Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:
Title of each class
Trading Symbol(s)
Name of each exchange on which registered
Class A common stock
VMW
New York Stock Exchange
Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act: None
Indicate by a check mark if the registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act. Yes ☐No☑
Indicate by check mark if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or Section 15(d) of the Act. Yes ☐ No☑
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days. Yes☑ No ☐
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically every Interactive Data File required to be submitted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit such files). Yes☑ No ☐
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, a smaller reporting company, or an emerging growth company. See the definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer,” “smaller reporting company,” and “emerging growth company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.
Large accelerated filer
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Accelerated filer
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Non-accelerated filer
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Smaller reporting company
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Emerging growth company
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If an emerging growth company, indicate by check mark if the registrant has elected not to use the extended transition period for complying with any new or revised financial accounting standards provided pursuant to Section 13(a) of the Exchange Act. ☐
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has filed a report on and attestation to its management’s assessment of the effectiveness of its internal control over financial reporting under Section 404(b) of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act (15 U.S.C. 7262(b)) by the registered public accounting firm that prepared or issued its audit report. ☑
If securities are registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act, indicate by check mark whether the financial statements of the registrant included in the filing reflect the correction of an error to previously issued financial statements. ☐
Indicate by check mark whether any of those error corrections are restatements that required a recovery analysis of incentive-based compensation received by any of the registrant’s executive officers during the relevant recovery period pursuant to §240.10D-1(b). ☐
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act). Yes ☐ No ☑
As of July 29, 2022, the aggregate market value of the registrant’s Class A common stock held by non-affiliates of the registrant (based upon the closing sale price of such shares on the New York Stock Exchange on July 29, 2022 was approximately $24.5 billion. Shares of the registrant’s Class A common stock held by each executive officer and director and by each entity or person, other than investment companies, that, to the registrant’s knowledge, owned 5% or more of the registrant’s outstanding Class A common stock as of July 29, 2022 have been excluded in that such persons may be deemed to be affiliates of the registrant. This determination of affiliate status is not necessarily a conclusive determination for other purposes.
As of March 21, 2023, the number of shares of Class A common stock, par value $0.01 per share, of the registrant outstanding was 428,483,378.
DOCUMENTS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE
Information required in response to Part III of Form 10-K (Items 10, 11, 12, 13 and 14) is hereby incorporated by reference to portions of the registrant’s Proxy Statement for the Annual Meeting of Stockholders to be held in 2023. The Proxy Statement will be filed by the registrant with the Securities and Exchange Commission no later than 120 days after the end of the registrant’s fiscal year ended February 3, 2023.
VMware, Pivotal, Bitnami, Heptio, Wavefront, Tanzu, VMware Aria, CloudHealth, vRealize, vCloud, vSphere, NSX, HCX, Carbon Black, Anywhere Workplace, Workspace ONE, Horizon, VMware Explore, VMworld, VeloCloud, AirWatch, vCenter, and Nyansa are registered trademarks or trademarks of VMware, Inc. or its subsidiaries in the United States and other jurisdictions. All other marks and names mentioned herein may be trademarks of their respective organizations.
This Annual Report on Form 10-K contains forward-looking statements. All statements other than statements of historical fact could be deemed forward-looking statements and words such as “expect,” “anticipate,” “target,” “goal,” “project,” “intent,” “plan,” “believe,” “momentum,” “seek,” “estimate,” “continue,” “potential,” “future,” “endeavor,” “will,” “may,” “should,” “could,” “depend,” “predict,” and variations or the negative expression of such words and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements in this report include, but are not limited to, statements relating to expected industry trends and conditions; the expected timing and completion of the proposed transaction with Broadcom; future financial performance, trends or plans; anticipated impacts of developments in accounting rules and tax laws and rates; our expectations regarding the timing of tax payments and the impacts of changes in our corporate structure and alignment; plans for and anticipated benefits of VMware products, services and solutions and partner and alliance relationships; plans for, timing of and anticipated impacts and benefits of corporate transactions, capital-raising activities, acquisitions, stock repurchases and investment activities; the outcome or impact of pending litigation, claims or disputes; our ESG-related programs including the objectives of our 2030 Agenda and our programs to further diversity, equity and inclusion; the continuing impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the global economy as well as any related effects on our business operations, financial performance, results of operations and stock price; our commercial relationship with Dell; our plans to repay our outstanding indebtedness; our commitment and ability to maintain an investment-grade credit rating; the sufficiency of our cash sources to fund our operations; and any statements of assumptions underlying any of the foregoing. These statements are based on current expectations about the industries in which VMware operates and the beliefs and assumptions of management. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties and the cautionary statements set forth above and those contained in the section of this report entitled “Risk Factors” identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those predicted in any such forward-looking statements. All forward-looking statements in this document are made as of the date hereof, based on information available to us as of the date hereof. We assume no obligation to and do not currently intend to, update these forward-looking statements.
VMware is subject to various risks as set forth in Part I, Item 1A of this Annual Report on Form 10-K, including:
Risks Related to Our Pending Acquisition by Broadcom
•The pendency of our acquisition by Broadcom may have an adverse effect on our business, results of operations, cash flows and financial position.
•Completion of the transaction is subject to the conditions contained in the Merger Agreement, including regulatory approvals, which may not be received, may take longer than expected or may impose conditions that are not presently anticipated or that cannot be met, and if these conditions are not satisfied or waived, the transaction will not be completed.
•Lawsuits have been and may in the future be filed against us and our directors challenging the transaction, and an adverse ruling in any such lawsuit may delay or prevent the consummation of the transaction and result in substantial costs to us.
•The failure to complete the planned acquisition of us by Broadcom could have a material and adverse effect on our business, results of operations, financial condition, cash flows, and stock price.
Operation of Business and Strategic Risks
•A significant decrease in demand for our data center virtualization products would adversely affect our operating results.
•Our subscription and software-as-a-service (“SaaS”) offerings, which constitute a growing portion of our business and our initiatives to extend our data center virtualization and container platforms into the public cloud, involve various risks.
•Our success depends upon our ability to adapt our business and pricing models to a subscription and SaaS model appropriately.
•We face intense competition.
•Our commercial relationship with Dell could adversely impact our business, stock price, market share and ability to build and maintain other strategic relationships.
•Our success depends increasingly on customer acceptance of our newer products and services.
•Competition for our highly skilled employees is intense and costly.
•The loss of key management personnel could harm our business.
•Our current research and development efforts may not produce significant revenue.
•Acquisitions and divestitures could materially harm our business and operating results.
•Disruptions to our distribution channels, including our various routes to market through Dell, could harm our business.
•The evolution of our business requires more complex go-to-market strategies.
•We may not be able to respond to rapid technological changes with new solutions and services offerings.
•We operate a global business that exposes us to additional risks.
•Russia’s military actions in Ukraine have affected and may continue to affect our business.
•Our success depends on the interoperability of our products and services with those of other companies.
•Failure to effectively manage our product and service lifecycles could harm our business.
Financial Risks
•Our operating results may fluctuate significantly.
•Adverse economic conditions may harm our business.
•We have substantial indebtedness and may incur other debt in the future, which may adversely affect our financial condition and future financial results.
•We have potential tax liabilities as a result of our former controlling ownership by Dell, which could have an adverse effect on our operating results and financial condition.
•Our operating results may be adversely impacted by exposure to additional tax liabilities and higher than expected tax rates.
Security Risks
•Cybersecurity breaches of our systems or the systems of our vendors, partners and suppliers could materially harm our business.
•Our products and services are highly technical and may contain or be subject to our own or suppliers’ errors, defects or security vulnerabilities.
•Problems with our information systems could interfere with our business and could adversely impact our operations.
Legal and Compliance Risks
•We are involved in litigation, investigations and regulatory inquiries and proceedings that could negatively affect us.
•We may not be able to adequately protect our intellectual property rights.
•Actual or perceived non-compliance with privacy and data protection laws, regulations and standards could adversely impact our business.
•Our use of “open source” software in our products could negatively affect our ability to sell our products and subject us to litigation.
•If we fail to comply with government contracting regulations, our business could be adversely affected.
•Some of our directors have potential conflicts of interest with Dell.
Risks Related to Owning Our Class A Common Stock
•The MSD Stockholders and the SLP Stockholders have significant influence over us and their interests may conflict with our interests and the interests of our other stockholders.
•The price of our Class A common stock has fluctuated significantly in recent years and may fluctuate significantly in the future.
•Anti-takeover provisions in Delaware law and our charter documents could discourage takeover attempts.
•Our bylaws provide for an exclusive forum for substantially all disputes between us and our stockholders, which could limit our stockholders’ ability to obtain a favorable judicial forum for disputes with us or our directors, officers, or employees.
General Risks
•We are exposed to foreign exchange risks.
•If our goodwill or amortizable intangible assets become impaired, we may be required to record a significant charge to earnings.
•Changes in accounting principles and guidance could result in unfavorable accounting charges or effects.
•Natural disasters, catastrophic events or geo-political conditions could disrupt our business.
•Climate change may have a long-term negative impact on our business.
•Social and ethical issues, including our ability to make progress on our ESG goals and commitments, may result in reputational harm and liability.
VMware, Inc. (“VMware” or the “Company”) originally pioneered the development and application of virtualization technologies with x86 server-based computing, separating application software from the underlying hardware, and then evolved to become the private cloud and mobility management leader. Building upon that leadership, VMware is focused on becoming the multi-cloud leader. Information technology (“IT”) driven innovation continues to disrupt markets and industries. Technologies emerge faster than organizations can absorb, creating increasingly complex environments. Organizations’ IT departments and corporate divisions are working at an accelerated pace to harness new technologies, platforms and cloud models, ultimately guiding businesses and their product teams through a digital transformation. To take on these challenges, we are helping customers drive their multi-cloud strategy by providing the multi-cloud platform for all applications, enabling digital innovation and enterprise control.
Our multi-cloud portfolio, spanning application modernization, cloud management, cloud infrastructure, networking, security and anywhere workspaces, forms a flexible, consistent digital foundation on which customers can build, run, manage, connect and protect their mission-critical workloads.
We incorporated in Delaware in 1998 and were acquired by EMC Corporation (“EMC”) in 2004. In August 2007, we conducted an initial public offering of our Class A common stock (“Class A Stock”) but remained majority-owned by EMC, the sole stockholder of our Class B common stock (“Class B Stock”). In September 2016, Dell Technologies Inc. (“Dell”) acquired EMC, and we became a majority-owned subsidiary of Dell. In November 2021, our spin-off from Dell was completed, each share of Class B Stock converted into one fully paid and non-assessable share of Class A Stock and we became a standalone company (the “Spin-Off”). In connection with the Spin-Off, we paid an $11.5 billion cash dividend, pro rata, to each of the holders of our Class A Stock and Class B Stock as of the close of business on October 29, 2021 (the “Special Dividend”).
On May 26, 2022, we entered into an Agreement and Plan of Merger (the “Merger Agreement”) with Broadcom Inc. (“Broadcom”). Under the terms of the Merger Agreement, each share of Class A Stock issued and outstanding immediately prior to the effective time of the transaction will be converted into the right to receive, at the election of the holder of such share of Class A Stock, and subject to proration in accordance with the Merger Agreement as described below: (i) $142.50 per share in cash, without interest, or (ii) 0.25200 shares of common stock, par value $0.001 per share, of Broadcom. The transaction, which is expected to be consummated in Broadcom’s fiscal year 2023, was approved by VMware shareholders at a special meeting held on November 4, 2022 but remains subject to the receipt of regulatory approvals and other customary closing conditions. On February 17, 2023, in accordance with the Merger Agreement, the Company and Broadcom each delivered to the other a mutual notice to extend the Outside Date (as defined in the Merger Agreement) to May 26, 2023. If the Closing Effective Date (as defined in the Merger Agreement) has not occurred, similar three-month extensions could be noticed by either party (or mutually) five business days prior to each of May 26 and August 26, 2023. If the transaction is consummated, our Class A Stock will be delisted from the New York Stock Exchange and deregistered under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. Refer to Note A to the consolidated financial statements in Part II, Item 8 of this Annual Report on Form 10-K for more information.
Our fiscal year is the 52 or 53 weeks ending on the Friday nearest to January 31 of each year. We refer to our fiscal years ending February 3, 2023, January 28, 2022 and January 29, 2021 as “fiscal 2023,” “fiscal 2022,” and “fiscal 2021,” respectively. Fiscal 2023 was a 53-week fiscal year, while fiscal 2022 and fiscal 2021 were each 52-week fiscal years.
Total revenue in fiscal 2023 increased 4% to $13.4 billion. Total revenue is comprised of license revenue of $2.8 billion, subscription and software-as-a-service (“SaaS”) revenue of $4.0 billion and services revenue of $6.5 billion. As customers shift from our on-premises offerings to our subscription and SaaS offerings, license revenue and software maintenance revenue may be lower and subject to greater fluctuation in the future, resulting from a higher proportion of our sales occurring through our subscription and SaaS offerings.
Our corporate headquarters are located at 3401 Hillview Avenue, Palo Alto, California, and we have 114 offices worldwide.
Products and Technology Solutions
Our portfolio supports and addresses our customers’ key priorities, including modernizing their applications, managing multi-cloud environments, accelerating their cloud journey, modernizing the network using commodity hardware, embracing zero-trust security and empowering anywhere workspaces. We enable digital transformation of customers’ applications, infrastructure and operations for their constantly evolving business and employee needs.
VMware Tanzu, a portfolio of products and services for modernizing applications and infrastructure, enables customers to deliver better software to production, continuously. The portfolio enables customers to build, run and manage modern applications on any cloud and simplifies the use of Kubernetes, an open source platform for orchestrating containers, in a multi-cloud environment. The modern or cloud-native applications allow businesses to bring new ideas to market faster and respond sooner to customer demands. Tanzu uses cloud-native patterns to build applications with microservices and application programming interfaces and uses Kubernetes to simplify how these applications are deployed, observed and managed across on-premises, public clouds and edge environments. Tanzu includes technologies acquired as part of our Pivotal, Bitnami, and Heptio acquisitions.
Key products within our Application Modernization portfolio include:
•Tanzu Application Platform—a modular, application-aware platform that provides a rich set of developer tooling and a prepared path to production to build and deploy software quickly and more securely on any compliant public cloud or on-premises Kubernetes cluster.
•Tanzu Operations Platform—a solution thatsimplifies operating Kubernetes environments for multi-cluster, multi-Kubernetes and multi-cloud deployment with policy-based management, automation and governance for clusters, service mesh, observability and teams across on-premises, public clouds and edge environments.
•Tanzu Application Service—a platform as a service that allows enterprises to accelerate cloud-native software development with managed access to native cloud services and portability to run across any cloud.
•Tanzu Data Suite—a family of data-driven solutions built to store, process and query critical data resources in real-time and at scale in the multi-cloud world.
•Tanzu Labs—a service that provides guidance and support to help customers modernize existing applications or build new, modern applications with agile development practices.
Cloud Management
Our cloud management productshelp customers manage multi-cloud environments running a range of workloads, including virtual machines and containers. VMware Aria offerings optimize cloud usage and costs; automate the deployment, management and migration of applications and data; improve cloud secure configurations and compliance; and monitor application and cloud infrastructure.
Key products within our VMware Aria portfolio include:
•VMware Aria—cloud management products, available as a service or as an on-premises offering, that are integrated together, delivering consistent operations from data centers to the cloud and to the edge, including:
•VMware Aria Automation (formerly vRealize Automation)—a modern infrastructure automation platform enabling customers to accelerate their multi-cloud infrastructure transformations based on Development and IT operations (“DevOps”), open source and self-service automation.
•VMware Aria Automation for Secure Clouds (formerly CloudHealth SecureState)—an intelligent multi-cloud security and compliance monitoring platform that helps organizations reduce risk and protect cloud resources.
•VMware Aria Cost Powered by CloudHealth—a robust multi-cloud management platform that helps organizations optimize and control spend and improve cross-organizational collaboration.
•VMware Aria Operations (formerly vRealize Operations)—an artificial intelligence-powered IT operations management platform that enables self-driving operations with unified application-to-infrastructure visibility, capacity and cost management, workload optimization and configuration, and compliance management to better optimize, plan and scale private-, hybrid- and multi-cloud environments.
•VMware Aria Operations for Applications (formerly Tanzu Observability by Wavefront)—an enterprise-grade monitoring and observability platform with out-of-the-box integration with Tanzu that DevOps and Site Reliability Engineering teams use to troubleshoot and optimize the performance of their multi-cloud applications operating at massive, cloud-native scale.
•VMware Aria Operations for Logs (formerly vRealize Log Insight)—a log analysis tool that manages data at scale with centralized log management, deep operational visibility and intelligent analytics for troubleshooting and auditing across private-, hybrid- and multi-cloud environments.
•VMware Aria Operations for Networks (formerly vRealize Network Insight)—a network monitoring tool that provides end-to-end network visibility to help customers monitor and build an optimized, highly available and more secure network infrastructure across clouds.
•VMware Aria Suite (formerly vRealize Suite)—a cloud management solution that combines the on-premises VMware Aria Automation, VMware Aria Operations and VMware Aria Operations for Logs products into a single cloud management platform offering with a single license.
•VMware Aria Universal Suite (formerlyvRealize Cloud Universal)—a management suite that combines SaaS and on-premises VMware Aria products into a single cloud management offering with a single license, providing customers with a consistent hybrid and multi-cloud management experience across the disciplines of cost, performance, secure configuration and automation.
•vCloud Suite—an enterprise-grade cloud infrastructure and management solution that combines the on-premises VMware Aria Automation, VMware Aria Operations and VMware Aria Operations for Logs products with VMware vSphere.
Cloud Infrastructure
Our Cloud Infrastructure solutions include infrastructure products and services that enable customers to run enterprise applications anywhere with a consistent infrastructure and operating model from on-premises data centers to the cloud and to the edge.
Key products within our Cloud Infrastructure portfolio include:
•vSphere—our flagship data center infrastructure offering, utilizes our hypervisor software, which resides between the operating system and system hardware, to provide the fundamental compute layer for customer environments, enabling virtualization. vSphere now supports Data Processing Units (“DPUs”) along with existing support for Central Processing Unit (“CPUs”) and Graphics Processing Units (“GPUs”) to help customers meet the throughput and latency needs of modern distributed workloads. Additionally, we continue to integrate vSphere and VMware Tanzu solutions to provide a simple way for vSphere customers around the world to get started with Kubernetes and to modernize their workloads running on vSphere.
•vSAN and VxRail—a cost-effective, holistic data storage and protection option for all applications running on vSphere. These products are applicable to hyperconverged infrastructure as well as traditional infrastructure solutions and enable customers to deploy on a broad range of hardware solutions. Our vSAN offering creates simple, shared storage designed for virtual machines. Featuring a next-generation storage platform optimized for modern hardware with hyperconverged infrastructure, our latest vSAN release features breakthrough performance and hyper-efficiency. VxRail is a hyperconverged infrastructure solution comprised of a fully integrated and pre-configured Dell EMC appliance powered by vSAN and vSphere software.
•VMware Cloud Foundation—a cloud platform that combines our vSphere, vSAN and NSX, or network virtualization, offerings with VMware Aria Cloud Management into an integrated stack that delivers developer-ready infrastructure for public and private clouds. VMware Cloud Foundation extends to multi-cloud through these main routes: VMware Cloud on AWS, VMware Cloud on other major hyperscalers, including Azure VMware Solution, Google Cloud VMware Engine, IBM Cloud for VMware Solutions, Oracle Cloud VMware Solution and Alibaba Cloud VMware Service and VMware Cloud providers.
•VMware Cloud on AWS—an integrated hybrid cloud solution that extends on-premises vSphere environments to a VMware Software-Defined Data Center (“SDDC”) running on Amazon Elastic Compute Cloud (“Amazon EC2”). Jointly engineered by VMware and Amazon Web Services (“AWS”), this on-demand service enables IT teams to seamlessly extend, migrate and manage their cloud-based resources with familiar VMware tools, minimizing the difficulty of learning new skills or utilizing new tools. VMware Cloud on AWS integrates VMware’s flagship compute, storage and network virtualization products (vSphere, vSAN and NSX), along with vCenter Server management and optimizes them to run on dedicated, elastic, Amazon EC2 bare-metal infrastructure that is fully integrated with AWS Cloud. This service also provides integrated Kubernetes, disaster recovery, ransomware protection and microsegmentation. VMware, AWS and the AWS partner networks sell VMware Cloud on AWS, which is available in 22 global AWS regions, while VMware and our partner community deliver and support the service.
•VMware Cloud on other major hyperscalers—includesAzure VMware Solution, an infrastructure-as-a-service private cloud offering built on VMware Cloud Foundation that runs on dedicated bare-metal servers in Azure regions. It is a service sold and supported by Microsoft, backed and cloud verified by VMware. VMware Cloud on other major hyperscalers also includes Google Cloud VMware Engine, an integrated first-
party offering that is built, sold and supported directly by Google Cloud and delivers a fully managed VMware Cloud Foundation stack along with VMware HCX for cloud migration in a dedicated environment on Google Cloud.
•VMware Cloud Providers—a key component of our strategic priority to support multi-cloud, this global ecosystem of more than 4,500 cloud providers in over 130 countries provides VMware-based cloud services. VMware Cloud Provider offerings are directed at traditional hosting partners, regional cloud providers and local and global managed service providers. VMware Cloud Providers give organizations the flexibility of running applications in virtual machines, in containers or both on their own private clouds inside their data center and on public clouds by providing multi-cloud managed services. IBM was our first cloud provider partner to offer VMware Cloud Foundation as-a-service, enabling their customers to leverage our technologies on IBM Cloud in their worldwide cloud data centers.
•VMware Sovereign Cloud Providers—more than 30 VMware Cloud Providers offer services aligned to the VMware Sovereign Cloud Framework which deliver key sovereign capabilities that enable nations to ensure classified data is protected, compliant, and resident within and subject to the laws of their respective national territory, exempt from foreign jurisdictional control and managed by national citizens with relevant national security clearance.
We also offer VMware Cloud Universal, a flexible purchasing and consumption program that enables customers to purchase and apply credits to the deployment of VMware Cloud infrastructure services.
Additionally, for customers who want the benefit of cloud offerings but have on-premises infrastructure and workloads, our offerings such as vSphere+, vSAN+ and VMware Cloud Foundation+ provide a flexible subscription model combined with centralized cloud-based infrastructure management, integrated Kubernetes and access to hybrid cloud services.
Networking
We offer a complete portfolio of Layer 2-7 multi-cloud network virtualization and security solutions that deliver innovative software-based capabilities for switching, routing, firewalling, intrusion prevention and intrusion detection systems, network detection and response, load balancing, application security, service mesh and SD-WAN for enterprise and Telco environments. These networking solutions enable customers to connect and protect all workloads running on virtual machines, in containers, on bare metal and across data centers, multi-cloud environments and the distributed edge. Adoption of VMware networking solutions is driven by customers who are replacing legacy, hardware-centric network and security infrastructure, such as physical firewalls and load balancers and expensive dedicated wide-area network links.
Key products within our Networking portfolio include:
•VMware NSX—our network virtualization platform that abstracts physical networks to greatly simplify customers’ provisioning and consumption of networking and security resources. NSX can be layered into any environment, integrates with many automation, security and container solutions and is a foundational part of our key offerings, such as VMware Cloud Foundation.
•NSX Distributed and Gateway Firewalls—a software-defined Layer 7 firewall that is purpose-built to help secure multi-cloud traffic across virtualized workloads. NSX Gateway Firewall is complementary to NSX Distributed Firewall and helps protect physical workloads and create secure zones. Both provide stateful firewalling with intrusion detection and prevention, sandboxing, network traffic analysis and network detection and response to provide complete visibility into applications and workload flows with policy automation that are linked to workload lifecycles.
•NSX Network Detection and Response—an artificial intelligence-based threat correlation and forensics engine, delivered as either standalone or integrated tightly within NSX, that helps network security and security operations teams efficiently detect malicious activity and block lateral movement of sophisticated threats.
•NSX Advanced Load Balancer—a platform that provides consistent, multi-cloud load balancing, web application firewall, bot management and insights across on-premises and multi-cloud environments.
•Tanzu Service Mesh—an enterprise-class service mesh solution that provides end-to-end operational visibility, control and security for distributed cloud-native applications, across end-users, applications and data, on any platform or cloud.
•HCX—an application mobility platform that simplifies application migration, workload rebalancing and business continuity across data centers and clouds.
Our offerings also include VMware SASE, a cloud-native platform that converges cloud networking and cloud security into a holistic solution. Regardless of the location of users, VMware SASE provides optimized and more secure access for
applications at the edge, cloud, or traditional data center, managed via a single user interface. Organizations use VMware SASE to provide their users with more reliable, optimal and secure access to any application in on-premises, public cloud and edge environments. The VMware SASE platform includesVMware SD-WAN, which delivers high-performance, reliable and more secure access to cloud services, private data centers and SaaS-based enterprise applications for remote workers, via a soft client, and branch locations via physical and virtual devices; VMware Secure Access, a cloud-hosted solution that secures and optimizes corporate network and application access for remote and mobile users based on a Zero Trust Network Access framework; VMware Cloud Web Security, a cloud-hosted service that protects users and infrastructure accessing SaaS and Internet applications from evolving threats, offers visibility into and control over internet and SaaS application usage and enables compliance with administered security access rights; and Edge Network Intelligence, which uses artificial intelligence and machine learning technologies to simplify troubleshooting while also providing unique insights into the user experience. These services can be sold individually or together for the full VMware SASE solution.
Security
Today’s modern, distributed enterprise requires security that is both built-in and built differently. Our architecture uniquely helps enable customers to see processes running in an endpoint, packets crossing the network, access points and the inner workings of both traditional and modern applications to identify and stop threats. VMware Carbon Black Cloud, a SaaS-delivered cloud native endpoint, workload and container protection platform, is at the center of the VMware security portfolio.
Key products within our Security portfolio include:
•Carbon Black Endpoint—an endpoint security solution that consolidates multiple endpoint security capabilities using one lightweight agent and cloud console to ease analysis of complex attacks, simplify the automation of detection and response workflows and identify attackers’ changing behavior patterns to better detect, respond to and prevent emerging and continuing attacks. This endpoint protection platform includes next-generation antivirus, endpoint detection and response, managed detection and response, audit and remediation, and threat hunting and containment.
•Carbon Black Workload—a cloud workload protection solution that delivers advanced protection purpose-built for better securing modern workloads, reducing the attack surface and strengthening security postures. The solution combines prioritized vulnerability reporting and foundational workload hardening with prevention, detection and response capabilities to protect workloads running in virtualized private and hybrid cloud environments. VMware Carbon Black Workload is also tightly integrated with vSphere to provide built-in security that alleviates installation and management overhead and consolidates the collection or telemetry for multiple workload security use cases.
•Carbon Black Container—an enterprise-grade container security solution that enables container security to reduce risk, enhance visibility, maintain compliance and simplify security for Kubernetes environments, from development to production. VMware Carbon Black Container empowers cross-functional teams to secure the complete lifecycle of Kubernetes applications, detect and fix vulnerabilities and misconfigurations before production deployment, meet compliance standards and achieve simple, secure multi-cloud and hybrid cloud Kubernetes environments at scale.
Anywhere Workspace
VMware Anywhere Workspace is designed to deliver secure and seamless experiences for distributed workforces while reducing costs and operational overhead for organizations. Anywhere Workspace incorporates our Unified Endpoint Management (“UEM”), Virtual Desktops and Applications, Workspace Security, and Digital Employee Experience technologies into a single, seamless, and more secure experience for IT and employees. The Anywhere Workspace platform consists of:
•Workspace ONE UEM—a solution built to manage and help secure mobile devices, laptops and other devices across all major operating systems from a single management console and includes a suite of productivity applications that enable customers to more effectively manage and secure both corporate and personal devices.
•Workspace ONE Access—a cloud-first service that enables IT to provide employees with access to SaaS, web, and native mobile applications with multi-factor authentication, conditional access, and single sign-on.
•Workspace ONE Intelligent Hub—a digital workspace application available for any employee on any device that enables secure access to corporate applications and resources “from hire to retire,” including single-sign-on access to any application from a unified catalog, while enabling IT to send informational and actionable notifications, provide customizable self-service actions and share VMware Knowledge Base articles and intranet access.
•Horizon—a platform that provides a streamlined approach to delivering, protecting and managing virtual desktops and applications from one digital workspace, while containing costs and allowing end users to work anytime, anywhere and across any device.
•Workspace ONE Mobile Threat Defense—a mobile endpoint protection solution integrated into Workspace ONE Intelligent Hub designed to protect devices from phishing as well as a wide range of application, device and rogue network originated threats, powered by Lookout, a leader in advanced mobile security.
•Digital Employee Experience Management—a cloud-first service empowering IT to measure, analyze and remediate end-user experience by providing an experience score (combining device, application user telemetry and employee sentiment surveys), machine-learning driven root cause analysis and pre-built integrations for automated remediation and collaboration.
Our expansive portfolio enables customers to deliver virtual desktops and applications to users in many ways, from customer-managed solutions that run on any on-premises or VMware Cloud certified environments, including VMware Cloud on AWS, Google Cloud VMware Engine, IBM Cloud, Oracle Cloud VMware Solution, Azure VMware Solution and more, to a fully managed Desktop-as-a-Service solution delivered natively from Microsoft Azure (“Azure”).
Technology Alliances
We have more than 830 technology partners with whom we bring offerings to the marketplace and over 4,500 active cloud, hyperscaler and managed service provider partners. We classify our partners as follows:
Strategic Technology Vendors (“STVs”)—we have established relationships with large technology partners, including AMD, Apple, Cisco, Fujitsu, Hitachi, HPE, IBM, Intel, Lenovo, NVIDIA and Samsung. These partnerships allow us to collaborate on joint product development and ensure interoperability and readiness of joint solution through certification, allowing VMware to provide its customers with options for technology solutions in the areas of multi-cloud and modern application.
Independent Software Vendors (“ISVs”)—we partner with leading systems management, infrastructure software and application software vendors, including healthcare, telecom, finance and retail leaders, to deliver value-added solutions that interoperate with our products.
VMware Cloud Providers—we have established partnerships with more than 4,500 active cloud, hyperscaler and managed service providers, including Alibaba, AUCloud, Equinix, Google, IBM, Lumen, Microsoft, NTT, NxtGen, Oracle, OVH, Rackspace, Telefonica, Tietoevry and Vodafone, that support our multi-cloud strategy. These partners leverage our cloud technologies to host and deliver enterprise-class cloud services including managed services for enterprises to augment or extend their data centers to external clouds, while preserving security, compliance and quality of service.
In addition to our base of active partnerships with cloud providers, we have a strategic alliance with AWS to build and deliver an integrated hybrid offering, VMware Cloud on AWS, that enables customers to run applications across vSphere-based private, public and multi-cloud environments.
Our Technology Alliance Partner (“TAP”) program facilitates collaborative solution creation and coordinated go-to-market activities for our ecosystem of more than 830 technology partners. Created exclusively for STV and ISV partners, the TAP program gives technology partners the ability to test, integrate and package application software, infrastructure and hardware products with our products and services offerings—on premises or in the cloud.
Our ISVs and other alliance partners, developers and additional VMware community members continue to distribute software applications as virtual appliances. We invest significant capital in testing and certifications of infrastructure to rigorously ensure our software is compatible with major hardware and software products.
Research and Development
We have made, and expect to continue to make, significant investments in research and development (“R&D”). We have assembled an experienced group of developers with expertise within application modernization, cloud management, cloud infrastructure, networking, security, anywhere workspaces, software-as-a-service, open source and edge solutions. We also have strong ties to leading academic institutions around the world, and we invest in joint research with academia.
We prioritize our product development efforts through a combination of engineering-driven innovation and customer- and market-driven feedback. Our R&D culture places a high value on innovation, quality and open collaboration with our partners. We currently participate in numerous open source communities, and our employees hold a variety of leadership positions within those open source communities.
We continue to invest in our key growth areas while also investing in areas that we expect to be significant growth drivers in future periods.
Our go-to-market efforts include a direct sales force, including a specialized sales force for our key growth offerings, and our channel and cloud partners.
We have well-established, ongoing business relationships with our distributors. Our distributors purchase software licenses and software support from us for resale to end-user customers via resellers.These resellers are part of VMware Partner Connect, a program which offers resellers pricing incentives, rebates, sales and product enablement through the VMware Partner Connect web portal and access to the worldwide network of VMware distributors. In addition, our channel partner network includes certain systems integrators and resellers trained and certified to deliver consulting services and solutions leveraging our products. Our channel network also includes partners that host our products and deliver them as-a-service to customers.
We generally do not have long-term contracts or minimum-purchase commitments with our distributors, resellers, system vendors and systems integrators and our contracts with these channel partners do not prohibit them from offering products or services that compete with ours.
End users can purchase the full breadth of our subscription, SaaS, license and services portfolio through discrete purchases or through enterprise agreements (“EAs”), both of which provide access to a range of flexible purchasing programs. EAs are sold to our direct customers and through channel partners and can include our license, multi-year maintenance and support, subscription and SaaS offerings. EAs enable us to build long-term relationships with our customers as they commit to our virtual infrastructure solutions. Our sales cycle varies depending on numerous factors, including the size and complexity of the proposed offering and a customer’s infrastructure footprint.
In establishing list prices for our solutions, we take into account, among other numerous factors, the value our solutions deliver and the cost of alternative virtualization, end-user computing, hardware, cloud native and security solutions.
Our marketing efforts focus on communicating the benefits of our solutions and educating our customers and users, distributors, resellers, system vendors, systems integrators, the media and analysts about the advantages of our innovative offerings. We raise awareness of our company and brands, market our products and generate sales leads through VMware and industry events, public relations efforts, marketing materials, advertising, direct marketing, social media initiatives, free downloads and trials and our website. We have invested in multiple online communities that enable customers and partners to share and discuss sales and development resources, best practices implementation and industry trends among other topics. Our annual user and partner conference, VMware Explore (formerly VMworld) is a global event. We also offer management presentations, seminars and webinars on our solutions and services. We believe the combination of these activities strengthens our brand and enhances our leadership in the industries in which we compete.
In connection with the Spin-Off, we and Dell entered into the Commercial Framework Agreement to provide a framework under which we and Dell have continued our strategic commercial relationship, particularly with respect to projects mutually agreed as having the potential to accelerate the growth of an industry, product, service or platform that may provide a strategic market opportunity. The Commercial Framework Agreement has an initial term of five years, with automatic one-year renewals occurring annually thereafter, subject to certain terms and conditions. Bookings through Dell sales channels in aggregate comprise the largest route-to-market for our sales.
We also have strategic partnerships with AWS, Google, IBM and Microsoft to jointly provide the expertise, solutions and go-to-market capabilities to help our customers efficiently and more securely extend their proven software-defined solutions into public clouds, utilizing the tools and processes with which our customers are already familiar.
Our business and the sales of our products and services are subject to seasonality. For example, our fourth quarter sales are affected by a number of seasonal factors, including year-end spending trends, that impact the timing of renewals of our EAs and support and maintenance contracts.
Remaining Performance Obligations
Remaining performance obligations represent the aggregate amount of the transaction price in contracts allocated to performance obligations not delivered, or partially undelivered, as of the end of the reporting period. Remaining performance obligations include unearned revenue, multi-year contracts with future installment payments and certain unfulfilled orders against accepted, non-cancellable customer contracts at the end of any given period.
As of February 3, 2023, the aggregate transaction price allocated to remaining performance obligations was $13.6 billion, of which approximately 54% is expected to be recognized as revenue over the next twelve months and the remainder thereafter.
As of January 28, 2022, the aggregate transaction price allocated to remaining performance obligations was $12.0 billion, of which approximately 57% was expected to be recognized as revenue during fiscal 2023 and the remainder thereafter.
Remaining performance obligations did not include customer prepayments received for contracts that include certain cancellation rights, such as termination for convenience, which were included in customer deposits on the consolidated balance sheets and were $681 million as of February 3, 2023.
Backlog
Backlog is comprised of unfulfilled purchase orders or unfulfilled executed agreements at the end of a given period and is net of related estimated rebates and marketing development funds. Backlog consists of licenses, subscription and SaaS and services. As of February 3, 2023, our total backlog was $72 million, substantially all of which consisted of orders received on
the last day of the quarter that were not shipped or provisioned to customers, and orders held due to our export control process. Backlog related to license was not material as of February 3, 2023. Backlog excluded from the remaining performance obligations because such contracts are subject to cancellation until the performance obligation is fulfilled was not material as of February 3, 2023.
As of January 28, 2022, our total backlog was $88 million and our backlog related to licenses was $14 million. For our backlog related to licenses, we generally expect to deliver and recognize revenue during the following quarter. Backlog totaling $36 million as of January 28, 2022 was excluded from the remaining performance obligations because such contracts are subject to cancellation until the performance obligation is fulfilled.
The amount and composition of backlog will fluctuate period to period. We do not believe the amount of backlog is indicative of future sales or revenue or that the mix of backlog at the end of any given period correlates with actual sales performance of a particular geography or particular products or services.
Customers
Our product offerings allow customers to manage IT resources across private clouds and complex multi-cloud, multi-device environments. Customer deployments range in size from a single virtualized server for small businesses to thousands of virtual machines and managed devices for our largest enterprise customers.
During fiscal 2023, revenue from Dell, including purchases of products and services directly from us, as well as through our channel partners, accounted for 38% of our consolidated revenue. These purchases included Dell selling joint solutions as an original equipment manufacturer (“OEM”), which accounted for 14% of total revenue from Dell, or 5% of our consolidated revenue. The remaining revenue from Dell consisted of Dell acting as a distributor to other non-Dell resellers, reselling products and services as a reseller or purchasing products and services for its own internal use. On certain transactions, Dell Financial Services (“DFS”) also provided financing to our end users at our end users’ discretion.
Other than Dell, none of our distributors accounted for more than 10% of our consolidated revenue during fiscal 2023. Our distribution agreements are typically terminable at will by either party upon 30 to 90 days prior written notice to the other party and neither party has any obligation to purchase or sell any products under the agreement.
Competition
We face intense competition across all markets for our products and services. We believe that the key factors in our ability to successfully compete include the level of reliability, interoperability and new functionality of our product and service offerings; the ability of our product offerings to support multiple hardware platforms, operating systems, applications frameworks and public cloud platforms; our ability to anticipate customer needs in rapidly evolving markets for IT resources; the pricing of our product and service offerings; the ability to integrate open source technologies that are critical in private and public cloud computing architectures; the ability to attract and retain key employees; and the ability to maintain and expand our ecosystem of technology partners, service providers and sales channel partners. While we believe that we are a technology leader in virtualization and cloud infrastructure solutions and have a strong, favorable image with our customers, many of our current or potential competitors have longer operating histories, greater name recognition, larger customer bases and significantly greater financial, technical, sales, marketing and other resources than we do. Additionally, the adoption of public and distributed cloud, micro-services, containers and open source technologies have the potential to erode our profitability.
We face competition from, among others:
Providers of public cloud infrastructure and SaaS-based multi-cloud offerings. As businesses increasingly utilize public cloud and SaaS-based offerings, they are building more of their new compute workloads, and may also shift some of their existing workloads, off-premises. A significant percentage of new application development is happening in the public cloud, with providers such as AWS, Azure or Google Cloud, or in a distributed fashion, and these new applications are often deployed on public cloud or multi-cloud infrastructure. As a result, the demand for on-premises IT resources is expected to slow, and our products and services will need to increasingly compete for customers’ IT workloads with off-premises public cloud and SaaS-based multi-cloud offerings, such as those offered by Datadog in monitoring and IT telemetry and ServiceNow in the automation space. If we fail to address evolving customer priorities or requirements, the demand for VMware’s products and
services may decline, and we could experience slower than expected or no growth. Additionally, VMware Cloud Provider Program (“VCPP”) offerings from our partners may compete directly with infrastructure-as-a-service (“IaaS”) offerings from various public cloud providers, which are increasingly integrated with on-premises solutions. Although we have formed alliances with various public cloud providers to create hybrid and multi-cloud offerings, we continue to face intense competition from these public cloud providers. In fiscal 2018, we entered into a strategic alliance with AWS to deliver a vSphere-based cloud service, VMware Cloud on AWS, running in AWS data centers available in certain geographies. In fiscal 2019, we extended our collaboration with AWS to include VMware Cloud on AWS Outposts to deliver VMware Cloud on AWS as a fully managed experience to virtually any datacenter, co-location space or on-premises facility. In fiscal 2020, we also announced partnerships with Microsoft (Azure VMware Solution by CloudSimple), Google (Google Cloud VMware Engine), and Oracle (Oracle Cloud VMware Solution) under the framework of our VCPP that enable customers to run native VMware-based workloads on each of Azure, Google Cloud, and Oracle Cloud. Our partnerships with AWS and other public cloud providers may be seen as competitive with each other and with other VCPP partners, while some partners may elect to include solutions such as VMware Cloud on AWS as part of their managed services provider offerings. In addition, many of these public cloud providers, including AWS and Microsoft, are delivering hybrid cloud hardware solutions with integrated software, such as distributed cloud management, which may be based on specialized technologies sometimes called SmartNICs (smart network interface cards), DPUs or infrastructure processing units (“IPUs”). These specialized technologies can take on an array of compute, storage, security and networking functions, enabling greater cloud efficiency and performance gains, as well as security benefits, namely in the form of CPU hardware isolation, that may undergird hybrid cloud offerings like AWS Outposts. Public cloud infrastructure providers have also developed offerings based on servers using Arm CPUs to reduce energy costs, such as AWS Graviton, announced in 2018. To the extent customers and partners, including service providers, choose to adopt co-processor or non-x86-based models to operate native or hybrid cloud environments, demand for VMware’s on-premises, hybrid and multi-cloud products and our operating results could be materially adversely affected.
Providers of application modernization and open source developer platform services. Many public cloud infrastructure and multi-cloud SaaS competitors also offer standalone or embedded application development, or Platform-as-a-Service (“PaaS”), services. With respect to AWS, Azure and Google Cloud, PaaS services are often bundled with consumption-based IaaS offerings. These IaaS providers and other developer solution partners, such as Red Hat, a subsidiary of IBM, and HashiCorp, offer tools and services based on containers and development, security and operations (“DevSecOps”) or “shift-left” practices. These providers may offer services, such as application security testing, application performance monitoring and automation, earlier in the application lifecycle or during development, in addition to during production. While VMware offers Tanzu Observability, which directly competes in this space, competitor DevSecOps offerings may reduce the demand for or put pricing pressure on traditional VMware management and automation product offerings, which are often deployed for production use cases. Open source technologies for containerization and cloud platforms, such as Xen, KVM, Docker, rkt, OpenShift, Mesos, Kubernetes and OpenStack, and other open source software-based products, solutions and services may reduce the demand for our solutions, put pricing pressure on our offerings and enable competing vendors to leverage open source technologies to compete directly with us. New platform technologies and standards based on open source software are consistently being developed and can gain popularity quickly. Improvements in open source software could cause customers to replace software purchased from us with open source software. In step with these trends, we deliver a comprehensive container, Kubernetes and Cloud Native Application technologies portfolio with VMware Tanzu and have increased our level of commitment to open source projects and communities, such as the Cloud Native Computing Foundation, that are designed to increase the rate at which customers adopt micro-services architectures. The adoption of distributed micro-service application architectures, and their alignment with container technologies, represents an emerging area of competition. As we continue to invest in these areas, we will experience increasing competitive overlap with other cloud native vendors, such as Red Hat, and the large providers of public cloud infrastructure and developer services. Such competitive pressure or the availability of new open source software may cause us to experience reduced sales, increased pricing pressure, increased sales and marketing expenses and reduced operating margins, any one of which may adversely affect our operating results.
Providers of enterprise security offerings. With our acquisition of Carbon Black Inc. (“Carbon Black”) in 2019, we launched a new set of enterprise security solutions that includes the Carbon Black endpoint security platform and the intrinsic security elements of our existing NSX virtual networking, Workspace ONE end user and our compute offerings. The cybersecurity market is large, highly competitive, fragmented and subject to rapidly evolving technology, shifting customer needs and frequent introductions of new solutions. Competitors in the end point security space range from established solution providers such as Microsoft and Trend Micro to next-generation endpoint security providers such as CrowdStrike and SentinelOne. While we believe that the intrinsic security elements in our existing offerings coupled with our Carbon Black endpoint security offerings and new combined offerings we expect to develop and introduce in the future will enable us to provide an integrated security offering with significant advantages over our competitors’ current offerings, our ability to gain traction and market share as a new entrant into this well-established market segment is uncertain. Additionally, new trends, such as Extended Threat Detection (“XDR”), Secure Access Service Edge (“SASE”) and Zero Trust Network Access, represent the coalescence of formerly distinct markets, such as identity management, secure web gateway, SD-WAN, network firewall and
cloud access security brokers. These new trends may bring existing partners, such as Fortinet, Zscaler and Okta into a more competitive position with our Carbon Black, VeloCloud and other distributed network security offerings. If we are unable to successfully adapt our product and service offerings to meet these opportunities and rapidly evolving trends our operating results could be adversely affected.
Large, diversified enterprise software and hardware companies. These competitors supply a wide variety of products and services to, and have well-established relationships with, our current and prospective end users. For example, small- to medium-sized businesses and companies in emerging markets that are evaluating the adoption of virtualization-based technologies and solutions may be inclined to consider Microsoft solutions because of their existing use of Windows and Office products. Some of these competitors have in the past and may in the future take advantage of their existing relationships to engage in business practices that make our products and services less attractive or more expensive to our end users. For example, in 2019, Microsoft modified its on-premises licensing terms to require end users who wish to deploy Microsoft software on certain dedicated hosted cloud services other than Microsoft’s Azure cloud service, including VMware Cloud on AWS, to purchase additional rights from Microsoft. Other competitors have limited or denied support for their applications running in VMware virtualization environments. In addition, these competitors could integrate competitive capabilities into their existing products and services and make them available without additional charge. For example, Oracle provides free server virtualization software intended to support Oracle and non-Oracle applications, Microsoft offers its own server, network and storage virtualization software packaged with its Windows Server product as well as built-in virtualization in the client version of Windows and Cisco includes network virtualization technology in many of its data center networking platforms. As a result, existing and prospective VMware customers may elect to use products that are perceived to be “free” or “very low cost” instead of purchasing VMware products and services for certain applications where they do not believe that more advanced and robust capabilities are required.
Other industry alliances. Many of our competitors have entered into or extended partnerships or other strategic relationships to offer more comprehensive virtualization and cloud computing solutions than they individually had offered. We expect these trends to continue as companies attempt to strengthen or maintain their positions in the evolving virtualization infrastructure and enterprise IT solutions industry. For example, Google Cloud is a member of the CrowdXDR Alliance, a CrowdStrike initiative competitive with VMware security offerings that also includes other VMware partners such as Zscaler. Many public cloud infrastructure providers have also entered into strategic partnerships with mobile telecommunications network providers (such as AWS with Verizon and Microsoft Azure with AT&T) to jointly embed distributed cloud infrastructure and management tools into 5G mobile networks as applications are increasingly deployed closer to end users at the “edge.” These alliances may result in more compelling product and service offerings than those we offer.
Our partners and members of our developer and technology partner ecosystem. We face competition from our partners. For example, third parties currently selling our products and services could build and market their own competing products and services or market competing products and services of other vendors. Additionally, as formerly distinct sectors of enterprise IT, such as software-based virtualization and hardware-based server, networking and storage solutions, converge, we also increasingly compete with companies who are members of our developer and technology partner ecosystem. For example, in 2019, one of our important partners and customers, IBM, acquired Red Hat, one of our competitors in the cloud native applications space. In 2020, Nvidia acquired Mellanox, a SmartNIC provider, and, similarly, in 2022, AMD acquired Xilinx, an field-programmable gate array (“FPGA”) provider, and Pensando, a DPU provider, giving Nvidia and AMD the potential to offer offloaded, FAC-embedded competitive virtualization, storage, security and networking software to enterprise customers for their on-premises environments. In 2022, Intel formed a partnership with Google Cloud to develop public cloud instances using Intel IPUs, and each of Microsoft Azure and Google Cloud announced agreements with Ampere, an Arm-based CPU provider. Consequently, when such convergences occur, we may find it more difficult to continue to collaborate productively on other projects with these partners, and the advantages we derive from our ecosystem could diminish.
These various forms of competition could result in increased pricing pressure and sales and marketing expenses, thereby materially reducing our operating margins, and could also prevent our new products and services from gaining market acceptance, thereby harming our ability to increase, or causing us to lose, market share.
Intellectual Property
As of February 3, 2023, over 5,800 patents of varying duration issued by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office have been granted or assigned to us. We also have been granted or assigned patents from other countries. These patents cover various aspects of our server virtualization and other technologies. We also have numerous pending U.S. provisional and non-provisional patent applications, and numerous pending international patent applications, that are specific to other aspects of our virtualization and other technologies.
We have federal trademark registrations in the U.S. for “VMWARE,” “VSPHERE,” “VCLOUD,” “VMOTION,” “HORIZON,” “AIRWATCH,” “VREALIZE,” “WORKSPACE ONE,” “ESX,” “VMWARE NSX,” “TANZU,” “VMWARE
EXPLORE,” “CARBON BLACK,” and “PIVOTAL” and numerous other trademarks. We also have trademarks registered in several foreign countries.
We rely on a combination of patent, trademark, copyright and trade secret laws in the U.S. and other jurisdictions, as well as confidentiality procedures and contractual provisions to protect our intellectual property rights and our brand.
We enforce our intellectual property rights in the U.S. and several foreign countries. Despite our efforts, the steps we have taken to protect our proprietary rights may not be adequate to preclude misappropriation of our proprietary information or infringement of our intellectual property rights, and our ability to police such misappropriation or infringement is uncertain, particularly in countries outside of the U.S. patent filings are intended to provide the holder with a right to exclude others from making, using, offering to sell, selling or importing into the U.S. products covered by the claims of granted patents.
Our granted U.S. patents, and any future patents (to the extent they are issued), may be contested, circumvented or invalidated in the future. Moreover, the rights granted under any issued patents may not provide us with proprietary protection or competitive advantages, and we may not be able to prevent third parties from infringing these patents. Therefore, the exact effect of our patents and the other steps we have taken to protect our intellectual property cannot be predicted with certainty.
Environmental, Social and Governance (“ESG”)
At VMware, we believe technology can have a positive impact on society and the planet. We operationalize ESG throughout our organization and believe there is an opportunity for VMware to support customers throughout their own ESG journeys. VMware’s 2030 Agenda represents our ESG strategy focused on driving sustainability, equity and trust by providing:
•Sustainable digital infrastructure supporting the transition to net zero carbon emissions and decarbonization for our customers, supply chain and operations.
•Equitable, unbiased and inclusive access to opportunities for all by enabling people to work where and how they want to work.
•Trusted commitments to data privacy, security, ethics and transparent business practices.
Additional information about our 2030 Agenda and ESG programs can be found in VMware’s annual ESG Report on our website. Information on our website is not deemed to be incorporated by reference into this filing on Form 10-K.
Environmental Sustainability
We are committed to creating products and services that support our customers in reducing the environmental impact of their digital infrastructure. The VMware Zero Carbon Committed program, which launched in fiscal 2022, helps VMware customers reduce the environmental impact of their digital infrastructure by connecting them with VMware Cloud Provider partners who are committed to achieving 100% renewable energy-powered data centers or carbon neutrality by 2030.
We are also committed to achieving net zero carbon emissions for our operations and supply chain by 2030. During fiscal 2023, we continued to make progress towards validated, science-based targets, including by operating in accordance with the CarbonNeutral Protocol and the RE100’s technical guidance for procuring 100% renewable energy in our operations. Further, through our VMware Responsible Sourcing program, we helped drive sustainability, diversity and accessibility across our supply chain.
Our ESG performance was recognized by being included in the Dow Jones Sustainability Indices for the third consecutive year. Our recent environmental sustainability achievements include being named to the Carbon Disclosure Project (“CDP”) 2022 Climate Change A-List, Corporate Knights Global 100 2023, S&P Sustainability Yearbook 2023 and receiving an EcoVadis Silver Sustainability rating.
Human Capital
General Demographics
As of February 3, 2023, we employed approximately 38,300 employees located in 59 countries, approximately 15,000 of whom work in the U.S.
We use contractors from time to time for temporary assignments and in locations in which we do not currently have operating subsidiaries or branches. In the event that these contractor resources were not available, we do not believe that this would have a material adverse effect on our operations. We consider current employee relations to be good.
Wellbeing and Culture
The VMware culture is based on a set of shared values best expressed through the acronym EPIC2, which stands for Execution, Passion, Integrity, Customers and Community. Each year, we honor extraordinary employees through our EPIC2 Achievement Awards program. Individuals are recognized for their ability to regularly go above and beyond the Company’s
high standards. We have quarterly EPIC2 days off and an EPIC2 shutdown at the end of the year, which enable our people to focus on their wellbeing and rejuvenate.
During fiscal 2023, we continued our programs initiated in response to the COVID-19 pandemic in order to address the safety of our employees while continuing to support the business continuity needs of our customers and partners. We enabled employees to choose to work in the office or remotely, consistent with local health regulations and operational requirements. We continued to implement flexible work and customer outreach experiences that allow our teams to remain connected with each other and with our customers while maintaining and enhancing productivity, operational excellence and innovation. We continued additional benefits to employees including a wellbeing allowance, a home equipment allowance for all new employees, coverage of COVID-19 testing and treatment, as well as additional personal paid time-off days.
Distributed Work
During fiscal 2023, we continued to invest in our dynamic, global workforce of the future, empowering our people to work from any location, consistent with business requirements, and enabling them to continue to deliver innovative solutions and operational excellence for our customers worldwide. We believe our approach to employee choice and flexibility has enabled the Company to successfully compete to hire and retain skilled and talented team members from many new locations globally and contributes to meeting our diversity, equity and inclusion goals. As our employees demonstrated throughout the pandemic, work location does not dictate success. The choice and flexibility that forms the cornerstones of our distributed workforce model mirrors the choice and flexibility we provide to our customers when choosing their digital infrastructure.
Learning and Development
At VMware, a continuous learning mindset is core to who we are as an enterprise software business. Our culture of innovation is fueled by people with a genuine curiosity for ongoing development. We offer a robust series of programs and trainings to help employees—who are already extremely skilled—engage in lifelong learning that renews and expands their potential. VMware offers many learning and development initiatives geared toward enabling specific audiences to explore the potential in themselves and others as we compete to attract and maintain talent. These include, among others, a new Leadership Development Initiative, aimed at helping Senior Directors explore executive management, as well as our Take 1 program, which supports employees with tuition reimbursement for college or a continuous learning course or conference of their choosing. We also offer our management curriculum, leadership forums and technical and sales skills development with a strong experiential learning component.
Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (“DEI”)
DEI is a business priority at VMware. Our DEI initiative, VMinclusion, is a business-led effort to attract, develop and retain the multinational, multicultural talent critical to our globally connected business. We are committed to creating a flexible, inclusive environment where everyone is respected and has equal opportunity to succeed. Specifically, we are focused on driving a culture that is inclusive of all forms of diversity: from demographic factors such as race, ethnicity, national origin, gender identity, sexual orientation, disability and veteran status to other critical factors such as function, office location, personality, age and life experience. During fiscal 2023, we included the achievement of our company-wide DEI goals as a component of funding for all bonus-eligible employees. We continued to expand our programs and monitor the impact of our practices on the hiring and retention of talent from underrepresented communities, including women, people with disabilities, veterans and those that self-identify as being part of LGBTQ+ communities.
Our DEI achievements continue to be recognized. We were ranked second overall on the Forbes 2022 The Best Employers for Diversity, recognized by the 2022 Human Rights Campaign Foundation Best Places to Work for LGBTQ Equality and recognized as a 2022 DEI Best Places to Work for Disability Inclusion.
As of the end of fiscal 2023, women represented 30% of our global employees and underrepresented minorities represented 13% of our U.S. employees. Underrepresented minorities at VMware includes U.S.-based persons who self-identify by race or ethnicity as African American or Black, American Indian or Alaska Native, Hispanic or Latino, Native Hawaiian or Pacific Islander.
We are committed to equitable compensation. We know that leveraging the power of human difference starts with equal pay for equal work. We continually analyze compensation globally, accounting for multiple factors that influence pay such as job, grade, tenure, time in job, geographic location and performance. Our most recent data analysis as of September 2022 shows that at VMware, women, in the aggregate and as adjusted for the preceding listed factors, earn 99% of their male counterparts' target cash compensation globally, and underrepresented minorities earn 100% of their white counterparts in the U.S.
Compensation and Benefits
We tailor our compensation programs including base pay strategy, variable compensation programs and health, wellbeing and retirement programs to meet the needs of our employees. Equity awards are a key compensation component that enables us
to recruit and retain top talent. The Compensation Committee of our Board of Directors oversees the utilization of stock-based compensation to appropriately balance competitive needs against the dilutive impact on our stockholders. These components of total compensation are part of a broader framework of employee recognition, as well as our strategy to reinforce VMware’s culture and to attract, develop and retain a talented and diverse workforce.
Trust
VMware is committed to building and protecting trust through responsible governance and transparent business practices. We focus on data privacy and security, both within our own operations and the products we provide to customers. Refer to “Products and Technology Solutions” section above for more information on VMware’s security portfolio.
Oversight and Accountability of ESG
To promote long-term stakeholder value creation and to ensure accountability, we have an ESG governance structure comprised of senior leadership, including senior functional and business leaders (the “ESG Leadership Council”), and executive sponsors, including our Chief Executive, Financial, People and Technology Officers, President and General Counsel (the “ESG Executive Sponsors”), to guide strategy, measure performance and engage with our Board of Directors on ESG matters. The Nominating, Governance and Related Persons Transactions Committee of our Board of Directors meets with our ESG Executive Sponsors at least three times per year to review ESG objectives and their integration into VMware’s strategic objectives and to maintain oversight of progress against the goals set in our 2030 Agenda.
Reporting on ESG
As disclosure expectations and regulatory environments evolve in the jurisdictions around the world in which we operate, we continue to work to align our ESG reporting with emerging ESG disclosure and accounting standards. In fiscal 2023, we continued to be informed by concepts from the Financial Stability Board’s Taskforce for Climate-Related Financial Disclosures (“TCFD”) framework as we further developed our climate change risk assessment, including potential impacts on our global operations. In addition to TCFD, VMware’s ESG self-assessments and goals are informed by ESG reporting frameworks including the Sustainability Accounting Standards Board (“SASB”), Global Reporting Initiative (“GRI”), United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (“SDGs”) and the Principles of the United Nations Global Compact.
VMware has been recognized as a responsible company by being named for the sixth consecutive year to America’s Most Just Companies 2023 by JUST Capital, as well as being ranked in America's Most Trustworthy Companies 2022 by Newsweek.
Available Information
Our website is located at vmware.com and our investor relations website is located at ir.vmware.com. Our goal is to maintain the investor relations website as a portal through which investors can easily find or navigate to pertinent information about us, all of which is made available free of charge, including:
•our Annual Report on Form 10-K, Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q, current reports on Form 8-K and any amendments to those reports, as soon as reasonably practicable after we electronically file that material with or furnish it to the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”);
•announcements of investor conferences, speeches and events at which our executives discuss our products, services and competitive strategies;
•webcasts of our earnings calls and links to webcasts of investor conferences at which our executives appear (archives of these events are also available for a limited time);
•additional information on financial metrics, including reconciliations of non-GAAP financial measures discussed in our presentations to the nearest comparable GAAP measure;
•press releases on quarterly earnings, product and service announcements, legal developments and international news;
•corporate governance information including our certificate of incorporation, bylaws, corporate governance guidelines, board committee charters, business conduct guidelines (which constitutes our code of business conduct and ethics) and other governance-related policies;
•ESG information;
•other news, blogs and announcements that we may post from time to time that investors might find useful or interesting; and
•opportunities to sign up for email alerts and RSS feeds to have information pushed in real time.
The information found on our website is not part of, and is not incorporated by reference into, this or any other report we file with, or furnish to, the SEC. The SEC also maintains a website at sec.gov that contains reports, proxy and information statements and other information regarding issuers that file electronically with the SEC.
INFORMATION ABOUT OUR EXECUTIVE OFFICERS
The names of our executive officers and their ages as of March 21, 2023, are as follows:
Name
Age
Position(s)
Rangarajan (Raghu) Raghuram
60
Chief Executive Officer
Zane Rowe
52
Chief Financial Officer and Executive Vice President
Sumit Dhawan
48
President
Jean-Pierre Brulard
64
Executive Vice President, Worldwide Sales
Amy Fliegelman Olli
59
Executive Vice President, General Counsel and Secretary
Rangarajan (Raghu) Raghuram has served as VMware's Chief Executive Officer and a director of VMware since June 2021. Prior to that Mr. Raghuram served as VMware’s Chief Operating Officer, Products and Cloud Services since October 2016, guiding VMware’s cloud and SaaS transformation efforts. Prior to that he served as Executive Vice President, Software-Defined Data Center division from February 2014 to October 2016 and Executive Vice President, Cloud Infrastructure and Management from April 2012 to February 2014. Mr. Raghuram joined VMware in 2003 and has held multiple product management and marketing roles. Mr. Raghuram served as Senior Vice President and General Manager, Cloud Infrastructure and Management, Virtualization and Cloud Platforms and Enterprise Products, from December 2009 through March 2012. Mr. Raghuram previously served as Vice President of VMware's Server business unit and of Product and Solutions Marketing through December 2009. Prior to VMware, Mr. Raghuram held product management and marketing roles at Netscape Communications Corporation and Bang Networks, Inc.
Zane Rowe has served as VMware’s Chief Financial Officer and Executive Vice President since March 2016. Mr. Rowe also served as VMware’s interim Chief Executive Officer from February 2021 through May 2021. Prior to joining VMware, he was EMC’s Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer from October 2014 until February 2016. Prior to joining EMC, Mr. Rowe was Vice President of North American Sales of Apple Inc., a technology company that designs, develops and sells consumer electronics, computer software, online services and personal computers, from May 2012 until May 2014. He was Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of United Continental Holdings, Inc., an airline holdings company, from October 2010 until April 2012 and was Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of Continental Airlines from August 2008 to September 2010. Mr. Rowe joined Continental Airlines in 1993. Mr. Rowe currently serves on the board of Sabre Corporation.
Sumit Dhawan has served as VMware’s President since June 2021. Prior to that Mr. Dhawan served as VMware’s Chief Customer Experience Officer since February 2020. From May 2018 until February 2020, Mr. Dhawan served as CEO of Instart (formerly Instart Logic), a multinational cloud company focused on web and mobile application delivery, customer experience and security for enterprise customers. Mr. Dhawan initially joined VMware in 2013 and served in various roles with VMware’ End User Computing group, including as Senior Vice President and General Manager of VMware’s End User Computing group from November 2016 through May 2018.
Jean-Pierre Brulard has served as VMware’s Executive Vice President, Worldwide Sales since February 2020. Mr. Brulard previously served as VMware’s Senior Vice President and General Manager, EMEA from April 2015 to January 2020 and as Vice President, EMEA, Southern Region from April 2009 to April 2015. Prior to joining VMware, Mr. Brulard served in senior management positions of increasing responsibility for Business Objects, an enterprise software company, for seven years, most recently as its Senior Vice President and General Manager, EMEA.
Amy Fliegelman Olli has served as VMware’s Executive Vice President, General Counsel and Secretary since December 2020. She joined VMware as Senior Vice President and General Counsel in August 2017 and was appointed as Secretary in October 2017. Prior to joining VMware, Ms. Fliegelman Olli served as Senior Vice President and General Counsel of Avaya, Inc., a provider of contact center, unified communications and networking products, from June 2014 through August 2017. Previously, she was the General Counsel of CA, Inc., a provider of software solutions, from September 2006 to June 2014 where her responsibilities covered all legal, governance, compliance, internal audit, security, risk management and controls matters. Ms. Fliegelman Olli also spent 18 years with IBM Corporation, ultimately serving as Vice President and General Counsel for the Americas and Europe.
The risk factors that appear below could materially affect our business, financial condition and operating results. The risks and uncertainties described below are not the only risks and uncertainties we face. Our business is also subject to general risks and uncertainties that affect many other companies.
Risks Related to Our Pending Acquisition by Broadcom
The pendency of our acquisition by Broadcom may have an adverse effect on our business, results of operations, cash flows and financial position.
On May 26, 2022, we entered into an Agreement and Plan of Merger (the “Merger Agreement”) with Broadcom Inc. (“Broadcom”), pursuant to which Broadcom agreed to acquire us subject to the terms and conditions set forth therein. Our pending acquisition by Broadcom may have an adverse effect on our operating results in the near term if our customers delay, defer, or cancel purchases pending completion of the transaction. In addition, the pendency of the transaction may cause reluctance by customers to begin or continue to do business with us due to potential uncertainty about the direction of our products and solutions following consummation of the transaction.
We are subject to additional risks in connection with the pendency of the proposed transaction, including:
•Parties with which we do business may be uncertain as to the effects the transaction may have on them, including with respect to current or future business relationships with us, and these relationships may be subject to disruption as channel partners, customers, suppliers and other persons with whom we have a business relationship may delay or defer certain business decisions or might decide to terminate, change or renegotiate their relationships with us, as applicable, or consider entering into business relationships with parties other than us. The risk, and adverse effect, of any disruption could be exacerbated by a delay in the consummation of the transaction or termination of the Merger Agreement;
•The restrictions imposed on our business and operations pursuant to certain covenants set forth in the Merger Agreement obligates us to generally conduct our business in a commercially reasonable manner and in all material respects in the ordinary course of business consistent with past practice and may prevent us from pursuing certain opportunities, entering into certain contracts with customers, resellers and suppliers, or taking certain other actions without Broadcom’s approval;
•The Merger Agreement limits our ability to pursue alternatives to the transaction and may discourage other companies from trying to acquire us;
•We may be unable to attract, recruit, retain and motivate current and prospective employees who may be uncertain about their future roles following completion of the proposed transaction, and our operations, including our ability to execute our strategy and our cybersecurity and other risk management programs, could suffer due to employee attrition or a reduction in employee productivity as a result of this uncertainty;
•The pendency and outcome of legal proceedings that have been and may in the future be instituted against us, our directors, executive officers and others relating to the proposed transaction; and
•The pursuit of the transaction and planning for the integration has placed and may continue to place a significant burden on management and other internal resources, and the diversion of management’s attention away from day-to-day business concerns and other opportunities that may have been beneficial to us could adversely affect our business, financial condition and operating results.
In addition, since the merger consideration our stockholders will receive in the transaction will be in the form of both cash and common stock of Broadcom, our stock price will be impacted by changes in Broadcom’s stock price. Changes to Broadcom’s stock price may result from a variety of factors, such as changes in its business operations and outlook, changes in general market and economic conditions and regulatory considerations. These factors are beyond our control.
Completion of the transaction is subject to the conditions contained in the Merger Agreement, including regulatory approvals, which may not be received, may take longer than expected or may impose conditions that are not presently anticipated or that cannot be met, and if these conditions are not satisfied or waived, the transaction will not be completed.
Before the transaction may be completed, various consents, clearances, approvals, authorizations and declarations of non-objection, or expiration of waiting periods (or extensions thereof), must be obtained from certain regulatory and governmental
authorities in the U.S., in the European Union and in certain other jurisdictions. In addition, the transaction may be reviewed under antitrust statutes or foreign direct investment regimes of other governmental authorities, including U.S. state laws.
In deciding whether to grant the required regulatory approval, consent or clearance, the relevant governmental entities will consider the effect of the transaction on competition within their relevant jurisdiction. Regulatory and governmental entities may impose conditions on their respective approvals, in which case lengthy negotiations may ensue among such regulatory or governmental entities, Broadcom and us. Such conditions, any such negotiations and the process of obtaining regulatory approvals could have the effect of delaying or preventing consummation of the transaction.
Subject to the terms of the Merger Agreement, we have agreed to use our reasonable best efforts to take all actions and to do, or cause to be done, all things necessary, proper or advisable under applicable laws to consummate the transaction as promptly as practicable. Nonetheless, many of the closing conditions are not within our control. For example, we cannot be certain that these regulatory clearances and approvals will be obtained in a timely manner or at all, or that the granting of these regulatory clearances and approvals will not involve the imposition of regulatory remedies on the completion of the transaction.
If any of these conditions are not satisfied or waived prior to May 26, 2023, which deadline may be extended to November 26, 2023 under certain circumstances, it is possible that the Merger Agreement will be terminated.
Lawsuits have been and may in the future be filed against us and our directors challenging the transaction, and an adverse ruling in any such lawsuit may delay or prevent the consummation of the transaction and result in substantial costs to us.
In connection with the transaction, litigation was previously filed against VMware and its board of directors and has now been dismissed.
However, it is possible that additional litigation against us or our directors may be filed in the future as securities class action lawsuits and derivative lawsuits are often brought against public companies that have entered into acquisition, merger or other business combination agreements like the Merger Agreement. Even if such a lawsuit is without merit, defending against these claims can result in substantial costs and divert management time and resources. An adverse judgment could result in monetary damages, which could have a negative impact on our liquidity and financial condition. The outcome of any litigation is uncertain, and any such lawsuits could delay or prevent the consummation of the transaction and result in substantial costs to us. Any such actions may create uncertainty relating to the transaction and may be costly and distracting to management.
Further, one of the conditions to the completion of the transaction is that no injunction or law by any governmental entity of competent jurisdiction will be in effect that has the effect of restraining, enjoining or otherwise prohibiting the consummation of the transaction. As such, if an injunction prohibiting the consummation of the transaction is obtained, that injunction may prevent the transactions from becoming effective or from becoming effective within the expected timeframe.
The failure to complete the planned acquisition of us by Broadcom could have a material and adverse effect on our business, results of operations, financial condition, cash flows, and stock price.
The transaction, which is expected to close in Broadcom’s fiscal year 2023, is subject to the satisfaction or waiver of customary closing conditions, and there is no assurance that all of the various conditions will be satisfied, or that the transaction will be completed on the proposed terms, within the expected timeframe or at all. The closing of the transaction may be delayed, and the transaction may ultimately not be completed, due to a number of factors, including as a result of the failure to obtain necessary government or regulatory approval or to satisfy any other requisite closing condition as described in the Merger Agreement and current and potential future stockholder litigation and other legal and regulatory proceedings, among others.
If the transaction does not close, we may suffer consequences that could adversely affect our ongoing and future business, financial condition, operating results, cash flows and stock price, and our stockholders would be exposed to additional risks, including for example:
•To the extent that the current market price of our stock reflects an assumption that the transaction will be completed, the price of our common stock could decrease;
•Investor confidence in us could decline, additional stockholder litigation could be brought against us, relationships with existing and prospective customers and other business partners may be adversely impacted, we may be unable to hire or retain key personnel, and we may not be able to shift or overcome negative reactions from analysts and other media professionals in a timely manner or at all;
•Any disruptions to our business resulting from the announcement and pendency of the transaction, including adverse changes in our relationships with employees, customers and other business partners, may continue or intensify;
•We have incurred significant costs, including professional services fees and other transaction costs, in connection with the proposed transaction that we would be unable to recover, and devoted substantial commitments of time and resources by our management, which could have otherwise been devoted to day-to-day operations and other opportunities that could have been beneficial to us as an independent company; and
•If certain circumstances that give rise to a termination of the Merger Agreement occur, we may be required to pay Broadcom a termination fee of $1.5 billion.
There can be no assurance that our business, relationships with other parties, liquidity or financial condition will not be adversely affected, as compared to the condition prior to the announcement of the transaction, if the transaction is delayed or not consummated.
Operation of Business and Strategic Risks
A significant decrease in demand for our data center virtualization products would adversely affect our operating results.
A significant portion of our revenue is derived, and will for the foreseeable future continue to be derived, from our data center virtualization products. As more businesses achieve high levels of virtualization in their data centers, the market for our vSphere product continues to mature. Additionally, as businesses increasingly utilize public cloud and SaaS-based offerings, they are building more of their new compute workloads off-premises and are increasingly shifting some of their existing and many of their new workloads to public cloud providers, thereby limiting growth and potentially reducing the market for on-premises deployments of vSphere. Although sales of vSphere have declined as a portion of our overall business and we expect this trend to continue, vSphere remains key to our future growth as it serves as the foundation for our SDDC, network virtualization and subscription and SaaS offerings. Although we have launched, and are continuing to develop, products to extend our vSphere-based SDDC offerings to the public cloud, due to our product concentration, a significant decrease in demand for our server virtualization products would adversely affect our operating results.
Our subscription and SaaS offerings, which constitute a growing portion of our business, and our initiatives to extend our data center virtualization and container platforms into the public cloud involve various risks, including, among others, reliance on third-party providers for data center space and colocation services and on public cloud providers to prevent service disruptions.
As we continue to develop and offer subscription and SaaS versions of our products, we must continue to evolve our processes to meet various intellectual property, regulatory, contractual and service compliance challenges, including compliance with licenses for open source and third-party software embedded in our offerings, compliance with export control and privacy regulations, protecting our services from external threats or inappropriate use, maintaining the continuous service levels and data security expected by our customers and adapting our go-to-market efforts. The expansion of our subscription and SaaS offerings also requires significant investments, and our operating margins, results of operations and operating cash flows may be adversely affected if our new offerings are not widely adopted by customers.
Additionally, our subscription and SaaS offerings rely upon third-party providers to supply data center space, equipment maintenance and other colocation services, and our initiatives to extend our virtualization and container platforms into the public cloud rely upon the ability of our public cloud and VCPP partners to maintain continuous service availability and protect customer data on their services. Although we have entered into various agreements for the lease of data center space, equipment maintenance and other services, third parties could fail to live up to their contractual obligations. The failure of a third-party provider to prevent service disruptions (including as a result of climate change), data losses or security breaches may require us to issue credits or refunds or indemnify or otherwise be liable to customers or third parties for damages that may occur, and contractual provisions with our third-party providers and public cloud partners may limit our recourse against the third-party provider or public cloud partner responsible for such failure. Additionally, if these third-party providers fail to deliver on their obligations, our reputation could be damaged, our customers could lose confidence in us, and our ability to maintain and expand our subscription and SaaS offerings would be impaired.
Our success depends upon our ability to adapt our business and pricing models to a subscription and SaaS model appropriately.
We continue to transition our portfolio from a perpetual license model to subscription and SaaS offerings. During this transition, we are recognizing less revenue up front than we would otherwise recognize under the license agreements through which we have typically sold our established offerings. Additionally, in order to provide customers flexibility, we offer one- and three-year term licenses for certain portions of our portfolio, which have certain characteristics that are similar to subscription products but are accounted for as license and services revenue. Furthermore, during the second half of fiscal 2023, we introduced termination for convenience (“TFC”) clauses with respect to term-based license offerings in certain enterprise
agreements (“EAs”). Revenue from such term license offerings subject to TFC clauses is recognized ratably as subscription and SaaS revenue, rather than as license revenue, due to the requirement to refund any unused, pre-paid fees upon termination. Our transition to these term-based licenses and subscription and SaaS offerings involves various risks that may negatively affect our operating results, including:
•We may fail to set pricing for subscription and SaaS offerings at levels appropriate to maintain our revenue streams or our customers may choose to deploy products from our competitors that they believe are priced more favorably.
•We may fail to accurately predict subscription renewal rates or their impact on operating results, and because revenue from subscriptions is recognized for our services over the term of the subscription, downturns or upturns in sales may not be immediately reflected in our results.
•As customers transition to our subscription and SaaS products and services, our revenue and license revenue growth rates have been and may in the future be adversely impacted during the period of transition when we recognize less revenue up front than we would otherwise recognize as part of perpetual license contracts. For example, effective with the fourth quarter of fiscal 2020, we commenced reporting revenue from our subscription and SaaS as a separate revenue line item, breaking out components that had previously been included in our license revenue and services revenue and prior period amounts were reclassified to conform with this presentation. As a result, the rate of growth in our license revenue, which was previously viewed as a leading indicator of our business performance, as well as our software maintenance revenue and deferred revenue were negatively impacted. At the same time, growth in subscription and SaaS revenue may not appear as robust because such revenue is recognized ratably over time as customers consume our subscription-based products.
•Inclusion of the TFC clauses with respect to term license offerings in certain EAs adds uncertainty to our ability to forecast license revenue in any particular period, could significantly increase our customer deposit liability balance in future periods and could cause results in a given period to materially differ from those in prior periods. If a concentration of customers exercise their rights under these TFC clauses in any given period, our subscription and SaaS revenue, subscription and SaaS annual recurring revenue and cash flow results could be materially negatively impacted.
•The transition from selling support and maintenance with perpetual licenses to selling subscription and SaaS offerings may negatively affect our profitability, as the cost associated with software maintenance renewals is generally lower than the cost associated with selling new subscription and SaaS offerings.
•Term licenses are sold with shorter support and maintenance terms than perpetual licenses are, and customers may not renew such licenses at the end of their term or transition to subscription and SaaS offerings.
•As we offer more services that depend on converting users of free services to premium services and purchasers of our on-premises products to our SaaS offerings, our ability to maintain, improve and predict conversion rates will become more important.
We face intense competition that could adversely affect our operating results.
The application platform, multi-cloud, digital workspace, networking and security product areas are interrelated and rapidly evolving, and we face intense competition across all the markets for our products and services. Many of our current or potential competitors have longer operating histories, greater name recognition, larger customer bases and significantly greater financial, technical, sales, marketing and other resources than we do. Additionally, the adoption of public and distributed cloud, micro-services, containers, and open source technologies have the potential to erode our profitability.
We face competition from, among others:
Providers of public cloud infrastructure and SaaS-based multi-cloud offerings. As businesses increasingly utilize public cloud and SaaS-based offerings, they are building more of their new compute workloads, and may also shift some of their existing workloads, off premises. A significant percentage of new application development is happening in the public cloud, with providers such as Amazon Web Services (“AWS”), Microsoft Azure (“Azure”) or Google Cloud, or in a distributed fashion, and these new applications are often deployed on public cloud or multi-cloud infrastructure. As a result, the demand for on-premises information technology (“IT”) resources is expected to slow, and our products and services will need to increasingly compete for customers’ IT workloads with off-premises public cloud and SaaS-based multi-cloud offerings, such as those offered by Datadog in monitoring and IT telemetry and ServiceNow in the automation space. If we fail to address evolving customer priorities or requirements, the demand for VMware’s products and services may decline, and we could experience slower than expected or no growth. Additionally, VMware Cloud Provider Program (“VCPP”) offerings from our partners may compete directly with infrastructure-as-a-service (“IaaS”) offerings from various public cloud providers, which are increasingly integrated with on-premises solutions. Although we have formed alliances with various public cloud providers to create hybrid and multi-cloud offerings, we continue to face intense competition from these public cloud providers.In fiscal
2018, we entered into a strategic alliance with AWS to deliver a vSphere-based cloud service, VMware Cloud on AWS, running in AWS data centers available in certain geographies. In fiscal 2019, we extended our collaboration with AWS to include VMware Cloud on AWS Outposts to deliver VMware Cloud on AWS as a managed offering in on-premises facilities. In fiscal 2020, we also announced partnerships with Microsoft (Azure VMware Solution by CloudSimple), Google (Google Cloud VMware Engine), and Oracle (Oracle Cloud VMware Solution) under the framework of our VCPP that enable customers to run native VMware-based workloads on each of Azure, Google Cloud, and Oracle Cloud. Our partnerships with AWS and other public cloud providers may be seen as competitive with each other and with other VCPP partners, while some partners may elect to include solutions such as VMware Cloud on AWS as part of their managed services provider offerings. In addition, many of these public cloud providers, including AWS and Microsoft, are delivering hybrid cloud hardware solutions with integrated software, such as distributed cloud management, which may be based on specialized technologies sometimes called SmartNICs (smart network interface cards), data processing units (“DPUs”) or infrastructure processing units (“IPUs”). These specialized technologies can take on an array of compute, storage, security and networking functions, enabling greater cloud efficiency and performance gains, as well as security benefits, namely in the form of CPU hardware isolation, that may undergird hybrid cloud offerings like AWS Outposts. Public cloud infrastructure providers have also developed offerings based on servers using Arm CPUs to reduce energy costs, such as AWS Graviton, announced in 2018. To the extent customers and partners, including service providers, choose to adopt co-processor or non-x86-based models to operate native or hybrid cloud environments, demand for VMware’s on-premises, hybrid and multi-cloud products and our operating results could be materially adversely affected.
Providers of application modernization and open source developer platform services. Many public cloud infrastructure and multi-cloud SaaS competitors also offer standalone or embedded application development, or Platform-as-a-Service (“PaaS”), services. With respect to AWS, Azure and Google Cloud, PaaS services are often bundled with consumption-based IaaS offerings. These IaaS providers and other developer solution partners, such as Red Hat, a subsidiary of IBM, and HashiCorp, offer tools and services based on containers and DevSecOps (development, security and operations) or “shift-left” practices. These providers may offer services, such as application security testing, application performance monitoring and automation, earlier in the application lifecycle or during development, in addition to during production. While VMware offers Tanzu Observability, which directly competes in this space, competitor DevSecOps offerings may reduce the demand for or put pricing pressure on traditional VMware management and automation product offerings, which are often deployed for production use cases. Open source technologies for containerization and cloud platforms, such as Xen, KVM, Docker, rkt, OpenShift, Mesos, Kubernetes and OpenStack, and other open source software-based products, solutions and services may reduce the demand for our solutions, put pricing pressure on our offerings and enable competing vendors to leverage open source technologies to compete directly with us. New platform technologies and standards based on open source software are consistently being developed and can gain popularity quickly. Improvements in open source software could cause customers to replace software purchased from us with open source software. In step with these trends, we deliver a comprehensive container, Kubernetes and Cloud Native Application technologies portfolio with VMware Tanzu and have increased our level of commitment to open source projects and communities, such as the Cloud Native Computing Foundation, that are designed to increase the rate at which customers adopt micro-services architectures. The adoption of distributed micro-service application architectures, and their alignment with container technologies, represents an emerging area of competition. As we continue to invest in these areas, we will experience increasing competitive overlap with other cloud native vendors, such as Red Hat, and the large providers of public cloud infrastructure and developer services. Such competitive pressure or the availability of new open source software may cause us to experience reduced sales, increased pricing pressure, increased sales and marketing expenses and reduced operating margins, any one of which may adversely affect our operating results.
Providers of enterprise security offerings. With our acquisition of Carbon Black Inc. (“Carbon Black”) in 2019, we launched a new set of enterprise security solutions that includes the Carbon Black endpoint security platform and the intrinsic security elements of our existing NSX virtual networking, Workspace ONE end user and our compute offerings. The cybersecurity market is large, highly competitive, fragmented and subject to rapidly evolving technology, shifting customer needs and frequent introductions of new solutions. Competitors in the end point security space range from established solution providers such as Microsoft and Trend Micro to next-generation endpoint security providers such as CrowdStrike and SentinelOne. While we believe that the intrinsic security elements in our existing offerings coupled with our Carbon Black endpoint security offerings and new combined offerings we expect to develop and introduce in the future will enable us to provide an integrated security offering with significant advantages over our competitors’ current offerings, our ability to gain traction and market share as a new entrant into this well-established market segment is uncertain. Additionally, new trends, such as Extended Threat Detection (XDR), Secure Access Service Edge (SASE) and Zero Trust Network Access, represent the coalescence of formerly distinct markets, such as identity management, secure web gateway, SD-WAN, network firewall and cloud access security brokers. These new trends may bring existing partners, such as Fortinet, Zscaler and Okta into a more competitive position with our Carbon Black, VeloCloud and other distributed network security offerings. If we are unable to successfully adapt our product and service offerings to meet these opportunities and rapidly evolving trends our operating results could be adversely affected.
Large, diversified enterprise software and hardware companies. These competitors supply a wide variety of products and services to, and have well-established relationships with, our current and prospective end users. For example, small- to medium-sized businesses and companies in emerging markets that are evaluating the adoption of virtualization-based technologies and solutions may be inclined to consider Microsoft solutions because of their existing use of Windows and Office products. Some of these competitors have in the past and may in the future take advantage of their existing relationships to engage in business practices that make our products and services less attractive or more expensive to our end users. For example, in 2019, Microsoft modified its on-premises licensing terms to require end users who wish to deploy Microsoft software on certain dedicated hosted cloud services other than Microsoft’s Azure cloud service, including VMware Cloud on AWS, to purchase additional rights from Microsoft. Other competitors have limited or denied support for their applications running in VMware virtualization environments. In addition, these competitors could integrate competitive capabilities into their existing products and services and make them available without additional charge. For example, Oracle provides free server virtualization software intended to support Oracle and non-Oracle applications, Microsoft offers its own server, network and storage virtualization software packaged with its Windows Server product as well as built-in virtualization in the client version of Windows and Cisco includes network virtualization technology in many of its data center networking platforms. As a result, existing and prospective VMware customers may elect to use products that are perceived to be “free” or “very low cost” instead of purchasing VMware products and services for certain applications where they do not believe that more advanced and robust capabilities are required.
Other industry alliances. Many of our competitors have entered into or extended partnerships or other strategic relationships to offer more comprehensive virtualization and cloud computing solutions than they individually had offered. We expect these trends to continue as companies attempt to strengthen or maintain their positions in the evolving virtualization infrastructure and enterprise IT solutions industry. For example, Google Cloud is a member of the CrowdXDR Alliance, a CrowdStrike initiative competitive with VMware security offerings that also includes other VMware partners such as Zscaler. Many public cloud infrastructure providers have also entered into strategic partnerships with mobile telecommunications network providers (such as AWS with Verizon and Microsoft Azure with AT&T) to jointly embed distributed cloud infrastructure and management tools into 5G mobile networks as applications are increasingly deployed closer to end users at the “edge.” These alliances may result in more compelling product and service offerings than those we offer.
Our partners and members of our developer and technology partner ecosystem. We face competition from our partners. For example, third parties currently selling our products and services could build and market their own competing products and services or market competing products and services of other vendors. Additionally, as formerly distinct sectors of enterprise IT, such as software-based virtualization and hardware-based server, networking and storage solutions, converge, we also increasingly compete with companies who are members of our developer and technology partner ecosystem. For example, in 2019, one of our important partners and customers, IBM, acquired Red Hat, one of our competitors in the cloud native applications space. In 2020, Nvidia acquired Mellanox, a SmartNIC provider, and, similarly, in 2022, AMD acquired Xilinx, an field-programmable gate array (“FPGA”) provider, and Pensando, a DPU provider, giving Nvidia and AMD the potential to offer offloaded, FAC-embedded competitive virtualization, storage, security and networking software to enterprise customers for their on-premises environments. In 2022, Intel formed a partnership with Google Cloud to develop public cloud instances using Intel IPUs, and each of Microsoft Azure and Google Cloud announced agreements with Ampere, an Arm-based CPU provider. Consequently, when such convergences occur, we may find it more difficult to continue to collaborate productively on other projects with these partners, and the advantages we derive from our ecosystem could diminish.
These various forms of competition could result in increased pricing pressure and sales and marketing expenses, thereby materially reducing our operating margins, and could also prevent our new products and services from gaining market acceptance, thereby harming our ability to increase, or causing us to lose, market share.
Our commercial relationship with Dell could adversely impact our business, stock price, market share and ability to build and maintain other strategic relationships.
Our commercial relationship with Dell is significant and complex. During the time in which we were a majority-owned subsidiary of Dell, the portion of our sales that were realized through the Dell sales channel grew more rapidly than our sales through non-Dell resellers and distributors. As a standalone company following the Spin-Off, we continue to transact a significant amount of business with Dell pursuant to the commercial framework agreement between us and Dell that became effective upon the Spin-Off, which involves various risks such as:
Reliance on our relationship with Dell. During the year ended February 3, 2023, revenue from Dell, including purchases of products and services directly from us, as well as through our channel partners, accounted for 38% of our consolidated revenue, which included revenue from Dell selling joint solutions as an OEM, acting as a distributor to other non-Dell resellers, reselling products and services as a reseller and purchasing products and services for its own internal use. On certain transactions, Dell Financial Services also provides financing to our end users and channel partners at our end users’ and channel partners’
discretion. Our reliance on the Dell sales channel could negatively impact our ability to negotiate favorable go-to-market arrangements with Dell and our relationships with other channel partners.
Dell’s arrangements with our competitors. Dell maintains significant partnerships with certain of our competitors, including Microsoft, and may enter into more such partnerships in the future. Further, Dell may choose to partner with our competitors instead of with us. These partnerships may adversely impact our relationship with Dell, impede our standalone competitive success and result in declines in our stock price or market share. Additionally, our potential strategic relationships may be negatively affected by our relationship with Dell, as companies may favor or choose to partner with our competitors because of those competitors’ relationship with Dell or due to our relationship with Dell.
Overlaps in areas in which we and Dell compete. We and Dell compete across the IT infrastructure industry providing products and services that overlap in various areas, including software-based storage, management, hyperconverged infrastructure and cloud computing. Dell competes with us in these areas now and may compete with us in new areas and engage in increased competition with us in the future. Some of our products compete directly with products sold or distributed by Dell, which could result in declines in VMware sales. Additionally, this competition could result in increased pricing pressure and sales and marketing expenses, thereby materially reducing our operating margins, and could also prevent our new products and services from gaining market acceptance, thereby harming our ability to increase, or causing us to lose, market share.
Our arrangements with Dell’s competitors. We partner and have arrangements with a number of companies that compete with Dell, including certain of our significant channel, technology and other marketing partners, such as IBM and Hewlett-Packard. Our relationship with Dell could adversely affect our relationships with these companies or other customers, suppliers and partners. Further, our relationships with these companies could adversely impact our relationship with Dell.
We believe that our commercial relationship with Dell provides us a unique opportunity to leverage the respective technical expertise, product strengths and market presence of Dell for the benefit of our customers and stockholders while enabling us to compete more effectively with our larger competitors. However, such transactions may prove not to be successful and may divert our resources or the attention of our management from other opportunities. Negotiating and implementing these arrangements can be time consuming and cause delays in the introduction of joint product and service offerings and disruptions to VMware’s business. Additionally, cloud and on-premises infrastructure companies may choose not to partner with us to the full extent or at all due to our historical and on-going commercial relationship with Dell. As a result, we may be unable to capitalize, either strategically or commercially, on our new flexibility, and our business, stock price, market share and relationships may suffer.
Our success depends increasingly on customer acceptance of our newer products and services.
Our products and services are primarily based on data center virtualization, application modernization and related multi-cloud technologies used to manage distributed computing architectures, which form the foundation for multi-cloud computing. As the market for server virtualization continues to mature, the rate of growth in license sales of VMware vSphere (“vSphere”) has declined. We are increasingly directing our product development and marketing and sales efforts toward products and services that enable businesses to modernize applications and efficiently implement their multi-cloud services. We have also been introducing SaaS versions of our on-premises products, including vRealize Cloud Universal, and investing in a range of SaaS and cloud-native technologies and products, including through acquisitions such as CloudHealth Technologies, Inc., Carbon Black and Pivotal Software, Inc. (“Pivotal”). These cloud and SaaS initiatives present new and difficult technological, operational and compliance challenges, and significant investments continue to be required to develop or acquire solutions to address those challenges. Our success depends on our current and future customers perceiving technological and operational benefits and cost savings associated with adopting our multi-cloud and application platform solutions. As the market for our data center virtualization products continues to mature, and the scale of our business continues to increase, our rate of revenue growth increasingly depends upon the success of our newer product and service offerings. To the extent that adoption rates for our newer products and services are not sufficient to offset declines in revenue growth for our established server virtualization offerings, our overall revenue growth rates may slow materially or our revenue may decline substantially. Additionally, we may fail to realize returns on our investments in new initiatives and our operating results could be materially adversely affected.
Competition for our highly skilled employees is intense and costly, and our business and growth prospects may suffer if we cannot attract and retain them.
We must continue to attract and retain highly qualified personnel, particularly software and cloud engineers and sales and customer experience personnel, for which competition, particularly against companies with greater resources, startups and emerging growth companies, is intense. Research and development personnel are also aggressively recruited by startup and emerging growth companies, which are especially active in many of the technical areas and geographic regions in which we conduct product and service development. This competition results in increased costs in the form of cash and stock-based compensation and can have a dilutive impact on our stock. We have experienced, and we expect to continue to experience,
difficulty in hiring and retaining highly skilled employees with appropriate qualifications, and, if we fail to attract new personnel or fail to retain and motivate our current personnel, our business and future growth prospects could suffer.
The loss of key management personnel could harm our business.
We depend on the continued services of key management personnel. We generally do not have employment or non-compete agreements with our employees, and, therefore, they could terminate their employment with us at any time without penalty and could pursue employment opportunities with any of our competitors. In addition, we do not maintain any key-person life insurance policies. The loss of key management personnel could harm our business.
Our current research and development efforts may not produce significant revenue for several years, if at all.
Developing our products and services is expensive, and developing and launching disruptive technologies requires significant investment often entailing greater risk than incremental investments in existing products and services. Our research and development expenses were approximately 25% of our total revenue during the year ended February 3, 2023. We plan to continue to significantly invest in our research and development efforts to maintain our competitive position. Our investments in research and development may result in products or services that generate less revenue than we anticipate or may not result in marketable products and services for several years or at all.
Acquisitions and divestitures could materially harm our business and operating results.
We have acquired in the past, and may acquire in the future, other businesses, products or technologies. We also sell or divest businesses, products and technologies from time to time. Acquisitions and divestitures involve significant risks and uncertainties, including:
•disruptions to our ongoing operations and diverting management from day-to-day responsibilities due to, for example, the need to provide transition services in connection with a disposition or difficulty integrating the operations, technologies, products, customers and personnel of acquired businesses effectively;
•adverse impacts to our business and financial results resulting from increases to our expenses due to, among other things, integrating business operations and on-boarding personnel and the incurrence of amortization expense related to identifiable intangible assets acquired and other accounting consequences of acquisitions;
•reductions to our cash available for operations, stock repurchase programs and other uses, potentially dilutive issuances of equity securities or the incurrence of additional debt;
•uncertainties in achieving the expected benefits of an acquisition or disposition, including with respect to our business strategy, revenue, technology, human resources, cost and operating efficiencies and other synergies, due to, among other things, a lack of experience in new markets, products or technologies; or an initial dependence on unfamiliar distribution partners or vendors;
•unidentified issues or liabilities that were not discovered during the diligence process, including issues with the acquired or divested business’s intellectual property, product quality, security, privacy and accounting practices, regulatory compliance or legal contingencies;
•lawsuits resulting from an acquisition or disposition or that relate to the acquired business;
•maintenance or establishment of acceptable standards, controls, procedures or policies with respect to an acquired business; and
•the need to later divest acquired assets at a loss if an acquisition does not meet our expectations.
Disruptions to our distribution channels, including our various routes to market through Dell, could harm our business.
Our future success is highly dependent on our relationships with channel partners, including distributors, resellers, system vendors and systems integrators, which contribute to a significant portion of our revenue. Recruiting and retaining qualified channel partners and training them in the use of our technology and product offerings requires significant time and resources. Our failure to maintain good relationships with channel partners would likely lead to a loss of end users of our products and services, which would adversely affect our revenue. We generally do not have long-term contracts or minimum purchase commitments with our channel partners, and the contracts that we do have with these channel partners do not prohibit them from offering products or services that compete with ours.
Sales via our various route-to-market relationships with Dell accounted for 38% of our consolidated revenue during the year ended February 3, 2023, and transactions where Dell acted as an OEM accounted for 14% of the revenue from Dell, or 5% of our consolidated revenue. Such routes to market include Dell selling joint solutions as an OEM, acting as a distributor to other non-Dell resellers, reselling products and services as a reseller or purchasing products and services for its own internal use. Although we and Dell entered into a commercial agreement effective upon the Spin-Off that is intended to preserve and
enhance our strategic partnership, as a standalone company, our relationship with Dell is fundamentally different from the relationship that we had with Dell when we were its majority-owned subsidiary. Following the Spin-Off, Dell no longer consolidates VMware’s revenues, and Dell may not be sufficiently incentivized to drive VMware business through our various route-to-market relationships. If sales through Dell decline and VMware is unable to shift business to suitable alternative channel partners, our business and operating results will be negatively affected. Additionally, any disruption or significant change to our relationship with Dell or the terms upon which they sell and distribute our products and services could have a negative impact on our operating results until such time as we arrange to replace these distribution services with the services of existing or new distributors.
Other than Dell, none of our distributors accounted for 10% or more of our consolidated revenue during the year ended February 3, 2023. Although we believe that we have, or would have in place by the date of any such termination, agreements with replacement distributors sufficient to maintain our revenue from distribution, if we were to lose the distribution services of a significant distributor, such loss could have a negative impact on our operating results until such time as we arrange to replace these distribution services with the services of existing or new distributors.
The evolution of our business requires more complex go-to-market strategies, which involve significant risk.
Our increasing focus on developing and marketing IT management and automation and IaaS offerings (including software-defined networking, VCPP-integrated virtual desktop and mobile device, multi-cloud and SaaS) that enable customers to transform their IT systems requires a greater focus on marketing and selling product suites and more holistic solutions, rather than selling on a product-by-product basis. Consequently, we have developed, and must continue to develop, new strategies for marketing and selling our offerings. In addition, marketing and selling new technologies to enterprises requires us to invest significant time and resources to educate customers on the benefits of our offerings. These investments can be costly and educating our sales force can distract from their efforts to sell existing products and services. Additionally, from time to time, we reorganize our go-to-market teams to increase efficiencies and improve customer coverage, but these reorganizations can cause short-term disruptions that may negatively impact sales over one or more fiscal periods. Further, upon entering into new industry segments, we may choose to go to market with third-party manufactured hardware appliances that are integrated with our software—as we did when we entered into the SD-WAN space through our acquisitions of VeloCloud Networks, Inc. and Nyansa, Inc.—which requires us to rapidly develop, deploy and scale new hardware procurement, supply chain and inventory management processes and product support services and integrate them into our ongoing business systems and controls. Similarly, our launches of managed subscription services, such as VMware Cloud on AWS and VMware Cloud on Dell EMC, required us to implement new methods to deliver and monitor end user services and adjust our model for releasing product upgrades. As our customers increasingly shift from one-time purchases of perpetual software licenses to purchasing our software via more subscription and SaaS-based programs, our go-to-market teams will need to alter their outreach to customers to support ongoing consumption of our offerings, and we will need to appropriately adjust the variable compensation programs we use to incentivize our sales teams. If we fail to successfully adjust, develop and implement effective go-to-market strategies, our financial results may be materially adversely impacted.
We may not be able to respond to rapid technological changes with new solutions and services offerings.
The industries in which we compete are characterized by rapid, complex and disruptive changes in technology, customer demands and industry standards that could make it difficult for us to effectively compete and cause our existing and future software solutions to become obsolete and unmarketable. Our ability to react quickly to new technology trends—such as cloud computing, which is disrupting the ways businesses consume, manage and provide physical IT resources, applications, data and IT services—and customer requirements is negatively impacted by the length of some of our development cycles for new and enhanced products and services, which has frequently been longer than we originally anticipated. This is due in part to the increasing complexity of our product offerings as we increase their interoperability and maintain their compatibility with IT resources, such as public clouds, utilized by our customers while sustaining and enhancing product quality. When we release significant new versions of our existing offerings, the complexity of our products may require existing customers to remove and replace prior versions to take full advantage of substantial new capabilities, which may subdue initial demand for the new versions or depress demand for existing versions until the customer is ready to purchase and install the newest release. If we are unable to evolve our solutions and offerings in time to respond to and remain ahead of new technological developments—in applications, networking or security, for example—or in ways that are compelling to customers, our ability to retain or increase market share and revenue could be materially adversely affected. We may also fail to adequately anticipate the commercialization of emerging technologies, such as blockchain, and the development of new markets and applications for our technology, such as edge computing, and thereby fail to take advantage of new market opportunities or fall behind early movers in those markets.
We operate a global business that exposes us to additional risks.
A significant portion of our employees, customers, channel partners and third-party providers whom we rely upon to help deliver our subscription and SaaS services are located outside the U.S. Our international activities account for a substantial
portion of our revenue and profits, and our investment portfolio includes investments in non-U.S. financial instruments and holdings in non-U.S. financial institutions. In addition to the risks described elsewhere in these risk factors, our international operations subject us to a variety of risks, including:
•difficulties in delivering support, training and documentation; enforcing contracts; collecting accounts receivable; transferring funds; maintaining appropriate controls relating to revenue recognition practices; and longer payment cycles in certain countries and especially in emerging markets;
•network security and privacy concerns, which could make foreign customers reluctant to purchase products and services from U.S.-based technology companies;
•tariffs, trade barriers and other regulatory or contractual limitations on our ability to develop and sell our products and services in certain non-U.S. geographies, such as in China, whose government has adopted laws and regulations relating to the procurement of key network equipment and security products that might cause our business in such geographies to suffer and expose us to civil and criminal penalties;
•laws and regulations regarding the storage and processing of data in certain non-U.S. geographies, such as in China, might cause our business in such geographies to suffer and expose us to civil and criminal penalties;
•localized impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic or other public health crises that persist or flare up in particular regions, such as in India where several of our global support services as well as research and development personnel are located, have in the past and in the future could cause delays or disruptions in certain of our business operations and product development;
•regional impacts of climate change, which increase the risk of extreme weather events, wildfire and drought that can impact local infrastructure such as the reliability of local electrical grids and telecommunications;
•global economic conditions, including inflation, recession and supply chain disruptions, could materially and adversely affect our business, prospects, results of operations, financial condition or cash flows;
•economic or political instability, military actions or armed conflict, such as the Russian invasion of Ukraine, in locations where we have employees, partners or customers, and uncertainty about or changes in government and trade relationships, policies, and treaties that could adversely affect the ability of U.S.-based companies to conduct business in non-U.S. geographies, such as in the U.K. where Brexit created regulatory uncertainty; and
•legal risks, particularly in emerging markets, relating to compliance with U.S. exchange control requirements and international and U.S. anti-corruption laws and associated exposure to significant fines, penalties and reputational harm.
Our failure to manage any of these risks successfully could negatively affect our reputation and materially adversely affect our operating results.
Russia’s military actions in Ukraine have affected and may continue to affect our business.
In response to Russian military actions in Ukraine, we ceased business operations in Russia and suspended business operations in Belarus, including with respect to sales, support on existing contracts and professional services in both countries. Furthermore, the sanctions imposed by the U.S. and other countries in connection with the Russian invasion of Ukraine include restrictions on selling or importing goods, services or technology in or from affected regions and travel bans and asset freezes impacting connected individuals and political, military, business and financial organizations in Russia. Sanctions imposed on Russia and our suspension of business operations in Russia could impact the fulfillment of existing orders, future revenue streams from impacted customers and the recoverability of certain financial assets. It is not possible to predict the broader consequences of this conflict, which have included and could in the future include further sanctions, embargoes, regional instability, geopolitical shifts and adverse effects on the global economy.
Our success depends on the interoperability of our products and services with those of other companies.
The success of our products depends upon the cooperation of hardware and software vendors to ensure interoperability with our products and offer compatible products and services to end users. In addition, we extend the functionality of various products to work with native public cloud applications, which in some cases requires the cooperation of public cloud vendors. To the extent that hardware, software and public cloud vendors perceive that their products and services compete with ours, they may have an incentive to withhold their cooperation, decline to share access or sell to us their proprietary APIs, protocols or formats, or engage in practices to actively limit the functionality, compatibility and certification of our products. In addition, vendors may fail to certify or support or continue to certify or support our products for their systems. If any of the foregoing occurs, our product development efforts may be delayed or foreclosed and it may be difficult and more costly for us to achieve
functionality and service levels that would make our services attractive to end users, any of which could negatively impact our business and operating results.
Failure to effectively manage our product and service lifecycles could harm our business.
As part of the natural lifecycle of our products and services, we periodically inform customers that products or services will be reaching their end of life or end of availability and will no longer be supported or receive updates and security patches. To the extent these products or services remain subject to a service contract with the customer, we offer to transition the customer to alternative products or services. Failure to effectively manage our product and service lifecycles could lead to customer dissatisfaction and contractual liabilities, which could adversely affect our business and operating results.
Financial Risks
Our operating results may fluctuate significantly.
Our operating results may fluctuate due to a variety of factors, many of which are outside of our control. As a result, comparing our operating results on a period-to-period basis may not be meaningful, and our past results should not be relied upon as an indication of our future performance. In addition, a significant portion of our quarterly sales typically occurs during the last two weeks of the quarter, which generally reflects customer buying patterns for enterprise technology. As a result, our quarterly operating results are difficult to predict even in the near term. If our revenue or operating results fall below the expectations of investors or securities analysts or below any guidance we may provide to the market, the price of our Class A common stock (“Common Stock”) would likely decline substantially.
Factors that may contribute to fluctuations in our operating results include, among others, the factors described elsewhere in this Risk Factors section and the following:
•fluctuations in demand, adoption and renewal rates, sales cycles and pricing levels for our products and services;
•variations in customer choices among our on-premises and subscription and SaaS offerings, which can impact our rates of total revenue and license revenue growth;
•the timing of announcements or releases of new or upgraded products and services by us, our partners or competitors;
•the timing of sales orders processing, which can cause fluctuations in our backlog and impact our bookings and timing of revenue recognition;
•our ability to maintain scalable internal systems for reporting, order processing, license fulfillment, product delivery, purchasing, billing and general accounting, among other functions;
•our ability to control costs, including our operating expenses, and the timing and amount of internal use software development costs that may be capitalized;
•the credit risks associated with our distributors, who account for a significant portion of our product revenue and accounts receivable, and our customers;
•the timing and size of realignment plans and restructuring charges;
•seasonal factors such as end of fiscal period expenditures by our customers and the timing of holiday and vacation periods;
•unplanned events that could affect market perception of the quality or cost-effectiveness of our products and solutions; and
•fluctuations in the severity and duration of the COVID-19 pandemic and resulting restrictions on business activity, which may vary significantly by region.
Adverse economic conditions may harm our business.
Our business success depends in part on worldwide economic conditions. The overall demand for and spend on IT may be viewed by our current and prospective customers as discretionary and, in times of economic uncertainty, customers may delay, decrease, reduce the value and duration, or cancel purchases and upgrades of our products and services. Weak economic conditions or significant uncertainty regarding the stability of financial markets related to stock market volatility, inflation, recession, changes in tariffs, trade agreements or governmental fiscal, monetary and tax policies, among others, have in the past and could in the future adversely impact our business, financial condition and operating results. General and ongoing tightening in the credit market, lower levels of liquidity, increases in rates of default and bankruptcy and significant volatility in equity and fixed-income markets could all negatively impact our customers’ purchasing decisions. Adverse developments that affect financial institutions, transactional counterparties or other third parties, such as bank failures, or concerns or speculation about any similar events or risks, could lead to market-wide liquidity problems, which in turn may cause third parties, including
customers, to become unable to meet their obligations under various types of financial arrangements as well as general disruptions or instability in the financial markets. Increases in interest rates on credit and debt that would increase the cost of our borrowing could impact our ability to access the capital markets and adversely affect our ability to repay or refinance our outstanding indebtedness, fund future product development and acquisitions or conduct stock buybacks.
For example, the COVID-19 pandemic depressed economic activity worldwide, and the timing and strength of economic recoveries is highly uncertain and likely to vary significantly by region. While the COVID-19 pandemic, including the dangers posed by COVID-19 variants, has not had a material adverse financial impact on our operations to date, we have observed negative impacts on our sales and our financial results from, and there continues to be significant uncertainty regarding, the economic effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. For example, during much of fiscal 2021, we saw delays in customers’ large transformative on-premises projects that we believe were largely due to COVID-19, which negatively impacted our product sales. Accordingly, should the pandemic continue to persist for an extended period of time, economic conditions globally or in particular regions may fail to recover or even worsen, which could cause material adverse impacts to our earnings and other results of operations. More recently, inflation rates in the U.S. have increased to levels not seen in several years, which may result in decreased demand for our products and services, increases in our operating costs, constrained credit and liquidity, reduced government spending and increased volatility in financial markets.
Additionally, trade tensions between the U.S. and its trading partners, like China, have caused and may continue to cause significant volatility in global financial markets. Amidst sustained economic uncertainty, many national and local governments that are current or prospective customers, including the U.S. federal government, may need to make significant changes in their spending priorities, which could reduce the amount of government spending on IT and the potential demand for our products and services from the government sector.
These adverse economic conditions can arise suddenly, have unpredictable impacts and materially adversely affect our future sales and operating results. Further, volatility due to these types of adverse economic conditions in financial and other capital markets, has and may continue to adversely impact our stock price and may in the future impact our ability to access the equity or debt capital markets on attractive terms or at all for a period of time, which could have an adverse effect on our liquidity position.
We have substantial indebtedness, and we may incur other debt in the future, which may adversely affect our financial condition and future financial results.
As of February 3, 2023, we had an aggregate of $10.4 billion of outstanding indebtedness. Additionally, we entered into a $1.5 billion unsecured revolving credit facility during the third quarter of fiscal 2022, which is undrawn.
The terms of our indebtedness and revolving credit facility impose restrictions on us, including in specified and customary covenants, our compliance with which may be affected by events beyond our control, including prevailing economic, financial and industry conditions. If we fail to satisfy any of the terms or breach any of the covenants and do not obtain a waiver from the lenders or note holders, then, subject to applicable cure periods, any outstanding indebtedness may be declared immediately due and payable or, with respect to the unsecured notes, we may be required to repurchase our unsecured notes at a price equal to 101% of the aggregate principal plus any accrued and unpaid interest.
We intend to reduce our indebtedness during the next fiscal years. While we believe our remaining cash balances and cash generated by our business operations will be sufficient to fund our operations and enable us to pursue our existing stock repurchase program and strategic plans, if our business operations do not generate the cash flows we expect, then our ability to fund future stock repurchases, invest in our business and pursue strategic alternatives, including business acquisitions, will be reduced, which could reduce our ability to manage dilution of our stock and limit our future growth. If in the future we are unable to generate sufficient operating cash flows to service our debt, we may be required to, among other things, seek additional financing in the debt or equity markets, refinance or restructure all or a portion of our indebtedness, sell selected assets or reduce or delay planned expenditures. Even so, such measures may not be sufficient to enable us to service our debt.
Our current and any future debt may adversely affect our financial condition and future financial results by, among other things, increasing our vulnerability to adverse changes in general economic condition, including exposure to interest rate volatility due to our variable rate indebtedness, and industry conditions, necessitating use or dedication of our expected cash flow from operations to service our indebtedness instead of for other purposes, such as capital expenditures and acquisitions, impairing our ability to obtain additional financing for working capital, capital expenditures, acquisitions or other purposes, and limiting our flexibility in planning for, or reacting to, business changes.
In addition, any actual or anticipated changes to our credit ratings, including any announcement that our credit ratings are under review by any rating agency, may:
•negatively impact the value and liquidity of our debt and equity securities;
•result in an increase in the interest rate payable by us and the cost of borrowing under our revolving credit facility and senior unsecured term loan facility;
•negatively affect the terms of and restrict our ability to obtain financing in the future; and
•upon the occurrence of certain downgrades of the ratings of our unsecured notes, require us to repurchase our unsecured notes at a price equal to 101% of the aggregate principal plus any accrued and unpaid interest.
Refer to “Liquidity and Capital Resources” in “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” in Part II, Item 7 of this Annual Report on Form 10-K for more information on our outstanding indebtedness.
We have potential tax liabilities as a result of our former controlling ownership by Dell, which could have an adverse effect on our operating results and financial condition.
Membership in a consolidated tax group. We were included in EMC’s consolidated group for U.S. federal income tax purposes, as well as in certain consolidated, combined or unitary groups that include EMC or certain of its subsidiaries for state and local income tax purposes, from the time of our acquisition by EMC in 2004 through the acquisition of EMC by Dell effective September 7, 2016 (the “Dell Acquisition”), when we became included in Dell’s consolidated tax group. Each member of a consolidated group during any part of a consolidated return year is jointly and severally liable for tax on the consolidated return of such year and for any subsequently determined deficiency thereon. Similarly, in some jurisdictions, each member of a consolidated, combined or unitary group for state, local or foreign income tax purposes is jointly and severally liable for the state, local or foreign income tax liability of each other member of such group. Accordingly, for any period in which we were included in the Dell consolidated group for U.S. federal income tax purposes or any other consolidated, combined or unitary group of Dell and its subsidiaries, we could be liable in the event that any income tax liability was incurred, but not discharged, by any other member of any such group. Additionally, the impact of the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (the “2017 Tax Act”) upon consolidated groups is highly complex and uncertain, and its impact must be further interpreted in the context of various tax-related agreements we have agreed to with EMC and Dell (the “Tax Agreements”) to determine VMware’s related payment. As a result of the Spin-Off, we are no longer a member of Dell’s consolidated tax group, however, we are still subject to potential tax liabilities for the periods prior to the Spin-Off.
Tax Agreements. We have agreed to Tax Agreements that govern, among other things, our potential liabilities for other members of the consolidated tax groups of which we are considered members. Pursuant to the Tax Agreements, we and Dell generally will make payments to each other such that, with respect to tax returns for any taxable period in which we or any of our subsidiaries are included in Dell’s consolidated group for U.S. federal income tax purposes or any other consolidated, combined or unitary group of Dell or its subsidiaries, the amount of taxes to be paid by us will be determined, subject to certain consolidated return adjustments, as if we and each of our subsidiaries included in such consolidated, combined or unitary group filed our own consolidated, combined or unitary tax return. Although the Tax Agreements provide that our tax liability is calculated primarily as though VMware were a separate taxpayer, certain tax attributes and transactions are assessed using consolidated tax return rules as applied to the Dell consolidated tax group and are subject to other specialized terms under the Tax Agreements. In April 2019, we expanded the Tax Agreements by entering into a letter agreement with Dell and EMC that governs our portion of the one-time transition tax imposed by the 2017 Tax Act on accumulated earnings of foreign subsidiaries. Additionally, in December 2019, we amended the Tax Agreements to, subject to certain exceptions, generally limit VMware’s maximum annual tax liability to Dell to the amount VMware would owe on a separate tax return basis. Concurrent with the signing of the Separation and Distribution Agreement in April 2021, we and Dell entered into a new tax matters agreement and terminated a preceding tax sharing agreement. A substantial lack of alignment or disagreement between us and Dell regarding the applicability or interpretation of the Tax Agreements, or any unanticipated material tax liability arising pursuant to the Tax Agreements, could adversely impact our financial condition and operating results.
Pivotal. Prior to the Spin-Off, Pivotal filed a separate tax return for U.S. federal income tax purposes, as it left the Dell consolidated tax group at the time of Pivotal’s initial public offering in April 2018. Pivotal continued to be included on Dell’s unitary state tax returns until the Spin-Off. Pursuant to a tax agreement between Pivotal and Dell, Pivotal may receive or owe payments from or to Dell for tax benefits or expenses that Dell realized due to Pivotal’s inclusion on such returns.
Tracking Stock. Pursuant to the Tax Agreements, if it is subsequently determined that the tracking stock issued in connection with the Dell Acquisition and which Dell subsequently eliminated through a share exchange constitutes a taxable distribution, we could be liable for all or a portion of the tax liability, which could have a material adverse effect on our operating results and financial condition.
Spin-Off. If the Spin-Off is later determined to not be tax-free for any reason, we could be liable for all or a portion of the tax liability. Additionally, under the Tax Agreements, we are prohibited from taking or failing to take any action that prevents the Spin-Off from being tax-free for U.S. federal income tax purposes. We would be responsible for any taxes imposed on Dell or any of its affiliates as a result of the failure of the Spin-Off to qualify for favorable treatment under the Internal Revenue Code if such failure is attributable to certain actions taken after the Spin-Off by or in respect of us, which could have a material
adverse effect on our operating results and financial condition. Further, during the two-year period following the Spin-Off, without obtaining the consent of Dell, a private letter ruling from the Internal Revenue Service (“IRS”) or an unqualified opinion of a nationally recognized law firm, we may be prohibited from taking certain specified actions that could impact the treatment of the Spin-Off, such as significant equity transactions that shift more than a significant portion of the value or total combined voting power of all outstanding shares of our stock. These restrictions may limit our ability to pursue strategic transactions or engage in new business or other transactions that may maximize the value of our business. These obligations may also discourage, delay or prevent a change of control of our company.
In connection with the Merger Agreement with Broadcom, we provided Dell with an opinion from our counsel, Gibson Dunn, to the effect that the transaction will not result in the Spin-Off failing to qualify as a tax-free transaction under Section 355 of the Internal Revenue Code. Moreover, the Merger Agreement includes a representation by us to Broadcom that such opinion has not been revoked, substantively modified or withdrawn (unless an acceptable replacement opinion has been received), and Broadcom’s obligation to consummate the transaction is conditioned on such representation being true and correct in all respects as of the date of the Merger Agreement and as of the closing of the transaction, as though made on and as of the closing of the transaction. Broadcom may, in its sole discretion, waive the condition relating to the accuracy of this representation. Dell could seek to enjoin the consummation of the transaction if (1) there is a breach of our representation regarding the opinion, (2) Broadcom waives the condition relating to the accuracy of the opinion, and (3) we do not obtain an IRS private letter ruling confirming that the transaction will not cause the Spin-Off to fail to qualify as a tax-free transaction under Section 355 of the Internal Revenue Code. The opinion of counsel is based on, among other things, various assumptions and the accuracy of representations made by us, Broadcom, Dell and certain other persons in connection with the Spin-Off and the execution of the Merger Agreement. If any of these assumptions or representations were, or were to become, inaccurate or incomplete, the opinion may be invalid. No ruling from the IRS is being sought regarding the U.S. federal income tax consequences of the transaction, and an opinion of counsel is not binding on the IRS or any court. Accordingly, there can be no assurance that the IRS will not disagree with or challenge any of the conclusions in the opinion of counsel or that a court will not sustain such a challenge. Regardless of whether the condition in the Merger Agreement relating to the accuracy of our representation regarding the opinion required by the Tax Matters Agreement is satisfied or waived by Broadcom, if the Spin-Off were determined to be taxable as a result of the transaction, Dell, its affiliates and, potentially, its stockholders would incur significant tax liabilities and, under the Tax Agreements, we (following the consummation of the transaction, as a wholly owned subsidiary of Broadcom) may be required to indemnify Dell and its affiliates for any such tax liabilities, which would be material.
Our operating results may be adversely impacted by exposure to additional tax liabilities and higher than expected tax rates.
We are subject to income taxes as well as non-income-based taxes, such as payroll, sales and property taxes, in many of the jurisdictions in which we operate. Our tax liabilities are dependent on the allocation of revenue and expenses in different jurisdictions and the timing of recognizing revenue and expenses. Significant judgment is required to determine our worldwide provision for income taxes and other tax liabilities. For example, in the ordinary course of our global business, we execute intercompany transactions, including intellectual property transfers, that require us to make tax estimates because the ultimate tax determination is uncertain.
We are subject to income and indirect tax examinations and are undergoing audits in various jurisdictions. For instance, the IRS has started its examination of fiscal years 2015 through 2019 for the Dell consolidated group, of which VMware was a member beginning in Dell’s fiscal year 2017. As a result of the Spin-Off, VMware is no longer a member of the Dell consolidated group, however, we are still subject to examination by the IRS for the periods in which we were a member of the Dell consolidated group. While we believe we have complied with all applicable income tax laws and made reasonable tax estimates, a governing tax authority could have a different legal interpretation, and a final determination of tax audits or disputes may differ from what is reflected in our historical income tax provisions or benefits and accruals and we may be assessed with additional taxes. Further, the Tax Agreements between us and Dell provide that, when we become subject to federal income tax audits as a member of Dell’s consolidated group, Dell has authority to control the audit and represent Dell and our interests to the IRS. Accordingly, if we and Dell differ on appropriate responses and positions to take with respect to tax questions that may arise in the course of an audit, our ability to affect the outcome of such audits may be impaired.
In addition, regulatory guidance is still forthcoming with respect to the 2017 Tax Act and such guidance may adversely impact our tax provision. Any assessment of additional taxes could materially affect our financial condition and operating results. Further, beginning in fiscal 2023, the 2017 Tax Act eliminates the option to deduct research and development expenditures immediately in the year incurred and requires taxpayers to amortize such expenditures over five years for domestic expenses and fifteen years for certain foreign expenses. Although the U.S. Congress is considering various legislative options that would defer the amortization requirement to later years, we have no assurance that the provision will be repealed or otherwise modified. This provision became effective for us beginning in fiscal 2023 and caused an increase in our taxes in that year. If this provision is not deferred, repealed or modified, our cash taxes may further increase in the future.
Our future effective tax rate may also be affected by such factors as:
•the expiration of legal statutes of limitation and settlements of audits;
•the impact of accounting for stock-based compensation and for business combinations;
•the recognition of excess tax benefits or deficiencies within the income tax provision or benefit in the period in which they occur;
•the overall levels and proportion of our income before provision for income taxes earned in the U.S. and in jurisdictions with a tax rate lower than the U.S. statutory rate; and
•other developments related to tax laws or their interpretations, in our business or statutory rates, and in our corporate structure.
For example, numerous other countries have also recently enacted or are considering enacting changes to tax laws, administrative interpretations, decisions, policies and positions. In addition, the Organization for Economic, Co-operation and Development (“OECD”), an international association of countries, including the U.S., has made changes and is contemplating additional changes to numerous long-standing tax principles. Further, the Inflation Reduction Act (the “IRA”) was enacted in August 2022 and it will be effective for us commencing with our fiscal 2024. The key tax provisions of the IRA relate to a new 15% corporate alternative minimum tax on adjusted financial statement income for companies with profits greater than $1.0 billion and a 1% excise tax on stock repurchases by publicly traded companies.
These and any other significant developments related to U.S. or international tax laws could materially adversely affect our effective tax rate, the timing and amount of our tax liabilities and payments, our financial condition and operating results.
Security Risks
Cybersecurity breaches of our systems or the systems of our vendors, partners and suppliers could materially harm our business.
Cyber risks represent a large and growing risk to our business, as we depend upon our IT systems, internally developed and proprietary software and services, as well as the software and systems of SaaS providers, to conduct virtually all of our business operations. Some of the factors that contribute to significant cyber risks include:
•We increasingly develop and maintain large data sets and rely on machine learning, artificial intelligence and analytics to provide services to our customers and partners.
•Customers conduct purchase and service transactions online, and we store increasing amounts of customer data and host or manage parts of customers’ businesses in cloud-based IT environments.
•We rely on third parties and their systems for a number of our business functions and to sell our products and services as distributors, resellers, system vendors and systems integrators.
•Hardware, software and applications that we produce or procure from third parties can contain vulnerabilities, such as the Log4J vulnerability reported in December 2021, that have in the past and could in the future interfere with our systems and processes and compromise and introduce vulnerabilities into our products and services.
•Our leadership position in the enterprise security industry, and the widespread use of our services and products in the computing ecosystem, makes us, our employees and contractors and our products a target of threat actors seeking to compromise product security.
•Our large and globally distributed workforce, many of which “work from anywhere,” may increase our exposure to internal threats, social engineering and cyber-attacks.
•Our products, to function as intended, often require heightened permissions within customer environments, and also serve as underlying technology infrastructure for customers’ other systems, making our products more attractive targets for malicious actors, including for example, ransomware attackers such as those engaged in the ESXiArgs campaign exploiting known vulnerabilities in servers running outdated versions of VMware’s ESXi software.
•We are considered an essential supplier in the digital supply chain for the United States government and other entities, including entities operating critical infrastructure, which makes us and our products a target for those seeking to threaten the confidentiality, availability and integrity of critical infrastructure globally.
Cyber-attacks, which are increasing in number and technical sophistication, threaten to misappropriate our proprietary information, cause interruptions of our IT services, introduce or exploit vulnerabilities or introduce malicious files into our IT systems and our products and services for financial gain and unlawful, fraudulent or other malicious purposes, including rendering customers’ core IT infrastructure inoperable. Malicious actors often target company employees and contractors in an
effort to compromise our IT systems and products using techniques such as email phishing, credential stuffing, password spraying and social engineering, which risk may be heightened as greater numbers of employees and contractors work remotely. Furthermore, geopolitical tensions, such as the current conflict between Russia and Ukraine, could increase the risk of retaliatory state-sponsored cyber-attacks to exploit vulnerabilities in VMware systems and products. We may not be able to adequately prepare for or mitigate against such attacks, including, among other reasons, because techniques used in such attacks change frequently. This may cause a delay in our detection and response time, which could in turn exacerbate the scope and impact of the compromise of our and our customers’ systems.
Unauthorized actors (external malicious actors, including nation states and individuals sponsored by them, as well as internal actors bypassing internal controls) have penetrated our network security and our website in the past and may do so in the future. Malicious actors are also actively probing our environments for exploitable vulnerabilities, including in open-source components we utilize, and will likely continue doing so in the future. We are increasingly targeted by malicious actors who seek to extort or steal funds from companies and employees. Significant and increasing investments of time, resources and management and Board attention have been, and will continue to be, required to anticipate and address cybersecurity risks and incidents. Accordingly, if our cybersecurity risk management program and those of our contractors, partners and vendors is not effective in protecting against, containing or recovering from breaches, internal threats or other incidents, our ability to conduct our business could be damaged in a number of ways, including:
•Commercially and competitively sensitive business information, such as our intellectual property and other proprietary data, could be stolen, exposed or misused;
•our IT systems could be disrupted, and our ability to conduct our business operations could be severely impeded untilthey are restored and secured;
•our supply chain may be compromised, which may in turn impact the confidentiality, availability and integrity of our internal or customer-facing systems and products;
•our ability to process and electronically deliver customer orders could be degraded, and our distribution channels could be disrupted, resulting in delays in revenue recognition; and
•personal information or data of our customers, employees and business partners could be compromised, misused or lost.
Should any of the above events occur, or are perceived to have occurred, we could be subject to significant claims for damages or injunctive relief from our customers, partners, vendors, or employees (among others); we could face costly and time-intensive investigations, inquiries or actions by regulators or government policymakers, and sanctions, penalties or injunctive demands from governmental agencies under privacy, data protection, cybersecurity, incident notification, or other laws and regulations; our ability to protect our intellectual property rights could be compromised; our ability to attract and retain customers could be negatively impacted; our reputation and competitive position could be materially harmed; we could face material losses as the result of successful financial cyber-fraud schemes; and we could incur significant costs in order to upgrade our cybersecurity systems, remediate damages and defend the Company in any legal, regulatory, legislative or administrative proceedings. Consequently, our business, financial condition and operating results could be materially adversely affected.
Our products and services are highly technical and may contain, or be subject to our own or suppliers’, errors, defects or security vulnerabilities.
Our products and services are highly technical and complex and, when deployed, contain errors, defects or security vulnerabilities, some of which may not be discovered before or after a product or service has been released, installed and used by customers. The complexity and breadth of our technical and production environment, which involves multiple and dispersed product and engineering teams in different countries, including China, working on different product initiatives, increases the risk that vulnerabilities or defects are introduced into our products and services and may delay our ability to detect, mitigate or remediate such vulnerabilities. The need to coordinate with multiple parties in the supply chain when vulnerabilities are detected can also delay mitigation or remediation, thereby increasing risks to customers. Our internal logging, alerting, and cyber incident detection mechanisms may not cover every system potentially targeted by threat actors, may not have the capability to detect certain types of unauthorized activities, and may not capture and surface information sufficient to enable us to detect and take responsive action. In addition, our internal access control policies, mechanisms and training, including around credentials security and management, may not be effective in eradicating in all instances previously identified or known risks, particularly in scenarios where our credentials and related policies have been exposed or obtained externally. Employees or contractors have also bypassed our access control mechanisms and introduced vulnerabilities in, and enabled the exploitation of, our IT environments, our software products (and correspondingly our customers’ environments), and our subscription and SaaS offerings in the past and may do so in the future.
Security vulnerabilities in our IT environments, software products or customer environments, installation errors or misuse can also lead to increased cybersecurity risks for customers and partners, including unintended access to or exploitation of our products, which risks are exacerbated if customers fail to timely implement (or to implement at all) security recommendations and software updates that we and other IT vendors issue from time to time when significant issues have been identified. Undiscovered or unresolved vulnerabilities in our products or services could expose our customers to hackers, threat actors or other unscrupulous third parties who develop and deploy viruses, worms and other malicious software programs that could attack customers using our products or services. Further, our use of open-source software in our offerings can make our products and services vulnerable to additional security risks not posed by proprietary products.
In the past, VMware has been made aware of public postings by hackers of portions of our proprietary source code. It is possible that the released source code could expose unknown security vulnerabilities in our products and services that could be exploited by hackers or others. In addition, public exposure, or exploitation of vulnerabilities in our products by threat actors, could result in reputational damage and lost customers and could negatively affect our operating results and those of our customers.
VMware products and services are also subject to known and unknown security vulnerabilities resulting from integration with products or services of other companies (such as applications, operating systems or semiconductors).
Actual or perceived errors, defects or security vulnerabilities in our products or services could harm our reputation, result in litigation or regulatory actions or lead some customers to return products or services or cancel subscriptions, reduce or delay future purchases or use competitive products or services, any of which could materially negatively impact our business, operating results and stock price.
Problems with our information systems could interfere with our business and could adversely impact our operations.
We rely on our information systems and those of third parties for fulfilling contractual obligations, including processing customer orders, delivering products and providing services, performing accounting operations, supporting our employees, managing employee data and otherwise running our business. If our systems fail, our disaster and data recovery planning and capacity may prove insufficient to enable timely recovery of important functions and business records. Additionally, our information systems may not efficiently support new business models and initiatives, and significant investments could be required in order to upgrade existing or implement new systems. Business requirements may require additional capabilities including implementation of a new information system. In particular, our systems and operations were built to support a perpetual software licensing model, and significant enhancements are required to support our transition to subscription and SaaS products and services. Further, we continuously work to enhance our information systems, such as our enterprise resource planning software, and the implementation of such enhancements is frequently disruptive to the underlying enterprise, which may especially be the case for us due to the size and complexity of our business, and may disrupt internal controls and business processes that could introduce unintended vulnerability to error. Any such disruption to our information systems and those of the third parties upon whom we rely could have a material impact on our business.
Legal and Compliance Risks
We are involved in litigation, investigations and regulatory inquiries and proceedings that could negatively affect us.
As described in Note D to the consolidated financial statements in Part II, Item 8 of this Annual Report on Form 10-K, we are, and may become, involved in various legal and regulatory proceedings, and investigations relating to our business, including with respect to antitrust and competition, breach of contract, class action, commercial, corporate governance, cybersecurity, employment, intellectual property, privacy, securities, and whistleblower matters. Matters such as these may impact our business in different ways. Intellectual property infringement claims, for example, may seek injunctive relief or other court orders that could prevent us from offering our products. As a result, we might be required to seek a license for the use of such intellectual property, which may not be available on commercially reasonable terms or at all, or we may be required to develop non-infringing technology, which could require significant effort and expense and may ultimately not be successful. Because we generally indemnify our customers and partners from intellectual property infringement claims in connection with the use of our products, we may be called on to defend these customers and partners in litigation. In addition, we have already been, and may continue to be, subject to demands, claims and lawsuits arising out of Broadcom’s proposed acquisition of VMware. We may also be subject to demands, claims, lawsuits, regulatory investigations and Congressional inquiries relating to cybersecurity incidents. From time to time, we also receive inquiries from and have discussions with government entities regarding our compliance with laws and regulations. Such litigation, investigations, regulatory inquiries, and proceedings can be unpredictable and time-consuming, divert management’s attention and resources, cause us to incur significant expenses, and could result in ancillary consequences that limit our ability to avail ourselves of certain legal benefits or protections for periods of time. For example, as a result of our settlement with the SEC in September 2022, we no longer qualify for well-known seasoned issuer status, we are ineligible for certain private offering exemptions under the Securities Act that would otherwise make our public offerings of debt more efficient and we are unable to rely on protection of the safe harbor provisions of the
U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 again until September 2025. Allegations made in connection with these matters may harm our reputation, regardless of their merit and could have a material adverse impact on our business, financial condition, cash flows or results of operations if decided adversely to or settled by us.
We may not be able to adequately protect our intellectual property rights.
We depend on our ability to protect our proprietary technology. We rely on trade secret, patent, copyright and trademark laws and confidentiality agreements with employees and third parties, all of which offer only limited protection. As such, despite our efforts, the steps we have taken to protect our proprietary rights may not be adequate to prevent misappropriation of our proprietary information or infringement of our intellectual property rights, and our ability to police such misappropriation or infringement is uncertain, particularly in countries outside of the U.S. In addition, we rely on confidentiality and license agreements with third parties in connection with their use of our products and technology. There is no guarantee that such parties will abide by the terms of such agreements or that we will be able to adequately enforce our rights, in part because we rely on “click-wrap” and “shrink-wrap” licenses in some instances.
Detecting and protecting against the unauthorized use of our products, technology proprietary rights and intellectual property rights is expensive, difficult, uncertain and, in some cases, impossible. Litigation is necessary from time to time to enforce or defend our intellectual property rights, to protect our trade secrets or to determine the validity and scope of the proprietary rights of others. Despite our efforts, we may not be able to prevent third parties from infringing upon or misappropriating our intellectual property, which could result in a substantial loss of our market share.
Actual or perceived non-compliance with privacy and data protection laws, regulations and standards could adversely impact our business.
Our business is subject to laws and regulations by various federal, state and international legislative and governmental agencies responsible for legislating, monitoring and enforcing privacy and data protection laws (“Data Privacy Laws”). The regulatory framework regarding the collection, protection, use, transfer and disclosure of personal information is rapidly evolving, and Data Privacy Laws are subject to new and changing interpretations and amendments, creating uncertainty and additional legal obligations for ourselves, our partners, vendors and customers. We expect that there will continue to be newly proposed or changes to interpretations of existing Data Privacy Laws and industry standards, including self-regulatory standards advocated by industry groups, in various jurisdictions globally, and we may not be able to appropriately anticipate or timely respond to the impacts such and similar developments may have on our business or the businesses of our partners, vendors and customers.
We continue to regularly enhance our policies and controls across our business relating to how we and our business partners collect, protect and use customer and employee personal information. Ongoing changes to the regulatory landscape will likely increase the cost and complexity of our business relationships, internal operations and the delivery of our products and services. In addition, this may affect our ability to run promotions and effectively market our offerings and could subsequently impact the demand for our products and services.
Any actual or perceived failure by us or our business partners to comply with Data Privacy Laws, the privacy commitments contained in our contracts, or the privacy notices we have posted on our website could subject us to investigations, sanctions, enforcement actions, negative financial consequences, civil and criminal liability or injunctions. For example, failure to comply with the EU’s General Data Protection Regulation requirements may lead to fines of up to €20 million or 4% of the annual global revenues of the infringer, whichever is greater. Additionally, as a technology provider, our customers expect us to demonstrate compliance with current Data Privacy Laws and further make contractual commitments and implement processes to enable the customer to comply with their own obligations under Data Privacy Laws, and our actual or perceived inability to do so may adversely impact sales of our products and services, particularly to customers in highly regulated industries. As a result, our reputation and brand may be harmed, we could incur significant costs, and our financial and operating results could be materially adversely affected.
Our use of “open source” software in our products could negatively affect our ability to sell our products and subject us to litigation.
Many of our products and services incorporate so-called “open source” software, and we may incorporate open source software into other products and services in the future. Open source software is generally licensed by its authors or other third parties under open source licenses. Open source licensors generally do not provide warranties or assurance of title or controls on origin of the software, which exposes us to potential liability if the software fails to work or infringes the intellectual property of a third party.
We monitor our use of open source software in an effort to avoid subjecting our products to conditions we do not intend and avoid exposing us to unacceptable financial risk. However, the processes we follow to monitor our use of open source software could fail to achieve their intended result. In addition, although we believe that we have complied with our obligations
under the various applicable licenses for open source software that we use, there is little or no legal precedent governing the interpretation of terms in most of these licenses, which increases the risk that a court could interpret the licenses differently than we do.
From time to time, we receive inquiries or claims from authors or distributors of open source software included in our products regarding our compliance with the conditions of one or more open source licenses. An adverse outcome to a claim could require us to:
•pay significant damages;
•stop distributing our products that contain the open source software;
•revise or modify our product code to remove alleged infringing code;
•release the source code of our proprietary software; or
•take other steps to avoid or remedy an alleged infringement.
We have faced and successfully defended against allegations of copyright infringement and failing to comply with the terms of an open source license, but we can provide no assurances that we will not face similar lawsuits with respect to our use of open source software in the future, nor what the outcome of any such lawsuits may be.
If we fail to comply with government contracting regulations, our business could be adversely affected.
Our contracts with federal, state, local and non-U.S. governmental customers and our arrangements with distributors and resellers who may sell directly to governmental customers are subject to various procurement regulations, contract provisions and other requirements relating to their formation, administration and performance. Any failure by us to comply with government contracting regulations (such as cybersecurity- and COVID-19-related requirements) could result in the imposition of various civil and criminal penalties, which may include termination of contracts, forfeiture of profits, suspension of payments, fines and suspension from future government contracting, any of which could adversely affect our business, operating results or financial condition. Further, any negative publicity related to our government contracts or any proceedings surrounding them, regardless of accuracy, may damage our business and affect our ability to compete for new contracts.
Some of our directors have potential conflicts of interest with Dell.
The Chairman of our Board of Directors, Michael Dell, is also chairman and chief executive officer of Dell and is a significant stockholder of Dell, and one of our directors, Egon Durban, serves on the Dell board of directors and as managing partner of Silver Lake Partners, a significant stockholder of Dell. Ownership of Dell common stock by our directors and the presence of executive officers or directors of Dell on our board of directors could create, or appear to create, conflicts of interest with respect to matters involving both us and Dell that could have different implications for Dell than they do for us. Our Board has approved resolutions that address corporate opportunities that are presented to Messrs. Dell and Durban. These provisions may not adequately address potential conflicts of interest or ensure that potential conflicts of interest will be resolved in our favor. As a result, we may not be able to take advantage of corporate opportunities presented to individuals who are directors of both us and Dell and we may be precluded from pursuing certain growth initiatives.
Risks Related to Owning Our Common Stock
The MSD Stockholders and the SLP Stockholders have significant influence over us, and their interests may conflict with our interests and the interests of our other stockholders.
As a result of the Spin-Off, the entities affiliated with Michael Dell (“MSD Stockholders”) and the entities affiliated with Silver Lake Partners (“SLP Stockholders”) became direct beneficial holders of VMware with interests representing 39.5% and 9.8%, respectively, of our outstanding stock, based on the number of shares outstanding as of March 21, 2023. As a result, the MSD Stockholders and the SLP Stockholders have significant influence over all matters requiring stockholder approval, including the election of directors and significant corporate transactions, such as a merger or other sale of our company or our assets. The interests of the MSD Stockholders or the SLP Stockholders could conflict with or differ from our interests or the interests of our other stockholders. For example, the concentration of voting power held by the MSD Stockholders and SLP Stockholders could delay, defer or prevent a change of control of us or impede a merger, takeover or other business combination which we or others of our stockholders may view favorably. Effective upon the consummation of the Spin-Off, we entered into a stockholders agreement pursuant to which the MSD Stockholders have the right to nominate up to two members of our Board and the SLP Stockholders have the right to nominate one member of our Board, subject to maintaining certain ownership thresholds. Michael Dell, the Chairman of our Board, is the first MSD Stockholders nominee; the MSD Stockholders have the right to nominate a second member of the Board. Egon Durban is the SLP Stockholders’ nominee. This concentrated control may negatively impact other stockholders’ ability to influence corporate matters and may also adversely affect our stock price. The MSD Stockholders and SLP Stockholders collectively beneficially own 65.5% of Dell’s outstanding stock as of
March 21, 2023. Accordingly, their interests may not be aligned with other VMware stockholders with respect to actions involving or impacting Dell.
The price of our Common Stock has fluctuated significantly in recent years and may fluctuate significantly in the future.
The trading price of our Common Stock has fluctuated significantly in the past and could fluctuate substantially in the future, and stockholders’ investments in our stock could lose some or all of their value. The stock market in general and technology companies in particular have often experienced extreme price and volume fluctuations. Neither the MSD Stockholders nor the SLP Stockholders are restricted from selling their respective shares, and each is entitled to certain registration rights. If a significant number of these shares enters the public trading markets in a short period of time, the market price of our Common Stock may decline. Broad market and industry factors may also decrease the market price of our Common Stock, regardless of our actual operating performance. Additionally, fluctuations and declines in our stock price have been, and in the future may be, due to, among other reasons, the factors discussed in this Risk Factors section and elsewhere in this report, as well as:
•perceived progress, or lack thereof, in the satisfaction of conditions precedent to and speculation regarding the timing of the consummation of our acquisition by Broadcom;
•our ability to meet or exceed the forward-looking guidance we have given, to give forward-looking guidance consistent with past practice and any changes to or withdrawal of previous guidance or long-range targets;
•trading activity by directors, executive officers, significant stockholders or a limited number of stockholders who together beneficially own a significant portion of our outstanding common stock, or the market’s perception that such holders intend to sell;
•the inclusion or exclusion of our stock from any trading indices, such as the S&P 500 Index;
•speculation in the press and on social media; and
•changes in recommendations regarding our stock or more favorable relative recommendations about our competitors by the industry or securities analysts who cover and publish about us, our business, our competitors, or the markets in which we compete.
In addition to direct value lost, volatility or declines in our stock price may adversely affect our ability to retain key employees, most of whom are compensated, in part, based on the performance of our stock price. In the past, following periods of volatility in the overall market and the market price of a company’s securities, securities class action litigation has often been instituted, including against us, and, if not resolved swiftly, can result in substantial costs and a diversion of management’s attention and resources.
Anti-takeover provisions in Delaware law and our charter documents could discourage takeover attempts.
Certain provisions in our certificate of incorporation and bylaws may have the effect of delaying or preventing a change of control or changes in our management. These provisions include the following:
•the division of our board of directors into three classes, with each class serving for a staggered three-year term, which prevents stockholders from electing an entirely new board of directors at any annual meeting;
•that any director may only be removed for cause and only by the affirmative vote of holders of at least a majority of the votes entitled to be cast to elect any such director;
•the right of the board of directors to elect a director to fill a vacancy created by the expansion of the board of directors;
•the prohibition of cumulative voting in the election of directors or any other matters, which would otherwise allow less than a majority of stockholders to elect director candidates;
•the requirement for advance notice for nominations for election to the board of directors or for proposing matters that can be acted upon at a stockholders’ meeting;
•the ability of the board of directors to issue, without stockholder approval, up to 100,000,000 shares of preferred stock with terms set by the board of directors, which rights could be senior to those of common stock; and
•stockholders may not act by written consent and may not call special meetings of the stockholders.
In addition, Section 203 of the Delaware General Corporation Law may discourage, delay or prevent a change in control of our company and could reduce the price that investors may be willing to pay for shares of our common stock. Section 203 imposes certain restrictions on merger, business combinations and other transactions between us and large stockholders, in particular those owning 15% or more of our outstanding voting stock.
Our bylaws provide for an exclusive forum for substantially all disputes between us and our stockholders, which could limit our stockholders’ ability to obtain a favorable judicial forum for disputes with us or our directors, officers or employees.
Our bylaws include a provision providing that the Court of Chancery of the State of Delaware is the exclusive forum for the following types of actions or proceedings under Delaware statutory or common law:
•any derivative action or proceeding brought on our behalf;
•any action asserting a claim of breach of a fiduciary duty owed by, or other wrongdoing by, any of our directors, officers, employees or stockholders to us or to our stockholders;
•any action asserting a claim arising pursuant to any provision of the Delaware General Corporation Law or as to which the Delaware General Corporation Law confers jurisdiction on the Court of Chancery of the State of Delaware; or
•any action asserting a claim governed by the internal affairs doctrine.
This provision would not apply to suits brought to enforce any duty or liability created by the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (the “Exchange Act”). Furthermore, Section 22 of the Securities Act of 1933 (the “Securities Act”) creates concurrent jurisdiction for federal and state courts over all such Securities Act actions.
While the Delaware courts have determined that exclusive forum provisions are facially valid, a stockholder may nevertheless seek to bring a claim in a venue other than the one we have designated. In such instance, we would expect to vigorously assert the validity and enforceability of the exclusive forum provision of our bylaws, which may require significant expenditures of resources, and, ultimately, there can be no assurance that the provisions would be enforced by a court in those other jurisdictions. This exclusive forum provision may limit a stockholder’s ability to bring a claim in a judicial forum that it finds favorable for disputes with us or our directors, officers, or other employees and may discourage these types of lawsuits. If a court were to find the exclusive forum provision contained in our bylaws to be inapplicable or unenforceable in an action, we may incur additional costs to resolve such action in other jurisdictions.
General Risks
We are exposed to foreign exchange risks.
We conduct a meaningful portion of our business in currencies other than the U.S. dollar, but report our operating results in U.S. dollars. Accordingly, our operating results are subject to fluctuations in currency exchange rates. The realized gain or loss on foreign currency transactions is dependent upon the types of foreign currency transactions into which we enter, the exchange rates associated with these transactions and changes in those rates, the net realized gain or loss on our foreign currency forward contracts, among other factors. Although we hedge a portion of our foreign currency exposure, significant fluctuations in exchange rates between the U.S. dollar and foreign currencies have adversely affected, and may adversely affect in the future, our operating results. For example, the economic uncertainty introduced by Brexit resulted in significant volatility in the value of the British pound and other currencies, and the COVID-19 pandemic has made in the past and may in the future make it more difficult for us to accurately forecast future transactions in foreign currencies and cause us to have to modify hedging positions, thereby adversely impacting the efficacy of our foreign currency hedging strategy and our operating results. Any future weakening of foreign currency exchange rates against the U.S. dollar would likely result in additional adverse impacts on our revenue.
If our goodwill or amortizable intangible assets become impaired, we may be required to record a significant charge to earnings.
We may not realize all the economic benefit from our business acquisitions, which could result in an impairment of goodwill or intangibles. As of February 3, 2023, goodwill and amortizable intangible assets were $9.6 billion and $478 million, respectively. We review our goodwill and amortizable intangible assets for impairment when events or changes in circumstances indicate the carrying value may not be recoverable. We test goodwill for impairment at least annually. Factors that may lead to impairment include a substantial decline in stock price and market capitalization or cash flows, reduced future cash flow estimates related to the assets and slower growth rates in our industry. We may be required to record a significant charge in our financial statements during the period in which any impairment of our goodwill or amortizable intangible assets is determined, which would negatively impact our operating results.
Changes in accounting principles and guidance could result in unfavorable accounting charges or effects.
We prepare our consolidated financial statements in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the U.S. These principles are subject to interpretation by the SEC and various bodies formed to create and interpret appropriate accounting principles and guidance. A change in these principles or guidance, or in their interpretations, may have a material
effect on our reported results, as well as our processes and related controls, and may retroactively affect previously reported results.
Natural disasters, catastrophic events or geo-political conditions could disrupt our business.
A significant natural disaster, such as an earthquake, fire, flood or other act of God, catastrophic event or pandemic, abrupt political change, terrorist activity and armed conflict, and any similar disruption, as well as any derivative disruption, such as those to services provided through localized physical infrastructure, including utility or telecommunication outages, or any to the continuity of our, our partners’ and our customers’ workforce, could have a material adverse impact on our business and operating results. Our worldwide operations are dependent on our network infrastructure, internal technology systems and website, as well as our intellectual property and personnel, significant portions of which, including our corporate headquarters, are located in California, a region known for seismic activity, fires and floods. Disruption to these dependencies may negatively impact our ability to respond to customer requests, process orders, provide services and maintain local and global business continuity. Delays or cancellations of customer orders or the deployment or availability of our products and services, for example, could materially impact our revenue. Furthermore, some of our newer product initiatives, offerings and business functions are hosted or carried out by third parties that may be vulnerable to these same types of disruptions, the response to or resolution of which may be beyond our control. Additionally, any such disruption could cause us to incur significant costs to repair damages to our facilities, equipment, infrastructure and business relationships.
Climate change may have a long-term negative impact on our business.
Risks related to rapid climate change, such as extreme weather conditions, sea-level rise, drought, flooding and wildfires, may have an increasingly adverse impact on our business and those of our customers, partners and vendors in the longer term. While we seek to mitigate the business risks associated with climate change for our operations, there are inherent climate-related risks wherever business is conducted. Access to clean water and reliable energy in the communities where we conduct our business, whether for our offices, data centers, vendors, customers or other stakeholders, is a priority. Any of our primary locations may be vulnerable to the adverse effects of climate change and the impacts of extreme weather events, which have caused regional short-term systemic failures in the U.S. and elsewhere. For example, our California headquarters are projected to be vulnerable to future water scarcity due to climate change, and unanticipated extreme cold weather has resulted in electrical grid outages in Texas where many of our U.S. employees are located. While this danger currently has a low-assessed risk of disrupting normal business operations in the near term, it has the potential to impact employees’ abilities to commute to work or to work from home and stay connected effectively. Climate-related events, including the increasing frequency of extreme weather events, their impact on critical infrastructure in the U.S. and internationally and their potential to increase political instability in regions where we, our customers, partners and our vendors do business, have the potential to disrupt our business, our third-party suppliers, or the business of our customers and partners, and may cause us to experience higher attrition and additional costs to maintain or resume operations. Climate change and environmental regulations may result in changes in the supply, demand or available sources of energy or other resources that could adversely impact the availability or cost of goods and services, including natural resources necessary to run our business. Additionally, changes in climate in the locations where we operate may increase the costs of powering and cooling the computer hardware we use to develop software and deliver our subscription and SaaS-based offerings as well as the costs of carbon offsets that we may procure from time to time as we pursue our net zero carbon objectives.
Social and ethical issues, including our ability to make progress on our ESG goals and commitments, may result in reputational harm and liability.
In December 2020, we announced our 2030 Agenda, which represents our ESG strategy to drive outcomes of sustainability, equity and trust. Our public commitments include promoting environmental sustainability and decarbonization; human capital development and diversity, equity and inclusion; and cybersecurity, privacy, digital ethics and transparent business practices. Each of these are areas of increasing scrutiny from the investment community, customers, employees, partners, suppliers and communities who expect us to report transparently on our progress. In order to meet expectations from our stakeholders, we are working to align our reporting with emerging disclosure and accounting standards such as the Financial Stability Board’s Task Force on Climate-Related Financial Disclosures (“TCFD”), the Sustainability Accounting Standards Board (“SASB”) and the Global Reporting Initiative (“GRI”) as well as potential new disclosure requirements from regulators such as the SEC while we also seek to report timely on progress toward our 2030 Agenda objectives. In order to do so, we are continuing to develop internal operational, information and data assurance systems that will enable us to accurately report on these matters on a timely basis. If we fail to report accurately or on a timely basis or fail to anticipate reporting requirements and expectations in this emerging area, our reputation may be adversely affected, and we could be exposed to increased risk of litigation. Additionally, if we are perceived as failing to make or accurately report on our progress on our ESG goals or to follow through on our commitments, our brand and our reputation may be harmed, we may be exposed to increased risk of litigation, our ability to attract and retain employees may be damaged and our financial performance and stock price may be adversely affected.
As of February 3, 2023, we owned or leased the facilities described below:
Location
Approximate Sq. Ft.
Principal Use(s)
Palo Alto, CA
owned:
1,603,237
(1)
Executive and administrative offices, sales and marketing and R&D
North and Latin American region
leased:
1,661,785
Administrative offices, sales and marketing, R&D and data center
Asia Pacific region
leased:
2,056,720
Administrative offices, sales and marketing, R&D and data center
Europe, Middle East and Africa region
leased:
823,065
Administrative offices, sales and marketing, R&D and data center
(1) Represents all of the right, title and interest purchased in ground leases, which expire in fiscal 2047, covering the property and improvements located at VMware’s Palo Alto, California campus.
We believe that our current facilities will support our employee headcount through fiscal 2024 while working in a distributed manner that empowers our people to work from any location, consistent with business requirements. We review our real estate on an ongoing basis to support our growing employee base and operational excellence.
ITEM 3. LEGAL PROCEEDINGS
Refer to Note D to the consolidated financial statements in Part II, Item 8 of this Annual Report on Form 10-K for a description of legal proceedings. See also the risk factor entitled “We are involved in litigation, investigations and regulatory inquiries and proceedings that could negatively affect us” in Part I, Item 1A of this Annual Report on Form 10-K for a discussion of potential risks to our results of operations and financial condition that may arise from legal proceedings.
ITEM 5. MARKET FOR REGISTRANT’S COMMON EQUITY, RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS AND ISSUER PURCHASES OF EQUITY SECURITIES
Market Information
Our Class A common stock, par value $0.01 per share (“Class A Stock”), trades on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol VMW.
Holders
As of March 21, 2023, we had 3,768 holders of record of our Class A Stock.
Dividends
Subsequent to our initial public offering in August 2007, we have not declared or paid regular cash dividends on our common stock.
On November 1, 2021, our spin-off from Dell Technologies Inc. (“Dell”) was completed (the “Spin-Off”), and, in accordance with the related Separation and Distribution Agreement, effective as of April 14, 2021, upon the satisfaction of all conditions and immediately prior to the Spin-Off, we paid an $11.5 billion cash dividend, pro rata, to each of the holders of Class A Stock and Class B convertible common stock (“Class B Stock”), including Dell (the “Special Dividend”) as of October 29, 2021 (the “Record Date”).
We currently do not anticipate declaring any cash dividends in the foreseeable future. Any future determination to declare cash dividends will be made at the discretion of our board of directors.
Recent Sales of Unregistered Securities
None.
Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities
From time to time, we repurchase stock pursuant to authorized stock repurchase programs in open market transactions as permitted by securities laws and other legal requirements. We are not obligated to purchase any shares under our stock repurchase programs. The timing of any repurchases and the actual number of shares repurchased depends on a variety of factors, including our stock price, cash requirements for operations and business combinations, corporate and regulatory requirements and other market and economic conditions. Purchases may be discontinued at any time we believe additional purchases are not warranted. All shares repurchased under our stock repurchase programs are retired.
On October 7, 2021, our Board authorized the repurchase of up to $2.0 billion of our Class A Stock through the end of fiscal 2024, effective on November 1, 2021. As of February 3, 2023, the cumulative authorized amount remaining for stock repurchases was $1.6 billion. In connection with our entry into an Agreement and Plan of Merger with Broadcom Inc. on May 26, 2022, we suspended our stock repurchase program and did not repurchase Class A Stock subsequent to the first quarter of fiscal 2023.
The graph below compares the cumulative total stockholder return on our Class A Stock with the cumulative total return on the S&P 500 Index and the S&P 500 Systems Software index for the period beginning on February 2, 2018 through February 3, 2023, assuming an initial investment of $100. The stockholder return assumes reinvestment of dividends.
Base Period 2/2/2018
2/1/2019
1/31/2020
1/29/2021
1/28/2022
2/3/2023
VMware, Inc.
$
100.00
$
147.64
$
145.23
$
135.22
$
154.43
$
145.62
S&P 500 Index
100.00
99.94
121.49
142.45
172.36
163.58
S&P 500 Systems Software Index
100.00
112.15
177.59
243.46
323.99
278.94
Note: The stock price performance shown on the graph above is not necessarily indicative of future price performance. This graph shall not be deemed “filed” for purposes of Section 18 of the Exchange Act or otherwise subject to the liabilities of that section nor shall it be deemed incorporated by reference in any filing under the Securities Act or the Exchange Act, regardless of any general incorporation language in such filing.
ITEM 6.[RESERVED]
ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
The following management’s discussion and analysis is provided in addition to the accompanying consolidated financial statements and notes to assist in understanding our results of operations and financial condition.
Our fiscal year is the 52 or 53 weeks ending on the Friday nearest to January 31 of each year. We refer to our fiscal year ending February 2, 2024, and fiscal years ended February 3, 2023, January 28, 2022 and January 29, 2021 as “fiscal 2024,” “fiscal 2023,” “fiscal 2022” and “fiscal 2021,” respectively. Fiscal 2023 was a 53-week fiscal year, while fiscal 2024, fiscal 2022 and fiscal 2021 are each 52-week fiscal years.
Period-over-period changes are calculated based upon the respective underlying non-rounded data. Unless the context requires otherwise, we are referring to VMware, Inc. and its consolidated subsidiaries when we use the terms “VMware,” the “Company,” “we,” “our” or “us.”
Discussion regarding our financial condition, results of operations and income tax provision for fiscal 2022 as compared to fiscal 2021 that are not included in this Form 10-K can be found in “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” in Part II, Item 7 of our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended January 28, 2022, filed with the SEC on March 24, 2022.
Overview
We originally pioneered the development and application of virtualization technologies with x86 server-based computing, separating application software from the underlying hardware, and then evolved to become the private cloud and mobility management leader. Building upon that leadership, we are focused on becoming the multi-cloud leader. Information technology (“IT”) driven innovation continues to disrupt markets and industries. Technologies emerge faster than organizations can absorb, creating increasingly complex environments. Organizations’ IT departments and corporate divisions are working at an accelerated pace to harness new technologies, platforms and cloud models, ultimately guiding businesses and their product teams through a digital transformation. To take on these challenges, we are helping customers drive their multi-cloud strategy by providing the multi-cloud platform for all applications, enabling digital innovation and enterprise control.
Our portfolio supports and addresses our customers’ key priorities, including modernizing their applications, managing multi-cloud environments, accelerating their cloud journey, modernizing the network using commodity hardware, embracing zero-trust security and empowering anywhere workspaces. We enable digital transformation of customers’ applications, infrastructure and operations for their constantly evolving business and employee needs.
End users can purchase the full breadth of our subscription, software-as-a-service (“SaaS”), license and services portfolio through discrete purchases or through enterprise agreements (“EAs”). EAs are sold to our direct customers and through channel partners and can include our license, multi-year maintenance and support, subscription and SaaS offerings.
During fiscal 2023, we continued to see an increase in the portion of our sales occurring through our subscription and SaaS offerings compared to the portion of our on-premises solutions sold as perpetual licenses. We expect this trend to continue, and as a result, a greater portion of our revenue will be recognized over time as subscription and SaaS revenue rather than license revenue, which is typically recognized in the fiscal period in which sales occur. As this trend continues, the rate of growth in our license revenue, which has historically been viewed as a leading indicator of our business performance, has and will likely continue to be less relevant on a standalone basis, and we believe that the overall growth rate of our combined license and subscription and SaaS revenue and annual recurring revenue for subscription and SaaS, as well as the growth of our remaining performance obligations, will become better indicators of our future growth prospects. In addition, our operating margin was negatively impacted in fiscal 2023 as a result of our incremental investment in our subscription and SaaS portfolio. We expect this trend to continue infiscal 2024 as we continue our transition to subscription and SaaS.
Broadcom Merger Agreement
On May 26, 2022, we entered into an Agreement and Plan of Merger (the “Merger Agreement”) with Broadcom Inc. (“Broadcom”). Under the terms of the Merger Agreement, each share of our Class A common stock (“Common Stock”), par value $0.01 per share, issued and outstanding immediately prior to the effective time of the transaction will be indirectly converted into the right to receive, at the election of the holder of such share of Common Stock, and subject to proration in accordance with the Merger Agreement as described below: (i) $142.50 per share in cash, without interest (the “Cash Consideration”), or (ii) 0.25200 (the “Exchange Ratio”) shares of common stock, par value $0.001 per share, of Broadcom (“Broadcom Common Stock”, and such consideration, the “Stock Consideration”). The stockholder election will be subject to a proration mechanism, such that the total number of shares of Common Stock entitled to receive the Cash Consideration, and the total number of shares of Common Stock entitled to receive the Stock Consideration, will, in each case, be equal to 50% of the aggregate number of shares of Common Stock issued and outstanding immediately prior to the consummation of the transaction. Holders of Common Stock that do not make an election will be treated as having elected to receive the Cash Consideration or the Stock Consideration in accordance with the proration methodology in the Merger Agreement.
The transaction, which is expected to be consummated in Broadcom’s fiscal year 2023, was approved by our shareholders at a special meeting held on November 4, 2022 but remains subject to the receipt of regulatory approvals and other customary closing conditions. On February 17, 2023, in accordance with the Merger Agreement, we and Broadcom each delivered to the other a mutual notice to extend the Outside Date (as defined in the Merger Agreement) to May 26, 2023. If the Closing Effective Date (as defined in the Merger Agreement) has not occurred, similar three-month extensions could be noticed by either party (or mutually) five business days prior to each of May 26 and August 26, 2023. If the transaction is consummated, the Common Stock will be delisted from the New York Stock Exchange and deregistered under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended.
In response to Russian military actions in Ukraine, we suspended sales and services in Russia and Belarus, including support on existing contracts and professional services in the first quarter of fiscal 2023. Furthermore, the United States (“U.S.”) and other countries have imposed sanctions on Russia that have impacted our future revenue streams from affected customers. During the second quarter of fiscal 2023, we ceased our business operations in Russia entirely.
The impact of these events on our consolidated financial statements during fiscal 2023 was not material as a percentage of total consolidated revenue, and we do not expect the impact to be material in future periods. We do not expect the cessation of business operations will have an impact on our existing contracts with customers in Russia and Belarus if U.S. and international restrictions and sanctions are lifted. We continue to closely monitor the ongoing situation in Russia and Belarus.
Results of Operations
Approximately 70% of our sales are denominated in the U.S. dollar. In certain countries, however, we also invoice and collect in various foreign currencies, principally euro, British pound, Japanese yen, Australian dollar and Chinese renminbi. In addition, we incur and pay operating expenses in currencies other than the U.S. dollar. As a result, our financial statements, including our revenue, operating expenses, unearned revenue and the resulting cash flows derived from the U.S. dollar equivalent of foreign currency transactions, are affected by foreign exchange fluctuations.
Revenue
Our revenue during the periods presented was as follows (dollars in millions):
For the Year Ended
Fiscal Year
Fiscal Year
February 3,
January 28,
January 29,
2023 vs. 2022
2022 vs. 2021
2023
2022
2021
$ Change
% Change
$ Change
% Change
Revenue:
License
$
2,835
$
3,128
$
3,033
$
(294)
(9)
%
$
95
3
%
Subscription and SaaS
4,012
3,205
2,587
808
25
617
24
Total license and subscription and SaaS
6,847
6,333
5,620
514
8
713
13
Services:
Software maintenance
5,281
5,356
5,105
(75)
(1)
252
5
Professional services
1,222
1,162
1,042
60
5
120
11
Total services
6,503
6,518
6,147
(15)
—
371
6
Total revenue
$
13,350
$
12,851
$
11,767
$
499
4
$
1,084
9
Revenue:
United States
$
6,528
$
6,232
$
5,878
$
297
5
%
$
354
6
%
International
6,822
6,619
5,889
203
3
730
12
Total revenue
$
13,350
$
12,851
$
11,767
$
499
4
$
1,084
9
Revenue from our subscription offerings consisted primarily of our VMware Cloud Provider Program cloud-based offerings that are billed to customers on a consumption basis and revenue from VMware Tanzu and other offerings that are billed on a subscription basis. Revenue from our SaaS offerings consisted primarily of our Workspace ONE, VMware Carbon Black Cloud, VMware Aria and VMware Cloud on AWS.
License revenue relating to the sale of on-premises licenses that are part of a multi-year contract is generally recognized upon delivery of the underlying license, whereas revenue derived from our subscription and SaaS offerings is generally recognized over time as customers consume the services or ratably over the term of the subscription, commencing upon provisioning of the service.
As customers adopt our subscription and SaaS offerings, license and software maintenance revenue has been, and may continue to be, lower and subject to greater fluctuation in the future, driven by a higher proportion of our sales occurring through our subscription and SaaS offerings as well as the variability of large deals between fiscal quarters, which deals historically have had a large license revenue impact.
Furthermore, during the second half of fiscal 2023, we introduced termination for convenience (“TFC”) clauses with respect to term-based license offerings in certain EAs. Revenue from such term-based license offerings subject to TFC clauses is recognized ratably as subscription and SaaS revenue, rather than as license revenue, due to the requirement to refund any unused, pre-paid fees upon termination. Any concentration of such sales in any given future period could have a material negative impact on our license revenue in such future periods.
License Revenue
License revenue decreased during fiscal 2023 compared to fiscal 2022, largely due to increased sales occurring through our subscription and SaaS offerings compared to the portion of our on-premises solutions sold as perpetual licenses, as we continue to transition our portfolio from a perpetual license model to subscription and SaaS offerings.
Subscription and SaaS Revenue
Subscription and SaaS revenue increased during fiscal 2023 compared to fiscal 2022, primarily due to increased sales of our VMware Aria, Workspace ONE, VMware Cloud on AWS and other major hyperscalers, and VMware Tanzu offerings.
Annual recurring revenue (“ARR”) represents the annualized value of our committed customer subscription and SaaS contracts as of the end of the reporting period, assuming any contract that expires during the next 12 months is renewed on its existing terms and any applicable TFC rights are not exercised, except that, for consumption-based subscription and SaaS offerings, ARR represents the annualized quarterly revenue based on revenue recognized for the current reporting period. ARR is an operating measure we use to assess the strength of our subscription and SaaS offerings. ARR is a performance metric and should be viewed independently of, and not as a substitute for or combined with, revenue and unearned revenue. ARR was $4.7 billion as of February 3, 2023 and $3.6 billion as of January 28, 2022.
Services Revenue
Software maintenance revenue decreased during fiscal 2023 compared to fiscal 2022, largely due to the continued shift in demand from our on-premises licenses sold with the associated software maintenance to cloud-based solutions. In each period presented, customers purchased, on a weighted-average basis, greater than three years of support and maintenance with each new license purchased.
Professional services revenue increased during fiscal 2023 compared to fiscal 2022. Services we provide through our consultants and technical account managers, and our continued focus on solution deployments, including our networking, security, cloud management and anywhere workspace offerings, contributed to the increase in professional services revenue. Our professional services revenue may vary, as we continue to enable our partners to deliver professional services for our solutions. Further, the timing of services rendered will also impact the amount of professional services revenue we recognize during a period.
Unearned Revenue
Unearned revenue as of the periods presented consisted of the following (table in millions):
February 3,
January 28,
2023
2022
Unearned license revenue
$
21
$
19
Unearned subscription and SaaS revenue
4,401
2,669
Unearned software maintenance revenue
6,805
7,208
Unearned professional services revenue
1,516
1,326
Total unearned revenue
$
12,743
$
11,222
Unearned subscription and SaaS revenue is generally recognized over time as customers consume the services or ratably over the term of the subscription, commencing upon provisioning of the service.
Unearned software maintenance revenue is attributable to our maintenance contracts and is generally recognized ratably over the contract duration. The weighted-average remaining contractual term as of February 3, 2023 was approximately two years. Unearned professional services revenue results primarily from prepaid professional services and is generally recognized as the services are performed.
Remaining Performance Obligations and Backlog
Remaining Performance Obligations
Remaining performance obligations represent the aggregate amount of the transaction price in contracts allocated to performance obligations not delivered, or partially undelivered, as of the end of the reporting period. Remaining performance
obligations include unearned revenue, multi-year contracts with future installment payments and certain unfulfilled orders against accepted, non-cancellable customer contracts at the end of any given period.
As of February 3, 2023, the aggregate transaction price allocated to remaining performance obligations was $13.6 billion, of which approximately 54% is expected to be recognized as revenue over the next twelve months and the remainder thereafter. As of January 28, 2022, the aggregate transaction price allocated to remaining performance obligations was $12.0 billion, of which approximately 57% was expected to be recognized as revenue during fiscal 2023 and the remainder thereafter.
Remaining performance obligations did not include customer prepayments received for contracts that include certain cancellation rights, such as termination for convenience, which were included in customer deposits on the consolidated balance sheets and were $681 million as of February 3, 2023.
Backlog
Backlog is comprised of unfulfilled purchase orders or unfulfilled executed agreements at the end of a given period and is net of related estimated rebates and marketing development funds. Backlog consists of licenses, subscription and SaaS and services. As of February 3, 2023, our total backlog was $72 million, substantially all of which consisted of orders received on the last day of the quarter that were not shipped or provisioned to customers, and orders held due to our export control process. Backlog related to license was not material as of February 3, 2023. Backlog excluded from the remaining performance obligations because such contracts are subject to cancellation until the performance obligation is fulfilled was not material as of February 3, 2023.
As of January 28, 2022, our total backlog was $88 million and our backlog related to licenses was $14 million. For our backlog related to licenses, we generally expect to deliver and recognize revenue during the following quarter. Backlog totaling $36 million as of January 28, 2022 was excluded from the remaining performance obligations because such contracts are subject to cancellation until the performance obligation is fulfilled.
The amount and composition of backlog will fluctuate period to period. We do not believe the amount of backlog is indicative of future sales or revenue or that the mix of backlog at the end of any given period correlates with actual sales performance of a particular geography or particular products and services.
Cost of License Revenue, Cost of Subscription and SaaS Revenue, Cost of Services Revenue and Operating Expenses
Collectively, our cost of revenues and operating expenses primarily reflected increasing cash-based employee-related expenses, driven by an increase in headcount and salaries and the extra week in fiscal 2023.
Cost of License Revenue
Cost of license revenue primarily consists of the cost of fulfillment of our SD-WAN offerings, royalty costs in connection with technology licensed from third-party providers and amortization of intangible assets. The cost of fulfillment of our software and hardware SD-WAN offerings includes personnel costs and related overhead associated with delivery of our products.
Cost of license revenue during the periods presented was as follows (dollars in millions):
For the Year Ended
Fiscal Year
Fiscal Year
February 3,
January 28,
January 29,
2023 vs. 2022
2022 vs. 2021
2023
2022
2021
$ Change
% Change
$ Change
% Change
Cost of license revenue
$
153
$
151
$
162
$
2
1
%
$
(11)
(7)
%
Stock-based compensation
1
1
1
—
3
—
(14)
Total expenses
$
154
$
152
$
163
$
2
1
$
(11)
(7)
% of License revenue
5
%
5
%
5
%
Cost of license revenue remained relatively flat in fiscal 2023 compared to fiscal 2022.
Cost of subscription and SaaS revenue primarily includes personnel costs and related overhead associated with hosted services supporting our SaaS offerings. Additionally, cost of subscription and SaaS revenue also includes depreciation of equipment supporting our subscription and SaaS offerings.
Cost of subscription and SaaS revenue during the periods presented was as follows (dollars in millions):
For the Year Ended
Fiscal Year
Fiscal Year
February 3,
January 28,
January 29,
2023 vs. 2022
2022 vs. 2021
2023
2022
2021
$ Change
% Change
$ Change
% Change
Cost of subscription and SaaS revenue
$
763
$
669
$
569
$
93
14
%
$
100
18
%
Stock-based compensation
25
21
19
5
22
2
9
Total expenses
$
788
$
690
$
588
$
98
14
$
102
17
% of Subscription and SaaS revenue
20
%
22
%
23
%
Cost of subscription and SaaS revenue increased in fiscal 2023 compared to fiscal 2022. The increase was primarily driven by growth in costs associated with hosted services to support our SaaS offerings of $56 million and growth in cash-based employee-related cost of $30 million, which was primarily driven by incremental growth in headcount. In addition, the increase was driven by increased equipment and depreciation of $23 million. These increases were partially offset by decreased amortization of intangible assets of $26 million.
Cost of Services Revenue
Cost of services revenue primarily includes the costs of personnel and related overhead to deliver technical support for our products and costs to deliver professional services. Additionally, cost of services revenue includes depreciation of equipment supporting our service offerings.
Cost of services revenue during the periods presented was as follows (dollars in millions):
For the Year Ended
Fiscal Year
Fiscal Year
February 3,
January 28,
January 29,
2023 vs. 2022
2022 vs. 2021
2023
2022
2021
$ Change
% Change
$ Change
% Change
Cost of services revenue
$
1,434
$
1,337
$
1,193
$
98
7
%
$
143
12
%
Stock-based compensation
106
92
99
13
15
(7)
(7)
Total expenses
$
1,540
$
1,429
$
1,292
$
112
8
$
137
11
% of Services revenue
24
%
22
%
21
%
Cost of services revenue increased in fiscal 2023 compared to fiscal 2022. The increase was primarily due to growth in cash-based employee-related expenses of $73 million, primarily driven by incremental growth in headcount and salaries and the extra week in fiscal 2023, as well as merger-related costs incurred related to our pending acquisition by Broadcom (“Merger-Related Costs”), such as retention compensation incurred to preserve our business organization through the consummation of the merger (“Retention Compensation”) of $17 million during fiscal 2023. The increase was also driven by increased stock-based compensation expense, primarily driven by increased restricted stock unit (“RSU”) awards granted to our employees.
Research and development expenses include personnel and related overhead costs associated with the development of our products and services offerings. We continue to invest in and focus on expanding our subscription and SaaS offerings.
Research and development expenses during the periods presented were as follows (dollars in millions):
For the Year Ended
Fiscal Year
Fiscal Year
February 3,
January 28,
January 29,
2023 vs. 2022
2022 vs. 2021
2023
2022
2021
$ Change
% Change
$ Change
% Change
Research and development
$
2,701
$
2,529
$
2,292
$
172
7
%
$
237
10
%
Stock-based compensation
616
528
524
88
17
4
1
Total expenses
$
3,317
$
3,057
$
2,816
$
260
9
$
241
9
% of Total revenue
25
%
24
%
24
%
Research and development expenses increased in fiscal 2023 compared to fiscal 2022. The increase was primarily due to growth in cash-based employee-related expenses of $167 million, primarily driven by incremental growth in salaries and the extra week in fiscal 2023. The increase was also driven by increased stock-based compensation expense of $88 million, primarily driven by increased RSU awards granted to our employees, and increased equipment, depreciation and facilities-related costs of $32 million. These increases were partially offset by increased capitalized internal-use software development costs of $58 million.
Sales and Marketing Expenses
Sales and marketing expenses include personnel costs, sales commissions and related overhead associated with the sale and marketing of our license, subscription and SaaS and services offerings, as well as the cost of product launches and marketing initiatives. A significant portion of our sales commissions are deferred and recognized over the expected period of benefit.
Sales and marketing expenses during the periods presented were as follows (dollars in millions):
For the Year Ended
Fiscal Year
Fiscal Year
February 3,
January 28,
January 29,
2023 vs. 2022
2022 vs. 2021
2023
2022
2021
$ Change
% Change
$ Change
% Change
Sales and marketing
$
4,015
$
3,765
$
3,389
$
249
7
%
$
375
11
%
Stock-based compensation
376
302
322
74
25
(20)
(6)
Total expenses
$
4,391
$
4,067
$
3,711
$
324
8
$
356
10
% of Total revenue
33
%
32
%
32
%
Sales and marketing expenses increased in fiscal 2023 compared to fiscal 2022. The increase was primarily due to higher commission costs of $83 million, resulting from increased sales volume, and an increase in costs incurred for sales enablement-based initiatives of $75 million. The increase was also driven by increased stock-based compensation of $74 million, primarily driven by increased RSU awards granted to our employees and an increase in cash-based employee-related expenses of $71 million, primarily driven by incremental growth in salaries and the extra week in fiscal 2023. In addition, the increase was driven by increased equipment and depreciation of $28 million and increased Retention Compensation of $15 million. These increases were partially offset by decreased amortization of intangible assets of $23 million.
General and administrative expenses include personnel and related overhead costs to support the business. These expenses include the costs associated with finance, human resources, IT infrastructure and legal, as well as expenses related to corporate costs and initiatives.
General and administrative expenses during the periods presented were as follows (dollars in millions):
For the Year Ended
Fiscal Year
Fiscal Year
February 3,
January 28,
January 29,
2023 vs. 2022
2022 vs. 2021
2023
2022
2021
$ Change
% Change
$ Change
% Change
General and administrative
$
964
$
937
$
610
$
26
3
%
$
327
54
%
Stock-based compensation
166
131
157
35
27
(26)
(17)
Total expenses
$
1,130
$
1,068
$
767
$
62
6
$
301
39
% of Total revenue
8
%
8
%
7
%
General and administrative expenses increased in fiscal 2023 compared to fiscal 2022. The increase was primarily driven by increased cash-based employee-related expenses of $41 million, primarily driven by an increase in salaries, as well as increased stock-based compensation of $35 million, primarily driven by increased RSU awards granted to our employees. The increase was also driven by Merger-Related Costs of $55 million and Retention Compensation of $32 million. These increases were partially offset by the absence of certain costs incurred during fiscal 2022 related to the Spin-Off, such as legal and advisory fees, of $73 million, as well as decreased costs of $40 million relating to installment payments to certain employees as part of prior period acquisitions, which were subject to the achievement of specified employment conditions.
Investment Income
Investment income during the periods presented was as follows (dollars in millions):
For the Year Ended
Fiscal Year
Fiscal Year
February 3,
January 28,
January 29,
2023 vs. 2022
2022 vs. 2021
2023
2022
2021
$ Change
% Change
$ Change
% Change
Investment income
$
65
$
2
$
7
$
64
3,867
%
$
(6)
(78)
%
% of Total revenue
—
%
—
%
—
%
Investment income increased in fiscal 2023 compared to fiscal 2022, primarily driven by increased interest income earned on our cash equivalents resulting from higher yields.
Interest Expense
Interest expense during the periods presented was as follows (dollars in millions):
For the Year Ended
Fiscal Year
Fiscal Year
February 3,
January 28,
January 29,
2023 vs. 2022
2022 vs. 2021
2023
2022
2021
$ Change
% Change
$ Change
% Change
Interest expense
$
304
$
252
$
204
$
52
21
%
$
48
24
%
% of Total revenue
2
%
2
%
2
%
Interest expense increased in fiscal 2023 compared to fiscal 2022. The increase was primarily driven by the senior unsecured term loan facility on which we drew down on November 1, 2021. Interest expense on the term loan facility was $57 million in fiscal 2023 and was not material in fiscal 2022.
Refer to Note I to the consolidated financial statements in Part II, Item 8 of this Annual Report on Form 10-K for more information regarding the our outstanding indebtedness.
Other income (expense), net during the periods presented was as follows (dollars in millions):
For the Year Ended
Fiscal Year
Fiscal Year
February 3,
January 28,
January 29,
2023 vs. 2022
2022 vs. 2021
2023
2022
2021
$ Change
% Change
$ Change
% Change
Other income (expense), net
$
9
$
(52)
$
191
$
60
118
%
$
(242)
(127)
%
% of Total revenue
—
%
—
%
2
%
The change in other income (expense), net in fiscal 2023 compared to fiscal 2022 was primarily driven by changes in gains and losses, whether realized or unrealized, on our investments in equity securities, as well as changes in gains and losses on foreign currency exchange.
Pursuant to a tax matters agreement entered into with Dell effective April 14, 2021 (the “Tax Matters Agreement”), we have agreed to indemnify one another for certain tax liabilities or tax benefits relating to periods prior to our spin-off from Dell on November 1, 2021 and certain adjustments to these amounts that will be recognized in future periods will be recorded in other income (expense), net on the consolidated statements of income. While the adjustments recognized were not material in fiscal 2023, we cannot reasonably predict the amount that we may receive or pay in future periods, which could introduce significant risk of variability to our consolidated statements of income.
Income Tax Provision
The following table summarizes our income tax provision during the periods presented (dollars in millions):
For the Year Ended
February 3,
January 28,
January 29,
2023
2022
2021
Income tax provision
$
478
$
265
$
324
Effective income tax rate
26.7
%
12.7
%
13.6
%
The change in our effective income tax rate for fiscal 2023 compared to fiscal 2022 was primarily driven by a higher effective income tax rate for fiscal 2023 due to the increase in global intangible low-taxed income (“GILTI”) from the impacts of Internal Revenue Code Section 174 research and development expense capitalization (“Section 174”), which was part of the U.S. Tax Cuts and Jobs Act enacted on December 22, 2017 (the “2017 Tax Act”) and became effective beginning in fiscal 2023.As we record impacts of GILTI as a period cost, the capitalization of foreign research and experimental costs in GILTI increases our provision for income taxes. The increase in our effective income tax rate was also driven by a decrease in foreign tax credit (“FTC”) benefit due to the disallowance of credits for certain foreign tax expenses resulting from the final FTC regulations effective for us beginning in fiscal 2023.
Prior to the Spin-Off, our financial results were included in the Dell consolidated tax return for U.S. federal income tax purposes, but our income tax provision or benefit was calculated primarily as though we were a separate taxpayer, with certain transactions between us and Dell being assessed using consolidated tax return rules. As a result of the Spin-Off, we are no longer a member of the Dell consolidated tax group, and our U.S. federal income tax will be reported separately from that of the Dell consolidated tax group. We and Dell have agreed to indemnify one another, pursuant to the Tax Matters Agreement, for certain tax liabilities or tax benefits relating to periods prior to the Spin-Off and certain adjustments to these amounts that will be recognized in future periods will be recorded in other income (expense), net on the consolidated statements of income. The actual amount that we may receive from or pay to Dell could vary depending on the outcome of tax matters arising from Dell’s future tax audits, which may not be resolved for years. Refer to Note O to the consolidated financial statements in Part II, Item 8 of this Annual Report on Form 10-K for more information.
Our effective tax rate in the future will depend upon the proportion of our income before provision for income taxes earned in the U.S. and in jurisdictions with a tax rate lower than the U.S. statutory rate. Our non-U.S. earnings are primarily earned by our subsidiary organized in Ireland, where the rate of taxation is lower than our U.S. tax rate and, as such, our annual effective tax rate can be significantly affected by the composition of our earnings in U.S. and non-U.S. jurisdictions. Our future effective tax rate may be affected by such factors as: changes in our business; changes in tax laws or statutory rates; changing interpretation of existing laws or regulations; the impact of accounting for stock-based compensation; the recognition of excess tax benefits or tax deficiencies within the income tax provision or benefit in the period in which they occur; the impact of accounting for business combinations; shifts in the amount of earnings in the U.S. compared with other regions in the world; overall levels of income before tax; changes in our international organization; the expiration of statute of limitations; and settlements of audits.
The Inflation Reduction Act (the “IRA”) was enacted in August 2022, and became effective for us commencing with our fiscal 2024. The key tax provisions of the IRA relate to a new 15% corporate alternative minimum tax on adjusted financial statement income for companies with profits greater than $1.0 billion and a 1% excise tax on stock repurchases by publicly traded companies. We will continue to evaluate the impact to us as further guidance becomes available.
Our Relationship with Dell
Transactions with Dell continue to be considered related party transactions following the Spin-Off due to the MSD Stockholders’ and SLP Stockholders’ direct ownership in both VMware and Dell, as well as Mr. Dell’s executive position with Dell.
On November 1, 2021, in connection with the Spin-Off, we entered into the Commercial Framework Agreement with Dell to provide a framework under which our strategic commercial relationship will continue, particularly with respect to projects mutually agreed as having the potential to accelerate the growth of an industry, product, service, or platform that may provide the parties with a strategic market opportunity. The Commercial Framework Agreement has an initial term of five years, with automatic one-year renewals occurring annually thereafter, subject to certain terms and conditions.
The information provided below includes a summary of transactions with Dell.
Transactions with Dell
We engaged with Dell in the following ongoing related party transactions, which resulted in revenue and receipts, and unearned revenue for us:
•Pursuant to original equipment manufacturer (“OEM”) and reseller arrangements, Dell integrates or bundles our products and services with Dell’s products and sells them to end users. Dell also acts as a distributor, purchasing our standalone products and services for resale to end-user customers through VMware-authorized resellers. Revenue under these arrangements is presented net of related marketing development funds and rebates paid to Dell. In addition, we provide professional services to end users based upon contractual agreements with Dell.
•Dell purchases products and services from us for its internal use.
•From time to time, we and Dell enter into agreements to collaborate on technology projects, in connection with which Dell pays us for services or reimburses us for costs.
During the years ended February 3, 2023, January 28, 2022 and January 29, 2021, revenue from Dell accounted for 38%, 38% and 35% of our consolidated revenue, respectively. During the years ended February 3, 2023, January 28, 2022 and January 29, 2021, revenue recognized on transactions where Dell acted as an OEM accounted for 14%, 13% and 12% of total revenue from Dell, respectively, and 5%, 5% and 4% of our consolidated revenue, respectively.
Dell purchases our products and services directly from us, as well as through our channel partners. Information about our revenue and receipts, and unearned revenue from such arrangements, for the periods presented consisted of the following (table in millions):
Revenue and Receipts
Unearned Revenue
For the Year Ended
As of
February 3,
January 28,
January 29,
February 3,
January 28,
2023
2022
2021
2023
2022
Reseller revenue
$
5,039
$
4,764
$
4,053
$
6,145
$
5,550
Internal-use revenue
54
56
63
19
39
Receipts from Dell for collaborative technology projects were not material during the periods presented.
Sales through Dell as a distributor, which is included in reseller revenue, comprise the largest route-to-market for our sales.
Customer deposits resulting from transactions with Dell were $766 million and $298 million as of February 3, 2023 and January 28, 2022, respectively.
We engaged with Dell in the following ongoing related party transactions, which resulted in costs to us:
•We purchase and lease products and purchase services from Dell.
•From time to time, we and Dell enter into agreements to collaborate on technology projects, in connection with which we pay Dell for services it provides to us.
•Through the end of fiscal 2023, in certain geographic regions where we did not have an established legal entity, we contracted with Dell subsidiaries for support services and support from Dell personnel who were managed by us. The costs incurred by Dell on our behalf related to these employees were charged to us with a mark-up intended to approximate costs that would have been incurred had we contracted for such services with an unrelated third party. These costs are included as expenses on our consolidated statements of income and primarily include salaries, benefits, travel and occupancy expenses. Beginning with the first quarter of fiscal 2024, we no longer contract for such services and support.
•Prior to the Spin-Off, in certain geographic regions, Dell filed a consolidated indirect tax return, which included value added taxes and other indirect taxes collected by us from our customers. We remitted the indirect taxes to Dell, and Dell remitted the tax payment to the foreign governments on our behalf.
•We have agency arrangements with Dell that enable us to sell our subscriptions and services, leveraging the Dell enterprise relationships and end customer contracts.
Information about our payments for such arrangements during the periods presented consisted of the following (table in millions):
For the Year Ended
February 3,
January 28,
January 29,
2023
2022
2021
Purchases and leases of products and purchases of services(1)
$
186
$
228
$
206
Dell subsidiary support and administrative costs
6
38
74
(1) Amount includes indirect taxes that were remitted to Dell during the periods presented.
We also purchase Dell products through Dell’s channel partners, however such amounts were not material during the periods presented.
From time to time, we and Dell also enter into joint marketing, sales, branding and product development arrangements, for which both parties may incur costs.
Dell Financial Services (“DFS”)
DFS provides financing to certain of our end users at our end users’ discretion. Upon acceptance of the financing arrangement by both our end users and DFS, amounts classified as trade accounts receivable are reclassified to the current portion of due from related parties on the consolidated balance sheets. Revenue recognized on transactions financed through DFS was recorded net of financing fees. Financing fees on arrangements accepted by both parties were $33 million, $29 million and $60 million during the years ended February 3, 2023, January 28, 2022 and January 29, 2021, respectively.
Due To/From Related Parties
Amounts in the current and non-current portions of due from related parties and due to related parties on the consolidated balance sheets as of February 3, 2023 and January 28, 2022 included amounts due to Dell pursuant to the Tax Matters Agreement. Refer to Note O to the consolidated financial statements in Part II, Item 8 of this Annual Report on Form 10-K for more information.
Amounts included in the current portion of due from related parties, with the exception of DFS and tax obligations, are settled in cash within 60 days of each quarter-end.
Special Dividend
On November 1, 2021, we paid an $11.5 billion Special Dividend, pro rata, to each of the holders of Class A Stock and Class B Stock, including Dell, as of the Record Date. Based upon the number of shares of common stock held by Dell as of the Record Date, approximately $9.3 billion in cash was paid to Dell. Refer to Note A to the consolidated financial statements in Part II, Item 8 of this Annual Report on Form 10-K for more information regarding the Spin-Off.
Notes Payable to Dell
During the third quarter of fiscal 2022, we repaid the outstanding promissory note payable to Dell of $270 million. During each of fiscal 2022 and fiscal 2021, interest expense on the note payable to Dell was not significant.
As of the periods presented, we held cash, cash equivalents and short-term investments as follows (table in millions):
February 3,
January 28,
2023
2022
Cash and cash equivalents
$
5,100
$
3,614
Short-term investments
—
19
Total cash, cash equivalents and short-term investments
$
5,100
$
3,633
Cash equivalents primarily consisted of amounts invested in money market funds. To manage our credit risk, we monitor the diversity and concentration of our portfolio and limit the amount of investments from any issuer or fund.
We continue to expect that cash generated by operations will be our primary source of liquidity. We also continue to believe that existing cash, cash equivalents and our borrowing capacity, together with any cash generated from operations, will be sufficient to fund our operations for at least the next twelve months. While we believe these cash sources will be sufficient to fund our operations, our overall level of cash needs may be affected by capital allocation decisions that may include the number and size of acquisitions, debt repayments and stock repurchases, among other things. In addition, we plan to continue with our balanced capital allocation policy through investing in our product and solution offerings, and acquisitions. Additionally, given the unpredictable nature of our outstanding legal proceedings, an unfavorable resolution of one or more legal proceedings, claims, or investigations could have a negative impact on our overall liquidity.
The 2017 Tax Act imposed a one-time transition tax on accumulated earnings of foreign subsidiaries (“Transition Tax”) and eliminated U.S. Federal taxes on foreign subsidiary distributions. The Transition Tax was calculated on a separate tax return basis. Our liability related to the Transition Tax as of February 3, 2023 was $445 million, which we expect to pay over the next three years pursuant to a letter agreement between Dell, EMC and us executed during the first quarter of fiscal 2020. Actual tax payments made to Dell pursuant to the Tax Agreements, as defined in Note O to the consolidated financial statements in Part II, Item 8 of this Annual Report on Form 10-K, may differ materially from our total estimated tax liability calculated on a separate tax return basis. Pursuant to the Tax Matters Agreement with Dell, we have agreed to indemnify one another for certain tax liabilities or tax benefits relating to periods prior to the Spin-Off and certain adjustments to these amounts that will be recognized in future periods will be recorded in other income (expense), net on the consolidated statements of income. In addition, changes to Section 174 enacted as part of the 2017 Tax Act require companies to capitalize and amortize research and development expenditures for tax purposes. This provision became effective for us beginning in fiscal 2023 and caused an increase in our taxes in that year. If this provision is not deferred, repealed or modified, our cash taxes may further increase in the future.
Our cash flows summarized for the periods presented were as follows (table in millions):
For the Year Ended
February 3,
January 28,
January 29,
2023
2022
2021
Net cash provided by (used in):
Operating activities
$
4,300
$
4,357
$
4,409
Investing activities
(367)
(329)
(713)
Financing activities
(2,469)
(5,135)
(1,957)
Net increase (decrease) in cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash
$
1,464
$
(1,107)
$
1,739
Operating Activities
Cash provided by operating activities decreased by $57 million during fiscal 2023 compared fiscal 2022, primarily due to increased cash payments for employee-related expenses, including salaries, bonuses and commissions, resulting primarily from growth in headcount and salaries, as well as higher cash outflows related to operating expenses. The decrease was also driven by increased interest payments related to our unsecured senior notes and term loan facility and increased tax payments compared to fiscal 2022. These increases were offset in part by increased cash collections during fiscal 2023.
Investing Activities
Cash used in investing activities increased by $36 million during fiscal 2023 compared fiscal 2022, primarily driven by an increase in additions to property and equipment and a decrease in sales of investments in equity securities. These activities were offset in part by an increase in proceeds from the disposition of assets.
Cash used in financing activities decreased by $2.7 billion during fiscal 2023 compared fiscal 2022, primarily driven by the absence of the $11.5 billion Special Dividend paid during fiscal 2022, as well as a decrease of $1.1 billion in cash used for repurchases of shares of our common stock during fiscal 2023, which resulted from the suspension of our stock repurchase program in connection with our entry into the Merger Agreement during the second quarter of fiscal 2023. These activities were offset in part by the absence of aggregate proceeds received in fiscal 2022 of $9.9 billion from the issuance of senior notes and borrowings under the senior unsecured term loan (the “Term Loan”), as well as an increase of $1.8 billion in aggregate repayments towards our Term Loan.
Debt
Unsecured Senior Notes
We have unsecured senior notes (“Senior Notes”) outstanding with an aggregate net carrying value of $9.2 billion as of February 3, 2023. The Senior Notes mature between August 2023 and August 2031 and contain restrictive covenants that, in certain circumstances, limit our ability to create certain liens, to enter into certain sale and leaseback transactions and to consolidate, merge, sell or otherwise dispose of all or substantially all of our assets. During fiscal 2023, fiscal 2022 and fiscal 2021, interest paid for the Senior Notes was $230 million, $185 million and $170 million, respectively.
As of February 3, 2023, the aggregate future principal and interest payments on the outstanding Senior Notes were $10.4 billion, with $1.2 billion payable within 12 months.
Senior Unsecured Term Loan Facility
We have a three-year senior unsecured term loan facility and a five-year senior unsecured term loan facility that provided us with a one-time aggregate borrowing capacity of up to $4.0 billion (the “2021 Term Loan”). As of February 3, 2023, the outstanding balance was $1.2 billion, none of which is payable within 12 months. Given the variable nature of the interest on the term loan facilities, including when the repayment will take place, interest payments have not been included in the amount payable in future periods. During fiscal 2023, interest paid for the 2021 Term Loan was $55 million, and was not material during fiscal 2022.
Refer to Note I to the consolidated financial statements in Part II, Item 8 of this Annual Report on Form 10-K for more information regarding our outstanding indebtedness.
Stock Repurchase Program
From time to time, we repurchase stock pursuant to authorized stock repurchase programs in open market transactions as permitted by securities laws and other legal requirements. We are not obligated to purchase any shares under our stock repurchase programs. The timing of any repurchases and the actual number of shares repurchased depends on a variety of factors, including our stock price, cash requirements for operations and business combinations, corporate and regulatory requirements and other market and economic conditions. Purchases may be discontinued at any time we believe additional purchases are not warranted. All shares repurchased under our stock repurchase programs are retired.
In connection with our entry into the Merger Agreement, we suspended our stock repurchase program, and we did not repurchase Common Stock subsequent to the first quarter of fiscal 2023. Refer to Note P to the consolidated financial statements in Part II, Item 8 of this Annual Report on Form 10-K for stock repurchase authorizations approved by our board of directors during the periods presented.
Contractual Obligations
In addition to the Senior Notes and the senior unsecured term loan facility discussed earlier, we have other contractual obligations that impact our liquidity. The following represents our other contractual obligations as of February 3, 2023.
•Future Lease Commitments—We have operating and finance leases primarily related to office facilities and equipment. As of February 3, 2023, our future minimum lease payments under non-cancellable operating and finance leases were $1.3 billion, with $185 million payable within 12 months. The amounts exclude legally binding minimum lease payments for leases signed but not yet commenced of $19 million, as well as expected sublease income.
•Purchase Obligations—Our purchase obligations consist of agreements to purchase goods and services entered into in the ordinary course of business. As of February 3, 2023, we had non-cancellable unconditional purchase obligations of $239 million, with $180 million payable within 12 months.
•Tax Obligations and Uncertain Tax Positions—As of February 3, 2023, we expect future cash payments related to the Transition Tax to be $445 million, with $111 million payable within 12 months. As of February 3, 2023, we had $575 million of gross uncertain tax benefits, excluding interest and penalties. The timing of future payments relating to the
uncertain tax benefits is highly uncertain. Based on the timing and outcome of examinations of our subsidiaries, the result of the expiration of statutes of limitations for specific jurisdictions or the timing and result of ruling requests from taxing authorities, it is reasonably possible that within the next 12 months total unrecognized tax benefits could be potentially reduced by approximately $15 million.
•Asset Retirement Obligations—Asset retirement obligations represent the estimated costs to bring certain office buildings that we lease back to their original condition after the termination of the lease. As of February 3, 2023, we had asset retirement obligations of $22 million, with an immaterial amount payable within 12 months.
Refer to Note D to the consolidated financial statements in Part II, Item 8 of this Annual Report on Form 10-K for more information on our contractual commitments, guarantees and indemnification obligations.
Critical Accounting Estimates
In preparing our consolidated financial statements in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“GAAP”), we are required to make estimates, assumptions and judgments that affect the amounts reported on our financial statements and the accompanying disclosures. Estimates and assumptions about future events and their effects cannot be determined with certainty and therefore require the exercise of judgment. We base our estimates, assumptions and judgments on historical experience and various other factors that we believe to be reasonable under the circumstances. These estimates may change in future periods and will be recognized in the consolidated financial statements as new events occur and additional information becomes known. Actual results could differ from those estimates and any such differences may be material to our financial statements. We believe that the critical accounting estimates set forth below involve a higher degree of judgment and complexity in their application than our other accounting estimates. Our senior management has reviewed our critical accounting estimates and related disclosures with the Audit Committee of the Board of Directors. Historically, our assumptions and judgments relative to our critical accounting estimates have not differed materially from actual results. Refer to Note A to the consolidated financial statements in Part II, Item 8 of this Annual Report on Form 10-K for information on significant accounting policies used in the preparation of the consolidated financial statements.
Revenue Recognition
We derive revenue from licensing software under perpetual, term-based, and consumption-based contracts and related software maintenance and support, software subscriptions (“subscriptions”), hosted services, training and consulting services. We account for a contract with a customer if all criteria defined by the guidance are met, including collectability of the consideration is probable. At inception of a contract with a customer, we evaluate whether the promised products and services represent distinct performance obligations within the context of the contract. Performance obligations that are both capable of being distinct on their own and distinct within the context of the contract are recognized on their own as distinct performance obligations. Performance obligations under which both of these two criteria are not met are recognized as a combined, single performance obligation. Determining whether our licenses, subscriptions and services are considered distinct performance obligations that should be accounted for separately or together often involves assumptions and significant judgments that can have a significant impact on the timing and amount of revenue recognized.
Revenue is recognized upon transfer of control of licenses, subscriptions or services to our customer in an amount that reflects the consideration we expect to receive in exchange for those licenses, subscriptions or services. Control of a promised license, subscription or service may be transferred to a customer either at a point in time or over time, which affects the timing of revenue recognition. Licenses that represent distinct performance obligations are recognized at a point in time when the software license keys have been made available to the customer. Licenses sold as part of our subscriptions that do not represent distinct performance obligations are recognized over time along with the associated services that form a combined performance obligation with the software. Management assesses relevant contractual terms in contracts with customers and applies significant judgment in identifying and accounting for all terms and conditions in certain contracts. Certain contracts include third-party offerings and revenue may be recognized net of the third-party costs, based upon an assessment as to whether we had control of the underlying third-party offering before it is transferred to the customer.
In addition, revenue from software licenses sold to OEMs is recognized when the sale to the end user occurs. Revenue is recognized upon reporting by the OEMs of their sales, and for the period where information of the underlying sales has not been made available, revenue is recognized based upon estimated sales. Our VCPP partners license on-premises software from us on a monthly basis under a usage-based model. Revenue recognition is based on fees associated with reported license consumption by the VCPP partners and includes estimates for the period when consumption information has not been made available. VCPP partners also purchase hosted services, for which revenue is recognized over time as our partners consume the services or ratably over the contract term, commencing upon provisioning of the service.
We enter into revenue contracts with multiple performance obligations in which a customer may purchase combinations of licenses, maintenance and support, subscriptions, hosted services, training, consulting services and rights to future products and
services. For contracts with multiple performance obligations, we allocate total transaction value to the identified underlying performance obligations based on relative standalone selling price (“SSP”). We typically estimate SSP of performance obligations based on observable transactions when the obligations are sold on a standalone basis and those prices fall within a reasonable range. We utilize the residual approach to estimate SSP primarily for offerings when sold to customers at highly variable pricing. Changes in assumptions or judgments used in determining standalone selling price could have a significant impact on the timing and amount of revenue we report in a particular period.
Professional services include design, implementation, training and consulting services. Professional services performed by us represent distinct performance obligations as they do not modify or customize licenses sold. These services are not highly interdependent or highly interrelated to licenses sold such that a customer would not be able to use the licenses without the professional services. Revenue from professional services engagements performed for a fixed fee, for which we are able to make reasonably dependable estimates of progress toward completion, is recognized based on progress. We believe this method of measurement provides the closest depiction of our performance in transferring control of the professional services.
Rebate Reserves
We offer rebates to certain channel partners, which are recognized as a reduction to revenue or unearned revenue. Rebates based on actual partner sales are recognized as a reduction to revenue as the underlying revenue is recognized. Rebates earned based upon partner achievement of cumulative level of sales are recognized as a reduction of revenue proportionally for each sale that is required to achieve the target.
The estimated reserves for channel rebates and sales incentives are based on channel partners’ actual performance against the terms and conditions of the programs, historical trends and the value of the rebates. The accuracy of these reserves for these rebates and sales incentives depends on our ability to estimate these items and could have a significant impact on the timing and amount of revenue we report.
Deferred Commissions
Sales commissions, including the employer portion of payroll taxes, earned by our sales force are considered incremental and recoverable costs of obtaining a contract and are deferred and generally amortized on a straight-line basis over the expected period of benefit. The expected period of benefit is generally determined using the contract term or underlying technology life, if renewals are expected and the renewal commissions are not commensurate with the initial commissions. The determination of the expected period of benefit requires us to make significant estimates and assumptions, including the life of the underlying technology and the estimated period of contract renewal. We believe the assumptions and estimates we have made are reasonable. Differences in the estimated period of benefit could have a significant impact on the timing and amount of amortization expense recognized.
Income Taxes
Prior to the Spin-Off, our financial results were included in the Dell consolidated tax return for U.S. federal income tax purposes. Our income tax provision or benefit was calculated primarily as though we were a separate taxpayer, with certain transactions between us and Dell being assessed using consolidated tax return rules. The difference between the income taxes payable that was calculated on a separate tax return basis and the amount paid to Dell pursuant to our tax sharing agreement with Dell was presented as a component of additional paid-in capital. As a result of the Spin-Off, we are no longer a member of the Dell consolidated tax group and our U.S. income tax will be reported separately from that of the Dell consolidated tax group.
We establish reserves for income taxes to address potential exposures involving tax positions that could be challenged by federal, state and foreign tax authorities, which may result in proposed assessments. In the ordinary course of our global business there are many intercompany transactions, including the transfer of intellectual property, where the ultimate tax determination could be challenged by the tax authorities. In the instance of transfers of intellectual property, the related deferred tax asset recognized is based on the intellectual property’s current fair value. Management applies significant judgment when determining the fair value of the intellectual property, which serves as the tax basis of the deferred tax asset, and in evaluating the associated tax laws in the applicable jurisdictions. Our assumptions, estimates and judgments used to determine the reserve relating to these positions considers current tax laws, interpretation of current tax laws and possible outcomes of current and future examinations conducted by tax authorities. As a result of the Spin-Off, we are no longer a member of Dell’s consolidated tax group, however, we are still subject to potential tax liabilities for the periods prior to the Spin-Off. We are also subject to the periodic examination of our income tax returns by the IRS and other domestic and foreign tax authorities. We regularly assess the likelihood of outcomes resulting from these examinations to determine the adequacy of our reserves and any potential adjustments that may result from the current and future examinations. We believe such estimates to be reasonable; however, the final determination from examinations and changes in tax laws could significantly impact the amounts provided for income taxes in the consolidated financial statements.
Our deferred tax assets reflect our estimates of the amount and category of future taxable income, such as income from operations and capital gains, and also take into account valuation allowances that consider other key factors that might restrict our ability to realize the deferred tax assets. Actual operating results and the underlying amount and category of income in future years could render our current assumptions, judgments and estimates of recoverable net deferred taxes inaccurate.
ITEM 7A. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK
Foreign Exchange Risk
We operate in foreign countries, which expose us to market risk associated with foreign currency exchange rate fluctuations between the U.S. dollar and various foreign currencies, the most significant of which is the euro.
Although approximately 70% of our sales are denominated in the U.S. dollar, we also invoice and collect in various foreign currencies, principally euro, the British pound, the Japanese yen, the Australian dollar and the Chinese renminbi.
The U.S. dollar is the functional currency of VMware’s foreign subsidiaries. At the time a non-U.S. dollar transaction is recorded, the value of the transaction is converted into U.S. dollars at the exchange rate in effect for the month in which each order is booked. As a result, the amount of revenue derived from these transactions will be impacted by foreign currency exchange fluctuations.
Additionally, a portion of our operating expenses, primarily the cost of personnel to deliver technical support on our products, SaaS offerings and professional services, sales and sales support and research and development, are denominated in foreign currencies, primarily those currencies in which we also invoice and collect. As exchange rates vary, operating results may differ materially from expectations.
To manage the risk associated with fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates, we utilize derivative financial instruments, principally foreign currency forward contracts (“forward contracts”), as described below.
Cash Flow Hedging Activities. To mitigate our exposure to foreign currency fluctuations resulting from certain operating expenses denominated in certain foreign currencies, we enter into forward contracts which have maturities of fourteen months or less. As of February 3, 2023 and January 28, 2022, we had outstanding forward contracts with a total notional value of $677 million and $642 million, respectively. The fair value of these forward contracts was not significant as of February 3, 2023 and January 28, 2022.
Forward Contracts Not Designated as Hedges. We enter into forward contracts to offset the foreign currency risk associated with net outstanding monetary asset and liability positions that are traded on a monthly basis and generally have a maturity of one month. As of February 3, 2023 and January 28, 2022, we had outstanding forward contracts with a total notional value of $1.7 billion and $1.5 billion, respectively. The fair value of these forward contracts was not significant as of February 3, 2023 and January 28, 2022.
Sensitivity Analysis. There can be no assurance that our hedging activities will adequately protect us against the risks associated with foreign currency fluctuations. A hypothetical adverse foreign currency exchange rate movement of 10% would have resulted in a potential loss of $233 million in the fair value of our forward contracts as of February 3, 2023. This sensitivity analysis is based on the notional value of our outstanding forward contracts as of February 3, 2023 and disregards any offsetting gain that may be associated with the underlying foreign-currency denominated assets and liabilities that we hedge.
This analysis also assumes a parallel adverse shift of all foreign currency exchange rates against the U.S. dollar; however, foreign currency exchange rates do not always move in such a manner and actual results may differ materially. We do not and do not intend to use derivative financial instruments for trading or speculative purposes. Refer to Note K to the consolidated financial statements in Part II, Item 8 of this Annual Report on Form 10-K for further information.
Equity Price Risk
Strategic Investments
Our strategic investments include privately held companies that are considered to be in the start-up or development stages and are inherently risky. The technologies or products these companies have under development are typically in the early stages and may never materialize, which could result in a loss of a substantial part of our initial investment in these companies. We account for these investments at cost less impairment, if any, adjusted for observable price changes in orderly transactions for the identical or a similar security of the same issuer. The evaluation is based on information provided by these companies, which is not subject to the same disclosure regulations as U.S. publicly traded companies and as such, the basis for these evaluations is subject to the timing and accuracy of the data provided. The carrying value of VMware’s strategic investments was $87 million and $163 million as of February 3, 2023 and January 28, 2022, respectively.
Note: All other financial statement schedules are omitted because they are not applicable or the required information is included on the consolidated financial statements or notes thereto.
REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM
To the Board of Directors and Stockholders of VMware, Inc.
Opinions on the Financial Statements and Internal Control over Financial Reporting
We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of VMware, Inc. and its subsidiaries(the “Company”) as of February 3, 2023 and January 28, 2022,and the related consolidated statements of income, of comprehensive income, of stockholders’ equity (deficit) and of cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended February 3, 2023, including the related notes and financial statement schedule listed in the accompanying index (collectively referred to as the “consolidated financial statements”).We also have audited the Company's internal control over financial reporting as of February 3, 2023, based on criteria established in Internal Control - Integrated Framework(2013)issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO).
In our opinion, the consolidatedfinancial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of the Company as of February 3, 2023 and January 28, 2022,and the results of itsoperations and itscash flows for each of the three years in the period ended February 3, 2023 in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. Also in our opinion, the Company maintained, in all material respects, effective internal control over financial reporting as of February 3, 2023, based on criteria established in Internal Control - Integrated Framework(2013)issued by the COSO.
Basis for Opinions
The Company's management is responsible for these consolidated financial statements, for maintaining effective internal control over financial reporting, and for its assessment of the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting, included in Management’s Annual Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting appearing under Item 9A. Our responsibility is to express opinions on the Company’s consolidatedfinancial statements and on the Company's internal control over financial reporting based on our audits. We are a public accounting firm registered with the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) (PCAOB) and are required to be independent with respect to the Company in accordance with the U.S. federal securities laws and the applicable rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission and the PCAOB.
We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the PCAOB. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audits to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the consolidatedfinancial statements are free of material misstatement, whether due to error or fraud, and whether effective internal control over financial reporting was maintained in all material respects.
Our audits of the consolidatedfinancial statements included performing procedures to assess the risks of material misstatement of the consolidatedfinancial statements, whether due to error or fraud, and performing procedures that respond to those risks. Such procedures included examining, on a test basis, evidence regarding the amounts and disclosures in the consolidatedfinancial statements. Our audits also included evaluating the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall presentation of the consolidatedfinancial statements. Our audit of internal control over financial reporting included obtaining an understanding of internal control over financial reporting, assessing the risk that a material weakness exists, and testing and evaluating the design and operating effectiveness of internal control based on the assessed risk. Our audits also included performing such other procedures as we considered necessary in the circumstances. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinions.
Definition and Limitations of Internal Control over Financial Reporting
A company’s internal control over financial reporting is a process designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. A company’s internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that (i) pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of the assets of the company; (ii) provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, and that receipts and expenditures of the company are being made only in accordance with authorizations of management and directors of the
company; and (iii) provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use, or disposition of the company’s assets that could have a material effect on the financial statements.
Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements. Also, projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.
Critical Audit Matters
The critical audit matter communicated below is a matter arising from the current period audit of the consolidated financial statements that was communicated or required to be communicated to the audit committee and that (i) relates to accounts or disclosures that are material to the consolidated financial statements and (ii) involved our especially challenging, subjective, or complex judgments. The communication of critical audit matters does not alter in any way our opinion on the consolidated financial statements, taken as a whole, and we are not, by communicating the critical audit matter below, providing a separate opinion on the critical audit matter or on the accounts or disclosures to which it relates.
Revenue Recognition — Identifying and Evaluating Terms and Conditions in Certain Contracts
As described in Note A to the consolidated financial statements, the Company derives revenue from licensing software under perpetual, term-based and consumption-based contracts and related software maintenance and support, subscriptions, hosted services, training and consulting services. Revenue is recognized upon transfer of control of licenses, subscriptions or services to the customer in an amount that reflects the consideration the Company expects to receive in exchange for those licenses, services or subscriptions. Control of a promised license, subscription or service may be transferred to a customer either at a point in time or over time, which affects the timing of revenue recognition. The Company’s contracts with customers may include a combination of licenses, subscriptions, software-as-a-service (“SaaS”) and services that are accounted for as distinct performance obligations. Management assesses relevant contractual terms in contracts with customers and applies significant judgment in identifying and accounting for all terms and conditions in certain contracts. For the year ended February 3, 2023, the Company’s total revenue was $13.4 billion.
The principal considerations for our determination that performing procedures relating to revenue recognition, specifically the identification and evaluation of terms and conditions in certain contracts, is a critical audit matter are the significant judgment by management in identifying terms and conditions in certain contracts that impact revenue recognition. This in turn led to a high degree of auditor judgment, subjectivity, and effort in performing procedures and evaluating audit evidence to determine whether contract terms and conditions, which may impact revenue recognition, were appropriately identified and evaluated by management.
Addressing the matter involved performing procedures and evaluating audit evidence in connection with forming our overall opinion on the consolidated financial statements. These procedures included testing the effectiveness of controls relating to the revenue recognition process, including controls relating to the identification and evaluation of terms and conditions in contracts that impact revenue recognition. These procedures also included, among others, evaluating the completeness and accuracy of management’s identification and evaluation of the terms and conditions in contracts by examining contracts on a test basis and evaluating management’s determination of the impact of those terms and conditions on revenue recognition.
/s/ PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP
San Jose, California
March 28, 2023
We have served as the Company’s auditor since 2007.
VMware, Inc. (“VMware” or the “Company”) originally pioneered the development and application of virtualization technologies with x86 server-based computing, separating application software from the underlying hardware, and then evolved to become the private cloud and mobility management leader. Building upon that leadership, VMware is focused on becoming the multi-cloud leader. Information technology (“IT”) driven innovation continues to disrupt markets and industries. Technologies emerge faster than organizations can absorb, creating increasingly complex environments. Organizations’ IT departments and corporate divisions are working at an accelerated pace to harness new technologies, platforms and cloud models, ultimately guiding businesses and their product teams through a digital transformation. To take on these challenges, the Company is helping customers drive their multi-cloud strategy by providing the multi-cloud platform for all applications, enabling digital innovation and enterprise control.
Basis of Presentation
The consolidated financial statements and accompanying notes are prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“GAAP”) and pursuant to the rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) for annual financial reporting.
On November 1, 2021, VMware’s spin-off from Dell Technologies Inc. (“Dell”) was completed (the “Spin-Off”), and, in accordance with the Separation and Distribution Agreement, effective as of April 14, 2021 (the “Separation Agreement”), upon the satisfaction of all conditions and immediately prior to the Spin-Off, VMware paid an $11.5 billion cash dividend, pro rata, to each of the holders of Class A common stock (“Class A Stock”) and Class B convertible common stock (“Class B Stock”), including Dell (the “Special Dividend”) as of October 29, 2021 (the “Record Date”). VMware funded the Special Dividend in part through the $10.0 billion of indebtedness incurred during fiscal 2022, including $6.0 billion in the senior notes that VMware issued in August 2021 and $4.0 billion in aggregate drawdowns on its senior unsecured term loan facilities on November 1, 2021. Automatically as a result of the Spin-Off, each share of Class B Stock converted into one fully paid and non-assessable share of Class A Stock.
As a result of the Spin-Off, VMware became a standalone company and entities affiliated with Michael Dell (the “MSD Stockholders”), who serves as VMware’s Chairman of the Board and chairman and chief executive officer of Dell, and entities affiliated with Silver Lake Partners (the “SLP Stockholders”), of which Egon Durban, a VMware director, is a managing partner, became owners of direct interests in VMware representing 39.7% and 9.9%, respectively, of VMware’s outstanding stock, based on the shares outstanding as of February 3, 2023. Due to the MSD Stockholders’ and SLP Stockholders’ direct ownership in both VMware and Dell, as well as Mr. Dell’s executive position with Dell, transactions with Dell continue to be considered related party transactions following the Spin-Off.
The fiscal year for VMware is the 52 or 53 weeks ending on the Friday nearest to January 31 of each year. The Company refers to its fiscal years ended February 3, 2023, January 28, 2022 and January 29, 2021 as “fiscal 2023,” “fiscal 2022,” and “fiscal 2021,” respectively. Fiscal 2023 was a 53-week fiscal year, while fiscal 2022 and fiscal 2021 were each 52-week fiscal years.
Management believes the assumptions underlying the consolidated financial statements are reasonable. However, the amounts recorded for VMware’s related party transactions with Dell and its consolidated subsidiaries may not be considered arm’s length with an unrelated third party. Therefore, the consolidated financial statements included herein may not necessarily reflect the results of operations, financial position and cash flows had VMware engaged in such transactions with an unrelated third party during all periods presented. Accordingly, VMware’s historical financial information is not necessarily indicative of what the Company’s results of operations, financial position and cash flows will be in the future, if and when VMware contracts at arm’s length with unrelated third parties for products and services the Company receives from and provides to Dell.
Broadcom Merger Agreement
On May 26, 2022, VMware entered into an Agreement and Plan of Merger (the “Merger Agreement”) with Broadcom Inc. (“Broadcom”). Under the terms of the Merger Agreement, each share of Class A Stock, par value $0.01 per share, of the Company issued and outstanding immediately prior to the effective time of the transaction will be converted into the right to receive, at the election of the holder of such share of Class A Stock, and subject to proration in accordance with the Merger Agreement as described below: (i) $142.50 per share in cash, without interest (the “Cash Consideration”), or (ii) 0.25200 (the
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)
“Exchange Ratio”) shares of common stock, par value $0.001 per share, of Broadcom (“Broadcom Common Stock”, and such consideration, the “Stock Consideration”). The stockholder election will be subject to a proration mechanism, such that the total number of shares of Class A Stock entitled to receive the Cash Consideration and the total number of shares of Class A Stock entitled to receive the Stock Consideration will, in each case, be equal to 50% of the aggregate number of shares of Class A Stock issued and outstanding immediately prior to the consummation of the transaction. Holders of Class A Stock that do not make an election will be treated as having elected to receive the Cash Consideration or the Stock Consideration in accordance with the proration methodology in the Merger Agreement.
The Merger Agreement contains customary representations, warranties and covenants. The Merger Agreement also contains termination rights for either or each of Broadcom and the Company. On February 17, 2023, in accordance with the Merger Agreement, the Company and Broadcom each delivered to the other a mutual notice to extend the Outside Date (as defined in the Merger Agreement) to May 26, 2023. If the Closing Effective Date (as defined in the Merger Agreement) has not occurred, similar three-month extensions could be noticed by either party (or mutually) five business days prior to each of May 26 and August 26, 2023.
The transaction, which is expected to be consummated in Broadcom’s fiscal year 2023, was approved by VMware shareholders at a special meeting held on November 4, 2022 but remains subject to the receipt of regulatory approvals and other customary closing conditions. If the transaction is consummated, the Class A Stock will be delisted from the New York Stock Exchange and deregistered under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended.
Principles of Consolidation
The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of VMware and subsidiaries in which VMware has a controlling financial interest.
All intercompany transactions and account balances between VMware and its subsidiaries have been eliminated in consolidation. Transactions with Dell and its consolidated subsidiaries are generally settled in cash and are classified on the consolidated statements of cash flows based upon the nature of the underlying transaction.
Use of Accounting Estimates
The preparation of financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities, the reported amounts of revenue and expenses during the reporting periods, and the disclosure of contingent liabilities at the date of the financial statements. Estimates are used for, but not limited to, trade receivable valuation, marketing development funds, expected period of benefit for deferred commissions, useful lives assigned to fixed assets and intangible assets, valuation of goodwill and definite-lived intangibles, income taxes, stock-based compensation and contingencies. Actual results could differ from those estimates. To the extent the Company’s actual results differ materially from those estimates and assumptions, VMware’s future financial statements could be affected.
Revenue Recognition
VMware derives revenue from licensing software under perpetual, term-based and consumption-based contracts and related software maintenance and support, subscriptions, hosted services, training and consulting services. VMware accounts for a contract with a customer if all criteria defined by ASC 606, Revenue from Contracts with Customers are met, including that collectability of the consideration is probable. At inception of a contract with a customer, the Company evaluates whether the promised products and services represent distinct performance obligations within the context of the contract. Performance obligations that are both capable of being distinct on their own and distinct within the context of the contract are recognized on their own as distinct performance obligations. Performance obligations under which both of these two criteria are not met are recognized as a combined, single performance obligation. Determining whether the Company’s licenses, subscriptions and services are considered distinct performance obligations that should be accounted for separately or together often involves assumptions and significant judgments that can have a significant impact on the timing and amount of revenue recognized.
Revenue is recognized upon transfer of control of licenses, subscriptions or services to the customer in an amount that reflects the consideration VMware expects to receive in exchange for those licenses, services or subscriptions. Control of a promised license, subscription or service may be transferred to a customer either at a point in time or over time, which affects the timing of revenue recognition. VMware’s contracts with customers may include a combination of licenses, subscriptions, software-as-a-service (“SaaS”) and services that are accounted for as distinct performance obligations. Licenses that represent distinct performance obligations are recognized at a point in time when the software license keys have been made available to the customer. Licenses sold as part of the Company’s subscriptions that do not represent distinct performance obligations are recognized over time along with the associated services that form a combined performance obligation with the software. Management assesses relevant contractual terms in contracts with customers and applies significant judgment in identifying and
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)
accounting for all terms and conditions in certain contracts. Certain contracts include third-party offerings and revenue that may be recognized net of the third-party costs, based upon an assessment as to whether VMware had control of the underlying third-party offering before it is transferred to the customer. Revenue is recognized net of any taxes invoiced to customers, which are subsequently remitted to governmental authorities.
From time to time, VMware may enter into revenue and purchase contracts with the same customer within a short period of time. VMware evaluates the underlying economics and fair value of the consideration payable to the customer to determine if any portion of the consideration payable to the customer exceeds the fair value of the goods and services received and should be accounted for as a reduction of the transaction price of the revenue contract.
License Revenue
VMware generally sells its license software through distributors, resellers, system vendors, systems integrators and its direct sales force. Performance obligations related to license revenue, including the license portion of term licenses, represent functional intellectual property under which a customer has the legal right to the on-premises license. The license provides significant standalone functionality and is a separate performance obligation from the maintenance and support and professional services sold by VMware. On-premises license revenue is recognized at a point in time, upon delivery and transfer of control of the underlying license to the customer.
License revenue from software licenses sold to original equipment manufacturers (“OEMs”) is recognized when the sale to the end user occurs. Revenue is recognized upon reporting by the OEMs of their sales, and for the period where information of the underlying sales has not been made available, revenue is recognized based upon estimated sales.
Subscription and SaaS Revenue
VMware’s subscription and SaaS revenue consists of hosted services, consumption based licensing under VMware Cloud Provider Program (“VCPP”) offerings and certain license sales of its software platform with open source licenses or offerings under which licenses and services are accounted for as combined performance obligations.
VMware’s hosted services consist of certain software offerings sold as a service-based technology without the customer’s ability to take possession of the software over the subscription term. Hosted services are recognized as SaaS revenue over time as customers consume the services or ratably over the contract term, commencing upon provisioning of the service.
VCPP partners license on-premises software from VMware on a monthly basis under a usage-based model. Generally, contracts with VCPP partners include cancellation rights. Revenue recognition is based on fees associated with reported license consumption by the VCPP partners and includes estimates for the period when consumption information has not been made available. Additionally, VCPP partners also purchase hosted services and revenue is recognized over time as the Company’s partners consume the services or ratably over the contract term, commencing upon provisioning of the service.
Subscription sales of the Company’s software platform offering provides customers with a license to its platform over a period of time, which includes, among other items, open-source software, support, enhancements, upgrades and compatibility to certified systems, all of which are offered on an if-and-when available basis. Subscription revenue is recognized ratably over the contract term beginning on the date that the Company’s platform is made available to the customer.
Subscription sales also include offerings with licenses that provide customers with access to and the right to utilize the threat intelligence capabilities and ongoing support over a period of time. VMware considers the software license and access to critical threat intelligence capabilities to be a single performance obligation. Subscription revenue is recognized ratably over the contract term beginning on the date the software is delivered to the customer.
Subscription and SaaS offerings generally have a duration of one month, one-year, or three-years and are invoiced to the customers either upfront, annually, quarterly or monthly.
During the second half of fiscal 2023, VMware introduced termination for convenience (“TFC”) clauses with respect to term-based license offerings in certain enterprise agreements (“EAs”). Revenue from such term-based license offerings subject to TFC clauses is recognized ratably as subscription and SaaS revenue, rather than as license revenue, due to the requirement to refund any unused, pre-paid fees upon termination.
Services Revenue
VMware’s services revenue generally consists of software maintenance and support and professional services. Software maintenance and support offerings entitle customers to receive major and minor product upgrades, on a when-and-if-available basis, and technical support. Maintenance and support services are comprised of multiple performance obligations including updates, upgrades to licenses and technical support. While separate performance obligations are identified within maintenance
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)
and support services, the underlying performance obligations generally have a consistent continuous pattern of transfer to a customer during the term of a contract and therefore, maintenance and support services revenue is recognized ratably over the contract duration.
Professional services include design, implementation, training and consulting services. Professional services performed by VMware represent distinct performance obligations as they do not modify or customize licenses sold. These services are not highly interdependent or highly interrelated to licenses sold such that a customer would not be able to use the licenses without the professional services. Revenue from fixed fee professional services engagements is recognized based on progress made toward the total project effort, which can be reasonably estimated. As a practical expedient, VMware recognizes revenue from professional services engagements invoiced on a time and materials basis as the hours are incurred based on VMware’s right to invoice amounts for performance completed to date.
Contracts with Multiple Performance Obligations
VMware enters into revenue contracts with multiple performance obligations in which a customer may purchase combinations of licenses, maintenance and support, subscriptions, hosted services, training, consulting services and rights to future products and services. For contracts with multiple performance obligations, VMware allocates total transaction value to the identified underlying performance obligations based on relative standalone selling price (“SSP”). VMware typically estimates SSP of performance obligations based on observable transactions when the obligations are sold on a standalone basis and those prices fall within a reasonable range. VMware utilizes the residual approach to estimate SSP primarily for offerings when sold to customers at highly variable pricing.
Rebates and Marketing Development Funds
Rebates, which are offered to certain channel partners and represent a form of variable consideration, are accounted for as a reduction to the transaction price on eligible contracts.
Rebates are determined based on eligible sales during the quarter or based on actual achievement to quarterly target sales. The reduction of the aggregate transaction price against eligible contracts is allocated to the applicable performance obligations. The difference between the estimated rebates recognized and the actual amounts paid has not been material to date.
Certain channel partners are also reimbursed for direct costs related to marketing or other services that are defined under the terms of the marketing development programs. Estimated reimbursements for marketing development funds are accounted for as consideration payable to a customer, reducing the transaction price of the underlying contracts. The most likely amount method is used to estimate the marketing fund reimbursements at the end of the quarter and the reduction of transaction price is allocated to the applicable performance obligations. The difference between the estimated reimbursement and the actual amount paid to channel partners has not been material to date.
Returns Reserves
With limited exceptions, VMware’s return policy does not allow product returns for a refund. VMware estimates and records reserves for product returns at the time of sale based on historical return rates. Amounts are recorded as a reduction of revenue or unearned revenue. Returns reserves were not material for all periods presented.
Deferred Commissions
Sales commissions, including the employer portion of payroll taxes, earned by VMware’s sales force are considered incremental and recoverable costs of obtaining a contract and are deferred and generally amortized on a straight-line basis over the expected period of benefit. The expected period of benefit is generally determined using the contract term or underlying technology life, if renewals are expected and the renewal commissions are not commensurate with the initial commissions. Sales commissions related to software maintenance and support renewals are deferred and amortized on a straight-line basis over the contractual renewal period.
Foreign Currency Remeasurement and Translation
The United States (“U.S.”) dollar was the functional currency of VMware’s foreign subsidiaries during the years ended February 3, 2023 and January 28, 2022. During the year ended January 29, 2021, the U.S. dollar was the functional currency for the majority of VMware’s foreign subsidiaries, except for certain foreign subsidiaries associated with the acquisition of Pivotal Software, Inc. (“Pivotal”) during fiscal 2020, many of which were wound down during fiscal 2021. Assets and liabilities are translated into U.S. dollars at exchange rates in effect at the balance sheet date. VMware records net gains and losses resulting from foreign exchange transactions as a component of foreign currency exchange gains and losses in other income (expense), net on the consolidated statements of income. These gains and losses are net of those recognized on foreign currency forward
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)
contracts (“forward contracts”) not designated as hedges that VMware enters into to partially mitigate its exposure to foreign currency fluctuations.
Cash and Cash Equivalents and Restricted Cash
Cash equivalents consist of money market funds and time deposits with maturities of 90 days or less from date of purchase.
Cash balances that are restricted pursuant to the terms of various agreements are classified as restricted cash and included in other current assets and other assets in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets. Refer to Note H for more information.
Investments in Equity Securities
VMware holds equity securities in privately held companies. VMware elected to measure securities in privately held companies at cost, less impairment, if any, adjusted upward or downward for observable price changes in orderly transactions for the identical or a similar security of the same issuer. All gains and losses on these securities, whether realized or unrealized, are recognized in other income (expense), net on the consolidated statements of income.
Allowance for Credit Losses
VMware maintains an allowance for credit losses for estimated losses on uncollectible accounts receivable. VMware determines the allowance based on various factors such as historical experience, the age of the receivable and current economic conditions that may affect customers’ ability to pay. The allowance for credit losses was not significant as of February 3, 2023 and January 28, 2022.
Property and Equipment, Net
Property and equipment, net is recorded at cost. Depreciation commences upon placing the asset in service and is recognized on a straight-line basis over the estimated useful life of the assets, as follows:
Buildings
Term of underlying land lease
Land improvements
15 years
Furniture and fixtures
7 years
Equipment
3 to 6 years
Software
3 to 8 years
Leasehold improvements
20 years, not to exceed the shorter of the estimated useful life or remaining lease term
Upon retirement or disposition, the asset cost and related accumulated depreciation are removed with any gain or loss recognized on the consolidated statements of income. Repair and maintenance costs that do not extend the economic life of the underlying assets are expensed as incurred.
Capitalized Software Development Costs
Costs associated with internal-use software, including those used to provide hosted services, during the application development stage are capitalized. Capitalization of costs begins when the preliminary project stage is completed, management has committed to funding the project, and it is probable that the project will be completed and the software will be used to perform the function intended. Capitalization ceases, and depreciation begins, at the point when the project is substantially complete and is ready for its intended purpose. The capitalized amounts are included in property and equipment, net on the consolidated balance sheets.
Development costs of software to be sold, leased, or otherwise marketed are subject to capitalization beginning when technological feasibility for the product has been established and ending when the product is available for general release. During the years presented, software development costs incurred for products during the time period between reaching technological feasibility and general release were not material and accordingly were expensed as incurred.
Business Combinations
For business combinations, VMware recognizes the identifiable assets acquired, the liabilities assumed and any non-controlling interests in an acquiree, which are measured based on the acquisition date fair value. Goodwill is measured as the excess of consideration transferred over the net amounts of the identifiable tangible and intangible assets acquired and the liabilities assumed at the acquisition date.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)
VMware uses significant estimates and assumptions to determine the fair value of assets acquired and liabilities assumed and the related useful lives of the acquired assets, when applicable, as of the acquisition date.
When those estimates are provisional, VMware refines them as necessary during the measurement period. The measurement period is the period after the acquisition date, not to exceed one year, in which VMware may gather and analyze the necessary information about facts and circumstances that existed as of the acquisition date to adjust the provisional amounts recognized. Measurement period adjustments are recorded during the period in which the adjustment amount is determined. All other adjustments are recorded to the consolidated statements of income.
Costs to effect an acquisition are recorded in general and administrative expenses on the consolidated statements of income as the expenses are incurred.
Purchased Intangible Assets and Goodwill
Goodwill is evaluated for impairment during the third quarter of each fiscal year or more frequently if events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying value of the asset may not be recoverable. VMware elected to perform a quantitative assessment of goodwill with respect to its one reporting unit. In doing so, VMware compared the enterprise fair value to the carrying amount of the reporting unit, including goodwill. VMware concluded that, to date, there have been no impairments of goodwill.
Purchased intangible assets with finite lives are generally amortized over their estimated useful lives using the straight-line method. VMware reviews intangible assets for impairment whenever events or changes in business circumstances indicate that the carrying amounts of the assets may not be fully recoverable or that the useful lives of these assets are no longer appropriate.
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities
Derivative instruments are measured at fair value and reported as current assets and current liabilities on the consolidated balance sheets, as applicable.
To manage VMware’s exposure to foreign currency fluctuations, VMware enters into forward contracts to hedge a portion of VMware’s net outstanding monetary asset or liability positions. These forward contracts are generally entered into on a monthly basis, with a typical contractual term of one month. These forward contracts are not designated as hedging instruments under applicable accounting guidance and therefore are adjusted to fair value through other income (expense), net on the consolidated statements of income.
Additionally, VMware enters into forward contracts, which it designates as cash flow hedges to manage the volatility of cash flows that relate to operating expenses denominated in certain foreign currencies. These forward contracts have maturities of fourteen months or less, and are adjusted to fair value through accumulated other comprehensive loss, net of tax, on the consolidated balance sheets. When the underlying expense transaction occurs, the gains or losses on the forward contract are subsequently reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss to the related operating expense line item on the consolidated statements of income.
The Company does not, and does not intend to, use derivative financial instruments for trading or speculative purposes.
Employee Benefit Plans
The Company has a defined contribution program for U.S. employees that complies with Section 401(k) of the Internal Revenue Code. In addition, the Company offers defined contribution plans to employees in certain countries outside the U.S.
During the years ended February 3, 2023, January 28, 2022 and January 29, 2021, the Company contributed $237 million, $227 million and $176 million, respectively, to its defined contribution plans.
Advertising
Advertising costs are expensed as incurred. Advertising expense was $24 million, $35 million and $33 million during the years ended February 3, 2023, January 28, 2022 and January 29, 2021, respectively.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)
Income Taxes
Prior to the Spin-Off, although VMware’s financial results were included in the Dell consolidated tax return for U.S. federal income tax purposes, VMware’s income tax provision or benefit was calculated primarily as though the Company was a separate taxpayer, with certain transactions between the Company and Dell being assessed using consolidated tax return rules. As a result of the Spin-Off, VMware is no longer a member of the Dell consolidated tax group and the Company’s U.S. income tax will be reported separately from that of the Dell consolidated tax group. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are determined based on the difference between the tax basis of assets and liabilities and their reported amounts using enacted tax rates in effect for the year in which the differences are expected to reverse. Tax credits are generally recognized as reductions of income tax provisions in the year in which the credits arise. The measurement of deferred tax assets is reduced by a valuation allowance if, based upon available evidence, it is more likely than not that some or all of the deferred tax assets will not be realized.
The U.S. Tax Cuts and Jobs Act enacted on December 22, 2017 (the “2017 Tax Act”) introduced significant changes to U.S. income tax law. The Global Intangible Low-Taxed Income (“GILTI”) provisions of the 2017 Tax Act require VMware to include in its U.S. income tax return foreign subsidiary earnings in excess of an allowable return on the foreign subsidiary’s tangible assets. GAAP allows the Company to choose between an accounting policy that treats the U.S. tax under GILTI provisions as either a current expense, as incurred, or as a component of the Company’s measurement of deferred taxes. VMware has elected to record impacts of GILTI as period costs.
Net Income Per Share
Basic net income per share is calculated using the weighted-average number of shares of VMware’s common stock outstanding during the period. Diluted net income per share is calculated using the weighted-average number of shares of common stock, including the dilutive effect of equity awards using the treasury stock method. Prior to the Spin-Off, VMware used the two-class method to calculate net income per share. Since both classes shared the same rights in dividends, basic and diluted earnings per share were the same for both Class A Stock and Class B Stock. Automatically as a result of the Spin-Off, each share of Class B Stock converted into one share of Class A Stock and Class A Stock became, and remains, the sole outstanding class of VMware common stock, and, as a result, the two-class method is no longer applicable to the Company’s calculation of net income per share.
Concentrations of Risks
Financial instruments, which potentially subject VMware to concentrations of credit risk, consist principally of cash and cash equivalents, short-term investments and accounts receivable. Cash on deposit with banks may exceed the amount of insurance provided on such deposits. These deposits may be redeemed upon demand. To manage VMware’s credit risk, the Company monitors the diversity and concentration of its portfolio and limits the amount of investments from any issuer or fund.
VMware manages counterparty risk through necessary diversification of the investment portfolio among various financial institutions and by entering into derivative contracts with financial institutions that are of high credit quality.
VMware provides credit to its customers, including distributors, OEMs, resellers and end-user customers, in the normal course of business. To reduce credit risk, VMware performs periodic credit evaluations, which consider the customer’s payment history and financial stability.
One distributor accounted for 12% and 11% of VMware’s accounts receivable balance, respectively, as of February 3, 2023 and January 28, 2022. A second distributor accounted for 10% and 12% of VMware’s accounts receivable balance, respectively, as of February 3, 2023 and January 28, 2022. A third distributor accounted for 10% and 11% of VMware’s accounts receivable balance, respectively, as of February 3, 2023 and January 28, 2022.
Dell accounted for 38%, 38% and 35% of revenue during the years ended February 3, 2023, January 28, 2022 and January 29, 2021, respectively. In addition to Dell, one distributor accounted for 11% of revenue, respectively, during the year ended January 29, 2021.
Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation
Stock-based compensation is measured at fair value on the grant date and recognized as expense, net of estimated forfeitures, over the requisite service period. Forfeitures are estimated using historical information and revised in subsequent periods if actual forfeitures differ from those estimates.
VMware restricted stock, including performance stock unit (“PSU”) awards, are valued based on the Company’s stock price on the date of grant. For those awards that have a graded vesting schedule and only contain a service-based vesting
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)
condition, compensation cost is recognized, net of estimated forfeitures, on a straight-line basis over the requisite service period of the entire award.
PSU awards vest if a service-based vesting condition and a performance-based vesting condition are met. If minimum VMware-designated performance targets are achieved and the requisite service is rendered, each PSU award will convert into VMware’s Class A Stock at a defined ratio depending on the degree of achievement of the performance target designated by each individual award. If minimum performance targets are not achieved, then no shares will be issued. Based upon the probable outcome of the performance condition and the expected level of achievement, compensation cost is recognized, net of estimated forfeitures, on a straight-line basis over the award’s requisite service period. The expected level of achievement is reassessed over the performance period and, to the extent that the expected level of achievement changes, compensation cost is adjusted and recorded on the consolidated statements of income. The remaining unrecognized compensation cost is recognized over the remaining requisite service period.
The Black-Scholes option-pricing model is used to determine the fair value of VMware’s stock options and Employee Stock Purchase Plan shares. The Black-Scholes model includes assumptions regarding dividend yields, expected volatility, expected term and risk-free interest rates. These assumptions reflect the Company’s best estimates, but these items involve uncertainties based on market and other conditions outside of the Company’s control.
Leases
VMware determines if an arrangement contains a lease at inception by evaluating whether the arrangement conveys the right to use an identified asset and whether the Company obtains substantially all economic benefits from and has the ability to direct the use of the asset. Right-of-use (“ROU”) assets resulting from operating leases are included in other assets, and operating lease liabilities are included in accrued expenses and other and operating lease liabilities on the consolidated balance sheets. ROU assets resulting from finance leases are included in property and equipment, net, and finance lease liabilities are included in accrued expenses and other and other liabilities on the consolidated balance sheets.
Lease assets and liabilities are measured at the present value of the future minimum lease payments over the lease term at commencement date using the incremental borrowing rate. The incremental borrowing rate is generally determined using factors such as the Treasury yields, the Company’s credit rating and interest rates of similar debt instruments with comparable credit ratings, among others.
The Company’s lease terms may include options to extend or terminate the lease when it is reasonably certain that VMware will exercise that option. Lease expense resulting from the minimum lease payments is amortized on a straight-line basis over the remaining lease term. VMware elected the practical expedient to exclude leasing arrangements with a duration of less than twelve months.
The Company’s lease agreements generally do not contain any material residual value guarantees or material restrictive covenants. Certain lease agreements may contain lease and non-lease components, such as common-area maintenance costs. The Company elected to account for these components as a single lease component in determining the lease liability. Variable lease payments, which are primarily comprised of common-area maintenance, utilities and real estate taxes that are passed on from the lessor in proportion to the space leased by the Company, are recognized in operating expenses in the period in which the obligation for those payments are incurred.
Recently Adopted Accounting Standards
In November 2021, the Financial Accounting Standards Board issued ASU 2021-10, Government Assistance (Topic 832), requiring annual disclosures about transactions with a government that are accounted for by applying a grant or contribution accounting model by analogy. VMware adopted this standard during the fourth quarter of fiscal 2023 on a prospective basis. The standard did not have a material impact on the Company’s consolidated financial statements during the year ended February 3, 2023.
B. Revenue, Unearned Revenue and Remaining Performance Obligations
Revenue
Receivables
VMware records a receivable when an unconditional right to consideration exists and transfer of control has occurred, such that only the passage of time is required before payment of consideration is due. Timing of revenue recognition may differ from the timing of invoicing to customers.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)
Payment terms and conditions vary based on contract type and payment is generally required within 30 to 45 days from date of invoicing. Certain performance obligations may require payment before delivery of the license or service to the customer.
Contract Assets
A contract asset is recognized when a conditional right to consideration exists and transfer of control has occurred. Contract assets include fixed fee professional services where transfer of services has occurred in advance of the Company’s right to invoice. Contract assets are classified as accounts receivables upon invoicing. Contract assets are included in other current assets on the consolidated balance sheets. Contract assets were $33 million and $36 million as of February 3, 2023 and January 28, 2022, respectively. Contract asset balances will fluctuate based upon the timing of the transfer of services, billings and customers’ acceptance of contractual milestones.
Contract Liabilities
Contract liabilities consist of unearned revenue, which is generally recorded when VMware has the right to invoice or payments have been received for undelivered products or services.
Customer Deposits
Customer deposits include prepayments from customers related to amounts received for contracts that include certain cancellation rights, such as termination for convenience. If customers do not exercise their cancellation rights, amounts in customer deposits will be recognized as revenue over time, in accordance with the performance obligations of the contracts and transfer of control of these obligations. Unredeemed, prepaid credits eligible for consumption of VMware’s hosted services (“cloud credits”) are also included in customer deposits. Upon customers’ redemption of cloud credits, the net value of the consumed credits is classified as unearned revenue and recognized as revenue over time, in accordance with the Company’s transfer of control of the hosted services.
As of February 3, 2023, customer deposits of $1.1 billion were included in current liabilities on the consolidated balance sheets and primarily consisted of customer prepayments received for contracts that include certain cancellation rights, such as termination for convenience, of $681 million and cloud credits of $405 million. In addition, customer deposits of $182 million were included in other liabilities on the consolidated balance sheets and primarily consisted of cloud credits.
As of January 28, 2022, customer deposits related to customer prepayments and cloud credits of $470 million were included in current liabilities, and $166 million were included in other liabilities on the consolidated balance sheets.
Deferred Commissions
Deferred commissions are classified as current or non-current based on the duration of the expected period of benefit. Deferred commissions, including the employer portion of payroll taxes, included in other current assets as of February 3, 2023 and January 28, 2022 were not material and $17 million, respectively. Deferred commissions included in other assets were $1.5 billion and $1.2 billion as of February 3, 2023 and January 28, 2022, respectively.
Amortization expense for deferred commissions was included in sales and marketing on the consolidated statements of income and was $642 million, $517 million and $437 million during the years ended February 3, 2023, January 28, 2022 and January 29, 2021, respectively.
Unearned Revenue
Unearned revenue as of the periods presented consisted of the following (table in millions):
February 3,
January 28,
2023
2022
Unearned license revenue
$
21
$
19
Unearned subscription and SaaS revenue
4,401
2,669
Unearned software maintenance revenue
6,805
7,208
Unearned professional services revenue
1,516
1,326
Total unearned revenue
$
12,743
$
11,222
Unearned subscription and SaaS revenue is generally recognized over time as customers consume the services or ratably over the term of the subscription, commencing upon provisioning of the service.
Unearned software maintenance revenue is attributable to VMware’s maintenance contracts and is generally recognized ratably over the contract duration. The weighted-average remaining contractual term as of February 3, 2023 was approximately
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)
two years. Unearned professional services revenue results primarily from prepaid professional services and is generally recognized as the services are performed.
Total billings and revenue recognized during the year ended February 3, 2023 were $10.5 billion and $9.0 billion, respectively, and did not include amounts for performance obligations that were fully satisfied upon delivery, such as on-premises licenses.
Total billings and revenue recognized during the year ended January 28, 2022 were $9.1 billion and $8.2 billion, respectively, and did not include amounts for performance obligations that were fully satisfied upon delivery, such as on-premises licenses.
Revenue recognized during the year ended January 29, 2021 was $7.4 billion, and did not include amounts for performance obligations that were fully satisfied upon delivery, such as on-premises licenses.
Remaining Performance Obligations
Remaining performance obligations represent the aggregate amount of the transaction price in contracts allocated to performance obligations not delivered, or partially undelivered, as of the end of the reporting period. Remaining performance obligations include unearned revenue, multi-year contracts with future installment payments and certain unfulfilled orders against accepted, non-cancellable customer contracts at the end of any given period.
As of February 3, 2023, the aggregate transaction price allocated to remaining performance obligations was $13.6 billion, of which approximately 54% is expected to be recognized as revenue over the next twelve months and the remainder thereafter. As of January 28, 2022, the aggregate transaction price allocated to remaining performance obligations was $12.0 billion, of which approximately 57% was expected to be recognized as revenue during fiscal 2023 and the remainder thereafter.
C. Related Parties
Transactions with Dell continue to be considered related party transactions following the Spin-Off due to the MSD Stockholders’ and SLP Stockholders’ direct ownership in both VMware and Dell, as well as Mr. Dell’s executive position with Dell.
On November 1, 2021, in connection with the Spin-Off, VMware and Dell entered into the Commercial Framework Agreement to provide a framework under which the Company and Dell will continue their strategic commercial relationship, particularly with respect to projects mutually agreed by the parties as having the potential to accelerate the growth of an industry, product, service, or platform that may provide the parties with a strategic market opportunity. The Commercial Framework Agreement has an initial term of five years, with automatic one-year renewals occurring annually thereafter, subject to certain terms and conditions.
The information provided below includes a summary of transactions with Dell.
Transactions with Dell
VMware and Dell engaged in the following ongoing related party transactions, which resulted in revenue and receipts, and unearned revenue for VMware:
•Pursuant to original equipment manufacturer (“OEM”) and reseller arrangements, Dell integrates or bundles VMware’s products and services with Dell’s products and sells them to end users. Dell also acts as a distributor, purchasing VMware’s standalone products and services for resale to end-user customers through VMware-authorized resellers. Revenue under these arrangements is presented net of related marketing development funds and rebates paid to Dell. In addition, VMware provides professional services to end users based upon contractual agreements with Dell.
•Dell purchases products and services from VMware for its internal use.
•From time to time, VMware and Dell enter into agreements to collaborate on technology projects, in connection with which Dell pays VMware for services or reimburses VMware for costs incurred by VMware.
During the years ended February 3, 2023, January 28, 2022 and January 29, 2021, revenue from Dell accounted for 38%, 38% and 35% of VMware’s consolidated revenue, respectively. During the years ended February 3, 2023, January 28, 2022 and January 29, 2021, revenue recognized on transactions where Dell acted as an OEM accounted for 14%, 13% and 12% of total revenue from Dell, respectively, and 5%, 5% and 4% of VMware’s consolidated revenue, respectively.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)
Dell purchases VMware products and services directly from VMware, as well as through VMware’s channel partners. Information about VMware’s revenue and receipts, and unearned revenue from such arrangements, for the periods presented consisted of the following (table in millions):
Revenue and Receipts
Unearned Revenue
For the Year Ended
As of
February 3,
January 28,
January 29,
February 3,
January 28,
2023
2022
2021
2023
2022
Reseller revenue
$
5,039
$
4,764
$
4,053
$
6,145
$
5,550
Internal-use revenue
54
56
63
19
39
Receipts from Dell for collaborative technology projects were not material during the periods presented.
Customer deposits resulting from transactions with Dell were $766 million and $298 million as of February 3, 2023 and January 28, 2022, respectively.
VMware and Dell engaged in the following ongoing related party transactions, which resulted in costs to VMware:
•VMware purchases and leases products and purchases services from Dell.
•From time to time, VMware and Dell enter into agreements to collaborate on technology projects, in connection with which VMware pays Dell for services provided to VMware by Dell.
•Through the end of fiscal 2023, in certain geographic regions where VMware did not have an established legal entity, VMware contracted with Dell subsidiaries for support services and support from Dell personnel who were managed by VMware. The costs incurred by Dell on VMware’s behalf related to these employees were charged to VMware with a mark-up intended to approximate costs that would have been incurred had VMware contracted for such services with an unrelated third party. These costs were included as expenses on VMware’s consolidated statements of income and primarily include salaries, benefits, travel and occupancy expenses.
•Prior to the Spin-Off, in certain geographic regions, Dell filed a consolidated indirect tax return, which included value added taxes and other indirect taxes collected by VMware from its customers. VMware remitted the indirect taxes to Dell, and Dell remitted the tax payment to the foreign governments on VMware’s behalf.
•VMware has agency arrangements with Dell that enable VMware to sell its subscriptions and services, leveraging the Dell enterprise relationships and end customer contracts.
Information about VMware’s payments for such arrangements during the periods presented consisted of the following (table in millions):
For the Year Ended
February 3,
January 28,
January 29,
2023
2022
2021
Purchases and leases of products and purchases of services(1)
$
186
$
228
$
206
Dell subsidiary support and administrative costs
6
38
74
(1) Amount includes indirect taxes that were remitted to Dell during the periods presented.
VMware also purchases Dell products through Dell’s channel partners, however such amounts were not material during the periods presented.
From time to time, VMware and Dell also enter into joint marketing, sales, branding and product development arrangements, for which both parties may incur costs.
Dell Financial Services (“DFS”)
DFS provides financing to certain of VMware’s end users at the end users’ discretion. Upon acceptance of the financing arrangement by both VMware’s end users and DFS, amounts classified as trade accounts receivable are reclassified to the current portion of due from related parties on the consolidated balance sheets. Revenue recognized on transactions financed through DFS was recorded net of financing fees. Financing fees on arrangements accepted by both parties were $33 million, $29 million and $60 million during the years ended February 3, 2023, January 28, 2022 and January 29, 2021, respectively.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)
Due To/From Related Parties
Amounts in the current and non-current portions of due from related parties and due to related parties on the consolidated balance sheets as of February 3, 2023 and January 28, 2022 included amounts due to Dell pursuant to the Tax Matters Agreement, effective April 14, 2021 (the “Tax Matters Agreement”). Refer to Note O for more information.
Amounts included in the current portion of due from related parties, with the exception of DFS and tax obligations, are settled in cash within 60 days of each quarter-end.
Special Dividend
On November 1, 2021, VMware paid an $11.5 billion Special Dividend, pro rata, to each of the holders of Class A Stock and Class B Stock, including Dell, as of the Record Date. Based upon the number of shares of common stock held by Dell as of the Record Date, approximately $9.3 billion in cash was paid to Dell. Refer to Note A for more information regarding the Spin-Off.
Notes Payable to Dell
During the third quarter of fiscal 2022, VMware repaid the outstanding promissory note payable to Dell of $270 million. During each of the years ended January 28, 2022 and January 29, 2021, interest expense on the note payable to Dell was not significant.
D. Commitments and Contingencies
Litigation
On March 5, 2020, two purported Pivotal stockholders filed a petition for appraisal in the Delaware Court of Chancery (the “Court”) seeking a judicial determination of the fair value of an aggregate total of 10,000,100 Pivotal shares (the “Appraisal Action”). Separately, on June 4, 2020, purported Pivotal stockholder Kenia Lopez filed a lawsuit in the Court against Dell, VMware, Michael Dell, Robert Mee and Cynthia Gaylor (the “Lopez Action”), which alleges breach of fiduciary duty and aiding and abetting, all tied to VMware’s acquisition of Pivotal. On July 16, 2020, purported Pivotal stockholder Stephanie Howarth filed a similar lawsuit against the same defendants asserting similar claims (the “Howarth Action”). On August 14, 2020, the Court entered an order consolidating the Appraisal Action, the Lopez Action and the Howarth Action into a single action (the “Consolidated Action”) for all purposes including pretrial discovery and trial. On June 23, 2020, the Company made a payment of $91 million to the petitioners in the Appraisal Action, which reduces the Company’s exposure to accumulating interest. On May 2, 2022, parties in the Lopez Action agreed to a settlement term sheet, which includes a $43 million settlement payment that will be fully funded by insurance. Accordingly, as of April 29, 2022, an estimated loss accrual of $43 million was recorded to accrued expenses and other on the consolidated balance sheet, with a corresponding asset recorded to other current assets for the amount to be paid by insurance. During the third quarter of fiscal 2023, a portion of the settlement for the Lopez Action was paid directly by the insurance provider. As the Company substantially satisfied all of its obligations associated with the settlement, the remaining loss accrual, along with the corresponding asset, were derecognized as of February 3, 2023. A trial for the Appraisal Action took place in July 2022. A post-trial hearing was held on December 13, 2022, and the parties are awaiting the Court’s decision. The Company is unable at this time to assess whether or to what extent it may be found liable in the Appraisal Action and, if found liable, what the damages may be and believes a loss is not probable and not reasonably estimable. The Company intends to vigorously defend itself in connection with this matter.
On April 25, 2019, Cirba Inc. and Cirba IP, Inc. (collectively, “Cirba”) sued VMware in the United States District Court for the District of Delaware (the “Delaware Court”) for allegedly infringing two patents and three trademarks. On October 22, 2019, VMware filed a separate lawsuit against Cirba Inc. in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia for infringing four additional VMware patents, and Cirba filed a counterclaim alleging infringement of an additional Cirba patent. On January 24, 2020, a jury returned a verdict that VMware had willfully infringed Cirba’s two patents and awarded approximately $237 million in damages. VMware accrued a total of $237 million as of January 31, 2020, which reflected the estimated losses that were considered both probable and reasonably estimable at that time. The amount accrued for this matter was included in accrued expenses and other on the consolidated balance sheet as of January 31, 2020 and the charge was included in general and administrative expense on the consolidated statements of income during the year ended January 31, 2020. On December 21, 2020, the Delaware Court granted VMware’s request for a new trial and set aside the verdict and damages award (“Post-Trial Order”). Thereafter, all claims and counterclaims were consolidated into a single action for all purposes. Each party has filed dispositive motions, a pre-trial conference is scheduled for April 6, 2023 and the trial is scheduled to begin on April 24, 2023. Separately, VMware filed challenges with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office against each of the four patents that are the subject of Cirba’s allegations. All of the challenges were granted and the status of the reviews are as follows: (i) one patent survived the ex parte reexam with all challenged claims remaining valid; (ii) one patent
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)
remains under ex parte reexam review following an initial office action wherein the examiner found all claims invalid; (iii) one patent was found invalid via an inter partes review via a Final Written Decision (which remains subject to appeal) issued by the Patent Trial and Appeal Board; and (iv) one patent was found invalid via a post-grant review (which remains subject to appeal). As of January 29, 2021, the Company reassessed its estimated loss accrual based on the Post-Trial Order and determined that a loss was not probable and not reasonably estimable with respect to the consolidated action. Accordingly, the estimated loss accrual of $237 million recorded on the consolidated balance sheets was derecognized, with the credit included in general and administrative expense on the consolidated statements of income during the year ended January 29, 2021. The Company is unable at this time to assess whether, or to what extent, it may be found liable and, if found liable, what the damages may be. The Company intends to vigorously defend against this matter.
In December 2019, the staff of the Enforcement Division of the SEC requested documents and information related to VMware’s backlog and associated accounting and disclosures. On September 12, 2022, the Company announced that it reached a settlement with the SEC to resolve a previously disclosed investigation related to the Company’s backlog disclosures in public filings for its 2019 and 2020 fiscal years, which ran from February 3, 2018 through January 31, 2020. Under the terms of the settlement, the Company agreed to pay an immaterial civil monetary penalty without admitting or denying the SEC’s findings, which relate to the Company's disclosures. The SEC Staff has confirmed that it does not intend to recommend enforcement action against any current or former VMware officers or other members of management in connection with the investigation, and this settlement concludes the matter. As a result of the settlement, until September 2025 the Company (i) no longer qualifies as a well-known seasoned issuer, (ii) is ineligible for certain private offering exemptions under the Securities Act and (iii) is unable to rely on the safe harbor provisions of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995.
On June 2, 2020, WSOU Investments LLC (doing business as Brazos Licensing & Development) (“WSOU”) filed four patent infringement lawsuits against VMware (also naming Dell and EMC) in the United States District Court for the Western District of Texas (the “Texas Court”), asserting one patent in each lawsuit. The Texas Court consolidated the four lawsuits for all purposes. During the course of the lawsuit, WSOU dropped one of the asserted patents and on February 21, 2023 trial began for the remaining three patents, with WSOU seeking certain damages. On the first day of trial, the court granted summary judgment of non-infringement as to two patents, leaving one patent to continue with at trial. At the conclusion of the Plaintiff’s case, the Court granted VMware’s motion for a directed verdict. The Court’s rulings are subject to appeal. In the event of an appeal, the Company intends to vigorously defend against this matter.
While VMware believes that it has valid defenses against each of the above legal matters, given the unpredictable nature of legal proceedings, an unfavorable resolution of one or more legal proceedings, claims, or investigations could have a material adverse effect on VMware’s consolidated financial statements.
VMware accrues for a liability when a determination has been made that a loss is both probable and the amount of the loss can be reasonably estimated. If only a range can be estimated and no amount within the range is a better estimate than any other amount, an accrual is recorded for the minimum amount in the range. Significant judgment is required in both the determination that the occurrence of a loss is probable and is reasonably estimable. In making such judgments, VMware considers the impact of negotiations, settlements, rulings, advice of legal counsel and other information and events pertaining to a particular matter. Legal costs are generally recognized as expense when incurred.
VMware is also subject to other legal, administrative and regulatory proceedings, claims, demands and investigations in the ordinary course of business or in connection with business mergers and acquisitions, including claims with respect to commercial, contracting and sales practices, product liability, intellectual property, employment, corporate and securities law, class action, whistleblower and other matters. From time to time, VMware also receives inquiries from and has discussions with government entities and stockholders on various matters. As of February 3, 2023, amounts accrued relating to these other matters arising as part of the ordinary course of business were considered not material. VMware does not believe that any liability from any reasonably possible disposition of such claims and litigation, individually or in the aggregate, would have a material adverse effect on its consolidated financial statements.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)
Contractual Commitments
VMware’s minimum contractual commitments as of February 3, 2023 were as follows (table in millions):
Purchase Obligations
Asset Retirement Obligations
Total
2024
$
180
$
1
$
181
2025
50
4
54
2026
7
2
9
2027
1
10
11
2028
1
—
1
Thereafter
—
5
5
Total
$
239
$
22
$
261
VMware’s contractual commitments also include principal payments on the unsecured senior notes and senior unsecured term loan facilities, leased office facilities and equipment under various lease arrangements and tax obligations. Refer to Note I for more information on VMware’s debt commitments, Note M for more information on VMware’s lease commitments and Note O for more information on VMware’s tax obligations.
Guarantees and Indemnification Obligations
VMware enters into agreements in the ordinary course of business with, among others, customers, distributors, resellers, system vendors and systems integrators. Most of these agreements require VMware to indemnify the other party against third-party claims alleging that a VMware product infringes or misappropriates a patent, copyright, trademark, trade secret or other intellectual property right. Certain of these agreements require VMware to indemnify the other party against certain claims relating to property damage, personal injury, or the acts or omissions of VMware, its employees, agents, or representatives.
Additionally, following the Spin-Off, VMware and Dell have agreed to indemnify one another pursuant to the Tax Matters Agreement for certain tax liabilities or tax benefits relating to periods prior to the Spin-Off. Refer to Note O for more information.
VMware has agreements with certain vendors, financial institutions, lessors and service providers pursuant to which VMware has agreed to indemnify the other party for specified matters, such as acts and omissions of VMware, its employees, agents, or representatives.
VMware has procurement or license agreements with respect to technology that it has obtained the right to use in VMware’s products and agreements. Under some of these agreements, VMware has agreed to indemnify the supplier for certain claims that may be brought against such party with respect to VMware’s acts or omissions relating to the supplied products or technologies.
VMware has agreed to indemnify the directors and executive officers of VMware, to the extent legally permissible, against all liabilities reasonably incurred in connection with any action in which such individual may be involved by reason of such individual being or having been a director or executive officer. VMware’s by-laws and charter also provide for indemnification of directors and officers of VMware and VMware subsidiaries to the extent legally permissible, against all liabilities reasonably incurred in connection with any action in which such individual may be involved by reason of such individual being or having been a director or executive officer. VMware also indemnifies certain employees who provide services with respect to employee benefits plans, including, for example, the members of the Administrative Committee of the VMware 401(k) Plan and employees who serve as directors or officers of VMware’s subsidiaries.
In connection with certain acquisitions, VMware has agreed to indemnify the former directors and officers of the acquired company in accordance with the acquired company’s by-laws and charter in effect immediately prior to the acquisition or in accordance with indemnification or similar agreements entered into by the acquired company and such persons. VMware typically purchases a “tail” directors and officers insurance policy, which should enable VMware to recover a portion of any future indemnification obligations related to the former officers and directors of an acquired company.
It is not possible to determine the maximum potential amount under these indemnification agreements due to the relatively small number of prior indemnification claims and the unique facts and circumstances involved in each particular situation. Historically, payments made by the Company under these agreements have not had a material effect on the Company’s consolidated results of operations, financial position, or cash flows.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)
E. Business Combinations, Definite-Lived Intangible Assets, Net and Goodwill
Business Combinations
Fiscal 2021
Acquisition of SaltStack, Inc.
During the third quarter of fiscal 2021, VMware completed the acquisition of SaltStack, Inc., a developer of intelligent, event-driven automation software, to broaden VMware’s Cloud Management capabilities from infrastructure to applications. The total purchase price, net of cash acquired, was $51 million.
Acquisition of Datrium, Inc.
During the second quarter of fiscal 2021, VMware completed the acquisition of Datrium, Inc., a provider of cloud-native disaster recovery solutions, to broaden the VMware Site Recovery Disaster Recovery as a Service offerings. The total purchase price, net of cash acquired, was $137 million.
Acquisition of Lastline, Inc.
During the second quarter of fiscal 2021, VMware completed the acquisition of Lastline, Inc., a provider of network-based security breach detection products and services, to enhance capabilities for network detection and threat analysis on VMware NSX and SD-WAN offerings. The total purchase price, net of cash acquired, was $114 million.
Acquisition of Nyansa, Inc.
During the first quarter of fiscal 2021, VMware completed the acquisition of Nyansa, Inc., a developer of artificial intelligence-based network analytics, to accelerate the delivery of end-to-end monitoring and troubleshooting capacities within VMware SD-WAN by VeloCloud. The total purchase price, net of cash acquired, was $38 million.
Other Fiscal 2021 Acquisitions
During the year ended January 29, 2021, VMware completed five other acquisitions, which were not material, individually or in aggregate, to the consolidated financial statements. VMware expected these acquisitions to primarily enhance its product features and capabilities for its VMware Carbon Black Cloud and VMware Aria Operations offerings. The aggregate purchase price for these five acquisitions, net of cash acquired, was $62 million.
The pro forma financial information assuming these fiscal 2021 acquisitions had occurred as of the beginning of the fiscal year prior to the fiscal year of acquisition, as well as the revenue and earnings generated during the current fiscal year, were not material for disclosure purposes.
Definite-Lived Intangible Assets, Net
The following table summarizes the changes in the carrying amount of definite-lived intangible assets during the periods presented (table in millions):
February 3,
January 28,
2023
2022
Balance, beginning of the year
$
714
$
993
Additions related to business combinations and purchases of intangible assets
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)
As of the periods presented, definite-lived intangible assets consisted of the following (amounts in tables in millions):
February 3, 2023
Weighted-Average Useful Lives (in years)
Gross Carrying Amount
Accumulated Amortization
Net Book Value
Purchased technology
5.3
$
819
$
(623)
$
196
Customer relationships and customer lists
11.9
632
(371)
261
Trademarks and tradenames
6.8
69
(48)
21
Total definite-lived intangible assets
$
1,520
$
(1,042)
$
478
January 28, 2022
Weighted-Average Useful Lives (in years)
Gross Carrying Amount
Accumulated Amortization
Net Book Value
Purchased technology
5.3
$
836
$
(501)
$
335
Customer relationships and customer lists
11.5
721
(376)
345
Trademarks and tradenames
7.7
131
(97)
34
Total definite-lived intangible assets
$
1,688
$
(974)
$
714
Amortization expense on definite-lived intangible assets was $254 million, $303 million and $328 million during the years ended February 3, 2023, January 28, 2022 and January 29, 2021, respectively.
Based on intangible assets recorded as of February 3, 2023 and assuming no subsequent additions, dispositions or impairment of underlying assets, the remaining estimated annual amortization expense over the next five fiscal years and thereafter is expected to be as follows (table in millions):
2024
$
205
2025
112
2026
72
2027
42
2028
14
Thereafter
33
Total
$
478
Goodwill
The following table summarizes the changes in the carrying amount of goodwill during the periods presented (table in millions):
February 3,
January 28,
2023
2022
Balance, beginning of the year
$
9,598
$
9,599
Change in goodwill due to business combinations and related adjustments
—
(1)
Balance, end of the year
$
9,598
$
9,598
F. Net Income Per Share
Basic net income per share is computed by dividing net income by the weighted-average number of shares of common stock outstanding during the period. Diluted net income per share is computed by dividing net income by the weighted-average number of shares of common stock outstanding and potentially dilutive securities outstanding during the period, using the treasury stock method. Potentially dilutive securities primarily include unvested restricted stock, which includes restricted stock
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)
units (“RSU”) and PSU awards, and stock options, including purchase options under VMware’s employee stock purchase plan. Securities are excluded from the computation of diluted net income per share if their effect would be anti-dilutive.
The following table sets forth the computations of basic and diluted net income per share during the periods presented (table in millions, except per share amounts and shares in thousands):
For the Year Ended
February 3,
January 28,
January 29,
2023
2022
2021
Net income
$
1,314
$
1,820
$
2,058
Weighted-average shares of common stock, basic
423,150
419,504
419,841
Effect of other dilutive securities
2,710
2,890
3,399
Weighted-average shares of common stock, diluted
425,860
422,394
423,240
Net income per weighted-average share of common stock, basic
$
3.11
$
4.34
$
4.90
Net income per weighted-average share of common stock, diluted
$
3.09
$
4.31
$
4.86
The following table sets forth the weighted-average common share equivalents of Class A Stock that were excluded from the diluted net income per share calculations during the periods presented because their effect would have been anti-dilutive (shares in thousands):
For the Year Ended
February 3,
January 28,
January 29,
2023
2022
2021
Anti-dilutive securities:
Employee stock options
65
57
150
RSUs
535
463
5,038
Total
600
520
5,188
G. Realignment
During the second quarter of fiscal 2023, in response to Russian military actions in Ukraine, VMware approved a plan to cease business operations in Russia. As a result of this action, approximately 80 positions were eliminated during the second quarter of fiscal 2023. Related realignment expenses recognized on the consolidated statements of income during the year ended February 3, 2023 were not significant and primarily included severance-related costs. Actions associated with this plan were substantially complete by the end of fiscal 2023.
During the third quarter of fiscal 2021, VMware approved a plan to streamline its operations and better align resources with its business priorities. As a result of this action, during the year ended January 29, 2021, approximately 280 positions were eliminated and $42 million of severance-related realignment expenses were recognized on the consolidated statements of income. Actions associated with this plan were substantially complete by the end of fiscal 2021.
During the fourth quarter of fiscal 2020, VMware approved a plan to streamline its operations, with plans to better align business priorities and shift positions to lower cost locations. As a result of these actions, during the year ended January 31, 2020, approximately 1,100 positions were eliminated and $79 million of severance-related realignment expenses were recognized on the consolidated statements of income. Actions associated with this plan were completed during fiscal 2021.
The following tables summarize the activity for the accrued realignment expenses during the year ended January 29, 2021 (table in millions):
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)
H. Cash, Cash Equivalents, Restricted Cash and Short-Term Investments
Cash and Cash Equivalents
Cash and cash equivalents totaled $5.1 billion and $3.6 billion as of February 3, 2023 and January 28, 2022, respectively. Cash equivalents were $4.3 billion as of February 3, 2023 and consisted of money-market funds of $4.2 billion and time deposits of $19 million. Cash equivalents were $3.0 billion as of January 28, 2022 and consisted of money-market funds of $3.0 billion and time deposits of $34 million.
Restricted Cash
The following table provides a reconciliation of the Company’s cash and cash equivalents, and current and non-current portion of restricted cash reported on the consolidated balance sheets that sum to the total cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash as of the periods presented (table in millions):
February 3,
January 28,
2023
2022
Cash and cash equivalents
$
5,100
$
3,614
Restricted cash within other current assets
24
43
Restricted cash within other assets
3
6
Total cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash
$
5,127
$
3,663
Amounts included in restricted cash primarily relate to certain employee-related benefits, as well as amounts related to installment payments to certain employees as part of acquisitions, subject to the achievement of specified future employment conditions.
Short-Term Investments
As of January 28, 2022, short-term investments totaled $19 million and consisted of marketable equity securities. These short-term investments were sold during the first quarter of fiscal 2023. Refer to Note J for more information regarding the Company’s marketable equity securities.
I. Debt
Unsecured Senior Notes
On August 2, 2021, VMware issued five series of unsecured senior notes pursuant to a public debt offering (the “2021 Senior Notes”). The proceeds from the 2021 Senior Notes were $5.9 billion, net of debt discount of $11 million and debt issuance costs of $47 million. The proceeds from the 2021 Senior Notes were used to fund a portion of the Special Dividend in connection with the Spin-Off.
VMware also issued unsecured senior notes on April 7, 2020 (the “2020 Senior Notes”) and on August 21, 2017 (the “2017 Senior Notes,” collectively with the 2020 Senior Notes and 2021 Senior Notes, the “Senior Notes”).
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)
The carrying value of the Senior Notes as of the periods presented was as follows (amounts in millions):
February 3,
January 28,
Effective Interest Rate
2023
2022
2017 Senior Notes:
3.90% Senior Note Due August 21, 2027
$
1,250
$
1,250
4.05%
2020 Senior Notes:
4.50% Senior Note Due May 15, 2025
750
750
4.70%
4.65% Senior Note Due May 15, 2027
500
500
4.80%
4.70% Senior Note Due May 15, 2030
750
750
4.86%
2021 Senior Notes:
0.60% Senior Note Due August 15, 2023
1,000
1,000
0.95%
1.00% Senior Note Due August 15, 2024
1,250
1,250
1.23%
1.40% Senior Note Due August 15, 2026
1,500
1,500
1.61%
1.80% Senior Note Due August 15, 2028
750
750
2.01%
2.20% Senior Note Due August 15, 2031
1,500
1,500
2.32%
Total principal amount
9,250
9,250
Less: unamortized discount
(12)
(15)
Less: unamortized debt issuance costs
(46)
(61)
Net carrying amount
$
9,192
$
9,174
Current portion of long-term debt
$
1,000
$
—
Long-term debt
8,192
9,174
On January 18, 2022, VMware exercised a make-whole call and redeemed the $1.5 billion unsecured senior note due August 21, 2022 at a premium. The loss on extinguishment of debt was $21 million during the year ended January 28, 2022 and was recognized in other income (expense), net on the consolidated statements of income.
On May 11, 2020, VMware exercised a make-whole call and redeemed the $1.3 billion unsecured senior note due August 21, 2020 at a premium. The loss on extinguishment of debt was not material during the year ended January 29, 2021 and was recognized in other income (expense), net on the consolidated statements of income.
Beginning on February 15, 2022, interest on the 2021 Senior Notes became payable semiannually in arrears, on February 15 and August 15 of each year. Beginning on November 15, 2020, interest on the 2020 Senior Notes became payable semiannually in arrears, on May 15 and November 15 of each year. The interest rate on the 2020 Senior Notes is subject to adjustment based on certain rating events. Beginning on February 21, 2018, interest on the 2017 Senior Notes became payable semiannually in arrears, on February 21 and August 21 of each year. Interest expense was $247 million, $240 million and $183 million during the years ended February 3, 2023, January 28, 2022 and January 29, 2021, respectively. Interest expense, which included amortization of discount and issuance costs, was recognized on the consolidated statements of income. The discount and issuance costs are amortized over the term of the Senior Notes on a straight-line basis, which approximates the effective interest method.
The Senior Notes are redeemable in whole at any time or in part from time to time at VMware’s option and may be subject to a make-whole premium. In addition, upon the occurrence of certain change-of-control triggering events and certain downgrades of the ratings on the Senior Notes, VMware may be required to repurchase the notes at a repurchase price equal to 101% of the aggregate principal plus any accrued and unpaid interest on the date of repurchase. The Senior Notes rank equally in right of payment with VMware’s other unsecured and unsubordinated indebtedness and contain restrictive covenants that, in certain circumstances, limit VMware’s ability to create certain liens, to enter into certain sale and leaseback transactions and to consolidate, merge, sell or otherwise dispose of all or substantially all of VMware’s assets.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)
The future principal payments for the next five fiscal years and thereafter for the Senior Notes as of February 3, 2023 were as follows (amounts in millions):
2024
$
1,000
2025
1,250
2026
750
2027
1,500
2028
1,750
Thereafter
3,000
Total
$
9,250
Refer to Note C for disclosure regarding the note payable to Dell.
Senior Unsecured Term Loan Facility
On September 2, 2021, VMware received commitments from financial institutions for a three-year senior unsecured term loan facility and a five-year senior unsecured term loan facility that provided the Company with a one-time aggregate borrowing capacity of up to $4.0 billion (the “2021 Term Loan”). On November 1, 2021, the Company drew down an aggregate of $4.0 billion, which was used to fund a portion of the Special Dividend in connection with the Spin-Off. During the years ended February 3, 2023 and January 28, 2022, the Company repaid $2.3 billion and $500 million, respectively. As of February 3, 2023 and January 28, 2022, the outstanding balance on the 2021 Term Loan of $1.2 billion and $3.5 billion, respectively, net of unamortized debt issuance cost, was included in long-term debt on the consolidated balance sheets. As of February 3, 2023, the weighted-average interest rate on the outstanding 2021 Term Loan was 5.34%.
On September 26, 2019, VMware entered into a senior unsecured term loan facility (the “2019 Term Loan”) with a syndicate of lenders that provided the Company with a borrowing capacity of up to $2.0 billion through February 7, 2020 for general corporate purposes. During the year ended January 31, 2020, the Company drew down an aggregate of $3.4 billion and repaid an aggregate of $1.9 billion. During the year ended January 29, 2021, VMware repaid the outstanding balance of $1.5 billion on the 2019 Term Loan.
The 2021 Term Loan, together with the 2019 Term Loan (the “Term Loan”) contain certain representations, warranties and covenants. Interest expense for the Term Loan, including amortization of issuance costs, was $57 million and $17 million during the years ended February 3, 2023 and January 29, 2021, respectively, and was not significant during the year ended January 28, 2022.
Revolving Credit Facility
On September 2, 2021, VMware entered into an unsecured credit agreement establishing a revolving credit facility with a syndicate of lenders that provides the Company with a borrowing capacity of up to $1.5 billion for general corporate purposes (the “2021 Revolving Credit Facility”). Commitments under the 2021 Revolving Credit Facility are available for a period of five years, which may be extended, subject to the satisfaction of certain conditions, by up to twoone-year periods. As of February 3, 2023 and January 28, 2022, there was no outstanding borrowing under the 2021 Revolving Credit Facility. The 2021 Revolving Credit Facility contains certain representations, warranties and covenants. Commitment fees, interest rates and other terms of borrowing under the 2021 Revolving Credit Facility may vary based on VMware’s external credit ratings. The amount incurred in connection with the ongoing commitment fee, which is payable quarterly in arrears, was not significant during the years ended February 3, 2023 and January 28, 2022.
J. Fair Value Measurements
Assets and Liabilities Measured and Recorded at Fair Value on a Recurring Basis
Certain financial assets and liabilities are measured at fair value on a recurring basis. VMware determines fair value using the following hierarchy:
•Level 1 - Quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities;
•Level 2 - Inputs other than Level 1 inputs that are observable, either directly or indirectly, such as quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities; quoted prices in markets that are not active; or other inputs that are observable or can be corroborated by observable market data for substantially the full term of the assets or liabilities; and
•Level 3 - Unobservable inputs that are supported by little or no market activity and that are significant to the fair value of the assets or liabilities.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)
VMware did not have any significant assets or liabilities that were classified as Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy for the periods presented, and there have been no transfers between fair value measurement levels during the periods presented.
The following tables set forth the fair value hierarchy of VMware’s cash equivalents and short-term investments that were required to be measured at fair value as of the periods presented (tables in millions):
February 3, 2023
Level 1
Level 2
Total
Cash equivalents:
Money-market funds
$
4,250
$
—
$
4,250
Time deposits(1)
—
19
19
Total cash equivalents
$
4,250
$
19
$
4,269
January 28, 2022
Level 1
Level 2
Total
Cash equivalents:
Money-market funds
$
2,998
$
—
$
2,998
Time deposits(1)
—
34
34
Total cash equivalents
$
2,998
$
34
$
3,032
Short-term investments:
Marketable equity securities
$
19
$
—
$
19
Total short-term investments
$
19
$
—
$
19
(1)Time deposits were valued at amortized cost, which approximated fair value.
The Senior Notes and the 2021 Term Loan were not recorded at fair value. The fair value of the Senior Notes was approximately $8.5 billion and $9.3 billion as of February 3, 2023 and January 28, 2022, respectively. The fair value of the 2021 Term Loan approximated its carrying value as of February 3, 2023 and January 28, 2022. Fair value for each of the Senior Notes and the 2021 Term Loan was estimated primarily based on observable market interest rates (Level 2 inputs).
VMware offers a non-qualified deferred compensation plan (the “NQDC Program”) for eligible employees, which allows participants to defer payment of part or all of their compensation. There is no net impact to the consolidated statements of income under the NQDC Program since changes in the fair value of the assets offset changes in the fair value of the liabilities. As such, assets and liabilities associated with the NQDC Program have not been included in the above tables. Assets associated with the NQDC Program were the same as the liabilities at $166 million and $162 million as of February 3, 2023 and January 28, 2022, respectively, and were included in other assets on the consolidated balance sheets. Liabilities associated with the NQDC Program included in accrued expenses and other on the consolidated balance sheets were $16 million as of February 3, 2023 and January 28, 2022. Liabilities associated with the NQDC Program included in other liabilities on the consolidated balance sheets were $150 million and $146 million as of February 3, 2023 and January 28, 2022, respectively.
Equity Securities With a Readily Determinable Fair Value
VMware’s equity securities included an investment in a company that completed its initial public offering during the third quarter of fiscal 2021. The fair value of the investment was based on quoted prices for identical assets in an active market (Level 1). As of January 28, 2022, the fair value of the investment was $19 million and was included in short-term investments on the consolidated balance sheets. During the three months ended April 29, 2022, VMware sold the entire investment which had a carrying value of $19 million at the time of sale.
The carrying value at the time of sale for the investments sold during the years ended February 3, 2023, January 28, 2022 and January 29, 2021 was $19 million, $83 million and $26 million, respectively. The gain or loss recognized on the investments sold during the year ended February 3, 2023 was not significant. A loss of $37 million and a gain of $23 million were recognized on the investments sold during the years ended January 28, 2022 and January 29, 2021, respectively. An unrealized loss of $29 million and an unrealized gain of $140 million were recognized during the years ended January 28, 2022 and January 29, 2021, respectively, on the investment still held as of January 28, 2022 and January 29, 2021. All gains and losses on these securities, whether realized or unrealized, are recognized in other income (expense), net on the consolidated statements of income.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)
Equity Securities Without a Readily Determinable Fair Value
VMware’s equity securities also include investments in privately held companies, which do not have a readily determinable fair value. As of February 3, 2023 and January 28, 2022, investments in privately held companies, which consisted primarily of equity securities, had a carrying value of $87 million and $163 million, respectively, and were included in other assets on the consolidated balance sheets.
During the year ended February 3, 2023, VMware sold certain investments in privately held companies which had an aggregate carrying value at the time of sale of $88 million and the loss recognized on these investments was not significant. During the year ended January 28, 2022, for securities still held as of January 28, 2022, gross upward adjustments were $29 million. During the year ended January 29, 2021, gross downward adjustments of $14 million were recognized on securities still held as of January 29, 2021. Gross upward and downward adjustments for all other periods presented were not significant.
Unrealized gains, net recognized on securities still held as of February 3, 2023 and January 28, 2022 were not significant and $25 million, respectively, during the years ended February 3, 2023 and January 28, 2022. Unrealized losses, net recognized on securities still held as of January 29, 2021 were $12 million during the year ended January 29, 2021. All gains and losses on these securities, whether realized or unrealized, are recognized in other income (expense), net on the consolidated statements of income.
K. Derivatives and Hedging Activities
VMware conducts business on a global basis in multiple foreign currencies, subjecting the Company to foreign currency risk. To mitigate a portion of this risk, VMware utilizes hedging contracts as described below, which potentially expose the Company to credit risk to the extent that the counterparties may be unable to meet the terms of the agreements. VMware manages counterparty risk by seeking counterparties of high credit quality and by monitoring credit ratings, credit spreads and other relevant public information about its counterparties. VMware does not, and does not intend to, use derivative instruments for trading or speculative purposes.
Cash Flow Hedges
To mitigate its exposure to foreign currency fluctuations resulting from certain operating expenses denominated in certain foreign currencies, VMware enters into forward contracts that are designated as cash flow hedging instruments as the accounting criteria for such designation are met. Therefore, the effective portion of gains or losses resulting from changes in the fair value of these instruments is initially reported in accumulated other comprehensive loss on the consolidated balance sheets and is subsequently reclassified to the related operating expense line item on the consolidated statements of income in the same period that the underlying expenses are incurred. During the years ended February 3, 2023, January 28, 2022 and January 29, 2021, the effective portion of gains or losses reclassified to the consolidated statements of income were not significant to each of the individual functional line items, as well as in aggregate. Interest charges or forward points on VMware’s forward contracts were excluded from the assessment of hedge effectiveness and were recorded to the related operating expense line item on the consolidated statements of income in the same period that the interest charges are incurred.
These forward contracts have maturities of fourteen months or less, and as of February 3, 2023 and January 28, 2022, outstanding forward contracts had a total notional value of $677 million and $642 million, respectively. The notional value represents the gross amount of foreign currency that will be bought or sold upon maturity of the forward contract. The fair value of these forward contracts was not significant as of February 3, 2023 and January 28, 2022.
During the years ended February 3, 2023, January 28, 2022 and January 29, 2021, all cash flow hedges were considered effective.
Forward Contracts Not Designated as Hedges
VMware has established a program that utilizes forward contracts to offset the foreign currency risk associated with net outstanding monetary asset and liability positions. These forward contracts are not designated as hedging instruments under applicable accounting guidance, and therefore all changes in the fair value of the forward contracts are reported in other income (expense), net on the consolidated statements of income.
These forward contracts generally have a maturity of one month, and as of February 3, 2023 and January 28, 2022, outstanding forward contracts had a total notional value of $1.7 billion and $1.5 billion, respectively. The notional value represents the gross amount of foreign currency that will be bought or sold upon maturity of the forward contract. The fair value of these forward contracts was not significant as of February 3, 2023 and January 28, 2022.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)
Gains related to the settlement of forward contracts were $23 million and $57 million during the years ended February 3, 2023 and January 28, 2022, respectively. The loss related to the settlement of forward contracts was $63 million during the year ended January 29, 2021. Gains and losses are recorded in other income (expense), net on the consolidated statements of income.
The combined gains and losses related to the settlement of forward contracts and the underlying foreign currency denominated assets and liabilities resulted in net gains of $15 million and $31 million during the years ended February 3, 2023 and January 29, 2021, respectively. The combined gains and losses related to the settlement of forward contracts and the underlying foreign currency denominated assets and liabilities were not significant during the yearJanuary 28, 2022. Net gains and losses are recorded in other income (expense), net on the consolidated statements of income.
L. Property and Equipment, Net
Property and equipment, net, as of the periods presented consisted of the following (table in millions):
February 3,
January 28,
2023
2022
Equipment and software
$
2,062
$
1,729
Buildings and improvements
1,235
1,170
Furniture and fixtures
145
134
Capital in progress
195
179
Total property and equipment
3,637
3,212
Accumulated depreciation
(2,014)
(1,751)
Total property and equipment, net
$
1,623
$
1,461
Capital in progress primarily consisted of capitalized costs associated with the development of internal-use software and various building and site improvements that had not yet been placed into service.
Depreciation expense was $319 million, $276 million and $253 million during the years ended February 3, 2023, January 28, 2022 and January 29, 2021, respectively.
M. Leases
VMware has operating and finance leases primarily related to office facilities and equipment, which have remaining lease terms of one month to 23 years.
The components of lease expense during the periods presented were as follows (table in millions):
For the Year Ended
February 3,
January 28,
January 29,
2023
2022
2021
Operating lease expense
$
199
$
192
$
190
Finance lease expense:
Amortization of ROU assets
7
6
6
Interest on lease liabilities
1
1
2
Total finance lease expense
8
7
8
Short-term lease expense
1
1
3
Variable lease expense
34
31
29
Total lease expense
$
242
$
231
$
230
Lease expense incurred for arrangements with Dell was not significant during the periods presented.
The Company subleases certain leased office space to third parties when it determines there is excess leased capacity. Sublease income was $15 million during the year ended February 3, 2023 and $20 million during each of the years ended January 28, 2022 and January 29, 2021.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)
Supplemental cash flow information related to operating and finance leases during the periods presented was as follows (table in millions):
For the Year Ended
February 3,
January 28,
January 29,
2023
2022
2021
Cash paid for amounts included in the measurement of lease liabilities:
Operating cash flows from operating leases
$
177
$
173
$
174
Operating cash flows from finance leases
1
1
1
Financing cash flows from finance leases
5
5
4
ROU assets obtained in exchange for lease liabilities:
Operating leases
$
81
$
225
$
275
Finance leases
8
—
1
Supplemental balance sheet information related to operating and finance leases as of the periods presented was as follows (table in millions):
February 3, 2023
Operating Leases
Finance Leases
ROU assets, non-current(1)
$
974
$
47
Lease liabilities, current(2)
$
144
$
9
Lease liabilities, non-current(3)
845
39
Total lease liabilities
$
989
$
48
January 28, 2022
Operating Leases
Finance Leases
ROU assets, non-current(1)
$
1,062
$
46
Lease liabilities, current(2)
$
145
$
5
Lease liabilities, non-current(3)
927
43
Total lease liabilities
$
1,072
$
48
(1) ROU assets for operating leases are included in other assets and ROU assets for finance leases are included in property and equipment, net on the consolidated balance sheets.
(2) Current lease liabilities are included primarily in accrued expenses and other on the consolidated balance sheets.
(3) Non-current operating lease liabilities are presented as operating lease liabilities on the consolidated balance sheets. Non-current finance lease liabilities are included in other liabilities on the consolidated balance sheets.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)
Lease term and discount rate related to operating and finance leases as of the periods presented were as follows:
February 3,
January 28,
2023
2022
Weighted-average remaining lease term (in years)
Operating leases
11.8
11.9
Finance leases
5.7
7.3
Weighted-average discount rate
Operating leases
3.5
%
3.2
%
Finance leases
3.2
%
2.9
%
The following represents VMware’s future minimum lease payments under non-cancellable operating and finance leases as of February 3, 2023 (table in millions):
Operating Leases
Finance Leases
2024
$
175
$
10
2025
135
9
2026
126
9
2027
111
7
2028
98
7
Thereafter
605
10
Total future minimum lease payments
1,250
52
Less: Imputed interest
(261)
(4)
Total lease liabilities(1)
$
989
$
48
(1) Total lease liabilities as of February 3, 2023 excluded legally binding lease payments for leases signed but not yet commenced of $19 million.
The amount of the future operating lease commitments after fiscal 2028 is primarily for the ground leases on VMware’s Palo Alto, California headquarter facilities, which expire in fiscal 2047. As several of VMware’s operating leases are payable in foreign currencies, the operating lease payments may fluctuate in response to changes in the exchange rate between the U.S. dollar and the foreign currencies in which the commitments are payable.
N. Accrued Expenses and Other
Accrued expenses and other as of the periods presented consisted of the following (table in millions):
February 3,
January 28,
2023
2022
Accrued employee related expenses
$
1,435
$
1,412
Accrued partner liabilities
194
212
Lease liabilities
153
150
Income tax(1)
305
29
Other(2)
481
533
Total
$
2,568
$
2,336
(1) Income tax primarily consists of the current portion of income taxes payable to federal tax authorities. Refer to Note O for more information regarding VMware’s income taxes.
(2) Other primarily consists of interest accrual on outstanding debt, litigation accrual, and indirect tax accrual.
Accrued partner liabilities primarily relate to rebates and marketing development fund accruals for channel partners, system vendors and systems integrators. Accrued partner liabilities also include accruals for professional service arrangements for which VMware intends to leverage channel partners to directly fulfill the obligation to its customers.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)
O. Income Taxes
The domestic and foreign components of income before income tax for the periods presented were as follows (table in millions):
For the Year Ended
February 3,
January 28,
January 29,
2023
2022
2021
Domestic
$
561
$
633
$
932
Foreign
1,231
1,452
1,450
Total income before income tax
$
1,792
$
2,085
$
2,382
VMware’s income tax provision for the periods presented consisted of the following (table in millions):
For the Year Ended
February 3,
January 28,
January 29,
2023
2022
2021
Federal:
Current
$
352
$
16
$
157
Deferred
(89)
64
(19)
263
80
138
State:
Current
94
50
73
Deferred
(43)
(13)
(14)
51
37
59
Foreign:
Current
250
279
246
Deferred
(86)
(131)
(119)
164
148
127
Total income tax provision
$
478
$
265
$
324
Provision for income taxes increased during the year ended February 3, 2023 compared to January 28, 2022, primarily driven by increase in GILTI from the impacts of Internal Revenue Code Section 174 research and development expense capitalization (“Section 174”), which was part of the 2017 Tax Act and became effective beginning in fiscal 2023. As the Company records impacts of GILTI as a period cost, the capitalization of foreign research and experimental costs in GILTI increases the Company’s provision for income taxes. The increase in the Company’s effective income tax rate was also driven by a decrease in FTC benefit due to disallowance of credit for certain foreign tax expenses as a result of the final FTC regulations effective beginning in fiscal 2023.
Provision for income taxes decreased during the year ended January 28, 2022 compared to January 29, 2021, primarily driven by $31 million discrete tax benefit related to the book and tax basis difference on the Company’s investment in equity securities recognized during the year ended January 28, 2022 as compared to a discrete tax expense of $52 million during the year ended January 29, 2021. The decrease was partially offset by a discrete tax benefit of $59 million due to an intra-group transfer of Pivotal’s intellectual property rights to the Company’s Irish subsidiary during the year ended January 29, 2021.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)
A reconciliation of VMware’s effective tax rate to the statutory federal tax rate for the periods presented was as follows:
For the Year Ended
February 3,
January 28,
January 29,
2023
2022
2021
Statutory federal tax rate
21
%
21
%
21
%
State taxes, net of federal benefit
2
%
1
%
2
%
Tax rate differential for non-U.S. jurisdictions
(9)
%
(10)
%
(8)
%
Research and development tax credit
(7)
%
(4)
%
(3)
%
(Excess tax benefits) tax deficiencies from stock-based compensation
1
%
(1)
%
(1)
%
Discrete tax benefit due to IP Transfer(1)
—
%
—
%
(2)
%
U.S. tax on foreign earnings, including GILTI
14
%
1
%
2
%
Permanent items
5
%
5
%
3
%
Effective tax rate
27
%
13
%
14
%
(1) A discrete tax benefit of $59 million was recognized with a deferred tax asset during the year ended January 29, 2021. This deferred tax asset was recognized as a result of intra-group transfer of Pivotal’s IP rights to an Irish subsidiary.
Deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognized for future tax consequences resulting from differences between the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities and their respective tax basis using enacted tax rates in effect for the year in which the differences are expected to be reversed. Significant deferred tax assets and liabilities as of the periods presented consisted of the following (table in millions):
February 3,
January 28,
2023
2022
Deferred tax assets:
Accruals and other
$
285
$
280
Lease liabilities
180
179
Unearned revenue
567
538
Stock-based compensation
76
76
Tax credit and net operating loss carryforwards
536
710
Other assets, net
265
135
Intangible and other non-current assets
4,874
4,916
Capitalized research and development
386
—
Gross deferred tax assets
7,169
6,834
Valuation allowance
(495)
(471)
Total deferred tax assets
6,674
6,363
Deferred tax liabilities:
Deferred commissions
(207)
(177)
ROU Assets
(152)
(151)
Property, plant and equipment, net
(165)
(134)
Total deferred tax liabilities
(524)
(462)
Net deferred tax assets
$
6,150
$
5,901
The increase in net deferred tax assets from January 28, 2022 to February 3, 2023 was primarily driven by the increase in Section 174 of $386 million which became effective in fiscal 2023.
VMware had federal and state net operating loss carryforwards of $120 million, $356 million, as of February 3, 2023, respectively. Foreign net operating loss carryforwards as of February 3, 2023 were not significant. VMware had federal, state and foreign net operating loss carryforwards of $269 million, $521 million and $9 million as of January 28, 2022, respectively. The federal and state net operating loss carryforwards will start to expire in fiscal 2024, if not utilized. These net operating
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)
losses have various carryforward periods, including certain portions that can be carried forward indefinitely. The majority of the Company’s foreign net operating loss carryforwards can be carried forward indefinitely.
VMware had federal research and development (“R&D”) tax credit carryforwards, which were not significant as of February 3, 2023, and were $164 million as of January 28, 2022. The federal R&D tax credit will start to expire in fiscal 2027, if not utilized. VMware also had California and other state R&D credit carryforwards for income tax purposes of $459 million and $397 million as of February 3, 2023 and January 28, 2022, respectively. The California R&D tax credit carryforwards can be carried forward indefinitely and the other state R&D tax credit carryforwards will start to expire in fiscal 2024, if not utilized. In addition, VMware had federal foreign tax credit carryforwards of $21 million and $49 million as of February 3, 2023 and January 28, 2022, respectively. VMware also had non-U.S. foreign tax credit carryforwards of $17 million as of February 3, 2023. Non-U.S. foreign tax credit carryforwards were not significant as of January 28, 2022. The federal foreign tax credit will start to expire in fiscal 2027, if not utilized. The non-U.S. foreign tax credit can be carried forward indefinitely. VMware also had non-U.S. capital loss carryforwards of $22 million and $23 million as of February 3, 2023 and January 28, 2022, respectively, which can be carried forward indefinitely.
VMware determined that the realization of deferred tax assets relating to portions of the state R&D tax credits and certain federal and non-U.S. foreign tax credit carryforwards did not meet the more-likely-than-not threshold. Accordingly, a valuation allowance of $495 million and $471 million was recorded as of February 3, 2023 and January 28, 2022, respectively. If, in the future, new evidence supports the realization of the deferred tax assets related to these items, the valuation allowance will be reversed and a tax benefit will be recorded accordingly.
VMware believes it is more-likely-than-not that the net deferred tax assets as of February 3, 2023 and January 28, 2022, will be realized in the foreseeable future as VMware believes that it will generate sufficient taxable income in future years. VMware's ability to generate sufficient taxable income in future years in appropriate tax jurisdictions will determine the amount of net deferred tax asset balances to be realized in future periods. During the year ended February 3, 2023, the total change in the valuation allowance was $24 million, which was primarily due to California R&D credits generated in the current year, partially offset by utilization of the federal foreign tax credit.
For the periods presented, VMware’s rate of taxation in non-U.S. jurisdictions was lower than the U.S. tax rate. VMware’s non-U.S. earnings are primarily earned by its subsidiary organized in Ireland, where the statutory rate is 12.5%. Under the 2017 Tax Act, all foreign earnings are subject to U.S. taxation. As a result, the Company repatriated, and expects to continue to repatriate, a substantial portion of its foreign earnings over time, to the extent that the foreign earnings are not restricted by local laws or result in significant incremental costs associated with repatriating the foreign earnings. As of February 3, 2023, the amount of deferred tax liability related to the potential repatriation of foreign earnings was not significant. Further developments in non-U.S. tax jurisdictions and unfavorable changes in non-U.S. tax laws and regulations, such as foreign tax laws enacted in response to the 2017 Tax Act, could result in adverse changes to global taxation and materially affect VMware’s financial position, results of operations, or annual effective tax rate.
Tax Agreements with Dell
Pursuant to the Tax Matters Agreement, VMware and Dell agreed to terminate the former tax sharing agreement as amended on December 30, 2019 (the “Tax Sharing Agreement,” together with the Tax Matters Agreement and the Letter Agreement (as defined below), the “Tax Agreements”). The Tax Matters Agreement governs the Company’s and Dell’s respective rights and obligations, both for pre- and post-Spin-Off periods, regarding income and other taxes, and related matters, including tax liabilities and benefits, attributes and returns.
VMware and Dell have agreed to indemnify one another, pursuant to the Tax Matters Agreement, for certain tax liabilities or tax benefits relating to periods prior to the Spin-Off. Amounts due to and due from Dell under the Tax Matters Agreement are included in current and non-current portions of due to related parties and due from related parties, respectively, on the consolidated balance sheets as of the periods presented. Certain adjustments to these amounts that will be recognized in future periods will be recorded with an offset to other income (expense), net on the consolidated statements of income. The actual amount that VMware may receive from or pay to Dell could vary depending on the outcome of tax matters arising from Dell’s future tax audits, which may not be resolved for several years.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)
Amounts due to and due from Dell pursuant to the Tax Matters Agreement as of the periods presented consisted of the following (table in millions):
February 3,
January 28,
2023
2022
Due from related parties:
Current
$
1
$
6
Non-current
208
199
Due to related parties:
Current
$
306
$
61
Non-current
648
909
As of February 3, 2023 and January 28, 2022, amounts due to Dell pursuant to the Tax Matters Agreement primarily related to the Transition Tax of $445 million and $504 million, respectively, and uncertain tax positions of $285 million and $276 million, respectively. The 2017 Tax Act included a deferral election for an eight-year installment payment method on the Transition Tax. The Company expects to pay the remainder of its Transition Tax as of February 3, 2023 over a period of three years.
VMware has made payments to Dell pursuant to the Tax Agreements. The following table summarizes the payments made during the periods presented (table in millions):
For the Year Ended
February 3,
January 28,
January 29,
2023
2022
2021
Payments from VMware to Dell, net(1)
$
49
$
36
$
307
(1) Included refunds received from Dell, which were not significant during the year ended February 3, 2023 and $60 million during the year ended January 28, 2022.
Payments from VMware to Dell under the Tax Agreements relate to VMware’s portion of federal income taxes on Dell’s consolidated tax return, state tax payments for combined states and estimated tax obligation resulting from the Transition Tax. The timing of the tax payments due to and from Dell is governed by the Tax Agreements. VMware’s portion of the Transition Tax is governed by a letter agreement between Dell, EMC and VMware executed on April 1, 2019 (the “Letter Agreement”).
Prior to the Spin-Off, VMware’s portion of federal income taxes on Dell’s consolidated tax return differed from the amounts VMware owed on a separate tax return basis and VMware’s payments to Dell generally were capped at the amount that VMware would have paid on a separate tax return basis. The difference between the amount of tax calculated on a separate tax return basis and the amount of tax calculated pursuant to the Tax Agreements was recorded as a decrease in additional paid-in capital of $67 million and $46 million, respectively, during the years ended January 28, 2022 and January 29, 2021.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)
Unrecognized Tax Benefits
A reconciliation of the beginning and ending amount of gross unrecognized tax benefits, excluding interest and penalties associated with unrecognized tax benefits, for the periods presented was as follows (table in millions):
For the Year Ended
February 3,
January 28,
January 29,
2023
2022
2021
Balance, beginning of the year
$
527
$
508
$
479
Tax positions related to current year:
Additions
70
68
65
Tax positions related to prior years:
Additions
20
2
12
Reductions
(7)
(10)
(25)
Settlements
(4)
(25)
(14)
Reductions resulting from a lapse of the statute of limitations
(23)
(10)
(14)
Foreign currency effects
(8)
(6)
5
Balance, end of the year
$
575
$
527
$
508
Of the net unrecognized tax benefits, including interest and penalties, $287 million and $242 million were included in income tax payable on the consolidated balance sheets as of February 3, 2023 and January 28, 2022, respectively. Unrecognized tax benefits that VMware and Dell have agreed to indemnify one another for, pursuant to the Tax Matters Agreement as a result of the Spin-Off, are recorded in the non-current portion of due to related parties on the consolidated balance sheets and were $285 million and $276 million as of February 3, 2023 and January 28, 2022, respectively. Approximately $440 million and $397 million, respectively, would, if recognized, benefit VMware's annual effective income tax rate.
VMware includes interest expense and penalties related to income tax matters in the income tax provision. VMware had accrued $75 million and $60 million of interest and penalties associated with unrecognized tax benefits as of February 3, 2023 and January 28, 2022, respectively. Interest and penalties associated with uncertain tax positions included in income tax expense (benefit) were not significant during each of the year ended February 3, 2023, January 28, 2022 and January 29, 2021.
The Dell consolidated group is routinely under audit by the IRS, including for years during which VMware was a part of the Dell-owned EMC consolidated group. All U.S. federal income tax matters have been concluded for years through fiscal 2016 while VMware was part of the Dell-owned EMC consolidated group. The IRS has started its examination of fiscal years 2015 through 2019 for the Dell consolidated group, of which VMware was part beginning with fiscal 2017. In addition, VMware is under corporate income tax audits in various states and non-U.S. jurisdictions. Pursuant to the Tax Agreements, when VMware becomes subject to federal tax audits for periods during which it was a member of Dell’s consolidated group, Dell has the authority to control the audit and represent Dell’s and VMware’s interests to the IRS.
Open tax years subject to examinations for larger non-U.S. jurisdictions vary beginning in 2008. Audit outcomes and the timing of audit settlements are subject to significant uncertainty. When considering the outcomes and the timing of tax examinations, the expiration of statutes of limitations for specific jurisdictions, or the timing and result of ruling requests from taxing authorities, it is reasonably possible that total unrecognized tax benefits could be potentially reduced by approximately $15 million within the next 12 months.
P. Stockholders’ Equity (Deficit)
Special Dividend
On November 1, 2021, VMware paid an $11.5 billion Special Dividend, pro rata, to each of the holders of Class A Stock and Class B Stock as of the Record Date. The Special Dividend was recorded as a reduction to retained earnings and then to additional paid-in capital until each of the respective balances were reduced to zero. The remaining amount was recorded to accumulated deficit. Automatically as a result of the Spin-Off, each share of Class B Stock converted into one fully paid and non-assessable share of Class A Stock and Class A Stock became, and remains, the sole outstanding class of VMware’s common stock. Refer to Note A for more information regarding the Spin-Off.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)
Equity awards that were outstanding at the time of the Special Dividend were adjusted pursuant to existing anti-dilution provisions in the Company’s stock plan documents that provide for equitable adjustments to be determined by VMware’s Compensation Committee in the event of an extraordinary cash dividend. A conversion ratio based on the per share dividend amount and VMware’s closing stock price on November 1, 2021 was used to adjust the equity awards outstanding at the time of the Special Dividend. The anti-dilution adjustments to awards proportionately increased the number of outstanding restricted stock units and stock options and reduced the exercise prices of outstanding stock options by a conversion ratio of 1.2191, resulting in an increase of 4.2 million restricted stock units and stock options. The adjustments did not result in incremental stock-based compensation expense as the anti-dilutive adjustments were required by the Company’s equity incentive plan.
VMware Equity Plan
In June 2007, VMware adopted its 2007 Equity and Incentive Plan (the “2007 Plan”). On July 23, 2021, VMware amended its 2007 Plan to increase the number of shares available for issuance by 15.0 million shares of Class A Stock. As of February 3, 2023, 183.7 million shares have been authorized for issuance or substituted in the course of business combinations pursuant to the terms of the 2007 Plan since its inception, including 16.6 million shares that were automatically added pursuant to the anti-dilution provisions of the 2007 Plan triggered by payments of the special dividend during fiscal 2019 and fiscal 2022 (the “Anti-Dilution Adjustment”).
Awards under the 2007 Plan may be in the form of stock-based awards, such as restricted stock, or stock options. VMware’s Compensation Committee determines the vesting schedule for all equity awards. Generally, restricted stock grants made under the 2007 Plan have a three-year to four-year period over which they vest and vest 25% the first year and semi-annually thereafter. The per share exercise price for a stock option awarded under the 2007 Plan shall not be less than 100% of the per share fair market value of Class A Stock on the date of grant. Options granted under the 2007 Plan vest 25% after the first year and monthly thereafter over the following three years and expire between six and seven years from the date of grant. VMware utilizes both authorized and unissued shares to satisfy all shares issued under the 2007 Plan. As of February 3, 2023, there was an aggregate of 29.3 million shares of common stock available for issuance pursuant to future grants under the 2007 Plan, including 9.5 million shares included in the Anti-Dilution Adjustment.
VMware Stock Repurchases
VMware purchases stock from time to time in open market transactions, subject to market conditions. The timing of any repurchases and the actual number of shares repurchased will depend on a variety of factors, including VMware’s stock price, cash requirements for operations and business combinations, corporate, legal and regulatory requirements and other market and economic conditions. VMware is not obligated to purchase any shares under its stock repurchase programs. Purchases may be discontinued at any time VMware believes additional purchases are not warranted. All shares repurchased under VMware’s stock repurchase programs are retired. As of February 3, 2023, the cumulative authorized amount remaining for stock repurchases was $1.6 billion. In connection with its entry into the Merger Agreement, VMware suspended its stock repurchase program during the second quarter of fiscal 2023.
The following table summarizes stock repurchase authorizations approved by VMware’s board of directors, which were open or completed during the years ended February 3, 2023, January 28, 2022 and January 29, 2021 (amounts in table in millions):
Announcement Date
Amount Authorized
Expiration Date
Status
October 7, 2021(1)
$
2,000
February 2, 2024
Suspended
July 15, 2020
1,000
January 28, 2022
Terminated(2)
May 29, 2019
1,500
January 28, 2022(3)
Completed in fiscal 2022
(1) The October 2021 authorization was effective as of November 1, 2021.
(2) The July 2020 authorization, under which $183 million remained unpurchased, was terminated on November 1, 2021.
(3) In July 2020, VMware’s Board of Directors extended its authorization of the existing stock repurchase program through January 28, 2022.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)
The following table summarizes stock repurchase activity during the periods presented (aggregate purchase price in millions, shares in thousands):
For the Year Ended
February 3,
January 28,
January 29,
2023
2022
2021
Aggregate purchase price(1)
$
89
$
1,169
$
945
Class A Stock repurchased
803
8,197
6,944
Weighted-average price per share
$
111.33
$
142.61
$
136.13
(1) The aggregate purchase price of repurchased shares is classified as a reduction to additional paid-in capital until the balance is reduced to zero and the excess is recorded as a reduction to retained earnings (accumulated deficit).
VMware Restricted Stock
Restricted stock primarily consists of RSU awards granted to employees. The value of an RSU grant is based on VMware’s stock price on the date of the grant. The shares underlying the RSU awards are not issued until the RSUs vest. Upon vesting, each RSU converts into one share of Class A Stock.
Restricted stock also includes PSU awards granted to certain VMware executives and employees. PSU awards have performance conditions and a service-based vesting component. Upon vesting, PSU awards convert into Class A Stock at various ratios ranging from 0.1 to 2.0 shares per PSU, depending upon the degree of achievement of the performance-based targets designated by each award. If minimum performance thresholds are not achieved, then no shares are issued.
The following table summarizes restricted stock activity for the periods presented (units in thousands):
Number of Units
Weighted-Average Grant Date Fair Value (per unit)
Outstanding, January 31, 2020
17,474
$
128.38
Granted
11,201
149.63
Vested
(8,296)
114.59
Forfeited
(2,589)
137.55
Outstanding, January 29, 2021
17,790
147.46
Granted
12,400
141.46
Special Dividend adjustment
4,068
n/a
Vested
(7,593)
134.00
Forfeited
(3,663)
146.13
Outstanding, January 28, 2022
23,002
123.06
Granted
13,916
114.79
Vested
(9,327)
124.33
Forfeited
(4,069)
122.66
Outstanding, February 3, 2023
23,522
117.73
As of February 3, 2023, the 23.5 million units outstanding included 22.5 million of RSUs and 1.0 million of PSUs. The above table includes RSUs issued for outstanding unvested RSUs in connection with business combinations.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)
Restricted stock that was expected to vest as of February 3, 2023 was as follows (units in thousands, aggregate intrinsic value in millions):
Number of Units
Weighted-Average Remaining Contractual Term (in years)
Aggregate Intrinsic Value(1)
Expected to vest
20,561
1.11
$
2,504
(1) The aggregate intrinsic value represented the total pre-tax intrinsic values based on VMware's closing stock price of $121.77 as of February 3, 2023, which would have been received by the restricted stock holders had the restricted stock been issued as of February 3, 2023.
The aggregate vesting date fair value of restricted stock that vested was $1.1 billion during each of the years ended February 3, 2023, January 28, 2022 and January 29, 2021. As of February 3, 2023, restricted stock representing 23.5 million shares of Class A Stock were outstanding, with an aggregate intrinsic value of $2.9 billion based on VMware’s closing stock price as of February 3, 2023.
VMware Employee Stock Purchase Plan
In June 2007, VMware adopted its 2007 Employee Stock Purchase Plan (the “ESPP”), which is intended to be qualified under Section 423 of the Internal Revenue Code. On June 25, 2019 and July 23, 2021, VMware amended its ESPP to increase the number of shares authorized for issuance by 9.0 million shares and 5.0 million shares of Class A Stock, respectively. As of February 3, 2023, the number of authorized shares under the ESPP was 37.3 million shares. Under the ESPP, eligible VMware employees are granted options to purchase shares at the lower of 85% of the fair market value of the stock at the time of grant or 85% of the fair market value at the time of exercise. The option period is generally twelve months and includes two embedded six-month option periods. Options are exercised at the end of each embedded option period. If the fair market value of the stock is lower on the first day of the second embedded option period than it was at the time of grant, then the twelve-month option period expires and each participant is granted a new twelve-month option. As of February 3, 2023, 12.8 million shares of Class A Stock were available for issuance under the ESPP. In connection with its entry into the Merger Agreement, VMware suspended its 2007 Employee Stock Purchase Plan effective September 1, 2022.
The following table summarizes ESPP activity for VMware during the periods presented (cash proceeds in millions, shares in thousands):
For the Year Ended
February 3,
January 28,
January 29,
2023
2022
2021
Cash proceeds
$
240
$
236
$
207
Class A Stock purchased
2,418
2,116
2,025
Weighted-average price per share
$
99.10
$
111.31
$
102.44
As of January 28, 2022, $112 million of ESPP withholdings were recorded as a liability in accrued expenses and other on the consolidated balance sheets for the purchase that occurred on February 28, 2022.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)
VMware Stock Options
The following table summarizes stock option activity for VMware during the periods presented (shares in thousands):
Number of Shares
Weighted-Average Exercise Price (per share)
Outstanding, January 31, 2020
2,615
$
56.58
Granted
31
43.20
Forfeited
(156)
70.75
Exercised
(1,247)
52.34
Outstanding, January 29, 2021
1,243
58.68
Granted
4
97.91
Special Dividend adjustment
147
n/a
Forfeited
(104)
63.73
Exercised
(604)
57.19
Outstanding, January 28, 2022
686
46.95
Granted
—
—
Forfeited
(28)
50.66
Exercised
(241)
42.21
Outstanding, February 3, 2023
417
49.43
Options granted during the periods presented relate to unvested stock options assumed in business combinations, and as a result, the weighted-average exercise price per share may vary from the VMware stock price at time of grant.
The stock options outstanding as of February 3, 2023 had an aggregate intrinsic value of $30 million based on VMware’s closing stock price as of February 3, 2023.
Options outstanding that were exercisable and that had vested and were expected to vest as of February 3, 2023 was as follows (outstanding options in thousands, aggregate intrinsic value in millions):
Outstanding Options
Weighted- Average Exercise Price
Weighted- Average Remaining Contractual Term (in years)
Aggregate Intrinsic Value(1)
Exercisable
413
$
49.26
4.44
$
30
Vested and expected to vest
417
49.43
4.46
30
(1) The aggregate intrinsic values represented the total pre-tax intrinsic values based on VMware's closing stock price of $121.77 as of February 3, 2023, which would have been received by the option holders had all in-the-money options been exercised as of that date.
The total grant date fair value of stock options that vested during the years ended February 3, 2023, January 28, 2022 and January 29, 2021 was not significant, $26 million and $92 million, respectively.
The stock options exercised during the years ended February 3, 2023, January 28, 2022 and January 29, 2021 had a pre-tax intrinsic value of $18 million, $55 million and $111 million, respectively.
VMware Shares Repurchased for Tax Withholdings
During the years ended February 3, 2023, January 28, 2022 and January 29, 2021, VMware repurchased 3.3 million, 2.6 million and 3.0 million, respectively, of Class A Stock, for $386 million, $378 million and $413 million, respectively, to cover tax withholding obligations in connection with such equity awards. These amounts may differ from the amounts of cash remitted for tax withholding obligations on the consolidated statements of cash flows due to the timing of payments. Pursuant to the respective award agreements, these shares were withheld in conjunction with the net share settlement upon the vesting of RSUs and PSUs during the period. The value of the withheld shares was classified as a reduction to additional paid-in capital.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)
Net Excess Tax Benefits (Tax Deficiencies)
Net excess tax benefits or tax deficiencies recognized in connection with stock-based awards are included in income tax provision on the consolidated statements of income. Net tax deficiencies recognized were not material during the year endedFebruary 3, 2023. Net excess tax benefits recognized were $17 million and $41 million during the years ended January 28, 2022 and January 29, 2021, respectively.
Stock-Based Compensation
The following table summarizes the components of total stock-based compensation included in VMware’s consolidated statements of income during the periods presented (table in millions):
For the Year Ended
February 3,
January 28,
January 29,
2023
2022
2021
Cost of license revenue
$
1
$
1
$
1
Cost of subscription and SaaS revenue
25
21
19
Cost of services revenue
106
92
99
Research and development
616
528
524
Sales and marketing
376
302
322
General and administrative
166
131
157
Stock-based compensation
1,290
1,075
1,122
Income tax benefit
(213)
(202)
(231)
Total stock-based compensation, net of tax
$
1,077
$
873
$
891
As of February 3, 2023, the total unrecognized compensation cost for stock options and restricted stock was $1.9 billion and will be recognized through fiscal 2028 with a weighted-average remaining period of 1.3 years. Stock-based compensation related to equity awards held by VMware employees is recognized on VMware’s consolidated statements of income over the awards’ requisite service periods.
Fair Value of VMware Stock Options
The fair value of each option to acquire Class A Stock granted during the periods presented was estimated on the date of grant using the Black-Scholes option-pricing model with the following weighted-average assumptions:
For the Year Ended
February 3,
January 28,
January 29,
Stock Options
2023
2022
2021
Dividend yield
n/a
None
None
Expected volatility
n/a
35.0
%
38.8
%
Risk-free interest rate
n/a
0.3
%
0.4
%
Expected term (in years)
n/a
2.9
2.6
Weighted-average fair value at grant date
n/a
$
62.99
$
102.55
Employee Stock Purchase Plan
Dividend yield
None
None
None
Expected volatility
29.7
%
36.5
%
36.1
%
Risk-free interest rate
0.7
%
0.1
%
1.0
%
Expected term (in years)
0.7
0.7
0.7
Weighted-average fair value at grant date
$
28.68
$
37.95
$
33.60
The weighted-average grant date fair value of stock options can fluctuate from period to period primarily due to higher valued options through business combinations with exercise prices lower than the fair market value of VMware’s stock on the date of grant.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)
For equity awards granted under the VMware equity plan, volatility was based on an analysis of historical stock prices and implied volatility of Class A Stock. The expected term was based on historical exercise patterns and post-vesting termination behavior, the term of the option period for grants made under the ESPP, or the weighted-average remaining term for options assumed in acquisitions. VMware’s expected dividend yield input was zero as the Company has not historically paid, nor expects in the future to pay, regular dividends on its common stock. The risk-free interest rate was based on a U.S. Treasury instrument whose term is consistent with the expected term of the stock options.
Q. Segment Information
VMware operates in one reportable operating segment; thus, all required financial segment information is included in the consolidated financial statements. An operating segment is defined as the component of an enterprise for which separate financial information is evaluated regularly by the chief operating decision maker in order to allocate resources and assess performance. VMware’s chief operating decision maker allocates resources and assesses performance based upon discrete financial information at the consolidated level.
Revenue by type during the periods presented was as follows (table in millions):
For the Year Ended
February 3,
January 28,
January 29,
2023
2022
2021
Revenue:
License
$
2,835
$
3,128
$
3,033
Subscription and SaaS
4,012
3,205
2,587
Total license and subscription and SaaS
6,847
6,333
5,620
Services:
Software maintenance
5,281
5,356
5,105
Professional services
1,222
1,162
1,042
Total services
6,503
6,518
6,147
Total revenue
$
13,350
$
12,851
$
11,767
Revenue by geographic area during the periods presented was as follows (table in millions):
For the Year Ended
February 3,
January 28,
January 29,
2023
2022
2021
United States
$
6,528
$
6,232
$
5,878
International
6,822
6,619
5,889
Total
$
13,350
$
12,851
$
11,767
Revenue by geographic area is based on the ship-to addresses of VMware’s customers. No individual country other than the U.S. accounted for 10% or more of revenue during each of the years ended February 3, 2023, January 28, 2022 and January 29, 2021.
Long-lived assets by geographic area, which primarily include property and equipment, net, as of the periods presented were as follows (table in millions):
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)
As of February 3, 2023, the U.S. and India each accounted for more than 10% of these assets, with India accounting for 13% of these assets. No individual country other than the U.S. accounted for 10% or more of these assets as of January 28, 2022.
VMware’s product and service solutions are helping customers in the following areas:
•Application Modernization
•Cloud Management
•Cloud Infrastructure
•Networking
•Security
•Anywhere Workspace
VMware develops and markets product and service offerings within each of these areas. Additionally, synergies are leveraged across these areas. VMware’s products and services from each area may also be bundled as part of an enterprise agreement arrangement or packaged together and sold as a solution. Accordingly, it is not practicable to determine revenue by each of the areas described above.
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
We carried out an evaluation required by the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, amended (the “Exchange Act”), under the supervision and with the participation of our principal executive officer and principal financial officer, of the effectiveness of the design and operation of our disclosure controls and procedures, as defined in Rule 13a-15(e) of the Exchange Act, as of the end of the period covered by this report. Based on this evaluation, our principal executive officer and principal financial officer concluded that, as of the end of the period covered by this report, our disclosure controls and procedures were effective to provide reasonable assurance that information required to be disclosed by us in the reports that we file or submit under the Exchange Act is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in the Securities and Exchange Commission’s rules and forms and to provide reasonable assurance that such information is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our principal executive officer and principal financial officer, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosures.
Management’s Annual Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting
Management is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting, as defined in Rule 13a-15(f) of the Exchange Act. Management has assessed the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting as of February 3, 2023 based on criteria established in Internal Control—Integrated Framework (2013) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission. As a result of this assessment, management concluded that, as of February 3, 2023, our internal control over financial reporting was effective in providing reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. The effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting as of February 3, 2023 has been audited by PricewaterhouseCoopers, LLP, an independent registered public accounting firm, as stated in their report which appears in Item 8 of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.
Changes in Internal Control Over Financial Reporting
There were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting during the most recent fiscal quarter ended February 3, 2023 that materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.
Limitations on Controls
Our disclosure controls and procedures and internal control over financial reporting are designed to provide reasonable assurance of achieving their objectives as specified above. Our management, including our principal executive officer and principal financial officer, conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting based on the framework in Internal Control—Integrated Framework (2013) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission. Management does not expect, however, that our disclosure controls and procedures or our internal control over financial reporting will prevent or detect all errors 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 the Company have been detected.
ITEM 9B. OTHER INFORMATION
None
ITEM 9C. DISCLOSURE REGARDING FOREIGN JURISDICTIONS THAT PREVENT INSPECTIONS
ITEM 10.DIRECTORS, EXECUTIVE OFFICERS AND CORPORATE GOVERNANCE
We will furnish to the Securities and Exchange Commission a definitive Proxy Statement no later than 120 days after the close of the fiscal year ended February 3, 2023. The information required by this item is incorporated herein by reference to the Proxy Statement. Also see “Information About Our Executive Officers” in Part I of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.
We have a code of ethics that applies to all of our employees, including our executive officers. Our Business Conduct Guidelines (available on our website) satisfy the requirements set forth in Item 406 of Regulation S-K and apply to all relevant persons set forth therein. We intend to disclose on our website at www.vmware.com amendments to, and, if applicable, waivers of, our code of ethics.
ITEM 11.EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION
The information required by this item is incorporated herein by reference to the section of our Proxy Statement entitled “Compensation Discussion and Analysis,” “Compensation of Executive Officers” (excluding the information under the subheading “Pay Versus Performance”) and “Compensation Committee Report.”
ITEM 12.SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT, AND RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS
The information required by this item is incorporated herein by reference to the section of our Proxy Statement entitled “Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management”and “Equity Compensation Plan Information.”
ITEM 13.CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED TRANSACTIONS, AND DIRECTOR INDEPENDENCE
The information required by this item is incorporated herein by reference to the section of our Proxy Statement entitled “Board of Directors” and “Transactions with Related Persons.”
ITEM 14.PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTING FEES AND SERVICES
The information required by this item is incorporated herein by reference to the section of our Proxy Statement entitled “Ratification of Selection of Independent Auditor.”
ITEM 15.EXHIBITS AND FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULES
The following documents are filed as a part of this Annual Report on Form 10-K:
1.Financial Statements: The information relating to our financial statements, and Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm required by this Item is filed as part of this Annual Report on Form 10-K in Item 8, entitled “Financial Statements and Supplementary Data.”
2.Financial Statement Schedule: Schedule II Valuation and Qualifying Accounts is filed as part of this Annual Report on Form 10-K and should be read in conjunction with the Consolidated Financial Statements and Notes thereto.
3.Exhibits: The exhibits listed below are filed or incorporated by reference as part of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.
Inline XBRL Instance Document - the instance document does not appear in the Interactive Data File because its XBRL tags are embedded within the Inline XBRL document.
Pursuant to the requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.
Each person whose individual signature appears below hereby authorizes and appoints Rangarajan (Raghu) Raghuram, Amy Olli and Zane Rowe, and each of them, with full power of substitution and resubstitution and full power to act without the other, as his or her true and lawful attorney-in-fact and agent to act in his or her name, place and stead and to execute in the name and on behalf of each person, individually and in each capacity stated below, and to file any and all amendments to this Annual Report on Form 10-K, and to file the same, with all exhibits thereto, and other documents in connection therewith, with the Securities and Exchange Commission, granting unto said attorneys-in-fact and agents, and each of them, full power and authority to do and perform each and every act and thing, ratifying and confirming all that said attorneys-in-fact and agents or any of them or their or his or her substitute or substitutes may lawfully do or cause to be done by virtue thereof.
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, this Annual Report on Form 10-K has been signed by the following persons on behalf of the Registrant in the capacities indicated and on the dates indicated.
Date
Signature
Title
March 28, 2023
/s/ Rangarajan (Raghu) Raghuram
Chief Executive Officer and Director
(Principal Executive Officer)
Rangarajan (Raghu) Raghuram
March 28, 2023
/s/ Zane Rowe
Chief Financial Officer and Executive Vice President
