 
diluted EPS calculation were immaterial.  

We were incorporated on November 10, 2015, accordingly, we had no shares or common equivalent shares outstanding prior to 
that date.  The total number of shares outstanding immediately after the recapitalization described above was 345.2 million and 
is utilized for the calculation of both basic and diluted EPS for all periods prior to the Separation. 

Information related to the calculation of net earnings per share of common stock is summarized as follows ($ and shares in 
millions, except per share amounts): 

For the Year Ended December 31, 2017: 
Basic EPS 
Incremental shares from assumed exercise of dilutive options and vesting 
of dilutive Stock Awards 

Diluted EPS 

For the Year Ended December 31, 2016: 
Basic EPS 
Incremental shares from assumed issuance of shares under stock-based 
compensation plans 

Diluted EPS 

For the Year Ended December 31, 2015: 
Basic and diluted EPS 

Net Earnings 
(Numerator) 

Shares 
(Denominator) 

Per Share 
Amount 

$ 

$ 

$ 

$ 

$ 

1,044.5    

— 
1,044.5    

872.3    

— 
872.3    

347.5   $ 

5.1  
352.6   $ 

345.7   $ 

1.6 
347.3   $ 

863.8    

345.2   $ 

3.01  

2.96  

2.52  

2.51  

2.50  

86 

 
 
 
 
 
   
   
 
 
 
 
 
   
   
 
   
   
 
 
 
   
 
 
   
   
 
   
   
NOTE 17. SEGMENT INFORMATION  

We report our results in two separate business segments consisting of Professional Instrumentation and Industrial Technologies.  
When determining the reportable segments, we aggregated operating segments based on their similar economic and operating 
characteristics.  Operating profit represents total revenues less operating expenses, excluding other income/expense, interest 
and income taxes.  The identifiable assets by segment are those used in each segment’s operations.  Inter-segment amounts are 
not significant and are eliminated to arrive at combined totals.  Operating profit amounts in the Other category consist of 
unallocated corporate costs and other costs not considered part of our evaluation of reportable segment operating performance. 

Segment results are shown below ($ in millions): 

Sales: 
Professional Instrumentation 
Industrial Technologies 

Total 

Operating Profit: 
Professional Instrumentation 
Industrial Technologies 
Other 

Total 

Identifiable assets: 
Professional Instrumentation 
Industrial Technologies 
Other 

Total 

Depreciation and amortization: 
Professional Instrumentation 
Industrial Technologies 
Other 

Total 

Capital expenditures, gross: 
Professional Instrumentation 
Industrial Technologies 
Other 

Total 

For The Year Ended December 31 

2017 

2016 

2015 

3,139.1     $ 
3,516.9    
6,656.0     $ 

2,891.6     $ 
3,332.7    
6,224.3     $ 

2,974.2  
3,204.6  
6,178.8  

709.7     $ 
718.7    
(73.5 )  
1,354.9     $ 

642.3     $ 
667.4    
(63.7 )  
1,246.0     $ 

5,588.1     $ 
3,773.7    
1,138.8    
10,500.6     $ 

3,905.2     $ 
3,294.8    
989.8    
8,189.8     $ 

82.0     $ 
86.1    
6.0    
174.1     $ 

37.0     $ 
96.8    
2.3    
136.1     $ 

99.4     $ 
75.7    
1.3    
176.4     $ 

36.2     $ 
84.4    
9.0    
129.6     $ 

694.8  
617.2  
(42.3 ) 
1,269.7  

3,894.0  
3,316.6  
—  
7,210.6  

103.5  
73.4  
—  
176.9  

34.6  
85.5  
—  
120.1  

$ 

$ 

$ 

$ 

$ 

$ 

$ 

$ 

$ 

$ 

87 

 
 
 
 
 
 
   
   
 
 
   
   
 
   
   
 
 
   
   
 
   
   
 
 
   
   
 
   
   
 
 
   
   
 
   
   
 
Operations in Geographical Areas: 

($ in millions) 
Sales: 
United States 
China 
Germany 
All other (each country individually less than 5% of total sales) 

Total 

Long-lived assets: 
United States 
United Kingdom 
Germany 
All other (each country individually less than 5% of total long-lived assets) 

Total 

Sales by Major Product Group: 

($ in millions) 
Professional tools and equipment 
Industrial automation, controls and sensors 
Franchise distribution 
All other 

Total 

For The Year Ended December 31 

2017 

2016 

2015 

3,636.1     $ 
612.1    
307.7    
2,100.1    
6,656.0     $ 

5,931.2     $ 
405.8    
295.9    
930.9    
7,563.8     $ 

3,471.2     $ 
536.0    
268.1    
1,949.0    
6,224.3     $ 

4,480.7     $ 
353.4    
262.7    
604.3    
5,701.1     $ 

3,415.8  
501.4  
268.2  
1,993.4  
6,178.8  

4,333.9  
359.2  
349.1  
574.3  
5,616.5  

For The Year Ended December 31 

2017 

2016 

2015 

4,352.5     $ 
1,207.7    
626.2    
469.6    
6,656.0     $ 

4,005.9     $ 
1,138.2    
618.1    
462.1    
6,224.3     $ 

3,959.7  
1,170.5  
590.4  
458.2  
6,178.8  

$ 

$ 

$ 

$ 

$ 

$ 

NOTE 18. RELATED-PARTY TRANSACTIONS  

Prior to the Separation, our transactions with Danaher were considered related party transactions.  In connection with the 
Separation, on July 1, 2016, we entered into the Agreements with Danaher, which govern the Separation and provide a 
framework for the relationship between the parties going forward, including an employee matters agreement, tax matters 
agreement, an intellectual property matters agreement, a DBS license agreement and a TSA. 

Employee Matters Agreement 

The employee matters agreement sets forth, among other things, the allocation of assets, liabilities and responsibilities relating 
to employee compensation and benefit plans and programs and other related matters in connection with the Separation, 
including the treatment of outstanding equity and other incentive awards and certain retirement and welfare benefit obligations.  
Refer to Note 15 for further discussion regarding the employee matters agreement. 

Tax Matters Agreement 

The tax matters agreement governs the respective rights, responsibilities and obligations of both Danaher and Fortive after the 
Separation with respect to tax liabilities and benefits, tax attributes, the preparation and filing of tax returns, the control of 
audits and other tax proceedings and other matters regarding taxes.  Refer to Note 11 and “Item 1A. Risk Factors” for further 
discussion regarding the tax matters agreement. 

Intellectual Property Matters Agreement 

The intellectual property matters agreement sets forth the terms and conditions pursuant to which Danaher and Fortive have 
mutually granted certain personal, generally irrevocable, non-exclusive, worldwide, and royalty-free rights to use certain 
intellectual property.  Both parties are able to sublicense their rights in connection with activities relating to the their 
businesses, but not for independent use by third parties. 

88 

 
 
 
 
 
   
   
 
 
   
   
 
   
   
 
 
 
DBS License Agreement 

The DBS license agreement sets forth the terms and conditions pursuant to which Danaher has granted a non-exclusive, 
worldwide, non-transferable, perpetual license to us to use DBS solely in support of our businesses.  We are able to sublicense 
such license solely to direct and indirect wholly-owned subsidiaries.  In addition, both parties have licensed to each other 
improvements made by such party to DBS during the first two years of the term of the DBS license agreement. 

Transition Services Agreement 

The TSA sets forth the terms and conditions pursuant to which Fortive and our subsidiaries and Danaher and its subsidiaries 
will provide to each other various services after the Separation.  The services to be provided include information technology, 
facilities, certain accounting and other financial functions, and administrative services.  The charges for the transition services 
generally are expected to allow the providing company to fully recover all out-of-pocket costs and expenses it actually incurs in 
connection with providing the service, plus, in some cases, the allocated indirect costs of providing the services, generally 
without profit. 

TSA Payments 

In accordance with the TSA, net receipts from Danaher were immaterial during the year ended December 31, 2017.  During the 
six months ended December 31, 2016, we made net payments to Danaher of approximately $13 million.  

Revenue and Other Transactions Entered Into In the Ordinary Course of Business 

Prior to the Separation, we operated as part of Danaher and not as a stand-alone company and certain of our revenue 
arrangements related to contracts entered into in the ordinary course of business with Danaher and its affiliates.  Following the 
Separation, we continue to enter into arms-length revenue arrangements in the ordinary course of business with Danaher and its 
affiliates, although certain agreements were entered into or terminated as a result of the Separation. 

We recorded sales of approximately $17 million, $31 million and $38 million to Danaher and its subsidiaries during the years 
ended December 31, 2017, 2016 and 2015, respectively.  Purchases from Danaher and its subsidiaries were approximately $13 
million and $10 million during the year ended December 31, 2017 and six months ended December 31, 2016, respectively. 

Allocation of Expenses Prior to the Separation 

Prior to the Separation, we operated as part of Danaher and not as a stand-alone company.  Accordingly, certain shared costs for 
management and support functions which were provided on a centralized basis within Danaher were allocated to us and are 
reflected as expenses in these financial statements prior to the Separation date.  We consider the allocation methodologies used 
to be reasonable and appropriate reflections of the related expenses attributable to us for purposes of the carved-out financial 
statements; however, the expenses reflected in these financial statements for periods prior to the Separation date may not be 
indicative of the actual expenses that would have been incurred during the periods presented if we had operated as a separate 
stand-alone entity.  In addition, the expenses reflected in the financial statements may not be indicative of expenses that we will 
incur in the future. 

Expenses allocated to us from Danaher and its subsidiaries for the six months ended July 1, 2016 and the year ended 
December 31, 2015 were $117 million and $201 million, respectively.  Following the Separation, we independently incur 
expenses as a stand-alone company and no expenses are allocated by Danaher. 

Corporate Expenses 

Certain corporate overhead and shared expenses incurred by Danaher and its subsidiaries prior to the Separation were allocated 
to us and are reflected in the Consolidated and Combined Statements of Earnings.  These amounts include, but are not limited 
to, items such as general management and executive oversight, costs to support Danaher’s information technology 
infrastructure, facilities, compliance, human resources, marketing and legal functions and financial management and 
transaction processing including public company reporting, consolidated tax filings and tax planning, Danaher benefit plan 
administration, risk management and consolidated treasury services, certain employee benefits and incentives, and stock based 
compensation administration.  These costs were allocated using methodologies that we believe are reasonable for the item 
being allocated.  Allocation methodologies included our relative share of revenues, headcount, or functional spend as a 
percentage of the total.  Following the Separation, we independently incur corporate overhead costs and no corporate overhead 
costs are allocated by Danaher. 

89 

 
Insurance Programs Administered by Danaher 

In addition to the corporate allocations discussed above, prior to the Separation we were allocated expenses related to certain 
insurance programs Danaher administered on our behalf, including workers compensation, property, cargo, automobile, crime, 
fiduciary, product, general and directors’ and officers’ liability insurance.  These amounts were allocated using various 
methodologies, as described below.  Included within the insurance cost allocation are allocations related to programs for which 
Danaher was self-insured up to a certain amount.  For the self-insured component, costs were allocated to us based on our 
incurred claims.  Danaher had premium based policies which covered amounts in excess of the self-insured retentions.  We 
were allocated a portion of the total insurance cost incurred by Danaher based on our pro-rata portion of Danaher’s total 
underlying exposure base. 

In connection with the Separation, we established similar independent self-insurance programs to support any outstanding 
claims going forward. 

Medical Insurance Programs Administered by Danaher 

In addition to the corporate allocations discussed above, prior to the Separation we were allocated expenses related to the 
medical insurance programs Danaher administered on our behalf prior to the Separation.  These amounts were allocated based 
on actual medical claims incurred by our employees during the period.  In connection with the Separation, we established 
independent medical insurance programs similar those previously provided by Danaher. 

Deferred Compensation Program Administered by Danaher 

Refer to Note 7 for information regarding our deferred compensation program.  In connection with the Separation, we 
established a similar independent, nonqualified deferred compensation program. 

NOTE 19. QUARTERLY DATA - UNAUDITED 

($ in millions, except per share data) 
2017: 
Sales 
Gross profit 
Operating profit 
Net earnings 
Net earnings per share: 

Basic 
Diluted 

2016: 
Sales 
Gross profit 
Operating profit 
Net earnings 
Net earnings per share: 

Basic 
Diluted 

1st Quarter 

2nd Quarter 

3rd Quarter 

4th Quarter 

1,628.8     $ 
805.1    
348.3    
240.1    

0.69     $ 
0.68     $ 

1,555.1     $ 
768.1    
322.1    
238.9    

0.69     $ 
0.69     $ 

1,685.3     $ 
839.4    
355.9    
267.8    

0.77     $ 
0.76     $ 

1,567.4     $ 
772.9    
323.2    
226.9    

0.66     $ 
0.65     $ 

1,806.7  
910.0  
355.8  
336.9  

0.97  
0.95  

1,627.1  
796.6  
337.7  
224.5  

0.65  
0.64  

$ 

$ 
$ 

$ 

$ 
$ 

1,535.2     $ 
744.0    
294.9    
199.7    

0.58     $ 
0.57     $ 

1,474.7     $ 
695.2    
263.0    
182.0    

0.53     $ 
0.53     $ 

90 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
ITEM 9. CHANGES IN AND DISAGREEMENTS WITH ACCOUNTANTS ON ACCOUNTING AND FINANCIAL 
DISCLOSURE 

Not applicable. 

ITEM 9A. CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES 

Our management, with the participation of the President and Chief Executive Officer, and Senior Vice President and Chief 
Financial Officer, has evaluated the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures (as such term is defined in 
Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange Act”)) as of the end of 
the period covered by this report.  Based on such evaluation, the President and Chief Executive Officer, and Senior Vice 
President and Chief Financial Officer, have concluded that, as of the end of such period, these disclosure controls and 
procedures were effective. 

Management’s annual report on its internal control over financial reporting (as such term is defined in Rules 13a-15(f) under 
the Exchange Act) and the independent registered public accounting firm’s audit report on the effectiveness of the Company’s 
internal control over financial reporting are included in the Company’s financial statements for the year ended December 31, 
2017 included in Item 8 of this Annual Report on Form 10-K, under the headings “Report of Management on Fortive 
Corporation’s Internal Control Over Financial Reporting” and “Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm,” 
respectively, and are incorporated herein by reference. 

The Company completed the acquisitions of Industrial Scientific Corporation (“ISC”) on August 25, 2017, Orpak Systems 
Limited (“Orpak”) on August 31, 2017, and Landauer Incorporated (“Landauer”) on October 19, 2017.  Since the Company has 
not yet fully incorporated the internal controls and procedures of ISC, Orpak, or Landauer into the Company’s internal control 
over financial reporting, management excluded ISC, Orpak, and Landauer from its assessment of the effectiveness of the 
Company’s internal control over financial reporting as of and for the year ended December 31, 2017.  Collectively, ISC, Orpak, 
and Landauer constituted less than 20% of the Company’s total assets as of December 31, 2017 and less than 5% of the 
Company’s total revenues for the year ended December 31, 2017. 

There have been no changes in our internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the most recent completed 
fiscal quarter that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial 
reporting. 

ITEM 9B. OTHER INFORMATION 

Not applicable. 

PART III 

ITEM 10. DIRECTORS, EXECUTIVE OFFICERS AND CORPORATE GOVERNANCE 

Other than the information below, the information required by this Item is incorporated by reference from the sections entitled 
Election of Directors of Fortive, Corporate Governance and Section 16(a) Beneficial Ownership Reporting Compliance in 
the Proxy Statement for our 2018 annual meeting and to the information under the caption “Executive Officers of the 
Registrant” in Part I hereof.  No nominee for director was selected pursuant to any arrangement or understanding between the 
nominee and any person other than the Company pursuant to which such person is or was to be selected as a director or 
nominee. 

Code of Ethics 

We have adopted a code of business conduct and ethics for directors, officers (including Fortive’s principal executive officer, 
principal financial officer and principal accounting officer) and employees, known as the Standards of Conduct.  The Standards 
of Conduct are available in the “Investors - Corporate Governance” section of our website at www.fortive.com. 

We intend to disclose any amendment to the Standards of Conduct that relates to any element of the code of ethics definition 
enumerated in Item 406(b) of Regulation S-K, and any waiver from a provision of the Standards of Conduct granted to any 
director, principal executive officer, principal financial officer, principal accounting officer, or any of our other executive 
officers, in the “Investors - Corporate Governance” section of our website, at www.fortive.com, within four business days 
following the date of such amendment or waiver. 

91 

 
ITEM 11. EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION 

The information required by this Item is incorporated by reference from the sections entitled Compensation Discussion and 
Analysis, Compensation Committee Report, Executive Compensation, Tables, Pay Ratio and Director Compensation in the 
Proxy Statement for our 2018 annual meeting (other than the Compensation Committee Report, which shall not be deemed to 
be “filed”). 

ITEM 12. SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT AND RELATED 
STOCKHOLDER MATTERS 

The information required by this Item is incorporated by reference from the sections entitled Beneficial Ownership of Fortive 
Common Stock by Directors, Officers and Principal Shareholders and Approval of Amendments to the Fortive Corporation 
2016 Stock Incentive Plan–– Equity Compensation Plan Information in the Proxy Statement for our 2018 annual meeting. 

ITEM 13. CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED TRANSACTIONS, AND DIRECTOR INDEPENDENCE 

The information required by this Item is incorporated by reference from the sections entitled Corporate Governance and 
Certain Relationships and Related Transactions in the Proxy Statement for our 2018 annual meeting. 

ITEM 14. PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTANT FEES AND SERVICES 

The information required by this Item is incorporated by reference from the section entitled Ratification of Independent 
Registered Public Accounting Firm in the Proxy Statement for our 2018 annual meeting. 

92 

 
PART IV 

ITEM 15. EXHIBITS AND FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULES 

a)  The following documents are filed as part of this report. 

(1)  Financial Statements.  The financial statements are set forth under “Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary 

Data” of this Annual Report on Form 10-K. 

(2)  Schedules.  An index of Exhibits and Schedules is on page 93 of this report.  Schedules other than those listed below 
have been omitted from this Annual Report on Form 10-K because they are not required, are not applicable or the 
required information is included in the financial statements or the notes thereto. 

(3)  Exhibits.  The exhibits listed in the accompanying Exhibit Index are filed or incorporated by reference as part of this 

Annual Report on Form 10-K. 

ITEM 16. FORM 10-K SUMMARY 

Not applicable. 
FORTIVE CORPORATION 
INDEX TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS, SUPPLEMENTARY DATA AND FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULE 

Schedule: 
Valuation and Qualifying Accounts 

Page Number in 
Form 10-K 

100 

Exhibit 
Number 

2.1 

EXHIBIT INDEX 

Description 

  Separation and Distribution Agreement, dated as of 
July 1, 2016, by and between Fortive Corporation 
and Danaher Corporation 

Incorporated by reference from Exhibit 2.1 to 
Amendment No. 1 to Fortive Corporation’s 
Registration Statement on Form 10, filed on March 3, 
2016 (Commission File Number: 1-37654) 

3.1 

  Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation 
of Fortive Corporation 

Incorporated by reference from Exhibit 3.1 to Fortive 
Corporation’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on 
June 9, 2017 (Commission File Number: 1-37654) 

3.2 

  Amended and Restated Bylaws of Fortive 
Corporation 

Incorporated by reference from Exhibit 3.2 to Fortive 
Corporation’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on 
June 9, 2017 (Commission File Number: 1-37654) 

4.1 

4.2 

  Indenture, dated as of June 20, 2016, between 
Fortive Corporation, as issuer, and The Bank of New 
York Mellon Trust Company, N.A., as trustee 

Incorporated by reference from Exhibit 4.1 to Fortive 
Corporation’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on 
June 21, 2016 (Commission File Number: 1-37654) 

  Registration Rights Agreement, dated as of June 20, 
2016, by and among Fortive Corporation and 
Barclays Capital Inc., Goldman, Sachs & Co. and 
Morgan Stanley & Co. LLC, as representatives of the 
initial purchasers 

Incorporated by reference from Exhibit 4.2 to Fortive 
Corporation’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on 
June 21, 2016 (Commission File Number: 1-37654) 

10.1 

  Employee Matters Agreement, dated as of July 1, 
2016, by and between Fortive Corporation and 
Danaher Corporation 

Incorporated by reference from Exhibit 10.2 to 
Amendment No. 1 to Fortive Corporation’s 
Registration Statement on Form 10, filed on March 3, 
2016 (Commission File Number: 1-37654) 

93 

 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
10.2 

  Tax Matters Agreement, dated as of July 1, 2016, by 
and between Fortive Corporation and Danaher 
Corporation 

Incorporated by reference from Exhibit 10.3 to 
Amendment No. 1 to Fortive Corporation’s 
Registration Statement on Form 10, filed on March 3, 
2016 (Commission File Number: 1-37654) 

10.3 

  Transition Services Agreement, dated as of July 1, 
2016, by and between Fortive Corporation and 
Danaher Corporation 

Incorporated by reference from Exhibit 10.1 to 
Amendment No. 1 to Fortive Corporation’s 
Registration Statement on Form 10, filed on March 3, 
2016 (Commission File Number: 1-37654) 

10.4 

  Intellectual Property Matters Agreement, dated as of 
July 1, 2016, by and between Fortive Corporation 
and Danaher Corporation 

Incorporated by reference from Exhibit 10.4 to 
Amendment No. 1 to Fortive Corporation’s 
Registration Statement on Form 10, filed on March 3, 
2016 (Commission File Number: 1-37654) 

10.5 

  DBS License Agreement, dated as of July 1, 2016, 
by and between Fortive Corporation and Danaher 
Corporation 

Incorporated by reference from Exhibit 10.5 to 
Amendment No. 1 to Fortive Corporation’s 
Registration Statement on Form 10, filed on March 3, 
2016 (Commission File Number: 1-37654) 

10.6 

  Credit Agreement, dated as of June 16, 2016, among 
Fortive Corporation and certain of its subsidiaries 
party thereto, Danaher Corporation, Bank of 
America, N.A., as Administrative Agent and a Swing 
Line Lender, and the lenders referred to therein 

10.7 

  Fortive Corporation 2016 Stock Incentive Plan* 

Incorporated by reference from Exhibit 10.1 to Fortive 
Corporation’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on 
June 21, 2016 (Commission File Number: 1-37654) 

Incorporated by reference from Exhibit 10.1 to Fortive 
Corporation’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on 
June 1, 2016 (Commission File Number: 1-37654) 

10.8 

  Form of Fortive Corporation Performance Stock Unit 
Agreement* 

10.9 

  Form of Fortive Corporation Non-Employee 
Directors Restricted Stock Unit Agreement * 

10.10 

  Form of Fortive Corporation Restricted Stock Grant 
Agreement* 

Incorporated by reference from Exhibit 10.13 to 
Amendment No. 2 to Fortive Corporation’s 
Registration Statement on Form 10, filed on April 7, 
2016 (Commission File Number: 1-37654) 

10.11 

  Form of Fortive Corporation Restricted Stock Unit 
Agreement* 

10.12 

  Form of Fortive Corporation Non-Employee 
Directors Stock Option Agreement* 

94 

 
 
   
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
10.13 

  Form of Fortive Corporation Stock Option 
Agreement* 

10.14 

  Fortive Corporation 2016 Executive Incentive 
Compensation Plan* 

Incorporated by reference from Exhibit 10.8 to Fortive 
Corporation’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on 
June 1, 2016 (Commission File Number: 1-37654) 

10.15 

  Fortive Corporation Severance and Change in 
Control Plan for Officers* 

Incorporated by reference from Exhibit 10.1 to Fortive 
Corporation’s Current Report on Form 8-K, filed on 
March 31, 2017 (Commission File Number: 1-37654) 

10.16 

  Fortive Executive Deferred Incentive Program* 

10.17 

  Form of D&O Indemnification Agreement* 

Incorporated by reference from Exhibit 10.10 to 
Fortive Corporation’s Current Report on Form 8-K 
filed on June 1, 2016 (Commission File Number: 1-
37654) 

Incorporated by reference from Exhibit 10.10 to 
Amendment No. 2 to Fortive Corporation’s 
Registration Statement on Form 10, filed on April 7, 
2016 (Commission File Number: 1-37654) 

10.18 

  Aircraft Time Sharing Agreement, dated July 18, 
2016, between Fortive Corporation and James Lico* 

10.19 

  Aircraft Time Sharing Agreement, dated July 18, 
2016, between Fortive Corporation and Charles 
McLaughlin* 

10.20 

  Description of compensation arrangements for non-
management directors* 

10.21 

  Fortive Corporation Non-Employee Directors’ 
Deferred Compensation Plan 

10.22 

  Fortive Corporation Non-Employee Directors’ 
Deferred Compensation Plan Election Form 

Incorporated by reference from Exhibit 10.1 to Fortive 
Corporation’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the 
quarter ended September 29, 2017 (Commission File 
Number: 1-37654) 

Incorporated by reference from Exhibit 10.2 to Fortive 
Corporation’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the 
quarter ended September 29, 2017 (Commission File 
Number: 1-37654) 

Incorporated by reference from Exhibit 10.3 to Fortive 
Corporation’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the 
quarter ended September 29, 2017 (Commission File 
Number: 1-37654) 

10.23 

  Offer of Employment Letter, dated November 16, 
2015, between TGA Employment Services LLC and 
Chuck McLaughlin* 

Incorporated by reference from Exhibit 10.6 to 
Amendment No. 1 to Fortive Corporation’s 
Registration Statement on Form 10, filed on March 3, 
2016 (Commission File Number: 1-37654) 

10.24 

  Offer of Employment Letter, dated February 1, 2016, 
between TGA Employment Services LLC and 
Barbara Hulit* 

Incorporated by reference from Exhibit 10.22 to 
Fortive Corporation’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for 
the year ended December 31, 2016 (Commission File 
Number: 1-37654) 

95 

 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
10.25 

  Offer of Employment Letter, dated November 11, 
2015 between TGA Employment Services LLC and 
William W. Pringle* 

10.26 

  Offer of Employment Letter, dated February 10, 
2016, between TGA Employment Services LLC and 
Martin Gafinowitz* 

Incorporated by reference from Exhibit 10.9 to 
Amendment No. 1 to Fortive Corporation’s 
Registration Statement on Form 10, filed on March 3, 
2016 (Commission File Number: 1-37654) 

10.27 

  Form A of Danaher Corporation and its Affiliated 
Entities Agreement Regarding Competition and 
Protection of Proprietary Interests* (1) 

Incorporated by reference from Exhibit 10.17 to 
Amendment No. 3 to Fortive Corporation’s 
Registration Statement on Form 10, filed on May 5, 
2016 (Commission File Number: 1-37654) 

10.28 

  Form B of Danaher Corporation and its Affiliated 
Entities Agreement Regarding Competition and 
Protection of Proprietary Interests* (1) 

Incorporated by reference from Exhibit 10.18 to 
Amendment No. 3 to Fortive Corporation’s 
Registration Statement on Form 10, filed on May 5, 
2016 (Commission File Number: 1-37654) 

11.1 

  Computation of per-share earnings (2) 

12.1 

  Computation of earnings to fixed charges 

21.1 

  Subsidiaries of Registrant 

23.1 

  Consent of Independent Registered Public 
Accounting Firm 

31.1 

31.2 

32.1 

32.2 

  Certification of Chief Executive Officer Pursuant to 
Item 601(b)(31) of Regulation S-K, as adopted 
pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 
2002 

  Certification of Chief Financial Officer Pursuant to 
Item 601(b)(31) of Regulation S-K, as adopted 
pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 
2002 

  Certification of Chief Executive Officer, Pursuant to 
18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to 
Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 

  Certification of Chief Financial Officer, 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 (3) 

101.SCH 

  XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document (3) 

101.CAL 

  XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase 
Document (3) 

101.DEF 

  XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase 
Document (3) 

96 

 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
101.LAB 

  XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase 
Document (3) 

101.PRE 

  XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase 
Document (3) 

* 
(1) 
(2) 
(3) 

Indicates management contract or compensatory plan, contract or arrangement. 
Assigned by Danaher Corporation to Fortive Corporation in connection with the separation. 
See Note 17, “Capital Stock and Earnings Per Share,” to our Consolidated and Combined Financial Statements. 
Attached as Exhibit 101 to this report are the following documents formatted in XBRL (Extensible Business 
Reporting Language): (i) Consolidated Balance Sheets as of December 31, 2017 and 2016, (ii) Consolidated and 
Combined Statements of Earnings for the years ended December 31, 2017, 2016 and 2015, (iii) Consolidated and 
Combined Statements of Comprehensive Income for the years ended December 31, 2017, 2016 and 2015, (iv) 
Consolidated and Combined Statements of Changes in Equity for the years ended December 31, 2017, 2016 and 
2015, (v) Consolidated and Combined Statements of Cash Flows for the years ended December 31, 2017, 2016 
and 2015 and (vi) Notes to Consolidated and Combined Financial Statements. 

The registrant agrees to furnish to the Commission supplementally upon request a copy of (1) any instrument with respect to 
long-term debt not filed herewith as to which the total amount of securities authorized thereunder does not exceed 10% of the 
total assets of the registrant and its subsidiaries on a consolidated basis and (ii) schedules or exhibits omitted pursuant to Item 
601(b)(2) of Regulation S-K of any material plan of acquisition, disposition or reorganization set forth above. 

97 

 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
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 

Date:   February 27, 2018 

FORTIVE CORPORATION 

By: 

/s/ JAMES A. LICO 
James A. Lico 
President and Chief Executive Officer 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, this annual report has been signed below by the following 
persons on behalf of the Registrant and in the capacities and on the date indicated: 

Name, Title and Signature 

Date 

/s/ ALAN G. SPOON 
Alan G. Spoon 
Chairman of the Board 

/s/ FEROZ DEWAN 
Feroz Dewan 
Director 

/s/ JAMES A. LICO 
James A. Lico 
President, Chief Executive Officer and Director 

/s/ KATE D. MITCHELL 
Kate D. Mitchell 
Director 

/s/ MITCHELL P. RALES 
Mitchell P. Rales 
Director 

/s/ STEVEN M. RALES 
Steven M. Rales 
Director 

/s/ ISRAEL RUIZ 
Israel Ruiz 
Director 

February 27, 2018 

February 27, 2018 

February 27, 2018 

February 27, 2018 

February 27, 2018 

February 27, 2018 

February 27, 2018 

98 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
/s/ CHARLES E. MCLAUGHLIN 
Charles E. McLaughlin 
Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer 

/s/ EMILY A. WEAVER 
Emily A. Weaver 
Chief Accounting Officer 

February 27, 2018 

February 27, 2018 

99 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
FORTIVE CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES 
SCHEDULE II—VALUATION AND QUALIFYING ACCOUNTS 
($ in millions) 

Classification 
Year Ended December 31, 2017: 
Allowances deducted from asset accounts 

Allowance for doubtful accounts 

Year Ended December 31, 2016: 
Allowances deducted from asset accounts 

Allowance for doubtful accounts 

Year Ended December 31, 2015: 
Allowances deducted from asset accounts 

Allowance for doubtful accounts 

Balance at 
Beginning of 
Period(a) 

Charged to 
Costs & 
Expenses 

Impact of 
Currency 

Charged 
to Other 
Accounts(b) 

Write Offs, 
Write Downs & 
Deductions 

Balance at 
End 
of Period(a) 

$ 

$ 

$ 

81.9     $ 

37.7     $ 

1.0     $ 

2.1     $ 

(55.3 )   $ 

67.4  

76.8     $ 

31.0     $ 

(0.7 )   $ 

0.1     $ 

(25.3 )   $ 

81.9  

71.4     $ 

31.6     $ 

(0.9 )   $ 

—     $ 

(25.3 )   $ 

76.8  

(a) Amounts include allowance for doubtful accounts classified as current and noncurrent. 
(b) Amounts related to businesses acquired, net of amounts related to businesses disposed. 

100 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
   
   
   
   
 
   
   
   
   
   
 
 
   
   
   
   
   
 
   
   
   
   
   
 
   
   
   
   
   
 
 
   
   
   
   
   
 
   
   
   
   
   
 
   
   
   
   
   
 
 
   
   
   
   
   
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101 

 
 
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102

 
 
Comparison of 18 Month Cumulative Total Shareholder Return

Assumes Initial Investment of $100

Fortive Corporation
S&P 500
S&P Industrials

$160 

$155 

$150 

$145 

$140 

$135 

$130 

$125 

$120 

$115 

$110 

$105 

$100 

$95 

7/2016  8/2016  9/2016  10/2016  11/2016  12/2016  1/2017

2/2017 3/2017 4/2017 5/2017 6/2017 7/2017 8/2017 9/2017 10/2017 11/2017 12/2017

NOTE: Data complete through last fiscal year. Copyright Standard and Poor’s, Inc. Used with permission. All rights reserved.

Fortive Corporation

S&P 500

S&P Industrials

7/5/2016

12/31/2016

12/31/2017

100.00

100.00

100.00

110.64

108.33

105.43

149.91

131.98

129.23

Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Financial Information to Corresponding Financial 
Information Presented in Accordance with GAAP

COMPONENTS OF REVENUE GROWTH

Year Ended 2017 vs. 2016

Total revenue growth (GAAP) 

Core (Non-GAAP) 

Acquisitions* (Non-GAAP) 

Impact of currency translation (Non-GAAP) 

YEAR-OVER-YEAR OPERATING MARGIN CHANGES
GAAP 

Year ended December 31, 2016 Operating Profit Margin (GAAP) 

Year ended December 31, 2017 impact from operating profit margin of businesses  
that have been owned for less than one year* (Non-GAAP) 

Year ended December 31, 2017 acquisition-related transaction  
costs and restructuring deemed significant (Non-GAAP) 

Year-over-year core operating margin changes for year ended December 31, 2017  
(defined as all year-over-year operating margin changes other than the changes  
identified in the line item above) (Non-GAAP) 

Year ended December 31, 2017 Operating Profit Margin (GAAP) 

6.9%

4.5%

2.1%

0.3%

20.0%

 (0.4)%

(0.3)%

1.1%

20.4%

FREE CASH FLOW (NON-GAAP)
6
Free Cash Flow from Operations ($ in millions):

Cash Flows from Operations (GAAP)

Less: purchases of property, plant and equipment  
(capital expenditures) from operations (GAAP)

Free Cash Flow (Non-GAAP)

Ratio of Free Cash Flow to Net Earnings ($ in millions):

Net earnings (GAAP)

TCJA Adjustments (GAAP)**

Net earnings excluding the estimated provisional TCJA impact  
(Non-GAAP)**

Free Cash Flow to Net Earnings Conversion Ratio Excluding  
the Estimated Provisional TCJA Impact (Non-GAAP)

 Year Ended 12/31/2017

 Year Ended 12/31/2016

$1,176.4

(136.1)

$1,040.3

$1,044.5

(70.3)

$974.2

107%

$1,136.9

(129.6)

$1,007.3

$872.3

—

$872.3

115%

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
ADJUSTED NET EARNINGS
($ in millions) 

Net Earnings (GAAP) 

Year Ended 12/31/2017   Year Ended 12/31/2016

$1,044.5  

$872.3

Pretax amortization of acquisition-related intangible assets in the year ended  
December 31, 2017 ($65 million pretax, $49 million after tax), and in the year  
ended December 31, 2016 ($86 million pretax, $62 million after tax) 

Pretax Additional Interest Expense in the year ended  
December 31, 2016 ($42 million pretax, $30 million after tax) 

Acquisition-related transaction costs and acquisition-related restructuring  
in the year ended December 31, 2017 ($22 million pretax, $16 million after tax) 

Gain on sale of real property in the year ended December 31, 2017  
($8 million pretax, $5 million after tax) 

Gain from acquisition in the year ended December 31, 2017 ($15 million after tax) 

Estimated tax effect of the adjustments reflected above 

Estimated provisional TCJA Adjustments** 

Additional Income Tax Adjustment in the year ended  
December 31, 2016 ($30 million after tax) 

Adjusted Net Earnings (Non-GAAP) 

65.3 

— 

21.8 

(8.0) 

(15.3) 

(18.8) 

(70.3) 

— 

 $1,019.2 

85.7

(42.3)

—

—

—

(12.3)

—

(29.8)

$873.6

ADJUSTED DILUTED NET EARNINGS PER SHARE ***
($ in millions) 

Year Ended 12/31/2017   Year Ended 12/31/2016

Diluted Net Earnings Per Share (GAAP) 

$2.96  

$2.51

Pretax amortization of acquisition-related intangible assets in the year ended  
December 31, 2017 ($65 million pretax, $49 million after tax), and in the year  
ended December 31, 2016 ($86 million pretax, $62 million after tax) 

Pretax Additional Interest Expense in the year ended  
December 31, 2016 ($42 million pretax, $30 million after tax) 

Acquisition-related transaction costs and acquisition-related restructuring  
in the year ended December 31, 2017 ($22 million pretax, $16 million after tax) 

Gain on sale of real property in the year ended December 31, 2017  
($8 million pretax, $5 million after tax) 

Gain from acquisition in the year ended December 31, 2017 ($15 million after tax) 

Estimated tax effect of the adjustments reflected above 

Estimated provisional TCJA Adjustments** 

Additional Income Tax Adjustment in the year ended  
December 31, 2016 ($30 million after tax) 

Adjusted Diluted Net Earnings Per Share (GAAP) 

0.19 

— 

0.06 

(0.02) 

(0.04) 

(0.05) 

(0.20) 

— 

 $2.89 

0.25

(0.13)

—

—

—

(0.03)

—

(0.09)

$2.52

*  Includes the impact from acquisitions and the separation from Danaher.

  **   Non-recurring, provisional impact of the Tax Cut and Jobs Act (the “TCJA”), including the provisional amount of the remeasurement of 

deferred tax assets and liabilities and the provisional amount of the transitional tax obligations on deemed repatriation of foreign earnings.

 ***   The sum of the components of Adjusted Diluted Net Earnings Per Share may not equal the total amount due to rounding.

 
DIRECTORS

FEROZ DEWAN 
Chief Executive Officer 
Arena Holdings Management LLC 

JAMES A. LICO
President and Chief  
Executive Officer 
Fortive Corporation

KATE D. MITCHELL
Partner and Co-Founder 
Scale Venture Partners

MITCHELL P. RALES
Chairman of the  
Executive Committee 
Danaher Corporation

STEVEN M. RALES
Chairman of the Board 
Danaher Corporation

ISRAEL RUIZ
Executive Vice President  
and Treasurer  
Massachusetts Institute  
of Technology

ALAN G.  SPOON
Partner Emeritus 
Polaris Partners

EXECUTIVE OFFICERS

JAMES A. LICO
President and  
Chief Executive Officer

BARBARA B. HULIT
Senior Vice President 

STACEY A. WALKER
Senior Vice President  
Human Resources

CHARLES E. MCLAUGHLIN
Senior Vice President 
Chief Financial Officer

PATRICK K. MURPHY
Senior Vice President 

RAJ RATNAKAR
Vice President 
Strategic Development

PATRICK J. BYRNE
Senior Vice President 

WILLIAM W. PRINGLE
Senior Vice President 

JONATHAN L. SCHWARZ
Vice President 
Corporate Development

MARTIN GAFINOWITZ
Senior Vice President 

PETER C. UNDERWOOD
Senior Vice President 
General Counsel

EMILY A. WEAVER
Vice President 
Chief Accounting Officer

 
 
OUR TRANSFER AGENT

Computershare manages a variety of shareholder services such as: change of address, lost stock certificates, 
transfer of stock to another person, and other administrative transactions. Computershare can be reached at:

 P.O. Box 30170  |  College Station, TX 77842-3170 
Toll-free: 800.568.3476  |  Outside the U.S.: +1.312.588.4991  |  www.computershare.com

INVESTOR RELATIONS

This annual report, along with a variety of other financial materials, can be viewed at www.fortive.com.  
Additional inquiries can be directed to Fortive’s Investor Relations team:

 6920 Seaway Boulevard  |  Everett, WA 98203 
Phone: 425.446.5000  |  E-mail: investors@fortive.com

ANNUAL MEETING

Fortive’s annual shareholder meeting will be held on June 5, 2018 in Everett, Washington.  
Shareholders who would like to attend should notify Fortive’s Investor Relations team  
by calling 425.446.5000 or emailing investors@fortive.com.

AUDITORS

Ernst & Young, LLP  |  Seattle, WA

STOCK LISTING

New York Stock Exchange Symbol: FTV

 
 
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