Cautionary Statement
This document contains forward-looking statements. Interpublic’s representatives may also make forward-looking statements orally from time to time. Statements in this document that are not historical facts, including statements about Interpublic’s beliefs and expectations, particularly regarding recent business and economic trends, the impact of litigation, the integration of acquisitions and restructuring costs, constitute forward-looking statements. These statements are based on current plans, estimates and projections, and therefore undue reliance should not be placed on them. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date they are made, and Interpublic undertakes no obligation to update publicly any of them in light of new information or future events.
Forward-looking statements involve inherent risks and uncertainties. A number of important factors could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking statement. Such factors include, but are not limited to, those associated with the effects of national and regional economic conditions, Interpublic’s ability to attract new clients and retain existing clients, the financial success of Interpublic’s clients, developments from changes in the regulatory and legal environment for advertising and marketing and communications services companies around the world and the successful completion and integration of acquisitions which complement and expand Interpublic’s business capabilities.
Interpublic’s liquidity could be adversely affected if Interpublic is unable to access the capital markets or to negotiate successfully further amendments to its Revolving Credit Facilities or the Prudential Agreements by January 15, 2003. In addition, Interpublic could be adversely affected by developments in connection with the purported class actions and derivative suits that it is defending or the SEC informal inquiry relating to the restatement.
At any given time Interpublic may be engaged in a number of preliminary discussions that may result in one or more substantial acquisitions. These acquisition opportunities require confidentiality and from time to time give rise to bidding scenarios that require quick responses by Interpublic. Although there is uncertainty that any of these discussions will result in definitive agreements or the completion of any transactions, the announcement of any such transaction may lead to increased volatility in the trading price of Interpublic’s securities.
The success of recent or contemplated future acquisitions will depend on the effective integration of newly acquired businesses into Interpublic’s current operations. Important factors for integration include realization of anticipated synergies and cost savings and the ability to retain and attract new personnel and clients.
In addition, Interpublic’s representatives may from time to time refer to “pro forma” financial information. Because “pro forma” financial information by its very nature departs from traditional accounting conventions, this information should not be viewed as a substitute for the information prepared by Interpublic in accordance with GAAP, including the balance sheets and statements of income and cash flow contained in Interpublic’s quarterly and annual reports filed with the SEC on Forms 10-Q and 10-K.
Investors should evaluate any statements made by Interpublic in light of these important factors.