KMB US Equity☆

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

Introduction

This MD&A is intended to provide investors with an understanding of our recent performance, financial condition and prospects. This discussion and analysis compares 2023 results to 2022. For a discussion that compares our 2022 results to 2021, see Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations in Part II, Item 7 of our 2022 Annual Report on Form 10-K. The reference to "N.M." indicates that the calculation is not meaningful. In addition, we provide commentary regarding organic sales growth, which describes the impact of changes in volume, product mix and net selling prices on net sales. Changes in foreign currency exchange rates, acquisitions and exited businesses also impact the year-over-year change in net sales. Revenue growth management is used to describe our capability that helps optimize our consumer value proposition and thereby maximize our brands' revenue potential with consumer-centric insights. It focuses on strategic pricing decisions, price pack architecture, managing our product mix, trade promotion activity and trading terms.Dollar amounts are reported in millions, except per share dollar amounts, unless otherwise noted.

The following will be discussed and analyzed:

•Overview of Business

•Overview of 2023 Results

•Business Environment and Trends

•Results of Operations and Related Information

•Liquidity and Capital Resources

•Critical Accounting Policies and Use of Estimates

•New Accounting Standards

•Information Concerning Forward-Looking Statements

Throughout this MD&A, we refer to financial measures that have not been calculated in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the U.S., or GAAP, and are therefore referred to as non-GAAP financial measures. These measures include adjusted gross and operating profit, adjusted net income, adjusted earnings per share, adjusted other (income) and expense, net, and adjusted effective tax rate. We believe these measures provide our investors with additional information about our underlying results and trends, as well as insight to some of the financial measures used to evaluate management.

Non-GAAP financial measures are not meant to be considered in isolation or as a substitute for the comparable GAAP measures, and they should be read only in conjunction with our consolidated financial statements prepared in accordance with GAAP. There are limitations to these non-GAAP financial measures because they are not prepared in accordance with GAAP and may not be comparable to similarly titled measures of other companies due to potential differences in methods of calculation and items being excluded. We compensate for these limitations by using these non-GAAP financial measures as a supplement to the GAAP measures and by providing reconciliations of the non-GAAP and comparable GAAP financial measures.

The non-GAAP financial measures exclude the following items for the relevant time periods as indicated in the reconciliations included later in this MD&A:

•Sale of Brazil tissue and K-C Professional business - In 2023, we recognized a net benefit related to the sale of our Brazil tissue and K-C Professional business. See Item 8, Note 3 to the consolidated financial statements for details.

•Impairment of intangible assets - In 2023, we recognized charges related to the impairment of certain intangible assets related to Softex Indonesia and Thinx. See Item 8, Note 4 to the consolidated financial statements for details.

•Pension settlements - In 2023 and 2022, pension settlement charges were recognized related to lump-sum distributions from pension plan assets exceeding the total of annual service and interest costs resulting in a recognition of deferred actuarial losses.

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•Acquisition of controlling interest in Thinx – In the first quarter of 2022, we increased our investment in Thinx. As a result of this transaction, a net benefit was recognized, primarily due to the non-recurring, non-cash gain recognized related to the remeasurement of the carrying value of our previously held equity investment to fair value, partially offset by transaction and integration costs. See Item 8, Note 3 to the consolidated financial statements for details.

Overview of Business

We are a global company focused on delivering products and solutions that provide better care for a better world, with manufacturing facilities in 33 countries, including our equity affiliates, and products sold in more than 175 countries and territories. Our products are sold under well-known brands such as Kleenex, Scott, Huggies, Pull-Ups, Kotex and Depend. We have three reportable business segments: Personal Care, Consumer Tissue and K-C Professional. These business segments are described in greater detail in Item 8, Note 15 to the consolidated financial statements.

In operating our business, we seek to:

•grow our portfolio of brands through innovation, category development and commercial execution,

•leverage our cost and financial discipline to fund growth and improve margins, and

•allocate capital in value-creating ways.

We describe our business outside North America in two groups – Developing and Emerging Markets ("D&E") and Developed Markets. D&E Markets comprise Eastern Europe, the Middle East and Africa, Latin America and Asia-Pacific, excluding Australia and South Korea. Developed Markets consist of Western and Central Europe, Australia and South Korea.

On February 24, 2022, we completed our acquisition of a majority and controlling share of Thinx, an industry leader in the reusable period and incontinence underwear category, for total consideration of $181 consisting of cash of $53, the fair value of our previously held equity investment of $127, and certain share-based award costs of $1. In the first quarter of 2023, we delivered a redemption notice to the third-party minority owner with respect to a portion of the remaining common securities of Thinx. This redemption closed in the second quarter of 2023, and we acquired additional ownership of Thinx for $48, increasing our ownership in Thinx to 70 percent. As part of the completion of a negotiated final redemption, we acquired the remaining 30 percent ownership of Thinx for $47 in the fourth quarter of 2023. As the purchase of additional ownership in an already controlled subsidiary represents an equity transaction, no gain or loss was recognized in consolidated net income or comprehensive income. See Item 8, Note 3 to the consolidated financial statements for details.

On June 1, 2023, we completed the sale transaction, announced on October 24, 2022, of our Neve tissue brand and related consumer and K-C Professional tissue assets in Brazil for $212, including the base purchase price of $175 and working capital and other closing adjustments of $37. This transaction also included a licensing agreement to allow the acquirer to manufacture and market in Brazil the Kleenex, Scott and Wypall brands to consumers and away-from-home customers for a period of time. The assets included in the sale agreement were reclassified to Other current assets as of December 31, 2022, and upon closure of the transaction, a gain of $74 pre-tax was recognized in Other (income) and expense, net. We incurred divestiture-related costs of $30 pre-tax, which were recorded in Cost of products sold and Marketing, research and general expenses, resulting in a net benefit of $44 pre-tax ($26 after tax).

Overview of 2023 Results

•Net sales of $20.4 billion increased 1 percent. Organic sales increased 5 percent, while changes in foreign currency exchange rates decreased sales by 3 percent and exited business decreased sales by 1 percent.

•In North America, organic sales increased 4 percent in consumer products and increased 8 percent in K-C Professional.

•Outside North America, organic sales increased 5 percent in D&E Markets and increased 4 percent in Developed Markets.

•Operating Profit and Net Income Attributable to Kimberly-Clark were $2,344 and $1,764 in 2023, respectively.

•Diluted earnings per share were $5.21 in 2023 compared to $5.72 in 2022. Results in 2023 include the net benefit related to the sale of the Brazil tissue and K-C Professional business of $0.08, charges related to the impairment of intangible assets of $1.36 and pension settlement charges of $0.08. Results in 2022 include a net benefit of $0.20 associated with the acquisition of Thinx, primarily due to the non-recurring, non-cash gain recognized related to the

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remeasurement of the carrying value of our previously held equity investment to fair value, partially offset by transaction and integration costs, and pension settlement charges of $0.12.

•We continue to focus on generating cash flow and allocating capital to shareholders. Cash provided by operations was $3.5 billion in 2023. We raised our dividend in 2023 by 2 percent, the 51st consecutive annual increase in our dividend. Altogether, share repurchases and dividends in 2023 amounted to $1.8 billion.

In 2024, we plan to continue to execute our strategies for long-term success which include delivering balanced, sustainable growth by growing our brands in-line with or ahead of category growth, leveraging our cost and financial discipline to fund growth and improve margins, and allocating capital in value-creating ways. Our growth strategy is built on two pillars. Elevate our core business is our first pillar and is driven by delivering value-added innovations and driving category opportunities. Expanding our markets is our second pillar and emphasizes Personal Care. Both strategies are enabled by our focus on accelerating and investing in our commercial capabilities through digital marketing, revenue growth management, consumer-inspired innovation and strong in-market execution.

Our strong legacy of financial discipline supports our growth strategy by driving ongoing supply chain productivity through our FORCE (Focused On Reducing Costs Everywhere) program, controlling discretionary spending, driving down working capital and maintaining the top-tier return on invested capital. Our capital allocation strategy is consistent with our historical approach of disciplined capital spending, payment of a top tier dividend, evaluation of acquisition opportunities and allocation of excess cash flow to share repurchases.

We are subject to risks and uncertainties, which can affect our business operations and financial results. See Item 1A, "Risk Factors" in this Form 10-K for additional information.

Business Environment and Trends

Our results of operations have been, and we expect them to continue to be, affected by the following factors and key trends, which may cause our future results of operations to differ from our historical results discussed under “Results of Operations and Related Information.”

COVID-19 - The macro business environment has experienced unprecedented volatility in recent years reflecting the effects of the global COVID-19 pandemic on supply and demand dynamics. We have seen stabilization in demand across all of our business segments during 2022 and 2023, and we expect this trendto continue.

The pandemic significantly disrupted supply chains across the globe, primarily due to the very significant fluctuations in demand and related transportation and labor supply issues. Resulting supply shortages led to record levels of inflation in commodities and other costs. During 2023, inflation slowed, but costs remain elevated across many categories of our raw materials, labor, energy and other input costs, as well as transportation costs, and we expect that these elevated levels could persist in 2024, although at a decreasing rate of inflation compared to the prior fiscal year.

Additionally, consumer purchasing power has generally been impacted negatively by the inflation driven by the effects of the pandemic which can impact consumer purchasing patterns.

Birth Rate Trends - Sales of our baby and child care products are highly correlated with birth rate trends. In recent years, birth rate declines in key countries, including China, South Korea and the U.S., have pressured category volume growth rates. To help mitigate the effects of birth rate declines, we aim to drive sales growth at or ahead of category growth rates through innovation, premiumization, strong brand building plans and digital marketing investment as part of our Elevate and Expand growth strategy.

Competition - Our products are sold in a highly competitive global marketplace. Our competitors include global, regional and local manufacturers, including private label manufacturers which offer products that are typically sold at lower prices. In particular, private label market share has been increasing in the tissue category. Increased purchases of private label products could reduce net sales of our higher-margin products which would negatively impact our profitability. While the global marketplace in which we operate has always been highly competitive, we continue to experience increased concentration and the growing presence of large-format retailers, discounters and e-tailers. This market environment has resulted in increased pressure on pricing and other competitive factors, and we expect these pressures to continue in the coming year.

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Pricing - Our net sales growth and profitability may be affected as we adjust prices to address market conditions. We adjust our product prices based on a number of variables including demand, the competitive environment, technological improvements, product innovations and changes in our raw material, distribution, energy and other input costs. In 2022 and early 2023, certain price increases were in response to continuing inflation related to the ongoing impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic and other market conditions, including the war in Ukraine. In 2024, we anticipate that challenging market conditions, including those related to inflation and foreign currency exchange rate fluctuations, may continue to impact pricing. Price changes may affect net sales, earnings and market share in the near term as the market adjusts to new pricing and other market conditions.

Operating Costs - Our operating costs include raw materials, labor, selling, general and administrative expenses, general business taxes, currency impacts and financing costs. We manage these costs through cost saving and productivity initiatives, sourcing and hedging programs, and pricing actions. To remain competitive on our operating structure, we continue to work on programs to expand our profitability. While some costs moderated in 2023, they still remained elevated and our results were impacted by increased costs, particularly for pulp, resin, distribution, labor and energy, primarily related to COVID-19 pandemic driven effects and the effect of the war in Ukraine. In 2024, we expect that increased costs will continue to affect us, although at a decreasing rate of inflation compared to the prior fiscal year.

Evolving Consumer Product and Shopping Preferences - The retail landscape in many of our markets continues to evolve due to the rapid growth of e-commerce retailers, changing consumer preferences (as consumers increasingly shop online) and the increased presence of alternative retail channels, such as subscription services and direct-to-consumer businesses. Changing consumer preferences also include increased concerns in regard to post-consumer waste and packaging materials and their impact on environmental sustainability. If we experience lower sales due to changes in consumer demand for our products, our earnings could decrease. We believe our strategic growth focus, sustainability initiatives, innovation pipeline and continued investment in e-commerce capabilities has us well positioned relative to these changing dynamics.

Volatility of Global Markets - Our growth strategy depends in part on our ability to expand our operations, including in D&E Markets. Some D&E Markets have greater political, economic and currency volatility and greater vulnerability to infrastructure and labor disruptions. Volatility in these markets affects our production costs and the demand for our products and may impact our supply chain and distribution networks. Volatility in global consumer demand, commodity costs and foreign currency exchange rates increased significantly over the past few years and is expected to continue in the near term.

Climate Change - We operate in many regions around the world where our businesses could be disrupted by climate change. Our climate change risk categories include risks related to the transition to a lower-carbon economy (“Transition Risks”) and risks related to the physical impacts of climate change (“Physical Risks”). Transition Risks include increased costs of carbon emission, increased cost to produce products in compliance with future regulations, increased raw materials cost, shifts in customer/consumer values and other legal, regulatory and technological risks. Physical Risks include the risk of direct damage to assets or supply chain disruption caused by severe weather events such as floods, storms, wildfires and droughts. We continue to progress toward our 2030 Sustainability Goals which include elements that aim for reductions in greenhouse gas emissions, use of natural forest fibers, use of plastics and use of water in water-stressed regions.

War in Ukraine - Beginning in March 2022, we have implemented significant adjustments to our business in Russia. We have substantially curtailed media, advertising and promotional activity and suspended capital investments in our sole manufacturing facility in Russia. Consistent with the humanitarian nature of our products, we manufacture and sell only essential items in Russia, such as baby diapers and feminine pads, which are critical to the health and hygiene of women, girls and babies. Our Russia business has represented approximately 1 to 2 percent of our net global sales, operating profit and total assets. Our ability to continue our operations in Russia may change as the situation evolves. Our business in Russia is experiencing increased input costs, supply chain complexities, reduced consumer demand, restricted access to raw materials and production assets, and restricted access to financial institutions, as well as increased supply chain, professional services, monetary, currency, trade and payment/investment sanctions and related controls. We are actively monitoring the situation, and as the business, geopolitical and regulatory environment concerning Russia evolves, we may not be able to sustain the limited manufacture and sale of our products, and our assets may be partially or fully impaired. We are also monitoring the increased risk of cyber-based attacks as a result of the war in Ukraine and have implemented additional cybersecurity measures designed to address the evolving threat landscape.

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Results of Operations and Related Information

This section presents a discussion and analysis of net sales, operating profit and other information relevant to an understanding of 2023 results of operations.

Consolidated

Selected Financial Results Year Ended December 31

Net Sales:

Operating Profit:

Corporate & Other(a) (1,118) (412) N.M.

Other (income) and expense, net(a) 69 (43) N.M.

Provision for income taxes (453) (495) -8 %

Share of net income of equity companies 196 116 +69 %

Net Income Attributable to Kimberly-Clark Corporation 1,764 1,934 -9 %

Diluted Earnings per Share 5.21 5.72 -9 %

(a) Corporate & Other and Other (income) and expense, net includes income and expenses not associated with the business segments, including adjustments as indicated in the Non-GAAP Reconciliations.

GAAP to Non-GAAP Reconciliations of Selected Financial Results

Twelve Months Ended December 31, 2023

Marketing, research and general expenses 3,961 15 — — 3,946

Impairment of intangible assets 658 — 658 — —

Other (income) and expense, net 69 (74) — — 143

Nonoperating expense (96) — — (35) (61)

Effective tax rate 22.4 % — — — 23.2 %

Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests — — 20 — (20)

Net Income Attributable to Kimberly-Clark Corporation 1,764 26 (463) (26) 2,227

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Twelve Months Ended December 31, 2022

Marketing, research and general expenses $ 3,581 $ 21 $ — $ 3,560

Other (income) and expense, net (43) (85) — 42

Nonoperating expense (73) — (52) (21)

Effective tax rate 21.2 % — — 22.0 %

Net Income Attributable to Kimberly-Clark Corporation 1,934 68 (39) 1,905

(a) "As Adjusted Non-GAAP" may not equal "As Reported" plus "Adjustments" as a result of rounding.

Analysis of Consolidated Results

North America — 4 — — — 5 5

Developed & Emerging (5) 8 2 (2) (8) (6) 5

Developed Markets (6) 9 1 — (1) 3 4

(a) Total may not equal the sum of volume, net price, mix/other, exited business and currency due to rounding and excludes intergeographic sales.

(b) Combined impact of changes in volume, net price and mix/other.

(c) Benefits of the FORCE (Focused On Reducing Costs Everywhere) program.

(d) Includes impact of changes in product mix, marketing, research and general expenses, foreign currency transaction effects and other manufacturing costs.

(e) Impact of the sale of Brazil tissue and K-C Professional business.

Net sales of $20.4 billion increased 1 percent compared to the year ago period. Operating profit was $2,344 in 2023 and $2,681 in 2022. Adjusted operating profit was $2,958 in 2023 and $2,617 in 2022. Results benefited from higher net selling prices, $325 of cost savings from our FORCE program, and improved product mix, partially offset by higher marketing, research and general expenses, unfavorable foreign currency effects, higher other manufacturing costs, lower volumes and higher input costs.

Other (income) and expense, net was $69 of expense in 2023, which primarily reflected unfavorable foreign currency effects, including highly inflationary accounting adjustments, partially offset by the gain on the sale of the Brazil tissue and K-C Professional business. Other (income) and expense, net was $43 of income in 2022, which primarily reflected the non-recurring, non-cash gain recognized upon the acquisition of a controlling interest in Thinx related to the remeasurement of the carrying value of our previously held equity investment to fair value. Adjusted other (income) and expense, net was $143 and $42 of expense in 2023 and 2022, respectively.

The effective tax rate was 22.4 percent in 2023 compared to the effective tax rate of 21.2 percent in 2022. The adjusted effective tax rate was 23.2 percent in 2023 compared to 22.0 percent in 2022.

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Our share of net income of equity companies was $196 in 2023 and $116 in 2022. Kimberly-Clark de Mexico, S.A.B. de C.V. results in 2023 benefited from favorable foreign currency effects, higher net selling prices and cost savings, partially offset by higher input costs and general and administrative expenses.

Diluted earnings per share were $5.21 in 2023 and $5.72 in 2022. Adjusted earnings per share of $6.57 in 2023 increased 17 percent compared to $5.63 in 2022. The increase was primarily driven by higher adjusted operating profit and improved net income from our equity companies.

Business Segments

Personal Care

Total Personal Care (1) 5 1 (5) 1 5

North America 1 2 — — 4 4

Developed Markets (5) 6 1 (2) — 3

(a) Total may not equal the sum of volume, net price, mix/other and currency due to rounding and excludes intergeographic sales.

(b) Combined impact of changes in volume, net price and mix/other.

(c) Benefits of the FORCE program.

(d) Includes impact of changes in product mix, marketing, research and general expenses, foreign currency transaction effects and other manufacturing costs.

Net sales of $10.7 billion increased 1 percent compared to the year ago period, while organic sales increased 5 percent driven by changes in net selling prices and product mix of 5 percent and 1 percent, respectively, partially offset by lower volumes of approximately 1 percent. Changes in foreign currency exchange rates decreased sales by approximately 5 percent. Changes in net selling prices and foreign currency exchange rates for D&E Markets were primarily driven by highly inflationary economies.

Operating profit of $1,890 increased 6 percent. Results benefited from higher net selling prices, cost savings and improved product mix, partially offset by higher marketing research and general expenses and unfavorable foreign currency effects.

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Consumer Tissue

Total Consumer Tissue (3) 6 — (2) (1) 1 3

North America — 5 — — — 5 5

D&E Markets (9) 7 — (8) (3) (13) (2)

Developed Markets (5) 9 — — (1) 4 4

(a) Total may not equal the sum of volume, net price, mix/other, exited business and currency due to rounding and excludes intergeographic sales.

(b) Combined impact of changes in volume, net price and mix/other.

(c) Benefits of the FORCE program.

(d) Includes impact of changes in product mix, marketing, research and general expenses, foreign currency transaction effects and other manufacturing costs.

(e) Impact of the sale of Brazil tissue and K-C Professional business.

Net sales of $6.3 billion increased 1 percent compared to the year ago period, while organic sales increased 3 percent driven by changes in net selling prices of 6 percent, partially offset by lower volumes of 3 percent. Exited business decreased sales by approximately 2 percent, and changes in foreign currency exchange rates decreased sales by approximately 1 percent.

Operating profit of $976 increased 21 percent. Results benefited from higher net selling prices and cost savings, partially offset by higher other manufacturing costs, higher input costs, lower volumes and higher marketing research and general expenses.

K-C Professional

Total K-C Professional (5) 10 1 (1) (1) 5 7

North America (2) 9 — — — 8 8

(a) Total may not equal the sum of volume, net price, mix/other, exited business and currency due to rounding and excludes intergeographic sales.

(b) Combined impact of changes in volume, net price and mix/other.

(c) Benefits of the FORCE program.

(d) Includes impact of changes in product mix, marketing, research and general expenses, foreign currency transaction effects and other manufacturing costs.

(e) Impact of the sale of Brazil tissue and K-C Professional business.

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Net sales of $3.4 billion increased 5 percent compared to the year ago period, while organic sales increased 7 percent driven by changes in net selling prices and product mix of 10 percent and 1 percent, respectively, partially offset by lower volumes of 5 percent. The decrease in volumes primarily reflected expected elasticity from pricing actions. Exited business decreased sales by 1 percent, and changes in foreign currency exchange rates decreased sales by 1 percent.

Operating profit of $665 increased 46 percent. Results benefited from higher net selling prices, cost savings and lower input costs, partially offset by lower volumes, higher other manufacturing costs, higher marketing research and general expenses and unfavorable foreign currency effects.

Liquidity and Capital Resources

Cash Provided by Operations

Cash provided by operations was $3,542 in 2023 compared to $2,733 in 2022. The increase was driven by the increase in operating profit, excluding the effect of non-cash charges, and improvements in working capital.

Obligations

The following table presents our total contractual obligations for which cash flows are fixed or determinable.

The unconditional purchase obligations are for the purchase of raw materials, primarily superabsorbent materials, pulp and utilities. Although we are primarily liable for payments on the above operating leases and unconditional purchase obligations, based on historic operating performance and forecasted future cash flows, we believe exposure to losses, if any, under these arrangements is not material.

The open purchase orders displayed in the table represent amounts for goods and services we have negotiated for delivery.

The table does not include amounts where payments are discretionary or the timing is uncertain. The following payments are not included in the table:

•We will fund our defined benefit pension plans to meet or exceed statutory requirements and currently expect to contribute approximately $20 to these plans in 2024.

•Other postretirement benefit payments are estimated using actuarial assumptions, including expected future service, to project the future obligations. Based upon those projections, we anticipate making annual payments for these obligations of approximately $50 through 2033.

•Accrued income tax liabilities for uncertain tax positions, deferred taxes and noncontrolling interests.

Investing

Our capital spending was $766 in 2023 and $876 in 2022. Proceeds from asset and business dispositions of $245 primarily reflected the sale of our Brazil tissue and K-C Professional business. Acquisition of business, net of cash acquired of $46 in 2022 reflected the acquisition of a controlling interest of Thinx. We expect capital spending to be approximately $900 in 2024.

Financing

We issue long-term debt in the public market periodically. Proceeds from the offerings are used for general corporate purposes, including repayment of maturing debt or outstanding commercial paper indebtedness. See Item 8, Note 6 to the consolidated financial statements for details.

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Our short-term debt, which consists of U.S. commercial paper with original maturities up to 90 days and/or other similar short-term debt issued by non-U.S. subsidiaries, was $2 as of December 31, 2023 (included in debt payable within one year on the consolidated balance sheet). The average month-end balance of short-term debt for the twelve months ended December 31, 2023 was $139. These short-term borrowings provide supplemental funding to support our operations. The level of short-term debt generally fluctuates depending upon the amount of operating cash flows and the timing of customer receipts and payments for items such as pension contributions, dividends and income taxes.

At December 31, 2023, total debt was $8.0 billion compared to $8.4 billion at December 31, 2022.

In 2023, Cash paid for redemption of common securities of Thinx of $95 was to acquire the remaining ownership of Thinx. See Item 8, Note 3 to the consolidated financial statements for details.

We maintain a $2.0 billion revolving credit facility which expires in June 2028 and a $750 revolving credit facility which expires in May 2024. These facilities, currently unused, support our commercial paper program, and would provide liquidity in the event our access to the commercial paper markets is unavailable for any reason.

In October 2021, members of the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development/G20 Inclusive Framework on Base Erosion and Profit Shifting Project (“Inclusive Framework”) agreed to a two-pillar solution to reform the international tax framework to realign international taxation with economic activities and value creation. Inclusive Framework members agreed to a coordinated system of Global anti-Base Erosion rules, referred to as Pillar 2, that are designed to ensure large multinational enterprises pay a minimum 15 percent level of tax on the income arising in each jurisdiction in which they operate. Many countries have formally implemented Pillar 2, and several other countries have draft legislation to implement this framework. We do not expect Pillar 2 current and proposed legislation to materially impact our effective tax rate or cash flows. We will continue to monitor and evaluate new legislation and guidance, which could change our current assessment.

The United Kingdom’s Financial Conduct Authority, which regulated the London Interbank Offered Rate (“LIBOR”), has completed its phase out of LIBOR as of June 30, 2023. The effect of the elimination of LIBOR was not material.

We paid $1.6 billion in dividends in 2023. The Board of Directors approved a dividend increase of 3.4 percent for 2024. We repurchase shares of Kimberly-Clark common stock from time to time pursuant to publicly announced share repurchase programs. During 2023, we repurchased 1.8 million shares of our common stock at a cost of $225 through a broker in the open market.

We believe that our ability to generate cash from operations and our capacity to issue short-term and long-term debt are adequate to fund working capital, capital spending, pension contributions, dividends and other needs for the foreseeable future. Further, we do not expect restrictions or taxes on repatriation of cash held outside of the U.S. to have a material effect on our overall business, liquidity, financial condition or results of operations for the foreseeable future.

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Critical Accounting Policies and Use of Estimates

The preparation of financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the U.S. requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of net sales and expenses during the reporting period. The critical accounting policies we used in the preparation of the consolidated financial statements are those that are important both to the presentation of our financial condition and results of operations and require significant judgments by management with regard to estimates used. The critical judgments by management relate to accruals for sales incentives and trade promotion allowances, pension and other postretirement benefits, deferred income taxes and potential income tax assessments, and goodwill and other intangible assets. These critical accounting policies have been reviewed with the Audit Committee of the Board of Directors.

Sales Incentives and Trade Promotion Allowances

Trade promotion programs include introductory marketing funds such as slotting fees, cooperative marketing programs, temporary price reductions and other activities conducted by our customers to promote our products. Rebate and promotion accruals are based on estimates of the quantity of customer sales. Promotion accruals also consider estimates of the number of consumer coupons that will be redeemed and timing and costs of activities within the promotional programs. Generally, the estimated redemption value of consumer coupons and related expense are based on historical patterns of coupon redemption, influenced by judgments about current market conditions such as competitive activity in specific product categories, and the cost is recorded when the related revenue from customers is realized. Our related accounting policies are discussed in Item 8, Note 1 to the consolidated financial statements.

Employee Postretirement Benefits

Substantially all regular employees in the U.S. and the United Kingdom are covered by defined contribution retirement plans and certain U.S. and United Kingdom employees previously earned benefits covered by defined benefit pension plans that currently provide no future service benefit (the "Principal Plans"). Certain other subsidiaries have defined benefit pension plans or, in certain countries, termination pay plans covering substantially all regular employees. Our related accounting policies and account balances are discussed in Item 8, Note 8 to the consolidated financial statements.

Changes in certain assumptions could affect pension expense and the benefit obligations, particularly the estimated long-term rate of return on plan assets and the discount rate used to calculate the obligations:

•Long-term rate of return on plan assets. The expected long-term rate of return is evaluated on an annual basis. In setting these assumptions, we consider a number of factors including projected future returns by asset class relative to the target asset allocation. Actual asset allocations are regularly reviewed and they are periodically rebalanced to the targeted allocations when considered appropriate.

As of December 31, 2023, the Principal Plans had cumulative unrecognized investment and actuarial losses of approximately $1.0 billion. These unrecognized net losses may increase future pension expense if not offset by (i) actual investment returns that exceed the assumed investment returns, (ii) other factors, including reduced pension liabilities arising from higher discount rates used to calculate pension obligations, or (iii) other actuarial gains, and whether such accumulated actuarial losses at each measurement date exceed the "corridor" as required. If the expected long-term rate of return on assets for the Principal Plans were lowered by 0.25 percent, the impact on annual pension expense would not be material in 2024.

•Discount rate. The discount (or settlement) rate used to determine the present value of our future U.S. pension obligation at December 31, 2023 was based on a portfolio of high quality corporate debt securities with cash flows that largely match the expected benefit payments of the plan. For the United Kingdom plan, the discount rate was determined based on yield curves constructed from a portfolio of high quality corporate debt securities. Each year's expected future benefit payments were discounted to their present value at the appropriate yield curve rate to determine the pension obligations. If the discount rate assumptions for these same plans were reduced by 0.25 percent, the increase in annual pension expense would not be material in 2024, and the December 31, 2023 pension liability would increase by about $60.

•Other assumptions. There are a number of other assumptions involved in the calculation of pension expense and benefit obligations, primarily related to participant demographics and benefit elections.

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Pension expense for defined benefit pension plans is estimated to approximate $50 in 2024. Pension expense beyond 2024 will depend on future investment performance, our contributions to the pension trusts, changes in discount rates and various other factors related to the covered participants in the plans.

Substantially all U.S. retirees and employees have access to our unfunded health care and life insurance benefit plans. Changes in significant assumptions could affect the consolidated expense and benefit obligations, particularly the discount rate used to calculate the obligations and the health care cost trend rate:

•Discount rate. The determination of the discount rates used to calculate the benefit obligations of the plans is discussed in the pension benefit section above, and the methodology for each country is the same as the methodology used to determine the discount rate for that country's pension obligation. If the discount rate assumptions for these plans were reduced by 0.25 percent, the impact to 2024 other postretirement benefit expense and the increase in the December 31, 2023 benefit liability would not be material.

•Health care cost trend rate. The health care cost trend rate is based on a combination of inputs including our recent claims history and insights from external advisers regarding recent developments in the health care marketplace, as well as projections of future trends in the marketplace.

Deferred Income Taxes and Potential Assessments

As a global organization, we are subject to income tax requirements in various jurisdictions in the U.S. and internationally. Changes in certain assumptions related to income taxes could significantly affect consolidated results, particularly with regard to valuation allowances on deferred tax assets, undistributed earnings of subsidiaries outside the U.S. and uncertain tax positions. Our income tax related accounting policies, account balances and matters affecting income taxes are discussed in Item 8, Note 13 to the consolidated financial statements.

•Deferred tax assets and related valuation allowances. We have recorded deferred tax assets related to, among other matters, income tax loss carryforwards, income tax credit carryforwards and capital loss carryforwards and have established valuation allowances against these deferred tax assets. These carryforwards are primarily in non-U.S. taxing jurisdictions and in certain states in the U.S. Foreign tax credits earned in the U.S. in current and prior years, which cannot be used currently, also give rise to net deferred tax assets. In determining the valuation allowances to establish against these deferred tax assets, many factors are considered, including the specific taxing jurisdiction, the carryforward period, income tax strategies and forecasted earnings for the entities in each jurisdiction. A valuation allowance is recognized if, based on the weight of available evidence, it is more likely than not that some portion or all of the deferred tax asset will not be realized.

•Undistributed earnings. As of December 31, 2023, we have accumulated undistributed earnings generated by our foreign subsidiaries of approximately $7.2 billion. Earnings of $3.3 billion were previously subject to U.S. federal income tax. Any additional taxes due with respect to such previously-taxed foreign earnings, if repatriated, would generally be limited to foreign and U.S. state income taxes. Deferred taxes have been recorded on $0.8 billion of earnings of foreign consolidated subsidiaries expected to be repatriated. We do not intend to distribute the remaining $2.5 billion of previously-taxed foreign earnings and therefore have not recorded deferred taxes for foreign and U.S. state income taxes on such earnings. We consider any excess of the amount for financial reporting over tax basis in our foreign subsidiaries to be indefinitely reinvested. The determination of deferred tax liabilities on the amount of financial reporting over tax basis or the $2.5 billion of previously-taxed foreign earnings is not practicable.

•Uncertain tax positions. We record our global tax provision based on the respective tax rules and regulations for the jurisdictions in which we operate. Where we believe that a tax position is supportable for income tax purposes, the item is included in our income tax returns. Where treatment of a position is uncertain, a liability is recorded based upon the expected most likely outcome taking into consideration the technical merits of the position based on specific tax regulations and facts of each matter. These liabilities may be affected by changing interpretations of laws, rulings by tax authorities or the expiration of the statute of limitations.

Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets

Goodwill and other indefinite-lived intangible assets are not subject to amortization and are tested for impairment annually and whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that impairment may have occurred. Intangible assets that are deemed to

28 KIMBERLY-CLARK CORPORATION - 2023 Annual Report

have finite lives are amortized over their useful lives, generally ranging from 4 to 20 years. We typically obtain the assistance of third-party valuation specialists to measure the acquisition date fair values of goodwill and other intangible assets acquired.

Events and conditions that could result in impairment include a sustained drop in the market price of our common shares, increased competition or loss of market share, obsolescence, product claims that result in a significant loss of sales or profitability over the product life, deterioration in macroeconomic conditions, or declining financial performance in comparison to projected results.

Our related accounting policies, acquisition of Thinx and goodwill and other intangible assets account balances and other intangible asset impairment charges are discussed in Item 8, Notes 1, 3 and 4, respectively, to the consolidated financial statements.

Goodwill

In our evaluation of goodwill impairment, we have the option to first assess qualitative factors such as macroeconomic, industry and competitive conditions, legal and regulatory environments, historical and projected financial performance, significant changes in the reporting unit and the magnitude of excess fair value over carrying amount from the previous quantitative impairment testing. If the result of a qualitative test indicates a potential for impairment, a quantitative test is performed. When a quantitative test is considered necessary, estimates of fair value for goodwill impairment testing are determined based on a discounted cash flow model and a market-based approach. We use inputs from our long-range planning process to determine growth rates for sales and earnings. The other key estimates and factors used in the discounted cash flow include, but are not limited to, discount rates, actual business trends experienced, commodity prices, foreign exchange rates, inflation and terminal growth rates.

For 2023, we completed the required annual assessment of goodwill for impairment for all of our reporting units using a qualitative assessment as of the first day of the third quarter, and we determined that it is more likely than not that the fair value of goodwill significantly exceeds the carrying amount for each of our reporting units.

Other Intangible Assets

We evaluate the useful lives of our other intangible assets, primarily brands, to determine if they are finite or indefinite-lived. Reaching a determination on useful life requires significant judgments and assumptions regarding the future effects of obsolescence, demand, competition, other economic factors (such as the stability of the industry, known technological advances and expected changes in distribution channels), the level of required maintenance expenditures, and the expected lives of other related groups of assets.

Our estimate of the fair value of our brand assets is based on a discounted cash flow model and a market-based approach using inputs which include projected revenues from our long-range plan, assumed royalty rates that could be payable if we did not own the brands, and a discount rate. The cash flows used in the discounted cash flow model are consistent with those we use in our internal planning, which gives consideration to actual business trends experienced and the long-term business strategy.

We performed our 2023 impairment assessment of our intangible assets as of the first day of the third quarter, subsequent to the impairments recognized in the second quarter of 2023, and based upon a qualitative assessment, no additional impairment indicators were found to be present. See Item 8, Note 4 to the consolidated financial statements for details.

New Accounting Standards

See Item 8, Note 1 to the consolidated financial statements for a description of recent accounting standards and their anticipated effects on our consolidated financial statements.

Forward Looking Statements

Certain matters contained in this report concerning the business outlook, including raw material, energy and other input costs, the anticipated cost savings from our FORCE program, cash flow and uses of cash, growth initiatives, innovations, marketing and other spending, net sales, anticipated currency rates and exchange risks, including the impact in Argentina andTürkiye, effective tax rate, contingencies and anticipated transactions of Kimberly-Clark, including dividends, share repurchases and pension contributions, constitute "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and are based upon management's expectations and beliefs concerning future events impacting Kimberly-Clark.

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There can be no assurance that these future events will occur as anticipated or that our results will be as estimated. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date they were made, and we undertake no obligation to publicly update them.

The assumptions used as a basis for the forward-looking statements include many estimates that, among other things, depend on the achievement of future cost savings and projected volume increases. In addition, many factors outside our control, including the war in Ukraine (including the related responses of consumers, customers, and suppliers and sanctions issued by the U.S., the European Union, Russia or other countries), pandemics, epidemics, fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates, the prices and availability of our raw materials, supply chain disruptions, disruptions in the capital and credit markets, counterparty defaults (including customers, suppliers and financial institutions with which we do business), failure to realize the expected benefits or synergies from our acquisition and disposition activity, impairment of goodwill and intangible assets and our projections of operating results and other factors that may affect our impairment testing, changes in customer preferences, severe weather conditions, regional instabilities and hostilities (including the war in Israel), government trade or similar regulatory actions, potential competitive pressures on selling prices for our products, energy costs, general economic and political conditions globally and in the markets in which we do business, as well as our ability to maintain key customer relationships, could affect the realization of these estimates.

The factors described under Item 1A, "Risk Factors" in our Form 10-K, or in our other SEC filings, among others, could cause our future results to differ from those expressed in any forward-looking statements made by us or on our behalf. Other factors not presently known to us or that we presently consider immaterial could also affect our business operations and financial results.

ITEM 7A. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK

As a multinational enterprise, we are exposed to risks such as changes in foreign currency exchange rates, interest rates and commodity prices. A variety of practices are employed to manage these risks, including operating and financing activities and, where deemed appropriate, the use of derivative instruments. Derivative instruments are used only for risk management purposes and not for speculation. Foreign currency derivative instruments are primarily entered into with major financial institutions. Our credit exposure under these arrangements is limited to agreements with a positive fair value at the reporting date. Credit risk with respect to the counterparties is actively monitored but is not considered significant since these transactions are executed with a diversified group of financial institutions.

Presented below is a description of our risks (foreign currency risk and interest rate risk) together with a sensitivity analysis, performed annually, of each of these risks based on selected changes in market rates and prices. These analyses reflect management's view of changes which are reasonably possible to occur over a one-year period. Also included is a description of our commodity price risk.

Foreign Currency Risk

A portion of our foreign currency risk is managed through the systematic use of foreign currency forward contracts. The use of these instruments supports the management of transactional exposures to exchange rate fluctuations as the gains or losses incurred on the derivative instruments will offset, in whole or in part, gains or losses on the underlying foreign currency exposure. We also utilize cross currency swaps and foreign denominated debt to hedge certain investments in foreign subsidiaries. The gain or loss on these instruments is recognized in other comprehensive income to offset the change in value of the net investments being hedged.

Foreign currency contracts and transactional exposures are sensitive to changes in foreign currency exchange rates. An annual test is performed to quantify the effects that possible changes in foreign currency exchange rates would have on annual operating profit based on our foreign currency contracts and transactional exposures at the current year-end. The balance sheet effect is calculated by multiplying each affiliate's net monetary asset or liability position by a 10 percent change in the foreign currency exchange rate versus the U.S. dollar.

As of December 31, 2023, a 10 percent unfavorable change in the exchange rate of the U.S. dollar against the prevailing market rates of foreign currencies involving balance sheet transactional exposures would not be material to our consolidated financial position, results of operations or cash flows. This hypothetical loss on transactional exposures is based on the difference between the December 31, 2023 rates and the assumed rates.

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Our operations in Argentina ("K-C Argentina") are reported using highly inflationary accounting and their functional currency is the U.S. dollar. Changes in the value of an Argentine peso versus the U.S. dollar applied to our net peso monetary position are recorded in Other (income) and expense, net at the time of the change. As of December 31, 2023, K-C Argentina had an immaterial net peso monetary position and a 10 percent unfavorable change in the exchange rate would not be material.

As of April 1, 2022, we elected to adopt highly inflationary accounting for our operations in Türkiye (“K-C Türkiye”), and their functional currency is also the U.S. dollar. Changes in the value of a Turkish lira versus the U.S. dollar applied to our net lira monetary position are recorded in Other (income) and expense, net at the time of the change. As of December 31, 2023, K-C Türkiye had an immaterial net lira monetary position and a 10 percent unfavorable change in the exchange rate would not be material.

The translation of the balance sheets of non-U.S. operations from local currencies into U.S. dollars is also sensitive to changes in foreign currency exchange rates. Consequently, an annual test is performed to determine if changes in currency exchange rates would have a significant effect on the translation of the balance sheets of non-U.S. operations into U.S. dollars. These translation gains or losses are recorded as unrealized translation adjustments ("UTA") within stockholders' equity. The hypothetical change in UTA is calculated by multiplying the net assets of these non-U.S. operations by a 10 percent change in the currency exchange rates. As of December 31, 2023, a 10 percent unfavorable change in the exchange rate of the U.S. dollar against the prevailing market rates of our foreign currency translation exposures would have reduced stockholders' equity by approximately $600. In the view of management, the above potential UTA adjustments resulting from these assumed changes in foreign currency exchange rates are not material to our consolidated financial position because they would not affect our cash flow.

Interest Rate Risk

Interest rate risk is managed through the maintenance of a portfolio of variable and fixed-rate debt composed of short and long-term instruments. The objective is to maintain a cost-effective mix that management deems appropriate. At December 31, 2023, the long-term debt portfolio was comprised of primarily fixed-rate debt. From time to time, we also hedge the anticipated issuance of fixed-rate debt and those contracts are designated as cash flow hedges.

In order to determine the impact of changes in interest rates on our financial position or future results of operations, we calculated the increase or decrease in the market value of fixed-rate debt using a 10 percent change in current market interest rates and the rates governing these instruments. At December 31, 2023, a 10 percent decrease in interest rates would have increased the fair value of unhedged fixed-rate debt by about $347, which would not have a significant impact on our financial statements as we do not record unhedged fixed-rate debt at fair value.

Commodity Price Risk

We are subject to commodity price risk, the most significant of which relates to the price of pulp and petroleum-based materials. Selling prices of products are influenced, in part, by the market price for these pulp and petroleum-based materials. As previously discussed under Item 1A, "Risk Factors," increases in pulp or petroleum-based material prices could adversely affect earnings if selling prices are not adjusted or if such adjustments significantly trail the increases in commodity prices. In some instances, we use contracts of varying durations along with strategic pricing mechanisms to manage volatility for a portion of our commodity costs, but derivative instruments have not been used to manage these risks.

Our energy, manufacturing and transportation costs are affected by various market factors including the availability of supplies of particular forms of energy, energy prices and local and national regulatory decisions. As previously discussed under Item 1A, "Risk Factors," there can be no assurance we will be fully protected against substantial changes in the price or availability of energy sources. In addition, we are subject to price risk for utilities and manufacturing inputs, used in our manufacturing operations. Derivative instruments are used in accordance with our risk management policy to hedge a portion of the price risk.

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ITEM 8.FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA

KIMBERLY-CLARK CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED INCOME STATEMENTS

Year Ended December 31

(Millions of dollars, except per share amounts) 2023 2022 2021

Impairment of intangible assets 658 — —

Other (income) and expense, net 69 (43) 28

Nonoperating expense (96) (73) (86)

Income Before Income Taxes and Equity Interests 2,021 2,340 2,225

Share of net income of equity companies 196 116 98

Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests — (27) (30)

Net Income Attributable to Kimberly-Clark Corporation $ 1,764 $ 1,934 $ 1,814

Per Share Basis

Net Income Attributable to Kimberly-Clark Corporation

See notes to the consolidated financial statements.

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KIMBERLY-CLARK CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME

Year Ended December 31

Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax

Unrealized currency translation adjustments 89 (355) (288)

Employee postretirement benefits (15) 103 122

Cash flow hedges and other 12 (185) 84

Total Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax 86 (437) (82)

Comprehensive income attributable to noncontrolling interests 1 (19) (15)

See notes to the consolidated financial statements.

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KIMBERLY-CLARK CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

December 31

ASSETS

Current Assets

Cash and cash equivalents $ 1,093 $ 427

Property, Plant and Equipment, Net 7,913 7,885

Investments in Equity Companies 306 238

Other Intangible Assets, Net 197 851

LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY

Current Liabilities

Debt payable within one year $ 567 $ 844

Accrued expenses and other current liabilities 2,316 2,289

Noncurrent Employee Benefits 669 654

Redeemable Common and Preferred Securities of Subsidiaries 26 258

Stockholders' Equity

Kimberly-Clark Corporation

Preferred stock - no par value - authorized 20.0 million shares, none issued — —

Additional paid-in capital 878 679

Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) (3,582) (3,669)

Total Kimberly-Clark Corporation Stockholders' Equity 915 547

Noncontrolling Interests 153 153

Total Stockholders' Equity 1,068 700

TOTAL LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY $ 17,344 $ 17,970

See notes to the consolidated financial statements.

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KIMBERLY-CLARK CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY

Shares Amount Shares Amount

Stock-based awards exercised or vested — — (80) (1,339) 146 — — — 66

Recognition of stock-based compensation — — 26 — — — — — 26

Dividends declared ($4.56 per share) — — — — — (1,538) — (36) (1,574)

Stock-based awards exercised or vested — — (86) (1,406) 145 — — — 59

Shares repurchased — — — 779 (100) — — — (100)

Recognition of stock-based compensation — — 147 — — — — — 147

Dividends declared ($4.64 per share) — — — — — (1,566) — (98) (1,664)

Stock-based awards exercised or vested — — (70) (1,327) 140 — — — 70

Recognition of stock-based compensation — — 165 — — — — — 165

Dividends declared ($4.72 per share) — — — — — (1,594) — (35) (1,629)

See notes to the consolidated financial statements.

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KIMBERLY-CLARK CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED CASH FLOW STATEMENTS

Year Ended December 31

Operating Activities

Asset impairments 676 — 3

Gain on previously held equity investment in Thinx — (85) —

Deferred income taxes (322) (57) (70)

Net (gains) losses on asset and business dispositions (75) 15 39

Equity companies' earnings (in excess of) less than dividends paid (59) 6 25

Operating working capital 582 (17) 46

Postretirement benefits 24 (4) 47

Investing Activities

Acquisition of business, net of cash acquired — (46) —

Proceeds from asset and business dispositions 245 12 43

Investments in time deposits (720) (658) (918)

Financing Activities

Proceeds from exercise of stock options 97 94 65

Acquisitions of common stock for the treasury (225) (100) (400)

Cash paid for redemption of common securities of Thinx (95) — —

Cash dividends paid to noncontrolling interests (35) (98) (36)

Effect of Exchange Rate Changes on Cash and Cash Equivalents (84) (31) (11)

Change in Cash and Cash Equivalents 666 157 (33)

Cash and Cash Equivalents - Beginning of Year 427 270 303

Cash and Cash Equivalents - End of Year $ 1,093 $ 427 $ 270

See notes to the consolidated financial statements.

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KIMBERLY-CLARK CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Note 1. Accounting Policies

Basis of Presentation

The consolidated financial statements present the accounts of Kimberly-Clark Corporation and all subsidiaries in which it has a controlling financial interest as if they were a single economic entity in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America ("GAAP"). All intercompany transactions and accounts are eliminated in consolidation. The terms "Corporation," "Kimberly-Clark," "we," "our," and "us" refer to Kimberly-Clark Corporation and all subsidiaries in which it has a controlling financial interest. Dollar amounts are reported in millions, except per share dollar amounts, unless otherwise noted.

Use of Estimates

The preparation of financial statements requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of net sales and expenses during the reporting periods. Actual results could differ from these estimates, and changes in these estimates are recorded when known. Estimates are used in accounting for, among other things, sales incentives and trade promotion allowances, employee postretirement benefits, and deferred income taxes and potential assessments.

Cash Equivalents

Cash equivalents are short-term investments with an original maturity date of three months or less.

Inventories and Distribution Costs

Most U.S. inventories are valued at the lower of cost, using the Last-In, First-Out ("LIFO") method, or market. The balance of the U.S. inventories and inventories of consolidated operations outside the U.S. are valued at the lower of cost or net realizable value using either the First-In, First-Out ("FIFO") or weighted-average cost methods. Net realizable value is the estimated selling prices in the ordinary course of business, less reasonably predictable costs of completion, disposal, and transportation. Distribution costs are classified as cost of products sold.

Property and Depreciation

Property, plant and equipment are stated at cost and are depreciated on the straight-line method. Buildings are depreciated over their estimated useful lives, primarily 40 years. Machinery and equipment are depreciated over their estimated useful lives, primarily ranging from 16 to 20 years. Purchases of computer software, including external costs and certain internal costs (including payroll and payroll-related costs of employees) directly associated with developing significant computer software applications for internal use, are capitalized. Computer software costs are amortized on the straight-line method over the estimated useful life of the software, which generally does not exceed 5 years.

Estimated useful lives are periodically reviewed and, when warranted, changes are made to them. Long-lived assets are reviewed for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that their carrying amount may not be recoverable. An impairment loss would be indicated when estimated undiscounted future cash flows from the use and eventual disposition of an asset group, which are identifiable and largely independent of the cash flows of other asset groups, are less than the carrying amount of the asset group. Measurement of an impairment loss would be based on the excess of the carrying amount of the asset group over its fair value. Fair value is measured using discounted cash flows or independent appraisals, as appropriate. When property is sold or retired, the cost of the property and the related accumulated depreciation are removed from the consolidated balance sheet and any gain or loss on the transaction is included in income.

Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets

Goodwill represents costs in excess of fair values assigned to the underlying net assets of acquired businesses. Goodwill is not amortized, but rather is assessed for impairment annually and whenever events and circumstances indicate that impairment may have occurred. Impairment testing compares the reporting unit carrying amount, including goodwill, with its fair value. If the reporting unit carrying amount, including goodwill, exceeds its fair value, a goodwill impairment charge for the excess amount above fair value would be recorded. In our evaluation of goodwill impairment, we have the option to first assess qualitative factors such as macroeconomic, industry and competitive conditions, legal and regulatory environments, historical and

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projected financial performance, significant changes in the reporting unit and the magnitude of excess fair value over carrying amount from the previous quantitative impairment testing. If the qualitative assessment determines that it is more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit is less than its carrying amount, then a quantitative impairment test using discounted cash flows to estimate fair value must be performed. Alternatively, if the qualitative assessment determines that it is more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit is more than its carrying value, then further quantitative testing is not required. For 2023, we completed the required annual assessment of goodwill for impairment for all of our reporting units using a qualitative assessment as of the first day of the third quarter, and we determined that it is more likely than not that the fair value of goodwill significantly exceeds the carrying amount for each of our reporting units.

Indefinite-lived intangible assets, other than goodwill, consist of certain brand names related to our acquisition of Softex Indonesia and are tested for impairment annually at the same time as our goodwill impairment assessment and whenever events and circumstances indicate that impairment may have occurred. Our estimate of the fair value of our brand assets is based on a discounted cash flow model and a market-based approach using inputs which include projected revenues from our long-range plan, assumed royalty rates that could be payable if we did not own the brands, and a discount rate. For 2023, we completed the required annual assessment of indefinite-lived intangible assets, other than goodwill, for impairment using a qualitative assessment as of the first day of the third quarter, subsequent to the impairment recognized in the second quarter of 2023, and we determined that it is more likely than not that the fair value is more than the carrying amount for each of these intangible assets.

Intangible assets with finite lives are amortized over their estimated useful lives and are reviewed for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that their carrying amount may not be recoverable. An impairment loss would be indicated when estimated undiscounted future cash flows from the use of the asset are less than its carrying amount.An impairment loss would be measured as the difference between the fair value (based on discounted future cash flows) and the carrying amount of the asset. Estimated useful lives range from 10 to 20 years for trademarks and 4 to 20 years for certain acquired distributor and customer relationships.

Investments in Equity Companies

Investments in companies which we do not control but over which we have the ability to exercise significant influence and that, in general, are at least 20 percent-owned by us, are stated at cost plus equity in undistributed net income. These investments are evaluated for impairment when warranted. An impairment loss would be recorded whenever a decline in value of an equity investment below its carrying amount is determined to be other than temporary. In judging "other than temporary," we would consider the length of time and extent to which the fair value of the equity company investment has been less than the carrying amount, the near-term and longer-term operating and financial prospects of the equity company, and our longer-term intent of retaining the investment in the equity company.

Revenue Recognition

Sales revenue is recognized at the time of product shipment or delivery, depending on when control passes, to unaffiliated customers, and when all of the following have occurred: a firm sales agreement is in place, pricing is fixed or determinable, and collection is reasonably assured. Sales are reported net of returns, consumer and trade promotions, rebates and freight allowed. Taxes imposed by governmental authorities on our revenue-producing activities with customers, such as sales taxes and value-added taxes, are excluded from net sales.

Sales Incentives and Trade Promotion Allowances

The cost of promotion activities provided to customers is classified as a reduction in sales revenue. In addition, the estimated redemption value of consumer coupons and related expense are recorded when the related revenue from customers is realized. Rebate and promotion accruals are based on estimates of the quantity of customer sales. Promotion accruals also consider estimates of the number of consumer coupons that will be redeemed and timing and costs of activities within the promotional programs.

Advertising Expense

Advertising costs are expensed in the year the related advertisement or campaign is first presented through traditional or digital media. For interim reporting purposes, advertising expenses are charged to operations as a percentage of sales based on estimated sales and related advertising expense for the full year.

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Research Expense

Research and development costs are charged to expense as incurred.

Other Income

Certain amounts not directly associated with the current operations of the business are recorded in Other (income) and expense, net.

On June 1, 2023, we completed the sale transaction, announced on October 24, 2022, of our Neve tissue brand and related consumer and K-C Professional tissue assets in Brazil for $212, including the base purchase price of $175 and preliminary working capital and other closing adjustments of $37. This transaction also included a licensing agreement to allow the acquirer to manufacture and market in Brazil the Kleenex, Scott and Wypall brands to consumers and away-from-home customers for a period of time. Upon closure of the transaction, a gain of $74 pre-tax was recognized in Other (income) and expense, net. See Note 3 for details.

In the first quarter of 2022, an $85 non-recurring, non-cash gain was recognized in Other (income) and expense, net as a result of the remeasurement of the carrying value of our previously held equity investment to fair value upon the acquisition of a controlling interest in Thinx Inc. ("Thinx"). See Note 3 for details.

Foreign Currency Translation

The income statements of foreign operations, other than those in highly inflationary economies, are translated into U.S. dollars at rates of exchange in effect each month. The balance sheets of these operations are translated at period-end exchange rates, and the differences from historical exchange rates are reflected in stockholders' equity as unrealized translation adjustments. Under highly inflationary accounting, the countries' functional currency becomes the U.S. dollar, and its income statement and balance sheet are measured in U.S. dollar using both current and historical rates of exchange.

As of July 1, 2018, we elected to adopt highly inflationary accounting for our subsidiaries in Argentina (“K-C Argentina”). The effect of changes in exchange rates on peso-denominated monetary assets and liabilities has been reflected in earnings in Other (income) and expense, net. As of December 31, 2023, K-C Argentina had an immaterial net peso monetary position. Net sales of K-C Argentina were approximately1 percent of our consolidated net sales in 2023, 2022 and 2021.

As of April 1, 2022, we elected to adopt highly inflationary accounting for our subsidiary in Türkiye (“K-C Türkiye”). The effect of changes in exchange rates on lira-denominated monetary assets and liabilities has been reflected in earnings in Other (income) and expense, net. As of December 31, 2023, K-C Türkiye had an immaterial net lira monetary position. Net sales of K-C Türkiye were less than 1 percent of our consolidated net sales in 2023 and 2022.

Derivative Instruments and Hedging

Our policies allow the use of derivatives for risk management purposes and prohibit their use for speculation. Our policies also prohibit the use of any leveraged derivative instrument. Consistent with our policies, foreign currency derivative instruments, interest rate swaps and locks, and the majority of commodity hedging contracts are entered into with major financial institutions. At inception, we formally designate certain derivatives as cash flow, fair value or net investment hedges and establish how the effectiveness of these hedges will be assessed and measured. This process links the derivatives to the transactions or financial balances they are hedging. Changes in the fair value of derivatives not designated as hedging instruments are recorded in earnings as they occur. All derivative instruments are recorded as assets or liabilities on the balance sheet at fair value. Changes in the fair value of derivatives are either recorded in the income statement or other comprehensive income, as appropriate. The gain or loss on derivatives designated as fair value hedges and the offsetting loss or gain on the hedged item attributable to the hedged risk are included in income in the period that changes in fair value occur. The gain or loss on derivatives designated as cash flow hedges is included in other comprehensive income in the period that changes in fair value occur, and is reclassified to income in the same period that the hedged item affects income. The gain or loss on derivatives designated as hedges of investments in foreign subsidiaries is recognized in other comprehensive income to offset the change in value of the net investments being hedged. Certain foreign-currency derivative instruments not designated as hedging instruments have been entered into to manage certain non-functional currency denominated monetary assets and liabilities. The gain or loss on these derivatives is included in income in the period that changes in their fair values occur. Cash flows from derivatives are classified within the consolidated statement of cash flows in the same category as the items being hedged. Cash flows from derivatives are classified within Operating Activities, except for derivatives designated as net

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investment hedges which are classified in Investing Activities. See Note 12 for disclosures about derivative instruments and hedging activities.

Leases

Lease assets and lease liabilities are recognized at the commencement of an arrangement where it is determined at inception that a lease exists. Lease assets represent the right to use an underlying asset for the lease term, and lease liabilities represent the obligation to make lease payments arising from the lease. These assets and liabilities are initially recognized based on the present value of lease payments over the lease term calculated using our incremental borrowing rate generally applicable to the location of the lease asset, unless the implicit rate is readily determinable. Lease assets also include any upfront lease payments made and exclude lease incentives. Lease terms include options to extend or terminate the lease when it is reasonably certain that those options will be exercised.

Variable lease payments are generally expensed as incurred and include certain index-based changes in rent, certain nonlease components, such as maintenance and other services provided by the lessor, and other charges included in the lease. Leases with an initial term of 12 months or less are not recorded on the balance sheet, and the expense for these short-term leases and for operating leases is recognized on a straight-line basis over the lease term.

Certain lease agreements with lease and nonlease components are combined as a single lease component. The depreciable life of lease assets and leasehold improvements is limited by the expected lease term, unless there is a transfer of title or purchase option reasonably certain of exercise.

Accounting Standard -Adopted During 2023

In 2022, the Financial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB") issued Accounting Standard Update (“ASU”) No. 2022-04, Liabilities – Supplier Finance Programs (Subtopic 405-50). The new guidance requires that a buyer in a supplier finance program disclose sufficient information about the program to allow a user of the financial statements to understand the program’s nature, activity during the period, changes from period to period, and potential magnitude. This ASU was effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2022, including interim periods within those fiscal years, except for the provision on roll forward information, which is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2023. We adopted this ASU as of January 1, 2023, except for the amendment on roll forward information which was adopted January 1, 2024, on a prospective basis. As the guidance requires only additional disclosure, there were no effects of this standard on our financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

Accounting Standards Issued - Not Adopted as of December 31, 2023

In 2023, the FASB issued ASU No. 2023-07, Segment Reporting (Topic 280). The new guidance improves reportable segment disclosures primarily through enhanced disclosures about significant segment expenses and by requiring current annual disclosures to be provided in interim periods. The amendments in this ASU are effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2023, and interim periods within fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2024, with early adoption permitted. The new guidance is to be applied retrospectively to all prior periods presented unless impracticable to do so. As the guidance requires only additional disclosure, there will be no effects of this standard on our financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

In 2023, the FASB issued ASU 2023-09, Income Taxes (Topic 740). The new guidance is intended to enhance the transparency and decision usefulness of income tax disclosures. The amendments in this ASU are effective for annual periods beginning after December 15, 2024. Early adoption is permitted, and the amendments should be applied on a prospective basis with retrospective application permitted. As the guidance requires only additional disclosure, there will be no effects of this standard on our financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

Note 2. 2018 Global Restructuring Program

In 2018, we initiated our 2018 Global Restructuring Program to reduce our structural cost base by streamlining and simplifying our manufacturing supply chain and overhead organization. The restructuring actions were completed in 2021. We closed or sold 11 manufacturing facilities and expanded production capacity at several others. We exited or divested some lower-margin businesses that generated approximately 1 percent of our net sales. Workforce reductions were approximately 6,000. The restructuring impacted all of our business segments and our organizations in all major geographies.

40 KIMBERLY-CLARK CORPORATION - 2023 Annual Report

The restructuring actions were completed with total costs of $2.2 billion pre-tax ($1.6 billion after tax). Pre-tax cash and non-cash costs of $1.2 billion and $1.0 billion, respectively, were incurred.

The following net charges were incurred in connection with the 2018 Global Restructuring Program:

Year Ended December 31

Cost of products sold:

Charges for workforce reductions $ 4 $ 10 $ 31 $ 149 $ 194

Marketing, research and general expenses:

Other (income) and expense, net(a) 10 (9) (194) (12) (205)

(a)Other (income) and expense, net in 2019 was the result of pre-tax gains on the sales of manufacturing facilities and associated real estate which were disposed of as part of the restructuring.

(b)Represents non-cash pension settlement and curtailment charges resulting from restructuring actions, primarily in the U.S., United Kingdom and Canada.

The measurement of the asset impairment charges was based on the excess of the carrying values of the impacted asset groups over their fair values. These fair values were measured by using discounted cash flows expected over the limited time the assets would remain in use or the expected sales value, and as a result, the assets were essentially written off or written down to fair value less costs to sell. The use of discounted cash flows represents a level 3 measure under the fair value hierarchy.

The impact related to restructuring charges was recorded in Operating working capital and Other Operating Activities, as appropriate, in our consolidated cash flow statement. Cash payments of $235, $249, $302 and $325 were made during 2021, 2020, 2019 and 2018, respectively.

Note 3. Acquisition and Divestiture

On February 24, 2022, we completed our acquisition of a majority and controlling share of Thinx, an industry leader in the reusable period and incontinence underwear category, for total consideration of $181 consisting of cash of $53, the fair value of our previously held equity investment of $127, and certain share-based award costs of $1.

We previously accounted for our ownership interest in Thinx as an equity method investment, but upon increasing our ownership to58 percent, we began consolidating the operations of Thinx into our financial statements at the end of the first quarter of 2022. The consolidated results of operations for Thinx are reported in our Personal Care business segment on a one-month lag. Prior to the acquisition of the remaining outstanding shares in the fourth quarter of 2023, the share of Thinx net income and equity attributable to the third-party minority owner of Thinx was classified in our consolidated income statement within Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests and in our consolidated balance sheet within Redeemable Common

41 KIMBERLY-CLARK CORPORATION - 2023 Annual Report

and Preferred Securities of Subsidiaries. This noncontrolling equity interest was measured at the estimated redemption value, which approximated fair value.

During the first quarter of 2022, we substantially completed an initial purchase price allocation in which we utilized several generally accepted valuation methodologies to estimate the fair value of certain acquired assets. The primary valuation methods included two forms of the Income Approach (i.e., the multi-period excess earnings method [distributor method] and the relief-from-royalty method). These valuation methodologies are commonly used to value similar identifiable intangible assets in the Consumer Packaged Goods industry. All of the selected valuation methodologies incorporate unobservable inputs, or Level 3 inputs, as defined by the fair value hierarchy in Accounting Standard Codification 820, Fair Value Measurements. In connection with these valuation methodologies, we are required to make estimates and assumptions regarding market comparable companies, revenue growth rates, operating margins, distributor and customer attrition rates, royalty rates, distributor margins, discount rates, etc., which are primarily based on cash flow forecasts, business plans, economic projections and other information available to market participants. The purchase price allocation was finalized in the first quarter of 2023 with immaterial measurement period adjustments recorded.

The total purchase price consideration was allocated to the net assets acquired based upon their respective final estimated fair values as follows:

Current assets $ 28

Property, Plant and Equipment, Net 2

Other Intangible Assets, Net 123

Other assets 4

Current liabilities (18)

Deferred income taxes (18)

Other liabilities (4)

Fair value of net assets acquired 415

Less fair value of noncontrolling interest (234)

Total purchase price consideration $ 181

Other Intangible Assets, Net includes brands and customer relationships which have estimated useful lives of 4 to 15 years, primarily 15 years. Based on the carrying value of these finite-lived assets as of December 31, 2023, amortization expense per year for each of the next five years is estimated to be approximately $3.

Goodwill of $298 was allocated to the Personal Care business segment. The goodwill is primarily attributable to future growth opportunities and any intangible assets that did not qualify for separate recognition. For tax purposes, the acquisition of additional Thinx shares was treated as a stock acquisition, and the goodwill acquired is not tax deductible.

As a result of this transaction during the quarter ended March 31, 2022, an $85 non-recurring, non-cash gain was recognized in Other (income) expense, net as a result of the remeasurement of the carrying value of our previously held equity investment to fair value, and related transaction and integration costs of $21 were recorded in Marketing, research and general expenses. This recognition resulted in a net benefit of $64 pre-tax ($68 after tax) being included in our consolidated income statement for the quarter ended March 31, 2022. In addition, we removed the non-cash gain impact from Operating Activities in our consolidated cash flow statements for the year ended December 31, 2022.

42 KIMBERLY-CLARK CORPORATION - 2023 Annual Report

In the first quarter of 2023, we delivered a redemption notice to the third-party minority owner with respect to a portion of the remaining common securities of Thinx. The redemption closed in the second quarter of 2023, and we acquired additional ownership of Thinx for $48, increasing our controlling ownership to 70 percent. As part of the completion of a negotiated final redemption, we acquired the remaining 30 percent ownership of Thinx for $47 in the fourth quarter of 2023. As the purchase of additional ownership in an already controlled subsidiary represents an equity transaction, no gain or loss was recognized in consolidated net income or comprehensive income. The following table discloses the effect of the change in the ownership interest between us and the previous noncontrolling interest:

Net income attributable to Kimberly-Clark Corporation $ 1,764

(a) The acquisition of the remaining ownership of Thinx was recorded as a reduction in Redeemable Common and Preferred Securities of Subsidiaries of $234, an increase to retained earnings of $52, an increase to additional paid-in capital of $87, and a reduction of cash of $95.

Pro forma results of operations have not been presented as the impact on our consolidated financial statements is not material.

Divestiture

On June 1, 2023, we completed the sale transaction, announced on October 24, 2022, of our Neve tissue brand and related consumer and K-C Professional tissue assets in Brazil for $212, including the base purchase price of $175 and working capital and other closing adjustments of $37. This transaction also included a licensing agreement to allow the acquirer to manufacture and market in Brazil the Kleenex, Scott and Wypall brands to consumers and away-from-home customers for a period of time. The assets included in the sale agreement were reclassified to Other current assets as of December 31, 2022, and upon closure of the transaction, a gain of $74 pre-tax was recognized in Other (income) and expense, net. We incurred divestiture-related costs of $30 pre-tax, which were recorded in Cost of products sold and Marketing, research and general expenses, resulting in a net benefit of $44 pre-tax ($26 after tax).

Note 4. Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets

The changes in the carrying amount of goodwill by reportable segment for the years ended December 31, 2023 and 2022 were as follows:

Personal Care Consumer Tissue K-C Professional Total

Effect of foreign currency translation (60) (6) (4) (70)

Divestiture — (4) (3) (7)

Effect of foreign currency translation 9 7 2 18

The carrying amounts of Other Intangible Assets, Net for the years ended December 31, 2023 and 2022 were as follows:

43 KIMBERLY-CLARK CORPORATION - 2023 Annual Report

December 31

Intangible assets with indefinite lives:

Intangibles assets with finite lives:

(a) Other intangible assets primarily include customer and distributor relationships.

(b) Amounts subject to foreign currency adjustments.

Amortization expense relating to the intangible assets with finite lives was $13, $15 and $9 for the three years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021, respectively. Based on the carrying values of the intangible assets with finite lives as of December 31, 2023, amortization expense for each of the next five years is estimated to be approximately $9.

In the second quarter of 2023, we conducted forecasting and strategic reviews and integration assessments of our Softex Indonesia business, acquired in the fourth quarter of 2020, and with performance below expectations since acquisition, we revised internal financial projections of the business to reflect updated expectations of future financial performance. These reviews and the subsequent revisions in the projections highlighted challenges for the Softex business arising from modified consumer shopping behavior in the post-COVID-19 period, inflationary pressures and other macroeconomic factors and increased competitive activity in the region. As a result of separate management reviews, we also have revised internal financial projections associated with our acquisition of a controlling interest in Thinx as a result of performance below expectations due to the impact of modified consumer shopping behavior in the post-COVID-19 period.

These revisions were considered triggering events requiring interim impairment assessments to be performed relative to the intangible assets that had been recorded as part of these acquisitions. These intangible assets were recorded as part of the Personal Care business segment and included indefinite-lived and finite-lived brands and finite-lived distributor and customer relationships. As a result of the interim impairment assessments, we recognized impairment charges, principally arising from the impairment charge of $593 related to the Softex business, totaling $658 pre-tax ($483 after tax) to write-down these intangible assets to their respective fair values aggregating to $188 as of June 30, 2023. The valuation methods used in the assessments included the relief from royalty and distributor and customer relationships methods. This noncash charge was included in Impairment of intangible assets in our consolidated income statement and in Asset impairments within Operating Activities in our consolidated cash flow statement.

We believe our estimates and assumptions used in the valuations are reasonable and comparable to those that would be used by other market participants; however, actual events and results could differ substantially from those used in the valuation, and to the extent such factors result in a failure to achieve the projected cash flows used to estimate fair value, additional noncash impairment charges could be required in the future.

Note 5. Fair Value Information

The following fair value information is based on a fair value hierarchy that prioritizes the inputs to valuation techniques used to measure fair value. The three levels in the hierarchy used to measure fair value are:

Level 1—Unadjusted quoted prices in active markets accessible at the reporting date for identical assets and liabilities.

Level 2—Quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities in active markets. Quoted prices for identical or similar assets and liabilities in markets that are not considered active or financial instruments for which all significant inputs are observable, either directly or indirectly.

Level 3—Prices or valuations that require inputs that are significant to the valuation and are unobservable.

44 KIMBERLY-CLARK CORPORATION - 2023 Annual Report

A financial instrument's level within the fair value hierarchy is based on the lowest level of any input that is significant to the fair value measurement.

During 2023 and 2022, there were no significant transfers to or from level 3 fair value determinations.

Derivative assets and liabilities are measured on a recurring basis at fair value. At December 31, 2023 and 2022, derivative assets were $70 and $99, respectively, and derivative liabilities were $259 and $318, respectively. The fair values of derivatives used to manage interest rate risk are based on the Secured Overnight Financing Rate ("SOFR") as of December 31, 2023, and on LIBOR rates as of December 31, 2022, and interest rate swap curves. The fair values of derivatives used to manage commodity price risk are based on commodity price quotations. The fair values of hedging instruments used to manage foreign currency risk are based on published quotations of spot currency rates and forward points, which are converted into implied forward currency rates. Measurement of our derivative assets and liabilities is considered a level 2 measurement. See Note 12 for additional information on our use of derivative instruments.

Redeemable common and preferred securities of subsidiaries are measured on a recurring basis at their estimated redemption values, which approximates fair value. As of December 31, 2023 and 2022, the securities were valued at $26 and $258 respectively. The securities are not traded in active markets, and their measurement is considered a level 3 measurement. In 2023, all the redeemable common securities held by the third-party minority owner of Thinx were redeemed. Additional information is contained in Note 3.

Company-owned life insurance ("COLI") assets are measured on a recurring basis at fair value. COLI assets were $67 and $63 at December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively. The COLI policies are a source of funding primarily for our nonqualified employee benefits and are included in other assets. The COLI policies are measured at fair value using the net asset value per share practical expedient, and therefore, are not classified in the fair value hierarchy.

The following table includes the fair value of our financial instruments for which disclosure of fair value is required:

Assets

Liabilities

(a)Cash equivalents are composed of certificates of deposit, time deposits and other interest-bearing investments with original maturity dates of 90 days or less. Cash equivalents are recorded at cost, which approximates fair value.

(b)Time deposits are composed of deposits with original maturities of more than 90 days but less than one year and instruments with original maturities of greater than one year, included in Other current assets or Other Assets in the consolidated balance sheet, as appropriate. Time deposits are recorded at cost, which approximates fair value.

(c)Short-term debt is composed of U.S. commercial paper and/or other similar short-term debt issued by non-U.S. subsidiaries, all of which are recorded at cost, which approximates fair value.

(d)Long-term debt includes the current portion of these debt instruments. Fair values were estimated based on quoted prices for financial instruments for which all significant inputs were observable, either directly or indirectly.

45 KIMBERLY-CLARK CORPORATION - 2023 Annual Report

Note 6. Debt and Redeemable Common and Preferred Securities of Subsidiaries

Long-term debt is composed of the following:

Weighted-AverageInterestRate Maturities December 31

Bank loans and other financings in various currencies 3.3% 2024 - 2039 72 55

Scheduled maturities of long-term debt for the next five years are $566 in 2024, $559 in 2025, $403 in 2026, $601 in 2027 and $698 in 2028.

In February 2023, we issued $350 aggregate principal amount of 4.50 percent notes due February 16, 2033. Proceeds from the offering were used for general corporate purposes including the repayment of a portion of our commercial paper indebtedness.

In October 2021, we issued $600 aggregate principal amount of 2.00 percent notes due November 2, 2031. Proceeds from the offering were used for general corporate purposes.

We maintain a $2.0 billion revolving credit facility which expires in June 2028 and a $750 revolving credit facility which expires in May 2024. These facilities, currently unused, support our commercial paper program, and would provide liquidity in the event our access to the commercial paper markets is unavailable for any reason.

Redeemable common securities represented the share of Thinx equity attributable to the third-party minority owner of Thinx, which were redeemed in 2023. Additional information is contained in Note 3. Our subsidiary in Central America has outstanding redeemable preferred securities that are held by a non-controlling interest.

Note 7. Stock-Based Compensation

We have a stock-based Equity Participation Plan and an Outside Directors' Compensation Plan (the "Plans"), under which we can grant stock options, restricted shares and restricted share units to employees and outside directors. As of December 31, 2023, the number of shares of common stock available for grants under the Plans aggregated to 8.8 million shares.

Stock options are granted at an exercise price equal to the fair market value of our common stock on the date of grant, and they have a term of 10 years. Stock options are subject to graded vesting whereby options vest 30 percent at the end of each of the first two 12-month periods following the grant and 40 percent at the end of the third 12-month period.

Time-vested restricted share unit grants starting in 2022 are valued at the closing market price of our common stock on the grant date and are generally subject to a graded vesting whereby shares vest 30 percent at the end of each of the first two 12-month periods following the grant and 40 percent at the end of the third 12-month period. Time-vested restricted share unit grants issued prior to 2022 or issued for special one-time awards, restricted shares units and performance-based restricted share units granted to employees are valued at the closing market price of our common stock on the grant date and vest generally at the end of three years. The number of performance-based share units that ultimately vest ranges from zero to 200 percent of the number granted based on performance. Beginning in 2021, performance metrics are tied to modified free cash flow and organic sales growth during the three-year performance period. Modified free cash flow and organic sales growth are set at the beginning of the performance period. Performance-based share units granted prior to 2021 are structured similarly but vest on performance tied to return on invested capital ("ROIC") and net sales. Restricted share units granted to outside directors are valued at the closing market price of our common stock on the grant date and vest when they are granted. The restricted period begins on the date of grant and expires on the date the outside director retires from or otherwise terminates service on our Board.

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At the time stock options are exercised or restricted shares and restricted share units become payable, common stock is issued from our accumulated treasury shares. Dividend equivalents are credited on restricted share units on the same date and at the same rate as dividends are paid on Kimberly-Clark's common stock. These dividend equivalents, net of estimated forfeitures, are charged to retained earnings.

Stock-based compensation costs of $169, $150 and $26 and related deferred income tax benefits of $36, $33 and $7 were recognized for 2023, 2022 and 2021, respectively.

The fair value of stock option awards was determined using a Black-Scholes-Merton option-pricing model utilizing a range of assumptions related to dividend yield, volatility, risk-free interest rate, and employee exercise behavior. Dividend yield is based on historical experience and expected future dividend actions. Expected volatility is based on a blend of historical volatility and implied volatility from traded options on Kimberly-Clark's common stock. The risk-free interest rate is based on the U.S. Treasury yield curve in effect at the time of grant. We estimate forfeitures based on historical data.

The weighted-average fair value of stock options granted was estimated at $21.28 and $10.26, in 2022 and 2021, respectively, per option on the date of grant based on the following assumptions:

Year Ended December 31

Dividend yield 3.3 % 3.9 %

Risk-free interest rate 2.8 % 0.8 %

Expected life - years 4.6 4.6

During 2023, no stock options were granted.

Total remaining unrecognized compensation costs and amortization period are as follows:

December 31, 2023 Weighted-AverageService Years

Stock options $ 4 0.5

Restricted shares and time-vested restricted share units 64 1.4

Performance-based restricted share units 29 1.7

A summary of stock-based compensation is presented below:

Granted — —

47 KIMBERLY-CLARK CORPORATION - 2023 Annual Report

The total intrinsic value of options exercised during 2023, 2022 and 2021 was $23, $21 and $16, respectively.

Time-VestedRestricted Share Units Performance-BasedRestricted Share Units

The total fair value of restricted share units that were distributed to participants during 2023, 2022 and 2021 was $99, $118 and $100, respectively.

Note 8. Employee Postretirement Benefits

Substantially all regular employees in the U.S. and the United Kingdom are covered by defined contribution retirement plans and certain U.S. and United Kingdom employees previously earned benefits covered by defined benefit pension plans that currently provide no future service benefit (the "Principal Plans"). Certain other subsidiaries have defined benefit pension plans or, in certain countries, termination pay plans covering substantially all regular employees. The funding policy for our qualified defined benefit pension plans is to contribute assets at least equal in amount to regulatory minimum requirements. Nonqualified U.S. plans providing pension benefits in excess of limitations imposed by the U.S. income tax code are not funded.

Substantially all U.S. retirees and employees have access to our unfunded health care and life insurance benefit plans. The annual increase in the consolidated weighted-average health care cost trend rate is expected to be 6.0 percent in 2024 and to decline to 4.5 percent in 2034 and thereafter. Assumed health care cost trend rates affect the amounts reported for postretirement health care benefit plans.

As a result of restructuring actions related to the 2018 Global Restructuring Program, aggregate pension settlement charges of $91 and curtailment gains of $2 were recognized during 2021 in Nonoperating expense, primarily related to the defined benefit pension plans in the U.S, Switzerland and the United Kingdom (see Note 2 for further information about the 2018 Global Restructuring Program).

48 KIMBERLY-CLARK CORPORATION - 2023 Annual Report

Summarized financial information about postretirement plans, excluding defined contribution retirement plans, is presented below:

Pension Benefits Other Benefits

Year Ended December 31

Change in Benefit Obligation

Benefit payments from plans (141) (173) — —

Direct benefit payments (9) (8) (54) (53)

Settlements (66) (97) — —

Change in Plan Assets

Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year 2,321 3,744 — —

Actual return on plan assets 137 (987) — —

Employer contributions 26 30 — —

Currency and other 52 (199) — —

Benefit payments (141) (173) — —

Settlements (66) (94) — —

Fair value of plan assets at end of year 2,329 2,321 — —

(a) The actuarial net losses in 2023 and actuarial net gains in 2022 were primarily due to discount rate decreases and increases, respectively.

Substantially all of the funded status of pension and other benefits is recognized in the consolidated balance sheet in Noncurrent Employee Benefits, with the remainder recognized in Accrued expenses and other current liabilities and Other Assets.

Information for the Principal Plans and All Other Pension Plans

Principal Plans All OtherPension Plans Total

Year Ended December 31

Approximately one-half of the PBO and fair value of plan assets for the Principal Plans relate to the U.S. qualified and nonqualified pension plans.

49 KIMBERLY-CLARK CORPORATION - 2023 Annual Report

Information for Pension Plans with an ABO in Excess of Plan Assets

December 31

Information for Pension Plans with a PBO in Excess of Plan Assets

December 31

Components of Net Periodic Benefit Cost

Pension Benefits Other Benefits

Year Ended December 31

Expected return on plan assets(a) (128) (123) (132) — — —

Recognized net actuarial (gain) loss 39 34 37 (3) 1 1

Settlements and curtailments 35 52 89 — — —

(a)The expected return on plan assets is determined by multiplying the fair value of plan assets at the remeasurement date, typically the prior year-end adjusted for estimated current year cash benefit payments and contributions, by the expected long-term rate of return.

The components of net periodic benefit cost other than the service cost component are included in the line item Nonoperating expense in our consolidated income statement.

Weighted-Average Assumptions Used to Determine Net Periodic Benefit Cost for Years Ended December 31

Pension Benefits Other Benefits

Expected long-term return on plan assets 5.57 % 5.75 % 3.80 % 3.41 % — — —

Rate of compensation increase 3.53 % 3.49 % 3.23 % 3.07 % — — —

Weighted-Average Assumptions Used to Determine Benefit Obligations at December 31

Pension Benefits Other Benefits

Rate of compensation increase 3.53 % 3.49 % — —

50 KIMBERLY-CLARK CORPORATION - 2023 Annual Report

Investment Strategies for the Principal Plans

Strategic asset allocation decisions are made considering several risk factors, including plan participants' retirement benefit security, the estimated payments of the associated liabilities, the plan funded status, and Kimberly-Clark's financial condition. The resulting strategic asset allocation is a diversified blend of equity and fixed income investments. Equity investments are typically diversified across geographies and market capitalization. Fixed income investments are diversified across multiple sectors including government issues and corporate debt instruments with a portfolio duration that is consistent with the estimated payment of the associated liability. Actual asset allocation is regularly reviewed and periodically rebalanced to the strategic allocation when considered appropriate. Our 2024 target plan asset allocation for the Principal Plans is approximately 85 percent fixed income securities and 15 percent equity securities.

The expected long-term rate of return is generally evaluated on an annual basis. In setting this assumption, we consider a number of factors including projected future returns by asset class relative to the current asset allocation. The weighted-average expected long-term rate of return on pension fund assets used to calculate pension expense for the Principal Plans was 6.05 percent in 2023, 3.55 percent in 2022 and 3.51 percent in 2021, and will be 5.73 percent in 2024.

Set forth below are the pension plan assets of the Principal Plans measured at fair value, by level in the fair-value hierarchy. More than 65 percent of the assets are held in pooled funds and are measured using a net asset value (or its equivalent). Accordingly, such assets do not meet the Level 1, Level 2, or Level 3 criteria of the fair value hierarchy.

Fair Value Measurements at December 31, 2023

Cash and Cash Equivalents

Held directly $ 34 $ 23 $ 11 $ —

Fixed Income

Held directly

U.S. government and municipals 98 97 1 —

U.S. corporate debt 203 — 203 —

Non-U.S. securitized 67 — — —

International bonds 38 — 38 —

Held through mutual and pooled funds measured at net asset value

U.S. government and municipals 85 — — —

U.S. corporate debt 408 — — —

International bonds 591 — — —

Equity

Held directly

U.S. equity 21 21 — —

International equity 15 15 — —

Held through mutual and pooled funds measured at net asset value

Non-U.S. equity 3 — — —

Global equity 224 — — —

Insurance Contracts 230 — — 230

Other 2 2 — —

Futures contracts are used when appropriate to manage duration targets. As of December 31, 2023 and 2022, the U.S. plan held directly Treasury futures contracts with a total notional value of approximately $288 and $362, respectively, and an

51 KIMBERLY-CLARK CORPORATION - 2023 Annual Report

insignificant fair value. As of December 31, 2023 and 2022, the United Kingdom plan held through a pooled fund future contracts with a total notional value of approximately $417 and $524, and an insignificant fair value.

During 2023 and 2022, the plan assets did not include a significant amount of Kimberly-Clark common stock.

Fair Value Measurements at December 31, 2022

Cash and Cash Equivalents

Held directly $ 69 $ 69 $ — $ —

Held through mutual and pooled funds measured at net asset value 76 — — —

Fixed Income

Held directly

U.S. government and municipals 115 115 — —

U.S. corporate debt 193 — 193 —

International bonds 33 — 33 —

Held through mutual and pooled funds measured at net asset value

U.S. government and municipals 71 — — —

U.S. corporate debt 419 — — —

International bonds 549 — — —

Equity

Held directly

U.S. equity 21 21 — —

International equity 15 15 — —

Held through mutual and pooled funds measured at net asset value

Non-U.S. equity 15 — — —

Global equity 221 — — —

Insurance Contracts 222 — — 222

Other (1) (1) — —

Inputs and valuation techniques used to measure the fair value of plan assets vary according to the type of security being valued. Substantially all of the equity securities held directly by the plans are actively traded and fair values are determined based on quoted market prices. Fair values of U.S. government securities are determined based on trading activity in the marketplace.

Fair values of U.S. corporate debt, U.S. municipals and international bonds are typically determined by reference to the values of similar securities traded in the marketplace and current interest rate levels. Multiple pricing services are typically employed to assist in determining these valuations.

Fair values of equity securities and fixed income securities held through units of pooled funds are based on net asset value of the units of the pooled fund determined by the fund manager. Pooled funds are similar in nature to retail mutual funds, but are typically more efficient for institutional investors. The fair value of pooled funds is determined by the value of the underlying assets held by the fund and the units outstanding.

Equity securities held directly by the pension trusts and those held through units in pooled funds are monitored as to issuer and industry. Except for U.S. Treasuries, concentrations of fixed income securities are similarly monitored for concentrations by issuer and industry. As of December 31, 2023, there were no significant concentrations of equity or debt securities in any single issuer or industry.

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No level 3 transfers (in or out) were made in 2023 or 2022. Fair values of insurance contracts are based on an evaluation of various factors, including purchase price.

We expect to contribute approximately $20 to our defined benefit pension plans in 2024. Over the next ten years, we expect that the following gross benefit payments will occur:

Pension Benefits Other Benefits

Defined Contribution Pension Plans

Our 401(k) profit sharing plan and supplemental plan provide for a matching contribution of a U.S. employee's contributions and accruals, subject to predetermined limits, as well as a discretionary profit sharing contribution, in which contributions will be based on our profit performance. We also have defined contribution pension plans for certain employees outside the U.S. Costs charged to expense for our defined contribution pension plans were $185 in 2023, $132 in 2022, and $116 in 2021. Approximately 25 percent of these costs were for plans outside the U.S.

Note 9. Stockholders' Equity

The changes in the components of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income ("AOCI") attributable to Kimberly-Clark, net of tax, are as follows:

Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications (347) (51) 86 (139)

(Income) loss reclassified from AOCI — 65 (a) — (a) (44)

Net current period other comprehensive income (loss) (347) 14 86 (183)

Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications 84 (57) (9) (153)

(Income) loss reclassified from AOCI 7 55 (a) (4) (a) 164

Net current period other comprehensive income (loss) 91 (2) (13) 11

(a) Included in computation of net periodic pension and other postretirement benefits costs (see Note 8).

Included in the above defined benefit pension plans and other postretirement benefit plans balances as of December 31, 2023 is $750 and $2 of unrecognized net actuarial loss and unrecognized net prior service cost, respectively.

53 KIMBERLY-CLARK CORPORATION - 2023 Annual Report

The changes in the components of AOCI attributable to Kimberly-Clark, including the tax effect, are as follows:

Year Ended December 31