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IQVIA
Annual Report 2018

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FY2018 Annual Report · IQVIA
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UNITED STATES 
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION 
Washington, D.C. 20549 

FORM 10-K 

(Mark One) 
☒

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

☐

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

For the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018 
or 

For the transition period from                     to                      . 
Commission File Number: 001-35907 

IQVIA HOLDINGS INC. 

(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

Delaware
(State or other jurisdiction of 
incorporation or organization)

27-1341991
(I.R.S. Employer 
Identification Number)

4820 Emperor Blvd., Durham, North Carolina 27703 
and 
83 Wooster Heights Road, Danbury, Connecticut 06810 
(Address of principal executive offices and Zip Code) 
(919) 998-2000 and (203) 448-4600 
(Registrant’s telephone number, including area code) 

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

Title of Each Class:

Common Stock, par value $0.01 per share

Name of Each Exchange on which Registered

New York Stock Exchange

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

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act.    Yes  ☒    No  ☐ 
Indicate by check mark if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or section 15(d) of the Exchange Act.    Yes  ☐    No  ☒ 
Indicate  by  check  mark  whether  the  registrant  (1) has  filed  all  reports  required  to  be  filed  by  Section 13  or  15(d)  of  the  Securities  Exchange  Act  of  1934 
during the preceding twelve months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements 
for the past 90 days.    Yes  ☒    No  ☐ 

Indicate  by  check  mark  whether  the  registrant  has  submitted  electronically  every  Interactive  Data  File  required  to  be  submitted  pursuant  to  Rule  405  of 
Regulation S-T (§232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit such files).    Yes  ☒
    No  ☐ 

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.    ☒ 

Indicate  by  check  mark  whether  the  registrant  is  a  large  accelerated  filer,  an  accelerated  filer,  a  non-accelerated  filer,  a  smaller  reporting  company,  or 
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
Non-accelerated filer
Emerging growth company
If an emerging growth company, indicate by check mark if the registrant has elected not to use the extended transition period for complying with any new or 

☐
Accelerated filer
Smaller reporting company ☐

☒  
☐
☐

revised financial accounting standards provided pursuant to Section 13(a) of the Exchange Act.  ☐

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act).    Yes  ☐    No  ☒ 
The aggregate market value of the voting and non-voting common stock held by non-affiliates of the registrant, based upon the closing sale price as reported 

on the New York Stock Exchange on June 29, 2018, the last business day of the registrant’s most recently completed second quarter, was approximately $16.1 billion. 

Indicate the number of shares outstanding of each of the issuer’s classes of Common Stock, as of the latest practicable date. 

Class

Number of Shares Outstanding

Common Stock $0.01 par value

197,599,861 shares outstanding as of February 12, 2019

Portions  of  the  registrant’s  Proxy  Statement  for  the  2019  Annual  Meeting  of  Stockholders  are  incorporated  herein  by  reference  in  Part III  of  this  Annual 
Report on Form 10-K to the extent stated herein. Such proxy statement will be filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission within 120 days of the registrant’s 
fiscal year ended December 31, 2018. 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
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IQVIA HOLDINGS INC.
FORM 10-K 

TABLE OF CONTENTS 

PART I 

Item  

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

Selected Financial Data

PART II 
5. Market for Registrant’s Common Equity, Related Stockholder Matters and Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities
6.
7. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations
7A. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk
8.
9.
9A. Controls and Procedures
9B. Other Information

Financial Statements and Supplementary Data
Changes in and Disagreements with Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure

PART III 

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

10. Directors, Executive Officers and Corporate Governance
11.
12.
13. Certain Relationships and Related Transactions and Director Independence
14.

Principal Accountant Fees and Services

15.

16.

Exhibits and Financial Statement Schedules
Exhibit Index
Form 10-K Summary
Signatures

PART IV 

2

 
 
FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS 

Except  for  any  historical  information  contained  herein,  the  matters  discussed  or  incorporated  by  reference  in  this  Annual 
Report on Form 10-K contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the federal securities laws, including Section 27A of 
the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (“Securities Act”), and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the 
“Exchange  Act”).  Such  forward-looking  statements  reflect,  among  other  things,  our  current  expectations,  our  forecasts  and  our 
anticipated results of operations, all of which are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause 
our actual results, performance or achievements, market trends, or industry results to differ materially from those expressed or implied 
by  such  forward-looking  statements.  Therefore,  any  statements  contained  herein  that  are  not  statements  of  historical  fact  may  be 
forward-looking  statements  and  should  be  evaluated  as  such.  Without  limiting  the  foregoing,  the  words  “anticipates,”  “believes,” 
“estimates,” “expects,” “intends,” “may,” “plans,” “projects,” “should,” “targets,” “will” and the negative thereof and similar words 
and  expressions  are  intended  to  identify  forward-looking  statements.  These  forward-looking  statements  are  subject  to  a  number  of 
risks,  uncertainties  and  assumptions,  including  those  described  in  Part  I,  Item 1A,  “Risk  Factors.”  If  one  or  more  of  these  risks  or 
uncertainties  materialize,  or  if  underlying  assumptions  prove  incorrect,  our  actual  results  may  vary  materially  from  those  expected, 
estimated or projected or as otherwise suggested by the forward-looking statements that we make for a number of reasons. Given these 
uncertainties, users of the information included or incorporated by reference in this Form 10-K, including investors and prospective 
investors,  are  cautioned  not  to  place  undue  reliance  on  such  forward-looking  statements.  All  forward-looking  statements  are  made 
only  as  of  the  date  hereof.  We  assume  no  obligation  to  update  any  such  forward-looking  information  to  reflect  actual  results  or 
changes in the factors affecting such forward-looking information. 

GENERAL 

On May 3, 2016, Quintiles Transnational Holdings Inc. (“Quintiles”) and IMS Health Holdings, Inc. (“IMS Health”) entered 
into an Agreement and Plan of Merger (the “Merger Agreement”). Effective October 3, 2016, pursuant to the Merger Agreement, IMS 
Health merged with and into Quintiles, with Quintiles continuing as the surviving corporation, and the separate corporate existence of 
IMS Health ceased (the “Merger”). Quintiles was incorporated under the laws of the State of North Carolina on November 10, 2009, 
and  immediately  prior  to  the  completion  of  the  Merger,  Quintiles  converted  to  a  Delaware  corporation  and  changed  its  name  to 
QuintilesIMS Holdings, Inc. On November 6, 2017, we changed our name to IQVIA Holdings Inc.

We renamed two of our reportable segments during the second quarter of 2018. The reportable segment formerly known as 
Commercial  Solutions  is  now  named  Technology  &  Analytics  Solutions  and  the  reportable  segment  formerly  known  as  Integrated 
Engagement Services is now named Contract Sales & Medical Solutions. This is a name change only and there are no changes to the 
composition of either segment.

When we use the terms “IQVIA,” the “Company,” “we,” “us” or “our” in this Annual Report on Form 10-K, we mean IQVIA 

Holdings Inc. and its subsidiaries on a consolidated basis, unless we state or the context implies otherwise. 

3

INDUSTRY AND MARKET DATA 

This annual report on Form 10-K includes market data and forecasts with respect to the healthcare industry. In some cases, we 
rely on and refer to market data and certain industry forecasts that were obtained from third party surveys, market research, consultant 
surveys, publicly available information and industry publications and surveys that we believe to be reliable. However, we have not 
independently  verified  data  from  industry  analyses  and  cannot  guarantee  their  accuracy  or  completeness.  We  believe  that  data 
regarding the industry, market size and its market position and market share within such industry provide general guidance but are 
inherently imprecise. Other industry and market data included in this annual report are from IQVIA analyses and have been identified 
accordingly,  including,  for  example,  IQVIA  Market  Prognosis,  which  is  a  subscription-based  service  that  provides  five-year 
pharmaceutical  market  forecasts  at  the  national,  regional  and  global  levels.  We  are  a  leading  global  information  provider  for  the 
healthcare industry and we maintain databases, produce market analyses and deliver information to clients in the ordinary course of 
our  business.  Our  information  is  widely  referenced  in  the  industry  and  used  by  governments,  payers,  academia,  the  life  sciences 
industry,  the  financial  community  and  others.  Most  of  this  information  is  available  on  a  subscription  basis.  Other  reports  and 
information  are  available  publicly  through  our  IQVIA  Institute  for  Healthcare  Informatics  (the  “IQVIA  Institute”).  All  such 
information  is  based  upon  our  own  market  research,  internal  databases  and  published  reports  and  has  not  been  verified  by  any 
independent  sources.  Our  estimates  and  assumptions  involve  risks  and  uncertainties  and  are  subject  to  change  based  on  various 
factors, including those discussed in the “Risk Factors” section. These and other factors could cause results to differ materially from 
those expressed in the estimates and assumptions.

TRADEMARKS AND SERVICE MARKS 

All  trademarks,  trade  names,  product  names,  graphics  and  logos  of  IQVIA  contained  herein  are  trademarks  or  registered 
trademarks  of  IQVIA  Holdings  Inc.  or  its  subsidiaries,  as  applicable,  in  the  United  States  and/or  other  countries.  All  other  party 
trademarks, trade names, product names, graphics and logos contained herein are the property of their respective owners. The use or 
display  of  other  parties’  trademarks,  trade  names,  product  names,  graphics  or  logos  is  not  intended  to  imply,  and  should  not  be 
construed to imply, a relationship with, or endorsement or sponsorship of IQVIA Inc. or its subsidiaries by such other party.

Solely for convenience, the trademarks, service marks and trade names referred to in this annual report are listed without the ®, 
(sm) and (TM) symbols, but we will assert, to the fullest extent under applicable law, our rights or the rights of the applicable licensors 
to these trademarks, service marks and trade names. 

4

Item 1. Business 

Our Company 

PART I 

IQVIA  is  a  leading  global  provider  of  advanced  analytics,  technology  solutions  and  contract  research  services  to  the  life 
sciences  industry.  Formed  through  the  Merger  of  IMS  Health  and  Quintiles,  IQVIA  applies  human  data  science  –  leveraging  the 
analytic  rigor  and  clarity  of  data  science  to  the  ever-expanding  scope  of  human  science  –  to  enable  companies  to  reimagine  and 
develop new approaches to clinical development and commercialization, speed innovation, and accelerate improvements in healthcare 
outcomes.  Powered  by  the  IQVIA  CORE™,  we  deliver  unique  and  actionable  insights  at  the  intersection  of  large  scale  analytics, 
transformative  technology  and  extensive  domain  expertise  as  well  as  execution  capabilities  to  help  biotech,  medical  device,  and 
pharmaceutical  companies,  medical  researchers,  government  agencies,  payers  and  other  healthcare  stakeholders  tap  into  a  deeper 
understanding of diseases, human behaviors and scientific advances, in an effort to advance their path toward cures. With more than 
58,000 employees, we conduct operations in more than 100 countries.

We have one of the largest and most comprehensive collections of healthcare information in the world, which includes more 
than  600 million  comprehensive,  longitudinal,  non-identified  patient  records  spanning  sales,  prescription  and  promotional  data, 
medical claims, electronic medical records, genomics, and social media. Our scaled and growing data set contains over 30 petabytes of 
proprietary data sourced from more than 140,000 data suppliers and covering approximately one million data feeds globally. Based on 
this  data,  we  deliver  information  and  insights  on  over  85%  of  the  world’s  pharmaceuticals,  as  measured  by  2017  sales.  We 
standardize,  curate,  structure  and  integrate  this  data  by  applying  our  sophisticated  analytics  and  leveraging  our  global  technology 
infrastructure.  This  helps  our  clients  run  their  organizations  more  efficiently  and  make  better  decisions  to  improve  their  clinical, 
commercial  and  financial  performance.  The  breadth  of  the  intelligent,  actionable  information  we  provide  is  not  comprehensively 
available from any other source and our scope of information would be difficult and costly for another party to replicate. 

We combine our proprietary information assets with advanced analytics, transformative technology and domain expertise to 
develop clinical and commercial capabilities that enable us to grow our relationships with healthcare stakeholders throughout the life 
science’s value chain. This set of capabilities includes:

•

•

•

•

•

•

A leading healthcare-specific global IT infrastructure, representing what we believe is one of the largest and most 
sophisticated information technology (“IT”) infrastructures in healthcare. We receive over 70 billion healthcare records 
annually, our infrastructure then connects complex healthcare data while applying a wide range of privacy, security, 
operational,  legal  and  contractual  protections  for  data  in  response  to  local  law,  supplier  requirements  and  industry 
leading practices;

Analytics-driven clinical development, which improves clinical trial design, site identification and patient recruitment 
by  empowering  therapeutic,  scientific,  and  domain  experts  with  expansive  levels  of  information,  including  product 
level tracking in 90 markets, and information about treatments and outcomes on more than 600 million non-identified 
patients globally; 

Robust real-world insights ecosystem, with sophisticated retrospective database analytics, prospective real-world data 
collection technology platforms and scientific expertise, which enables us to address critical healthcare issues of cost, 
value and patient outcomes; 

A  growing  set  of  proprietary  clinical  and  commercial  applications,  which  helps  our  clients  increase  their  clinical 
operations performance, supports their regulatory and compliance needs and orchestrates their sales operations, sales 
management, multi-channel marketing and performance management; and 

A  staff  of  more  than  58,000  employees  across  the  globe,  including  approximately  21,000  Technology  &  Analytics 
Solutions employees, approximately 31,000 Research & Development Solutions employees and approximately 6,000 
Contract Sales & Medical Solutions employees. 

Integration of information, analytics, technology, and domain expertise through the IQVIA CORE™, which enables 
us to provide our clients with more effective options to address their needs from Research and Development through 
commercialization  as  well  as  truly  innovative  breakthroughs  such  as  virtual  trials  and  global  real-world  evidence 
networks.

5

Our mission-critical relationships with our life science clients consist of four important decision-making processes related to 
their  product  portfolios:  Research  and  Development,  Pre-Launch,  Launch  and  In-Market.  We  continue  to  develop  software  and 
services  applications  to  further  deepen  our  level  of  client  integration  by  enabling  our  clients  to  enhance  and/or  automate  many 
components of these key decision-making processes. 

•     Market opportunity 
assessment     

•     Drug pricing 
optimization

•     Market access

•     Commercial operations

•     Project management and 
clinical monitoring

•     Launch readiness

•     Health technology 

•     Sales force effectiveness

assessment

•     Clinical trial support 

•     Commercial planning

•     Commercial readiness

•     Sales force alignment

services

•     Patient recruitment

•     Brand positioning

•     Forecasting

•     Multi-channel marketing

•     Clinical trial laboratory 

•     Message testing

•     Resource allocation

•     Client relationship 
management

services

•     Strategic clinical trial 
planning and design

•     Influence networks

•     Contract sales force

•     Lifecycle management

•     Territory design

•     Observational studies

•     Stakeholder engagement

We believe that a powerful component of our value proposition is the breadth and depth of intelligence we provide to help our 

clients address fundamental operational questions. 

User
Research & Development

Which study sites have the 
target patients?

Illustrative Questions
Are there enough patients for 
my clinical trial?

How long will trial 
enrollment take to hit target 
patient volumes?

How much should I pay my 
sales representative next 
month?

Which providers generate the 
highest return on 
representative visit?

Does my sales representative 
drive appropriate prescribing?

What share of patients is 
appropriately treated?

Which underserved patient 
populations will benefit most 
from my new drug?

Is my brand gaining market 
share quickly enough to hit 
revenue forecasts?

Sales

Marketing

Real-World 
Evidence/Pharmacovigilance

What is the likely impact of 
new therapies on costs and 
outcomes?

Are new therapies performing 
better against existing standards 
of care in real-world settings?

Does real-world data indicate 
adverse events not detected in 
clinical trials?

6

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Our Market Opportunity 

We compete in a market of greater than $230 billion consisting of outsourced research and development, real-world evidence 
and connected health and technology enabled commercial operations markets for life sciences companies and the broader healthcare 
industry. The following sets forth our estimates for the size of our principal markets: 

•

•

•

Outsourced research and development: Biopharmaceutical spending on drug development totaled over $100 billion in 
2018.  Of  that  amount,  we  estimate  that  our  addressable  opportunity  (clinical  development  spending  excluding 
preclinical spending) was approximately $66 billion. The portion of this addressable opportunity that was outsourced 
in 2018, based on our estimates, was approximately $32 billion; 

Real-World  Evidence  and  connected  health:  Total  addressable  market  of  approximately  $80 billion  based  on  2018 
sales that consists of two relatively equal parts. First, the market for Real-World Evidence of approximately $40 billion 
includes  traditionally  defined  analytic  platforms  and  implementation,  medical  and  scientific  analytic  services, 
observation  studies  and  market  access.  Second,  the  market  for  connected  healthcare  of  approximately  $40 billion 
includes areas such as revenue cycle management, payer analytics and clinical decision support services; and 

Technology  enabled  commercial  operations:  Total  addressable  market  of  approximately  $50 billion  based  on  2018 
sales  that  includes  information,  data  warehousing,  IT  outsourcing,  software  applications  and  other  services  in  the 
broader market for IT services. This addressable market also includes commercial services such as recruiting, training, 
deploying  and  managing  global  sales  forces,  channel  management,  patient  engagement  services,  market  access 
consulting, brand communication, advisory services, and health information analytics and technology consulting. 

In  deriving  estimates  of  the  size  of  the  various  markets  described  above,  we  review  third-party  sources,  which  include 
estimates and forecasts of spending in various segments, in combination with internal IQVIA research and analysis informed by our 
experience  serving  these  segments,  as  well  as  projected  growth  rates  for  each  of  these  segments.  See  “Industry  and  Market  Data” 
above.   

We believe there are six key trends affecting our end markets that will create increasing demand for research and development 

services and technology & analytics solutions: 

Growth  and  innovation  in  the  life  sciences  industry.  The  life  sciences  industry  is  a  large  and  critical  part  of  the  global 
healthcare system, and, according to the latest information available from the IQVIA Market Prognosis service, is estimated to have 
generated  approximately  $1.2  trillion  in  revenue  in  2018.  According  to  our  research,  revenue  growth  in  the  life  sciences  industry 
globally is expected to range from 3% to 6% between 2019 and 2023. According to the IQVIA Institute, it is estimated that spending 
on  pharmaceuticals  in  emerging  markets  will  expand  at  a  5%  to  8%  compound  annual  growth  rate  (“CAGR”)  through  2023.  The 
growth  of  emerging  markets  is  making  these  geographies  strategically  important  to  life  sciences  organizations  and,  consistent  with 
their approach in the developed markets, we expect these organizations to apply a high degree of sophistication to their commercial 
operations in these countries. For global companies, this requires highly localized knowledge and information assets, the development 
of market access strategies and performance benchmarking. In addition, local players are learning that they need to compete on the 
basis of improved information and analytics. 

Growth  in  Research  and  Development.  Spending  trends  in  research  and  development  are  impacted  as  a  result  of  several 
factors, including major biopharmaceutical companies’ efforts to replenish revenues lost from the so-called “patent cliff,” increased 
access  to  capital  by  the  small  and  midcap  biotechnology  industry,  and  recent  increases  in  pharmaceutical  approvals  by  regulatory 
authorities. The IQVIA Institute also estimates that approximately 270 new molecular entities (“NMEs”) are expected to be approved 
between 2019 and 2023, compared to 230 between 2014 and 2018, and 182 between 2009 and 2013. We believe that further research 
and  development  spending,  combined  with  the  continued  need  for  cost  efficiency  across  the  healthcare  landscape,  will  continue  to 
create opportunities for biopharmaceutical services companies, particularly those with a global reach and broad service offerings, to 
help biopharmaceutical companies with their pre- and post-launch solutions development and commercialization needs. 

7

Increased  Complexity  in  Research  and  Development.  Biopharmaceutical  companies  face  environments  in  which  it  has 
become  increasingly  difficult  to  operate.  Improved  standards  of  care  in  many  therapeutic  areas  and  the  emergence  of  new  types  of 
therapies, such as biologics, genetically targeted therapies, gene and stem cell therapies, and other treatment modalities have led to 
more complex development and regulatory pathways. For example, the United States and European countries have recently released 
guidelines for the development of “biosimilar” products. We believe that our global clinical development capabilities, including our 
expertise  in  biomarkers  and  genomics  and  our  global  laboratory  network,  position  us  well  to  help  biopharmaceutical  companies 
manage the complexities inherent in an environment where this type of expertise is important. For example, the IQVIA CORE™ helps 
us validate protocols to ensure studies in new disease areas have greater accuracy and also enables us, through innovations such as 
predictive analytics, to find patients who may not have been diagnosed.

Regulators require clinical trials involving local populations as part of the process for approving new pharmaceutical products, 
especially in certain Asian and emerging markets. Understanding the epidemiological and physiological differences in different ethnic 
populations and being able to conduct clinical trials locally in certain geographies will be important to pharmaceutical product growth 
strategies,  both  for  multinational  and  local/regional  biopharmaceutical  companies.  We  believe  that  our  global  clinical  development 
capabilities and unmatched presence in Asia and other emerging markets make us a strong partner for biopharmaceutical companies 
managing the complexities of international drug development. 

Financial  pressures  driving  the  need  for  increased  efficiency.  Despite  expected  accelerating  growth  in  the  global  life 
sciences market, we believe our clients will face increased operating margin pressure due to their changing product mix, pricing and 
reimbursement challenges, and rising costs of compliance. Product portfolios for life sciences companies have shifted toward specialty 
products  with  lower  peak  market  sales  potential  than  traditional  primary  care  medicines.  We  believe  that  the  need  for 
biopharmaceutical companies to maximize productivity and lower costs across their processes from research and development through 
commercial operations will cause them to look to partners as they enter into outsourcing arrangements to improve efficiency. Further, 
our  clients  are  looking  for  new  ways  to  simplify  processes  and  drive  operational  efficiencies  by  using  automation,  consolidating 
vendors and adopting new technology options such as hosted and cloud-based applications. This provides opportunities for technology 
services  vendors  to  capture  and  consolidate  internal  spending  by  providing  lower-cost  and  variable-cost  options  that  lower  clients’ 
research and development, selling, marketing and administrative costs. 

Evolving need to integrate and structure expanding sources of data. Over the past decade, many health systems around the 
world  have  focused  on  digitizing  medical  records.  While  such  records  theoretically  enhance  access  to  data,  relevant  information  is 
often unintegrated, unstructured, siloed in disparate software systems, or entered inconsistently. In addition, new sources of data from 
the  internet,  such  as  social  media  and  information  on  limited  patient  pools,  and  information  resulting  from  enhanced  diagnostic 
technologies are creating new sources of healthcare data. 

In  order  to  derive  valuable  insights  from  existing  and  expanding  sources  of  information,  clients  need  access  to  statistically 
significant data sets organized into databases that can be queried and analyzed. For example, real-world evidence studies demonstrate 
practical  and  clinical  efficacies,  which  we  believe  require  the  aggregation  and  integration  of  large  clinical  data  sets  across  all  care 
settings, types of therapies and patient cohorts. Longitudinal studies require analysis of non-identified patient diagnoses, treatments, 
procedures  and  laboratory  test  results  to  identify  types  of  patients  that  will  likely  best  respond  to  particular  therapies.  Finally, 
manufacturers  also  require  the  ability  to  analyze  social  media  activity  to  identify  unmet  patient  needs  and  support  for  new  orphan 
drugs.  This  information  is  highly  relevant  to  all  healthcare  stakeholders  and  we  believe  the  opportunity  to  more  broadly  apply 
healthcare data can only be realized through structuring, organizing and integrating new and existing forms of data in conjunction with 
sophisticated analytics. 

Need  for  demonstrated  value  in  healthcare.  Participants  in  the  healthcare  industry  are  focused  on  improving  quality  and 
reducing costs, both of which require assessment of quality and value of therapies and providers. As a result, physicians no longer 
make prescribing decisions in isolation, but rather in the context of guidance and rules from payers, integrated delivery networks and 
governments. We believe life sciences companies are working to bring alignment across constituents on the value of their treatments 
in order to successfully develop and commercialize new therapies. 

There is increasing pressure on life sciences companies to support and justify the value of their therapies. Many new drugs that 
are being approved are more expensive than existing therapies and will likely receive heightened scrutiny by regulators and payers to 
determine  whether  the  existing  treatment  options  would  be  sufficient.  Additionally,  many  new  specialty  drugs  are  molecular-based 
therapies and require a more detailed understanding of clinical factors and influencers that demonstrate therapeutic value. As a result, 
leading life sciences companies are utilizing more sophisticated outcome research and data analytics services. 

8

We believe we are well positioned to take advantage of these global trends in healthcare. Beyond our proprietary information 
assets,  we  have  developed  key  capabilities  to  assess  opportunities  to  develop  and  commercialize  therapies,  support  and  defend  the 
value of medicines and help our clients operate more efficiently through the application of insight-driven decision-making and cost-
efficient technology solutions. 

Our Growth Strategy 

We  believe  we  are  well  positioned  for  continued  growth  across  the  markets  we  serve.  Our  strategy  for  achieving  growth 

includes: 

Continue to innovate by leveraging our information, advanced analytics, transformative technology and significant domain 
expertise. As a leader in the development and commercialization of new pharmaceutical therapies, we can empower our therapeutic, 
scientific  and  domain  experts  with  expansive  levels  of  information  including  product  level  tracking  in  90  markets  and  information 
about  treatments  and  outcomes  on  more  than  600 million  non-identified  patients.  By  integrating  these  capabilities  in  the  IQVIA 
CORE™,  we  have  the  ability  to  optimize  the  clinical  trial  process  and  enable  our  clients  to  reduce  costs  and  get  their  products  to 
market more quickly by running their clinical trials more efficiently and effectively through more informed site selection and faster 
patient  recruitment  practices  as  well  as  through  new  innovations  such  as  synthetic  control  arms  to  better  leverage  existing  data  to 
support future treatments and virtual trials to improve patient centricity. 

Build upon our extensive client relationships. We have a diversified base of over 8,000 clients in over 100 countries and have 
expanded our client value proposition to address a broader market for research and development and commercial operations which we 
estimate to be more than $230 billion in 2018. Through the combined offerings of research and development and commercial services 
we built a platform that allows us to be a more complete partner to our clients. 

Expand  portfolio  through  strategic  acquisitions.  We  have  and  expect  to  continue  to  acquire  assets  and  businesses  that 
strengthen our value proposition to clients. We have developed an internal capability to source, evaluate and integrate acquisitions that 
have created value for stockholders. As the global healthcare landscape evolves, we expect that there will be a growing number of 
acquisition  opportunities  across  the  life  sciences,  payer  and  provider  sectors.  We  expect  to  continue  to  invest  in  or  explore 
opportunities for strategic acquisitions to grow our platform and enhance our ability to provide more services to our clients. 

Expand  the  penetration  of  our  offerings  to  the  broader  healthcare  marketplace.  We  believe  that  substantial  opportunities 
exist to expand penetration of our market and further integrate our offerings in a broader cross-section of the healthcare marketplace, 
particularly connected healthcare. 

9

Our Offerings 

We  offer  hundreds  of  distinct  services,  applications,  technology  platforms  and  solutions  to  help  our  clients  make  critical 
decisions  and  perform  better.  We  have  three  operating  segments:  Technology  &  Analytics  Solutions,  Research &  Development 
Solutions  and  Contract  Sales  &  Medical  Solutions.  Their  offerings  complement  each  other  and  can  provide  enhanced  value  to  our 
clients when delivered together, with each driving demand for the other. 

Our Technology & Analytics Solutions offerings include: 

Technology  solutions. We  provide  an  extensive  range  of  cloud-based  applications  and  associated  implementation  services. 
Software as a Service (“SaaS”) solutions that support a wide range of clinical and commercial processes, including clinical trial design 
and  planning,  site  start-up,  patient  consent,  site  payments,  content  management,  multi-channel  marketing,  real-world  evidence 
generation,  customer  relationship  management  (“CRM”),  performance  management,  incentive  compensation,  territory  alignment, 
roster  management,  call  planning,  compliance  and  safety  reporting  and  master  data  management.  These  solutions  are  used  by 
healthcare  companies  to  manage,  optimize  and  execute  their  clinical  and  commercial  strategies  in  an  orchestrated  manner  while 
addressing  their  regulatory  obligations.  Using  proprietary  algorithms,  we  combine  our  country-level  data,  healthcare  expertise  and 
therapeutic knowledge in over 100 countries to create our Global Market Insight family of offerings such as MIDAS, Analytics Link 
and  Disease  Insights,  which  provides  a  leading  source  of  insight  into  international  market  dynamics  and  are  used  by  most  large 
pharmaceutical companies.

Real-World  Insights. We  help  healthcare  stakeholders  meet  their  increasing  demand  for  faster  insights  and  evidence  by 
applying digital technology, scientific expertise, and machine learning to ever-expanding rich clinical data. We use proprietary patient 
privacy  and  security  safeguards  to  protect  non-identified  patient-level  medical  claims,  prescriptions,  electronic  medical  records, 
genomics,  and  social  media  data.  We  help  our  global  customers  across  payers,  providers,  governments,  and  biopharmaceuticals  to 
answer  critical  questions  about  healthcare  interventions  related  to  safety,  efficacy,  and  value.  We  also  bring  together  stakeholders 
across  healthcare  to  collaborate  in  efforts  to  develop  new  information  sources,  more  effective  reimbursement  models,  and  better 
patient outcomes. 

Analytics  and  consulting  services. We  provide  a  broad  set  of  strategic  and  implementation  consulting  services,  including 
advanced  analytics  and  commercial  processes  outsourcing  services  to  help  the  commercial  operations  of  life  sciences  companies 
successfully transform their commercial models, engage more effectively with the healthcare stakeholders and reduce their operating 
costs.  We  also  help  our  client’s  R&D  function  to  address  strategic  challenges  in  the  drug  development  process.  Our  global  teams 
leverage  local  market  knowledge,  deep  scientific  and  therapeutic  area  expertise  and  our  global  information  resources  to  assist  our 
clients with R&D strategy, portfolio, brand and commercial strategy, as well as pricing and market access and launch excellence.

National information offerings. Our national offerings comprise unique services in over 90 countries that provide consistent 
country level performance metrics related to sales of pharmaceutical products, prescribing trends, medical treatment and promotional 
activity across multiple channels including retail, hospital and mail order. These solutions are an integral part of critical processes in 
life  science  companies  around  the  world  and  are  also  used  extensively  by  the  investment  and  financial  sectors  that  deal  with  life 
science companies. 

Sub-national information offerings. Our sub-national offerings comprise unique services in over 70 countries that provide a 
consistent  measurement  of  sales  or  prescribing  activity  at  the  regional,  zip  code  and  individual  prescriber  level  (depending  on 
regulation in the relevant country). These solutions are used extensively, with a majority of pharmaceutical sales organizations within 
these countries dependent on these services to set goals, determine resourcing, measure performance and calculate compensation.  

Reference  information  offerings. Our  widely  used  reference  database  that  tracks  approximately  16 million  healthcare 
professionals  in  over  100  countries,  providing  a  comprehensive  view  of  health  care  practitioners  that  is  critical  for  the  commercial 
success of our clients’ marketing and sales initiatives. 

10

Our Research & Development Solutions offerings include: 

Project  Management  and  Clinical  Monitoring.  Drawing  upon  our  years  of  experience,  our  site  databases,  our  site 
relationships  and  our  highly  trained  staff,  our  solutions and  services  enables  the  efficient  conduct  and  coordination  of  multi-site 
clinical trials (generally Phase II-IV). Our service offerings include protocol design, feasibility and operational planning, site start up, 
patient  recruitment  and  clinical  site  monitoring.  By  infusing  technology  into  field-based  monitoring,  we  are  able  to  reduce  data 
collection steps and time.

Clinical  Trial  Support  Services.  Each  clinical  trial  requires  a  number  of  concurrent  services  and  data  streams.  We  offer  a 
broad range of functional services and consultation to support clinical trials through specialized expertise that help clients efficiently 
collect, analyze and report the quality data and evidence they need to gain regulatory approval. 

Q2  Solutions.  We  provide  our  clients  globally  scaled  end-to-end  clinical  trial  laboratory  and  research  services  through  our 
majority-owned joint venture with Quest Diagnostics Incorporated (“Quest”), which was formed on July 1, 2015. We offer genomic 
and bioanalytical laboratory services supporting clinical trials offerings within the joint venture, which is referred to as Q2 Solutions. 

Strategic  Planning  and  Design.  By  bringing  our  data  science  capabilities  to  our  strategic  planning  and  design  services,  we 
offer  consultation  services  to  improve  decisions  and  performance  including  portfolio,  program  and  protocol  planning  and  design, 
biomarker  consultation,  benefit-risk  management,  regulatory  affairs,  biostatistics,  modeling  and  simulation,  and  personalized 
medicine. 

Virtual Trials. Utilizing our proprietary information assets and transformative technology, we bring trials directly to patients, 
with the objective of increasing participation and improving cycle times. Combining this with purpose-built processes and industry-
leading clinical capabilities, we help clients reach diverse and difficult to recruit patient populations.

Our principal Contract Sales & Medical Solutions offerings include: 

Health Care Provider Engagement Services. We partner with biopharmaceutical companies and other life sciences providers 
(e.g.,  medical  device  companies)  to  develop  and  deploy  tailored  stakeholder  engagement  solutions,  including  contract  sales  and 
market  access  professionals,  which  are  focused  on  improving  brand  value  at  all  stages  of  the  product  lifecycle  from  initial  market 
entry to brands nearing patent expiry. 

Patient  Engagement  Services.  Our  nurse-based  programs  directly  engage  with  patients  to  help  improve  their  disease  and 
medication  understanding  through  interventional  and  non-interventional  support,  while  also  providing  assistance  in  navigating 
complex  reimbursement  coverage  issues.  Our  patient  engagement  services  combine  insight  from  clinical  trials  and  social  listening, 
behavioral  design,  personal  and  innovative  eHealth  multichannel  interactions  across  multiple  sites  (e.g.,  the  physician’s  office, 
hospital,  pharmacy,  home),  that  act  as  an  extension  of  the  Health  Care  Provider  prescribed  treatment  course  which  can  lead  to 
improved adherence and better overall outcomes. 

Medical  Affairs  Services.  We  provide  a  range  of  scientific  strategy  and  medical  affairs  services  to  help  biopharmaceutical 
companies plan and transition from the clinical trial setting to commercialization. Beginning in the clinical trial stage, our services can 
deploy educators to clinical trial sites to accelerate patient recruitment and improve retention, assist in translation of complex clinical 
trial  data  into  a  compelling  scientific  platform  and  publication  strategy,  and,  provide  field  medical  teams  to  facilitate  scientific 
engagement with key opinion leaders and healthcare decision makers, before and after product approval. 

Our Clients 

Sales  to  companies  in  life  sciences,  including  pharmaceutical  companies,  biotechnology  companies,  device  and  diagnostic 
companies,  and  consumer  health  companies,  accounted  for  the  majority  of  our  revenues.  Nearly  all  of  the  top  100  global 
pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies, measured by revenue, are clients, and many of these companies subscribe to reports and 
services in many countries. Other clients include payers, government and regulatory agencies, providers, pharmaceutical distributors, 
and pharmacies. Our client base is broad in scope and enables us to avoid dependence on any single client. No single client accounted 
for 10% or more of our combined company revenues in 2018, 2017 or 2016. 

11

Our Competition 

Our Technology & Analytics Solutions business competes with a broad and diverse set of businesses. While we believe no 
competitor provides the combination of geographical reach and breadth of its services, we generally compete in the countries in which 
we operate with other information, analytics, technology, services and consulting companies, as well as with the in-house capabilities 
of our clients. Also, we compete with certain government agencies, private payers and other healthcare stakeholders that provide their 
data  directly  to  others.  In  addition  to  country-by-country  competition,  we  have  a  number  of  regional  and  global  competitors  in  the 
marketplace as well. Our offerings compete with various firms, including Accenture, Cognizant Technology Solutions, Covance Inc. 
(the drug development business of Laboratory Corporation of America Holdings), Deloitte, Evidera, GfK, LexisNexis Risk Solutions, 
IBM,  Infosys,  Kantar  Health,  McKinsey,  Nielsen,  OptumInsight,  PAREXEL  International  Corporation,  Press  Ganey,  RTI  Health 
Solutions,  Symphony  Health  Solutions  (now  part  of  PRA  Health  Sciences),  Synovate  Healthcare,  The  Advisory  Board,  Trizetto, 
Veeva, Verisk, and ZS Associates. We also compete with a broad range of new entrants and start-ups that are looking to bring new 
technologies and business models to healthcare information services and technology services. 

The  markets  for  Research &  Development  Solutions  offerings  are  highly  competitive,  and  we  compete  against  traditional 
contract  research  organizations  (“CROs”),  the  in-house  research  and  development  departments  of  biopharmaceutical  companies, 
universities, and teaching hospitals. Among the traditional CROs, there are several-hundred small, limited-service providers, several 
medium-sized  firms  and  only  a  few  full-service  companies  with  global  capabilities.  Our  primary  competitors  include  Covance  Inc. 
(the drug development business of Laboratory Corporation of America Holdings), ICON plc, PAREXEL International Corporation, 
Pharmaceutical Product Development, Inc., PRA Health Sciences, and Syneos Health, among others. 

Our  Contract  Sales  &  Medical  Solutions  business  competes  against  the  in-house  sales  and  marketing  departments  of 
biopharmaceutical companies, other contract pharmaceutical sales and service organizations and consulting firms. Contract Sales & 
Medical  Solutions’  primary  competitor  in  the  United  States  is  Syneos  Health,  Publicis  and  United  Drug  plc.  Outside  of  the  United 
States, Contract Sales & Medical Solutions typically competes against single country or more regionally focused service providers, 
such as United Drug plc, Syneos Health, EPS Corporation and CMIC HOLDINGS Co., Ltd. 

Government Regulation 

Many  aspects  of  our  businesses  are  regulated  by  federal  and  state  laws,  rules  and  regulations.  Accordingly,  we  maintain  a 
robust compliance program aimed at ensuring we operate our business in compliance with all existing legal requirements material to 
the operation of our businesses. There are, however, occasionally uncertainties involving the application of various legal requirements, 
the  violation  of  which  could  result  in,  among  other  things,  fines  or  other  sanctions.  See  “Part  I—Item 1A—Risk  Factors”  for 
additional detail. 

Good Clinical Practice 

Good  Clinical  Practice  (“GCP”)  regulations  and  guidelines  are  the  industry  standard  for  the  conduct  of  clinical  trials  with 
respect to maintaining the integrity of the data and safety of the research subjects. The United States Food and Drug Administration 
(“FDA”),  the  European  Medicines  Agency  (“EMA”),  Japan’s  Ministry  of  Health,  Labour  and  Welfare  and  most  other  global 
regulatory  authorities  expect  that  study  results  and  data  submitted  to  such  authorities  be  based  on  clinical  trials  conducted  in 
accordance with GCP provisions. Records for clinical trials must be maintained for specified periods for inspection by the FDA and 
other regulators. 

Regulation of Drugs, Biologics and Medical Devices 

In the United States, pharmaceutical, biological and medical device products are subject to extensive regulation by the FDA. 
The  Federal  Food,  Drug,  and  Cosmetic  Act  (“FDC  Act”),  the  Public  Health  Service  Act  (“PHS  Act”),  and  other  federal  and  state 
statutes  and  regulations,  govern,  among  other  things,  the  research,  development,  testing,  manufacture,  storage,  recordkeeping, 
approval, labeling, promotion and marketing, distribution, post-approval monitoring and reporting, sampling, and import and export of 
pharmaceutical, biological and medical device products. Failure to comply with applicable United States requirements may subject a 
company to a variety of administrative or judicial sanctions, such as FDA refusal to approve a pending new drug application (“NDA”) 
for a new drug, a biologics license application (“BLA”) for a new biological product pre-market approval (“PMA”) or clearance for a 
new  medical  device,  warning  or  untitled  letters,  clinical  holds,  product  recalls,  product  seizures,  total  or  partial  suspension  of 
production or distribution, injunctions, fines, civil penalties, and criminal prosecution. 

12

Regulation of Patient Information 

Our  information  management  services  relate  to  the  processing  of  information  regarding  patient  diagnosis  and  treatment  of 
disease  and  are,  therefore,  subject  to  substantial  governmental  regulation.  In  addition,  the  confidentiality  of  patient-specific 
information and the circumstances under which such patient-specific records may be released for inclusion in our databases or used in 
other  aspects  of  our  business  is  heavily  regulated.  Federal,  state  and  foreign  governments  are  contemplating  or  have  proposed  or 
adopted additional legislation governing the possession, use and dissemination of personal data, such as personal health information 
and  personal  financial  data,  as  well  as  security  breach  notification  rules  for  loss  or  theft  of  such  data.  Additional  legislation  or 
regulation of this type might, among other things, require us to implement additional security measures and processes or bring within 
the legislation or regulation de-identified health or other data, each of which may require substantial expenditures or limit our ability 
to offer some of our services. 

In particular, personal health information is recognized in many countries such as the United States, the European Union, or 
EU, and several countries in Asia, as a special, sensitive category of personal information, subject to additional mandatory protections. 
Violations  of  data  protection  regulations  are  subject  to  administrative  penalties,  civil  money  penalties  and  criminal  prosecution, 
including corporate fines and personal liability. 

Regulation of Promotion, Marketing and Distribution of Pharmaceutical Products and Medical Devices 

Certain of our services are subject to detailed and comprehensive regulation in each geographic market in which we operate. 
Such regulation relates, among other things, to the distribution of drug samples, the marketing and promotion of approved products, 
the qualifications of sales representatives and the use of healthcare professionals in sales functions. 

In the United States, certain of our services are subject to numerous federal and state laws pertaining to promotional activities 
involving  pharmaceutical  products  and  medical  devices.    Certain  of  our  services  are  subject  to  the  FDA’s  regulations  against  “off-
label promotion,” which require sales representatives to restrict promotion of the approved product they are detailing to the approved 
labeling  for  the  product.  The  Prescription  Drug  Marketing  Act  imposes  licensing,  personnel  record  keeping,  packaging,  labeling, 
product  handling  and  facility  storage  and  security  requirements.  Other  federal  and  state  laws  prohibit  manufacturers,  suppliers  and 
providers  from  offering,  giving  or  receiving  kickbacks  or  other  remuneration  in  connection  with  ordering  or  recommending  the 
purchase or rental of healthcare items and services. The sale or distribution of pharmaceutical products and devices is also governed 
by  the  United  States  Federal  Trade  Commission  Act  and  state  consumer  protection  laws.  We  are  subject  to  similar  regulations 
currently in effect in the other countries where we offer Contract Sales & Medical Solutions. 

We are also subject to various laws and regulations that may apply to certain drug and device promotional practices, including, 
among others, various aspects of Medicare and federal healthcare programs. Violations of these laws and regulations may result in 
criminal and/or civil penalties, including possibly as an “aider and abettor.”  

Regulation of Laboratories 

Our United States “central” laboratories are subject to licensing and regulation under federal, state and local laws relating to 
hazard communication and employee right-to-know regulations, and the safety and health of laboratory employees. Additionally, our 
United States laboratories are subject to applicable federal and state laws and regulations and licensing requirements relating to the 
handling,  storage  and  disposal  of  hazardous  waste,  radioactive  materials  and  laboratory  specimens,  including  the  regulations  of  the 
Environmental  Protection  Agency,  the  Nuclear  Regulatory  Commission,  the  Department  of  Transportation,  the  National  Fire 
Protection Agency and the United States Drug Enforcement Administration (“DEA”). The use of controlled substances in testing for 
drugs with a potential for abuse is regulated in the United States by the DEA and by similar regulatory bodies in other parts of the 
world. Our United States laboratories using controlled substances for testing purposes are licensed by the DEA. The regulations of the 
United States Department of Transportation, Public Health Service and Postal Service apply to the surface and air transportation of 
laboratory  specimens.  Our  laboratories  also  are  subject  to  International  Air  Transport  Association  regulations,  which  govern 
international shipments of laboratory specimens. Furthermore, when the materials are sent to a foreign country, the transportation of 
such materials becomes subject to the laws, rules and regulations of such foreign country. Our laboratories outside the United States 
are subject to applicable national laws governing matters such as licensing, the handling and disposal of medical specimens, genetic 
material, hazardous waste and radioactive materials, as well as the health and safety of laboratory employees. 

In  addition  to  its  comprehensive  regulation  of  safety  in  the  workplace,  the  United  States  Occupational  Safety  and  Health 
Administration has established extensive requirements relating to workplace safety for healthcare employers whose workers may be 
exposed to blood-borne pathogens such as HIV and the hepatitis B virus. Although we believe that we are currently in compliance in 
all material respects with such federal, state and local laws, failure to comply with such laws could subject us to denial of the right to 
conduct business, fines, criminal penalties and other enforcement actions. 

13

Further,  laboratories  that  analyze  human  blood  or  other  biological  samples  for  the  diagnosis  and  treatment  of  clinical  trial 
subjects must comply with Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments (“CLIA”), as well as requirements established by various 
states. The failure to meet these requirements may result in civil penalties and suspension or revocation of the CLIA certification. 

Our Intellectual Property 

In addition to our proprietary data sets described above, we develop and use a number of proprietary methodologies, analytics, 
systems, technologies and other intellectual property in the conduct of our business. We rely upon a combination of legal, technical, 
and  administrative  safeguards  to  protect  our  proprietary  and  confidential  information  and  trade  secrets,  and  patent,  copyright  and 
trademark laws to protect other intellectual property rights. We consider our trademark and related names, marks and logos to be of 
material  importance  to  our  business,  and  we  have  registered  or  applied  for  registration  for  certain  of  these  trademarks  including 
IQVIA, in the United States and other jurisdictions and aggressively seek to protect them. Trademarks and service marks generally 
may be renewed indefinitely so long as they are in use and/or their registrations are properly maintained, and so long as they have not 
been found to have become generic. The technology and other intellectual property rights owned and licensed by us are of importance 
to our business, although our management believes that our business, as a whole, is not dependent upon any one intellectual property 
or group of such properties.

Our Employees 

As  of  December 31,  2018,  we  have  more  than  58,000  employees  worldwide.  Almost  all  of  these  employees  are  full-time. 
None of our employees are covered by a collective bargaining agreement or are represented by a labor union. Employees in certain 
locations outside of the United States are represented by works councils as required by local laws. 

Available Information 

Our website address is www.iqvia.com, and our investor relations website is located at http://ir.iqvia.com. Information on our 
website is not incorporated by reference herein. Copies of our annual reports on Form 10-K, quarterly reports on Form 10-Q, current 
reports on Form 8-K and our Proxy Statements for our annual meetings of stockholders, and any amendments to those reports, as well 
as Section 16 reports filed by our insiders, are available free of charge on our website as soon as reasonably practicable after we file 
the  reports  with,  or  furnish  the  reports  to,  the  Securities  and  Exchange  Commission  (“SEC”).  In  addition,  the  SEC  maintains  an 
Internet site (http://www.sec.gov) containing reports, proxy and information statements, and other information regarding issuers that 
file electronically with the SEC. Information on the SEC’s website does not constitute part of this report. Also posted on our website 
are our certificate of incorporation and by-laws, the charters for our Audit Committee, Leadership Development and Compensation 
Committee and Nominating and Governance Committee, our Corporate Governance Guidelines, and our Code of Conduct governing 
our directors, officers and employees. Copies of our SEC reports and corporate governance information are available in print upon the 
request of any stockholder to our Investor Relations Department. Within the time period required by the SEC and the New York Stock 
Exchange (“NYSE”), we will post on our website any amendment to the Code of Conduct or any waiver of such policy applicable to 
any of our senior financial officers, executive officers or directors. 

14

 Item 1A. Risk Factors 

RISK FACTORS

We operate in a rapidly changing environment that involves a number of risks, some of which are beyond our control. You 
should  consider  carefully  the  risks  and  uncertainties  described  below  together  with  the  other  information  included  in  this  Annual 
Report on Form 10-K, including our consolidated financial statements and related notes included elsewhere in this Annual Report on 
Form 10-K, in evaluating our company. The occurrence of any of the following risks may materially and adversely affect our business, 
financial condition, results of operations and future prospects. 

Risks Relating to Our Business 

The potential loss or delay of our large contracts or of multiple contracts could adversely affect our results. 

Most of our Research & Development Solutions clients can terminate our contracts upon 30 to 90 days notice. Our clients may 

delay, terminate or reduce the scope of our contracts for a variety of reasons beyond our control, including but not limited to: 

•

•

•

•

•

•

•

•

•

•

•

decisions to forego or terminate a particular clinical trial; 

lack of available financing, budgetary limits or changing priorities; 

actions by regulatory authorities; 

production problems resulting in shortages of the drug being tested; 

failure of products being tested to satisfy safety requirements or efficacy criteria; 

unexpected or undesired clinical results for products; 

insufficient patient enrollment in a clinical trial; 

insufficient investigator recruitment; 

shift of business to a competitor or internal resources; 

product withdrawal following market launch; or 

shut down of manufacturing facilities. 

As a result, contract terminations, delays and alterations are a regular part of our Research & Development Solutions business. 
In the event of termination, our contracts often provide for fees for winding down the project, but these fees may not be sufficient for 
us  to  maintain  our  margins,  and  termination  may  result  in  lower  resource  utilization  rates.  In  addition,  we  will  not  realize  the  full 
benefits  of  our  backlog  of  contractually  committed  services  if  our  clients  cancel,  delay  or  reduce  their  commitments  under  our 
contracts with them, which may occur if, among other things, a client decides to shift its business to a competitor or revoke our status 
as a preferred provider. Thus, the loss or delay of a large contract or the loss or delay of multiple contracts could adversely affect our 
revenues and profitability. We believe the risk of loss or delay of multiple contracts potentially has greater effect where we are party 
to broader partnering arrangements with global biopharmaceutical companies. 

15

 We depend on third parties for data and support services. Our suppliers or providers might restrict our use of or refuse to 
license data or provide services, which could lead to our inability to access certain data or provide certain services and, as a result, 
materially and adversely affect our operating results and financial condition. 

Each of our Technology & Analytics Solutions information services is derived from data we collect from third parties. These 

data suppliers are numerous and diverse, reflecting the broad scope of information that we collect and use in our business. 

Although we typically enter into long-term contractual arrangements with many of these suppliers of data, at the time of entry 
into a new contract or renewal of an existing contract, suppliers may increase restrictions on our use of such data, increase the price 
they charge us for data or refuse altogether to license the data to us. In addition, during the term of any data supply contract, suppliers 
may fail to adhere to our data quality control standards or fail to deliver data. Further, although no single individual data supplier is 
material to our business, if a number of suppliers collectively representing a significant amount of data that we use for one or more of 
our  services  were  to  impose  additional  contractual  restrictions  on  our  use  of  or  access  to  data,  fail  to  adhere  to  our  quality-control 
standards, repeatedly fail to deliver data or refuse to provide data, now or in the future, our ability to provide those services to our 
clients could be materially adversely impacted, which may harm our operating results and financial condition. 

Additionally, we depend on third parties for support services to our business. Such support services include, but are not limited 
to, third-party transportation providers, suppliers of drugs for patients participating in clinical trials, suppliers of kits for use in our 
clinical trial laboratories business, suppliers of reagents for use in our testing equipment and providers of maintenance contracts for 
our  equipment.  The  failure  of  any  of  these  third parties  to  adequately  provide  the  critical  support  services  could  have  a  material 
adverse effect on our business. 

If  we  fail  to  perform  our  services  in  accordance  with  contractual  requirements,  regulatory  standards  and  ethical 

considerations, we could be subject to significant costs or liability and our reputation could be harmed. 

We contract with biopharmaceutical companies to perform a wide range of services to assist them in bringing new drugs to 
market. Our services include monitoring clinical trials, data and laboratory analysis, electronic data capture, patient recruitment and 
other related services, and we perform these services in a number of ways, including through physical and technology-enabled efforts. 
Such services are complex and subject to contractual requirements, regulatory standards and ethical considerations. For example, we 
must adhere to regulatory requirements such as the FDA and current GCP and Good Laboratory Practice requirements. If we fail to 
perform our services in accordance with these requirements, regulatory agencies may take action against us for failure to comply with 
applicable  regulations  governing  clinical  trials  or  sales  and  marketing  practices.  Such  actions  may  include  sanctions,  such  as 
injunctions  or  failure  of  such  regulatory  authorities  to  grant  marketing  approval  of  products,  delay,  suspension  or  withdrawal  of 
approvals, license revocation, product seizures or recalls, operational restrictions, civil or criminal penalties or prosecutions, damages 
or  fines.  Clients  may  also  bring  claims  against  us  for  breach  of  our  contractual  obligations  and  patients  in  the  clinical  trials  and 
patients taking drugs approved on the basis of those clinical trials may bring personal injury claims against us for negligence. Any 
such action could have a material adverse effect on our results of operations, financial condition and reputation. 

Such consequences could arise if, among other things, the following occur: 

Improper  performance  of  our  services.  The  performance  of  clinical  development  services  is  complex  and  time-consuming. 
For example, we may make mistakes in conducting a clinical trial that could negatively impact or obviate the usefulness of the clinical 
trial or cause the results of the clinical trial to be reported improperly. If the clinical trial results are compromised, we could be subject 
to significant costs or liability, which could have an adverse impact on our ability to perform our services. As examples: 

•

•

•

non-compliance generally could result in the termination of ongoing clinical trials or sales and marketing projects or 
the disqualification of data for submission to regulatory authorities; 

compromise of data from a particular clinical trial, such as failure to verify that informed consent was obtained from 
patients, could require us to repeat the clinical trial under the terms of our contract at no further cost to our client, but at 
a substantial cost to us; and 

breach of a contractual term could result in liability for damages or termination of the contract. 

Large clinical trials can cost up to hundreds of millions of dollars, and while we endeavor to contractually limit our exposure 
to such risks, improper performance of our services could have an adverse effect on our financial condition, damage our reputation 
and result in the cancellation of current contracts by or failure to obtain future contracts from the affected client or other clients. 

16

Investigation of clients. From time to time, one or more of our clients are audited or investigated by regulatory authorities or 
enforcement agencies with respect to regulatory compliance of their clinical trials, programs or the marketing and sale of their drugs. 
In  these  situations,  we  have  often  provided  services  to  our  clients  with  respect  to  the  clinical  trials,  programs  or  activities  being 
audited or investigated, and we are called upon to respond to requests for information by the authorities and agencies. There is a risk 
that either our clients or regulatory authorities could claim that we performed our services improperly or that we are responsible for 
clinical trial or program compliance. If our clients or regulatory authorities make such claims against us and prove them, we could be 
subject to damages, fines or penalties. In addition, negative publicity regarding regulatory compliance of our clients’ clinical trials, 
programs or drugs could have an adverse effect on our business and reputation. 

Insufficient client funding to complete a clinical trial. As noted above, clinical trials can cost hundreds of millions of dollars. 
There is a risk that we may initiate a clinical trial for a client, and then the client becomes unwilling or unable to fund the completion 
of  the  clinical  trial.  In  such  a  situation,  notwithstanding  the  client’s  ability  or  willingness  to  pay  for  or  otherwise  facilitate  the 
completion of the clinical trial, we may be ethically bound to complete or wind down the clinical trial at our own expense. 

Security  breaches  and  unauthorized  use  of  our  IT  systems  and  information,  or  the  IT  systems  or  information  in  the 

possession of our vendors, could expose us, our clients, our data suppliers or others to risk of loss. 

We  rely  upon  the  security  of  our  computer  and  communications  systems  infrastructure  to  protect  us  from  cyberattacks  and 
unauthorized  access.  Cyberattacks  can  include  malware,  computer  viruses,  hacking  or  other  significant  disruption  of  our  computer, 
communications  and  related  systems.  Cyber  threats  are  rapidly  evolving  and  are  becoming  increasingly  sophisticated.  Despite  our 
efforts  to  ensure  the  integrity  of  our  systems,  as  cyber  threats  evolve  and  become  more  difficult  to  detect  and  successfully  defend 
against, one or more cyber threats might defeat the measures that we or our vendors take to anticipate, detect, avoid or mitigate such 
threats. Certain techniques used to obtain unauthorized access, introduce malicious software, disable or degrade service, or sabotage 
systems may be designed to remain dormant until a triggering event and we may be unable to anticipate these techniques or implement 
adequate preventative measures since techniques change frequently or are not recognized until launched, and because cyberattacks can 
originate from a wide variety of sources. Although we take steps to manage and avoid these risks and to prevent their recurrence, our 
preventive and remedial actions may not be successful. Such attacks, whether successful or unsuccessful, could result in our incurring 
costs related to, for example, rebuilding internal systems, defending against litigation, responding to regulatory inquiries or actions, 
paying damages or fines, or taking other remedial steps with respect to third parties. Publicity about vulnerabilities and attempted or 
successful incursions could damage our reputation with clients and data suppliers and reduce demand for our services. 

We  also  store  proprietary  and  sensitive  information  in  connection  with  our  business,  which  could  be  compromised  by  a 
cyberattack. To the extent that any disruption or security breach results in a loss or damage to our data, an inappropriate disclosure of 
proprietary or sensitive information, an inability to access data sources, or an inability to process data or provide our offerings to our 
clients, it could cause significant damage to our reputation, affect our relationships with our data suppliers and clients (including loss 
of suppliers and clients), lead to claims against us and ultimately harm our business. We may be required to incur significant costs to 
alleviate, remedy or protect against damage caused by these disruptions or security breaches in the future. We may also face inquiry or 
increased  scrutiny  from  government  agencies  as  a  result  of  any  such  disruption  or  breach.  While  we  have  insurance  coverage  for 
certain instances of a cyber security breach, our coverage may not be sufficient if we suffer a significant attack or multiple attacks. 
Any  such  breach  or  disruption  could  have  a  material  adverse  effect  on  our  operating  results  and  our  reputation  as  a  provider  of 
mission-critical services. 

Some  of  our  vendors  have  significant  responsibility  for  the  security  of  certain  of  our  data  centers  and  computer-based 
platforms. Also, our data suppliers have responsibility for security of their own computer and communications environments. These 
third parties face risks relating to cyber security similar to ours, which could disrupt their businesses and therefore materially impact 
ours. Accordingly, we are subject to any flaw in or breaches to their computer and communications systems or those that they operate 
for us, which could result in a material adverse effect on our business, operations and financial results. 

Failure  to  meet  productivity  objectives  under  our  internal  business  transformation  initiatives  could  adversely  impact  our 

competitiveness and harm our operating results. 

We  are  pursuing  business  transformation  initiatives  to  update  technology,  increase  innovation  and  obtain  operating 
efficiencies.  As  part  of  these  initiatives,  we  seek  to  improve  our  productivity,  flexibility,  quality,  functionality  and  cost  savings  by 
investing  in  the  development  and  implementation  of  global  platforms  and  integration  of  our  business  processes  and  functions  to 
achieve  economies  of  scale.  For  example,  we  are  evaluating  our  site  activation  processes  and  procedures,  including  technology 
enablement platforms, and implementing changes to accelerate site start-up timelines and provide greater transparency to clients and 
investigator sites. These various initiatives may not yield their intended gains, or be completed in timely manner, which may impact 
our  competitiveness  and  our  ability  to  meet  our  growth  objectives  and,  as  a  result,  materially  and  adversely  affect  our  business, 
operating results and financial condition. 

17

If we are unsuccessful at investing in growth opportunities, our business could be materially and adversely affected. 

We  continue  to  invest  significantly  in  growth  opportunities,  including  the  development  and  acquisition  of  new  data, 
technologies and services to meet our clients’ needs. For example, we are expanding our services and technology offerings, such as 
the development of a cloud-based platform with a growing number of applications to support commercial operations for life sciences 
companies  (e.g.,  multi-channel  marketing,  marketing  campaign  management,  customer  relationship  management,  incentive 
compensation management, targeting and segmentation, performance management and other applications). We also continue to invest 
significantly  in  growth  opportunities  in  emerging  markets,  such  as  the  development,  launch  and  enhancement  of  services  in  China, 
India, Russia, Turkey, and other countries. We believe healthcare spending in these emerging markets will continue to grow over the 
next five years, and we consider our presence in these markets to be an important focus of our growth strategy. 

There is no assurance that our investment plans or growth strategy will be successful or will produce a sufficient or any return 
on our investments. Further, if we are unable to develop new technologies and services, clients do not purchase our new technologies 
and services, our new technologies and services do not work as intended or there are delays in the availability or adoption of our new 
technologies and services, then we may not be able to grow our business or growth may occur slower than anticipated. Additionally, 
although we expect continued growth in healthcare spending in emerging markets, such spending may occur more slowly or not at all, 
and we may not benefit from our investments in these markets.

 We plan to fund growth opportunities with cash from operations or from future financings. There can be no assurance that 

those sources will be available in sufficient amounts to fund future growth opportunities when needed. 

Any of the foregoing could have a material and adverse effect on our operating results and financial condition. 

Data protection, privacy and similar laws in the United States and around the world restrict access, use and disclosure of 
personal  information,  and  failure  to  comply  with  or  adapt  to  changes  in  these  laws  could  materially  and  adversely  harm  our 
business. 

The confidentiality, collection, use and disclosure of personal data, including individually identifiable health information and 
clinical trial patient-specific information, are subject to governmental regulation generally in the country that the personal data were 
collected  or  used.  For  example,  United  States  federal  regulations  under  the  Health  Insurance  Portability  and  Accountability  Act  of 
1996 (“HIPAA”) create specific requirements for the protection of the privacy and security of individual health information. These 
provisions  apply  to  both  “covered  entities”  (primarily  health  care  providers  and  health  insurers)  and  their  “business  associates”  or 
service providers.  As there are some instances where we are a HIPAA “business associate” of a “covered entity,” we can be directly 
liable for mishandling protected health information. Under HIPAA’s enforcement scheme, we can be subject to significant penalties in 
connection with HIPAA violations, along with the potential for significant other expenditures related to these activities. These rules 
require  individuals’  written  authorization  in  many  situations,  in  addition  to  any  required  informed  consent,  before  protected  health 
information may be used for research. We are both directly and indirectly affected by the privacy provisions surrounding individual 
authorizations  because  many  investigators  with  whom  we  are  involved  in  clinical  trials  are  directly  subject  to  them  as  a  HIPAA 
“covered entity” and because we obtain identifiable health information from third parties that are subject to such regulations. The laws 
and regulations related to the protection of personal health information in connection with research activities are under re-evaluation, 
particularly in the United States, and changes to these regulations could have a material adverse impact on our ability to provide some 
of our services in their current form or maintain our profitability. In general, patient health information is among the most sensitive 
(and highly regulated) of personal information and laws and regulations around the United States and the world are designed to ensure 
that information about an individual’s healthcare is properly protected from inappropriate access, use and disclosure. Laws restricting 
access,  use  and  disclosure  of  patient  health  information  also  include  the  European  Union’s  (“EU”)  General  Data  Protection 
Regulation, Canada’s Personal Information Protection and Electronic Documents Act and other data protection, privacy, data security 
and similar national, state/provincial and local laws. In the EU personal data includes any information that relates to an identified or 
identifiable natural person with health information carrying additional obligations, including obtaining the explicit consent from the 
individual  for  collection,  use  or  disclosure  of  the  information.  In  addition,  we  are  subject  to  EU  rules  with  respect  to  cross-border 
transfers of such data out of the EU (along with similar data transfer requirements in other countries). The United States, the EU and 
its member states, and other countries where we have operations, such as China, Japan, Malaysia, Philippines, Russia, South Korea 
and  Singapore,  continue  to  issue  new  privacy  and  data  protection  rules  and  regulations  that  relate  to  personal  data  and  health 
information. 

18

We  have  established  frameworks,  models,  processes  and  technologies  to  manage  privacy  and  security  for  many  data  types, 
from a variety of sources, and under myriad privacy and data protection laws worldwide. In addition, we rely on our data suppliers to 
deliver information to us in a form and in a manner that complies with applicable privacy and data protection laws. These laws are 
complex and there is no assurance that the safeguards and controls employed by us or our data suppliers will be sufficient to prevent a 
breach of these laws, or that claims will not be filed against us or our data suppliers despite such safeguards and controls. Failure to 
comply with such laws, certain certification/registration and annual re-certification/registration provisions associated with these data 
protection and privacy regulations, and similar rules in various jurisdictions, or to resolve any serious privacy complaints, may result 
in, among other things, regulatory sanctions, criminal prosecution, civil liability, negative publicity, damage to our reputation, or data 
being  blocked  from  use  or  liability  under  contractual  provisions.  For  example,  in  July  2015,  indictments  were  issued  by  the  Seoul 
Central  District  Prosecutors’  Office  in  South  Korea  against  IMS  Korea  and  two  of  its  employees,  among  others,  alleging  improper 
handling  of  sensitive  health  information  in  violation  of  applicable  privacy  laws.  See  Item  3  “Legal  Proceedings”  for  additional 
information.

Laws and expectations relating to privacy continue to evolve, and we continue to adapt to changing needs. For example, the 
definition  of  “personally  identifiable  information”  and  “personal  data”  continues  to  evolve  and  broaden  and  many  new  laws  and 
regulations are being enacted. In addition, certain long-established programs have been (or are at risk of being) declared invalid (such 
as the EU-U.S. Safe Harbor framework that operated for many years but was struck down by European courts in 2015), so that this 
area  remains  in  a  state  of  flux.  Changes  to  these  programs  may  adversely  impact  our  ability  to  provide  services  to  our  clients  or 
develop new products or services. Federal, state and foreign governments are contemplating or have proposed or adopted additional 
legislation  governing  the  collection,  possession,  use  or  dissemination  of  personal  data,  such  as  personal  health  information,  and 
personal financial data as well as security breach notification rules for loss or theft of such data. Additional legislation or regulation of 
this type might, among other things, require us to implement new security measures and processes or bring within the legislation other 
personal  data  not  currently  regulated,  each  of  which  may  require  substantial  expenditures  or  limit  our  ability  to  offer  some  of  our 
services. Additionally, changes in these laws (including newly released interpretations of these laws by courts and regulatory bodies) 
may limit our data access, use and disclosure, and may require increased expenditures by us or may dictate that we not offer certain 
types of services. Any of the foregoing may have a material adverse impact on our ability to provide services to our clients or maintain 
our profitability.

There is ongoing concern from privacy advocates, regulators and others regarding data protection and privacy issues, and the 
number of jurisdictions with data protection and privacy laws has been increasing. Also, there are ongoing public policy discussions 
regarding whether the standards for de-identified, anonymous or pseudonymized health information are sufficient, and the risk of re-
identification sufficiently small, to adequately protect patient privacy. These discussions may lead to further restrictions on the use of 
such information. There can be no assurance that these initiatives or future initiatives will not adversely affect our ability to access and 
use data or to develop or market current or future services. 

Data protection, privacy and similar laws protect more than patient information, and although they vary by jurisdiction, these 
laws  can  extend  to  employee  information,  business  contact  information,  provider  information  and  other  information  relating  to 
identifiable  individuals.  Failure  to  comply  with  these  laws  may  result  in,  among  other  things,  civil  and  criminal  liability,  negative 
publicity,  damage  to  our  reputation  and  liability  under  contractual  provisions.  In  addition,  compliance  with  such  laws  may  require 
increased costs to us or may dictate that we not offer certain types of services. 

 The occurrence of any of the foregoing could impact our ability to provide the same level of service to our clients, require us 
to  modify  our  offerings  or  increase  our  costs,  which  could  materially  and  adversely  affect  our  operating  results  and  financial 
condition.

Our success depends on our ability to protect our intellectual property rights. 

Our success depends, in part, upon our ability to develop, use and protect our proprietary methodologies, analytics, systems, 
technologies  and  other  intellectual  property.  Existing  laws  of  the  various  countries  in  which  we  provide  services  or  solutions  offer 
only limited protection of our intellectual property rights, and the protection in some countries may be very limited. We rely upon a 
combination  of  trade  secrets,  confidentiality  policies,  nondisclosure,  invention  assignment  and  other  contractual  arrangements,  and 
patent,  copyright  and  trademark  laws,  to  protect  our  intellectual  property  rights.  These  laws  are  subject  to  change  at  any  time  and 
certain agreements may not be fully enforceable, which could further restrict our ability to protect our innovations. Our intellectual 
property  rights  may  not  prevent  competitors  from  independently  developing  services  similar  to  or  duplicative  of  ours.  Further,  the 
steps  we  take  in  this  regard  might  not  be  adequate  to  prevent  or  deter  infringement  or  other  misappropriation  of  our  intellectual 
property  by  competitors,  former  employees  or  other  third  parties,  and  we  might  not  be  able  to  detect  unauthorized  use  of,  or  take 
appropriate and timely steps to enforce, our intellectual property rights. 

19

 Our  ability  to  obtain,  protect  and  enforce  our  intellectual  property  rights  is  subject  to  general  litigation  or  third-party 
opposition risks, as well as the uncertainty as to the scope of protection, registrability, patentability, validity and enforceability of our 
intellectual property rights in each applicable country. Governments may adopt regulations, and government agencies or courts may 
render  decisions,  requiring  compulsory  licensing  of  intellectual  property  rights.  When  we  seek  to  enforce  our  intellectual  property 
rights we may be subject to claims that the intellectual property rights are invalid or unenforceable. Litigation may be necessary in the 
future  to  enforce  our  intellectual  property  rights  and  to  protect  our  confidential  and  proprietary  information.  Litigation  brought  to 
protect and enforce our intellectual property rights could be costly, time consuming and distracting to management and could result in 
the  impairment  or  loss  of  portions  of  our  intellectual  property  rights.  Furthermore,  our  efforts  to  enforce  our  intellectual  property 
rights may be met with defenses, counterclaims and countersuits attacking the validity and enforceability of our intellectual property 
rights.  Our  inability  to  protect  our  proprietary  technology  against  unauthorized  copying  or  use,  as  well  as  any  costly  litigation  or 
diversion of our management’s attention and resources, could delay further sales or the implementation of our solutions, impair the 
functionality of our solutions, delay introductions of new solutions, result in our substituting inferior or more costly technologies into 
our solutions, or injure our reputation and harm our operating results and financial condition. 

The theft or unauthorized use or publication of our trade secrets and other confidential business information could reduce the 
differentiation of our services and harm our business; the value of our investment in development or business acquisitions could be 
reduced; and third parties might make claims against us related to losses of their confidential or proprietary information. In addition, 
we may not be able to discover or determine the extent of any unauthorized use of our proprietary rights. Third parties that license our 
proprietary  rights  also  may  take  actions  that  diminish  the  value  of  our  proprietary  rights  or  reputation.  The  protection  of  our 
intellectual  property  may  require  the  expenditure  of  significant  financial  and  managerial  resources.  Moreover,  the  steps  we  take  to 
protect our intellectual property may not adequately protect our rights or prevent third parties from infringing or misappropriating our 
proprietary rights. These incidents and claims could harm our business, reduce revenue, increase expenses and harm our reputation. 

We may be subject to claims by others that we are infringing on their intellectual property rights. 

Third  parties  may  assert  claims  that  we  or  our  clients  infringe  their  intellectual  property  rights  and  these  claims,  with  or 
without  merit,  could  be  expensive  to  litigate,  cause  us  to  incur  substantial  costs  and  divert  management  resources  and  attention  in 
defending  the  claim.  In  some  jurisdictions,  plaintiffs  can  also  seek  injunctive  relief  that  may  limit  the  operation  of  our  business  or 
prevent the marketing and selling of our services that infringe on the plaintiff’s intellectual property rights. To resolve these claims, 
we  may  enter  into  licensing  agreements  with  restrictive  terms  or  significant  fees,  stop  selling,  be  required  to  implement  costly 
redesigns  to  the  affected  services,  or  pay  damages  to  satisfy  contractual  obligations  to  others.  If  we  do  not  resolve  these  claims  in 
advance of a trial, there is no guarantee that we will be successful in court. These outcomes may have a material adverse impact on our 
business, operating results and financial condition. 

In  addition,  certain  contracts  with  our  suppliers  or  clients  contain  provisions  whereby  we  indemnify,  subject  to  certain 
limitations, the counterparty for damages suffered as a result of claims related to intellectual property infringement and the use of data. 
Claims made under these provisions could be expensive to litigate and could result in significant payments. 

 We rely on licenses from third parties to certain technology and intellectual property rights for some of our services and 

the licenses we currently have could terminate or expire. 

Some of our business services rely on technology or intellectual property rights owned and controlled by others. Our licenses 
to this technology or these intellectual property rights could be terminated or could expire. We may be unable to replace these licenses 
in  a  timely  manner.  Failure  to  renew  these  licenses,  or  renewals  of  these  licenses  on  less  advantageous  terms,  could  harm  our 
operating results and financial condition. 

Our financial results may be adversely affected if we underprice our contracts, overrun our cost estimates or fail to receive 

approval for or experience delays in documenting change orders. 

Most of our Research & Development Solutions contracts are either fee for service contracts or fixed-fee contracts. Our past 
financial  results  have  been,  and  our  future  financial  results  may  be,  adversely  impacted  if  we  initially  underprice  our  contracts  or 
otherwise overrun our cost estimates and are unable to successfully negotiate a change order. Change orders typically occur when the 
scope of work we perform needs to be modified from that originally contemplated by our contract with the client. Modifications can 
occur, for example, when there is a change in a key clinical trial assumption or parameter or a significant change in timing. Where we 
are not successful in converting out-of-scope work into change orders under our current contracts, we bear the cost of the additional 
work. Such underpricing, significant cost overruns or delay in documentation of change orders could have a material adverse effect on 
our business, results of operations, financial condition or cash flows. 

20

The relationship of backlog to revenues varies over time. 

Backlog  represents  future  revenues  for  our  Research &  Development  Solutions  business  from  work  not  yet  completed  or 
performed under signed binding commitments and signed contracts. Once work begins on a project, revenue is recognized over the 
duration of the project. Projects may be terminated or delayed by the client or delayed by regulatory authorities for reasons beyond our 
control. To the extent projects are delayed, the timing of our revenue could be affected. In the event that a client cancels a contract, we 
typically would be entitled to receive payment for all services performed up to the cancellation date and subsequent client-authorized 
services related to terminating the canceled project. Typically, however, we have no contractual right to the full amount of the revenue 
reflected in our backlog in the event of a contract cancellation. The duration of the projects included in our backlog, and the related 
revenue  recognition,  range  from  a  few  weeks  to  many  years.  Our  backlog  may  not  be  indicative  of  our  future  revenues  from  our 
Research &  Development  Solutions  business,  and  we  may  not  realize  all  the  anticipated  future  revenue  reflected  in  our  backlog.  A 
number of factors may affect backlog, including: 

•

•

•

•

the size, complexity and duration of the projects; 

the percentage of full services versus functional services; 

the cancellation or delay of projects; and 

change in the scope of work during the course of a project. 

Although an increase in backlog will generally result in an increase in revenues to be recognized over time (depending on the 
level of cancellations), an increase in backlog at a particular point in time does not necessarily correspond directly to an increase in 
revenues during a particular period. The extent to which contracts in backlog will result in revenue depends on many factors, including 
but  not  limited  to  delivery  against  projected  schedules,  the  need  for  scope  changes  (change  orders),  contract  cancellations  and  the 
nature, duration, size, complexity and phase of the contracts, each of which factors can vary significantly from time to time. 

The rate at which our backlog converts to revenue may vary over time for a variety of reasons. The revenue recognition on 
larger, more global projects could be slower than on smaller, less global projects for a variety of reasons, including but not limited to 
an extended period of negotiation between the time the project is awarded to us and the actual execution of the contract, as well as an 
increased timeframe for obtaining the necessary regulatory approvals. Additionally, the increased complexity of clinical trials and the 
need  to  enroll  precise  patient  populations  could  extend  the  length  of  clinical  trials  causing  revenue  to  be  recognized  over  a  longer 
period of time. Further, delayed projects will remain in backlog, unless otherwise canceled by the client, and will not generate revenue 
at the rate originally expected. Thus, the relationship of backlog to realized revenues may vary over time.

Our business depends on the continued effectiveness and availability of our information systems, including the information 

systems we use to provide our services to our clients, and failures of these systems may materially limit our operations. 

Due to the global nature of our business and our reliance on information systems to provide our services, we intend to increase 
our  use  of  web-enabled  and  other  integrated  information  systems  in  delivering  our  services.  We  also  provide  access  to  similar 
information systems to certain of our clients in connection with the services we provide them. As the breadth and complexity of our 
information  systems  continue  to  grow,  we  will  increasingly  be  exposed  to  the  risks  inherent  in  the  development,  integration  and 
ongoing operation of evolving information systems, including: 

•

•

•

disruption, impairment or failure of data centers, telecommunications facilities or other key infrastructure platforms; 

security  breaches  of,  cyberattacks  on  and  other  failures  or  malfunctions  in  our  critical  application  systems  or  their 
associated hardware; and 

excessive costs, excessive delays or other deficiencies in systems development and deployment. 

21

The materialization of any of these risks may impede the processing of data, the delivery of databases and services, and the 
day-to-day management of our business and could result in the corruption, loss or unauthorized disclosure of proprietary, confidential 
or other data. While we have disaster recovery plans in place, they might not adequately protect us in the event of a system failure. 
While many of our operations have disaster recovery plans in place, we currently do not have excess or standby computer processing 
or network capacity everywhere in the world to avoid disruption in the receipt, processing and delivery of data in the event of a system 
failure.  Despite  any  precautions  we  take,  damage  from  fire,  floods,  hurricanes,  power  loss,  telecommunications  failures,  computer 
viruses, break-ins and similar events at our various computer facilities could result in interruptions in the flow of data to our servers 
and from our servers to our clients. Corruption or loss of data may result in the need to repeat a clinical trial at no cost to the client, but 
at significant cost to us, the termination of a contract or damage to our reputation. 

In  addition,  any  failure  by  our  computer  environment  to  provide  sufficient  processing  or  network  capacity  to  transfer  data 
could result in interruptions in our service. In the event of a delay in the delivery of data, we could be required to transfer our data 
collection  operations  to  an  alternative  provider  of  server  hosting  services.  Such  a  transfer  could  result  in  significant  delays  in  our 
ability to deliver services to our clients and increase our costs. Additionally, significant delays in system enhancements or inadequate 
performance  of  new  or  upgraded  systems  once  completed  could  damage  our  reputation  and  harm  our  business.  Finally,  long-term 
disruptions in the infrastructure caused by events such as natural disasters, the outbreak of war, the escalation of hostilities and acts of 
terrorism, particularly involving cities in which we have offices, could adversely affect our businesses. Although we carry property 
and business interruption insurance, our coverage might not be adequate to compensate us for all losses that may occur. 

We have continued to undertake significant programs to optimize business processes with respect to our services. Our inability 
to effectively manage the implementation and adapt to new processes designed into new or upgraded systems in a timely and cost-
effective manner may result in disruption to our business and negatively affect our operations.  

We have entered into agreements with certain vendors to provide systems development and integration services that develop or 
license to us the IT platform for programs to optimize our business processes. If such vendors fail to perform as required or if there are 
substantial delays in developing, implementing and updating the IT platform, our client delivery may be impaired, and we may have to 
make  substantial  further  investments,  internally  or  with  third  parties,  to  achieve  our  objectives.  Additionally,  our  progress  may  be 
limited by parties with existing or claimed patents who seek to enjoin us from using preferred technology or seek license payments 
from us. Meeting our objectives is dependent on a number of factors which may not take place as we anticipate, including obtaining 
adequate technology-enabled services, creating IT-enabled services that our clients will find desirable and implementing our business 
model with respect to these services. Also, increased IT-related expenditures may negatively impact our profitability. 

We may experience challenges with the acquisition, development, enhancement or deployment of technology necessary for 

our business. 

We operate in businesses that require sophisticated computer systems and software for data collection, data processing, cloud-
based platforms, analytics, cryptography, statistical projections and forecasting, mobile computing, social media analytics and other 
applications  and  technologies,  particularly  in  our  Technology  &  Analytics  Solutions  and  Research  &  Development  Solutions 
businesses. We seek to address our technology risks by increasing our reliance on the use of innovations by cross-industry technology 
leaders and adapt these for our biopharmaceutical and healthcare industry clients. Some of these technologies supporting the industries 
we serve are changing rapidly and we must continue to adapt to these changes in a timely and effective manner at an acceptable cost. 
We  also  must  continue  to  deliver  data  to  our  clients  in  forms  that  are  easy  to  use  while  simultaneously  providing  clear  answers  to 
complex questions. There can be no guarantee that we will be able to develop, acquire or integrate new technologies, that these new 
technologies will meet our clients’ needs or achieve expected investment goals, or that we will be able to do so as quickly or cost-
effectively  as  our  competitors.  Significant  technological  change  could  render  certain  of  our  services  obsolete.  Moreover,  the 
introduction  of  new  services  embodying  new  technologies  could  render  certain  of  our  existing  services  obsolete.  Our  continued 
success  will  depend  on  our  ability  to  adapt  to  changing  technologies,  manage  and  process  ever-increasing  amounts  of  data  and 
information and improve the performance, features and reliability of our services in response to changing client and industry demands. 
We may experience difficulties that could delay or prevent the successful design, development, testing, introduction or marketing of 
our  services.  New  services,  or  enhancements  to  existing  services,  may  not  adequately  meet  the  requirements  of  current  and 
prospective clients or achieve any degree of significant market acceptance. These types of failures could have a material adverse effect 
on our operating results and financial condition. 

22

Consolidation in the industries in which our clients operate may reduce the volume of services purchased by consolidated 

clients following an acquisition or merger, which could materially harm our operating results and financial condition. 

Mergers  or  consolidations  among  our  clients  have  in  the  past  and  could  in  the  future  reduce  the  number  of  our  clients  and 
potential clients. When companies consolidate, overlapping services previously purchased separately are usually purchased only once 
by  the  combined  entity,  leading  to  loss  of  revenue.  Other  services  that  were  previously  purchased  by  one  of  the  merged  or 
consolidated entities may be deemed unnecessary or cancelled. If our clients merge with or are acquired by other entities that are not 
our clients, or that use fewer of our services, they may discontinue or reduce their use of our services. There can be no assurance as to 
the degree to which we may be able to address the revenue impact of such consolidation. Any of these developments could materially 
harm our operating results and financial condition. 

We may be adversely affected by client or therapeutic concentration. 

Although we did not have any client that represented 10% or more of our revenues in 2018, 2017 and 2016, we derive the 
majority  of  our  revenues  from  a  number  of  large  clients.  If  any  large  client  decreases  or  terminates  its  relationship  with  us,  our 
business, results of operations or financial condition could be materially adversely affected.  

Additionally, conducting multiple clinical trials for different clients in a single therapeutic class involving drugs with the same 
or similar chemical action has in the past and may in the future adversely affect our business if some or all of the clinical trials are 
canceled  because  of  new  scientific  information  or  regulatory  judgments  that  affect  the  drugs  as  a  class  or  if  industry  consolidation 
results  in  the  rationalization  of  drug  development  pipelines.  Similarly,  marketing  and  selling  drugs  for  different  biopharmaceutical 
companies with similar chemical actions subjects us to risk if new scientific information or regulatory judgment prejudices the drugs 
as  a  class,  which  may  lead  to  compelled  or  voluntary  prescription  limitations  or  withdrawal  of  some  or  all  of  such  drugs  from  the 
market. 

Our  business  is  subject  to  international  economic,  political  and  other  risks  that  could  negatively  affect  our  results  of 

operations and financial condition. 

We have significant operations in countries that may require complex arrangements to deliver services throughout the world 
for  our  clients.  Additionally,  we  have  established  operations  in  locations  remote  from  our  most  developed  business  centers.  As  a 
result, we are subject to heightened risks inherent in conducting business internationally, including the following: 

•

•

•

•

•

required compliance with a variety of local laws and regulations which may be materially different than those to which 
we are subject in the United States or which may change unexpectedly; for example, conducting a single clinical trial 
across multiple countries is complex, and issues in one country, such as a failure to comply with local regulations or 
restrictions, may affect the progress of the clinical trial in the other countries, for example, by limiting the amount of 
data  necessary  for  a  clinical  trial  to  proceed,  resulting  in  delays  or  potential  cancellation  of  contracts,  which  in  turn 
may result in loss of revenue; 

the  United  States  or  foreign  countries  could  enact  legislation  or  impose  regulations  or  other  restrictions,  including 
unfavorable labor regulations, tax policies or economic sanctions, which could have an adverse effect on our ability to 
conduct  business  in  or  expatriate  profits  from  the  countries  in  which  we  operate,  including  hiring,  retaining  and 
overseeing  qualified  management  personnel  for  managing  operations  in  multiple  countries,  differing  employment 
practices and labor issues, and tax-related risks, including the imposition of taxes and the lack of beneficial treaties, 
that result in a higher effective tax rate for us; 

foreign countries are expanding or may expand their regulatory framework with respect to patient informed consent, 
protection and compensation in clinical trials, which could delay or inhibit our ability to conduct clinical trials in such 
jurisdictions; 

the  regulatory  or  judicial  authorities  of  foreign  countries  may  not  enforce  legal  rights  and  recognize  business 
procedures in a manner in which we are accustomed or would reasonably expect; 

local, economic, political and social conditions, including potential hyperinflationary conditions, political instability, 
and  potential  nationalization,  repatriation,  expropriation,  price  controls  or  other  restrictive  government  actions, 
including changes in political and economic conditions may lead to changes in the business environment in which we 
operate, as well as changes in foreign currency exchange rates; 

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•

•

•

•

•

immigration  laws  are  subject  to  legislative  change  and  varying  standards  of  application  and  enforcement  due  to 
political  forces,  economic  conditions  or  other  events  (including  proposals  in  the  U.S.  to  change  limitations  on 
temporary  and  permanent  workers),  and  local  immigration  laws  may  require  us  to  meet  certain  other  legal 
requirements as a condition to obtaining or maintaining entry visas, which may impact our ability to provide services 
to our clients; 

potential  violations  of  local  laws  or  anti-bribery  laws,  such  as  the  United  States  Foreign  Corrupt  Practices  Act 
(“FCPA”),  and  the  UK  Bribery  Act,  may  cause  difficulty  in  managing  foreign  operations,  as  well  as  significant 
consequences to us if those laws are violated; 

regulatory changes and economic conditions leading up to and following the UK’s likely exit from the EU (“Brexit”), 
including  uncertainties  as  to  its  effect  on  trade  laws,  tariffs,  instability  and  volatility  in  the  global  financial  and 
currency  markets,  conflicting  or  redundant  regulatory  regimes  in  Europe,  such  as  the  European  Medicines  Agency 
(“EMA”) possible relocation from UK to a country within the European Union, and political stability; 

clients in foreign jurisdictions may have longer payment cycles, and it may be more difficult to collect receivables in 
foreign jurisdictions; and  

natural disasters, pandemics or international conflict, including terrorist acts, could interrupt our services, endanger our 
personnel or cause project delays or loss of clinical trial materials or results. 

These risks and uncertainties could negatively impact our ability to, among other things, perform large, global projects for our 
clients. Furthermore, our ability to deal with these issues could be affected by applicable United States laws and the need to protect 
our assets. Any such risks could have an adverse impact on our financial condition and results of operations. 

Exchange rate fluctuations may affect our results of operations and financial condition. 

Because a large portion of our revenues and expenses are denominated in currencies other than the United States dollar and 
our financial statements are reported in United States dollars, changes in foreign currency exchange rates could significantly affect our 
results of operations and financial condition. Exchange rate fluctuations between local currencies and the United States dollar create 
risk in several ways, including: 

•

•

Foreign Currency Translation Risk. The revenue and expenses of our foreign operations are generally denominated in 
local currencies and translated into United States dollars for financial reporting purposes. Accordingly, exchange rate 
fluctuations  will  affect  the  translation  of  foreign  results  into  United  States  dollars  for  purposes  of  reporting  our 
consolidated results. 

Foreign Currency Transaction Risk. We are subject to foreign currency transaction risk for fluctuations in exchange 
rates during the period of time between the consummation and cash settlement of a transaction. We earn revenue from 
our service contracts over a period of several months and, in some cases, over several years. Accordingly, exchange 
rate fluctuations during this period may affect our profitability with respect to such contracts. 

We may limit these risks through exchange rate fluctuation provisions stated in our service contracts, or we may hedge our 
transaction  risk  with  foreign  currency  exchange  contracts  or  options.  We  have  not,  however,  hedged  all  of  our  foreign  currency 
transaction  risk,  and  we  may  experience  fluctuations  in  financial  results  from  our  operations  outside  the  United  States  and  foreign 
currency transaction risk associated with our service contracts. 

24

Due to the global nature of our business, we may be exposed to liabilities under anti-corruption laws, including the United 
States  Foreign  Corrupt  Practices  Act,  the  United  Kingdom  Bribery  Act  and  various  international  anti-corruption  laws,  and  any 
allegation or determination that we violated these laws could have a material adverse effect on our business. 

We are required to comply with the FCPA, the UK Bribery Act and other international anti-corruption laws, which prohibit 
companies from engaging in bribery including corruptly or improperly offering, promising, or providing money or anything else of 
value to non-United States officials and certain other recipients. In addition, the FCPA imposes certain books, records, and accounting 
control obligations on public companies and other issuers. We operate in parts of the world in which corruption can be common and 
compliance with anti-bribery laws may conflict with local customs and practices. Our global operations face the risk of unauthorized 
payments or offers being made by employees, consultants, sales agents, and other business partners outside of our control or without 
our  authorization.  It  is  our  policy  to  implement  safeguards  to  prohibit  these  practices  by  our  employees  and  business  partners  with 
respect to our operations. However, irrespective of these safeguards, or as a result of monitoring compliance with such safeguards, it is 
possible that we or certain other parties may discover or receive information at some point that certain employees, consultants, sales 
agents,  or  other  business  partners  may  have  engaged  in  corrupt  conduct  for  which  we  might  be  held  responsible.  Violations  of  the 
FCPA, the UK Bribery Act or other international anti-corruption laws may result in restatements of, or irregularities in, our financial 
statements as well as severe criminal or civil sanctions, and we may be subject to other liabilities, which could negatively affect our 
business, operating results and financial condition. In some cases, companies that violate the FCPA may be debarred by the United 
States government and/or lose their United States export privileges. Changes in anti-corruption laws or enforcement priorities could 
also result in increased compliance requirements and related costs which could adversely affect our business, financial condition and 
results  of  operations.  In  addition,  the  United  States  or  other  governments  may  seek  to  hold  us  liable  for  successor  liability  FCPA 
violations or violations of other anti-corruption laws committed by companies in which we invest or that we acquired or will acquire. 

We face risks related to sales to government entities. 

We  derive  a  portion  of  our  revenue  from  sales  to  government  entities  in  the  United  States.  In  general,  our  contracts  with 
United States government entities are terminable at will by the government entity at any time. Government demand and payment for 
our  services  may  be  affected  by  public-sector  budgetary  cycles  and  funding  authorizations,  including  government  shutdowns. 
Government  contracts  are  subject  to  oversight,  including  special  rules  on  accounting,  expenses,  reviews  and  security.  Failure  to 
comply  with  these  rules  could  result  in  civil  and  criminal  penalties  and  sanctions,  including  termination  of  contracts,  fines  and 
suspensions,  or  debarment  from  future  business  with  the  United  States  government.  As  a  result,  failure  to  comply  with  these  rules 
could have an adverse effect on our future business, reputation, operating results and financial condition. 

If we are unable to successfully develop and market new services or enter new markets, our growth, results of operations or 

financial condition could be adversely affected. 

A key element of our growth strategy is the successful development and marketing of new services or entering new markets 
that complement or expand our existing business. As we develop new services or enter new markets, including services targeted at 
participants  in  the  broader  healthcare  industry,  we  may  not  have  or  adequately  build  the  competencies  necessary  to  perform  such 
services satisfactorily, may not receive market acceptance for such services or may face increased competition. If we are unable to 
succeed in developing new services, entering new markets or attracting a client base for our new services or in new markets, we will 
be unable  to implement this element of  our growth strategy, and our future business, reputation, results  of operations and financial 
condition could be adversely affected. 

Our Research & Development Solutions business could subject us to potential liability that may adversely affect our results 

of operations and financial condition. 

Our  Research &  Development  Solutions  business  involves  the  testing  of  new  drugs  on  patients  in  clinical  trials  and,  if 
marketing approval is granted, the availability of these drugs to be prescribed to patients. Our involvement in the clinical trials and 
development  process  creates  a  risk  of  liability  for  personal  injury  to  or  death  of  patients,  particularly  those  with  life-threatening 
illnesses, resulting from adverse reactions to the drugs administered during testing or after product launch, respectively. For example, 
we have from time to time been sued and may be sued in the future by individuals alleging personal injury due to their participation in 
clinical trials and seeking damages from us under a variety of legal theories. Although we maintain the types and amounts of insurance 
we view as customary in the industries and countries in which we operate, if we are required to pay damages or incur defense costs in 
connection  with  any  personal  injury  claim  that  is  outside  the  scope  of  indemnification  agreements  we  have  with  our  clients,  if  any 
indemnification  agreement  is  not  performed  in  accordance  with  its  terms  or  if  our  liability  exceeds  the  amount  of  any  applicable 
indemnification limits or available insurance coverage, our financial condition, results of operations and reputation could be materially 
and  adversely  affected.  We  maintain  professional  liability  insurance,  including  liability  for  completed  operations  coverage.  In  the 
future, we may not be able to get adequate insurance for these types of risks at reasonable rates. 

25

We also contract with physicians to serve as investigators in conducting clinical trials. If the investigators commit errors or 
make omissions during a clinical trial that result in harm to clinical trial patients or after a clinical trial to a patient using the drug after 
it has received regulatory approval, claims for personal injury or liability damages may result. Additionally, if the investigators engage 
in  fraudulent  behavior,  clinical  trial  data  may  be  compromised,  which  may  require  us  to  repeat  the  clinical  trial  or  subject  us  to 
liability. We do not believe we are legally responsible for the medical care rendered by such third-party investigators, and we would 
vigorously  defend  any  claims  brought  against  us.  However,  it  is  possible  we  could  be  found  liable  for  claims  with  respect  to  the 
actions of third-party investigators, which may adversely affect our financial condition, results of operations and reputation. 

Some of our services involve direct interaction with clinical trial subjects or volunteers and subcontracting into a network 
of  Phase  I  clinical  facilities,  which  could  create  potential  liability  that  may  adversely  affect  our  results  of  operations,  financial 
condition and reputation. 

We  subcontract  into  a  network  of  facilities  where  Phase  I  clinical  trials  are  conducted,  which  ordinarily  involve  testing  an 
investigational  drug  on  a  limited  number  of  healthy  individuals,  typically  20  to  80  persons,  to  determine  such  drug’s  basic  safety. 
Failure to operate such a facility in accordance with applicable regulations could result in that facility being shut down, which could 
disrupt our operations. Additionally, we face risks associated with adverse events resulting from the administration of such drugs to 
healthy  volunteers  and  the  professional  malpractice  of  medical  care  providers.  Any  professional  malpractice  or  negligence  by  such 
investigators, nurses or other subcontracted employees could potentially result in liability to us in the event of personal injury to or 
death of a healthy volunteer in clinical trials, and could also cause us reputational harm. This liability, particularly if it were to exceed 
the  limits  of  any  indemnification  agreements  and  insurance  coverage  we  may  have,  may  adversely  affect  our  financial  condition, 
results of operations and reputation.

Our Contract Sales & Medical Solutions business could result in liability to us if a drug causes harm to a patient. While we 

are generally indemnified and insured against such risks, we may still suffer financial losses. 

When we market drugs under contract for a biopharmaceutical company, we could suffer liability for harm allegedly caused by 
those drugs, either as a result of a lawsuit against the biopharmaceutical company to which we are joined, a lawsuit naming us or any 
of our subsidiaries or an action launched by a regulatory body. While we are generally indemnified by the biopharmaceutical company 
for the action of the drugs we market on its behalf, and we carry insurance to cover harm caused by our negligence in performing 
services,  it  is  possible  that  we  could  nonetheless  incur  financial  losses,  regulatory  penalties  or  both.  In  particular,  any  claim  could 
result  in  potential  liability  for  us  if  the  claim  is  outside  the  scope  of  the  indemnification  agreement  we  have  with  the 
biopharmaceutical  company,  the  biopharmaceutical  company  does  not  abide  by  the  indemnification  agreement  as  required  or  the 
liability exceeds the amount of any applicable indemnification limits or available insurance coverage. Such a finding could have an 
adverse impact on our financial condition, results of operations and reputation. Furthermore, negative publicity associated with harm 
caused by drugs we helped to market could have an adverse effect on our business and reputation. 

Our insurance may not cover all of our indemnification obligations and other liabilities associated with our operations. 

We  maintain  insurance  designed  to  provide  coverage  for  ordinary  risks  associated  with  our  operations  and  our  ordinary 
indemnification obligations. The coverage provided by such insurance may not be adequate for all claims we may make or may be 
contested by our insurance carriers. If our insurance is not adequate or available to pay liabilities associated with our operations, or if 
we are unable to purchase adequate insurance at reasonable rates in the future, our profitability may be adversely impacted. 

If we are unable to attract suitable investigators and patients for our clinical trials, our clinical development business might 

suffer. 

The timely recruitment of investigators and patients for clinical trials is essential to our Research & Development Solutions 
business. Investigators are typically located at hospitals, clinics or other sites and supervise the administration of the investigational 
drug to patients during the course of a clinical trial. Patients generally include people from the communities in which the clinical trials 
are  conducted.  Our  clinical  development  business  could  be  adversely  affected  if  we  are  unable  to  attract  suitable  and  willing 
investigators  or  patients  for  clinical  trials  on  a  consistent  basis.  For  example,  if  we  are  unable  to  engage  investigators  to  conduct 
clinical trials as planned or enroll sufficient patients in clinical trials, we might need to expend additional funds to obtain access to 
resources or else be compelled to delay or modify the clinical trial plans, which may result in additional costs to us. 

26

If  we  lose  the  services  of  key  personnel  or  are  unable  to  recruit  additional  qualified  personnel,  our  business  could  be 

adversely affected. 

Our success substantially depends on the collective performance, contributions and expertise of our personnel including senior 
management and key personnel, qualified professional, scientific and technical operating staff and qualified sales representatives for 
our  contract  sales  services.  There  is  significant  and  increasing  competition  for  qualified  personnel,  particularly  those  with  higher 
educational  degrees,  such  as  a  medical  degree,  a  Ph.D.  or  an  equivalent  degree,  or  relevant  experience  in  the  industry  and  in  the 
locations  in  which  we  operate.  In  addition,  the  departure  of  our  key  employees,  or  our  inability  to  continue  to  identify,  attract  and 
retain  qualified  personnel  or  replace  any  departed  personnel  in  a  timely  fashion,  may  impact  our  ability  to  grow  our  business  and 
compete effectively in our industry and may negatively affect our ability to meet financial and operational goals. 

Disruptions  in  the  credit  and  capital  markets  and  unfavorable  general  economic  conditions  could  negatively  affect  our 

business, results of operations and financial condition. 

Disruptions  in  the  credit  and  capital  markets  could  have  negative  effects  on  our  business  that  may  be  difficult  to  predict  or 
anticipate,  including  the  ability  of  our  clients,  vendors,  contractors  and  financing  sources  to  meet  their  contractual  obligations. 
Although we are unable to quantify the impact it has had on us,  we  are  aware  of a limited number of instances in our Research & 
Development Solutions business during the past several years where cancellations, changes in scope and failure to pay timely were 
attributable, at least in part, to difficulty in our clients’ ability to obtain financing. In the future such actions by our clients could, if 
they involve a significant amount of business with us, have a material adverse effect on our results of operations. 

Our effective income tax rate may fluctuate for a variety of reasons, including the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act enacted in 2017 

(the “Tax Act”), which may adversely affect our operations, earnings and earnings per share. 

Our  effective  income  tax  rate  is  influenced  by  our  projected  profitability  in  the  various  taxing  jurisdictions  in  which  we 
operate. Changes in a jurisdiction’s income tax rates and the distribution of our profits and losses among such jurisdictions may have a 
significant impact on our effective income tax rate, which in turn could have an adverse effect on our net income and earnings per 
share. Factors that may affect our effective income tax rate include, but are not limited to: 

•

•

•

•

•

•

•

the requirement to exclude from our quarterly worldwide effective income tax calculations losses in jurisdictions where 
no income tax benefit can be recognized; 

actual and projected full year pre-tax income; 

changes in the value of deferred tax assets and liabilities; 

the repatriation of foreign earnings to the United States; 

changes in tax laws in various jurisdictions, including the Tax Act; 

audits by taxing authorities; and 

the  establishment  of  valuation  allowances  against  deferred  income  tax  assets  if  we  determined  that  it  is  more  likely 
than not that future income tax benefits will not be realized.  

In  addition,  our  effective  income  tax  rate  is  influenced  by  U.S.  tax  law  which  has  been  substantially  modified  by  the  Tax 
Act.  Currently regulations have been issued in proposed form, and if the application of these provisions are modified to change the 
interpretation to us it could have an adverse impact on our effective income tax rate:

•

•

•

•

Base Erosion and Anti-Abuse Tax (“BEAT”); 

Global Intangible Low-Taxed Income (“GILTI”); 

Deduction for net business interest limited to 30% of adjusted taxable income; and

Performance-based compensation and commissions now subject to $1 million limit. 

27

All of these items described above may cause fluctuations in our effective income tax rate through increased U.S. tax liability 
and/or the loss of tax attributes in any given year that could adversely affect our results of operations and impact our earnings and 
earnings per share. Additional information regarding our income taxes is presented in Note 16 to our audited consolidated financial 
statements included in this Annual Report on Form 10-K.

Changes  in  accounting  standards  issued  by  the  Financial  Accounting  Standards  Board  (“FASB”),  including  ASC  606 
“Revenue  from  Contracts  with  Customers”  (ASC  606),  or  other  standard-setting  bodies  may  adversely  affect  our  financial 
statements.

We are required to prepare our financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles in the United 
States  of  America  (“GAAP”),  which  is  periodically  revised  and/or  expanded.  From  time  to  time,  we  are  required  to  adopt  new  or 
revised  accounting  standards  issued  by  recognized  authoritative  bodies,  including  the  FASB  and  the  SEC.  It  is  possible  that  future 
accounting standards we are required to adopt, such as amended guidance for leases, may require additional changes to the current 
accounting  treatment  that  we  apply  to  our  financial  statements  and  may  require  us  to  make  significant  changes  to  our  reporting 
systems. Such changes could result in a material adverse impact on our results of operations and financial condition.

For  example,  effective  January  1,  2018,  we  were  required  to  adopt  ASC  606.  Under  this  new  standard,  the  Company  is 
required  to  recognize  revenue  for  its  clinical  trial  arrangements  on  a  percentage  of  completion  basis.  This  change  in  revenue 
recognition requires significant estimates of project costs that will need to be updated and adjusted on a regular basis. These updates 
and  adjustments  are  likely  to  result  in  variability  in  our  revenue  recognition  from  period  to  period  that  may  cause  unexpected 
variability  in  our  operating  results.  See  Note  1  to  our  audited  consolidated  financial  statements  included  elsewhere  in  this  Annual 
Report on Form 10-K for details regarding ASC 606.

Our relationships with existing or potential clients who are in competition with each other may adversely impact the degree 

to which other clients or potential clients use our services, which may adversely affect our results of operations. 

The  biopharmaceutical  industry  is  highly  competitive,  with  biopharmaceutical  companies  each  seeking  to  persuade  payers, 
providers  and  patients  that  their  drug  therapies  are  better  and  more  cost-effective  than  competing  therapies  marketed  or  being 
developed  by  competing  firms.  In  addition  to  the  adverse  competitive  interests  that  biopharmaceutical  companies  have  with  each 
other,  biopharmaceutical  companies  also  have  adverse  interests  with  respect  to  drug  selection  and  reimbursement  with  other 
participants  in  the  healthcare  industry,  including  payers  and  providers.  Biopharmaceutical  companies  also  compete  to  be  first  to 
market with new drug therapies. We regularly provide services to biopharmaceutical companies who compete with each other, and we 
sometimes provide services or funding to such clients regarding competing drugs in development. Our existing or future relationships 
with our biopharmaceutical clients may therefore deter other biopharmaceutical clients from using our services or may result in our 
clients  seeking  to  place  limits  on  our  ability  to  serve  other  biopharmaceutical  industry  participants  in  connection  with  drug 
development activities. In addition, our further expansion into the broader healthcare market may adversely impact our relationships 
with biopharmaceutical clients, and such clients may elect not to use our services, reduce the scope of services that we provide to them 
or seek to place restrictions on our ability to serve clients in the broader healthcare market with interests that are adverse to theirs. A 
loss of clients or reductions in the level of revenues from a client could have a material adverse effect on our results of operations, 
business and prospects. 

If we are unable to successfully identify, acquire and integrate existing businesses, services and technologies, our business, 

results of operations and financial condition could be adversely impacted. 

We anticipate that a portion of our future growth may come from acquiring existing businesses, services or technologies. The 
success of any acquisition will depend upon, among other things, our ability to effectively integrate acquired personnel, operations, 
services and technologies into our business and to retain the key personnel and clients of our acquired businesses. In addition, we may 
be unable to identify suitable acquisition opportunities or obtain any necessary financing on commercially acceptable terms. We may 
also  spend  time  and  money  investigating  and  negotiating  with  potential  acquisition  targets  but  not  complete  the  transaction.  Any 
future acquisition could involve other risks, including, among others, the assumption of additional liabilities and expenses, difficulties 
and  expenses  in  connection  with  integrating  the  acquired  companies  and  achieving  the  expected  benefits,  issuances  of  potentially 
dilutive  securities  or  interest-bearing  debt,  loss  of  key  employees  of  the  acquired  companies,  transaction  costs,  diversion  of 
management’s  attention  from  other  business  concerns  and,  with  respect  to  the  acquisition  of  foreign  companies,  the  inability  to 
overcome  differences  in  foreign  business  practices,  language  and  customs.  Our  failure  to  identify  potential  acquisitions,  complete 
targeted acquisitions and integrate completed acquisitions could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and 
results of operations. 

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Investments in our clients’ businesses or drugs and our related commercial rights strategies could have a negative impact 

on our financial performance. 

We may enter into arrangements with our clients or other drug companies in which we take on some of the risk of the potential 
success  or  failure  of  their  businesses  or  drugs,  including  making  strategic  investments  in  our  clients  or  other  drug  companies, 
providing  financing  to  clients  or  other  drug  companies  or  acquiring  an  interest  in  the  revenues  from  clients’  drugs  or  in  entities 
developing a limited number of drugs. Our financial results would be adversely affected if these investments or the underlying drugs 
result  in  losses  or  do  not  achieve  the  level  of  success  that  we  anticipate  and/or  our  return  or  payment  from  the  drug  investment  or 
financing is less than our direct and indirect costs with respect to these arrangements. 

 Our results of operations may be adversely affected if we fail to realize the full value of our goodwill and intangible assets. 

We assess the realizability of our indefinite-lived intangible assets and goodwill annually and conduct an interim evaluation 
whenever events or changes in circumstances, such as operating losses or a significant decline in earnings associated with the acquired 
business or asset, indicate that these assets may be impaired. For example, we recognized $40 million of impairment losses during the 
year ended December 31, 2017, for goodwill and intangible assets in Encore Health Resources LLC (“Encore”), which we sold in the 
third quarter of 2017. Our ability to realize the value of the goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets will depend on the future 
cash flows of the businesses we have acquired, which in turn depend in part on how well we have integrated these businesses into our 
own business. If we are not able to realize the value of the goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets, we may be required to incur 
material  charges  relating  to  the  impairment  of  those  assets.  Such  impairment  charges  could  materially  and  adversely  affect  our 
operating results and financial condition. 

We face risks arising from the restructuring of our operations. 

From time to time, we have adopted restructuring plans to improve our operating efficiency through various means such as 
reduction  of  overcapacity,  elimination  of  non-billable  support  roles  or  other  realignment  of  resources.  Restructuring  presents 
significant potential risks of events occurring that could adversely affect us, including: 

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actual or perceived disruption of service or reduction in service standards to clients; 

the  failure  to  preserve  supplier  relationships  and  distribution,  sales  and  other  important  relationships  and  to  resolve 
conflicts that may arise; 

loss of sales as we reduce or eliminate staffing on non-core services; 

diversion of management attention from ongoing business activities; and 

the failure to maintain employee morale and retain key employees. 

Further, any such restructuring would result in charges that, if material, could harm our results of operations and significantly 
reduce  our  cash  position  or  increase  debt.  In  addition,  we  may  incur  certain  unforeseen  costs  once  any  restructuring  activities  are 
implemented.  Further,  if  we  determine  to  effect  any  restructuring,  we  can  give  no  assurance  that  any  projected  cost  reductions 
resulting from such restructuring activities will be achieved within the expected timeframe, or at all. 

Because  of  these  and  other  factors,  we  cannot  predict  whether  we  will  realize  the  purpose  and  anticipated  benefits  of  these 

measures and, if we do not, our business and results of operations may be adversely affected. 

Additionally, there may be delays in implementing the restructuring activities or a failure to achieve the anticipated levels of 
cost savings and efficiency as a result of the restructuring activities, each of which could materially and adversely impact our business 
and results of operations. Further restructuring or reorganization activities may also be required in the future beyond what is currently 
planned, which could further enhance the risks associated with these activities. 

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Risks Relating to Our Industry 

The biopharmaceutical services industry is highly competitive. 

The  biopharmaceutical  services  industry  is  highly  competitive.  Our  business  often  competes  with  other  biopharmaceutical 
services  companies,  internal  discovery  departments,  development  departments,  sales  and  marketing  departments,  information 
technology departments and other departments within our clients, some of which could be considered large biopharmaceutical services 
companies  in  their  own  right  with  greater  resources  than  ours.  We  also  compete  with  universities,  teaching  hospitals,  governments 
agencies and others. If we do not compete successfully, our business will suffer. The industry is highly fragmented, with numerous 
smaller specialized companies and a handful of companies with global capabilities similar to certain of our own capabilities. Increased 
competition has led to price and other forms of competition, such as acceptance of less favorable contract terms, that could adversely 
affect our operating results. There are few barriers to entry for companies considering offering any one or more of the services we 
offer.  Because  of  their  size  and  focus,  these  companies  might  compete  effectively  against  us,  which  could  have  a  material  adverse 
impact on our business. 

Our future growth and success will depend on our ability to successfully compete with other companies that provide similar 
services  in  the  same  markets,  some  of  which  may  have  financial,  marketing,  technical  and  other  advantages.  We  also  expect  that 
competition will continue to increase as a result of consolidation among these various companies. Large technology companies with 
substantial resources, technical expertise and greater brand power could also decide to enter or further expand in the markets where 
our business operates and compete with us. If one or more of our competitors or potential competitors were to merge or partner with 
another  of  our  competitors,  or  if  a  new  entrant  emerged  with  substantial  resources,  the  change  in  the  competitive  landscape  could 
adversely  affect  our  ability  to  compete  effectively.  We  compete  on  the  basis  of  various  factors,  including  breadth  and  depth  of 
services,  reputation,  reliability,  quality,  innovation,  security,  price  and  industry  expertise  and  experience.  In  addition,  our  ability  to 
compete  successfully  may  be  impacted  by  the  growing  availability  of  health  information  from  social  media,  government  health 
information  systems  and  other  free  or  low-cost  sources.  Consolidation  or  integration  of  wholesalers,  retail  pharmacies,  health 
networks, payers or other healthcare stakeholders may lead any of them to provide information services directly to clients or indirectly 
through a designated service provider, resulting in increased competition from firms that may have lower costs to market (e.g., no data 
supply costs). Any of the above may result in lower demand for our services, which could result in a material adverse impact on our 
operating results and financial condition. 

Outsourcing trends in the biopharmaceutical industry and changes in aggregate spending and research and development 

budgets could adversely affect our operating results and growth rate. 

Economic factors and industry trends that affect biopharmaceutical companies affect our Research & Development Solutions 
business. Biopharmaceutical companies continue to seek long-term strategic collaborations with global contract research organizations 
with favorable pricing terms. Competition for these collaborations is intense and we may decide to forego an opportunity or we may 
not be selected, in which case a competitor may enter into the collaboration and our business with the client, if any, may be limited. In 
addition,  if  the  biopharmaceutical  industry  reduces  its  Research  &  Development  Solutions  activities  or  reduces  its  outsourcing  of 
clinical  trials  and  sales  and  marketing  projects  or  such  outsourcing  fails  to  grow  at  projected  rates,  our  operations  and  financial 
condition could be materially and adversely affected. We may also be negatively impacted by consolidation and other factors in the 
biopharmaceutical industry, which may slow decision making by our clients or result in the delay or cancellation of clinical trials. Our 
commercial  services  may  be  affected  by  reductions  in  new  drug  launches  and  increases  in  the  number  of  drugs  losing  patent 
protection. All of these events could adversely affect our business, results of operations or financial condition. 

Our  business  may  be  materially  and  adversely  impacted  by  factors  affecting  the  biopharmaceutical  and  healthcare 

industries. 

The vast majority of our revenue is generated from sales to the biopharmaceutical and healthcare industries. The clients we 
serve in these industries are commonly subject to financial pressures, including, but not limited to, increased costs, reduced demand 
for their products, reductions in pricing and reimbursement for products and services, formulary approval and placement, government 
approval to market their products and limits on the manner by which they market their products, loss of patent exclusivity (whether 
due to patent expiration or as a result of a successful legal challenge) and the proliferation of or changes to regulations applicable to 
these  industries.  To  the  extent  our  clients  face  such  pressures,  or  they  change  how  they  utilize  our  offerings,  the  demand  for  our 
services, or the prices our clients are willing to pay for those services, may decline. Any such decline could have a material adverse 
effect on our business, operating results and financial condition. 

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We may be affected by healthcare reform and potential additional reforms. 

The United States Congress continues to consider healthcare reform legislation and impose health industry cost containment 
measures, which may significantly impact the biopharmaceutical industry. In addition, numerous government bodies are considering 
or  have  adopted  various  healthcare  reforms  and  may  undertake,  or  are  in  the  process  of  undertaking,  efforts  to  control  growing 
healthcare  costs  through  legislation,  regulation  and  voluntary  agreements  with  medical  care  providers  and  biopharmaceutical 
companies.  We  are  uncertain  as  to  the  effects  of  these  recent  reforms  on  our  business  and  are  unable  to  predict  what  legislative 
proposals, if any, will be adopted in the future. If regulatory cost containment efforts limit the profitability of new drugs, our clients 
may  reduce  their  research  and  development  spending  or  promotional,  marketing  and  sales  expenditures,  which  could  reduce  the 
business they outsource to us. Similarly, if regulatory requirements are relaxed or simplified drug approval procedures are adopted, the 
demand for our services could decrease. 

Foreign and domestic government bodies may also adopt healthcare legislation or regulations that are more burdensome than 
existing regulations. For example, product safety concerns and recommendations by the Drug Safety Oversight Board could change 
the regulatory environment for drug products, and new or heightened regulatory and licensing requirements may increase our expenses 
or  limit  or  delay  our  ability  to  offer  some  of  our  services.  Additionally,  new  or  heightened  regulatory  requirements  may  have  a 
negative impact on the ability of our clients to conduct industry-sponsored clinical trials, which could reduce the need for our services. 

Actions by government regulators or clients to limit a prescription’s scope or withdraw an approved drug from the market 

could adversely affect our business and result in a loss of revenues. 

Government regulators have the authority, after approving a drug, to regulate or limit its scope of prescription or withdraw it 
from the market completely based on safety concerns. Similarly, clients may act to voluntarily limit the scope of prescription of drugs 
or  withdraw  them  from  the  market.  In  the  past,  we  have  provided  services  with  respect  to  drugs  that  have  been  limited  and/or 
withdrawn. If we are providing services to clients for drugs that are limited or withdrawn, we may be required to narrow the scope of 
or terminate our services with respect to such drugs, which would prevent earning the full amount of revenues anticipated under the 
related service contracts with negative impacts to our financial results. 

If we do not keep pace with rapid technological changes, our services may become less competitive or obsolete. 

The biopharmaceutical industry is subject to rapid technological changes. Our current competitors or other businesses might 
develop  technologies  or  services  that  are  more  effective  or  commercially  attractive  than,  or  render  obsolete,  our  current  or  future 
technologies  and  services.  If  our  competitors  introduce  superior  technologies  or  services,  including  in  the  provision  of  clinical 
services, and if we cannot make enhancements to remain competitive, our competitive position would be harmed. If we are unable to 
compete  successfully,  we  may  lose  clients  or  be  unable  to  attract  new  clients,  which  could  lead  to  a  decrease  in  our  revenue  and 
financial condition. 

Laws restricting biopharmaceutical sales and marketing practices may adversely impact demand for our services. 

There  have  been  a  significant  number  of  laws,  legislative  initiatives  and  regulatory  actions  over  the  years  that  seek  to  limit 
biopharmaceutical  sales  and  marketing  practices.  For  example,  three  states  in  2006  and  2007  passed  laws  restricting  the  use  of 
prescriber  identifiable  information  for  the  purpose  of  promoting  branded  prescription  medicines.  Although  these  laws  were 
subsequently declared to be unconstitutional based on a decision of the U.S. Supreme Court in Sorrell v. IMS Health in 2011, we are 
unable to predict whether, and in what form, other initiatives may be introduced or actions taken at the state or Federal levels to limit 
biopharmaceutical sales and marketing practices. In addition, while we will continue to seek to adapt our services to comply with the 
requirements of these laws (to the extent applicable to our services), if enacted, there can be no assurance that our efforts to adapt our 
offerings will be successful and provide the same financial contribution to us. There can also be no assurance that future legislative 
initiatives  will  not  adversely  affect  our  ability  to  develop  or  market  current  or  future  offerings,  or  that  any  future  laws  will  not 
diminish the demand for our services, all of which could, over time, result in a material adverse impact on our operating results and 
financial condition. 

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Our  Research &  Development  Solutions  clients  face  intense  competition  from  lower  cost  generic  products,  which  may 

lower the amount that they spend on our services. 

Our Research & Development Solutions clients face increasing competition from lower cost generic products, which in turn 
may affect their ability to pursue research and development activities with us. In the United States, EU and Japan, political pressure to 
reduce  spending  on  prescription  drugs  has  led  to  legislation  and  other  measures  which  encourages  the  use  of  generic  products.  In 
addition, proposals emerge from time to time in the United States and other countries for legislation to further encourage the early and 
rapid approval of generic drugs. Loss of patent protection for a product typically is followed promptly by generic substitutes, reducing 
our clients’ sales of that product and their overall profitability. Availability of generic substitutes for our clients’ drugs may adversely 
affect their results of operations and cash flow, which in turn may mean that they would not have surplus capital to invest in research 
and  development  and  drug  commercialization,  including  in  our  services.  If  competition  from  generic  products  impacts  our  clients’ 
finances such that they decide to curtail our services, our revenues may decline and this could have a material adverse effect on our 
business. 

Risks Relating to Our Indebtedness 

Restrictions imposed in the Senior Secured Credit Facilities and other outstanding indebtedness, including the indentures 
governing  IQVIA  Holdings  Inc.  outstanding  notes,  may  limit  our  ability  to  operate  our  business  and  to  finance  our  future 
operations or capital needs or to engage in other business activities. 

The  terms  of  the  Senior  Secured  Credit  Facilities  (as  defined  below)  restrict  IQVIA  and  its  restricted  subsidiaries  from 
engaging in specified types of transactions. These covenants restrict the ability of IQVIA and its restricted subsidiaries, among other 
things, to: 

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incur liens; 

make investments and loans; 

incur indebtedness or guarantees; 

issue preferred stock of a restricted subsidiary; 

issue disqualified equity; 

engage in mergers, acquisitions and asset sales; 

declare dividends, make payments or redeem or repurchase equity interests; 

alter the business IQVIA and its restricted subsidiaries conduct; 

make restricted payments; 

enter into agreements limiting restricted subsidiary distributions; 

prepay, redeem or purchase certain indebtedness; and 

engage in certain transactions with affiliates. 

In addition, the revolving credit facility and the term A and B loans under our Credit Agreement (as defined below) require 
IQVIA to comply with a quarterly maximum senior secured net leverage ratio test and minimum interest coverage ratio test. IQVIA’s 
ability to comply with these financial covenants can be affected by events beyond our control, and IQVIA may not be able to satisfy 
them. Additionally, the restrictions contained in the indentures governing the outstanding notes could also limit our ability to plan for 
or react to market conditions, meet capital needs or make acquisitions or otherwise restrict our activities or business plans. 

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A  breach  of  any  of  these  covenants  could  result  in  a  default  under  the  Senior  Secured  Credit  Facilities  or  the  indentures 
governing the outstanding notes, which could trigger acceleration of our indebtedness and may result in the acceleration of or default 
under any other debt to which a cross-acceleration or cross-default provision applies, which could have a material adverse effect on 
our  business,  operations  and  financial  results.  In  the  event  of  any  default  under  the  Senior  Secured  Credit  Facilities,  the  applicable 
lenders could elect to terminate borrowing commitments and declare all borrowings and loans outstanding, together with accrued and 
unpaid interest and any fees and other obligations, to be due and payable. In addition, or in the alternative, the applicable lenders could 
exercise their rights under the security documents entered into in connection with the Senior Secured Credit Facilities. IQVIA and the 
other subsidiary guarantors have pledged substantially all of their tangible and intangible assets (subject to customary exceptions) as 
collateral  under  the  Senior  Secured  Credit  Facilities,  including  the  stock  and  the  assets  of  certain  of  our  current  and  future  wholly 
owned United States subsidiaries and a portion of the stock of certain of our non-United States subsidiaries. 

If we were unable to repay or otherwise refinance these borrowings and loans when due, the applicable lenders could proceed 
against the collateral granted to them to secure that indebtedness, which could force us into bankruptcy or liquidation. In the event the 
applicable lenders accelerate the repayment of our borrowings, we and our subsidiaries may not have sufficient assets to repay that 
indebtedness.  Any  acceleration  of  amounts  due  under  the  Credit  Agreement  governing  the  Senior  Secured  Credit  Facilities  or  the 
exercise by the applicable lenders of their rights under the security documents would likely have a material adverse effect on us. 

Despite our level of indebtedness, we are able to incur more debt and undertake additional obligations. Incurring such debt 

or undertaking such additional obligations could further exacerbate the risks to our financial condition. 

Although our Credit Agreement, which governs the Senior Secured Credit Facilities of our wholly owned subsidiary through 
which we conduct our operations, IQVIA Inc., contains restrictions on the incurrence of additional indebtedness, these restrictions are 
subject  to  a  number  of  qualifications  and  exceptions  and  the  indebtedness  incurred  in  compliance  with  these  restrictions  could 
increase. In addition, the receivables financing facility for our special purpose subsidiary, IQVIA Funding, LLC (“IQVIA Funding”) 
limits borrowing based on the amount of receivables purchased by IQVIA Funding from certain of our other subsidiaries, but when 
supported by the value of such purchased receivables, the debt under our receivables financing facility can increase. 

While  the  Credit  Agreement  also  contains  restrictions  on  our  and  our  restricted  subsidiaries’  ability  to  make  loans  and 
investments, these restrictions are subject to a number of qualifications and exceptions, and the investments incurred in compliance 
with these restrictions could be substantial.  

Restrictive covenants in our other indebtedness may limit our flexibility in our current and future operations, particularly 

our ability to respond to changes in our business or to pursue our business strategies. 

The terms contained in certain of our indebtedness, including credit facilities and any future indebtedness of ours, may include 
a  number  of  restrictive  covenants  that  impose  significant  operating  and  financial  restrictions,  including  restrictions  on  our  and  our 
restricted subsidiaries’ ability to take actions that we believe may be in our interest. These agreements, among other things, limit our 
ability to: 

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incur additional debt; 

provide guarantees in respect of obligations of other persons; 

issue redeemable stock and preferred stock; 

pay dividends or distributions or redeem or repurchase capital stock; 

prepay, redeem or repurchase debt; 

make loans, investments and capital expenditures; 

enter into transactions with affiliates; 

create or incur liens; 

make distributions from our subsidiaries; 

sell assets and capital stock of our subsidiaries; 

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make acquisitions; and 

consolidate or merge with or into, or sell substantially all of our assets to, another person. 

A breach of the covenants or restrictions under the agreements governing our other indebtedness could result in a default under 
the applicable indebtedness. Such default may allow the creditors to accelerate the related debt and may result in the acceleration of 
any other debt to which a cross-acceleration or cross-default provision applies. In the event our lenders and noteholders accelerate the 
repayment of our borrowings, we cannot assure that we and our subsidiaries would have sufficient assets to repay such indebtedness. 

Our financial results, our substantial indebtedness and our credit ratings could adversely affect the availability and terms of 

future financing. 

Interest  rate  fluctuations  and  our  ability  to  deduct  interest  expense  may  affect  our  results  of  operations  and  financial 

condition. 

Because we have variable rate debt, fluctuations in interest rates affect our business. We attempt to minimize interest rate risk 
and  lower  our  overall  borrowing  costs  through  the  utilization  of  derivative  financial  instruments,  primarily  interest  rate  caps  and 
swaps. We have entered into interest rate caps and swaps with financial institutions that have reset dates and critical terms that match 
those of our senior secured term loan credit facility. Accordingly, any change in market value associated with the interest rate caps and 
swaps is offset by the opposite market impact on the related debt. Because we do not attempt to hedge all of our variable rate debt, we 
may incur higher interest costs for the portion of our variable rate debt which is not hedged.    

In addition, the deduction for our interest expense may be limited, which could have an adverse impact on our taxes and net 

income.  

Risks Relating to Ownership of Our Common Stock 

Provisions  of  the  corporate  governance  documents  of  IQVIA  could  make  an  acquisition  of  IQVIA  difficult  and  may 

prevent attempts by its stockholders to replace or remove its management, even if beneficial to its stockholders. 

Our  certificate  of  incorporation  and  Delaware  bylaws  and  the  General  Corporation  Law  of  Delaware  (“DGCL”)  contain 
provisions  that  could  make  it  difficult  for  a  third  party  to  acquire  IQVIA  even  if  doing  so  might  be  beneficial  to  its  stockholders, 
including: 

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the division of the board of directors into three classes and the election of each class for three-year terms; 

subject  to  the  Shareholders  Agreement  dated  May  3,  2016  (the  “Shareholders  Agreement”),  the  sole  ability  of  the 
board of directors to fill a vacancy created by the death or resignation of a director or the expansion of the board of 
directors; 

advance notice requirements for stockholder proposals and director nominations; 

limitations on the ability of stockholders to call special meetings and to take action by written consent; 

the approval of holders of at least seventy-five percent (75%) of the outstanding shares of IQVIA entitled to vote on 
any amendment, alteration, change, addition or repeal of the Delaware bylaws is required to amend, alter, change, add 
to or repeal the Delaware bylaws; 

the required approval of holders of at least seventy-five percent (75%) of the outstanding shares of IQVIA to remove 
directors, which removal may only be for cause, subject to different requirements in the case of directors elected by a 
voting group of stockholders and the terms of the Shareholders Agreement; and 

the  ability  of  the  board  of  directors  to  issue  new  series  of,  and  designate  the  terms  of,  preferred  stock,  without 
stockholder approval, which could be used to, among other things, institute a rights plan that would have the effect of 
significantly diluting the stock ownership of a potential hostile acquirer, likely preventing acquisitions that have not 
been approved by the board of directors. 

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In  addition,  IQVIA  is  subject  to  Section 203  of  the  DGCL  regulating  corporate  takeovers,  although  our  board  of  directors 
adopted  a  resolution  approving  the  Merger  pursuant  to  which  shares  of  common  stock  were  acquired,  by  among  others,  the  TPG 
Shareholders.  Section 203,  subject  to  certain  exceptions,  prohibits  a  Delaware  corporation  from  engaging  in  any  “business 
combination”  with  any  “interested  stockholder”  for  a  period  of  three  years  following  the  date  that  such  stockholder  became  an 
interested stockholder unless: 

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prior to such date, the board of directors of the corporation approved either the business combination or the transaction 
that resulted in the stockholder becoming an interested stockholder; 

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 the corporation outstanding at the time the transaction 
commenced, excluding those shares owned by persons who are directors and also officers, and employee stock plans in 
which employee participants do not have the right to determine confidentially whether shares held subject to the plan 
will be tendered in a tender or exchange offer; or 

on  or  subsequent  to  such  date,  the  business  combination  is  approved  by  the  board  of  directors  and  authorized  at  an 
annual or special meeting of stockholders, and not by written consent, by the affirmative vote of at least two-thirds of 
the outstanding voting stock that is not owned by the interested stockholder. 

In general, Section 203 defines “business combination” to include mergers or consolidations between a Delaware corporation 
and  an  interested  stockholder,  transactions  with  an  interested  stockholder  involving  the  assets  or  stock  of  the  corporation  or  its 
majority-owned  subsidiaries  and  transactions  which  increase  an  interested  stockholder’s  percentage  ownership  of  stock.  In  general, 
Section 203 defines an “interested stockholder” as any entity or person beneficially owning 15% or more of the outstanding voting 
stock of the corporation and any entity or person affiliated with or controlling or controlled by such entity or person. These provisions 
may  frustrate  or  prevent  any  attempts  by  stockholders  to  replace  members  of  the  board  of  directors.  Because  IQVIA’s  board  is 
responsible for appointing the members of management, these provisions could in turn affect any attempt to replace current members 
of  management.  As  a  result,  stockholders  of  IQVIA  may  lose  their  ability  to  sell  their  stock  for  a  price  in  excess  of  the  prevailing 
market price due to these protective measures, and efforts by stockholders to change the direction or management of IQVIA may be 
unsuccessful. 

Our  operating  results  and  share  price  may  be  volatile,  which  could  cause  the  value  of  our  stockholders’  investments  to 

decline. 

Our quarterly and annual operating results may fluctuate in the future, and such fluctuations may be significant. In addition, 
securities  markets  worldwide  have  experienced,  and  are  likely  to  continue  to  experience,  significant  price  and  volume  fluctuations. 
This market volatility, as well as general economic, market or political conditions, could subject the market price of our shares to wide 
price fluctuations regardless of our operating performance. Our operating results and the trading price of our shares may fluctuate in 
response to various factors, including: 

•

•

•

•

•

•

•

•

•

•

market conditions in the broader stock market; 

actual or anticipated fluctuations in our quarterly and annual financial and operating results; 

introduction of new services by us or our competitors; 

issuance of new or changed securities analysts’ reports or recommendations; 

sales, or anticipated sales, of large blocks of our stock; 

additions or departures of key personnel; 

regulatory or political developments; 

litigation and governmental investigations; 

changing economic conditions; and 

exchange rate fluctuations. 

35

These and other factors, many of which are beyond our control, may cause our operating results and the market price for our 
shares  to  fluctuate  substantially.  While  we  believe  that  operating  results  for  any  particular  quarter  are  not  necessarily  a  meaningful 
indication  of  future  results,  fluctuations  in  our  quarterly  operating  results  could  limit  or  prevent  investors  from  readily  selling  their 
shares and may otherwise negatively affect the market price and liquidity of our shares. In addition, in the past, when the market price 
of a stock has been volatile, holders of that stock have sometimes instituted securities class action litigation against the company that 
issued the stock. If any of our stockholders brought a lawsuit against us, we could incur substantial costs defending the lawsuit. Such a 
lawsuit could also divert the time and attention of our management from our business, which could significantly harm our profitability 
and reputation. 

There may be sales of a substantial amount of our common stock by our current stockholders, and these sales could cause 

the price of our common stock to fall. 

As  of  February 12,  2019,  there  were  197,599,861  shares  of  common  stock  outstanding.  Approximately  10.9%  of  the 

outstanding shares of our common stock is held by parties to the Shareholders Agreement.  

Sales  of  substantial  amounts  of  our  common  stock  in  the  public  market,  or  the  perception  that  such  sales  will  occur,  could 
adversely affect the market price of our common stock and make it difficult for us to raise funds through securities offerings in the 
future.  For  example,  as  restrictions  on  resale  end,  the  market  price  of  our  common  stock  could  decline  if  the  holders  of  currently 
restricted shares sell them or are perceived by the market as intending to sell them. 

Stockholders that are a party to the Shareholders Agreement may require us to register their shares for resale under the federal 
securities laws, subject to certain requirements. Under the Shareholders Agreement, we are required to pay the registration expenses 
associated with the registration of such shares, not including the underwriting discounts, commissions and transfer taxes. Registration 
of  those  shares  would  allow  those  stockholders  to  immediately  resell  their  shares  in  the  public  market.  Any  such  sales  or  the 
anticipation  of  such  sales  may  cause  the  market  price  of  our  common  stock  to  decline.  In  2018,  the  parties  to  the  Shareholders 
Agreement sold approximately 21.4 million shares of our common stock, of which we repurchased approximately 6.0 million shares.  

In addition, we may use our cash, cash generated from operations or dispositions of assets or businesses and/or proceeds from 
any new financing arrangements or issuances of debt or equity securities to repurchase shares, including the repurchase of shares from 
our stockholders that are a party to the Shareholders Agreement. 

Since  we  have  no  current  plans  to  pay  regular  cash  dividends  on  our  common  stock,  stockholders  may  not  receive  any 

return on investment unless they sell their common stock for a price greater than that which they paid for it. 

Although we have previously declared dividends to our stockholders prior to our initial public offering in May 2013, we do 
not currently anticipate paying any regular cash dividends on our common stock. Any decision to declare and pay dividends in the 
future  will  be  made  at  the  discretion  of  our  Board  and  will  depend  on,  among  other  things,  our  results  of  operations,  financial 
condition, cash requirements, contractual restrictions and other factors that our Board may deem relevant. In addition, our ability to 
pay dividends is, and may be, limited by covenants of existing and any future outstanding indebtedness we or our subsidiaries incur, 
including under our existing credit facilities. Therefore, any return on investment in our common stock is solely dependent upon the 
appreciation of the price of our common stock on the open market, which may not occur. 

Our  certificate  of  incorporation  contains  a  provision  renouncing  any  interest  and  expectancy  in  certain  corporate 
opportunities  identified  by  certain  of  our  affiliates,  even  if  such  corporate  opportunities  are  ones  that  we  might  reasonably  be 
deemed to have pursued or had the ability or desire to pursue. 

Our certificate of incorporation provides that our company renounces any interest or expectancy in the business opportunities 
of the TPG Shareholders, the Bain Capital, CPP Investment Board Private Holdings Inc. (“CPP Shareholder”), and Leonard Green & 
Partners,  L.P.  (“LGP  Shareholders”),  and  their  affiliates  (other  than  our  company  and  our  subsidiaries)  and  all  of  their  respective 
partners, principals, directors, officers, members, managers, managing directors and/or employees, and each such person will have no 
obligation to offer us such opportunities. This provision applies to these stockholders (and associated parties) only for so long as a 
nominee designated by the stockholder under the Shareholders Agreement continues to serve on the board. Stockholders are deemed 
to have notice of and have consented to this provision of our certificate of incorporation. 

Therefore, a director or officer of our company who also serves as a director, officer, member, manager, or employee of such 
stockholders may pursue certain business opportunities, including acquisitions, that may be complementary to its business and, as a 
result, such opportunities may not be available to us. These potential conflicts of interest could have a material adverse effect on the 
business, financial condition, results of operations, or prospects of our company if attractive corporate opportunities are allocated by 
such stockholders to themselves or their other affiliates instead of to us.  

36

Item 1B. Unresolved Staff Comments 

None. 

Item 2. Properties 

As  of  December 31,  2018,  we  had  approximately  307  offices  located  in  approximately  84  countries.  Our  executive 
headquarters  are  located  adjacent  to  Research  Triangle  Park,  North  Carolina  and  in  Danbury,  Connecticut.  We  own  facilities  in 
Barcelona, Spain; Buenos Aires, Argentina; Caracas, Venezuela; Los Ruices, Venezuela; Lisbon, Portugal; and Bangalore, India. All 
of our other offices are leased. Our properties are geographically distributed to meet our worldwide operating requirements, and none 
of our properties are individually material to our business operations. Many of our leases have an option to renew, and we believe that 
we will be able to successfully renew expiring leases on terms satisfactory to us. We believe that our facilities are adequate for our 
operations and that suitable additional space will be available if needed. 

Item 3. Legal Proceedings

We are involved in a variety of legal and tax proceedings, claims and litigation that arise from time to time in the ordinary 
course of business. These actions may be commenced by various parties, including competitors, clients, current or former employees, 
government  agencies  or  others.  We  record  a  provision  with  respect  to  a  proceeding,  claim  or  litigation  when  it  is  probable  that  a 
liability  has  been  incurred  and  the  amount  of  the  loss  can  be  reasonably  estimated.  However,  even  in  instances  where  we  have 
recorded an estimated liability, we are unable to predict with certainty the final outcome of the matter or whether resolution of the 
matter will materially affect our operating results, financial position or cash flows. As additional information becomes available, we 
adjust our assessment and estimates of such liabilities accordingly. 

Further, we routinely enter into agreements with our suppliers to acquire data and with our clients to sell data, all in the normal 
course of business. In these agreements, we sometimes agree to indemnify and hold harmless the other party for any damages such 
other party may suffer as a result of potential intellectual property infringement and other claims related to the use of the data. We 
have not accrued liability with respect to these matters, as the exposure is considered remote. 

Based  on  our  review  of  the  latest  information  available,  management  does  not  expect  the  impact  of  pending  legal  and  tax 
proceedings, claims and litigation, either individually or in the aggregate, to have a material adverse effect on our operating results, 
financial  position  or  cash  flows.  However,  one  or  more  unfavorable  outcomes  in  any  claim  or  litigation  against  us  could  have  a 
material  adverse  effect  for  the  period  in  which  it  is  resolved.  The  following  is  a  summary  of  the  more  significant  legal  matters 
involving the company. 

Our  wholly-owned  subsidiary,  IMS  Government  Solutions  Inc.,  is  primarily  engaged  in  providing  services  under  contracts 
with the United States government. United States government contracts are subject to extensive legal and regulatory requirements and, 
from time to time, agencies of the United States government have the ability to investigate whether contractors’ operations are being 
conducted  in  accordance  with  such  requirements.  IMS  Government  Solutions  discovered  potential  noncompliance  with  various 
contract clauses and requirements under its General Services Administration Contract (the “GSA Contract”) which was awarded in 
2002 to its predecessor company, Synchronous Knowledge Inc. (Synchronous Knowledge Inc. was acquired by IMS Health in May 
2005). The potential noncompliance arose from two primary areas: first, at the direction of the government, work performed under one 
task  order  was  invoiced  under  another  task  order  without  the  appropriate  modifications  to  the  orders  being  made;  and  second, 
personnel  who  did  not  meet  strict  compliance  with  the  labor  categories  component  of  the  qualification  requirements  of  the  GSA 
Contract  were  assigned  to  contracts.  Upon  discovery  of  the  potential  noncompliance,  we  began  remediation  efforts,  promptly 
disclosed the potential noncompliance to the United States government and were accepted into the Department of Defense Voluntary 
Disclosure Program. We filed a Voluntary Disclosure Program Report on August 29, 2008. We are currently unable to determine the 
outcome of all of these matters pending the resolution of the Voluntary Disclosure Program process and the ultimate liability arising 
from these matters could exceed our current reserves. 

37

On February 13, 2014, a group of approximately 1,200 medical doctors and 900 private individuals filed a civil lawsuit with 
the  Seoul  Central  District  Court  against  IMS  Korea  and  two  other  defendants,  KPA  and  the  Korean  Pharmaceutical  Information 
Center (“KPIC”). The civil lawsuit alleges KPA and KPIC collected their personal information in violation of applicable privacy laws 
without  the  necessary  consent  through  a  software  system  installed  on  pharmacy  computer  systems  in  Korea,  and  that  personal 
information was transferred to IMS Korea and sold to pharmaceutical companies. On September 11, 2017, the District Court issued a 
final  decision  that  the  encryption  in  use  by  the  defendants  since  June  2014  was  adequate  to  meet  the  requirements  of  the  Korean 
Personal Information Privacy Act (“PIPA”) and the sharing of non-identified information for market research purposes was allowed 
under  PIPA.  The  District  Court  also  found  an  earlier  version  of  encryption  was  insufficient  to  meet  PIPA  requirements,  but  no 
personal data had been leaked or re-identified. The District Court did not award any damages to plaintiffs. Approximately 280 medical 
doctors  and  200  private  individuals  appealed  the  District  Court  decision.  The  Company  believes  the  appeal  is  without  merit  and 
intends to vigorously defend its position.    

 On  July 23,  2015,  indictments  were  issued  by  the  Seoul  Central  District  Prosecutors’  Office  in  South  Korea  against  24 
individuals  and  companies  alleging  improper  handling  of  sensitive  health  information  in  violation  of,  among  others,  South  Korea’s 
Personal  Information  Protection  Act.  IMS  Korea  and  two  of  its  employees  were  among  the  individuals  and  organizations  indicted. 
Although there is no assertion that IMS Korea used patient identified health information in any of its offerings, prosecutors allege that 
certain  of  IMS  Korea’s  data  suppliers  should  have  obtained  patient  consent  when  they  converted  sensitive  patient  information  into 
non-identified  data  and  that  IMS  Korea  had  not  taken  adequate  precautions  to  reduce  the  risk  of  re-identification.  We  believe  the 
indictment  is  without  merit  that  we  acted  in  compliance  with  all  applicable  laws  at  all  times  and  intend  to  vigorously  defend  our 
position. 

On January 10, 2017, IQVIA Inc., IMS Health Incorporated and IMS Software Services, Inc. (collectively “IQVIA Parties”) 
filed  a  lawsuit  in  the  U.S.  District  Court  for  the  District  of  New  Jersey  against  Veeva  Systems,  Inc.  (“Veeva”)  alleging  Veeva 
unlawfully used IQVIA Parties intellectual property to improve Veeva data offerings, to promote and market Veeva data offerings and 
to improve Veeva technology offerings. IQVIA Parties seek injunctive relief, appointment of a monitor, the award of compensatory 
and  punitive  damages  and  reimbursement  of  all  litigation  expenses,  including  reasonable  attorneys’  fees  and  costs.  On  March  13, 
2017,  Veeva  filed  counterclaims  alleging  anticompetitive  business  practices  in  violation  of  the  Sherman  Act  and  state  laws.  Veeva 
claims damages in excess of $200 million, and is seeking punitive damages and litigation costs, including attorneys’ fees. We believe 
the counterclaims are without merit, reject all counterclaims raised by Veeva and intend to vigorously defend IQVIA Parties’ position 
and pursue our claims against Veeva.

For  additional  information,  see  Note  12  to  our  audited  consolidated  financial  statements  included  elsewhere  in  this  Annual 

Report on Form 10-K.

Item 4. Mine Safety Disclosures 

Not applicable. 

38

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

PART II

Market Information for Common Stock 

Our common stock trades on the NYSE under the symbol “IQV.” 

Holders of Record 

On February 12, 2019, we had approximately 40 stockholders of record as reported by our transfer agent. Holders of record are 
defined as those stockholders whose shares are registered in their names in our stock records and do not include beneficial owners of 
common stock whose shares are held in the names of brokers, dealers or clearing agencies.

Dividend Policy 

We do not currently intend to pay dividends on our common stock, and no dividends were declared or paid in 2018 or 2017. 
However, we expect to reevaluate our dividend policy on a regular basis and may, subject to compliance with the covenants contained 
in our credit facilities and other considerations, determine to pay dividends in the future. The declaration, amount and payment of any 
future dividends on shares of our common stock will be at the sole discretion of our Board, which may take into account general and 
economic  conditions,  our  financial  condition  and  results  of  operations,  our  available  cash  and  current  and  anticipated  cash  needs, 
capital  requirements,  contractual,  legal,  tax  and  regulatory  restrictions,  the  implications  of  the  payment  of  dividends  by  us  to  our 
stockholders or by our subsidiaries to us, and any other factors that our Board may deem relevant. Our long-term debt arrangements 
contain usual and customary restrictive covenants that, among other things, place limitations on our ability to declare dividends. For 
additional information regarding these restrictive covenants, see Part II, Item 7 “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial 
Condition and Results of Operations—Liquidity and Capital Resources” and Note 10 to our audited consolidated financial statements 
included elsewhere in this Annual Report on Form 10-K. 

Recent Sales of Unregistered Securities 

We did not sell any unregistered equity securities in 2018. 

39

Purchases of Equity Securities by the Issuer 

On  October  30,  2013,  our  Board  of  Directors  (the  “Board”)  approved  an  equity  repurchase  program  (the  “Repurchase 
Program”)  authorizing  the  repurchase  of  up  to  $125  million  of  either  our  common  stock  or  vested  in-the-money  employee  stock 
options, or a combination thereof. Our Board increased the stock repurchase authorization under the Repurchase Program with respect 
to  the  repurchase  of  our  common  stock  by  $600  million,  $1.5  billion,  $2  billion  and  $1.5  billion  in  2015,  2016,  2017  and  2018, 
respectively,  which  increased  the  total  amount  that  has  been  authorized  under  the  Repurchase  Program  to  $5.725  billion.  The 
Repurchase  Program  does  not  obligate  us  to  repurchase  any  particular  amount  of  common  stock  or  vested  in-the-money  employee 
stock options, and it may be modified, extended, suspended or discontinued at any time. The timing and amount of repurchases are 
determined  by  our  management  based  on  a  variety  of  factors  such  as  the  market  price  of  our  common  stock,  our  corporate 
requirements,  and  overall  market  conditions.  Purchases  of  our  common  stock  may  be  made  in  open  market  transactions  effected 
through a broker-dealer at prevailing market prices, in block trades, or in privately negotiated transactions. We may also repurchase 
shares  of  our  common  stock  pursuant  to  a  trading  plan  meeting  the  requirements  of  Rule  10b5-1  under  the  Exchange  Act,  which 
would  permit  shares  of  our  common  stock  to  be  repurchased  when  we  might  otherwise  be  precluded  from  doing  so  by  law. 
Repurchases of vested in-the-money employee stock options were made through transactions between us and our employees (other 
than our executive officers, who were not eligible to participate in the program), and this aspect of the Repurchase Program expired in 
November 2013. The Repurchase Program for common stock does not have an expiration date.

From inception of the Repurchase Program through December 31, 2018, we have repurchased a total of $5,440 million of our 

securities under the Repurchase Program.

During  the  year  ended  December  31,  2018,  we  repurchased  12.6 million  shares  of  our  common  stock  at  an  average  market 
price per share of $111.23 for an aggregate purchase price of $1,396 million under the Repurchase Program. These amounts include 6 
million shares of our common stock that we repurchased directly from underwriters in connection with two secondary public offerings 
of  shares  of  our  common  stock  held  by  certain  of  our  sponsors  for  an  aggregate  purchase  price  of  $659  million. For  additional 
information regarding our equity repurchases, see Part II, Item 7 “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and 
Results  of  Operations—Liquidity  and  Capital  Resources”  and  Note  13  to  our  audited  consolidated  financial  statements  included 
elsewhere in this Annual Report on Form 10-K. 

As of December 31, 2018, we had remaining authorization to repurchase up to $285 million of our common stock under the 
Repurchase  Program.  In  addition,  from  time  to  time,  we  have  repurchased  and  may  continue  to  repurchase  common  stock  through 
private or other transactions outside of the Repurchase Program. On February 13, 2019, our Board authorized an increase in the post-
merger share repurchase authorization by $2.0 billion, resulting in approximately $2.3 billion remaining authorization.

 Since  the  Merger,  we  have  repurchased  56.4  million  shares  of  our  common  stock  at  an  average  market  price  per  share  of 
$89.12  for  an  aggregate  purchase  price  of  $5,026  million.  This  includes  shares  withheld  from  employees  to  satisfy  certain  tax 
obligations due in connection with grants of stock under the Quintiles IMS Holdings, Inc. 2017 Incentive and Stock Award Plan (the 
“Plan”). The Plan provides for the withholding of shares to satisfy tax obligations. It does not specify a maximum number of shares 
that can be withheld for this purpose. The shares of common stock withheld to satisfy tax withholding obligations may be deemed to 
be “issuer purchases” of shares that are required to be disclosed pursuant to this Item. 

The following table summarizes the monthly equity repurchase activity for the three months ended December 31, 2018 and the 

approximate dollar value of shares that may yet be purchased pursuant to the Repurchase Program. 

Period

October 1, 2018 – October 31, 2018
November 1, 2018 – November 30, 2018
December 1, 2018 – December 31, 2018

Total Number of
Shares Purchased  

Average Price
Paid per Share

Total Number of
Shares Purchased as
Part of Publicly
Announced
Plans or Programs  

Approximate Dollar
Value of Shares That
May Yet Be Purchased
Under the 
Plans or Programs

(in millions, except per share data)

1.4    $
2.9    $
0.7    $
5.0     

120.53     
122.09     
110.45     

1.4    $
2.9    $
0.7    $
5.0     

719 
362 
285 

40

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
   
   
 
   
      
  
Stock Performance Graph 

This  performance  graph  shall  not  be  deemed  “filed”  for  purposes  of  Section  18  of  the  Exchange  Act  or  incorporated  by 
reference into any filing of IQVIA Holdings Inc. under the Exchange Act or under the Securities Act, except as shall be expressly set 
forth by specific reference in such filing.

The following graph shows a comparison from December 31, 2013 through December 31, 2018 of the cumulative total return 
for  our  common  stock,  the  Standard  &  Poor’s  500  Stock  Index  (“S&P  500”)  and  a  select  peer  group.  The  peer  group  consists  of 
Cerner  Corporation,  Charles  River  Laboratories,  Inc.,  Dun  &  Bradstreet  Corporation,  Equifax  Inc.,  ICON  plc,  IHS  Markit  Ltd., 
Laboratory  Corporation  of  America  Holdings,  Nielsen  N.V.,  PRA  Health  Sciences,  Inc.,  Syneos  Health  (formerly  INC  Research 
Holdings), Thomson Reuters Corporation and Verisk Analytics, Inc. The companies in our peer group are publicly traded information 
services, information technology or contract research companies, and thus share similar business model characteristics to IQVIA, or 
provide services to similar customers as IQVIA. Many of these companies are also used by our compensation committee for purposes 
of compensation benchmarking.

The graph assumes that $100 was invested in IQVIA, the S&P 500 and the peer group as of the close of market on December 
31,  2013, assumes  the reinvestments  of  dividends,  if any.  The  S&P  500 and  our peer  group are included for  comparative  purposes 
only. They do not necessarily reflect management’s opinion that the S&P 500 and our peer group are an appropriate measure of the 
relative performance of the stock involved, and they are not intended to forecast or be indicative of possible future performance of our 
common stock.

12/31/2013

12/31/2014

12/31/2015

12/31/2016

12/31/2017

12/31/2018

IQVIA
Peer Group
S&P 500

  $
  $
  $

100    $
100    $
100    $

127    $
111    $
111    $

148    $
121    $
111    $

164    $
124    $
121    $

211    $
142    $
145    $

251 
132 
136  

41

 
 
   
   
   
   
   
 
Item 6. Selected Financial Data

We  have  derived  the  following  consolidated  statements  of  income  data  for  2018,  2017  and  2016  and  consolidated  balance 
sheet data as of December 31, 2018 and 2017 from our audited consolidated financial statements included elsewhere in this Annual 
Report on Form 10-K. We have derived the following consolidated statements of income data for 2015 and 2014 and consolidated 
balance sheet data as of December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014 from our audited consolidated financial statements not included in this 
Annual Report on Form 10-K. You should read the consolidated financial data set forth below in conjunction with our consolidated 
financial  statements  and  related  notes  included  elsewhere  in  this  Annual  Report  on  Form  10-K  and  the  information  under  Part  II, 
Item 7,  “Management’s  Discussion  and  Analysis  of  Financial  Condition  and  Results  of  Operations.”  Effective  January  1,  2018,  we 
adopted the requirements of Accounting Standards Update (“ASU”) 2014-09, Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606) 
(“ASU 2014-09”) and ASU 2017-07, “Compensation—Retirement Benefits (Topic 715):  Improving the Presentation of Net Periodic 
Pension Cost and Net Periodic Postretirement Benefit Cost” (“ASU 2017-07”) using the full retrospective method. As a result of the 
adoption  of  ASU  2014-09  and  ASU  2017-07,  the  Company  retrospectively  adjusted  related  presentations.  On  October 3,  2016,  we 
completed  the  Merger.  We  have  included  the  results  of  operations  of  IMS  Health  from  the  date  of  the  Merger  and  of  acquired 
businesses from the respective date of acquisition. As a result, our period to period results of operations vary depending on the dates 
and sizes of the acquisitions. Accordingly, this selected financial data is not necessarily comparable or indicative of our future results. 
You should read this selected consolidated financial data in conjunction with our audited consolidated financial statements and related 
footnotes included elsewhere in this Annual Report on Form 10-K. 

(in millions, except per share data)
Statement of Income Data:
Revenues
Costs of revenue, exclusive of depreciation and
   amortization
Selling, general and administrative expenses
Depreciation and amortization
Impairment charges(1)
Restructuring costs
Merger related costs(2)
Income from operations
Interest expense, net
Loss on extinguishment of debt
Other expense (income), net

Income before income taxes and equity in earnings
   (losses) of unconsolidated affiliates

Income tax expense (benefit)(3)

Income before equity in earnings (losses) of
   unconsolidated affiliates

Equity in earnings (losses) of unconsolidated affiliates

Net income

Net income attributable to non-controlling interests
Net income attributable to IQVIA Holdings Inc.

(in millions, except per share data)
Earnings per share attributable to common stockholders:
Basic
Diluted
Cash dividends declared per common share
Weighted average common shares outstanding:
Basic
Diluted

Year Ended December 31,

2018

2017(4)

2016(4)(5)

2015

2014

  $

10,412    $

9,702    $

6,815    $

5,737    $

5,460 

6,746     
1,716     
1,141     
—     
68     
—     
741     
406     
2     
5     

328     
59     

269     
15     
284     
(25)    
259    $

6,301     
1,622     
1,011     
40     
63     
—     
665     
339     
19     
13     

294     
(992)    

1,286     
10     
1,296     
(19)    
1,277    $

4,748     
1,016     
289     
28     
71     
87     
576     
140     
31     
(11)    

416     
325     

91     
(4)    
87     
(15)    
72    $

4,116     
815     
128     
2     
30     
—     
646     
97     
8     
2     

539     
159     

380     
8     
388     
(1)    
387    $

3,959 
781 
121 
— 
9 
— 
590 
97 
— 
(8)

501 
149 

352 
5 
357 
— 
357  

Year Ended December 31,

2018

2017(4)

2016(4)(5)

2015

2014

1.27    $
1.24    $
—    $

5.86    $
5.74    $
—    $

0.48    $
0.47    $
—    $

3.15    $
3.08    $
—    $

2.78 
2.72 
— 

203.7     
208.2     

217.8     
222.6     

149.1     
152.0     

123.0     
125.6     

128.0 
131.1  

  $

  $
  $
  $

42

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
      
      
      
      
  
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
      
      
      
      
  
   
      
      
      
      
  
   
   
(in millions)
Statement of Cash Flow Data:
Net cash provided by (used in):

Operating activities
Investing activities
Financing activities
Other Financial Data:
Capital expenditures
Cash dividend paid to common stockholders

(in millions)
Balance Sheet Data:
Cash and cash equivalents
Investments in debt, equity and other securities
Trade accounts receivable and unbilled services, net
Property and equipment, net
Total assets
Total long-term liabilities
Total debt(6)
Total stockholders’ equity (deficit)

Year Ended December 31,

2018

2017(4)

2016(4)(5)

2015

2014

  $

  $

  $

1,254    $
(810)    
(452)    

970    $
(1,190)    
(72)    

860    $
1,731     
(2,284)    

(459)   $
—     

(369)   $
—     

(164)   $
—     

476    $
(67)    
(249)    

(78)   $
—     

433 
(173)
(130)

(83)
—  

2018

2017(4)

2016(4)(5)

2015

2014

As of December 31,

891    $
88     
2,394     
434     
22,549     
12,061     
11,056     
6,954     

959    $
54     
2,097     
440     
22,857     
11,457     
10,269     
8,244     

1,198    $
53     
1,816     
406     
21,312     
9,609     
7,219     
8,781     

977    $
33     
1,166     
188     
3,926     
2,668     
2,501     
(336)    

867 
35 
975 
190 
3,296 
2,528 
2,306 
(704)

 (1) 

(2)  
(3) 

(4)

(5)

(6) 

In 2017, we recognized $40 million of impairment losses for declines in fair value of goodwill and identifiable intangible assets in Encore, which we 
sold in the third quarter of 2017. In 2016, we recognized $28 million of impairment losses for declines in fair value of goodwill ($23 million) and 
identifiable intangible assets ($5 million) in Encore. In 2015, we wrote down $2 million related to long-lived assets. 
Merger related costs include the direct and incremental costs associated with the Merger. 
Income tax expense in 2018 includes $(35) million related to finalization of SAB 118 and the impacts of GILTI and FDII. Income tax expense in 
2017 includes $(966) million related to the enactment of the Tax Act and $(261) million related to purchase accounting amortization as a result of 
the Merger. Income tax expense in 2016 includes $252 million related to a change in our indefinitely reinvested assertion on our cumulative foreign 
earnings as a result of the Merger.
As a result of the adoption of ASU 2014-09, we retrospectively adjusted 2017 and 2016 related presentations.
Includes the acquisition of IMS Health effective October 3, 2016. 
Excludes $49 million, $44 million, $19 million, $33 million and $22 million of unamortized discounts and debt issuance costs as of December 31, 
2018, 2017, 2016, 2015 and 2014. 

43

 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
      
      
      
      
  
   
      
      
      
      
  
   
   
   
      
      
      
      
  
   
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
      
      
      
      
  
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
Item 7. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations 

You should read the following discussion and analysis of our financial condition and results of operations together with our 
consolidated  financial  statements  and  the  related  notes  included  elsewhere  in  this  Annual  Report  on  Form  10-K.  Some  of  the 
information contained in this discussion and analysis or set forth elsewhere in this Annual Report, including information with respect 
to our plans and strategy for our business, includes forward-looking statements that involve risks and uncertainties. You should read 
the  “Risk  Factors”  section  of  this  Annual  Report  for  a  discussion  of  important  factors  that  could  cause  actual  results  to  differ 
materially  from  the  results  described  in  or  implied  by  the  forward-looking  statements  contained  in  the  following  discussion  and 
analysis. 

Overview 

IQVIA  is  a  leading  global  provider  of  advanced  analytics,  technology  solutions  and  contract  research  services  to  the  life 
sciences  industry.  Formed  through  the  Merger  of  IMS  Health  and  Quintiles,  IQVIA  applies  human  data  science  –  leveraging  the 
analytic  rigor  and  clarity  of  data  science  to  the  ever-expanding  scope  of  human  science  –  to  enable  companies  to  reimagine  and 
develop new approaches to clinical development and commercialization, speed innovation, and accelerate improvements in healthcare 
outcomes.  Powered  by  the  IQVIA  CORE™,  we  deliver  unique  and  actionable  insights  at  the  intersection  of  large  scale  analytics, 
transformative  technology  and  extensive  domain  expertise,  as  well  as  execution  capabilities  to  help  biotech,  medical  device,  and 
pharmaceutical  companies,  medical  researchers,  government  agencies,  payers  and  other  healthcare  stakeholders  tap  into  a  deeper 
understanding of diseases, human behaviors and scientific advances, in an effort to advance their path toward cures. With more than 
58,000 employees, we conduct operations in more than 100 countries.

We renamed two of our reportable segments during the second quarter of 2018. The reportable segment formerly known as 
Commercial  Solutions  is  now  named  Technology  &  Analytics  Solutions  and  the  reportable  segment  formerly  known  as  Integrated 
Engagement Services is now named Contract Sales & Medical Solutions. This is a name change only and there are no changes to the 
composition of either segment.

We are managed through three reportable segments, Technology & Analytics Solutions, Research & Development Solutions 
and Contract Sales & Medical Solutions. Technology & Analytics Solutions provides critical information, technology solutions and 
real-world  insights  and  services  to  our  life  science  clients.  Research  &  Development  Solutions,  which  primarily  serves 
biopharmaceutical clients, is engaged in research and development and provides clinical research and clinical trial services. Contract 
Sales & Medical Solutions provides contract sales to both biopharmaceutical clients and the broader healthcare market. 

For a description of our service offerings within our segments, refer to “Business” within Part I, Item 1, of this Annual Report 

on Form 10-K. 

Effective  January  1,  2018,  we  adopted  the  requirements  of  Accounting  Standards  Update  (“ASU”)  2014-09,  Revenue  from 
Contracts  with  Customers  (Topic  606)  (“ASU  2014-09”)  and  ASU  2017-07,  “Compensation—Retirement  Benefits  (Topic 
715):  Improving the Presentation of Net Periodic Pension Cost and Net Periodic Postretirement Benefit Cost” (“ASU 2017-07”) using 
the full retrospective method. As a result of the adoption of ASU 2014-09 and ASU 2017-07, we retrospectively adjusted 2017 and 
2016  related  presentations  in  our  consolidated  financial  statements  and  amounts  and  disclosures  set  forth  in  this  Annual  Report  on 
Form  10-K  reflect  these  changes.  See Note  1 to  our  audited  consolidated financial  statements  included  elsewhere  in  this  Annual 
Report on Form 10-K for more information about these changes.

Industry Outlook 

For information about the industry outlook and markets that we operate in, refer to “Our Market Outlook” within Part I, Item I 

of this Annual Report on Form 10-K. 

44

Business Combinations 

We have completed and will continue to consider strategic business combinations to enhance our capabilities and offerings in 
certain areas, including various individually immaterial acquisitions during the years ended December 31, 2018 and 2017. In October 
2016,  we  completed  the  Merger  to  better  serve  our  clients  across  their  entire  product  lifecycle  by  (i) increasing  the  efficiency  of 
healthcare  companies’  commercial  organizations  through  enhanced  analytics  and  outsourcing  services;  (ii) improving  clinical  trial 
design, recruitment, and execution; and (iii) creating real-world information solutions based on the use of medicines by actual patients 
in normal situations. 

These  transactions  were  accounted  for  as  business  combinations  and  the  acquired  results  of  operations  are  included  in  our 
consolidated financial information since the acquisition date with a non-controlling interest for the portion that we do not own. See 
Note  14  to  our  audited  consolidated  financial  statements  included  elsewhere  in  this  Annual  Report  on  Form  10-K  for  additional 
information with respect to these business combinations. 

Sources of Revenue 

Total revenues are comprised of revenues from the provision of our services. We do not have any material product revenues. 

Costs and Expenses 

Our  costs  and  expenses  are  comprised  primarily  of  our  costs  of  revenue,  reimbursed  expenses  and  selling,  general  and 
administrative  expenses.  Costs  of  revenue  include  compensation  and  benefits  for  billable  employees  and  personnel  involved  in 
production,  trial  monitoring,  data  management  and  delivery,  and  the  costs  of  acquiring  and  processing  data  for  our  information 
offerings;  costs  of  staff  directly  involved  with  delivering  technology-related  services  offerings  and  engagements,  related 
accommodations and the costs of data purchased specifically for technology services engagements; and other expenses directly related 
to service contracts such as courier fees, laboratory supplies, professional services and travel expenses. As noted above, reimbursed 
expenses  are  comprised  principally  of  payments  to  investigators  who  oversee  clinical  trials  and  travel  expenses  for  our  clinical 
monitors  and  sales  representatives.  Selling,  general  and  administrative  expenses  include  costs  related  to  sales,  marketing,  and 
administrative  functions  (including  human  resources,  legal,  finance,  quality  assurance,  compliance  and  general  management)  for 
compensation and benefits, travel, professional services, training and expenses for information technology, facilities and depreciation 
and amortization. 

Foreign Currency Translation

In  2018,  approximately  40%  of  our  revenues  were  denominated  in  currencies  other  than  the  United  States  dollar,  which 
represents  approximately  55  currencies.  Because  a  large  portion  of  our  revenues  and  expenses  are  denominated  in  currencies  other 
than the United States dollar and our financial statements are reported in United States dollars, changes in foreign currency exchange 
rates can significantly affect our results of operations. The revenue and expenses of our foreign operations are generally denominated 
in local currencies and translated into United States dollars for financial reporting purposes. Accordingly, exchange rate fluctuations 
will affect the translation of foreign results into United States dollars for purposes of reporting our consolidated results. As a result, we 
believe  that  providing  the  impact  of  fluctuations  in  foreign  currency  rates  on  certain  financial  results  can  facilitate  the  analysis  of 
period-to-period  comparisons  of  business  performance  that  excludes  the  effects  of  foreign  currency  rate  fluctuations.  The  constant 
currency information assumes the same foreign currency exchange rates that were in effect for the comparable prior-year period were 
used in translation of the current period results. 

45

Consolidated Results of Operations 

 For  information  regarding  our  results  of  operations  for  Technology  &  Analytics  Solutions,  Research  &  Development 

Solutions and Contract Sales & Medical Solutions, refer to “Segment Results of Operations” later in this section.

Revenues 

(dollars in millions)
Revenues

2018 compared to 2017 

2018

Year Ended December 31,
2017
9,702    $

  $ 10,412    $

2016
6,815    $

Change

2018 vs. 2017

$

  %  

710     

7.3%  $

2017 vs. 2016

$
2,887     

  %  

42.4%

In  2018,  our  revenues  increased  $710  million,  or  7.3%,  as  compared  to  2017.  This  increase  was  comprised  of  constant 
currency revenue growth of approximately $664 million, or 6.8%, and a positive impact of approximately $46 million from the effects 
of foreign currency fluctuations. The constant currency revenue growth was comprised of a $444 million increase in Technology & 
Analytics Solutions, a $332 million increase in Research & Development Solutions and a $112 million decrease in Contract Sales & 
Medical Solutions.

2017 compared to 2016 

In  2017,  our  revenues  increased  $2,887  million,  or  42.4%,  as  compared  to  2016.  This  increase  was  comprised  of  constant 
currency  revenue  growth  of  approximately  $2,869  million,  or  42.1%,  and  a  positive  impact  of  approximately  $18  million  from  the 
effects  of  foreign  currency  fluctuations.  The  constant  currency  revenue  growth  was  comprised  of  a  $2,508  million  increase  in 
Technology  &  Analytics  Solutions,  which  includes  $2,557  million  from  the  Merger,  partially  offset  by  lower  revenue  from  Encore 
during the first half of 2017 and the sale of Encore at the beginning of the third quarter of 2017, a $371 million increase in Research & 
Development Solutions and a $10 million decrease in Contract Sales & Medical Solutions.

Costs of Revenue, exclusive of Depreciation and Amortization 

(dollars in millions)
Costs of revenue, exclusive of depreciation and amortization
% of revenues

2018 compared to 2017

2018

Year Ended December 31,
2017

2016

  $

6,746 
  $
64.8%   

6,301 
  $
64.9%   

4,748 
69.7%

When  compared  to  2017,  costs  of  revenue,  exclusive  of  depreciation  and  amortization,  in  2018  increased  $445  million,  or 
7.1%.  This  increase  included  a  constant  currency  increase  of  approximately  $421  million,  or  6.7%,  and  a  negative  impact  of 
approximately $24 million from the effects of foreign currency fluctuations. The constant currency growth was comprised of a $361 
million  increase  in  Technology  &  Analytics  Solutions,  a  $151  million  increase  in  Research &  Development  Solutions  and  a  $91 
million decrease in Contract Sales & Medical Solutions. 

As a percent of revenues, costs of revenue remained flat compared to 2017. 

2017 compared to 2016

When compared to 2016, costs of revenue, exclusive of depreciation and amortization, in 2017 increased $1,553 million, or 
32.7%. This increase included a constant currency increase of approximately $1,555 million, or 32.8%, partially offset by a positive 
impact of approximately $2 million from the effects of foreign currency fluctuations. The constant currency growth was comprised of 
a $1,263 million increase in Technology & Analytics Solutions, which included $1,302 million from the Merger, partially offset by 
lower  costs  from  Encore  during  the  first  half  of  2017  and  the  sale  of  Encore  at  the  beginning  of  the  third  quarter  of  2017,  a  $290 
million increase in Research & Development Solutions and a $2 million increase in Contract Sales & Medical Solutions. 

As  a  percent  of  revenues,  costs  of  revenue  declined  in  2017  to  64.9%  as  compared  to  69.7%  in  2016.  This  decline  was 
primarily due to the fact that 2017 includes a lower proportion of revenues from the lower margin Contract Sales & Medical Solutions 
segment, primarily as a result of the Merger.

46

 
  
 
 
  
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
Selling, General and Administrative Expenses

(dollars in millions)
Selling, general and administrative expenses
% of revenues

2018 compared to 2017

2018

Year Ended December 31,
2017

2016

  $

1,716 
  $
16.5%   

1,622 
  $
16.7%   

1,016 
14.9%

The  $94  million  increase  in  selling,  general  and  administrative  expenses  in  2018  as  compared  to  2017  included  a  constant 
currency  increase  of  approximately  $86  million,  or  5.3%,  and  a  negative  impact  of  approximately  $8  million  from  the  effects  of 
foreign currency fluctuations. The constant currency growth primarily consisted of a $47 million increase in Technology & Analytics 
Solutions,  a  $33  million  increase  in  Research &  Development  Solutions  and  a  $10  million  increase  in  general  corporate  and 
unallocated expenses.  These increases were partially offset by a $4 million decrease in Contract Sales & Medical Solutions.

2017 compared to 2016

The $606 million increase in selling, general and administrative expenses in 2017 as compared to 2016 included a constant 
currency increase  of approximately $599 million, or 59.0%,  and  a  negative impact  of approximately $7  million from the effects of 
foreign currency fluctuations. The constant currency growth primarily consisted of a $491 million increase in Technology & Analytics 
Solutions,  primarily  from  the  Merger,  a  $6  million  increase  in  Research &  Development  Solutions  and  a  $111  million  increase  in 
general  corporate  and  unallocated  expenses.  These  increases  were  partially  offset  by  a  $9  million  decrease  in  Contract  Sales  & 
Medical Solutions.

Depreciation and Amortization 

(dollars in millions)
Depreciation and amortization
% of revenues

2018

Year Ended December 31,
2017

2016

  $

1,141 
  $
11.0%   

1,011 
  $
10.4%   

289 
4.2%

The  $130  million  increase  in  depreciation  and  amortization  in  2018  as  compared  to  2017  was  primarily  due  to  higher 
intangible  asset  balances  as  a  result  of  acquisitions  occurring  in  2017  and  2018,  increased  amortization  due  to  higher  capitalized 
software balances and foreign currency fluctuations.

The  $722  million  increase  in  depreciation  and  amortization  in  2017  as  compared  to  2016  was  primarily  due  to  the 

approximately $6.4 billion of intangible assets acquired in the Merger.

Impairment Charges 

(in millions)
Impairment charges

2018

Year Ended December 31,
2017

2016

  $

—    $

40    $

28  

During  2017  and  2016,  we  recognized  $40  million  and  $28  million,  respectively,  of  impairment  losses  for  declines  in  fair 
value of goodwill and identifiable intangible assets in Encore. See Note 8 to our audited consolidated financial statements included 
elsewhere in this Annual Report on Form 10-K for additional information with respect to impairment charges. 

47

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Restructuring Costs 

(in millions)
Restructuring costs

2018

Year Ended December 31,
2017

2016

  $

68    $

63    $

71  

During 2018, we recognized $68 million of restructuring charges, net of reversals for changes in estimates, under our existing 
restructuring plans as a result of continuing efforts to streamline our global operations. The remaining actions under these plans, as 
well as actions associated with upcoming 2019 plans, are expected to occur throughout 2019 and are expected to consist of severance, 
facility closure and other exit-related costs. 

During 2017 and 2016, we recognized $63 million and $71 million of restructuring charges, net of reversals for changes in 

estimates, respectively, under our existing restructuring plans. 

Merger Related Costs 

(in millions)
Merger related costs

2018

Year Ended December 31,
2017

2016

  $

—    $

—    $

87  

During 2016, we recognized $87 million of merger related costs. Merger related costs include the direct and incremental costs 
associated with the Merger such as (i) investment banking, legal, accounting and consulting fees, (ii) incremental compensation costs 
triggered under change in control provisions in executive employment agreements, (iii) compensation and related costs of employees 
100%  dedicated  to  merger-related  integration  activities  and  (iv) severance  and  other  termination  costs  associated  with  employees 
whose positions became redundant as a result of the Merger.  

Interest Income and Interest Expense 

(in millions)
Interest income
Interest expense

2018

Year Ended December 31,
2017

2016

  $
  $

(8)   $
414    $

(7)   $
346    $

(4)
144  

Interest income included interest received primarily from bank balances and investments. 

Interest expense during 2018 was higher than 2017 due to an increase in the average debt outstanding, primarily as a result of 
the February 2017 issuance of €1,425 million (approximately $1,522 million) of 3.25% senior notes, the September 2017 issuance of 
€420 million (approximately $501 million) of 2.875% senior notes, the September 2017 incremental term B loan of $750 million and 
the  June  2018  issuance  of  $1.63  billion  of  additional  term  B  loans. See  Note  10  to  our  audited  consolidated  financial  statements 
included elsewhere in this Annual Report on Form 10-K for additional information with respect to these debt transactions.

Interest expense during 2017 was higher than 2016 due to an increase in the average debt outstanding, primarily as a result of 
the debt assumed in the Merger, the refinancing transaction in the fourth quarter of 2016 (approximately $4.5 billion) and the 2017 
debt issuances noted above. 

Loss on Extinguishment of Debt 

(in millions)
Loss on extinguishment of debt

2018

  $

Year Ended December 31,
2017

2    $

19    $

2016

31  

During  2018,  we  recognized  a  $2  million  loss  on  extinguishment  of  debt  for  fees  and  expenses  incurred  related  to  the 
refinancing  of  our  Senior  Secured  Credit  Facilities  as  discussed  further  in  Note  10  to  our  audited  consolidated  financial  statements 
included elsewhere in this Annual Report on Form 10-K.

During  2017,  we  recognized  a  $19  million  loss  on  extinguishment  of  debt  for  fees  and  expenses  incurred  related  to  the 

refinancing of our senior notes and Senior Secured Credit Facilities, which included a $16 million make-whole premium. 

48

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
In  the  fourth  quarter  of  2016,  we  recognized  a  $31  million  loss  on  extinguishment  of  debt  related  to  the  refinancing  of  our 
Senior  Secured  Credit  Facilities.  The  loss  on  extinguishment  of  debt  included  an  $8  million  make-whole  premium,  $9 million  of 
unamortized debt issuance costs and $14 million of unamortized discount. 

See “—Liquidity and Capital Resources” for more information on these transactions.  

Other Expense (Income), Net 

(in millions)
Other expense (income), net

2018

Year Ended December 31,
2017

2016

  $

5    $

13    $

(11)

Other expense, net for 2018 primarily consisted of an increase in fair value of acquisition-related contingent consideration and 

foreign currency net losses partially offset by positive returns on pension assets.

Other  expense,  net  for  2017  primarily  consisted  of  foreign  currency  net  losses partially  offset  by  higher  return  on  pension 
assets  and  investment  gains.  The  foreign  currency  losses  in  2017  were  primarily  the  result  of  the  combination  of  changes  in 
intercompany loan balances from corporate legal entity integration and a weaker U.S. dollar.

Other  income,  net  for  2016  primarily  consisted  of  a  gain  on  the  sale  of  a  cost  basis  investment  partially  offset  by  foreign 

currency net losses.  

Income Tax Expense (Benefit)

(dollars in millions)
Income tax expense (benefit)
Effective income tax rate

2018

Year Ended December 31,
2017

2016

  $

59 
  $
18.0%   

(992)
  $
(337.4)%   

325 
78.1%

On  December  22,  2017,  the  U.S.  government  enacted  the  Tax  Act.  The  Tax  Act  is  comprehensive  legislation  that  includes 
provisions that lower the federal corporate income tax rate from 35% to 21% beginning in 2018 and imposes a one-time transition tax 
on undistributed foreign earnings. ASC 740 “Income Taxes” generally requires the effects of the tax law change to be recorded in the 
period  of  enactment.  However,  the  SEC  staff  issued  Staff  Accounting  Bulletin  No.  118  (“SAB  118”)  to  address  situations  when  a 
registrant does not have the necessary information available, prepared, or analyzed (including computations) in reasonable detail to 
complete  the  accounting  for  certain  income  tax  effects  of  the  Tax  Act.  During  the  fourth  quarter  of  2017,  we  recognized  the  tax 
impacts related to the transition tax on undistributed foreign earnings and the impact to deferred tax assets and liabilities and included 
these amounts in our consolidated financial statements on a provisional basis. During the fourth quarter of 2018, we completed our 
accounting for SAB 118 that resulted in a full year benefit of $35 million related to the transition tax. Additionally, in 2018 as a result 
of the new provisions of the Tax Act, we recorded a benefit of $25 million related to Foreign Derived Intangible Income (“FDII”) as 
well as a tax expense of $35 million related to GILTI. Our effective income tax rate was also favorably impacted by a tax benefit of 
$188 million related to purchase accounting amortization of approximately $813 million as a result of the Merger.

For  2017,  we  recorded  a  provisional  deferred  tax  benefit  of  $966  million  related  to  the  revaluation  of  deferred  taxes  at  the 
newly  enacted  21%  rate  and  the  reversal  of  the  deferred  tax  liability  on  undistributed  foreign  earnings  net  of  the  newly  enacted 
transition tax. We no longer consider any of our foreign earnings to be indefinitely reinvested. Our effective income tax rate was also 
favorably impacted by a tax benefit of $261 million related to purchase accounting amortization of approximately $763 million as a 
result of the Merger. 

In  2016,  due  to  the  Merger,  we  reevaluated  our  indefinite  reinvestment  assertion  based  on  the  need  for  cash  in  the  United 
States, including funding the Repurchase Program and potential acquisitions. Accordingly, we changed our assertion with respect to 
$2,801  million  of  foreign  earnings,  including  $1,865  million  of  IMS  Health’s  previously  undistributed  historical  foreign 
earnings. Deferred income taxes of $625 million were recorded in 2016 related to non-indefinitely reinvested foreign earnings. Of that 
amount, $373 million was recorded through purchase accounting related to IMS Health’s historical foreign earnings and the remainder 
of $252 million was recorded through deferred income tax expense.

In January of 2019, the U.S. Treasury Department issued final regulations regarding the transition tax. We are in the process of 

reviewing these regulations to determine if there is an impact on our effective income tax rate.  

49

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
Equity in Earnings (Losses) of Unconsolidated Affiliates 

(in millions)
Equity in earnings (losses) of unconsolidated affiliates

2018

Year Ended December 31,
2017

2016

  $

15    $

10    $

(4)

Equity in earnings (losses) of unconsolidated affiliates primarily included earnings from our investment in NovaQuest Pharma 
Opportunities Fund III, L.P. See Note 4 to our audited consolidated financial statements included elsewhere in this Annual Report on 
Form 10-K for additional information with respect to this fund.

Net Income Attributable to Non-controlling Interests 

(in millions)
Net income attributable to non-controlling interests

2018

Year Ended December 31,
2017

2016

  $

(25)   $

(19)   $

(15)

Net income attributable to non-controlling interests primarily included Quest’s interest in Q2 Solutions. 

Segment Results of Operations 

Revenues and profit by segment are as follows: 

(in millions)
Technology & Analytics Solutions
Research & Development Solutions
Contract Sales & Medical Solutions
Total
General corporate and unallocated
Depreciation and amortization
Impairment charges
Restructuring costs
Merger related costs
Consolidated

2016

2018

Segment Profit
2017

2016

  $

Segment Revenues
2017

2018

4,137    $
5,465     
810     
10,412     

3,682    $
5,105     
915     
9,702     

1,148    $
4,737     
930     
6,815     

1,023    $
1,128     
59     
2,210     
(260)    
(1,141)    
—     
(68)    
—     
741    $

996    $
957     
74     
2,027     
(248)    
(1,011)    
(40)    
(63)    
—     
665    $

235 
875 
78 
1,188 
(137)
(289)
(28)
(71)
(87)
576  

  $

10,412    $

9,702    $

6,815    $

Certain costs are not allocated to our segments and are reported as general corporate and unallocated expenses. These costs 
primarily  consist  of  stock-based  compensation  and  expenses  for  corporate  overhead  functions  such  as  senior  leadership,  finance, 
human  resources,  information  technology,  facilities  and  legal.  In  addition,  we  do  not  allocate  depreciation  and  amortization, 
impairment charges, restructuring costs, or merger related costs to our segments.  

50

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
   
   
   
      
      
      
   
      
      
      
   
      
      
      
   
      
      
      
   
      
      
      
Technology & Analytics Solutions

(dollars in millions)
Revenues
Costs of revenue, exclusive of depreciation
   and amortization
Selling, general and administrative expenses
Segment profit

  $

  $

Revenues 

2018 compared to 2017

Year Ended December 31,
2017
3,682    $

2018
4,137    $

2016
1,148    $

Change

2018 vs. 2017
455     

12.4%  $

2017 vs. 2016
2,534     

220.7%

2,343     
771     
1,023    $

1,967     
719     
996    $

695     
218     
235    $

376     
52     
27     

19.1 
7.2 
2.7%  $

1,272     
501     
761     

183.0 
229.8 
323.8%

Technology & Analytics Solutions’ revenues were $4,137 million in 2018, an increase of $455 million, or 12.4%, over 2017. 
This increase was comprised of constant currency revenue growth of approximately $444 million, or 12.1%, and a positive impact of 
approximately  $11  million  from  the  effects  of  foreign  currency  fluctuations.  The  constant  currency  growth  resulted  primarily  from 
revenue  growth  in  the  Americas  region  as  well  as  the  Europe  and  Africa  region.  The  revenue  growth  in  these  regions  was  due  to 
higher revenues across technology solutions and real-world and analytical services as well as incremental revenue from acquisitions.

2017 compared to 2016

Technology  &  Analytics  Solutions’  revenues  were  $3,682  million  in  2017,  an  increase  of  $2,534  million,  or  220.7%,  over 
2016. This increase was comprised of constant currency revenue growth of approximately $2,508 million, or 218.5%, and a positive 
impact of approximately $26 million from the effects of foreign currency fluctuations. The constant currency increase included the 
incremental  impact  from  the  Merger  of  $2,557  million,  including  post-Merger  acquisitions,  partially  offset  by  a  decline  in  revenue 
from Encore during the first half of 2017 and the sale of Encore at the beginning of the third quarter of 2017. 

Costs of Revenue, exclusive of Depreciation and Amortization 

2018 compared to 2017 

Technology & Analytics Solutions’ costs of revenue, exclusive of depreciation and amortization, were $2,343 million in 2018, 
an increase of $376 million over 2017. This increase was comprised of constant currency growth of approximately $361 million, or 
18.4%, and a negative impact of approximately $15 million from the effects of foreign currency fluctuations.  The constant currency 
increase was primarily due to an increase in compensation and related expenses to support revenue growth and incremental costs from 
acquisitions.

2017 compared to 2016 

Technology & Analytics Solutions’ costs of revenue, exclusive of depreciation and amortization, were $1,967 million in 2017, 
an increase of $1,272 million over 2016. This increase was comprised of constant currency growth of approximately $1,263 million, 
or 181.7%, and a negative impact of approximately $9 million from the effects of foreign currency fluctuations. The constant currency 
increase included the incremental impact from the Merger of $1,302 million, including post-Merger acquisitions, partially offset by 
lower costs from Encore due to lower revenue volumes during the first half of 2017 and the sale of Encore at the beginning of the third 
quarter of 2017.

51

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
   
   
   
Selling, General and Administrative Expenses

2018 compared to 2017 

Technology & Analytics Solutions’ selling, general and administrative expenses increased $52 million in 2018 as compared to 
2017. This increase was comprised of a constant currency increase of approximately $47 million, or 6.5%, and a negative impact of 
approximately $5 million from the effects of foreign currency fluctuations. The constant currency increase was primarily related to an 
increase in compensation and related expenses from higher headcount to support growth and incremental costs from acquisitions.

2017 compared to 2016 

Technology & Analytics Solutions’ selling, general and administrative expenses increased $501 million in 2017 as compared 
to  2016.  This  increase  was  comprised  of  a  constant  currency  increase  of  approximately  $491  million,  or  225.2%,  and  a  negative 
impact of approximately $10 million from the effects of foreign currency fluctuations. The constant currency increase was primarily 
due to the incremental impact from the Merger, including post-Merger acquisitions. 

Research & Development Solutions 

(dollars in millions)
Revenues
Costs of revenue, exclusive of depreciation
   and amortization
Selling, general and administrative expenses
Segment profit

  $

  $

Backlog

Year Ended December 31,
2017
5,105    $

2018
5,465    $

2016
4,737    $

2018 vs. 2017
360     

Change

7.1%  $

2017 vs. 2016
368     

3,721     
616     
1,128    $

3,566     
582     
957    $

3,283     
579     
875    $

155     
34     
171     

4.3 
5.8 
17.9%  $

283     
3     
82     

7.8%

8.6 
0.5 
9.4%

Research  and  Development  Solutions  contracted  backlog  was  $17.13  billion  at  December  31,  2018  and  we  expect 
approximately  $4.8  billion  of  this  backlog  to  convert  to  revenue  in  the  next  12  months.  Contracted  backlog  was  $14.84  billion  at 
December 31, 2017. The December 31, 2017 backlog amount has been updated to reflect the adoption of the new revenue standard.

Backlog  represents,  at  a  particular  point  in  time,  future  revenues  from  work  not  yet  completed  or  performed  under  signed 
contracts. Once work begins on a project, revenues are recognized over the duration of the project. Backlog denominated in foreign 
currencies are valued each month using the actual average foreign exchange rates in effect during the month. 

 We  believe  that  backlog  may  not  be  a  consistent  indicator  of  future  revenues  because  backlog  has  been  and  likely  will  be 
affected by a number of factors, including the variable size and duration of projects, many of which are performed over several years, 
cancellations, and changes to the scope of work during the course of projects. Projects that have been delayed remain in backlog, but 
the  timing  of  the  revenue  generated  may  differ  from  the  timing  originally  expected.  Additionally,  projects  may  be  terminated  or 
delayed  by  the  customer  or  delayed  by  regulatory  authorities.  In  the  event  that  a  client  cancels  a  contract,  we  typically  would  be 
entitled to receive payment for all services performed up to the cancellation date and subsequent client-authorized services related to 
winding down the canceled project. For more details regarding risks related to our backlog, see Part I, Item IA, “Risk Factors—Risks 
Related to our Business—The relationship of backlog to revenues varies over time.”

Revenues 

2018 compared to 2017 

Research & Development Solutions’ revenues were $5,465 million in 2018, an increase of $360 million, or 7.1%, over 2017. 
This increase was comprised of constant currency revenue growth of approximately $332 million, or 6.5%, and a positive impact of 
approximately $28 million from the effects of foreign currency fluctuations. 

The constant currency growth primarily included volume-related increases in clinical, data management and life cycle safety 

services, increased lab testing volumes and incremental revenue from acquisitions. 

52

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
   
   
   
2017 compared to 2016 

Research & Development Solutions’ revenues were $5,105 million in 2017, an increase of $368 million, or 7.8%, over 2016. 
This  increase  was  comprised  of  constant  currency  revenue  growth  of  approximately  $371  million,  or  7.8%,  partially  offset  by  a 
negative impact of approximately $3 million from the effects of foreign currency fluctuations. 

The  constant  currency  revenue  growth  primarily  included  volume-related  increases  from  our  clinical  solutions  and  services 
and  our  clinical  trial  support  services  as  well  as  revenue  from  acquisitions,  partially  offset  by  lower  revenue  from  early  clinical 
development services, due to a facility closure in Europe in 2016.

Costs of Revenue, exclusive of Depreciation and Amortization 

2018 compared to 2017 

Research & Development Solutions’ costs of revenue, exclusive of depreciation and amortization, increased $155 million, or 
4.3%, in 2018 as compared to 2017. This increase included a constant currency increase of approximately $151 million, or 4.2%, and 
a negative impact of approximately $4 million from the effects of foreign currency fluctuations. 

The constant currency increase was primarily due to an increase in reimbursed expenses and an increase in compensation and 
related expenses as well as incremental costs from acquisitions. Compensation and related expenses increased as a result of headcount 
to support revenue growth and our next generation of clinical development capabilities, which include analytics-driven methods and 
technology to optimize trial design.

2017 compared to 2016 

Research & Development Solutions’ costs of revenue, exclusive of depreciation and amortization, increased $283 million, or 
8.6%,  in  2017  as  compared  to  2016.  This  increase  included  a  constant  currency  increase  of  approximately  $290  million,  or  8.8%, 
partially offset by a positive impact of approximately $7 million from the effects of foreign currency fluctuations. 

The constant currency increase was primarily due to an increase in reimbursed expenses, compensation and related expenses 
and  the  impact  from  post-Merger  acquisitions.  The  increase  in  compensation  and  related  expenses  resulted  from  (i) an  increase  in 
billable headcount resulting from the higher volume of constant currency revenue, (ii) our continued investment in our global delivery 
network (“GDN”) that enables us to provide standardized, centrally-managed services from seven hub locations across five countries, 
and (iii) an increase in competition for qualified personnel in certain markets.

Selling, General and Administrative Expenses

2018 compared to 2017 

Research & Development Solutions’ selling, general and administrative expenses increased $34 million, or 5.8%, in 2018 as 
compared  to  2017,  which  included  a  constant  currency  increase  of  approximately  $33  million,  or  5.7%,  and  a  negative  impact  of 
approximately $1 million from the effects of foreign currency fluctuations. The constant currency increase was primarily related to 
higher  compensation  and  related  expenses  due  to  increased  headcount  to  support  growth  and  our  next  generation  of  clinical 
development capabilities, as well as incremental costs from acquisitions. 

2017 compared to 2016 

Research  &  Development  Solutions’  selling,  general  and  administrative  expenses  increased  $3  million,  or  0.5%,  in  2017  as 
compared to 2016, which included a constant currency increase of approximately $6 million, or 1.0%, partially offset by a positive 
impact of approximately $3 million from the effects of foreign currency fluctuations. The constant currency increase was primarily 
due to the impact of post-Merger acquisitions, partially offset by lower incentive compensation and bad debt expense. 

53

Contract Sales & Medical Solutions

(dollars in millions)
Revenues
Costs of revenue, exclusive of depreciation
   and amortization
Selling, general and administrative expenses
Segment profit

Revenues 

2018 compared to 2017 

Year Ended December 31,
2017

2016

2018

  $

810    $

915    $

930    $

Change

2018 vs. 2017
(105)    

(11.5)%  $

2017 vs. 2016
(15)    

(1.6)%

682     
69     
59    $

768     
73     
74    $

770     
82     
78    $

(86)    
(4)    
(15)    

(11.2)
(5.5)
(20.3)%  $

  $

(2)    
(9)    
(4)    

(0.3)
(11.0)
(5.1)%

Contract Sales & Medical Solutions’ revenues were $810 million in 2018, a decrease of $105 million, or 11.5%, over 2017. 
This decrease was comprised of a constant currency revenue decline of approximately $112 million, or 12.2%, partially offset by a 
positive  impact  of  approximately  $7  million  from  the  effects  of  foreign  currency  fluctuations.  The  decline  in  constant  currency 
revenues was largely due to cancellations in 2017 in the Americas region and reduced volume in the Asia-Pacific region.

2017 compared to 2016 

Contract Sales & Medical Solutions’ revenues were $915 million in 2017, a decrease of $15 million, or 1.6%, over 2016. This 
decrease  was  comprised  of  a  constant  currency  revenue  decline  of  approximately  $10  million,  or  1.1%,  and  a  negative  impact  of 
approximately  $5  million  from  the  effects  of  foreign  currency  fluctuations.  The  decline  in  constant  currency  revenues  was  due  to 
lower demand in Japan and North America, which was also a result of cancellations that occurred in 2017. The decline was also due to 
a $9 million benefit  from  the  acceleration  of revenue  in the second quarter of 2016  that did not  recur  in  2017 related to  a  contract 
modification on a sales force arrangement that fixed a portion of the contract price that was previously not determinable until future 
sales-based royalties were known, partially offset by revenue from new projects starting up, primarily in Europe. 

Costs of Revenue, exclusive of Depreciation and Amortization 

2018 compared to 2017 

Contract Sales & Medical Solutions’ costs of revenue, exclusive of depreciation and amortization, decreased $86 million, or 
11.2%,  in  2018  as  compared  to  2017.  This  decrease  included  a  constant  currency  decline  of  approximately  $91  million,  or  11.8%, 
partially offset by approximately $5 million from the negative effects of foreign currency fluctuations. The constant currency cost of 
revenue decrease was due to a decrease in compensation and related expenses resulting from a decrease in billable headcount.

2017 compared to 2016 

Contract  Sales  &  Medical  Solutions’  costs  of  revenue,  exclusive  of  depreciation  and  amortization,  decreased  $2  million,  or 
0.3%, in 2017 as compared to 2016. This decrease included constant currency growth of approximately $2 million, or 0.3%, more than 
offset by approximately $4 million from the positive effects of foreign currency fluctuations. The constant currency cost of revenue 
growth was due to an increase in compensation and related expenses resulting from an increase in billable headcount in Europe as a 
result of an increase in new projects starting up in the 2017 period.

Selling, General and Administrative Expenses

2018 compared to 2017 

Contract Sales & Medical Solutions’ selling, general and administrative expenses decreased $4 million, or 5.5%, in 2018 as 

compared to 2017, primarily due to lower compensation and related expenses resulting from a reduction in headcount.

2017 compared to 2016 

Contract Sales & Medical Solutions’ selling, general and administrative expenses decreased $9 million, or 11.0%, in 2017 as 

compared to 2016, primarily due to lower compensation and related expenses resulting from a decrease in headcount.

54

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
   
   
   
Liquidity and Capital Resources 

Overview 

We assess our liquidity in terms of our ability to generate cash to fund our operating, investing and financing activities. Our 
principal source of liquidity is operating cash flows. In addition to operating cash flows, other significant factors that affect our overall 
management  of  liquidity  include:  capital  expenditures,  acquisitions,  investments,  debt  service  requirements,  dividends,  equity 
repurchases, adequacy of our revolving credit and receivables financing facilities, and access to the capital markets. 

We manage our worldwide cash requirements by monitoring the funds available among our subsidiaries and determining the 
extent to which those funds can be accessed on a cost-effective basis. The repatriation of cash balances from certain of our subsidiaries 
could  have  adverse  tax  consequences;  however,  those  balances  are  generally  available  without  legal  restrictions  to  fund  ordinary 
business  operations.  We  have  and  expect  to  transfer  cash  from  those  subsidiaries  to  the  United  States  and  to  other  international 
subsidiaries when it is cost effective to do so. 

We had a cash balance of $891 million at December 31, 2018 ($212 million of which was in the United States), a decrease 

from $959 million at December 31, 2017. 

Based on our current operating plan, we believe that our available cash and cash equivalents, future cash flows from operations 
and  our  ability  to  access  funds  under  our  revolving  credit  and  receivables  financing  facilities  will  enable  us  to  fund  our  operating 
requirements  and  capital  expenditures  and  meet  debt  obligations  for  at  least  the  next  12  months.  We  regularly  evaluate  our  debt 
arrangements,  as  well  as  market  conditions,  and  from  time  to  time  we  may  explore  opportunities  to  modify  our  existing  debt 
arrangements  or  pursue  additional  financing  arrangements  that  could  result  in  the  issuance  of  new  debt  securities  by  us  or  our 
affiliates. We may use our existing cash, cash generated from operations or dispositions of assets or businesses and/or proceeds from 
any new financing arrangements or issuances of debt or equity securities to repay or reduce some of our outstanding obligations, to 
repurchase shares from our stockholders or for other purposes. As part of our ongoing business strategy, we also continually evaluate 
new  acquisition,  expansion  and  investment  possibilities  or  other  strategic  growth  opportunities,  as  well  as  potential  dispositions  of 
assets or businesses, as appropriate, including dispositions that may cause us to recognize a loss on certain assets. Should we elect to 
pursue any such transaction, we may seek to obtain debt or equity financing to facilitate those activities. Our ability to enter into any 
such potential transactions and our use of cash or proceeds is limited to varying degrees by the terms and restrictions contained in our 
existing debt arrangements. We cannot provide assurances that we will be able to complete any such financing arrangements or other 
transactions on favorable terms or at all. 

Equity Repurchase Program

On October 30, 2013, our Board approved the Repurchase Program authorizing the repurchase of up to $125 million of either 
our  common  stock  or  vested  in-the-money  employee  stock  options,  or  a  combination  thereof.  Our  Board  increased  the  stock 
repurchase authorization under the Repurchase Program with respect to the repurchase of our common stock by $600 million, $1.5 
billion,  $2  billion  and  $1.5  billion  in  2015,  2016,  2017  and  2018,  respectively,  which  increased  the  total  amount  that  has  been 
authorized under the Repurchase Program to $5.725 billion. The Repurchase Program does not obligate us to repurchase any particular 
amount of common stock or vested in-the-money employee stock options, and it may be modified, suspended or discontinued at any 
time. The timing and amount of repurchases are determined by our management based on a variety of factors such as the market price 
of our common stock, our corporate requirements, and overall market conditions. Purchases of our common stock may be made in 
open  market  transactions  effected  through  a  broker-dealer  at  prevailing  market  prices,  in  block  trades,  or  in  privately  negotiated 
transactions. The Repurchase Program for common stock does not have an expiration date.

During  the  year  ended  December  31,  2018,  we  repurchased  12.6  million  shares  of  our  common  stock  at  an  average  market 
price per share of $111.23 for an aggregate purchase price of $1,396 million under the Repurchase Program. These amounts include 
6.0 million shares of our common stock, which we repurchased directly from underwriters in connection with two secondary public 
offerings of shares of our common stock held by certain of our sponsors for an aggregate purchase price of $659 million. During the 
year  ended  December  31,  2017,  we  repurchased  30.9  million  shares  of  our  common  stock  for  approximately  $2.6  billion.  These 
amounts include 9.7 million shares of our common stock, which we repurchased from certain of our principal stockholders in a private 
transaction  for  approximately  $750  million  and  10.1  million  shares  of  our  common  stock,  which  we  repurchased  directly  from 
underwriters in connection with three separate underwritten, secondary public offerings of shares of our common stock held by certain 
of  our  principal  stockholders  for  approximately  $935  million  in  the  aggregate  in  May,  September  and  November  2017.  Additional 
information  regarding  the  Repurchase  Program  is  presented  in  Part  II,  Item  5  “Market  for  Registrant’s  Common  Equity,  Related 
Stockholder Matters and Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities” and Note 13 to our audited consolidated financial statements included 
elsewhere in this Annual Report on Form 10-K.

55

As of December 31, 2018, we had remaining authorization to repurchase up to $285 million of our common stock under our 
Repurchase  Program.  In  addition,  from  time  to  time,  we  have  repurchased  and  may  continue  to  repurchase  common  stock  through 
private or other transactions outside of our Repurchase Program. On February 13, 2019, our Board authorized an increase in the post-
merger share repurchase authorization by $2.0 billion, resulting in approximately $2.3 billion remaining authorization.

Debt

As of December 31, 2018, we had $11.1 billion of total indebtedness, excluding $880 million of available borrowings under 
our revolving credit facilities. See Note 10 to our audited consolidated financial statements included elsewhere in this Annual Report 
on Form 10-K for additional details regarding our credit arrangements.

Senior Secured Credit Agreement and Senior Notes

At December 31, 2018, our Fourth Amended and Restated Credit Agreement, as amended (the “Credit Agreement”) provided 
financing through several senior secured credit facilities (collectively, the “Senior Secured Credit Facilities”) of up to approximately 
$6,959  million,  which  consisted  of  $6,079  million  principal  amount  of  debt  outstanding  and  $880  million  of  available  borrowing 
capacity  on  the  $1,500  million  revolving  credit  facility  that  expires  in  2023.  The  revolving  credit  facility  is  comprised  of  a  $675 
million senior secured revolving facility available in U.S. dollars, a $600 million senior secured revolving facility available in U.S. 
dollars, Euros, Swiss Francs and other foreign currencies, and a $225 million senior secured revolving facility available in U.S. dollars 
and  Yen.  The  term  A  loans  and  revolving  credit  facility  under  the  Credit  Agreement  mature  in  June  2023,  while  the  term  B  loans 
under the Credit Agreement mature in 2024 and 2025. We are required to make scheduled quarterly payments on the term A loans 
equal  to  1.25%  of  the  original  principal  amount,  with  the  remaining  balance  paid  at  maturity.  We  are  required  to  make  scheduled 
quarterly payments on the term B loans equal to approximately 0.25% of the original principal amount, with the remaining balance 
paid at maturity. In addition, beginning with fiscal year ending December 31, 2017, we were required to apply 50% of excess cash 
flow  (as  defined  in  the  Credit  Agreement),  subject  to  a  reduction  to  25%  or  0%  depending  upon  our  senior  secured  first  lien  net 
leverage ratio, for prepayment of the term loans, with any such prepayment to be applied toward principal payments due in subsequent 
quarters.  We  are  also  required  to  pay  an  annual  commitment  fee  that  ranges  from  0.20%  to  0.35%  in  respect  of  any  unused 
commitments  under  the  revolving  credit  facility.  The  Senior  Secured  Credit  Facilities  are  collateralized  by  substantially  all  of  our 
assets and the assets of our material domestic subsidiaries including 100% of the equity interests of substantially all of our material 
domestic  subsidiaries  and  66%  of  the  equity  interests  of  substantially  all  of  our  first-tier  material  foreign  subsidiaries  and  their 
domestic subsidiaries.

2018 Financing Transactions

On April 6, 2018, we amended our credit agreement to increase our revolving credit facility borrowing capacity to $1.5 billion.

On June 11, 2018, we amended our credit agreement (the “Amendment”) to extend the maturity of our existing term A loans 
and revolving credit facility to 2023 and reduce the applicable interest rate to LIBOR plus a margin ranging from 1.25% to 2.00%. In 
connection  with  this  Amendment,  we  recognized  a  $2  million  loss  on  extinguishment  of  debt,  which  includes  fees  and  related 
expenses.

Under  the  Amendment,  we  also placed  additional  term  B  loans.  The  additional  term  B  loans  will  mature  in  2025  and  were 

comprised  of  $950  million  of  U.S.  dollar  denominated  term  B  loans  and €583 million  ($681 million)  Euro  denominated  term  B 
loans. The U.S. dollar denominated term B loans bear interest based on the U.S. Dollar LIBOR plus a margin ranging from 1.75% to 
2.00%. The Euro denominated term B loans bear interest based on the Euro LIBOR with a floor ranging from 0.50% to 0.75%, plus a 
margin of 2.00%. The proceeds of the additional term B loans were used to pay down the revolving credit facility and $650 million of 
existing term B loans due 2024 and to pay fees and expenses in connection with the transactions. 

56

2017 Financing Transactions

During the first quarter of 2017, we issued €1.425 billion (approximately $1,522 million) of senior notes due 2025.  The senior 

notes mature on March 15, 2025 and bear an annual interest rate of 3.25%, which is paid semi-annually on March 15 and September 
15, beginning on September 15, 2017. Also, during the first quarter of 2017, we refinanced our term B loans in which the maturity was 
extended  to  2024  and  the  interest  rate  margin  on  the  loan  denominated  in  U.S.  dollars  was  reduced  from  2.50%  to  2.00%  and  the 
interest rate margin on the loan denominated in Euros was reduced from 2.75% to 2.00%. 

During the third quarter of 2017, we issued €420 million (approximately $501 million) of senior notes due 2025. The senior 

notes mature on September 15, 2025 and bear an interest rate of 2.875%, which is paid semi-annually on March 15 and September 15, 
beginning on March 15, 2018. Also, during the third quarter of 2017, we entered into an amendment to provide for an incremental 
term B loan of $750 million and an increase in restricted payment capacity. The term B loan will mature in 2025 and bears a floating 
interest rate of LIBOR plus 2.00% per year. The net proceeds from the senior notes due 2025 and the incremental term B loan were 
used for the redemption of the outstanding 4.125% Euro denominated senior notes due 2023, to pay down the revolving credit facility, 
to  pay  certain  fees  and  expenses  and  for  other  general  corporate  purposes,  including  the  repurchase  of  our  common  stock  and 
acquisitions.

Receivables Financing Facility 

On  December 5,  2014,  we  entered  into  a  four-year  arrangement  to  securitize  certain  of  our  accounts  receivable.  Under  the 
receivables  financing  facility,  certain  of  our  accounts  receivable  are  sold  on  a  non-recourse  basis  by  certain  of  our  consolidated 
subsidiaries to another of our consolidated subsidiaries, a bankruptcy-remote special purpose entity (“SPE”). The SPE obtained a term 
loan and revolving loan commitment from a third-party lender, secured by liens on the assets of the SPE, to finance the purchase of 
the accounts receivable, which includes a $275 million term loan and a $25 million revolving loan commitment. The revolving loan 
commitment  may  be  increased  by  an  additional  $35  million  as  amounts  are  repaid  under  the  term  loan.  IQVIA  has  guaranteed  the 
performance of the obligations of existing and future subsidiaries that sell and service the accounts receivable under the receivables 
financing facility. The assets of the SPE are not available to satisfy any of our obligations or any obligations of our subsidiaries. On 
December 15, 2017, we amended our receivables financing facility to extend the original term of the facility to December 15, 2020. In 
addition, the applicable margin (over LIBOR) changed to 90 bps regardless of our credit rating. Prior to the amendment, the margin 
was based on our credit rating and could range from 85 bps to 135 bps. As of December 31, 2018, no additional amounts of revolving 
loans were available under the receivables financing facility.

Restrictive Covenants 

Our  Credit  Agreement  provides  for  certain  covenants  and  events  of  default  customary  for  similar  instruments,  including  a 
covenant not to exceed a specified ratio of consolidated senior secured net indebtedness to Consolidated EBITDA, as defined in the 
Credit Agreement and a covenant to maintain a specified minimum interest coverage ratio. If an event of default occurs under any of 
our  financing  arrangements,  the  creditors  under  such  financing  arrangements  will  be  entitled  to  take  various  actions,  including  the 
acceleration  of  amounts  due  under  such  arrangements,  and  in  the  case  of  the  lenders  under  the  Credit  Agreement,  other  actions 
permitted to be taken by a secured creditor. Our long-term debt arrangements contain usual and customary restrictive covenants that, 
among  other  things,  place  limitations  on  our  ability  to  declare  dividends.  For  additional  information  regarding  these  restrictive 
covenants, see Part II, Item 5 “Market for Registrant’s Common Equity, Related Stockholder Matters and Issuer Purchases of Equity 
Securities—Dividend Policy” and Note 10 to our audited consolidated financial statements included elsewhere in this Annual Report 
on Form 10-K. At December 31, 2018, we were in compliance in all material respects with the financial covenants under our financing 
arrangements. 

57

Years ended December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016 

Cash Flow from Operating Activities 

(in millions)
Net cash provided by operating activities

2018 compared to 2017

2018

Year Ended December 31,
2017

2016

  $

1,254    $

970    $

860  

Cash provided by operating activities increased $284 million in 2018 as compared to 2017. The increase is primarily due to 
higher  cash-related  net  income  of  $135  million  as  well  as  higher  accounts  payable  and  accrued  expenses,  partially  offset  by  an 
increase in accounts receivable and unbilled services due to timing of invoicing and higher payments for interest.

2017 compared to 2016

Cash  provided  by  operating  activities  increased  $110  million  in  2017  as  compared  to  2016.  Cash  flows  from  operating 
activities  reflects  higher  cash-related  net  income  of  $640  million,  offset  by  higher  payments  for  interest,  income  taxes  and  normal 
fluctuations  in  cash  collections  from  clients  and  accounts  payable.  Cash  collections  from  clients  can  vary  significantly  each  year 
depending  on  the  timing  of  cash  receipts  under  contractual  payment  terms  relative  to  the  recognition  of  revenue  over  a  project 
lifecycle and the timing of renewals.

Cash Flow from Investing Activities

(in millions)
Net cash (used in) provided by investing activities

2018 compared to 2017 

2018

Year Ended December 31,
2017

2016

  $

(810)   $

(1,190)   $

1,731  

Cash  used  in  investing  activities  decreased  $380  million  in  2018  as  compared  to  2017.  The  decrease  was  primarily  due  to 
lower cash used for the acquisition of businesses ($545 million) partially offset by an increase in cash used for acquisition of property, 
equipment and software ($90 million), an increase in investments in equity securities ($23 million) and an increase in investments in 
unconsolidated affiliates ($32 million).

2017 compared to 2016 

During 2017, we had net cash outflows from investing activities, while during 2016, we had net cash inflows. The decrease of 
$2,921 million in our net cash flows from investing activities was primarily due to cash from the acquisition of businesses, including 
the Merger in 2016 ($1,887 million), cash used for the acquisition of businesses in 2017 ($854 million) and higher cash used for the 
acquisition of property, equipment and software in 2017 ($205 million).

Cash Flow from Financing Activities 

(in millions)
Net cash used in financing activities

2018 compared to 2017 

2018

Year Ended December 31,
2017

2016

  $

(452)   $

(72)   $

(2,284)

Cash used in financing activities increased $380 million in 2018 as compared to 2017. The increase in cash used in financing 
activities was primarily related to lower net borrowings under our credit facilities ($1,470 million), partially offset by less cash used to 
repurchase common stock ($1,215 million).

2017 compared to 2016 

Cash  used  in  financing  activities  decreased  $2,212  million  in  2017  as  compared  to  2016.  The  decrease  in  cash  used  in 
financing  activities  was  primarily  related  to  higher  net  borrowings  under  our  credit  facilities  ($3,781  million),  partially  offset  by 
higher cash used to repurchase common stock ($1,523 million).

58

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Contingencies 

We are exposed to certain known contingencies that are material to our investors. The facts and circumstances surrounding 
these  contingencies  and  a  discussion  of  their  effect  on  us  are  in  Note  12  to  our  audited  consolidated  financial  statements  included 
elsewhere in this Annual Report on Form 10-K. These contingencies may have a material effect on our liquidity, capital resources or 
results of operations. In addition, even where our reserves are adequate, the incurrence of any of these liabilities may have a material 
effect on our liquidity and the amount of cash available to us for other purposes. 

We believe that we have made appropriate arrangements in respect of the future effect on us of these known contingencies. We 
also believe that the amount of cash available to us from our operations, together with cash from financing, will be sufficient for us to 
pay any known contingencies as they become due without materially affecting our ability to conduct our operations and invest in the 
growth of our business. 

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

We do not have any off-balance sheet arrangements except for operating leases entered into in the normal course of business.

Contractual Obligations and Commitments 

Below is a summary of our future payment commitments by year under contractual obligations as of December 31, 2018: 

 (in millions)
Long-term debt, including interest(1)
Operating leases
Data acquisition
Purchase obligations(2)
Commitments to unconsolidated affiliates(3)
Benefit obligations(4)
Uncertain income tax positions(5)
Total

2019

  2020 - 2021  

  2022 - 2023  

  Thereafter  

Total

  $

  $

508    $
167     
289     
17     
—     
25     
17     
1,023    $

1,287    $
244     
467     
22     
—     
27     
—     
2,047    $

3,257    $
159     
135     
15     
—     
29     
—     
3,595    $

8,167    $
119     
4     
8     
—     
81     
—     
8,379    $

13,219 
689 
895 
62 
— 
162 
17 
15,044  

(1) 
(2)  

(3) 

(4) 

(5) 

Interest payments on our debt are based on the interest rates in effect on December 31, 2018. 
Purchase obligations are defined as agreements to purchase goods or services that are enforceable and legally binding and that specify all significant 
terms,  including  fixed  or  minimum  quantities  to  be  purchased,  fixed,  minimum  or  variable  pricing  provisions  and  the  approximate  timing  of  the 
transactions. 
We are currently committed to invest $120 million in private equity funds. As of December 31, 2018, we have funded approximately $78 million of 
these commitments and we have approximately $42 million remaining to be funded which has not been included in the above table as we are unable 
to predict when these commitments will be paid. 
Amounts represent expected future benefit payments for our pension and postretirement benefit plans, as well as expected contributions for 2019 for 
our  funded  pension  benefit  plans.  We  made  cash  contributions  totaling  approximately  $31  million  to  our  defined  benefit  plans  in  2018,  and  we 
estimate  that  we  will  make  contributions  totaling  approximately  $25  million  to  our  defined  benefit  plans  in  2019.  Due  to  the  potential  impact  of 
future plan investment performance, changes in interest rates, changes in other economic and demographic assumptions and changes in legislation in 
foreign jurisdictions, we are not able to reasonably estimate the timing and amount of contributions that may be required to fund our defined benefit 
plans for periods beyond 2019. 
As of December 31, 2018, our liability related to uncertain income tax positions was approximately $106 million, $89 million of which has not been 
included in the above table as we are unable to predict when these liabilities will be paid due to the uncertainties in the timing of the settlement of the 
income tax positions.

59

 
 
 
 
   
   
   
   
   
   
Application of Critical Accounting Policies 

Note 1 to the audited consolidated financial statements provided elsewhere in this Annual Report on Form 10-K describes the 
significant accounting policies used in the preparation of the consolidated financial statements. The preparation of our consolidated 
financial statements requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities, 
and  the  disclosure  of  contingent  assets  and  liabilities  at  the  date  of  the  financial  statements,  as  well  as  the  reported  amounts  of 
revenues and expenses during the period. Our estimates are based on historical experience and various other assumptions we believe 
are reasonable under the circumstances. We evaluate our estimates on an ongoing basis and make changes to the estimates and related 
disclosures as experience develops or new information becomes known. Actual results may differ from those estimates. 

We  believe  the  following  critical  accounting  policies  affect  our  more  significant  judgments  and  estimates  used  in  the 

preparation of our consolidated financial statements. 

Revenue Recognition 

Our arrangements are primarily service contracts that range in duration from a few months to several years. In some cases, 
contracts  provide  for  variable  consideration  that  is  contingent  upon  the  occurrence  of  uncertain  future  events,  such  as  performance 
incentives (including royalty payments or penalty clauses that can either increase or decrease the transaction price). We estimate the 
amount of variable consideration at the expected value or at the most likely amount depending on the type of consideration. Estimated 
amounts  are  included  in  the  transaction  price  to  the  extent  it  is  probable  based  on  available  information  (historical,  current  and 
forecasted).  Cash  payments  made  to  customers  as  incentives  to  induce  the  customers  to  enter  into  service  agreements  with  us  are 
amortized as a reduction of revenue over the period the services are performed. We record revenues net of any tax assessments by 
governmental authorities, such as value added taxes, that are imposed on and concurrent with specific revenue generating transactions.

large-scale 

We  derive  the  majority  of  our  revenues  in  the  Technology  &  Analytics  Solutions  segment  from  various  information  and 
technology  services  offerings.  Technology  services  offerings  may  contain  multiple  performance  obligations  consisting  of  a  mix  of 
small  and 
services  and  consulting  projects,  multi-year  outsourcing  contracts  and Software-as-a-Service 
(“SaaS”) arrangements. These arrangements typically have terms ranging from several weeks to three years, with a majority having 
terms  of  one  year  or  less.  For  arrangements  that  include  multiple  performance  obligations,  the  transaction  price  is  allocated  to  the 
identified performance obligations based on their relative standalone selling prices. For these contracts, the standalone selling prices 
are based on our normal pricing practices when sold separately with consideration of market conditions and other factors, including 
customer demographics and geographic location.

The majority of revenue in our Research & Development Solutions segment is recognized over time using a cost-based input 
method  since  there  is  no  single  output  measure  that  would  fairly  depict  the  transfer  of  control  over  the  life  of  the  performance 
obligation. Progress on the performance obligation is measured by the proportion of actual costs incurred to the total costs expected to 
complete  the  contract.  Costs  included  in  the  measure  of  progress  include  direct  labor  and  third-party  costs  (such  as  payments  to 
investigators  and  travel  expenses  for  our  clinical  monitors).  This  cost-based  method  of  revenue  recognition  requires  us  to  make 
estimates of costs to complete our projects on an ongoing basis. Significant judgment is required to evaluate assumptions related to 
these  estimates.  These  significant  estimates  of  project  costs  are  updated  and  adjusted  on  a  regular  basis.  These  updates  and 
adjustments are likely to result in variability in our revenue recognition from period to period that may cause unexpected variability in 
our operating results. At any point in time, we are working on thousands of active client projects, which are governed by individual 
contracts. Most projects are customized based on the needs of the client, the type of services being provided, therapeutic indication of 
the drug, geographic locations and other variables. Project specific terms related to pricing, billing terms and the scope and type of 
services  to  be  provided  are  generally  negotiated  and  contracted  on  a  project-by-project  basis.  Changes  in  the  scope  of  work  are 
common,  especially  under  long-term  contracts,  and  generally  result  in  a  change  in  contract  value.  In  such  situations,  we  enter  into 
negotiations  for  a  contract  amendment  to  reflect  the  change  in  scope  and  the  related  price.  Depending  on  the  complexity  of  the 
amendment, the negotiation process can take from a few weeks for a simple adjustment to several months for a complex amendment. 
Management  may  authorize  the  project  team  to  commence  work  on  activities  outside  the  contract  scope  while  we  negotiate  and 
finalize the contract amendment. In these limited cases, if we are not able to obtain a contract amendment from the client, our profit 
margin on the arrangement may be impacted. This result occurs because our costs of delivery are expensed as they are incurred, while 
revenue is not recognized unless the client has agreed to the changes in scope and renegotiated pricing terms in a form that meets the 
definition of a contract under Accounting Standards Codification Topic 606 “Revenue from Contracts with Customers.” 

60

The majority of revenue in our Contract Sales & Medical Solutions segment is from contract sales to the biopharmaceutical 
industry and broader healthcare market and recognized over time using a single measure of progress dependent on the performance 
obligation. Some of our Contract Sales & Medical Solutions contracts contain multiple performance obligations with distinct promises 
including  recruiting,  sales  force  automation  and  deployment  of  sales  representatives.  The  nature  of  the  terms  of  these  performance 
obligations will vary based on the customized needs of the customer. For contracts that have multiple performance obligations, the 
standalone selling prices of our performance obligations are not directly observable since they are rarely sold standalone. Therefore, 
we estimate the standalone selling prices using an expected cost plus a margin approach under which expected costs of satisfying a 
performance obligation are forecasted and added to an appropriate margin for that distinct good or service.

See Note 1 to our audited consolidated financial statements included elsewhere in this Annual Report on Form 10-K for further 

discussion. 

Accounts Receivable and Unbilled Services 

Accounts receivable represents amounts billed to clients. Revenues recognized in excess of billings are classified as unbilled 
services. The realization of these amounts is based on the client’s willingness and ability to pay us. We have an allowance for doubtful 
accounts  based  on  management’s  estimate  of  probable  losses  we  expect  to  incur  resulting  from  a  client  failing  to  pay  us.  Our 
allowance for doubtful accounts, and losses from clients failing to pay us, have not been material to our results of operations. If any of 
these  estimates  change  or  actual  results  differs  from  expected  results,  then  an  adjustment  is  recorded  in  the  period  in  which  the 
amounts become reasonably estimable. These adjustments could have a material effect on our results of operations. 

Investments in Unconsolidated Affiliates—Equity Method Investments 

We have investments in unconsolidated affiliates that are accounted for under the equity method of accounting. Periodically, 
we review our investments for a decline in value which we believe may be other than temporary. Should we identify such a decline, 
we will record a loss through earnings to establish a new cost basis for the investment. These losses could have a material adverse 
effect on our results of operations. 

Income Taxes 

Certain items of income and expense are not recognized on our income tax returns and financial statements in the same year, 
which creates timing differences. The income tax effect of these timing differences results in (1) deferred income tax assets that create 
a reduction in future income taxes and (2) deferred income tax liabilities that create an increase in future income taxes. Recognition of 
deferred income tax assets is based on management’s belief that it is more likely than not that the income tax benefit associated with 
certain temporary differences, income tax operating loss and capital loss carryforwards and income tax credits, would be realized. We 
recorded a valuation allowance to reduce our deferred income tax assets for those deferred income tax items for which it was more 
likely  than  not  that  realization  would  not  occur.  We  determined  the  amount  of  the  valuation  allowance  based,  in  part,  on  our 
assessment of future taxable income and in light of our ongoing income tax strategies. If our estimate of future taxable income or tax 
strategies changes at any time in the future, we would record an adjustment to our valuation allowance. Recording such an adjustment 
could have a material effect on our financial condition or results of operations. 

Income tax expense is based on the distribution of profit before income tax among the various taxing jurisdictions in which we 
operate,  adjusted  as  required  by  the  income  tax  laws  of  each  taxing  jurisdiction.  Changes  in  the  distribution  of  profits  and  losses 
among  taxing  jurisdictions  may  have  a  significant  impact  on  our  effective  income  tax  rate.  We  do  not  consider  the  undistributed 
earnings  of  our  foreign  subsidiaries  to  be  indefinitely  reinvested  outside  of  the  United  States.  Accordingly,  we  have  provided  a 
deferred  income  tax  liability  related  to  those  undistributed  earnings.  The  associated  foreign  income  taxes  on  our  foreign  earnings 
could  be  available  as  a  credit  in  the  United  States  on  our  income  taxes.  We  recognize  foreign  tax  credits  to  the  extent  that  the 
recognition is supported by projected foreign source income. See Note 16 to our audited consolidated financial statements included 
elsewhere in the Annual Report on Form 10-K for details regarding the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act and the impact on our consolidated 
financial statements.

61

Business Combinations 

We  use  the  acquisition  method  to  account  for  business  combinations,  and  accordingly,  the  identifiable  assets  acquired,  the 
liabilities  assumed  and  any  non-controlling  interest  in  the  acquiree  are  recorded  at  their  estimated  fair  values  on  the  date  of  the 
acquisition.  We  use  significant  judgments,  estimates  and  assumptions  in  determining  the  estimated  fair  value  of  assets  acquired, 
liabilities assumed and non-controlling interest including expected future cash flows, discount rates that reflect the risk associated with 
the expected future cash flows and estimated useful lives. 

When a business combination involves contingent consideration, we recognize a liability equal to the estimated fair value of 
the contingent consideration obligation at the date of the acquisition. The estimate of fair value of a contingent consideration liability 
requires subjective assumptions to be made regarding future business results including revenues and net new business, discount rates 
that  reflect  the  risk  associated  with  the  expected  future  cash  flows  and  probabilities  assigned  to  various  potential  business  result 
scenarios.  We  reassess  the  estimated  fair  value  of  the  contingent  consideration  each  financial  reporting  period  over  the  term  of  the 
arrangement. Any resulting changes are recognized in earnings and could have a material effect on our results of operations. 

Goodwill, Tangible and Identifiable Intangible Assets 

We  have  recorded  and  allocated  to  our  reporting  units  the  excess  of  the  cost  over  the  fair  value  of  the  net  assets  acquired, 
known as goodwill. The recoverability of the goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets are evaluated annually for impairment, or 
if  and  when  events  or  circumstances  indicate  a  possible  impairment.  We  review  the  carrying  values  of  other  identifiable  intangible 
assets if the facts and circumstances indicate a possible impairment. Goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets are not amortized, 
and other identifiable intangible assets are amortized over their estimated useful lives. We believe that the risk of an impairment to 
goodwill or indefinite-lived intangible assets is currently very low. 

For goodwill, we perform a qualitative analysis to determine whether it is more likely than not that the estimated fair value of a 
reporting  unit  is  less  than  its  book  value.  This  includes  a  qualitative  analysis  of  macroeconomic  conditions,  industry  and  market 
considerations,  internal  cost  factors,  financial  performance,  fair  value  history  and  other  company  specific  events.  If  this  qualitative 
analysis indicates that it is more likely than not that estimated fair value is less than the book value for the respective reporting unit, 
we apply a two-step impairment test in which we determine whether the estimated fair value of the reporting unit is in excess of its 
carrying value. If the carrying value of the net assets assigned to the reporting unit exceeds the estimated fair value of the reporting 
unit, we perform the second step of the impairment test to determine the implied estimated fair value of the reporting unit’s goodwill. 
We determine the  implied  estimated  fair  value of  goodwill  by  determining  the  present  value  of the  estimated  future  cash  flows  for 
each reporting unit and comparing the reporting unit’s risk profile and growth prospects to selected, reasonably similar publicly traded 
companies. The inherent subjectivity of applying a discounted cash flow and market comparables approach to valuing our assets and 
liabilities could have a significant impact on our analysis. Any future impairment could have a material adverse effect on our financial 
condition or results of operations. 

For indefinite-lived intangible assets, we perform a qualitative analysis to determine whether it is more likely than not that the 
estimated fair value of the indefinite-lived intangible asset is less than its carrying value. If this qualitative analysis indicates that it is 
more likely than not that the estimated fair value is less than the carrying value of the indefinite-lived intangible asset, we determine 
the estimated fair value of the indefinite-lived intangible asset (trade name) by determining the present value of the estimated royalty 
payments on an after-tax basis that it would be required to pay the owner for the right to use such trade name. If the carrying amount 
exceeds  the  estimated  fair  value,  an  impairment  loss  is  recognized  in  an  amount  equal  to  the  excess.  Any  future  impairment  could 
have a material adverse effect on our financial condition or results of operations. 

We review the carrying values of property and equipment if the facts and circumstances suggest that a potential impairment 
may have occurred. If this review indicates that carrying values will not be recoverable, as determined based on undiscounted cash 
flows  over  the  remaining  depreciation  or  amortization  period,  we  will  reduce  carrying  values  to  estimated  fair  value.  The  inherent 
subjectivity of our estimates of future cash flows could have a significant impact on our analysis. Any future write-offs of long-lived 
assets could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition or results of operations. 

62

Stock-based Compensation 

We  measure  compensation  cost  for  stock-based  payment  awards  (stock  options  and  stock  appreciation  rights)  granted  to 
employees  and  non-employee  directors  at  fair  value  using  the  Black-Scholes-Merton  option-pricing  model  and  for  performance 
awards  using  the  Monte  Carlo  simulation  model.  Stock-based  compensation  expense  includes  stock-based  awards  granted  to 
employees  and  non-employee  directors  and  has  been  reported  in  selling,  general  and  administrative  expenses  in  our  consolidated 
statements of income based upon the classification of the individuals who were granted stock-based awards. 

The Black-Scholes-Merton option-pricing model requires the use of subjective assumptions, including share price volatility, 
the  expected  life  of  the  award,  risk-free  interest  rate  and  the  fair  value  of  the  underlying  common  shares  on  the  date  of  grant.  In 
developing our assumptions, we take into account the following: 

•

•

•

•

•

We calculate expected volatility based on reported data for selected reasonably similar publicly traded companies for 
which the historical information is available. We plan to continue to use the guideline peer group volatility information 
until the historical volatility of our common shares is relevant to measure expected volatility for future award grants; 

We determine the risk-free interest rate by reference to implied yields available from United States Treasury securities 
with a remaining term equal to the expected life assumed at the date of grant; 

We estimate the dividend yield to be zero as we do not currently anticipate paying any future dividends; 

We estimate the average expected life of the award based on our historical experience; and 

We estimate forfeitures based on our historical analysis of actual forfeitures. 

Pensions and Other Postretirement Benefits

We  provide  retirement  benefits  to  certain  employees,  including  defined  benefit  pension  plans  and  postretirement  medical 
plans.  The  determination  of  benefit  obligations  and  expense  is  based  on  actuarial  models.  In  order  to  measure  benefit  costs  and 
obligations using these models, critical assumptions are made with regard to the discount rate, expected return on plan assets, cash 
balance crediting rate, lump sum conversion rate and the assumed rate of compensation increases. In addition, retiree medical care cost 
trend rates are a key assumption used exclusively in determining costs for our postretirement health care and life insurance benefit 
plans.  Management  reviews  these  critical  assumptions  at  least  annually.  Other  assumptions  involve  demographic  factors  such  as 
turnover,  retirement  and  mortality  rates.  Management  reviews  these  assumptions  periodically  and  updates  them  when  deemed 
appropriate to do so. 

The  discount  rate  is  the  rate  at  which  the  benefit  obligations  could  be  effectively  settled  and  is  determined  annually  by 
management. For United States plans, the discount rate is based on results of a modeling process in which the plans’ expected cash 
flow (determined on a projected benefit obligation basis) is matched with spot rates developed from a yield curve comprised of high-
grade (Moody’s Aa and above, or Standard and Poor’s AA and above) non-callable corporate bonds to develop the present value of 
the expected cash flow, and then determining the single rate (discount rate), which when applied to the expected cash flow derives that 
same present value. In the United Kingdom specifically, the discount rate is set based on the yields on a universe of high quality non-
callable  corporate  bonds  denominated  in  the  British  Pound,  appropriate  to  the  duration  of  plan  liabilities.  For  the  other  non-United 
States plans, the discount rate is based on the current yield of an index of high quality corporate bonds. As a sensitivity measure, a 25 
basis point increase in the discount rate for our United States plan and United Kingdom plans, absent any offsetting changes in other 
assumptions, would result in a less than $1 million increase in pension expense at December 31, 2018.  

Under the United States qualified retirement plan, participants have a notional retirement account that increases with pay and 
investment credits. The rate used to determine the investment credit (cash balance crediting rate) varies monthly. At retirement, the 
account is converted to a monthly retirement benefit. 

63

In  selecting  an  expected  return  on  plan  asset  assumption,  we  consider  the  returns  being  earned  by  each  plan  investment 
category in the fund, the rates of return expected to be available for reinvestment and long-term economic forecasts for the type of 
investments  held  by  the  plan.  The  actual  return  on  plan  assets  will  vary  from  year  to  year  versus  this  assumption.  We  believe  it  is 
appropriate to use long-term expected forecasts in selecting the expected return on plan assets. As such, there can be no assurance that 
our actual return on plan assets will approximate the long-term expected forecasts. As a sensitivity measure, a 25 basis point change in 
the expected return on assets (“EROA”) assumption for our United States plan, absent any offsetting changes in other assumptions, 
would result in a less than $1 million increase or decrease in pension expense at December 31, 2018. For our United Kingdom plans, a 
25 basis point change in the EROA assumption, absent any offsetting changes in other assumptions, would result in a less than $1 
million increase or decrease in pension expense at December 31, 2018. While we believe that the assumptions used are reasonable, 
differences in actual experience or changes in assumptions may materially affect our pension and postretirement obligations and future 
expense. 

We  utilize  a  corridor  approach  to  amortizing  unrecognized  gains  and  losses  in  the  pension  and  postretirement  plans. 
Amortization occurs when the accumulated unrecognized net gain or loss balance exceeds the criterion of 10% of the larger of the 
beginning balances of the projected benefit obligation or the market-related value of the plan assets. The excess unrecognized gain or 
loss balance is then amortized using the straight-line method over the average remaining service life of active employees expected to 
receive benefits. At December 31, 2018, the weighted-average remaining service life of active employees was approximately 20 years. 

Foreign Currency 

We have significant investments in non-United States countries. Therefore, changes in the value of foreign currencies affect 
our consolidated financial statements when translated into United States dollars. For all operations outside the United States where we 
have designated the local currency as the functional currency, assets and liabilities are translated using end-of-period exchange rates; 
revenues,  expenses  and  cash  flows  are  translated  using  average  rates  of  exchange  prevailing  during  the  period  the  transactions 
occurred.  Translation  gains  and  losses  are  included  as  an  adjustment  to  the  accumulated  other  comprehensive  income  (loss) 
component of stockholders’ equity. In addition, gains and losses from foreign currency transactions, such as those resulting from the 
settlement and revaluation of third-party and intercompany foreign receivables and payables, are included in the determination of net 
income (loss). 

For  operations  outside  the  United  States  that  are  considered  to  be  highly  inflationary  or  where  the  United  States  dollar  is 
designated as the functional currency, monetary assets and liabilities are remeasured using end-of-period exchange rates, whereas non-
monetary accounts are remeasured using historical exchange rates, and all remeasurement and transaction adjustments are recognized 
in other expense (income), net.  

Recently Issued Accounting Standards 

Information  relating  to  recently  issued  accounting  standards  is  included  in  Note  1  to  our  audited  consolidated  financial 

statements included elsewhere in this Annual Report on Form 10-K. 

Item 7A. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk 

Market risk is the potential loss arising from adverse changes in market rates and prices. In the ordinary course of business, we 
are exposed to various market risks and we regularly evaluate our exposure to such changes. Our overall risk management strategy 
seeks  to  balance  the  magnitude  of  the  exposure  and  the  cost  and  availability  of  appropriate  financial  instruments.  The  following 
analyses  present  the  sensitivity  of  our  financial  instruments  to  hypothetical  changes  that  are  reasonably  possible  over  a  one-year 
period. 

Foreign Currency Exchange Rates 

We  transact  business  in  more  than  100  countries  and  approximately  55  currencies  and  are  subject  to  risks  associated  with 
fluctuating  foreign  currency  exchange  rates.  Our  objective  is  to  reduce  earnings  and  cash  flow  volatility  associated  with  foreign 
currency exchange rate movements. Accordingly, we enter into foreign currency forward contracts to minimize the impact of foreign 
exchange movements on non–functional currency assets and liabilities. We also enter into foreign currency forward contracts to hedge 
certain  forecasted  foreign  currency  cash  flows  related  to  service  contracts  and  to  hedge  non-United  States dollar  anticipated 
intercompany royalties. It is our policy to enter into foreign currency transactions only to the extent necessary to meet our objectives 
as stated above. We do not enter into foreign currency transactions for investment or speculative purposes. The principal currencies 
hedged are the Euro, the British Pound, the Japanese Yen, the Swiss Franc and the Canadian dollar. 

64

The contractual value of our foreign exchange derivative instruments, all of which were foreign exchange forward contracts, 
was approximately $202 million at December 31, 2018. The fair value of these contracts is subject to change as a result of potential 
changes  in  foreign  exchange  rates.  We  assess  our  market  risk  based  on  changes  in  foreign  exchange  rates  utilizing  a  sensitivity 
analysis. The sensitivity analysis measures the potential loss in fair values based on a hypothetical 10% change in foreign currency 
exchange rates. The potential loss in fair value for foreign exchange forward contracts based on a hypothetical 10% decrease in the 
value of the United States dollar or, in the case of non-United States dollar related contracts, the currency being purchased, was $5 
million at December 31, 2018. However, the change in the fair value of the foreign exchange forward contracts would likely be offset 
by a change in the value of the future service contract revenue, royalty or balance sheet exposure being hedged caused by the currency 
exchange  rate  fluctuation.  The  estimated  fair  values  of  the  foreign  exchange  forward  contracts  were  determined  based  on  quoted 
market prices. 

Exchange  rate  fluctuations  affect  the  United  States  dollar  value  of  foreign  currency  revenue  and  expenses  and  may  have  a 
significant  effect  on  our  results.  Excluding  the  impacts  from  any  outstanding  or  future  hedging  transactions,  a  hypothetical  10% 
change  in  average  exchange  rates  used  to  translate  all  foreign  currencies  to  the  United  States  dollar  would  have  impacted  income 
before income taxes for 2018 by approximately $125 million. The actual impact of exchange rate movements in the future could differ 
materially  from  this  hypothetical  analysis,  based  on  the  mix  of  foreign  currencies  and  the  timing  and  magnitude  of  individual 
exchange rate movements. 

Additionally, commencing in 2016, we designated a portion of our foreign currency denominated debt as a hedge of our net 
investment in foreign subsidiaries to reduce the volatility in stockholders’ equity caused by changes in the Euro exchange rate with 
respect to the United States dollar. As of December 31, 2018, these borrowings (net of original issue discount) were €4,590 million 
($5,253 million). A hypothetical 10% decrease in the value of the United States dollar would lead to a potential loss in fair value of 
$525 million. However, this change in fair value would be offset by the change in value of the hedged portion of our net investment in 
foreign subsidiaries caused by the currency exchange rate fluctuation.  

Interest Rates 

Because we have variable rate debt, fluctuations in interest rates affect our business. We attempt to minimize interest rate risk 
and  lower  our  overall  borrowing  costs  through  the  utilization  of  derivative  financial  instruments,  primarily  interest  rate  caps  and 
swaps. We have entered into interest rate caps and swaps with financial institutions that have reset dates and critical terms that match 
the underlying debt. Accordingly, any change in market value associated with the interest rate caps and swaps is offset by the opposite 
market  impact  on  the  related  debt.  As  of  December 31,  2018,  we  had  approximately  $6.4  billion  of  variable  rate  indebtedness  and 
interest rate caps and swaps with a notional value of $2.0 billion. Because we do not attempt to hedge all of our variable rate debt, we 
may incur higher interest costs for the portion of our variable rate debt that is not hedged. Excluding debt covered by hedges, each 
quarter-point  increase  or  decrease  in  the  interest  rate  on  our  variable  rate  debt  would  result  in  our  interest  expense  changing  by 
approximately $12 million per year. 

Marketable Securities 

At December 31, 2018, we held investments in marketable equity securities. These investments are classified as either trading 
securities or available-for-sale securities and are recorded at fair value. These securities are subject to price risk. As of December 31, 
2018, the fair value of these investments was $47 million based on the quoted market value of the securities. The potential loss in fair 
value resulting from a hypothetical decrease of 10% in quoted market values was approximately $5 million at December 31, 2018. 

65

Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data 

MANAGEMENT’S REPORT ON INTERNAL CONTROL OVER FINANCIAL REPORTING 

The management of IQVIA Holdings Inc. (the “Company”) is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal 
control  over  financial  reporting.  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 pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of the 
assets  of  the  company;  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  provide  reasonable  assurance 
regarding  prevention  or  timely  detection  of  unauthorized  acquisition,  use,  or  disposition  of  the  company’s  assets  that  could  have  a 
material effect on the financial statements. 

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

Management assessed the effectiveness of the Company’s internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2018. In 
making this assessment, management used the framework established in Internal Control—Integrated Framework (2013) issued by the 
Committee  of  Sponsoring  Organizations  of  the  Treadway  Commission  (COSO).  As  a  result  of  this  assessment  and  based  on  the 
criteria  in  the  COSO  framework,  management  has  concluded  that,  as  of  December 31,  2018,  the  Company’s  internal  control  over 
financial reporting was effective. 

The  effectiveness  of  the  Company’s  internal  control  over  financial  reporting  as  of  December 31,  2018  has  been  audited  by 

PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, an independent registered public accounting firm, as stated in their report which appears herein. 

/s/ Ari Bousbib
Ari Bousbib
Chairman, Chief Executive Officer and President
(Principal Executive Officer)

February 19, 2019 

/s/ Michael R. McDonnell
Michael R. McDonnell
Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer
(Principal Financial Officer)

66

 
 
 
REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM

To the Board of Directors and Stockholders of IQVIA Holdings Inc.

Opinions on the Financial Statements and Internal Control over Financial Reporting

We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of IQVIA Holdings Inc. and its subsidiaries (the “Company”) 
as of December 31, 2018 and 2017, and the related consolidated statements of income, comprehensive (loss) income, stockholders’ 
equity  (deficit)  and  cash  flows  for  each  of  the  three  years  in  the  period  ended  December  31,  2018,  including  the  related  notes  and 
financial statement schedules listed in the index appearing under Item 15(a)(2) (collectively referred to as the “consolidated financial 
statements”). We also have audited the Company’s internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2018, based on criteria 
established in Internal Control - Integrated Framework (2013) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway 
Commission (COSO).  

In  our  opinion,  the  consolidated  financial  statements  referred  to  above  present  fairly,  in  all  material  respects,  the  financial 
position of the Company as of December 31, 2018 and 2017, and the results of its operations and its cash flows for each of the three 
years  in  the  period  ended  December  31,  2018  in  conformity  with  accounting  principles  generally  accepted  in  the  United  States  of 
America. Also in our opinion, the Company maintained, in all material respects, effective internal control over financial reporting as 
of December 31, 2018, based on criteria established in Internal Control - Integrated Framework (2013) issued by the COSO.

Basis for Opinions

The  Company’s  management  is  responsible  for  these  consolidated  financial  statements,  for  maintaining  effective  internal 
control over financial reporting, and for its assessment of the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting, included in the 
accompanying Management’s Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting. Our responsibility is to express opinions on the 
Company’s consolidated financial statements and on the Company’s internal control over financial reporting based on our audits. We 
are a public accounting firm registered with  the  Public  Company Accounting Oversight Board  (United  States) (“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  audits  to  obtain  reasonable  assurance  about  whether  the  consolidated  financial  statements  are  free  of  material  misstatement, 
whether due to error or fraud, and whether effective internal control over financial reporting was maintained in all material respects.  

Our audits of the consolidated financial statements included performing procedures to assess the risks of material misstatement 
of the consolidated 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  consolidated  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 consolidated financial statements. Our audit of internal control over financial reporting 
included obtaining an understanding of internal control over financial reporting, assessing the risk that a material weakness exists, and 
testing and evaluating the design and operating effectiveness of internal control based on the assessed risk. Our audits also included 
performing such other procedures as we considered necessary in the circumstances. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable 
basis for our opinions.

67

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 
(i) pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of the 
assets of the company; (ii) 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  (iii) provide  reasonable  assurance 
regarding  prevention  or  timely  detection  of  unauthorized  acquisition,  use,  or  disposition  of  the  company’s  assets  that  could  have  a 
material effect on the financial statements.

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

/s/ PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP

Raleigh, North Carolina 
February 19, 2019

We have served as the Company’s auditor since 2002. 

68

 
IQVIA HOLDINGS INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME 

(in millions, except per share data)
Revenues
Costs of revenue, exclusive of depreciation and amortization
Selling, general and administrative expenses
Depreciation and amortization
Impairment charges
Restructuring costs
Merger related costs

Income from operations

Interest income
Interest expense
Loss on extinguishment of debt
Other expense (income), net

Income before income taxes and equity in earnings (losses) of
   unconsolidated affiliates
Income tax expense (benefit)

Income before equity in earnings (losses) of unconsolidated affiliates

Equity in earnings (losses) of unconsolidated affiliates

Net income

Net income attributable to non-controlling interests
Net income attributable to IQVIA Holdings Inc.
Earnings per share attributable to common stockholders:

Basic
Diluted

Weighted average common shares outstanding:

Basic
Diluted

  $

  $

  $
  $

2018

Year Ended December 31,
2017

2016

10,412    $
6,746     
1,716     
1,141     
—     
68     
—     
741     
(8)    
414     
2     
5     

328     
59     
269     
15     
284     
(25)    
259    $

1.27    $
1.24    $

203.7     
208.2     

9,702    $
6,301     
1,622     
1,011     
40     
63     
—     
665     
(7)    
346     
19     
13     

294     
(992)    
1,286     
10     
1,296     
(19)    
1,277    $

5.86    $
5.74    $

217.8     
222.6     

6,815 
4,748 
1,016 
289 
28 
71 
87 
576 
(4)
144 
31 
(11)

416 
325 
91 
(4)
87 
(15)
72 

0.48 
0.47 

149.1 
152.0  

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

69

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
      
      
  
   
      
      
  
   
   
IQVIA HOLDINGS INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE (LOSS) INCOME 

(in millions)
Net income
Comprehensive (loss) income adjustments:

2018

Year Ended December 31,
2017

2016

  $

284    $

1,296    $

Unrealized gains (losses) on derivative instruments, net of income tax
   (benefit) expense of ($5), $1 and $3
Defined benefit plan adjustments, net of income tax (benefit) expense of
   ($4), $3 and $11
Foreign currency translation, net of income tax expense (benefit) of
   $50, ($201) and ($9)
Reclassification adjustments:

(Gains) losses on derivative instruments included in net income, net of
   income tax expense of $1, $— and $7
Amortization of actuarial losses and prior service costs included in net
   income

Comprehensive income (loss)

Comprehensive (income) loss attributable to non-controlling interests

Comprehensive (loss) income attributable to IQVIA Holdings Inc.

  $

87 

(7)

23 

1     

(8)    

4     

5     

(258)    

611     

(508)

(12)    

1     
8     
(22)    
(14)   $

(1)    

1     
1,916     
(26)    
1,890    $

21 

1 
(383)
1 
(382)

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

70

 
 
 
 
   
   
 
   
      
      
  
   
   
   
   
      
      
  
   
   
   
   
IQVIA HOLDINGS INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS 

(in millions, except per share data)

Current assets:

ASSETS

Cash and cash equivalents
Trade accounts receivable and unbilled services, net
Prepaid expenses
Income taxes receivable
Investments in debt, equity and other securities
Other current assets and receivables

Total current assets
Property and equipment, net
Investments in debt, equity and other securities
Investments in unconsolidated affiliates
Goodwill
Other identifiable intangibles, net
Deferred income taxes
Deposits and other assets

Total assets

LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY

Current liabilities:

Accounts payable
Accrued expenses
Unearned income
Income taxes payable
Current portion of long-term debt
Other current liabilities

Total current liabilities

Long-term debt, less current portion
Deferred income taxes
Other liabilities

Total liabilities

Commitments and contingencies (Note 1)
Stockholders’ equity:

Common stock and additional paid-in capital, 400.0 shares authorized at
   December 31, 2018 and 2017, $0.01 par value, 251.5 and 249.5 shares
   issued at December 31, 2018 and 2017, respectively
Retained earnings
Treasury stock, at cost, 54.0 and 41.4 shares at December 31, 2018 and 2017,
    respectively
Accumulated other comprehensive (loss) income

Equity attributable to IQVIA Holdings Inc.’s stockholders

Non-controlling interests

Total stockholders’ equity
Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity

December 31,

2018

2017

  $

  $

  $

  $

891    $

2,394   
151   
69   
47   
322   
3,874   
434   
41   
101   
11,800   
5,951   
109   
239   
22,549    $

437    $

1,858   
1,007   
100   
100   
32   
3,534   
10,907   
736   
418   
15,595   

10,901   
807   

(4,770)  
(224)  
6,714   
240   
6,954   
22,549    $

959 
2,097 
146 
47 
46 
259 
3,554 
440 
8 
70 
11,850 
6,591 
109 
235 
22,857 

322 
1,664 
985 
72 
103 
10 
3,156 
10,122 
895 
440 
14,613 

10,782 
538 

(3,374)
49 
7,995 
249 
8,244 
22,857  

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

71

 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
    
 
  
 
 
    
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
    
 
  
 
 
    
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
    
 
  
 
 
    
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
IQVIA HOLDINGS INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS 

2018

Year Ended December 31,
2017

2016

  $

284    $

1,296    $

87 

(in millions)
Operating activities:

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

Depreciation and amortization
Amortization of debt issuance costs and discount
Amortization of accumulated other comprehensive loss on terminated
   interest rate swaps
Stock-based compensation
Impairment of goodwill and identifiable intangible assets
Gain on disposals of property and equipment, net
(Earnings) loss from unconsolidated affiliates
Loss (gain) on investments, net
(Benefit from) provision for deferred income taxes
Excess income tax benefits from stock-based award activities

Changes in operating assets and liabilities:

Accounts receivable and unbilled services
Prepaid expenses and other assets
Accounts payable and accrued expenses
Unearned income
Income taxes payable and other liabilities

Net cash provided by operating activities

Investing activities:

Acquisition of property, equipment and software
Net cash (paid for) assumed from acquisition of businesses
Disposition of business, net of cash disposed
(Purchases) sales of marketable securities, net
Investments in unconsolidated affiliates, net of payments received
(Investments in) proceeds from sale of equity securities
Proceeds from corporate owned life insurance policies
Other

Net cash (used in) provided by investing activities

Financing activities:

Proceeds from issuance of debt
Payment of debt issuance costs
Repayment of debt
Proceeds from revolving credit facility
Repayment of revolving credit facility
Principal payments on capital lease obligations
Proceeds related to employee stock purchase and option plans
Repurchase of common stock
Distributions to non-controlling interest, net
Contingent consideration and deferred purchase price payments
Excess income tax benefits from stock-based award activities

Net cash used in financing activities
Effect of foreign currency exchange rate changes on cash
(Decrease) increase in cash and cash equivalents
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period

  $

1,141     
11     

—     
113     
—     
—     
(15)    
3     
(177)    
—     

(297)    
(66)    
368     
7     
(118)    
1,254     

(459)    
(309)    
—     
(4)    
(17)    
(23)    
—     
2     
(810)    

1,631     
(22)    
(732)    
2,445     
(2,329)    
—     
15     
(1,405)    
(31)    
(24)    
—     
(452)    
(60)    
(68)    
959     
891    $

1,011     
9     

3     
106     
40     
(1)    
(10)    
(8)    
(1,221)    
—     

(141)    
(54)    
90     
(68)    
(82)    
970     

(369)    
(854)    
12     
2     
15     
—     
—     
4     
(1,190)    

5,242     
(50)    
(2,883)    
1,921     
(1,767)    
(2)    
91     
(2,620)    
—     
(4)    
—     
(72)    
53     
(239)    
1,198     
959    $

289 
30 

3 
80 
28 
(1)
8 
(13)
115 
(41)

(177)
(8)
160 
230 
70 
860 

(164)
1,887 
— 
(40)
(17)
41 
21 
3 
1,731 

466 
(7)
(1,949)
172 
— 
(2)
97 
(1,097)
— 
(5)
41 
(2,284)
(86)
221 
977 
1,198  

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

72

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
      
      
  
   
      
      
  
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
      
      
  
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
      
      
  
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
      
      
  
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
 (in millions)
Balance, December 31, 2015
ASC 606 implementation
Balance, December 31, 2015, Adjusted
Issuance of common stock
Repurchase of common stock before
   October 3, 2016
Repurchase of common stock on or after
   October 3, 2016
Stock-based compensation
Income tax benefits from stock-based award
   activities
Investment by non-controlling interest
Net income
Unrealized loss on derivative instruments,
   net of tax
Defined benefit plan adjustments, net of tax
Foreign currency translation, net of tax
Reclassification adjustments, net of tax
Balance, December 31, 2016
Issuance of common stock
Repurchase of common stock
Repurchase and retirement of common stock
Stock-based compensation
Distribution to non-controlling interest
Net income
Unrealized gain on derivative instruments,
   net of tax
Defined benefit plan adjustments, net of tax
Foreign currency translation, net of tax
Balance, December 31, 2017
Issuance of common stock
Repurchase of common stock
Stock-based compensation
Distributions to non-controlling interest, net
Net income
Unrealized gain on derivative instruments,
   net of tax
Defined benefit plan adjustments, net of tax
Foreign currency translation, net of tax
Reclassification adjustments, net of tax
Other
Balance, December 31, 2018

IQVIA HOLDINGS INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY (DEFICIT)

Common
Stock
Shares

Treasury
Stock
Shares

Common
Stock

Additional
Paid-In
Capital

Retained 
Earnings 
(Accumulated 
Deficit)

Treasury
Stock

Accumulated
Other
Comprehensive
(Loss) Income  

Non-
controlling
Interests

Total

  $

  $

8 
— 
8 
10,522 

(462)   $
(42)  
(504)  
— 

(46)  

(52)  

  $

— 
— 
— 
— 

— 

119.4 
— 
119.4 
130.4 

(1.5)  

— 
— 

— 
— 
— 

— 
— 
— 
— 
248.3 
3.7 
— 
(2.5)  
— 
— 
— 

— 
— 
— 
249.5 
2.0 
— 
— 
— 
— 

— 
— 
— 
— 
— 
251.5 

  $

— 
— 
— 
— 

— 

(12.9)  
— 

— 
— 
— 

— 
— 
— 
— 
(12.9)  
— 
(28.5)  
— 
— 
— 
— 

— 
— 
— 
(41.4)  
— 
(12.6)  
— 
— 
— 

— 
— 
— 
— 
— 
(54.0)   $

1 
— 
1 
1 

— 

— 
— 

— 
— 
— 

— 
— 
— 
— 
2 
— 
— 
— 
— 
— 
— 

— 
— 
— 
2 
1 
— 
— 
— 
— 

— 
— 
— 
— 
— 
3 

— 
76 

41 
(1)  
— 

— 
— 
— 
— 
10,600 
— 
— 
— 
180 
— 
— 

— 
— 
— 
10,780 
10 
— 
108 
— 
— 

— 
— 
— 
— 
— 
10,898 

  $

  $

(1,000)  
— 

— 
— 
— 

— 
— 
— 
— 
(1,000)  
— 
(2,374)  
— 
— 
— 
— 

— 
— 
— 
(3,374)  
— 
(1,396)  
— 
— 
— 

— 
— 

— 
— 
72 

— 
— 
— 
— 
(484)  
— 
— 
(255)  
— 
— 
1,277 

— 
— 
— 
538 
— 
— 
— 
— 
259 

— 
— 
— 
— 
10 
807 

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

73

(111)   $
1 
(110)  
— 

— 

— 
— 

— 
— 
— 

(7)  
23 
(492)  
22 
(564)  
— 
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4 
5 
604 
49 
— 
— 
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  $

228 
— 
228 
— 

— 

— 
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— 
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15 

— 
— 
(16)  
— 
227 
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(4)  
19 

— 
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7 
249 
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— 
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(31)  
25 

(336)
(41)
(377)
10,523 

(98)

(1,000)
76 

41 
(1)
87 

(7)
23 
(508)
22 
8,781 
— 
(2,374)
(255)
180 
(4)
1,296 

4 
5 
611 
8,244 
11 
(1,396)
108 
(31)
284 

1 
(8)
(258)
(11)
10 
6,954  

— 
— 
— 
— 
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(4,770)   $

  $

1 
(8)  
(255)  
(11)  
— 

(224)   $

— 
— 
(3)  
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240 

  $

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
IQVIA HOLDINGS INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES 
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements 

1. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies 

The Company 

With more than 58,000 employees, IQVIA Holdings Inc. (together with its subsidiaries, the “Company” or “IQVIA”) conducts 
business  in  more  than  100  countries.  IQVIA  is  a  leading  global  provider  of  advanced  analytics,  technology  solutions  and  contract 
research services to the life sciences industry. 

On October 3, 2016, Quintiles Transnational Holdings Inc. (“Quintiles”) completed its previously announced merger of equals 
transaction (the “Merger”) with IMS Health Holdings, Inc. (“IMS Health”). Pursuant to the terms of the merger agreement dated as of 
May 3, 2016 between Quintiles and IMS Health (the “Merger Agreement”), IMS Health was merged with and into Quintiles, and the 
separate  corporate  existence  of  IMS  Health  ceased,  with  Quintiles  continuing  as  the  surviving  corporation  (the  “Surviving 
Corporation”). Immediately prior to the completion of the Merger, Quintiles reincorporated as a Delaware corporation. The Surviving 
Corporation changed its name to Quintiles IMS Holdings, Inc (“QuintilesIMS”). At the effective time of the Merger, each issued and 
outstanding  share  of  IMS  Health  common  stock,  par  value  $0.01  per  share  (“IMS  Health  common  stock”),  was  automatically 
converted into 0.3840 of a share of the Company’s common stock, par value $0.01 per share. In addition, immediately following the 
effective time of the Merger, Quintiles Transnational Corp (“Quintiles Corp.”), a direct subsidiary of Quintiles, was merged with and 
into  IMS  Health  Incorporated,  following  which  IMS  Health  Incorporated  will  continue  as  a  direct,  wholly-owned  subsidiary  of  the 
Surviving Corporation. See Note 14 for additional information regarding the Merger. 

On  November  6,  2017,  the  Company  filed  a  Certificate  of  Amendment  to  its  Amended  and  Restated  Certificate  of 
Incorporation (the “Certificate of Amendment”) to effect a change of the Company’s name from “Quintiles IMS Holdings, Inc.” to 
“IQVIA Holdings Inc.”.

On  November  15,  2017,  shares  of  the  Company  commenced  trading  under  an  updated  New  York  Stock  Exchange  ticker 

symbol, “IQV” (formerly the shares traded under the ticker symbol “Q”). 

The  Company  renamed  two  of  its  reportable  segments  during  the  second  quarter  of  2018.  The  reportable  segment  formerly 
known  as  Commercial  Solutions  is  now  named  Technology  &  Analytics  Solutions  and  the  reportable  segment  formerly  known  as 
Integrated  Engagement  Services  is  now  named  Contract  Sales  &  Medical  Solutions.  This  is  a  name  change  only  and  there  are  no 
changes to the composition of either segment.

Principles of Consolidation 

The accompanying consolidated financial statements include the accounts and operations of the Company, its subsidiaries and 
investments in which the Company has control. Amounts pertaining to the non-controlling ownership interests held by third parties in 
the operating  results and  financial  position  of  the  Company’s  majority-owned  subsidiaries  are  reported as  non-controlling  interests. 
Intercompany accounts and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation. 

Use of Estimates 

The  preparation  of  financial  statements  in  accordance  with  generally  accepted  accounting  principles  in  the  United  States  of 
America (“GAAP”) requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities, 
and  the  disclosure  of  contingent  assets  and  liabilities,  at  the  date  of  the  financial  statements,  as  well  as  the  reported  amounts  of 
revenues and expenses during the period. These estimates are based on historical experience and various other assumptions believed 
reasonable under the circumstances. The Company evaluates its estimates on an ongoing basis and makes changes to the estimates and 
related disclosures as experience develops or new information becomes known. Actual results may differ from those estimates. 

74

Foreign Currencies 

The  Company’s  financial  statements  are  reported  in  United  States  dollars  and,  accordingly,  the  Company’s  results  of 
operations  are  impacted  by  fluctuations  in  exchange  rates  that  affect  the  translation  of  its  revenues  and  expenses  denominated  in 
foreign currencies into United States dollars for purposes of reporting its consolidated financial results. Assets and liabilities recorded 
in foreign currencies on the books of foreign subsidiaries are translated at the exchange rate on the balance sheet date. Revenues, costs 
and  expenses  are  translated  at  average  rates  of  exchange  during  the  year.  Translation  adjustments  resulting  from  this  process  are 
charged  or  credited  to  the  accumulated  other  comprehensive  (loss)  income  (“AOCI”)  component  of  stockholders’  equity.  The 
Company  is  subject  to  foreign  currency  transaction  risk  for  fluctuations  in  exchange  rates  during  the  period  of  time  between  the 
consummation and cash settlement of a transaction. The Company earns revenue from its service contracts over a period of several 
months and, in some cases, over a period of several years. Accordingly, exchange rate fluctuations during this period may affect the 
Company’s profitability with respect to such contracts. 

For  operations  outside  the  United  States  that  are  considered  to  be  highly  inflationary  or  where  the  United  States  dollar  is 
designated as the functional currency, monetary assets and liabilities are remeasured using end-of-period exchange rates, whereas non-
monetary accounts are remeasured using historical exchange rates, and all remeasurement and transaction adjustments are recognized 
in  other  expense  (income),  net.  Other  expense  (income),  net,  includes  foreign  currency  net  losses  for  2018,  2017  and  2016  of 
approximately  $8  million,  $40  million  and  $6  million,  respectively.  The  higher  foreign  currency  losses  in  2017  were  primarily  the 
result of the combination of changes in intercompany loan balances from corporate legal entity integration and a weaker U.S. dollar.

Cash Equivalents 

The Company considers all highly liquid investments with an initial maturity of three months or less when purchased to be 

cash equivalents. 

Investments in Marketable Securities  

Investments  in  marketable  securities  are  classified  as  either  trading  or  available-for-sale  and  measured  at  fair  market  value. 
Realized and unrealized gains and losses on available-for-sale and trading securities are included in other expense (income), net, on 
the accompanying consolidated statements of income. 

Equity Method Investments 

The  Company’s  investments  in  and  advances  to  unconsolidated  affiliates  are  accounted  for  under  the  equity  method  if  the 
Company  exercises  significant  influence  or  has  an  investment  in  a  limited  partnership  that  is  considered  to  be  greater  than  minor. 
These  investments  and  advances  are  classified  as  investments  in  and  advances  to  unconsolidated  affiliates  on  the  accompanying 
consolidated balance sheets. The Company records its pro rata share of the earnings, adjusted for accretion of basis difference, of these 
investments in equity in earnings (losses) of unconsolidated affiliates on the accompanying consolidated statements of income. The 
Company  reviews  its  investments  in  and  advances  to  unconsolidated  affiliates  for  impairment  whenever  events  or  changes  in 
circumstances indicate that the carrying amounts may not be recoverable.

Derivatives 

The  Company  uses  derivative  instruments  to  manage  exposures  to  interest  rates  and  foreign  currencies.  Derivatives  are 
recorded on the balance sheet at fair value at each balance sheet date utilizing pricing models for non-exchange-traded contracts. At 
inception,  the  Company  designates  whether  or  not  the  derivative  instrument  is  an  effective  hedge  of  an  asset,  liability  or  firm 
commitment  which  is  then  classified  as  either  a  cash  flow  hedge  or  a  fair  value  hedge.  If  determined  to  be  an  effective  cash  flow 
hedge,  changes  in  the  fair  value  of  the  derivative  instrument  are  recorded  as  a  component  of  AOCI  until  realized.  The  Company 
includes the impact from these hedges in the same line item as the hedged item on the consolidated statements of cash flows. Changes 
in fair value of effective fair value hedges are recorded in earnings as an offset to the changes in the fair value of the related hedged 
item. Hedge ineffectiveness, if any, is immediately recognized in earnings. Changes in the fair values of derivative instruments that 
are  not  an  effective  hedge  are  recognized  in  earnings.  When  it  is  probable  that  a  hedged  forecasted  transaction  will  not  occur,  the 
Company discontinues hedge accounting for the affected portion of the forecasted transaction and reclassifies gains or losses that were 
accumulated in AOCI to earnings in other expense (income), net for foreign exchange derivatives and interest expense for interest rate 
derivatives  on  the  consolidated  statements  of  income.  Cash  flows  are  classified  consistent  with  the  underlying  hedged  item.  The 
Company  has  entered,  and  may  in  the  future  enter,  into  derivative  contracts  (caps,  swaps,  forwards,  calls  or  puts,  warrants,  for 
example) related to its debt, investments in marketable equity securities and forecasted foreign currency transactions. 

75

Accrued Loyalty

The  Company  owns  businesses  that  manage  co-pay  reimbursements  on  behalf  of  its  pharmaceutical  customers.  These 
customers prefund the reimbursements and the Company includes this cash on its balance sheet. The Company draws on this cash to 
pay pharmacies as consumers use these programs. Accrued loyalty was $186 million and $143 million as of December 31, 2018 and 
2017, respectively, and included within accrued expenses on the consolidated balance sheet.

Allowance for Doubtful Accounts 

The  Company’s  allowance  for  doubtful  accounts  is  determined  based  on  a  variety  of  factors  that  affect  the  potential 
collectability of the related receivables, including length of time the receivables are past due, client credit ratings, financial stability of 
the client, specific one-time events and client payment history. In addition, in circumstances where the Company is made aware of a 
specific client’s inability to meet its financial obligations, a specific allowance is established. The accounts are individually evaluated 
on a regular basis and reserves are established as deemed appropriate based on the above criteria. 

Receivables Financing Facility 

Advances  received  under  the  Company’s  receivables  financing  facility  are  accounted  for  as  borrowings  secured  by  the 
receivables and included in net cash provided by financing activities. The Company services the collateralized accounts receivables 
and the cash flows for the underlying receivables are included in cash provided by operating activities. The collateralized accounts 
receivables are included in trade accounts receivable and unbilled services, net. 

Business Combinations 

Business  combinations  are  accounted  for  using  the  acquisition  method  of  accounting.  The  identifiable  assets  acquired,  the 
liabilities  assumed,  and  any  non-controlling  interest  in  the  acquiree  are  recorded  at  their  estimated  fair  values  on  the  date  of  the 
acquisition. Goodwill represents the excess of the purchase price over the estimated fair value of the net assets acquired, including the 
amount  assigned  to  identifiable  intangible  assets.  When  a  business  combination  involves  contingent  consideration,  the  Company 
recognizes  a  liability  equal  to  the  estimated  fair  value  of  the  contingent  consideration  obligation  at  the  date  of  the  acquisition. 
Subsequent changes in the estimated fair value of the contingent consideration are recognized in earnings in the period of the change. 
Acquisition-related costs are expensed as incurred. The consolidated financial statements include the results of operations of business 
combinations since the acquisition date. 

Long-Lived Assets 

Property  and  equipment  are  stated  at  cost  and  are  depreciated  using  the  straight-line  method  over  the  shorter  of  the  asset’s 

estimated useful life or the lease term, if related to leased property, as follows: 

Buildings and leasehold improvements
Equipment
Furniture and fixtures
Transportation equipment

3 - 40 years
3 - 10 years
5 - 10 years
3 - 20 years

Definite-lived  identifiable  intangible  assets  are  amortized  primarily  using  an  accelerated  method  that  reflects  the  pattern  in 

which the Company expects to benefit from the use of the asset over its estimated remaining useful life as follows:

Trademarks and trade names
Contract backlog and client relationships
Software and related assets
Databases
Non-compete agreements and other

1 - 17 years
1 - 25 years
1 - 9 years
1 - 9 years
2 - 5 years

Goodwill and indefinite-lived identifiable intangible assets, which consist of a trade name, are not amortized but evaluated for 

impairment annually, or more frequently if events or changes in circumstances indicate an impairment. 

76

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Included  in  software  and  related  items  is  the  capitalized  cost  of  internal-use  software  used  in  supporting  the  Company’s 
business. Qualifying costs incurred during the application development stage are capitalized and amortized over their estimated useful 
lives. Costs are capitalized from completion of the preliminary project stage and when it is considered probable that the software will 
be used to perform its intended function, up until the time the software is placed into service. The Company recognized $179 million, 
$134 million and $44 million of amortization expense in 2018, 2017 and 2016, respectively, related to software and related assets. 

The carrying values of property, equipment and intangible and other long-lived assets are reviewed for recoverability if the 
facts and circumstances suggest that a potential impairment may have occurred. If this review indicates that carrying values will not be 
recoverable,  as determined based  on undiscounted  cash flow  projections,  the Company  will record  an  impairment  charge  to  reduce 
carrying  values  to  estimated  fair  value.  There  were  no  impairments  recognized  in  2018.  See  Note  8  for  information  regarding  the 
impairment charges recognized in 2017 and 2016. 

Revenue Recognition 

The Company’s arrangements are primarily service contracts that range in duration from a few months to several years. The 
Company recognizes revenue when control of these services is transferred to the customer for an amount, referred to as the transaction 
price, that reflects the consideration to which the Company is expected to be entitled in exchange for those goods or services.  The 
Company  determines  revenue  recognition  utilizing  the  following  five  steps:  (1)  identification  of  the  contract  with  a  customer,  (2) 
identification  of  the  performance  obligations  in  the  contract  (promised  goods  or  services  that  are  distinct),  (3)  determination  of  the 
transaction price, (4) allocation of the transaction price to the performance obligations, and (5) recognition of revenue when, or as, the 
Company transfers control of the product or service for each performance obligation. Cash payments made to customers as incentives 
to induce customers to enter into service agreements with the Company are amortized as a reduction of revenue over the period the 
services are performed. The Company records revenues net of any tax assessments by governmental authorities, such as value added 
taxes, that are imposed on and concurrent with specific revenue generating transactions. 

The Company derives the majority of its revenues in the Technology & Analytics Solutions segment from various information 
and technology service offerings. Information offerings (primarily under fixed-price contracts) typically include multiple performance 
obligations including an ongoing subscription-based deliverable for which revenue is recognized ratably as earned over the contract 
period, and/or a one-time deliverable of data offerings for which revenue is recognized upon delivery. The customer is able to benefit 
from the provision of data as it is received. The Company’s subscription arrangements typically have terms ranging from one to three 
years and are generally non-cancelable and do not contain refund-type provisions. Technology services offerings may contain multiple 
performance obligations consisting of a mix of small and large-scale services and consulting projects, multi-year outsourcing contracts 
and  Software-as-a-Service  (“SaaS”)  arrangements.  These  arrangements  typically  have  terms  ranging  from  several  weeks  to  three 
years,  with  a  majority  having  terms  of  one  year  or  less.  For  arrangements  that  include  multiple  performance  obligations,  the 
transaction  price  is allocated  to  the  identified  performance  obligations  based  on  their  relative  standalone  selling  prices.  For  these 
contracts, the standalone selling prices are based on the Company’s normal pricing practices when sold separately with consideration 
of market conditions and other factors, including customer demographics and geographic location. Revenues for services engagements 
where  the  transfer  of  control  occurs  ratably  over  time  are  recognized  on  a  straight-line  basis  over  the  term  of  the  arrangement. 
Revenues from time and material contracts are recognized based on hours as the services are provided. Revenues from fixed price ad 
hoc  services  and  consulting  contracts  are  recognized  over  the  contract  term  based  on  the  ratio  of  the  number  of  hours  incurred 
for services provided during the period compared to the total estimated hours to be incurred over the entire arrangement (hours-based). 
Technology  services  offerings  meet  the  over  time  criterion,  as  another  party  would  not  need  to  substantially  re-perform  the work 
already completed to satisfy the remaining obligations if the services were migrated.

The  majority  of  the  Company’s  contracts  within  the  Research  &  Development  Solutions  segment  are  service  contracts  for 
clinical research that represent a single performance obligation. The Company provides a significant integration service resulting in a 
combined output, which is clinical trial data that meets the relevant regulatory standards and can be used by the customer to progress 
to the next phase of a clinical trial or solicit approval of a treatment by the applicable regulatory body. The performance obligation is 
satisfied over time as the output is captured in data and documentation that is available for the customer to consume over the course of 
the  arrangement  and  furthers  progress  of  the  clinical  trial.  The  Company  recognizes  revenue  over  time  using  a  cost-based  input 
method  since  there  is  no  single  output  measure  that  would  fairly  depict  the  transfer  of  control  over  the  life  of  the  performance 
obligation. Progress on the performance obligation is measured by the proportion of actual costs incurred to the total costs expected to 
complete  the  contract.  Costs  included  in  the  measure  of  progress  include  direct  labor  and  third-party  costs  (such  as  payments  to 
investigators and travel expenses for the Company’s clinical monitors). This cost-based method of revenue recognition requires the 
Company  to  make  estimates  of  costs  to  complete  its  projects  on  an  ongoing  basis.  Significant  judgment  is  required  to  evaluate 
assumptions  related  to  these  estimates.  The  effect  of  revisions  to  estimates  related  to  the  transaction  price  or  costs  to  complete  a 
project are recorded in the period in which the estimate is revised. Most contracts may be terminated upon 30 to 90 days notice by the 
customer; however, in the event of termination, most contracts require payment for services rendered through the date of termination, 
as well as for subsequent services rendered to close out the contract.  

77

The Company derives the majority of its revenues in its Contract Sales & Medical Solutions segment by providing contract 
sales  and  market  access  professionals  to  customers  within  the  biopharmaceutical  industry  on  a  fee-for-service  basis.  Some  of  the 
Company’s Contract Sales & Medical Solutions contracts contain multiple performance obligations with distinct promises including 
recruiting, sales force automation and deployment of sales representatives. The nature of the terms of these performance obligations 
will  vary  based  on  the  customized  needs  of  the  customer.  For  contracts  that  have  multiple  performance  obligations,  the  standalone 
selling prices of the Company’s performance obligations are not directly observable since they are rarely sold standalone. Therefore, 
the Company estimates the standalone selling prices using an expected cost plus a margin approach under which expected costs of 
satisfying a performance obligation are forecasted and added to an appropriate margin for that distinct good or service. The Company 
utilizes  a  single  measure  of  progress  for  each  performance  obligation  to  recognize  revenue,  which  includes  deployment  of  sales 
representatives  based  on  employee  days  worked;  recruiting  based  on  candidates  recruited;  sales  force  automation  set-up  based  on 
hours worked; and sales force automation hosting and maintenance based on usage. These services meet the over time criterion as the 
customer  consumes  the  benefit  as  activities  are  performed  and  another  party  would  not  need  to  substantially  re-perform  the  work 
already completed to satisfy the remaining obligations if the services were migrated to another party.

Variable Consideration

In some cases, contracts provide for variable consideration that is contingent upon the occurrence of uncertain future events, 
such  as  performance  incentives  (including  royalty  payments  or  penalty  clauses  that  can  either  increase  or  decrease  the  transaction 
price). Variable consideration is estimated at the expected value or at the most likely amount depending on the type of consideration. 
Estimated amounts are included in the transaction price to the extent it is probable that a significant reversal of cumulative revenue 
recognized  will  not  occur  when  the  uncertainty  associated  with  the  variable  consideration  is  resolved.  The  estimate  of  variable 
consideration and determination of whether to include estimated amounts in the transaction price are based largely on an assessment 
of its anticipated performance and all information (historical, current and forecasted) that is reasonably available to the Company and 
reevaluated each reporting period. 

Reimbursed Expenses 

The  Company  includes  reimbursed  expenses  in  revenues  and  costs  of  revenue  as  the  Company  is  primarily  responsible  for 
fulfilling the promise to provide the specified service, including the integration of the related services into a combined output to the 
customer, which are inseparable from the integrated service. These costs include such items as payments to investigators and travel 
expenses for the Company’s clinical monitors and sales representatives, over which the Company has discretion in establishing prices. 
The Company controls the good or service and has inventory risk on contractually reimbursable expenses, as sometimes the Company 
is unable to obtain reimbursement from the customer for costs incurred.

Change Orders

Changes  in  the  scope  of  work  are  common,  especially  under  long-term  contracts,  and  generally  result  in  a  change  in 
transaction price. Change orders are evaluated on a contract-by-contract basis to determine if they should be accounted for as a new 
contract  or  as  part  of  the  existing  contract.  Generally,  services  from  change  orders  are  not  distinct  from  the  original  performance 
obligation. As a result, the effect that the contract modification has on the contract revenue, and measure of progress, is recognized as 
an adjustment to revenue when it occurs.

Costs of Revenue

Costs  of  revenue  include  (i)  compensation  and  benefits  for  billable  employees  and  personnel  involved  in  production,  data 
management and delivery, and the costs of acquiring and processing data for the Company’s information offerings; (ii) costs of staff 
directly involved with delivering technology-related services offerings and engagements, and the costs of data purchased specifically 
for  technology  services  engagements;  (iii)  reimbursed  expenses  that  are  comprised  principally  of  payments  to  investigators  who 
oversee  clinical  trials  and  travel  expenses  for  the  Company’s  clinical  monitors  and  sales  representatives;  and  (iv)  other  expenses 
directly related to service contracts such as courier fees, laboratory supplies, professional services and travel expenses.

Trade Receivables, Unbilled Services and Unearned Income

In general, billings and payments are established by contractual provisions including predetermined payment schedules, which 
may  or  may  not  correspond  to  the  timing  of  the  transfer  of  control  of  the  Company’s  services  under  the  contract.  In  general,  the 
Company’s intention in its invoicing (payment terms) is to maintain cash neutrality over the life of the contract. Upfront payments, 
when they occur, are intended to cover certain expenses the Company incurs at the beginning of the contract. Neither the Company 
nor its customers view such upfront payments and contracted payment schedules as a means of financing. Unbilled services primarily 
arise  from  long-term  contracts  when  a  cost-based  or  hours-based  input  method  of  revenue  recognition  is  utilized  and  revenue 
recognized exceeds the amount billed to the customer.

78

Unearned income consists of advance payments and billings in excess of revenue recognized. As the contracted services are 
subsequently  performed  and  the  associated  revenue  is  recognized,  the  unearned  income  balance  is  reduced  by  the  amount  of  the 
revenue recognized during the period. Unearned income is classified as a current liability on the condensed consolidated balance sheet 
as the Company expects to recognize the associated revenue in less than one year.

Concentration of Credit Risk 

Financial  instruments  that  subject  the  Company  to  credit  risk  primarily  consist  of  cash  and  cash  equivalents,  marketable 
securities  and  accounts  receivable.  The  Company  maintains  its  cash  and  cash  equivalent  balances  with  high-quality  financial 
institutions and, consequently, the Company believes that such funds are subject to minimal credit risk. Investment policies have been 
implemented that limit purchases of marketable securities to investment grade securities. Substantially all revenues for Technology & 
Analytics Solutions, Research & Development Solutions and Contract Sales & Medical Solutions are earned by performing services 
under  contracts  with  various  pharmaceutical,  biotechnology,  medical  device  and  healthcare  companies.  The  concentration  of  credit 
risk is equal to the outstanding accounts receivable and unbilled services balances, less the unearned income related thereto, and such 
risk  is  subject  to  the  financial  and  industry  conditions  of  the  Company’s  clients.  The  Company  does  not  require  collateral  or  other 
securities to support client receivables. Credit losses have been immaterial and reasonably within management’s expectations.

Restructuring Costs 

Restructuring  costs,  which  primarily  include  termination  benefits  and  facility  closure  costs,  are  recorded  at  estimated  fair 
value.  Key  assumptions  in  determining  the  restructuring  costs  include  the  terms  and  payments  that  may  be  negotiated  to  terminate 
certain contractual obligations and the timing of employees leaving the Company. 

Merger Related Costs 

Merger related costs include the direct and incremental costs associated with business combinations including (i) acquisition 
related  costs  such  as  investment  banking,  legal,  accounting  and  consulting  fees  (see  Note  14),  (ii) incremental  compensation  costs 
triggered under change in control provisions in executive employment agreements, (iii) compensation and related costs of employees 
100%  dedicated  to  merger-related  integration  activities  and  (iv) severance  and  other  termination  costs  associated  with  redundant 
employees. There were no merger related costs recognized in 2018 or 2017. During 2016, the Company recognized $87 million of 
merger  related  costs,  which  includes  $36  million  of  acquisition  related  costs.  All  of  these  costs  are  related  to  the  Merger.  Merger 
related  costs  for  all  other  business  combinations  have  been  immaterial  and  are  included  within  selling,  general  and  administrative 
expenses on the consolidated statements of income. 

Legal Costs

Legal costs are expensed as incurred. 

Debt Fees

Fees incurred to issue debt are generally deferred and amortized as a component of interest expense over the estimated term of 

the related debt using the effective interest rate method. 

Contingencies 

The Company records accruals for claims, suits, investigations and proceedings when it is probable that a liability has been 
incurred and the amount of the loss can be reasonably estimated. The Company reviews claims, suits, investigations and proceedings 
at least quarterly and records or adjusts accruals related to such matters to reflect the impact and status of any settlements, rulings, 
advice  of  counsel  or  other  information  pertinent  to  a  particular  matter.  Legal  costs  associated  with  contingencies  are  charged  to 
expense as incurred. 

The Company is party to legal proceedings incidental to its business. While the outcome of these matters could differ from 
management’s expectations, the Company does not believe the resolution of these matters will have a material adverse effect to the 
Company’s financial statements. 

79

Income Taxes 

Income tax expense includes United States (“U.S.”) federal, state and international income taxes. Certain items of income and 
expense are not reported in income tax returns and financial statements in the same year. The income tax effects of these differences 
are  reported  as  deferred  income  taxes.  Valuation  allowances  are  provided  to  reduce  the  related  deferred  income  tax  assets  to  an 
amount which will, more likely than not, be realized. As a result of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (the “Tax Act”) enacted on December 
22, 2017, the Company no longer considers the undistributed earnings of its foreign subsidiaries to be indefinitely reinvested and will 
record deferred income taxes on these earnings, as applicable. The Company has recorded its U.S. deferred taxes based on the Federal 
corporate income tax rate of 21%. The Company accounts for Global Intangible Low Taxed Income (“GILTI”) and the Base Erosion 
and Anti-Abuse Tax (“BEAT”) as period costs if and when incurred. Interest and penalties related to unrecognized income tax benefits 
are recognized as a component of income tax expense as discussed further in Note 16. Additionally, as a result of the Tax Act the 
Company is required to make an accounting policy election in relation to the reduction or loss of cash tax savings from net operating 
losses  in  its  valuation  allowance  assessments,  by  either  electing  the  tax  law  ordering  approach  or  the  incremental  cash  tax  savings 
approach. The Company has made the election to use the incremental cash tax savings approach as its policy.

Pensions and Other Postretirement Benefits 

The Company provides retirement benefits to certain employees, including defined benefit pension plans and postretirement 
medical plans. The determination of benefit obligations and expense is based on actuarial models. In order to measure benefit costs 
and obligations using these models, critical assumptions are made with regard to the discount rate, expected return on plan assets, cash 
balance crediting rate, lump sum conversion rate and the assumed rate of compensation increases. In addition, retiree medical care cost 
trend rates are a key assumption used exclusively in determining costs for the Company’s postretirement health care and life insurance 
benefit plans. Management reviews these critical assumptions at least annually. Other assumptions involve demographic factors such 
as  turnover,  retirement  and  mortality  rates.  Management  reviews  these  assumptions  periodically  and  updates  them  when  their 
experience deems it appropriate to do so. 

The  discount  rate  is  the  rate  at  which  the  benefit  obligations  could  be  effectively  settled  and  is  determined  annually  by 
management. For United States plans, the discount rate is based on results of a modeling process in which the plans’ expected cash 
flow (determined on a projected benefit obligation basis) is matched with spot rates developed from a yield curve comprised of high-
grade (Moody’s Aa and above, or Standard and Poor’s AA and above) non-callable corporate bonds to develop the present value of 
the expected cash flow, and then determining the single rate (discount rate), which when applied to the expected cash flow derives that 
same present value. In the United Kingdom specifically, the discount rate is set based on the yields on a universe of high quality non-
callable corporate bonds denominated in the British Pound, appropriate to the duration of plan liabilities. For the non-United States 
plans, the discount rate is based on the current yield of an index of high quality corporate bonds. 

The Company estimates the service and interest cost components of net periodic benefit cost for the Company’s United States 
and United Kingdom pension benefit plans by utilizing a full yield curve approach in the estimation of these components by applying 
the specific spot rates along the yield curve used in the determination of the benefit obligation to each of the underlying projected cash 
flows based on time until payment. 

Under the United States qualified retirement plan, participants have a notional retirement account that increases with pay and 
investment credits. The rate used to determine the investment credit (cash balance crediting rate) varies monthly. At retirement, the 
account is converted to a monthly retirement benefit. 

In  selecting  an  expected  return  on  plan  asset  assumption,  the  Company  considers  the  returns  being  earned  by  each  plan 
investment category in the fund, the rates of return expected to be available for reinvestment and long-term economic forecasts for the 
type  of  investments  held  by  the  plan.  The  actual  return  on  plan  assets  will  vary  from  year  to  year  versus  this  assumption.  The 
Company believes it is appropriate to use long-term expected forecasts in selecting the expected return on plan assets. As such, there 
can  be  no  assurance  that  the  Company’s  actual  return  on  plan  assets  will  approximate  the  long-term  expected  forecasts.  While  the 
Company  believes  that  the  assumptions  used  are  reasonable,  differences  in  actual  experience  or  changes  in  assumptions  may 
materially affect its pension and postretirement benefit obligations and future expense. 

The  Company’s  estimated  long-term  rate  of  return  on  plan  assets  is  based  on  the  principles  of  capital  market  theory  that 
maintain  that  over  the  long  run,  prudent  investment  risk  taking  is  rewarded  with  incremental  returns  and  that  combining  non-
correlated assets can maximize risk adjusted portfolio returns. Long-term return estimates are developed by asset category based on 
actual class return data, historical relationships between asset classes and risk factors and peer plan data. Long-term return estimates 
for  the  Company’s  United  Kingdom  pension  plans  are  developed  by  asset  category  based  on  actual  class  return  data,  historical 
relationships between asset classes and risk factors. 

80

The  Company  utilizes  a  corridor  approach  to  amortizing  unrecognized  gains  and  losses  in  the  pension  and  postretirement 
benefit plans. Amortization occurs when the accumulated unrecognized net gain or loss balance exceeds the criterion of 10% of the 
larger  of  the  beginning  balances  of  the  projected  benefit  obligation  or  the  market-related  value  of  the  plan  assets.  The  excess 
unrecognized gain or loss balance is then amortized using the straight-line method over the average remaining service life of active 
employees expected to receive benefits. 

Stock-based Compensation 

The  Company  accounts  for  stock-based  compensation  for  stock  options  and  stock  appreciation  rights  under  the  fair  value 
method and uses the Black-Scholes-Merton model to estimate the value of such stock-based awards granted to its employees and non-
executive directors. Expected volatility is based upon the historical volatility of a peer group for a period equal to the expected term, 
as the Company does not have adequate history to calculate its own volatility and believes the expected volatility will approximate the 
historical volatility of the peer group. The Company does not currently anticipate paying dividends. The expected term represents the 
period of time the grants are expected to be outstanding. The risk-free interest rate is based on the United States Treasury yield curve 
in effect at the time of the grant. 

The  Company  accounts  for  its  stock-based  compensation  for  restricted  stock  awards  and  restricted  stock  units  based  on  the 
closing market price of the Company’s common stock on the date of grant. The Company accounts for its stock-based compensation 
for performance awards based on the closing market price of the Company’s common stock on the date of grant and for performance 
awards that include market conditions, upon the Monte Carlo simulation model. 

Earnings Per Share 

The  calculation  of  earnings  per  share  is  based  on  the  weighted  average  number  of  common  shares  or  common  stock 
equivalents outstanding during the applicable period. The dilutive effect of common stock equivalents is excluded from basic earnings 
per  share  and  is  included  in  the  calculation  of  diluted  earnings  per  share.  Potentially  dilutive  securities  include  outstanding  stock 
options and unvested restricted stock units, restricted stock and performance awards. Employee equity share options, restricted stock 
units, restricted stock, performance awards and similar equity instruments granted by the Company are treated as potential common 
shares outstanding in computing diluted earnings per share. Diluted shares outstanding are calculated based on the average share price 
for  each  fiscal  period  using  the  treasury  stock  method.  Under  the  treasury  stock  method,  the  amount  the  employee  must  pay  for 
exercising stock options, the amount of compensation cost for future service that the Company has not yet recognized, and the amount 
of benefits that would be recorded in additional paid-in capital when the award becomes deductible for tax purposes are assumed to be 
used to repurchase shares. 

Treasury Stock 

The Company records treasury stock purchases under the cost method. Upon reissuance of treasury stock, amounts in excess 
of  the  acquisition  cost  are  credited  to  additional  paid  in  capital.  If  the  Company  reissues  treasury  stock  at  an  amount  below  its 
acquisition cost and additional paid in capital associated with prior treasury stock transactions is insufficient to cover the difference 
between the acquisition cost and the reissue price, this difference is recorded in retained earnings. 

Recently Issued Accounting Standards 

Accounting pronouncements adopted 

In June 2018, the FASB issued new accounting guidance that largely aligns the accounting for share-based payment awards 
issued to employees and nonemployees. Under the new guidance, the existing employee guidance will apply to nonemployee share-
based transactions (as long as the transaction is not effectively a form of financing), with the exception of specific guidance related to 
the attribution of compensation cost. The cost of nonemployee awards will continue to be recorded as if the grantor had paid cash for 
the goods or services. The Company adopted this new accounting guidance on January 1, 2018. The adoption of this new accounting 
guidance did not have a material effect on the Company’s consolidated financial statements.

81

In March 2017, the FASB issued new accounting guidance that requires the service cost component of net periodic benefit cost 
be presented in the same income statement line item as other employee compensation costs and requires that the other components of 
net periodic benefit expense be recognized in the non-operating section of the income statement (“ASU 2017-07”). In addition, only 
the service cost component of net periodic benefit expense is eligible for capitalization when applicable. The Company adopted this 
new accounting guidance on January 1, 2018. The Company retrospectively adjusted the presentation of the other components of net 
periodic  pension  and  postretirement  benefit  cost  in  the  income  statements.  See  “Adjustments  to  Previously  Reported  Financial 
Statements from the Adoption of Accounting Pronouncements” included elsewhere in Note 1 for further details regarding the effects 
of the adoption of ASU 2017-07.

In January 2017, the FASB issued new accounting guidance that changes the definition of a business to clarify when a set of 
assets does not  constitute a business. Under the new definition, when substantially all of the fair value of gross assets acquired (or 
disposed of) is concentrated in a single identifiable asset or a group of similar identifiable assets, the set of assets is generally not a 
business. The Company adopted this new accounting guidance on January 1, 2018. The adoption of this new accounting guidance did 
not have a material effect on the Company’s consolidated financial statements.

In  October  2016,  the  FASB  issued  new  accounting  guidance  that  requires  the  income  tax  consequences  of  an  intra-entity 
transfer  of  an  asset,  other  than  inventory,  to  be  recognized  when  the  transfer  occurs.  The  Company  adopted  this  new  accounting 
guidance  on  January  1,  2018.  The  adoption  of  this  new  accounting  guidance  did  not  have  a  material  effect  on  the  Company’s 
consolidated financial statements.

In January 2016, the FASB issued new accounting guidance that modifies how entities measure equity investments and present 
changes in the fair value of financial liabilities (“ASU 2016-01”). The Company adopted this new accounting guidance on January 1, 
2018.  The  adoption  of  this  new  accounting  guidance  did  not  have  a  material  effect  on  the  Company’s  consolidated  financial 
statements. See Note 4 for additional information regarding the adoption of ASU 2016-01, “Financial Instruments – Overall (Topic 
825-10): Recognition and Measurement of Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities.”

In May 2014, the FASB and the International Accounting Standards Board issued a converged standard on the recognition of 
revenue from contracts with customers (“ASU 2014-09”). The objective of the new standard is to establish a single comprehensive 
revenue recognition model that is designed to create greater comparability of financial statements across industries and jurisdictions. 
Under  the  new  standard,  revenue  is  recognized  to  depict  the  transfer  of  goods  or  services  to  customers  in  amounts  that  reflect  the 
consideration to which the company expects to be entitled in exchange for those goods or services. The Company adopted ASU 2014-
09  on  January  1,  2018  using  the  full  retrospective  method.  See  “Revenue  Recognition”  and  “Adjustments  to  Previously  Reported 
Financial  Statements  from  the  Adoption  of  Accounting  Pronouncements”  included  elsewhere  in  Note  1  for  further  discussion 
regarding the effects of the adoption of ASU 2014-09.

Adjustments to Previously Reported Financial Statements from the Adoption of Accounting Pronouncements

The following table presents the effect of the adoption of ASU 2014-09 on the Company’s consolidated balance sheet as of 

December 31, 2017:

(in millions)
Trade accounts receivable and unbilled services, net
Total current assets
Deferred income taxes
Total assets
Unearned income
Total current liabilities
Deferred income taxes
Total liabilities
Retained earnings
Accumulated other comprehensive income
Equity attributable to IQVIA Holdings Inc.’s stockholders
Total stockholders’ equity
Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity

82

  $

December 31, 2017

As Previously
Reported

As Recast

 $

1,993 
3,450 
98 
22,742 
733 
2,904 
918 
14,384 
655 
46 
8,109 
8,358 
22,742 

2,097 
3,554 
109 
22,857 
985 
3,156 
895 
14,613 
538 
49 
7,995 
8,244 
22,857  

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
  
 
 
  
 
 
  
 
 
  
 
 
  
 
 
  
 
 
  
 
 
  
 
 
  
 
 
  
 
 
  
The  following  table  presents  the  effect  of  the  adoption  of  ASU  2014-09  and  ASU  2017-07  on  the  Company’s  consolidated 

statements of income for the years ended December 31, 2017 and 2016:

Year Ended December 31,

2017

2016

As Previously
Reported

As Recast

As Previously
Reported

As Recast

  $

(in millions, except per share amounts)
Total revenues
Cost of revenues, exclusive of depreciation and amortization
Selling, general and administrative expenses
Income from operations
Other expense (income), net
Income before income taxes and equity in earnings of
    unconsolidated affiliates
Income tax (benefit) expense
Income before equity in earnings of unconsolidated affiliates
Net income
Net income attributable to IQVIA Holdings Inc.
Earnings per share attributable to common stockholders:

 $

9,739 
6,301 
1,605 
719 
30 

331 
(987)
1,318 
1,328 
1,309 

 $

9,702 
6,301 
1,622 
665 
13 

294 
(992)
1,286 
1,296 
1,277 

 $

6,878 
4,750 
1,011 
642 
(8)

479 
345 
134 
130 
115 

Basic
Diluted

  $
  $

6.01 
5.88 

 $
 $

5.86 
5.74 

 $
 $

0.77 
0.76 

 $
 $

6,815 
4,748 
1,016 
576 
(11)

416 
325 
91 
87 
72 

0.48 
0.47  

The  cumulative  effect  of  adopting  the  above  standards  is  reflected  in  the  consolidated  statements  of  stockholders’  equity 
(deficit) as an adjustment to the December 31, 2015 balance. Adoption of the above standards had no impact to cash from or used in 
operating, financing, or investing activities on the Company’s consolidated statements of cash flows for the years ended December 31, 
2017 or 2016.

Accounting pronouncements being evaluated 

In August 2018, the FASB issued new accounting guidance that clarifies and aligns the accounting for implementation costs 
for  hosting  arrangements  with  the  requirements  for  capitalizing  implementation  costs  incurred  to  develop  or  obtain  internal-use 
software.  The  new  accounting  guidance  will  be  effective  for  the  Company  on  January  1,  2020.  Early  adoption  is  permitted.  The 
Company is currently evaluating the impact of this new accounting guidance on its consolidated financial statements.

In  August  2018,  the  FASB  issued  new  accounting  guidance  that  modifies  the  disclosure  requirements  for  employers  that 
sponsor  defined  benefit  pension  or  other  postretirement  plans.  The  new  accounting  guidance  will  be  effective  for  the  Company  on 
January 1, 2021. Early adoption is permitted. The Company is currently evaluating the impact of this new accounting guidance on its 
consolidated financial statements.

In August 2018, the FASB issued new accounting guidance that modifies the disclosure requirements in Topic 820, Fair Value 
Measurement,  by  removing  certain  disclosure  requirements  related  to  the  fair  value  hierarchy,  modifying  existing  disclosure 
requirements  related  to  measurement  uncertainty  and  adding  new  disclosure  requirements,  such  as  disclosing  the  changes  in 
unrealized gains and losses for the period included in other comprehensive income for recurring Level 3 fair value measurements held 
at the end of the reporting period and disclosing the range and weighted average of significant unobservable inputs used to develop 
Level 3 fair value measurements. The new accounting guidance will be effective for the Company on January 1, 2020. Early adoption 
is permitted. The Company is currently evaluating the impact of this new accounting guidance on its consolidated financial statements.

In  February  2018,  the  FASB  issued  new  accounting  guidance  that  will  allow  a  reclassification  from  accumulated  other 
comprehensive  income  to  retained  earnings  for  “stranded  income  tax  effects”  resulting  from  the  Tax  Act.  Because  the  income 
statement impact related to the reduction of the historical corporate income tax rate under the Tax Act is required to be included in 
income tax expense, the guidance acknowledges that the income tax effects of items within accumulated other comprehensive income 
(“stranded income tax effects”) do not reflect the appropriate income tax rate. The new accounting guidance will be effective for the 
Company on January 1, 2019. The Company is still considering the impacts of this guidance and expects to elect the option to not 
reclassify  from  accumulated  other  comprehensive  income  to  retained  earnings  for  “stranded  income  tax  effects”  resulting  from  the 
Tax Act.

83

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
   
  
  
  
   
  
  
  
   
  
  
  
   
  
  
  
 
 
  
  
  
   
  
  
  
   
  
  
  
   
  
  
  
   
  
  
  
   
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
In August 2017, the FASB issued new accounting guidance that will allow more financial and nonfinancial hedging strategies 
to be eligible for hedge accounting. It also amends the presentation and disclosure requirements and changes how companies assess 
hedge effectiveness. It is intended to more closely align hedge accounting with risk management strategies, simplify the application of 
hedge accounting, and increase transparency as to the scope and results of hedging programs. The new accounting guidance will be 
effective for the Company on January 1, 2019. The adoption of this new accounting guidance is not expected to have a material effect 
on the Company’s consolidated financial statements.

In January 2017, the FASB issued new accounting guidance that simplifies the measurement of goodwill by eliminating the 
step two impairment test. Step two measures a goodwill impairment loss by comparing the implied fair value of goodwill with the 
carrying amount of that goodwill. The new guidance requires a comparison of the Company’s fair value of a reporting unit with the 
carrying  amount  and  the  Company  is  required  to  recognize  an  impairment  charge  for  the  amount  by  which  the  carrying  amount 
exceeds  the  fair  value.  The  new  accounting  guidance  will  be  effective  for  the  Company  on  January  1,  2020.  Early  adoption  is 
permitted. The Company is currently evaluating the impact of this new accounting guidance on its consolidated financial statements.

In  February  2016,  the  FASB  issued  new  accounting  guidance  that  requires  lessees  to  recognize  almost  all  leases  on  their 
balance  sheet  as  a  right-of-use  asset  and  a  lease  liability.  The  income  statement  will  reflect  lease  expense  for  operating  leases,  and 
amortization and interest expense for financing leases. The Company plans to adopt the new standard on its effective date of January 
1, 2019. The Company plans to elect the practical expedients upon transition that will retain the lease classification and initial direct 
costs for any leases that exist prior to adoption of the new guidance. The Company also plans to elect the transition method that allows 
comparative periods to be presented in the year of adoption in accordance with existing guidance. The adoption of the new standard is 
expected to result in an increase in total assets of approximately 2.3% and an increase in total liabilities of approximately 3.2% on the 
Company’s consolidated balance sheet. The adoption of this standard is not expected to result in a material impact on the Company’s 
consolidated results of operations or cash flows. The balance sheet impact of the new standard will be finalized upon adoption in the 
first quarter of 2019 and is therefore subject to change.

2. Revenues by Geography, Concentration of Credit Risk and Remaining Performance Obligations

The Company attributes revenues to geographical region based upon where the services are performed. The following tables 

represent revenues by geographical region and reportable segment for the years ended December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016: 

(in millions)
Revenues:

Americas
Europe and Africa
Asia-Pacific
Total revenues

(in millions)
Revenues:

Americas
Europe and Africa
Asia-Pacific
Total revenues

(in millions)
Revenues:

Americas
Europe and Africa
Asia-Pacific
Total revenues

Technology & 
Analytics Solutions

Research &
Development Solutions

Contract Sales & 
Medical Solutions

Total

Year Ended December 31, 2018

2,087    $
1,520 
530 
4,137    $

2,553    $
1,693 
1,219 
5,465    $

358    $
235 
217 
810    $

4,998 
3,448 
1,966 
10,412  

Technology & 
Analytics Solutions

Research &
Development Solutions

Contract Sales & 
Medical Solutions

Total

Year Ended December 31, 2017

1,801    $
1,372 
509 
3,682    $

2,375    $
1,663 
1,067 
5,105    $

430    $
251 
234 
915    $

Technology & 
Analytics Solutions

Research &
Development Solutions

Contract Sales & 
Medical Solutions

Total

Year Ended December 31, 2016

608    $
392 
148 
1,148    $

2,205    $
1,587 
945 
4,737    $

441    $
240 
249 
930    $

4,606 
3,286 
1,810 
9,702  

3,254 
2,219 
1,342 
6,815  

  $

  $

  $

  $

  $

  $

84

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
    
 
    
 
    
 
  
 
 
  
  
  
 
 
  
  
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
    
 
    
 
    
 
  
 
 
  
  
  
 
 
  
  
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
    
 
    
 
    
 
  
 
 
  
  
  
 
 
  
  
  
No individual country, except for the United States and the United Kingdom, accounted for 10% or more of total revenues for 
the year ended December 31, 2018. For the year ended December 31, 2018, revenues in the United States and the United Kingdom 
accounted for 43% and 11% of total revenue, respectively.

No  individual  country,  except  for  the  United  States,  accounted  for  10%  or  more  of  total  revenues  for  the  years  ended 
December  31,  2017  and  2016.  For  those  periods,  revenue  in  the  United  States  accounted  for  42%  and  43%  of  total  revenues, 
respectively.

No individual customer represented 10% or more of total revenues for the years ended December 31, 2018, 2017 or 2016. 

Transaction Price Allocated to the Remaining Performance Obligations

As of December 31, 2018, approximately $18.6 billion of revenue is expected to be recognized in the future from remaining 
performance  obligations.  The  Company  expects  to  recognize  revenue  on  approximately  35%  of  these  remaining  performance 
obligations over the next twelve months, with the balance recognized thereafter. The customer contract transaction price allocated to 
the remaining performance obligations differs from backlog in that it does not include wholly unperformed contracts under which the 
customer has a unilateral right to cancel the arrangement. The Company applied the practical expedient that permits the omission of 
prior period information about its remaining performance obligations. No other practical expedients were applied.

3. Trade Accounts Receivable, Unbilled Services and Unearned Income

Trade accounts receivables and unbilled services consist of the following:

(in millions)
Trade accounts receivable:

Billed
Unbilled services

Trade accounts receivable and unbilled services

Allowance for doubtful accounts

Trade accounts receivable and unbilled services, net

Unbilled services and unearned income was as follows:

December 31,

2018

2017

  $

  $

1,279    $
1,130   
2,409   
(15)  
2,394    $

1,229 
883 
2,112 
(15)
2,097  

(in millions)
Unbilled services
Unearned income
Net balance

December 31,

2018

2017

Change

  $

  $

1,130 
(1,007)  

 $

123    $

 $

883 
(985)  
(102)   $

247 
(22)
225  

Unbilled services, which is comprised of approximately equal parts of unbilled receivables and contract assets as of December 
31, 2018, increased by $247 million as compared to December 31, 2017. Contract assets are unbilled services for which invoicing is 
based  on  the  timing  of  certain  milestones  related  to  service  contracts  for  clinical  research  whereas  unbilled  receivables  are  billable 
upon the passage of time. Unearned income increased by $22 million over the same period resulting in an increase of $225 million in 
the net balance of unbilled services and unearned income between December 31, 2018 and 2017. These fluctuations are primarily due 
to timing of payments and invoicing related to the Company’s Research & Development Solutions contracts.  

Bad  debt  expense  recognized  on  the  Company’s  receivables  and  unbilled  services  was  de  minimis  for  the  years  ended 

December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016.

85

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
    
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
4. Investments 

Debt, Equity and Other Securities

Current

The Company’s short-term investments in debt, equity and other securities consist primarily of trading investments in mutual 
funds  and  are  measured  at  fair  value  with  realized  and  unrealized  gains  and  losses  recorded  in  other  expense  (income),  net  on  the 
accompanying consolidated statements of income.

Long-term

ASU  2016-01  became  effective  on  January  1,  2018.  ASU  2016-01  requires  entities  to  measure  equity  investments  (except 
those accounted for under the equity method, those that result in consolidation of the investee and certain other investments) at fair 
value and recognize any changes in fair value in net income at the end of each reporting period. Entities can no longer classify equity 
investments  as  trading  or  available  for  sale  and  can  no  longer  recognize  unrealized  holding  gains  and  losses  on  equity  securities 
classified  previously  as  available  for  sale  in other  comprehensive  income  (loss).  Entities  can  no  longer  use  the  cost  method  of 
accounting as it was previously applied for equity securities that do not have readily determinable fair values.

For equity investments that do not have readily determinable fair values and do not qualify for the existing practical expedient 
in Accounting Standards Codification (“ASC”) 820 “Fair Value Measurement” (“ASC 820”) to estimate fair value using the net asset 
value  per  share  of  the  investment,  the  guidance  provides  a  new  measurement  alternative.  Entities  may  choose  to  measure  those 
investments at cost, less any impairment, plus or minus changes resulting from observable price changes in orderly transactions for the 
identical or a similar investment of the same issuer at each reporting period.

During  the  fourth  quarter  of  2018,  the  Company  recorded  the  cumulative adoption  of  ASU  2016-01  within  stockholders’ 

equity.  

In  February  2018,  the  Company  made  an  investment  in  COTA,  Inc.  (“COTA”)  for  a  minority  ownership  interest.  The 
Company’s investment in COTA does not meet the criteria to be accounted for under the equity method or to be consolidated and as a 
result is subject to ASU 2016-01 noted above. The Company’s investment in COTA does not have a readily determinable fair value 
and  does  not  qualify  for  the  existing  practical  expedient  in  ASC  820.  The  Company  has  elected  to  utilize  the  new  measurement 
alternative provided for in ASC 321 “Investments – Equity Securities.” The Company’s minority interest in COTA was $20 million as 
of December 31, 2018.

Unconsolidated Affiliates 

The Company accounts for its investments in and advances to unconsolidated affiliates under the equity method of accounting 
and records its pro rata share of its losses or earnings from these investments in equity in earnings (losses) of unconsolidated affiliates. 
The following is a summary of the Company’s investments in and advances to unconsolidated affiliates: 

(in millions)
NovaQuest Pharma Opportunities Fund III, L.P. (“NQ Fund III”)
NovaQuest Pharma Opportunities Fund IV, L.P. (“NQ Fund IV”)
NovaQuest Pharma Opportunities Fund V, L.P. (“NQ Fund V”)
NovaQuest Private Equity Fund I, L.P. (“NQ PE Fund I”)
CenduitTM (“Cenduit”)
NostraData Pty Ltd. (“NostraData”)
TransMed Systems, Inc. (“TransMed”)
Other

December 31,

2018

2017

  $

  $

30    $
13   
14   
4   
4   
7   
20   
9   
101    $

33 
7 
— 
— 
14 
8 
— 
8 
70  

86

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
NovaQuest Pharma Opportunities Funds 

The Company has committed to invest up to $50 million as a limited partner in NQ Fund III. As of December 31, 2018, the 
Company  has  funded  approximately  $43.5  million  and  has  approximately  $6.5  million  of  remaining  funding  commitments.  As  of 
December 31, 2018 and 2017, the Company had a 10.9% ownership interest in NQ Fund III. 

The Company has committed to invest up to $20 million as a limited partner in NQ Fund IV. As of December 31, 2018, the 
Company  has  funded  approximately  $17.0  million  and  has  approximately  $3.0  million  of  remaining  funding  commitments.  As  of 
December 31, 2018 and 2017, the Company had a 2.5% ownership interest in NQ Fund IV. 

In April 2018, the Company committed to invest up to $45 million and $5 million as a limited partner in NQ Fund V and NQ 
PE  Fund  I,  respectively.  As  of  December 31,  2018,  the  Company  has  funded  approximately  $13.5  million  and  has  approximately 
$31.5 million of remaining funding commitments in NQ Fund V and it has funded approximately $3.8 million and has approximately 
$1.2  million  of  remaining  funding  commitments  in  NQ  PE  Fund  I.  As  of  December 31,  2018,  the  Company  had  a  7.9%  and  5.2% 
ownership interest in NQ Fund V and NQ PE Fund I, respectively. 

Cenduit

In May 2007, the Company and Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc. (“Thermo Fisher”) completed the formation of a joint venture, 
Cenduit.  The  Company  contributed  its  Interactive  Response  Technology  operations  in  India  and  the  United  States.  Thermo  Fisher 
contributed  its  Fisher  Clinical  Services  Interactive  Response  Technology  operations  in  three  locations  —  the  United  Kingdom,  the 
United States and Switzerland. Additionally, each company contributed $4 million in initial capital. The Company and Thermo Fisher 
each own 50% of Cenduit. Cenduit provides project related services to the Company on an as needed basis.

NostraData 

In November 2015, IMS Health made a 10.25 million AUD (approximately 9 million USD) investment in NostraData for a 

24% equity interest. NostraData provides data to the Company on an as needed basis.

TransMed

In August 2018, the Company made a $20 million investment in TransMed and had a 31% equity interest as of December 31, 

2018. 

See Note 18 for information regarding related party transactions. 

Variable Interest Entities 

As of December 31, 2018, the Company’s investments in unconsolidated variable interest entities (“VIEs”) and its estimated 

maximum exposure to loss were as follows: 

 (in millions)
NQ Fund III
NQ Fund IV
NQ Fund V
NQ PE Fund I
Pappas Life Science Ventures V, L.P.

Investments in
Unconsolidated
VIEs

Maximum
Exposure to
Loss

  $

  $

30    $
13   
14   
4   
1   
62    $

37 
16 
46 
5 
5 
109  

The Company has  determined that these  funds are VIEs but that  the  Company  is not  the  primary  beneficiary  as it does  not 
have a controlling financial interest in these funds. However, because the Company has the ability to exercise significant influence, it 
accounts for its investments in these funds under the equity method of accounting and records its pro rata share of earnings and losses 
in  equity  in  earnings  (losses)  of  unconsolidated  affiliates  on  the  accompanying  consolidated  statements  of  income.  The  investment 
assets  of  unconsolidated  VIEs  are  included  in  investments  in  and  advances  to  unconsolidated  affiliates  on  the  accompanying 
consolidated balance sheets. 

87

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
5. Derivatives 

Foreign Exchange Risk Management 

The  Company  transacts  business  in  more  than  100  countries  and  is  subject  to  risks  associated  with  fluctuating  foreign 
exchange  rates.  Accordingly,  the  Company  enters  into  foreign  currency  forward  contracts  to  (i) hedge  certain  forecasted  foreign 
exchange cash flows arising from service contracts (“Service Contract Hedging”) and (ii) hedge non-United States dollar anticipated 
intercompany royalties (“Royalty Hedging”). It is the Company’s policy to enter into foreign currency transactions only to the extent 
necessary to reduce earnings and cash flow volatility associated with foreign exchange rate movements. The Company does not enter 
into foreign currency transactions for investment or speculative purposes. The principal currencies hedged are the Euro, the British 
Pound, the Japanese Yen, the Swiss Franc and the Canadian dollar.  

Service Contract Hedging and Royalty Hedging contracts are designated as hedges and are carried at fair value, with changes 
in the fair value recorded to AOCI. The change in fair value is reclassified from AOCI to earnings in the period in which the hedged 
transaction occurs. These contracts have various expiration dates through November 2019. 

As of December 31, 2018, the Company had open Service Contract Hedging and Royalty Hedging contracts to hedge certain 
forecasted foreign currency cash flow transactions occurring in 2019 with notional amounts totaling $202 million. As of December 31, 
2017, the Company had open Service Contract Hedging and Royalty Hedging contracts to hedge certain forecasted foreign currency 
cash flow transactions occurring in 2018. For accounting purposes these hedges are considered highly effective. As of December 31, 
2018  and  2017,  the  Company  had  recorded  gross  unrealized  gains  (losses)  of  $5  million  and  ($3)  million  and  $5  million  and  ($4) 
million, respectively, related to these contracts. Upon expiration of the hedge instruments in 2019, the Company will reclassify the 
unrealized holding gains and losses on the derivative instruments included in AOCI into earnings. The unrealized gains (losses) are 
included in other current assets and liabilities on the accompanying consolidated balance sheets as of December 31, 2018 and 2017. 

Interest Rate Risk Management 

The  Company  purchases  interest  rate  caps  and  has  entered  into  interest  rate  swap  agreements  for  purposes  of  managing  its 

exposure to interest rate fluctuations. 

In  April  2014,  IMS  Health  purchased  three  United  States dollar  denominated  interest  rate  caps  (“2014  Caps”)  with  a  total 
notional  value  of  $1  billion  at  strike  prices  between  2%  and  3%.  These  caps  commenced  at  various  times  between  April  2014  and 
April 2016 and expire in April 2019. The 2014 Caps are accounted for as cash flow hedges. As of December 31, 2018, only two of the 
2014  Caps  remain  unexpired,  with  a  notional  value  of  $700  million.  IMS  Health  also  entered  into  United  States dollar  and  Euro 
denominated  interest  rate  swap  agreements  in  April  2014  (“2014  Swaps”)  to  hedge  interest  rate  exposure  on  notional  amounts  of 
approximately $600 million of its borrowings. The 2014 Swaps commenced between April and June 2014 and expire at various times 
through March 2021. As of December 31, 2018, only two of the 2014 Swaps remain unexpired, with a notional value of $432 million. 
On these agreements, the Company pays a fixed rate ranging from 1.6% to 2.1% and receives a variable rate of interest equal to the 
greater  of  three-month  United  States dollar  London  Interbank  Offered  Rate  (“LIBOR”),  three-month  Euro  Interbank  Offered  Rate 
(“EURIBOR”)  or  the  equivalent  to  LIBOR,  and  1%.  During  2017,  the  2014  Swaps  ceased  to  be  considered  highly  effective  for 
accounting purposes and as such, the Company discontinued hedge accounting and prospective changes in the fair value of the Swaps 
are recognized in earnings.

On June 3, 2015, the Company entered into seven forward starting interest rate swaps (“2015 Swaps”) in an effort to limit its 
exposure to changes in the variable interest rate on its Senior Secured Credit Facilities (as defined below). Interest on the swaps began 
accruing on June 30, 2016, and the interest rate swaps expire at various times through March 2020. As of December 31, 2018, only 
four of the 2015 Swaps were still outstanding. The Company pays a fixed rate ranging from 1.9% to 2.1% and receives a variable rate 
of interest equal to the three-month LIBOR on these agreements. 

The critical terms of the 2015 Swaps are substantially the same as the underlying borrowings. These interest rate swaps are 
being  accounted  for  as  cash  flow  hedges  as  these  transactions  were  executed  to  hedge  the  Company’s  interest  payments  and  for 
accounting  purposes  are  considered  highly  effective.  As  such,  the  effective  portion  of  the  hedges  is  recorded  as  unrealized  gains 
(losses) on derivatives included in AOCI and the ineffective portion of the hedges is recognized in earnings. 

88

On  July  19,  2018,  the  Company  entered  into  two  forward  starting  interest  rate  swaps  (“2018  Swaps”)  with  a  total  notional 
value of $500 million in an effort to limit its exposure to changes in the variable interest rate on its Senior Secured Credit Facilities (as 
defined below). Interest on the 2018 Swaps begins accruing on June 28, 2019 and the interest rate swaps expire on June 28, 2024.  The 
Company pays a fixed rate of 3.0% and receives a variable rate of interest equal to the three-month LIBOR on the 2018 Swaps.

The fair value of these interest rate swaps represents the present value of the anticipated net payments the Company will make 
to the counterparty, which, when they occur, are reflected as interest expense on the consolidated statements of income. These interest 
rate  swaps  will  result  in  a  total  debt  mix  of  approximately  50%  fixed  rate  debt  and  50%  variable  rate  debt,  before  the  additional 
protection arising from the interest rate caps.

Net Investment Risk Management 

The Company designates its foreign currency denominated debt as a hedge of its net investment in certain foreign subsidiaries 
to reduce the volatility in stockholders’ equity caused by changes in the Euro exchange rate with respect to the United States dollar, 
which  is  accounted  for  as  a  cash  flow  hedge.  As  of  December 31,  2018,  these  borrowings  (net  of  original  issue  discount)  were 
€4,590 million  ($5,253  million).  The  effective  portion  of  foreign  exchange  gains  or  losses  on  the  remeasurement  of  the  debt  is 
recognized  in  the  cumulative  translation  adjustment  component  of  AOCI  with  the  related  offset  in  long-term  debt.  Those  amounts 
would be reclassified from AOCI to earnings upon the sale or substantial liquidation of these net investments. The amount of foreign 
exchange gains related to the net investment hedge included in the cumulative translation adjustment component of AOCI for the year 
ended December 31, 2018 was $228 million. 

The fair values of the Company’s derivative instruments and the line items on the accompanying consolidated balance sheets 

to which they were recorded are summarized in the following table: 

(in millions)
Derivatives designated as hedging
   instruments:
Foreign exchange forward contracts

Interest rate swaps

Interest rate caps

Derivatives not designated as hedging
   instruments:
Interest rate swaps
Total derivatives

Balance Sheet
Classification

Other current assets
   and liabilities
Other assets
   and liabilities
Deposits and other
  assets

December 31, 2018

December 31, 2017

  Assets

  Liabilities  

  Notional  

  Assets

  Liabilities  

  Notional  

  $

5    $

3    $

202    $

5    $

4    $

282 

3     

9     

890     

—     

1     

405 

1     

—     

700     

1     

—     

700 

  Other liabilities

—     
9    $

5     
17     

432     
     $

—   
6    $

8   
13     

  $

447 

The pre-tax effect of the Company’s cash flow hedging instruments on other comprehensive (loss) income is summarized in 

the following table:

(in millions)
Foreign exchange forward contracts
Interest rate derivatives

Total

2018

Year Ended December 31,
2017

2016

  $

  $

(9)   $
(6)  
(15)   $

(5)   $
9   
4    $

16 
8 
24  

The  Company  expects  approximately  $6  million  of  pre-tax  unrealized  gains  related  to  its  foreign  exchange  contracts  and 

interest rate derivatives included in AOCI at December 31, 2018 to be reclassified into earnings within the next twelve months. 

89

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
    
      
      
      
      
      
  
 
 
   
 
   
   
   
      
      
      
      
      
  
   
   
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
6. Fair Value Measurements 

The Company records certain assets and liabilities at fair value. Fair value is defined as the price that would be received to sell 
an asset or paid to transfer a liability in the principal or most advantageous market for the asset or liability in an orderly transaction 
between market participants at the measurement date. A three-level fair value hierarchy that prioritizes the inputs used to measure fair 
value  is  described  below.  This  hierarchy  requires  entities  to  maximize  the  use  of  observable  inputs  and  minimize  the  use  of 
unobservable inputs. The three levels of inputs used to measure fair value are as follows: 

•

•

•

Level 1—Quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities. 

Level 2—Observable inputs other than quoted prices included in Level 1, such as quoted prices for similar assets and 
liabilities in active markets; quoted prices for identical or similar assets and liabilities in markets that are not active; or 
other inputs that are observable or can be corroborated by observable market data. 

Level 3—Unobservable inputs that are supported by little or no market activity. This includes certain pricing models, 
discounted cash flow methodologies and similar techniques that use significant unobservable inputs. 

The  carrying  values  of  cash,  cash  equivalents,  accounts  receivable  and  accounts  payable  approximated  their  fair  values  at 
December 31, 2018 and 2017 due to their short-term nature. At December 31, 2018 and 2017, the fair value of total debt approximated 
$10,850  million  and  $10,432  million,  respectively,  as  determined  under  Level  1  and  Level  2  measurements  for  these  financial 
instruments. 

Recurring Fair Value Measurements 

The following table summarizes the fair value of the Company’s financial assets and liabilities that are measured and reported 

at fair value on a recurring basis as of December 31, 2018: 

 (in millions)
Assets:
Marketable securities
Derivatives
Total

Liabilities:
Derivatives
Contingent consideration

Total

Level 1

Level 2

Level 3

Total

  $

  $

  $

  $

63    $
—   
63    $

—    $
—   
—    $

—    $
9   
9    $

17    $
—   
17    $

—    $
—   
—    $

—    $

123   
123    $

63 
9 
72 

17 
123 
140  

The following table summarizes the fair value of the Company’s financial assets and liabilities that are measured and reported 

at fair value on a recurring basis as of December 31, 2017: 

 (in millions)
Assets:
Marketable securities
Derivatives
Total

Liabilities:
Derivatives
Contingent consideration

Total

  $

  $

  $

  $

Level 1

Level 2

Level 3

Total

—    $
6   
6    $

13    $
—   
13    $

—    $
—   
—    $

—    $
69   
69    $

46 
6 
52 

13 
69 
82  

46    $
—   
46    $

—    $
—   
—    $

90

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
    
 
    
 
    
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
    
 
    
 
    
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
    
 
    
 
    
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
    
 
    
 
    
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
Below is a summary of the valuation techniques used in determining fair value: 

Marketable  securities—The  Company  values  trading  and  available-for-sale  securities  using  the  quoted  market  value  of  the 

securities held. 

Derivatives—Derivatives  consist  of  foreign  exchange  contracts  and  interest  rate  caps  and  swaps.  The  fair  value  of  foreign 
exchange contracts is based on observable market inputs of spot and forward rates or using other observable inputs. The fair value of 
the interest rate caps and swaps is the estimated amount that the Company would receive or pay to terminate such agreements, taking 
into account market interest rates and the remaining time to maturities or using market inputs with mid-market pricing as a practical 
expedient for bid-ask spread. 

Contingent consideration—The Company values contingent consideration related to business combinations using a weighted 
probability  calculation  of  potential  payment  scenarios  discounted  at  rates  reflective  of  the  risks  associated  with  the  expected  future 
cash  flows.  Key  assumptions  used  to  estimate  the  fair  value  of  contingent  consideration  include  various  financial  metrics  (revenue 
performance targets and operating forecasts) and the probability of achieving the specific targets.

The following table summarizes the changes in Level 3 financial assets and liabilities measured on a recurring basis for the 

year ended December 31: 

(in millions)
Balance as of January 1
Business combinations
Contingent consideration paid
Revaluations included in earnings and foreign currency translation
   adjustments
Balance as of December 31

  $

  $

2018

Contingent Consideration
2017

2016

69    $
53   
(24)  

25   
123    $

18    $
57   
(4)  

(2)  
69    $

4 
19 
(4)

(1)
18  

The  current  portion  of  contingent  consideration  is  included  within  accrued  expenses  and  the  long-term  portion  is  included 
within other liabilities on the accompanying consolidated balance sheets. Revaluations of contingent consideration are recognized in 
other expense (income), net on the accompanying consolidated statements of income. 

Non-recurring Fair Value Measurements 

Certain assets are carried on the accompanying consolidated balance sheets at cost and are not remeasured to fair value on a 
recurring  basis.  These  assets  include  equity  investments  that  do  not  have  readily  determinable  fair  values  that  are  assessed  for 
impairment quarterly or annually and when a triggering event occurs, and goodwill and identifiable intangible assets that are tested for 
impairment annually and when a triggering event occurs. See Note 4 and 8 for additional information. 

As  of  December 31,  2018,  assets  carried  on  the  balance  sheet  and  not  remeasured  to  fair  value  on  a  recurring  basis  totaled 
approximately $17,878 million and were identified as Level 3. These assets are comprised of cost and equity method investments of 
$127 million, goodwill of $11,800 million and other identifiable intangibles, net of $5,951 million. 

Cost  and  Equity  Method  Investments—The  inputs  available  for  valuing  investments  in  non-public  portfolio  companies  are 
generally  not  easily  observable.  The  valuation  of  non-public  investments  requires  significant  judgment  by  the  Company  due  to  the 
absence of quoted market values, inherent lack of liquidity and the long-term nature of such assets. When a triggering event occurs, 
the  Company  considers  a  wide  range  of  available  market  data  when  assessing  the  estimated  fair  value.  Such  market  data  includes 
observations  of  the  trading  multiples  of  public  companies  considered  comparable  to  the  private  companies  being  valued  as  well  as 
publicly  disclosed  merger  transactions  involving  comparable  private  companies.  In  addition,  valuations  are  adjusted  to  account  for 
company-specific issues, the lack of liquidity inherent in a non-public investment and the fact that comparable public companies are 
not identical to the companies being valued. Such valuation adjustments are necessary because in the absence of a committed buyer 
and completion of due diligence similar to that performed in an actual negotiated sale process, there may be company-specific issues 
that are not fully known that may affect value. Further, a variety of additional factors are reviewed by the Company, including, but not 
limited to, financing and sales transactions with third parties, current operating performance and future expectations of the particular 
investment, changes in market outlook and the third-party financing environment. Because of the inherent uncertainty of valuations, 
estimated valuations may differ significantly from the values that would have been used had a ready market for the securities existed, 
and the differences could be material. 

91

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Goodwill—Goodwill represents the difference between the purchase price and the fair value of the identifiable tangible and 
intangible net assets resulting from business combinations. The Company performs a qualitative analysis to determine whether it is 
more likely than not that the estimated fair value of a reporting unit is less than its book value. This includes a qualitative analysis of 
macroeconomic  conditions,  industry  and  market  considerations,  internal  cost  factors,  financial  performance,  fair  value  history  and 
other company specific events. If this qualitative analysis indicates that it is more likely than not that the estimated fair value is less 
than  the  book  value  for  the  respective  reporting  unit,  the  Company  applies  a  two-step  impairment  test  in  which  the  Company 
determines  whether  the  estimated  fair  value  of  the  reporting  unit  is  in  excess  of  its  carrying  value.  If  the  carrying  value  of  the  net 
assets assigned to the reporting unit exceeds the estimated fair value of the reporting unit, the Company performs the second step of 
the  impairment  test  to  determine  the  implied  estimated  fair  value  of  the  reporting  unit’s  goodwill.  The  Company  determines  the 
implied estimated fair value of goodwill by determining the present value of the estimated future cash flows for each reporting unit 
and comparing the reporting unit’s risk profile and growth prospects to selected, reasonably similar publicly traded companies. See 
Note 8 for additional information. 

Definite-lived  Intangible  Assets—If  a  triggering  event  occurs,  the  Company  determines  the  estimated  fair  value  of  definite-

lived intangible assets by determining the present value of the expected cash flows. See Note 8 for additional information. 

Indefinite-lived Intangible Asset—If a qualitative analysis indicates that it is more likely than not that the estimated fair value 
is  less  than  the  carrying  value  of  an  indefinite-lived  intangible  asset,  the  Company  determines  the  estimated  fair  value  of  the 
indefinite-lived intangible asset (trade name) by determining the present value of the estimated royalty payments on an after-tax basis 
that it would be required to pay the owner for the right to use such trade name. If the carrying amount exceeds the estimated fair value, 
an impairment loss is recognized in an amount equal to the excess. 

7. Property and Equipment 

The major classes of property and equipment were as follows: 

(in millions)
Land, buildings and leasehold improvements
Equipment
Furniture and fixtures
Transportation equipment
Property and equipment, gross
Less accumulated depreciation
Property and equipment, net

December 31,

2018

2017

$

$

326   
521   
82   
72   
1,001   
(567)  
434   

$

$

324 
446 
81 
72 
923 
(483)
440  

Property and equipment depreciation expense was as follows:

(in millions)
Depreciation expense

2018

Year Ended December 31,
2017

2016

  $

125    $

125    $

79  

8. Goodwill and Identifiable Intangible Assets 

As  of  December 31,  2018,  the  Company  has  approximately  $5,951  million  of  identifiable  intangible  assets,  of  which 
approximately  $18  million,  relating  to  a  trade  name,  is  deemed  to  be  indefinite-lived  and,  accordingly,  is  not  being  amortized. 
Amortization expense associated with identifiable definite-lived intangible assets was as follows: 

(in millions)
Amortization expense

2018

Year Ended December 31,
2017

2016

  $

1,016    $

886    $

210  

Estimated amortization expense for existing identifiable intangible assets is expected to be approximately $1,052 million, $997 
million,  $839  million,  $489  million  and  $405  million  for  the  years  ending  December 31,  2019,  2020,  2021,  2022  and  2023, 
respectively. Estimated amortization expense can be affected by various factors, including future acquisitions or divestitures of service 
and/or licensing and distribution rights or impairments. 

92

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
The following is a summary of identifiable intangible assets: 

(in millions)
Definite-lived identifiable
   intangible assets:
Client relationships and backlog
  $
Trademarks, trade names and other    
Databases
Software and related assets
Non-compete agreements

Indefinite-lived identifiable
   intangible assets:
Trade names

  $

  $

Gross
Amount

As of December 31, 2018
Accumulated
Amortization    

Net
Amount

Gross
Amount

As of December 31, 2017
Accumulated
Amortization    

Net
Amount

4,620    $
526     
1,828     
1,279     
27     
8,280    $

(863)   $
(108)    
(823)    
(543)    
(10)    
(2,347)   $

3,757    $
418     
1,005     
736     
17     
5,933    $

4,604    $
528     
1,876     
927     
24     
7,959    $

(474)   $
(59)    
(468)    
(382)    
(3)    
(1,386)   $

4,130 
469 
1,408 
545 
21 
6,573 

18    $

—    $

18    $

18    $

—    $

18  

The following is a summary of goodwill by segment for the years ended December 31, 2018 and 2017: 

 (in millions)
Balance as of December 31, 2016
Business combinations
Impairment
Impact of foreign currency fluctuations
   and other
Balance as of December 31, 2017
Business combinations
Impact of foreign currency fluctuations
   and other
Balance as of December 31, 2018

Technology & 

Analytics Solutions    

Research &
Development
Solutions

Contract Sales & 
Medical Solutions    

Consolidated

  $

  $

9,415    $
403   
(40)  

570   
10,348   
135   

(244)  
10,239    $

1,196    $
178   
—   

11   
1,385   
49   

(7)  
1,427    $

116    $
—   
—   

1   
117   
18   

(1)  
134    $

10,727 
581 
(40)

582 
11,850 
202 

(252)
11,800  

During  2017  and  2016,  the  Company  determined  there  was  sufficient  indication  that  the  carrying  value  of  Encore  Health 
Resources LLC (“Encore”) should be reviewed for impairment that resulted in recognized impairment losses of $40 million and $28 
million, respectively, for declines in fair value of goodwill and identifiable intangible assets. Subsequent to the sale of Encore in 2017, 
there were no remaining accumulated goodwill impairment losses as of December 31, 2018 or 2017.

9. Accrued Expenses

Accrued expenses consist of the following:

(in millions)
Compensation, including bonuses, fringe benefits and payroll taxes
Restructuring
Interest
Client contract related
Professional fees
Contingent consideration and deferred purchase price
Other

December 31,

2018

2017

  $

  $

660    $
74   
45   
678   
91   
90   
220   
1,858    $

656 
84 
45 
565 
76 
59 
179 
1,664  

93

 
 
   
 
 
   
   
   
 
   
      
      
      
      
      
  
   
   
   
 
   
      
      
      
      
      
  
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
10. Credit Arrangements 

The following is a summary of the Company’s revolving credit facilities at December 31, 2018: 

Facility
$1,500 million (revolving credit facility)

$25 million (receivables financing facility)
£10 million (approximately $13 million) general banking
   facility

Interest Rates

  LIBOR in the relevant currency borrowed plus a margin of 1.50%

   at December 31, 2018

  LIBOR Market Index Rate (2.50% at December 31, 2018) plus 0.90%
  Bank’s base rate of 0.75% at December 31, 2018 plus 1%

The following table summarizes the Company’s debt at the dates indicated: 

(dollars in millions)
Senior Secured Credit Facilities:

Term A Loan due 2023—U.S. Dollar LIBOR at average floating rates of 4.30%
Term A Loan due 2023—Euro LIBOR at average floating rates of 1.50%
Term B Loan due 2024—U.S. Dollar LIBOR at average floating rates of 4.80%
Term B Loan due 2024—Euro LIBOR at average floating rates of 2.75%
Term B Loan due 2025—U.S. Dollar LIBOR at average floating rates of 4.80%
Term B Loan due 2025—U.S. Dollar LIBOR at average floating rates of 4.27%
Term B Loan due 2025—Euro LIBOR at average floating rates of 2.50%

Revolving Credit Facility due 2023:

U.S. Dollar denominated borrowings—U.S. Dollar LIBOR at average
   floating rates of 3.91%

5.0% Senior Notes due 2026—U.S. Dollar denominated
2.875% Senior Notes due 2025—Euro denominated
3.25% Senior Notes due 2025—Euro denominated
3.5% Senior Notes due 2024—Euro denominated
4.875% Senior Notes due 2023—U.S. Dollar denominated
Receivables financing facility due 2020—U.S. Dollar LIBOR at average
   floating rates of 3.40%
Principal amount of debt
Less: unamortized discount and debt issuance costs
Less: current portion
Long-term debt

  $

  $

Contractual maturities of long-term debt at December 31, 2018 are as follows: 

 (in millions)
2019
2020
2021
2022
2023
Thereafter

December 31,

2018

2017

812    $
416   
535   
1,346   
741   
945   
664   

620   
1,050   
481   
1,631   
715   
800   

300   
11,056   
(49)  
(100)  
10,907    $

  $

  $

844 
453 
1,188 
1,423 
748 
— 
— 

529 
1,050 
503 
1,707 
749 
800 

275 
10,269 
(44)
(103)
10,122  

100 
400 
100 
100 
2,434 
7,922 
11,056  

At  December 31,  2018,  there  were  bank  guarantees  totaling  approximately  £1.6 million  (approximately  $2.0  million)  issued 
against  the  availability  of  the  general  banking  facility  with  a  European  headquartered  bank  through  their  operations  in  the  United 
Kingdom. 

94

 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
    
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
    
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Senior Secured Credit Agreement and Senior Notes

2018 Financing Transactions

 At  December  31,  2018,  the  Company’s  Fourth  Amended  and  Restated  Credit  Agreement,  as  amended  (the  “Credit 
Agreement”) provided financing through several senior secured credit facilities (collectively, the “Senior Secured Credit Facilities”) of 
up to approximately $6,959 million, which consisted of $6,079 million principal amounts of debt outstanding (as detailed in the table 
above) and $880 million of available borrowing capacity on the $1,500 million revolving credit facility that expires in 2023.

On  June 11,  2018,  the  Company  entered  into  Amendment  No. 4  (the  “Amendment”)  to  its  Fourth  Amended  and  Restated 
Credit Agreement that amended the terms of the existing term A loans and revolving credit facility to extend the maturity from 2021 
to  2023  and  reduce  the  applicable  interest  rate  from  LIBOR  plus  a  margin  ranging  from  1.75%  to  2.50%  to  LIBOR  plus  a  margin 
ranging from 1.25% to 2.00%. In connection with the Amendment, the Company recognized a $2 million loss on extinguishment of 
debt,  which  includes  fees  and  related  expenses. The  amendments  with  respect  to  the  revolving  credit  facility  and  the  term  A  loans 
became effective on June 13, 2018.

Under the Amendment, the Company also placed additional term B loans. The additional term B loans will mature in 2025 and 

were comprised of $950 million of U.S. dollar denominated term B loans and €583 million ($681 million) Euro denominated term B 
loans. The U.S. dollar denominated term B loans bear interest based on the U.S. Dollar LIBOR plus a margin ranging from 1.75% to 
2.00%. The Euro denominated term B loans bear interest based on the Euro LIBOR with a floor ranging from 0.50% to 0.75%, plus a 
margin of 2.00%. The proceeds of the additional term B loans were used to pay down the revolving credit facility and $650 million of 
existing term B loans due 2024 and to pay fees and expenses in connection with the transactions.

On April 6, 2018, the Company entered into Amendment No. 3 to its Fourth Amended and Restated Credit Agreement that 
increased the amount of commitments available to the Company and certain of its subsidiaries to $1,500 million under the revolving 
credit facility. No other terms of the credit agreement were amended.

2017 Financing Transactions

On  September  14,  2017,  the  Company’s  wholly  owned  subsidiary,  IQVIA  Inc.  (formerly  Quintiles  IMS  Incorporated)  (the 

“Issuer”), issued €420 million (approximately $501 million) aggregate principal amount of 2.875% senior notes due 2025 (the “2025 
Notes”). The 2025 Notes, which are unsecured obligations of the Issuer, mature on September 15, 2025 and bear an interest rate of 
2.875%, which is paid semi-annually on March 15 and September 15 of each year, beginning on March 15, 2018. The 2025 Notes 
may be redeemed prior to their final stated maturity, subject to a customary make-whole premium at any time prior to September 15, 
2020 (subject to a certain customary “equity claw” redemption right) and thereafter subject to a redemption premium declining from 
1.438%  to  0%.  On  September  18,  2017,  the  Company  amended  its  senior  credit  facility  agreement  (the  “No.  2  Amendment”)  to 
provide  for  an  incremental  term  B  loan  of  $750  million  and  to  increase  the  facility’s  restricted  payment  capacity,  specifically  an 
increase  to  the  total  net  leverage  ratio  conditions  for  unlimited  restricted  investments  from  4.25-to-1.00  to  4.50-to-1.00  and  for 
dividends and distributions from 4.00-to-1.00 to 4.50-to-1.00. The new term B loan will mature in 2025 and bear a floating interest 
rate of LIBOR plus 2.00% per year.

On March 7, 2017, the Company refinanced all of its term B loans due 2021—U.S. dollar denominated (approximately $1,700 
million) and its term B loans due 2021—Euro denominated (approximately $765 million) with an extended and repriced term B loan 
facility  due  in  2024  for  an  aggregate  principal  amount  of  approximately  $2,479  million  comprised  of  $1,200  million  U.S.  dollar 
denominated term B loans and €1,200 million ($1,279 million) Euro denominated term B loans. The U.S. dollar denominated term B 
loans bear interest based on the U.S. Dollar LIBOR with a floor of 0.75%, plus a margin of 2.00%. The Euro denominated term B 
loans bear interest based on the Euro LIBOR with a floor of 0.75%, plus a margin of 2.00%. In connection with this refinancing, the 
Company recognized a $3 million loss on extinguishment of debt, which includes fees and related expenses.

On February 28, 2017, the Issuer issued €1,425 million (approximately $1,522 million) aggregate principal amount of 3.25% 
senior notes due 2025 (the “2017 Notes”). The 2017 Notes, which are unsecured obligations of the Issuer, mature on March 15, 2025 
and bear an interest rate of 3.25%, which is paid semi-annually on March 15 and September 15 of each year, beginning on September 
15, 2017. The 2017 Notes may be redeemed prior to their final stated maturity, subject to a customary make-whole premium at any 
time  prior  to  March  15,  2020  (subject  to  a  certain  customary  “equity  claw”  redemption  right)  and  thereafter  subject  to  annually 
declining redemption premiums at any time prior to March 15, 2022. During March 2017, the proceeds of the 2017 Notes were used to 
pay  fees  and  expenses  related to  the  notes  offering  and  the  refinancing  referenced  above  and  other  general  corporate  purposes, 
including the repurchase of the Company’s common stock.

95

The net proceeds from the offering of the 2025 Notes and the No. 2 Amendment were used to refinance certain indebtedness, 
including the redemption of the outstanding 4.125% Euro denominated senior notes due 2023 (the “4.125% Notes”), to pay down the 
revolving credit facility, to pay fees and expenses related to the offering of the 2025 Notes and the No. 2 Amendment and for other 
general  corporate  purposes,  including  the  repurchase  of  the  Company’s  common  stock  and  acquisitions.  In  connection  with  this 
refinancing,  the  Company  recognized  a  $16  million  loss  on  extinguishment  of  debt,  which  includes  the  4.125%  Notes  make-whole 
premium.  

Receivables Financing Facility 

On December 15, 2017, the Company amended its receivables financing facility to extend the original term of the facility to 
December 15, 2020. In addition, the applicable margin (over LIBOR) changed to 90 bps regardless of the Company’s credit rating. 
Prior to the amendment, the margin was based on the Company’s credit rating and could range from 85 bps to 135 bps. 

On  December 5,  2014,  the  Company  entered  into  a  four-year  arrangement  to  securitize  certain  of  its  accounts  receivable. 
Under the receivables financing facility, certain of the Company’s accounts receivable are sold on a non-recourse basis by certain of 
its consolidated subsidiaries to another of its consolidated subsidiaries, a bankruptcy-remote special purpose entity (“SPE”). The SPE 
obtained a term loan and revolving loan commitment from a third-party lender, secured by liens on the assets of the SPE, to finance 
the purchase of the accounts receivable, which includes a $275 million term loan and a $25 million revolving loan commitment. The 
revolving loan commitment may be increased by an additional $35 million as amounts are repaid under the term loan. The Company 
has  guaranteed  the  performance  of  the  obligations  of  existing  and  future  subsidiaries  that  sell  and  service  the  accounts  receivable 
under the receivables financing facility. The assets of the SPE are not available to satisfy any of the Company’s obligations or any 
obligations  of  its  subsidiaries.  As  of  December 31,  2018,  no  additional  amounts  of  revolving  loans  were  available  under  the 
receivables financing facility. 

Restrictive Covenants 

The  Company’s  debt  agreements  provide  for  certain  covenants  and  events  of  default  customary  for  similar  instruments, 
including  a  covenant  not  to  exceed  a  specified  ratio  of  consolidated  senior  secured  net  indebtedness  to  Consolidated  EBITDA,  as 
defined in the Credit Agreement and a covenant to maintain a specified minimum interest coverage ratio. If an event of default occurs 
under any of the Company’s or the Company’s subsidiaries’ financing arrangements, the creditors under such financing arrangements 
will  be  entitled  to  take  various  actions,  including  the  acceleration  of  amounts  due  under  such  arrangements,  and  in  the  case  of  the 
lenders  under  the  Credit  Agreement,  other  actions  permitted  to  be  taken  by  a  secured  creditor.  The  Company’s  long-term  debt 
arrangements contain usual and customary restrictive covenants that, among other things, place limitations on the Company’s ability 
to  declare  dividends.  At  December 31,  2018,  the  Company  was  in  compliance  in  all  material  respects  with  the  financial  covenants 
under the Company’s financing arrangements. 

96

11. Leases

The Company leases facilities under operating leases, many of which contain renewal and escalation clauses. The Company 
also leases certain equipment and motor vehicles under operating leases. The leases expire at various dates through 2029 with options 
to cancel certain leases at various intervals. Rental expenses under these agreements were $197 million, $197 million and $127 million 
in 2018, 2017 and 2016, respectively. 

The following is a summary of future minimum payments under operating leases that have initial or remaining non-cancelable 

lease terms in excess of one year at December 31, 2018: 

(in millions)
2019
2020
2021
2022
2023
Thereafter
Total minimum lease payments

12. Contingencies

Operating
Leases

167 
136 
108 
90 
69 
119 
689  

  $

  $

The Company and its subsidiaries are involved in legal and tax proceedings, claims and litigation arising in the ordinary course 
of  business.  Management  periodically  assesses  the  Company’s  liabilities  and  contingencies  in  connection  with  these  matters  based 
upon  the  latest  information  available.  For  those  matters  where  management  currently  believes  it  is  probable  that  the  Company  will 
incur  a  loss  and  that  the  probable  loss  or  range  of  loss  can  be  reasonably  estimated,  the  Company  has  recorded  reserves  in  the 
consolidated financial statements based on its best estimates of such loss. In other instances, because of the uncertainties related to 
either the probable outcome or the amount or range of loss, management is unable to make a reasonable estimate of a liability, if any. 
However,  even  in  many  instances  where  the  Company  has  recorded  an  estimated  liability,  the  Company  is  unable  to  predict  with 
certainty the final outcome of the matter or whether resolution of the matter will materially affect the Company’s results of operations, 
financial position or cash flows. As additional information becomes available, the Company adjusts its assessments and estimates of 
such liabilities accordingly. 

The  Company  routinely  enters  into  agreements  with  its  suppliers  to  acquire  data  and  with  its  clients  to  sell  data,  all  in  the 
normal course of business. In these agreements, the Company sometimes agrees to indemnify and hold harmless the other party for 
any damages such other party may suffer as a result of potential intellectual property infringement and other claims related to the use 
of the data. The Company has not accrued a liability with respect to these matters, as the exposure is considered remote. 

Based  on  its  review  of  the  latest  information  available,  management  does  not  expect  the  impact  of  pending  legal  and  tax 
proceedings, claims and litigation, either individually or in the aggregate, to have a material adverse effect on the Company’s results 
of  operations,  cash  flows  or  financial  position.  However,  one  or  more  unfavorable  outcomes  in  any  claim  or  litigation  against  the 
Company  could  have  a  material  adverse  effect  for  the  period  in  which  it  is  resolved.  The  following  is  a  summary  of  certain  legal 
matters involving the Company. 

The  Company’s  wholly-owned  subsidiary,  IMS  Government  Solutions  Inc.  (“IMS  Government  Solutions”),  is  primarily 
engaged in providing services under contracts with the United States government. United States government contracts are subject to 
extensive  legal  and  regulatory  requirements  and,  from  time  to  time,  agencies  of  the  United  States  government  have  the  ability  to 
investigate  whether  contractors’  operations  are  being  conducted  in  accordance  with  such  requirements.  IMS  Government  Solutions 
discovered  potential  noncompliance  with  various  contract  clauses  and  requirements  under  its  General  Services  Administration 
Contract (the “GSA Contract”), which was awarded in 2002 to its predecessor company, Synchronous Knowledge Inc. (Synchronous 
Knowledge Inc. was acquired by IMS Health in May 2005). The potential noncompliance arose from two primary areas: first, at the 
direction  of  the  government,  work  performed  under  one  task  order  was  invoiced  under  another  task  order  without  the  appropriate 
modifications  to  the  orders  being  made;  and  second,  personnel  who  did  not  meet  strict  compliance  with  the  labor  categories 
component  of  the  qualification  requirements  of  the  GSA  Contract  were  assigned  to  contracts.  The  Company  is  currently  unable  to 
determine the outcome of all of these matters pending the resolution of the Voluntary Disclosure Program process and the ultimate 
liability arising from these matters could exceed the Company’s current reserves. 

97

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
On February 13, 2014, a group of approximately 1,200 medical doctors and 900 private individuals filed a civil lawsuit with 
the  Seoul  Central  District  Court  against  IMS  Korea  and  two  other  defendants,  KPA  and  the  Korean  Pharmaceutical  Information 
Center (“KPIC”). The civil lawsuit alleges KPA and KPIC collected their personal information in violation of applicable privacy laws 
without  the  necessary  consent  through  a  software  system  installed  on  pharmacy  computer  systems  in  Korea,  and  that  personal 
information was transferred to IMS Korea and sold to pharmaceutical companies. On September 11, 2017, the District Court issued a 
final  decision  that  the  encryption  in  use  by  the  defendants  since  June  2014  was  adequate  to  meet  the  requirements  of  the  Korean 
Personal Information Privacy Act (“PIPA”) and the sharing of non-identified information for market research purposes was allowed 
under  PIPA.  The  District  Court  also  found  an  earlier  version  of  encryption  was  insufficient  to  meet  PIPA  requirements,  but  no 
personal data had been leaked or re-identified. The District Court did not award any damages to plaintiffs. Approximately 280 medical 
doctors  and  200  private  individuals  appealed  the  District  Court  decision.  The  Company  believes  the  appeal  is  without  merit  and 
intends to vigorously defend its position.   

On  July 23,  2015,  indictments  were  issued  by  the  Seoul  Central  District  Prosecutors’  Office  in  South  Korea  against  24 
individuals  and  companies  alleging  improper  handling  of  sensitive  health  information  in  violation  of,  among  others,  South  Korea’s 
Personal  Information  Protection  Act.  IMS  Korea  and  two  of  its  employees  were  among  the  individuals  and  organizations  indicted. 
Although there is no assertion that IMS Korea used patient identified health information in any of its offerings, prosecutors allege that 
certain  of  IMS  Korea’s  data  suppliers  should  have  obtained  patient  consent  when  they  converted  sensitive  patient  information  into 
non-identified  data  and  that  IMS  Korea  had  not  taken  adequate  precautions  to  reduce  the  risk  of  re-identification.  The  Company 
believes the indictment is without merit as it acted in compliance with all applicable laws at all times and intends to vigorously defend 
its position. 

On January 10, 2017, IQVIA Inc., IMS Health Incorporated and IMS Software Services, Inc. (collectively “IQVIA Parties”) 
filed  a  lawsuit  in  the  U.S.  District  Court  for  the  District  of  New  Jersey  against  Veeva  Systems,  Inc.  (“Veeva”)  alleging  Veeva 
unlawfully used IQVIA Parties intellectual property to improve Veeva data offerings, to promote and market Veeva data offerings and 
to improve Veeva technology offerings. IQVIA Parties seek injunctive relief, appointment of a monitor, the award of compensatory 
and  punitive  damages  and  reimbursement  of  all  litigation  expenses,  including  reasonable  attorneys’  fees  and  costs.  On  March  13, 
2017,  Veeva  filed  counterclaims  alleging  anticompetitive  business  practices  in  violation  of  the  Sherman  Act  and  state  laws.  Veeva 
claims  damages  in  excess  of  $200  million,  and  is  seeking  punitive  damages  and  litigation  costs,  including  attorneys’  fees.  The 
Company  believes  the  counterclaims  are  without  merit,  reject  all  counterclaims  raised  by  Veeva  and  intend  to  vigorously  defend 
IQVIA Parties’ position and pursue the Company’s claims against Veeva.

13. Stockholders’ Equity 

Preferred Stock 

The Company is authorized to issue 1.0 million shares of preferred stock, $0.01 per share par value. No shares of preferred 

stock were issued and outstanding as of December 31, 2018 or 2017. 

Equity Repurchase Program 

On  October  30,  2013,  the  Company’s  Board  of  Directors  (the  “Board”)  approved  an  equity  repurchase  program  (the 
“Repurchase  Program”)  authorizing  the  repurchase  of  up  to  $125  million  of  either  the  Company’s  common  stock  or  vested  in-the-
money  employee  stock  options,  or  a  combination  thereof.  The  Board  increased  the  stock  repurchase  authorization  under  the 
Repurchase Program with respect to the repurchase of its common stock by $600 million, $1.5 billion, $2 billion and $1.5 billion in 
2015, 2016, 2017 and 2018, respectively, which increased the total amount that has been authorized under the Repurchase Program to 
$5.725  billion.  The  Repurchase  Program  does  not  obligate  the  Company  to  repurchase  any  particular  amount  of  common  stock  or 
vested in-the-money employee stock options, and it may be modified, extended, suspended or discontinued at any time.

As of December 31, 2018, the Company has remaining authorization to repurchase up to $285 million of its common stock 
under the Repurchase Program. In addition, from time to time, the Company has repurchased and may continue to repurchase common 
stock  through  private  or  other  transactions  outside  of  the  Repurchase  Program.  On  February  13,  2019,  the  Board  authorized  an 
increase  in  the  post-merger  share  repurchase  authorization  by  $2.0  billion,  resulting  in  approximately  $2.3  billion  remaining 
authorization.

98

2018 Offerings

In  November  2018,  the  Company  completed  an  underwritten  secondary  public  offering  of  6,000,000  shares  of  its  common 
stock held by certain of the Company’s principal stockholders (the “November 2018 Selling Stockholders”), of which the Company 
repurchased 2,000,000 shares for an aggregate purchase price of approximately $247 million. The Company did not offer any stock in 
this transaction and did not receive any proceeds from the sale of the shares by the November 2018 Selling Stockholders. Pursuant to 
an  agreement  with  the  underwriter,  the  Company’s  per-share  purchase  price  for  repurchased  shares  was  the  same  as  the  per-share 
purchase price payable by the underwriter to the November 2018 Selling Stockholders. 

In June 2018, the Company completed an underwritten secondary public offering of 12,000,000 shares of its common stock 
held  by  certain  of  the  Company’s  principal  stockholders  (the  “June  Selling  Stockholders”),  of  which  the  Company  repurchased 
4,000,000  shares  for  an  aggregate  purchase  price  of  approximately  $412  million.  The  Company  did  not  offer  any  stock  in  this 
transaction and did not receive any proceeds from the sale of the shares by the June Selling Stockholders. Pursuant to an agreement 
with  the  underwriter,  the  Company’s  per-share  purchase  price  for  repurchased  shares  was  the  same  as  the  per-share  purchase  price 
payable by the underwriter to the June Selling Stockholders. 

2017 Offerings

In  September  2017,  the  Company  completed  an  underwritten  secondary  public  offering  of  9,000,000  shares  of  its  common 
stock  held  by  certain  of  the  Company’s  principal  stockholders  (the  “September  Selling  Stockholders”),  of  which  the  Company 
repurchased 4,000,000 shares for an aggregate purchase price of approximately $380 million. The Company did not offer any stock in 
this transaction and did not receive any proceeds from the sale of the shares by the September Selling Stockholders. Pursuant to an 
agreement  with  the  underwriter,  the  Company’s  per-share  purchase  price  for  repurchased  shares  was  the  same  as  the  per-share 
purchase price payable by the underwriter to the September Selling Stockholders. 

On May 24, 2017, an automatic shelf registration statement (including a prospectus) relating to the offering of an unspecified 
amount of common stock was filed by the Company with the Securities and Exchange Commission and became effective upon filing. 
The  registration  statement  will  expire  three  years  after  the  date  of  filing.  Additionally,  in  May,  the  Company  completed  an 
underwritten  secondary  public  offering  of  10,571,003  shares  of  its  common  stock  held  by  certain  of  the  Company’s  principal 
stockholders (the “May Selling Stockholders”), of which the Company repurchased 3,571,003 shares for an aggregate purchase price 
of approximately $300 million. The Company did not offer any stock in this transaction and did not receive any proceeds from the sale 
of  the  shares  by  the  May  Selling  Stockholders.  Pursuant  to  an  agreement  with  the  underwriter,  the  Company’s  per-share  purchase 
price for repurchased shares was the same as the per-share purchase price payable by the underwriter to the May Selling Stockholders.

In  February  2017,  the  Company  entered  into  a  share  repurchase  agreement  with  certain  of  the  Company’s  principal 
stockholders under the Repurchase Program. Pursuant to that agreement, the Company purchased an aggregate of 9,677,420 shares of 
the Company’s common stock in a private transaction for an aggregate purchase price of approximately $750 million. This transaction 
was consummated on February 28, 2017. 

Other Equity Repurchases

In November 2017, the Company completed an underwritten secondary public offering of 10,000,000 shares of its common 
stock  held  by  certain  of  the  Company’s  principal  stockholders  (the  “November  Selling  Stockholders”),  of  which  the  Company 
repurchased 2,500,000 shares for an aggregate purchase price of approximately $255 million. These shares were repurchased outside 
of  the  Company’s  existing  Repurchase  Program.  The  Company  did  not  offer  any  stock  in  this  transaction  and  did  not  receive  any 
proceeds  from  the  sale  of  the  shares  by  the  November  Selling  Stockholders.  Pursuant  to  an  agreement  with  the  underwriter,  the 
Company’s per-share purchase price for repurchased shares was the same as the per-share purchase price payable by the underwriter 
to the November Selling Stockholders. 

Summary

Below is a summary of the share repurchases made both under and outside of the Repurchase Program:

(in millions, except per share data)
Number of shares of common stock repurchased
Aggregate purchase price
Average price per share

2018

Year Ended December 31,
2017

2016

  $
  $

12.6     
1,396    $
111.23    $

30.9     
2,620    $
84.80    $

14.3 
1,098 
76.57  

99

 
 
 
 
   
   
 
   
Non-controlling Interests 

The Company contributed businesses to a joint venture with Quest Diagnostics Incorporated (“Quest”) that was recorded at 
book  value  (carryover  basis)  because  the  Company  owns  60%  of  the  joint  venture  and  maintains  control  of  these  businesses.  As  a 
result,  Quest’s  non-controlling  interest  in  the  joint  venture,  referred  to  as  Q2  Solutions,  is  equal  to  40%.  Quest’s  non-controlling 
interest was $240 million at December 31, 2018. During the year ended December 31, 2018, Q2 Solutions distributed dividends of $41 
million to Quest and received a $10 million contribution from Quest to fund ongoing operational and strategic activities. 

14. Business Combinations 

IMS Health 

On  October 3,  2016,  pursuant  to  the  terms  of  the  Merger  Agreement,  IMS  Health  merged  with  and  into  Quintiles,  with 
Quintiles continuing as the Surviving Corporation. The combination of Quintiles and IMS Health capabilities and resources creates an 
information and technology enabled healthcare service provider with a full suite of end-to-end clinical and commercial offerings. The 
Merger  was  accounted  for  as  a  business  combination  with  Quintiles  considered  the  accounting  and  the  legal  acquirer.  Immediately 
prior  to  the  completion  of  the  Merger,  Quintiles  reincorporated  as  a  Delaware  corporation.  The  Surviving  Corporation  changed  its 
name to Quintiles IMS Holdings, Inc. At the effective time of the Merger, IMS Health common stock was automatically converted 
into 0.3840 of a share of the Company’s common stock. In addition, IMS Health equity awards held by current employees and certain 
members  of  the  former  IMS  Health  board  of  directors  were  converted  into  the  Company’s  equity  awards  after  giving  effect  to  the 
exchange  ratio.  The  terms  of  these  awards,  including  vesting  provisions,  are  substantially  consistent  to  those  of  the  historical  IMS 
Health equity awards. All of the Company’s and IMS Health’s performance units outstanding at the date of the Merger were converted 
into restricted stock units with service based vesting requirements. The merger consideration was approximately $10.4 billion (based 
on the closing price of the Company’s common stock on October 3, 2016), and consisted of the fair value of the Company’s common 
stock issued (approximately 126.6 million shares) in exchange for the IMS Health common stock as well as the fair value of the vested 
portion  of  the  converted  IMS  Health  equity  awards.  The  Merger-date  value  of  former  IMS  Health  stock-based  awards  was  valued 
using the Black-Scholes-Merton model and apportioned between Merger consideration (purchase price) and unearned compensation to 
be  recognized  in  expense  as  earned  in  future  periods  based  on  remaining  service  periods.  In  connection  with  the  IMS  Health 
acquisition,  the  Company  recorded  goodwill,  primarily  attributable  to  the  assembled  workforce  of  IMS  Health  and  the  expected 
synergies,  which  was  assigned  to  the  Technology  &  Analytics  Solutions  segment  ($9,688  million),  the  Research &  Development 
Solutions segment ($533 million) and the Contract Sales & Medical Solutions segment ($67 million). The goodwill is not deductible 
for income tax purposes. 

The following table summarizes the estimated fair value of the net assets acquired at the date of the acquisition: 

 (in millions)
Assets acquired:

Cash and cash equivalents
Accounts receivable and unbilled services
Prepaid expenses
Other current assets
Property and equipment
Goodwill
Other identifiable intangibles
Deferred income tax asset – long-term
Other long-term assets

Liabilities assumed:

Accounts payable and accrued expenses
Unearned income
Current portion of long-term debt
Other current liabilities
Long-term debt, less current portion
Deferred income tax liability – long-term
Other long-term liabilities

Net assets acquired

100

IMS Health

2,031 
528 
85 
145 
247 
10,288 
6,435 
25 
71 

(700)
(175)
(88)
(45)
(6,070)
(2,104)
(248)
10,425  

  $

  $

 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
The other identifiable intangible assets consisted of the following: 

 (in millions)
Client relationships
Trade names
Databases
Software
Total other identifiable intangibles
Amortized over a weighted average useful life (in years)

Acquisition Related Costs 

  $

  $

IMS Health

3,960 
385 
1,820 
270 
6,435 
18  

Acquisition related costs include the direct and incremental costs associated with mergers and acquisitions such as investment 
banking,  legal,  accounting  and  consulting  fees.  The  Company  recognized  approximately  $36  million  of  acquisition  related  costs 
associated with the IMS Health merger during the year ended December 31, 2016, which are included with merger related costs on the 
consolidated statement of income. Acquisition related costs for all other acquisitions were immaterial and are not presented. 

Unaudited Pro Forma Information 

The following unaudited pro forma information presents the financial results as if the acquisition of IMS Health had occurred 
on January 1, 2016 with pro forma adjustments to give effect to (i) an increase in depreciation and amortization expense for fair value 
adjustments  of  property,  plant  and  equipment  and  intangible  assets,  (ii) an  increase  in  stock-based  compensation  expense  resulting 
from the exchange of the vested IMS Health equity awards for the Company’s equity awards and (iii) the related income tax effects. 
The  pro  forma  results  do  not  include  any  cost  synergies,  costs  or  other  effects  pertaining  to  the  integration  of  IMS  Health. 
Accordingly, such pro forma amounts are not necessarily indicative of the results that actually would have occurred for the periods 
presented below had the IMS Health acquisition been completed on January 1, 2016, nor are they indicative of the future operating 
results of the Company. 

The following table summarizes the pro forma results: 

 (in millions, except earnings per share)
Total revenues
Net loss attributable to IQVIA Holdings Inc.
Earnings per share attributable to common stockholders:

Basic
Diluted

Year Ended
December 31, 2016

9,235 
(1)

— 
—  

  $
  $

  $
  $

Pro forma information is not presented for any other acquisitions as the aggregate operations of the acquired businesses were 

not significant to the overall operations of the Company. 

The Company’s consolidated statements of income for the year ended December 31, 2016 includes $806 million of revenues 
related  to  the  IMS  Health  acquisition.  Following  the  closing  of  the  IMS  Health  acquisition,  the  Company  began  integrating  IMS 
Health’s  operations.  As  a  result,  computing  a  separate  measure  of  IMS  Health’s  stand-alone  profitability  for  periods  after  the 
acquisition date is impracticable. 

Other Acquisitions 

The Company also completed a number of individually immaterial acquisitions during the year ended December 31, 2018. The 
Company’s assessment of fair value and the purchase price allocation related to these acquisitions is preliminary and subject to change 
upon  completion.  Further  adjustments  may  be  necessary  as  additional  information  related  to  the  fair  values  of  assets  acquired  and 
liabilities  assumed  is  assessed  during  the  measurement  period  (up  to  one  year  from  the  acquisition  date).  The  accompanying 
consolidated financial statements include the results of the acquisitions subsequent to each respective closing date. 

101

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
The  following  table  provides  certain  financial  information  for  these  individually  immaterial  acquisitions,  including  the 

preliminary allocations of the purchase prices to certain tangible and intangible assets acquired and goodwill: 

 (in millions)
Total cost of acquisitions, net of cash acquired(1)
Amounts recorded in the Consolidated Balance Sheets:

Goodwill
Portion of goodwill deductible for income tax purposes

Intangible assets:

Client relationships
Backlog
Non-compete agreements
Software
Trade names

Total intangible assets

Amortization
Period

2018

2017

  $

  $

  $

  $

8-14 years
2 years
3-5 years
1-6 years
2-10 years

372    $

202    $
15   

126    $
10   
4   
44   
8   
192    $

923 

581 
235 

285 
15 
14 
61 
17 
392  

(1) 

Total cost of acquisitions, net of cash acquired, includes contingent consideration and deferred purchase payments of $63 million and $69 million for 
the years ended December 31, 2018 and 2017, respectively.

15. Restructuring 

From  time  to  time,  the  Company  takes  restructuring  actions  to  adapt  to  changing  market  conditions.  These  actions  include 
closing facilities, consolidating functional activities, eliminating redundant positions, aligning resources with customer requirements 
and taking actions to improve process efficiencies. There were restructuring plans approved in each of 2018, 2017 and 2016 for these 
activities. Additionally, in 2016, the Company also acquired certain restructuring plans. 

The 2018 management approved plans resulted in approximately $68 million of restructuring expense, net of reversals, which 
consisted  of  severance,  facility  closure  costs  and  other  exit-related  costs.  The  2017  management  approved  plans  resulted  in 
approximately  $61 million  of  restructuring  expense,  net  of  reversals,  which  consisted  of  severance,  facility  closure  costs  and  other 
exit-related  costs.  The  2016  management  approved  plans  resulted  in  approximately  $33 million  of  restructuring  expense,  net  of 
reversals, which consisted of severance, facility closure costs and other exit-related costs. 

The following amounts were recorded for the restructuring plans: 

 (in millions)
Balance at December 31, 2016
Expense, net of reversals
Payments
Foreign currency translation and other
Balance at December 31, 2017
Expense, net of reversals
Payments
Foreign currency translation and other
Balance at December 31, 2018

Severance and
Related Costs

Exit Costs

Total

  $

  $

99    $
59     
(77)    
(1)    
80     
45     
(76)    
(2)    
47    $

3    $
4     
(4)    
1     
4     
23     
(6)    
6     
27    $

102 
63 
(81)
— 
84 
68 
(82)
4 
74  

The reversals were due to changes in estimates primarily resulting from the redeployment of staff and higher than expected 
voluntary terminations. Restructuring costs are not allocated to the Company’s reportable segments as they are not part of the segment 
performance  measures  regularly  reviewed  by  management.  The  Company  expects  the  majority  of  the  restructuring  accruals  at 
December 31, 2018 will be paid in 2019.

102

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
    
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
    
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
16. Income Taxes

On  December  22,  2017,  the  U.S.  government  enacted  the  Tax  Act.  The  Tax  Act  is  comprehensive  legislation  that  includes 
provisions that lower the federal corporate income tax rate from 35% to 21% beginning in 2018 and imposes a one-time transition tax 
on undistributed foreign earnings. ASC 740 “Income Taxes” generally requires the effects of the tax law change to be recorded in the 
period  of  enactment.  However,  the  SEC  staff  issued  Staff  Accounting  Bulletin  No.  118  (“SAB  118”)  to  address  situations  when  a 
registrant does not have the necessary information available, prepared, or analyzed (including computations) in reasonable detail to 
complete  the  accounting  for  certain  income  tax  effects  of  the  Tax  Act.  SAB  118  allows  companies  to  record  provisional  amounts 
during  a  measurement  period  not  to  extend  beyond  one  year  of  the  enactment  date  to  address  ongoing  guidance  and  tax 
interpretations.  Subsequent  changes  to  provisional  amounts  are  reported  in  income  tax  expense  in  the  period  in  which  they  are 
determined. The Company recognized the tax impacts related to the transition tax on undistributed foreign earnings and the impact to 
deferred tax assets and liabilities and included these provisional amounts based on reasonable estimates in its consolidated financial 
statements for the year ended December 31, 2017. After further analysis of regulatory guidance and available elections, in the third 
quarter of 2018, the Company decided to utilize net operating losses against the 2017 transition tax and preserve foreign tax credits for 
future  use.  Accordingly,  the  Company  recorded  a  $27  million  provisional  benefit  related  to  the  transition  tax.  During  the  fourth 
quarter, the Company completed the accounting for SAB 118 which resulted in a full year benefit of $35 million, inclusive of the $27 
million provisional benefit recorded in the third quarter, related to the transition tax. This benefit of $35 million reduced the effective 
tax rate by 10.7 percentage points for the year ended December 31, 2018

The  U.S.  Treasury  Department  has  also  released proposed  regulations related  to  the  business  interest  expense  limitations, 
foreign tax credit guidance, BEAT, GILTI and transition tax provisions of the Tax Act. This proposed guidance is not authoritative 
and  is  subject  to  change  in  the  regulatory  review  process.  The  Company  has  considered  these  proposed  regulations  in  its  effective 
income tax rate for the year ended December 31, 2018. As these proposed regulations are finalized, the guidance may have an impact 
on our effective income tax rate. 

The components of income before income taxes and equity in earnings (losses) of unconsolidated affiliates are as follows: 

(in millions)
Domestic
Foreign

2018

Year Ended December 31,
2017

2016

  $

  $

(521)   $
849     
328    $

(527)   $
821     
294    $

(125)
541 
416  

The components of income tax expense attributable to continuing operations are as follows: 

(in millions)
Current expense:

Federal and state
Foreign

Deferred (benefit) expense:

Federal and state
Foreign

2018

Year Ended December 31,
2017

2016

  $

  $

17    $
233     
250     

(170)    
(21)    
(191)    
59    $

(3)   $
222     
219     

(1,167)    
(44)    
(1,211)    
(992)   $

64 
129 
193 

151 
(19)
132 
325  

As a result of the Tax Act, the Company recorded a provisional deferred tax benefit of $966 million related to the revaluation 
of deferred taxes at the newly enacted 21% rate and reversal of the deferred tax liability on undistributed earnings net of the newly 
enacted transition tax for the year ended December 31, 2017. The Company finalized its accounting for SAB 118 in the fourth quarter 
of 2018 and recorded a full year benefit of $35 million.

103

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
      
      
  
   
 
   
   
      
      
  
   
   
 
   
 
The  differences  between  the  Company’s  consolidated  income  tax  expense  attributable  to  continuing  operations  and  the 

expense computed at the United States statutory income tax rate of 21% in 2018 and 35% in both 2017 and 2016 were as follows:

(in millions)
Federal income tax expense at statutory rate
State and local income taxes, net of federal effect
Research and development
Foreign nontaxable interest income
United States taxes recorded on foreign earnings(*)
Tax contingencies
Foreign Derived Intangible Income (“FDII”)
Foreign rate differential
Equity compensation
Tax Act impact
Other

2018

Year Ended December 31,
2017

2016

69    $
(2)    
(20)    
—     
40     
16     
(25)    
27     
(8)    
(35)    
(3)    
59    $

103    $
(14)    
(9)    
(7)    
6     
17     
— 
(97)    
(19)    
(966)    
(6)    
(992)   $

146 
(1)
(11)
(8)
252 
2 
— 
(58)
— 
— 
3 
325  

  $

  $

(*) Includes impact of GILTI, and other U.S. taxes on foreign earnings.

In 2018 the Company recorded a $35 million benefit related to finalizing the accounting related to SAB 118. Additionally, in 
2018 the Company recorded a benefit of $25 million related to FDII, as well as a tax expense of $35 million related to GILTI, as a 
result of the new provisions of the Tax Act. Based on proposed guidance as of December 31, 2018 the Company determined that the 
provisions of BEAT and business interest expense limitation were not applicable.

In 2017, due to the Tax Act, the Company revalued its U.S. deferred tax assets and liabilities and recorded a benefit to deferred 

income taxes of $966 million.  

 In 2016, due to the Merger, the Company reevaluated its indefinite reinvestment assertion based on the need for cash in the 
United States, including funding the Repurchase Program and potential acquisitions. Accordingly, the Company changed its assertion 
with  respect  to  $2,801  million  of  foreign  earnings,  including  $1,865  million  of  IMS  Health’s  previously  undistributed  historical 
foreign  earnings. Deferred  income  taxes  of  $625  million  were  recorded  in  2016  related  to  non-indefinitely  reinvested  foreign 
earnings. Of that amount, $373 million was recorded through purchase accounting related to IMS Health’s historical foreign earnings 
and the remainder of $252 million was recorded through deferred income tax expense. 

Undistributed  earnings  of  the  Company’s  foreign  subsidiaries  amounted  to  approximately  $3,548  million  at  December 31, 

2018. With the enactment of the Tax Act, the Company does not consider any of its foreign earnings as indefinitely reinvested. 

104

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
   
   
   
   
   
  
   
   
   
   
 
The income tax effects of temporary differences from continuing operations that give rise to significant portions of deferred 

income tax assets (liabilities) are presented below: 

(in millions)
Deferred income tax assets:

Net operating loss and capital loss carryforwards
Tax credit carryforwards
Accrued expenses and unearned income
Employee benefits
Other

Valuation allowance for deferred income tax assets

Total deferred income tax assets
Deferred income tax liabilities:

Undistributed foreign earnings
Amortization and depreciation
Other

Total deferred income tax liabilities
Net deferred income tax liabilities

December 31,

2018

2017

  $

244    $
300   
70   
181   
51   
846   
(226)  
620   

(15)  
(1,209)  
(23)  
(1,247)  

  $

(627)   $

278 
170 
80 
189 
82 
799 
(200)
599 

(21)
(1,334)
(30)
(1,385)
(786)

During 2018 the deferred tax liabilities decreased mainly due to amortization of intangibles due to the Merger. 

The Company had federal, state and local, and foreign tax loss carryforwards and tax credits, the tax effect of which was $576 
million as of December 31, 2018. Of this amount, $31 million has an indefinite carryforward period, and the remaining $545 million 
expires  at  various  times  beginning  in  2019.  Some  of  the  federal  losses  are  subject  to  limitations  under  the  Internal  Revenue  Code, 
however, management expects these losses to be utilized during the carryforward periods. 

In  2018,  the  Company  increased  its  valuation  allowance  by  $26  million  to  $226  million  at  December 31,  2018  from  $200 
million at December 31, 2017. The valuation allowance increased primarily due to current year branch basket foreign tax credits that 
the Company has determined are not more likely than not to be used before their expiration. The valuation allowance also increased 
due to an increase in the value of the U.S. state net operating losses.

A reconciliation of the beginning and ending amount of gross unrecognized income tax benefits is presented below: 

(in millions)
Balance at January 1
IMS Health balance as of Merger
Additions based on tax positions related to the current year
Additions for income tax positions of prior years
Impact of changes in exchange rates
Settlements with tax authorities
Reductions for income tax positions of prior years
Reductions due to the lapse of the applicable statute of limitations
Balance at December 31

2018

Year Ended December 31,
2017

2016

  $

  $

82    $
—     
4     
26     
(2)    
(2)    
—     
(14)    
94    $

64    $
—     
11     
13     
4     
(2)    
(2)    
(6)    
82    $

30 
37 
3 
7 
(3)
— 
(1)
(9)
64  

As of December 31, 2018, the Company had total gross unrecognized income tax benefits of $94 million associated with over 
100 jurisdictions in which the Company conducts business that, if recognized, would reduce the Company’s effective income tax rate. 

The  Company’s  policy  for  recording  interest  and  penalties  relating  to  uncertain  income  tax  positions  is  to  record  them  as  a 
component of income tax expense in the accompanying consolidated statements of income. In 2018, 2017 and 2016, the amount of 
interest  and  penalties  recorded  as  an  addition/(reduction)  to  income  tax  expense  in  the  accompanying  consolidated  statements  of 
income was $0, $3 million and $2 million, respectively. As of December 31, 2018 and 2017, the Company had accrued approximately 
$16 million and $18 million, respectively, of interest and penalties.

105

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
    
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
    
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
The  Company  believes  that  it  is  reasonably  possible  that  a  decrease  of  up  to  $8  million  in  gross  unrecognized  income  tax 
benefits  for  federal,  state  and  foreign  exposure  items  may  be  necessary  within  the  next  12  months  due  to  lapse  of  statutes  of 
limitations or uncertain tax positions being effectively settled. The Company believes that it is reasonably possible that a decrease of 
up  to  $14  million  in  gross  unrecognized  income  tax  benefits  for  foreign  items  may  be  necessary  within  the  next  12  months  due  to 
payments. For the remaining uncertain income tax positions, it is difficult at this time to estimate the timing of the resolution.

The Company conducts business globally and, as a result, files income tax returns in the United States federal jurisdiction and 
various state and foreign jurisdictions. In the normal course of business, the Company is subject to examination by taxing authorities 
throughout the world. The following table summarizes the tax years that remain open for examination by tax authorities in the most 
significant jurisdictions in which the Company operates: 

United States
India
Japan
United Kingdom
Switzerland

2015-2017
2006-2018
2013-2017
2017
2014-2017

In  certain  of  the  jurisdictions  noted  above,  the  Company  operates  through  more  than  one  legal  entity,  each  of  which  has 
different open years subject to examination. The table above presents the open years subject to examination for the most material of 
the legal entities in each jurisdiction. Additionally, it is important to note that tax years are technically not closed until the statute of 
limitations in each jurisdiction expires. In the jurisdictions noted above, the statute of limitations can extend beyond the open years 
subject to examination. 

Due to the geographic breadth of the Company’s operations, numerous tax audits may be ongoing throughout the world at any 
point in time. Income tax liabilities are recorded based on estimates of additional income taxes that may be due upon the conclusion of 
these audits. Estimates of these income tax liabilities are made based upon prior experience and are updated in light of changes in facts 
and circumstances. However, due to the uncertain and complex application of income tax regulations, it is possible that the ultimate 
resolution of audits may result in liabilities that could be materially different from these estimates. In such an event, the Company will 
record additional income tax expense or income tax benefit in the period in which such resolution occurs. 

106

 
 
 
 
 
17. Employee Benefit Plans 

Pension and Postretirement Benefit Plans 

The  Company  sponsors  both  funded  and  unfunded  defined  benefit  pension  plans.  These  plans  provide  benefits  based  on 
various  criteria,  including,  but  not  limited  to,  years  of  service  and  salary.  The  Company  also  sponsors  an  unfunded  postretirement 
benefit plan in the United States that provides health and prescription drug benefits to retirees who meet the eligibility requirements. 
The Company uses a December 31 measurement date for all pension and postretirement benefit plans.  

The following table summarizes changes in the benefit obligation, the plan assets and the funded status of the pension benefit 

plans: 

(in millions)
Obligation and funded status:
Change in benefit obligation:
Projected benefit obligation at beginning of year
Service costs
Interest cost
Actuarial (gains) losses
Business combinations
Benefits paid
Contributions
Amendments
Curtailments
Settlements
Foreign currency fluctuations and other
Projected benefit obligation at end of year
Change in plan assets:
Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year
Actual return on plan assets
Contributions
Benefits paid
Settlements
Foreign currency fluctuations and other
Fair value of plan assets at end of year
Funded status

United States Plans

Non-United States Plans

Pension Benefits

December 31

2018

2017

2018

2017

  $

  $

349    $
13     
12     
(30)    
—     
(9)    
—     
—     
—     
—     
—     
335     

360     
(24)    
3     
(9)    
—     
—     
330     
(5)   $

308    $
13     
11     
25     
—     
(8)    
—     
—     
—     
—     
—     
349     

312     
53     
3     
(8)    
—     
—     
360     
11    $

559    $
26   
9   
(29)  
1   
(21)  
2   
2   
(3)  
(12)  
(21)  
513   

391   
(2)  
29   
(21)  
(11)  
(20)  
366   
(147)   $

508 
26 
9 
(2)
— 
(21)
1 
— 
— 
(4)
42 
559 

348 
17 
21 
(21)
(4)
30 
391 
(168)

107

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
      
      
    
 
  
   
      
      
    
 
  
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
      
      
    
 
  
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
The  following  table  summarizes  the  amounts  recognized  in  the  consolidated  balance  sheets  related  to  the  pension  benefit 

plans: 

(in millions)
Deposits and other assets
Accrued expenses
Other long-term liabilities
AOCI

Pension Benefits

United States Plans

Non-United States Plans

December 31

2018

2017

2018

2017

  $

36    $
2     
38     
11     

55    $
2     
42     
33     

17    $
11     
153     
7     

15 
8 
175 
(3)

 At December 31, 2018, the benefit obligation for other postretirement benefits was $2 million, with $1 million recorded in 

accrued expenses and $1 million included within other long-term liabilities; and the amount recognized in AOCI was $1 million. 

 The following table summarizes the accumulated benefit obligation for all pension benefit plans: 

(in millions)
Accumulated benefit obligation

Pension Benefits

United States Plans

Non-United States Plans

December 31

2018

2017

2018

2017

  $

330    $

343    $

476    $

507  

The following table provides the information for pension plans with an accumulated benefit obligation in excess of plan assets 

and projected benefit obligations in excess of plan assets: 

(in millions)
Plans with accumulated benefit obligation in excess of
   plan assets:
Accumulated benefit obligation
Fair value of plan assets
Plans with projected benefit obligation in excess of
   plan assets:
Projected benefit obligation
Fair value of plan assets

  $

  $

Pension Benefits

United States Plans

Non-United States Plans

December 31

2018

2017

2018

2017

43    $
3     

43    $
3     

45    $
3     

46    $
3     

189    $
59     

223    $
59     

442 
301 

492 
309  

108

 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
   
   
   
 
   
   
   
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
   
   
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
   
   
   
 
 
 
      
      
      
  
   
 
 
      
      
      
  
   
The components of net periodic benefit cost changes in plan assets and benefit obligations recognized in other comprehensive 

loss were as follows: 

(in millions)
Service cost
Interest cost
Expected return on plan assets
Amortization of actuarial losses
Curtailment gain
Settlement gain
Net periodic benefit cost
Other changes in plan assets and
   benefit obligations recognized in
   other comprehensive loss:
Actuarial loss (gain) – current years
Prior service cost - current year
Curtailment gain - current year
Settlement gain - current year
Amortization of actuarial losses
Total recognized in other
   comprehensive loss (income)
Total recognized in net periodic benefit
   cost and other comprehensive loss
   (income)

  $

Pension Benefits

United States Plans

Non-United States Plans

Year Ended December 31,

2018

2017

2016

2018

2017

2016

13    $
12     
(27)    
—     
—     
—     
(2)    

22     
— 
— 
— 
— 

22     

 $

13 
11 
(24)
— 
— 
— 
— 

(4)
— 
— 
— 
— 

(4)

4    $
3     
(6)    
—     
—     
—     
1     

(29)    
— 
— 
— 
— 

26    $
9     
(15)    
1     
(3)    
(1)    
17     

(15)    
2 
3 
1 
(1)

(29)    

(10)    

26    $
9     
(14)    
1     
— 
— 
22     

(4)    
— 
— 
— 
(1)

(5)    

18 
5 
(6)
1 
— 
— 
18 

(5)
— 
— 
— 
(1)

(6)

$

20    $

(4)

 $

(28)   $

7    $

17    $

12  

All  components  of  net  periodic  benefit  cost  other  than  service  cost  are  recorded  in  other  expense  (income),  net  on  the 

accompanying consolidated statements of income.

On October 26, 2018, the High Court of the United Kingdom issued a judgement relating to Guaranteed Minimum Pensions 
(“GMPs”)  in  the  Lloyds  case.  The  judgement  concluded  the  schemes  should  be  amended  to  equalize  pension  benefits  for  men  and 
women in relation to guaranteed minimum pension benefits. A preliminary assessment by the Company’s actuarial advisors estimated 
an impact of approximately $1.7 million between the two United Kingdom pension schemes, which has been recognized in AOCI as a 
prior service cost in 2018.

The  components  of  other  changes  in  plan  assets  and  benefit  obligations  recognized  in  other  comprehensive  loss  (income) 
related to the other postretirement benefits plan were $(1) million for the year ended December 31, 2018, and de minimis for the years 
ended  December  31,  2017  and  2016.  In  addition,  the  amounts  in  AOCI  that  are  expected  to  be  recognized  as  components  of  net 
periodic benefit cost (credit) during 2019 for pension and other postretirement benefit plans are de minimis. 

Assumptions 

The  weighted  average  assumptions  used  to  determine  net  periodic  benefit  cost  were  as  follows  for  the  years  ended 

December 31: 

Discount rate
Rate of compensation
    increases
Expected return on
   plan assets

Pension Benefits

Other
Postretirement Benefits

United States Plans

Non-United States Plans

2018  
  3.69% 

2017  

2016  

  4.17%    3.62% 

2018  
  1.91% 

2017  
  1.89% 

2016  

2018  

1.88%    2.90% 

2017  
  2.90% 

2016  
  2.40%

  3.00% 

  3.00%    3.00% 

  4.54% 

  5.17% 

5.27%   

  7.69% 

  7.94%    7.94% 

  4.17% 

  4.16% 

4.26%   

— 

— 

— 

— 

— 

—  

109

 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
   
   
   
 
   
  
   
  
   
  
   
  
  
   
  
  
   
  
 
 
      
  
  
      
      
      
  
   
  
   
  
  
  
  
  
   
  
  
  
  
  
   
  
  
  
  
  
   
  
  
  
  
  
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
The weighted average assumptions used to determine benefit obligations were as follows at December 31: 

Discount rate
Rate of compensation
    increases

Pension Benefits

Other Postretirement Benefits

United States Plans

Non-United States Plans

2018

2017

2018

2017

2018

2017

4.42%   

3.69%   

1.98%   

1.90%   

3.80%   

2.90%

3.00%   

3.00%   

3.20%   

4.54%   

— 

—  

The discount rate represents the interest rate used to determine the present value of the future cash flows currently expected to 
be  required  to  settle  the  Company’s  defined  benefit  plan  obligations.  The  discount  rates  are  derived  using  weighted  average  yield 
curves on AA-rated corporate bonds. The cash flows from the Company’s expected benefit obligation payments are then matched to 
the yield curve to derive the discount rates. At December 31, 2018, the discount rate ranged from 3.80% to 4.46% for the Company’s 
United States pension plan and postretirement benefit plan. At December 31, 2018, the discount rate ranged from 2.32% to 2.90% for 
the  Company’s  United  Kingdom  pension  plans.  The  United  States  and  United  Kingdom  plans  represent  approximately  74%  of  the 
consolidated benefit obligation as of December 31, 2018. The discount rates in other non-U.S. countries ranged from 0.49% to 16.31% 
at December 31, 2018. 

The Company’s assumption for the expected return on plan assets was determined by the weighted average of the long-term 
expected rate of return on each of the asset classes invested as of the balance sheet date. For plan assets invested in government bonds, 
the expected return was based on the yields on the relevant indices as of the balance sheet date. There is considerable uncertainty for 
the expected return on plan assets invested in equity and diversified growth funds. The expected rate of return on plan assets for the 
United States pension plans was 7.75% at January 1, 2019. Outside the United States, the range of applicable expected rates of return 
was 1.0% to 7.22% as of January 1, 2019, compared to 1.0% to 6.46% as of January 1, 2018. The expected return on assets (“EROA”) 
was $42 million and $38 million and the actual return on assets was ($26) million and $70 million for the years ended December 31, 
2018 and 2017, respectively.

Under the Company’s United States qualified retirement plan, participants have a notional retirement account that increases 
with pay and investment credits. The rate used to determine the investment credit (cash balance crediting rate) varies monthly and is 
equal to 1/12th of the yield on 30-year U.S. Government Treasury Bonds, with a minimum of 0.25%. At retirement, the account is 
converted to a monthly retirement benefit. 

At December 31, 2018, the Company’s health care cost trend rate for the next seven years was assumed to be 6.0% and the 

assumed ultimate cost trend rate was 5%. The Company assumed that ultimate cost trend rate is reached in 2021. 

Assumed health care cost trend rates could have a significant effect on the amounts reported for the health care plans. A one-
percentage-point change in assumed health care cost trend rates at December 31, 2018 would have a de minimis effect on the total of 
service and interest cost and on the accumulated postretirement benefit obligation. 

Plan Assets 

The Company’s pension plan weighted average asset allocations, by asset category, were as follows: 

Asset Category
Equity securities
Debt securities
Real estate
Other
Total

Plan Assets at December 31,

United States Plans
2017
2018

  Non-United States Plans

Total

2018

2017

2018

2017

67.58%   
27.34 
5.08 
— 

69.86%   
25.21 
4.93 
— 

45.22%   
16.18 
— 
38.60 

47.92%   
14.65 
— 
37.43 

55.83%   
21.48 
2.41 
20.28 

58.44%
19.71 
2.36 
19.49 

    100.00%    100.00%    100.00%    100.00%    100.00%    100.00%

110

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
The target asset allocation for the Company’s pension plans were as follows: 

Asset Category
Equity securities
Debt securities
Real estate
Other

United States
Plans

Non-United
States Plans

60-80% 
20-30% 
0-10% 
—% 

35-50% 
10-20% 
—% 
30-45% 

Total

45-65%
10-30%
0-5%
10-30%

The following table summarizes United States plan assets measured at fair value: 

Asset Category

Level 1

December 31, 2018
Level 2

Total

Level 1

December 31, 2017
Level 2

Total

Domestic equities
International equities
Corporate bonds
Real estate
Total assets in the fair value hierarchy
Common/collective trusts measured at net asset value
   (“NAV”)(1)
Total

  $

  $

31    $
13     
54     
16     
114     

—     
114    $

—    $
—     
—     
—     
—     

—     
—    $

(in millions)
31    $
13     
54     
16     
114     

216     
330    $

37    $
23     
53     
18     
131     

—     
131    $

—    $
—     
—     
—     
—     

—     
—    $

37 
23 
53 
18 
131 

229 
360  

The following table summarizes non-United States plan assets measured at fair value: 

Asset Category

Level 1

December 31, 2018
Level 2

Total

Level 1

December 31, 2017
Level 2

Total

International equities
Debt issued by national, state or local government
Diversified growth fund
Investments funds
Insurance contracts
Other
Total assets in the fair value hierarchy
Assets measured at NAV(1)
Total

  $

  $

2    $
2     
—     
—     
—     
—     
4     
—     
4    $

53    $
57     
—     
8     
136     
5     
259     
—     
259    $

(in millions)
55    $
59     
—     
8     
136     
5     
263     
103     
366    $

—    $
2     
—     
—     
—     
—     
2     
—     
2    $

66    $
55     
17     
7     
141     
7     
293     
—     
293    $

66 
57 
17 
7 
141 
7 
295 
96 
391  

(1) 

Certain investments that are measured at fair value using the net asset value per share (or its equivalent) practical expedient have not been classified 
in the fair value hierarchy. The fair value amounts presented in the above plan asset tables are intended to permit reconciliation of the fair value of 
plan assets in the fair value hierarchy to the plan asset amounts presented in the above funded status table as of December 31, 2018 and 2017. 

Investments in mutual funds are valued at quoted market prices. Investments in common/collective trusts and pooled funds are 
valued at the NAV as reported by the trust. The NAV is based on the fair value of the underlying investments held by the fund less its 
liabilities.  Insurance  contracts  are  valued  at  the  amount  of  the  benefit  liability.  The  Company  has  no  Level  3  assets  that  rely  on 
unobservable inputs to measure fair value. 

111

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
   
   
   
   
   
 
 
 
 
   
   
   
   
   
 
 
   
 
 
   
   
   
   
   
 
 
 
 
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
Investment Policies and Strategies 

The Company invests primarily in a diversified portfolio of equity and debt securities that provide for long-term growth within 
reasonable and prudent levels of risk. The asset allocation targets established by the Company are strategic and applicable to the plan’s 
long-term investing horizon. The portfolio is constructed and maintained to provide adequate liquidity to meet associated liabilities 
and minimize long-term expense and provide prudent diversification among asset classes in accordance with the principles of modern 
portfolio  theory.  The  plan  employs  a  diversified  mix  of  actively  managed  investments  around  a  core  of  passively  managed  index 
exposures  in  each  asset  class.  Within  each  asset  class,  rapid  market  shifts,  changes  in  economic  conditions  or  an  individual  fund 
manager’s outlook may cause the asset allocation to fall outside the prescribed targets. The majority of the Company’s plan assets are 
measured  quarterly  against  benchmarks  established  by  the  Company’s  investment  advisors  and  the  Company’s  Asset  Management 
Committee,  who  review  actual  plan  performance  and  have  the  authority  to  recommend  changes  as  deemed  appropriate.  Assets  are 
rebalanced periodically to their strategic targets to maintain the plan’s strategic risk/reward characteristics. The Company periodically 
conducts asset liability modeling studies to ensure that the investment strategy is aligned with the obligations of the plans and that the 
assets will generate income and capital growth to meet the cost of current and future benefits that the plans provide. The pension plans 
do not have investments in Company stock at December 31, 2018 or 2017. 

The  portfolio  for  the  Company’s  United  Kingdom  pension  plans  seek  to  invest  in  a  range  of  suitable  assets  of  appropriate 
liquidity that will generate in the most effective manner possible, income and capital growth to ensure that there are sufficient assets to 
meet  benefit  payments  when  they  fall  due,  while  controlling  the  long-term  costs  of  the  plans  and  avoiding  short-term  volatility  of 
investment returns. The plans seek to achieve these objectives by investing in a mixture of real (equities) and monetary (fixed interest) 
assets. It recognizes that the returns on real assets, while expected to be greater over the long-term than those on monetary assets, are 
likely to be more volatile. A mixture across asset classes should nevertheless provide the level of returns required by the plans. The 
trustee periodically conducts asset liability modeling exercises to ensure the investments are aligned with the appropriate benchmark 
to better reflect the plans’ liabilities. The trustee also undertakes to review this benchmark on a regular basis. 

Cash Flows 

Contributions 

The  Company  expects  to  contribute  approximately  $25  million  in  required  contributions  to  its  pension  and  postretirement 
benefit plans during 2019. The Company may make additional contributions into its pension plans in 2019 depending on, among other 
factors,  how  the  funded  status  of  those  plans  change  or  in  order  to  meet  minimum  funding  requirements  as  set  forth  in  employee 
benefit and tax laws, plus additional amounts the Company may deem to be appropriate. 

Estimated future benefit payments and subsidy receipts 

The  following  benefit  payments  (net  of  expected  participant  contributions)  for  pension  benefits  are  expected  to  be  paid  as 

follows: 

(in millions)
2019
2020
2021
2022
2023
Years 2024 through 2028

Pension Benefits

33 
33 
36 
38 
40 
234 
414  

  $

  $

Benefit payments (net of expected participant contributions) for other postretirement benefits are expected to be de minimis 

over the periods presented. 

112

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Defined Contribution Plans 

Defined contribution or profit sharing plans are offered in Australia, Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Canada, the Czech Republic, 
Denmark,  Finland,  France,  Germany,  Greece,  Hong  Kong,  Hungary,  India,  Ireland,  Israel,  Japan,  Malaysia,  the  Netherlands,  New 
Zealand, Poland, Slovakia, South Africa, Sweden, Switzerland, Taiwan, Thailand, the United States and the United Kingdom. In some 
cases, these plans are required by local laws or regulations. 

In  the  United  States,  the  Company  has  a  401(k)  plan  under  which  the  Company  matches  employee  deferrals  at  varying 
percentages and specified limits of the employee’s salary. In 2018, 2017 and 2016, the Company expensed $49 million, $47 million 
and $39 million, respectively, related to matching contributions. 

Certain key executives of the Company participate in an unfunded defined contribution executive retirement plan, assumed in 
the Merger, which was frozen to additional accruals for future service contributions in 2012. Participants continue to receive an annual 
investment  credit  based  on  the  average  of  the  annual  yields  at  the  end  of  each  month  on  the  AA-AAA  rated  10  plus year  maturity 
component of the Merrill Lynch United States Corporate Bond Master Index. 

Plans Accounted for as Postretirement Benefits 

The Company provides certain executives with postretirement medical, dental and life insurance benefits. These benefits are 
individually negotiated arrangements in accordance with their individual employment arrangements. The above tables do not include 
the  Company’s  expense  or  obligation  associated  with  providing  these  benefits.  The  obligation  related  to  these  benefits  was 
approximately $11 million as of December 31, 2018, and the Company’s expense for the year then ended was de minimis.

Stock Incentive Plans 

Stock  incentive  plans  provide  incentives  to  eligible  employees,  officers  and  directors  in  the  form  of  non-qualified  stock 
options,  incentive  stock  options,  stock  appreciation  rights  (“SARs”),  restricted  stock  awards  (“RSAs”),  restricted  stock  units 
(“RSUs”),  performance  awards,  covered  annual  incentive  awards,  cash-based  awards  and  other  stock-based  awards,  in  each  case 
subject to the terms of the stock incentive plans. 

In  April  2017,  the  Company’s  2017  Incentive  and  Stock  Award  Plan  (the  “2017  Plan”)  was  approved  by  the  Company’s 
stockholders.  The  2017  Plan  consolidates  the  unused  share  pools  under  the  Company’s  2014  Incentive  and  Stock  Award  Plan  (the 
“2014  Plan”),  the  Company’s  2013  Stock  Incentive  Plan  (the  “2013  Plan”),  the  Company’s  2010  Equity  Incentive  Plan  (the  “2010 
Plan”) and the Company’s 2008 Stock Incentive Plan (the “2008 Plan”), and together with the 2010 Plan, the 2013 Plan and the 2014 
Plan  (the  “Prior  Plans”),  makes  shares  underlying  outstanding  awards  granted  under  (but  not  ultimately  delivered)  the  Prior  Plans 
eligible for use in connection with new awards under the 2017 Plan.  The 2017 Plan provides for the grant of stock options, SARs, 
restricted and deferred stock (including RSUs), performance awards, dividend equivalents, other stock-based awards and cash-based 
awards. 

The fair value of stock options and SARs is estimated using the Black-Scholes-Merton option-pricing model. The fair value of 
restricted stock and RSUs is based on the closing market price of the Company’s common stock on the date of grant. The fair value of 
the performance shares related to compound annual earnings per share (“EPS”) growth and/or other internal performance measures is 
equal to the closing market price of the Company’s common stock on the date of grant. The fair value of performance shares related to 
relative total shareholder return (“TSR”) is determined based on a Monte Carlo simulation model. 

The Company recognized stock-based compensation expense of $113 million, $106 million and $80 million in 2018, 2017 and 
2016,  respectively.  Stock-based  compensation  expense  is  included  in  selling,  general  and  administrative  expenses  on  the 
accompanying consolidated statements of income. The associated future income tax benefit recognized was $19 million, $21 million 
and  $24  million  in  2018,  2017  and  2016,  respectively.  As  of  December 31,  2018,  there  was  approximately  $102  million  of  total 
unrecognized  stock-based  compensation  expense  related  to  outstanding  non-vested  stock-based  compensation  arrangements,  which 
the Company expects to recognize over a weighted average period of 1.00 years. 

As  of  December 31,  2018,  there  were  12.1 million  shares  available  for  future  grants  under  all  of  the  Company’s  stock 

incentive plans. 

113

The Company used the following assumptions when estimating the value of the stock-based compensation for stock options 

and SARs issued as follows: 

Expected volatility
Weighted average expected volatility
Expected dividends
Expected term (in years)
Risk-free interest rate

Stock Options 

2018
22 – 24%
22%
0.0%
1.0 – 6.7

Year Ended December 31,
2017
22 – 25%
24%
0.0%
1.0 – 6.9

2016
20 – 30%
28%
0.0%
0.3 – 6.6

2.05 – 3.00%  

1.16 – 2.32%  

0.32 – 2.19%  

The option price is determined by the Board at the date of grant and the options expire 10 years from the date of grant. The 
vesting schedule for options granted to employees is either (i) 25% per year beginning on the first anniversary of the date of grant; or 
(ii) 33% on the third anniversary of the date of grant and 67% on the fourth anniversary of the date of grant. 

The Company’s stock option activity in 2018 is as follows: 

 (in millions, except number of options and exercise price)
Outstanding at December 31, 2017

Exercised
Canceled

Outstanding at December 31, 2018

  Number of Options

4,080,632    $
(1,462,818)  
(43,590)  
2,574,224    $

Weighted
Average
Exercise Price

Aggregate
Intrinsic Value

33.97    $
32.88   
63.44   
34.09    $

261 

211  

The  weighted  average  fair  value  per  share  of  the  options  granted  in  2016  was  $17.91.  The  total  intrinsic  value  of  options 
exercised  was  approximately  $117  million,  $157  million  and  $155  million  in  2018,  2017  and  2016,  respectively.  The  Company 
received  cash  of  approximately  $48  million,  $102  million  and  $101  million  in  2018,  2017  and  2016,  respectively,  from  options 
exercised. 

Selected information regarding the Company’s stock options as of December 31, 2018 is as follows: 

Options Outstanding

Options Exercisable

Number of
Options

599,966    $
589,373     
534,537     
597,416     
252,932    $

Exercise Price Range
8.34      —    $
17.11      —     
28.13      —     
44.45      —     
64.86      —    $

Weighted
Average

Exercise Price  

Weighted
Average
Remaining
Life
(in Years)

Number of
Options

Weighted
Average
Exercise Price

15.11    $
26.05     
40.00     
64.67     
77.11    $

10.64     
22.72     
31.68     
57.91     
65.06     

1.76     
2.09     
3.48     
6.13     
6.19     

599,966    $
589,373     
534,537     
468,928     
174,032    $

10.64 
22.72 
31.68 
56.24 
64.92  

The weighted average remaining contractual life of the options outstanding and exercisable as of December 31, 2018 is 3.6 
years and 3.4 years, respectively. The total aggregate intrinsic value of the exercisable stock options and the stock options expected to 
vest as of December 31, 2018 was approximately $211 million. 

114

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Stock Appreciation Rights – Stock Settled 

The exercise price of the stock-settled SARs (“SSRs”) is equal to the closing market price of the Company’s common stock as 
of the grant date and expire on the tenth anniversary of the date of grant. The SSRs are eligible to vest either (i) in equal increments of 
25%  on  each  of  the  first  four  anniversaries  of  the  date  of  grant  or  (ii)  in  three  equal  annual  installments  on  each  of  the  first  three 
anniversaries of the date of grant. 

The Company’s SSR activity in 2018 is as follows: 

 (in millions, except number of SSRs and exercise price)
Outstanding at December 31, 2017

Granted
Exercised
Canceled

Outstanding at December 31, 2018

Number of SSRs

2,924,770    $
1,787,168   
(328,210)  
(228,200)  
4,155,528    $

Weighted
Average
Exercise Price

Aggregate
Intrinsic Value

72.47    $
96.13   
71.42   
86.22   
81.97    $

74 

142  

The total intrinsic value of SSRs exercised was approximately $13 million in 2018. 

The weighted average remaining contractual life of the SSRs outstanding and exercisable as of December 31, 2018 is 8.2 years 
and  7.1  years,  respectively.  The  total  aggregate  intrinsic  value  of  the  exercisable  SSRs  and  the  SSRs  expected  to  vest  as  of 
December 31, 2018 was approximately $139 million. 

Stock Appreciation Rights – Cash Settled 

The Company’s cash settled SARs (“CSRs”) require the Company to settle in cash an amount equal to the difference between 
the fair value of the Company’s common stock on the date of exercise and the grant price, multiplied by the number of CSRs being 
exercised.  These  awards  either  (i) vest  25% per  year  or  (ii) vest  33%  on  the  third  anniversary  of  the  date  of  grant  and  67%  on  the 
fourth anniversary of the date of grant; or (iii) one-third per year beginning on the first anniversary of the date of grant. 

The Company’s CSR activity in 2018 is as follows: 

 (in millions, except number of CSRs and grant price)
Outstanding at December 31, 2017

Granted
Exercised
Canceled

Outstanding at December 31, 2018

Number of CSRs

Weighted
Average
Grant Price

Aggregate
Intrinsic Value

337,115    $
15,716   
(95,300)  
(10,134)  
247,397    $

53.87    $
95.23   
48.31   
69.92   
57.98    $

15 

14  

As of December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016, the weighted average fair value per share of the CSRs granted was $66.92, $52.53 
and $34.25, respectively. The Company paid approximately $5 million, $4 million and $2 million to settle exercised CSRs in 2018, 
2017 and 2016, respectively. 

The weighted average remaining contractual life of the CSRs outstanding and exercisable as of December 31, 2018 is 5.6 years 
and  5.0  years,  respectively.  The  total  aggregate  intrinsic  value  of  the  exercisable  CSRs  and  the  CSRs  expected  to  vest  as  of 
December 31, 2018 was approximately $14 million. 

115

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
Restricted Stock Units – Stock Settled

The Company’s RSUs will settle in shares of the Company’s common stock within 45 days of the applicable vesting date. In 
general, RSUs granted to employees vest either (i) 25% per year beginning on the first anniversary of the date of grant; (ii) one-third 
per year beginning on the first anniversary of the grant date; (iii) 33% on the third anniversary of the date of grant and 67% on the 
fourth  anniversary  of  the  date  of  grant  or  (iv)  100%  at  the  end  of  the  three-year  period  following  the  grant  date.  Members  of  the 
Company’s board of directors receive RSUs that are fully vested when granted.  

The Company’s RSU activity in 2018 is as follows: 

Outstanding at December 31, 2017

Granted
Vested
Canceled

Outstanding at December 31, 2018

Number of RSUs

Weighted
Average Grant-Date
Fair Value

1,097,708    $
160,462   
(799,011)  
(73,701)  
385,458    $

76.71 
101.16 
77.49 
85.46 
83.60  

As of December 31, 2018, there are 385,458 RSUs outstanding with an intrinsic value of approximately $45 million. 

Restricted Stock Units – Cash Settled 

The Company’s cash settled RSUs (“Cash RSUs”) require the Company to settle in cash an amount equal to the fair value of 
the Company’s common stock on the vest date multiplied by the number of vested Cash RSUs. These awards vest 100% at the end of 
the three-year period following the date of grant. 

The Company’s Cash RSU activity in 2018 is as follows: 

Outstanding at December 31, 2017

Granted
Canceled

Outstanding at December 31, 2018

Number of
Cash RSUs

Weighted
Average Grant-Date
Fair Value

9,015    $
5,260   
(914)  
13,361    $

95.98 
95.23 
81.04 
96.70  

As of December 31, 2018, there are 13,361 Cash RSUs outstanding with an intrinsic value of approximately $1.6 million. 

Restricted Stock Awards 

Restricted stock awards (“RSAs”) vest either (i) in equal increments of 50% on each of the second and fourth anniversaries of 
the grant date; (ii) one-third per year beginning on the first anniversary of the date of grant; or (iii) 25% on each of the second and 
third anniversaries of the grant date and 50% on the fourth anniversary of the date of grant. 

The Company’s RSA activity in 2018 is as follows: 

Outstanding at December 31, 2017

Vested

Outstanding at December 31, 2018

Number of RSAs

440,151    $
(4,084)  
436,067    $

Weighted
Average Grant-Date
Fair Value

79.05 
80.20 
79.04  

As of December 31, 2018, there are 436,067 RSAs outstanding with an intrinsic value of approximately $51 million.

116

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Performance Awards

The  Company  awarded  performance  awards  that  contain  service,  performance-based  and/or  market-based  vesting  criteria. 
Vesting occurs if the recipient remains employed and depends on the degree to which performance goals are achieved during the two-
year or three-year performance period (as defined in the award agreements). 

The Company’s performance award activity in 2018 is as follows: 

Outstanding at December 31, 2017

Granted
Vested
Canceled

Outstanding at December 31, 2018

Number of
Performance Awards

Weighted
Average Grant-Date
Fair Value

476,332    $
438,111   
(3,500)  
(60,367)  
850,576    $

85.84 
104.42 
84.86 
94.70 
94.78  

As  of  December  31,  2018,  there  are  850,576  performance  awards  outstanding  with  an  intrinsic  value  of  approximately  $99 

million. 

Employee Stock Purchase Plan 

Prior  to  December  31,  2016,  the  Company  sponsored  an  Employee  Stock  Purchase  Plan  (“ESPP”)  that  allowed  eligible 
employees to authorize payroll deductions of up to 10% of their base salary to be applied toward the purchase of full shares of the 
Company’s  common  stock  on  the  last  day  of  the  offering  period.  During  2016,  the  Company  issued  0.1 million  shares  of  common 
stock  for  purchases  under  the  ESPP.  Effective  as  of  December 31,  2016,  the  ESPP  was  discontinued  and  participant  contributions 
under the ESPP ceased. The final purchase of shares under the ESPP occurred on December 31, 2016. 

Other 

The Company sponsors a supplemental non-qualified deferred compensation plan, covering certain management employees, 

and maintains other statutory indemnity plans as required by local laws or regulations. 

18. Related Party Transactions 

During  2018,  2017  and  2016,  the  Company  entered  into  a  number  of  contracts  with  HUYA  Bioscience  International,  LLC, 
primarily in Asia, in which the Company will provide up to approximately $34 million, $5 million and $(8) million net cancellations, 
respectively,  of  services  on  a  fee  for  services  basis  at  arm’s  length  and  at  market  rates.  In  2018,  2017  and  2016,  the  Company 
recognized revenue of approximately $10 million, $8 million and $6 million, respectively, for services under these agreements. 

The Company has entered into other transactions with related parties including investments in and advances to unconsolidated 

affiliates that are discussed in Note 4. 

19. Property, Equipment and Software by Geography 

The following table represents the Company’s property, equipment and software, net, by geographic region, which is further 

broken down to show each country that accounts for 10% or more of the totals: 

(in millions)
Property, equipment and software, net:
Americas:

United States
Other

Americas
Europe and Africa
Asia-Pacific

Total property, equipment and software, net

As of December 31,

2018

2017

856    $
23   
879   
221   
70   
1,170    $

623 
27 
650 
259 
76 
985  

  $

  $

117

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
    
 
  
 
 
    
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
20. Segments 

The  following  table  presents  the  Company’s  operations  by  reportable  segment.  The  Company  is  managed  through  three 
reportable segments, Technology & Analytics Solutions, Research & Development Solutions and Contract Sales & Medical Solutions. 
Technology & Analytics Solutions provides mission critical information, technology solutions and real-world insights and services to 
the  Company’s  life  science  clients.  Research &  Development  Solutions,  which  primarily  serves  biopharmaceutical  customers, 
provides  outsourced  clinical  research  and  clinical  trial  related  services.  Contract  Sales  &  Medical  Solutions  provides  health  care 
provider (including contract sales) and patient engagement services to both biopharmaceutical customers and the broader healthcare 
market. Prior period segment results have been recast to conform to immaterial changes to management reporting in 2017. The recast 
only impacts the fourth quarter of 2016 as the management reporting changes relate to IMS Health and these results are only reflected 
in our results since the date of the Merger on October 3, 2016.  

Certain  costs  are  not  allocated  to  the  Company’s  segments  and  are  reported  as  general  corporate  and  unallocated  expenses. 
These costs primarily consist of stock-based compensation and expenses for corporate overhead functions such as senior leadership, 
finance, human resources, information technology, facilities and legal. The Company does not allocate depreciation and amortization, 
restructuring costs, merger related costs or impairment charges to its segments. Asset information by segment is not presented, as this 
measure is not used by the chief operating decision maker to assess the Company’s performance. 

(in millions)
Revenues
Technology & Analytics Solutions
Research & Development Solutions
Contract Sales & Medical Solutions

Total revenues
Costs of revenue
Technology & Analytics Solutions
Research & Development Solutions
Contract Sales & Medical Solutions

Total costs of revenue

Selling, general and administrative expenses
Technology & Analytics Solutions
Research & Development Solutions
Contract Sales & Medical Solutions
General corporate and unallocated

Total selling, general and administrative expenses

Segment profit
Technology & Analytics Solutions
Research & Development Solutions
Contract Sales & Medical Solutions

Total segment profit

General corporate and unallocated
Depreciation and amortization
Impairment charges
Restructuring costs
Merger related costs

Total income from operations

2018

Year Ended December 31,
2017

2016

  $

  $

4,137    $
5,465     
810     
10,412     

2,343     
3,721     
682     
6,746     

771     
616     
69     
260     
1,716     

1,023     
1,128     
59     
2,210     
(260)    
(1,141)    
—     
(68)    
—     
741    $

3,682    $
5,105     
915     
9,702     

1,967     
3,566     
768     
6,301     

719     
582     
73     
248     
1,622     

996     
957     
74     
2,027     
(248)    
(1,011)    
(40)    
(63)    
—     
665    $

1,148 
4,737 
930 
6,815 

695 
3,283 
770 
4,748 

218 
579 
82 
137 
1,016 

235 
875 
78 
1,188 
(137)
(289)
(28)
(71)
(87)
576  

118

 
 
 
 
 
   
   
 
   
      
      
  
   
   
   
   
      
      
  
   
   
   
   
   
      
      
  
   
   
   
   
   
   
      
      
  
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
21. Earnings Per Share 

The following table reconciles the basic to diluted weighted average shares outstanding: 

(in millions)
Basic weighted average common shares outstanding
Effect of dilutive stock options and share awards
Diluted weighted average common shares outstanding

2018

Year Ended December 31,
2017

2016

203.7     
4.5     
208.2     

217.8     
4.8     
222.6     

149.1 
2.9 
152.0  

The following table presents the weighted average number of outstanding stock-based awards not included in the computation 
of diluted earnings per share because they are subject to performance conditions or the effect of including such stock-based awards in 
the computation would be anti-dilutive: 

(in millions)
Shares subject to performance conditions
Shares subject to anti-dilutive stock-based awards
Total shares excluded from diluted earnings per share

2018

Year Ended December 31,
2017

2016

0.8     
0.9     
1.7     

0.4     
1.0     
1.4     

0.1 
1.1 
1.2  

The  vesting  of  performance  awards  is  contingent  upon  the  achievement  of  certain  performance  targets.  The  performance 
awards are not included in diluted earnings per share until the performance targets have been met. Stock-based awards will have a 
dilutive effect under the treasury method when the respective period’s average market value of the Company’s common stock exceeds 
the exercise proceeds. 

22. Comprehensive Income

Below is a summary of the components of AOCI: 

 (in millions)
Balance at December 31, 2015, Adjusted
Other comprehensive (loss) income
   before reclassifications
Reclassification adjustments
Balance at December 31, 2016
Other comprehensive income before
   reclassifications
Reclassification adjustments
Balance at December 31, 2017
Other comprehensive loss before
   reclassifications
Reclassification adjustments
Balance at December 31, 2018

Foreign
Currency
Translation    

Derivative
Instruments

Defined
Benefit
Plans

Income
Taxes

Total

  $

(116)   $

(14)   $

(14)   $

34    $

(110)

(501)  
—   
(617)  

403   
—   
(214)  

(4)  
28   
10   

5   
(1)  
14   

34   
1   
21   

8   
1   
30   

(5)  
(7)  
22   

197   
—   
219   

(205)  
—   
(419)   $

(4)  
(11)  
(1)   $

(12)  
1   
19    $

(41)  
(1)  
177    $

  $

(476)
22 
(564)

613 
— 
49 

(262)
(11)
(224)

119

 
 
 
 
   
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
   
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Below is a summary of the adjustments for (gains) losses reclassified from AOCI into the consolidated statements of income 

and the affected financial statement line item: 

(in millions)
Derivative instruments:

Interest rate swaps and caps
Foreign exchange forward contracts
Foreign exchange forward contracts
Total before income taxes
Income tax expense
Total net of income taxes

Defined benefit plans:

Amortization of actuarial losses
Income tax expense
Total net of income taxes

23. Supplemental Cash Flow Information 

Affected Financial Statement
Line Item

2018

2017

2016

Year Ended December 31,

  Interest expense
  Revenues
  Other expense (income), net

  See Note 17

  $

  $

  $

  $

—    $
1     
(12)    
(11)    
1     
(12)   $

1    $
—     
1    $

—    $
7     
(8)    
(1)    
—     
(1)   $

1    $
—     
1    $

6 
19 
3 
28 
7 
21 

1 
— 
1  

The following table presents the Company’s supplemental cash flow information: 

(in millions)
Supplemental Cash Flow Information:

Interest paid
Income taxes paid, net of refunds

Non-cash Investing Activities:

Fair value of consideration transferred in connection with
   business combinations

  $
  $

  $

2018

Year Ended December 31,
2017

2016

398    $
211    $

320    $
195    $

124 
106 

—    $

—    $

10,425  

120

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
   
 
   
   
      
      
  
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
      
      
  
   
   
   
 
 
 
 
   
   
 
 
 
    
 
    
 
  
 
 
    
 
    
 
  
24. Quarterly Financial Data (Unaudited) 

The following table summarizes the Company’s unaudited quarterly results of operations: 

(in millions, except per share data)
Revenues
Income from operations
Net income
Net income attributable to non-controlling interests
Net income attributable to IQVIA Holdings Inc.(1)
Basic earnings per share(2)
Diluted earnings per share(2)

(in millions, except per share data)
Revenues
Income from operations
Net income
Net income attributable to non-controlling interests
Net income attributable to IQVIA Holdings Inc.(3)
Basic earnings per share(2)
Diluted earnings per share(2)

  $

  $
  $
  $

  $

  $
  $
  $

First Quarter

Second Quarter

Third Quarter

Fourth Quarter

2018

2,563    $
183   
73   
(4)  
69    $
0.33    $
0.32    $

2,567    $
170   
68   
(7)  
61    $
0.30    $
0.29    $

2017

2,594    $
181   
67   
(7)  
60    $
0.30    $
0.29    $

2,688 
207 
76 
(7)
69 
0.34 
0.34  

First Quarter

Second Quarter

Third Quarter

Fourth Quarter

2,360    $
202   
102   
(2)  
100    $
0.43    $
0.43    $

2,355    $
126   
66   
(4)  
62    $
0.28    $
0.28    $

2,466    $
195   
93   
(5)  
88    $
0.41    $
0.40    $

2,521 
142 
1,035 
(8)
1,027 
4.91 
4.79  

(1) 

(2) 

(3) 

During the fourth quarter of 2018, the Company identified and recorded certain adjustments related to prior periods and as a result increased pre-tax 
income by $22 million (net income by $15 million). The Company has evaluated the effects of the out of period adjustments and concluded they are 
not material to the fourth quarter 2018 financial results, nor to any of the previously issued annual or quarterly financial information.
The sum of the quarterly per share amounts may not equal per share amounts reported for year-to-date periods. This is due to changes in the number 
of weighted average shares outstanding and the effects of rounding for each period. 
The significant increase during the fourth quarter of 2017 is due to the enactment of the Tax Act. See Note 16 for additional details.

121

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

None. 

Item 9A. Controls and Procedures 

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures 

As  required  by  Rule  13a-15  under  the  Exchange  Act,  as  amended,  we  carried  out  an  evaluation  of  the  effectiveness  of  the 
design and operation of our disclosure controls and procedures under the supervision and with the participation of our management, 
including  the  Chief  Executive  Officer  (“CEO”)  and  Chief  Financial  Officer  (“CFO”).  There  are  inherent  limitations  to  the 
effectiveness of any system of disclosure controls and procedures, including the possibility of human error and the circumvention or 
overriding of the controls and procedures. Accordingly, even effective disclosure controls and procedures can only provide reasonable 
assurance of achieving their control objectives. Based upon our evaluation, our CEO and CFO concluded that our disclosure controls 
and procedures were effective to provide reasonable assurance that information required to be disclosed by us in the reports that we 
file or submit under the Exchange Act, as amended, is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified 
in the applicable rules and forms, and that it is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our CEO and CFO, as 
appropriate, to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure. 

Management’s Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting 

Our management’s report on internal control over financial reporting is set forth in Part II, Item 8 of this Annual Report on 

Form 10-K and is incorporated herein by reference. 

Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting 

There  were  no  changes  in  our  internal  control  over  financial  reporting  during  the  quarter  ended  December 31,  2018  that 

materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting. 

Item 9B. Other Information 

None. 

122

Item 10. Directors, Executive Officers and Corporate Governance 

PART III

Information required by this Item, other than the information regarding the executive officers of the Company set forth below, 
is incorporated by reference to the sections of our definitive Proxy Statement for our 2019 Annual Meeting of Stockholders (the “2019 
Proxy  Statement”)  entitled  “Proposal  No.  1:    Election  of  Directors,”  “Security  Ownership  of  Certain  Beneficial  Owners  and 
Management—Section  16(a)  Beneficial  Ownership  Reporting  Compliance,”  “The  Company’s  Corporate  Governance—Documents 
Establishing our Corporate Governance” and “The Company’s Corporate Governance—Committees of the Board.”  

The current executive officers of the Company are as follows:

Name

Ari Bousbib
Michael R. McDonnell
W. Richard Staub, III
Kevin C. Knightly
Eric Sherbet

    Age     
57
55
56
58
54

Position

Chairman, Chief Executive Officer, and President
Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer
President, Research & Development Solutions
President, Information & Technology Solutions
Executive Vice President and General Counsel

Ari Bousbib, Director, Chairman, Chief Executive Officer and President

Mr. Bousbib is Chairman, Chief Executive Officer and President of the Company. He assumed this position in October 2016 
following the Merger of Quintiles and IMS Health. From 2010 until the Merger, Mr. Bousbib served as Chairman and CEO of IMS 
Health. Prior to joining IMS Health, Mr. Bousbib spent 14 years at United Technologies Corporation (“UTC”), an aerospace, defense 
and  building  systems  company.  From  2008  until  2010,  he  served  as  President  of  UTC’s  Commercial  Companies,  with  executive 
leadership  responsibilities  for  the  worldwide  operations  of  Otis  Elevator  Company,  Carrier  Corporation,  UTC  Fire  &  Security  and 
UTC Power Inc. From 2002 until 2008, Mr. Bousbib was President of Otis, and from 2000 to 2002, he served as its Chief Operating 
Officer.  Prior  to  joining  UTC,  Mr.  Bousbib  was  a  partner  at  Booz  Allen  Hamilton.  Mr.  Bousbib  currently  serves  on  the  board  of 
directors  of  The  Home  Depot,  Inc.  and  is  a  member  of  the  Harvard  Medical  School  Health  Care  Policy  Advisory  Council.  He 
previously served on the board of directors of Best Buy, Inc. and was appointed by the President of the United States to serve on the 
President’s Commission on White House Fellowships. Mr. Bousbib holds a Master of Science Degree in Mathematics and Mechanical 
Engineering from the Ecole Superieure des Travaux Publics, Paris, and an M.B.A. from Columbia University.

Michael R. McDonnell, Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer

Mr. McDonnell has served as Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer since December 2015. Prior to joining the 
Company, Mr. McDonnell served as the Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of Intelsat, a leading global provider of 
satellite services, from November 2008 to December 2015. He previously served as Executive Vice President, Chief Financial Officer 
and  Treasurer  of  MCG  Capital  Corporation,  a  publicly-held  commercial  finance  company,  from  September  2004  through  October 
2008 and as its Chief Operating Officer from August 2006 to October 2008. Before joining MCG Capital Corporation, Mr. McDonnell 
served  as  Executive  Vice  President  and  Chief  Financial  Officer  for  EchoStar  Communications  Corporation  (f/k/a  DISH  Network 
Corporation), a direct-to-home satellite television operator, from July 2004 to August 2004 and as its Senior Vice President and Chief 
Financial  Officer  from  August  2000  to  July  2004.  Mr.  McDonnell  spent  14  years  at  PricewaterhouseCoopers  LLP,  including  four 
years  as  a  partner.  Mr.  McDonnell  has  a  Bachelor  of  Science  degree  in  accounting  from  Georgetown  University  and  is  a  certified 
public accountant.

W. Richard Staub, III, President, Research & Development Solutions

Mr. Staub has served as President, Research & Development Solutions since December 2016. Previously Mr. Staub served as 
President of Novella Clinical, a Quintiles company, since 2013. Prior to Novella’s 2013 acquisition by Quintiles, Mr. Staub served as 
both president and CEO of Novella Clinical since 2008. Before joining Novella Clinical in 2004, Mr. Staub was senior vice president 
of global business development for one of the world’s largest clinical research organizations. Mr. Staub’s career in the pharmaceutical 
industry  began  at  Zeneca  Pharmaceuticals  in  1989  where  he  had  progressive  responsibilities  as  a  medical  and  hospital  sales 
representative, cardiovascular portfolio analyst and marketing manager. Mr. Staub has a Bachelor of Arts degree in Economics from 
the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.

123

 
 
 
Kevin C. Knightly, President, Information & Technology Solutions

Mr.  Knightly  has  served  as  President,  Information  &  Technology  Solutions  since  October  2016.  Previously  Mr.  Knightly 
served as Senior Vice President, Information Offerings at IMS Health from April 2015 to October 2016.  From January 2011 to March 
2015,  Mr.  Knightly  served  as  Senior  Vice  President,  Supplier  Management  at  IMS  Health.  Prior  to  that,  Mr.  Knightly  served  in  a 
number of senior financial, operations, marketing and general management roles for IMS Health, including as Senior Vice President, 
Pharma Business Management from 2007 until 2010. Mr. Knightly holds a B.S. in Economics and Accounting from the College of the 
Holy Cross, and an M.B.A. from New York University’s Stern Business School.

Eric Sherbet, Executive Vice President, General Counsel and Secretary

Mr. Sherbet has served as our Executive Vice President and General Counsel since March 2018. Prior to joining us, he served 
as  General  Counsel  and  Secretary  at  Patheon  N.V.  from  November  2014  until  November  2017.  Prior  to  joining  Patheon,  he  was 
General Counsel and Corporate Secretary at InVentiv Health from April 2011 until October 2014. He also previously served as Vice 
President, Deputy General Counsel and Corporate Secretary at Foster Wheeler AG and before that, as Vice President, Corporate and 
Securities  Law  and  Secretary  with  Avaya,  Inc.  Mr.  Sherbet  earned  his  law  degree  from  New  York  University  School  of  Law  and 
received his bachelor’s degree in commerce/accounting from University of Virginia.

Item 11. Executive Compensation

Compensation 

The  information  required  by  this  item  is  set  forth  under  the  headings  “Director  Compensation,”  “Compensation  Discussion 
and  Analysis,”  “Compensation  Committee  Report,”  “Compensation  of  Named  Executive  Officers,”  and  “Compensation  Committee 
Interlocks and Insider Participation” in the 2019 Proxy Statement and is incorporated herein by reference. 

124

Item 12. Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related Stockholder Matters 

Information in response to this Item, other than Securities Authorized for Issuance Under Equity Compensation Plans, will be 
set forth in the section entitled “Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management” in the Company’s 2019 Proxy 
Statement, which information is incorporated herein by reference. 

Securities Authorized for Issuance Under Equity Compensation Plans

The following table provides certain information with respect to all of our equity compensation plans in effect as of December 

31, 2018:

Equity Compensation Plan Information

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

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

Number of Securities
Remaining Available for
Future Issuance Under
Equity Compensation Plans
(excluding securities
reflected in column (a))
(c)

7,889,412  (1) $

26,727  (2) $
$

7,916,139   

63.66  (3)

—   
63.66  (3)

12,071,242  (4)

—   
12,071,242   

Plan Category
Equity compensation plans
    approved by security holders
Equity compensation plans not
    approved by security holders
Total

(1)

(2)

(3)

(4)

Consists of: (i) 6,729,752 shares of common stock issuable upon the exercise of outstanding time-based stock options and underlying outstanding 
time-based SARs; (ii) 385,458 shares of common stock issuable in settlement of outstanding restricted stock units awarded and (ii) 774,202 shares 
of  common  stock  issuable  in  settlement  of  outstanding  performance  units  awarded.  Excludes  (i)  436,067  shares  of  common  stock  subject  to 
outstanding awards of restricted stock and (ii) 76,374 shares of common stock subject to outstanding awards of performance stock.
Consists  of  outstanding  awards  issued  to  certain  executives  with  supplemental  pension  benefits  in  accordance  with  their  individual  employment 
arrangements under the IMS Health DCERP.
The weighted-average exercise price includes all outstanding stock options and SARs but does not include restricted stock units, restricted stock, 
performance  units  or  performance  stock  or  IMS  Health  DCERP  awards,  all  of  which  do  not  have  an  exercise  price.  If  restricted  stock  units, 
performance units and other awards that constitute “rights” were included in this calculation, treating such awards as having an exercise price of $0, 
the weighted average exercise price of outstanding options, warrants and rights would be $54.30.
Consists of all securities remaining available under our equity compensation plans. All of these shares are available for delivery under stock options, 
SARs,  restricted  stock,  restricted  stock  units,  performance  awards  or  other  forms  of  equity  award  authorized  by  the  plans.  Does  not  include 
2,251,704  shares  that  would  have  remained  available  under  our  Employee  Stock  Purchase  Plan  had  it  not  been  discontinued  as  of  December 31, 
2016.

Item 13. Certain Relationships and Related Transactions and Director Independence 

The information required by this item is set forth under the headings “The Company’s Corporate Governance,” and “Certain 

Relationships and Related Party Transactions” in the 2019 Proxy Statement and is incorporated herein by reference. 

Item 14. Principal Accountant Fees and Services 

The information required by this item is set forth under the headings “Proposal No. 2: Ratification of the Appointment of the 
Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm—Fees Paid to Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm” in the 2019 Proxy 
Statement and is incorporated herein by reference. 

125

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
PART IV

Item 15. Exhibits and Financial Statement Schedules 

(a) The following documents are filed as part of this report: 

(1)  Financial Statements 

The following consolidated financial statements of IQVIA Holdings Inc. and its subsidiaries, and the independent registered 

public accounting firm’s report thereon, are included in Part II, Item 8 of this report: 

Management’s Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting
Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
Consolidated Statements of Income
Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive (Loss) Income
Consolidated Balance Sheets
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows
Consolidated Statements of Stockholders’ Equity (Deficit)
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

(2)  Financial Statement Schedules for the Years Ended December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016

Schedule I—Condensed Financial Information of Registrant (Parent Company Only)
Schedule II—Valuation and Qualifying Accounts

Page
66
67
69
70
71
72
73
74

133
138

All  other  schedules  are  omitted,  since  the  required  information  is  not  applicable  or  is  not  present  in  amounts  sufficient  to 
require submission of the schedule, or because the information required is included in the consolidated financial statements and notes 
thereto. 

(3)  Exhibits

The exhibits in the accompanying Exhibit Index preceding the signature page are filed or furnished as a part of this report and 
are  incorporated  herein  by  reference.  The  Company  agrees  to  furnish  to  the  SEC,  upon  request,  copies  of  any  long-term  debt 
instruments  that  authorize  an  amount  of  securities  constituting  10%  or  less  of  the  total  assets  of  IQVIA  Holdings  Inc.  and  its 
subsidiaries on a consolidated basis. 

126

 
 
Exhibit
Number

2.1*

3.1

3.2

4.1

4.2

4.3

4.4

4.5

4.6

4.7

4.8

4.9

10.1

10.2

10.3

10.4

10.5

EXHIBIT INDEX

Exhibit Description

Agreement and Plan of Merger, dated as of May 3, 2016, by and between Quintiles 
Transnational Holdings Inc. and IMS Health Holdings, Inc. (which includes the Plan 
of Conversion dated as of May 3, 2016 as Exhibit A thereto).

Amended  and  Restated  Certificate  of  Incorporation  of  IQVIA  Holdings  Inc., 
effective November 6, 2017 (as amended through November 6, 2017).

Amended  and  Restated  Bylaws  of  IQVIA  Holdings  Inc.,  effective  November  6, 
2017

Incorporated by Reference 

Filed
Herewith

Form

File No.

Exhibit

Filing Date

8-K

001-35907

2.1

May 3, 2016

10-K

001-35907

3.1

February 16, 2018

8-K

001-35907

3.2

November 7, 2017

Specimen Common Stock Certificate of Quintiles Transnational Holdings Inc.

S-1/A 333-186708

Indenture  dated  as  of  May  12,  2015,  among  Quintiles  Transnational  Corp.,  the 
subsidiary guarantors listed therein and U.S. Bank National Association as trustee.

8-K

001-35907

4.1

4.1

April 26, 2013

May 13, 2015

Form  of  4.875%  Rule  144A  Senior  Note  due  2023  (incorporated  by  reference  to 
Exhibit A to Exhibit 4.1 filed May 13, 2015).

Form of 4.875% Regulation S Senior Note due 2023 (incorporated by reference to 
Exhibit A to Exhibit 4.1 filed May 13, 2015).

Indenture, dated as of September 28, 2016, among Quintiles IMS Incorporated, the 
Guarantors listed therein and U.S. Bank National Association, as Trustee.

Senior  Note  Indenture,  dated  as  of  October  24,  2012,  among  IMS  Health 
Incorporated,  as  Issuer,  the  Guarantors  party  thereto,  and  Wells  Fargo  Bank, 
National Association, as Trustee.

Senior  Note  Indenture,  dated  as  of  March  30,  2015,  among  IMS  Health 
Incorporated,  as  Issuer,  the  Guarantors  party  thereto,  and  Deutsche  Trustee 
Company Limited, as Trustee.

Indenture,  dated  February  28,  2017,  among  Quintiles  IMS  Incorporated,  as  Issuer, 
U.S. Bank National Association, as trustee of the Notes, and certain subsidiaries of 
the Issuer as guarantors.

Indenture, dated September 14, 2017, among Quintiles IMS Incorporated, as Issuer, 
U.S. Bank National Association, as trustee of the Notes, and certain subsidiaries of 
the Issuer as guarantors.

Fourth  Amended  and  Restated  Credit  Agreement,  dated  as  of  October  3,  2016,  by 
and  among  Quintiles  IMS  Incorporated,  Quintiles  IMS  Holdings,  Inc.,  the 
Guarantors  party  thereto  and  the  Lenders  party  thereto  (Annex  B  to  Exhibit  10.9 
filed October 3, 2016).

Amendment  No. 1,  dated  March 7,  2017,  to  Fourth  Amended  and  Restated  Credit 
Agreement,  dated  October 3,  2016,  among  Quintiles  IMS  Incorporated,  Quintiles 
IMS  Holdings,  Inc.,  the  Guarantors  party  thereto,  Bank  of  America  N.A.,  as 
administrative  agent  and  collateral  agent,  the  Incremental  Term B-1 Euro  Lenders 
party thereto and the other Lenders party thereto.

Amendment  No.  2,  dated  September  18,  2017,  to  Fourth  Amended  and  Restated 
Credit  Agreement,  by  and  among  Quintiles  IMS  Incorporated,  Quintiles  IMS 
Holdings,  Inc., 
thereto,  Bank  of  America  N.A.,  as 
administrative agent and collateral agent, the Incremental Term B-2 Dollar Lenders 
party thereto and the other Lenders party thereto.

the  Guarantors  party 

Amendment  No.  3,  dated  April  6,  2018,  to  Fourth  Amended  and  Restated  Credit 
Agreement,  dated  October 3,  2016,  by  and  among  IQVIA  Inc.,  IQVIA  Holdings 
Inc., the other Borrowers party thereto, the other Guarantors party thereto, Bank of 
America,  N.A.,  as  administrative  agent  and  collateral  agent,  and  the  Incremental 
Revolving Credit Lenders party thereto.

Amendment  No.  4,  dated  June  11,  2018,  to  Fourth  Amended  and  Restated  Credit 
Agreement,  dated  October  3,  2016,  among  IQVIA  Inc.,  IQVIA  Holdings  Inc., 
IQVIA AG, IQVIA Solutions Japan K.K., the other guarantors party thereto, Bank 
of America, N.A. as administrative agent and as collateral agent, the Lenders party 
thereto, the Incremental Term B-3 Dollar Lenders party thereto and the Incremental 
Term B-2 Euro Lenders party thereto.

127

8-K

001-35907

4.2

May 13, 2015

8-K

001-35907

4.3

May 13, 2015

8-K

001-35907

4.1

October 3, 2016

333-193159

4.9

January 2, 2014

001-36381

4.1

May 15, 2015

IMS
Health
S-1

IMS
Health
10-Q

8-K

001-35907

4.1

February 28, 2017

8-K

001-35907

4.1

September 19, 2017

8-K

001-35907

10.9

October 3, 2016

8-K

001-35907

10.1

March 8, 2017

8-K

001-35907

10.1

September 19, 2017

10-Q

001-35907

10.1

May 4, 2018

8-K

001-35907

10.1

June 12, 2018

 
 
 
 
 
 
Exhibit
Number

10.6

10.7

10.8

10.9

10.10

10.11

Exhibit Description

Senior Note Purchase Agreement, dated September 14, 2016, between IMS Health 
Incorporated,  a  wholly  owned  subsidiary  of  IMS  Health  Holdings,  Inc.,  and  the 
representative of the initial purchasers named therein.

Amended and Restated Pledge and Security Agreement, dated as of March 17, 2014, 
IMS  Health 
among  Healthcare  Technology 
Incorporated,  each  of  the  grantors  party  thereto,  and  Bank  of  America,  N.A.,  as 
Administrative Agent.

Intermediate  Holdings, 

Inc., 

U.S.  Guaranty,  dated  as  of  March  17,  2014,  among  Healthcare  Technology 
Intermediate  Holdings,  Inc.,  as  Holdings,  IMS  Health  Incorporated,  as  Parent 
Borrower,  the  other  Guarantors  party  thereto  from  time  to  time,  and  Bank  of 
America, N.A., as Administrative Agent.

Incorporated by Reference 

Filed
Herewith

Form

File No.

Exhibit

Filing Date

10-Q

001-35907

10.10

November 3, 2016

333-193159

10.33

March 24, 2014

333-193159

10.34

March 24, 2014

IMS
Health
S-1/A

IMS
Health
S-1/A

Stockholders  Agreement,  dated  May  3,  2016,  among  Quintiles  Transnational 
Holdings Inc. and the stockholders identified therein.

8-K

001-35907

10.4

May 3, 2016

Voting  Agreement,  dated  May  3,  2016,  by  and  among  Quintiles  Transnational 
Holdings Inc. and affiliates of TPG Global, LLC.

8-K

001-35907

10.1

May 3, 2016

Voting  Agreement,  dated  May  3,  2016,  by  and  between  Quintiles  Transnational 
Holdings Inc. and CPP Investment Board Private Holdings Inc.

8-K

001-35907

10.2

May 3, 2016

10.12†

Form of Director Indemnification Agreement.

10.13

10.14†

Form of Indemnification Agreement with each of the non-management directors of 
Quintiles IMS Holdings Inc.

Description  of  Non-Employee  Director  Compensation,  effective  as  of  January  1, 
2017.

S-1/A 333-186708

10.13

April 19, 2013

8-K

001-35907

10.8

October 3, 2016

10-K

001-35907

10.27

February 16, 2017

10.15†

Form of Non-Competition, Non-Solicitation, Confidentiality and IP Agreement.

8-K

001-35907

10.2

October 19, 2015

10.16†

Quintiles Transnational Holdings Inc. Annual Management Incentive Plan.

S-1/A 333-186708

10.57

April 19, 2013

10.17†

Quintiles Transnational Holdings Inc. 2008 Stock Incentive Plan.

S-1

333-186708

10.17

February 15, 2013

10.18†

Form of Stock Option Award Agreement for Senior Executives under the Quintiles 
Transnational Holdings Inc. 2008 Stock Incentive Plan.

S-1

333-186708

10.18

February 15, 2013

10.19†

Form  of  Stock  Option  Award  Agreement  for  Non-Employee  Directors  under  the 
Quintiles Transnational Holdings Inc. 2008 Stock Incentive Plan.

S-1

333-186708

10.19

February 15, 2013

10.20†

Quintiles Transnational Holdings Inc. 2013 Stock Incentive Plan.

S-1/A 333-186708

10.22

April 19, 2013

10.21†

Form  of  Award  Agreement  Awarding  Nonqualified  Stock  Options  to  Employees 
under the Quintiles Transnational Holdings Inc. 2013 Stock Incentive Plan.

S-1/A 333-186708

10.23

April 19, 2013

10.22†

Form of Award Agreement Awarding Incentive Stock Options to Employees under 
the Quintiles Transnational Holdings Inc. 2013 Stock Incentive Plan.

10-Q

001-35907

10.2

May 1, 2014

10.23†

Form  of  Award  Agreement  Awarding  Nonqualified  Stock  Options  to  Non-
Employee  Directors  under  the  Quintiles  Transnational  Holdings  Inc.  2013  Stock 
Incentive Plan.

S-1/A 333-186708

10.24

April 19, 2013

10.24†

Form of Award Agreement Awarding Stock Appreciation Rights under the Quintiles 
Transnational Holdings Inc. 2013 Stock Incentive Plan.

S-1/A 333-186708

10.56

April 19, 2013

10.25†

Form of Award Agreement Awarding Stock Appreciation Rights under the Quintiles 
IMS Holdings, Inc. 2013 Stock Incentive Plan effective February 2017.

10-K

001-35907

10.41

February 16, 2017

10.26†

Form  of  Award  Agreement  Awarding  Restricted  Stock  Units  under  the  Quintiles 
Transnational Holdings Inc. 2013 Stock Incentive Plan prior to February 2015.

8-K

001-35907

10.1

November 26, 2013

10.27†

Form  of  Award  Agreement  Awarding  Restricted  Stock  Units  under  the  Quintiles 
Transnational Holdings Inc. 2013 Stock Incentive Plan effective February 2015.

10-K

001-35907

10.34

February 12, 2015

10.28†

Form  of  Award  Agreement  Awarding  Performance  Units  under  the  Quintiles 
Transnational Holdings Inc. 2013 Stock Incentive Plan.

10-K

001-35907

10.35

February 12, 2015

10.29†

Form of Award Agreement Awarding Performance Shares under the Quintiles IMS 
Holdings, Inc. 2013 Stock Incentive Plan effective February 2017.

10-K

001-35907

10.45

February 16, 2017

128

 
 
 
 
 
 
Exhibit
Number

Exhibit Description

Incorporated by Reference 

Filed
Herewith

Form

File No.

Exhibit

Filing Date

10.30†

Form  of  Restricted  Stock  Award  Agreement  under  the  Quintiles  Transnational 
Holdings Inc. 2013 Stock Incentive Plan.

10-Q

001-35907

10.3

November 3, 2016

10.31†

Form  of  Award  Agreement  Awarding  Restricted  Stock  Units  under  the  Quintiles 
IMS Holdings, Inc. 2013 Stock Incentive Plan effective February 2017.

10-K

001-35907

10.47

February 16, 2017

10.32†

Quintiles IMS Holdings, Inc. Defined Contribution Executive Retirement Plan.

8-K

001-35907

10.7

October 3, 2016

10.33†

IMS  Health  Incorporated  Defined  Contribution  Executive  Retirement  Plan,  as 
amended and restated.

10.34†

First  Amendment  to  the  IMS  Health  Incorporated  Retirement  Excess  Plan,  dated 
March 17, 2009.

10.35†

Second Amendment to the IMS Health Incorporated Retirement Excess Plan, dated 
December 8, 2009.

10.36†

Third  Amendment  to  the  IMS  Health  Incorporated  Retirement  Excess  Plan,  dated 
April 5, 2011.

10.37†

Fourth  Amendment  to  the  IMS  Health  Incorporated  Retirement  Excess  Plan 
(effective May 3, 2016).

333-193159

10.10

January 2, 2014

333-193159

10.12

January 2, 2014

333-193159

10.13

January 2, 2014

333-193159

10.14

January 2, 2014

001-36381

10.3

July 28, 2016

IMS
Health
S-1

IMS
Health
S-1

IMS
Health
S-1

IMS
Health
S-1

IMS
Health
10-Q

10.38†

Quintiles IMS Holdings, Inc. 2010 Equity Incentive Plan.

8-K

001-35907

10.5

October 3, 2016

10.39†

Healthcare Technology Holdings, Inc. 2010 Equity Incentive Plan, as amended and 
restated.

10.40†

Form of IMS Time-and Performance-Based Stock Option Award Agreement under 
the 2010 Equity Incentive Plan.

10.41†

Form  of  IMS  Time-Based  Stock  Option  Award  Agreement  under  the  2010  Equity 
Incentive Plan.

10.42†

Form  of  IMS  Director  Stock  Option  Award  Agreement  under  the  2010  Equity 
Incentive Plan.

10.43†

Form  of  IMS  Restricted  Stock  Unit  Award  Agreement  under  the  2010  Equity 
Incentive Plan.

10.44†

Form  of  IMS  Director  Restricted  Stock  Unit  Award  Agreement  under  the  2010 
Equity Incentive Plan.

10.45†

Form of IMS Rollover Stock Appreciation Right Award Agreement under the 2010 
Equity Incentive Plan.

10.46†

IMS  Health  Incorporated  Savings  Equalization  Plan,  as  amended  and  restated 
effective as of January 1, 2011.

333-193159

10.16

February 13, 2014

333-193159

10.17

January 2, 2014

333-193159

10.18

January 2, 2014

333-193159

10.19

January 2, 2014

333-193159

10.20

January 2, 2014

333-193159

10.21

January 2, 2014

333-193159

10.22

January 2, 2014

333-193159

10.15

January 2, 2014

IMS
Health
S-1/A

IMS
Health
S-1

IMS
Health
S-1

IMS
Health
S-1

IMS
Health
S-1

IMS
Health
S-1

IMS
Health
S-1

IMS
Health
S-1

10.47†

Quintiles IMS Holdings, Inc. 2014 Incentive and Stock Award Plan.

8-K

001-35907

10.6

October 3, 2016

10.48†

Form  of  IMS  Stock  Appreciation  Rights  Agreement  under  the  2014  Incentive  and 
Stock Award Plan.

10.49†

Form  of  IMS  Performance  Share  Award  Agreement  under  the  2014  Incentive  and 
Stock Award Plan.

001-36381

10.1

February 10, 2015

001-36381

10.2

February 10, 2015

IMS
Health
8-K

IMS
Health
8-K

129

 
 
 
 
 
 
Exhibit
Number

Exhibit Description

10.50†

2014 IMS Health Annual Incentive Plan.

Incorporated by Reference 

Filed
Herewith

Form

File No.

Exhibit

Filing Date

333-193159

10.30

March 10, 2014

IMS
Health
S-1/A

10.51†

Quintiles IMS Holdings, Inc. 2017 Incentive and Stock Award Plan.

DEF 14A 001-35907 Appendix B February 22, 2017

10.52†

Form  of  Award  Agreement  Awarding  Stock  Appreciation  Rights  under  the 
Quintiles IMS Holdings, Inc. 2017 Incentive and Stock Award Plan effective April 
2017.

10-Q

001-35907

10.8

May 8, 2017

10.53†

Form of Award Agreement Awarding Performance Shares under the Quintiles IMS 
Holdings, Inc. 2017 Incentive and Stock Award Plan effective April 2017.

10-Q

001-35907

10.9

May 8, 2017

10.54†

Form  of  Award  Agreement  Awarding  Restricted  Stock  Units  under  the  Quintiles 
IMS Holdings, Inc. 2017 Incentive and Stock Award Plan effective April 2017.

10-Q

001-35907

10.10

May 8, 2017

10.55†

Quintiles  Transnational  Holdings  Inc.  Change  of  Control  Severance  Plan,  which 
covers among others our executive officers.

8-K

001-35907

10.1

November 6, 2015

10.56†

Quintiles IMS Incorporated Employee Protection Plan, effective January 1, 2017.

10-K

001-35907

10.69

February 16, 2017

10.57†

Quintiles  IMS  Incorporated  Savings  Equalization  Plan,  effective  December  31, 
2016.

10-K

001-35907

10.76

February 16, 2017

10.58†

Quintiles  Transnational  Corp.  Elective  Deferred  Compensation  Plan,  as  amended 
and restated.

10-Q

001-35907

10.1

October 28, 2015

10.59†

Quintiles  IMS  Holdings  Inc.  Non-Employee  Director  Deferral  Plan,  effective 
January 1, 2017.

10-K

001-35907

10.78

February 16, 2017

10.60†

Amended and Restated Employment Agreement between IQVIA Holdings Inc. and 
Ari Bousbib, dated February 18, 2019.

X

10.61†

Senior  Management  Nonstatutory  Option  Agreement  between  Healthcare 
Technology Holdings, Inc. and Ari Bousbib, dated December 1, 2010.

10.62†

Senior  Management  Nonstatutory  Option  Agreement  between  Healthcare 
Technology Holdings, Inc. and Ari Bousbib, dated December 1, 2010.

10.63†

Restricted  Stock  Unit  Award  Agreement  between  IMS  Health  Holdings,  Inc.  and 
Ari  Bousbib  dated  February  12,  2014,  incorporated  herein  by  reference  to 
Amendment 2 to the Company’s Registration Statement on Form S-1 filed with the 
SEC on March 10, 2014.

10.64†

Amendment  No.  1,  dated  December  31,  2015,  to  Restricted  Stock  Unit  Award 
Agreement between IMS Health Holdings, Inc. and Ari Bousbib dated February 12, 
2014.

10.65†

Stock Appreciation Rights Agreement between IMS Health Holdings, Inc. and Ari 
Bousbib, dated February 10, 2015.

10.66†

Amendment  No.  1,  dated  December  31,  2015,  to  Stock  Appreciation  Rights 
Agreement between IMS Health Holdings, Inc. and Ari Bousbib dated February 10, 
2015.

10.67†

Restricted  Stock  Award  Agreement  between  IMS  Health  Holdings,  Inc.  and  Ari 
Bousbib dated December 31, 2015.

333-193159

10.23

February 13, 2014

333-193159

10.24

February 13, 2014

333-193159

10.29

March 10, 2014

001-36381

10.33

February 19, 2016

001-36381

10.34

February 19, 2016

001-36381

10.35

February 19, 2016

001-36381

10.36

February 19, 2016

IMS
Health
S-1/A

IMS
Health
S-1/A

IMS
Health
S-1/A

IMS
Health
10-K

IMS
Health
10-K

IMS
Health
10-K

IMS
Health
10-K

10.68†

Letter  Agreement,  dated  October  14,  2015,  between  Michael  McDonnell  and 
Quintiles Transnational Corp.

8-K

001-35907

10.3

October 19, 2015

10.69†

Initial  Award  Agreement  Awarding  Restricted  Stock  Units  to  Michael  McDonnell 
under the Quintiles Transnational Holdings Inc. 2013 Stock Incentive Plan.

10-K

001-35907

10.29

February 11, 2016

10.70†

Letter  agreement  between  the  Company  and  Michael  R.  McDonnell  effective  on 
October 3, 2016.

8-K

001-35907

10.1

October 3, 2016

130

 
 
 
 
 
 
Exhibit
Number

Exhibit Description

Incorporated by Reference 

Filed
Herewith

Form

File No.

Exhibit

Filing Date

10.71†

Letter  Agreement  between  the  Company  and  W.  Richard  Staub,  III,  effective  on 
December 1, 2016.

10-K

001-35907

10.104

February 16, 2017

10.72†

Letter  Agreement  between  the  Company  and  Eric  Sherbet,  effective  on  March  1, 
2018.

21.1

23.1

31.1

31.2

32.1

32.2

101

List of Subsidiaries of IQVIA Holdings Inc.

Consent of PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP.

Certification  of  Chief  Executive  Officer,  pursuant  to  Rule  13a-14(a)/15d-14(a),  as 
adopted pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

Certification  of  Executive  Vice  President  and  Chief  Financial  Officer,  pursuant  to 
Rule 13a-14(a)/15d-14(a), 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  Executive  Vice  President  and  Chief  Financial  Officer,  pursuant  to 
18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley 
Act of 2002.

Interactive  Data  Files  Pursuant  to  Rule 405  of  Regulation  S-T:  (i)  Consolidated 
Statements of Income, (ii) Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income, (iii) 
Consolidated Balance Sheets, (iv) Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows, and (v) 
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

X

X

X

X

X

X

X

X

†

Indicates management contract or compensatory plan or arrangement. 

* The Merger Agreement and the description thereof included herein have been included to provide investors and stockholders with information regarding the terms 
of  the  agreement.  They  are  not  intended  to  provide  any  other  factual  information  about  Quintiles  or  IMS  Health  or  their  respective  subsidiaries  or  affiliates  or 
stockholders. The representations, warranties and covenants contained in the Merger Agreement were made only for purposes of the Merger Agreement as of the 
specific  dates  therein,  were  solely  for  the  benefit  of  the  parties  to  the  Merger  Agreement,  may  be  subject  to  limitations  agreed  upon  by  the  contracting  parties, 
including  being  qualified by  confidential disclosures made for the  purposes of allocating  contractual risk among the parties to the Merger  Agreement  instead of 
establishing these matters as facts, and may be subject to standards of materiality applicable to the contracting parties that differ from those applicable to investors. 
Investors should not rely on the representations, warranties and covenants or any descriptions thereof as characterizations of the actual state of facts or condition of 
the parties thereto or any of their respective subsidiaries or affiliates. Moreover, information concerning the subject matter of representations and warranties may 
change after the date of the Merger Agreement, which subsequent information may or may not be fully reflected in public disclosures by Quintiles or IMS Health. 
Accordingly, investors should read the representations and warranties in the Merger Agreement not in isolation but only in conjunction with the other information 
about Quintiles or IMS Health and their respective subsidiaries that the respective companies include in reports, statements and other filings they make with the 
United States Securities and Exchange Commission.

Item 16. Form 10-K Summary 

None.

131

 
 
 
 
 
 
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

IQVIA HOLDINGS INC.

By: /s/ Michael R. McDonnell 

  Name: Michael R. McDonnell

Title: Executive Vice President and Chief 
Financial Officer

Date: February 19, 2019 

Pursuant  to  the  requirements  of  the  Securities  Exchange  Act  of  1934,  this  report  has  been  signed  below  by  the  following 

persons on behalf of the registrant in the capacities and on the dates indicated. 

Signature

/s/ Ari Bousbib

Ari Bousbib

Title

Date

Chairman, Chief Executive Officer and President; Director
(Principal Executive Officer)

February 19, 2019

/s/ Michael R. McDonnell 
Michael R. McDonnell

Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer
(Principal Financial Officer)

February 19, 2019

/s/ Emmanuel Korakis 
Emmanuel Korakis

/s/ John P. Connaughton
 John P. Connaughton

/s/ Jonathan J. Coslet
 Jonathan J. Coslet

/s/ John G. Danhakl
John G. Danhakl

/s/ Michael J. Evanisko

Michael J. Evanisko

/s/ James A. Fasano
 James A. Fasano

/s/ Colleen A. Goggins
Colleen A. Goggins

/s/ Jack M. Greenberg
Jack M. Greenberg

/s/ John M. Leonard, M.D.
 John M. Leonard, M.D.

/s/ Ronald A. Rittenmeyer
 Ronald A. Rittenmeyer

/s/ Todd B. Sisitsky

Todd B. Sisitsky

Senior Vice President, Corporate Controller
(Principal Accounting Officer)

Director

Director

Director

Director

Director

Director

Director

Director

Director

Director

132

February 19, 2019

February 19, 2019

February 19, 2019

February 19, 2019

February 19, 2019

February 19, 2019

February 19, 2019

February 19, 2019

February 19, 2019

February 19, 2019

February 19, 2019

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
(2) Financial Statement Schedules 

Schedule I—Condensed Financial Information of Registrant 

IQVIA HOLDINGS INC. (PARENT COMPANY ONLY) 
CONDENSED STATEMENTS OF INCOME

(in millions)
Selling, general and administrative expenses
Merger related costs

Loss from operations

Interest income
Other expense, net

Loss before income taxes and equity in earnings of subsidiary

Income tax benefit

(Loss) income before equity in earnings of subsidiary

Equity in earnings of subsidiary

Net income

2018

Year Ended December 31,
2017

2016

  $

  $

2    $
—     
(2)    
—     
—     
(2)    
(1)    
(1)    
260     
259    $

1    $
—     
(1)    
—     
—     
(1)    
(3)    
2     
1,275     
1,277    $

— 
21 
(21)
— 
— 
(21)
(4)
(17)
89 
72  

133

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
IQVIA HOLDINGS INC. (PARENT COMPANY ONLY)
CONDENSED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE (LOSS) INCOME

(in millions)
Net income
Comprehensive (loss) income adjustments:

2018

Year Ended December 31,
2017

2016

  $

259    $

1,277    $

72 

(7)

23 

1     

(8)    

4     

5     

(255)    

604     

(492)

(12)    

1     
(14)   $

(1)    

1     
1,890    $

21 

1 
(382)

Unrealized gains (losses) on derivative instruments, net of income tax
   (benefit) expense of ($5), $1 and $3
Defined benefit plan adjustments, net of income tax (benefit) expense of
   ($4), $3 and $11
Foreign currency translation, net of income tax expense (benefit) of
   $50, ($201) and ($9)
Reclassification adjustments:

(Gains) losses on derivative instruments included in net income, net of
   income tax expense of $1, $— and $7
Amortization of actuarial losses and prior service costs included in net
   income

Comprehensive (loss) income

  $

134

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
      
      
  
   
   
   
   
      
      
  
   
   
IQVIA HOLDINGS INC. (PARENT COMPANY ONLY)
CONDENSED BALANCE SHEETS

ASSETS

(in millions, except per share data)

Current assets:

Cash and cash equivalents
Income taxes receivable
Other current assets and receivables

Total current assets
Investment in subsidiary
Receivable from parent company

Total assets

LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY

Current liabilities:

Accounts payable
Income taxes payable

Total current liabilities
Investment in subsidiary
Payable to subsidiary

Total liabilities

Commitments and contingencies
Stockholders’ equity:

Common stock and additional paid-in capital, 400.0 shares authorized at
   December 31, 2018 and 2017, $0.01 par value, 251.5 and 249.5 shares
   issued and outstanding at December 31, 2018 and 2017, respectively
Retained earnings
Treasury stock, at cost, 54.0 and 41.4 shares at December 31, 2018 and 2017,
   respectively
Accumulated other comprehensive (loss) income

Total stockholders’ equity
Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity

December 31,

2018

2017

  $

  $

  $

  $

1    $
—   
—   
1   
9,667   
—   
9,668    $

—    $
—   
—   
2,954   
—   
2,954   

10,901   
807   

(4,770)  
(224)  
6,714   
9,668    $

1 
— 
1 
2 
9,659 
— 
9,661 

— 
— 
— 
1,666 
— 
1,666 

10,782 
538 

(3,374)
49 
7,995 
9,661  

135

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
    
 
  
 
 
    
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
    
 
  
 
 
    
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
    
 
  
 
 
    
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
IQVIA HOLDINGS INC. (PARENT COMPANY ONLY)
CONDENSED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

(in millions)
Operating activities:

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

Subsidiary loss

Change in operating assets and liabilities:

Accounts payable and accrued expenses
Income taxes payable and other liabilities

Net cash provided by operating activities

Investing activities:

Investment in subsidiary, net of dividends received

Net cash provided by investing activities

Financing activities:

Proceeds related to employee stock purchase and option plans
Repurchase of common stock
Intercompany with subsidiary

Net cash used in financing activities

Effect of foreign currency exchange rate changes on cash
(Decrease) increase in cash and cash equivalents
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period

2018

Year Ended December 31,
2017

2016

  $

259    $

1,277    $

143     

2     
—     
404     

983     
983     

15     
(1,405)    
3     
(1,387)    
—     
—     
1     
1    $

91     

(3)    
4     
1,369     

1,182     
1,182     

91     
(2,620)    
(31)    
(2,560)    
(2)    
(11)    
12     
1    $

  $

72 

91 

— 
(4)
159 

834 
834 

97 
(1,097)
14 
(986)
— 
7 
5 
12  

136

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
      
      
  
   
      
      
  
   
   
      
      
  
   
   
   
   
      
      
  
   
   
   
      
      
  
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
 
IQVIA HOLDINGS INC. (PARENT COMPANY ONLY) 
NOTES TO CONDENSED FINANCIAL INFORMATION

The  condensed  parent  company  financial  statements  have  been  prepared  in  accordance  with  Rule  12-04,  Schedule  I  of 
Regulation S-X as the restricted net assets of IQVIA Holdings Inc.’s (the “Company”) wholly-owned subsidiary, IQVIA Incorporated 
exceed 25% of the consolidated net assets of the Company. The ability of IQVIA Incorporated to pay dividends may be limited due to 
the restrictive covenants in the agreements governing its credit arrangements. 

These condensed parent company financial statements include the accounts of IQVIA Holdings Inc. on a standalone basis (the 
“Parent”) and the equity method of accounting is used to reflect ownership interest in its subsidiary. Refer to the consolidated financial 
statements and notes presented elsewhere herein for additional information and disclosures with respect to these financial statements. 

Since the Parent is part of a group that files a consolidated income tax return, in accordance with ASC 740, a portion of the 
consolidated amount of current and deferred income tax expense of the Company has been allocated to the Parent. The income tax 
benefit of $1 million, $3 million and $4 million in 2018, 2017 and 2016, respectively, represents the income tax benefit that will be or 
were already utilized in the Company’s consolidated United States federal and state income tax returns. If the Parent was not part of 
these consolidated income tax returns, it would not be able to recognize any income tax benefit, as it generates no revenue against 
which the losses could be used on a separate filer basis. 

Below is a summary of the dividends paid to the Parent by IQVIA Incorporated in 2018, 2017 and 2016: 

 (in millions)
Paid in December 2018
Paid in November 2018
Paid in October 2018
Paid in September 2018
Paid in June 2018
Paid in May 2018
Paid in March 2018
Paid in February 2018
Total paid in 2018
Paid in December 2017
Paid in November 2017
Paid in September 2017
Paid in August 2017
Paid in May 2017
Paid in March 2017
Paid in February 2017
Paid in January 2017
Total paid in 2017
Paid in December 2016
Paid in November 2016
Paid in June 2016

Total paid in 2016

Amount

  $

  $
  $

  $
  $

  $

339 
146 
132 
118 
414 
154 
54 
37 
1,394 
22 
362 
373 
168 
356 
1,237 
45 
3 
2,566 
503 
422 
89 
1,014  

137

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Deferred Tax Asset Valuation Allowance

Schedule II—Valuation and Qualifying Accounts 

(in millions)
December 31, 2018   $
December 31, 2017
  $
  $
December 31, 2016

Balance at
Beginning
of Year

Charged to
Expenses

200    $
153    $
22    $

Additions

23    $
52    $
10    $

Charged to
Other
Accounts(a)

Additions 
(Deductions)(b)

Balance at
End of
Year

—    $
—    $
129    $

3    $
(5)   $
(8)   $

226 
200 
153  

(a) Recorded through purchase accounting transaction. 
(b)

Impact of reductions recorded to expense and translation adjustments. 

138

 
   
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Exhibit 10.60

Execution Version

AMENDED AND RESTATED EMPLOYMENT AGREEMENT

AMENDED  AND  RESTATED  EMPLOYMENT  AGREEMENT,  dated  as  of  February 
18, 2019 (the “Agreement”), between IQVIA Holdings Inc. (the “Company”) and Ari Bousbib 
(the “Executive”).

WHEREAS, the Company desires that the Executive continue to serve the Company as 

its Chief Executive Officer and President on the terms and conditions set forth herein.

NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the premises and mutual covenants herein and 

for other good and valuable consideration, the parties agree as follows: 

1.

General.

This  Agreement  shall  govern  the  terms  and  conditions  of  the  Executive’s  continued 
employment  with  the  Company  on  and  after  July  26,  2018  (the  “Effective  Date”).    The 
Executive’s principal place of employment shall continue to be at the Company’s offices in New 
York, New York and Parsippany, New Jersey.

2.

Employment, Duties and Agreements.

(a)

Position.  The Company hereby agrees to continue to employ the Executive as its 
Chief  Executive  Officer  and  President,  and  the  Executive  hereby  agrees  to  continue  in  such 
position and agrees to serve the Company in such capacities during the employment period fixed 
by Section 4 hereof (the “Employment Period”).  During the Employment Period, subject to the 
requirements  of  applicable  law  (including,  without  limitation,  any  rules  or  regulations  of  any 
exchange  on  which  the  common  stock  of  the  Company  is  listed,  if  applicable),  the  Company 
agrees  to  propose  to  the  shareholders  of  the  Company  at  each  applicable  annual  meeting 
occurring  during  the  Employment  Period  the  re-election  of  the  Executive  as  a  member  of  the 
Board of Directors of the Company (the “Board”) and the Executive shall so serve if re-elected.   
In  addition,  and  without  further  compensation,  the  Executive  shall  serve  as  a  director  and/or 
officer of one or more of the Company’s Affiliates (as defined below) if so elected or appointed 
from time to time.  In the event the Executive’s employment with the Company terminates for 
any reason, the Executive’s membership on the Board and the Executive’s service as a director 
and/or officer of the Company and any of the Company’s Affiliates shall also terminate, and the 
Executive  shall  be  deemed  to  resign  from  the  Board  and  from  all  such  director  and  officer 
positions  immediately  upon  such  termination  of  employment,  in  each  case,  unless  otherwise 
agreed in writing by the Company and the Executive.  The Executive shall have such duties and 
responsibilities  as  are  consistent  with  the  Executive’s  position  and  as  may  be  reasonably 
assigned by the Board from time to time.  During the Employment Period, the Executive shall 
report to, and shall act in accordance with, all reasonable instructions and directions of the Board 
and all applicable policies and rules of the Company.

(b)

Duties.    During  the  Employment  Period,  excluding  any  periods  of  vacation  and 
sick leave to which the Executive is entitled, the Executive shall devote his full working time, 
energy and attention, and his best efforts, abilities, experience and talent, to the performance of 
his duties and responsibilities hereunder and shall faithfully and diligently endeavor to promote 
the business and best interests of the Company.

(c)

Outside  Activities.    During  the  Employment  Period,  the  Executive  may  not, 
without the prior written consent of the Board, directly or indirectly, operate, participate in the 
management,  operations  or  control  of,  or  act  as  an  executive,  officer,  consultant,  agent  or 
representative of, any type of business or service (other than as an executive of the Company); 
provided,  that  it  shall  not  be  a  violation  of  the  foregoing  for  the  Executive  to  (i)  manage  his 
personal, familial, real estate, financial and legal affairs or trusts or (ii) serve as a director of (or 
similar  position  with)  an  educational,  charitable,  community,  civic,  religious  or  similar  type  of 
organization, with the approval of the Board, so long as, in each such case, such activities do not 
interfere  with  the  performance  of  his  duties  and  responsibilities  to  the  Company  as  provided 
hereunder; and provided, further, that the Board shall not unreasonably withhold consent to the 
Executive  serving  as  a  director  on  the  board  of  a  company  whose  activities  are  not  in 
competition,  directly  or  indirectly,  with  those  of  the  Company  and  the  amount  of  time  and 
attention required of the Executive to satisfy his obligations as such a director are not reasonably 
likely  to,  and  do  not,  detract  from  the  execution  of  his  duties  and  responsibilities  hereunder  in 
any material respect.  Such consent is hereby granted for the Executive to continue as a member 
of the board of directors of The Home Depot, Inc.

3.

Compensation.

(a)

Base Salary.  As compensation for the agreements made by the Executive herein 
and  the  performance  by  the  Executive  of  his  obligations  hereunder,  during  the  Employment 
Period,  the  Company  shall  pay  the  Executive,  pursuant  to  its  normal  and  customary  payroll 
procedures,  a  base  salary  at  the  rate  of  $1,700,000  per  annum  (the  “Base  Salary”).    The 
Executive’s  Base  Salary  shall  be  reviewed  at  least  annually  by  the  Board  or  the  Leadership 
Development and Compensation Committee of the Board (the “Compensation Committee”) for 
increase only.

(b)

Annual  Bonus.    During  the  Employment  Period,  the  Executive  shall  be  eligible, 
through  participation  in  the  Company’s  annual  bonus  plan  or  program  for  its  executives 
generally,  as  in  effect  from  time  to  time  (the  “Bonus  Plan”),  to  earn  an  annual  bonus  (the 
“Annual Bonus”) in each fiscal year during the Employment Period, with a target Annual Bonus 
of 200% of Base Salary, with the actual amount of the Annual Bonus paid to the Executive based 
on  the  achievement  of  performance  objectives  approved  by  the  Board  or  the  Compensation 
Committee (it being understood that the Executive may be eligible to earn an Annual Bonus in 
excess of the target Annual Bonus if performance for a fiscal year exceeds target performance to 
the  extent  determined  by  the  Board  or  the  Compensation  Committee  in  accordance  with  the 
terms  of  the  Bonus  Plan).    In  addition,  the  Board  or  the  Compensation  Committee  may,  in  its 
discretion,  increase  the  Executive’s  target  Annual  Bonus  opportunity  as  a  percentage  of  Base 
Salary.  To the extent so earned, any Annual Bonus shall be paid in accordance with the Bonus 
Plan.

(c)

Equity Awards.  During the Employment Period the Executive shall be eligible to 
receive  equity  and  equity-based  awards  in  the  discretion  of  the  Board  or  the  Compensation 
Committee and on such terms and conditions as determined by the Board or the Compensation 
Committee.    Any  equity  and  equity-based  awards  granted  to  the  Executive,  whether  before  or 
after  the  Effective  Date,  shall  be  governed  by  the  terms  and  conditions  of  the  applicable 
Company  equity  incentive  plan(s),  as  may  be  in  effect  from  time  to  time,  and  the  award 

-2-

agreements governing such equity or equity-based awards (any such plan and award agreements, 
collectively, the “Equity Agreements”).  

(d)

Benefits.  During the Employment Period, except as specifically provided herein, 
(i)  the  Executive  shall  be  entitled  to  participate  in  all  savings  and  retirement  plans,  practices, 
policies  and  programs  of  the  Company  that  are  made  available  generally  to  other  senior 
executive officers of the Company, including the IMS Health Retirement Plan, the IMS Health 
Savings  Equalization  Plan,  and  the  IMS  Health  Retirement  Excess  Plan  (in  each  case,  or  any 
successor plan), but excluding the IMS Health Defined Contribution Executive Retirement Plan 
and those plans maintained for legacy employees of Quintiles Transnational Holdings Inc., (ii) 
the Executive shall be entitled to be reimbursed up to $50,000 per year in the aggregate for home 
security  and  financial  and  estate  planning  expenses,  tax  preparation  services  and  executive 
physical exams, (iii) the Executive shall be entitled to use a Company-leased automobile and be 
reimbursed  for  operating  expenses  relating  to  such  automobile,  (iv)  the  Executive  shall  be 
entitled  to  use  the  Company’s  aircraft  for  business  use  and  for  up  to  150  hours  per  year  of 
personal use, subject, in the case of personal use, to the business needs of the Company, and the 
Executive’s  family  may  accompany  the  Executive  on  any  such  travel,  and  (v)  the  Executive 
and/or the Executive’s family, as the case may be, shall be eligible for participation in, and shall 
receive  all  benefits  under,  all  of  the  Company’s  welfare  benefit  plans,  practices,  policies  and 
programs,  including,  but  not  limited  to,  its  disability  and  health  insurance  plans  and 
vacation/sick/personal  days  provided  by  the  Company,  which  are  made  available  generally  to 
other senior executive officers of the Company (for the avoidance of doubt, such plans, practices, 
policies  or  programs  shall  not  include  any  plan,  practice,  policy  or  program  which  provides 
benefits in the nature of severance or continuation pay), subject, in each case, to the terms and 
conditions of the applicable Company plan, practice, policy or program and subject, in the case 
of any reimbursement, to the Company’s policies and procedures now in force or as such policies 
and procedures may be modified with respect to all senior executive officers of the Company.

(e)

Reimbursement  of  Business  Expenses.    The  Company  shall  reimburse  the 
Executive  for  all  reasonable  business  expenses  upon  the  presentation  of  statements  of  such 
expenses  in  accordance  with  the  Company’s  policies  and  procedures  now  in  force  or  as  such 
policies  and  procedures  may  be  modified  with  respect  to  all  senior  executive  officers  of  the 
Company. 

(f)

Section  280G.    If  all,  or  any  portion,  of  the  payments  provided  under  this 
Agreement,  either  alone  or  together  with  other  payments  or  benefits  which  the  Executive 
receives or is entitled to receive from the Company or any of its Affiliates (as defined below), 
would  constitute  an  “excess  parachute  payment”  within  the  meaning  of  Section  280G  of  the 
Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the “Code”), then the Executive shall be entitled to 
receive  (i)  an  amount  limited  so  that  no  portion  thereof  shall  fail  to  be  tax  deductible  under 
Section 280G of the Code (the “Limited Amount”), or (ii) if the amount otherwise payable or to 
be provided to the Executive (without regard to clause (i)) reduced by the excise tax imposed by 
Section  4999  of  the  Code  and  all  applicable  federal,  state  and  local  employment  and  income 
taxes (all computed at the highest applicable marginal rate) is greater than the Limited Amount, 
the amount otherwise payable to the Executive.  If it is determined that the Limited Amount will 
maximize the Executive’s after-tax proceeds, payments and benefits shall be reduced to equal the 
Limited Amount in the following order:  (i) first, by reducing cash severance payments (if and to 

-3-

the extent such severance payments are deemed to be “parachute payments” within the meaning 
of  Section  280G  of  the  Code),  (ii)  second,  by  reducing  other  payments  and  benefits  to  which 
Q&A 24(c) of Section 1.280G-1 of the Treasury Regulations does not apply, and (iii) finally, by 
reducing all remaining payments and benefits (in the case of clauses (ii) and (iii), starting with 
those  payments  and  benefits  for  which  the  amount  required  to  be  taken  into  account  under 
Section  280G  of the  Code  is the greatest).   All determinations made pursuant  this Section 3(f) 
will be made at the Company’s expense by the independent public accounting firm most recently 
serving as the Company’s outside auditors or such other accounting or benefits consulting group 
or firm as the Company may designate.

4.

Employment Period.

The  Employment  Period  shall  terminate  on  the  third  anniversary  of  the  Effective  Date, 
provided  that  on  the  third  anniversary  of  the  Effective  Date  and  on  each  one-year  anniversary 
thereafter,  the  Employment  Period  shall  automatically  be  extended  for  additional  one-year 
periods unless either party provides the other party with notice of non-renewal at least sixty (60) 
days  before  any  such  anniversary  (the  anniversary  date  on  which  the  Employment  Period 
terminates shall be referred to herein as the “Scheduled Termination Date”).  For greater clarity, 
a non-renewal notice given as contemplated in this Section 4 shall be a Notice of Termination (as 
defined below) of employment, effective on the Scheduled Termination Date, for all purposes of 
this Agreement, and if given by the Company shall give rise to an involuntary separation from 
service (within the meaning of Section 409A of the Code) on the Scheduled Termination Date.  
If  such  Notice  of  Termination  is  given  by  the  Company  (an  “Expiration  Termination”),  the 
Executive  shall  be  entitled  to  receive  the  payments  as  set  forth  in  Section  6(a)  below.    If  such 
Notice of Termination is given by the Executive, the Executive shall only be entitled to receive 
the payments set forth in Section 6(c) below.

Notwithstanding  the  foregoing,  the  Executive’s  employment  hereunder  may  be 
terminated  during  the  Employment  Period  prior  to  the  Scheduled  Termination  Date  upon  the 
earliest to occur of any one of the following events (at which time the Employment Period shall 
be terminated):

(a)

Death.  The Executive’s employment hereunder shall terminate upon his death.

(b)

Disability.    The  Company  shall  be  entitled  to  terminate  the  Executive’s 
employment  hereunder  for  “Disability”  if,  as  a  result  of  the  Executive’s  incapacity  due  to 
physical  or  mental  illness  or  disability,  the  Executive  shall  have  been  unable  to  perform  his 
duties  hereunder  for  a  period  of  six  (6)  consecutive  months,  and  within  thirty  (30)  days  after 
written  Notice  of  Termination  is  thereafter  given  the  Executive  shall  not  have  returned  to  the 
full-time performance of his duties hereunder.

(c)

Cause.  The Company may terminate the Executive’s employment hereunder for 
Cause.  For purposes of this Agreement, the term “Cause” shall mean:  (i) a material breach by 
the Executive of this Agreement or any agreement governing the terms of any equity or equity 
incentive award granted to the Executive, (ii) a material breach by the Executive of any written 
policy  of  the  Company  or  any  of  its  Affiliates  that  is  damaging  to  the  financial  condition  or 
reputation of the Company or its Affiliates, (iii) the willful failure by the Executive to reasonably 

-4-

and  substantially  perform  his  duties  to  the  Company  or  any  of  its  Affiliates,  which  failure  is 
materially  damaging  to  the  financial  condition  or  reputation  of  the  Company  or  such  Affiliate, 
(iv) the Executive’s willful misconduct or gross negligence which is injurious to the Company or 
any of its Affiliates, or (v) the commission by the Executive of a felony or other serious crime 
involving moral turpitude.  In the case of clauses (i) and (ii) above, the Company shall permit the 
Executive up to fifteen (15) days to cure such breach or failure if reasonably susceptible to cure.  
If,  subsequent  to  the  Executive’s  termination  of  employment  for  other  than  Cause,  it  is 
determined  that  the  Executive’s  employment  could  have  been  terminated  for  Cause,  the 
Executive’s employment shall be deemed to have been terminated for Cause retroactively to the 
date the events giving rise to such Cause occurred.  For purposes of this Agreement, “Affiliates” 
means all persons and entities directly or indirectly controlling, controlled by or under common 
control  with  respect  to  a  specified  person  or  entity,  where  control  shall  mean  the  possession, 
direct or indirect, of the power to direct or cause the direction of the management and policies of 
such  person  or  entity,  whether  through  the  ownership  of  voting  securities,  by  contract  or 
otherwise.

(d) Without  Cause.    The  Company  may  terminate  the  Executive’s  employment 
hereunder during the Employment Period without Cause by giving a Notice of Termination (as 
defined in Section 5 below).

(e)

Voluntarily.  The Executive may voluntarily terminate his employment hereunder, 
without Good Reason, including as a result of Retirement, provided that the Executive provides 
the Company with notice of his intent to terminate his employment at least thirty (30) days, or, in 
the  case  of  Retirement,  at  least  one  hundred  and  twenty  (120)  days,  in  advance  of  the  Date  of 
Termination (as defined in Section 5 below) in accordance with Section 5(a) below.

(f)

For Good Reason.  The Executive may terminate his employment hereunder for 
Good  Reason,  provided  the  Executive  complies  with  all  requirements  of  such  a  termination  as 
provided  hereunder  and  in  Section  5  below.    For  purposes  of  this  Agreement,  “Good  Reason” 
shall mean any of the following events or conditions occurring without the Executive’s express 
prior written consent, provided that the Executive shall have given written notice of such event 
or condition within a period not to exceed twenty (20) days of the Executive’s initial knowledge 
of the first existence of such event or condition, the Company shall not have remedied such event 
or  condition  within  thirty  (30)  days  after  receipt  of  such  notice  and  the  Executive  shall  have 
actually  terminated  his  employment  within  thirty  (30)  days  thereafter:    (i)  a  materially  adverse 
alteration  in  the  nature  or  status  of  the  Executive’s  title,  duties,  responsibilities  (including 
reporting responsibilities) or the conditions of employment, provided, that a failure to re-appoint 
the Executive as Chairman of the Board or the Executive’s failure to be re-elected to the Board 
by  the  Company’s  shareholders  shall  not  constitute  Good  Reason  hereunder,  (ii)  a  material 
reduction in the Executive’s annual base salary or target annual bonus opportunity, (iii) a change 
of  thirty-five  (35)  miles  or  more  in  the  Executive’s  principal  place  of  employment,  except  for 
required  travel  on  business  to  an  extent  substantially  consistent  with  the  Executive’s  business 
travel obligations, (iv) the failure by the Company to pay to the Executive any material portion 
of the Executive’s compensation due hereunder, or (v) a material breach by the Company of this 
Agreement.

-5-

5.

Termination Procedure.

(a)

Notice  of  Termination.    Any  termination  of  the  Executive’s  employment  by  the 
Company  or  by  the  Executive  during  or  upon  the  expiration  of  the  Employment  Period  (other 
than  a  termination  on  account  of  the  death  of  Executive)  shall  be  communicated  by  written 
“Notice  of  Termination”  to  the  other  party  hereto  in  accordance  with  Section  10(b)  of  this 
Agreement.

(b)

Date  of  Termination.    For  purposes  of  this  Agreement,  “Date  of  Termination” 
shall mean (i) if the Executive’s employment is terminated by his death, the date of his death, (ii) 
if the Executive’s employment is terminated pursuant to Section 4(c) of this Agreement, on the 
date  the  Executive  receives  Notice  of  Termination  from  the  Company,  (iii)  if  the  Executive 
voluntarily  terminates  his  employment  without  Good  Reason,  the  date  specified  in  the  notice 
given  pursuant  to  Section  4(e)  herein,  which  shall  not  be  less  than  thirty  (30)  days  after  the 
Notice  of  Termination  (or  one  hundred  and  twenty  (120)  days  thereafter,  in  the  case  of 
Retirement), (iv) if the Executive terminates his employment for Good Reason, the date specified 
in the notice given by the Executive of the event constituting Good Reason, which shall comply 
with the time periods and procedural requirements provided in Section 4(f) of this Agreement, 
and (v) if the Executive’s employment is terminated for any other reason, the date on which a 
Notice of Termination is given or any later date (within thirty (30) days, or any alternative time 
period  agreed  upon  by  the  parties,  after  the  giving  of  such  notice)  set  forth  in  such  Notice  of 
Termination, including the Scheduled Termination Date, as applicable.

6.

Termination Payments.

(a)

Without Cause, For Good Reason or an Expiration Termination.  In the event the 
Employment  Period  terminates  under  this  Agreement  as  a  result  of  any  of  (x)  the  Company 
terminating  the  Executive’s  employment  without  Cause,  (y)  the  Executive  terminating  his 
employment  for  Good  Reason,  or  (z)  an  Expiration  Termination,  the  Company  shall  pay  the 
Executive (A) within thirty (30) days following the Date of Termination, the Executive’s accrued 
but unpaid Base Salary through the Date of Termination; the Annual Bonus earned for the year 
prior to the Date of Termination if the Date of Termination occurs after year end but before the 
Annual  Bonus  is  paid;  unreimbursed  expenses  due  under  Section  3(e)  of  this  Agreement;  and 
vested  rights  under  compensation  and/or  benefits  plans  (all  to  the  extent  not  theretofore  paid) 
(collectively, the “Accrued Benefits”) and (B) two (2) times the sum of Executive’s Base Salary 
and target Annual Bonus, payable in equal installments over a twenty four (24)-month period in 
accordance with the Company’s standard payroll practices, payable as provided in Section 6(e) 
below.  In addition, (I) any equity or equity-based awards (or portions thereof) that are granted to 
the  Executive  after  the  Effective  Date  that  are  subject  solely  to  time-based  vesting  conditions 
(collectively, the “Time Awards”), to the extent then unvested, shall vest in full as of the Date of 
Termination  and,  if  applicable,  shall  remain  exercisable  until  the  latest  date  on  which  such 
awards may be exercised under the applicable Equity Agreements, determined without regard to 
the  Executive’s  termination  of  employment,  and  (II)  any  equity  or  equity-based  awards  (or 
portions  thereof)  that  are  granted  to  the  Executive  after  the  Effective  Date  that  are  subject  to 
performance-based vesting conditions (the “Performance Awards”), to the extent then unvested, 
shall be eligible to vest following the end of the applicable performance period based on actual 
performance.    The  payments  and  benefits  provided  under  this  Section  6(a)  (other  than  clause 

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6(a)(A)),  including  any  accelerated  vesting  as  provided  herein,  are  subject  to  and  conditioned 
upon the (i) Executive executing a timely and valid general release and waiver (in substantially 
the  form  set  forth  in  Exhibit  A)  (the  “Release”),  waiving  all  claims  the  Executive  may  have 
against the Company its successors, assigns, Affiliates, executives, officers and directors, (ii) the 
Executive delivering the executed Release to the Company within the time period specified by 
the  Company  following  the  Date  of  Termination,  (iii)  such  Release  and  the  waiver  contained 
therein  becoming  effective  in  accordance  with  their  respective  terms,  and  (iv)  the  Executive’s 
compliance with Section 9 of this Agreement (the conditions described in (i), (ii), (iii) and (iv), 
the  “Termination  Conditions”).    For  the  avoidance  of  doubt,  upon  a  termination  of  the 
Employment  Period  without  Cause,  as  a  result  of  Good  Reason,  or  due  to  an  Expiration 
Termination,  the  Executive  shall  not  be  entitled  to  any  other  compensation  or  benefits  not 
expressly provided for in this Section 6(a), regardless of the time that would otherwise remain in 
the Employment Period had the Employment Period not been so terminated.  Except as provided 
in this Section 6(a), and except for any vested benefits under any tax qualified pension plans of 
the  Company,  any  rights  under  the  Equity  Agreements,  and  continuation  of  health  insurance 
benefits on the terms and to the extent required by Section 4980B of the Code, and Section 601 
of  the  Employee  Retirement  Income  Security  Act  of  1974,  as  amended  (which  provisions  are 
commonly known as “COBRA”), or such other similar law or regulation as may be applicable to 
the  Executive  or  the  Company  with  respect  to  the  Executive,  the  Company  shall  have  no 
additional obligations under this Agreement.

(b)

Change  in  Control.    In  the  event  the  Employment  Period  terminates  under  this 
Agreement  under  circumstances  described  in  Section  6(a)  above  except  that  such  termination 
occurs within twenty-four (24) months following a transaction or event constituting a “change in 
control event” of the Company under Section 409A of the Code, the Company shall provide the 
Executive  with  all  payments  and  benefits  described  in  Section  6(a)  above  except  that  the 
amounts payable under clause (B) of the first sentence of Section 6(a) shall be payable in a lump 
sum  following  such  termination  at  the  time  provided  in  Section  6(e)  below  rather  than  over  a 
twenty four (24)-month period, and the Time Awards and the Performance Awards, to the extent 
then  unvested,  shall  vest  in  full  upon  such  termination,  with  the  Performance  Awards  vesting 
based  on  a  deemed  achievement  of  target  performance,  and,  if  applicable,  the  Time  Awards 
remaining  exercisable  until  the  latest  date  on  which  such  awards  may  be  exercised  under  the 
applicable  Equity  Agreements,  determined  without  regard  to  the  Executive’s  termination  of 
employment.

(c)

Cause or Voluntarily Other than for Good Reason (including Retirement).  If the 
Executive’s employment is terminated during the Employment Period by the Company for Cause 
or  voluntarily  by  the  Executive  other  than  for  Good  Reason,  the  Company  shall  pay  the 
Executive within thirty (30) days following the Date of Termination the Accrued Benefits.  If the 
Executive  terminates  his  employment  due  to  his  Retirement,  subject  to  compliance  by  the 
Executive with the Termination Conditions and the other conditions set forth in this subsection 
(c)  and  subject  to  the  requirements  of  Section  409A  of  the  Code,  the  Time  Awards  and 
Performance  Awards,  to  the  extent  then  unvested,  shall  remain  outstanding,  with  the  Time 
Awards continuing to vest on the schedule provided in the applicable Equity Agreement as if the 
Executive had remained employed on each applicable vesting date and, to the extent applicable, 
remaining  exercisable  until  the  latest  date  on  which  such  awards  may  be  exercised  under  the 
applicable  Equity  Agreement,  determined  without  regard  to  the  Executive’s  termination  of 

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employment,  and  the  Performance  Awards  shall  be  eligible  to  vest  following  the  end  of  the 
applicable performance period based on actual performance; provided, that, without limiting the 
Company’s rights under Section 9 of this Agreement, if during the period of time following the 
Date  of  Termination  due  to  his  Retirement  and  before  the  next  vesting  dates  after  the  Date  of 
Termination due to his Retirement for each of the Time Awards and the Performance Awards, 
the Executive is appointed or accepts a position as the chief executive officer (or other position 
having  similar  duties  and  responsibilities)  of  a  publicly-traded  company  (“Public  Company 
CEO”), unless the Board determines to allow for continued vesting of the Time Awards and the 
Performance  Awards,  (I)  the  Time  Awards  that  remain  unvested  at  that  time  shall  vest  as  to  a 
prorated number of the shares subject to the portion of each such Time Award that would vest on 
the  next  regularly  scheduled  vesting  date  following  the  Date  of  Termination  due  to  his 
Retirement,  prorated  to  reflect  the  number  of  whole  months  the  Executive  was  employed 
following the most recent vesting date prior to the Date of Termination (or the date of grant, if 
there has not been a vesting date) over the number of whole months from the most recent vesting 
date prior to the Date of Termination (or the date of grant, if there has not been a vesting date) 
until  the  next  regularly  scheduled  vesting  date  of  such  Time  Award  and,  if  applicable,  shall 
remain  exercisable  until  the  latest  date  on  which  such  awards  may  be  exercised  under  the 
applicable  Equity  Agreements,  determined  without  regard  to  the  Executive’s  termination  of 
employment, and (II) the Performance Awards, that remain unvested at that time shall be eligible 
to vest following the end of the applicable performance period based on actual performance, with 
the number of shares subject to such awards that vest based on performance pro rated to reflect 
the  number  of  whole  months  the  Executive  was  employed  during  the  applicable  performance 
period over the number of whole months in the applicable performance period.  The Executive 
agrees to notify the Company promptly if the Executive is appointed to or accepts a position as a 
Public  Company  CEO.    Except  as  provided  in  this  Section  6(c),  and  except  for  any  vested 
benefits  under  any  tax  qualified  pension  plans  of  the  Company,  any  rights  under  the  Equity 
Agreements, and continuation of health insurance benefits on the terms and to the extent required 
by COBRA, or such other similar law or regulation as may be applicable to the Executive or the 
Company with respect to the Executive, the Company shall have no additional obligations under 
this  Agreement.    For  purposes  of  this  Agreement,  “Retirement”  shall  mean  a  permanent 
retirement from active employment with the Company (other than at a time when Cause exists) 
after attaining age sixty-two (62) with at least five (5) years of employment with the Company or 
its subsidiaries.

(d)

Disability  or  Death.    If  the  Executive’s  employment  is  terminated  during  the 
Employment Period as a result of the Executive’s death or by the Company due to his Disability, 
the Company shall pay the Executive or the Executive’s estate, as the case may be, within thirty 
(30)  days  following  the  Date  of  Termination,  the  Accrued  Benefits.    In  addition,  the  Time 
Awards  and  Performance  Awards,  to  the  extent  then  unvested,  shall  vest  in  full  upon  such 
termination,  with  Performance  Awards  vesting  based  on  a  deemed  achievement  of  target 
performance, and, if applicable, the Time Awards remaining exercisable until the latest date on 
which  such  awards  may  be  exercised  under  the  applicable  Equity  Agreements,  determined 
without  regard  to  the  Executive’s  termination  of  employment,  subject,  in  the  case  of  a 
termination by the Company due to the Executive’s Disability, to compliance by the Executive 
(or  his  guardian  or  authorized  representative,  in  the  case  of  the  Release)  with  the  Termination 
Conditions.    Except  as  provided  in  this  Section  6(d),  and  except  for  any  vested  benefits  under 
any  tax  qualified  pension  plans  of  the  Company,  any  rights  under  the  Equity  Agreements,  and 

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continuation of health insurance benefits on the terms and to the extent required by COBRA, or 
such other similar law or regulation as may be applicable to the Executive or the Company with 
respect  to  the  Executive,  the  Company  shall  have  no  additional  obligations  under  this 
Agreement.

(e)

Release.  Subject to Section 7(a) of this Agreement, any cash severance payments 
due under Section 6(a) or 6(b) of this Agreement will be paid or provided, or will begin to be 
paid  or  provided,  on  the  first  payroll  date  following  the  date  the  Release  becomes  irrevocable 
(the “Release Date”), with all payments and benefits that would have otherwise been made prior 
to  the  Release  Date  paid  or  provided  on  such  date.    In  the  case  of  any  equity  or  equity-based 
award that vests (or remains eligible to vest) pursuant to Section 6(a), 6(b), 6(c) or 6(d) of this 
Agreement, (i) if the award requires exercise, the portion of the award that vests pursuant to such 
Section  shall  not  become  exercisable  until  the  Release  Date;  and  (ii)  if  the  award  requires  the 
delivery  of  cash  or  shares  upon  vesting,  such  cash  or  shares  shall  be  delivered  as  soon  as 
administratively practicable after the Release Date, but in no event later than (x) sixty (60) days 
following the Termination Date for any equity or equity-based award that is a Time Award and 
(y) for any Performance Award, as soon as reasonably practicable following the vesting date of 
such Performance Award, but in no event later than the March 15th of the year following the year 
in which the performance period ends, as set forth in the agreement evidencing such award (or 
any  earlier  date,  after  vesting,  as  may  be  required  to  avoid  characterization  as  non-qualified 
deferred compensation under Section 409A of the Code, to the extent applicable), in each case, 
notwithstanding any contrary provision in the equity compensation plan under which such award 
was  granted  or  in  the  agreement  evidencing  such  award.      Notwithstanding  the  foregoing  and 
subject to Section 7(a) of this Agreement, to the extent required by Section 409A of the Code, if 
the  Executive’s  (or  his  guardian’s  or  authorized  representative’s)  period  for  considering  the 
Release  spans  two  (2)  calendar  years,  then  any  payments  or  benefits  that  are  subject  to  such 
release shall in all events be made in the second calendar year. 

(f)

Treatment  of  Equity.    To  the  extent  not  specifically  provided  for  herein,  the 
vesting  and  exercisability  of  equity  and  equity-based  awards  (if  any)  held  by  the  Executive  at 
termination,  and  all  other  terms  of  such  equity  and  equity-based  awards  (if  any),  shall  be 
governed by the Equity Agreements.  

7.

Timing of Payments and Section 409A.

(a)

Notwithstanding anything to the contrary in this Agreement, if at the time of the 
Executive’s  termination  of  employment,  the  Executive  is  a  “specified  employee,”  as  defined 
below, any and all amounts payable under Section 6 above on account of such separation from 
service that would (but for this provision) be payable within six (6) months following the date of 
termination, shall instead be paid on the next business day following the expiration of such six 
(6)  month  period  or,  if  earlier,  the  date  of  the  Executive’s  death;  except  (A)  to  the  extent  of 
amounts  that  do  not  constitute  a  deferral  of  compensation  within  the  meaning  of  Treasury 
regulation  Section  1.409A-1(b)  (including  without  limitation  by  reason  of  the  safe  harbor  set 
forth in Section 1.409A-1(b)(9)(iii), as determined by the Company in its reasonable good faith 
discretion);  (B)  benefits  which  qualify  as  excepted  welfare  benefits  pursuant  to  Treasury 
regulation  Section  1.409A-1(a)(5);  or  (C)  other  amounts  or  benefits  that  are  not  subject  to  the 
requirements of Section 409A of the Code.

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(b)

For  purposes  of  this  Agreement,  all  references  to  “termination  of  employment” 
and correlative phrases shall be construed to require a “separation from service” (as defined in 
Section 1.409A-1(h) of the Treasury regulations after giving effect to the presumptions contained 
therein), and the term “specified employee” means an individual determined by the Company to 
be a specified employee under Treasury regulation Section 1.409A-1(i).

(c)

Each payment made under this Agreement shall be treated as a separate payment 
and the right to a series of installment payments under this Agreement is to be treated as a right 
to a series of separate payments.

(d)

Any  reimbursements  under  this  Agreement  that  would  constitute  nonqualified 
deferred  compensation  subject  to  Section  409A  of  the  Code  shall  be  subject  to  the  following 
additional rules: (i) no reimbursement of any such expense shall affect the Executive’s right to 
reimbursement of any such expense in any other taxable year; (ii) reimbursement of the expense 
shall be made, if at all, promptly, but not later than the end of the calendar year following the 
calendar year in which the expense was incurred; and (iii) the right to reimbursement shall not be 
subject to liquidation or exchange for any other benefit.

8.

Legal Fees; Indemnification; Officers’ Liability Insurance.

(a)

In  the  event  of  any  contest  or  dispute  between  the  Company  and  the  Executive 
with  respect  to  this  Agreement  or  the  Executive’s  employment  hereunder,  each  of  the  parties 
shall be responsible for its respective legal fees and expenses.

(b)

The  Executive  shall  be  indemnified  for  all  acts  and  omissions  to  act  to  the 
maximum  extent  permitted  under  the  Company’s  charter,  by-laws  and  under  applicable  law.  
During the Employment Period and for six (6) years thereafter, the Executive shall be entitled to 
the  same  officers’  and  directors’  liability  insurance  coverage  that  the  Company  provides 
generally to its other members of the Board (and if none, then to its officers), as may be amended 
from time to time for such directors and officers.

9.

Non-Competition 
Disparagement.

and  Non-Disclosure;  Executive  Cooperation;  Non-

(a)

Non-Competition.    Without  the  consent  in  writing  of  the  Board,  the  Executive 
will  not,  at  any  time  during  the  Employment  Period  and  for  the  two  years  following  the 
Employment Period, acting alone or in conjunction with others, directly or indirectly (i) engage 
(either  as  owner,  investor,  partner,  stockholder,  employer,  employee,  consultant,  advisor,  or 
director) in any business in which he has been directly engaged on behalf of the Company or any 
Affiliate,  or  has  supervised  as  an  executive  thereof,  during  the  last  two  years  prior  to  such 
termination, or which was engaged in or planned by the Company or an Affiliate at the time of 
such termination, in any geographic area in which such business was conducted or planned to be 
conducted;  (ii)  induce,  or  attempt  to  induce,  any  customers  of  the  Company  or  any  of  its 
Affiliates  with  whom  the  Executive  has  had  contacts  or  relationships,  directly  or  indirectly, 
during  and  within  the  scope  of  his  employment  with  the  Company  or  any  of  its  Affiliates,  to 
curtail or cancel their business with the Company or any such Affiliate; (iii) induce, or attempt to 
influence, any employee of the Company or any of its Affiliates to terminate employment; or (iv) 

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solicit, hire or retain as an employee or independent contractor, or assist any third party in the 
solicitation, hire, or retention as an employee or independent contractor, any person who during 
the previous 12 months was an employee of the Company or any Affiliate.  The provisions of 
subparagraphs (i), (ii), (iii), and (iv) above are separate and distinct commitments independent of 
each of the other subparagraphs.  It is agreed that the ownership of not more than one percent 
(1%) of the equity securities of any company having securities listed on an exchange or regularly 
traded in the over-the-counter market shall not, of itself, be deemed inconsistent with clause (i) 
of this Section 9(a).

(b)

Non-Disclosure.    The  Executive  shall  not,  at  any  time  during  the  Employment 
Period  and  thereafter  (including  following  the  Executive’s  termination  of  employment  for  any 
reason), disclose, use, transfer, or sell, except in the course of employment with or other service 
to the Company, any proprietary information, secrets, organizational or employee information, or 
other  confidential  information  belonging  or  relating  to  the  Company,  any  of  its  Affiliates  or 
customers so long as such information has not otherwise been disclosed or is not otherwise in the 
public  domain,  except  as  required  by  law  or  pursuant  to  legal  process.    In  addition,  upon 
termination  of  employment  for  any  reason,  the  Executive  will  return  to  the  Company  or  its 
Affiliates  all  documents  and  other  media  containing  information  belonging  or  relating  to  the 
Company or its Affiliates; provided, however, that the Executive may keep a copy of his contacts 
and/or  rolodex  and  any  compensatory  or  other  agreements  that  are  personal  to  the  Executive.  
Notwithstanding  the  foregoing  or  anything  else  to  the  contrary,  (a)  nothing  contained  in  this 
Agreement  or  any  other  agreement  containing  confidentiality  provisions  or  other  restrictive 
covenants in favor of the Company or any of its Affiliates shall be construed to limit, restrict or 
in any other way affect the Executive’s communicating with any governmental agency or entity, 
or  communicating  with  any  official  or  staff  person  of  a  governmental  agency  or  entity, 
concerning matters relevant to the governmental agency or entity and (b) the Executive will not 
be  held  criminally  or  civilly  liable  under  any  federal  or  state  trade  secret  law  for  disclosing  a 
trade  secret  (i)  in  confidence  to  a  federal,  state,  or  local  government  official,  either  directly  or 
indirectly,  or  to  an  attorney,  solely  for  the  purpose  of  reporting  or  investigating  a  suspected 
violation of law, or (ii) in a complaint or other document filed under seal in a lawsuit or other 
proceeding; provided that notwithstanding this immunity from liability, Executive may be held 
liable if Executive unlawfully accesses trade secrets by unauthorized means.

(c)

Ownership  of  Work.    The  Executive  will  promptly  disclose  in  writing  to  the 
Company all inventions, discoveries, developments, improvements and innovations (collectively 
referred  to  as  “Inventions”)  that  the  Executive  has  conceived  or  made  during  the  Employment 
Period; provided, however, that in this context “Inventions” are limited to those which (i) relate 
in any manner to the existing or contemplated business or research activities of the Company or 
its  Affiliates;  (ii)  are  suggested  by  or  result  from  the  Executive’s  work  at  the  Company  or  its 
Affiliates  (including  any  predecessors);  or  (iii)  result  from  the  use  of  the  time,  materials  or 
facilities of the Company or its Affiliates.  All Inventions will be the Company’s property rather 
than the Executive’s.  Should the Company request it, the Executive agrees to sign any document 
that the Company may reasonably require to establish ownership in any Invention.

(d)

Cooperation With Regard to Litigation.  The Executive agrees to cooperate with 
the Company, during the Employment Period and thereafter (including following the Executive’s 
termination of employment for any reason), by making himself available to testify on behalf of 

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the Company or any subsidiary or Affiliate of the Company, in any action, suit, or proceeding, 
whether  civil,  criminal,  administrative,  or  investigative,  and  to  assist  the  Company,  or  any 
subsidiary  or  Affiliate  of  the  Company,  in  any  such  action,  suit,  or  proceeding,  by  providing 
information  and  meeting  and  consulting  with  the  Board  or  its  representatives  or  counsel,  or 
representatives  or  counsel  to  the  Company,  or  any  subsidiary  or  Affiliate  of  the  Company,  as 
may  be  reasonably  requested  and  after  taking  into  account  the  Executive’s  post-termination 
responsibilities and obligations.  The Company agrees to reimburse the Executive, on an after-
tax  basis  each  calendar  quarter,  for  all  expenses  actually  incurred  in  connection  with  his 
provision  of  testimony  or  assistance  in  accordance  with  the  provisions  of  Section  7(d)  of  this 
Agreement but not later than the last day of the year in which the expense was incurred.

(e)

Non-Disparagement.  Subject to last sentence of Section 9(b) of this Agreement, 
the  Executive  shall  not,  at  any  time  during  the  Employment  Period  and  thereafter,  make 
statements or representations, or otherwise communicate, directly or indirectly, in writing, orally, 
or otherwise, or take any action which may, directly or indirectly, disparage or be damaging to 
the Company or its subsidiaries or Affiliates, officers, directors, employees, advisors, businesses 
or  reputations,  nor  shall  any  member  of  the  Board,  any  officer  of  the  Company,  or  the  Senior 
Vice  President  of  Human  Resources  of  the  Company  make  any  such  statements  or 
representations  regarding  the  Executive.    Notwithstanding  the  foregoing,  nothing  in  this 
Agreement  shall  preclude  the  Executive  or  the  Company  from  making  truthful  statements  that 
are  required  by  applicable  law,  regulation  or  legal  process.    The  Company  agrees  that  the 
Executive,  in  addition  to  any  other  remedies  available  to  him,  shall  be  entitled  to  apply  for 
preliminary and permanent injunctive relief against any breach of the covenant contained in this 
subsection (e), without having to post bond.

(f)

Enforcement  of  Covenants.    The  Executive  acknowledges  that  he  has  carefully 
read  and  considered  all  the  terms  and  conditions  of  this  Agreement,  including  the  restraints 
imposed  upon  him  pursuant  to  this  Section  9.    The  Executive  agrees  without  reservation  that 
each of the restraints  contained  herein  is  necessary  for the reasonable and proper protection  of 
the  goodwill,  confidential  information  and  other  legitimate  interests  of  the  Company  and  its 
Affiliates; that each and every one of those restraints is reasonable in respect to subject matter, 
length of time and geographic area; and that these restraints, individually or in the aggregate, will 
not  prevent  him  from  obtaining  other  suitable  employment  during  the  period  in  which  the 
Executive is bound by these restraints.  The Executive further agrees that he will never assert, or 
permit to be asserted on his behalf, in any forum, any position contrary to the foregoing.  The 
Executive  further  acknowledges  that,  were  he  to  breach  any  of  the  covenants  contained  in  this 
Section 9, the damage to the Company would be irreparable.  The Executive therefore agrees that 
the  Company,  in  addition  to  any  other  remedies  available  to  it,  shall  be  entitled  to  apply  for 
preliminary  and  permanent  injunctive  relief  against  any  breach  or  threatened  breach  by  the 
Executive of any of said covenants, without having to post bond.  The parties further agree that, 
in the event that any provision of this Section 9 shall be determined by any court of competent 
jurisdiction to be unenforceable by reason of its being extended over too great a time, too large a 
geographic area or too great a range of activities, such provision shall be deemed to be modified 
to permit its enforcement to the maximum extent permitted by law.  The Executive agrees that 
the period set forth in Section 9(a) above shall be tolled, and shall not run, during any period of 
time in which the Executive is in violation of the terms thereof, in order that the Company and its 
Affiliates shall have all of the agreed upon temporal protection recited herein.  No breach of any 

-12-

provision  of  this  Agreement  by  the  Company,  or  any  other  claimed  breach  of  contract  or 
violation  of  law,  or  change  in  the  nature  or  scope  of  the  Executive’s  employment  relationship 
with  the  Company,  shall  operate  to  extinguish  the  Executive’s  obligation  to  comply  with  this 
Section 9.

10. Miscellaneous.

(a)

Survival.    The  provisions  of  Section  6,  Section  8(b),  Section  9  and  such 
provisions  of  this  Section  10  as  apply  to  give  effect  to  such  other  surviving  provisions  shall 
survive  the  termination  of  the  Employment  Period  and  any  termination  or  expiration  of  this 
Agreement.

(b)

Any  notice  or  other  communication  required  or  permitted  under  this  Agreement 
shall  be  effective  only  if  it  is  in  writing  and  shall  be  deemed  to  be  given  when  delivered 
personally or four days after it is mailed by registered or certified mail, postage prepaid, return 
receipt requested or one day after it is sent by a reputable overnight courier service and, in each 
case, addressed as follows (or if it is sent through any other method agreed upon by the parties):

If to the Company:

IQVIA Holdings Inc.
83 Wooster Heights Road
Danbury, CT 06810
Attn: General Counsel

with a copy (which will not constitute notice) to:

Ropes & Gray LLP
Prudential Tower, 800 Boylston Street
Boston, Massachusetts 02199
Attention: Renata J. Ferrari, Esq.
Email:
Facsimile:

Renata.Ferrari@ropesgray.com
617-235-7690

If to the Executive:

Ari Bousbib

At his last residence address shown on the payroll records of the Company

with a copy (which will not constitute notice) to:

Arnold & Porter
601 Massachusetts Avenue, NW
Washington, DC 20001
Attn:            Joshua F. Alloy

-13-

Email:          Josh.Alloy@arnoldporter.com
Facsmile:     202-942-5999

or to such other address as any party hereto may designate by notice to the others.

(c)

This  Agreement,  as  herein  amended  and  restated  on  February  18,  2019,  shall 
constitute  the  entire  agreement  among  the  parties  hereto  with  respect  to  the  Executive’s 
employment  hereunder,  and  supersedes  and  is  in  full  substitution  for  any  and  all  prior 
understandings or agreements with respect to the Executive’s employment (it being understood 
that any equity and equity-based awards shall be governed by the relevant Equity Agreements), 
including,  without  limitation,  the  Employment  Agreement  by  and  among  IMS  Health 
Incorporated,  Healthcare  Technology  Holdings  Inc.  and  the  Executive  dated  August  16,  2010 
and  the  Amended  and  Restated  Employment  Agreement  by  and  among  IMS  Health  Holdings 
Inc., IMS Health Incorporated and the Executive dated as of February 12, 2014.

(d)

This Agreement may be amended only by an instrument in writing signed by the 
parties hereto, and any provision hereof may be waived only by an instrument in writing signed 
by the party or parties against whom or which enforcement of such waiver is sought.  The failure 
of  any  party  hereto  at  any  time  to  require  the  performance  by  any  other  party  hereto  of  any 
provision  hereof  shall  in  no  way  affect  the  full  right  to  require  such  performance  at  any  time 
thereafter, nor shall the waiver by any party hereto of a breach of any provision hereof be taken 
or held to be a waiver of any succeeding breach of such provision or a waiver of the provision 
itself or a waiver of any other provision of this Agreement.

(e)

The  parties  hereto  acknowledge  and  agree  that  each  party  has  reviewed  and 
negotiated the terms and provisions of this Agreement and has had the opportunity to contribute 
to its revision.  Accordingly, the rule of construction to the effect that ambiguities are resolved 
against the drafting party shall not be employed in the interpretation of this Agreement.  Rather, 
the terms of this Agreement shall be construed fairly as to both parties hereto and not in favor or 
against either party.

(f)

The parties hereto hereby represent that they each have the authority to enter into 
this Agreement, and the Executive hereby represents to the Company that the execution of, and 
performance of duties under, this Agreement shall not constitute a breach of or otherwise violate 
any other agreement to which the Executive is a party.  The Executive hereby further represents 
to the Company that he will not utilize or disclose any confidential information obtained by the 
Executive  in  connection  with  any  former  employment  with  respect  to  his  duties  and 
responsibilities hereunder.

(g)

This Agreement is binding on and is for the benefit of the parties hereto and their 
respective  successors,  assigns,  heirs,  executors,  administrators  and  other  legal  representatives.  
Neither this Agreement nor any right or obligation hereunder may be assigned by the Executive.

(h)

The Company shall require any successor (whether direct or indirect, by purchase, 
merger, consolidation or otherwise) to all or substantially all of the business and/or assets of the 
Company  to  assume  this  Agreement  in  the  same  manner  and  to  the  same  extent  that  the 
Company would have been required to perform it if no such succession had taken place.  As used 

-14-

in the Agreement, “the Company” shall mean both the Company as defined above and any such 
successor that assumes this Agreement, by operation of law or otherwise.

(i)

Any  provision  of  this  Agreement  (or  portion  thereof)  which  is  deemed  invalid, 
illegal  or  unenforceable  in  any  jurisdiction  shall,  as  to  that  jurisdiction  and  subject  to  this 
Section,  be  ineffective  to  the  extent  of  such  invalidity,  illegality  or  unenforceability,  without 
affecting  in  any  way  the  remaining  provisions  thereof  in  such  jurisdiction  or  rendering  that  or 
any other provisions of this Agreement invalid, illegal, or unenforceable in any other jurisdiction.  
If  any  covenant  should  be  deemed  invalid,  illegal  or  unenforceable  because  its  scope  is 
considered  excessive,  such  covenant  shall  be  modified  so  that  the  scope  of  the  covenant  is 
reduced only to the minimum extent necessary to render the modified covenant valid, legal and 
enforceable. 

(j)

The  Company  may  withhold  from  any  amounts  payable  to  the  Executive 
hereunder all federal, state, city or other taxes that the Company may reasonably determine are 
required to be withheld pursuant to any applicable law or regulation, (it being understood, that 
the  Executive  shall  be  responsible  for  payment  of  all  taxes  in  respect  of  the  payments  and 
benefits provided herein).

(k)

This Agreement shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws 

of the State of New Jersey without reference to its principles of conflicts of law.

(l)

This Agreement may be executed in several counterparts, each of which shall be 
deemed an original, but all of which shall constitute one and the same instrument.  An electronic 
or facsimile of a signature shall be deemed to be and have the effect of an original signature.

(m)

The  headings  in  this  Agreement  are  inserted  for  convenience  of  reference  only 

and shall not be a part of or control or affect the meaning of any provision hereof.

[Remainder of Page Intentionally Left Blank]

*   *   *   *   *

-15-

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties have executed this Agreement as of the date first 

written above.

ARI BOUSBIB

 /s/ Ari Bousbib                   

Name: Ari Bousbib

IQVIA HOLDINGS INC.

/s/ Eric Sherbet                     

Name: Eric Sherbet
Title: Exec. Vice President and General Counsel

[Signature Page to Ari Bousbib Employment Agreement]

-16-

EXHIBIT A

Form of Release

We  advise  you  to  consult  an  attorney  before  you  sign  this  Release.    You  have  until  the  date 
which  is  seven  (7)  days  after  the  Release  is  signed  and  returned  to  IQVIA  Holdings  Inc.  to 
change  your  mind  and  revoke  your  Release.    Your  Release  shall  not  become  effective  or 
enforceable until after that date.

In consideration for the payments and benefits provided under Section 6 of your Amended and 
Restated Employment Agreement with IQVIA Holdings Inc. dated as of February 18, 2019 and 
effective  as  of  July  26,  2018  (the  “Agreement”),  in  connection  with  the  termination  of  your 
employment  (such  payments  and  benefits  collectively,  the  “Separation  Payments”),  by  your 
signature below, you, for yourself and on behalf of your heirs, executors, agents, representatives, 
successors and assigns, hereby release and forever discharge IQVIA Holdings Inc. and its past 
and  present  parent  corporations,  subsidiaries,  divisions,  subdivisions,  affiliates  and  related 
companies  (collectively,  the  “Company”)  and  the  Company’s  past,  present  and  future  agents, 
directors,  officers,  employees,  representatives,  assigns,  stockholders,  attorneys,  insurers, 
employee  benefit  programs  (and  the  trustees,  administrators,  fiduciaries  and  insurers  of  such 
programs), and any other persons acting by, through, under or in concert with any of the persons 
or entities listed herein, and their successors (hereinafter “those associated with the Company”), 
with  respect  to  any  and  all  claims,  demands,  actions  and  liabilities,  whether  in  law  or  equity, 
which  you  may  have  against  the  Company  or  those  associated  with  the  Company  of  whatever 
kind, including, but not limited to, those arising out of your employment with the Company or 
the termination of that employment, except as otherwise expressly set forth below.  You agree 
that  this  Release  covers,  but  is  not  limited  to,  claims  arising  under  the  Age  Discrimination  in 
Employment Act of 1967, 29 U.S.C. § 621 et seq., Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, 42 
U.S.C. § 2000e et seq., the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, 42 U.S.C. § 12101 et seq., 
the Fair Labor Standards Act, 29 U.S.C. § 201 et seq., the Employee Retirement Income Security 
Act of 1974, 29 U.S.C. § 1001 et seq., the Family and Medical Leave Act of 1993 and any local, 
state or federal law, regulation or order providing workers’ compensation benefits, restricting an 
employer’s right to terminate employees or otherwise regulating employment, enforcing express 
or  implied  employment  contracts  or  requiring  an  employer  to  deal  with  employees  fairly  or  in 
good  faith,  or  dealing  with  discrimination  in  employment  on  the  basis  of  sex,  race,  color, 
national  origin,  veteran  status,  marital  status,  religion,  disability,  handicap,  or  age.    You  also 
agree that this Release includes claims based on wrongful termination of employment, breach of 
contract  (express  or  implied),  tort,  or  claims  otherwise  related  to  your  employment  or 
termination  of  employment  with  the  Company  and  any  claim  for  attorneys’  fees,  expenses  or 
costs of litigation.  For the avoidance of doubt, as it relates to the Company’s agents, directors, 
officers,  employees,  representatives,  assigns,  stockholders,  attorneys  and  insurers,  this  Release 
does not include a release of claims, demands, actions and liabilities that are not related in any 
way  to  your  relationship  with  the  Company  (whether  as  an  employee,  officer  or  director),  the 
termination of that relationship or your equity ownership in the Company.

This Release covers all claims based on any facts or events, whether known or unknown by you, 
that  occurred  on  or  before  the  date  of  this  Release.    You  expressly  waive  all  rights  you  might 
have under any law that is intended to protect you from waiving unknown claims and by your 

signature  below  indicate  your  understanding  of  the  significance  of  doing  so.    Examples  of 
released  claims  include,  but  are  not  limited  to:  (a)  claims  that  in  any  way  relate  to  your 
employment  with  the  Company,  or  the  termination  of  that  employment,  such  as  claims  for 
compensation, bonuses, commissions, equity awards, lost wages, or unused accrued vacation or 
sick pay (other than the Separation Payments); (b) claims that in any way relate to the design or 
administration of any employee benefit program; (c) claims that you have irrevocable or vested 
rights  to  severance  or  similar  benefits  (other  than  the  Separation  Payments)  or  to  post-
employment health or group insurance benefits; (d) any claim, such as a benefit claim, that was 
explicitly or implicitly denied before you signed this Release; (e) any claim you might have for 
extra benefits as a consequence of payments you receive because of signing this Release; or (f) 
any claim to attorneys’ fees or other indemnities.  Except to enforce this Release, you agree that 
you  will  never  commence,  prosecute,  or  cause  to  be  commenced  or  prosecuted  any  lawsuit  or 
proceeding of any kind against the Company, or those associated with the Company related to 
the  claims  released  in  this  Agreement,  in  any  forum  and  agree  to  withdraw  with  prejudice  all 
such complaints or charges, if any, that you have filed against the Company or those associated 
with the Company.  Notwithstanding the generality of the foregoing, nothing herein is intended 
to or shall preclude you or anyone on your behalf from filing a complaint and/or charge with the 
Equal  Employment  Opportunity  Commission  or  any  similar  state  or  local  government  agency 
and/or filing a related lawsuit and/or cooperating with said agency in any investigation or other 
proceeding.  Nonetheless, you acknowledge that you shall not be entitled to receive any personal 
relief,  recovery,  or  monies  in  connection  with  any  such  complaint,  charge  or  related  lawsuit 
brought against the Company or any of those associated with the Company, without regard as to 
who brought said complaint or charge.

Anything in this Release to the contrary notwithstanding, this Release does not include a release 
of: (i) any rights you may have to indemnification and recovery of officers and directors liability 
insurance  proceeds  under  any  agreement  (including,  without  limitation,  the  Employment 
Agreement), law, Company organizational document or policy, or otherwise; (ii) any rights you 
may  have  to  equity,  compensation  or  benefits  under  the  Company’s  equity,  compensation  or 
benefit plans that were accrued and unpaid prior to the date hereof and payable hereafter, except 
as  otherwise  provided  in  your  Agreement  or  claims  specifically  identified  in  this  Release;  (iii) 
any rights or claims under the Age Discrimination in Employment Act or any other law, in each 
case, that arise after you sign this Release; (iv) your right to enforce this Release or any of the 
foregoing items described in this paragraph; or (v) your rights and obligations as a shareholder of 
the Company.

By signing this Release, you further agree as follows:

i.

ii.

iii.

You have read this Release carefully and fully understand its terms;

You have had at least twenty-one (21) days (or at least forty-five (45) days if so indicated 
by the Company) to consider the terms of the Release;

You  have  seven  (7)  days  from  the  date  you  sign  this  Release  to  revoke  it  by  written 
notification  to  the  Company.    After  this  seven  (7)-day  period,  this  Release  is  final  and 
binding and may not be revoked;

-2-

iv.

v.

You have been advised to seek legal counsel and have had an opportunity to do so;

You would not otherwise be entitled to the benefits provided under your Agreement had 
you not agreed to execute this Release; and

vi.

Your agreement to the terms set forth above is voluntary.

-3-

By  my  signature  below  I  acknowledge  and  agree  to  the  terms  of  this  Release  as  of  the 

date indicated below.

Ari Bousbib

____________________

Date: _______________

[Signature Page to Ari Bousbib Release Agreement]

-4-

Exhibit 10.72

Name: Eric Sherbet

* Date of offer: 

January 23, 2018

* Your start date: 

March 1, 2018

Position Title / Level: EVP & General Counsel

* Department: 

US20300076 Legal

Location: 

Parsippany, NJ

* Manager / Title: 

Ari Bousbib

FT / PT Status: 

Full Time

Base Salary: 

$490,000 (annualized). Pay is semi-monthly

* Annual Incentive Target: 75% of your base salary. Your manager will communicate performance parameters at 
a later date. Incentive payout is not guaranteed and is prorated based on start date and time worked. Your start 
date must occur on or before September 30 to be eligible to participate in an incentive plan for the year.

Time off during calendar year of 2018

Vacation Days: 
Company Holidays: 

Discretionary Time-off
10 days

* Relocation Allowance: You will granted a one-time relocation allowance of $25,000 to be paid in a lump sum 
as soon as practicable after actual start date, and in accordance with the terms below. In return for IQVIA 
providing you with this relocation allowance, you agree that the relocation allowance shall be in the form of an 
advance to you, and will constitute a debt payable to IQVIA. Twelve (12) months from the pay date of this 
relocation allowance, IOVIA will forgive the entire relocation amount unless you have voluntarily left the 
employ of IQVIA prior to the end of that twelve-month period. In the event you voluntarily leave the 
employment of IQVIA prior to the end of that twelve-month period, then you agree to repay to IQVIA the entire 
relocation allowance. Repayment of the relocation amount will be made within (10) business days from the date 
on which you cease to be an employee of IQVIA. You agree that IQVIA may deduct from your final paycheck 
any amount(s) due and owing to IQVIA for the relocation allowance.

* Relocation Package: Additionally, IQVIA will provide you a Relocation Package, if you relocate to the 
Parsippany, NJ area within 3 years of actual original start date. In return for IQVIA providing you with 
Relocation Package, you agree that the amounts received directly by you, or paid to others on your behalf in 
connection with the Relocation Package shall be in the form of an advance to you and will constitute a debt 
payable to IQVIA. Twelve (12) months from the final pay date of any amount under this Relocation Package, 
IQVIA will forgive the entire Relocation Package amount paid unless you have voluntarily left the employ of 
IQVIA prior to the end of that twelve-month period. In the event you voluntarily leave the employment of 
IQVIA prior to the end of that twelve-month period, then you agree to repay to IQVIA the entire Relocation 
Package amount. Repayment of the Relocation Package amount will be made within (10) business days from the 
date on which you cease to be an employee of IQVIA. You agree that IQVIA may deduct from your final 
paycheck any amount(s) due and owing to IQVIA for the Relocation Package amount.

*
*
*
*
*
Nothing contained in this offer letter is intended to supersede, or otherwise interfere with, policies of IQVIA in 
effect at the time this Agreement is signed.

Long-Term Incentive: As a part of your new hire offer, you will be nominated for a long-term incentive 
award with a nominal value of $550,000 at a meeting of the Leadership Development and Compensation 
Committee (the “Committee”) of the Board of Directors of IQVIA Holdings Inc. Awards approved by the 
Committee will be subject to the various terms and conditions of the IQVIA Holdings Inc. 2017 Incentive 
and Stock Award Plan (the “Plan”) and your grant agreement, including provisions regarding vesting 
(based on time and Company performance), exercise and forfeiture.

The Company’s Long Term Incentive Plan provides eligible participants with the opportunity to 
receive equity awards consisting of a combination of Performance Shares,” which are earned based on 
Company performance, and “Stock Appreciation Rights” (SARs), which vest based on continued 
service with the Company.

Performance Shares are performance-based restricted stock units that are earned based on the 
Company’s financial results over a three-year period. Performance Shares are payable in IQVIA 
shares at the end of a three-year period, with a maximum payout of 200 percent of target. You must 
remain employed by the Company through the end of the performance period in order to receive 
payment from any earned Performance Shares.

SARs are issued with a grant price equal to the Fair Market Value, or closing price, of IQVIA stock as 
of the date of grant and vest one-third per annum beginning on the first anniversary of the date of 
grant. SARs expire ten years from grant. If you leave our employment for any reason other than death 
or disability you will forfeit any SARs that are unvested. You will have 90 days to exercise vested 
SARs.

You will be eligible to participate in future annual Long Term Incentive Plan cycles based on the 
Company’s discretion. All grants are subject to the discretion of the Committee and the rules of the 
Plan.

Your long-term incentive award is contingent upon proper execution of a Confidentiality and 
Restrictive Covenant Agreement (CRCA) and Work Product Assignment Agreement (WPAA) relating 
to the protection of IQVIA intellectual property, including confidentiality, ownership, noncompetition and 
non-solicitation. A copy of the CRCA and WPAA is attached for your review

This offer of employment with IQVIA™ is contingent upon (a) receipt of acceptable references and credential 
qualifications; (b) having no existing restrictions which would prohibit you from accepting this offer or, by working 
for IQVIA, would infringe the rights of others; (c) your signing and returning the attached Confidentiality & Policy 
Agreement as well as the Third Party Confidential Information Notice; and (d) receipt of proof of your eligibility to 
work in the United States as required by the Immigration Reform and Control Act of 1986. You will need to bring 
certain documents on your first day of employment (by law, no later than three business days from your start date). 
Please refer to the enclosed list of acceptable documents for Employment Eligibility Verification.

This offer letter shall not be construed as constituting a contract for employment, or otherwise set forth a length of 
employment. You are an employee at-will, which means that either you or IQVIA may end the employment 
relationship without cause or notice.

I accept the terms of this offer as stated and will start on: 

/s/ Eric Sherbet
Sign to accept

March 1, 2018
State date

Approved:

/s/ Trudy Stein

Name: Trudy Stein

*
IQVIA HOLDINGS INC.

SUBSIDIARIES OF THE REGISTRANT

Subsidiary
159 SOLUTIONS, INC.
159 Technology Solutions Private Ltd

Advanced Health Media Services, Ltd.

AHM Global Operations Inc.

AHM Global Services LLC

AHM Logistics Inc. (Canada)

AIECO IT Solutions India Private Ltd.

Albatross Financial Solutions Limited

ALIMED Egeszsegugyi Szolgaltato Kft.

APPATURE, INC.

Ardentia International Limited

Ascott Sales Integration Pty Ltd

Asesorias IQVIA Solutions Chile Limitada

Asserta Centroamerica Medicion de Mercados, S.A.

Battaerd Mansley Pty. Ltd.

Benefit Canada, Inc.

Benefit Holding, Inc.

BioFortis, Inc. 

BUZZEOPDMA LLC

Cambridge Pharma Consultancy Limited

Cambridge Pharma Consultancy, Inc.

CDS - Center de Service SAS

Cegedim Venezuela C.A.

Cenduit (India) Services Private Company Limited

Cenduit Limited

Cenduit LLC

Cenduit Mauritius Holdings Company

Clinical Financial Services, LLC

Clinical Lab Minority Shareholder Limited

Coordinated Management Holdings L.L.C.

COORDINATED MANAGEMENT SYSTEM, INC.

Coté Orphan Consulting UK Limited

Coté Orphan, LLC

CRM Health Korea Ltd.

CSD Health Korea Ltd.

DATA NICHE ASSOCIATES, INC.

Datadina Ecuador S.A.

Dataline Software Limited

Exhibit 21.1

Jurisdiction or 
State of Organization
California
India

United Kingdom

The Philippines

New Jersey

Canada

India

United Kingdom

Hungary

Washington

United Kingdom

Australia

Chile

Guatemala

Australia

Canada

North Carolina

Maryland

Delaware

United Kingdom

Delaware

France

Venezuela

India

Delaware

Delaware

Mauritius

Pennsylvania

United Kingdom

Delaware

Delaware

United Kingdom

Maryland

Korea

Korea

Illinois

Ecuador

United Kingdom

Subsidiary
Datec Industria e Comercio, Distribudora Grafica e Mala Direta Ltda.
Dimensiions Healthcare LLC

Drug Dev Inc.

DrugDev Limited

EA Institute L.L.C.

ENTERPRISE ASSOCIATES, LLC

Epernicus, LLC

EPS Research Limited

EPS Software Limited

Forcea NV

Foresight Group International UK LTD

Foresight Group Japan G.K.

Foresight IT Solutions Consulting India Private Limited

Global Crown Investment Limited

GRACE DATA CORPORATION

HIGHPOINT SOLUTIONS, LLC

Highpoint Solutions, LLC

Hospital Marketing Services Ltd.

Hotel Lot C-8B, LLC

Iasist Holdco Limited

Iasist Potugal, Consultadoria na Área de Saúde, Unipessoal, Lda

Iasist SAU Agencia en Chile

Iasist Sociedad Anonima Unipersonal 

iGuard, Inc.

Impact RX, LLC

IMS HEALTH KOREA LTD

IMS (GIBRALTAR) HOLDING LIMITED

IMS (UK) Pension Plan Trustee Company Limited

IMS AB

IMS CHINAMETRIK INC.

IMS Health (Australia) Partnership

IMS Health Analytics Services Private Limited

IMS Health Bangladesh Limited

IMS Health Bolivia S.R.L.

IMS Health Cyprus LTD

IMS Health de Venezuela C.A.

IMS Health Egypt Limited

IMS HEALTH GROUP LIMITED

IMS Health Information Solutions Argentina S.A.

IMS Health Information Solutions Australia Pty. Ltd

IMS Health Information Solutions India Private Ltd.

IMS Health Information Solutions Japan K.K.

IMS HEALTH KOREA LTD.

IMS Health Lanka (Private) Limited

Jurisdiction or 
State of Organization
Brazil
Abu Dhabi

Delaware

United Kingdom

Delaware

Delaware

Delaware

United Kingdom

United Kingdom

Belgium

United Kingdom

Japan

India

Hong Kong

Nebraska

Pennsylvania

Switzerland

United Kingdom

North Carolina

United Kingdom

Portugal

Chile

Spain

North Carolina

South Africa

Korea

Gibraltar

United Kingdom

Sweden

Hong Kong

Australia

India

Bangladesh

Bolivia

Cyprus

Venezuela

Egypt

United Kingdom

Argentina

Australia

India

Japan

Korea

Sri Lanka

Subsidiary
IMS Health Networks Limited
IMS Health Pakistan (Private) Limited

IMS Health Paraguay SRL

IMS HEALTH PUERTO RICO INC.

IMS Health Surveys Limited

IMS HEALTH TAIWAN LTD.

IMS Health Technology Solutions (China) Co. Ltd.

IMS Health Technology Solutions Australia Pty. Ltd

IMS Health Technology Solutions Colombia Ltda.

IMS Health Technology Solutions Holdings AB

IMS Health Technology Solutions Hungary Ltd.

IMS Health Technology Solutions India Private Ltd.

IMS Health Technology Solutions Japan K.K.

IMS Health Technology Solutions Kazakhstan, LLC

IMS Health Technology Solutions LLC

IMS Health Technology Solutions Sweden AB

IMS Health Technology TUNISIA

IMS Health Tunisia sarl

IMS Health Uruguay S.A.

IMS Holdings (U.K.) Limited

IMS Hospital Group Limited

IMS Information Solutions Medical Research Limited

IMS Information Solutions UK Ltd.

IMS International (Proprietary) Limited

IMS Market Research Consult (Beijing)

IMS Meridian Limited

IMS Meridian Research Limited

IMS Republica Dominicana, S.A.

IMS SOFTWARE SERVICES LTD.

IMS Technology Solutions UK Limited

Infocus Health Limited

Infopharm Ltd.

Innovex Holdings I LLC

Innovex Merger Corp.

Innovex Saglik Hizmetleri Arastirma ve Danismanlik Ticaret Limited Sirketi

Innovex Saglik Urunleri Pazarlame ve Hizmet Danismanlik Anonim Sirketi

Institute of Medical Communications NCO

INTERCONTINENTAL MEDICAL STATISTICS INTERNATIONAL, LTD. (DE)

Interstatistik AG

IPP Informacion Promocional y Publicitaria S.A. de C.V.

IPP Technology Solutions Mexico SA de CV (FKA Cegedim Mexico SA de CV)

IQVA Romania S.R.L.

IQVIA Medical Development (Dalian) Co., Ltd.

IQVIA SOLUTIONS PHILIPPINES, INC.

Jurisdiction or 
State of Organization
United Kingdom
Pakistan

Paraguay

Puerto Rico

United Kingdom

Taiwan

China

Australia

Colombia

Sweden

Hungary

India

Japan 

Kazakhstan

Russia

Sweden

Tunisia

Tunisia

Uruguay

United Kingdom

United Kingdom

United Kingdom

United Kingdom

South Africa

China

Hong Kong

British Virgin Islands

Dominican Republic

Delaware

United Kingdom

United Kingdom

United Kingdom

Delaware

North Carolina

Turkey

Turkey

Russia

Delaware

Switzerland

Mexico

Mexico

Romania

China

Philippines

Subsidiary
IQVIA (Thialand)  Co. Ltd.
IQVIA AB

IQVIA Adriatic d.o.o. za Konzalting

IQVIA AG

IQVIA AG (Mexico Branch)

IQVIA AG (UK Branch)

IQVIA Asia Pacific Commercial Holdings LLC

IQVIA Beteiligungs-gesellschaft mbH

IQVIA BioSciences Holdings LLC

IQVIA CHINAMETRIK INC.

IQVIA Clinical AB

IQVIA Commercial Deutschland GmbH

IQVIA COMMERCIAL FINANCE INC.

IQVIA Commercial GmbH & Co. OHG

IQVIA Commercial I LLC

IQVIA COMMERCIAL INDIA HOLDINGS CORP.

IQVIA COMMERCIAL LICENSING ASSOCIATES LLC

IQVIA COMMERCIAL SERVICES LLC

IQVIA Commercial Software GmbH

IQVIA Commercial Sp. z.o.o.

IQVIA COMMERCIAL TRADING CORP.

IQVIA Commerical Consulting Sp. z.o.o.

IQVIA Consulting and Information Services India Private Limited

IQVIA Consulting Solutions bvba

IQVIA Finance Ireland Designated Activity Company

IQVIA GOVERNMENT SOLUTIONS INC.

IQVIA Healthcare QFC branch

IQVIA Hellas Technology Solutions S.A.

IQVIA Holdings France SAS

IQVIA IES (UK) Limited

IQVIA IES Brasil Ltda.

IQVIA IES Europe Limited

IQVIA IES European Holdings

IQVIA IES Italia S.r.l.

IQVIA IES Overseas Holdings Limited

IQVIA IES OY

IQVIA IES Portugal Unipressoal Ltda.

IQVIA IES Portugal, Unipessoal Lda.

IQVIA IES Puerto Rico Inc.

IQVIA II Technology Solutions Portugal, Unipessoal LDA

IQVIA INC. 

IQVIA INFORMATION MEDICAL STATISTICS (ISRAEL) LTD.

IQVIA Information Solutions (China) Co., Ltd.

IQVIA Information Solutions GmbH

Jurisdiction or 
State of Organization
Thailand
Sweden

Croatia

Switzerland

Mexico

United Kingdom

North Carolina

Germany

Delaware

Delaware

Sweden

Germany

Delaware

Germany

Delaware

Delaware

Delaware

Delaware

Germany

Poland

Delaware

Poland

India

Belgium

Ireland

Delaware

Qatar

Greece

France

United Kingdom

Brazil

United Kingdom

United Kingdom

Italy

United Kingdom

Finland

Spain

Portugal

Puerto Rico

Portugal

Delaware

Israel

China

Austria

Subsidiary
IQVIA Information, S.A.
IQVIA Informations Solutions France SAS 

IQVIA Istanbul Saglik Hizmetler Arastirma ve Danismanlik Limited Sirketi

IQVIA Korea Co. Ltd.

IQVIA LTD

IQVIA Market Intelligence LLC

IQVIA Marktforschung GmbH

IQVIA Maroc SARL

IQVIA Mauritius Holdings, Inc. 

IQVIA Medical Communications & Consulting, Inc.

IQVIA Medical Education Inc.

IQVIA Medical Radar AB

IQVIA Operations France SAS

IQVIA Partners AS

IQVIA PHARMA Inc.

IQVIA Pharma Services Corp.

IQVIA Pharmaceutical Marketing Services Ltd.

IQVIA Phase One Services LLC

IQVIA RDS (India) Private Limited

IQVIA RDS (Pty.) Limited

IQVIA RDS AG

IQVIA RDS and Integrated Services Belgium NV

IQVIA RDS Argentina S.A.

IQVIA RDS Asia Inc.

IQVIA RDS Austria GmbH

IQVIA RDS Brasil Ltda.

IQVIA RDS BT Inc.

IQVIA RDS Bulgaria EOOD

IQVIA RDS Canada ULC

IQVIA RDS Chile

IQVIA RDS Colombia S.A.S.

IQVIA RDS Consulting Inc.

IQVIA RDS d.o.o. Beograd

IQVIA RDS East Asia Pte. Ltd.

IQVIA RDS Eastern Holdings GmbH

IQVIA RDS ESTONIA OU

IQVIA RDS Finland OY

IQVIA RDS France SAS (formerly, Quintiles Benefit France SNC)

IQVIA RDS Funding LLC

IQVIA RDS GesmbH

IQVIA RDS GesmbH Greek Branch

IQVIA RDS Guatemala S.A.

IQVIA RDS Holdings

IQVIA RDS Hong Kong Limited

Jurisdiction or 
State of Organization
Spain
France

Turkey

Korea

United Kingdom

North Carolina

Austria

Morocco

Mauritius

North Carolina

New York

Sweden

France

Denmark

North Carolina

North Carolina

Slovenia

Kansas

India

South Africa

Switzerland

Belgium

Argentina

North Carolina

Austria

Brazil

North Carolina

Bulgaria

Canada

Chile

Colombia

North Carolina

Serbia

Singapore

Austria

Estonia

Finland

France

North Carolina

Austria

Greece

Guatemala

United Kingdom

Hong Kong

Subsidiary
IQVIA RDS Inc.
IQVIA RDS Ireland (Finance) Ltd.

IQVIA RDS Ireland Ltd.

IQVIA RDS ISRAEL LTD.

IQVIA RDS Italy Srl

IQVIA RDS Latin America LLC

IQVIA RDS Latvia SIA

IQVIA RDS Magyarorszag Gyogyszerfejlesztesi es Tanacsado Kft.

IQVIA RDS Malaysia Sdn. Bhd.

IQVIA RDS Moscow

IQVIA RDS Novosibirsk

IQVIA RDS Panama Inc.

IQVIA RDS Peru S.r.l.

IQVIA RDS Philippines Inc.

IQVIA RDS Poland Sp. Zoo

IQVIA RDS Pty. Limited

IQVIA RDS Slovakia s.r.o.

IQVIA RDS Spain S.L.

IQVIA RDS Spain, S.L., Representacao, Permanente em Portugal

IQVIA RDS St. Petersburg

IQVIA RDS Support Sarl

IQVIA RDS Switzerland sarl

IQVIA RDS Taiwan Ltd.

IQVIA RDS Transfer LLC

IQVIA RDS UAB

IQVIA RDS UK Holdings Ltd.

IQVIA Services Japan K.K.

IQVIA Soluçoes de Tecnologia DO Brazil Ltda.

IQVIA Solutions do Brasil Ltda.

IQVIA Solutions (NZ) Limited

IQVIA Solutions (Pty.) Ltd.

IQVIA Solutions a.s.

IQVIA Solutions Argentina S.A.

IQVIA SOLUTIONS ASIA PTE. LTD.

IQVIA Solutions Australia Holdings Pty. Ltd.

IQVIA Solutions Australia Pty. Ltd.

IQVIA Solutions B.V.

IQVIA Solutions Belgium S.P.R.L.

IQVIA Solutions Bulgaria EOOD

IQVIA SOLUTIONS CANADA INC.

IQVIA Solutions Colombia S.A.

IQVIA Solutions Consulting Myanmar Company Limited

IQVIA Solutions del Peru S.A.

IQVIA Solutions Denmark AS

Jurisdiction or 
State of Organization
North Carolina
Ireland

Ireland

Israel

Italy

North Carolina

Latvia

Hungary

Malaysia

Russia

Russia

Panama

Peru

Philippines

Poland

Australia

Slovakia

Spain

Portugal

Russia

France

Switzerland

Taiwan

Delaware

Lithuania

United Kingdom

Japan and Delaware

Brazil

Brazil

New Zealand

South Africa

Czech Republic

Argentina

Singapore

Australia

Australia

Netherlands

Belgium

Bulgaria

Canada

Colombia

Myanmar

Peru

Denmark

Subsidiary
IQVIA Solutions Enterprise Management Consulting (Shanghai) Co., Ltd.
IQVIA Solutions Finance B.V.

IQVIA Solutions Finance UK I Ltd.

IQVIA Solutions Finance UK II Ltd.

IQVIA Solutions Finance UK III Ltd.

IQVIA Solutions Finance UK V Ltd.

IQVIA Solutions Finland OY

IQVIA Solutions Global Holdings UK Ltd.

IQVIA Solutions GmbH

IQVIA Solutions Holdings (Pty.) Ltd.

IQVIA Solutions Hong Kong Limited

IQVIA Solutions HQ Ltd.

IQVIA Solutions Ireland Limited

IQVIA Solutions Italy W.r.l.

IQVIA SOLUTIONS JAPAN K.K.

IQVIA Solutions Kazakhstan LLC

IQVIA Solutions LLC

IQVIA Solutions Malaysia Sdn. Bhd.

IQVIA Solutions Norway AS

IQVIA SOLUTIONS OPERATIONS CENTER PHLIPPINES INC.

IQVIA Solutions Pharmaceutical SRL

IQVIA SOLUTIONS PHILIPINES, INC.

IQVIA Solutions Portugal, Lda.

IQVIA Solutions (Pty.) Ltd.

IQVIA Solutions Regional Pte. Ltd.

IQVIA Solutions s.r.o.

IQVIA Solutions Services Ltd.

IQVIA Solutions Sweden AB

IQVIA Solutions UK Investments Ltd.

IQVIA Solutions UK Limited

IQVIA Staff Services Sp.A.

IQVIA Technology and Services AG

IQVIA Technology Services Ltd.

IQVIA Technology Solutions Egypt LLC

IQVIA Technology Solutions Finland OY

IQVIA Technology Solutions Poland SP. z.o.o.

IQVIA Technology Solutions Romania Srl

IQVIA Technology Solutions s.r.o.

IQVIA Technology Solutions s.r.o.

IQVIA Technology Solutions S.R.O. Branch Bulgaria

IQVIA Technology Solutions Ukraine LLC

IQVIA Tibbi Istatistik Ticaret ve Musavirlik Ltd. Sirketi

IQVIA Trading Management Inc.

IQVIA TRANSPORTATION SERVICES CORP.

Jurisdiction or 
State of Organization
China
Netherlands

United Kingdom

United Kingdom

United Kingdom

United Kingdom

Finland

United Kingdom

Switzerland

South Africa

Hong Kong

United Kingdom

Ireland

Italy

Japan and Delaware

Kazakhstan

Russia

Malaysia

Norway

Philippines

Romania

Philippines

Portugal

South Africa

Singapore

Slovak Republic

Hungary

Sweden

United Kingdom

United Kingdom

Italy

Switzerland

United Kingdom

Egypt

Finland

Poland

Romania

Czech Republic

Slovak Republic

Bulgaria

Ukraine

Turkey

Delaware

Delaware

Subsidiary
IQVIA World Publications Ltd.
IQVIA Zagreb d.o.o.

Kun Tai Medical Development Hong Kong Limited

Kun Tuo Medical Research & Development (Beijing) Co. Ltd.

Laboratorie Novex Pharma Sarl

Laboratorio Commuq Pharma SL

M&H Informatics (BD) LTD.

Mecurial Insights Holding Pty. Ltd.

Mecurial Insights Pty. Ltd.

MED-VANTAGE, INC.

Mercados Y Analisis, S.A.

Meridian Research Vietnam Ltd.

MG Recherche

M-TAG Australia Pty. Ltd.

Nordisk Medicin Information AB

Novella Clinical LLC

Novella Clinical Ltd.

Novex Pharma Gmbh

Novex Pharma Laboratorio S.L.

Novex Pharma Limited

Nuevo Health Pty Ltd

Onkodatamed GmbH

Operaciones Centralizadas Latinoamericana Limitada

Optimum Contact Limited 

Outcome Sciences LLC

Penderwood Limited

Pharma Deals Limited

Pharma Strategy Group Ltd.

Pharmadata s.r.o.

Pharmaforce, S.A. de C.V.

PharmARC Consulting Services GmbH

PharmARC Inc.

Pilgrim Quality Solutions EMEA BV

Pilgrim Software Asia PVT, Ltd

PILGRIM SOFTWARE HOLDING B.V.

POLARIS MANAGEMENT PARTNERS LLC

Polaris Solutions BV

POLARIS SOLUTIONS LLC

Polaris Solutions Ltd.

PR Editions S.A.S.

Primeum IQVIA SAS

Privacy Analytics Inc.

Professional Pharmaceutical Marketing Services (Pty.) Ltd.

PT IMS Health Indonesia

Jurisdiction or 
State of Organization
United Kingdom
Croatia

Hong Kong

China

France

Spain

Bangladesh

Australia

Australia

Delaware

Spain

Vietnam

France

Australia

Sweden

Delaware

United Kingdom

Germany

Spain

United Kingdom

Australia

Germany

Chile

United Kingdom

Delaware

United Kingdom

United Kingdom

United Kingdom

Slovak Republic

Mexico

Switzerland

New Jersey

Netherlands

Nepal

Netherlands

New Jersey

Netherlands

New York

Hong Kong

France

France

Canada

South Africa

Indonesia

Subsidiary
PT Quintiles Indonesia
Pygargus AB

Q Squared Solutions (Beijing) Co. Ltd.

Q Squared Solutions (India) Private Limited

Q Squared Solutions (Quest) Limited

Q Squared Solutions (Quest) LLC

Q Squared Solutions (Shanghai) Co. Ltd.

Q Squared Solutions B.V.

Q Squared Solutions BioSciences LLC

Q Squared Solutions China (Quest) Limited

Q Squared Solutions China Limited

Q Squared Solutions Expression Analysis LLC

Q Squared Solutions Holdings B.V.

Q Squared Solutions Holdings Limited

Q Squared Solutions Holdings LLC

Q Squared Solutions K.K.

Q Squared Solutions Limited

Q Squared Solutions LLC

Q Squared Solutions Proprietary Limited

Q Squared Solutions Pte. Ltd.

Q Squared Solutions S.A.

Q2 Metrics 

Qcare Site Services, Inc.

QIMS Pharma Services SA DE CV

Quintiles B.V.

Quintiles Benin Ltd.

Quintiles Clindata (Pty.) Limited

Quintiles Clindepharm (Pty.) Limited

Quintiles Clinical and Commercial Nigeria Limited

Quintiles Commercial ApS

Quintiles Commercial Germany GmbH

Quintiles Commercial Rus LLC

Quintiles Commercial South Africa (Pty) Limited

Quintiles Commercial US. Inc.

Quintiles Costa Rica S.A.

Quintiles Czech Republic, s.r.o.

Quintiles Denmark

Quintiles East Africa Limited

Quintiles Egypt LLC

Quintiles Enterprise Management (Shanghai)  Co. Ltd.

Quintiles Finance Sarl

Quintiles Finance Sarl - US

Quintiles Finance Uruguay, S.r.l.

Quintiles GmbH

Jurisdiction or 
State of Organization
Indonesia
Sweden

China

India

United Kingdom

Delaware

China

Netherlands

Delaware

United Kingdom

United Kingdom

Delaware

Netherlands

United Kingdom

Delaware

Japan

United Kingdom

North Carolina

South Africa

Singapore

Argentina

Canada

North Carolina

Mexico

Netherlands

Benin

South Africa

South Africa

Nigeria

Denmark

Germany

Russia

South Africa

Delaware

Costa Rica

Czech Republic

Denmark

Kenya

Egypt

China

Luxembourg

United States

Uruguay

Germany

Subsidiary
Quintiles Holdings S.a.r.l.
Quintiles IMS European Holdings C.V.

Quintiles Lanka Private Limited

Quintiles Latin America Inc.

Quintiles Luxembourg European Holding S.a.r.l. - US

Quintiles Luxembourg European Holding, S.a.r.l.

Quintiles Luxembourg France Holdings SARL

Quintiles Medical Development (Shanghai) Co. Ltd.

QUINTILES MEXICO, S. DE R.L. DE C.V.

Quintiles Netherlands

Quintiles New Zealand

Quintiles Norway

Quintiles Phase One Clinical Trials India Private Limited

Quintiles Russia LLC

Quintiles S.a.r.l.

Quintiles S.a.r.L. - US

Quintiles Site Services, S.A.

Quintiles South Africa (PTY.) Limited

Quintiles UK (Japan Holdings) Limited

Quintiles Ukraine

Quintiles Vietnam, LLC

Quintiles West Africa Limited

QUINTILESIMS EUROPEAN HOLDINGS II C.V.

Radar Acquisition Blocker, Inc. 

Redsite Limited

Reportive SA

RX India LLC

Schwarzeck Verlag GmbH

Secureconsent, LLC

Shanghai IMS Market Research Co. Ltd.

Source Informatics Limited

Spartan Leasing Corporation

Statfinn Oy

STI Technologies Limited

Strategique Sante 

Targeted Molecular Diagnostics, LLC

Tarius A/S

Temas Srl - Società Unipersonale

TforG Connect BVBA

THE AMUNDSEN GROUP, INC.

Themis Limited
UAB IQVIA Commercial
UAB IQVIA Commercial
VALUEMEDICS RESEARCH, LLC
VALUEMEDICS RESEARCH, LLC
VCG&A Inc.
VCG-Bio, Inc.
VCG&A Inc.

Jurisdiction or 
State of Organization
Luxembourg
Netherlands

Sri Lanka

Argentina

United States

Luxembourg

Luxembourg

China

Mexico

Netherlands

New Zealand

Norway

India

Russia

Luxembourg

United States

Costa Rica

South Africa

United Kingdom

Ukraine

Vietnam

Ghana

Netherlands

Delaware

United Kingdom

France

Delaware

Germany

Delaware

China

United Kingdom

Delaware

Finland

Canada

France

Illinois

Denmark

Italy

Belgium

Belgium

Massachusetts

United Kingdom

Lithuania

Delaware

CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM

We hereby consent to the incorporation by reference in the Registration Statements on Form S-8 (Nos. 333-213927, 
333-193212,  333-188431)  and  Form  S-3  (No.  333-218209)  of  IQVIA  Holdings  Inc.  (formerly  Quintiles  IMS 
Holdings,  Inc.)  of  our  report  dated  February  19,  2019  relating  to  the  financial  statements,  financial  statement 
schedules and the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting, which appears in this Form 10-K.

Exhibit 23.1

/s/ PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP

Raleigh, North Carolina
February 19, 2019

 
Exhibit 31.1 

CERTIFICATION OF PERIODIC REPORT UNDER SECTION 302 OF 

THE SARBANES-OXLEY ACT OF 2002 

I, Ari Bousbib, certify that: 

1. I have reviewed this annual report on Form 10-K of IQVIA Holdings Inc. (the “registrant”); 

2.  Based  on  my  knowledge,  this  report  does  not  contain  any  untrue  statement  of  a  material  fact  or  omit  to  state  a  material  fact 
necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not misleading with 
respect to the period covered by this report; 

3.  Based  on  my  knowledge,  the  financial  statements,  and  other  financial  information  included  in  this  report,  fairly  present  in  all 
material respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the registrant as of, and for, the periods presented in 
this report; 

4. The registrant’s other certifying officer and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as 
defined  in  Exchange  Act  Rules  13a-15(e)  and  15d-15(e))  and  internal  control  over  financial  reporting  (as  defined  in  Exchange  Act 
Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f)) for the registrant and have: 

(a) Designed such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused such disclosure controls and procedures to be designed under 
our  supervision,  to  ensure  that  material  information  relating  to  the  registrant,  including  its  consolidated  subsidiaries,  is 
made known to us by others within those entities, particularly during the period in which this report is being prepared; 

(b) Designed  such  internal  control  over  financial  reporting,  or  caused  such  internal  control  over  financial  reporting  to  be 
designed  under  our  supervision,  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; 

(c)

Evaluated  the  effectiveness  of  the  registrant’s  disclosure  controls  and  procedures  and  presented  in  this  report  our 
conclusions about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures, as of the end of the period covered by this 
report based on such evaluation; and 

(d) Disclosed  in  this  report  any  change  in  the  registrant’s  internal  control  over  financial  reporting  that  occurred  during  the 
registrant’s  most  recent  fiscal  quarter  (the  registrant’s  fourth  fiscal  quarter  in  the  case  of  an  annual  report)  that  has 
materially  affected,  or  is  reasonably  likely  to  materially  affect,  the  registrant’s  internal  control  over  financial  reporting; 
and 

5. The registrant’s other certifying officer and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of internal control over financial 
reporting,  to  the  registrant’s  auditors  and  the  audit  committee  of  the  registrant’s  board  of  directors  (or  persons  performing  the 
equivalent functions): 

(a) All significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control over financial reporting 
which are reasonably likely to adversely affect the registrant’s ability to record, process, summarize and report financial 
information; and 

(b) Any  fraud,  whether  or  not  material,  that  involves  management  or  other  employees  who  have  a  significant  role  in  the 

registrant’s internal control over financial reporting. 

Date: February 19, 2019 

/s/ Ari Bousbib
Ari Bousbib
Chairman, Chief Executive Officer and President
(Principal Executive Officer)

 
Exhibit 31.2 

CERTIFICATION OF PERIODIC REPORT UNDER SECTION 302 OF 

THE SARBANES-OXLEY ACT OF 2002 

I, Michael R. McDonnell, certify that: 

1. I have reviewed this annual report on Form 10-K of IQVIA Holdings Inc. (the “registrant”); 

2.  Based  on  my  knowledge,  this  report  does  not  contain  any  untrue  statement  of  a  material  fact  or  omit  to  state  a  material  fact 
necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not misleading with 
respect to the period covered by this report; 

3.  Based  on  my  knowledge,  the  financial  statements,  and  other  financial  information  included  in  this  report,  fairly  present  in  all 
material respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the registrant as of, and for, the periods presented in 
this report; 

4. The registrant’s other certifying officer and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as 
defined  in  Exchange  Act  Rules  13a-15(e)  and  15d-15(e))  and  internal  control  over  financial  reporting  (as  defined  in  Exchange  Act 
Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f)) for the registrant and have: 

(a) Designed such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused such disclosure controls and procedures to be designed under 
our  supervision,  to  ensure  that  material  information  relating  to  the  registrant,  including  its  consolidated  subsidiaries,  is 
made known to us by others within those entities, particularly during the period in which this report is being prepared; 

(b) Designed  such  internal  control  over  financial  reporting,  or  caused  such  internal  control  over  financial  reporting  to  be 
designed  under  our  supervision,  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; 

(c)

Evaluated  the  effectiveness  of  the  registrant’s  disclosure  controls  and  procedures  and  presented  in  this  report  our 
conclusions about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures, as of the end of the period covered by this 
report based on such evaluation; and 

(d) Disclosed  in  this  report  any  change  in  the  registrant’s  internal  control  over  financial  reporting  that  occurred  during  the 
registrant’s  most  recent  fiscal  quarter  (the  registrant’s  fourth  fiscal  quarter  in  the  case  of  an  annual  report)  that  has 
materially  affected,  or  is  reasonably  likely  to  materially  affect,  the  registrant’s  internal  control  over  financial  reporting; 
and 

5. The registrant’s other certifying officer and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of internal control over financial 
reporting,  to  the  registrant’s  auditors  and  the  audit  committee  of  the  registrant’s  board  of  directors  (or  persons  performing  the 
equivalent functions): 

(a) All significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control over financial reporting 
which are reasonably likely to adversely affect the registrant’s ability to record, process, summarize and report financial 
information; and 

(b) Any  fraud,  whether  or  not  material,  that  involves  management  or  other  employees  who  have  a  significant  role  in  the 

registrant’s internal control over financial reporting. 

Date: February 19, 2019 

/s/ Michael R. McDonnell
Michael R. McDonnell
Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer
(Principal Financial Officer)

 
CERTIFICATION PURSUANT TO 
18 U.S.C. SECTION 1350 
AS ADOPTED PURSUANT TO SECTION 906 
OF THE SARBANES-OXLEY ACT OF 2002 

Exhibit 32.1 

I,  Ari  Bousbib,  Chairman,  Chief  Executive  Officer  and  President  of  IQVIA  Holdings  Inc.  (the  “Company”),  do  hereby  certify, 
pursuant  to  18  U.S.C.  Section 1350,  as  adopted  pursuant  to  Section 906  of  the  Sarbanes-Oxley  Act  of  2002,  that  to  the  best  of  my 
knowledge: 

(1)

(2)

the Annual Report on Form 10-K of the Company for the year ended December 31, 2018 (the “Report”) fully complies 
with the requirements of Section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934; and 

the  information  contained  in  the  Report  fairly  presents,  in  all  material  respects,  the  financial  condition  and  results  of 
operations of the Company for the periods presented therein. 

Date: February 19, 2019 

/s/ Ari Bousbib
Ari Bousbib
Chairman, Chief Executive Officer and President
(Principal Executive Officer)

This certification is being furnished solely to accompany the Report pursuant to 18 U.S.C. § 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 
of  the  Sarbanes-Oxley  Act  of  2002,  and  shall  not  be  deemed  “filed”  by  the  Company  for  purposes  of  Section 18  of  the  Securities 
Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and shall not be incorporated by reference into any filing of the Company under the Securities Act 
of  1933,  as  amended,  or  the  Securities  Exchange  Act  of  1934,  as  amended,  whether  made  before  or  after  the  date  of  this  Report, 
irrespective of any general incorporation language contained in such filing. 

A  signed  original  of  this  written  statement  required  by  Section 906  of  the  Sarbanes-Oxley  Act  of  2002  has  been  provided  to  the 
Company and will be retained by the Company and furnished to the Securities and Exchange Commission or its staff upon request.  

CERTIFICATION PURSUANT TO 
18 U.S.C. SECTION 1350 
AS ADOPTED PURSUANT TO SECTION 906 
OF THE SARBANES-OXLEY ACT OF 2002 

Exhibit 32.2 

I, Michael R. McDonnell, Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of IQVIA Holdings Inc. (the “Company”), do hereby 
certify, pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, that to the best of 
my knowledge: 

(1)

(2)

the Annual Report on Form 10-K of the Company for the year ended December 31, 2018 (the “Report”) fully complies 
with the requirements of Section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934; and 

the  information  contained  in  the  Report  fairly  presents,  in  all  material  respects,  the  financial  condition  and  results  of 
operations of the Company for the periods presented therein. 

Date: February 19, 2019 

/s/ Michael R. McDonnell
Michael R. McDonnell
Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer
(Principal Financial Officer)

This certification is being furnished solely to accompany the Report pursuant to 18 U.S.C. § 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 
of  the  Sarbanes-Oxley  Act  of  2002,  and  shall  not  be  deemed  “filed”  by  the  Company  for  purposes  of  Section 18  of  the  Securities 
Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and shall not be incorporated by reference into any filing of the Company under the Securities Act 
of  1933,  as  amended,  or  the  Securities  Exchange  Act  of  1934,  as  amended,  whether  made  before  or  after  the  date  of  this  Report, 
irrespective of any general incorporation language contained in such filing. 

A  signed  original  of  this  written  statement  required  by  Section 906  of  the  Sarbanes-Oxley  Act  of  2002  has  been  provided  to  the 
Company and will be retained by the Company and furnished to the Securities and Exchange Commission or its staff upon request.