2014 Annual Report
and
Notice of 2015 Annual Meeting and
Proxy Statement
April 2015
Dear Shareholders:
2014 was an important year for TripAdvisor. Our global community of travelers contributed their reviews,
opinions, photos and tips at an impressive clip, helping us reach more than 200 million reviews and opinions.
Last year also represented the beginning of an exciting new chapter for our brand, as we added the ability for
users to book many aspects of their trips directly on TripAdvisor.
Our unique understanding of travelers
I want to thank all the TripAdvisor members who contributed more than 70 million reviews and opinions to our
site. Your devotion enriches the entire TripAdvisor community and reinforces our place as a pre-eminent brand
in travel and leisure. We ended the year with more than 200 million reviews and opinions in 28 languages on
more than 1.6 million listings of places to stay, 2.4 million restaurants, and 500,000 attractions around the globe
and content is continuing to grow at an accelerated pace. Our content attracts a massive global travel audience, as
more than two-and-a-half billion users visited TripAdvisor sites during the year. User-generated content from our
robust travel community is the lifeblood of our brand. We will continue to build on this asset in 2015, making it
even easier for more users to share their experiences.
Our content gives us a unique understanding of travelers, whose needs are nuanced, contextual, and episodic.
Last year we launched Just for You, a personalized, highly adaptive recommendation engine that delivers better
travel advice for every user. We want to be every user’s personalized travel guide, whether someone is looking
for a place to stay, a place to eat, or something to do while on a trip and today we believe we are only scratching
the surface of what is possible.
The next chapter: Book on TripAdvisor
In 2014, we also kicked off a major initiative that enables users to plan and book their perfect trip on
TripAdvisor. Here are some highlights:
•
•
•
Hotels: As previewed in last year’s shareholder letter, in 2014 we introduced “Instant Booking,” an
exciting new feature that enables users to book directly on TripAdvisor. Users can move seamlessly
from room selection, to credit card entry, to booking confirmation, all without leaving the TripAdvisor
experience. This means less friction, no confusing hand-offs and a much more enjoyable hotel shopping
experience.
Attractions: Another exciting development of the year was our acquisition of Viator – the global leader
in online tours and attractions bookings. Viator has listings in more than 1,500 destinations and in 10
different languages, and this acquisition allows our users to find and book the best things to do on their
trip. The combination of Viator’s transaction capabilities with TripAdvisor’s media assets gives us a
strong leadership position in what PhoCusWright estimates to be an $80 billion annualized market
opportunity. Whether you are interested in booking a balloon ride in Cappadocia or a Segway tour in
Barcelona, you’ll be able to check availability, see prices, and complete your booking, all on
TripAdvisor.
Restaurants: In May we acquired LaFourchette (French for “The Fork”) – the leading mobile restaurant
reservation business in Europe – which helps restaurant owners manage tables and fill their restaurants
with both travelers and local diners. This acquisition has provided a nice jump-start to our restaurant
reservations business, and our product and engineering teams worked quickly to improve the restaurant
planning and booking experience on TripAdvisor. LaFourchette also became the foundation for our new
restaurant platform, The Fork, which now operates in 11 countries, has a network of more than 20,000
restaurant partners and has more than six million users per month.
•
Vacation Rentals: Users can also book Vacation Rentals on TripAdvisor, and we continued to scale and
hone our transaction capabilities in 2014. We drove strong growth across all of our key metrics,
including inventory, traveler inquiries, bookings, and revenue. We ended the year with more than
650,000 vacation rental listings, driven by our free-to-list business. In 2015, we expect to see a
continued shift towards transactions, and we are focused on listings growth, owner engagement, user
awareness, and product enhancements to drive higher customer satisfaction and more transactions on
our platform.
The business of being a global travel leader
Our business continues to show healthy growth and our 2014 financial performance remained strong. Total
revenue grew 32% for the year, to more than $1.2 billion. Adjusted EBITDA grew 23% to $468 million.
In our 10-K filing, you will notice that we introduced two reportable segments – Hotel and Other. This additional
information gives more insight into how we are leveraging our core Hotel business to make investments in
attractions, restaurants and vacation rentals, the businesses that constitute our Other segment. Last year, our
Hotel segment revenue grew 26% with very solid 42% Adjusted EBITDA margins. Other segment revenue grew
141%, driven primarily by continued strong growth in vacation rentals as well as by our LaFourchette and Viator
acquisitions. Adjusted EBITDA margin for the Other segment was negative 4% as we absorbed these
acquisitions and began to aggressively invest in global growth. We are prioritizing revenue growth over Adjusted
EBITDA dollar growth for the time being and we believe Adjusted EBITDA margins could improve as these
businesses achieve greater global scale.
At $1.3 trillion in bookings, the global travel market is large, lucrative, and increasingly competitive. Our
investment philosophy is to prioritize user experience, partner satisfaction, top line growth, market share gains,
and EBITDA dollar growth and reinvest profit into promising growth areas. We will continue to make the
necessary investments and decisions to enhance our long-term growth prospects, grow our community and drive
more benefit to our users and our partners, even if it is at the expense of near-term profitability. As I have said
before, we are in this for the long term.
15 years and counting
For a while now, I have had two signs taped on my office door: “Speed Wins” and “If it is worth doing, it is
worth measuring.” I recently added a third quote – attributed by some to Charles Darwin – that reads: “It is not
the strongest of the species that survives, nor the most intelligent that survives; it is the one that is the most
adaptable to change.”
This past February marked TripAdvisor’s 15th anniversary, and as I reflect on what has been most important to
our business over that time, it boils down to our ability to adapt. We test, we fail, we learn, we adapt and we keep
moving forward…quickly. I am very grateful to work with an outstanding team who continuously delivers strong
business results and moves with speed and focus to find new ways to make TripAdvisor even more essential to
travelers around the world.
In closing, 2014 was an exciting year. I would like to thank TripAdvisor’s users, partners, employees and
shareholders for their continued support.
Happy Travels,
Stephen Kaufer
Co-founder, President and Chief Executive Officer
TripAdvisor, Inc.
2014 Annual Report on Form 10-K
UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
Form 10-K
(cid:95)
ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the fiscal year ended December 31, 2014
OR
(cid:133)
TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the transition period from to
Commission file number: 001-35362
TRIPADVISOR, INC.
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)
Delaware
(State or other jurisdiction of
incorporation or organization)
80-0743202
(I.R.S. Employer
Identification No.)
141 Needham Street
Newton, MA 02464
(Address of principal executive office) (Zip Code)
Registrant’s telephone number, including area code:
(617) 670-6300
Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:
Title of each class:
Common Stock, $0.001 par value
Name of each exchange on which registered:
The NASDAQ Stock Market LLC
Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act: None
Indicate by check mark if the registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act. Yes (cid:95) No (cid:133)
Indicate by check mark if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or Section 15(d) of the Act. Yes (cid:133) No (cid:95)
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during
the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past
90 days. Yes (cid:95) No (cid:133)
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Website, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be
submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§ 232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant
was required to submit and post such files). Yes (cid:95) No (cid:133)
Indicate by check mark if disclosure of delinquent filers pursuant to Item 405 of Regulation S-K is not contained herein, and will not be contained, to the best of
registrant’s knowledge, in definitive proxy or information statements incorporated by reference in Part III of this Form 10-K or any amendment to this Form 10-K. (cid:95)
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, or a smaller reporting company. See the
definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer” and “smaller reporting company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.
Large accelerated filer
Non-accelerated filer
(cid:95)
(cid:133) (Do not check if a smaller reporting company)
Accelerated filer
Smaller reporting company
(cid:133)
(cid:133)
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act). Yes (cid:133) No (cid:95)
The aggregate market value of the common stock of the registrant held by non-affiliates of the registrant as of the last business day of the registrant’s most
recently completed second fiscal quarter was $12,115,385,937 based on the closing price on The NASDAQ Global Select Market on such date. For the purpose of the
foregoing calculation only, all directors and executive officers of the registrant are assumed to be affiliates of the registrant.
Class
Common Stock, $0.001 par value per share
Class B Common Stock, $0.001 par value per share
Outstanding Shares at February 6, 2015
130,126,683 shares
12,799,999 shares
The registrant intends to file a proxy statement pursuant to Regulation 14A not later than 120 days after the close of the fiscal year ended December 31, 2014.
Portions of such proxy statement are incorporated by reference into Part III of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.
Documents Incorporated by Reference
Table of Contents
PART I ...............................................................................................................................................................................................
Item 1.
Business ...................................................................................................................................................................
Item 1A. Risk Factors .............................................................................................................................................................
Item 1B. Unresolved Staff Comments ....................................................................................................................................
Item 2.
Properties .................................................................................................................................................................
Item 3.
Legal Proceedings ....................................................................................................................................................
Item 4.
Mine Safety Disclosures ..........................................................................................................................................
PART II ..............................................................................................................................................................................................
Item 5.
Market for Registrant’s Common Equity, Related Stockholder Matters and Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities ...
Item 6.
Selected Financial Data ............................................................................................................................................
Item 7.
Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations ...................................
Item 7A. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk .................................................................................
Item 8.
Financial Statements and Supplementary Data ........................................................................................................
Item 9.
Changes in and Disagreements with Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure ..................................
Item 9A. Controls and Procedures ..........................................................................................................................................
Page
2
2
11
25
25
25
25
26
26
29
30
53
55
97
97
Item 9B. Other Information .................................................................................................................................................... 100
PART III ............................................................................................................................................................................................ 100
Item 10. Directors, Executive Officers and Corporate Governance ....................................................................................... 100
Item 11. Executive Compensation .......................................................................................................................................... 100
Item 12. Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related Stockholder Matters................. 100
Item 13. Certain Relationships and Related Transactions, and Director Independence ......................................................... 100
Item 14. Principal Accounting Fees and Services .................................................................................................................. 100
PART IV ............................................................................................................................................................................................ 101
Item 15. Exhibits; Financial Statement Schedules ................................................................................................................. 101
SIGNATURES ................................................................................................................................................................................... 102
i
We refer to TripAdvisor, Inc. and our wholly-owned subsidiaries as “TripAdvisor,” “the Company,” “us,” “we” and “our” in
this Annual Report on Form 10-K.
Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements
This Annual Report on Form 10-K contains “forward-looking statements” that involve risks and uncertainties, as well as
assumptions that, if they never materialize or prove incorrect, could cause our results to differ materially from those expressed or
implied by such forward-looking statements. The statements contained in this Annual Report that are not purely historical are
forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, or the Securities Act, and
Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, or the Exchange Act. When used, the words “anticipate,” “believe,”
“could,” “estimate,” “expect,” “intend,” “may,” “might,” “plan,” “project,” “result” “should,” “will,” and similar expressions which
do not relate solely to historical matters are intended to identify forward-looking statements. We caution investors that any forward-
looking statements in this report, or which management may make orally or in writing from time to time, are based on management’s
beliefs and on assumptions made by, and information currently available to, management. Such statements are subject to risks,
uncertainties and assumptions and are not guarantees of future performance, which may be affected by known and unknown risks,
trends, uncertainties and factors that are beyond our control. Some of the risks and uncertainties that may cause our actual results,
performance or achievements to differ materially from those expressed or implied by forward-looking statements are more fully
described in Part I, Item 1A, "Risk Factors." Moreover, we operate in a very competitive and rapidly changing environment. New risk
factors emerge from time to time and it is not possible for management to predict all such risk factors, nor can we assess the impact of
all such risk factors on our business or the extent to which any factor, or combination of factors, may cause actual results to differ
materially from those contained in any forward-looking statements. We caution you that, while forward-looking statements reflect our
good faith beliefs when we make them, they are not guarantees of future performance and are impacted by actual events when they
occur after we make such statements. We expressly disclaim any responsibility to update our forward-looking statements, whether as a
result of new information, future events or otherwise.
Investors should also refer to our quarterly reports on Form 10-Q for future periods and current reports on Form 8-K as we file
them with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, or the SEC, and to other materials we may furnish to the public from time to
time through Current Reports on Form 8-K or otherwise, for a discussion of risks and uncertainties that may cause actual results,
performance or achievements to differ materially from those expressed or implied by forward-looking statements.
1
Item 1.
Business
Overview
PART I
TripAdvisor, Inc. owns and operates a portfolio of leading online travel brands. TripAdvisor, our flagship brand, is the world’s
largest travel site, and our mission is to help people around the world plan and book the perfect trip. We accomplish this by, among
other things, aggregating millions of travelers’ reviews and opinions about accommodations, destinations, activities and attractions,
and restaurants, throughout the world so that our users have access to trusted advice wherever their trip takes them. Our platform not
only helps users plan their trip with our unique user-generated content, but also enables users to compare real-time pricing and
availability so that they can book hotels, vacation rentals, flights, activities and attractions, and restaurants.
The initial launch of our U.S.-based tripadvisor.com website was in November 2000. Our TripAdvisor branded websites now
include localized versions of the TripAdvisor website in 45 countries, including China under the brand, daodao.com and are offered in
28 languages: English, Spanish Chinese (Traditional and Simplified), Russian, Arabic, Greek, Korean, Polish, Norwegian, Turkish,
Danish, Swedish, Dutch, Bahasa, Thai, Portuguese, Japanese, Italian, French, Turkish, Vietnamese, Hebrew, Suomi, Hungarian,
Czech, Slovak, Serbian, and German. TripAdvisor-branded sites make up the largest travel community in the world, reaching more
than 315 million unique monthly visitors, and more than 200 million reviews and opinions covering more than 4.5 million places to
stay, places to eat and things to do, during the year ended December 31, 2014.
In addition to the flagship TripAdvisor brand, we now manage and operate 24 other travel media brands, connected by the
common goal of providing users the most comprehensive planning and booking resources in the travel industry. These media brands
are listed below:
airfarewatchdog.com
bookingbuddy.com
cruisecritic.com
everytrail.com
Provides up-to-date airline deals that have been researched and verified by a team of dedicated
airfare experts.
Travel shopping website that gives travelers easy access to airfare, hotel, car rental, cruise,
vacation rental, and vacation deals, plus prices from selected travel sites.
A community of avid and first-time cruisers who enjoy the fun of planning, researching and
sharing their passion for cruising.
Mobile application and website for collecting and sharing geo-tagged user-generated travel
content, such as walking tours, road trips, sight-seeing tours.
familyvacationcritic.com
Reviews of family-friendly hotels, resorts, destinations and attractions, written by experienced
family travel experts.
flipkey.com
gateguru.com
holidaylettings.co.uk
holidaywatchdog.com
independenttraveler.com
jetsetter.com
thefork.com (including
lafourchette.com, eltenedor.com
and iens.nl)
kuxun.cn
niumba.com
onetime.com
oyster.com
A vacation rental site featuring residential properties from around the world, with a large
collection of guest reviews.
Mobile resource for up-to-date flight and airport information around the world.
A leading U.K.-based vacation rental site, featuring residential properties globally listed for
rental, enabling users to live like a local while on holiday.
A U.K.-based website for traveler reviews on hotels and destinations focusing on the
Mediterranean.
A traveler’s exchange that features practical travel resources for a community of international
travelers who enjoy the adventure of independent travel.
Members-only private sale site providing insider access, expert knowledge and exclusive deals
for vacations around the world.
A leading online and mobile reservation platform for restaurants with an extensive network of
restaurant partners in Europe.
Travel metasearch engine, much like TripAdvisor, operating in China.
A Spanish-based vacation rental site, featuring properties listed globally and the world’s
largest collection of Spanish vacation rentals.
Comparison shopping travel website that allows travel shoppers to conduct itinerary-based,
multi-site searches for flights, hotels, cruises, vacations, and car rentals.
Hotel review website featuring expert reviews and photos covering cities around the world.
2
seatguru.com
smartertravel.com
tingo.com
travelpod.com
tripbod.com
Features aircraft seat maps, seat reviews, and a color-coded system to identify superior and
substandard airline seats.
One of the largest online travel resources for independent expert advice for the budget-
conscious traveler, helping them find the best deals and get the most value from their trips.
The first hotel booking site that automatically rebooks hotel rooms at a lower price if the rate
drops and refunds the difference to the travelers’ credit cards.
Pioneering travel blog website.
A travel community that helps connect travelers to local experts allowing the traveler to obtain
relevant recommendations direct from a local expert.
vacationhomerentals.com
A U.S.-based vacation rental website featuring properties around the world.
viator.com
virtualtourist.com
2014 Highlights
A leading resource for researching and booking destination activities around the world.
Travel-oriented community website featuring user-contributed travel guides for locations
worldwide.
Following are some business highlights for fiscal 2014:
(cid:120) We reached more than 200 million reviews and opinions on more than 4.5 million places to stay, places to eat and things
to do – including more than 915,000 hotels and accommodations and approximately 650,000 vacation rentals, 2.4 million
restaurants and more than 500,000 attractions in 147,000 destinations throughout the world.
(cid:120) Our websites globally reached more than 315 million monthly unique visitors during the year ended December 31, 2014,
according to Google Analytics.
(cid:120) We reached nearly 175 million cumulative mobile app downloads and approximately 50% of TripAdvisor traffic visited
was via tablets or smartphones in 2014. Average monthly unique visitors via tablets and smartphones grew over 60%
year-over-year to approximately 140 million for the year ended December 31, 2014, according to company logs.
(cid:120) We launched TripAdvisor points of sale in New Zealand, Philippines, South Africa, Vietnam, Austria, Israel, Finland,
Hungary, Czech Republic, Slovakia, and Serbia.
(cid:120) We now manage and operate 24 travel media brands in addition to our flagship TripAdvisor brand, all of which are
connected by the common goal of providing comprehensive travel planning resources across the travel sector.
(cid:120) We introduced Instant Booking, a feature that enables users to quickly and easily book a hotel on TripAdvisor through our
hotel or online travel agent partners.
(cid:120) We launched, Just for You, a feature that makes the hotel research experience more personalized with hotel
recommendations to TripAdvisor users based on their individual preferences and travel history on the site.
(cid:120) We became a global leader in attractions by acquiring Viator, the leading resource for researching and booking destination
activities around the world. Viator enables users to book online or in-destination activities via the Viator Tours and
Activities app, featuring worldwide bookable tours and attractions, including more than 600,000 user reviews, photos, and
videos.
(cid:120) We established a leadership position in online restaurant reservations in Europe by acquiring Lafourchette, Mytable.it,
Restopolis, and Iens.nl. Subsequently, we announced the launch of our Instant Reservation feature for restaurants, which
lets users select a restaurant and complete a reservation on TripAdvisor and the Lafourchette network of restaurants.
Corporate History, Equity Ownership and Voting Control
TripAdvisor was co-founded in February 2000 by Stephen Kaufer, our current President and Chief Executive Officer.
TripAdvisor was acquired by IAC/InterActiveCorp, or IAC, in April 2004. In August 2005, IAC spun-off its portfolio of travel brands,
including TripAdvisor, into a separate newly-formed Delaware corporation, called Expedia, Inc., or Expedia.
During 2011, Expedia announced its plan to separate into two independent public companies in order to better achieve certain
strategic objectives of its various businesses. On December 20, 2011 Expedia completed the spin-off of TripAdvisor into a separate
publicly traded Delaware corporation. We refer to this transaction as the “Spin-Off.” TripAdvisor began trading on The NASDAQ
Global Select Market, or NASDAQ, as an independent public company on December 21, 2011 under the symbol “TRIP.”
3
On December 11, 2012, Liberty Interactive Corporation, or Liberty, purchased an aggregate of 4,799,848 shares of common
stock of TripAdvisor from Barry Diller, our former Chairman of the Board of Directors and Senior Executive, and certain of his
affiliates (the “Stock Purchase”). As a result, Liberty beneficially owned 18,159,752 shares of our common stock and 12,799,999
shares of our Class B common stock.
On August 27, 2014, the entire beneficial ownership of our common stock and Class B common stock held by Liberty was
acquired by Liberty TripAdvisor Holdings, Inc., or LTRIP. Simultaneously, Liberty, LTRIP’s former parent company, distributed, by
means of a dividend, to the holders of its Liberty Ventures common stock, Liberty’s entire equity interest in LTRIP. We refer to this
transaction as the Liberty Spin Off. As a result of the Liberty Spin-Off, effective August 27, 2014 LTRIP became a separate, publicly
traded company and 100% of Liberty’s interest in TripAdvisor was held by LTRIP.
As a result of these transactions, as of December 31, 2014, LTRIP beneficially owned 18,159,752 shares of our common stock
and 12,799,999 shares of our Class B common stock, which shares constitute 14.0% of the outstanding shares of common stock and
100% of the outstanding shares of Class B common stock. Assuming the conversion of all of LTRIP’s shares of Class B common
stock into common stock, LTRIP would beneficially own 21.7% of the outstanding common stock (calculated in accordance with Rule
13d-3). Because each share of Class B common stock is generally entitled to ten votes per share and each share of common stock is
entitled to one vote per share, LTRIP may be deemed to beneficially own equity securities representing approximately 56.6% of our
voting power.
Our Business Model
Our platforms connect users wishing to plan and book the best travel experiences with providers of travel accommodations and
travel services around the world. We derive the majority of our revenue from the sale of advertising, primarily through click-based
advertising and, to a lesser extent, display-based advertising. The remainder of our revenue is generated through a combination of
subscription and transaction-based offerings and other revenue including content licensing.
(cid:120) Click-Based Advertising Revenue. Our largest source of revenue is click-based advertising, which includes links to our
partners’ booking sites and contextually-relevant branded and unbranded text links. Our click-based advertising partners
are predominantly online travel agencies, or OTAs, and direct suppliers in the hotel, airline and cruise product categories.
Click-based advertising is generally priced on a cost-per-click, or CPC, basis, with payments from advertisers based on
the number of users who click on each type of link. CPC prices are determined in a bidding process that allows our
partners to use our proprietary system to submit CPC bids to have their rates and availability listed on our site. When a
partner submits a CPC bid they agree to pay the amount of that bid each time a user subsequently clicks on the URL link
to the partner’s website. Bids are submitted periodically – sometimes as often as daily or weekly – on a property-by
property basis and the size of the bid relative to other bids received determines the partner’s placement in all meta
placements on our site with one or more offers shown, including hotel comparison search results and the property detail
page. The system is automated and the size of the partner’s bid is the only factor impacting the partner’s placement on that
page, except that individual partners may be sorted lower in the event that they have not provided price information or if
they cease to have availability for the property. While we enter into master advertising contracts with our partners, the
terms of these agreements generally address matters such as privacy and compliance, payment terms and conditions,
termination and indemnities. Most of our click-based advertising contracts can be terminated by our partners at will or on
short notice. Click-based revenue also includes revenue from our new Instant Booking feature, which allows a partner to
pay a commission rate for a user that completes a reservation on TripAdvisor. TripAdvisor is not the merchant of record
on Instant Booking reservations. For the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012, we earned $870 million, or
70%, $696 million, or 74% and $588 million, or 77%, respectively, of revenue from click-based advertising.
(cid:120) Display-Based Advertising Revenue. We earn revenue from a variety of display-based advertising placements on our
websites through which our advertising partners can promote their brands in a contextually-relevant manner. While our
display-based advertising clients are predominately direct suppliers in the hotel, airline and cruise categories as well as
OTA’s, we also accept display advertising from destination marketing organizations, casinos, resorts and attractions, as
well as advertisers from non-travel categories. We generally sell our display-based advertising on a cost per thousand
impressions, or CPM, basis. Our display-based advertising products also include a number of custom-built features. For
example, Delayed Ad Call, charges customers only when the ad unit is in a users’ view, as well as certain customized co-
branded features. For the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012, we earned $140 million, or 11%, $119 million,
or 13%, and $94 million, or 12%, respectively, in revenue from display-based advertising.
4
(cid:120) Subscription-Based, Transaction and Other Revenue. Business Listings, is a subscription-based advertising product
offered to hotels, B&Bs and other specialty lodging properties. Managed by our TripAdvisor for Business team, this
advertising product is sold for a flat fee and allows subscribers to list, for a contracted period of time, a website URL,
email address and phone number on our TripAdvisor-branded websites, as well as to post special offers for travelers. In
addition, we earn revenue from making hotel room nights available for booking on our transaction-based sites, including
Jetsetter and Tingo for which we are the merchant of record; making rentals available through our vacation rentals
business; selling destination activities through Viator; and providing online restaurant reservations through Lafourchette;
as well as other revenue including content licensing with third party sites. For the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013
and 2012 we earned $236 million, or 19%, $130 million, or 14%, and $81 million, or 11%, respectively, in revenue from
subscription-based, transaction and other revenue.
Our Industry
We operate in the global travel industry, focusing exclusively on online travel activity and the online advertising market.
According to the PhoCusWright, gross bookings in the global travel industry are expected to be greater than $1.3 trillion in
2015. Recent historical trends show that, each year, an increasing percentage of global travel spending has been conducted online
through supplier websites and online travel agencies. We believe that this trend will continue as online penetration continues to grow,
as more consumers gain broadband access to the Internet, as smartphone, tablets and other mobile computing devices continue to
proliferate, and as travel activity increases along with an expanding middle class in certain developing countries like China and India.
According to the International Data Corporation, or IDC, New Media Market Model, only 26% of the approximately $51
billion that is expected to be spent on travel advertising will be spent online in 2016. We believe that the Internet will continue to
become even more integral to the travel-planning process due to increasing worldwide online penetration, particularly given the
capabilities that the Internet provides travelers, including the ability to refine searches, compare destinations, view real-time pricing,
complete bookings, and access information while in-destination.
According to the IDC New Media Market Model, the global online advertising market is growing and is projected to exceed
$165 billion by 2016, as more and more advertisers continue to shift their spending from offline to online channels, mirroring the
trend in consumer media consumption generally. Given the size of the online advertising market, we believe that travel providers and
travel related advertisers are, and will continue to be, motivated to devote significant resources to advertise their travel products and
services. In addition, as more and more travel transactions are conducted online generally, we believe that an increasing amount of
travel advertising spending will migrate from traditional offline advertising channels to online advertising opportunities.
Our Key Strengths
Our TripAdvisor branded sites help travelers plan and book the perfect trip. To help our users plan their trip, we have more than
200 million reviews and opinions, approximately 30 million candid photos, and helpful content ranging from hotel room tips to travel
guides. We have created a comprehensive online resource for user-generated content on destinations, lodging, restaurants and
attractions. We provide real-time pricing and availability search functionality that compares hundreds of partner websites so that our
users can find and book the best prices. We also enable users to book activities and attractions and make restaurant reservations
through our site. The tools and information we provide are available in 28 different languages on web-based and mobile applications
on desktops and across all mobile devices.
In order to achieve our goal, we leverage our key assets—a robust travel community, rich user-generated content, continuous
technological innovation and global reach—as follows:
(cid:120) Robust Travel Community. We believe that we have the largest breadth of content in our markets, and that, because of
this breadth, travelers gravitate to our websites to research and plan their trips. By providing an interactive forum to share
their experiences, our large and highly engaged community of travelers is a valuable resource. To facilitate planning, we
enable consumers to research pricing and availability from third-party travel booking sites. To encourage better travel
experiences for consumers and to create a feedback loop between the hospitality industry and individual travelers, we
allow hospitality management representatives to respond to reviews of their properties on our website. After completing
their trip, consumers can return to our websites to write reviews to give back to the community that helped them plan their
trip. Through this cycle, more content is generated, which drives community, traffic, loyalty and higher search engine
rankings, all of which lead to further content creation. We believe that the volume of reviews generated on our websites
and the robust feedback loop created on our websites provides us with a significant advantage over our competitors.
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(cid:120) Rich User-Generated Content. We believe that the best travel content comes from the wisdom and insight of a robust
community of travelers. We leverage user-generated content to power travel planning by allowing members to create
reviews and share opinions on hundreds of thousands of accommodations, destinations, attractions and restaurants. As
evidenced by the growth of our business, this type of travel planning has been embraced by travelers. To promote an
enthusiastic reviewer community that continues to provide valuable content and promotes our brand, we have launched
several programs to recognize reviewer contributions, including site badges, helpful vote recognition, and other features,
all of which highlight the current and helpful reviews and opinions available throughout the TripAdvisor community.
(cid:120) Technology and Innovation. Product innovation and speed to market are our two most important priorities in order to
create an increasingly rich user experience. We have weekly engineering releases that contain new products and features
for our websites and mobile apps. Some recent examples of this product innovation include: Just For You, which delivers
users a more personalized hotel shopping experience; Instant Booking, which enables users to complete a hotel
reservation while remaining on the TripAdvisor website; hotel metasearch, which enables users to see real-time
availability and compare prices from hundreds of partner websites, without requiring the user to visit another website; and
TripConnect, which enables independent hoteliers to compete for leads on TripAdvisor. Our ongoing commitment to
innovation also extends to content syndication and review collection partnerships, as we leverage our technology and
content for the benefit of other websites. In addition, we utilize manual and electronic fraud detection in order to maintain
the quality and authenticity of user reviews.
(cid:120) Global Reach. We are a global company, both through the reach of our portfolio of branded websites and through our in-
market staffing in 20 countries. As of December 31, 2014, we had approximately 1,500 employees based outside of the
United States, representing 54% of our employee population. As of December 31, 2014, we had branded websites in 45
countries and 28 languages, including a local language website in China under the brand daodao.com. We have over
570 million review translations, and are committed to continuing to improve the in-country user experience and the local
content coverage for all of our points-of-sale. We believe that the universally-relevant content and community of our core
TripAdvisor platform and other brands uniquely position us to appeal to travelers throughout the world.
Our Strategy
We leverage significant investments in technology, operations, brand-building, and relationships with advertisers and other
partners to expand our business and enhance our global competitive position. These investments have enabled us to, among other
things, aggregate a large base of consumer reviews, in a variety of languages, across our global platform of our websites. We continue
to focus on the following areas to grow our business:
(cid:120) Continuing Technology Innovation. We believe our ability to innovate and to provide additional functionality to our
websites and apps across all devices will enable us to continue to deliver an industry-leading user experience. Our
innovation culture supports bringing product enhancements to market at speed. In doing so, we believe that we can
continue to, among other things, grow content, usage, loyalty and engagement, as well as to reinforce our competitive
positioning.
(cid:120) Expanding Our Social and Personalization Platform. We grow brand awareness and member acquisition on social
media channels, including Facebook, Twitter and other social sharing platforms. We intend to continue to expand our
social integration and personalization efforts as we believe these initiatives help to drive usage, engagement, and content.
Users can share their reviews and ratings with their friends through Facebook Connect and also can publish their
TripAdvisor content to their Facebook timeline. Additionally, our Just For You personalization feature gives users
personalized recommendations based on friends’ reviews and ratings as well as information collected about user
preferences in selecting hotels.
(cid:120)
Improving the Experience. We continue to invest in user experience enhancements that improve the researching,
comparing and booking experience as well as help a user while they are on the trip. We have offered a flight metasearch
product that displays availability and pricing information from multiple sources since 2009, expanding internationally to
38 points of sale as of December 31, 2014. In 2012, we introduced hotel metasearch to our global smartphone traffic and
in June 2013, we completed the process of fully implementing hotel metasearch functionality onto our desktop and tablet
platforms. During 2014 we introduced Instant Booking, to our mobile users. This product feature allows travelers to
complete a hotel reservation, powered by our OTA and hotelier partners, while remaining on the TripAdvisor mobile app.
We continue to integrate this feature onto desktop and tablets. In addition to metasearch and Instant Booking, we continue
to offer and improve features such as user reviews, photos, mapping, and filtering to assist users in finding the right hotel
for their trip.
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(cid:120)
Investing in Traffic Growth. Attracting more visitors to our sites is at the core of our strategic plan and we dedicate
significant time and financial resources towards amplifying our global brand. We do this through online and offline
marketing channels to maximize the number of users who navigate to our site either directly, also known as domain direct
traffic, or from the marketing channel directly. Offline advertising channels we have used in the past to amplify our
brands include: permanent branding campaigns such as TripAdvisor-branded travel awards, certificates, stickers and
badges and television advertising. Online advertising channels we have used in the past to amplify our brand include, but
are not limited to: customer relationship management email campaigns, or CRM; social networks; organic search through
search engine optimization, or SEO; paid search through search engine marketing, or SEM; and referrals from partners
whose sites contain links to TripAdvisor content, badges or widgets. At approximately 11% of global online travel unique
visitors, according to comScore Media Metrix, we believe that we have a large opportunity to continue growing
visitors. In order to achieve this objective, we intend to invest in the aforementioned channels, as well as any new
channels that we may identify in the future.
(cid:120) Enhancing International Offerings. We are focused on strengthening our broad global footprint as we believe that
international markets represent a long-term strategic opportunity for us. We are continuing to improve localization and
grow our user base in Europe, Asia and South America, especially in emerging markets, such as Brazil, Russia and China.
In addition, we currently have two lead product offerings in the Chinese market—DaoDao and Kuxun—both
headquartered in Beijing. We continue to invest in the Chinese market, despite operating at a loss, and will continue to
increase our international offerings.
(cid:120) Growing through Strategic Acquisitions. We have a history of successfully acquiring and integrating companies that
expand our footprint either geographically or in market sectors that are complementary to our flagship properties. We
intend to continue to grow our business and expand our product and service offerings through acquisitions that either
complement our existing businesses or provide additional resources, products and/or services that will improve the user
experience. A few recent examples include; Lafourchette, the leading online and mobile reservation platform for
restaurants in France, Spain and Switzerland, with a network of restaurant partners in Europe and Viator, the leading
online resource for researching and booking destination activities around the world.
Our Strategic Relationships
We have a number of relationships that are strategically important to the success of our business. These relationships are
memorialized in some form of agreement, although many of these agreements are for a limited term or are terminable at will or on
short notice. As a result, we work hard to ensure the mutual success of these relationships.
We have advertising relationships with the vast majority of the leading OTA’s as well as a variety of other travel suppliers
pursuant to which these companies purchase traveler leads from us, generally on a CPC basis. For the year ended December 31, 2014,
our two most significant advertising partners, Expedia and Priceline (and their subsidiaries), each accounted for more than 10% of our
total revenue and combined accounted for 46% of our total revenue.
We have a content licensing program utilized by over 1,000 partners around the world, including hotel chains, online travel
agents, tourist boards, airlines and media sites. TripAdvisor also distributes its content through self-service HTML widgets, which are
used on the websites of hotels, restaurants, attractions and destination marketing organizations. These products, which are available at
no cost in the TripAdvisor Management Center, allow businesses and destinations to promote themselves by displaying their
TripAdvisor ratings, reviews and awards. TripAdvisor widgets are presently found on more than 150,000 unique domains around the
globe, reaching over 800 million people per month. Partners benefit from our user-generated content, such as reviews, ratings, photos
and traveler forums. In addition, we power review collection for a growing number of partners, such as Accor Hotels, Wyndham Hotel
Group, Best Western and Easytobook.com, enabling them to proactively collect reviews from their own customers post-stay in their
own branded environment. We have also developed partnerships with mobile carriers and device manufacturers.
We also syndicate our click-based advertising to third-party websites. The largest such syndication relationship is with Yahoo!
Travel Guides, pursuant to which we provide “show prices” advertising on the Yahoo! Travel Guides’ hotel pages. Other syndication
partners include Bing and Axel Springer.
Marketing and Promotions
We have established widely used and recognized brands through marketing and promotion campaigns. We continue to
aggressively promote our brands, particularly our flagship brand TripAdvisor. Our marketing programs are intended to build and
maintain the value of our brands, promote consumer engagement and contributions, drive qualified clicks to our partners and
strategically position our brands in the market. Our long-term success depends on our continued ability to maintain and increase the
overall number of consumers flowing through our brand in a cost-effective manner, as well as our ability to attract consumers who
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will share their own content from their trips. Our marketing channels include SEM and SEO. We also reach consumers across the web
through our online marketing program, and offline through our offline brand campaigns. We also utilize CRM in which we send
relevant and engaging traveler communications to our members via email. We have a robust global public relations program that
yields placements on a constant basis in major print and online publications. We continue to look for new ways to build brand
awareness and expand new channels, which may include traditional media and social media channels including Facebook and Twitter
to deepen customer engagement. We syndicate our content so that other sites can feature TripAdvisor branding and content. Lastly,
marketing and product development initiatives are closely tied. We are constantly creating helpful features and functionality so that
our consumers can discover more relevant travel and review content that they want to talk about and share with their friends.
Operations and Technology
We have assembled a team of highly skilled software engineers, computer scientists, data scientists, network engineers, and
systems engineers whose expertise spans a broad range of technical areas, including a wide variety of open source operating systems,
databases, languages, analytics, networking, scalable web architecture, operations, and warehousing technologies. We make
significant investments in product and feature development, data management, personalization technologies, scalable infrastructures,
networking, data warehousing, and search engine technologies. The TripAdvisor-branded websites are powered primarily using Java
programming language.
Our systems infrastructure, web and database servers for TripAdvisor-branded websites are housed at two geographically
separate facilities and have multiple communication links as well as continuous monitoring and engineering support. Each facility is
fully self-sufficient and operational with its own hardware, networking, software, and content, and is structured in an active/passive,
fully redundant configuration. Substantially all of our software components, data, and content are replicated in multiple datacenters
and development centers, as well as being backed up at offsite locations. Our systems are monitored and protected though multiple
layers of security. Several of our individual subsidiaries and businesses, including our subsidiaries in China, have their own data
infrastructure and technology teams.
Widespread adoption of mobile devices such as iPhone, Android-enabled smart phones and tablets such as the iPad, coupled
with the improved web browsing functionality and development of thousands of useful apps available on these devices, is driving
substantial traffic and commerce activity to mobile platforms. We have seen tremendous growth in the adoption of mobile platforms,
as have our advertising partners. Advertising opportunities may be more limited on mobile devices given their small screen sizes.
Further, given the size and technical limitations of tablets and smartphones, mobile consumers may not be willing to download
multiple apps from multiple travel service providers and instead prefer to use one or a limited number of apps for their mobile travel
activity. As a result, the consumer experience with mobile apps (as well as brand recognition and loyalty) is becoming increasingly
important and we make significant investments in this area.
We believe that mobile bookings are necessary to maintain and grow our business as consumers increasingly turn to mobile
devices and mobile applications. If we are unable to continue to rapidly innovate and create new, user-friendly and differentiated
mobile offerings and efficiently and effectively advertise and distribute on these platforms, or if our mobile apps are not downloaded
and used by travel consumers, we could lose market share to existing or new entrants and our future growth and results of operations
could be adversely effected. As a result, we have made significant progress creating mobile offerings which have received strong
reviews, solid download trends and are driving a material and increasing share of our business. Our smartphone monetization
strategies are still developing, as smartphone monetization remains significantly lower than desktop monetization of hotel shoppers
during the year ended December 31, 2014, while tablets monetize more closely to desktops.
Competition
We face competition for content, users, and advertisers. Our primary competitors include large online portals, social networking
sites and search engines, such as Google, Microsoft’s Bing (including Bing Travel), Yahoo! (including Yahoo! Travel) and Baidu. We
face competition from OTAs (such as Expedia and Priceline and their respective subsidiaries), as well as wholesalers, tour operators
and traditional offline travel agencies. We also compete with a wide range of other companies, including Airbnb, Inc., Ctrip.com
International, Ltd., HolidayCheck AG, HomeAway, Inc., Yelp, Inc. and OpenTable, Inc., a subsidiary of Priceline.
We believe we are the world’s largest global platform for travel-related reviews and opinions and we face competition in the
travel review space from OTAs, such as Expedia and Priceline and their respective subsidiaries, which solicit reviews from travelers
who book travel on their websites. With respect to our restaurant and attractions business, we face competition for reviews from
OpenTable, a subsidiary of Priceline and Yelp, Inc. Moreover, networks with significant installed user bases such as Google (for
example, via Google + Local and Google Hotel Finder) have begun to compete more directly with us by attracting and accumulating
user-generated reviews and opinions or may pursue the acquisition of travel-related content directly from consumers, and other
networks and channels, like Facebook, could choose to do the same.
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In the competition to attract users, we rely on our ability to acquire traffic through offline brand recognition and brand-direct
efforts such as television, email and online search, whether unpaid or paid. Unpaid search is sometimes referred to as SEO, which is
the practice of developing websites with relevant and current content that rank well in “organic,” or unpaid, search engine results.
SEO can be affected by a number of factors including competitive site content, changes to our website architecture and page designs,
changes to search engine ranking algorithms, or changes to display ordering in search engine results such as preferred placement for
internal products offered by search engines. SEM is a form of Internet marketing that involves the promotion of websites by
increasing their visibility in search engine results pages through the use of paid placement, contextual advertising, and paid inclusion.
SEM is a competitive marketplace with competitors continually updating their traffic acquisition strategies and economic models
across a large number of keywords and markets.
Competition for Advertisers
We compete for travel-related advertising budgets with large, established search engines with significantly greater resources
than we have, such as Google, Bing, and Yahoo!, as well as online media companies and ad networks, offline advertising sources,
such as television and print media. These competitors have large client bases and significantly greater resources than we have and
expertise in developing online commerce and facilitating internet traffic are creating inroads into online travel. Competition from these
parties could cause us to lose advertising customers or shares of advertising expenditures. For example, Google has launched “Hotel
Finder”, a search tool that enables users to search and compare hotel accommodations based on parameters set by users and has, at
times, placed the Google supplier websites or its own search engine at or near the top of hotel-related search results. In addition,
Microsoft has launched Bing Travel, which searches for hotel reservations and air fares online and predicts the best time to purchase
them. If Google, Bing or any other leading search engines refer significant traffic to these or other travel services that they develop in
the future, or otherwise favor supplier websites or other travel service websites over other online travel sites, including us, it would
likely become more difficult and expensive for us to generate traffic to our websites and therefore maintain or grow our market share.
Certain of the companies we do business with are also our competitors. The consolidation of our competitors and partners,
including Expedia (through its investment in Trivago) and Priceline (through its acquisition of Kayak and OpenTable), may affect our
competitiveness and partner relationships. As the market evolves for online travel content and the technology supporting it, including
new platforms such as smartphone and tablet computing devices, we anticipate that the existing competitive landscape will change and
new competitors may emerge.
Intellectual Property
Our intellectual property, including patents, trademarks, copyrights, domain names, trade dress, proprietary technology and
trade secrets, is an important component of our business. We rely on our intellectual property rights in our content, proprietary
technology, software code, ratings indexes, databases of reviews and forum content, images, videos, graphics and brands. We have
acquired some of our intellectual property rights through licenses and content agreements with third parties. These licenses and
agreements may place restrictions on the use of our intellectual property.
We protect our intellectual property by relying on our terms of use, confidentiality procedures and contractual provisions, as
well as on international, national, state and common law rights. In addition, we enter into confidentiality and invention assignment
agreements with employees and contractors, and confidentiality agreements with other third parties. We protect our brands by
pursuing the trademark registration of our core brands, such as TripAdvisor and the Owl Logo, maintaining our trademark portfolio,
securing contractual trademark rights protection when appropriate, and relying on common law trademark rights when appropriate.
We also register copyrights and domain names as deemed appropriate. Additionally, we protect our trademarks, domain names and
copyrights with the use of intellectual property licenses and an enforcement program.
We have considered, and will continue to consider, the appropriateness of filing for patents to protect future inventions, as
circumstances may warrant. However, many patents protect only specific inventions and there can be no assurance that others may not
create new products or methods that achieve similar results without infringing upon patents owned by us.
Government Regulation
We are subject to a number of United States federal and state and foreign laws and regulations that affect companies conducting
business on the Internet, many of which are still evolving and being tested in courts, and could be interpreted in ways that could harm
our business. These may involve user privacy, libel, rights of publicity, data protection, content, intellectual property, distribution,
electronic contracts and other communications, competition, protection of minors, consumer protection, taxation and online payment
services. In particular, we are subject to United States federal and state and foreign laws regarding privacy and protection of user data.
Foreign data protection, privacy, and other laws and regulations are often more restrictive than those in the United States. United
States federal and state and foreign laws and regulations are constantly evolving and can be subject to significant change. In addition,
the application and interpretation of these laws and regulations is often uncertain, particularly in the new and rapidly-evolving industry
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in which we operate. There are also a number of legislative proposals pending before the United States Congress, various state
legislative bodies, and foreign governments concerning data protection which could affect us.
In addition, we provide advertising data and information and conduct marketing activities that are subject to United States
federal and state consumer protection laws that regulate unfair and deceptive practices, domestically and internationally. The United
States and European Union have begun to adopt legislation that regulates certain aspects of the Internet, including online editorial and
user-generated content, user privacy, behavioral targeting and online advertising, taxation, and liability for third-party activities.
United States federal, state and foreign governments are also considering alternative legislative and regulatory proposals that
would increase regulation on Internet advertising. It is impossible to accurately predict whether new taxes or regulations will be
imposed on our services, and whether or how we might be affected. Increased regulation of the Internet could increase the cost of
doing business or otherwise materially adversely affect our business, financial condition or operational results.
Our Reportable Segments
During the fourth quarter of 2014, management changed TripAdvisor’s reportable segments to reflect changes in the
management reporting structure of the organization, primarily due to recent business acquisitions, and the manner in which the chief
operating decision maker, or CODM, regularly assesses information and evaluates performance for operating decision-making
purposes, including allocation of resources. We believe this new segment structure better provides the CODM with information to
assess performance and to make resource allocation decisions. The CODM for the company is our Chief Executive Officer.
The revised reporting structure includes two reportable segments: Hotel and Other. Our Other segment consists of the
aggregation of three operating segments, which include our Attractions, Restaurants and Vacation Rentals businesses.
Hotel Segment
Our Hotel segment accounted for 91% of our Company’s consolidated revenue in 2014.
Our Hotel segment includes revenue generated from services related to hotels, including click-based and display-based
advertising revenue from making hotel room nights, airline reservations, and cruise reservations available for price comparison and
booking, as well as subscription-based products such as Business Listings, transaction-based products such as Jetsetter and Tingo, and
other revenue related to hotels.
The Hotel segment’s financial performance is principally dependent on our ability to grow click-based advertising revenue. This
revenue stream is highly dependent upon growth in our hotel shoppers, how effectively we convert hotel shoppers into revenue, and
the price we get paid per hotel shopper, all of which equates to revenue per hotel shopper. The term “hotel shoppers” refers to users
who view servlets on our websites that contain a listing of hotels in a city or visitors to a specific hotel page on TripAdvisor.
More than half of TripAdvisor users visit pages that are not hotel related. Revenue generated from these users is reflected in our
Other segment below.
Other Segment
Our Other segment accounted for 9% of our consolidated revenue in 2014 and consists of the following businesses below:
(cid:120) Attractions. We provide, through Viator, information and services for researching and booking destination activities
around the world. Viator works with local operators to provide travelers with access to tours and activities in popular
destinations worldwide, earning a commission for such service. In addition to its consumer-direct business, Viator also
provides local experiences to affiliate partners, including some of the world’s top airlines, hotels and travel agencies.
(cid:120) Restaurants. We have several websites that provide online and mobile reservation services that connect restaurants with
diners. These websites are currently focused on the European market, primarily through Lafourchette. Lafourchette is an
online restaurant booking platform with a network of restaurant partners across Europe. Lafourchette also offers
management software solutions helping restaurants to maximize business by providing a flexible online booking, discount
and data tool. We generate revenue primarily by charging a fee for each restaurant guest seated through the online
reservation systems.
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(cid:120) Vacation Rentals. We offer individual property owners and property managers the ability to list their properties available
for rental and connect with travelers using a subscription-based fee structure or a free-to-list, commission per booking
based option. Our vacation rental inventory currently includes full home rentals, condos, villas, beach rentals, cabins,
cottages, and many other accommodation types. These properties are listed across a number of platforms, including
TripAdvisor Vacation Rentals, U.S.-based FlipKey (which includes the Vacation Home Rentals site that was acquired
during 2014), and our European-based Holiday Lettings and Niumba businesses.
Substantially all of our revenue from our Other segment is included in subscription-based, transaction and other revenue.
Financial Information about Reportable Segments and Geographic Information
For the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012 our two most significant advertising partners, Expedia and Priceline,
each accounted for more than 10% of our consolidated revenue and combined accounted for 46%, 47% and 48% of our consolidated
revenue, respectively. This concentration of revenue is recorded in our Hotel segment for these reporting periods. As of December 31,
2014 and 2013, Expedia accounted for 15% and 14%, respectively, of our total accounts receivable.
Financial information related to our two reportable segments and geographic information required herein is contained in
“Note 16 — Segment and Geographic Information,” in the notes to our consolidated financial statements.
Employees
As of December 31, 2014, we had approximately 2,793 employees. Of these employees, approximately 1,292 were based in the
United States. We believe that we have good relationships with our employees, including relationships with employees represented by
international works councils or other similar organizations.
Seasonality
Expenditures by travel advertisers tend to be seasonal. Historically, our strongest quarter has been the third quarter, which is a
key travel research period, with the weakest quarter being the fourth quarter. However, adverse economic conditions or continued
growth of our international operations with differing holiday peaks may influence the typical trend of our seasonality in the future.
Additional Information
Company Website and Public Filings
We maintain a corporate website at www.tripadvisor.com. Except as explicitly noted, the information on our website, as well as
the websites of our various brands and businesses, is not incorporated by reference in this Annual Report on Form 10-K, or in any
other filings with, or in any information furnished or submitted to, the SEC.
We make available, free of charge through the Investor Relations section of our website, our Annual Reports on Form 10-K,
Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q and Current Reports on Form 8-K, and amendments to those reports, filed or furnished pursuant to
Sections 13(a) or Section 15(d) of the Exchange Act as soon as reasonably practicable after they have been electronically filed with, or
furnished to, the SEC.
Code of Ethics
We post our code of business conduct and ethics, which applies to all employees, including all executive officers, senior
financial officers and directors, on our corporate website at www.tripadvisor.com. Our code of business conduct and ethics complies
with Item 406 of SEC Regulation S-K and the rules of NASDAQ. We intend to disclose any changes to the code that affect the
provisions required by Item 406 of Regulation S-K, and any waivers of the code of ethics for our executive officers, senior financial
officers or directors, on our corporate website.
Item 1A. Risk Factors
You should consider carefully the risks described below together with all of the other information included in this Annual
Report as they may impact our business, results of operations and/or financial condition. The risks and uncertainties described below
are not the only ones we face. Additional risks and uncertainties not presently known to us or that we currently believe are immaterial
may also impair our business, results of operations or financial condition. If any of the following risks occur, our business, financial
condition, operating results and cash flows could be materially adversely affected.
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If we are unable to continue to increase visitors to our websites and to cost-effectively convert these visitors into repeat users or
contributors, our advertising revenue could decline.
The primary asset that we use to attract visitors traffic to our websites and convert these visitors into repeat users is our
continued ability to collect, create, organize and distribute high-quality, commercially valuable content that meets user’s specific
interests and enables them to share and interact with the content and supporting communities. There can be no assurances that we will
continue to obtain content in a cost-effective manner or in a manner that meets rapidly changing consumer demand. Any failure to
obtain such content or organize and distribute such content in a manner that will engage users, or a failure to provide products that are
perceived as useful, reliable and trustworthy, could adversely affect user experiences and reduce traffic driven to our websites, which
would make our websites less attractive to advertisers. Any change in the cost structure pursuant to which we obtain our content, or in
travelers’ relative appreciation of user-based versus expert content or our user-based content versus other sites’ user-based content,
could also reduce traffic driven to our websites which would negatively impact our business and financial performance.
We derive substantially all of our revenue from advertising and any significant reduction in spending by advertisers could harm
our business.
We derive substantially all of our revenue from the sale of advertising, primarily through click-based advertising and, to a lesser
extent, display-based advertising. While we enter into master advertising contracts with our partners, these agreements generally
address matters such as privacy and compliance, payment terms and conditions, termination and indemnities. Most of our click-based
advertising contracts can be terminated by our partners at will or on short notice. Our ability to grow advertising revenue with our
existing or new advertising partners is dependent in large part on our ability to generate revenue for them. Advertisers will not
continue to do business with us if their investment in such advertising does not generate sales leads, customers, bookings, or revenue
and profit on a cost-effective basis, or if we do not deliver advertisements in an effective manner. If we are unable to provide value to
our advertisers, they will likely stop placing ads on our websites, which would harm our revenues and business. We cannot guarantee
that our current advertisers will fulfill their obligations under existing contracts, continue to advertise beyond the terms of existing
contracts or enter into any additional contracts with us.
Click-based advertising accounts for the majority of our advertising revenue. Any changes we make to our business model may
impact our advertising revenue in ways that we do not expect. If our partners do not receive the benefits they expect from their
advertising spend with us, they may reduce their spending. In addition, if new, more effective advertising models were to emerge,
there can be no assurance that we will have the ability to offer these models, or offer them in an effective manner.
Furthermore, our CPC pricing for click-based advertising depends, in part, on competition between advertisers. If our large
advertisers become less competitive with each other, merge with each other or with our competitors, focus more on per-click profit
than on traffic volume, or are able to reduce CPCs, this could have an adverse impact on our click-based advertising revenue which
would, in turn, have an adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.
Expenditures by advertisers also tend to be cyclical, subject to variation based on budgetary constraints, project cancellation or
delay, and to reflect overall economic conditions and buying patterns. If we are unable to generate advertising revenue due to factors
outside of our control, our business and financial performance would be adversely affected.
Our businesses could be negatively affected by changes in search engine algorithms and dynamics, or search engine
disintermediation.
We rely heavily on Internet search engines such as Google, both for organic traffic and through the purchase of travel-related
keywords, to generate traffic to our websites. We obtain a significant amount of traffic via search engines and, therefore, utilize
techniques such as SEO and SEM to improve our placement in relevant search queries. Search engines, including Google, frequently
update and change the logic that determines the placement and display of results of a user’s search, such that the purchased or
algorithmic placement of links to our websites can be negatively affected. Moreover, a search engine could, for competitive or other
purposes, alter its search algorithms or results causing our websites to place lower in search query results. If a major search engine
changes its algorithms in a manner that negatively affects our paid or unpaid search ranking, or if competitive dynamics impact the
effectiveness of SEO or SEM in a negative manner, our business and financial performance would be adversely affected, potentially to
a material extent. Furthermore, our failure to successfully manage our SEO and SEM strategies could result in a substantial decrease
in traffic to our websites, as well as increased costs if we were to replace free traffic with paid traffic.
In addition, to the extent that Google (including Google + Local and Google Hotel Finder) and Bing (including Bing Travel), or
other leading search or metasearch engines that have a significant presence in our key markets, disintermediate OTA’s or travel
content providers by offering comprehensive travel planning or shopping capabilities, or refer those leads to suppliers directly, or to
other favored partners, there could be a material adverse impact on our business and financial performance. For example, during 2012,
Google completed its acquisition of flight search technology company ITA Software and separately made changes to its hotel search
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results, including both expanding and promoting the use of Google + Local. To the extent these actions have a negative effect on our
search traffic, whether on desktop, tablet or mobile devices, our business and financial performance could be adversely affected.
We rely on a relatively small number of significant advertisers and any reduction in spending by or loss of those advertisers could
seriously harm our business.
We derive a substantial portion of our revenue from a relatively small number of significant advertisers. For example, for the
year ended December 31, 2014, our two most significant advertising partners, Expedia and Priceline (and their subsidiaries),
accounted for a combined 46% of total revenue. If any of our significant advertisers were to cease or significantly curtail advertising
on our websites, we could experience a rapid decline in our revenue over a relatively short period of time.
Our success depends upon the acceptance, and successful measurement, of online advertising as an alternative to offline
advertising.
The long-term growth of our business will depend heavily on the continued acceptance of online advertising as an alternative or
supplement to offline advertising and the increase in the percentage of the advertising market allocated to online advertising, which
may not happen in a manner or to the extent that we currently expect. We compete with traditional media for advertising dollars, in
addition to websites with higher levels of traffic. If online advertising ceases to be an acceptable alternative or supplement to offline
advertising then our business, financial condition and results of operations will be negatively impacted.
The adoption of online advertising, particularly by those entities that have historically relied upon traditional media for
advertising, requires the acceptance of a new way of conducting business, exchanging information and evaluating new advertising and
marketing technologies and services. Because the online marketing industry is relatively new and rapidly evolving, it uses different
methods than traditional media to gauge its effectiveness. Some of our potential customers have little or no experience using the
Internet for advertising and marketing purposes and have allocated only limited portions of their advertising and marketing budgets to
the Internet. As a result, we are continually evaluating changes to aspects of our business model to keep pace with the expectations of
users and advertisers, and these changes may not yield the benefits we expect. In particular, we are dependent on our clients’ adoption
of new metrics to measure the success of online marketing campaigns.
In addition, if advertisers materially change their transaction attribution models or their return on investment calculations and/or
increase their return on investment targets with respect to online advertising in general, or TripAdvisor traffic in particular, they might
reduce the prices they are willing to pay for our advertising products, which would have an adverse effect on our business, financial
condition and results of operations.
Growth in the use of devices other than desktop computers may negatively affect our revenue and financial results.
Our content was originally designed for users accessing the Internet on a desktop computer. The number of people who access
the Internet through devices other than desktops computers, including mobile phones, smartphones, handheld computers such as
notebooks and tablets, video game consoles and television set-top devices, has increased substantially in the last few years. We
anticipate that the rate of use of these computing devices will continue to grow. The lower resolution, functionality and memory
associated with some of these alternative devices make the use of our products and services through such devices more difficult and
versions of our products and services developed for these devices may not be compelling to users. We have developed services and
applications to address limitations of these devices and our advertising revenues continue to grow, however, we monetize users of
these devices at a lower rate compared to users who access our websites through desktop computers.
Declines or disruptions in the economy in general and travel industry in particular could adversely affect our businesses and
financial performance.
Our businesses and financial performance are affected by the health of the global economy generally as well as the travel
industry in particular. The global economy may be adversely impacted by a number of negative economic developments including
defaults on government debt, significant increases in fuel and energy costs, tax increases and other matters that could reduce
discretionary spending, continued tightening of credit markets, further declines in consumer confidence, and policy missteps. These
conditions could have a material adverse impact on our business and financial performance.
Travel expenditures are sensitive to personal and business discretionary spending levels and tend to decline or grow more slowly
during economic downturns. Decreased travel expenditures could reduce the demand for our services, thereby causing a reduction in
revenue.
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We rely on the value of our brand and consumer trust in our brand. If we are not able to maintain and enhance our brand, or if
events occur that damage our reputation and brand, our business may be harmed.
We believe that the TripAdvisor brand has contributed significantly to our success and that maintaining and enhancing our
brand is critical to expanding our base of users, creating content and attracting advertisers. As a result, we invest significantly in brand
marketing including television. We expect these investments to continue, or even increase, as a result of a variety of factors, including
increased spending from competitors, the increasing costs of supporting multiple brands, expansion into geographies and products
where our brands are less well known, inflation in media pricing, and the continued emergence and relative traffic share growth of
search engines as destination sites for travelers. Such efforts may not maintain or enhance consumer awareness of our brands and,
even if we are successful in our branding efforts, such efforts may not be cost-effective or as efficient as they have been historically. If
we are unable to maintain or enhance consumer awareness of our brands or to generate demand in a cost-effective manner, it would
have a material adverse effect on our business and financial performance.
We receive significant media coverage in our various geographic markets. Unfavorable publicity regarding, for example, our
privacy practices, product changes, the accuracy of user-generated content, product quality, litigation or regulatory activity could
adversely affect our reputation with our users and our advertisers. Such negative publicity also could have an adverse effect on the
size, engagement, and loyalty of our user base and result in decreased revenue, which could adversely affect our business and financial
results.
Intense competition could reduce our market share and harm our financial performance.
The market for the services we offer is intensely competitive. We face competition from a number of different sources and many
of our competitors have significantly greater and more diversified resources than we do and may be able to leverage other aspects of
their business to enable them to compete more effectively against us. More specifically:
(cid:120) We face competition from travel service providers such as major hotel companies, airlines and rental car companies, many
of which have their own websites to which they drive business. For example, several major hotel companies launched an
online hotel reservation service with a stated goal of driving consumers directly to their brand websites thereby reducing
the share receive by online travel agents. They may also attempt to improve their competitive position by offering lower
room rates, better room availability or additional features or amenities through this reservation service than are available
through services like ours.
(cid:120) We face competition from online travel agents, such as Expedia and Priceline (and their subsidiaries), and this
competition may increase to the extent that these online travel agents accumulate and develop a comprehensive offering of
travel-related reviews and resources. The barriers to entry for these companies may be limited given their access to travel-
related information and relationships with consumers.
(cid:120) We face increased competition from the large search engines and social networking sites, companies, such as Google and
Facebook, or other companies, which competition will only increase should they chose to compete more directly with us
in the travel review space, and create commercially valuable online content at significant scale. For example, Google +
Local, with its aggregated reviews and local recommendations, competes with us and Google’s access to more
comprehensive data regarding user search queries through its search algorithms gives it a significant competitive
advantage over other companies in the industry, including us. In addition, if significant numbers of users adopt
Facebook’s newly released Graph Search to get travel recommendations, it could have the effect of reducing traffic and
user engagement on TripAdvisor.
(cid:120) We also face competition from travel agencies, wholesalers and travel operators as well as operators of travel industry
reservation databases such as Galileo, Travelport, Amadeus and Sabre.
(cid:120)
In addition, we compete with newspapers, magazines and other traditional media companies that provide offline and
online advertising opportunities.
(cid:120) For our vacation rental business, we also face competition from several companies, including HomeAway and Airbnb,
some of whom have a larger inventory of rooms available than we do.
(cid:120) For our restaurant reservation and attractions business, the competition is not as consolidated as it is for other areas of our
business; however, we face competition from certain companies like OpenTable in the United States.
Many of our competitors have significantly greater financial, technical, marketing and other resources compared to us and have
expertise in developing online commerce and facilitating Internet traffic as well as large client bases. We expect to face additional
competition as other established and emerging companies enter the travel advertising market.
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Certain of the companies we do business with, including some of our click-based advertising partners, are also our competitors.
The consolidation of our competitors and partners, including Expedia (through its investment in Trivago) and Priceline (through its
acquisition of Kayak and OpenTable), may affect our relative competitiveness and our partner relationships. Competition and
consolidation could result in higher traffic acquisition costs, reduced margins on our advertising services, loss of market share,
reduced customer traffic to our websites and reduced advertising by travel companies on our websites. For example, Google (through
its launch of Google Hotel Finder, evolution and expansion of Google + Local and preferred top placement of Places results in Google
organic travel search results) and Microsoft’s Bing (through its launch of Bing Travel), have each taken steps to appeal more directly
to travel customers, which could lead to diversion of customer traffic to their own websites or those of a favored partner, or undermine
our ability to obtain prominent placement in paid or unpaid search results at a reasonable cost, or at all. Competition in our industry
may result in pricing pressure, loss of market share or decreased member engagement, any of which could adversely affect our
business and financial performance.
We are regularly subject to claims, suits, government investigations, and other proceedings that may result in adverse outcomes.
We are regularly subject to claims, suits, and government investigations involving competition, intellectual property, privacy,
consumer protection, tax, labor and employment, commercial disputes, content generated by our users, goods and services offered by
advertisers or publishers using our platforms, and other matters. The sale of hardware products also exposes us to the risk of product
liability and other litigation involving assertions about product defects, as well as health and safety, hazardous materials usage, and
other environmental concerns. In addition, our businesses face intellectual property litigation, as further discussed later, that exposes
us to the risk of exclusion and cease and desist orders, which could limit our ability to sell products and services.
Such claims, suits, and government investigations are inherently uncertain and their results cannot be predicted with certainty.
Regardless of the outcome, any of these types of legal proceedings can have an adverse impact on us because of legal costs, diversion
of management resources, and other factors. Determining reserves for our pending litigation is a complex, fact-intensive process that
requires significant judgment. It is possible that a resolution of one or more such proceedings could result in substantial fines and
penalties that could adversely affect our business, consolidated financial position, results of operations, or cash flows in a particular
period. These proceedings could also result in reputational harm, criminal sanctions, consent decrees, or orders preventing us from
offering certain features, functionalities, products, or services, requiring a change in our business practices or product recalls or other
field action, or requiring development of non-infringing or otherwise altered products or technologies. Any of these consequences
could adversely affect our business and results of operations.
We are dependent upon the quality of traffic in our network to provide value to online advertisers, and any failure in our quality
control could have a material adverse effect on the value of our websites to our advertisers and adversely affect our revenue.
We use technology and processes to monitor the quality of and to identify any anomalous metrics associated with, the Internet
traffic that we deliver to online advertisers. These metrics may be indicative of low quality clicks such as non-human processes,
including robots, spiders or other software; the mechanical automation of clicking; and other types of invalid clicks or click fraud.
Even with such monitoring in place, there is a risk that a certain amount of low-quality traffic, or traffic that online advertisers deem to
be invalid, will be delivered to such online advertisers. As a result, we may be required to credit amounts owed to us by our
advertisers. Furthermore, low-quality or invalid traffic may be detrimental to our relationships with advertisers, and could adversely
affect our advertising pricing and revenue.
We rely on assumptions and estimates and data from third parties to calculate certain of our key metrics, and real or perceived
inaccuracies in such metrics may harm our reputation and negatively affect our business.
Certain key metrics, such as the number of our active users, unique visitors, total traffic and number of reviews and opinions,
are calculated, in some cases, using internal company data and, in other cases, relying on data from third parties. While these numbers
are based on what we believe to be reasonable calculations for the applicable periods of measurement, there are inherent challenges in
measuring usage and user engagement across our large user base around the world. For example, a single person or user may have
multiple accounts or browse the internet on multiple browsers, some mobile applications automatically contact our servers for regular
updates with no user action and we are not able to capture user information on all of our platforms. As such, the calculations of our
active users and unique visitors may not accurately reflect the number of people actually using our platforms. In addition, our
measures of user growth and user engagement may differ from estimates published by third parties or from similar metrics of our
competitors due to differences in methodologies utilized by us and the third parties for which we rely on this data.
We are continually seeking to improve our ability to estimate these key metrics. We regularly review and adjust our processes
for calculating our internal metrics to improve their accuracy. If our users, advertisers, partners and shareholders do not perceive our
metrics to be accurate representations or if we discover material inaccuracies in our user metrics, our reputation may be harmed. In
which case, users may not use our products and services and advertisers and partners may be less willing to allocate their budgets to
our products and services which could negatively affect our business and operating results.
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We rely on information technology to operate our business and maintain competitiveness, and any failure to adapt to technological
developments or industry trends could harm our businesses.
We depend on the use of sophisticated information technologies and systems. As our operations grow in size and scope, we
must continuously improve and upgrade our systems and infrastructure while maintaining or improving the reliability and integrity of
our systems and infrastructure. Our future success also depends on our ability to adapt our services and infrastructure to meet rapidly
evolving consumer trends and demands while continuing to improve the performance, features and reliability of our services in
response to competitive service and product offerings. The emergence of alternative platforms such as smartphone and tablet
computing devices and the emergence of niche competitors who may be able to optimize products, services or strategies for such
platforms will require new investment in technology. New developments in other areas, such as cloud computing, could also make it
easier for competition to enter our markets due to lower up-front technology costs. In addition, we may not be able to maintain our
existing systems or replace or introduce new technologies and systems as quickly as we would like or in a cost-effective manner.
If we do not continue to innovate and provide tools and services that are useful to travelers, we may not remain competitive, and
our business and financial performance could suffer.
Our success depends in part on continued innovation to provide features and services that make our websites and smartphone
and tablet computing applications useful for travelers. Our competitors are continually developing innovations in online travel-related
services and features. As a result, we are continually working to improve our business model and user experience in order to drive user
traffic and conversion dates. We can give no assurances that the changes we make will yield the benefits we expect and will not have
adverse impacts that we did not anticipate. If we are unable to continue offering innovative products and services and quality features
that travelers want to use, existing users may become dissatisfied and use competitors’ offerings and we may be unable to attract
additional users, which could adversely affect our business and financial performance.
New technologies could block our ads, which would harm our business.
We derive most of our revenues from fees paid to us by advertisers in connection with the display of ads on web pages for our
users. Technologies have been developed that can block the display of online ads and that provide tools to users to opt out of some
web-based advertising products. As a result, these technologies and tools could adversely affect our business and financial
performance.
Our culture emphasizes rapid innovation and prioritizes user engagement over short-term financial results.
We operate in a culture that encourages rapid development and release of new and improved products, which may at times result
in unintended consequences or decisions that are poorly received by users or advertisers. Our culture also prioritizes user engagement,
or website “stickiness,” over short-term financial results. We have taken actions in the past and may continue to make product
decisions going forward that have the effect of reducing our short-term revenue or profitability if we believe that the decisions benefit
the aggregate user experience, conversion rates and/or CPC pricing, thereby ultimately improving our financial performance over the
long-term. The short-term reductions in revenue or profitability could be more severe than we anticipate or these decisions may not
produce the long-term benefits that we expect, in which case our user growth and engagement, our relationships with users and
advertisers, and our business and results of operations could be harmed.
The online vacation rental market is rapidly evolving and if we fail to predict the manner in which the market develops, our
business and prospects may suffer.
We offer vacation rental services through our U.S.-based FlipKey and Vacation Home Rentals and European-based Holiday
Lettings and Niumba. The online vacation rental market is relatively new and rapidly evolving in many respects, including acceptance
of the business model by travelers, property owners and property managers; from a business and marketing perspective as well as the
regulatory environment. We operate in various disparate jurisdictions and markets and have limited insight into trends that may
develop in those markets and may affect our business. Since we began offering such services, there have been and continue to be
significant business, marketing and regulatory developments. Operating in new and untested jurisdictions requires significant
management attention and financial resources. We cannot assure that our expansion efforts will be successful, and the investment and
additional resources required to establish operations and manage growth may not produce the desired levels of revenue or profitability.
If we fail to attract and maintain a critical mass of vacation rental listings and travelers, our vacation rental marketplaces will
become less valuable and this may have a negative impact on our business.
In our vacation rental business, revenue is generated when owners or managers of vacation rental properties pay us fees to list
and market vacation rental properties to users who visit the websites comprising our marketplace, owners and/or travelers pay us fees
upon booking a transaction and property managers pay us fees for email and telephone leads from potential travelers. As a result, our
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success in this area primarily depends on our ability to attract owners, managers, travelers and advertisers to our marketplace. If
property owners and managers do not perceive the benefits of marketing their properties through our websites, or elect to list them
with a competitor instead of listing with us, our volume of new listings and listing renewals may suffer. As a result, we may be unable
to offer a sufficient supply and variety of vacation properties to attract travelers to our websites. Larger competitor already exists in
the vacation rental space, with significantly more users and listed properties, and new competitors with significant financial resources
are continually emerging.
We may be subject to claims that we violated intellectual property rights of others and these claims can be extremely costly to
defend and could require us to pay significant damages and limit our ability to operate.
Companies in the Internet and technology industries, and other patent and trademark holders seeking to profit from royalties in
connection with grants of licenses, own large numbers of patents, copyrights, trademarks and trade secrets and frequently enter into
litigation based on allegations of infringement or other violations of intellectual property rights. We have received in the past, and may
in the future receive, notices that claim we have misappropriated or misused other parties’ intellectual property rights. Any intellectual
property claim against us, regardless of merit, could be time consuming and expensive to settle or litigate and could divert
management’s attention and other resources. These claims also could subject us to significant liability for damages and could result in
our having to stop using technology or content found to be in violation of another party’s rights. We might be required or may opt to
seek a license for rights to intellectual property held by others, which may not be available on commercially reasonable terms, or at
all. Even if a license is available, we could be required to pay significant royalties, which would increase our operating expenses. We
may also be required to develop alternative non-infringing technology, or content, which could require significant effort and expense
and make us less competitive in the relevant market. Any of these results could harm our business and financial performance.
Investment in new business strategies and acquisitions could disrupt our ongoing business and present risks not originally
contemplated.
We have invested, and in the future may invest, in new business strategies or acquisitions. Such endeavors may involve
significant risks and uncertainties, including distraction of management from current operations, greater than expected liabilities and
expenses, inadequate return of capital, and unidentified issues not discovered in our investigations and evaluations of those strategies
and acquisitions. We may decide to make minority investments, including through joint ventures, in which we have limited or no
management or operational control. The controlling person in such a case may have business interests, strategies or goals that are
inconsistent with ours, and decisions of the company or venture in which we invested may result in harm to our reputation or
adversely affect the value of our investment. Further, we may issue shares of our common stock in these transactions, which could
result in dilution to our stockholders.
If the businesses we have acquired or invested in do not perform as expected or we are unable to effectively integrate acquired
businesses, our operating results and prospects could be harmed.
We have acquired a number of businesses in the past and our future growth may depend, in part, on future acquisitions, any of
which could be material to our financial condition and results of operations. Certain financial and operational risks related to
acquisitions that may have a material impact on our business are:
(cid:120) Use of cash resources and incurrence of debt and contingent liabilities in funding acquisitions may limit other potential
uses of our cash, including stock repurchases, dividend payments and retirement of outstanding indebtedness;
(cid:120) Amortization expenses related to acquired intangible assets and other adverse accounting consequences;
(cid:120) Expected and unexpected costs incurred in identifying and pursuing acquisitions, and performing due diligence on
potential acquisition targets that may or may not be successful;
(cid:120) Diversion of management’s attention or other resources from our existing business;
(cid:120) Difficulties and expenses in integrating the operations, products, technology, privacy protection systems, information
systems or personnel of the acquired company;
(cid:120) Costs associated with litigation or other claims relating to the acquired company;
(cid:120)
Impairment of relationships with employees, suppliers and affiliates of our business and the acquired business;
(cid:120) The assumption of known and unknown debt and liabilities of the acquired company;
(cid:120) Failure of the acquired company to achieve anticipated traffic, revenues, earnings or cash flows or to retain key
management or employees;
(cid:120) Failure to generate adequate returns on acquisitions and investments;
17
(cid:120) Entrance into markets in which we have no direct prior experience and increased complexity in our business;
(cid:120)
Impairment of goodwill or other intangible assets such as trademarks or other intellectual property arising from
acquisitions; and
(cid:120) Adverse market reaction to acquisitions.
Moreover, we rely heavily on the representations and warranties provided to us by the sellers of acquired companies, including
as they relate to creation, ownership and rights in intellectual property and compliance with laws and contractual requirements. Our
failure to address these risks or other problems encountered in connection with past or future acquisitions and investments could cause
us to fail to realize the anticipated benefits of such acquisitions or investments, incur unanticipated liabilities and harm our business
generally.
If we fail to manage our growth effectively, our brand, results of operations and business could be harmed.
We have experienced rapid growth in our headcount and operations, which places substantial demands on management and our
operational infrastructure. We continue to make substantial investments in our technology, sales and marketing and community
management organizations. As we continue to grow, we must effectively integrate, develop and motivate a large number of new
employees, including employees in international markets, while maintaining the beneficial aspects of our company culture. If we do
not manage the growth of our business and operations effectively, the quality of our platform and efficiency of our operations could
suffer, which could harm our brand, results of operations and business.
We may have future capital needs and may not be able to obtain additional financing on acceptable terms.
We are party to a term loan with a remaining principal of $300 million, as well as a revolving credit facility of $200 million at
December 31, 2014. These arrangements may limit our ability to secure significant additional financing in the future on favorable
terms or our operating cash flow may be insufficient to satisfy our financial obligations under indebtedness outstanding from time to
time. Our ability to secure additional financing and satisfy our financial obligations under indebtedness outstanding from time to time
will depend upon our future operating performance, which is subject to then prevailing general economic and credit market conditions,
including interest rate levels and the availability of credit generally, and financial, business and other factors, many of which are
beyond our control. In light of periodic uncertainty in the capital and credit markets, there can be no assurance that sufficient financing
will be available on desirable or even any terms to fund investments, acquisitions, stock repurchases, dividends, debt refinancing or
extraordinary actions or that counterparties in any such financings would honor their contractual commitments. If financing is not
available when needed or is not available on favorable terms, we may be unable to issue or develop new or enhanced existing services,
complete acquisitions, repurchase equity or otherwise take advantage of business opportunities, any of which could have a material
adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations. If we raise additional funds through the issuance of equity
securities, our stockholders may experience significant dilution.
Furthermore, we are also accumulating a greater portion of our cash flows in foreign jurisdictions than previously, which we
consider indefinitely reinvested. The repatriation of such funds for use in the United States, including for corporate purposes such as
acquisitions, stock repurchases, dividends or debt refinancings, may result in additional U.S. income tax expense and higher cost for
such capital.
We have significant indebtedness, which could adversely affect our business and financial condition.
The remaining principal on our term loan $300 million at December 31, 2014. Risks relating to our indebtedness include:
(cid:120)
Increasing our vulnerability to general adverse economic and industry conditions;
(cid:120) Requiring us to dedicate a portion of our cash flow from operations to principal and interest payments on our
indebtedness, thereby reducing the availability of cash flow to fund working capital, capital expenditures, acquisitions and
investments and other general corporate purposes;
(cid:120) Making it more difficult for us to optimally capitalize and manage the cash flow for our businesses;
(cid:120) Limiting our flexibility in planning for, or reacting to, changes in our businesses and the markets in which we operate;
(cid:120) Possibly placing us at a competitive disadvantage compared to our competitors that have less debt;
(cid:120) Limiting our ability to borrow additional funds or to borrow funds at rates or on other terms that we finds acceptable; and
(cid:120) Exposing us to the risk of increased interest rates because our outstanding debt is expected to be subject to variable rates
of interest.
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In addition, it is possible that we may need to incur additional indebtedness in the future in the ordinary course of business. The
terms of our term loan and revolving credit facility will allow us to incur additional debt subject to certain limitations. If new debt is
added to current debt levels, the risks described above could intensify.
The agreements that govern our credit facility contain various covenants that limit our discretion in the operation of our business
and also require us to meet financial maintenance tests and other covenants. The failure to comply with such tests and covenants
could have a material adverse effect on us.
We are party to a credit agreement providing for a revolving credit facility with a borrowing capacity of $200 million and a term
of five years, as well as a five-year, term loan with an original principal of $400 million to our wholly-owned subsidiary, TripAdvisor
Holdings, LLC. The agreements that govern the term loan and revolving credit facility contain various covenants, including those that
limit our ability to, among other things:
(cid:120)
Incur indebtedness;
(cid:120) Pay dividends on, redeem or repurchase our capital stock;
(cid:120) Enter into certain asset sale transactions, including partial or full spin-off transactions;
(cid:120) Enter into secured financing arrangements;
(cid:120) Enter into sale and leaseback transactions; and
(cid:120) Enter into unrelated businesses.
These covenants may limit our ability to optimally operate our business. In addition, our term loan and revolving credit facility
require that we meet certain financial tests, including an interest coverage test and a leverage ratio test. Any failure to comply with the
restrictions of our term loan credit facility may result in an event of default under the agreements governing such facilities. Such
default may allow the creditors to accelerate the debt incurred under thereunder. In addition, lenders may be able to terminate any
commitments they had made to supply us with further funds (including periodic rollovers of existing borrowings).
If the Spin-Off, together with certain related transactions, were to fail to qualify as a transaction that is generally tax free for U.S.
federal income tax purposes, we could be subject to significant tax liabilities.
As a condition to the completion of the Spin-Off, Expedia obtained a private letter ruling from the Internal Revenue Service, or
IRS, along with an opinion of counsel, regarding the qualification of the Spin-Off and certain related transactions, as transactions that
are generally tax free for U.S. federal income tax purposes. The IRS private letter ruling and the opinion of counsel were based on,
among other things, certain facts and assumptions as well as the accuracy of certain representations, statements and undertakings that
Expedia and we made to the IRS and to counsel. If any of these representations, statements or undertakings are, or become, inaccurate
or incomplete, or if we or Expedia breach any of the covenants, the IRS private letter ruling and the opinion of counsel may be invalid.
Moreover, the IRS private letter ruling does not address all the issues that are relevant to determining whether the Spin-Off
qualifies as a transaction that is generally tax free for U.S. federal income tax purposes. Notwithstanding the IRS private letter ruling
and/or the opinion of counsel, the IRS could determine that the Spin-Off should be treated as a taxable transaction if it determines that
any of the representations, assumptions or undertakings that were included in the request for the IRS private letter ruling or on which
the opinion of counsel was based is false or has been violated or if it disagrees with the conclusions in the opinion of counsel that are
not covered by any IRS ruling.
Under the Tax Sharing Agreement between us and Expedia, we are generally required to indemnify Expedia for any taxes
resulting from the Spin-Off (and any related interest, penalties, legal and professional fees, and all costs and damages associated with
related stockholder litigation or controversies) to the extent such amounts resulted from (i) any act or failure to act by us described in
the covenants in the tax sharing agreement, (ii) any acquisition of our equity securities or assets or those of a member of our group, or
(iii) any failure of the representations with respect to us or any member of our group to be true or any breach by us or any member of
our group of any covenant, in each case, which is contained in the separation documents or in the documents relating to the IRS
private letter ruling and/or the opinion of counsel.
Our international operations involve additional risks and our exposure to these risks will increase as our business expands
globally.
We operate in a number of jurisdictions outside of the United States and intend to continue to expand our international
operations. To achieve widespread acceptance in new countries and markets, we must continue to tailor our services and business
model to the unique circumstances of such countries and markets, which can be difficult, costly and divert management and personnel
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resources. Failure to adapt practices and models effectively to each country into which we expand could slow our international
growth.
Examples of other risks faced by us as a result of our international operations include, but are not limited to, the following:
(cid:120) Political instability;
(cid:120) Threatened or actual acts of terrorism;
(cid:120) Ability to comply with additional U.S. laws applicable to U.S. companies operating internationally as well as local laws
and regulations, including the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act and U.K. Bribery Act, data privacy requirements, labor laws
and anti-competition regulations;
(cid:120) Diminished ability to legally enforce contractual rights;
(cid:120)
Increased risk and limits on enforceability of intellectual property rights;
(cid:120) Possible preferences by local populations for local providers;
(cid:120) Restrictions on, or adverse consequences related to, the withdrawal of non-U.S. investment and earnings;
(cid:120) Restrictions on repatriation of cash as well as restrictions on investments in operations in certain countries;
(cid:120) Financial risk arising from transactions in multiple currencies as well as currency exchange restrictions;
(cid:120) Slower adoption of the Internet as an advertising, broadcast and commerce medium in certain of those markets as
compared to the United States;
(cid:120) Difficulties in managing staff and operations due to distance, time zones, language and cultural differences; and
(cid:120) Uncertainty regarding liability for services, content and intellectual property rights, including uncertainty as a result of
local laws and lack of precedent.
We have businesses operating in China, which create particular risks and uncertainties relating to the laws in China. The laws
and regulations of China restrict foreign investment in areas including air-ticketing and travel agency services, Internet content
provision, mobile communication and related businesses. Although we have established effective control of our Chinese businesses
through a series of agreements, future developments in the interpretation or enforcement of Chinese laws and regulations or a dispute
relating to these agreements could restrict our ability to operate or restructure these businesses or to engage in strategic transactions.
The success of these businesses, and of any future investments in China, is subject to risks and uncertainties regarding the application,
development and interpretation of China’s laws and regulations.
The loss of one or more of our key personnel, or our failure to attract and retain other highly qualified personnel in the future,
could harm our business.
Our future success depends upon the continued contributions of our senior corporate management and other key employees. In
particular, the contributions of Stephen Kaufer, our President and Chief Executive Officer, are critical to our overall management. We
cannot ensure that we will be able to retain the services of these individuals, and the loss of one or more of our key personnel could
seriously harm our business. We do not maintain any key person life insurance policies.
In addition, competition remains intense for well-qualified employees in certain aspects of our business, including software
engineers, developers, product management and development personnel, and other technology professionals. Our continued ability to
compete effectively depends on our ability to attract new employees and to retain and motivate existing employees. If we do not
succeed in attracting well-qualified employees or retaining or motivating existing employees, our business would be adversely
affected.
A failure to comply with current laws, rules and regulations or changes to such laws, rules and regulations and other legal
uncertainties may adversely affect our business or financial performance.
Our business and financial performance could be adversely affected by unfavorable changes in or interpretations of existing
laws, rules and regulations or the promulgation of new laws, rules and regulations applicable to us and our business, including those
relating to the Internet and online commerce, Internet advertising, consumer protection and privacy. Unfavorable changes could
decrease demand for products and services, limit marketing methods and capabilities, increase costs and/or subject us to additional
liabilities.
20
For example, there is, and will likely continue to be, an increasing number of laws and regulations pertaining to the Internet and
online commerce that may relate to liability for information retrieved from or transmitted over the Internet, online editorial and user-
generated content, user privacy, behavioral targeting and online advertising, taxation, liability for third-party activities and the quality
of products and services. Our current business partner arrangements with third parties, including Facebook, could be negatively
impacted to the extent that more restrictive privacy laws or regulations are enacted, particularly in the United States or European
Union. In addition, enforcement authorities in the United States continue to rely on their authority under existing consumer protection
laws to take action against companies relating to data privacy and security practices. The growth and development of online commerce
may prompt calls for more stringent consumer protection laws and more aggressive enforcement efforts, which may impose additional
burdens on online businesses generally.
We also have been subject, and we will likely be subject in the future, to inquiries from time to time from regulatory bodies
concerning compliance with consumer protection, competition, tax and travel industry-specific laws and regulations. The failure of
our businesses to comply with these laws and regulations could result in fines and/or proceedings against us by governmental agencies
and/or consumers, which if material, could adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations. Further, if such
laws and regulations are not enforced equally against other competitors in a particular market, our compliance with such laws may put
us a competitive disadvantage vis-à-vis competitors who do not comply with such requirements.
The promulgation of new laws, rules and regulations, or the new interpretation of existing laws, rules and regulations, in each
case that restrict or otherwise unfavorably impact the ability or manner in which we provide services could require us to change
certain aspects of our business, operations and commercial relationships to ensure compliance, which could decrease demand for
services, reduce revenues, increase costs and/or subject the company to additional liabilities.
Liberty TripAdvisor Holdings, Inc. currently is a controlling shareholder.
Liberty TripAdvisor Holdings, Inc., or LTRIP, effectively controls the outcome of all matters submitted to a vote or for the
consent of our stockholders (other than with respect to the election by the holders of our common stock of 25% of the members of our
Board of Directors and matters as to which Delaware law requires separate class votes). LTRIP’s control of us, as well as the existing
provisions of our organizational documents and Delaware law, may discourage or prevent a change of control of us, which may reduce
the market price of our common stock.
Our effective tax rate is impacted by a number of factors that could have a material impact on our financial results and could
increase the volatility of those results.
Due to the global nature of our business, we are subject to income taxes in the United States and other foreign jurisdictions. In
the event we incur net income in certain jurisdictions but incur losses in other jurisdictions, we generally cannot offset the income
from one jurisdiction with the loss from another, which could increase our effective tax rate. Furthermore, significant judgment is
required to calculate our worldwide provision for income taxes. In the ordinary course of our business there are many transactions and
calculations where the ultimate tax determination is uncertain. By virtue of our previously filed separate company and consolidated
income tax returns with Expedia we are routinely under audit by federal, state and foreign taxing authorities. Although we believe our
tax estimates are reasonable, the final determination of audits could be materially different from our historical income tax provisions
and accruals. The results of an audit could have a material effect on our financial position, results of operations, or cash flows in the
period or periods for which that determination is made.
Additionally, we earn an increasing portion of our income, and accumulate a greater portion of cash flow, in foreign
jurisdictions, which we consider indefinitely reinvested. Any repatriation of funds currently held in foreign jurisdictions may result in
higher effective tax rates and incremental cash tax payments. In addition, there have been proposals to amend U.S. tax laws that would
significantly impact the manner in which U.S. companies are taxed on foreign earnings. Although we cannot predict whether or in
what form any legislation will pass, if enacted, it could have a material adverse impact on our U.S. tax expense and cash flows.
We cannot be sure that our intellectual property is protected from copying or use by others, including potential competitors.
Our websites rely on content, brands and technology, much of which is proprietary. We protect our proprietary content, brands
and technology by relying on a combination of trademarks, copyrights, trade secrets, patents and confidentiality agreements. In
connection with our license agreements with third parties, we seek to control access to, and the use and distribution of, proprietary
technology, content and brands. Even with these precautions, it may be possible for another party to copy or otherwise obtain and use
our proprietary technology, content or brands without authorization or to develop similar technology, content or brands independently.
Effective intellectual property protection may not be available in every jurisdiction in which our services are made available, and
policing unauthorized use of our intellectual property is difficult and expensive. Therefore, in certain jurisdictions, we may be unable
to protect our intellectual property adequately against unauthorized third-party copying or use, which could adversely affect our
business or ability to compete. We cannot be sure that the steps we have taken will prevent misappropriation or infringement our
21
intellectual property. Any misappropriation or violation of our rights could have a material adverse effect on our business.
Furthermore, we may need to go to court or other tribunals to enforce our intellectual property rights, to protect our trade secrets or to
determine the validity and scope of the proprietary rights of others. These proceedings might result in substantial costs and diversion
of resources and management attention. Our failure to protect our intellectual property in a cost-effective or effective manner could
have a material adverse effect on our business and ability to protect our technology, content and brands.
We currently license from third parties and incorporate the technologies and content into our websites. As we continue to
introduce new services that incorporate new technologies and content, we may be required to license additional technology, or
content. We cannot be sure that such technology or content will be available on commercially reasonable terms, if at all.
We are subject to foreign exchange risk.
We conduct a significant and growing portion of our business outside the United States. As a result, we face exposure to
movements in currency exchange rates, particularly those related to the Euro, British pound sterling, Singapore dollar, Australian
dollar, and Chinese renminbi. These exposures include, but are not limited to re-measurement gains and losses from changes in the
value of foreign denominated assets and liabilities; translation gains and losses on foreign subsidiary financial results that are
translated into U.S. dollars upon consolidation; and planning risk related to changes in exchange rates between the time we prepare
our annual and quarterly forecasts and when actual results occur.
Depending on the size of the exposures and the relative movements of exchange rates, if we were to choose not to hedge or were
to fail to hedge effectively our exposure, we could experience a material adverse effect on our financial statements and financial
condition. As seen in some recent periods, in the event of severe volatility in exchange rates the impact of these exposures can
increase, and the impact on results of operations can be more pronounced. In addition, the current environment and the increasingly
global nature of our business have made hedging these exposures both more complex and costly. We hedge certain short-term foreign
currency exposures with the purchase of forward exchange contracts. These hedge contracts only help mitigate the impact of changes
in foreign currency rates that occur during the term of the related contract period and carry risks of counter-party failure. There can be
no assurance that our hedges will have their intended effects.
System interruption and the lack of redundancy in some of our internal information systems may harm our business.
We rely on computer systems to deliver content and services. We have experienced and may in the future experience system
interruptions that make some or all of these systems unavailable or prevent us from efficiently providing content and services to users
and third parties. Significant interruptions, outages or delays in internal systems, or systems of third parties that we rely upon, or
deterioration in the performance of any such systems, would impair our ability to process transactions or display content and decrease
the quality of the services we offer to travelers and users. These interruptions could include security intrusions and attacks on our
systems for fraud or service interruption (called “denial of service” or “bot” attacks). If we were to experience frequent or persistent
system failures, our business, reputation, and brand could be harmed.
In addition, our backup systems and disaster recovery, business continuity /or contingency plans for certain critical aspects of
our operations or business processes may not be sufficient. Fire, flood, power loss, telecommunications failure, break-ins, earthquakes,
acts of war or terrorism, acts of God, computer viruses, electronic intrusion attempts from both external and internal sources and
similar events or disruptions may damage or impact or interrupt computer or communications systems or business processes at any
time. Although we have put measures in place to protect certain portions of our facilities and assets, any of these events could cause
system interruption, delays and loss of critical data, and could prevent us from providing content and services to users, travelers and/or
third parties for a significant period of time. Remediation may be costly and we may not have adequate insurance to cover such costs.
Moreover, the costs of enhancing infrastructure to attain improved stability and redundancy may be time consuming and expensive
and may require resources and expertise that are difficult to obtain.
Our processing, storage and use personal information and other data exposes us to risks stemming external and internal security
breaches and failure to comply with governmental regulation, which could give rise to liabilities.
There are numerous laws regarding privacy and the storing, sharing, use, processing, disclosure and protection of personal
information and other consumer data, the scope of which are changing, subject to differing interpretations, and may be inconsistent
between countries or conflict with other rules. We strive to comply with all applicable laws, policies, legal obligations and industry
codes of conduct relating to privacy and data protection. Any failure or perceived failure by us to comply with our privacy policies,
privacy-related obligations to users or other third parties, or privacy-related legal obligations, or any compromise of security that
results in the unauthorized release or transfer of personally identifiable information or other user data, may result in governmental
enforcement actions, litigation or public statements that could harm our reputation and cause our customers and members to lose trust
in us, which could have an adverse effect on our business, brand, market share and results of operations.
22
The regulatory framework for privacy issues worldwide is currently in flux and is likely to remain so for the foreseeable future.
Practices regarding the collection, use, storage, transmission and security of personal information by companies operating over the
Internet have recently come under increased public scrutiny. The U.S. Congress and federal agencies, including the Federal Trade
Commission and the Department of Commerce, are reviewing the need for greater regulation for the collection and use of information
concerning consumer behavior on the Internet. U.S. courts are also considering the applicability of existing federal and state statutes,
including computer trespass and wiretapping laws, to the collection and exchange of information online. In addition, the European
Union is in the process of proposing reforms to its existing data protection legal framework, which may result in a greater compliance
burden for companies, including us, with users in Europe and increased costs of compliance.
Potential security breaches to our systems, whether resulting from internal or external sources, could significantly harm our
business. A party, whether internal or external, that is able to circumvent our security systems could misappropriate user information
or proprietary information or cause significant interruptions in our operations. In the past, we have experienced “denial-of-service”
type attacks on our systems that have made portions of our websites unavailable for short periods of time as well as unauthorized
access of our systems and data. We have acquired a number of companies over the years and may continue to do so in the future.
While we make significant efforts to address any information technology security issues with respect to our acquisitions, we may still
inherit such risks when we integrate the acquired businesses. We may need to expend significant resources to protect against security
breaches or to investigate and address problems caused by breaches, and reductions in website availability could cause a loss of
substantial business volume during the occurrence of any such incident. Because the techniques used to sabotage security change
frequently, often are not recognized until launched against a target and may originate from less regulated and remote areas around the
world, we may be unable to proactively address these techniques or to implement adequate preventive measures. Security breaches
could result in negative publicity, damage to reputation, exposure to risk of loss or litigation and possible liability due to regulatory
penalties and sanctions. Security breaches could also cause travelers and potential users to lose confidence in our security, which
would have a negative effect on the value of our brand. Failure to adequately protect against attacks or intrusions, whether for our own
systems or systems of vendors, could expose us to security breaches that could have an adverse impact on financial performance.
We also face risks associated with security breaches affecting third parties conducting business over the Internet. Much of our
business is conducted with third party marketing affiliates, which may generate travel reservations through our infrastructure or
through our systems. In addition, we frequently use third parties to process credit card payments. A security breach at such third party
could be perceived by consumers as a security breach of our systems and could result in negative publicity, damage our reputation,
expose us to risk of loss or litigation and possible liability and subject us to regulatory penalties and sanctions. In addition, such third
parties may not comply with applicable disclosure requirements, which could expose us to liability.
We are currently relying on the “controlled company” exemption under NASDAQ Stock Market Listing Rules, pursuant to which
“controlled companies” are exempt from certain corporate governance requirements otherwise applicable under NASDAQ listing
rules.
The NASDAQ Stock Market Listing Rules exempt “controlled companies,” or companies of which more than 50% of the voting
power is held by an individual, a group or another company, from certain corporate governance requirements, including those
requirements that:
(cid:120) A majority of the Board of Directors consist of independent directors;
(cid:120) Compensation of officers be determined or recommended to the Board of Directors by a majority of its independent
directors or by a compensation committee comprised solely of independent directors; and
(cid:120) Director nominees be selected or recommended to the Board of Directors by a majority of its independent directors or by a
nominating committee that is composed entirely of independent directors.
We currently rely on the controlled company exemption from the above requirements. Accordingly, our stockholders will not be
afforded the same protections generally as stockholders of other NASDAQ-listed companies with respect to corporate governance for
so long as we rely on these exemptions from the corporate governance requirements.
If we are unable to successfully maintain effective internal control over financial reporting, investors may lose confidence in our
reported financial information and our stock price and business may be adversely impacted.
As a public company, we are required to maintain internal control over financial reporting and our management is required to
evaluate the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting as of the end of each fiscal year. Additionally, we are
required to disclose in our Annual Reports on Form 10-K our management’s assessment of the effectiveness of our internal control
over financial reporting and a registered public accounting firm’s attestation report on this assessment. If we are not successful in
maintaining effective internal control over financial reporting, there could be inaccuracies or omissions in the consolidated financial
information we are required to file with the SEC. Additionally, even if there are no inaccuracies or omissions, we could be required to
23
publicly disclose the conclusion of our management that our internal control over financial reporting or disclosure controls and
procedures are not effective. These events could cause investors to lose confidence in our reported financial information, adversely
impact our stock price, result in increased costs to remediate any deficiencies, attract regulatory scrutiny or lawsuits that could be
costly to resolve and distract management’s attention, limit our ability to access the capital markets or cause our stock to be delisted
from NASDAQ or any other securities exchange on which we are then listed.
The market price and trading volume of our common stock may be volatile and may face negative pressure.
Our stock price has experienced, and could continue to experience in the future, substantial volatility. The market price of our
common stock is affected by a number of factors, including the risk factors described in this section and other factors beyond our
control. Factors affecting the trading price of our common stock could include:
(cid:120) Quarterly variations in our or our competitors’ results of operations;
(cid:120) Changes in earnings estimates or recommendations by securities analysts;
(cid:120) Failure to meet market expectations;
(cid:120) The announcement of new products or product enhancements by us or our competitors;
(cid:120) Repurchases of our common stock pursuant to our share repurchase program which could also cause our stock price to be
higher than it would be in the absence of such a program and could potentially reduce the market liquidity for our stock;
(cid:120) Developments in our industry, including changes in governmental regulations; and
(cid:120) General market conditions and other factors, including factors related to our operating performance or the operating
performance of our competitors.
Furthermore, the stock markets have experienced price and volume fluctuations that have affected and continue to affect the
market prices of equity securities of many companies. These fluctuations often have been unrelated or disproportionate to the
operating performance of those companies. These broad market and industry fluctuations and general economic, political and market
conditions, such as recessions, interest rate changes or international currency fluctuations, may negatively impact the market price of
our common stock regardless of our actual operating performance.
Future sales of shares of our common stock in the public market, or the perception that such sales may occur, may depress our
stock price.
For the period ended December 31, 2014, the average daily trading volume of our common stock on NASDAQ was
approximately 2.2 million shares. If our existing stockholders or their distributees sell substantial amounts of our common stock in the
public market, the market price of the common stock could decrease significantly. The perception in the public market that our
existing stockholders might sell shares of common stock could also depress the trading price of our common stock. In addition, certain
stockholders have rights, subject to some conditions, to require us to file registration statements covering their shares or to include
their shares in registration statements that we may file for ourselves or other stockholders. If LTRIP or some other stockholder sells
substantial amounts of our common stock in the public market, or if there is a perception in the public market that LTRIP might sell
shares of our common stock, the market price of our common stock could decrease significantly. A decline in the price of shares of
our common stock might impede our ability to raise capital through the issuance of additional shares of our common stock or other
equity securities.
Anti-takeover provisions in our organizational documents and Delaware law may discourage or prevent a change of control, even
if an acquisition would be beneficial to our stockholders, which could affect our stock price adversely and prevent attempts by our
stockholders to replace or remove our current management.
Our certificate of incorporation and bylaws contain provisions that could delay or prevent a change of control of our company or
changes in our Board of Directors that our stockholders might consider favorable. Some of these provisions:
(cid:120) Authorize the issuance of preferred stock which can be created and issued by the Board of Directors without prior
stockholder approval, with rights senior to those of our common stock; and
(cid:120) Prohibit our stockholders from filling board vacancies or calling special stockholder meetings.
We are subject to the provisions of Section 203 of the Delaware General Corporation Law, which may prohibit certain business
combinations with stockholders owning 15% or more of our outstanding voting stock. These and other provisions in our certificate of
incorporation, bylaws and Delaware law could make it more difficult for stockholders or potential acquirers to obtain control of our
24
Board of Directors or initiate actions that are opposed by our then-current Board of Directors, including a merger, tender offer or
proxy contest involving our company. Any delay or prevention of a change of control transaction or changes in our Board of Directors
could cause the market price of our common stock to decline.
Item 1B. Unresolved Staff Comments
None.
Item 2.
Properties
We believe that our current facilities are adequate for our current operations and that additional leased space can be obtained on
reasonable terms if needed. We do not legally own any real estate as of December 31, 2014.
We currently lease approximately 119,000 square feet for our corporate headquarters in Newton, Massachusetts, pursuant to a
lease with an expiration date of April 2015. We are currently in the process of negotiating an extension of this lease until mid-2015.
In June 2013 we entered into an additional lease for an approximately 280,000 square feet rental building which is being built in
Needham, Massachusetts by the lessor and will serve as our new corporate headquarters in conjunction with the expiration of our
current lease. The transition to our new corporate headquarters is expected to be completed by mid-2015. Refer to “Note 12—
Commitments and Contingencies” in the notes to our consolidated financial statements for further information on our future corporate
headquarters.
We also lease an aggregate of approximately 470,000 square feet at approximately 40 other locations across North America,
Europe and Asia Pacific, including New York, Boston, London, and Beijing, pursuant to leases with expiration dates through
November 2024. These leases are primarily for our sales offices, subsidiary headquarters, and international management teams.
Item 3.
Legal Proceedings
In the ordinary course of business, we and our subsidiaries are parties to legal proceedings and claims arising out of our
operations. These matters may relate to claims involving alleged infringement of third-party intellectual property rights, defamation,
taxes, regulatory compliance and other claims. Rules of the SEC require the description of material pending legal proceedings, other
than ordinary, routine litigation incident to the registrant’s business, and advise that proceedings ordinarily need not be described if
they primarily involve damages claims for amounts (exclusive of interest and costs) not individually exceeding 10% of the current
assets of the registrant and its subsidiaries on a consolidated basis. In the judgment of management, none of the pending legal
proceedings that TripAdvisor and our subsidiaries are defending involves or is likely to involve amounts of that magnitude. There may
be claims or actions pending or threatened against us of which we are currently not aware and the ultimate disposition of which would
have a material adverse effect on us.
Item 4. Mine Safety Disclosures
Not applicable.
25
Part II
Item 5. Market for Registrant’s Common Equity, Related Stockholder Matters and Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities
Market Information
Our common stock is quoted on NASDAQ under the ticker symbol “TRIP.” On February 6, 2015, the closing price of our
common stock reported on NASDAQ was $68.58 per share.
Our Class B common stock is not listed and there is no established public trading market for that security. As of February 6,
2015, all of our Class B common stock was held by LTRIP.
The following table sets forth, for the periods indicated, the high and low sale prices per share of our common stock as reported
on NASDAQ during the period indicated.
Year ended December 31, 2014:
Fourth Quarter 2014: ................................................................ $
Third Quarter 2014: .................................................................. $
Second Quarter 2014: ............................................................... $
First Quarter 2014:.................................................................... $
Year ended December 31, 2013:
Fourth Quarter 2013: ................................................................ $
Third Quarter 2013: .................................................................. $
Second Quarter 2013: ............................................................... $
First Quarter 2013:.................................................................... $
High
Low
91.08 $
110.22 $
111.24 $
109.79 $
90.43 $
82.19 $
65.41 $
53.73 $
67.14
89.10
75.13
72.57
68.11
59.54
48.18
42.04
26
Performance Comparison Graph
The following graph provides a comparison of the total stockholder return from December 21, 2011 to December 31, 2014 of an
investment of $100 in cash on December 21, 2011 for TripAdvisor, Inc. common stock and an investment of $100 in cash on
November 30, 2011 for (i) the Standard and Poor’s 500 Index (the “S&P 500 Index”), (ii) the NASDAQ Composite Index, , and
(iii) the Research Data Group (“RDG”) Internet Composite Index. The RDG Internet Composite Index is an index of stocks
representing the Internet industry, including Internet software and service companies and e-commerce companies. The stock price
performance shown on the graph below is not necessarily indicative of future price performance. Data for the S&P 500 Index, the
NASDAQ Composite Index, and the RDG Internet Composite Index assume reinvestment of dividends. We have never paid dividends
on our common stock.
COMPARISON OF 3 YEAR CUMULATIVE TOTAL RETURN*
Among TripAdvisor, Inc., the S&P 500 Index, the NASDAQ Composite Index,
and the RDG Internet Composite Index
$450
$400
$350
$300
$250
$200
$150
$100
$50
$0
TripAdvisor, Inc.
S&P 500
NASDAQ Composite
RDG Internet Composite
*$100 invested on 12/21/11 in stock or 11/30/11 in index, including reinvestment of
dividends.
Fiscal year ending December 31.
Copyright© 2015 S&P, a division of The McGraw-Hill Companies Inc. All rights reserved.
This performance comparison graph is not “soliciting material,” is not deemed filed with the Securities and Exchange
Commission and is not deemed to be incorporated by reference by any general statement incorporating by reference this Annual
Report on Form 10-K into any filing of TripAdvisor, Inc. under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “Securities Act”), or any
filing under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange Act”), except to the extent that we specifically request
that the information be treated as soliciting material or specifically incorporate this information by reference into any such filing, and
will not otherwise be deemed incorporated by reference into any other filing under the Securities Act or the Exchange Act, except to
the extent that we specifically incorporate it by reference.
27
Holders of Record
As of February 6, 2015, there were 130,126,683 outstanding shares of our common stock held by 2,944 stockholders of record,
and 12,799,999 outstanding shares of our Class B common stock held by one stockholder of record: LTRIP.
Dividends
We have never declared or paid dividends and do not expect to pay any dividends for the foreseeable future. Our ability to pay
dividends is limited by the terms of a credit agreement, dated as of December 20, 2011, that provides for a revolving credit facility and
a term loan. See “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations – Term Loan Facility Due
2016 and Revolving Credit Facility” for additional information regarding our revolving credit facility and term loan. Any future
determination as to the declaration and payment of dividends, if any, will be at the discretion of our Board of Directors and will
depend on then-existing conditions, including our financial condition, operating results, contractual restrictions, capital requirements,
business prospects and other factors our Board of Directors may deem relevant.
Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities
During the year ended December 31, 2014, we did not issue or sell any shares of our common stock, Class B common stock or
other equity securities pursuant to unregistered transactions in reliance upon an exemption from the registration requirements of the
Securities Act of 1933, as amended.
Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities
We did not repurchase any shares of our common stock during the year ended December 31, 2014.
In February 2013, we announced that our Board of Directors authorized the repurchase of $250 million of our shares of
common stock under a share repurchase program. We have in the past, and intend to use in the future, available cash from operations
to fund repurchases under the share repurchase program. The repurchase program has no expiration date but may be suspended or
terminated by the Board of Directors at any time. The Executive Committee of our Board of Directors will determine the price, timing,
amount and method of such repurchases based on its evaluation of market conditions and other factors, and any shares repurchased
will be in compliance with applicable legal requirements, at prices determined to be attractive and in the best interests of both the
Company and its stockholders. As of December 31, 2014, we have $105 million remaining to repurchase shares of our common
stock under this share repurchase program.
Equity Compensation Plan Information
Our equity plan information required by this item is incorporated by reference to the information in Part III, Item 12. of this
Annual Report on Form 10-K.
28
Item 6.
Selected Financial Data
We have derived the following selected financial data presented below from our consolidated financial statements and related
notes. The information set forth below is not necessarily indicative of future results and should be read in conjunction with the
consolidated financial statements and related notes appearing in Item 8 “Financial Statements and Supplementary Data” and Item 7
“Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.
Historical results are not necessarily indicative of the results to be expected in any future period. The financial statements and related
financial information pertaining to the periods preceding December 21, 2011 have been presented on a combined basis and reflect the
results of TripAdvisor that were ultimately transferred to us as part of the Spin-Off.
(cid:3)
2014
2013
Year Ended December 31,
2011
2012
(in millions, except per share data)
2010
Consolidated Statements of Operations Data:
Revenue (1) .................................................................................... $
Operating income ...........................................................................
Net Income .....................................................................................
Net income attributable to TripAdvisor, Inc. .................................
Earnings per share attributable to TripAdvisor, Inc.
available to common stockholders:
1,246 $
340
226
226
945 $
294
205
205
763 $
296
195
194
637 $
273
178
178
Basic (2) .................................................................................... $
Diluted (2) ................................................................................
1.58 $
1.55
1.44 $
1.41
1.39 $
1.37
1.33 $
1.32
Shares used in computing net income per share:
Basic (2) ....................................................................................
Diluted (2) ................................................................................
143
146
143
145
139
141
133
135
485
226
139
139
1.04
1.04
133
133
Consolidated Balance Sheet Data:
Cash and cash equivalents, short and long term
marketable securities (3) ............................................
$
Working capital (3)(4) ..................................................
Total assets (3) ..............................................................
Long-term debt, less current portion (5) .......................
Other long-term obligations under build to suit lease ...
Total stockholders’ equity and invested equity (6) .......
2014
2013
December 31,
2012
(in millions)
2011
2010
594 $
366
1,959
260
67
1,125
670 $
387
1,473
300
8
865
586 $
437
1,299
340
—
727
184 $
152
836
380
—
294
93
34
723
—
—
540
2014
2013
Year Ended December 31,
2012
(in millions)
2011
2010
Other Financial Data:
Adjusted EBITDA (7) ................................................... $
468 $
379 $
352 $
323 $
261
(1) We no longer consider Expedia a related party. Certain reclassifications have been made to conform the prior period to the
current presentation relating to Expedia transactions, which includes the reclassification of revenue from Expedia on our
consolidated financial statements to revenue. See “Note 2 —Significant Accounting Policies” in the notes to the consolidated
financial statements in Item 8 regarding our reclassifications.
(2) See “Note 2 —Significant Accounting Policies” in the notes to the consolidated financial statements in Item 8 regarding our
(3)
calculation of earnings per share numbers.
Includes one-time exercise proceeds of $215 million related to stock warrant exercises for the year ended December 31, 2012.
See “Note 4— Stock Based Awards and Other Equity Instruments” in the notes to the consolidated financial statements in
Item 8 for additional information on our equity based instruments.
(4) Amount does not include available for sale long-term marketable securities of $31 million, $188 million, and $99 million, as of
December 31, 2014, 2013, and 2012, respectively.
(5) See “Note 8— Debt” in the notes to the consolidated financial statements for information regarding our long-term debt.
(6) See our consolidated statements of changes in stockholders’ equity and “Note 14— Stockholders’ Equity” in the notes to the
consolidated financial statements in Item 8 for additional information on changes to our stockholders’ equity and invested
capital.
29
(7) To provide investors with additional information regarding our financial results, we have disclosed Adjusted EBITDA, a non-
GAAP financial measure, within this Annual Report on Form 10-K. Adjusted EBITDA is the primary metric by which
management evaluates the performance of our business and on which internal budgets are based. We define Adjusted EBITDA
as net income (loss) plus: (1) provision for income taxes; (2) other income (expense), net; (3) depreciation of property and
equipment, including amortization of internal use software and website development; (4) amortization of intangible assets;
(5) stock-based compensation; and (6) non-recurring expenses. Such amounts are detailed below. See a discussion of “Adjusted
EBITDA” in Item 7. “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” within this
Annual Report on Form 10-K.
We have provided a reconciliation below of Adjusted EBITDA to net income, the most directly comparable GAAP financial
measure.
(cid:3)
Year Ended December 31,
2014
2013
2012
(in millions)
(cid:3)(cid:3)
2011
2010
Adjusted EBITDA ....................................................... $
Depreciation (1) .......................................................
Amortization of intangible assets ............................
Stock-based compensation .......................................
Spin-Off costs ..........................................................
Other expense, net ...................................................
Provision for income taxes ......................................
Net income ................................................................... $
468 $
(47)
(18)
(63)
—
(18)
(96)
226 $
379 $
(30)
(6)
(49)
—
(10)
(79)
205 $
352 $
(20 )
(6 )
(30 )
—
(14 )
(87 )
195 $
323 $
(18)
(8)
(17)
(7)
(1)
(94)
178 $
261
(13)
(15)
(7)
—
(2)
(85)
139
(1)
Includes amortization of internal use software and website development costs.
Item 7. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations
Overview
TripAdvisor, Inc. owns and operates a portfolio of leading online travel brands. TripAdvisor, our flagship brand, is the world’s
largest travel site, and our mission is to help people around the world plan and book the perfect trip. We accomplish this by, among
other things, aggregating millions of travelers’ reviews and opinions about accommodations, destinations, activities and attractions,
and restaurants throughout the world so that our users have access to trusted advice wherever their trip takes them. Our platform not
only helps users plan their trip with our unique user-generated content, but also enables users to compare real-time pricing and
availability so that they can book hotels, vacation rentals, flights, activities and attractions, and restaurants.
Our branded websites include tripadvisor.com in the United States and localized versions of the TripAdvisor website in 45 other
countries, including China under the brand, daodao.com. Our TripAdvisor-branded websites reached more than 315 million monthly
unique visitors during the year ended December 31, 2014, according to Google Analytics. We currently feature more than 200 million
reviews and opinions on 1.6 million accommodations – including more than 915,000 hotels and accommodations and 650,000
vacation rentals – as well as 2.4 million restaurants and more than 500,000 attractions in 147,000 destinations throughout the world. In
addition to user-generated content, our websites feature price comparison tools, links to partner websites, including travel advertisers,
where users can book their travel arrangements. Users may now also complete hotel bookings directly without our partners through
tripadvisor.com and also through the TripAdvisor mobile application where coverage is available. In addition to the flagship
TripAdvisor brand, we now manage and operate 24 other travel media brands, connected by the common goal of providing users the
most comprehensive travel-planning and trip-taking resources in the travel industry.
Executive Summary
Our long-term financial results are principally dependent on our ability to grow click-based advertising revenue, or CPC
revenue. We are investing in areas of potential CPC revenue growth, including Instant Booking, international expansion and
innovations in the mobile user experience. We are also investing in display-based advertising, Business Listings, Vacation Rentals,
Restaurants and Attractions. As the largest online travel website, we are an attractive marketing channel for advertisers—including
hotel chains, independent hoteliers, online travel agencies, destination marketing organizations, and other travel-related and non-travel
related product and service providers— who seek to sell their products and services to our large user base. The key drivers of our
click-based and display-based advertising revenue are described below, as well as a summary of our key growth areas, current trends
impacting our business and our reporting segments, which currently consists of our Hotel segment and Other segment.
30
Key Drivers of Click-Based Advertising Revenue
For the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012, 70%, 74% and 77%, respectively, of our total revenue came from our
CPC product. All of our CPC revenue is included in our Hotel segment. The key drivers of our CPC revenue include the growth in
monthly unique hotel shoppers and revenue per hotel shopper.
(cid:120) Hotel shoppers: We believe that total traffic growth, or growth in monthly visits from unique visitors, is reflective of our
overall brand growth. Additionally, we track and analyze sub-segments of our traffic and their correlation to revenue
generation and utilize data regarding hotel shoppers as a key indicator of revenue growth. We use the term “hotel
shoppers” to refer to visitors who view either a listing of hotels in a city or a specific hotel page. The number of hotel
shoppers tends to vary based on seasonality of the travel industry and general economic conditions, as well as other
factors outside of our control. Given these factors, as well as the trend towards increased usage on mobile devices (for
which usage trends continue to evolve) and international growth, quarterly and annual hotel shopper growth is difficult to
forecast. Unique hotel shoppers on TripAdvisor sites increased 17% for the year ended December 31, 2014 over 2013 and
increased 35% for the year ended December 31, 2013 over 2012, according to our log files. The deceleration of hotel
shopper growth for the year ended December 31, 2014 is primarily due to high hotel shopper growth from search engine
optimization (“SEO”) for the year ended December 31, 2013, which provides for a challenging comparative. Increasing
the number of hotel shoppers on our sites remains a top strategic priority.
As our traffic grows and we optimize the hotel shopper experience on our site, the number of pages on which a user can
engage with the TripAdvisor brand also grows. We have captured these additional page views in the data for the year
ended December 31, 2014 regarding hotel shopper growth and have also updated our historical hotel shopper growth
figure for the years ended December 31, 2013 and 2012 for comparative purposes. The impact of this change is
immaterial to hotel shopper growth and revenue per hotel shopper and did not affect our consolidated financial statements
for any period presented.
(cid:120) Revenue per hotel shopper: Revenue per hotel shopper is designed to measure how effectively we convert hotel shoppers
into revenue. Revenue per hotel shopper is made up of three factors—the number of monthly unique hotel shoppers, the
rate of conversion of a hotel shopper to a paid click and the price per click that we receive.
o Conversion: Conversion of a hotel shopper to a paid click on a TripAdvisor site is driven by three primary factors:
merchandising, commerce coverage and choice. We define merchandising as the number and location of ads that
are available on a page; we define commerce coverage as whether we have a client who can take an online
booking for a particular property; and we define choice as the number of clients available for any given property.
Hotel shoppers visiting via mobile generally convert to a paid click at a lower rate than hotel shoppers visiting via
desktop and tablet.
o Cost per click (CPC): Cost per click is the effective CPC that partners are willing to pay us for a hotel shopper
lead, by participating in a competitive bidding process which determines the CPC price paid. CPCs are generally
lower in emerging international markets as well as on mobile, given the use case and form factor of those devices.
Revenue per hotel shopper increased 7% for the year ended December 31, 2014 in comparison to 2013, and decreased
13% for the year ended December 31, 2013 in comparison to 2012, according to our log files. Revenue per hotel shopper
increased 7% for the year ended December 31, 2014, largely due to our implementation of hotel metasearch completed in
June of 2013, which has resulted in higher CPC pricing paid by our partners, due to higher quality clicks being delivered,
offset by relatively lower rates of hotel shopper conversion. Other factors that can impact revenue per hotel shopper
include the device and IP addresses from which users access TripAdvisor and the IP address of the user. In our
experience, hotel shoppers visiting on mobile devices generally exhibit a lower rate of conversion, monetize at a
significantly lower rate than hotel shoppers visiting via desktop or tablet and emerging international destinations tend to
have lower CPCs associated with them. A growing percentage of our hotel shoppers are using mobile; this trend will
create pressure on the revenue per hotel shopper metric, particularly if we fail to realize the opportunities we anticipate
with the transition to more mobile users.
Key Drivers of Display-Based Advertising Revenue
For the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012, 11%, 13% and 12%, respectively, of our total revenue came from our
display-based advertising products. Substantially all of our display-based advertising revenue is included in our Hotel segment. The
key drivers of our display-based advertising revenue include the growth in number of impressions sold, or the number of times an ad
is displayed on our site, and the revenue we received for such impressions, measured in cost per thousand impressions (“CPM”).
According to our logs, number of impressions sold increased 19% for the year ended December 31, 2014 over 2013 and increased
34% for the year ended December 31, 2013 over 2012, which has typically correlated to our hotel shopper growth rates, while pricing
decreased 1% for the year ended December 31, 2014 over 2013 and decreased 5% for the years ended December 31, 2013 over 2012.
31
Key Growth Areas
We continue to invest in areas of potential growth, including our content and community, product innovation, and international
expansion.
Content & Community. TripAdvisor is an online community in which travelers share their experiences with the rest of the
community. Establishing and reinforcing that sense of community is a key competitive advantage for TripAdvisor and is a component
of our long-term strategic growth plan. As a result, we continue to look for ways to make it easier for users and enjoy a more
personalized and social travel planning experience when planning their perfect trip on TripAdvisor and to share their experiences
(including by leveraging social features across devices and platforms).
Mobile. Improving our products and engaging our community on devices other than desktop computers, in particular mobile
phones, are key priorities that we believe are critical to maintaining and growing our user base over the long term. As of December 31,
2014, our mobile apps reached nearly 175 million downloads and average monthly unique visitors via smartphone and tablet devices
grew over 60% year-over-year from 87 million to 140 million, according to company log files. We anticipate that the rate of growth in
mobile visitors will continue to exceed the growth rate of our overall unique monthly visitors, and that an increasing proportion of
users will use mobile devices to access the full range of services available on our sites. We expect to continue to commit resources to
improve the features, functionality and commercialization of our mobile websites and applications.
Business Listings. Our Business Listings product enable hotel and accommodation owners to buy placement for pertinent
information on TripAdvisor, bringing them closer to potential customers and thereby increasing awareness, engagement, and
potentially, direct bookings. In the year ended December 31, 2014, we grew our Business Listings customer base 18% to 81,000
subscribers. We continue to expand our sales force and improve features to grow our subscriber base.
Vacation Rentals. In the year ended December 31, 2014, we grew our Vacation Rental property inventory 19% to more than
650,000 properties, driven by strong listings growth in our free-to-list model. We offer individual property owners and property
managers the ability to list using a free-to-list, commission-based structure or a subscription-based fee option and we believe our
highly-engaged and motivated user community creates a competitive advantage for us in this market.
Restaurants & Attractions. More than half of our users are not hotel shoppers as they visit TripAdvisor without navigating to
pages that contain a listing of hotels in a city or a specific hotel’s page. TripAdvisor has information and user-generated content on 2.4
million restaurants, and more than 500,000 tours and attractions in 147,000 destinations throughout the world. We believe
TripAdvisor has a unique opportunity to monetize its community of these non-hotel shoppers looking for places to eat and things to do.
With the acquisitions of Lafourchette for online restaurant reservations and Viator for online bookable tours and attractions, we are
attempting to match more users with more businesses on mobile and desktop.
Current Trends Affecting Our Business
There are a number of trends that affect our business. Following are examples of some of the current trends affecting our
business:
Increasing Competition. The travel review industry and, more generally, the business of collecting and aggregating travel-
related resources and information, continue to be increasingly competitive. In recent years, an increasing number of companies, such
as search companies Google, Inc. and Baidu.com, Inc. and large OTAs, have begun to collect and aggregate travel information and
resources. We plan to continue to invest in order to remain the leading source of travel reviews as well as continue to enhance our user
experience. In addition, we face strong competition in our Other segment, including vacation rentals, restaurants and attractions.
Refer to our discussion above in “—Competition” in Item 1 “Business” section for additional information on our competition.
Increasing Use of Internet and Social Media to Access Travel Information. Commerce, information and advertising continue to
migrate to the Internet and away from traditional media outlets. We believe that this trend will continue to create strategic growth
opportunities, allowing us to attract new consumers and develop unique and effective advertising solutions. Consumers are
increasingly using online social media channels, such as Facebook and Twitter, as a means to communicate and exchange information,
including travel information and opinions. Over the years, we have made significant progress using social networking to leverage the
expanding use of these channels and enhance traffic diversification and user engagement. We will continue to adapt our user
experience in response to a changing Internet environment and usage trends.
Increasing Use of Devices Other than Desktop Computers. Users are increasingly using devices other than desktop computers,
including mobile phones, smartphones and handheld computers such as notebooks and tablets, to access the Internet. To address these
growing user demands, we continue to extend our platform to develop mobile phone and tablet applications to deliver travel
information and resources. Although the substantial majority of our mobile phone users also access and engage with our websites on
32
personal computers and tablets where we display advertising, our users could decide to access our products primarily through mobile
phone devices. We do display graphic advertising on smartphones; however, our mobile phone monetization strategies are still
developing, as mobile phone monetization is significantly less than desktop and tablet monetization. Mobile phone growth and
development remains a key strategy and we will continue to invest and innovate in this growing platform to help us maintain and grow
our user base, engagement and monetization over the long term. An example of our mobile development efforts is Instant Booking,
which we integrated into our smartphone sessions in 2014. This product feature allows travelers to complete a hotel reservation,
powered by our OTA and hotelier partners, while remaining on the TripAdvisor mobile app.
Continued Reliance on Click-Based Advertising Revenue. In recent years, the majority of our revenue growth resulted from
higher click-based advertising revenue due to increased traffic on our websites and an increase in the volume of clicks on our
advertisers’ placements. Although click-based advertising revenue growth has generally been driven by traffic volume, we remain
focused on the various other factors that could impact revenue growth, including, but not limited to, the growth in hotel shoppers, CPC
pricing fluctuations, the overall economy, the ability of advertisers to monetize our traffic, the quality and mix of traffic to our
websites, and the quality and mix of traffic from our advertising placements to advertisers, as well as advertisers’ evolving approach to
transaction attribution models and return on investment targets. We monitor and regularly respond to changes in these factors in order
to strategically improve our user experience, customer satisfaction and monetization in this dynamic environment. For example, in
order to improve user experience, we introduced metasearch functionality to our hotel shoppers in 2013 as discussed under
“Improving the Experience” in the “Our Strategy” section in Item 1 “Business.”
Risks Associated with Transaction-Based Revenue. We currently derive only a small percentage of our revenue from
transaction-based offerings; however, these types of offerings create additional risks and expenses. Transaction revenue is derived
from making online bookings available for, among other things, hotel rooms, vacation rentals and destination activities. During the
course of making these arrangements, we collect, use, transmit and store personal information and other consumer data. The
protection of this data is critically important to us. An increasing number of websites, including the website operated by our
subsidiary Viator, have reported compromises of their systems and the data stored within those systems. We rely on strong encryption,
authentication and network perimeter security to effectively secure confidential information; however, despite our security measures,
our brands’ information technologies and infrastructures may be vulnerable to cyber-attacks or security incidents due to system
configurations, employee error, malfeasance or other vulnerabilities. Advances in computer capabilities, new discoveries in the field
of cryptography or other developments may result in the breach or compromise of the technology used by us to protect transaction
data. In the future, we expect to expend additional resources to enhance our security measures, protect against security breaches
and/or to address problems caused by breaches. As we expand our transaction-based businesses, the challenges we face will become
more difficult and the measures we must take to protect against them will become more costly.
Segments
During the fourth quarter of 2014, management revised our reportable segments to reflect changes in the management reporting
structure of the organization, primarily due to recent business acquisitions, and the manner in which the chief operating decision
maker regularly assesses information and evaluates performance for operating decision-making purposes, including allocation of
resources. We believe this new segment structure better provides the CODM with information to assess performance and to make
resource allocation decisions. The chief operating decision maker for the Company is our Chief Executive Officer.
The revised reporting structure includes two reportable segments: Hotel and Other. Our Other segment consists of the
aggregation of three operating segments, which include our Vacation Rentals, Restaurants and Attractions businesses. All prior
periods have been reclassified to conform to the current reporting structure. These reclassifications had no effect on our consolidated
financial statements.
For further description of our segments see Item 1, Business.
33
Revenue............................................................................... $
1,246 $
945 $
763
2012
2014 vs. 2013
% Change
2013 vs. 2012
24%
32%
Results of Operations
Selected Financial Data
(in millions, except per share data)
Year ended December 31,
2013
2014
Costs and expenses:
Cost of revenue (exclusive of amortization) (1) ............
Selling and marketing (2) ..............................................
Technology and content (2) ...........................................
General and administrative (2) ......................................
Depreciation ..................................................................
Amortization of intangible assets ..................................
Total costs and expenses .....................................................
Operating income ................................................................
Other income (expense):
Interest expense .............................................................
Interest income and other, net ........................................
Total other expense, net ......................................................
Income before income taxes ................................................
Provision for income taxes ..................................................
Net income ..........................................................................
Net (income) loss attributable to noncontrolling interest ....
Net income attributable to TripAdvisor, Inc. ...................... $
Earnings per share attributable to TripAdvisor, Inc.
available to common stockholders:
40
502
171
128
47
18
906
340
(9)
(9)
(18)
322
(96)
226
-
226 $
18
368
131
98
30
6
651
294
(10)
-
(10)
284
(79)
205
-
205 $
Basic .............................................................................. $
Diluted ........................................................................... $
1.58 $
1.55 $
1.44 $
1.41 $
Weighted average common shares outstanding:
Basic ..............................................................................
Diluted ...........................................................................
143
146
143
145
12
266
87
76
20
6
467
296
(11 )
(3 )
(14 )
282
(87 )
195
(1 )
194
1.39
1.37
139
141
122%
36%
31%
31%
57%
200%
39%
16%
(10)%
100%
80%
13%
22%
10%
0%
10%
10%
10%
0%
1%
Other financial data:
Adjusted EBITDA (3) ......................................................... $
468 $
379 $
352
23%
50%
38%
51%
29%
50%
0%
39%
(1)%
(9)%
(100)%
(29)%
1%
(9)%
5%
(100)%
6%
4%
3%
3%
3%
8%
(1) Excludes amortization as follows:
Amortization of acquired technology included in
amortization of intangibles .........................................
Amortization of website development costs
included in depreciation ..............................................
$
$
(2) Includes stock-based compensation expense as
follows:
Selling and marketing .................................................... $
Technology and content .................................................
General and administrative ............................................
4 $
1 $
30
34 $
13 $
27
23
20
21 $
11 $
21
17
1
13
14
5
11
14
(3) See “Adjusted EBITDA” discussion below for more information and for a reconciliation of Adjusted EBITDA to net income,
the most directly comparable financial measure calculated and presented in accordance with GAAP.
34
Adjusted EBITDA
To provide investors with additional information regarding our financial results, we also disclose Adjusted EBITDA, which is a
non-GAAP financial measure. We have provided a reconciliation below of Adjusted EBITDA to net income, the most directly
comparable GAAP financial measure. A “non-GAAP financial measure” refers to a numerical measure of a company’s historical or
future financial performance, financial position, or cash flows that excludes (or includes) amounts that are included in (or excluded
from) the most directly comparable measure calculated and presented in accordance with GAAP in such company’s financial
statements.
We define Adjusted EBITDA as net income (loss) plus: (1) provision for income taxes; (2) other income (expense), net;
(3) depreciation of property and equipment, including amortization of internal use software and website development; (4) amortization
of intangible assets; (5) stock-based compensation; and (6) non-recurring expenses. Adjusted EBITDA is the primary metric by which
management evaluates the performance of its business and on which internal budgets are based. In particular, the exclusion of certain
expenses in calculating Adjusted EBITDA facilitates operating performance comparisons on a period-to-period basis. We believe that
by excluding certain non-cash expenses, such as stock-based compensation and non-recurring expenses, Adjusted EBITDA
corresponds more closely to the cash that operating income generated from our business and allows investors to gain an understanding
of the factors and trends affecting the ongoing cash earnings capabilities of our business, from which capital investments are made and
debt is serviced.
Our use of Adjusted EBITDA has limitations as an analytical tool, and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute
for analysis of our results reported in accordance with GAAP. Some of these limitations are:
(cid:120) Adjusted EBITDA does not reflect our cash expenditures or future requirements for capital expenditures or contractual
commitments;
(cid:120) Adjusted EBITDA does not reflect changes in, or cash requirements for, our working capital needs;
(cid:120) Adjusted EBITDA does not reflect the interest expense, or cash requirements necessary to service interest or principal
payments on our debt;
(cid:120) Adjusted EBITDA does not consider the potentially dilutive impact of stock-based compensation;
(cid:120) Although depreciation and amortization are non-cash charges, the assets being depreciated and amortized may have to be
replaced in the future, and Adjusted EBITDA does not reflect cash capital expenditure requirements for such replacements
or for new capital expenditure requirements;
(cid:120) Adjusted EBITDA does not reflect tax payments that may represent a reduction in cash available to us; and
(cid:120) Other companies, including companies in our own industry, may calculate Adjusted EBITDA differently than we do,
limiting its usefulness as a comparative measure.
Because of these limitations, you should consider Adjusted EBITDA alongside other financial performance measures, including
cash flows, net income and our other GAAP results.
Refer to “Note 16— Segment and Geographic Information” in the notes to our consolidated financial statements for a
reconciliation of Adjusted EBITDA to net income, the most directly comparable financial measure calculated and presented in
accordance with GAAP, for the periods presented above.
Reclassifications
As previously disclosed, we no longer consider Expedia a related party. Certain reclassifications have been made to conform the
prior period to the current presentation relating to Expedia transactions, which includes the reclassification of revenue from Expedia
on our statements of operations for the years ended December 31, 2013 and 2012 of $217 million and $204 million, respectively, to
revenue, the reclassification of receivables at December 31, 2013 of $16 million, from Expedia, net on our consolidated balance sheets
to accounts receivable, as well as operating cash flow reclassifications related to Expedia for the years ended December 31, 2013 and
2012 of cash provided of $8 million and cash used of $17 million, respectively, to operating cash flows for accounts receivable on our
consolidated statements of cash flows those years. These reclassifications had no net effect on our consolidated financial statements.
In addition, as discussed above, we revised our reportable segment structure during the fourth quarter of 2014. Consequently all
prior periods have been reclassified to conform to the current reporting structure, which is reflected in all segment disclosures made in
this Form 10-K. These reclassifications had no effect on our consolidated financial statements.
35
All other reclassifications, made to conform the prior periods to the current presentation, were not material and had no net effect
on our consolidated financial statements.
Consolidated Revenue and Segments
Revenue by Product
We derive the substantial portion of our revenue through the sale of advertising, primarily through click-based advertising and,
to a lesser extent, display-based advertising. In addition, we earn revenue from a combination of subscription-based and transaction-
based offerings, including: Business Listings; subscription and commission-based offerings from our Vacation Rentals products;
transaction revenue from selling room nights through our Jetsetter and Tingo brands; selling destination activities from newly-
acquired Viator; fulfilling online restaurant reservations through Lafourchette; as well as other revenue including content licensing.
Year ended December 31,
% Change
2014
2013
(in millions)
2012
2014 vs
2013
2013 vs
2012
Click-based advertising .................................... $
Display-based advertising .................................
Subscription, transaction and other* .................
Total revenue ............................................... $
870 $
140
236
1,246 $
696 $
119
130
945 $
588
94
81
763
25 %
18 %
82 %
32 %
18%
27%
60%
24%
* Substantially all revenue reported in our Other segment is from our subscription, transaction and other products.
2014 vs. 2013
Revenue increased $301 million during the year ended December 31, 2014 when compared to the same period in 2013,
primarily due to an increase in click-based advertising revenue of $174 million. The primary driver of the increase in click-based
advertising revenue was an increase in hotel shoppers of 17% and an increase in revenue per hotel shopper of 7% for the year ended
December 31, 2014. Display-based advertising increased by $21 million during the year ended December 31, 2014, primarily as a
result of a 19% increase in the number of impressions sold when compared to the same period in 2013, primarily due to increased
sales productivity, ad tech improvements that have enhanced marketers ability to target, coupled with worldwide growth particularly
in emerging markets, partially offset by a decrease in pricing by 1% for the same period. Subscription, transaction and other revenue
increased by $106 million during the year ended December 31, 2014, primarily due to growth in our Business Listings and Vacation
Rentals products, as well as revenue generated by the businesses we acquired during 2014 of $43 million.
2013 vs. 2012
Revenue increased $182 million during the year ended December 31, 2013 when compared to the same period in 2012,
primarily due to an increase in click-based advertising revenue of $108 million. The primary driver of the increase in click-based
advertising revenue was an increase in hotel shoppers of 35% for the year ended December 31, 2013, partially offset by lower revenue
per hotel shopper of 13% for the year ended December 31, 2013, primarily due to a combination of lower user conversion related to
our transition to hotel metasearch, growth in hotel shoppers on smartphones, which have a lower monetization rate than desktops and
tablets, and growth in emerging international markets that are currently monetizing at lower levels than our mature markets. Display-
based advertising increased by $25 million during the year ended December 31, 2013, primarily as a result of a 34% increase in the
number of impressions sold due to increased sales productivity coupled with our new Delayed Ad Call product, and worldwide growth
particularly in emerging markets when compared to the same period in 2013, partially offset by a decrease in pricing by 5% for the
year ended December 31, 2013. Subscription, transaction and other revenue increased by $49 million during the year ended
December 31, 2013, primarily due to growth in our Business Listings and Vacation Rentals products.
36
Segment Results
Year ended December 31,
2013
2012
2014
% Change
2014 vs. 2013
2013 vs. 2012
REVENUE:
Hotel ............................................................... $ 1,135 $
Other ...............................................................
111
Total revenue ............................................. $ 1,246 $
(in millions)
899 $
46
945 $
ADJUSTED EBITDA (1):
Hotel ............................................................... $
Other ...............................................................
Total ADJUSTED EBITDA...................... $
ADJUSTED EBITDA Margin (2):
Hotel ...............................................................
Other ...............................................................
472 $
(4)
384 $
(5)
468
$
379
$
42%
(4)%
43%
(11)%
48%
10%
732
31
763
349
3
352
26 %
141 %
32 %
23 %
20 %
23 %
23%
48%
24%
10%
(267)%
8%
(1)
Included in Adjusted EBITDA is a general and administrative expense allocation for each segment, which is based on the segment’s percentage of our
total personnel costs. See “Note 16 — Segment and Geographic Information,” in the notes to our consolidated financial statements for more
information.
(2) We define “Adjusted EBITDA margin”, a non-GAAP measure, as Adjusted EBITDA as a percentage of revenue. See “Adjusted EBITDA” discussion
above for more information on the limitations of using Adjusted EBITDA, a non-GAAP measure, as an analytical tool.
Hotel
2014 vs. 2013
Our Hotel segment revenue increased $236 million during the year ended December 31, 2014 when compared to the same
period in 2013, primarily due to an increase in click-based advertising revenue of $174 million and an increase in display-based
advertising of $21 million. Subscription, transaction and other revenue increased by $41 million during the year ended December 31,
2014 when compared to the same period in 2013, primarily due to growth in Business Listings.
Adjusted EBITDA in our hotel segment increased $88 million during the year ended December 31, 2014 when compared to the
same period in 2013, due to an increase in revenue, partially offset, primarily by increased personnel and overhead costs, and SEM
and other online traffic acquisition costs. The segment’s Adjusted EBITDA margin for the year ended December 31, 2014, was
essentially flat when compared to the same period in 2013.
Other
Our Other segment revenue increased $65 million during the year ended December 31, 2014 when compared to the same period
in 2013. This was driven by growth in Vacation Rentals, primarily due to our free-to-list commission-based booking model, as well as
by incremental revenue, primarily related to our 2014 acquisitions of Lafourchette and Viator.
Adjusted EBITDA in our Other segment remained essentially flat during the year ended December 31, 2014 when compared to
the same period in 2013. Our Vacation Rentals, Attractions, and Restaurants businesses, are all at earlier stages of their growth and
business life cycle, and therefore at points requiring significant investments to fund growth initiatives, which is a contributing factor to
this reportable segment currently operating at a loss.
Hotel
2013 vs. 2012
Our Hotel segment revenue increased $167 million during the year ended December 31, 2013 when compared to the same
period in 2012, primarily due to an increase in click-based advertising revenue of $108 million and an increase in display-based
advertising of $25 million. Subscription, transaction and other revenue increased by $34 million during the year ended December 31,
2013 when compared to the same period in 2012, primarily due to growth in Business Listings.
37
Adjusted EBITDA in our hotel segment increased $35 million during the year ended December 31, 2014 when compared to the
same period in 2013, due to an increase in revenue, partially offset, primarily by increased personnel and overhead costs, SEM and
other online traffic acquisition costs, and costs incurred for our 2013 television advertising campaign, offset by a decrease in social
media costs. The segment’s Adjusted EBITDA margin for the year ended December 31, 2013, decreased by 5% when compared to the
same period in 2012.
Other
Our Other segment revenue increased $15 million during the year ended December 31, 2013 when compared to the same period
in 2012. This was driven by growth in Vacation Rentals.
Adjusted EBITDA in our Other segment decreased by $8 million during the year ended December 31, 2013 when compared to
the same period in 2012. This was driven by increased spending to fund growth initiatives in Vacation Rentals.
Revenue by Geography
The following table presents our revenue by geographic region, which reflects how we view our geographic revenue internally.
Revenue by geography is based on the geographic location of our websites:
2014
Year ended December 31,
2013
(in millions)
2012
2014 vs 2013
2013 vs 2012
% Change
Revenue by geographic region:
North America (1) ......................................................... $
EMEA (2) ......................................................................
APAC (3) .......................................................................
LATAM (4) ...................................................................
Total ............................................................................ $
629 $
405
156
56
1,246 $
494 $
291
122
38
945 $
409
240
82
32
763
27%
39%
28%
47%
32%
21%
21%
49%
19%
24%
(1) United States and Canada*
(2) Europe, Middle East and Africa
(3) Asia-Pacific
(4) Latin America
*
Canada is included in international revenue below for discussion purposes.
International revenue increased $171 million and $105 million during the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013,
respectively, compared to the same periods in 2013 and 2012. International revenue represented 52%, 51%, and 49% of total revenue
during the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013, and 2012, respectively. The increase in international revenue, in absolute dollars
and as a percentage of total revenue, is primarily due to additional investment in international expansion and growth in international
hotel shoppers.
Consolidated Expenses
Cost of Revenue
Cost of revenue consists of expenses that are directly related or closely correlated to revenue generation, including direct costs,
such as ad serving fees, flight search fees, transaction fees and data center costs. In addition, cost of revenue includes personnel and
overhead expenses, including salaries, benefits, stock-based compensation and bonuses for certain customer support personnel who
are directly involved in revenue generation.
Direct costs .......................................................................... $
Personnel and overhead ......................................................
Total cost of revenue ..................................................... $
% of revenue ..................................................................
31 $
9
40 $
3.2%
18 $
-
18 $
1.9%
12
-
12
1.6 %
72%
100%
122%
50%
0%
50%
2014
Year ended December 31,
2013
(in millions)
2012
2014 vs 2013
2013 vs 2012
% Change
38
2014 vs. 2013
Cost of revenue increased $22 million during the year ended December 31, 2014, respectively, when compared to the same
periods in 2013, primarily due to increased data center costs, driven by higher site traffic; increased merchant credit card and
transaction fees, driven by additional transaction costs from our recent business acquisitions and free-to-list growth in our Vacation
Rental business; and customer support costs. In total, our restaurant and attraction businesses contributed $6 million to our cost of
revenue in 2014, of which $3 million related to personnel and overhead.
2013 vs. 2012
Cost of revenue increased $6 million during the year ended December 31, 2013 when compared to the same period in 2012,
primarily due to increased data center costs, driven by higher site traffic and merchant credit card fees.
Selling and Marketing
Sales and marketing expenses primarily consist of direct costs, including SEM and other online traffic acquisition costs,
syndication costs and affiliate program commissions, brand advertising, television and other offline advertising, and public relations.
In addition, our indirect sales and marketing expense consists of personnel and overhead expenses, including salaries, commissions,
benefits, stock-based compensation and bonuses for sales, sales support, customer support and marketing employees.
Direct costs .......................................................................... $
Personnel and overhead ......................................................
Total selling and marketing ........................................... $
% of revenue .......................................................................
347 $
155
502 $
40.3%
243 $
125
368 $
38.9%
177
89
266
34.9 %
43%
24%
36%
37%
40%
38%
2014
Year ended December 31,
2013
(in millions)
2012
2014 vs 2013
2013 vs 2012
% Change
2014 vs. 2013
Direct selling and marketing costs increased $104 million during the year ended December 31, 2014 when compared to the same
period in 2013, primarily due to increased SEM costs, other online traffic acquisition costs, costs related to our television campaign, in
addition to incremental costs from our recent business acquisitions, partially offset by a decrease in spending in social media costs and
other offline advertising costs, excluding television advertising. We spent $33 million on our new television campaign during the year
ended December 31, 2014, which was launched in May 2014. Personnel and overhead costs increased $30 million during the year
ended December 31, 2014 when compared to the same period in 2013, primarily due to an increase in headcount to support business
growth, including international expansion and employees joining us through recent business acquisitions, which also increased stock-
based compensation costs. In total, our restaurant and attraction businesses contributed $25 million to our selling and marketing
expense in 2014, of which $8 million related to personnel and overhead.
2013 vs. 2012
Direct selling and marketing costs increased $66 million during the year ended December 31, 2013 when compared to the same
period in 2012, primarily due to increased SEM costs, other traffic acquisition costs and brand advertising costs, and an increase in
offline advertising costs, primarily television advertising of $30 million, partially offset by a decrease in spending in social media
costs. Personnel and overhead costs increased $36 million during the year ended December 31, 2013 when compared to the same
period in 2012, primarily due to an increase in headcount to support business growth, including international expansion and employees
joining us through business acquisitions, and also increased stock-based compensation costs.
Technology and Content
Technology and content expenses consist of personnel and overhead expenses, including salaries and benefits, stock-based
compensation and bonuses for salaried employees and contractors engaged in the design, development, testing, content support, and
maintenance of our websites and mobile apps. Other costs include licensing, maintenance expense, computer supplies, and technology
hardware.
39
Personnel and overhead ...................................................... $
Other ...................................................................................
Total technology and content ......................................... $
% of revenue .......................................................................
147 $
24
171 $
13.7%
114 $
17
131 $
13.9%
76
11
87
11.4 %
29%
41%
31%
50%
55%
51%
2014
Year ended December 31,
2013
(in millions)
2012
2014 vs 2013
2013 vs 2012
% Change
2014 vs. 2013
Technology and content costs increased $40 million during the year ended December 31, 2014 when compared to the same
period in 2013, primarily due to increased personnel costs from increased headcount to support business growth, including
international expansion and enhanced site features, as well as additional personnel costs related to employees joining us through recent
business acquisitions and also increased stock-based compensation costs. In total, our restaurant and attraction businesses contributed
$6 million to our technology and content expense in 2014, of which $4 million related to personnel and overhead.
2013 vs. 2012
Technology and content costs increased $44 million during the year ended December 31, 2013 when compared to the same
period in 2012, primarily due to increased personnel costs from increased headcount to support business growth, including
international expansion, enhanced site features, extending our products onto smartphone and tablet platforms, and development of our
hotel metasearch product, as well as an increase in stock based compensation and additional personnel costs related to employees
joining us through business acquisitions.
General and Administrative
General and administrative expense consists primarily of personnel and related overhead costs, for personnel engaged in
executive leadership, finance, legal, and human resources and stock-based compensation as well as professional service fees and other
fees including audit, legal, tax and accounting, and other costs including bad debt expense and our charitable foundation costs.
Personnel and overhead ...................................................... $
Professional service fees and other .....................................
Total general and administrative .................................... $
% of revenue ..................................................................
87 $
41
128 $
10.3%
66 $
32
98 $
10.4%
51
25
76
10.0 %
32%
28%
31%
29%
28%
29%
2014
Year ended December 31,
2013
(in millions)
2012
2014 vs 2013
2013 vs 2012
% Change
2014 vs. 2013
General and administrative costs increased $30 million during the year ended December 31, 2014, when compared to the same
period in 2013, primarily due to personnel costs and overhead costs related to an increase in headcount to support our business
operations, as well as additional personnel costs related to employees joining us through recent business acquisitions and professional
fees primarily related to our 2014 business acquisitions, higher charitable contributions and increased bad debt expense. In total, our
restaurant and attraction businesses contributed $8 million to our cost of revenue in 2014, of which $5 million related to personnel and
overhead.
2013 vs. 2012
General and administrative costs increased $22 million during the year ended December 31, 2013, when compared to the same
period in 2012, primarily due to increased personnel costs related to an increase in stock-based compensation, as well as increased
headcount to support business growth and additional professional service fees in order to support our operations and an increase in our
bad debt provision.
40
Depreciation
Depreciation .......................................................................... $
% of revenue ....................................................................
47 $
3.8%
30 $
3.2 %
20
2.6%
Year ended December 31,
2014
2013
(in millions)
2012
Depreciation expense increased $17 million during the year ended December 31, 2014 when compared to the same period in
2013 primarily due to increased amortization related to capitalized software and website development costs.
2014 vs. 2013
Depreciation expense increased $10 million during the year ended December 31, 2013 when compared to the same period in
2012 primarily due to increased amortization related to capitalized software and website development costs.
2013 vs. 2012
Amortization of Intangible Assets
Amortization of intangible assets ........................................... $
% of revenue .....................................................................
18 $
1.4%
6 $
0.6 %
6
0.8%
2014
Year ended December 31,
2013
(in millions)
2012
2014 vs. 2013
Amortization of intangible assets increased $12 million during the year ended December 31, 2014 when compared to the same
period in 2013, primarily due to incremental amortization on purchased definite lived intangibles related to our 2014 business
acquisitions. Refer to “Note 3— Acquisition” in the notes to our consolidated financial statements for additional information on our
acquisitions.
2013 vs. 2012
Amortization of intangible assets did not materially change during the year ended December 31, 2013 when compared to the
same period in 2012. Incremental amortization related to acquired definite lived intangibles from business acquisitions during 2013
was offset by the completion of amortization related to certain technology intangible assets from prior years.
Interest Expense
Interest expense primarily consists of interest incurred, commitment fees and debt issuance cost amortization related to our
Credit Agreement and Chinese Credit Facilities.
Interest expense ...................................................................... $
2014 vs. 2013
2014
Year ended December 31,
2013
(in millions)
(9) $
(10 ) $
2012
(11)
Interest expense decreased $1 million during the year ended December 31, 2014 when compared to the same periods in 2013,
primarily due to a lower principal on our term loan amount related to our Credit Agreement. Refer to “Note 8— Debt” for additional
information on our outstanding borrowing facilities.
41
Interest expense decreased $1 million during the year ended December 31, 2013 when compared to the same periods in 2012,
primarily due to a combination of a lower principal amount and a lower effective interest rate on our Term Loan related to our Credit
Agreement. Refer to “Note 8— Debt” for additional information on our outstanding borrowing facilities.
2013 vs. 2012
Interest Income and Other, Net
Interest income and other, net primarily consists of interest earned and amortization of discounts and premiums on our
marketable securities, and net foreign exchange gains and losses.
Interest income and other, net ................................................. $
(9) $
- $
(3)
2014
Year ended December 31,
2013
(in millions)
2012
2014 vs. 2013
Interest income and other, net decreased $9 million during the year ended December 31, 2014, respectively, when compared to
the same periods in 2013, primarily due to the fluctuation of foreign exchange rates. Our interest income is primarily due to investing
in marketable securities. Refer to “Note 5— Financial Instruments” for additional information on our portfolio investment as of
December 31, 2014.
2013 vs. 2012
Interest income and other, net increased $3 million during the year ended December 31, 2013, respectively, when compared to
the same periods in 2012, primarily due to the fluctuation of foreign exchange rates. Our interest income is primarily due to investing
in marketable securities. Refer to “Note 5— Financial Instruments” for additional information on our portfolio investment as of
December 31, 2013.
Provision for Income Taxes
Provision for income taxes ..................................................... $
Effective tax rate ...............................................................
96 $
29.8%
79 $
27.8 %
87
30.9%
2014
Year ended December 31,
2013
(in millions)
2012
2014 vs. 2013
Our effective tax rate increased 2% during the year ended December 31, 2014 over the same period in 2013. The change in the
effective tax rate for 2014 compared to the 2013 rate was primarily due to a change in jurisdictional earnings and certain discrete
items.
Our effective tax rate is less than the federal statutory rate primarily due to earnings in jurisdictions outside the United States,
where our effective tax rate is lower. This is partly driven by a decrease in the statutory tax rate in the United Kingdom from 23% to
21% in 2014, and our tax incentive on qualifying income in Singapore granted by the Singapore Economic Development Board in
2011. Our effective tax rate is partially offset by state income taxes, non-deductible stock compensation and accruals on uncertain tax
positions.
The United Kingdom statutory tax rate is set to decrease from 21% to 20% effective April 1, 2015, which will reduce our
effective tax rate.
42
2013 vs. 2012
Our effective tax rate decreased 2% during the year ended December 31, 2013 over the same period in 2012.
The decrease in the effective tax rate for 2013 compared to the 2012 rate was primarily due to an increase in earnings in
jurisdictions outside the United States as well as an internal restructuring that occurred during the fourth quarter of 2012. This
restructuring was undertaken within our non-U.S. operations to align our global structure for more efficient treasury management and
global cash deployment. Additionally, during the third quarter of 2013, Massachusetts enacted a statute that changed how sales are
apportioned from being a cost of performance measure to market based sourcing, which resulted in a lower overall state effective tax
rate.
Liquidity and Capital Resources
The following section explains how we have generated and used our cash historically, describes our current capital resources
and discusses our future financial commitments.
Cash Requirements
The following table aggregates our material contractual obligations and minimum commercial commitments as of December 31,
2014:
Total
Less than
1 year
1 to 3 years 3 to 5 years
(in millions)
More than
5 years
By Period
Term Loan (1) ...................................................................... $
Expected interest payments on Term Loan (1) ....................
Chinese credit facilities (1) ..................................................
Operating leases ...................................................................
Build to suit lease obligation (2) ..........................................
Total (3)(4)(5)(6) .................................................................. $
300 $
9
38
114
143
604 $
40 $
5
38
19
1
103 $
260 $
4
—
27
18
309 $
— $
—
—
26
18
44 $
—
—
—
42
106
148
(1) The amounts included as expected interest payments on the Term Loan in this table are based on the current effective interest
rate and payment terms as of December 31, 2014, but, could change significantly in the future. Amounts assume that our
existing debt is repaid at maturity and do not assume additional borrowings or refinancings of existing debt. See “Note 8—
Debt” in the notes to the consolidated financial statements for additional information on our Term Loan and Chinese Credit
Facilities.
(2) Estimated future minimum rental payments for our future corporate headquarters in Needham, MA. See discussion under
“Office Lease Commitments” below.
(3) Excludes current liabilities already recorded on the consolidated balance sheet at December 31, 2014, as these liabilities are
expected to be paid within one year.
(4) Excluded from the table was $68 million of unrecognized tax benefits, including interest, that we have recorded in other long-
term liabilities for which we cannot make a reasonably reliable estimate of the amount and period of payment. We estimate that
approximately $1 million will be paid within the next twelve months.
(5) Excluded from the table is our obligation to fund a charitable foundation. The Board of Directors of the charitable foundation is
currently comprised of Stephen Kaufer- President and Chief Executive Officer, Julie M.B. Bradley-Chief Financial Officer and
Seth J. Kalvert- Senior Vice President, General Counsel and Secretary. Our obligation was calculated at 2.0% of OIBA in 2014.
For a discussion regarding OIBA see “Note 16— Segment and Geographic Information” in the notes to the consolidated
financial statements.
(6) Excludes spending on anticipated leasehold improvements on our Needham, Massachusetts lease, including design,
development, construction costs, and the purchase and installation of equipment, net of related landlord incentives which we
estimate will be in the range of $25-$30 million primarily incurred during the first six months of 2015.
43
Term Loan Facility Due 2016 and Revolving Credit Facility
On December 20, 2012, in connection with the Spin-Off, we entered into the Credit Agreement, which provides $600 million of
borrowing including:
(cid:120)
(cid:120)
the Term Loan Facility, or Term Loan, in an aggregate principal amount of $400 million with a term of five years due
December 2016; and
the Revolving Credit Facility in an aggregate principal amount of $200 million available in U.S. dollars, Euros and British
pound sterling with a term of five years expiring December 2016.
The Term Loan and any loans under the Revolving Credit Facility bear interest by reference to a base rate or a Eurocurrency
rate, in either case plus an applicable margin based on our leverage ratio. We are also required to pay a quarterly commitment fee, on
the average daily unused portion of the Revolving Credit Facility for each fiscal quarter and fees in connection with the issuance of
letters of credit. The Term Loan and loans under the Revolving Credit Facility currently bear interest at LIBOR plus 150 basis points,
or the Eurocurrency Spread, or the alternate base rate (“ABR”) plus 50 basis points, and undrawn amounts are currently subject to a
commitment fee of 22.5 basis points.
As of December 31, 2014 we are using a one-month interest period Eurocurrency Spread which is approximately 1.7% per
annum. Interest is currently payable on a monthly basis while we are borrowing under the one-month interest rate period. The current
interest rates are based on current assumptions, leverage and LIBOR rates and do not take into account that rates will reset
periodically. A 25 basis point change in the interest rate on the current Term Loan balance would result in an increase or decrease to
interest expense of approximately $1 million per annum.
The Revolving Credit Facility includes $40 million of borrowing capacity available for letters of credit and $40 million for
borrowings on same-day notice. As of December 31, 2014 there are no outstanding borrowings under our Revolving Credit Facility.
Prepayments
We may voluntarily repay any outstanding borrowing under the Credit Agreement at any time without premium or penalty,
other than customary breakage costs with respect to Eurocurrency loans.
Guarantees
All obligations under the Credit Agreement are unconditionally guaranteed by us and each of our existing and subsequently
acquired or organized direct or indirect wholly-owned domestic and foreign restricted subsidiaries, subject to certain exceptions for
subsidiaries that are controlled foreign corporations, foreign subsidiaries in jurisdictions where applicable law would otherwise be
violated and non-material subsidiaries.
Covenants
The Credit Agreement contains a number of covenants that, among other things, restrict our ability to: incur additional
indebtedness, create liens, enter into sale and leaseback transactions, engage in mergers or consolidations, sell or transfer assets, pay
dividends and distributions, make investments, loans or advances, prepay certain subordinated indebtedness, make certain
acquisitions, engage in certain transactions with affiliates, amend material agreements governing certain subordinated indebtedness,
and change our fiscal year. The Credit Agreement also requires us to maintain a maximum leverage ratio and a minimum cash interest
coverage ratio, and contains certain customary affirmative covenants and events of default, including a change of control. If an event
of default occurs, the lenders under the Credit Agreement will be entitled to take various actions, including the acceleration of all
amounts due under Credit Agreement and all actions permitted to be taken by a secured creditor.
As of December 31, 2014 we are in compliance with all of our debt covenants.
Chinese Credit Facilities
In addition to our borrowings under the Credit Agreement, we maintain our Chinese Credit Facilities. As of December 31, 2014
and 2013, we had $38 million and $28 million of short term borrowings outstanding, respectively.
44
Certain of our Chinese subsidiaries are entered into a RMB 189,000,000 (approximately $30 million), one-year revolving credit
facility with Bank of America (the “Chinese Credit Facility—BOA”) that is currently subject to review on a periodic basis with no-
specific expiration period. We had $19 million of outstanding borrowings from the Chinese Credit Facility—BOA as of December 31,
2014. Our Chinese Credit Facility—BOA currently bears interest based at a 100% of the People’s Bank of China’s base rate, which
was 5.6% as of December 31, 2014.
In addition, certain of our Chinese subsidiaries are entered into a RMB 125,000,000 (approximately $20 million) one-year
revolving credit facility with J.P. Morgan Chase Bank (“Chinese Credit Facility-JPM”). We had $19 million of outstanding
borrowings from the Chinese Credit Facility-JPM as of December 31, 2014. Our Chinese Credit Facility—JPM currently bears
interest based at a 100% of the People’s Bank of China’s base rate, which was 5.6% as of December 31, 2014.
Office Lease Commitments
We currently lease approximately 119,000 square feet for our corporate headquarters in Newton, Massachusetts, pursuant to a
lease with an expiration date of April 2015. We are currently in the process of negotiating an extension of this lease until mid-2015.
In June 2013, TripAdvisor LLC (“TA LLC”), our indirect, wholly owned subsidiary, entered into a lease (the “Lease”), for a
new corporate headquarters. Pursuant to the Lease, the landlord will build an approximately 280,000 square foot rental building in
Needham, Massachusetts (the “Premises”), and thereafter lease the Premises to TA LLC as TripAdvisor’s new corporate headquarters
for an initial term of 15 years and 7 months. If the landlord fails to deliver the Premises according to the schedule, subject to certain
conditions, TA LLC may be entitled to additional free rent, or in extreme cases, a right to terminate the Lease. Under the Lease, TA
LLC is required to pay an initial base rent of $33.00 per square foot per year, increasing to $34.50 per square foot by the final year of
the initial term, as well as all real estate taxes and other building operating costs. TA LLC also has an option to extend the term of the
Lease for two consecutive terms of five years each.
The aggregate future minimum lease payments are $143 million and are currently scheduled to be paid, beginning in November
2015, as follows: $1 million for 2015, $9 million for 2016, $9 million for 2017, $9 million for 2018, $9 million for 2019 and
$106 million for 2020 and thereafter. The Lease has escalating rental payments and initial periods of free rent. TA LLC was also
obligated to deliver a letter of credit to the Landlord in the amount of $1 million as security deposit, which amount is subject to
increase under certain circumstances. TA LLC also has an option to extend the term of the Lease for two consecutive terms of five
years each. In connection with the Lease, TripAdvisor entered into a Guaranty (the “Guaranty”), pursuant to which TripAdvisor
provides full payment and performance guaranty for all of TA LLC’s obligations under the Lease.
We have concluded we are the deemed owner (for accounting purposes only) of the Premises during the construction period
under build to suit lease accounting. Building construction began in the fourth quarter of 2013. Since construction began, we have
recorded estimated project construction costs incurred by the landlord as a construction in progress asset and a corresponding long
term liability in “Property and equipment, net” and “Other long-term liabilities,” respectively, on our consolidated balance sheets. We
will continue to increase the asset and corresponding long term liability as additional building costs are incurred by the landlord during
the construction period. In addition, the amounts that we have paid or incurred for normal tenant improvements and structural
improvements have also been recorded to the construction-in-progress asset.
Once the landlord completes the construction of the Premises (estimated to be mid 2015), we will evaluate the Lease in order to
determine whether or not the Lease meets the criteria for “sale-leaseback” treatment under GAAP. If the Lease meets the “sale-
leaseback” criteria, we will remove the asset and the related liability from our consolidated balance sheet and treat the Lease as either
an operating or capital lease based on the our assessment of the accounting guidance. However, we currently expect that upon
completion of construction of the Premises that the Lease will not meet the "sale-leaseback" criteria.
If the Lease does not meet “sale-leaseback” criteria, we will treat the Lease as a financing obligation and lease payments will be
attributed to (1) a reduction of the principal financing obligation; (2) imputed interest expense; and (3) land lease expense (which is
considered an operating lease) representing an imputed cost to lease the underlying land of the facility. In addition, the underlying
building asset will be depreciated over the initial term of the lease. And at the conclusion of the lease term, we would de-recognize
both the net book values of the asset and financing obligation. Although we will not begin making lease payments pursuant to the
Lease until November 2015, the portion of the lease obligations allocated to the land is treated for accounting purposes as an operating
lease that commenced in 2013.
We also lease an aggregate of approximately 470,000 square feet at approximately 40 other locations across North America,
Europe and Asia Pacific, in cities such as, New York, Boston, London, and Beijing, primarily for our sales offices, subsidiary
headquarters, and international management teams, pursuant to leases with expiration dates through November 2024.
45
Letters of Credit
As of December 31, 2014, we have issued unused letters of credit totaling $1 million, related to our property leases.
Sources and Uses of Cash
Our cash flows from operating, investing and financing activities, as reflected in the consolidated statements of cash flows, are
summarized in the following table:
Net cash provided by (used in):
Operating activities ........................................................... $
Investing activities ............................................................
Financing activities ...........................................................
387 $
(234)
(41)
349 $
(196 )
(170 )
239
(244)
190
2014
Year ended December 31,
2013
(in millions)
2013
Our principal source of liquidity is cash flows generated from operations, although liquidity needs can also be met through
drawdowns under our credit facilities discussed above. As of December 31, 2014 and 2013, we had $594 million and $670 million of
cash, cash equivalents and short and long-term available-for-sale marketable securities. As of December 31, 2014 approximately $435
million of our cash, cash equivalents and short and long-term marketable securities are held by our international subsidiaries, primarily
in the United Kingdom, and are related to earnings we intend to reinvest permanently outside the United States. Cumulative
undistributed earnings of foreign subsidiaries that we intend to indefinitely reinvest outside of the United States totaled approximately
$630 million as of December 31, 2014. Should we distribute, or be treated under certain U.S. tax rules as having distributed, the
earnings of foreign subsidiaries in the form of dividends or otherwise, we may be subject to U.S. income taxes. Determination of the
amount of any unrecognized deferred income tax liability on this temporary difference is not practicable because of the complexities
of the hypothetical calculation. Cash held is primarily denominated in U.S. dollars.
As of December 31, 2014, $199 million was available under our Revolving Credit Facility representing the total $200 million
facility less $1 million of outstanding letters of credit. There are currently no outstanding borrowings under the Revolving Credit
Facility. The Revolving Credit Facility bears interest at LIBOR plus 150 basis points, or the Eurocurrency Spread, or the alternate
base rate (“ABR”) plus 50 basis points, and undrawn amounts are currently subject to a commitment fee of 22.5 basis points, as of
December 31, 2014. In addition we have approximately $12 million available under our Chinese Credit Facilities, which currently
bear interest at a 100% of the People’s Bank of China’s base rate, which was 5.6% as of December 31, 2014.
Historically, the cash we generate from operations has been sufficient to fund our working capital requirements, capital
expenditures and to meet our long term debt obligations and other financial commitments. Management believes that our cash, cash
equivalents and available for sale marketable securities, combined with expected cash flows generated by operating activities and
available cash from our credit facilities will be sufficient to fund our ongoing working capital requirements, capital expenditures,
business growth initiatives, meet our long term debt obligations and other financial commitments, fund our new corporate lease
obligations, share repurchases and fund any potential acquisitions for at least the next twelve months. However, if during that period
or thereafter, we are not successful in generating sufficient cash flow from operations or in raising additional capital, including
refinancing or incurring additional debt, when required in sufficient amounts and on terms acceptable to us, we may be required to
reduce our planned capital expenditures and scale back the scope of our business growth initiatives, either of which could have a
material adverse effect on our future financial condition or results of operations.
2014 vs. 2013
Operating Activities
For the year ended December 31, 2014, net cash provided by operating activities increased by $38 million or 11% when
compared to the same period in 2013, primarily due to an increase in net income of $21 million and an increase in non-cash items
affecting cash flows of $23 million, which is primarily due to an increase in the following items; stock-based compensation;
depreciation; amortization of intangibles; fluctuation of foreign exchange rates, offset by an increase in excess tax benefits from stock-
based awards and deferred tax benefits. Working capital movements decreased $6 million mainly related to the timing of customer
receipts, income tax payments, vendor and merchant payments, partially offset by growth in our business.
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Investing Activities
For the year ended December 31, 2014, net cash used in investing activities increased by $38 million when compared to the
same period in 2013, primarily due to an increase in cash paid for acquisitions of businesses in 2014 of $296 million and an increase
in capital expenditures of $26 million in 2014, when compared against 2013, partially offset by a net decrease in cash used for the
purchases, sales and maturities of marketable securities of $284 million.
Financing Activities
For the year ended December 31, 2014, net cash used in financing activities decreased by $129 million when compared to the
same period in 2013, primarily due to an increase of $8 million in excess tax benefits related to stock compensation, a decrease of $12
million in repayments of our outstanding borrowings on our Chinese Credit Facilities in 2014, and payments of $145 million for
common stock share repurchases under our authorized share repurchase program in 2013, which did not reoccur in 2014. This was
offset by a reduction in proceeds from the exercise of our stock options of $21 million in 2014, due to the introduction in the third
quarter of 2013 of the net share settlement of the majority of our stock options and an increase in payments of minimum withholding
taxes related to net share settlement of equity awards of $19 million in 2014.
2013 vs. 2012
Operating Activities
For the year ended December 31, 2013, net cash provided by operating activities increased by $110 million or 46% when
compared to the same period in 2012, primarily due to an increase in net income of $10 million and an increase in non-cash items not
affecting cash flows of $35 million, which is primarily related to increased stock based compensation and depreciation. Working
capital movements increased $64 million for the year ended December 31, 2013 when compared to the same period in 2012, primarily
due to an increase in operating cash flow from deferred merchant payables of $18 million and lower income tax payments primarily
due to a lower effective tax rate with the remaining increase related to the timing of customer receipts, cash receipts from Expedia,
income tax payments, and vendor payments.
Investing Activities
For the year ended December 31, 2013, net cash used in investing activities decreased by $48 million when compared to the
same period in 2012, primarily due to the sale and maturity of marketable securities of $326 million in 2013. This was primarily offset
by an increase in the purchases of marketable securities by $213 million, cash paid for 2013 business acquisitions of $35 million, net
of cash acquired, and an increase in capital expenditures of $26 million. In addition, we received $7 million during 2012 from Expedia
related to Spin-Off, which did not reoccur in 2013.
Financing Activities
For the year ended December 31, 2013, net cash provided by financing activities decreased by $360 million when compared to
the same period in 2012 primarily due to an increase of $20 million in principal payments on our Term Loan, payments of $145
million for common stock share repurchases under our authorized share repurchase program, a reduction of $207 million in proceeds
related to the exercise of our stock options and warrants, primarily due to one-time warrant proceeds of $215 million during 2012 and
the introduction in Q3 2013 of the net share settlement of the majority of our stock option exercises, and a $15 million repayment of
our outstanding borrowings on our Chinese Credit Facilities in 2013. This was offset by a $10 million repayment of our outstanding
borrowing on our Revolving Credit Facility in 2012 that did not reoccur in 2013 and $22 million paid to purchase the remaining shares
of our non-controlling interest in 2012 that did not reoccur in 2013.
Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements
As of December 31, 2014, we did not have any off-balance sheet arrangements, as defined in Item 303(a)(4)(ii) of Regulation S-
K of the SEC, that have, or are reasonably likely to have, a current or future effect on our financial condition, results of operations,
liquidity, capital expenditures or capital resources.
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Contingencies
In the ordinary course of business, we and our subsidiaries are parties to legal proceedings and claims involving, among other
things, arising out of our operations. These matters may relate to claims involving alleged infringement of third-party intellectual
property rights, defamation, taxes, regulatory compliance and other claims. Rules of the SEC require the description of material
pending legal proceedings, other than ordinary, routine litigation incident to the registrant’s business, and advise that proceedings
ordinarily need not be described if they primarily involve damages claims for amounts (exclusive of interest and costs) not
individually exceeding 10% of the current assets of the registrant and its subsidiaries on a consolidated basis. In the judgment of
management, none of the pending legal proceedings that TripAdvisor and our subsidiaries are defending involves or is likely to
involve amounts of that magnitude. There may be claims or actions pending or threatened against us of which we are currently not
aware and the ultimate disposition of which would have a material adverse effect on us.
Related Party Transactions
For information on our relationships with Expedia and Liberty Interactive Corporation refer to “Note 15 —Related Party
Transactions” in the notes to our consolidated financial statements.
Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates
Critical accounting policies and estimates are those that we believe are important in the preparation of our consolidated financial
statements because they require that management use judgment and estimates in applying those policies. We prepare our consolidated
financial statements and accompanying notes in accordance with GAAP.
Preparation of the consolidated financial statements and accompanying notes requires that management make estimates and
assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and the disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities as of the
date of the consolidated financial statements as well as revenue and expenses during the periods reported. Management bases its
estimates on historical experience, where applicable, and other assumptions that it believes are reasonable under the circumstances.
Actual results may differ from estimates under different assumptions or conditions.
There are certain critical estimates that we believe require significant judgment in the preparation of the consolidated financial
statements. We consider an accounting estimate to be critical if:
(cid:120)
It requires us to make an assumption because information was not available at the time or it included matters that were
highly uncertain at the time management was making the estimate; and/or
(cid:120) Changes in the estimate or different estimates that management could have selected may have had a material impact on
our financial condition or results of operations.
Our significant accounting policies and estimates are more fully described in “Note 2— Significant Accounting Policies” in the
notes to our consolidated financial statements. A discussion of information about the nature and rationale for our critical accounting
estimates is below.
Business Combination Valuations and Recoverability of Goodwill, Indefinite and Definite-Lived Intangible Assets
Goodwill. We account for acquired businesses using the purchase method of accounting which requires that the assets acquired
and liabilities assumed be recorded at the date of acquisition at their respective fair values. Any excess of the purchase price over the
estimated fair values of the net assets acquired is recorded as goodwill. We assess goodwill, which is not amortized, for impairment
annually as of October 1, or more frequently, if events and circumstances indicate impairment may have occurred. We test goodwill
for impairment at the reporting unit level (operating segment or one level below an operating segment). Goodwill is allocated to our
reporting units at the date the goodwill is initially recorded. Once goodwill has been allocated to the reporting units, it no longer
retains its identification with a particular acquisition and becomes identified with the reporting unit in its entirety. Accordingly, the
fair value of the reporting unit as a whole is available to support the recoverability of its goodwill.
In the evaluation of goodwill for impairment, we generally first perform a qualitative assessment to determine whether it is more
likely than not (i.e., a likelihood of more than 50%) that the implied fair value of the reporting unit is less than the carrying amount. If
we determine that it is not more likely than not that the implied fair value of the goodwill is less than its carrying amount, no further
testing is necessary. If, however, we determine that it is more likely than not that the implied fair value of the goodwill is less than its
carrying amount, we then perform a quantitative assessment and compare the implied fair value of the reporting unit to the carrying
value. If the carrying value of a reporting unit exceeds its implied fair value, the goodwill of that reporting unit is potentially impaired
and we proceed to step two of the impairment analysis. In step two of the analysis, we will record an impairment loss equal to the
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excess of the carrying value of the reporting unit’s goodwill over its implied fair value should such a circumstance arise.
In determining the estimated fair value of assets acquired and liabilities assumed in business combinations and for
determining implied fair values of reporting units in a quantitative goodwill impairment test, we use one of the following recognized
valuation methods: the income approach (including discounted cash flows), the market approach or the cost approach. Our significant
estimates in those fair value measurements include identifying business factors such as size, growth, profitability, risk and return on
investment and assessing comparable revenue and operating income multiples. Further, when measuring fair value based on
discounted cash flows, we make assumptions about risk-adjusted discount rates, future price levels, rates of increase in revenue, cost
of revenue, and operating expenses, weighted average cost of capital, rates of long-term growth, and income tax rates. Valuations are
performed by management or third party valuation specialists under management's supervision, where appropriate. We believe that the
fair values assigned to the assets acquired and liabilities assumed in business combinations and impairment tests are based on
reasonable assumptions that marketplace participants would use. However, such assumptions are inherently uncertain and actual
results could differ from those estimates.
As part of our qualitative assessment for our 2014 goodwill impairment analysis on October 1, the factors that we considered
included, but were not limited to: (a) changes in macroeconomic conditions in the overall economy and the specific markets in which
we operate, (b) our ability to access capital, (c) changes in the online travel industry, (d) changes in the level of competition,
(e) comparison of our current financial performance to historical and budgeted results, and (f) changes in excess market capitalization
over book value based on our current common stock price and latest unaudited consolidated balance sheet. After considering these
factors and the impact that changes in such factors would have on the inputs used in our previous quantitative assessment, we
determined that it was more likely than not that goodwill was not impaired.
Subsequent to the annual impairment test on October 1, 2014, as discussed in “Note 16—Segment and Geographic
Information," the composition of our operating segments, and our reporting units, has been revised. As a result of this revision, we
performed an updated goodwill impairment analysis as of December 31, 2014, for each of our four reporting units which we have
identified: Hotels, Vacation Rentals, Restaurants and Attractions. As part of our qualitative assessment for our Hotel reporting unit,
we considered the same factors used above in our October 1 qualitative assessment. As part of our process for our Vacation Rentals,
Restaurants and Attractions reporting units, we began our qualitative analysis leveraging quantitative valuations for recent acquisitions
in these reporting units, prepared by third party appraisers or management, which were used by management for initial purchase
accounting required under GAAP. We then considered many of the same qualitative factors used in our October 1, 2014 qualitative
assessment and the impact that changes in such factors would have on the inputs previously used in those recent quantitative
valuations. After considering this information, we determined that, regarding all reporting units, it was more likely than not that these
assets were not impaired at December 31, 2014.
Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets. Intangible assets that have indefinite lives are not amortized and are tested for impairment
annually on October 1, or whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying value may not be
recoverable. Similar to the qualitative assessment for goodwill, we may assess qualitative factors to determine if it is more likely than
not that the implied fair value of the indefinite-lived intangible asset is less than its carrying amount. If we determine that it is not
more likely than not that the implied fair value of the indefinite-lived intangible asset is less than its carrying amount, no further
testing is necessary. If, however, we determine that it is more likely than not that the implied fair value of the indefinite-lived
intangible asset is less than its carrying amount, we compare the implied fair value of the indefinite-lived asset with its carrying
amount. If the carrying value of an individual indefinite-lived intangible asset exceeds its implied fair value, the individual asset is
written down by an amount equal to such excess. The assessment of qualitative factors is optional and at our discretion. We may
bypass the qualitative assessment for any indefinite-lived intangible asset in any period and resume performing the qualitative
assessment in any subsequent period.
As part of our qualitative assessment for our 2014 impairment analysis on October 1, the factors that we considered for our
indefinite-lived intangible assets included, but were not limited to: (a) changes in macroeconomic conditions in the overall economy
and the specific markets in which we operate, (b) our ability to access capital, (c) changes in the online travel industry, (d) changes in
the level of competition, (e) comparison of our current financial performance to historical and budgeted results, (f) changes in excess
market capitalization over book value based on our current common stock price and latest unaudited consolidated balance sheet, and
(g) comparison of the excess of the fair value of our trade names and trademarks to the carrying value of those same assets, using the
results of our most recent quantitative assessment. After considering these factors and the impact that changes in such factors would
have on the inputs used in our previous quantitative assessment, we determined that it was more likely than not that these assets were
not impaired.
Since the annual impairment test on October 1, 2014, there have been no events or changes in circumstances to indicate any
potential impairment to our indefinite lived intangible assets. In the event that future circumstances indicate that our indefinite-lived
intangibles are impaired, an impairment charge would be recorded.
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There were no impairment charges recognized to our consolidated statement of operations during the years ended December 31,
2014, 2013 and 2012 related to our goodwill and indefinite lived intangible assets.
Definite-Lived Intangible Assets and Other Long-Lived Assets. Intangible assets with definite lives and other long-lived assets
are carried at cost and are amortized on a straight-line basis over their estimated useful lives of two to twelve years. The straight-line
method of amortization is currently used for our definite-lived intangible assets as it approximates, or is our best estimate, of the
distribution of the economic use of our identifiable intangible assets. We review the carrying value of long-lived assets or asset
groups, including property and equipment, to be used in operations whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the
carrying amount of the assets might not be recoverable.
Factors that would necessitate an impairment assessment include a significant adverse change in the extent or manner in which
an asset is used, a significant adverse change in legal factors or the business climate that could affect the value of the asset, or a
significant decline in the observable market value of an asset, among others. If such facts indicate a potential impairment, we assess
the recoverability of the asset by determining if the carrying value of the asset exceeds the sum of the projected undiscounted cash
flows expected to result from the use and eventual disposition of the asset over the remaining economic life of the asset. If the
recoverability test indicates that the carrying value of the asset is not recoverable, we will estimate the fair value of the asset using
appropriate valuation methodologies which would typically include an estimate of discounted cash flows. Any impairment would be
measured by the amount that the carrying value of such assets exceeds their fair value and would be included in operating income on
the consolidated statement of operations. We have not identified any circumstances that would warrant an impairment assessment of
any recorded assets in our consolidated balance sheet at December 31, 2014.
For additional information on our goodwill, indefinite-lived intangibles and definite-lived intangibles refer to “Note 7—
Goodwill and Intangible Assets, net” in the notes to our consolidated financial statements.
Income Taxes
We record income taxes under the asset and liability method. Deferred tax assets and liabilities reflect our estimation of the
future tax consequences of temporary differences between the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities for book and tax purposes. We
determine deferred income taxes based on the differences in accounting methods and timing between financial statement and income
tax reporting. Accordingly, we determine the deferred tax asset or liability for each temporary difference based on the enacted tax
rates expected to be in effect when we realize the underlying items of income and expense. We consider all relevant factors when
assessing the likelihood of future realization of our deferred tax assets, including our recent earnings experience by jurisdiction,
expectations of future taxable income and the carryforward periods available to us for tax reporting purposes, as well as assessing
available tax planning strategies. We may establish a valuation allowance to reduce deferred tax assets to the amount we believe is
more likely than not to be realized. Due to inherent complexities arising from the nature of our businesses, future changes in income
tax law, tax sharing agreements or variances between our actual and anticipated operating results, we make certain judgments and
estimates. Therefore, actual income taxes could materially vary from these estimates.
We record liabilities to address uncertain tax positions we have taken in previously filed tax returns or that we expect to take in
a future tax return. The determination for required liabilities is based upon an analysis of each individual tax position, taking into
consideration whether it is more likely than not that our tax position, based on technical merits, will be sustained upon examination.
For those positions for which we conclude it is more likely than not it will be sustained, we recognize the largest amount of tax benefit
that is greater than 50% likely of being realized upon ultimate settlement with the taxing authority. The difference between the amount
recognized and the total tax position is recorded as a liability. The ultimate resolution of these tax positions may be greater or less than
the liabilities recorded.
We have not provided for deferred U.S. income taxes on undistributed earnings of our foreign subsidiaries, which we intend to
reinvest permanently outside the United States. Should we distribute earnings of foreign subsidiaries in the form of dividends or
otherwise, we may be subject to U.S. income taxes. Due to complexities in tax laws and various assumptions that would have to be
made, it is not practicable, at this time, to estimate the amount of unrecognized deferred U.S. taxes on these earnings.
See “Note 9— Income Taxes” in the notes to our consolidated financial statements for further information on income taxes.
Stock-Based Compensation
Stock Options
The exercise price for all stock options granted by us to date has been equal to the market price of the underlying shares of
common stock at the date of grant. In this regard, when making stock option awards, our practice is to determine the applicable grant
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date and to specify that the exercise price shall be the closing price of our common stock on the date of grant. Stock options granted
during the year ended December 31, 2014 had a term of ten years from the date of grant and generally vest over a four-year requisite
service period.
During the year ended December 31, 2014, we issued 578,973 of primarily service based stock non-qualified stock options
under the 2011 Incentive Plan with a weighted average grant-date fair value per option of $46.65 and assumed acquisition related
options of 100,595 with a weighted average grant-date fair value per option of $80.31. We will amortize the fair value, net of
estimated forfeitures, as stock-based compensation expense over the vesting term on a straight-line basis, with the amount of
compensation expense recognized at any date at least equaling the portion of the grant-date fair value of the award that is vested at that
date. We use historical data to estimate pre-vesting option forfeitures and record share-based compensation expense only for those
awards that are expected to vest.
The estimated fair value of the options granted under the 2011 Incentive Plan to date, have been calculated using a Black-
Scholes Merton option-pricing model (“Black-Scholes model”). The Black-Scholes model incorporates assumptions to value stock-
based awards, which includes the risk-free rate of return, expected volatility, expected term and expected dividend yield.
Our risk-free interest rate is based on the rates currently available on zero-coupon U.S. Treasury issues, in effect at the time
of the grant, whose remaining maturity period most closely approximates the stock option’s expected term assumption. We have
estimated the volatility of our common stock, to date, by using an average of our historical stock price volatility and of publicly traded
companies that we consider peers based on daily price observations. We have estimated our expected term, to date, using the
simplified method, as we have not had sufficient historical exercise data on our common stock to date. Our expected dividend yield is
zero, as we have not paid any dividends on our common stock to date and do not expect to pay any cash dividends for the foreseeable
future.
As the Company now has three years of post-Spin-Off equity award activity, beginning in February 2015, we will change our
method of estimating our expected term, from the simplified method, and use historical exercise behavior and expected post-vest
termination data. Simultaneously, we will also begin estimating our expected volatility by equally weighting the historical volatility
and implied volatility on our own stock. Historical volatility will be determined using actual daily price observations of our stock
price over a period equivalent to or approximate to the expected term of our stock option grants to date. Implied volatility represents
the volatility of our actively traded options on our stock, with remaining maturities in excess of twelve months and market prices
approximate to the exercise prices of the stock option grant. These changes are not expected to materially affect our future
consolidated financial statements.
Restricted Stock Units (RSUs)
RSUs are stock awards that are granted to employees entitling the holder to shares of our common stock as the award vests.
During the year ended December 31, 2014, we issued 752,460 of primarily service based RSUs under the 2011 Incentive Plan with a
weighted average grant date fair value per option of $93.36. RSUs are measured at fair value based on the number of shares granted
and the quoted price of our common stock at the date of grant. We amortize the fair value, net of estimated forfeitures, as stock-based
compensation expense over the vesting term (generally a four-year requisite service period) on a straight-line basis, with the amount of
compensation expense recognized at any date at least equaling the portion of the grant-date fair value of the award that is vested at that
date. Estimated forfeitures are calculated consistent with the methodology used for our stock options using historical data to estimate
pre-vesting RSU forfeitures.
Estimates of fair value are not intended to predict actual future events or the value ultimately realized by employees who receive
these awards, and subsequent events are not indicative of the reasonableness of our original estimates of fair value. We have
considered various factors when estimating expected forfeitures, including, the employee class and historical forfeiture experience.
The estimate of stock awards that will ultimately be forfeited requires significant judgment and, to the extent that actual results or
updated estimates differ from our current estimates, such amounts will be recorded as a cumulative adjustment in the period such
estimates are revised and will also impact the amount of stock compensation expense to be recognized in future periods.
Refer to “Note 4— Stock Based Awards and Other Equity Instruments” in the notes to our consolidated financial statements for
further information on current year equity award activity.
Websites and Internal Use Software Development Costs
We capitalize certain costs incurred during the application development stage related to the development of websites and
internal use software when it is probable the project will be completed and the software will be used as intended. Such costs are
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amortized on a straight-line basis over the estimated useful life of the related asset, generally estimated to be three years. Capitalized
costs include internal and external costs, if direct and incremental, and deemed by management to be significant. We expense costs
related to the planning and post-implementation phases of software and website development as these costs are incurred. Maintenance
and enhancement costs (including those costs in the post-implementation stages) are typically expensed as incurred, unless such costs
relate to substantial upgrades and enhancements to the website or software resulting in added functionality, in which case the costs are
capitalized. To the extent that we change the manner in which we develop and test new features and functionalities related to our
websites and internal use software, assess the ongoing value of capitalized assets or determine the estimated useful lives over which
the costs are amortized, the amount of website and internal use software development costs we capitalize and amortize could change
in future periods.
Refer to “Note 6— Fixed Assets” in the notes to our consolidated financial statements for further information on our
development of websites and internal use software.
Revenue Recognition
We recognize revenue from our services rendered when the following four revenue recognition criteria are met: persuasive
evidence of an arrangement exists, services have been rendered, the price is fixed or determinable, and collectability is reasonably
assured. Deferred revenue, which primarily relates to our subscription-based and commission based arrangements, is recorded when
payments are received in advance of our performance as required by the underlying agreements.
Click-based Advertising. Revenue is derived primarily from click-through fees charged to our travel partners for traveler leads
sent to the travel partners’ website. We record revenue from click-through fees after the traveler makes the click-through to the travel
partners’ websites.
Instant booking commission revenue is recorded at the time a traveler books a hotel transaction on our site where we do not
assume cancellation risk. In transactions in which we assume cancellation risk, we record revenue when we receive cash from our
travel partners, given the current uncertainty of the traveler’s stay. We have no post-booking service obligations for Instant Booking
transactions.
Display-based Advertising. We recognize display advertising revenue ratably over the advertising period or upon delivery of
advertising impressions, depending on the terms of the advertising contract. Subscription-based revenue is recognized ratably over the
related contractual period over which service is delivered.
Attractions. We receive cash from the consumer at the time of booking of the destination activity and record these amounts, net
of commissions, as deferred merchant payables on our consolidated balance sheet. Commission revenue is recorded as deferred
revenue at the time of booking and later recognized when the consumer has completed the destination activity or as the consumer’s
refund privileges lapse. We pay the destination activity operators after the travelers’ use.
Restaurants. We recognize reservation revenues (or per seated diner fees) on a transaction-by-transaction basis as diners are
seated by our restaurant customers. Subscription-based revenue is recognized ratably over the related contractual period over which
the service is delivered.
Vacation Rentals. We generate revenue from customers for online advertising listing services related to the listing of their
properties for rent on a subscription basis, over a fixed-term, or on a free-to-list option. Payments for term-based paid subscriptions
received in advance of services being rendered are recorded as deferred revenue and recognized ratably on a straight-line basis over
the listing period. We generate commission revenue from our free-to-list bookings option. We receive cash from travelers at the time
of booking, net of commissions, and record as deferred merchant payables on our consolidated balance sheet. Commission revenue is
recorded as deferred revenue at the time of booking and later recognized when the traveler has completed the stay or as the travelers’
refund privileges lapse. We pay the customer or property owner after the travelers’ stay.
New and Recently Adopted Accounting Pronouncements
For a discussion of new and recently adopted accounting pronouncements, see “Note 2— Significant Accounting Policies” in the
notes to our consolidated financial statements.
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Item 7A. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk
Market Risk Management
We are exposed to certain market risks, including changes in interest rates and foreign currency exchange rates that could
adversely affect our results of operations or financial condition. We manage our exposure to these risks through established policies
and procedures and by assessing the anticipated near-term and long-term fluctuations in interest rates and foreign currency exchange
rates. Our objective is to mitigate potential income statement, cash flow and market exposures from changes in interest and foreign
exchange rates.
Interest Rates
Our current exposure to changes in interest rates relate primarily to our investment portfolio and the outstanding principal on our
Term Loan. Our interest income and expense is most sensitive to fluctuations in U.S. interest rates and Libor. Changes in interest rates
affect the interest earned on our cash, cash equivalents and marketable securities and the fair value of those securities, as well as the
amount of interest we pay on our outstanding debt.
We currently invest our excess cash in cash deposits at major global banks, money market mutual funds and marketable
securities. Our investment policy and strategy are focused on preservation of capital and supporting our liquidity requirements. We
invest in highly-rated securities, and our investment policy limits the amount of credit exposure to any one issuer. The policy requires
investments to be investment grade, with the primary objective of minimizing the potential risk of principal loss.
In order to provide a meaningful assessment of the interest rate risk associated with our investment portfolio, we performed a
sensitivity analysis to determine the impact a change in interest rates would have on the value of our current investment portfolio
assuming a 100 basis point parallel shift in the yield curve. Based on our investment positions as of December 31, 2014, a hypothetical
100 basis point increase in interest rates across all maturities would result in an approximate $1 million incremental decline in the fair
market value of the portfolio. Such losses would only be realized if we sold the investments prior to maturity.
As of December 31, 2014, we had $300 million of debt under our Term Loan, which has a variable rate. The variable interest
rate on the Term Loan is based on current assumptions, leverage and LIBOR rates. Based on our current loan balance through
December 31, 2014, a 25 basis point change in our interest rate on the Term Loan would result in an increase or decrease to interest
expense of approximately $1 million per annum. We currently do not hedge our interest rate risk; however, we are continually
evaluating the interest rate market, and if we become increasingly exposed to potentially volatile movements in interest rates, and if
these movements are material, this could cause us to adjust our financing strategy.
We did not experience any significant impact from changes in interest rates for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 or
2012.
Foreign Currency Exchange Rates
We conduct business in certain international markets, primarily the European Union, the United Kingdom, Singapore, Australia
and China. Because we operate in international markets, we have exposure to different economic climates, political arenas, tax
systems and regulations that could affect foreign exchange rates.
Some of our foreign subsidiaries maintain their accounting records in their respective local currencies other than the U.S. dollar
(primarily in British pound sterling). Consequently, changes in currency exchange rates may impact the translation of foreign financial
statements into U.S. dollars. As a result, we face exposure to adverse movements in currency exchange rates as the financial results of
our international operations are translated from local currency, or functional currency, into U.S. dollars upon consolidation. If the U.S.
dollar weakens against the local currency, the translation of these foreign-currency-denominated balances will result in increased net
assets, revenue, operating expenses, operating income and net income. Similarly, our net assets, revenue, operating expenses,
operating income and net income will decrease if the U.S. dollar strengthens against local currency. The effect of foreign exchange on
our business historically has varied from quarter to quarter and may continue to do so, potentially materially. A hypothetical 10%
decrease of the foreign exchange rates relative to the U.S. Dollar, or strengthening of the U.S. Dollar, would generate an unrealized
loss of approximately $21 million related to an decrease in our net assets held in functional currencies other than the U.S. Dollar as of
December 31, 2014, which would be recorded to accumulated other comprehensive loss on our consolidated balance sheet.
In addition, foreign exchange rate fluctuations on transactions denominated in currencies other than the functional currency
result in gains and losses. We recognize these transactional gains and losses (primarily Euro currency transactions) in our consolidated
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statements of operations and have recorded foreign exchange losses of $10 million, $0 million and $3 million for the years ended
December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively, in other, net on our consolidated statements of operations.
We currently manage our exposure to foreign currency risk through internally established policies and procedures. To the extent
practicable, we minimize our foreign currency exposures by maintaining natural hedges between our current assets and current
liabilities in similarly denominated foreign currencies, as well as, using derivative financial instruments. We use foreign exchange
derivative contracts to manage certain short-term foreign currency risk to try and reduce the effects of fluctuating foreign currency
exchange rates on our cash flows denominated in foreign currencies.
Our objective is to hedge only those currency exposures that can be confidently identified and quantified and that may result in
significant impacts to our cash or the consolidated statement of operations. Our policy does not allow speculation in derivative
instruments for profit or execution of derivative instrument contracts for which there are no underlying exposures. We do not use
financial instruments for trading purposes and are not a party to any leveraged derivatives.
Our current derivative contracts principally address foreign exchange fluctuation risk for the Euro versus the U.S. Dollar. We
account for our derivative instruments as either assets or liabilities and carry them at fair value.
As of December 31, 2014 and 2013, we had outstanding forward currency contracts not designated as hedging contracts with a
notional value of $20 million and $5 million, respectively. These contracts are all short-term in nature. The fair value of these
derivatives at both December 31, 2014 and 2013, were not material and are recorded in accrued expenses and other current liabilities
on our consolidated balance sheets. For the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013, expense related to our derivatives contracts was
recorded to other, net on our consolidated statements of operations and was not material. A hypothetical 10% change of the foreign
exchange rates relative to the U.S. Dollar, with all other variables held constant, would not have a material impact on the fair value of
our outstanding derivatives as of December 31, 2014 and 2013. Refer to “Note 5— Financial Instruments” in the notes to the
consolidated financial statements for further detail on our derivative instruments.
As we increase our operations in international markets, our exposure to potentially volatile movements in foreign currency
exchange rates increases. The economic impact to us of foreign currency exchange rate movements is linked to variability in real
growth, inflation, interest rates, governmental actions and other factors. These changes, if material, could cause us to adjust our
foreign currency risk strategies.
54
Item 8.
Financial Statements and Supplementary Data
Index to Financial Statements and Supplementary Data:
Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm - KPMG, LLP ......................................................................................
Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm - Ernst & Young, LLP .........................................................................
Consolidated Statements of Operations for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012 ..........................................
Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012 .....................
Consolidated Balance Sheets as of December 31, 2014 and 2013 ..........................................................................................
Consolidated Statements of Changes in Stockholders’ Equity for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012 .......
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012 .........................................
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements ...........................................................................................................................
Quarterly Financial Information (Unaudited) ..........................................................................................................................
56
57
58
59
60
61
62
63
97
55
REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM
The Board of Directors and Stockholders
TripAdvisor, Inc.:
We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheet of TripAdvisor, Inc. and subsidiaries (the Company) as of
December 31, 2014, and the related consolidated statements of operations, comprehensive income, changes in stockholders’ equity,
and cash flows for the year then ended. These consolidated financial statements are the responsibility of the Company’s management.
Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these consolidated financial statements based on our audit.
We conducted our audit in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States).
Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are
free of material misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the
financial statements. An audit also includes assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management,
as well as evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. We believe that our audit provides a reasonable basis for our
opinion.
In our opinion, the consolidated financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the financial
position of TripAdvisor, Inc. and subsidiaries as of December 31, 2014, and the results of their operations and their cash flows for the
year then ended, in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles.
We also have audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States),
TripAdvisor, Inc.’s internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2014, based on criteria established in Internal Control
– Integrated Framework (1992) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO), and our
report dated February 17, 2015 expressed an unqualified opinion on the effectiveness of the Company’s internal control over financial
reporting.
/s/ KPMG LLP
Boston, Massachusetts
February 17, 2015
56
REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM
The Board of Directors and Shareholders
of TripAdvisor, Inc.:
We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheet of TripAdvisor, Inc. as of December 31, 2013, and the related
consolidated statements of operations, comprehensive income, stockholders’ equity, and cash flows for each of the two years in the
period ended December 31, 2013. These financial statements are the responsibility of the Company’s management. Our responsibility
is to express an opinion on these financial statements based on our audits.
We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States).
Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are
free of material misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the
financial statements. An audit also includes assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management,
as well as evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our
opinion.
In our opinion, the financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the consolidated financial
position of TripAdvisor, Inc. at December 31, 2013, and the consolidated results of its operations and its cash flows for each of the
two years in the period ended December 31, 2013, in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles.
/s/ Ernst & Young LLP
Boston, Massachusetts
February 11, 2014, except for Note 2 and Note 16,
as to which the date is
February 17, 2015
57
TRIPADVISOR, INC.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
(in millions, except per share data)
Revenue (Note 2) ............................................................................................ $
Costs and expenses:
Cost of revenue (1) ....................................................................................
Selling and marketing (2) ..........................................................................
Technology and content (2) .......................................................................
General and administrative (2) ..................................................................
Depreciation ..............................................................................................
Amortization of intangible assets ..............................................................
Total costs and expenses:
Operating income ............................................................................................
Other income (expense):
Interest expense .........................................................................................
Interest income and other, net ....................................................................
Total other expense, net ..................................................................................
Income before income taxes ............................................................................
Provision for income taxes ........................................................................
Net income ......................................................................................................
Net (income) loss attributable to noncontrolling interest ................................
Net income attributable to TripAdvisor, Inc. .................................................. $
Earnings per share attributable to TripAdvisor, Inc.
available to common stockholders (Note 2):
Basic .......................................................................................................... $
Diluted ....................................................................................................... $
Weighted average common shares outstanding (Note 2):
Basic ..........................................................................................................
Diluted .......................................................................................................
(1) Excludes amortization as follows:
Amortization of acquired technology included in
amortization of intangibles ..................................................................... (cid:3) $
Amortization of website development costs included in
depreciation ............................................................................................ (cid:3)
$
(2) Includes stock-based compensation expense as follows:
Selling and marketing ................................................................................ $
Technology and content ............................................................................. $
General and administrative ........................................................................ $
2014
Year ended December 31,
2013
2012
1,246 $
945 $
40
502
171
128
47
18
906
340
(9)
(9)
(18)
322
(96)
226
-
226 $
1.58 $
1.55 $
143
146
(cid:3)(cid:3)
4 (cid:3) $
30 (cid:3)
34 $
(cid:3)(cid:3)
13 $
27 $
23 $
18
368
131
98
30
6
651
294
(10 )
-
(10 )
284
(79 )
205
-
205 $
1.44 $
1.41 $
143
145
(cid:3)
1 (cid:3) $
20 (cid:3)
21 $
(cid:3)
11 $
21 $
17 $
763
12
266
87
76
20
6
467
296
(11)
(3)
(14)
282
(87)
195
(1)
194
1.39
1.37
139
141
1
13
14
5
11
14
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.
58
TRIPADVISOR, INC.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME
(in millions)
Net income ...................................................................................................... $
Other comprehensive income (loss):
Foreign currency translation adjustments (1) ............................................
Total other comprehensive (loss) income .......................................................
Comprehensive income ...................................................................................
Less: comprehensive income attributable to noncontrolling interest .........
Comprehensive income attributable to TripAdvisor, Inc. ............................... $
2014
Year ended December 31,
2013
226 $
205 $
2012
(31)
(31)
195
-
195 $
1
1
206
-
206 $
195
2
2
197
(1)
196
(1) Foreign currency translation adjustments exclude income taxes due to our practice and intention to indefinitely reinvest the earnings of our
foreign subsidiaries in those operations. See “Note 14 — Stockholders’ Equity”.
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.
59
TRIPADVISOR, INC.
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
(in millions, except share and per share data)
December 31,
2014
December 31,
2013
ASSETS
Current assets:
Cash and cash equivalents (Note 5) ................................................................................................ $
Short-term marketable securities (Note 5) ......................................................................................
Accounts receivable, net of allowance for doubtful accounts of $7 and $3 at December 31,
2014 and December 31, 2013, respectively (Note 2) ...................................................................
Prepaid expenses and other current assets ......................................................................................
Total current assets ...............................................................................................................................
Long-term assets:
Long-term marketable securities (Note 5) ......................................................................................
Property and equipment, net (Note 6) .............................................................................................
Other long-term assets ....................................................................................................................
Intangible assets, net (Note 7) .........................................................................................................
Goodwill (Note 7) ...........................................................................................................................
TOTAL ASSETS ................................................................................................................................ $
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY
Current liabilities:
Accounts payable ............................................................................................................................ $
Deferred merchant payables (Note 2) .............................................................................................
Deferred revenue ............................................................................................................................
Credit facility borrowings (Note 8) .................................................................................................
Borrowings, current (Note 8) ..........................................................................................................
Taxes payable (Note 9) ...................................................................................................................
Accrued expenses and other current liabilities (Note 10) ...............................................................
Total current liabilities ..........................................................................................................................
Deferred income taxes, net (Note 9) ...............................................................................................
Other long-term liabilities (Note 11) ..............................................................................................
Borrowings, net of current portion (Note 8) ...................................................................................
Total Liabilities .....................................................................................................................................
Commitments and contingencies (Note 12) ..........................................................................................
Stockholders’ equity: (Note 14) ............................................................................................................
Preferred stock, $0.001 par value....................................................................................................
Authorized shares: 100,000,000 ...............................................................................................
Shares issued and outstanding: 0 and 0 .....................................................................................
Common stock, $0.001 par value....................................................................................................
Authorized shares: 1,600,000,000.............................................................................................
Shares issued: 132,315,465 and 131,537,798 ...........................................................................
Shares outstanding: 130,121,292 and 129,417,089 ...................................................................
Class B common stock, $0.001 par value .......................................................................................
Authorized shares: 400,000,000 ...............................................................................................
Shares issued and outstanding: 12,799,999 and 12,799,999 .....................................................
Additional paid-in capital ...............................................................................................................
Retained earnings ............................................................................................................................
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) ...........................................................................
Treasury stock-common stock, at cost, 2,194,173 and 2,120,709 shares ........................................
Total Stockholders’ Equity ...................................................................................................................
TOTAL LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY ......................................................... $
455 $
108
151
33
747
31
195
38
214
734
1,959 $
19 $
93
57
38
40
20
114
381
39
154
260
834
—
—
—
673
628
(31 )
(145 )
1,125
1,959 $
351
131
113
35
630
188
82
19
52
502
1,473
10
30
44
28
40
5
86
243
13
52
300
608
—
—
—
608
402
—
(145)
865
1,473
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.
60
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T
TRIPADVISOR, INC.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
(in millions)
Operating activities:
Net income ............................................................................................................................ $
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:
Depreciation of property and equipment, including amortization of internal-use
software and website development ...............................................................................
Stock-based compensation expense .................................................................................
Amortization of intangible assets ....................................................................................
Amortization of deferred financing costs ........................................................................
Amortization of discounts and premiums on marketable securities, net ..........................
Deferred tax (benefit) expense .........................................................................................
Excess tax benefits from stock-based compensation .......................................................
Provision (recovery) for doubtful accounts .....................................................................
Other, net .........................................................................................................................
Changes in operating assets and liabilities, net of effects from acquisitions:
Accounts receivable, prepaid expenses and other assets (Note 2) ..............................
Accounts payable, accrued expenses and other liabilities ..........................................
Deferred merchant payables .......................................................................................
Income taxes, net ........................................................................................................
Deferred revenue ........................................................................................................
Net cash provided by operating activities .........................................................................
Investing activities:
6
2
Acquisitions, net of cash acquired ...................................................................................
Capital expenditures, including internal-use software and website development ............
Purchases of marketable securities ..................................................................................
Sales of marketable securities ..........................................................................................
Maturities of marketable securities ..................................................................................
Distributions proceeds from Expedia related to Spin-Off ...............................................
Net cash used in investing activities ...................................................................................
Financing activities:
Repurchase of common stock ..........................................................................................
Proceeds from credit facilities .........................................................................................
Payments to credit facilities .............................................................................................
Principal payments on long-term debt .............................................................................
Proceeds from exercise of stock options and warrants ....................................................
Payment of minimum withholding taxes on net share settlements of equity awards .......
Excess tax benefits from stock-based compensation .......................................................
Payments to purchase subsidiary shares from noncontrolling interest ............................
Payments on construction in-process related to build to suit lease obligation, net ..........
Net cash (used in) provided by financing activities ..........................................................
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents .......................................
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents.......................................................
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period ................................................................
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period ...................................................................... $
Supplemental disclosure of cash flow information...........................................................
Cash paid during the period for income taxes, net of refunds ......................................... $
Cash paid during the period for interest ........................................................................... $
Supplemental disclosure of non-cash investing and financing activities:
Capitalization of construction in-process related to build to suit lease obligation ........... $
Capital expenditures incurred but not yet paid primarily related to build to suit lease .... $
Non-cash fair value increase for redeemable noncontrolling interests ............................ $
Year ended December 31,
2013
2014
2012
226 $
205 $
195
47
63
18
1
3
(17 )
(20 )
3
11
(26 )
18
(9 )
60
9
387
(331 )
(81 )
(251 )
336
93
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(234 )
—
13
(3 )
(40 )
3
(33 )
20
—
(1 )
(41 )
(8 )
104
351
455 $
54 $
7 $
52 $
10 $
— $
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175
151
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10
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24
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(20)
231
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190
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184
183
367
108
10
—
—
15
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.
62
TRIPADVISOR, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
NOTE 1: ORGANIZATION AND BUSINESS DESCRIPTION
We refer to TripAdvisor, Inc. and our wholly-owned subsidiaries as “TripAdvisor,” “the Company,” “us,” “we” and “our” in
these notes to the consolidated financial statements.
During 2011, Expedia announced its plan to separate into two independent public companies in order to better achieve certain
strategic objectives of its various businesses. On December 20, 2011 Expedia completed the spin-off of TripAdvisor into a separate
publicly traded Delaware corporation. We refer to this transaction as the “Spin-Off.” TripAdvisor’s common stock began trading on
the NASDAQ as an independent public company on December 21, 2011 under the trading symbol “TRIP.”
On December 11, 2012, Liberty Interactive Corporation, or Liberty, purchased an aggregate of 4,799,848 shares of common
stock of TripAdvisor from Barry Diller, our former Chairman of the Board of Directors and Senior Executive, and certain of his
affiliates (the “Stock Purchase”). As a result, Liberty beneficially owned 18,159,752 shares of our common stock and 12,799,999
shares of our Class B common stock.
On August 27, 2014, the entire beneficial ownership of our common stock and Class B common stock held by Liberty was
indirectly acquired by Liberty TripAdvisor Holdings, Inc. (“LTRIP”) by means of a spin-off (the “Liberty Spin-Off”). In the Liberty
Spin-Off, Liberty, LTRIP’s former parent company, distributed, by means of a dividend, to the holders of its Liberty Ventures
common stock, Liberty’s entire equity interest in LTRIP. As a result of the Liberty Spin-Off, LTRIP became a separate, publicly
traded company and 100% of Liberty’s interest in TripAdvisor is now held by LTRIP.
As December 31, 2014, LTRIP beneficially owned 18,159,752 shares of our common stock and 12,799,999 shares of our Class
B common stock, which shares constitute 14.0% of the outstanding shares of Common Stock and 100% of the outstanding shares of
Class B Common Stock. Assuming the conversion of all of LTRIP’s shares of Class B common stock into common stock, LTRIP
would beneficially own 21.7% of the outstanding common stock (calculated in accordance with Rule 13d-3). Because each share of
Class B common stock generally is entitled to ten votes per share and each share of common stock is entitled to one vote per share,
LTRIP may be deemed to beneficially own equity securities representing approximately 56.6% of our voting power.
Description of Business
TripAdvisor is an online travel company, empowering users to plan and book the perfect trip. TripAdvisor’s travel research
platform aggregates reviews and opinions of members about accommodations, destinations, activities and attractions, and restaurants,
throughout the world so that our users have access to trusted advice wherever their trip takes them. Our platform not only helps users
plan their trip with our unique user-generated content, but also enables users to compare real-time pricing and availability so that they
can book hotels, vacation rentals, flights, activities and attractions, and restaurants.
Our flagship brand is TripAdvisor. TripAdvisor-branded websites include tripadvisor.com in the United States and localized
versions of the website in 45 countries including in China under the brand daodao.com. In addition to the flagship TripAdvisor brand,
we manage and operate 24 other media brands, connected by the common goal of providing comprehensive travel planning resources
across the travel sector, which include; www.airfarewatchdog.com, www.bookingbuddy.com, www.cruisecritic.com,
www.everytrail.com, www.familyvacationcritic.com, www.flipkey.com, www.gateguru.com, www.holidaylettings.co.uk,
www.holidaywatchdog.com, www.independenttraveler.com, www.jetsetter.com, www.thefork.com (including www.lafourchette.com,
www.eltenedor.com and www.iens.nl), www.niumba.com, www.onetime.com, www.oyster.com, www.seatguru.com,
www.smartertravel.com, www.tingo.com, www.travelpod.com, www.tripbod.com, www.vacationhomerentals.com, www.viator.com,
www.virtualtourist.com, and www.kuxun.cn. For further description of our other travel brands see Item 1, Business.
We derive substantially all of our revenue through the sale of advertising, primarily through click-based advertising and, to a
lesser extent, display-based advertising. In addition, we earn revenue from a combination of subscription-based and transaction-based
offerings, including: Business Listings; subscription and commission-based offerings from our Vacation Rentals products; transaction
revenue from selling room nights through our Jetsetter and Tingo brands; selling destination activities from Viator; fulfilling online
restaurant reservations through Lafourchette; as well as other revenue including content licensing.
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We have two reportable segments: Hotel and Other. Our Other segment consists of the aggregation of three operating segments,
which include our Vacation Rentals, Restaurants and Attractions businesses. Our operating segments are determined based on how our
chief operating decision maker manages our business, regularly assesses information and evaluates performance for operating
decision-making purposes, including allocation of resources. For further information on our reportable segments see “Note 16 —
Segment and Geographic Information,” in the notes to our consolidated financial statements.
Seasonality
Expenditures by travel advertisers tend to be seasonal. Traditionally, our strongest quarter has been the third quarter, which is a
key travel research period, with the weakest quarter being the fourth quarter. However, adverse economic conditions or continued
growth of our international operations with differing holiday peaks may influence the typical trend of our seasonality in the future.
NOTE 2: SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
Basis of Presentation
The accompanying consolidated financial statements include TripAdvisor, our wholly-owned subsidiaries, and entities we
control, or in which we have a variable interest and are the primary beneficiary of expected cash profits or losses. We record
noncontrolling interest in our consolidated financial statements to recognize the minority ownership interest in our consolidated
subsidiaries. Noncontrolling interest in the earnings and losses of consolidated subsidiaries represent the share of net income or loss
allocated to members or partners in our consolidated entities. We have eliminated significant intercompany transactions and accounts.
The accompanying consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles
in the United States (“GAAP”).
Certain of our subsidiaries that operate in China, have variable interests in affiliated entities in China in order to comply with
Chinese laws and regulations, which restrict foreign investment in Internet content provision businesses. Although we do not own the
capital stock of some of our Chinese affiliates, we consolidate their results as we are the primary beneficiary of the cash losses or
profits of these variable interest affiliates and have the power to direct the activities of these affiliates. Our variable interest entities are
not material for all periods presented.
Accounting Estimates
We use estimates and assumptions in the preparation of our consolidated financial statements in accordance with GAAP. Our
estimates and assumptions affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities as of
the date of our consolidated financial statements. These estimates and assumptions also affect the reported amount of net income or
loss during any period. Our actual financial results could differ significantly from these estimates. The significant estimates underlying
our consolidated financial statements include; (i) recoverability of intangible assets and goodwill; (ii) recoverability and useful life of
long-lived assets; (iii) accounting for income taxes; (iv) purchase accounting for business combinations and (v) stock-based
compensation.
Reclassifications
As previously disclosed, we no longer consider Expedia a related party. Certain reclassifications have been made to conform the
prior period to the current presentation relating to Expedia transactions, which includes the reclassification of revenue from Expedia
on our statements of operations for the years ended December 31, 2013 and 2012 of $217 million and $204 million, respectively, to
revenue, the reclassification of receivables at December 31, 2013 of $16 million, from Expedia, net on our consolidated balance sheets
to accounts receivable, as well as operating cash flow reclassifications related to Expedia for the years ended December 31, 2013 and
2012 of cash provided of $8 million and cash used of $17 million, respectively, to operating cash flows for accounts receivable on our
consolidated statements of cash flows those years. These reclassifications had no net effect on our consolidated financial statements.
In addition, as discussed above, we revised our reportable segment structure during the fourth quarter of 2014. Consequently all
prior periods have been reclassified to conform to the current reporting structure, which is reflected in all required segment disclosures
made in this Form 10-K. These reclassifications had no effect on our consolidated financial statements.
All other reclassifications, made to conform the prior period to the current presentation, were not material and had no net effect
on our consolidated financial statements.
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Revenue Recognition
We recognize revenue from our services rendered when the following four revenue recognition criteria are met: persuasive
evidence of an arrangement exists, services have been rendered, the price is fixed or determinable, and collectability is reasonably
assured. Deferred revenue, which primarily relates to our subscription-based and commission based arrangements, is recorded when
payments are received in advance of our performance as required by the underlying agreements.
Click-based Advertising. Revenue is derived primarily from click-through fees charged to our travel partners for traveler leads
sent to the travel partners’ website. We record revenue from click-through fees after the traveler makes the click-through to the travel
partners’ websites.
Instant booking commission revenue is recorded at the time a traveler books a hotel transaction on our site where we do not
assume cancellation risk. In transactions in which we assume cancellation risk, we record revenue when we receive cash from our
travel partners, given the current uncertainty of the traveler’s stay. We have no post-booking service obligations for Instant Booking
transactions.
Display-based Advertising. We recognize display advertising revenue ratably over the advertising period or upon delivery of
advertising impressions, depending on the terms of the advertising contract. Subscription-based revenue is recognized ratably over the
related contractual period over which service is delivered.
Attractions. We receive cash from the consumer at the time of booking of the destination activity and record these amounts, net
of commissions, as deferred merchant payables on our consolidated balance sheet. Commission revenue is recorded as deferred
revenue at the time of booking and later recognized when the consumer has completed the destination activity or as the consumer’s
refund privileges lapse. We pay the destination activity operators after the travelers’ use.
Restaurants. We recognize reservation revenues (or per seated diner fees) on a transaction-by-transaction basis as diners are
seated by our restaurant customers. Subscription-based revenue is recognized ratably over the related contractual period over which
the service is delivered.
Vacation Rentals. We generate revenue from customers for online advertising listing services related to the listing of their
properties for rent on a subscription basis, over a fixed-term, or on a free-to-list option. Payments for term-based paid subscriptions
received in advance of services being rendered are recorded as deferred revenue and recognized ratably on a straight-line basis over
the listing period. We generate commission revenue from our free-to-list bookings option. We receive cash from travelers at the time
of booking, net of commissions, and record as deferred merchant payables on our consolidated balance sheet. Commission revenue is
recorded as deferred revenue at the time of booking and later recognized when the traveler has completed the stay or as the travelers’
refund privileges lapse. We pay the customer or property owner after the travelers’ stay.
Cost of Revenue
Cost of revenue consists of expenses that are directly related or closely correlated to revenue generation, including direct
costs, such as ad serving fees, flight search fees, transaction fees and data center costs. In addition, cost of revenue includes personnel
and overhead expenses, including salaries, benefits, stock-based compensation and bonuses for certain customer support personnel
who are directly involved in revenue generation.
Selling and Marketing
Sales and marketing expenses primarily consist of direct costs, including SEM and other online traffic acquisition costs,
syndication costs and affiliate program commissions, brand advertising, television and other offline advertising, and public relations.
In addition, our indirect sales and marketing expense consists of personnel and overhead expenses, including salaries, commissions,
benefits, stock-based compensation expense and bonuses for sales, sales support, customer support and marketing employees.
Technology and Content
Technology and content expenses consist of personnel and overhead expenses, including salaries and benefits, stock-based
compensation expense and bonuses for salaried employees and contractors engaged in the design, development, testing, content
support, and maintenance of our websites and mobile apps. Other costs include licensing, maintenance expense, computer supplies,
and technology hardware.
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General and Administrative
General and administrative expense consists primarily of personnel and related overhead costs, including executive leadership,
finance, legal and human resource functions and stock-based compensation as well as professional service fees and other fees
including audit, legal, tax and accounting, and other costs including bad debt expense and our charitable foundation costs.
Interest Income and Other, net
Interest income and other, net primarily consists of interest earned and amortization of discounts and premiums on our
marketable securities, and net foreign exchange gains and losses.
Interest Expense
Interest expense primarily consists of interest incurred, commitment fees and debt issuance cost amortization related to our
Credit Agreement and Chinese Credit Facilities.
Cash, Cash Equivalents and Marketable Securities
Our cash equivalents consist of highly liquid investments with maturities of 90 days or less at the date of purchase. Our
marketable debt and equity securities have been classified and accounted for as available-for-sale. We determine the appropriate
classification of our investments at the time of purchase and reevaluate the designations at each balance sheet date. We invest in
highly-rated securities, and our investment policy limits the amount of credit exposure to any one issuer, industry group and currency.
The policy requires investments to be investment grade, with the primary objective of minimizing the potential risk of principal loss
and providing liquidity of investments sufficient to meet our operating and capital spending requirements and debt repayments.
We classify our marketable debt securities as either short-term or long-term based on each instrument’s underlying contractual
maturity date and as to whether and when we intend to sell a particular security prior to its maturity date. Marketable debt securities
with maturities greater than 90 days at the date of purchase and 12 months or less remaining at the balance sheet date will be classified
as short-term and marketable debt securities with maturities greater than 12 months from the balance sheet date will generally be
classified as long-term. We classify our marketable equity securities, limited to money market funds and mutual funds, as either short-
term or long-term based on the nature of each security and its availability for use in current operations. Our marketable debt and
equity securities are carried at fair value, with the unrealized gains and losses, net of taxes, reported in accumulated other
comprehensive income (loss) as a component of stockholders’ equity. Fair values are determined for each individual security in the
investment portfolio.
Realized gains and losses on the sale of securities are determined by specific identification of each security’s cost basis. We may
sell certain of our marketable securities prior to their stated maturities for strategic reasons including, but not limited to, anticipation of
credit deterioration and liquidity and duration management. The weighted average maturity of our total invested cash shall not exceed
18 months, and no security shall have a final maturity date greater than three years.
We continually review our available for sale securities to determine whether a decline in fair value below the carrying value is
other than temporary. When evaluating an investment for other-than-temporary impairment, we review factors such as the length of
time and extent to which fair value has been below its cost basis, the financial condition of the issuer and any changes thereto, and our
intent to sell, or whether it is more likely than not it will be required to sell the investment before recovery of the investment’s cost
basis. Once a decline in fair value is determined to be other than temporary, an impairment charge is recorded and a new cost basis in
the investment is established. If we do not intend to sell the debt security, but it is probable that we will not collect all amounts due,
then only the impairment due to the credit risk would be recognized in earnings and the remaining amount of the impairment would be
recognized in accumulated other comprehensive loss within stockholders’ equity.
Cash consists of cash deposits held in global financial institutions.
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Fair Value Measurements
We apply fair value accounting for all financial assets and liabilities and non-financial assets and liabilities that are recognized
or disclosed at fair value in the financial statements on a recurring basis. We measure assets and liabilities at fair value based on the
expected exit price, which is the amount that would be received on the sale of an asset or amount paid to transfer a liability, as the case
may be, in an orderly transaction between market participants in the principal or most advantageous market in which we would
transact. As such, fair value may be based on assumptions that market participants would use in pricing an asset or liability at the
measurement date. The authoritative guidance on fair value measurements establishes a consistent framework for measuring fair value
on either a recurring or nonrecurring basis whereby inputs, used in valuation techniques, are assigned a hierarchical level. The
following are the hierarchical levels of inputs to measure fair value:
Level 1—Valuations are based on quoted prices for identical assets and liabilities in active markets.
Level 2—Valuations are based on 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—Valuations are based on unobservable inputs reflecting our own assumptions, consistent with reasonably
available assumptions made by other market participants. These valuations require significant judgment.
Derivative Financial Instruments
Our goal in managing our foreign exchange risk is to reduce, to the extent practicable, our potential exposure to the changes that
exchange rates might have on our earnings, cash flows and financial position. We do not use derivatives for trading or speculative
purposes. We account for our derivative instruments as either assets or liabilities and carry them at fair value.
For derivative instruments that hedge the exposure to variability in expected future cash flows that are designated as cash flow
hedges, the effective portion of the gain or loss on the derivative instrument is reported as a component of accumulated other
comprehensive income (loss) in stockholders’ equity and reclassified into income in the same period or periods during which the
hedged transaction affects earnings. The ineffective portion of the gain or loss on the derivative instrument, if any, is recognized in
current income. To receive hedge accounting treatment, cash flow hedges must be highly effective in offsetting changes to expected
future cash flows on hedged transactions. For options designated as cash flow hedges, changes in the time value are excluded from the
assessment of hedge effectiveness and are recognized in income. For derivative instruments that hedge the exposure to changes in the
fair value of an asset or a liability and that are designated as fair value hedges, both the net gain or loss on the derivative instrument as
well as the offsetting gain or loss on the hedged item attributable to the hedged risk are recognized in earnings in the current period.
The net gain or loss on the effective portion of a derivative instrument that is designated as an economic hedge of the foreign currency
translation exposure of the net investment in a foreign operation is reported in the same manner as a foreign currency translation
adjustment. For forward exchange contracts designated as net investment hedges, we exclude changes in fair value relating to changes
in the forward carrying component from its definition of effectiveness. Accordingly, any gains or losses related to this component are
recognized in current income. We have not entered into any cash flow, fair value or net investment hedges to date as of December 31,
2014.
Derivatives that do not qualify for hedge accounting must be adjusted to fair value through current income. In certain
circumstances, we enter into foreign currency forward exchange contracts (“forward contracts”) to reduce the effects of fluctuating
foreign currency exchange rates on our cash flows denominated in foreign currencies. Our derivative instruments or forward contracts
entered into are not designated as hedges as of December 31, 2014 are disclosed below in “Note 5— Financial Instruments” in the
notes to the consolidated financial statements. Monetary assets and liabilities denominated in a currency other than the functional
currency of a given subsidiary are remeasured at spot rates in effect on the balance sheet date with the effects of changes in spot rates
reported in other, net on our consolidated statements of operations. Accordingly, fair value changes in the forward contracts help
mitigate the changes in the value of the remeasured assets and liabilities attributable to changes in foreign currency exchange rates,
except to the extent of the spot-forward differences. These differences are not expected to be significant due to the short-term nature of
the contracts, which to date, have generally had maturities at inception of 90 days or less. The net cash received or paid related to our
derivative instruments are classified as an operating activity in our consolidated statements of cash flow, which is based on the
objective of the derivative instruments. These net cash flows have not been material in any reporting period to date.
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Accounts Receivable and Allowance for Doubtful Accounts
Accounts receivable are generally due within 30 days and are recorded net of an allowance for doubtful accounts. We record
accounts receivable at the invoiced amount. Collateral is not required for accounts receivable. We consider accounts outstanding
longer than the contractual payment terms as past due. We determine our allowance by considering a number of factors, including the
length of time trade accounts receivable are past due, previous loss history, a specific customer’s ability to pay its obligations to us,
and the condition of the general economy and industry as a whole.
The following table presents the changes in the allowance for doubtful accounts for the periods presented:
2014
December 31,
2013
(in millions)
2012
Allowance for doubtful accounts:
Balance, beginning of period ...................................... $
Charges (recoveries) to earnings .................................
Write-offs, net of recoveries and other adjustments ....
Balance, end of period ................................................. $
3 $
3
1
7 $
3 $
1
(1 )
3 $
5
(1)
(1)
3
Property and Equipment, Including Website and Software Development Costs
We record property and equipment at cost, net of accumulated depreciation. We capitalize certain costs incurred during the
application development stage related to the development of websites and internal use software when it is probable the project will be
completed and the software will be used as intended. Capitalized costs include internal and external costs, if direct and incremental,
and deemed by management to be significant. We expense costs related to the planning and post-implementation phases of software
and website development as these costs are incurred. Maintenance and enhancement costs (including those costs in the post-
implementation stages) are typically expensed as incurred, unless such costs relate to substantial upgrades and enhancements to the
website or software resulting in added functionality, in which case the costs are capitalized.
We compute depreciation using the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of the assets, which is three to five years
for computer equipment, capitalized software and website development, office furniture and other equipment. We depreciate leasehold
improvements using the straight-line method, over the shorter of the estimated useful life of the improvement or the remaining term of
the lease.
Leases
We lease office space in several countries around the world under non-cancelable lease agreements. We generally lease our
office facilities under operating lease agreements. Office facilities subject to an operating lease and the related lease payments are not
recorded on our balance sheet. The terms of certain lease agreements provide for rental payments on a graduated basis, however, we
recognize rent expense on a straight-line basis over the lease period in accordance with GAAP. Any lease incentives are recognized as
reductions of rental expense on a straight-line basis over the term of the lease. The lease term begins on the date we become legally
obligated for the rent payments or when we take possession of the office space, whichever is earlier.
We establish assets and liabilities for the estimated construction costs incurred under lease arrangements where we are
considered the owner for accounting purposes only, or build-to-suit leases, to the extent we are involved in the construction of
structural improvements or take construction risk prior to commencement of a lease. Upon occupancy of facilities under build-to-suit
leases, we assess whether these arrangements qualify for sales recognition under the sale-leaseback accounting guidance under GAAP.
If we continue to be the deemed owner, for accounting purposes, the facilities are accounted for as financing obligations.
We establish assets and liabilities for the present value of estimated future costs to return certain of our leased facilities to their
original condition for asset retirement obligations. Such assets are depreciated over the lease period into operating expense, and the
recorded liabilities are accreted to the future value of the estimated restoration costs.
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Business Combination Valuations and Recoverability of Goodwill and Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets
Goodwill
We account for acquired businesses using the purchase method of accounting which requires that the assets acquired and
liabilities assumed be recorded at the date of acquisition at their respective fair values. Any excess of the purchase price over the
estimated fair values of the net assets acquired is recorded as goodwill. We assess goodwill, which is not amortized, for impairment
annually as of October 1, or more frequently, if events and circumstances indicate impairment may have occurred. We test goodwill
for impairment at the reporting unit level (operating segment or one level below an operating segment). Goodwill is allocated to our
reporting units at the date the goodwill is initially recorded. Once goodwill has been allocated to the reporting units, it no longer
retains its identification with a particular acquisition and becomes identified with the reporting unit in its entirety. Accordingly, the
fair value of the reporting unit as a whole is available to support the recoverability of its goodwill.
In the evaluation of goodwill for impairment, we generally first perform a qualitative assessment to determine whether it is more
likely than not (i.e., a likelihood of more than 50%) that the implied fair value of the reporting unit is less than the carrying amount. If
we determine that it is not more likely than not that the implied fair value of the goodwill is less than its carrying amount, no further
testing is necessary. If, however, we determine that it is more likely than not that the implied fair value of the goodwill is less than its
carrying amount, we then perform a quantitative assessment and compare the implied fair value of the reporting unit to the carrying
value. If the carrying value of a reporting unit exceeds its implied fair value, the goodwill of that reporting unit is potentially impaired
and we proceed to step two of the impairment analysis. In step two of the analysis, we will record an impairment loss equal to the
excess of the carrying value of the reporting unit’s goodwill over its implied fair value should such a circumstance arise.
In determining the estimated fair value of assets acquired and liabilities assumed in business combinations and for
determining implied fair values of reporting units in a quantitative goodwill impairment test, we use one of the following recognized
valuation methods: the income approach (including discounted cash flows), the market approach or the cost approach. Our significant
estimates in those fair value measurements include identifying business factors such as size, growth, profitability, risk and return on
investment and assessing comparable revenue and operating income multiples. Further, when measuring fair value based on
discounted cash flows, we make assumptions about risk-adjusted discount rates, future price levels, rates of increase in revenue, cost
of revenue, and operating expenses, weighted average cost of capital, rates of long-term growth, and income tax rates. Valuations are
performed by management or third party valuation specialists under management's supervision, where appropriate. We believe that the
fair values assigned to the assets acquired and liabilities assumed in business combinations and impairment tests are based on
reasonable assumptions that marketplace participants would use. However, such assumptions are inherently uncertain and actual
results could differ from those estimates.
As part of our qualitative assessment for our 2014 goodwill impairment analysis on October 1, the factors that we considered
included, but were not limited to: (a) changes in macroeconomic conditions in the overall economy and the specific markets in which
we operate, (b) our ability to access capital, (c) changes in the online travel industry, (d) changes in the level of competition,
(e) comparison of our current financial performance to historical and budgeted results, and (f) changes in excess market capitalization
over book value based on our current common stock price and latest unaudited consolidated balance sheet. After considering these
factors and the impact that changes in such factors would have on the inputs used in our previous quantitative assessment, we
determined that it was more likely than not that goodwill was not impaired.
Subsequent to the annual impairment test on October 1, 2014, as discussed in “Note 16—Segment and Geographic
Information," the composition of our operating segments and our reporting units, has been revised. As a result of this revision, we
performed an updated goodwill impairment analysis as of December 31, 2014, for each of our four reporting units which we have
identified: Hotels, Vacation Rentals, Restaurants and Attractions. As part of our qualitative assessment for our Hotel reporting unit,
we considered the same factors used above in our October 1 qualitative assessment. As part of our process for our Vacation Rentals,
Restaurants and Attractions reporting units, we began our qualitative analysis leveraging quantitative valuations for recent acquisitions
in these reporting units, prepared by third party appraisers or management, which were used by management for initial purchase
accounting required under GAAP. We then considered many of the same qualitative factors used in our October 1, 2014 qualitative
assessment and the impact that changes in such factors would have on the inputs previously used in those recent quantitative
valuations. After considering this information, we determined that, regarding all reporting units, it was more likely than not that these
assets were not impaired at December 31, 2014.
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Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets
Intangible assets that have indefinite lives are not amortized and are tested for impairment annually on October 1, or whenever
events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying value may not be recoverable. Similar to the qualitative assessment for
goodwill, we may assess qualitative factors to determine if it is more likely than not that the implied fair value of the indefinite-lived
intangible asset is less than its carrying amount. If we determine that it is not more likely than not that the implied fair value of the
indefinite-lived intangible asset is less than its carrying amount, no further testing is necessary. If, however, we determine that it is
more likely than not that the implied fair value of the indefinite-lived intangible asset is less than its carrying amount, we compare the
implied fair value of the indefinite-lived asset with its carrying amount. If the carrying value of an individual indefinite-lived
intangible asset exceeds its implied fair value, the individual asset is written down by an amount equal to such excess. The assessment
of qualitative factors is optional and at our discretion. We may bypass the qualitative assessment for any indefinite-lived intangible
asset in any period and resume performing the qualitative assessment in any subsequent period.
As part of our qualitative assessment for our 2014 impairment analysis on October 1, the factors that we considered for our
indefinite-lived intangible assets included, but were not limited to: (a) changes in macroeconomic conditions in the overall economy
and the specific markets in which we operate, (b) our ability to access capital, (c) changes in the online travel industry, (d) changes in
the level of competition, (e) comparison of our current financial performance to historical and budgeted results, (f) changes in excess
market capitalization over book value based on our current common stock price and latest unaudited consolidated balance sheet, and
(g) comparison of the excess of the fair value of our trade names and trademarks to the carrying value of those same assets, using the
results of our most recent quantitative assessment. After considering these factors and the impact that changes in such factors would
have on the inputs used in our previous quantitative assessment, we determined that it was more likely than not that these assets were
not impaired.
Since the annual impairment test on October 1, 2014, there have been no events or changes in circumstances to indicate any
potential impairment to our indefinite lived intangible assets. In the event that future circumstances indicate that our indefinite-lived
intangibles are impaired, an impairment charge would be recorded.
There were no impairment charges recognized to our consolidated statement of operations during the years ended December 31,
2014, 2013 and 2012 related to our goodwill or indefinite-lived intangible assets.
Recoverability of Intangible Assets with Definite Lives and Other Long-Lived Assets
Intangible assets with definite lives and other long-lived assets are carried at cost and are amortized on a straight-line basis over
their estimated useful lives of two to twelve years. The straight-line method of amortization is currently used for our definite-lived
intangible assets as it approximates, or is our best estimate, of the distribution of the economic use of our identifiable intangible assets.
We review the carrying value of long-lived assets or asset groups, including property and equipment, to be used in operations
whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of the assets might not be recoverable.
Factors that would necessitate an impairment assessment include a significant adverse change in the extent or manner in which
an asset is used, a significant adverse change in legal factors or the business climate that could affect the value of the asset, or a
significant decline in the observable market value of an asset, among others. If such facts indicate a potential impairment, we assess
the recoverability of the asset by determining if the carrying value of the asset exceeds the sum of the projected undiscounted cash
flows expected to result from the use and eventual disposition of the asset over the remaining economic life of the asset. If the
recoverability test indicates that the carrying value of the asset is not recoverable, we will estimate the fair value of the asset using
appropriate valuation methodologies which would typically include an estimate of discounted cash flows. Any impairment would be
measured by the amount that the carrying value of such assets exceeds their fair value and would be included in operating income on
the consolidated statement of operations. We have not identified any circumstances that would warrant an impairment assessment of
any recorded assets in our consolidated balance sheet at December 31, 2014.
Income Taxes
We record income taxes under the asset and liability method. Deferred tax assets and liabilities reflect our estimation of the
future tax consequences of temporary differences between the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities for book and tax purposes. We
determine deferred income taxes based on the differences in accounting methods and timing between financial statement and income
tax reporting. Accordingly, we determine the deferred tax asset or liability for each temporary difference based on the enacted tax
rates expected to be in effect when we realize the underlying items of income and expense. We consider all relevant factors when
assessing the likelihood of future realization of our deferred tax assets, including our recent earnings experience by jurisdiction,
expectations of future taxable income, and the carryforward periods available to us for tax reporting purposes, as well as assessing
available tax planning strategies. We may establish a valuation allowance to reduce deferred tax assets to the amount we believe is
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more likely than not to be realized. Due to inherent complexities arising from the nature of our businesses, future changes in income
tax law, tax sharing agreements or variances between our actual and anticipated operating results, we make certain judgments and
estimates. Therefore, actual income taxes could materially vary from these estimates.
We recognize in our consolidated financial statements the impact of a tax position, if that position is more likely than not to be
sustained upon an examination, based on the technical merits of the position.
Foreign Currency Translation and Transaction Gains and Losses
Our consolidated financial statements are reported in U.S. dollars. Certain of our subsidiaries outside of the United States use
the related local currency as their functional currency and not the U.S. dollar. Therefore assets and liabilities of our foreign
subsidiaries are translated at the spot rate in effect at the applicable reporting date, and the consolidated statements of operations are
translated at the average exchange rates in effect during the applicable period. The resulting unrealized cumulative translation
adjustment is recorded as a component of accumulated other comprehensive income(loss) in stockholders’ equity on our consolidated
balance sheet.
We also have subsidiaries that have transactions in foreign currencies other than their functional currency. Transactions
denominated in currencies other than the functional currency are recorded based on exchange rates at the time such transactions arise.
Subsequent changes in exchange rates result in transaction gains and losses which are reflected in our consolidated statements of
operations as unrealized (based on the applicable period-end exchange rate) or realized upon settlement of the transactions, in other,
net.
Accordingly, we have recorded foreign exchange losses of $10 million, $0 million and $3 million for the years ended
December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively, in other, net on our consolidated statement of operations. These amounts include
gains and losses, realized and unrealized, on foreign currency forward contracts.
Advertising Expense
We incur advertising expense, which includes traffic generation costs from search engines and Internet portals, other online and
offline (including television) advertising expense, promotions and public relations to promote our brands. We expense the costs
associated with communicating the advertisements in the period in which the advertisement takes place. We initially capitalize and
then expense the production costs associated with advertisements in the period in which the advertisement first takes place. For the
years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012, our advertising expense was $341 million, $237 million, and $175 million,
respectively. As of December 31, 2014 and 2013, we had $5 million and $1 million of prepaid marketing expenses included in prepaid
expenses and other current assets. We expect to fully expense our prepaid marketing asset of $5 million as of December 31, 2014 to
the consolidated statement of operations during 2015.
Stock-Based Compensation
Stock Options. The exercise price for all stock options granted by us to date has been equal to the market price of the underlying
shares of common stock at the date of grant. In this regard, when making stock option awards, our practice is to determine the
applicable grant date and to specify that the exercise price shall be the closing price of our common stock on the date of grant.
The estimated grant-date fair value of stock options is calculated using a Black-Scholes Merton option-pricing model (“Black-
Scholes model”). The Black-Scholes model incorporates assumptions to value stock-based awards, which includes the risk-free rate of
return, expected volatility, expected term and expected dividend yield.
Our risk-free interest rate is based on the rates currently available on zero-coupon U.S. Treasury issues, in effect at the time of
the grant, whose remaining maturity period most closely approximates the stock option’s expected term assumption. We have
estimated, to date, the volatility of our common stock by using an average of our historical stock price volatility and of publicly traded
companies that we consider peers based on daily price observations. We have estimated our expected term, to date, using the
simplified method, as we have not had sufficient historical exercise data on our common stock to date. Our expected dividend yield is
zero, as we have not paid any dividends on our common stock to date and do not expect to pay any cash dividends for the foreseeable
future.
71
Our stock options generally have a term of ten years from the date of grant and generally vest equitably over a four-year
requisite service period. We amortize the grant-date fair value of our stock option grants, net of estimated forfeitures, as stock-based
compensation expense over the vesting term on a straight-line basis, with the amount of compensation expense recognized at any date
at least equaling the portion of the grant-date fair value of the award that is vested at that date.
As the Company now has three years of post-Spin-Off equity award activity, beginning in February 2015, we will change our
method of estimating our expected term from the simplified method and use historical exercise behavior and expected post-vest
termination data. Simultaneously, we will also begin estimating our expected volatility by equally weighting the historical volatility
and implied volatility on our own stock. Historical volatility will be determined using actual daily price observations of our stock
price over a period equivalent to or approximate to the expected term of our stock option grants to date. Implied volatility represents
the volatility of our actively traded options on our stock, with remaining maturities in excess of twelve months and market prices
approximate to the exercise prices of the stock option grant. These changes are not expected to materially affect our future
consolidated financial statements.
Restricted Stock Units. RSUs are stock awards that are granted to employees entitling the holder to shares of our common stock
as the award vests. RSUs are measured at fair value based on the number of shares granted and the quoted price of our common stock
at the date of grant. We amortize the fair value of RSUs, net of estimated forfeitures, as stock-based compensation expense over the
vesting term of generally four years on a straight-line basis, with the amount of compensation expense recognized at any date at least
equaling the portion of the grant-date fair value of the award that is vested at that date.
Performance-based stock options and RSUs vest upon achievement of certain company-based performance conditions and a
requisite service period. On the date of grant, the fair value of performance-based award is determined based on the fair value, which
is calculated using the same method as our service based stock options and RSUs described above. We then assess whether it is
probable that the individual performance targets would be achieved. If assessed as probable, compensation expense will be recorded
for these awards over the estimated performance period. At each reporting period, we will reassess the probability of achieving the
performance targets and the performance period required to meet those targets. The estimation of whether the performance targets will
be achieved and of the performance period required to achieve the targets requires judgment, and to the extent actual results or
updated estimates differ from our current estimates, the cumulative effect on current and prior periods of those changes will be
recorded in the period estimates are revised, or the change in estimate will be applied prospectively depending on whether the change
affects the estimate of total compensation cost to be recognized or merely affects the period over which compensation cost is to be
recognized. The ultimate number of shares issued and the related compensation expense recognized will be based on a comparison of
the final performance metrics to the specified targets.
Estimates of fair value are not intended to predict actual future events or the value ultimately realized by employees who receive
these awards, and subsequent events are not indicative of the reasonableness of our original estimates of fair value. We use historical
data to estimate pre-vesting stock option and RSU forfeitures and record share-based compensation expense only for those awards that
are expected to vest. Changes in estimated forfeitures are recognized through a cumulative catch-up adjustment in the period of
change which also impacts the amount of stock compensation expense to be recognized in future periods.
Deferred Merchant Payables
We receive cash from travelers at the time of booking related to our vacation rental, attractions and transaction-based businesses
and we record these amounts, net of commissions, on our consolidated balance sheets as deferred merchant payables. We pay the
hotel, destination activity operators or vacation rental owners after the travelers’ use and subsequent billing from the hotel, attraction
provider or vacation rental owners. Therefore, we receive cash from the traveler prior to paying the hotel, destination activity operator
or vacation rental owners, and this operating cycle represents a working capital source or use of cash to us. As long as these businesses
grow, we expect that changes in working capital related to these transactions, depending on timing of payments and seasonality, will
continue to impact operating cash flows. Our deferred merchant payables balance was $93 million and $30 million for the years ended
December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively. A payable balance of $76 million was acquired during the year ended December 31, 2014,
primarily related to our Viator acquisition (see “Note 3— Acquisitions”) and therefore is included within investing activities in our
consolidated statement of cash flows.
Credit Risk and Concentrations
Financial instruments, which potentially subject us to concentration of credit risk, consist primarily of cash and cash equivalents,
corporate debt securities, foreign exchange contracts, accounts receivable and customer concentrations. We maintain some cash and
cash equivalents balances with financial institutions that are in excess of Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation insurance limits. Our
cash and cash equivalents are primarily composed of prime institutional money market funds as well as bank account balances
primarily denominated in U.S. dollars, Euros, British pound sterling, Chinese renminbi, Australian dollars and Singapore dollars. We
72
invest in highly-rated corporate debt securities, and our investment policy limits the amount of credit exposure to any one issuer,
industry group and currency. Our credit risk related to corporate debt securities is also mitigated by the relatively short maturity period
required by our investment policy. Foreign exchange contracts are transacted with various international financial institutions with high
credit standing.
Our business is also subject to certain risks due to concentrations related to dependence on our relationships with our customers.
For the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012 our two most significant advertising partners, Expedia and Priceline, each
accounted for more than 10% of our consolidated revenue and combined accounted for 46%, 47% and 48% of our consolidated
revenue, respectively. This concentration of revenue is recorded in our Hotel segment for these reporting periods. As of December 31,
2014 and 2013, Expedia accounted for 15% and 14%, respectively, of our total accounts receivable. Our overall credit risk related to
accounts receivable is also mitigated by the relatively short collection period.
Contingent Liabilities
Periodically, we review the status of all significant outstanding matters to assess any potential financial exposure. When (i) it is
probable that an asset has been impaired or a liability has been incurred and (ii) the amount of the loss can be reasonably estimated,
we record the estimated loss in our consolidated statements of operations. We provide disclosure in the notes to the consolidated
financial statements for loss contingencies that do not meet both these conditions if there is a reasonable possibility that a loss may
have been incurred that would be material to the financial statements. Significant judgment is required to determine the probability
that a liability has been incurred and whether such liability is reasonably estimable. We base accruals made on the best information
available at the time which can be highly subjective. The final outcome of these matters could vary significantly from the amounts
included in the accompanying consolidated financial statements.
Comprehensive Income (Loss)
Comprehensive income (loss) currently consists of net income, cumulative foreign currency translation adjustments, and
unrealized gains and losses on available-for-sale securities, net of tax.
Basic Earnings Per Share
We compute basic earnings per share (“Basic EPS”) by dividing net income attributable to TripAdvisor by the weighted average
number of common shares outstanding during the period. We compute the weighted average number of common shares outstanding
during the reporting period using the total of common stock and Class B common stock outstanding as of the last day of the previous
year end reporting period plus the weighted average of any additional shares issued and outstanding less the weighted average of any
treasury shares repurchased during the reporting period.
Diluted Earnings Per Share
We compute diluted earnings per share (“Diluted EPS”) by dividing net income attributable to TripAdvisor by the sum of the
weighted average number of common and common equivalent shares outstanding during the period. We computed the weighted
average number of common and common equivalent shares outstanding during the period using the sum of (i) the number of shares of
common stock and Class B common stock used in the basic earnings per share calculation as indicated above, and (ii) if dilutive, the
incremental weighted average common stock that we would issue upon the assumed exercise of outstanding common equivalent
shares related to stock options and the vesting of restricted stock units using the treasury stock method, and (iii) if dilutive,
performance based awards based on the number of shares that would be issuable as of the end of the reporting period assuming the
end of the reporting period was also the end of the contingency period.
Under the treasury stock method, the assumed proceeds calculation includes the actual proceeds to be received from the
employee upon exercise, the average unrecognized compensation cost during the period and any tax benefits credited upon exercise to
additional paid-in-capital. The treasury stock method assumes that a company uses the proceeds from the exercise of an award to
repurchase common stock at the average market price for the period. Windfall tax benefits created upon the exercise of an award
would be added to assumed proceeds, while shortfalls charged to additional paid-in-capital would be deducted from assumed
proceeds. Any shortfalls not covered by the windfall tax pool would be charged to the income statement and would be excluded from
the calculation of assumed proceeds, if any.
73
Below is a reconciliation of the weighted average number of shares of common stock outstanding in calculating Diluted EPS
(shares in thousands and dollars in millions, except per share amounts) for the periods presented:
Numerator:
Net income ........................................................................ $
226 $
205 $
194
Year ended December 31,
2013
2012
2014
Denominator:
Weighted average shares used to compute
Basic EPS .......................................................................
Weighted average effect of dilutive
securities:
142,721
142,854
139,462
Stock options ...............................................................
RSUs ............................................................................
Stock warrants ...............................................................
2,734
345
-
2,131
278
-
1,207
161
511
Weighted average shares used to compute
Diluted EPS ......................................................................
Basic EPS ................................................................................. $
Diluted EPS .............................................................................. $
145,800
1.58 $
1.55 $
145,263
1.44 $
1.41 $
141,341
1.39
1.37
The following potential common shares related to stock options and RSUs were excluded from the calculation of Diluted EPS
because their effect would have been anti-dilutive for the periods presented:
Stock options ...........................................................................
RSUs ........................................................................................
Total .........................................................................................
1,450
191
1,641
2,244
27
2,271
3,944
21
3,965
Year ended December 31,
2014(1)
2013(2)
2012(3)
(1) These totals do not include 66,666 performance based options and 44,000 performance based RSUs representing the right to
acquire 110,666 shares of common stock for which all targets required to trigger vesting had not been achieved; therefore, such
awards were excluded from the calculation of weighted average shares used to compute Diluted EPS for those reporting periods.
(2) These totals do not include 155,000 performance based options and 44,000 performance based RSUs representing the right to
acquire 199,000 shares of common stock for which all targets required to trigger vesting had not been achieved; therefore, such
awards were excluded from the calculation of weighted average shares used to compute Diluted EPS for those reporting periods.
(3) These totals do not include 110,000 performance based options and 200,000 performance based RSUs representing the right to
acquire 310,000 shares of common stock, respectively, for which all targets required to trigger vesting had not been achieved;
therefore, such awards were excluded from the calculation of weighted average shares used to compute Diluted EPS for those
reporting periods.
The earnings per share amounts are the same for common stock and Class B common stock because the holders of each class are
legally entitled to equal per share distributions whether through dividends or in liquidation.
New Accounting Pronouncements Not Yet Adopted
Revenue From Contracts With Customers
In May 2014, the FASB issued new accounting guidance on revenue from contracts with customers. The new guidance
requires an entity to recognize the amount of revenue to which it expects to be entitled for the transfer of promised goods or services
to customers. The updated guidance will replace most existing revenue recognition guidance in GAAP when it becomes effective and
permits the use of either a retrospective or cumulative effect transition method. This guidance is effective for fiscal years, and interim
periods within those fiscal years, beginning after December 15, 2016. We have not yet selected a transition method and we are
currently evaluating the effect that the updated standard will have on our consolidated financial statements and related disclosures.
74
Recently Adopted Accounting Pronouncements
Pushdown Accounting
In November 2014, the FASB issued new accounting guidance that provides companies with the option to apply pushdown
accounting in its separate financial statements upon occurrence of an event in which an acquirer obtains control of the acquired entity.
The acquired entity may elect the option to apply pushdown accounting in the reporting period in which the change-in-control event
occurs. If pushdown accounting is not applied in the reporting period in which the change-in-control event occurs, an acquired entity
will have the option to elect to apply pushdown accounting in a subsequent reporting period as a change in accounting principle under
GAAP. If pushdown accounting is applied to an individual change-in-control event, that election is irrevocable. This guidance also
requires an acquired entity that elects the option to apply pushdown accounting in its separate financial statements to disclose
information in the current reporting period that enables users of financial statements to evaluate the effect of pushdown accounting.
We have adopted this guidance effective November 18, 2014, as the amendments are effective upon issuance. The adoption of this
new guidance did not have any impact on our consolidated financial statements and related disclosures.
Presentation of an Unrecognized Tax Benefit When a Net Operating Loss Carryforward, a Similar Tax Loss, or a Tax Credit
Carryforward Exists
In July 2013, the FASB issued new accounting guidance on the presentation of unrecognized tax benefits. The new guidance
requires an entity to present an unrecognized tax benefit, or a portion of an unrecognized tax benefit, as a reduction to a deferred tax
asset for a net operating loss carryforward, a similar tax loss, or a tax credit carryforward, except as follows: to the extent a net
operating loss carryforward, a similar tax loss, or a tax credit carryforward is not available at the reporting date under the tax law of
the applicable jurisdiction to settle any additional income taxes that would result from the disallowance of a tax position or the tax law
of the applicable jurisdiction does not require the entity to use, and the entity does not intend to use the deferred tax asset for such
purpose, then the unrecognized tax benefit should be presented in the financial statements as a liability and should not be combined
with deferred tax assets. This guidance was effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those fiscal years, beginning after
December 15, 2013, with early adoption permitted. Accordingly, we adopted these presentation requirements during the first quarter
of 2014. The adoption of this new guidance did not have a material impact on our consolidated financial statements and related
disclosures.
NOTE 3: ACQUISITIONS
We acquired a number of businesses during the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012. These business combinations
were accounted for as purchases of businesses under the acquisition method. The fair value of purchase consideration has been
allocated to tangible and identifiable intangible assets acquired and liabilities assumed, based on their respective fair values on the
acquisition date, with the remaining unallocated amount recorded as goodwill. Acquired goodwill represents the premium we
paid over the fair value of the net tangible and intangible assets acquired. We paid a premium in these transactions for a number of
reasons, but, primarily it was attributable to expected operational synergies, the assembled workforces, and the future development
initiatives of the assembled workforces. The results of each of these acquired businesses have been included in the consolidated
financial statements beginning on the respective acquisition dates. Pro-forma results of operations for all of these acquisitions have not
been presented as the financial impact to our consolidated financial statements, both individually and in aggregate, are not material.
For the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013, acquisition-related costs were expensed as incurred and were $4 million and $2
million, respectively, and are included in general and administrative expenses on our consolidated statements of operations.
Acquisition-related expenses were not material for the year ended December 31, 2012.
2014 Acquisitions
In August 2014, we completed our acquisition of Viator, Inc. (“Viator”). Viator, which is headquartered in San Francisco and
has offices in Las Vegas, London, and Sydney, is a leading resource for researching and booking destination activities around the
world. Our total purchase price was $192 million, for all the outstanding shares of capital stock of Viator, consisting of approximately
$187 million in cash consideration (or $132 million, net of cash acquired from Viator of $55 million) and the value of certain Viator
stock options that were assumed. We issued 100,595 TripAdvisor stock options related to the assumed Viator stock options. The fair
value of the earned portion of assumed stock options was $5 million and is included in the purchase price, with the remaining fair
value of $3 million resulting in post-acquisition compensation expense that will generally be recognized ratably over three years from
the date of acquisition. The total cash consideration was paid from one of our U.S. based subsidiaries.
During the year ended December 31, 2014, we completed six other acquisitions for a total purchase price consideration of $208
million, for which the Company paid total cash consideration of $199 million, which is net of cash acquired of $7 million and
approximately $2 million in holdbacks for general representations and warranties of the respective sellers. The cash consideration was
paid primarily from our international subsidiaries. We acquired 100% of the outstanding shares of capital stock for the following
75
companies; Vacation Home Rentals, a U.S.-based vacation rental website featuring more than 14,000 properties around the world
purchased in May 2014; London-based Tripbod, a travel community that helps connect travelers to local experts purchased in May
2014; Lafourchette, a provider of an online and mobile reservations platform for restaurants in Europe purchased in May 2014;
MyTable and Restopolis, both providers of an online and mobile reservations platform for restaurants in Italy purchased in October
2014; and Iens, a provider of an online and mobile reservations platform for restaurants in the Netherlands purchased in December
2014. The purchase price consideration is subject to an adjustment based on the finalization of working capital adjustments for
Restopolis and Iens, as of December 31, 2014. During 2014, all 2014 acquisitions accounted for approximately 3% of consolidated
revenue for the year.
The purchase price allocation of our 2014 acquisitions, is preliminary and subject to revision as more information becomes
available, but in any case will not be revised beyond twelve months after the acquisition date and any change to the fair value of assets
acquired or liabilities assumed will lead to a corresponding change to the purchase price allocable to goodwill on a retroactive basis.
The primary areas of the purchase price allocation that are not yet finalized are related to the fair values of intangibles assets and net
assets for Iens, net assets of Viator, and income tax related balances for all 2014 acquisitions. Acquired goodwill related to our 2014
acquisitions was allocated to our Other segment.
The following table presents the purchase price allocations initially recorded on our consolidated balance sheet for all 2014
acquisitions (in millions):
(cid:3)(cid:3)
Goodwill (1) ................................................................ $
Intangible assets (2) .....................................................
Net tangible assets (liabilities) (3) ...............................
Deferred tax liabilities, net ..........................................
Total purchase price consideration (4) ................... $
Total
253
194
(7 )
(40 )
400
(1) Goodwill in the amount of $5 million is expected to be deductible for tax purposes.
(2)
Identifiable definite-lived intangible assets acquired during 2014 were comprised of trade names of $44 million with a weighted
average life of 10.0 years, customer lists and supplier relationships of $82 million with a weighted average life of 7.2 years,
subscriber relationships of $25 million with a weighted average life of 6.0 years and developed technology and other of $43
million with a weighted average life of 4.9 years. The overall weighted-average life of the identifiable definite-lived intangible
assets acquired in the purchase of the companies during 2014 was 7.2 years, and will be amortized on a straight-line basis over
their estimated useful lives from acquisition date.
Includes assets acquired, including cash of $62 million and accounts receivable of $25 million and liabilities assumed, including
deferred merchant payables of $76 million, accrued expenses and other current liabilities of $15 million and deferred revenue of
$5 million which reflect their respective fair values at acquisition date.
(3)
(4) Subject to adjustment based on (i) final working capital adjustment calculations to be determined for Restopolis and Iens, and
(ii) indemnification obligations for general representations and warranties of the acquired company stockholders.
2013 Acquisitions
During the year ended December 31, 2013, we completed six acquisitions for a total purchase price consideration of $40 million,
for which the Company paid total cash consideration of $35 million, net of cash acquired of $3 million and approximately $2 million
in holdbacks for general representations and warranties of the respective sellers, of which $1 million was paid in 2014. The cash
consideration was paid primarily from our international subsidiaries. We acquired TinyPost, the developer of a product that enables
users to write over photos and turn them into stories, Jetsetter, a members-only private sale site for hotel bookings; CruiseWise, a
cruise research and planning site; Niumba, a Spain-based vacation rental site; GateGuru, a mobile app with flight and airport
information around the world; Oyster, a hotel review website featuring expert reviews and photos around the world, all of which
complemented our existing brands in those areas of the travel ecosystem. The purchase price allocation for our 2013 acquisitions is
considered final at December 31, 2014.
76
The following table presents the purchase price allocation recorded on our consolidated balance sheet at fair value for all 2013
acquisitions (in millions):
(cid:3)(cid:3)
Goodwill (1) .................................................................................................................... $
Intangible assets (2) .........................................................................................................
Net liabilities assumed (3) ...............................................................................................
Deferred tax assets ...........................................................................................................
Total purchase price consideration (4) ....................................................................... $
(cid:3)(cid:3)
Total
30
19
(10)
1
40
(1) Goodwill in the amount of $14 million is expected to be deductible for tax purposes.
(2)
Identifiable definite-lived intangible assets acquired during 2013 were comprised of trade names of $8 million, subscriber
relationships of $8 million, and developed technology and other of $3 million. The overall weighted-average life of the
identifiable definite-lived intangible assets acquired in the purchase of the companies during 2013 was 8.0 years, which is being
amortized on a straight-line basis over their estimated useful lives from acquisition date.
Includes assets acquired, including cash of $3 million and accounts receivable of $2 million and liabilities assumed, including
accounts payables of $11 million, accrued expenses and other current liabilities of $1 million and deferred revenue of $3 million
which reflected their respective fair values at acquisition date.
(3)
(4) Subject to adjustment based on (i) indemnification obligations for general representations and warranties of the acquired
company stockholders.
2012 Acquisitions
We purchased a travel media company for approximately $3 million. The purchase price consideration was primarily allocated
to goodwill, which is not tax deductible. The purchase price and purchase price allocation is final for this acquisition at December 31,
2014.
We also paid $22 million for the remaining noncontrolling interest subsidiary shares related to a 2008 acquisition, which
brought our ownership to 100%. This amount is included in financing activities in our consolidated statement of cash flows for the
year ended December 31, 2012.
NOTE 4: STOCK BASED AWARDS AND OTHER EQUITY INSTRUMENTS
Stock-based Compensation Expense
The following table presents the amount of stock-based compensation related to stock-based awards, primarily stock options and
RSUs, on our consolidated statements of operations during the periods presented:
2014
Year ended December 31,
2013
(in millions)
2012
Selling and marketing ............................................................. $
Technology and content ..........................................................
General and administrative .....................................................
Total stock-based compensation .......................................
Income tax benefit from stock-based compensation ...............
Total stock-based compensation, net of tax effect .................. $
13 $
27
23
63
(24)
39 $
11 $
21
17
49
(18 )
31 $
5
11
14
30
(10)
20
During the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013, we capitalized $8 million and $5 million, respectively, of stock-based
compensation as website development costs. This amount was immaterial for the year ended December 31, 2012.
Stock and Incentive Plan
On December 20, 2011, our 2011 Stock and Annual Incentive Plan became effective and we filed Post-Effective Amendment
No. 1 on Form S-8 to Registration Statement on Form S-4 (File No. 333-178637) (the “Prior Registration Statement”) with the
Securities and Exchange Commission (the “Commission”), registering a total of 17,500,000 shares of our common stock, of which
17,400,000 shares were issuable in connection with grants of equity-based awards under our 2011 Incentive Plan (7,400,000 of which
shares were originally registered on the Form S-4 and 10,000,000 of which shares were first registered on the Prior Registration
77
Statement) and 100,000 shares were issuable under our Deferred Compensation Plan for Non-Employee Directors (refer to “Note
13— Employee Benefit Plans” below for information on our Deferred Compensation Plan for Non-Employee Directors).
At our annual meeting of stockholders held on June 28, 2013 (the “Annual Meeting”), our stockholders approved an amendment
to our 2011 Stock and Annual Incentive Plan to, among other things, increase the aggregate number of shares of common stock
authorized for issuance thereunder by 15,000,000 shares. We refer to our 2011 Stock and Annual Incentive Plan, as amended by the
amendment as the “2011 Incentive Plan.” A summary of the material terms of the 2011 Incentive Plan can be found in “Proposal 3:
Approval of the 2011 Stock and Annual Incentive Plan, as amended” in our Proxy Statement for the Annual Meeting.
On September 12, 2014, we filed a Registration Statement on Form S-8 with respect to up to 100,595 shares of our common
stock for issuance under the Viator, Inc. 2010 Stock Incentive Plan, as amended (the “Viator Plan”). Pursuant to the Amended and
Restated Agreement and Plan of Merger among TripAdvisor LLC; Vineyard Acquisition Corporation and Viator, Inc., dated as of
July 24, 2014 (the “Merger Agreement”), Vineyard Acquisition Corporation merged with and into Viator, Inc. with Viator, Inc.
surviving as a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Company. In accordance with the Merger Agreement, we assumed certain outstanding
options to purchase shares of common stock of Viator granted under the Viator Plan (the “Assumed Options”). As a result of this
assumption, the Assumed Options were converted into options to purchase shares of our common stock. We do not intend to grant
new equity or equity-based awards under the Viator Plan.
Pursuant to the 2011 Annual Incentive Plan, we may, among other things, grant RSUs, restricted stock, stock options and other
stock-based awards to our directors, officers, employees and consultants. The summary of the material terms of the 2011 Incentive
Plan is qualified in its entirety by the full text of the 2011 Incentive Plan previously filed.
As of December 31, 2014, the total number of shares available for issuance under the 2011 Incentive Plan is 17,691,977 shares.
All shares of common stock issued in respect of the exercise of options or other equity awards since Spin-Off have been issued from
authorized, but unissued common stock.
Stock Based Award Activity and Valuation
2014 Stock Option Activity
During the year ended December 31, 2014, we have issued 679,568 of primarily service based non-qualified stock options
primarily from the 2011 Incentive Plan. These stock options generally have a term of ten years from the date of grant and generally
vest equitably over a four-year requisite service period.
A summary of our stock option activity is presented below:
Weighted
Average
Exercise
Price Per
Share
Options
Outstanding
(in thousands)
Weighted
Average
Remaining
Contractual
Life
(in years)
Aggregate
Intrinsic
Value
(in millions)
Options outstanding at December 31, 2013 ...........................
Assumed options from acquisition ........................................
Granted ..................................................................................
Exercised (1) .........................................................................
Cancelled or expired ..............................................................
Options outstanding at December 31, 2014 ...........................
Exercisable as of December 31, 2014 ...................................
Vested and expected to vest after December 31, 2014 ..........
9,470
101
579
(1,202)
(297)
8,651 $
4,080 $
8,445 $
40.18
16.36
95.87
32.87
45.40
44.47
32.05
44.11
5.0 $
2.7 $
4.9 $
273
174
269
(1)
Inclusive of 628,010 options, which were not converted into shares due to net share settlement in order to cover the aggregate
exercise price and the minimum amount of required employee withholding taxes. Potential shares which had been convertible
under stock options that were withheld under net share settlement remain in the authorized but unissued pool under the 2011
Incentive Plan and can be reissued by the Company. We began net-share settling the majority of our stock option exercises
during the third quarter of 2013. Total payments for the employees’ tax obligations to the taxing authorities due to net share
settlements are reflected as a financing activity within the consolidated statements of cash flows.
78
Aggregate intrinsic value represents the difference between the closing stock price of our common stock and the exercise price
of outstanding, in-the-money options. Our closing stock price as reported on NASDAQ as of December 31, 2014 was $74.66. The
total intrinsic value of stock options exercised for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013, and 2012 were $75 million, $58 million,
and $25 million, respectively.
The fair value of stock option grants under the 2011 Plan and Viator Plan has been estimated at the date of grant using the
Black–Scholes option pricing model with the following weighted average assumptions for the periods presented:
Risk free interest rate .................................................
Expected term (in years) ............................................
Expected volatility .....................................................
Expected dividend yield .............................................
2014
1.79%
5.80
44.04%
— %
December 31,
2013
2012
1.41%
6.06
50.78%
— %
1.03 %
6.21
53.46 %
— %
The weighted-average grant date fair value of options granted, excluding assumed acquisition-related options, was $46.65,
$28.30, and $20.36 for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively. The weighted-average grant date fair value
of assumed acquisition-related options was $80.31 for the year ended December 31, 2014. There were no assumed acquisition-related
options granted for the years ended December 31, 2013 and 2012. The total fair value of stock options vested for the years ended
December 31, 2014, 2013, and 2012 were $34 million, $27 million, and $10 million, respectively.
2014 RSU Activity
During the year ended December 31, 2014, we issued 752,460 RSUs under the 2011 Incentive Plan for which the fair value was
measured based on the quoted price of our common stock on the date of grant. These RSUs generally vest over a four-year requisite
service period.
The following table presents a summary of our RSU activity:
Weighted
Average
Grant-
Date Fair
Value Per Share
Aggregate
Intrinsic
Value
(in millions)
RSUs
Outstanding
(in thousands)
Unvested RSUs outstanding as of December 31, 2013 .....................................
Granted ..............................................................................................................
Vested and released (1) .....................................................................................
Cancelled ...........................................................................................................
Unvested RSUs outstanding as of December 31, 2014 .....................................
1,135
752
(307)
(132)
1,448 $
49.64
93.36
46.78
67.50
71.33 $
108
(1)
Inclusive of 103,641 RSUs withheld to satisfy employee minimum tax withholding requirements due to net share settlement.
Potential shares which had been convertible under RSUs that were withheld under net share settlement remain in the authorized
but unissued pool under the 2011 Plan and can be reissued by the Company. Total payments for the employees’ tax obligations
to the taxing authorities due to net share settlements are reflected as a financing activity within the consolidated statements of
cash flows.
Other Equity Activity
Upon Spin-Off, we entered into a warrant agreement (the “Warrant Agreement”) with Mellon Investor Services LLC and issued
warrants exercisable for TripAdvisor common stock in respect of previously outstanding warrants exercisable for Expedia common
stock that were adjusted on account of Expedia’s reverse stock split and the Spin-Off. In total, at Spin-Off, the warrants could have
been converted into a maximum of 8,046,698 shares of our common stock without any further adjustments to the Warrant Agreement
and had an expiration date of May 7, 2012.
79
One tranche of warrants (issued in respect of Expedia warrants that had featured an exercise price of $12.23 per warrant prior to
adjustment) were exercisable for 0.25 (one-quarter) of a share of TripAdvisor common stock at an exercise price equal to $6.48 per
warrant, and the other tranche of warrants (issued in respect of Expedia warrants that had featured an exercise price of $14.45 per
warrant prior to adjustment) were exercisable for 0.25 (one-quarter) of a share of TripAdvisor common stock at an exercise price
equal to $7.66 per warrant. The exercise price could have been paid in cash or via “cashless exercise” as set forth in the Warrant
Agreement.
During the year ended December 31, 2012, and prior to the expiration date, there were a total of 32,186,791 warrants exercised
which resulted in a total of 7,952,456 shares of our common stock being issued during that period, which included 31,641,337
warrants for which the exercise price was paid in cash at a weighted average price of $27.11. We received total exercise proceeds of
$215 million related to these warrant exercises, which is reflected as a financing activity within the consolidated statement of cash
flows. In addition there were 545,454 cashless warrants exercised with a weighted average exercise price of $25.92 of which we did
not receive any exercise proceeds. We currently have no outstanding warrants remaining which could be convertible to shares of our
common stock.
Unrecognized Stock-Based Compensation
A summary of our remaining unrecognized compensation expense, net of estimated forfeitures, and the weighted average
remaining amortization period at December 31, 2014 related to our non-vested stock options and RSU awards is presented below (in
millions, except per year information):
Unrecognized compensation expense (net of forfeitures) ........... $
Weighted average period remaining (in years) ...........................
84 $
2.7
70
2.9
Stock
Options
RSUs
NOTE 5: FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS
Cash, Cash Equivalents and Marketable Securities
The following tables show our cash and available-for-sale securities’ amortized cost, gross unrealized gains, gross unrealized
losses and fair value by significant investment category recorded as cash and cash equivalents or short and long-term marketable
securities as of December 31, 2014 and December 31, 2013 (in millions):
December 31, 2014
Cash ............................................................. $
Level 1:
447 $
— $
— $
Amortized
Cost
Unrealized
Gains
Unrealized
Losses
Fair
Value
Cash
Cash and Short-Term
Marketable
Equivalents Securities
447 $
Long-Term
Marketable
Securities
—
— $
447 $
Money market funds ..............................
8
—
—
8
8
—
Level 2:
U.S. agency securities ............................
Certificates of deposit ............................
Commercial paper ..................................
Corporate debt securities .......................
Subtotal ............................................
Total ............................................. $
38
8
1
92
139
594 $
—
—
—
—
—
— $
—
—
—
—
—
— $
38
8
1
92
139
594 $
—
—
—
—
—
455 $
35
8
1
64
108
108 $
—
3
—
—
28
31
31
80
Cash .............................................................. $
Level 1:
195 $
— $
— $
Amortized
Cost
Unrealized
Gains
Unrealized
Losses
Fair
Value
December 31, 2013
Cash
Cash and Short-Term
Marketable
Equivalents Securities
195 $
Long-Term
Marketable
Securities
—
— $
195 $
Money market funds ...............................
156
—
—
156
156
—
Level 2:
U.S. agency securities .............................
Certificates of deposit .............................
Commercial paper ...................................
Corporate debt securities ........................
Subtotal .............................................
Total ............................................. $
37
23
5
254
319
$
670
—
—
—
—
—
— $
—
—
—
—
—
— $
37
23
5
254
319
$
670
—
—
—
—
—
351 $
14
16
5
96
131
$
131
—
23
7
—
158
188
188
Our cash and cash equivalents consist of cash on hand in global financial institutions, money market funds and marketable
securities, with maturities of 90 days or less at the date purchased. The remaining maturities of our long-term marketable securities
range from one to three years and our short-term marketable securities include maturities that were greater than 90 days at the date
purchased and have 12 months or less remaining at December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively.
We classify our cash equivalents and marketable securities within Level 1 and Level 2 as we value our cash equivalents and
marketable securities using quoted market prices (Level 1) or alternative pricing sources (Level 2). The valuation technique we used to
measure the fair value of money market funds were derived from quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities. Fair
values for Level 2 investments are considered “Level 2” valuations because they are obtained from independent pricing sources for
identical or comparable instruments, rather than direct observations of quoted prices in active markets. Our procedures include
controls to ensure that appropriate fair values are recorded, including comparing the fair values obtained from our independent pricing
services against fair values obtained from another independent source.
There were no material realized gains or losses related to sales of our marketable securities for the years ended December 31,
2014, 2013 and 2012.
As of December 31, 2014, we have marketable securities with a total fair value of $68 million currently in an unrealized loss
position. The gross unrealized loss amount was not material at December 31, 2014. We consider the declines in market value of our
marketable securities investment portfolio to be temporary in nature and do not consider any of our investments other-than-
temporarily impaired. During the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012, we did not recognize any impairment charges. We
also did not have any material investments in marketable securities that were in a continuous unrealized loss position for 12 months or
greater at December 31, 2014 or 2013.
Derivative Financial Instruments
Our current forward contracts are not designated as hedges and have current maturities of less than 90 days. Consequently, any
gain or loss resulting from the change in fair value was recognized in our consolidated statement of operations. All gains and losses
recorded to other, net on the consolidated statement of operations for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013, and 2012 were not
material.
The following table shows the notional principal amounts of our outstanding derivative instruments that are not designated as
hedging instruments for the periods presented:
Foreign exchange-forward contracts (1)(2) ........................................................... $
December 31,
2014
December 31,
2013
(cid:3)(cid:3)
(in millions)
20 (cid:3)(cid:3)$
5
(1) Derivative contracts address foreign exchange fluctuations for the Euro versus the U.S. Dollar.
(2) The fair value of our derivatives are not material for all periods presented and are reported as liabilities in accrued and other
current liabilities on our consolidated balance sheets. We measure the fair value of our outstanding or unsettled derivatives using
Level 2 fair value inputs, as we use a pricing model that takes into account the contract terms as well as current foreign currency
exchange rates in active markets.
81
Concentration of Credit Risk
Counterparties to currency exchange derivatives consist of major international financial institutions. We monitor our positions
and the credit ratings of the counterparties involved and, by policy limits, the amount of credit exposure to any one party. While we
may be exposed to potential losses due to the credit risk of non-performance by these counterparties, losses are not anticipated and any
credit risk amounts associated with our outstanding or unsettled derivative instruments are deemed to be not material for any period
presented.
Other Financial Instruments
Other financial instruments not measured at fair value on a recurring basis include trade receivables, trade payables, deferred
merchant payables, short-term debt, accrued and other current liabilities and long-term debt. With the exception of long-term debt, the
carrying amount approximates fair value because of the short maturity of these instruments as reported on the consolidated balance
sheets as of December 31, 2014 and December 31, 2013. The carrying value of the long-term borrowings outstanding on our Credit
Agreement bears interest at a variable rate and therefore is also considered to approximate fair value.
We did not have any Level 3 assets or liabilities at December 31, 2014 or 2013.
NOTE 6: PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT, NET
Property and equipment consists of the following for the periods presented:
December 31,
2014
December 31,
2013
Capitalized software and website development ....................... $
Leasehold improvements .........................................................
Computer equipment ................................................................
Furniture, office equipment and other ......................................
Less: accumulated depreciation ...............................................
Construction in progress (1) .....................................................
Property and equipment, net .................................................... $
(in millions)
104 $
40
31
11
186
(77)
86
195 $
73
22
21
6
122
(48 )
8
82
(1) We capitalize construction in progress for build-to-suit lease agreements where we are considered the owner, for accounting
purposes only, during the construction period. These amounts represent construction costs to date incurred by the landlord and
the Company related to our future corporate headquarters in Needham, MA. During the years ended December 31, 2014 and
2013, we capitalized $52 million and $8 million, respectively, in non-cash construction costs which were incurred by the
landlord, with a corresponding liability recorded in other long-term liabilities, and in addition, we capitalized $26 million in
normal and structural tenant improvements on our consolidated balance sheet incurred by the Company. Refer to “Note 12 –
Commitments and Contingencies,” for additional information on our future corporate headquarters lease.
As of December 31, 2014 and 2013, our recorded capitalized software and website development costs, net of accumulated
amortization, were $61 million and $46 million, respectively. For the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013, we capitalized $47
million and $38 million, respectively, related to software and website development costs. For the years ended December 31, 2014,
2013 and 2012, we recorded amortization of capitalized software and website development costs of $30 million, $20 million and $13
million, respectively, which is included in depreciation expense on our consolidated statements of operations for those years.
During the year ended December 31, 2014, we retired and disposed of property and equipment, primarily capitalized software
and website development, which were no longer in use with a total cost of $22 million and associated accumulated depreciation of
$20 million, resulting in a loss of $2 million included in operating income on our consolidated statements of operations.
82
NOTE 7: GOODWILL AND INTANGIBLE ASSETS, NET
The following table summarizes our goodwill activity by segment for the periods presented:
TripAdvisor
Hotel
Other
Consolidated
Balance as of December 31, 2012 .................................................... $
Additions (1) ...............................................................................
Balance as of December 31, 2013 .................................................... $
Additions (1) ...............................................................................
Other adjustments (2) .................................................................
Allocation to new segments (3) ..................................................
Ending balance as of December 31, 2014 ........................................ $
472 $
30
502 $
253
(21)
(734)
- $
(in millions)
- $
-
- $
-
-
442
442 $
- $
-
- $
-
-
292
292 $
472
30
502
253
(21)
-
734
(1) The additions to goodwill relate to our business acquisitions. See “Note 3— Acquisitions,” for further information.
(2) Primarily related to impact of changes in foreign exchange rates to goodwill.
(3) See “Note 16—Segments and Geographic Information” for information on our reporting segment changes in the fourth quarter
of 2014.
Intangible assets, which were acquired in business combinations and recorded at fair value on the date of purchase, consist of
the following for the periods presented:
December 31,
2014
2013
(in millions)
Intangible assets with definite lives ..................................................................................... $
Less: accumulated amortization ...........................................................................................
Intangible assets with definite lives, net .........................................................................
Intangible assets with indefinite lives ..................................................................................
$
202 $
(18 )
184
30
214 $
36
(14)
22
30
52
Amortization expense was $18 million, $6 million, and $6 million, respectively, for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013
and 2012.
Our indefinite-lived assets relate to trade names and trademarks. Refer to “Note 2— Significant Accounting Policies” above for
a discussion of our annual indefinite-lived intangible asset impairment assessment.
The following table presents the components of our intangible assets with definite lives for the periods presented:
December 31, 2014
December 31, 2013
Weighted
Average
Gross
Net
Gross
Net
Remaining Life Carrying Accumulated Carrying Carrying Accumulated Carrying
Amortization Amount
Amortization Amount
Amount
Amount
(in years)
Trade names and trademarks ..............................
Customer lists and supplier relationships ...........
Subscriber relationships .....................................
Technology and other .........................................
Total ..............................................................
(in millions)
(in millions)
9.4 $
6.8
5.5
4.5
6.8 $
52 $
77
31
42
202 $
(5) $
(5)
(4)
(4)
(18) $
47 $
72
27
38
184 $
18 $
-
14
4
36 $
(7) $
-
(6)
(1)
(14) $
11
-
8
3
22
Refer to “Note 3— Acquisitions” above for a discussion of definite lived intangible assets acquired in business combinations
during the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013.
83
Intangible assets with definite lives are amortized on a straight-line basis. The estimated amortization expense for intangible
assets with definite lives for each of the next five years, and the expense thereafter, assuming no subsequent impairment of the
underlying assets, is expected to be as follows (in millions):
2015 ................................................................................................ $
2016 ................................................................................................
2017 ................................................................................................
2018 ................................................................................................
2019 ................................................................................................
2020 and thereafter .........................................................................
Total .......................................................................................... $
31
31
29
27
24
42
184
NOTE 8: DEBT
Term Loan Facility Due 2016 and Revolving Credit Facility
Overview
On December 20, 2011, we entered into a credit agreement, by and among TripAdvisor, TripAdvisor Holdings, LLC, and
TripAdvisor LLC, the lenders party thereto, JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A., as administrative agent, and J.P. Morgan Europe Limited,
as London agent (this credit agreement, together with all exhibits, schedules, annexes, certificates, assignments and related documents
contemplated thereby, is referred to herein as the “Credit Agreement”), which provides $600 million of borrowing including:
(cid:120)
(cid:120)
the Term Loan Facility, or Term Loan, in an aggregate principal amount of $400 million with a term of five years due
December 2016; and
the Revolving Credit Facility in an aggregate principal amount of $200 million available in U.S. dollars, Euros and British
pound sterling with a term of five years expiring December 2016.
The Term Loan and any loans under the Revolving Credit Facility bear interest by reference to a base rate or a Eurocurrency
rate, in either case plus an applicable margin based on our leverage ratio. We are also required to pay a quarterly commitment fee, on
the average daily unused portion of the Revolving Credit Facility for each fiscal quarter and fees in connection with the issuance of
letters of credit. The Term Loan and loans under the Revolving Credit Facility currently bear interest at LIBOR plus 150 basis points,
or the Eurocurrency Spread, or the alternate base rate (“ABR”) plus 50 basis points, and undrawn amounts are currently subject to a
commitment fee of 22.5 basis points. As of December 31, 2014 and 2013, we were using a one-month interest period Eurocurrency
Spread which is approximately 1.7% per annum. Interest is currently payable on a monthly basis while we are borrowing under the
one-month interest rate period. The current interest rates are based on current assumptions, leverage and LIBOR rates and do not take
into account that rates will reset periodically.
The Term Loan principal is currently repayable in quarterly installments on the last day of each calendar quarter equal to 2.5%
of the original principal amount with the balance due on the final maturity date. Principal payments aggregating $40 million were
made during the year ended December 31, 2014.
The Revolving Credit Facility includes $40 million of borrowing capacity available for letters of credit and $40 million for
borrowings on same-day notice. As of December 31, 2014 there are no outstanding borrowings under our Revolving Credit Facility.
As of December 31, 2014 there were $1 million of outstanding letters of credit against the Revolving Credit Facility.
During the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012, we recorded total interest and commitment fees on our Credit
Agreement of $6 million, $8 million and $9 million, respectively, to interest expense on our consolidated statements of operations. All
unpaid interest and commitment fee amounts as of December 31, 2014 and 2013 were not material.
In connection with the Credit Agreement, we also incurred debt financing costs totaling $3.5 million, which were initially
capitalized as deferred financing costs. During the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012, we recorded amortization expense
of $1 million, respectively, to interest expense on our consolidated statements of operations. These costs will continue to be amortized
over the remaining term of the Term Loan using the effective interest rate method.
84
Total outstanding borrowings under the Credit Agreement consist of the following:
December 31,
December 31,
2014
2013
(in millions)
Short-Term Debt:
Term Loan .......................................................................................... $
Total Short-Term Borrowings ................................................................. $
Long-Term Debt:
Term Loan .......................................................................................... $
Total Long-Term Borrowings .................................................................. $
40 $
40 $
260 $
260 $
40
40
300
300
The future minimum principal payment obligations due under the Credit Agreement related to our Term Loan is as follows:
December 31,
Principal Payments
(in millions)
2015 ............................................................................................................................ $
2016 ............................................................................................................................
Total ................................................................................................................................. $
40
260
300
Prepayments
We may voluntarily repay any outstanding borrowing under the Credit Agreement at any time without premium or penalty,
other than customary breakage costs with respect to Eurocurrency loans.
Guarantees
All obligations under the Credit Agreement are unconditionally guaranteed by us and each of our existing and subsequently
acquired or organized direct or indirect wholly-owned domestic and foreign restricted subsidiaries, subject to certain exceptions for
subsidiaries that are controlled foreign corporations, foreign subsidiaries in jurisdictions where applicable law would otherwise be
violated, and non-material subsidiaries.
Covenants
The Credit Agreement contains a number of covenants that, among other things, restrict our ability to: incur additional
indebtedness, create liens, enter into sale and leaseback transactions, engage in mergers or consolidations, sell or transfer assets, pay
dividends and distributions, make investments, loans or advances, prepay certain subordinated indebtedness, make certain
acquisitions, engage in certain transactions with affiliates, amend material agreements governing certain subordinated indebtedness,
and change our fiscal year. The Credit Agreement also requires us to maintain a maximum leverage ratio and a minimum cash interest
coverage ratio, and contains certain customary affirmative covenants and events of default, including a change of control. If an event
of default occurs, the lenders under the Credit Agreement will be entitled to take various actions, including the acceleration of all
amounts due under Credit Agreement and all actions permitted to be taken by a secured creditor.
As of December 31, 2014 we are in compliance with all of our debt covenants.
Chinese Credit Facilities
In addition to our borrowings under the Credit Agreement, we maintain our Chinese Credit Facilities. As of December 31, 2014
and 2013, we had short-term borrowings outstanding of $38 million and $28 million, respectively.
Certain of our Chinese subsidiaries are entered into a RMB 189,000,000 (approximately $30 million), one-year revolving credit
facility with Bank of America (the “Chinese Credit Facility—BOA”) that is currently subject to review on a periodic basis with no-
specific expiration period. We had $19 million of outstanding borrowings from the Chinese Credit Facility—BOA as of December 31,
2014. Our Chinese Credit Facility—BOA currently bears interest at a 100% of the People’s Bank of China’s base rate which was
5.6% as of December 31, 2014.
85
In addition, certain of our Chinese subsidiaries are entered into a RMB 125,000,000 (approximately $20 million) one-year
revolving credit facility with J.P. Morgan Chase Bank (“Chinese Credit Facility-JPM”). We had $19 million of outstanding
borrowings from the Chinese Credit Facility—JPM as of December 31, 2014. Our Chinese Credit Facility—JPM currently bears
interest at a 100% of the People’s Bank of China’s base rate which was 5.6% as of December 31, 2014.
NOTE 9: INCOME TAXES
The following table presents a summary of our domestic and foreign income before income taxes:
Domestic ........................................................................... $
Foreign ..............................................................................
Total .................................................................................. $
146 $
176
322 $
129 $
155
284 $
133
149
282
2014
Year Ended December 31,
2013
(in millions)
2012
The following table presents a summary of the components of our provision for income taxes:
Current income tax expense:
Federal ......................................................................... $
State .............................................................................
Foreign ........................................................................
Current income tax expense..............................................
Deferred income tax (benefit) expense:
Federal .........................................................................
State .............................................................................
Foreign ........................................................................
Deferred income tax (benefit) expense:
Provision for income taxes ............................................... $
2014
Year Ended December 31,
2013
(in millions)
2012
93 $
14
6
113
(12)
(1)
(4)
(17)
96 $
48 $
9
17
74
6
1
(2 )
5
79 $
56
6
30
92
(3)
—
(2)
(5)
87
As of December 31, 2014, our current income tax receivable and income tax payable balances represent amounts that we will
receive and pay, respectively, to the Internal Revenue Service and other tax authorities.
86
Our deferred tax assets and deferred tax liabilities as of December 31, 2014 and 2013 are as follows:
December 31,
2014
2013
(in millions)
Deferred tax assets:
Stock-based compensation .............................................................................. $
Net operating loss carryforwards .....................................................................
Provision for accrued expenses .......................................................................
Deferred rent ....................................................................................................
Build-to-suit lease ............................................................................................
Foreign advertising spend ................................................................................
Other ................................................................................................................
Total deferred tax assets .................................................................................. $
Less: valuation allowance ................................................................................
Net deferred tax assets ..................................................................................... $
Deferred tax liabilities:
Intangible assets ............................................................................................... $
Property and equipment ...................................................................................
Prepaid expenses .............................................................................................
Lease financing obligation ...............................................................................
Other ................................................................................................................
Total deferred tax liabilities ............................................................................. $
Net deferred tax liability .................................................................................. $
43 $
34
13
5
26
9
5
135 $
(19 )
116 $
(88 ) $
(25 )
(4 )
(26 )
(1 )
(144 ) $
(28 ) $
30
18
7
—
—
—
4
59
(13)
46
(32)
(18)
(2)
—
(2)
(54)
(8)
At December 31, 2014, we had federal, state and foreign net operating loss carryforwards (“NOLs”) of approximately
$42 million, $36 million and $84 million. If not utilized, the federal and state NOLs will expire at various times between 2020 and
2034 and the foreign NOLs will expire at various times between 2015 and 2034.
At December 31, 2014, we had a valuation allowance of $19 million primarily related to foreign net operating loss
carryforwards for which it is more likely than not that the tax benefit will not be realized. This amount represented an overall increase
of $6 million over the amount recorded as of December 31, 2013. The increase is primarily due to additional foreign advertising
spend, offset by expiring foreign net operating losses. Except for certain deferred tax assets, we expect to realize all of our deferred
tax assets based on a strong history of earnings in the US and other jurisdictions, as well as future reversals of taxable temporary
differences.
We have not provided for deferred U.S. income taxes on undistributed earnings of our foreign subsidiaries that we intend to
reinvest permanently outside the United States; the total amount of such earnings as of December 31, 2014 was $630 million. Should
we distribute or be treated under certain U.S. tax rules as having distributed earnings of foreign subsidiaries in the form of dividends
or otherwise, we may be subject to U.S. income taxes. Due to complexities in tax laws and various assumptions that would have to be
made, it is not practicable at this time to estimate the amount of unrecognized deferred U.S. taxes on these earnings.
A reconciliation of the provision for income taxes to the amounts computed by applying the statutory federal income tax rate to
income before income taxes is as follows:
2014
Year Ended December 31,
2013
(in millions)
2012
Income tax expense at the federal statutory rate of 35% .. $
Foreign rate differential ....................................................
State income taxes, net of effect of federal tax benefit .....
Unrecognized tax benefits and related interest .................
Non-deductible transaction costs ......................................
Change in valuation allowance .........................................
Other, net ..........................................................................
Provision for income taxes ............................................... $
113 $
(49)
13
14
1
5
(1)
96 $
100 $
(41 )
8
9
—
2
1
79 $
99
(25)
5
5
—
2
1
87
87
During 2011, the Singapore Economic Development Board accepted our application to receive a tax incentive under the
International Headquarters Award. This incentive provides for a reduced tax rate on qualifying income of 5% as compared to
Singapore’s statutory tax rate of 17% and is conditional upon our meeting certain employment and investment thresholds. This
agreement is set to expire on June 30, 2016, with the ability to extend for another five years. This benefit resulted in a decrease to the
2014 tax provision of $6 million or an incremental $0.04 to Diluted EPS for 2014.
By virtue of previously filed consolidated income tax returns filed with Expedia, we are currently under an IRS audit for the
2009 and 2010 tax years, and have various ongoing state income tax audits. We are separately under audit for the 2012 tax year. As of
December 31, 2014, no material assessments have resulted from these audits. These audits include questioning of the timing and the
amount of income and deductions and the allocation of income among various tax jurisdictions. Annual tax provisions include
amounts considered sufficient to pay assessments that may result from the examination of prior year returns. We are no longer subject
to tax examinations by tax authorities for years prior to 2007.
A reconciliation of the beginning and ending amount of gross unrecognized tax benefits (excluding interest and penalties) is as
follows:
(cid:3)
Balance, beginning of year .............................................................. $
Increases to tax positions related to the current year .......................
Increases to tax positions related to the prior year ...........................
Reductions due to lapsed statute of limitations................................
Decreases to tax positions related to the prior year .........................
Settlements during current year .......................................................
Balance, end of year ........................................................................ $
2014
December 31,
2013
(in millions)
2012
36 $
13
18
—
—
—
67 $
24 $
12
4
—
(4 )
—
36 $
13
12
—
—
—
(1)
24
As of December 31, 2014, we had $67 million of unrecognized tax benefits, net of interest, which is classified as long-term and
included in other long-term liabilities. Of this amount, approximately $65 million would affect the effective tax rate if recognized,
while $2 million would affect goodwill. We recognize interest and penalties related to unrecognized tax benefits in income tax
expense. As of December 31, 2014 and 2013, total gross interest accrued was $4 million and $2 million, respectively. We estimate that
approximately $1 million will be paid within the next year related to audits.
NOTE 10: ACCRUED EXPENSES AND OTHER CURRENT LIABILITIES
Accrued expenses and other current liabilities consisted of the following for the periods presented:
December 31,
2014
December 31,
2013
Accrued salary, bonus, and related benefits .............................. $
Accrued marketing costs ...........................................................
Accrued charitable foundation payments (1) ............................
Other .........................................................................................
Total accrued expenses and other current liabilities ................. $
(in millions)
41 $
24
9
40
114 $
35
22
7
22
86
(1) See “Note 12— Commitments and Contingencies” for information regarding our charitable foundation.
88
NOTE 11: OTHER LONG-TERM LIABILITIES
Other long-term liabilities consisted of the following for the periods presented:
Unrecognized tax benefits (1) ................................................... $
Construction liabilities (2) ........................................................
Other (3) ....................................................................................
Total other long-term liabilities ................................................ $
(in millions)
68 $
67
19
154 $
38
8
6
52
December 31,
2014
December 31,
2013
(1) See “Note 9—Income Taxes” for additional information on our unrecognized tax benefits. Amount includes accrued interest
related to this liability.
(2) We capitalize construction in progress and record a corresponding long-term liability for build-to-suit lease agreements where
we are considered the owner during the construction period for accounting purposes only. Refer to “Note 12 – Commitments
and Contingencies,” for additional information on our future corporate headquarters lease.
(3) Amounts primarily consist of long term deferred rent balances related to operating leases for office space.
NOTE 12: COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES
We have material commitments and obligations that include office space leases and expected interest on long-term debt, which
are not accrued on the consolidated balance sheet at December 31, 2014 but we expect to require future cash outflows.
Office Lease Commitments
We have contractual obligations in the form of operating leases for office space for which we record the related expense on a
monthly basis. Certain leases contain periodic rent escalation adjustments and renewal options. Rent expense related to such leases is
recorded on a straight-line basis. Operating lease obligations expire at various dates with the latest maturity in December 2030. For the
years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012, we recorded rental expense of $17 million, $11 million and $8 million, respectively.
We currently lease approximately 119,000 square feet for our corporate headquarters in Newton, Massachusetts, pursuant to a
lease with an expiration date of April 2015. We are in the process of negotiating an extension of this lease until mid-2015.
Transition to New Corporate Headquarters
In June 2013, TripAdvisor LLC (“TA LLC”), our indirect, wholly owned subsidiary, entered into a lease (the “Lease”), for a
new corporate headquarters. Pursuant to the Lease, the landlord will build an approximately 280,000 square foot rental building in
Needham, Massachusetts (the “Premises”), and thereafter lease the Premises to TA LLC as TripAdvisor’s new corporate headquarters
for an initial term of 15 years and 7 months. If the landlord fails to deliver the Premises according to the schedule, subject to certain
conditions, TA LLC may be entitled to additional free rent, or in extreme cases, a right to terminate the Lease. Under the Lease, TA
LLC is required to pay an initial base rent of $33.00 per square foot per year, increasing to $34.50 per square foot by the final year of
the initial term, as well as all real estate taxes and other building operating costs. TA LLC also has an option to extend the term of the
Lease for two consecutive terms of five years each.
The aggregate future minimum lease payments are $143 million and are currently scheduled to be paid, beginning in November
2015, as follows: $1 million for 2015, $9 million for 2016, $9 million for 2017, $9 million for 2018, $9 million for 2019 and
$106 million for 2020 and thereafter. The Lease has escalating rental payments and initial periods of free rent. TA LLC was also
obligated to deliver a letter of credit to the Landlord in the amount of $1 million as security deposit, which amount is subject to
increase under certain circumstances. TA LLC also has an option to extend the term of the Lease for two consecutive terms of five
years each. Subject to certain conditions, TA LLC has certain rights under the Lease, including rights of first offer to lease additional
space or to purchase the Premises if the Landlord elects to sell. In connection with the Lease, TripAdvisor entered into a Guaranty (the
“Guaranty”), pursuant to which TripAdvisor provides full payment and performance guaranty for all of TA LLC’s obligations under
the Lease.
89
We have concluded we are the deemed owner (for accounting purposes only) of the Premises during the construction period
under build to suit lease accounting. Building construction began in the fourth quarter of 2013. Since construction began, we have
recorded estimated project construction costs incurred by the landlord as a construction in progress asset and a corresponding long
term liability in “Property and equipment, net” and “Other long-term liabilities,” respectively, on our consolidated balance sheets. We
will continue to increase the asset and corresponding long term liability as additional building costs are incurred by the landlord during
the construction period. In addition, the amounts that the Company has paid or incurred for normal tenant improvements and
structural improvements have also been recorded to the construction-in-progress asset.
Once the landlord completes the construction of the Premises (estimated to be mid 2015), we will evaluate the Lease in order to
determine whether or not the Lease meets the criteria for “sale-leaseback” treatment under GAAP. If the Lease meets the “sale-
leaseback” criteria, we will remove the asset and the related liability from our consolidated balance sheet and treat the Lease as either
an operating or capital lease based on the our assessment of the accounting guidance. However, we currently expect that upon
completion of construction of the Premises that the Lease will not meet the "sale-leaseback" criteria.
If the Lease does not meet “sale-leaseback” criteria, we will treat the Lease as a financing obligation and lease payments will be
attributed to (1) a reduction of the principal financing obligation; (2) imputed interest expense; and (3) land lease expense (which is
considered an operating lease) representing an imputed cost to lease the underlying land of the facility. In addition, the underlying
building asset will be depreciated over the initial term of the lease. And at the conclusion of the lease term, we would de-recognize
both the net book values of the asset and financing obligation. Although we will not begin making lease payments pursuant to the
Lease until November 2015, the portion of the lease obligations allocated to the land is treated for accounting purposes as an operating
lease that commenced in 2013.
Additional United States and International Locations
We also lease an aggregate of approximately 470,000 square feet at approximately 40 other locations across North America,
Europe and Asia Pacific, in cities such as, New York, Boston, London, and Beijing, primarily for our sales offices, subsidiary
headquarters, and international management teams, pursuant to leases with expiration dates through November 2024.
The following table summarizes our material commitments and obligations as of December 31, 2014 and excludes amounts
already recorded on the consolidated balance sheet:
Total
Less than
1 year
By Period
1 to 3 years 3 to 5 years
(in millions)
More than
5 years
Operating leases (1) ....................................................................... $
Build to suit lease obligation (2) ....................................................
Expected interest payments on Term Loan (3) ..............................
Total (4)(5)(6)(7) ............................................................................ $
114 $
143
9
266 $
19 $
1
5
25 $
27 $
18
4
49 $
26 $
18
—
44 $
42
106
—
148
(1) Estimated future minimum rental payments under operating leases with non-cancelable lease terms.
(2) Estimated future minimum rental payments for our future corporate headquarters in Needham, MA.
(3) The amounts included as expected interest payments on the Term Loan in this table are based on the current effective interest
rate and payment terms as of December 31, 2014, but, could change significantly in the future. Amounts assume that our
existing debt is repaid at maturity and do not assume additional borrowings or refinancings of existing debt. Refer to “Note 8—
Debt” for additional information, including principal payments expected to be paid over the next two years, on our Term Loan.
(4) Excluded from the table was $68 million of unrecognized tax benefits, including accrued interest, that we have recorded in other
long-term liabilities for which we cannot make a reasonably reliable estimate of the amount and period of payment. We estimate
that approximately $1 million will be paid within the next twelve months.
(5) Excluded from the table is our obligation to fund a charitable foundation. The Board of Directors of the charitable foundation is
currently comprised of Stephen Kaufer- President and Chief Executive Officer, Julie M.B. Bradley-Chief Financial Officer and
Seth J. Kalvert- Senior Vice President, General Counsel and Secretary. Our obligation was calculated at 2.0% of OIBA in 2014.
For a discussion regarding OIBA see “Note 16— Segment and Geographic Information” in the notes to the consolidated
financial statements. This future commitment has been excluded from the table above.
(6) Excludes spending on anticipated leasehold improvements on our Needham, Massachusetts lease, including design,
development, construction costs, and the purchase and installation of equipment, net of related landlord incentives, which we
estimate will be in the range of $25-$30 million primarily incurred during the first six months of 2015.
(7) Excludes current liabilities already recorded on the consolidated balance sheet at December 31, 2014, as these liabilities are
expected to be paid within one year.
90
Letters of Credit
As of December 31, 2014, we have issued unused letters of credit totaling $1 million, related to our property leases.
Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements
We did not have any off-balance sheet arrangements, as defined in Item 303(a)(4)(ii) of Regulation S-K of the SEC, that have,
or are reasonably likely to have, a current or future effect on our financial condition, results of operations, liquidity, capital
expenditures or capital resources at December 31, 2014.
Legal Proceedings
In the ordinary course of business, we and our subsidiaries are parties to legal proceedings and claims involving alleged
infringement of third-party intellectual property rights, defamation, and other claims. Rules of the SEC require the description of
material pending legal proceedings, other than ordinary, routine litigation incident to the registrant’s business, and advise that
proceedings ordinarily need not be described if they primarily involve damages claims for amounts (exclusive of interest and costs)
not individually exceeding 10% of the current assets of the registrant and its subsidiaries on a consolidated basis. In the judgment of
management, none of the pending litigation matters that the Company and its subsidiaries are defending involves or is likely to
involve amounts of that magnitude. There may be claims or actions pending or threatened against us of which we are currently not
aware and the ultimate disposition of which could have a material adverse effect on us.
NOTE 13: EMPLOYEE BENEFIT PLANS
Retirement Savings Plan
The TripAdvisor Retirement Savings Plan (the “401(k) Plan”), qualifies under Section 401(k) of the Internal Revenue Code.
The 401(k) Plan allows participating employees, most of our U.S. employees, to make contributions of a specified percentage of their
eligible compensation. Participating employees may contribute up to 50% of their eligible salary on a pre-tax basis, but not more than
statutory limits. Employee-participants age 50 and over may also contribute an additional amount of their salary on a pre-tax tax basis
up to the IRS Catch-Up Provision Limit. Employees may also contribute into the 401(k) Plan on an after-tax basis up to an annual
maximum of 10%. The 401(k) Plan has an automatic enrollment feature at 3% pre-tax. We match 50% of the first 6% of employee
contributions to the plan for a maximum employer contribution of 3% of a participant’s eligible earnings. The “catch up
contributions”, are not eligible for employer matching contributions. The matching contributions portion of an employee’s account,
vests after two years of service. Effective June 8, 2012 the 401(k) Plan permits certain after-tax Roth 401(k) contributions.
Additionally, at the end of the 401 (k) Plan year, we make a discretionary matching contribution to eligible participants. This
additional discretionary matching employer contribution referred to as “true up” is limited to match only contributions up to 3% of
eligible compensation.
We also have various defined contribution plans for our international employees. Our contribution to the 401(k) Plan and our
international defined contribution plans was $5 million, $5 million, and $3 million for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and
2012, respectively.
TripAdvisor, Inc. Deferred Compensation Plan for Non-Employee Directors
On December 20, 2011, the TripAdvisor, Inc. Deferred Compensation Plan for Non-Employee Directors (the “Plan”) became
effective. Under the Plan, eligible directors who defer their directors’ fees may elect to have such deferred fees (i) applied to the
purchase of share units, representing the number of shares of our common stock that could have been purchased on the date such fees
would otherwise be payable, or (ii) credited to a cash fund. The cash fund will be credited with interest at an annual rate equal to the
weighted average prime or base lending rate of a financial institution selected in accordance with the terms of the Plan and applicable
law. Upon termination of service as a director of TripAdvisor, a director will receive (i) with respect to share units, such number of
shares of our common stock as the share units represent, and (ii) with respect to the cash fund, a cash payment. Payments upon
termination will be made in either one lump sum or up to five annual installments, as elected by the eligible director at the time of the
deferral election.
Under the 2011 Incentive Plan, 100,000 shares of TripAdvisor common stock are available for issuance to non-employee
directors. From the inception of the Plan through December 31, 2014, a total of 557 shares have been reserved for such purpose.
91
NOTE 14: STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY
Preferred Stock
In addition to common stock, we are authorized to issue up to 100 million preferred shares, with $ 0.001 par value per share,
with terms determined by our Board of Directors, without further action by our stockholders. At December 31, 2014, no preferred
shares had been issued.
Common Stock and Class B Common Stock
Our authorized common stock consists of 1.6 billion shares of common stock with par value of $0.001 per share, and
400 million shares of Class B common stock with par value of $0.001 per share. Both classes of common stock qualify for and share
equally in dividends, if declared by our Board of Directors. Common stock is entitled to one vote per share and Class B common stock
is entitled to 10 votes per share on most matters. Holders of TripAdvisor common stock, acting as a single class, are entitled to elect a
number of directors equal to 25% percent of the total number of directors, rounded up to the next whole number, which was three
directors as of December 31, 2014. Class B common stockholders may, at any time, convert their shares into common stock, on a one
for one share basis. Upon conversion, the Class B common stock is retired and is not available for reissue. In the event of liquidation,
dissolution, distribution of assets or winding-up of TripAdvisor the holders of both classes of common stock have equal rights to
receive all the assets of TripAdvisor after the rights of the holders of the preferred stock have been satisfied. There were 132,315,465
and 130,121,292 shares of common stock issued and outstanding, respectively, at December 31, 2014 and 12,799,999 shares of Class
B common stock issued and outstanding at December 31, 2014.
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)
Accumulated other comprehensive loss is primarily comprised of accumulated foreign currency translation adjustments, as
follows for the periods presented:
Cumulative foreign currency translation adjustments (1) ........... $
Total accumulated other comprehensive loss ............................. $
(In millions)
(31 ) $
(31 ) $
—
—
December 31,
2014
December 31,
2013
(1)
We consider our foreign subsidiary earnings indefinitely reinvested; therefore; deferred taxes are not provided on foreign
currency translation adjustments.
Treasury Stock
On February 15, 2013, our Board of Directors authorized the repurchase of $250 million of our shares of common stock under a
share repurchase program. We intend to use available cash and future cash from operations to fund repurchases under the share
repurchase program. The repurchase program has no expiration date but may be suspended or terminated by the Board of Directors at
any time. Our Board of Directors will determine the price, timing, amount and method of such repurchases based on its evaluation of
market conditions and other factors, and any shares repurchased will be in compliance with applicable legal requirements, at prices
determined to be attractive and in the best interests of both the Company and its stockholders.
As of December 31, 2014, we have repurchased 2,120,709 shares of outstanding common stock under the share repurchase
program at an aggregate cost of $145 million. We did not repurchase any shares under this share repurchase program during the year
ended December 31, 2014. As of December 31, 2014, from the authorized share repurchase program granted by the Board of
Directors we have $105 million remaining to repurchase shares of our common stock.
Dividends
During the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012, our Board of Directors did not declare any dividends on our
outstanding common stock and do not expect to pay any dividends for the foreseeable future.
92
NOTE 15: RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS
Relationship between Expedia and TripAdvisor
Upon consummation of the Spin-Off, Expedia was considered a related party under GAAP based on a number of factors,
including, among others, common ownership of our shares and those of Expedia. However, we no longer consider Expedia a related
party. For purposes of governing certain of the ongoing relationships between us and Expedia at and after the Spin-Off, and to
provide for an orderly transition, we and Expedia entered into various agreements at the time of the Spin-Off, which TripAdvisor has
satisfied its obligations. However, TripAdvisor continues to be subject to certain post-spin obligations under the Tax Sharing
Agreement.
Under the Tax Sharing Agreement between us and Expedia, we are generally required to indemnify Expedia for any taxes
resulting from the Spin-Off (and any related interest, penalties, legal and professional fees, and all costs and damages associated with
related stockholder litigation or controversies) to the extent such amounts resulted from (i) any act or failure to act by us described in
the covenants in the tax sharing agreement, (ii) any acquisition of our equity securities or assets or those of a member of our group, or
(iii) any failure of the representations with respect to us or any member of our group to be true or any breach by us or any member of
our group of any covenant, in each case, which is contained in the separation documents or in the documents relating to the IRS
private letter ruling and/or the opinion of counsel. The full text of the Tax Sharing Agreement is incorporated by reference in this
Annual Report on Form 10K as Exhibit 10.2. Refer to “Note 9— Income Taxes” above for information regarding the status of
completed and ongoing IRS audits of our consolidated income tax returns with Expedia to date.
Relationship between Liberty Interactive Corporation, Liberty TripAdvisor Holdings, Inc. and TripAdvisor
On December 11, 2012, Liberty Interactive Corporation, or Liberty, purchased an aggregate of 4,799,848 shares of common
stock of TripAdvisor from Barry Diller, our former Chairman of the Board of Directors and Senior Executive, and certain of his
affiliates (the “Stock Purchase”). As of December 31, 2013, Liberty beneficially owned 18,159,752 shares of our common stock and
12,799,999 shares of our Class B common stock and was considered a related party with TripAdvisor.
On August 27, 2014, the entire beneficial ownership of our common stock and Class B common stock held by Liberty was
indirectly acquired by Liberty TripAdvisor Holdings, Inc. (“LTRIP”) by means of a spin-off (the “Liberty Spin-Off”). In the Liberty
Spin-Off, Liberty, LTRIP’s former parent company, distributed, by means of a dividend, to the holders of its Liberty Ventures
common stock, Liberty’s entire equity interest in LTRIP. As a result of the Liberty Spin-Off, LTRIP became a separate, publicly
traded company and 100% of Liberty’s interest in TripAdvisor is now held by LTRIP. Given the change in ownership of our shares,
we no longer consider Liberty a related party effective as of the Liberty Spin-Off.
As of December 31, 2014, LTRIP beneficially owned 18,159,752 shares of our common stock and 12,799,999 shares of our
Class B common stock, which shares constitute 14.0% of the outstanding shares of Common Stock and 100% of the outstanding
shares of Class B Common Stock. Assuming the conversion of all of LTRIP’s shares of Class B common stock into common stock,
LTRIP would beneficially own 21.7% of the outstanding common stock (calculated in accordance with Rule 13d-3). Because each
share of Class B common stock is generally entitled to ten votes per share and each share of common stock is entitled to one vote per
share, LTRIP may be deemed to beneficially own equity securities representing approximately 56.6% of our voting power. We
consider LTRIP a related party at December 31, 2014.
We had no material related party transactions with Liberty or LTRIP during the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 or 2012.
NOTE 16: SEGMENT AND GEOGRAPHIC INFORMATION
Segment Information
During the fourth quarter of 2014, management changed TripAdvisor’s reportable segments to reflect changes in the
management reporting structure of the organization, primarily due to recent business acquisitions, and the manner in which the chief
operating decision maker, or CODM, regularly assesses information and evaluates performance for operating decision-making
purposes, including allocation of resources. We believe this new segment structure better provides the CODM with information to
assess performance and to make resource allocation decisions. The CODM for the company is our Chief Executive Officer.
The revised reporting structure includes two reportable segments: Hotel and Other. Our Other segment consists of the
aggregation of three operating segments, which include our Vacation Rentals, Restaurants and Attractions businesses. All prior
periods have been reclassified to conform to the current reporting structure.
93
Hotel
Our Hotel segment includes revenue generated from services related to hotels, including click-based and display-based
advertising revenue from making hotel room nights, airline reservations, and cruise reservations available for price comparison and
booking, as well as subscription-based products such as Business Listings, transaction-based products such as Jetsetter and Tingo, and
other revenue related to hotels. Our CODM is also the Hotel segment manager.
Other
Attractions. We provide, through Viator, information and services for researching and booking destination activities around the
world. Viator works with local operators to provide travelers with access to tours and activities in popular destinations worldwide,
earning a commission for such service. In addition to its consumer-direct business, Viator also provides local experiences to affiliate
partners, including some of the world’s top airlines, hotels and travel agencies.
Restaurants. This business is comprised of our websites that provide online and mobile reservation services that connect
restaurants with diners. These websites are currently focused on the European market, primarily through Lafourchette. Lafourchette
is an online restaurant booking platform with a network of restaurant partners across Europe. Lafourchette also offers management
software solutions helping restaurants to maximize business by providing a flexible online booking, discount and data tool. Revenue is
primarily generated by receiving a fee for each restaurant guest seated through the online reservation systems.
Vacation Rentals. We offer individual property owners and property managers the ability to list their properties available for
rental and connect with travelers using a subscription-based fee structure or a free-to-list, commission per booking based option. Our
vacation rental inventory currently includes full home rentals, condos, villas, beach rentals, cabins, cottages, and many other
accommodation types. These properties are listed across a number of platforms, including TripAdvisor Vacation Rentals, U.S.-based
FlipKey (which includes Vacation Home Rentals acquired during 2014), and European-based Holiday Lettings and Niumba.
Each operating segment in our Other segment has a segment manager who is directly accountable to and maintains regular
contact with our chief operating decision maker to discuss operating activities, financial results, forecasts, and plans for the segment.
Our primary operating metric for evaluating segment performance is Adjusted EBITDA, which is a non-GAAP financial
measure. We define Adjusted EBITDA as net income (loss) plus: (1) provision for income taxes; (2) other income (expense), net;
(3) depreciation of property and equipment, including amortization of internal use software and website development; (4) amortization
of intangible assets; (5) stock-based compensation; and (6) non-recurring expenses. Such amounts are detailed in our segment
reconciliation below. In addition, please see our discussion of Adjusted EBITDA in the section of this Annual Report on Form 10-K
entitled “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations.”
The following tables present our segment information for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012. We record
depreciation of property and equipment, including amortization of internal-use software and website development, amortization of
intangible assets, stock-based compensation, other expense, net, other non-recurring expenses, net, and income taxes, which are
excluded from segment operating performance, in Corporate and unallocated. In addition, we do not report our assets or capital
expenditures by segment as it would not be meaningful. We also do not regularly provide asset, capital expenditure or depreciation
information by segment to our CODM. Our consolidated general and administrative expenses, excluding stock-based compensation
costs, are shared by all operating segments. Each operating segment receives an allocated charge based on the segment’s percentage
of the Company’s total personnel costs.
Year ended December 31, 2014
Hotel
Other
Corporate and
unallocated
Total
Revenue ............................................................. $
Adjusted EBITDA (1) .......................................
Depreciation ......................................................
Amortization of intangible assets ......................
Stock-based compensation ................................
Operating income (loss) .................................... $
Other expense, net .............................................
Income before income taxes ..............................
Provision for income taxes ................................
Net income ........................................................
1,135 $
472
—
—
—
472 $
94
(in millions)
111 $
(4)
—
—
—
(4) $
— $
—
(47 )
(18 )
(63 )
(128 )
1,246
468
(47)
(18)
(63)
340
(18)
322
(96)
226
Revenue ............................................................. $
Adjusted EBITDA (1) .......................................
Depreciation ......................................................
Amortization of intangible assets ......................
Stock-based compensation ................................
Operating income (loss) .................................... $
Other expense, net .............................................
Income before income taxes ..............................
Provision for income taxes ................................
Net income ........................................................
Revenue ............................................................. $
Adjusted EBITDA (1) .......................................
Depreciation ......................................................
Amortization of intangible assets ......................
Stock-based compensation ................................
Operating income (loss) .................................... $
Other expense, net .............................................
Income before income taxes ..............................
Provision for income taxes ................................
Net income ........................................................
Year ended December 31, 2013
Hotel
Other
Corporate and
unallocated
Total
899 $
384
—
—
—
384 $
(in millions)
46 $
(5)
—
—
—
(5) $
— $
—
(30 )
(6 )
(49 )
(85 )
Year ended December 31, 2012
Hotel
Other
Corporate and
unallocated
Total
732 $
349
—
—
—
349 $
(in millions)
31 $
3
—
—
—
3 $
— $
—
(20 )
(6 )
(30 )
(56 )
945
379
(30)
(6)
(49)
294
(10)
284
(79)
205
763
352
(20)
(6)
(30)
296
(14)
282
(87)
195
(1)
Includes allocated general and administrative expenses in our Hotel segment of $87 million, $72 million and $56 million; and in
our Other segment of $18 million, $9 million and $6 million for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012,
respectively.
The following table is a reconciliation of our Adjusted EBITDA to net income, the most directly comparable financial measure
calculated and presented in accordance with GAAP, for the periods presented:
2014
Year ended December 31,
2013
(in millions)
2012
Adjusted EBITDA ................................................................ $
Depreciation (1) ......................................................................
OIBA (2) .................................................................................
Amortization of intangible assets ...........................................
Stock-based compensation .....................................................
Other expense, net ..................................................................
Provision for income taxes .....................................................
Net income ............................................................................. $
468 $
(47)
421
(18)
(63)
(18)
(96)
226 $
379 $
(30 )
349
(6 )
(49 )
(10 )
(79 )
205 $
352
(20)
332
(6)
(30)
(14)
(87)
195
Includes amortization of internal use software and website development costs.
(1)
(2) We define OIBA as net income (loss) plus: (1) provision for income taxes; (2) other income (expense), net; (3) stock-based compensation;
(4) amortization of intangible assets; and (5) non-recurring expenses. This operating metric is only used by our management to calculate our
annual obligation for our charitable foundation. Refer to “Note 12— Commitments and Contingencies” for a discussion of our charitable
foundation.
95
Revenue and Geographic Information
We derive the substantial portion of our revenue through the sale of advertising, primarily through click-based advertising and,
to a lesser extent, display-based advertising. In addition, we earn revenue from a combination of subscription-based and transaction-
based offerings, including: Business Listings; subscription and commission-based offerings from our Vacation Rentals products;
transaction revenue from selling room nights; selling destination activities; fulfilling online restaurant reservations; as well as other
revenue including content licensing.
The following table presents revenue by product for the periods presented:
2014
Year ended December 31,
2013
(in millions)
2012
Click-based advertising ..................................... $
Display-based advertising ..................................
Subscription, transaction and other ....................
Total revenue ................................................ $
870 $
140
236
1,246 $
696 $
119
130
945 $
588
94
81
763
The following table presents revenue by geographic area, the United States, the United Kingdom and all other countries, based
on the geographic location of our websites for the periods presented:
2014
Year ended December 31,
2013
(in millions)
2012
Revenue
United States ................................................ $
United Kingdom ...........................................
All other countries ........................................
$
593 $
191
462
1,246 $
463 $
141
341
945 $
386
110
267
763
The following table presents property and equipment, net for the United States and all other countries based on the geographic
location of the assets for the periods presented:
December 31,
2014
2013
(in millions)
Property and equipment, net
United States............................................... $
All other countries ......................................
$
170 $
25
195 $
67
15
82
NOTE 17: INTEREST INCOME AND OTHER, NET
The following table presents the detail of interest income and other, net, for the periods presented:
Net loss, realized and unrealized, on foreign exchange and
foreign currency derivative contracts and other, net ............
$
Interest income .......................................................................
Total interest income and other, net .................................. $
(10) $
1
(9) $
(2 ) $
2
- $
(3)
-
(3)
Year Ended December 31,
2014
2013
2012
(in millions)
96
TripAdvisor, Inc.
Quarterly Financial Information (Unaudited)
(in thousands, except per share data)
The following table presents selected unaudited financial information for the eight quarters in the period ended December 31,
2014. The results for any quarter are not necessarily indicative of future quarterly results and, accordingly, period to period
comparisons should not be relied upon as an indication of future performance.
March 31
June 30
September 30 December 31
Three Months Ended
(in millions)
Year ended December 31, 2014
Revenue ........................................................................... $
Operating income ............................................................
Net income ......................................................................
Net income attributable to TripAdvisor, Inc. ..................
Basic earnings per share .................................................. $
Diluted earnings per share ............................................... $
Year ended December 31, 2013
Revenue ........................................................................... $
Operating income ............................................................
Net income ......................................................................
Net income attributable to TripAdvisor, Inc. ..................
Basic earnings per share .................................................. $
Diluted earnings per share ............................................... $
281 $
96
68
68
0.48 $
0.47 $
230 $
88
62
62
0.44 $
0.43 $
323 $
100
68
68
0.48 $
0.47 $
247 $
94
67
67
0.47 $
0.46 $
354 $
84
54
54
0.38 $
0.37 $
255 $
84
56
56
0.39 $
0.38 $
288
60
36
36
0.25
0.25
213
28
20
20
0.14
0.14
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 of December 31, 2014, our management, with the participation of our Chief Executive Officer and President and our Chief
Financial Officer, evaluated the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures pursuant to Rule 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)
promulgated under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, or the Exchange Act. Based upon that evaluation, our Chief
Executive Officer and President and our Chief Financial Officer concluded that, as of December 31, 2014, our disclosure controls and
procedures were effective in ensuring that material information required to be disclosed in the reports that we file or submit under the
Exchange Act is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in the Securities and Exchange
Commission’s, or the SEC’s, rules and forms, including ensuring that such material information is accumulated and communicated to
our management, including our Chief Executive Officer and President and our Chief Financial Officer, as appropriate to allow timely
decisions regarding required disclosure.
Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting
There were no changes to our internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the quarter ended December 31,
2014 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.
Management’s Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting
Our management is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting, as defined in
Rule 13a-15(f) of the Exchange Act. Internal control over financial reporting is a process to provide reasonable assurance regarding
the reliability of our financial reporting for external purposes in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the
United States of America. Under the supervision and with the participation of the Company’s management, including the Chief
Executive Officer and President and the Chief Financial Officer, the Company conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of our
internal control over financial reporting based on the criteria for effective internal control over financial reporting described in Internal
Control—Integrated Framework (1992) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission.
97
The Company’s management evaluated the effectiveness of the Company’s internal control over financial reporting as of
December 31, 2014, excluding an assessment of internal control over financial reporting of Lafourchette and Viator, and their
subsidiaries. Lafourchette and Viator were acquired on May 22, 2014 and August 8, 2014, respectively, whose consolidated financial
statements represent, in the aggregate, 2% of total assets, excluding goodwill and other intangibles, and 3% of total revenue,
respectively, of the Company’s consolidated financial statement amounts as of and for the year ended December 31,2014. Pursuant to
Exchange Act Rule 13a-15(d) or 15d-15(d), management has concluded that, as of December 31,2014, our internal control over
financial reporting was effective and these exclusions will not extend beyond one year from the acquisition dates stated herein.
Management has reviewed its assessment with the Audit Committee. KPMG LLP, an independent registered public accounting firm,
has audited the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2014, as stated in their report which is
included below.
Limitations on Effectiveness of Controls and Procedures
Management does not expect that our disclosure controls and procedures or our internal control over financial reporting will
prevent or detect all error and fraud. Any control system, no matter how well designed and operated, is based upon certain
assumptions and can provide only reasonable, not absolute, assurance that its objectives will be met. Further, no evaluation of controls
can provide absolute assurance that misstatements due to error or fraud will not occur or that all control issues and instances of fraud,
if any, within our company have been detected.
98
REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM
The Board of Directors and Stockholders
TripAdvisor, Inc.:
We have audited TripAdvisor, Inc.’s (the Company) internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2014, based on
criteria established in Internal Control – Integrated Framework (1992) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the
Treadway Commission (COSO). TripAdvisor, Inc.’s management is responsible for maintaining effective internal control over
financial reporting and for its assessment of the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting, included in the
accompanying Management’s Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the
Company’s internal control over financial reporting based on our audit.
We conducted our audit in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States).
Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether effective internal control
over financial reporting was maintained in all material respects. Our audit included obtaining an understanding of internal control over
financial reporting, assessing the risk that a material weakness exists, and testing and evaluating the design and operating effectiveness
of internal control based on the assessed risk. Our audit also included performing such other procedures as we considered necessary in
the circumstances. We believe that our audit provides a reasonable basis for our opinion.
A company’s internal control over financial reporting is a process designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the
reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally
accepted accounting principles. A company’s internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that
(1) pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of the
assets of the company; (2) provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial
statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, and that receipts and expenditures of the company are being
made only in accordance with authorizations of management and directors of the company; and (3) provide reasonable assurance
regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use, or disposition of the company’s assets that could have a
material effect on the financial statements.
Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements. Also,
projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of
changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.
In our opinion, TripAdvisor, Inc. maintained, in all material respects, effective internal control over financial reporting as of
December 31, 2014, based on criteria established in Internal Control – Integrated Framework (1992) issued by the Committee of
Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO).
TripAdvisor, Inc. acquired Lafourchette SAS and its subsidiaries (Lafourchette) and Viator, Inc. and its subsidiaries (Viator)
during 2014, and management excluded from its assessment of the effectiveness of TripAdvisor, Inc.’s internal control over financial
reporting as of December 31, 2014, Lafourchette and Viator’s internal control over financial reporting associated with total assets of
2% and total revenues of 3% included in the consolidated financial statements of the Company as of and for the year ended
December 31, 2014. Our audit of internal control over financial reporting of TripAdvisor, Inc. also excluded an evaluation of the
internal control over financial reporting of Lafourchette and Viator.
We also have audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States), the
consolidated balance sheet of TripAdvisor, Inc. and subsidiaries as of December 31, 2014, and the related consolidated statements of
operations, comprehensive income, changes in stockholders’ equity, and cash flows for the year then ended, and our report dated
February 17, 2015 expressed an unqualified opinion on those consolidated financial statements.
/s/ KPMG LLP
Boston, Massachusetts
February 17, 2015
99
Item 9B. Other Information
None.
PART III
Item 10. Directors, Executive Officers and Corporate Governance
The information required under this item is incorporated herein by reference to our 2015 Proxy Statement, which proxy
statement will be filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission not later than 120 days after the close of our fiscal year ended
December 31, 2014.
Item 11. Executive Compensation
The information required under this item is incorporated herein by reference to our 2015 Proxy Statement, which proxy
statement will be filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission not later than 120 days after the close of our fiscal year ended
December 31, 2014.
Item 12.
Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related Stockholder Matters
The information required under this item is incorporated herein by reference to our 2015 Proxy Statement, which proxy
statement will be filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission not later than 120 days after the close of our fiscal year ended
December 31, 2014.
Item 13. Certain Relationships and Related Transactions, and Director Independence
The information required under this item is incorporated herein by reference to our 2015 Proxy Statement, which proxy
statement will be filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission not later than 120 days after the close of our fiscal year ended
December 31, 2014.
Item 14. Principal Accounting Fees and Services
The information required under this item is incorporated herein by reference to our 2015 Proxy Statement, which proxy
statement will be filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission not later than 120 days after the close of our fiscal year ended
December 31, 2014.
100
Item 15. Exhibits, Financial Statement Schedules
(a) The following is filed as part of this Annual Report on Form 10-K:
PART IV
1.
Consolidated Financial Statements: The consolidated financial statements and report of independent registered
public accounting firms required by this item are included in Part II, Item 8.
All other schedules are omitted because they are not applicable or not required, or because the required information is
shown either in the consolidated financial statements or in the notes thereto.
(b) Exhibits: The attached list of exhibits in the “Exhibit Index” immediately preceding the exhibits to this annual report is
incorporated herein by reference in response to this item.
101
Pursuant to the requirements of the Section 13 or 15(d) of 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
February 17, 2015
TRIPADVISOR, INC.
By:
/s/ STEPHEN KAUFER
Stephen Kaufer
Chief Executive Officer and President
POWER OF ATTORNEY
We, the undersigned officers and directors of TripAdvisor, Inc., hereby severally constitute and appoint Stephen Kaufer and
Julie M.B. Bradley, and each of them singly, our true and lawful attorneys, with full power to them and each of them singly, to sign
for us in our names in the capacities indicated below, all amendments to this report, and generally to do all things in our names and on
our behalf in such capacities to enable TripAdvisor, Inc. to comply with the provisions of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as
amended, and all requirements of the Securities and Exchange Commission.
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, this report has been signed below by the following persons
on behalf of the Registrant and in the capacities indicated on February 17, 2015.
Signature
Title
/s/ STEPHEN KAUFER
Stephen Kaufer
/s/ JULIE M.B. BRADLEY
Julie M.B. Bradley
/s/ GREGORY B. MAFFEI
Gregory B. Maffei
/s/ JONATHAN F. MILLER
Jonathan F. Miller
/s/ DIPCHAND V. NISHAR
Dipchand V. Nishar
/s/ JEREMY PHILIPS
Jeremy Philips
/s/ SPENCER M. RASCOFF
Spencer M. Rascoff
/s/ CHRISTOPHER W. SHEAN
Christopher W. Shean
/s/ SUKINDER SINGH CASSIDY
Sukinder Singh Cassidy
/s/ ROBERT S. WIESENTHAL
Robert S. Wiesenthal
Chief Executive Officer, President and Director
(Principal Executive Officer)
Chief Financial Officer
(Principal Financial and Accounting Officer)
Chairman of the Board
Director
Director
Director
Director
Director
Director
Director
102
EXHIBIT INDEX
Exhibit Description
Filed
Herewith
Exhibit
No.
2.1
4.1
10.4
10.3
10.2
4.2
10.1
3.1
3.2
3.3
Separation Agreement by and between TripAdvisor, Inc. and
Expedia, Inc., dated as of December 20, 2011
Restated Certificate of Incorporation of TripAdvisor, Inc.
Amended and Restated Bylaws of TripAdvisor, Inc.
Amended No. 1 to Amended and Restated Bylaws of
TripAdvisor, Inc.
Equity Warrant Agreement by and between TripAdvisor, Inc.
and Mellon Investor Services LLC, as Equity Warrant Agent,
dated as of December 20, 2011
Specimen TripAdvisor, Inc. Common Stock Certificate
Governance Agreement, by and among TripAdvisor, Inc.,
Liberty Interactive Corporation and Barry Diller, dated as of
December 20, 2011
Tax Sharing Agreement by and between TripAdvisor, Inc. and
Expedia, Inc., dated as of December 20, 2011
Employee Matters Agreement by and between TripAdvisor, Inc.
and Expedia, Inc., dated as of December 20, 2011
Transition Services Agreement by and between TripAdvisor,
Inc. and Expedia, Inc., dated as of December 20, 2011
Sublease between Newton Technology Park LLC and
TripAdvisor LLC, dated as of October 31, 2007
First Amendment to Sublease between Newton Technology
Park LLC and TripAdvisor LLC, dated as of June 15, 2009
Credit Agreement, by and among TripAdvisor, TripAdvisor
Holdings, LLC, and TripAdvisor LLC, the lenders party thereto,
JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A., as administrative agent, and J.P.
Morgan Europe Limited, as London agent, dated as of
December 20, 2011
Waiver and Amendment Agreement, by and among
TripAdvisor, TripAdvisor Holdings, LLC, and TripAdvisor
LLC, the lenders party thereto, JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A., as
administrative agent, and J.P. Morgan Europe Limited, as
London agent, dated as of December 27, 2013
10.9+ TripAdvisor, Inc. 2011 Stock and Annual Incentive Plan
10.10+
First Amendment to TripAdvisor, Inc. 2011 Stock and Annual
Incentive Plan
TripAdvisor, Inc. Deferred Compensation Plan for Non-
Employee Directors
10.11+
10.8
10.6
10.7
10.5
10.12+ Form of Option Agreement (Domestic)
10.13+ Form of Option Agreement (International)
10.14+ Form of Restricted Stock Unit Agreement (Domestic)
10.15+ Form of Restricted Stock Unit Agreement (PRC)
10.16+ Form of Restricted Stock Unit Agreement (Other International)
10.17+
Form of Restricted Stock Unit Agreement (Non-Employee
Directors)
10.20
10.18+ Form of Restricted Stock Unit Agreement (Performance Based)
Corporate Headquarters Lease with Normandy Gap-V Needham
10.19
Building 3, LLC, as landlord, dated as of June 20, 2013
Guaranty dated June 20, 2013 by TripAdvisor, Inc. for the
benefit of Normandy Gap-V Needham Building 3, LLC, as
landlord
Form of TripAdvisor Media Group Master Advertising
Insertion Order
10.21
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
103
Incorporated by Reference
SEC File No.
001-35362
Exhibit
No.
2.1
001-35362
001-35362
001-35362
3.1
3.2
3.1
Filing
Date
12/27/11
12/27/11
12/27/11
2/12/13
001-35362
4.1
12/27/11
Form
8-K
8-K
8-K
8-K
8-K
S-4/A
8-K
333-175828-01 4.6
10.1
001-35362
10/24/11
12/27/11
8-K
8-K
8-K
001-35362
10.2
12/27/11
001-35362
10.3
12/27/11
001-35362
10.4
12/27/11
S-4/A
333-175828-01
10.12
10/24/11
S-4/A
333-175828-01
10.13
10/24/11
8-K
001-35362
4.2
12/27/11
10-K
01-35362
10.8
2/11/14
S-8
10-Q
333-178637
001-35362
4.5
4.1
12/20/11
7/24/13
S-8
333-178637
4.6
12/20/11
10-Q
10-Q
001-35362
10.1
7/24/13
001-35362
10.2
7/24/13
10-K
01-35362
10.21
2/11/14
Exhibit
No.
10.22+
10.23+
10.24+
Exhibit Description
Employment Agreement between TripAdvisor LLC and Julie
Bradley, effective as of March 31, 2014
Employment Agreement between TripAdvisor LLC and Seth
Kalvert, effective as of March 31, 2014
Employment Agreement between TripAdvisor LLC and
Stephen Kaufer, effective as of February 11, 2014
23.2
24.1
31.1
31.2
32.1
32.2
101
10.22 Viator, Inc. 2010 Stock Incentive Plan
16.1
21.1
23.1
Letter of Ernst & Young, LLP dated February 11, 2014
Subsidiaries of the Registrant
Consent of KPMG, LLP, Independent Registered Public
Accounting Firm
Consent of Ernst & Young, LLP, Independent Registered Public
Accounting Firm
Power of Attorney (included in signature page)
Certification of the Chief Executive Officer Pursuant to Section
302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
Certification of the Chief Financial Officer pursuant Section
302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
Certification of the Chief Executive Officer pursuant Section
906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
Certification of the Chief Financial Officer pursuant Section
906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
The following financial statements from the Company’s Annual
Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2014,
formatted in XBRL: (i) Consolidated Statements of Operations,
(ii) Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income, (iii)
Consolidated Balance Sheets, (iv) Consolidated Statements of
Changes in Stockholders’ Equity, (v) Consolidated Statements
of Cash Flows, and (vi) Notes to Consolidated Financial
Statements.
Incorporated by Reference
Filed
Herewith
Form
10-Q
SEC File No.
001-35362
Exhibit
No.
10.1
Filing
Date
5/6/14
10-Q
001-35362
10.2
5/6/14
10-Q
001-35362
10.3
5/6/14
S-8
8-K
333-198726
001-35362
16.1
16.1
9/12/14
2/11/14
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
+ Indicates a management contract or a compensatory plan, contract or arrangement.
104
Notice of 2015 Annual Meeting
and Proxy Statement
April 28, 2015
Dear Fellow Stockholder:
You are cordially invited to attend the Annual Meeting of Stockholders of TripAdvisor, Inc. We will hold the Annual Meeting
on Thursday, June 18, 2015, at 1:30 p.m. local time at the offices of Goodwin Procter LLP, 53 State Street, Boston, MA 02109.
At the Annual Meeting, stockholders will be asked (1) to elect the nine directors named in this Proxy Statement, (2) to ratify the
appointment of KPMG LLP as our independent registered public accounting firm for 2015, (3) to approve, on an advisory basis, the
compensation of our named executive officers as disclosed in our Proxy Statement, and (4) to consider and act upon any other
business that may properly come before the meeting and any adjournments or postponements thereof. The Board of Directors
recommends a vote FOR proposals (1) through (3).
You may vote if you were a stockholder of record on April 20, 2015. You may vote via the Internet or by telephone by
following the instructions on your Notice of Internet Availability and on the website noted in the Notice of Internet Availability. In
order to vote via the Internet or by telephone, you must have your stockholder identification number, which is provided in your
Notice. If you have requested a proxy card by mail, you may vote by signing, voting and returning that proxy card in the envelope
provided. If you attend the Annual Meeting, you may vote in person even if you have previously returned your proxy card or have
voted via the Internet or by telephone.
Your vote is very important to us. Please review the instructions for each voting option described in the Notice and in this
Proxy Statement. Your prompt cooperation will be greatly appreciated.
Sincerely,
STEPHEN KAUFER
President and Chief Executive Officer
1
TRIPADVISOR, INC.
141 Needham Street
Newton, Massachusetts 02464
NOTICE OF ANNUAL MEETING OF STOCKHOLDERS
To Be Held on June 18, 2015
The Annual Meeting of Stockholders of TripAdvisor, Inc., a Delaware corporation, will be held on Thursday, June 18, 2015, at
1:30 p.m. local time at the offices of Goodwin Procter LLP, 53 State Street, Boston, MA 02109. At the Annual Meeting, stockholders
will be asked to consider the following:
1.
To elect the nine directors named in this Proxy Statement, each to serve for a one-year term from the date of his or
her election and until such director’s successor is elected or until such director’s earlier resignation or removal;
2.
To ratify the appointment of KPMG LLP as our independent registered public accounting firm for 2015;
3.
Statement; and
To approve, on an advisory basis, the compensation of our named executive officers as disclosed in our Proxy
4.
To consider and act upon any other business as may properly come before the Annual Meeting and any
adjournments or postponements thereof.
Only holders of record of outstanding shares of TripAdvisor capital stock at the close of business on April 20, 2015 are entitled
to notice of and to vote at the Annual Meeting and any at adjournments or postponements thereof.
In accordance with the rules of the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, we will send a Notice of Internet Availability of
Proxy Materials on or about April 28, 2015, and provide access to our proxy materials over the Internet, beginning on April 28, 2015,
to the holders of record and beneficial owners of our capital stock as of the close of business on the record date.
Only stockholders and persons holding proxies from stockholders may attend the Annual Meeting. If your shares are registered
in your name, you must bring a form of identification to the Annual Meeting. If your shares are held in the name of a broker, trust,
bank or other nominee, you must bring a proxy or letter from that broker, trust, bank or other nominee that confirms that you are the
beneficial owner of those shares.
By Order of the Board of Directors,
SETH J. KALVERT
Senior Vice President, General Counsel
and Secretary
April 28, 2015
Important Notice Regarding the Availability of Proxy Materials
for the Annual Meeting of Stockholders to Be Held on June 18, 2015
This Proxy Statement and the 2014 Annual Report are available at:
http://ir.tripadvisor.com/annual-proxy.cfm
2
TRIPADVISOR, INC.
PROXY STATEMENT FOR THE ANNUAL MEETING OF STOCKHOLDERS
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Procedural Matters .................................................................................................................................................................
Proposal 1: Election of Directors ...........................................................................................................................................
Proposal 2: Ratification of Appointment of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm.......................................
Proposal 3: Advisory Vote on Compensation of Named Executive Officers ....................................................................
Audit Committee Report ........................................................................................................................................................
Compensation Discussion and Analysis ................................................................................................................................
Executive Compensation ........................................................................................................................................................
Director Compensation ..........................................................................................................................................................
Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management ...............................................................................
Certain Relationships and Related Person Transaction......................................................................................................
Where You Can Find More Information and Incorporation By Reference ......................................................................
Page
1
4
13
15
16
17
28
40
42
44
46
i
PROCEDURAL MATTERS
This Proxy Statement is being furnished to holders of common stock and Class B common stock of TripAdvisor, Inc., a
Delaware corporation, in connection with the solicitation of proxies by TripAdvisor’s Board of Directors for use at its 2015 Annual
Meeting of Stockholders or any adjournment or postponement thereof (the “Annual Meeting”). All references to “TripAdvisor,” the
“Company,” “we,” “our” or “us” in this Proxy Statement are to TripAdvisor, Inc. An Annual Report to Stockholders, containing
financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2014, and this Proxy Statement are being made available to all stockholders
entitled to vote at the Annual Meeting.
TripAdvisor’s principal executive offices are currently located at 141 Needham Street, Newton, Massachusetts 02464. This
Proxy Statement is being made available to TripAdvisor stockholders on or about April 28, 2015.
Date, Time and Place of Meeting
The Annual Meeting will be held on Thursday, June 18, 2015, at 1:30 p.m. local time at the offices of Goodwin Procter LLP, 53
State Street, Boston, MA 02109.
Only stockholders and persons holding proxies from stockholders may attend the Annual Meeting. If your shares are registered
in your name, you must bring a form of identification to the Annual Meeting. If your shares are held in the name of a broker, trust,
bank or other nominee, otherwise known as holding in “street name,” you must bring a proxy or letter from that broker, trust, bank or
other nominee that confirms you are the beneficial owner of those shares. Cameras and recording devices will not be permitted at the
Annual Meeting.
Record Date and Voting Rights
The Board of Directors established the close of business on April 20, 2015 as the record date for determining the holders of
TripAdvisor common stock entitled to notice of and to vote at the Annual Meeting. On the record date, 130,707,574 shares of
common stock and 12,799,999 shares of Class B common stock were outstanding and entitled to vote at the Annual Meeting.
TripAdvisor stockholders are entitled to one vote for each share of common stock and ten votes for each share of Class B common
stock held as of the record date, voting together as a single voting group, in (i) the election of six of the nine director nominees, (ii) the
ratification of the appointment of KPMG LLP as TripAdvisor’s independent registered public accounting firm, and (iii) the advisory
resolution to approve the compensation of our named executive officers. TripAdvisor stockholders are entitled to one vote for each
share of common stock held as of the record date in the election of the three director nominees that the holders of TripAdvisor
common stock are entitled to elect as a separate class pursuant to TripAdvisor’s restated certificate of incorporation.
On August 27, 2014, the entire beneficial ownership of our common stock and Class B common stock held by Liberty
Interactive Corporation (“Liberty”) was transferred to Liberty TripAdvisor Holdings, Inc. (“LTRIP”). Simultaneously, Liberty,
LTRIP’s former parent company, distributed, by means of a dividend, to the holders of its Liberty Ventures common stock, Liberty’s
entire equity interest in LTRIP. We refer to this transaction as the Liberty Spin-Off. As a result of the Liberty Spin-Off, effective
August 27, 2014, LTRIP became a separate, publicly traded company and 100% of Liberty’s interest in TripAdvisor was held by
LTRIP. Liberty also assigned to LTRIP the rights and obligations under the Governance Agreement between TripAdvisor and
Liberty, dated December 20, 2011 (the “Governance Agreement”).
As a result of these transactions, as of the record date, LTRIP beneficially owned 18,159,752 shares of our common stock and
12,799,999 shares of our Class B common stock, which shares constitute 13.9% of the outstanding shares of common stock and 100%
of the outstanding shares of Class B Common Stock. Assuming the conversion of all of the LTRIP’s shares of Class B common stock
into common stock, as of the record date LTRIP would beneficially own 21.6% of the outstanding common stock. Because each share
of Class B common stock generally is entitled to ten votes per share and each share of common stock is entitled to one vote per share,
as of the record date LTRIP may be deemed to beneficially own equity securities representing approximately 56.5% of our voting
power. As a result, regardless of the vote of any other TripAdvisor stockholder, LTRIP has control over the vote relating to (i) the
election of six of the nine director nominees, (ii) the ratification of the appointment of KPMG LLP as TripAdvisor’s independent
registered public accounting firm, and (iii) the approval, on an advisory basis, of the compensation of our named executive officers.
Quorum; Abstentions; Broker Non-Votes
Transaction of business at the Annual Meeting may occur if a quorum is present. If a quorum is not present, it is expected that
the Annual Meeting will be adjourned or postponed in order to permit additional time for soliciting and obtaining additional proxies or
1
votes, and, at any subsequent reconvening of the Annual Meeting, all proxies will be voted in the same manner as such proxies would
have been voted at the original convening of the Annual Meeting, except for any proxies that have been effectively revoked or
withdrawn.
With respect to (i) the election of six of the nine director nominees, (ii) the ratification of the appointment of KPMG LLP as
TripAdvisor’s independent registered public accounting firm, and (iii) the approval, on an advisory basis, of the compensation of our
named executive officers, the presence at the Annual Meeting, in person or by proxy, of the holders of a majority of the total votes
entitled to be cast constitutes a quorum. For the election of the three directors whom the holders of TripAdvisor common stock are
entitled to elect as a separate class, the presence at the Annual Meeting, in person or by proxy, of the holders of a majority of shares of
common stock constitutes a quorum.
If a share is represented for any purpose at the meeting, it is deemed to be present for quorum purposes and for all other matters
as well. Shares of TripAdvisor capital stock represented by a properly executed proxy will be treated as present at the Annual Meeting
for purposes of determining a quorum, without regard to whether the proxy is marked as casting a vote or abstaining.
Abstentions and broker non-votes are counted as present and entitled to vote for purposes of determining a quorum. A broker
non-vote occurs when a nominee holding shares for a beneficial owner does not vote the shares on a proposal because the nominee
does not have discretionary voting power for a particular item and has not received instructions from the beneficial owner regarding
voting. Brokers who hold shares for the accounts of their clients have discretionary authority to vote shares if specific instructions are
not given with respect to the ratification of the appointment of our independent registered public accounting firm. Brokers do not have
discretionary authority to vote on (i) the election of our directors or (ii) the advisory resolution to approve the compensation of our
named executive officers, so we encourage you to provide instructions to your broker regarding the voting of your shares.
Solicitation of Proxies
TripAdvisor will bear the cost of the solicitation of proxies from its stockholders. In addition to solicitation by mail, the
directors, officers and employees of TripAdvisor, without additional compensation, may solicit proxies from stockholders by
telephone, by letter, by facsimile, in person or otherwise. Following the original mailing of the proxies and other soliciting materials,
TripAdvisor will ask brokers, trusts, banks or other nominees to forward copies of the proxy and other soliciting materials to persons
for whom they hold shares of TripAdvisor capital stock and to request authority for the exercise of proxies. In such cases,
TripAdvisor, upon the request of the brokers, trusts, banks and other stockholder nominees, will reimburse such holders for their
reasonable expenses.
Voting of Proxies
The manner in which your shares may be voted depends on whether you are a:
(cid:120) Registered stockholder: Your shares are represented by certificates or book entries in your name on the records of the
TripAdvisor’s stock transfer agent and you have the right to vote those shares directly; or
(cid:120) Beneficial stockholder: You hold your shares “in street name” through a broker, trust, bank or other nominee and you
have the right to direct your broker, trust, bank or other nominee on how to vote the shares in your account; however, you
must request and receive a valid proxy from your broker, trust, bank or other nominee.
Whether you hold shares directly as a registered stockholder or beneficially as a beneficial stockholder, you may direct how
your shares are voted without attending the Annual Meeting. For directions on how to vote, please refer to the instructions below and
those on the Notice of Internet Availability of Proxy Materials, proxy card or voting instruction form provided. To vote using the
Internet or by telephone, you will be required to enter the control number included on your Notice of Internet Availability of Proxy
Materials or other voting instruction form provided by your broker, trust, bank or other nominee.
(cid:120) Using the Internet. Registered stockholders may vote using the Internet by going to www.proxyvote.com and following
the instructions. Beneficial stockholders may vote by accessing the website specified on the voting instruction forms
provided by their brokers, trusts, banks or other nominees.
(cid:120) By Telephone. Registered stockholders may vote, from within the United States, using any touch-tone telephone by
calling 1-800-690-6903 and following the recorded instructions. Beneficial owners may vote, from within the United States,
2
using any touch-tone telephone by calling the number specified on the voting instruction forms provided by their brokers,
trusts, banks or other nominees.
(cid:120) By Mail. Registered stockholders may submit proxies by mail by requesting printed proxy cards and marking, signing and
dating the printed proxy cards and mailing them in the accompanying pre-addressed envelopes. Beneficial owners may vote
by marking, signing and dating the voting instruction forms provided by their brokers, trusts, banks or other nominees and
mailing them in the accompanying pre-addressed envelopes.
All proxies properly submitted and not revoked will be voted at the Annual Meeting in accordance with the instructions
indicated thereon. If no instructions are provided, such proxies will be voted FOR proposals (1) through (3) described in this Proxy
Statement.
TripAdvisor is incorporated under Delaware law, which specifically permits electronically transmitted proxies, provided that
each such proxy contains, or is submitted with, information from which the inspector of elections can determine that such proxy was
authorized by the stockholder. The electronic voting procedures provided for the Annual Meeting are designed to authenticate each
stockholder by use of a control number, to allow stockholders to vote their shares and to confirm that their instructions have been
properly recorded.
Voting in Person at the Annual Meeting
You may also vote in person at the Annual Meeting. Votes in person will replace any previous votes you have made by mail,
telephone or the Internet. We will provide a ballot to registered stockholders who request one at the meeting. Shares held in your name
as the stockholder of record may be voted on that ballot. Shares held beneficially in street name may be voted on a ballot only if you
bring a legal proxy from the broker, trust, bank or other nominee that holds your shares giving you the right to vote the shares.
Attendance at the Annual Meeting without voting or revoking a previous proxy in accordance with the voting procedures will not in
and of itself revoke a proxy.
Your vote is very important. Whether or not you plan to attend the Annual Meeting, please take the time to vote via the
Internet, by telephone or by returning your marked, signed and dated proxy card so that your shares will be represented at
the Annual Meeting.
Revocation of Proxies
Any proxy given pursuant to this solicitation may be revoked by the person giving it any time before the taking of the vote at the
Annual Meeting.
If you are a beneficial stockholder, you may revoke your proxy or change your vote only by following the separate instructions
provided by your broker, trust, bank or other nominee.
If you are a registered stockholder, you may revoke your proxy at any time before it is exercised at the Annual Meeting by
(i) delivering written notice, bearing a date later than the proxy, stating that the proxy is revoked, (ii) submitting a later-dated proxy
relating to the same stock by mail, telephone or the Internet prior to the vote at the Annual Meeting or (iii) attending the Annual
Meeting and properly giving notice of revocation to the inspector of elections or voting in person. Registered holders may send any
written notice or request for a new proxy card to TripAdvisor, Inc., c/o Broadridge, 51 Mercedes Way, Edgewood, New York 11717,
or follow the instructions provided on the Notice of Internet Availability of Proxy Materials and proxy card to submit a new proxy by
telephone or via the Internet. Registered holders may also request a new proxy card by calling 1-800-579-1639.
Other Business
The Board of Directors does not presently intend to bring any business before the Annual Meeting other than the proposals
discussed in this Proxy Statement and specified in the Notice of Annual Meeting of Stockholders. The Board of Directors has no
knowledge of any other matters to be presented at the Annual Meeting other than those described in this Proxy Statement. If any other
matters should properly come before the Annual Meeting, the persons designated in the proxy will vote on them according to their
best judgment.
3
Nominees
PROPOSAL 1:
ELECTION OF DIRECTORS
Our Board of Directors currently consists of nine members. Pursuant to the terms of TripAdvisor’s bylaws, each director serves
for a one-year term from the date of his or her election and until such director’s successor is elected or until such director’s earlier
resignation or removal. The Board of Directors has nominated the following directors and recommends that each be elected to serve a
one-year term and until such director’s successor shall have been duly elected and qualified or until such director’s earlier resignation
or removal:
Gregory B. Maffei
Stephen Kaufer
Jonathan F. Miller
Dipchand (Deep) Nishar
Jeremy Philips
Spencer M. Rascoff
Christopher W. Shean
Sukhinder Singh Cassidy
Robert S. Wiesenthal
TripAdvisor’s restated certificate of incorporation provides that the holders of TripAdvisor common stock, acting as a single
class, are entitled to elect a number of directors equal to 25% of the total number of directors, rounded up to the next whole number,
which is currently three directors. The Board has designated Messrs. Miller, Philips and Wiesenthal as nominees for the positions on
the Board to be elected by the holders of TripAdvisor common stock voting as a separate class.
Pursuant to the Governance Agreement, LTRIP has the right to nominate up to a number of directors equal to 20% of the total
number of the directors on the Board of Directors (rounded up to the next whole number if the number of directors on the Board of
Directors is not an even multiple of five) for election to the Board of Directors and has certain other rights regarding committee
participation, so long as certain stock ownership requirements applicable to LTRIP are satisfied. LTRIP has designated Messrs.
Maffei and Shean as its nominees to the Board of Directors.
Although management does not anticipate that any of the nominees named above will be unable or unwilling to stand for
election, in the event of such an occurrence, proxies may be voted for a substitute nominee designated by the Board of Directors.
Required Vote
Election of Ms. Singh Cassidy and Messrs. Maffei, Kaufer, Nishar, Rascoff and Shean as directors requires the affirmative vote
of a plurality of the total number of votes cast by the holders of shares of TripAdvisor common stock and Class B common stock,
present in person or represented by proxy, voting together as a single class.
Election of Messrs. Miller, Philips and Wiesenthal as directors requires the affirmative vote of a plurality of the total number of
votes cast by the holders of shares of TripAdvisor common stock, present in person or represented by proxy, voting together as a
separate class.
Valid proxies received pursuant to this solicitation will be voted in the manner specified. Where no specification is made, it is
intended that the proxies received from stockholders will be voted FOR the election of the director nominees identified. For the
election of the directors, abstentions and broker non-votes will have no effect because approval by a certain percentage of voting stock
present or outstanding is not required.
THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS RECOMMENDS THAT STOCKHOLDERS VOTE “FOR” THE ELECTION OF EACH OF
THE NOMINEES FOR DIRECTOR NAMED ABOVE.
4
Directors and Executive Officers
Set forth below is certain background information, as of April 24, 2015, regarding the members of our Board of Directors, each
of whom is also a nominee, as well as TripAdvisor’s executive officers. There are no family relationships among directors or
executive officers of TripAdvisor. In addition to the information presented below regarding each nominee’s specific experience,
qualifications, attributes and skills that led the Board of Directors to the conclusion that he or she should be renominated as a director,
each nominee has demonstrated business acumen and an ability to exercise sound judgment, as well as a commitment to TripAdvisor
and our Board of Directors as demonstrated by the nominee’s past service. All of our nominees also have extensive management
experience in complex organizations. The Board of Directors considered the NASDAQ requirement that TripAdvisor’s Audit
Committee be composed of at least three independent directors, as well as specific NASDAQ and U.S. Securities and Exchange
Commission (“SEC”) requirements regarding financial literacy and expertise.
Name
Gregory B. Maffei ..................................
Stephen Kaufer .......................................
Julie M.B. Bradley .................................
Seth J. Kalvert ........................................
Dermot M. Halpin ..................................
Barrie Seidenberg ...................................
Jonathan F. Miller ..................................
Dipchand (Deep) Nishar.........................
Jeremy Philips ........................................
Spencer M. Rascoff ................................
Christopher W. Shean ............................
Sukhinder Singh Cassidy .......................
Robert S. Wiesenthal ..............................
Age
54
52
46
45
44
50
58
46
42
39
49
45
48
Position
Chairman
Director, President and Chief Executive Officer
Senior Vice President, Chief Financial Officer,
Chief Accounting Officer and Treasurer
Senior Vice President, General Counsel and Secretary
President, Vacation Rentals
Chief Executive Officer, Attractions
Director
Director
Director
Director
Director
Director
Director
Gregory B. Maffei has been the Chairman of the Board of Directors of TripAdvisor since February 2013. Mr. Maffei has served
as a director as well as the President and Chief Executive Officer of Liberty Media Corporation (“LMC”) (including its predecessor)
since May 2007, LTRIP since July 2013 and Liberty Broadband Corporation (“LBC”) since June 2014. He has served as President
and Chief Executive Officer of Liberty since February 2006 and as a director since November 2005. . He also served as CEO-Elect
of Liberty from November 2005 through February 2006. Prior to joining Liberty in 2005, Mr. Maffei served as President and Chief
Financial Officer of Oracle Corporation, Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer of 360networks Corporation and Chief
Financial Officer of Microsoft Corporation. Mr. Maffei also currently serves as a director of the following companies: Starz, Sirius
XM Holdings Inc., Live Nation Entertainment, Inc., Charter Communications, Inc. and Zillow Group, Inc. Mr. Maffei holds an
M.B.A. from Harvard Business School, where he was a Baker Scholar, and an A.B. from Dartmouth College.
Board Membership Qualifications: Mr. Maffei brings to our Board significant financial and operational experience based on
his senior policy-making positions at Liberty, LMC, LBC, LTRIP, Oracle, 360networks and Microsoft and his other public
company board experience. He provides our board with an executive and leadership perspective on the operation and
management of large public companies and risk management principles.
Stephen Kaufer co-founded TripAdvisor in February 2000 and has been the President and Chief Executive Officer of
TripAdvisor since that date. Mr. Kaufer has been a director of TripAdvisor since the completion of the spin-off from Expedia (the
“Spin-Off”) in 2011. Prior to co-founding TripAdvisor, Mr. Kaufer served as President of CDS, Inc., an independent software vendor
specializing in programming and testing tools, and co-founded CenterLine Software and served as its Vice President of Engineering.
Mr. Kaufer serves on the boards of several privately-held companies, including CarGurus, LLC, LiveData, Inc., and GlassDoor, Inc.,
as well as the charity Caring for Carcinoid Foundation. Mr. Kaufer holds an A.B. in Computer Science from Harvard University.
Board Membership Qualifications: As co-founder of TripAdvisor and through his service as its Chief Executive Officer,
Mr. Kaufer has extensive knowledge of TripAdvisor’s business and operations, and significant experience in the online
advertising sector of the global travel industry. Mr. Kaufer also possesses strategic and governance skills gained through his
executive and director roles with several privately-held companies.
Jonathan F. Miller has been a director of TripAdvisor since the completion of the Spin-Off in 2011. He previously served as
Chairman and Chief Executive of News Corporation’s digital media group and News Corporation’s Chief Digital Officer from April
2009 until October 2012. Mr. Miller was a founding partner of Velocity Interactive Group (“Velocity”), an investment firm focusing
on digital media and the consumer Internet, from its inception in February 2007 until April 2009. Prior to founding Velocity,
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Mr. Miller served as Chief Executive Officer of AOL LLC (“AOL”) from August 2002 to December 2006. Prior to joining AOL,
Mr. Miller served as Chief Executive Officer and President of USA Information and Services, of USA Interactive, a predecessor to
IAC/InterActiveCorp (“IAC”). Mr. Miller previously served as a director of Live Nation Entertainment, Inc. and Ticketmaster
Entertainment, Inc. prior to its merger with LiveNation. Mr. Miller is currently a member of the Board of Directors of Shutterstock,
Inc.; AMC Networks, Inc.; The Interpublic Group of Companies, Inc.; Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Company and RTL Group, S.A.
Mr. Miller also serves on the Board of Trustees of the American Film Institute and The Paley Center for Media. Mr. Miller holds a
B.A. from Harvard College.
Board Membership Qualifications: Through his various senior leadership positions at other private and public companies and
business divisions thereof, Mr. Miller possesses extensive executive, strategic, operational, and corporate governance
experience. Mr. Miller also has expertise in the digital media and online advertising sectors. Further, Mr. Miller has experience
as a director serving on other public company boards.
Dipchand (Deep) Nishar has been a director of TripAdvisor since September 2013. Mr. Nishar has served on the Board of
Directors of OPower, Inc. since August 2013. From January 2011 to October 2014, Mr. Nishar served as Senior Vice President,
Products and User Experience, for LinkedIn Corporation and, from January 2009 until January 2011, served as its Vice President,
Products. Prior to LinkedIn, Mr. Nishar served in several roles, including most recently as the Senior Director of Products for the
Asia-Pacific region at Google Inc., an Internet search company, from August 2003 to January 2009. He was also the Founder and Vice
President of Products at Patkai Networks, a service oriented architecture software company. Mr. Nishar holds an M.B.A. with highest
honors (Baker Scholar) from Harvard Business School, an M.SEE from University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign, and a B.Tech with
honors from the Indian Institute of Technology.
Board Membership Qualifications: Through his roles with LinkedIn and Patkai Networks, Mr. Nishar has significant
operational experience in those areas which are directly applicable to TripAdvisor’s business and areas of focus. Mr. Nishar has
an extensive background in the Internet industry and, in particular, the digital media and online advertising sectors.
Jeremy Philips has been a director of TripAdvisor since the completion of the Spin-Off in 2011. He has been a general partner
of Spark Capital since May 2014. He is also a director of several private Internet companies. Mr. Philips served as the Chief
Executive Officer of Photon Group Limited, a holding company listed on the Australian Securities Exchange, from June 2010 to
January 2012. Mr. Philips had previously served as an Executive Vice President in the Office of the Chairman of News Corporation
from January 2006 to March 2010, and as Senior Vice President of News Corporation from July 2004 to January 2006. Prior to joining
News Corporation, he served in several roles, including as co-founder and Vice-Chairman of a publicly traded Internet holding
company, and as an analyst at McKinsey & Company. Mr. Philips also served as a director of REA Group Ltd. from March 2009 to
June 2010. He is an adjunct professor at Columbia Business School and holds a BA and LLB from the University of New South Wales
and an MPA from the Harvard Kennedy School of Government.
Board Membership Qualifications: Mr. Philips has significant strategic and operational experience, acquired through his
service as Chief Executive Officer of Photon Group Limited and other executive-level positions at other companies. He also
possesses a high level of financial literacy and expertise regarding mergers, acquisitions, investments and other strategic
transactions.
Spencer M. Rascoff has been a director of TripAdvisor since September 2013. Mr. Rascoff has served as the Chief Executive
Officer of Zillow, Inc. since September 2010 and has served as a member of its Board of Directors since July 2011. Mr. Rascoff
joined Zillow as one of its founding employees in 2005 as Vice President of Marketing and Chief Financial Officer and served as
Chief Operating Officer from December 2008 until he was promoted to Chief Executive Officer. From 2003 to 2005, Mr. Rascoff
served as Vice President of Lodging for Expedia. In 1999, Mr. Rascoff co-founded Hotwire, Inc., an online travel company, and
managed several of Hotwire’s product lines before Hotwire was acquired in 2003 by IAC, Expedia’s parent company at the time.
Mr. Rascoff previously served in the mergers and acquisitions group at Goldman, Sachs & Co., an investment banking and securities
firm, and at TPG Capital, a private equity firm. Mr. Rascoff serves on the Board of Directors of Zulily, a privately held consumer
products company, and Julep Beauty Incorporated, a privately-held beauty products company. Mr. Rascoff graduated cum laude with
a B.A. in Government from Harvard University, and he serves on the Seattle Children’s Hospital Research Institute Advisory Board.
Board Membership Qualifications: Mr. Rascoff has significant operational and financial experience, acquired through his
current service as Chief Executive Officer and prior service as Chief Financial Officer of Zillow. Mr. Rascoff also possesses a
high level of financial literacy and expertise regarding mergers, acquisitions, investments and other strategic transactions as well
as an extensive background in the Internet industry and global travel industry.
Christopher W. Shean has been a director of TripAdvisor since February 2013. Mr. Shean has been a Senior Vice President of
LMC (including its predecessor) since May 2007, the Chief Financial Officer since November 2011 and the Controller from May
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2007 to October 2011. Mr. Shean has also served as a Senior Vice President of Liberty since January 2002 and the Chief Financial
Officer since November 2011. Previously, Mr. Shean served as the Controller of Liberty from October 2000 to October 2011 and a
Vice President from October 2000 to January 2002. Mr. Shean has also served as Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer
of LTRIP since July 2013 and LBC since June 2014. Mr. Shean serves as a director of FTD Companies, Inc. He is a graduate of
Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University.
Board Membership Qualifications: Mr. Shean has significant financial and operational experience gained through his service
as Chief Financial Officer and other executive-level positions at Liberty and LMC and as a partner of KPMG. As a result of his
extensive business and financial experience, Mr. Shean is able to provide valuable business, financial and risk management advice. He
also possesses a high level of financial literacy and expertise regarding mergers, acquisitions, investments and other strategic
transactions.
Sukhinder Singh Cassidy has been a director of TripAdvisor since the completion of the Spin-Off in 2011. In January 2011,
Ms. Singh Cassidy founded, and currently serves as Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of Joyus, a video commerce website.
Ms. Singh Cassidy previously served as Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of the Board of Polyvore, Inc., a privately-held social
commerce website, from March 2010 to September 2010. Prior to that, she was CEO-in-residence at Accel Partners, a global venture
and growth equity firm, from April 2009 to March 2010. From October 2003 to April 2009, Ms. Singh Cassidy held various positions
at Google Inc., including, most recently, Global Vice President of Sales and Operations for Asia Pacific and Latin America in which
she was responsible for Google’s international growth. Previously, Ms. Singh Cassidy worked with Yodlee.com, Amazon.com and
News Corporation, and in investment banking with Merrill Lynch & Co., Inc. Ms. Singh Cassidy currently serves on the board of
Ericsson (NASDAQ: ERIC) and has previously served on the board of J. Crew Group, Inc. and J. Hilburn, Inc. She has also served on
the Princeton Computer Science Advisory Council as well as the Advisory Board of A Women’s Nation in partnership with Maria
Shriver and the Center for American Progress. Ms. Singh Cassidy graduated from the University of Western Ontario and earned her
H.B.A. from the Richard Ivey School of Business.
Board Membership Qualifications: Through her experience as a consumer Internet and media executive, Ms. Singh Cassidy
has in-depth knowledge of the online media and advertising sectors. Ms. Singh Cassidy also possesses extensive executive,
strategic and operational experience.
Robert S. Wiesenthal has been a director of TripAdvisor since the completion of the Spin-Off in 2011. Since January 2013,
Mr. Wiesenthal served as Chief Operating Officer of Warner Music Group Corp., a leading global music conglomerate. From 2000 to
2012, Mr. Wiesenthal served in various senior executive capacities within the Sony Corporation. From January 2002 through June
2012, Mr. Wiesenthal served as Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of Sony Corporation of America and, since July
2005, as Executive Vice President and Chief Strategy Officer, Sony Entertainment. Prior to joining Sony, Mr. Wiesenthal was
Managing Director at Credit Suisse First Boston and head of the firm’s Entertainment and Digital Media practices from 1999 to 2000,
a member of its Media Group from 1993 to 1999 and a member of its Mergers and Acquisitions Group from 1988 to 1993.
Mr. Wiesenthal presently serves on the Board of Directors of Starz. Mr. Wiesenthal has a B.A. from the University of Rochester.
Board Membership Qualifications: Mr. Wiesenthal possesses extensive strategic, operational and financial experience, gained
through his wide range of service in executive-level positions with a strong focus on networked consumer electronics,
entertainment, and digital media. He also has a high degree of financial literacy and expertise regarding mergers, acquisitions,
investments and other strategic transactions.
Julie M.B. Bradley has served as Senior Vice President, Chief Financial Officer, Chief Accounting Officer and Treasurer of
TripAdvisor since October 2011. Prior to joining TripAdvisor, from July 2005 to April 2011, Ms. Bradley served as Senior Vice
President, Chief Financial Officer, Treasurer and Secretary of Art Technology Group, Inc., a provider of e-commerce software
solutions and services, which was acquired by Oracle Corporation in January 2011. Prior to joining Art Technology Group,
Ms. Bradley was at Akamai Technologies, Inc. from April 2000 to June 2005, most recently serving as Vice President of Finance.
Previously, Ms. Bradley was an accountant with Deloitte LLP. Ms. Bradley is currently a member of the Board of Directors of
Wayfair.com and a member of the Board of Trustees of The Judge Baker’s Children’s Center. Ms. Bradley previously served on the
Board of Directors of Exact Target. Ms. Bradley received her B.A. in Economics from Wheaton College and is a certified public
accountant.
On April 2, 2015, Ms. Bradley informed TripAdvisor of her intention to resign from the Company. In order to provide for the
transition of Ms. Bradley’s responsibilities, the Company and Ms. Bradley have entered into a Separation Agreement, dated April 2,
2015 pursuant to which Ms. Bradley has agreed to remain with the Company on a full-time basis for a transition period, which will
last until the earlier of September 30, 2015 or thirty days following her successor’s start date.
7
Seth J. Kalvert has served as Senior Vice President, General Counsel and Secretary of TripAdvisor since August 2011. Prior to
joining TripAdvisor, Mr. Kalvert held positions at Expedia, which he joined in March 2005, most recently as Vice President and
Associate General Counsel beginning in February 2006. Prior to that, from July 2001 to March 2005, Mr. Kalvert held a variety of
internal legal positions at IAC and its subsidiaries. Previously, Mr. Kalvert held a business development position at Bolt Media Inc., a
privately-held online social networking and e-commerce company, and was an associate at Debevoise & Plimpton, LLP, a New York
law firm. Mr. Kalvert holds an A.B. degree from Brown University and a J.D. degree from Columbia Law School.
Dermot M. Halpin has served as President of the Vacation Rentals division at TripAdvisor since December 2011. Mr. Halpin
served as a Board member, commencing June 2009 and CEO commencing November 2009 of Autoquake, a venture-backed consumer
Internet business, until his resignation in March 2011. Prior to Autoquake, from October 2001 to December 2008, Mr. Halpin worked
at Expedia, Inc., most recently serving as President of Expedia EMEA (Europe, Middle East and Africa). Before joining Expedia,
Dermot worked at several technology-driven businesses. Mr. Halpin holds an MBA from INSEAD and studied engineering at
University College Dublin, Ireland.
Barrie Seidenberg has served as the Chief Executive Officer of the Attractions division at TripAdvisor since TripAdvisor
acquired Viator, Inc., (“Viator”), in August 2014. Ms. Seidenberg joined Viator as President in 2005 and took on the additional role
of CEO in 2008. Before joining Viator, Ms. Seidenberg was Chief Marketing Officer at Preview Travel, one of the early leaders in
online travel. She has previously held senior-level positions with Atinera, Williams-Sonoma and American Express. Ms. Seidenberg
received a B.A. from Yale University and an M.B.A. from the Stanford Graduate School of Business.
Board of Directors
Director Independence
Under the NASDAQ Stock Market Listing Rules (the “NASDAQ Rules”), the Board has a responsibility to make an affirmative
determination that those members of the Board who serve as independent directors do not have any relationships that would interfere
with the exercise of independent judgment in carrying out the responsibilities of a director. In connection with the independence
determinations described below, the Board reviewed information regarding transactions, relationships and arrangements relevant to
independence, including those required by the NASDAQ Rules. This information is obtained from director responses to questionnaires
circulated by management, as well as our records and publicly available information. Following this determination, management
monitors those transactions, relationships and arrangements that were relevant to such determination, as well as solicits updated
information potentially relevant to independence from internal personnel and directors, to determine whether there have been any
developments that could potentially have an adverse impact on the Board’s prior independence determination.
The Board of Directors has determined that each of Ms. Singh Cassidy and Messrs. Miller, Nishar, Philips, Rascoff and
Wiesenthal is an “independent director” as defined by the NASDAQ Rules. In making its independence determinations, the Board of
Directors considered the applicable legal standards and any relevant transactions, relationships or arrangements. In addition to the
satisfaction of the director independence requirements set forth in the NASDAQ Rules, members of the Audit Committee and
Compensation Committee have also satisfied separate independence requirements under the current standards imposed by the SEC
and the NASDAQ Rules for audit committee members and by the SEC, NASDAQ Rules and the Internal Revenue Service for
compensation committee members.
Controlled Company Status
On August 27, 2014, the entire beneficial ownership of our common stock and Class B common stock held by Liberty was
transferred to LTRIP. Simultaneously, Liberty, LTRIP’s former parent company, distributed, by means of a dividend, to the holders
of its Liberty Ventures common stock, Liberty’s entire equity interest in LTRIP. We refer to this transaction as the Liberty Spin-
Off. As a result of the Liberty Spin-Off, effective August 27, 2014, LTRIP became a separate, publicly traded company and 100% of
Liberty’s interest in TripAdvisor was held by LTRIP.
As of the record date, LTRIP beneficially owned 18,159,752 shares of our common stock and 12,799,999 shares of our Class B
common stock, which shares constitute 13.9% of the outstanding shares of common stock and 100% of the outstanding shares of Class
B common stock, respectively. Assuming the conversion of all of LTRIP’s shares of Class B common stock into common stock,
LTRIP would beneficially own 21.6% of the outstanding common stock. Because each share of Class B common stock generally is
entitled to ten votes per share and each share of common stock is entitled to one vote per share, LTRIP may be deemed to beneficially
own equity securities representing approximately 56.5% of our voting power. LTRIP has filed a Statement of Beneficial Ownership on
Schedule 13D with respect to its TripAdvisor holdings and related voting arrangements with the SEC.
8
The NASDAQ Rules exempt “controlled companies,” or companies of which more than 50% of the voting power is held by an
individual, a group or another company, such as TripAdvisor, from certain governance requirements under the NASDAQ Rules,
including, among other items, the requirement that our Board of Directors be comprised of a majority of independent directors. On
this basis, TripAdvisor is relying on the exemption for controlled companies from certain requirements under the NASDAQ Rules,
including, among others, the requirement that the Compensation Committee be composed solely of independent directors and certain
requirements relating to the nomination of directors. We may, in the future, rely on other exemptions available to a controlled
company, including, among others, the requirement that a majority of the Board of Directors be composed of independent directors.
Board Leadership Structure
Mr. Maffei serves as the Chairman of the Board of Directors, and Mr. Kaufer serves as President and Chief Executive Officer of
TripAdvisor. The roles of Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of the Board of Directors are currently separated in recognition of
the differences between the two roles. This leadership structure provides us with the benefit of Mr. Maffei’s oversight of
TripAdvisor’s strategic goals and vision, coupled with the benefit of a full-time Chief Executive Officer dedicated to focusing on the
day-to-day management and continued growth of TripAdvisor and its operating businesses. We believe that it is in the best interests of
our stockholders for the Board of Directors to make a determination regarding the separation or combination of these roles each time it
elects a new Chairman or Chief Executive Officer based on the relevant facts and circumstances applicable at such time.
Independent members of the Board of Directors chair our Audit Committee, Compensation Committee and Section 16
Committee.
Meeting Attendance
The Board of Directors met eight times in 2014. During such period, each member of the Board of Directors attended at least
75% of the meetings of the Board and the Board committees on which they served. The independent directors meet in regularly
scheduled sessions, typically before or after each Board meeting, without the presence of management. We do not have a lead
independent director or any other formally appointed leader for these sessions. Directors are encouraged but not required to attend
annual meetings of TripAdvisor stockholders. All of the incumbent directors who were directors at the time have historically attended
the annual meetings of stockholders.
Committees of the Board of Directors
The Board of Directors has the following standing committees: the Audit Committee, the Compensation Committee, the
Section 16 Committee and the Executive Committee. The Audit, Compensation and Section 16 Committees operate under written
charters adopted by the Board of Directors. These charters are available in the “Corporate Governance” section of the Investor
Relations page of TripAdvisor’s corporate website at ir.tripadvisor.com. At each regularly scheduled Board meeting, the Chairperson
of each committee provides the full Board of Directors with an update of all significant matters discussed, reviewed, considered and/or
approved by the relevant committee since the last regularly scheduled Board meeting. The independent membership of our Audit,
Compensation and Section 16 Committees ensures that directors with no ties to Company management are charged with oversight for
all financial reporting and executive compensation related decisions made by Company management.
The following table sets forth the current members of each committee of the Board of Directors.
Name
Gregory B. Maffei ..................................................................
Stephen Kaufer .......................................................................
Jonathan F. Miller* ................................................................
Dipchand (Deep) Nishar* .......................................................
Jeremy Philips* ......................................................................
Spencer M. Rascoff * .............................................................
Christopher W. Shean ............................................................
Sukhinder Singh Cassidy* .....................................................
Robert S. Wiesenthal* ............................................................
Audit
Committee
Compensation
Committee
Section 16
Committee
Executive
Committee
—
—
X
—
—
X
—
—
Chair
X
—
—
—
X
—
—
Chair
—
—
—
—
—
X
—
—
Chair
—
X
X
—
—
—
—
X
—
—
*
Independent director
9
Audit Committee. The Audit Committee of the Board of Directors currently consists of three directors: Messrs. Miller, Rascoff
and Wiesenthal. Mr. Wiesenthal is the Chairman of the Audit Committee. Each Audit Committee member satisfies the independence
requirements under the current standards imposed by the rules of the SEC and NASDAQ. The Board has determined that each of
Messrs. Wiesenthal and Rascoff is an “audit committee financial expert,” as such term is defined in the regulations promulgated under
the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange Act”).
The Audit Committee is appointed by the Board of Directors to assist the Board with a variety of matters discussed in detail in
the Audit Committee charter, including monitoring (i) the integrity of our financial reporting process, (ii) the independent registered
public accounting firm’s qualifications and independence, (iii) the performance of the independent registered public accounting firm
and our internal audit department, and (iv) our compliance with legal and regulatory requirements. The Audit Committee met six
times in 2014. The formal report of the Audit Committee with respect to the year ended December 31, 2014 is set forth in the section
below titled “Audit Committee Report.”
Compensation Committee. The Compensation Committee consists of Ms. Singh Cassidy and Messrs. Philips and Maffei.
Ms. Singh Cassidy is the Chairperson of the Compensation Committee. Each member of the Compensation Committee is an “outside
director” for purposes of Section 162(m) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the “Code”).With the exception of
Mr. Maffei, each member is an “independent director” as defined by the NASDAQ Rules. No member of the Compensation
Committee is an employee of TripAdvisor.
The Compensation Committee is responsible for (i) designing and overseeing our compensation with respect to our executive
officers, including salary matters, bonus plans and stock compensation plans and (ii) approving all grants of equity awards, but
excluding matters governed by Rule 16b-3 under the Exchange Act (which are handled by the Section 16 Committee described
below). A description of our policies and practices for the consideration and determination of executive compensation is included in
the section below titled “Compensation Discussion and Analysis.” The Compensation Committee met three times in 2014.
Section 16 Committee. The Section 16 Committee consists of Ms. Singh Cassidy and Mr. Philips. Ms. Singh Cassidy is the
Chairperson of the Section 16 Committee. Each member is an “independent director” as defined by the NASDAQ Rules and satisfies
the definition of “non-employee director” for purposes of Section 16 of the Exchange Act.
The Section 16 Committee is authorized to exercise all powers of the Board of Directors with respect to matters governed by
Rule 16b-3 under the Exchange Act, including approving grants of equity awards to TripAdvisor’s executive officers. The Section 16
Committee met three times in 2014.
In this Proxy Statement, we refer to the Compensation Committee and Section 16 Committee collectively as the “Compensation
Committees.”
Executive Committee. The Executive Committee consists of Messrs. Kaufer, Maffei and Shean. The Executive Committee has
the powers and authority of the Board of Directors, except for those matters that are specifically reserved to the Board of Directors
under Delaware law or our organizational documents. The Executive Committee primarily serves as a means to address issues that
may arise and require Board approval between regularly scheduled Board meetings. Following are some examples of matters that
could be handled by the Executive Committee: (i) oversight and implementation of matters approved by the Board of Directors,
(ii) administrative matters with respect to benefit plans, transfer agent matters, banking authority, formation of subsidiaries and other
administrative items involving subsidiaries and determinations or findings under TripAdvisor’s financing arrangements and (iii) in the
case of a natural disaster or other emergency as a result of which a quorum of the Board of Directors cannot readily be convened for
action, directing the management of the business and affairs of TripAdvisor during such emergency or natural disaster. The Executive
Committee did not meet in 2014.
Risk Oversight
Assessing and managing risk is the responsibility of TripAdvisor’s management. Our Board of Directors oversees and reviews
certain aspects of our risk management efforts. Our Board of Directors is involved in risk oversight through direct decision-making
authority with respect to significant matters and the oversight of management by the Board of Directors and its committees. The
President and Chief Executive Officer, the Senior Vice President, Chief Financial Officer, Chief Accounting Officer and Treasurer
and the Senior Vice President, General Counsel and Secretary attend Board meetings and discuss operational risks with the Board.
Management also provides reports and presentations on strategic risks to the Board. Among other areas, the Board is involved, directly
or through its committees, in overseeing risks related to our overall corporate strategy, business continuity, crisis preparedness and
competitive and reputational risks.
10
The committees of the Board execute their oversight responsibility for risk management as follows:
(cid:120) The Audit Committee has primary responsibility for discussing with management TripAdvisor’s major financial risks and
the steps management has taken to monitor and control such risks. In fulfilling its responsibilities, the Audit Committee
receives regular reports from, among others, the Chief Financial Officer, General Counsel, the Vice President of Tax and
the Corporate Controller as well as from representatives of internal audit, the company’s compliance committee and our
auditors. The Audit Committee makes regular reports to the Board of Directors. In addition, TripAdvisor has, under the
supervision of the Audit Committee, established procedures available to all employees for the anonymous and confidential
submission of complaints relating to any matter to encourage employees to report questionable activities directly to our
senior management and the Audit Committee.
(cid:120) The Compensation Committee considers and evaluates risks related to our cash and equity-based compensation programs,
policies and practices and evaluates whether our compensation programs encourage participants to take excessive risks that
are reasonably likely to have a material adverse effect on TripAdvisor or our business. Consistent with SEC disclosure
requirements, the Compensation Committee working with management has assessed the compensation policies and
practices for our employees, including our executive officers, and has concluded that such policies and practices do not
create risks that are reasonably likely to have a material adverse effect on TripAdvisor.
Ultimately, though, management is responsible for the day-to-day risk management process, including identification of key risks
and implementation of policies and procedures to manage, mitigate and monitor risks. In fulfilling these duties, management
conducted an enterprise and internal audit risk assessment and will use the results of that assessment in its risk management efforts. In
addition, management has formed a Compliance Committee in connection with the implementation, management and oversight of a
corporate compliance program to promote operational excellence throughout the entire organization in adherence with all legal and
regulatory requirements and with the highest ethical standards
Director Nominations
Given the ownership structure of TripAdvisor and our status as a “controlled company,” the Board of Directors does not have a
nominating committee or other committee performing similar functions or any formal policy on director nominations. The Board of
Directors does not have specific requirements for eligibility to serve as a director of TripAdvisor, nor does it have a specific policy on
diversity; however, the Board of Directors does consider, among other things, diversity when considering nominees to serve on our
Board of Directors. We broadly construe diversity to mean diversity of opinions, perspectives, and personal and professional
experiences and backgrounds, such as gender, race and ethnicity, as well as other differentiating characteristics. In evaluating
candidates, regardless of how recommended, the Board of Directors considers whether the professional and personal ethics and values
of the candidate are consistent with those of TripAdvisor, whether the candidate’s experience and expertise would be beneficial to the
Board in rendering service to TripAdvisor, including in providing a mix of Board members that represent a diversity of backgrounds,
perspectives and opinions, whether the candidate is willing and able to devote the necessary time and energy to the work of the Board
of Directors, and whether the candidate is prepared and qualified to represent the best interests of TripAdvisor’s stockholders.
Pursuant to the Governance Agreement, LTRIP has the right to nominate a number of directors equal to 20% of the total number
of the directors on the Board of Directors (rounded up to the next whole number if the number of directors on the Board is not an even
multiple of five) for election to the Board of Directors so long as certain stock ownership requirements are satisfied. LTRIP has
nominated Messrs. Maffei and Shean as nominees for 2015. The other nominees to the Board of Directors were recommended by the
Chairman and then were considered and recommended by the entire Board of Directors.
The Board of Directors does not have a formal policy regarding the consideration of director candidates recommended by
stockholders, as historically TripAdvisor has not received such recommendations. However, the Board of Directors would consider
such recommendations if made in the future. Stockholders who wish to make such a recommendation should send the
recommendation to TripAdvisor, Inc., 141 Needham Street, Newton, Massachusetts 02464, Attention: Secretary. The envelope must
contain a clear notation that the enclosed letter is a “Director Nominee Recommendation.” The letter must identify the author as a
stockholder, provide a brief summary of the candidate’s qualifications and history and be accompanied by evidence of the sender’s
stock ownership, as well as consent by the candidate to serve as a director if elected. Any director candidate recommendations will be
reviewed by the Secretary and, if deemed appropriate, forwarded to the Chairman for further review. If the Chairman believes that the
candidate fits the profile of a director nominee as described above, the recommendation will be shared with the entire Board of
Directors.
11
Communications with the Board
Stockholders who wish to communicate with the Board of Directors or a particular director may send such communication to
TripAdvisor, Inc., 141 Needham Street, Newton, Massachusetts 02464, Attention: Secretary. The mailing envelope must contain a
clear notation indicating that the enclosed letter is a “Stockholder-Board Communication” or “Stockholder-Director Communication.”
All such letters must identify the author as a stockholder, provide evidence of the sender’s stock ownership and clearly state whether
the intended recipients are all members of the Board of Directors or certain specified directors. The Secretary will then review such
correspondence and forward it to the Board of Directors, or to the specified director(s), if deemed appropriate. Communications that
are primarily commercial in nature, that are not relevant to stockholders or other interested constituents or that relate to improper or
irrelevant topics will generally not be forwarded to the Board of Directors or to the specified director(s).
12
PROPOSAL 2:
RATIFICATION OF APPOINTMENT OF
INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM
Overview
KPMG LLP (“KPMG”) was TripAdvisor’s independent registered public accounting firm for the year ended December 31,
2014. The Audit Committee of the Board of Directors has also appointed KPMG as TripAdvisor’s independent registered public
accounting firm for the year ending December 31, 2015.
In February 2014, the Audit Committee of the Board of Directors determined it to be in the best interest of TripAdvisor to select
KPMG to replace Ernst & Young LLP (“E&Y”) as TripAdvisor’s independent registered public accounting firm for the year ended
December 31, 2014.
On February 6, 2014, the Audit Committee determined to dismiss E&Y as TripAdvisor’s independent registered public
accounting firm effective immediately upon TripAdvisor’s filing of its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31,
2013 (the “Annual Report”). The Annual Report was filed with the SEC on February 11, 2014. The reports of E&Y on TripAdvisor’s
consolidated financial statements as of and for the years ended December 31, 2013 and 2012 did not contain an adverse opinion or a
disclaimer of opinion, and were not qualified or modified as to uncertainty, audit scope or accounting principles. During the years
ended December 31, 2013 and 2012, and through February 11, 2014, there were no: (i) disagreements with E&Y on any matter of
accounting principles or practices, financial statement disclosure, or auditing scope or procedure, which disagreements, if not resolved
to E&Y’s satisfaction, would have caused E&Y to make reference to the subject matter thereof in connection with its reports for such
years; or (ii) reportable events, as described under Item 304(a)(1)(v) of Regulation S-K. TripAdvisor provided E&Y with a copy of the
disclosures it expected to make in the Current Report on Form 8-K and requested from E&Y a letter addressed to the SEC indicating
whether or not it agrees with the above disclosures. A copy of E&Y’s letter dated February 11, 2014 is attached as Exhibit 16.1 to
TripAdvisor’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on February 11, 2014.
Contemporaneous with the determination to dismiss E&Y, the Audit Committee appointed KPMG as TripAdvisor’s
independent registered public accounting firm for the year ended December 31, 2014, also to be effective immediately following the
filing of TripAdvisor’s Annual Report. During the years ended December 31, 2013 and 2012 and the subsequent interim period
through February 11, 2014, TripAdvisor did not consult with KPMG with respect to (i) the application of accounting principles to a
specified transaction, either completed or proposed, or the type of audit opinion that might be rendered with respect to TripAdvisor’s
financial statements, and no written report or oral advice was provided to TripAdvisor that KPMG concluded was an important factor
considered by TripAdvisor in reaching a decision as to any accounting, auditing or financial reporting issue, or (ii) any matter that was
subject to any disagreement, as defined in Item 304(a)(1)(iv) of Regulation S-K and the related instructions thereto, or a reportable
event within the meaning set forth in Item 304(a)(1)(v) of Regulation S-K.
The Audit Committee is directly responsible for the appointment, compensation and oversight of the audit work of the
independent registered public accounting firm. If the stockholders fail to vote to ratify the appointment of KPMG, the Audit
Committee will reconsider whether to retain KPMG and may retain that firm or another firm without resubmitting the matter to our
stockholders. Even if stockholders vote on an advisory basis in favor of the appointment, the Audit Committee may, in its discretion,
direct the appointment of a different independent registered public accounting firm at any time during the year if it determines that
such a change would be in the best interests of TripAdvisor and our stockholders.
A representative of KPMG is expected to be present at the Annual Meeting, and will be given an opportunity to make a
statement if he or she so chooses and will be available to respond to appropriate questions.
Required Vote
At the Annual Meeting, we will ask our stockholders to ratify the appointment of KPMG as our independent registered public
accounting firm for 2015. This proposal requires the affirmative vote of a majority of the voting power of our shares, present in person
or represented by proxy, and entitled to vote thereon, voting together as a single class. Abstentions will be counted toward the
tabulations of voting power present and entitled to vote on the ratification of the independent registered public accounting firm
proposal and will have the same effect as votes against the proposal. Brokers have discretion to vote on the proposal for ratification of
the independent registered public accounting firm.
13
THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS RECOMMENDS THAT STOCKHOLDERS VOTE “FOR” RATIFICATION OF THE
APPOINTMENT OF KPMG LLP AS TRIPADVISOR’S INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM
FOR 2015.
Fees Paid to Our Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
KPMG was TripAdvisor’s independent registered public accounting firm for the year ended December 31, 2014. E&Y was
TripAdvisor’s independent registered public accounting firm for the year ended December 31, 2013. The following table sets forth
aggregate fees for professional services rendered by KPMG and E&Y for the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively.
Audit Fees(1) ............................................................................................ $
Tax Fees(2) ...............................................................................................
Other Fees ................................................................................................
Total Fees ............................................................................................ $
2014
2013
1,352,635 $
—
2,550
1,355,185 $
1,479,583
3,150
1,995
1,484,728
(1) Audit Fees include fees and expenses associated with the annual audit of our consolidated financial statements, statutory audits,
review of our periodic reports, accounting consultations, review of SEC registration statements, report on the effectiveness of
internal control and consents and other services related to SEC matters.
(2) Tax Fees include fees and expenses for quarterly tax compliance services outside of the U.S.
Audit and Non-Audit Services Pre-Approval Policy
The Audit Committee has responsibility for appointing, setting compensation of and overseeing the work of the independent
registered public accounting firm. In recognition of this responsibility, the Audit Committee has adopted a policy governing the pre-
approval of all audit and permitted non-audit services performed by TripAdvisor’s independent registered public accounting firm to
ensure that the provision of such services does not impair the independent registered public accounting firm’s independence from
TripAdvisor and our management. Unless a type of service to be provided by our independent registered public accounting firm has
received general pre-approval from the Audit Committee, it requires specific pre-approval by the Audit Committee. The payment for
any proposed services in excess of pre-approved cost levels requires specific pre-approval by the Audit Committee.
Pursuant to its pre-approval policy, the Audit Committee may delegate its authority to pre-approve services to one or more of its
members, and it has currently delegated this authority to its Chairman, subject to a limit of $250,000 per approval. The decisions of
the Chairman (or any other member(s) to whom such authority may be delegated) to grant pre-approvals must be presented to the full
Audit Committee at its next scheduled meeting. The Audit Committee may not delegate its responsibilities to pre-approve services to
Company management.
All of the audit-related, tax and all other services provided to us by KPMG and E&Y in 2014 and 2013, respectively, were
approved by the Audit Committee by means of specific pre-approvals or pursuant to the procedures contained in the Company’s pre-
approval policy.
The Audit Committee has considered the non-audit services provided by KPMG and E&Y in 2014 and 2013, as described
above, and believes that they are compatible with maintaining KPMG’s and E&Y’s independence in the conduct of their auditing
functions.
14
PROPOSAL 3:
ADVISORY VOTE ON COMPENSATION OF NAMED EXECUTIVE OFFICERS
Overview
Stockholders are provided with an opportunity to cast an advisory vote on the compensation of our named executive officers, or
NEOs. Our Board of Directors, with the Compensation Committee and senior management, are committed to designing an effective
compensation program and values the views of our stockholders in this regard.
TripAdvisor’s executive compensation program is designed to attract, retain and motivate highly skilled executives with the
business experience and acumen that management and the Compensation Committees believe are necessary to achieve TripAdvisor’s
long-term business objectives. In addition, the executive compensation program is designed to reward short-term and long-term
performance and to align the financial interests of executive officers with the interests of TripAdvisor’s stockholders.
We are asking for stockholder approval, on an advisory basis, of the compensation of our named executive officers as disclosed
in this Proxy Statement, which include the disclosures in the “Executive Compensation” and “Compensation Discussion and
Analysis” sections, the compensation tables and the narrative discussion following the compensation tables in this Proxy Statement.
This vote is not intended to address any specific item of compensation, but rather the overall compensation of our named executive
officers and the policies and practices described in this Proxy Statement.
This vote is advisory and therefore not binding on TripAdvisor, the Compensation Committees, or the Board of Directors. The
Board of Directors and the Compensation Committees value the opinions of TripAdvisor’s stockholders. To the extent there is any
significant vote against our named executive officers’ compensation as disclosed in this Proxy Statement, the Compensation
Committees will consider the impact of such vote on its future compensation policies and decisions.
Our first (and most recent) advisory vote on the compensation of our named executive officers was held at our 2012 annual
meeting of stockholders on June 26, 2012. At that meeting, stockholders representing over 99% of the votes cast on the “say-on-pay”
proposal approved, on an advisory basis, the compensation of our named executive officers as disclosed in our proxy statement for our
2012 annual meeting. Also at this meeting, the frequency at which future advisory votes on executive compensation would be held of
once every three years received the affirmative vote of a majority of the votes cast on the “say-on-frequency” proposal. As a result,
we currently expect that the next advisory vote on the compensation of our named executive officers will be held in 2018.
Required Vote
At the Annual Meeting, we will ask our stockholders to approve, on an advisory basis, the compensation of our named executive
officers as disclosed in this Proxy Statement in accordance with SEC rules. This proposal requires the affirmative vote of a majority of
the voting power of the shares of TripAdvisor capital stock, present in person or represented by proxy, and entitled to vote thereon,
voting together as a single class.
Abstentions will be counted toward the tabulations of voting power present and entitled to vote on the TripAdvisor executive
compensation proposal and will have the same effect as votes against the proposal. Brokers do not have discretion to vote on the
proposal regarding TripAdvisor’s executive compensation and broker non-votes will have no effect on the proposal.
THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS RECOMMENDS THAT STOCKHOLDERS VOTE “FOR” THE APPROVAL OF THE
COMPENSATION OF TRIPADVISOR’S NAMED EXECUTIVE OFFICERS AS DISCLOSED IN THIS PROXY
STATEMENT.
15
AUDIT COMMITTEE REPORT
Management has the primary responsibility for the financial statements, the reporting process and maintaining an effective
system of internal control over financial reporting. TripAdvisor’s independent registered public accounting firm is engaged to audit
and express opinions on the conformity of our financial statements to generally accepted accounting principles and applicable rules
and regulations, and the effectiveness of TripAdvisor’s internal control over financial reporting.
The Audit Committee serves as a representative of the Board of Directors and assists the Board in monitoring (i) the integrity of
our financial reporting process, (ii) the independent registered public accounting firm’s qualifications and independence, (iii) the
performance of the independent registered public accounting firm and our internal audit department, and (iv) our compliance with
legal and regulatory requirements. In this context, the Audit Committee met six times in 2014 and took the following actions:
(cid:120)
(cid:120)
(cid:120)
(cid:120)
(cid:120)
(cid:120)
appointed the independent registered public accounting firm, discussed with the auditors the overall scope and plans for the
independent audit and pre-approved all audit and non-audit services to be performed by KPMG;
reviewed and discussed with management and the auditors the audited consolidated financial statements for the year ended
December 31, 2014, as well as our quarterly financial statements and interim financial information contained in each
quarterly earnings announcement prior to public release;
discussed with the auditors the matters required to be discussed by Auditing Standard No. 16, “Communications with Audit
Committees,” as adopted by the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (“PCAOB”), and received all written
disclosures, including the letter from the auditors required pursuant to Rule 3526 of the PCAOB “Communication with
Audit Committees Concerning Independence”;
discussed with the auditors its independence from TripAdvisor and TripAdvisor’s management as well as considered
whether the non-audit services provided by the auditors could impair its independence and concluded that such services
would not;
reviewed and discussed with management and the auditors our compliance with requirements of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of
2002 with respect to internal control over financial reporting, together with management’s assessment of the effectiveness
of our internal control over financial reporting and the auditors’ audit of internal control over financial reporting; and
regularly met separately with KPMG, with and without management present, to discuss the results of their examinations,
including the integrity, adequacy and effectiveness of the accounting and financial reporting processes and controls.
Relying on the reviews and discussions referred to above, the Audit Committee recommended to the Board of Directors that the
audited consolidated financial statements be included in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2014, and
the Board approved such inclusion.
No portion of this Audit Committee Report shall be deemed to be incorporated by reference into any filing under the Securities
Act of 1933, as amended, or the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, through any general statement incorporating by
reference in its entirety the Proxy Statement in which this report appears, except to the extent that TripAdvisor specifically
incorporates this report or a portion of it by reference. In addition, this report shall not be deemed filed under either the Securities Act
or the Exchange Act.
Members of the Audit Committee:
Robert S. Wiesenthal (Chairman)
Jonathan F. Miller
Spencer Rascoff
16
Overview
COMPENSATION DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS
This Compensation Discussion and Analysis describes TripAdvisor’s executive compensation program as it relates to our
“named executive officers” as determined as of December 31, 2014 pursuant to SEC rules. As of December 31, 2014, our “named
executive officers” were those individuals listed below. On April 2, 2015, Ms. Bradley informed us of her intention to resign from the
Company.
Name
Stephen Kaufer
Julie M.B. Bradley
Seth J. Kalvert
Dermot M. Halpin
Barrie Seidenberg
Position
President and Chief Executive Officer
Senior Vice President, Chief Financial Officer, Chief
Accounting Officer and Treasurer
Senior Vice President, General Counsel and Secretary
President, Vacation Rentals
Chief Executive Officer, Attractions
The Board of Directors has a Compensation Committee and a Section 16 Committee that together have primary responsibility
for establishing the compensation of our named executive officers. In this Proxy Statement, we refer to the Compensation Committee
and Section 16 Committee jointly as the “Compensation Committees.”
Executive Summary and 2014 Business Highlights
(cid:120) We have a pay for performance philosophy that guides all aspects of our compensation decisions:
o Annual salary increases are tied to individual performance and business performance over the previous fiscal year.
o Annual incentive compensation is structured so that payouts are tied to the achievement of financial targets and
require year over year improvement in revenue and share price.
o Long-term incentive compensation is structured so that target equity award values are linked to individual and
business performance, while realized values are tied to the Company’s share price.
(cid:120) The interests of our named executive officers are aligned with those of our stockholders through the granting of a
substantial portion of compensation in equity awards with multi-year vesting requirements.
(cid:120) Below are some highlights for our business and financial results for 2014:
o TripAdvisor’s travel community reached more than 315 million monthly unique visitors during the year ended
December 31, 2014, including nearly 50% via mobile devices (tablet and smartphone). With approximately 11% of
the world’s monthly unique visitors in online travel at the end of 2014, we remain the largest travel website in the
world.
o TripAdvisor reached nearly 175 million mobile app downloads, up 110% year over year – including downloads of
TripAdvisor, TripAdvisor City Guides, JetSetter, GateGuru and SeatGuru. Also, the core TripAdvisor app has been
downloaded more than 155 million times and had its sixth straight fiscal quarter of greater than 100% growth.
o TripAdvisor’s total revenue increased by 32% over the prior year and Adjusted EBITDA increased by 23% over the
prior year.
(cid:120) TripAdvisor achieved 99% of its revenue plan and 98% of its EBITDA plan.
Fiscal 2014 was a solid year for TripAdvisor with the Company achieving record revenue, adjusted EBITDA and earnings per
share and substantially achieving its annual operating plan, while at the same time consummating several strategic acquisitions as well
as launching several important initiatives. As a result, the Company generally funded its annual cash bonus programs at
approximately 96% of target.
17
Compensation Program Objectives
Our executive compensation program is designed to attract, motivate and retain highly skilled employees in executive positions
with the business experience and acumen that management and the Compensation Committees believe are necessary for achievement
of our long-term business objectives and to ensure that the compensation provided to these executives remains competitive with the
compensation paid to similarly situated executives at comparable companies. The executive compensation program is also designed so
that it does not encourage our named executive officers to take unreasonable risks relating to our business. In addition, the executive
compensation program is designed to reward both short-term and long-term performance and to align the financial interests of our
named executive officers with the interests of our stockholders.
Management and the Compensation Committees evaluate both performance and compensation levels to ensure that we maintain
our ability to attract and retain outstanding employees in executive positions. To that end, management and the Compensation
Committees believe the executive compensation packages provided by TripAdvisor to our named executive officers should include
both cash and equity-based compensation.
Roles and Responsibilities
Role of the Compensation and Section 16 Committees
The Compensation Committee is appointed by the Board of Directors and consists entirely of directors who are “outside
directors” for purposes of Section 162(m) of the Code. The Compensation Committee currently consists of Ms. Singh Cassidy and
Messrs. Philips and Maffei, with Ms. Singh Cassidy acting as Chairperson of the Compensation Committee. The Compensation
Committee is responsible for (i) designing and overseeing our compensation with respect to our executive officers, including salary
matters, bonus plans and stock compensation plans and (ii) approving all grants of equity awards, but excluding matters governed by
Rule 16b-3 under the Exchange Act (for which the Section 16 Committee has responsibility as described below). Notwithstanding the
foregoing, the Compensation Committee has delegated to the Chief Executive Officer of the Company authority to grant certain types
of equity awards, subject to certain limitations, to employees other than executive officers.
The Section 16 Committee is also appointed by the Board of Directors and consists entirely of directors who are “non-employee
directors” for purposes of Rule 16b-3 under the Exchange Act. The Section 16 Committee currently consists of Ms. Singh Cassidy and
Mr. Philips. The Section 16 Committee is responsible for administering and overseeing matters governed by Rule 16b-3 under the
Exchange Act, including approving grants of equity awards to our named executive officers. Ms. Singh Cassidy is also the
Chairperson of the Section 16 Committee.
Role of Executive Officers
Management participates in reviewing and refining our executive compensation program. Mr. Kaufer, our President and Chief
Executive Officer, annually reviews the performance of TripAdvisor and each named executive officer with the Compensation
Committees and makes recommendations with respect to the appropriate base salary, annual cash bonus and grants of equity awards
for each named executive officer, other than in connection with compensation for himself. Based in part on these recommendations
and the other factors discussed below, the Compensation Committees review and approve the annual compensation package of each
named executive officer.
Role of Compensation Consultant
Pursuant to the Compensation Committee and Section 16 Committee Charter, the Compensation Committees may retain compensation
consultants for the purpose of assisting the Compensation Committees in their evaluation of the compensation for our named executive
officers. In 2014, the Compensation Committees retained Compensia, Inc. (“Compensia”), a management consulting firm providing
executive compensation advisory services to compensation committees and senior management, to assist in an evaluation of TripAdvisor’s
compensation peer group, to use the compensation peer group to compile and analyze competitive compensation market data for certain
executive officer positions and to advise on matters related to our long-term incentive compensation structure. The Compensation
Committees consider input from their compensation consultant as one factor in making decisions with respect to compensation matters, along
with information and analysis they receive from management and their own judgment and experience.
Based on consideration of the factors set forth in the rules of the SEC and NASDAQ, the Compensation Committees have determined
that their relationship with Compensia and the work performed by Compensia on behalf of the Compensation Committees has not raised any
conflict of interest. In addition, in compliance with the Compensation Committee and Section 16 Committee Charter, the Compensation
Committees approved the fees paid to Compensia for work performed in 2014 and confirm that such payments did not exceed $120,000.
18
Role of Stockholders
TripAdvisor provides its stockholders with the opportunity to cast an advisory vote to approve the compensation of our named
executive officers every three years. In evaluating our 2014 executive compensation program, the Compensation Committees
considered the result of the stockholder advisory vote on our executive compensation (the “say-on-pay vote”) held at our Annual
Meeting of Stockholders on June 26, 2012, which was approved by over 99% of the votes cast. As a result, the Compensation
Committees did not make any significant changes to our executive compensation program for 2014. The Compensation Committees
will continue to consider the outcome of the say-on-pay vote when making future compensation decisions for our named executive
officers.
We will hold a say-on-pay vote every three years until the next vote on the frequency of such stockholder advisory votes, which
will occur no later than our 2018 Annual Meeting of Stockholders. We will hold a say-on-pay vote at this Annual Meeting. Our next
say-on-pay vote, following this meeting, will be held at the annual meeting of our stockholders in 2018.
Compensation Program Elements
General
The primary elements of our executive compensation program are base salary, an annual cash bonus and equity awards.
Generally, the Compensation Committees review these elements in the first quarter of each year in light of our business and individual
performance, recommendations from management and other relevant information, including prior compensation history and
outstanding long-term incentive compensation arrangements. Management and the Compensation Committees believe that there are
multiple, dynamic factors that contribute to success at an individual and business level. Management and the Compensation
Committees have therefore refrained from adopting strict formulas and have relied primarily on a discretionary approach that allows
the Compensation Committees to set executive compensation levels on a case-by-case basis, taking into account all relevant factors.
The following chart illustrates the composition of the target total direct compensation for the Chief Executive Officer and for the
other named executive officers between base salary, short term and long term compensation. All elements of compensation are
considered to be “at-risk” with the exception of base salary.
(1)
(2)
(3)
For our CEO, Total Compensation consists of 2014 annualized base salary, 2014 target annual cash bonus, and the grant date fair-value of his 2013 equity grant,
prorated for the portion of service period attributed to 2014, given that our CEO did not receive a 2014 equity grant and will not receive another equity grant
until at least August 2017.
For Other NEOs, Total Compensation is defined as 2014 annualized base salary, 2014 target annual cash bonus, and the 2014 target grant date value of annual
equity awards as disclosed in the Summary Compensation Table.
The Other NEO Total Compensation Mix chart reflects the average Total Compensation of Ms. Bradley, Mr. Kalvert, and Mr. Halpin. Ms. Seidenberg is
excluded given that her new-hire compensation is not representative of our annual executive compensation.
19
One of the primary objectives of our compensation philosophy is to design and support pay opportunities that align with our
performance and ultimately result in strong long-term value creation for our stockholders. The significant weighting of long-term
incentive compensation ensures that our named executive officers’ primary focus is sustained long-term performance, while our short-
term incentive compensation motivates consistent annual achievement. The following chart illustrates the percentage of compensation
which is fixed versus variable and the allocation between short and long-term compensation.
(1)
(2)
For our CEO and Other NEOs, Fixed Compensation consists solely of 2014 annualized base salary. For our CEO, Variable Compensation consists of 2014
target annual cash bonus and the grant date fair-value of the CEO’s 2013 equity grant, prorated for the portion of service period attributed to 2014, given that
our CEO did not receive a 2014 equity grant and will not receive another equity grant until at least August 2017. For Other NEOs, Variable Compensation
consists of 2014 target annual cash bonus and the 2014 target grant date value of annual equity awards as disclosed in the Summary Compensation Table.
For our CEO and Other NEOs, short-term incentive compensation consists of 2014 target annual cash bonus. For our CEO, long-term incentive compensation
consists of grant date fair-value of the CEO’s 2013 equity grant, prorated for the portion of service period attributed to 2014, given that our CEO did not receive
an equity grant in 2014 and will not receive another equity grant until August 2017. For Other NEOs, short-term incentive compensation consists of 2014 target
annual cash bonus, while long-term incentive compensation is defined as target grant date value of annual equity awards as disclosed in the Summary
Compensation Table.
(3)
The Other NEO compensation reflected in the tables above reflects the compensation averages for Ms. Bradley, Mr. Kalvert, and Mr. Halpin. Ms. Seidenberg is
excluded given that her new-hire compensation is not representative of our annual executive compensation.
Following recommendations from management, the Compensation Committees may also adjust compensation for specific
individuals at other times during the year when there are significant changes in responsibilities or under other circumstances that the
Compensation Committees consider appropriate.
Base Salary
Base salary represents the fixed portion of a named executive officer’s compensation and is intended to provide compensation
for expected day-to-day performance. A named executive officer’s base salary is initially determined upon hire or promotion based on
his or her responsibilities, prior experience, individual compensation history and salary levels of other executives within TripAdvisor
and similarly situated executives at comparable companies. Base salary is typically reviewed annually, at which time management
makes recommendations to the Compensation Committees based on consideration of a variety of factors including, but not limited to,
the following:
(cid:120)
(cid:120)
(cid:120)
(cid:120)
(cid:120)
the named executive officer’s total compensation relative to other executives in similarly situated positions,
his or her individual performance relative to performance goals established between our CEO and President of the named
executive officer,
his or her responsibilities, prior experience, and individual compensation history, including any non-standard compensation,
the terms of his or her employment agreement, if any,
competitive compensation market data, when available,
20
(cid:120)
(cid:120)
general economic conditions, and
the recommendations of the President and Chief Executive Officer (other than in connection with his own compensation).
After careful consideration of the factors discussed above with respect to each of the named executive officers, the
Compensation Committees approved 2014 salary changes for our named executive officers. The table below describes, for each
named executive officer, the 2013 annualized salary, the annual salary increase and the 2014 annualized salary. Adjustments were
made to the compensation annual base salary of Ms. Bradley and Mr. Kalvert primarily in acknowledgement of the extent to which
they had achieved their individual performance goals and in response to the analysis provided by Compensia on competitive
compensation market data for executive officers with in our peer group in comparable positions. Ms. Seidenberg’s salary was set in
August 2014 when TripAdvisor acquired Viator and her employment commenced. Only her annualized 2014 base salary is included
in the table below.
Name
Stephen Kaufer ..................................................................... $
Julie Bradley ......................................................................... $
Seth Kalvert .......................................................................... $
Dermot M. Halpin ................................................................ £
Barrie Seidenberg .................................................................
2013 Salary
Annual Salary
Increase
2014 Salary
500,000 $
365,000 $
350,000 $
296,440 £
--
- $
32,000 $
35,000 $
5,929 £
-- $
500,000
397,000
385,000
302,369
250,000
(1) Mr. Halpin’s base salary was paid in GBP and the amounts set forth above represent $488,652, $9,773 and $498,425,
respectively, when converted to USD using an exchange rate of 1.6484 USD to 1 GBP.
Annual Cash Bonuses
Cash bonuses are awarded to recognize and reward each named executive officer’s annual contribution to Company
performance. Unless otherwise provided by the provisions of his or her employment agreement, the target annual cash bonus
opportunities for our named executive officers are generally established by the Compensation Committees, based on competitive
market data and recommendations by the President and Chief Executive Officer (other than in connection with his own
compensation).
In February 2015, management recommended bonuses with respect to calendar year 2014 for each of our named executive
officers after taking into account a variety of factors including, but not limited to, the following:
(cid:120) TripAdvisor’s business and financial performance, including year-over-year performance,
(cid:120) TripAdvisor’s performance against strategic initiatives,
(cid:120)
(cid:120)
(cid:120)
(cid:120)
(cid:120)
(cid:120)
(cid:120)
the named executive officer’s target cash bonus opportunity, if any,
his or her individual performance,
the overall funding of the cash bonus pool,
the amount of bonus relative to other TripAdvisor executives,
general economic conditions,
competitive compensation market data, when available, and
the recommendations of the President and Chief Executive Officer (other than in connection with his own compensation).
21
Annual cash incentive bonuses awarded to our named executive officers for 2014 were subject to the achievement of
performance goals relating either to stock price performance or revenue, which were satisfied. These performance goals were designed
to permit TripAdvisor to deduct all named executive officer compensation for 2014 in accordance with Section 162(m) of the Code.
Specifically, the cash bonuses awarded to our named executive officers in 2014 were subject to the satisfaction of one of the following
performance goals:
(cid:120) The revenues of TripAdvisor in any of the three consecutive calendar quarters beginning with the second quarter of 2014
must be at least 10% higher than the revenues in the corresponding calendar quarter 12 months before, excluding the benefit
of any acquisitions by TripAdvisor during this period; or
(cid:120) The closing price per share of TripAdvisor common stock must be at least 5% higher than the closing price of
TripAdvisor’s common stock on February 6, 2014, which was $77.14 per share, on any 30 trading days during the period
beginning February 7, 2014 and ending December 31, 2014 (such days not necessarily consecutive), taking into account
any Share Change or Corporate Transaction (each as defined in the TripAdvisor 2011 Stock and Annual Incentive Plan, as
amended (the “2011 Plan”)).
In general, these performance goals reflect the minimally acceptable Company performance that must be achieved for cash
bonuses to be awarded to our named executive officers, but with respect to which there is substantial uncertainty when established.
The Compensation Committees may exercise negative discretion in making the annual cash bonus awards. As a result, while
performance targets were used in setting compensation under this plan, ultimately the levels of those targets and the Compensation
Committees’ use of negative discretion typically result in the award of compensation as if the annual incentive plan were operating as
a discretionary plan.
After consideration of the factors discussed above (including confirmation of satisfaction of the performance goals established
for the Company and individual performance goals established between our CEO and President and the named executive officers), the
Compensation Committees awarded 2014 cash bonuses to our named executive officers. The table below describes, for each named
executive officer other than Ms. Seidenberg, the target bonus for 2014, the actual bonus paid and percentage of bonus paid relative to
target.
Name
Stephen Kaufer ......................................
Julie Bradley ..........................................
Seth Kalvert ...........................................
Dermot M. Halpin .................................
Target Bonus as %
of Base Salary
Target Cash Bonus Cash Bonus Award
Percentage of
Award to Target
100% $
66% $
50% $
50% £
500,000 $
262,020 $
192,500 $
151,185 £
700,000
235,818
192,500
139,090
140%
90%
100%
92%
(1) Mr. Halpin’s annual cash bonus was paid in GBP and the amounts set forth above represent $249,213 and $229,276,
respectively, when converted to USD using an exchange rate of 1.6484 USD to 1 GBP.
Ms. Seidenberg joined TripAdvisor in August 2014 upon the consummation of the acquisition of Viator by TripAdvisor.
Pursuant to the terms of her employment agreement, Ms. Seidenberg remained on the Viator bonus program through the end of 2014.
As a result, she was eligible to receive a quarterly target bonus of $18,750 for the second, third, and fourth quarters of 2014 as well as
a target annual bonus of $75,000. Such payouts were made with consideration for Viator business and financial performance,
although specific targets were not set. The table below describes Ms. Seidenberg’s 2014 target bonuses, the actual bonus paid and
percentage of bonus paid relative to target.
Performance Period
Second Quarter ..................................................................... $
Third Quarter ........................................................................ $
Fourth Quarter ...................................................................... $
Annual .................................................................................. $
Total ..................................................................................... $
Target Cash Bonus Cash Bonus Award
15,000
18,750
18,750
84,375
136,875
18,750 $
18,750 $
18,750 $
75,000 $
131,250 $
Percentage of
Award to Target
80%
100%
100%
113%
104%
22
Equity Awards
The Compensation Committees use equity awards to align executive compensation with our long-term performance. Equity
awards link compensation to financial performance because their value depends on TripAdvisor’s share price. Equity awards are also
an important employee retention tool because they generally vest over a multi-year period, subject to continued service by the award
recipient.
Equity awards are typically granted to our named executive officers upon hire or promotion and annually thereafter.
Management generally recommends annual equity awards in the first quarter of each year when the Compensation Committees meet
to make determinations regarding annual bonuses for the last completed fiscal year and to set compensation levels for the current
fiscal year. The practice of the Compensation Committees is to generally grant equity awards to our named executive officers only in
open trading windows.
Typically, equity awards have been in the form of awards of restricted stock units (“RSUs”) and/or options to purchase shares of
TripAdvisor common stock or some combination of the two. Stock options have an exercise price equal to the market price of
TripAdvisor common stock on the date of grant, and, therefore, provide value to our named executive officers only if our stock price
increases. Stock options generally vest over a period of four years. We believe stock options incentivize our named executive officers
to sustain increases in stockholder value over extended periods of time. RSUs are a promise to issue shares of our common stock in
the future provided the named executive officer remains employed with us through the award’s vesting period. RSUs generally vest
over a period of four years. RSUs provide the opportunity for capital accumulation and long-term incentive value and are intended to
assist in satisfying our retention objectives.
The Compensation Committees review various factors considered by management when they establish TripAdvisor’s equity
award grant pool including, but not limited to, the following:
(cid:120) TripAdvisor’s business and financial performance, including year-over-year performance,
(cid:120)
(cid:120)
(cid:120)
(cid:120)
(cid:120)
dilution rates, taking into account projected headcount growth and employee turnover,
non-cash compensation as a percentage of earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization,
equity compensation utilization by peer companies,
general economic conditions, and
competitive compensation market data regarding award values.
For specific awards to our named executive officers, management makes recommendations to the Section 16 Committee based
on a variety of factors including, but not limited to, the following:
(cid:120) TripAdvisor’s business and financial performance, including year-over-year performance,
(cid:120)
(cid:120)
(cid:120)
(cid:120)
(cid:120)
(cid:120)
individual performance and future potential of the executive,
the overall size of the equity award pool,
award value relative to other TripAdvisor executives,
the value of previous awards and amount of outstanding unvested equity awards,
competitive compensation market data, to the degree that the available data is comparable, and
the recommendations of the President and Chief Executive Officer (other than in connection with his own compensation).
23
After review and consideration of the recommendations of management and the President and Chief Executive Officer (other
than with respect to awards for himself), the Section 16 Committee decides whether to grant equity awards to our named executive
officers. After consideration of the factors discussed above, in February 2014, the Section 16 Committee granted the equity awards
described below.
Name
Julie Bradley ......................................................................... $
Seth Kalvert .......................................................................... $
Dermot M. Halpin ................................................................ $
Grant Date Fair
Value
Number of Stock
Options
Number of RSUs
2,105,226
1,537,430
749,787
33,584
24,526
7,973
5,432
3,967
3,869
In August 2013, the Section 16 Committee granted an option to purchase 1,100,000 shares of TripAdvisor common stock to Mr.
Kaufer, which will vest in equal installments on each of the fourth and fifth anniversaries of the award date of the grant, subject to Mr.
Kaufer’s continuous employment with, or performance of services for, TripAdvisor or one of its subsidiaries or affiliates and his being
in good standing through each such vesting date. In consideration of this award, Mr. Kaufer is subject to non-competition and non-
solicitation covenants that apply during his employment and until 18 months immediately following the termination of his
employment for any reason. In recognition of the size of the stock option granted to Mr. Kaufer in August 2013, the Section 16
Committee indicated its expectation that Mr. Kaufer would not be eligible for another equity award until August 2017, and,
accordingly, Mr. Kaufer was not granted an equity award in 2014.
In February 2014, the Compensation Committee considered Mr. Halpin’s outstanding February 2013 performance grant of an
option to purchase 100,000 shares of common stock. The first tranche of the award, relating to 33 1/3% of the shares underlying the
stock option award, or 33,333 shares, was scheduled to vest on December 31, 2013 subject to achievement of certain interim
performance targets. Given that business priorities affected the achievement of these interim performance targets, Mr. Kaufer
recommended, and the Compensation Committee approved, a modification of the performance-based stock option such that the
33,333 shares underlying the award that had been scheduled to vest on December 31, 2013 would instead vest on December 31, 2014,
subject to Mr. Halpin’s continued employment at TripAdvisor. Please refer to the Grants of Plan Based Awards table for the
incremental expense related to this modification. Vesting of the remaining 66,667 shares underlying that portion of the award will
vest on February 1, 2016, subject to the achievement of performance metrics related to revenue and EBITDA.
In August 2014, Ms. Seidenberg joined TripAdvisor in connection with the Viator acquisition. Upon the close of the
acquisition, Ms. Seidenberg was granted stock options and RSUs in the amounts below to motivate, retain, and align her interests with
those of our stockholders. In addition, TripAdvisor assumed Ms. Seidenberg’s Viator stock options covering a total of 24,943 shares
that were not exchanged for cash in connection with the transaction, details of which can be found in the Outstanding Equity Awards
at Fiscal Year End table.
Name
Barrie Seidenberg ................................................................. $
Grant Date Fair
Value
Number of Stock
Options
Number of RSUs
2,017,744
11,215
15,880
Employee Benefits
In addition to the primary elements of compensation described above, our named executive officers also participate in employee
benefits programs available to our employees generally, including, for named executive officers residing in the United States, the
TripAdvisor Retirement Savings Plan. Under this plan, TripAdvisor matches 50% of each dollar a participant contributes, up to the
first 6% of eligible compensation, subject to tax limits. Prior to his relocation from the United Kingdom to the United States, Mr.
Halpin participated in our UK pension scheme, pursuant to which we match 100% of participant contributions, up to the first 5% of
eligible compensation.
In addition, we provide other benefits to our named executive officers on the same basis as all of our domestic employees
generally. These benefits include group health (medical, dental, and vision) insurance, group disability insurance, and group life
insurance.
In situations where a named executive officer is required to relocate, TripAdvisor also provides relocation benefits, including
reimbursement of moving expenses, temporary housing and other relocation expenses as well as a tax gross-up payment on the
relocation benefits. In 2014, Mr. Halpin relocated from the United Kingdom to our corporate headquarters in Newton, Massachusetts
and received such relocation support as disclosed in the Summary Compensation Table.
24
TripAdvisor also sponsors a Global Personal Travel Reimbursement program generally available to all employees, including our
named executive officers, that provides for reimbursement of up to $750 a year for leisure travel that is arranged using one of the
TripAdvisor Media Group family of products and provides all employees, including our named executive officers, an annual holiday
bonus in the form of a gift card as well as a tax gross-up payment on the value of the gift card.
Compensation Program Policies
Executive Compensation Recovery
TripAdvisor has an executive compensation recovery, or clawback, provision in our form of award agreements providing for
recoupment of equity compensation. Each of TripAdvisor’s equity award documents provides that in the event an employee is
terminated for Cause (as defined in the 2011 Plan) or resigns within two years after any event or circumstance that would have been
grounds for termination of employment for Cause, then the employee agrees that certain equity securities issued to such employee
(whether or not vested) may be forfeited and cancelled in their entirety upon such termination of employment. In such event,
TripAdvisor may cause the employee to either (i) return the equity securities or shares of common stock issued upon exercise or
vesting of such securities, or (ii) pay to TripAdvisor an amount equal to the aggregate amount, if any, that the employee had
previously realized in respect of any and all shares of common stock acquired upon exercise or vesting of such equity awards.
We intend to adopt a general clawback policy covering our annual and long-term incentive award plans and arrangements or
amend our existing documents once the SEC adopts final rules implementing the requirement of Section 954 of the Dodd-Frank Wall
Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act
Insider Trading and Hedging Policy
TripAdvisor has adopted an Insider Trading Policy covering our directors, officers, employees and consultants designed to
ensure compliance with relevant SEC regulations, including insider trading rules. TripAdvisor’s insider trading policy also prohibits
directors, officers, employees and consultants from engaging in various types of transactions in which they may profit from short-term
speculative swings in the value of TripAdvisor securities. These transactions include “short sales” (or selling borrowed securities
which the sellers hopes can be purchased at a lower price in the future), “put” and “call” options (or publicly available rights to sell or
buy securities within a certain period of time at a specified price or the like) and hedging transactions, such as zero-cost collars and
forward sale contracts. The policy also prohibits the pledge or use of company securities as collateral in a margin account or collateral
for a loan.
The Role of Competitive Compensation Market Data
Management considers multiple data sources when reviewing compensation information to ensure that the data reflects
compensation practices of relevant companies in terms of size, industry and geographic location. Among other factors, management
considers the following information in connection with its recommendations to the Compensation Committees regarding
compensation for our named executive officers:
(cid:120) Data from salary and equity compensation surveys that include companies of a similar size, based on market capitalization,
revenues and other factors, and
(cid:120) Data regarding compensation for certain executive officer positions (e.g., chief executive officer and chief financial officer)
from recent proxy statements and other SEC filings of peer companies, which include: (i) direct industry competitors, and
(ii) non-industry companies with which TripAdvisor commonly competes for talent (including both regional and national
competitors).
In the summer of 2013, the Compensation Committees retained Compensia to review the existing compensation peer group and
to recommend possible changes. Our business model is somewhat unique. We use our innovative technology systems and software to
attract users and then facilitate transactions between our business partners and those users. Accordingly, Compensia recommended
certain changes to the compensation peer group, including focusing on publicly-traded companies in the business to consumer
(“B2C”) and software industries.
25
In February 2014, based on input from Compensia, the Compensation Committees approved the following companies to
constitute the compensation peer group for purposes of serving as a referring in determining 2014 base salaries and equity awards for
our executive officers:
Software Companies
B to C Internet Companies
Akamai Technologies, Inc.
ANSYS, Inc.
Citrix Systems, Inc.
Concur Technologies, Inc.
FactSet Research Systems, Inc.
NetSuite Inc.
Nuance Communications
RedHat, Inc.
VeriSign, Inc.
Workday, Inc.
Expedia, Inc.
Groupon, Inc.
Homeaway.com, Inc.
IAC/InterActiveCorp.
LinkedIn Corp.
Netflix Inc.
Pandora Media, Inc.
priceline.com Incorporated
Shutterfly, Inc.
VistaPrint N.V.
The 2014 peer group remains unchanged from the peer group approved by the Compensation Committees in August, 2013.
When available, management and the Compensation Committees consider competitive market compensation paid by peer group
companies but does not attempt to maintain a certain target percentile within the compensation peer group or otherwise rely solely on
such data when making recommendations to the Compensation Committees regarding compensation for our named executive officers.
Management and the Compensation Committees strive to incorporate flexibility into our executive compensation program and the
assessment process to respond to and adjust for the evolving business environment and the value delivered by our named executive
officers.
Tax Matters
Section 162(m) of the Code generally permits a tax deduction to public corporations for compensation over $1 million paid in
any fiscal year to their chief executive officer and certain other highly compensated executive officers only if the compensation
qualifies as “performance-based compensation” for purposes of Section 162(m). The Compensation Committees endeavor to structure
the compensation of our executive officers to qualify as “performance-based compensation” when it deems such qualification to be in
the best interests of TripAdvisor and its stockholders. Nonetheless, from time to time certain nondeductible compensation may be paid
and the Board of Directors and the Compensation Committees reserve the authority to award nondeductible compensation to our
executive officers in appropriate circumstances.
For purposes of enabling TripAdvisor to deduct the compensation paid to and recognized by our named executive officers in
accordance with Section 162(m) of the Code, the Compensation Committees sought to design the annual bonuses awarded to our
named executive officers for 2014 to qualify as “performance-based compensation” as described under “Compensation Program
Elements – Cash Bonuses” above.
Post-Employment Compensation
Change in Control
Under the 2011 Plan, Ms. Bradley and Messrs. Kaufer and Kalvert are entitled to accelerated vesting of certain of their outstanding and
unvested equity awards in the event of a change in control of TripAdvisor (i.e. a “single trigger” acceleration provision), although the
definition of a “change in control” in the 2011 Plan does not include the acquisition of voting control by Liberty or LTRIP. When the 2011
Plan was adopted, the Compensation Committees believed that accelerated vesting of equity awards in connection with change in control
transactions would provide an incentive for our named executive officers to continue to help execute successfully such a transaction from its
early stages until closing. Under the 2011 Plan, acceleration of equity awards and equity awards for all other employees is subject to double
trigger acceleration (i.e., accelerated vesting occurs only upon an involuntary termination of employment or resignation for “good reason”
during the two-year period following a change in control).
In August 2013, after further evaluation of the “single trigger” acceleration provisions, the Compensation Committees determined that
future equity awards made under the 2011 Plan would not be entitled to “single trigger” acceleration and, instead, the award agreements with
respect to such equity awards would provide that any acceleration of vesting of the equity awards would be subject to “double trigger” rather
than “single trigger” acceleration. This means that a vesting of outstanding and unvested equity awards granted on or after August 28, 2013,
26
would only occur upon both a change in control and qualified termination of employment. With respect to Mr. Kaufer’s equity award granted
in August 2013, he agreed to waive the “single trigger” acceleration right and instead agreed that acceleration of this equity award is subject
to “double trigger” acceleration. This determination will not have an impact on equity awards made to our named executive officers prior to
Mr. Kaufer’s equity award grant in August 2013. For a description and quantification of change in control payments and benefits for our
named executive officers, please see the section below entitled “Potential Payments Upon Termination of Change in Control.”
Severance
In March 2014, TripAdvisor, entered into employment agreements with each of Mr. Kaufer, Ms. Bradley and Mr. Kalvert. In
addition, at the time of their employment with TripAdvisor, the Company executed offer letters with Mr. Halpin and Ms. Seidenberg.
Pursuant to these agreements and offer letters, each of our named executive officers is eligible to receive certain severance payments
and benefits in the event of a qualifying termination of employment. The material terms of these employment agreements are
described below under the headings “Potential Payments Upon Termination or Change in Control.”
Compensation Committee Interlocks and Insider Participation
The Compensation Committee consists of Ms. Singh Cassidy and Messrs. Philips and Maffei and the Section 16 Committee
consists of Ms. Singh Cassidy and Mr. Philips. None of Ms. Singh Cassidy or Messrs. Philips, or Maffei was an officer or employee of
TripAdvisor, formerly an officer of TripAdvisor, or an executive officer of an entity for which an executive officer of TripAdvisor
served as a member of the compensation committee or as a director during the one-year period ended December 31, 2014.
During the last fiscal year, none of our executive officers served as: (1) a member of the compensation committee (or other
committee of the board of directors performing equivalent functions or, in the absence of any such committee, the entire board of
directors) of another entity, one of whose executive officers served on our compensation committee;(2) a director of another entity,
one of whose executive officers served on our compensation committee, or (3) a member of the compensation committee (or other
committee of the board of directors performing equivalent functions or, in the absence of any such committee, the entire board of
directors) of another entity, one of whose executive officers served on our Board.
Compensation Committees Report
This report is provided by the Compensation Committee and the Section 16 Committee (the “Compensation Committees”) of
the Board of Directors. The Compensation Committees have reviewed the Compensation Discussion and Analysis and discussed that
analysis with management. Based on this review and discussions with management, the Compensation Committees recommended to
the Board of Directors that the Compensation Discussion and Analysis be included in TripAdvisor’s 2015 Proxy Statement.
Members of the Compensation Committee:
Members of the Section 16 Committee:
Sukhinder Singh Cassidy (Chairperson)
Jeremy Philips
Gregory B. Maffei
Sukhinder Singh Cassidy (Chairperson)
Jeremy Philips
27
Summary Compensation
EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION
The following table sets forth certain information regarding the compensation paid to our Chief Executive Officer, Chief
Financial Officer and three most highly compensated executive officers in 2014. On February 5, 2015, the Board of Directors
determined that for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2014, Mr. Dermot and Ms. Seidenberg were “executive officers” for purposes
of Rule 3b-7 promulgated under the Exchange Act.
Name and Principal Position
Stephen Kaufer ..........................................
President and Chief Executive Officer
Julie M.B. Bradley(4) ................................
Senior Vice President, Chief Financial
Officer, and Treasurer
Seth J. Kalvert ...........................................
Senior Vice President, General
Counsel and Secretary
Dermot M. Halpin(5) .................................
President, Vacation Rentals
Barrie Seidenberg(6) .................................
Chief Executive Officer, Attractions
Year
2014
2013
2012
Salary ($)
500,000
500,000
469,231
Bonus
($) (1)
700,000
450,000
750,000
Stock
Awards
($)(2)
Option
Awards
($)(2)
All Other
Compensation
($)(3)
—
—
—
—
38,054,126
5,126,804
7,960
10,101
47,440
Total
($)
1,207,960
39,014,227
6,393,475
2014
2013
2012
2014
2013
2012
392,077
355,385
302,116
235,818
216,810
250,000
526,469
—
—
1,578,757
1,889,028
2,050,722
8,835
8,665
1,574
2,741,956
2,469,888
2 604,412
379,616
346,923
329,231
192,500
166,250
205,000
384,482
—
—
1,152,948
1,147,338
1,025,361
7,960
6,847
268,496
2,117,506
1,667,358
1,828,088
2014
496,791 229,276 374,983
948,928 (7)
248,110 2,298,088
2014
97,436 136,875 1,513,205
504,539
160 2,252,215
(1) The amounts reported in this column represent cash bonuses paid to all executive officers other than Ms. Seidenberg in 2015,
2014 and 2013 for annual performance in 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively. For Ms. Seidenberg, the amount reported reflects
quarterly and annual bonuses paid in 2014 and 2015 for 2014 performance.
(2)
These equity awards are described in more detail in the tables below entitled “Grants of Plan Based Awards” and “Outstanding
Equity Awards at Fiscal Year End.” We have disclosed the assumptions made in the valuation of the stock awards in “Stock
Based Awards and Other Equity Based Instruments” under Note 4 to the Consolidated Financial Statements included in our
Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2014.
(3) See table below for information regarding the 2014 amounts reported.
(4) On April 2, 2014, Ms. Bradley informed us of her intention to resign from the Company. TripAdvisor and Ms. Bradley have
entered into a separation agreement pursuant to which she will remain with the Company on a full-time basis for a transition
period which will last until the earlier of September 30, 2015 or 30 days’ following her successor’s start date. The terms of such
separation are more particularly described in “—Potential Payments upon Termination or Change in Control.”
(5) Mr. Halpin’s compensation has been converted from GBP to USD at an exchange rate of 1.6484 USD:1 GBP.
(6) Ms. Seidenberg’s employment commenced at TripAdvisor on August 8, 2014. The totals above reflect only compensation
earned after her employment commenced at TripAdvisor.
(7)
Includes $574,124 attributable to the modification of a stock option granted to Mr. Halpin on February 27, 2013.
28
2014 All Other Compensation
Stephen Kaufer ................
Julie M.B. Bradley ..........
Seth J. Kalvert .................
Dermot M. Halpin ...........
Barrie Seidenberg ............
Gift Card (a)
100
100
100
—
100
Dividend
Equivalent (b)
—
875
—
—
—
Employer
Retirement
Contributions
(c)
7,800
7,800
7,800
24,840
—
Relocation
Related
Expenses (d)
Tax Gross-Ups
(e)
—
—
—
155,842
—
60
60
60
67,428
60
Total
7,960
8,835
7,960
248,110
160
(a) Represents the amount of a gift card that was given to all employees as a holiday bonus.
(b) Represents amounts paid in cash for accrued dividend equivalents on vested RSUs that were assumed by TripAdvisor in
connection with the Spin-Off.
(c) For Ms. Bradley and Messrs. Kaufer and Kalvert represents matching contributions under the TripAdvisor Retirement Savings
Plan as in effect through December 31, 2014, pursuant to which TripAdvisor matches $0.50 for each dollar a participant
contributes, up to the first 6% of eligible compensation, subject to certain limits. For Mr. Halpin reflects employer contributions
in the Company’s UK pension scheme pursuant to which TripAdvisor matches up to the first 5% of eligible compensation.
(d) Represents relocation related expenses including a housing allowance, home leave, and education assistance for Mr. Halpin’s
family in relation to his move from the United Kingdom to the United States.
(e) For all named executive officers except Mr. Halpin, this amount represents a gross-up for the holiday gift card. For Mr. Halpin,
the amount represents a tax gross-up in relation to his relocation benefits.
Grants of Plan-Based Awards
The table below provides information regarding the plan-based awards granted to our named executive officers in 2014.
Name
Julie M.B. Bradley
All Other
Stock
Awards:
Number of
Shares of Stock
or Units(#)
All Other
Option
Awards:
Number of
Securities
Underlying
Options(#)
Grant
Date
Exercise
Price or
Base Price
of Option
Awards
($/Sh)
Grant Date(cid:3)
Fair Value of
Stock and
Option
Awards
($)(1)
Stock Options ................................................
RSUs ..............................................................
2/21/2014
2/21/2014
—
5,432
33,584
—
96.92
—
1,578,757
526,469
Seth J. Kalvert
Stock Options ................................................
RSUs ..............................................................
2/21/2014
2/21/2014
—
3,967
24,526
—
96.92
—
1,152,948
384,482
Dermot M. Halpin
Stock Options (2) ...........................................
Stock Options ................................................
RSUs ..............................................................
2/27/2013
2/21/2014
2/21/2014
—
—
3,869
33,333
7,973
—
45.27
96.92
—
574,124
374,804
374,983
Barrie Seidenberg
Stock Options ................................................
RSUs ..............................................................
RSUs ..............................................................
8/8/2014
8/8/2014
8/8/2014
—
5,293
10,587
11,215
—
—
95.29
—
—
504,539
504,370
1,008,835
(1) The amounts reported represent the aggregate grant date fair value computed in accordance with U.S. generally accepted
accounting principles, or GAAP, and may not correspond to the actual value that will be realized by the executive. See footnote
(1) in the Summary Compensation Table above for more information regarding the determination of the grant date fair value of
these awards.
29
(2) On February 5, 2014, the Compensation Committee approved a modification of this award such that the performance criteria
applicable to the first tranche of the award with respect to 33,333 shares is waived and the award vested on December 31, 2014
with respect to such shares, subject to Mr. Halpin’s continued employment at TripAdvisor. The amount reported in the Grant
Date Fair Value of Stock and Option Awards column represents the incremental fair value of the option on the date of
modification.
Outstanding Equity Awards at Fiscal Year-End
The following table provides information regarding the holdings of stock options and RSUs by our named executive officers as
of December 31, 2014. The market value of the RSUs is based on the closing price of TripAdvisor common stock on the NASDAQ
Stock Market on December 31, 2014, the last trading day of the year, which was $74.66 per share.
Option Awards
Stock Awards
Name
Stephen Kaufer ...................................
Number of
Securities
Underlying
Unexercised
Options
(#)
Exercisable
Number of
Securities
Underlying
Unexercised
Options
(#)
Grant
Date(1)
3/2/2009
3/2/2009
2/23/2010
3/1/2011
72,124 (2)
28,314 (3)
54,113 (2)
53,088
11/30/2011 176,962
5/4/2012 125,000
—
8/28/2013
Unexercisable
—
—
—
17,697 (4)
58,988 (5)
125,000 (6)
1,100,000 (7)
Julie M.B. Bradley ............................. 10/4/2011
5/4/2012
2/28/2013
2/21/2014
2/21/2014
—
50,000
20,776
—
—
Seth J. Kalvert .................................... 2/23/2010
3/1/2011
8/25/2011
11/30/2011
5/4/2012
2/28/2013
2/21/2014
2/21/2014
4,129 (2)
3,539
11,798
4,719
25,000
12,619
—
—
Dermot M. Halpin .............................. 11/30/2011
2/27/2013
2/27/2013
2/27/2013
2/21/2014
2/21/2014
23,595
—
—
33,333
—
—
Barrie Seidenberg ...............................
8/8/2014
8/8/2014
8/8/2014
8/8/2014
8/8/2014
8/8/2014
19,902 (15)
204
766
—
—
—
30
—
50,000 (6)
62,325 (10)
33,584 (11)
—
—
3,540 (4)
5,899 (12)
2,360 (5)
25,000 (6)
37,854 (10)
24,526 (11)
—
23,595 (5)
19,213 (10)
—
66,667 (14)
7,973 (11)
—
—
82 (16)
3,989 (17)
11,215 (18)
—
—
Option
Exercise
Price
($)
7.80
9.75
23.76
20.87
29.48
40.20
72.52
—
40.20
45.54
96.92
—
23.76
20.87
28.86
29.48
40.20
45.54
96.92
—
29.48
45.27
—
45.27
96.92
—
3.67
11.06
21.55
95.29
—
—
Market
Value of
Shares or
Units of
Stock That
Have Not
Vested
($)
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
880,839
—
—
—
405,553
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
296,176
Number of
Shares or
Units of
Stock That
Have Not
Vested
(#)
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
— 11,798 (8)
—
—
—
5,432 (9)
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
3,967 (9)
Option
Expiration
Date
3/2/2016
3/2/2016
2/23/2017
3/1/2018
11/30/2018
5/4/2022
8/28/2020
5/4/2022
2/28/2023
2/21/2024
2/23/2017
3/1/2018
8/25/2018
11/30/2018
5/4/2022
2/28/2023
2/21/2024
11/30/2018
2/27/2023
—
2/27/2020
2/21/2024
—
—
—
—
—
3,215 (13) 240,032
—
—
288,860
—
—
3,869 (9)
—
—
—
—
—
4/112016
—
2/17/2021
—
5/9/2023
—
8/8/2024
—
5,293 (19) 395,175
— 10,587 (19) 790,425
(1) Represents the date on which the original award was approved by the appropriate compensation committee, as applicable. All
awards with a grant date prior to December 20, 2011 were awarded by Expedia and were converted into equity awards for
TripAdvisor common stock upon effectiveness of the Spin-Off. Certain awards granted to Ms. Seidenberg were awarded by
Viator pursuant to the Viator 2010 Stock Incentive Plan which was assumed by TripAdvisor.
(2) The shares of common stock subject to these options became exercisable in four equal annual installments commencing on the
first anniversary of the grant date.
(3) The shares underlying this option vested in full on March 2, 2012, the third anniversary of the grant date.
(4) The remaining shares of common stock subject to these options become exercisable on March 1, 2015.
(5) The remaining shares of common stock subject to these options become exercisable on November 29, 2015.
(6) The remaining shares of common stock subject to these options become exercisable in two equal annual installments on each of
February 15, 2015 and February 15, 2016.
(7) The shares of common stock subject to this option become exercisable in two equal annual installments on each of August 28,
2017 and August 28, 2018.
(8) The shares of common stock subject to these RSUs vest on October 3, 2015.
(9) The shares of common stock subject to these RSUs vest in four equal annual installments on each of February 15, 2015,
February 15, 2016, February 15, 2017, and February 15, 2018.
(10) The remaining shares of common stock subject to these options become exercisable in three equal annual installments on each
of February 15, 2015, February 15, 2016 and February 15, 2017.
(11) The remaining shares of common stock subject to these options vest in four equal annual installments on each of February 15,
2015, February 15, 2016, February 15, 2017 and February 15, 2018.
(12) The remaining shares of common stock subject to these options become exercisable on August 25, 2015.
(13) The remaining shares of common stock subject to these RSUs vest in three equal annual installments on each of February 15,
2015, February 15, 2016, and February 15, 2017.
(14) The remaining shares of common stock subject to these options become exercisable on June 30, 2015, subject to and to the
extent of achievement of certain performance metrics.
(15) These options were issued pursuant to the Viator 2010 Stock Incentive Plan which was assumed by TripAdvisor pursuant to the
acquisition of Viator. The shares of common stock subject to these options were fully exercisable at the time they were
assumed.
(16) These options were issued pursuant to the Viator 2010 Stock Incentive Plan which was assumed by TripAdvisor pursuant to the
acquisition of Viator. The remaining shares of common stock subject to these options become exercisable in two equal
installments on each of January 17, 2015 and February 17, 2015.
(17) These options were issued pursuant to the Viator 2010 Stock Incentive Plan which was assumed by TripAdvisor pursuant to the
acquisition of Viator. The remaining shares of common stock subject to these options become exercisable in equal monthly
installments commencing January 25, 2015 and ending February 25, 2017.
(18) The remaining shares of common stock subject to these options become exercisable in four equal annual installments on each of
August 8, 2015, August 8, 2016, August 8, 2017, and August 8, 2018.
(19) The remaining shares of common stock subject to these RSUs vest in four equal annual installments on each of August 8, 2015,
August 8, 2016, August 8, 2017, and August 8, 2018.
31
Option Exercises and Stock Vested
The following table sets forth all stock option awards exercised and the taxable income realized upon exercise and all other
stock awards vested and the taxable income realized upon vesting by the named executive officers during 2014.
Name
Julie M.B. Bradley .......................................
Dermot M. Halpin ........................................
Option Awards
Stock Awards
Number of
Shares
Acquired on
Exercise
(#)(1)
Exercise or
Vest Date
Value
Realized on
Exercise
($)(2)
Number of Shares(cid:3)
Acquired on Vesting
(#)(3)
10/3/2014
—
—
11,797
Value Realized
on Vesting
($)(4)
1,042,737
2/13/2014
2/15/2014
2/19/2014
2/27/2014
11,798
—
11,797
6,405
727,829
—
757,446
351,451
—
1,072
—
—
—
98,946
—
—
(1) The amounts reported in this column represent the gross number of shares acquired upon exercise of vested options without
taking into account any shares that may be withheld to cover option exercise price or applicable tax obligations.
(2) The amounts reported in this column represent the taxable income of the shares acquired upon exercise of vested stock options
calculated by multiplying (i) the number of shares of TripAdvisor’s common stock to which the exercise of the option is related
by (ii) the difference between the market price of TripAdvisor’s common stock at exercise and the exercise price of the options.
(3) The amounts reported in this column represent the gross number of shares acquired upon the vesting of RSUs without taking
into account any shares that may have been withheld to satisfy applicable tax obligations.
(4) The amounts reported in this column represent the taxable income of the shares acquired upon the vesting of RSUs calculated by
multiplying the gross number of vested shares subject to the RSUs by the closing price of TripAdvisor common stock on the
NASDAQ Stock Market on the vesting date or if the vesting occurred on a day on which the NASDAQ Stock Market was
closed for trading, the next trading day.
Non-Qualified Deferred Compensation
We do not currently have any other defined contribution or other plan that provides for deferred compensation on a basis that is
not tax-qualified for our employees.
Potential Payments Upon Termination or Change in Control
Certain of our compensation plans, award agreements and employment agreements or offer letters provide our named executive
officers with accelerated vesting of outstanding and unvested equity awards or severance payments in the event of a change in control
of TripAdvisor and/or upon the termination of employment or material adverse modification of his or her employment with
TripAdvisor under specified circumstances. These plans and agreements are described below as they apply to each named executive
officer.
Change of Control Provisions of TripAdvisor’s 2011 Stock and Annual Incentive Plan and Award Agreements Thereunder
The 2011 Plan provided that, unless otherwise provided in the applicable award agreement (or with respect to converted
Expedia awards, only to the extent provided in the relevant award agreement), in the event of a Change in Control (as defined below),
(i) any outstanding stock options held by certain of our named executive officers as of the date of the Change in Control which are not
then exercisable and vested will become fully exercisable and vested, and (ii) all RSUs held by these named executive officers will be
considered to be earned and payable in full and such RSUs will be settled in cash or shares of TripAdvisor common stock as promptly
as practicable.
After further evaluation of the “single trigger” acceleration provisions in the 2011 Plan, the Compensation Committees
determined that future equity awards made under the 2011 Plan would not be entitled to “single trigger” acceleration and, instead, the
award agreements with respect to such equity awards would provide that any acceleration of vesting of the awards would be subject to
“double trigger” rather than “single trigger” acceleration. This means that a vesting of outstanding and unvested equity awards would
only occur upon both a change in control of TripAdvisor and qualifying termination of employment. With respect to Mr. Kaufer’s
32
equity award granted in August 2013, Mr. Kaufer agreed to waive the “single trigger” acceleration right and instead agreed that
acceleration of this award is subject to “double trigger” acceleration. This determination will not have an impact on equity awards
made to our named executive officers prior to Mr. Kaufer’s equity award granted in August 2013.
Stephen Kaufer Employment Agreement
In March 2014, TripAdvisor, LLC, a subsidiary of TripAdvisor, entered into an employment agreement with Mr. Kaufer.
Previously, the Company did not have an employment agreement with Mr. Kaufer. The agreement has a term of five years.
Pursuant to the employment agreement, in the event that Mr. Kaufer’s employment terminates by reason of his death or
disability, then:
(cid:120) TripAdvisor will pay Mr. Kaufer (or his estate) his base salary through the end of the month in which the termination
occurs;
(cid:120)
(cid:120)
any outstanding unvested equity awards that vest less frequently than annually shall be treated as though such awards
vested annually; and
any unvested stock options held by Mr. Kaufer at the time of termination shall remain exercisable through the earlier of 18
months following termination or the scheduled expiration of the option.
Pursuant to the employment agreement, in the event that Mr. Kaufer terminates his employment for Good Reason (as defined
below) or is terminated by TripAdvisor without Cause (as defined below) and such termination occurs during the period commencing
three months immediately prior to a Change in Control (as defined below) and ending 24 months immediately following the Change in
Control, then:
(cid:120) TripAdvisor will pay him cash severance in an amount equal to 24 months of his base salary;
(cid:120) TripAdvisor will pay him in cash an amount equal to the premiums charged by TripAdvisor to maintain COBRA health
insurance coverage for him and his eligible dependents for each month between the date of termination and 18 months
thereafter;
(cid:120) TripAdvisor will pay to him a lump sum in cash equal to his annual target bonus, without pro-ration or adjustment;
(cid:120)
all equity awards held by him that are outstanding and unvested shall immediately vest in full; and
(cid:120) Mr. Kaufer will have 18 months following such date of termination of employment to exercise any vested stock options
(including stock options accelerated pursuant to the terms of his employment agreement) or, if earlier, through the
scheduled expiration date of the options.
Pursuant to the employment agreement, in the event that Mr. Kaufer terminates his employment for Good Reason or is
terminated by TripAdvisor without Cause and such termination is not in connection with a Change in Control, then:
(cid:120) TripAdvisor will continue to pay Mr. Kaufer’s base salary through 12 months following the date of termination;
(cid:120) TripAdvisor will consider in good faith the payment of an annual bonus on a pro rata basis and based on actual performance
for the year in which termination of employment occurs, any such payment to be paid based on actual performance during
the year of termination;
(cid:120) TripAdvisor will pay COBRA health insurance coverage for Mr. Kaufer and his eligible dependents for 12 months
following termination;
(cid:120)
all equity awards held by Mr. Kaufer that otherwise would have vested during the 12-month period following termination of
employment, will accelerate and become fully vested and exercisable (provided that awards that vest less frequently than
annually will be treated as though such awards vested annually);
33
(cid:120)
any equity awards that do not vest in connection with a termination of employment shall remain outstanding for three
months following termination, provided that there will be no additional vesting with respect to such awards unless a Change
in Control occurs within such three-month period; and
(cid:120) Mr. Kaufer will have 18 months following such date of termination to exercise any vested stock options (including stock
options accelerated pursuant to the terms of his employment agreement) or, if earlier, through the scheduled expiration date
of the options.
Receipt of the severance payments and benefits set forth above is contingent upon Mr. Kaufer executing and not revoking a
separation and release in favor of TripAdvisor. Each of the payments set forth above shall be offset by the amount of any cash
compensation earned by Mr. Kaufer from another employer during the 12 months following his termination of employment.
With respect to Mr. Kaufer’s equity award granted in August 2013, he agreed to waive the single trigger acceleration right upon
a change in control and, instead, acceleration of this award is subject to double trigger acceleration.
Mr. Kaufer has also agreed to be restricted from competing with TripAdvisor or any of its subsidiaries or affiliates or soliciting
their employees, consultants, independent contractors, customers, suppliers or business partners, among others, during the term of his
employment and through the period ending 18 months after the termination of employment.
Seth J. Kalvert Employment Agreement
In October 2011, TripAdvisor, LLC entered into an employment agreement with Mr. Kalvert. Such employment agreement had
a term of two years and expired in October 2013. Effective March 31, 2014, TripAdvisor, LLC entered into a new employment
agreement with Mr. Kalvert, with a two-year term and on substantially the same terms as the expired employment agreement.
Pursuant to the employment agreement with Mr. Kalvert, in the event that his employment terminates by reason of his death or
disability, he will be entitled to continued payment of base salary through the end of the month in which the termination occurs.
Pursuant to the employment agreement with Mr. Kalvert, in the event that he terminates his employment for Good Reason (as
defined below) or is terminated by TripAdvisor without Cause (as defined below), then:
(cid:120) TripAdvisor will continue to pay his base salary through the longer of the end of the term of the executive’s employment
agreement and 12 months following termination (provided that such payments will be offset by any amount earned from
another employer during such time period);
(cid:120) TripAdvisor will consider in good faith the payment of bonuses on a pro rata basis based on actual performance for the year
in which termination of employment occurs;
(cid:120) TripAdvisor will pay COBRA health insurance coverage for Mr. Kalvert and his eligible dependents through the longer of
the end of the term of his employment agreement and 12 months following termination;
(cid:120) All equity awards held by Mr. Kalvert that otherwise would have vested during the 12-month period following termination
of employment, will accelerate and become fully vested and exercisable (provided that equity awards that vest less
frequently than annually shall be treated as though such awards vested annually); and
(cid:120) Mr. Kalvert will have 18 months following such date of termination or employment to exercise any vested stock options
(including stock options accelerated pursuant to the terms of his employment agreement) or, if earlier, through the
scheduled expiration date of the options.
Receipt of the severance payments and benefits set forth above is contingent upon Mr. Kalvert executing and not revoking a
separation and release in favor of TripAdvisor. In addition, Mr. Kalvert agreed to be restricted from competing with TripAdvisor or
any of its subsidiaries or affiliates or soliciting their employees, consultants, independent contractors, customers, suppliers or business
partners, among others, through the longer of (i) the completion of the term of the employment agreement and (ii) 12 months after the
termination of employment.
34
Julie M.B. Bradley Employment Agreements
In October 2011, TripAdvisor, LLC entered into an agreement with Ms. Bradley. Such employment agreement had a term of
two years and expired in October 2013. Effective March 31, 2014, TripAdvisor, LLC entered into a new employment agreement with
Ms. Bradley, with a two-year term and on substantially the same terms as the expired employment agreement and those described
above for Mr. Kalvert.
On April 2, 2015, Ms. Bradley informed TripAdvisor of her intention to resign from the Company. In order to provide for the
transition of Ms. Bradley’s responsibilities, TripAdvisor and Ms. Bradley have entered into a Separation Agreement, dated April 2,
2015 (the “Separation Agreement”), pursuant to which Ms. Bradley has agreed to remain with the Company on a full-time basis for a
transition period, which will last until the earlier of September 30, 2015 or thirty days following her successor’s start date (the
“Transition Period”).
Under the Separation Agreement and subject to the terms and conditions set forth therein, in exchange for Ms. Bradley’s
continued service during the Transition Period, the Company and Ms. Bradley have agreed to the following:
(cid:120) Ms. Bradley will continue to receive her base salary until June 30, 2016;
(cid:120)
all equity awards held by Ms. Bradley that otherwise would have vested on or before March 31, 2016 will accelerate and
become fully vested and exercisable, and Ms. Bradley will have until the date that is 18 months immediately following the
end of the Transition Period to exercise any vested stock options or, if earlier, through the scheduled expiration date of the
options; and
(cid:120) TripAdvisor will consider in good faith the payment of an annual cash bonus on a pro rata basis based on actual
performance for this year.
The employment agreement, dated as of March 31, 2014, between Ms. Bradley and the Company was superseded and replaced
by the separation agreement, except to the extent that certain provisions and obligations of the employment agreement were expressly
preserved and incorporated by reference into the separation agreement.
Receipt of the severance payments and benefits set forth above is contingent upon the executive executing and not revoking a
separation and release in favor of TripAdvisor, Inc. In return, Ms. Bradley has agreed to be restricted from competing with
TripAdvisor or any of its subsidiaries or affiliates or soliciting their employees, consultants, independent contractors, customers,
suppliers or business partners, among others, through the longer of (i) the completion of the term of the employment agreement, and
(ii) 12 months after the termination of employment.
Dermot M. Halpin Offer Letter
On November 29, 2011, TripAdvisor, Ltd., a subsidiary of TripAdvisor, entered into an offer letter with Dermot Halpin.
Pursuant to the offer letter, TripAdvisor may terminate the employee with immediate effect if Mr. Halpin:
(cid:120)
(cid:120)
(cid:120)
(cid:120)
(cid:120)
(cid:120)
convicts a serious breach of his obligations under the offer letter (provided, that TripAdvisor will provide prior notice and a
reasonable opportunity to cure, if such breach is curable);
fails to comply with a lawful instruction given to Mr. Halpin by a duly authorized individual on behalf of TripAdvisor;
is guilty of dishonest, or other gross misconduct, or gross incompetence or willful neglect of duty;
acts in any manner which TripAdvisor reasonably believes is likely to bring TripAdvisor into disrepute or materially
prejudice the interest of the company;
is convicted of a formal offence, other than a motoring offense which does result in imprisonment;
is declared bankrupt, applies for or has made against him a receiving order under Section 286 Insolvency Act 1986, or have
any order made against him to reach a voluntary arrangement as defined by Section 253 of the Insolvency Act of 1986;
(cid:120)
loses the right to work in the United States.
35
In the event of termination of Mr. Halpin’s employment by the Company for any reason other than those noted above, then the
Company will make a compensation payment to Mr. Halpin in an amount equal to nine months’ base salary at the rate then payable.
Mr. Halpin shall also be entitled to, at the Company’s discretion, extension of health benefits or the cost of comparable benefits.
The offer letter also provides that in the event of a termination of employment for any reason other than those noted above, the
Company will consider in good faith the acceleration of Mr. Halpin’s November 30, 2011 stock option grant and his February 27,
2013 performance award that otherwise would have vested in the nine months post-termination. In the case of the performance award,
any amount that would vest under this provision would only vest to the extent that the performance conditions are satisfied.
Simultaneously with entering into the offer letter, Mr. Halpin also entered into a Non-Disclosure, Developments and Non-
Competition Agreement, pursuant to which Mr. Halpin agreed to be restricted from competing with TripAdvisor or any of its
subsidiaries or affiliates or soliciting their employees, consultants, independent contractors, customers, suppliers or business partners,
among others, through the longer of (i) the completion of the term of the employment agreement and (ii) nine months after the
termination of employment.
Barrie Seidenberg Offer Letter
Effective August 8, 2014, TripAdvisor, LLC entered into an offer letter with Ms. Seidenberg. Pursuant to the offer letter, in the
event that she terminates her employment for Good Reason or is terminated by TripAdvisor without Cause, then:
(cid:120) TripAdvisor will continue to pay her base salary for a period of six months following termination;
(cid:120) TripAdvisor will consider in good faith the payment of a cash amount equal to any unpaid bonus on a pro rata basis based
on actual performance for the year in which termination of employment occurs;
(cid:120) TripAdvisor will pay COBRA health insurance coverage for her and her eligible dependents for a period of six months
following termination;
(cid:120)
(cid:120)
any portion of the unvested in-the-money equity awards assumed by TripAdvisor in connection with the acquisition of the
Viator will accelerate and become fully vested and exercisable, and
the equity awards issued to Ms. Seidenberg in connection with her hire or that otherwise would have vested during the 12-
month period following termination of employment, will accelerate and become fully vested and exercisable (provided that
equity awards that vest less frequently than annually shall be treated as though such awards vested annually).
Simultaneously with entering into the offer letter, Ms. Seidenberg also entered into a Non-Disclosure, Developments and Non-
Competition Agreement, pursuant to which Ms. Seidenberg agreed to be restricted from competing with TripAdvisor or any of its
subsidiaries or affiliates or soliciting their employees, consultants, independent contractors, customers, suppliers or business partners,
among others, through the longer of (i) the completion of the term of the employment agreement and (ii) 12 months after the
termination of employment.
Employment Agreement Definitions
Under the employment agreements with Ms. Bradley and Messrs. Kaufer and Kalvert and the offer letter with Ms. Seidenberg,
“Cause” means: (i) the plea of guilty or nolo contendere to, conviction for, a felony offense by the executive; provided, however, that
after indictment, TripAdvisor may suspend the executive from rendition of services but without limiting or modifying in any other
way TripAdvisor’s obligations under the employment agreement, (ii) a material breach by the executive of a fiduciary duty owed to
TripAdvisor or its subsidiaries, (iii) material breach by the executive of certain covenants of the employment agreement, (iv) the
willful or gross neglect by the executive of the material duties required by the employment agreement and (v) a knowing and material
violation by the executive of any TripAdvisor policy pertaining to ethics, legal compliance, wrongdoing or conflicts of interest that, in
the cases of the conduct described in clauses (iv) and (v) above, if curable, is not cured by the executive within 30 days after the
executive is provided with written notice thereof.
36
Under the employment agreements with our named executive officers and under the 2011 Plan, “Change in Control” shall mean
any of the following events:
(i) The acquisition by any individual entity or group (within the meaning of Section 13(d)(3) or 14(d)(2) of the Exchange
Act), other than Barry Diller, Liberty Media Corporation, and their respective Affiliates (a “Person”) of beneficial ownership
(within the meaning of Rule 13d-3 promulgated under the Exchange Act) of equity securities of the Company representing more
than 50% of the voting power of the then outstanding equity securities of the Company entitled to vote generally in the election of
directors (the “Outstanding Company Voting Securities”); provided, however, that for purposes of this subsection (i), the following
acquisitions shall not constitute a Change in Control: (A) any acquisition by the Company, (B) any acquisition directly from the
Company, (C) any acquisition by any employee benefit plan (or related trust) sponsored or maintained by the Company or any
corporation controlled by the Company, or (D) any acquisition pursuant to a transaction which complies with clauses (A), (B) and
(C) of subsection (iii); or
(ii)
Individuals who, as of the Effective Date, constitute the Board (the “Incumbent Board”) cease for any reason to
constitute at least a majority of the Board; provided, however, that any individual becoming a director subsequent to the Effective
Date, whose election, or nomination for election by the Company’s stockholders, was approved by a vote of at least a majority of
the directors then comprising the Incumbent Board shall be considered as though such individual were a member of the Incumbent
Board, but excluding, for this purpose, any such individual whose initial assumption of office occurs as a result of an actual or
threatened election contest with respect to the election or removal of directors or other actual or threatened solicitation of proxies or
consents by or on behalf of a Person other than the Board; or
(iii) Consummation of a reorganization, merger or consolidation or sale or other disposition of all or substantially all of the
assets of the Company or the purchase of assets or stock of another entity (a “Business Combination”), in each case, unless
immediately following such Business Combination, (A) all or substantially all of the individuals and entities who were the
beneficial owners of the Outstanding Company Voting Securities immediately prior to such Business Combination will beneficially
own, directly or indirectly, more than 50% of the then outstanding combined voting power of the then outstanding voting securities
entitled to vote generally in the election of directors (or equivalent governing body, if applicable) of the entity resulting from such
Business Combination (including, without limitation, an entity which as a result of such transaction owns the Company or all or
substantially all of the Company’s assets either directly or through one or more subsidiaries) in substantially the same proportions
as their ownership, immediately prior to such Business Combination of the Outstanding Company Voting Securities, (B) no Person
(excluding Barry Diller, LMC, and their respective affiliates, any employee benefit plan (or related trust) of the Company or such
entity resulting from such Business Combination) will beneficially own, directly or indirectly, more than a majority of the
combined voting power of the then outstanding voting securities of such entity except to the extent that such ownership of the
Company existed prior to the Business Combination and (C) at least a majority of the members of the board of directors (or
equivalent governing body, if applicable) of the entity resulting from such Business Combination will have been members of the
Incumbent Board at the time of the initial agreement, or action of the Board, providing for such Business Combination; or
(iv) Approval by our stockholders of a complete liquidation or dissolution of the Company.
Under the employment agreements with Ms. Bradley and Messrs. Kaufer and Kalvert and the offer letter with Ms. Seidenberg,
“Good Reason” means the occurrence of any of the following without the executive’s prior written consent: (A) TripAdvisor’s material
breach of any material provision of the employment agreement, (B) the material reduction in the executive’s title, duties, reporting
responsibilities or level of responsibilities in such executive’s position at TripAdvisor, (C) the material reduction in the executive’s base
salary or the executive’s total annual compensation opportunity, or (D) the relocation of the executive’s principal place of employment
more than 50 miles outside the Boston metropolitan area; provided that in no event shall the executive’s resignation be for “Good
Reason” unless (x) an event or circumstance set forth in clauses (A) through (D) shall have occurred and the executive provides
TripAdvisor with written notice thereof within 30 days after the executive has knowledge of the occurrence or existence of such event or
circumstance, which notice specifically identifies the event or circumstance that the executive believes constitutes Good Reason, (y)
TripAdvisor fails to correct the event or circumstance so identified within 30 days after receipt of such notice, and (z) the executive
resigns within 90 days after the date of delivery of the notice referred to in clause (x) above.
For a description and quantification of change in control payments and benefits for our named executive officers, please see the
section below entitled “Potential Payments Upon Termination of Change in Control.”
Estimated Potential Incremental Payments
The table below reflects the estimated amount of incremental compensation payable to each of our named executive officers upon
termination of his or her employment in the following circumstances: (i) a termination of employment by TripAdvisor without Cause not
in connection with a Change in Control, (ii) resignation by him or her for Good Reason not in connection with a Change in Control, (iii) a
37
Change in Control or (iv) a termination of employment by TripAdvisor without Cause or by him or her for Good Reason in connection
with a Change in Control.
The amounts shown in the table assume that the triggering event was effective as of December 31, 2014 and that the price of
TripAdvisor common stock on which certain of the calculations are based was the closing price of $74.66 per share on the NASDAQ
Stock Market on December 31, 2014, the last trading day in 2014. These amounts are estimates of the incremental amounts that would
be paid out to each named executive officer upon such triggering event. The actual amounts to be paid out can only be determined at
the time of the triggering event, if any.
Name and Benefit
Stephen Kaufer
Cash Severance .......................................................
Equity Awards (vesting accelerated) .......................
Health & Benefits ....................................................
Total estimated value...............................................
Termination
Without Cause
Resignation
for Good Reason
Change in
Control
Termination
w/o Cause
or for Good
Reason in
connection
with Change in
Control
1,200,000(1)
5,770,749
19,249
6,989,998
1,200,000
5,770,749
19,249
6,989,998
—
7,924,299
—
7,924,299
1,500,000
10,278,499
28,873
11,807,372
Julie M.B. Bradley (2)
Cash Severance .......................................................
Equity Awards (vesting accelerated) .......................
Health & Benefits ....................................................
Total estimated value...............................................
732,068(1)
2,448,778
24,061
3,204,907
732,068
2,448,778
24,061
3,204,907
Seth J. Kalvert
Cash Severance .......................................................
Equity Awards (vesting accelerated) .......................
Health & Benefits ....................................................
Total estimated value...............................................
673,750(1)
1,439,515
24,061
2,137,326
673,750
1,439,515
24,061
2,137,326
Dermot M. Halpin (3)
Cash Severance .......................................................
Equity Awards (vesting accelerated) .......................
Repatriation .............................................................
Health & Benefits (4) ..............................................
Total estimated value...............................................
373,819
—
138,939
55,235
567,993
—
—
—
—
—
Barrie Seidenberg
Cash Severance .......................................................
Equity Awards (vesting accelerated) .......................
Health & Benefits ....................................................
Total estimated value...............................................
228,125(1)
513,546
9,624
751,295
228,125
513,546
9,624
751,295
—
4,418,992
—
4,418,992
—
2,531,175
—
2,531,175
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
732,068
4,824,545
24,061
5,580,674
673,750
2,827,352
24,061
3,525,163
373,819
2,159,584
138,939
55,235
2,727,577
228,125
1,402,672
9,624
1,640,421
(1) Represents (i) base salary which the Company is required to pay for a certain period of time pursuant to the employment
arrangement with the executive and (ii) target bonus for 2014, the payment of which the Company must consider in good faith.
(2) Amounts shown represent the amounts payable under Ms. Bradley’s employment agreement dated March 31, 2014, the terms of
which were superseded and replaced by terms provided for in the Separation Agreement.
(3) Mr. Halpin’s compensation has been converted from GBP to USD at an exchange rate of 1.6484 USD : 1 GBP.
(4) Assumes extension of benefits or the cost of benefits for a period of nine months following termination, the provision or
payment of which is at the Company’s discretion.
38
Equity Compensation Plan Information
The following table provides information as of December 31, 2014 regarding shares of common stock that may be issued under
TripAdvisor’s equity compensation plans consisting of the 2011 Plan, the Viator Inc. 2010 Stock Incentive Plan, and the Non-
Employee Director Deferred Compensation Plan.
Plan category
Equity Compensation Plan Information
Number of
securities to be
issued upon
exercise of
outstanding
options, warrants
and rights
(a)
Weighted Average(cid:3)
exercise price of
outstanding
options, warrants
and rights
(b)
(cid:3)
Number of securities
remaining available
for future issuance
under equity
compensation plan
(excluding securities
referenced in column
(a))
(c)
Equity compensation plans approved by
security holders ..........................................................
Equity compensation plans not approved by
security holders ..........................................................
Total ..............................................................................
10,197,642 (1)
44.47 (2)
17,691,977
N/A
10,197,642
N/A
—
N/A
17,691,977
(1)
Includes (i) 8,648,940 shares of common stock issuable upon the exercise of outstanding options, of which 84,036 shares were
granted pursuant to options under the Viator, Inc. 2010 Stock Incentive Plan, (ii) 1,449,259 shares of common stock issuable
upon the vesting of RSUs, and (iii) 99,443 shares of common stock issuable upon exercise of options granted pursuant to the
Non-Employee Director Deferred Compensation Plan.
(2) Since RSUs do not have any exercise price, such units are not included in the weighted average exercise price calculation.
39
Overview
DIRECTOR COMPENSATION
The Board of Directors sets non-employee director compensation, which is designed to provide competitive compensation
necessary to attract and retain high quality non-employee directors and to encourage ownership of TripAdvisor common stock to
further align their interests with those of our stockholders. Each non-employee director of TripAdvisor is eligible to receive the
following compensation:
(cid:120)
(cid:120)
(cid:120)
(cid:120)
an annual cash retainer of $50,000, paid in equal quarterly installments;
an RSU award with a value of $150,000 (based on the closing price of TripAdvisor’s common stock on the NASDAQ
Stock Market on the date of grant), upon such director’s initial election to office and on December 15th of each year,
subject to vesting in three equal installments commencing on the first anniversary of the grant date and, in the event of a
Change in Control (as defined in the 2011 Plan), full acceleration of vesting;
an annual cash retainer of $20,000 for each member of the Audit Committee (including the Chairman) and $15,000 for each
member of the Compensation Committees (including the Chairperson); and
an additional annual cash retainer of $10,000 for each of the Chairman of the Audit Committee and the Chairperson of the
Compensation Committees.
We also pay reasonable travel and accommodation expenses of the non-employee directors in connection with their participation
in meetings of the Board of Directors.
TripAdvisor employees do not receive compensation for services as directors. Accordingly, Mr. Kaufer does not receive any
compensation for his service as a director.
Non-Employee Director Deferred Compensation Plan
Under TripAdvisor’s Non-Employee Director Deferred Compensation Plan, the non-employee directors may defer all or a
portion of their directors’ fees. Eligible directors who defer their directors’ fees may elect to have such deferred fees (i) applied to the
purchase of share units representing the number of shares of TripAdvisor common stock that could have been purchased on the date
such fees would otherwise be payable or (ii) credited to a cash fund. If any dividends are paid on TripAdvisor common stock, dividend
equivalents will be credited on the share units. The cash fund will be credited with deemed interest at an annual rate equal to the
average “bank prime loan” rate for such year identified in the U.S. Federal Reserve Statistical Release. Upon termination of service as
a director of TripAdvisor, a director will receive (1) with respect to share units, such number of shares of TripAdvisor common stock
as the share units represent and (2) with respect to the cash fund, a cash payment. Payments upon termination will be made in either
one lump sum or up to five installments, as elected by the eligible director at the time of the deferral election.
40
2014 Non-Employee Director Compensation Table
The following table shows the compensation information for the non-employee directors of TripAdvisor for the year ended
December 31, 2014:
Name
Gregory B. Maffei ................................................................
Jonathan F. Miller ................................................................
Dipchand (Deep) Nishar .......................................................
Jeremy Philips ......................................................................
Spencer M. Rascoff ..............................................................
Christopher W. Shean...........................................................
Sukhinder Singh Cassidy......................................................
Robert S. Wiesenthal ............................................................
Fees Earned or
Paid in Cash
($)(1)
Stock Awards
($)(2)(3)
Total
($)
65,000
70,000
50,000
65,000
70,000
50,000
75,000
80,000
149,939
149,939
149,939
149,939
149,939
149,939
149,939
149,939
214,939
219,939
199,939
214,939
219,939
199,939
224,939
229,939
(1) The amounts reported in this column represent the annual cash retainer amounts for services in 2014, including fees with respect
to which directors elected to defer and credit towards the purchase of share units representing shares of TripAdvisor common
stock pursuant to the Company’s Non-Employee Director Deferred Compensation Plan.
(2) Stock awards consist of RSUs. The amounts reported in this column represent the aggregate grant date fair value of the stock
awards computed in accordance with GAAP. These amounts reflect an estimate of the grant date fair value and may not
correspond to the actual value that will be recognized by the non-employee directors from their awards.
(3) As of December 31, 2014, Messrs. Maffei and Shean each held 5,556 unvested RSUs, Messrs. Miller, Philips and Wiesenthal
and Ms. Singh Cassidy each held 4,504 unvested RSUs and Messrs. Nishar and Rascoff each held 4,643 unvested RSUs.
41
SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT
Beneficial Ownership Table
The following table presents information as of April 20, 2015 relating to the beneficial ownership of TripAdvisor’s capital stock
by (i) each person or entity known to TripAdvisor to own beneficially more than 5% of the outstanding shares of TripAdvisor’s
common stock or Class B common stock, (ii) each director and director nominee of TripAdvisor, (iii) the named executive officers
and (iv) our executive officers and directors, as a group. In each case, except as otherwise indicated in the footnotes to the table, the
shares are owned directly by the named owners, with sole voting and dispositive power. Unless otherwise indicated, beneficial owners
listed in the table may be contacted at TripAdvisor’s corporate headquarters at 141 Needham Street, Newton, Massachusetts 02464.
Shares of TripAdvisor Class B common stock may, at the option of the holder, be converted on a one-for-one basis into shares
of TripAdvisor common stock; therefore, the common stock column below includes shares of Class B common stock held by each
such listed person, entity or group, and the beneficial ownership percentage of each such listed person assumes the conversion of all
Class B common stock into common stock. For each listed person, entity or group, the number of shares of TripAdvisor common
stock and Class B common stock and the percentage of each such class listed also include shares of common stock and Class B
common stock that may be acquired by such person, entity or group on the conversion or exercise of equity securities, such as stock
options, which can be converted or exercised, and RSUs that have or will have vested, within 60 days of April 20, 2015, but do not
assume the conversion or exercise of any equity securities (other than the conversion of the Class B common stock) owned by any
other person, entity or group.
42
The percentage of votes for all classes of TripAdvisor’s capital stock is based on one vote for each share of common stock and
ten votes for each share of Class B common stock. There were 130,707,574 shares of common stock and 12,799,999 shares of Class B
common stock outstanding on April 20, 2015.
Common Stock
Beneficial Owner
5% Beneficial Owners
Liberty TripAdvisor Holdings, Inc. .......................... 30,959,751 (1)
Shares
%
12300 Liberty Boulevard Englewood, CO 80112
BlackRock, Inc. ......................................................... 10,752,245 (2)
55 East 52nd Street New York, NY 10022
Baillie Gifford & Co ................................................. 9,414,188 (3)
Calton Square 1 Greenside Row Edinburgh EH1
3AN Scotland, UK
Fidelity Management & Research Company ............ 9,150,544 (4)
245 Summer Street Boston, MA 02210
The Vanguard Group ................................................ 8,233,726 (5)
100 Vanguard Blvd Malvern, PA 19355
Prudential Financial, Inc. .......................................... 7,466,042 (6)
751 Broad Street Newark, NJ 07102-3777
Named Executive Officers and Directors
Gregory B. Maffei .....................................................
Stephen Kaufer ..........................................................
Jonathan F. Miller .....................................................
Dipchand (Deep) Nishar ...........................................
Jeremy Philips ...........................................................
Spencer M. Rascoff ...................................................
Christopher W. Shean ...............................................
Sukhinder Singh Cassidy ..........................................
Robert S. Wiesenthal.................................................
Julie M.B. Bradley ....................................................
Seth J. Kalvert ...........................................................
Dermot M. Halpin .....................................................
Barrie Seidenberg ......................................................
All executive officers, directors and director
nominees as a group (13 persons) .......................... 1,314,138 (13)
9,235 (7)
906,504 (8)
11,133
6,318
11,133
5,928
7,297
11,133
11,133
148,989 (9)
100,997 (10)
62,617 (11)
21,721 (12)
Class B Common Stock
%
Shares
Percent (%)
of Votes
(All Classes)
21.6 12,799,999 (1)
100
56.5
7.5
6.6
6.4
5.7
5.2
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
4.2
3.6
3.5
3.2
2.9
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
The percentage of shares beneficially owned does not exceed 1% of the class.
(1) Based on information contained in a Schedule 13D/A filed with the SEC on August 29, 2014 by Liberty TripAdvisor Holdings,
Inc. (“LTRIP”). Consists of 18,159,752 shares of Common Stock and 12,799,999 shares of Class B Common Stock owned by
LTRIP. Excludes shares beneficially owned by the executive officers and directors of LTRIP, as to which LTRIP disclaims
beneficial ownership.
(2) Based solely on information contained in a Schedule 13G filed with the SEC on February 6, 2015 by BlackRock, Inc. According
to the Schedule 13G, BlackRock beneficially owns and has sole dispositive power with respect to 10,752,245 shares but only
has sole voting power with respect to 8,699,082 shares.
(3) Based solely on information contained in a Schedule 13G/A filed with the SEC on February 10, 2015 by Ballie Gifford & Co.
(“BG&C”). According to the Schedule 13G/A, BG&C beneficially owns and has sole dispositive power with respect to
9,414,188 shares but only has sole voting power with respect to 6,657,342 shares.
(4) Based solely on information contained in a Schedule 13G/A filed with the SEC on February 13, 2015 by FMR LLC, the parent
holding company of Fidelity Management & Research Company (“Fidelity”). According to the Schedule 13G/A, Edward C.
Johnson 3d and FMR LLC, through its control of Fidelity, and the Fidelity funds (“Funds”), each beneficially owns and has sole
power to dispose of 9,150,544 shares owned by the Funds. Neither FMR LLC nor Edward C. Johnson 3d, Chairman of FMR
LLC, has the sole power to vote or direct the voting of the shares owned directly by the Fidelity Funds, which power resides
43
with the Funds’ Boards of Trustees. Fidelity carries out the voting of the shares under written guidelines established by the
Funds’ Boards of Trustees.
(5) Based solely on information contained in a Schedule 13G/A filed with the SEC on February 10, 2015 by The Vanguard Group
(“Vanguard”). According to the Schedule 13G/A, Vanguard beneficially owns 8,233,726 shares but only has sole voting power
with respect to 192,063 shares and sole dispositive power with respect to 8,049,953 shares.
(6) Based solely on information contained in a Schedule 13G filed with the SEC on February 13, 2015 by Prudential Financial, Inc.
(“Prudential”). According to the Schedule 13G, Prudential (through its subsidiaries Jennison Associates, LLC and Quantitative
Management Associates, LLC) beneficially owns 7,466,042 shares, has shared dispositive power with respect to 6,907,248
shares, has sole dispositive power with respect to 558,794 shares, has shared voting power with respect to 4,033,353 shares and
has sole voting power with respect 558,794 shares.
(7)
Includes 1,938 shares of common stock that are held by the Maffei Foundation.
(8)
(9)
Includes options to purchase 622,835 shares of common stock that are currently exercisable or will be exercisable within 60
days of April 20, 2015.
Includes options to purchase 124,947 shares of common stock that are currently exercisable or will be exercisable within 60
days of April 20, 2015.
(10) Includes options to purchase 96,594 shares of common stock that are currently exercisable or will be exercisable within 60 days
of April 20, 2015.
(11) Includes options to purchase 60,327 shares of common stock that that are currently exercisable or will be exercisable within 60
days of April 20, 2015.
(12) Includes options to purchase 21,721 shares of common stock that that are currently exercisable or will be exercisable within 60
days of April 20, 2015.
(13) Includes options to purchase 926,118 shares of common stock that that are currently exercisable or will be exercisable within 60
days of April 20, 2015.
Section 16(a) Beneficial Ownership Reporting Compliance
Pursuant to Section 16(a) of the Exchange Act, TripAdvisor officers and directors and persons who beneficially own more than
10% of a registered class of TripAdvisor’s equity securities are required to file initial statements of beneficial ownership (Form 3) and
statements of changes in beneficial ownership (Forms 4 and 5) with the SEC. Such persons are required by the rules of the SEC to
furnish TripAdvisor with copies of all such forms they file. Based solely on a review of the copies of such forms furnished to
TripAdvisor and/or written representations that no additional forms were required, TripAdvisor believes that all of its directors and
officers complied with all the reporting requirements applicable to them with respect to transactions during 2014.
CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED PERSON TRANSACTIONS
Review and Approval or Ratification of Related Person Transactions
In general, we will enter into or ratify a “related person transaction” only when it has been approved by the Audit Committee of
the Board of Directors, in accordance with its written charter. Related persons include our executive officers, directors, 5% or more
beneficial owners of our common stock, immediate family members of these persons and entities in which one of these persons has a
direct or indirect material interest. Related person transactions are transactions that meet the minimum threshold for disclosure in the
proxy statement under the relevant SEC rules (generally, transactions involving amounts exceeding $120,000 in which a related
person or entity has a direct or indirect material interest). When a potential related person transaction is identified, management
presents it to the Audit Committee to determine whether to approve or ratify. When determining whether to approve, ratify,
disapprove or reject any related person transaction, the Audit Committee considers all relevant factors, including the extent of the
related person’s interest in the transaction, whether the terms are commercially reasonable and whether the related person transaction
is consistent with the best interests of TripAdvisor and our stockholders.
The legal and accounting departments work with business units throughout TripAdvisor to identify potential related person
transactions prior to execution. In addition, we take the following steps with regard to related person transactions:
(cid:120) On an annual basis, each director, director nominee and executive officer of TripAdvisor completes a Director and Officer
Questionnaire that requires disclosure of any transaction, arrangement or relationship with us during the last fiscal year in
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which the director or executive officer, or any member of his or her immediate family, had a direct or indirect material
interest.
(cid:120) Each director, director nominee and executive officer is expected to promptly notify our legal department of any direct or
indirect interest that such person or an immediate family member of such person had, has or may have in a transaction in
which we participate.
(cid:120) TripAdvisor monitors its accounts payable, accounts receivable and other databases to identify any other potential related
person transactions that may require disclosure.
(cid:120) Any reported transaction that our legal department determines may qualify as a related person transaction is referred to the
Audit Committee.
If any related person transaction is not approved, the Audit Committee may take such action as it may deem necessary or
desirable in the best interests of TripAdvisor and our stockholders.
Related Person Transactions
Relationship between Expedia and TripAdvisor
Upon consummation of the Spin-Off, Expedia was considered a related party under GAAP based on a number of factors,
including, among others, common ownership of our shares and those of Expedia. However, we no longer consider Expedia a related
party. For purposes of governing certain of the ongoing relationships between us and Expedia at and after the Spin-Off, and to
provide for an orderly transition, we and Expedia entered into various agreements at the time of the Spin-Off, under which
TripAdvisor has satisfied its obligations. However, TripAdvisor continues to be subject to certain post-spin obligations under the Tax
Sharing Agreement between TripAdvisor and Expedia.
Under the Tax Sharing Agreement, we are generally required to indemnify Expedia for any taxes resulting from the Spin-Off
(and any related interest, penalties, legal and professional fees, and all costs and damages associated with related stockholder litigation
or controversies) to the extent such amounts resulted from (i) any act or failure to act by us described in the covenants in the tax
sharing agreement, (ii) any acquisition of our equity securities or assets or those of a member of our group, or (iii) any failure of the
representations with respect to us or any member of our group to be true or any breach by us or any member of our group of any
covenant, in each case, which is contained in the separation documents or in the documents relating to the IRS private letter ruling
and/or the opinion of counsel.
Relationship between Liberty, LTRIP and TripAdvisor
On August 27, 2014, the entire beneficial ownership of our common stock and Class B common stock held by Liberty was
transferred to LTRIP. Simultaneously, Liberty, LTRIP’s former parent company, distributed, by means of a dividend, to the holders
of its Liberty Ventures common stock, Liberty’s entire equity interest in LTRIP. As a result of the Liberty Spin-Off, effective August
27, 2014 LTRIP became a separate, publicly traded company and 100% of Liberty’s interest in TripAdvisor was held by LTRIP.
As a result of these transactions, as of the record date, LTRIP beneficially owned 18,159,752 shares of our common stock and
12,799,999 shares of our Class B common stock, which shares constitute 13.9% of the outstanding shares of common stock and 100%
of the outstanding shares of Class B common stock. Assuming the conversion of all of LTRIP’s shares of Class B common stock into
common stock, LTRIP would beneficially own 21.6% of the outstanding common stock (calculated in accordance with Rule 13d-3).
Because each share of Class B common stock is generally entitled to ten votes per share and each share of common stock is entitled to
one vote per share, LTRIP may be deemed to beneficially own equity securities representing approximately 56.5% of our voting
power. As a result, LTRIP is effectively able to control the outcome of all matters submitted to a vote or for the consent of
TripAdvisor’s stockholders (other than with respect to the election by the holders of TripAdvisor common stock of 25% of the
members of TripAdvisor’s Board of Directors and matters as to which Delaware law requires a separate class vote).
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WHERE YOU CAN FIND MORE INFORMATION AND INCORPORATION BY REFERENCE
TripAdvisor files annual, quarterly and current reports, proxy statements and other information with the SEC. TripAdvisor’s
filings are available to the public over the Internet at the SEC’s website at http://www.sec.gov. You may also read and copy any
document that TripAdvisor files with the SEC at its public reference room in Washington, D.C. located at 100 F Street, N.E., Room
1580, Washington, D.C. 20549. Please call the SEC at 1-800-SEC-0330 for further information on the operation of the public
reference facilities. You can also obtain copies of those documents at prescribed rates by writing to the Public Reference Section of
the SEC at that address. TripAdvisor’s SEC filings are also available to the public from commercial retrieval services.
The SEC allows TripAdvisor to “incorporate by reference” the information that TripAdvisor’s files with the SEC, which means
that TripAdvisor can disclose important information to you by referring you to those documents. The information incorporated by
reference is an important part of this proxy statement. TripAdvisor incorporates by reference its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the
year ended December 31, 2014 filed with the SEC on February 17, 2015.
ANNUAL REPORTS
TripAdvisor’s Annual Report to Stockholders for 2015, which includes our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended
December 31, 2014 (not including exhibits), is available at http://ir.tripadvisor.com/annual-proxy.cfm. Upon written request to
TripAdvisor, Inc., 141 Needham Street, Newton, Massachusetts 02464, Attention: Secretary, TripAdvisor will provide, without
charge, an additional copy of TripAdvisor’s 2014 Annual Report on Form 10-K. TripAdvisor will furnish any exhibit contained in the
Annual Report on Form 10-K upon payment of a reasonable fee. Stockholders may also review a copy of the Annual Report on
Form 10-K (including exhibits) by accessing TripAdvisor’s corporate website at www.tripadvisor.com or the SEC’s website at
www.sec.gov.
PROPOSALS BY STOCKHOLDERS FOR PRESENTATION AT THE
2016 ANNUAL MEETING
Stockholders who wish to have a proposal considered for inclusion in TripAdvisor’s proxy materials for presentation at the 2016
Annual Meeting of Stockholders must ensure that their proposal is received by TripAdvisor no later than December 29, 2015 at its
principal executive offices at 141 Needham Street, Newton, Massachusetts 02464, Attention: Secretary. The proposal must be made in
accordance with the provisions of Rule 14a-8 of the Exchange Act. Stockholders who intend to present a proposal at the 2016 Annual
Meeting of Stockholders without inclusion of the proposal in TripAdvisor’s proxy materials are required to provide notice of such
proposal to TripAdvisor at its principal executive offices no later than March 11, 2016. TripAdvisor reserves the right to reject, rule
out of order or take other appropriate action with respect to any proposal that does not comply with these and other applicable
requirements.
DELIVERY OF DOCUMENTS TO STOCKHOLDERS SHARING AN ADDRESS
If you share an address with any of our other stockholders, your household might receive only one copy of the Proxy Statement,
Annual Report and Notice, as applicable. To request individual copies of any of these materials for each stockholder in your
household, please contact TripAdvisor, Inc., 141 Needham Street, Newton, Massachusetts 02464, Attention: Secretary, or call us at
617-670-6300. We will deliver copies of the Proxy Statement, Annual Report and/or Notice promptly following your request. To ask
that only one copy of any of these materials be mailed to your household, please contact your broker.
Newton, Massachusetts
April 28, 2015
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TripAdvisor, Inc.
Board of Directors
Gregory B. Maffei
Chairman
Stephen Kaufer
Director, President and Chief
Executive Officer
Jonathan F. Miller
Director
Dipchand (Deep) Nishar
Director
Jeremy Philips
Director
Christopher W. Shean
Director
Sukhinder Singh Cassidy
Director
Robert S. Wiesenthal
Director
Spencer M. Rascoff
Director
Executive Officers
Stephen Kaufer
President and
Chief Executive Officer
Julie M.B. Bradley
Chief Financial Officer, Chief
Accounting Officer and
Treasurer
Dermot Halpin
President,
Vacation Rentals
Seth Kalvert
Senior Vice President,
General Counsel and
Secretary
Barrie Seidenberg
CEO, Viator
Leadership
Bill Bailey
Vice President,
Corporate and Business
Development
Lily Cheng
President, APAC
Marc Charron
President,
TripAdvisor for Business
Andy Gelfond
Senior Vice President,
Engineering & Operations
Bertrand Jelensperger
CEO, Lafourchette
Robin Ingle
Senior Vice President,
Advertising Sales
Adam Medros
Senior Vice President, Global
Product
Barbara Messing
Chief Marketing Officer
Bryan Saltzburg
General Manager,
New Initiatives
Corporate and Stockholder Information
Headquarters
TripAdvisor, Inc.
141 Needham Street
Newton, Massachusetts 02464
Exchange Listing and Ticker Symbol
NASDAQ Global Select Market, “TRIP”
Annual Meeting
June 18, 2015, 1:30 p.m. Eastern Time
Goodwin Procter LLP
Exchange Place
53 State Street
Boston, Massachusetts 02109
Publications and Reports
A variety of stockholder publications and reports, including TripAdvisor’s
Annual Report on Form 10-K, proxy statement, financial news releases and a
variety of legal filings are available at http://ir.tripadvisor.com. Stockholders can
also request a copy of the Annual Report and proxy statement by contacting
the Secretary of TripAdvisor, Inc., 141 Needham Street, Newton, Massachusetts
02464.
Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
KPMG LLP
Two Financial Center
60 South Street
Boston, Massachusetts 02110
Transfer Agent and Registrar
Computershare
P.O. Box 358015
Pittsburgh, PA 15252
Electronic Delivery
Most stockholders can elect to receive e-mails in the future with links to the
Annual Report, proxy statement and voting web site. Registered
stockholders can sign up for electronic delivery at
www.bnymellon.com/shareowner/equityaccess. Street name stockholders
should contact their bank or broker to inquire about electronic delivery.