All trade accounts receivable are reported at net realizable value on the accompanying Consolidated Balance Sheets, adjusted for any write-offs and net of allowances for doubtful accounts. Allowances for doubtful accounts represent our best estimate and current expectation of future credit losses from trade accounts. We estimate credit losses based on historical information, current and expected future economic and market conditions, and reviews of the current status of customers’ trade accounts receivable. In circumstances in which we become aware of a specific customer’s inability to meet its financial obligations, a specific reserve is recorded against amounts due to reduce the recognized receivable to the amount reasonably expected to be collected.

We do not believe our trade accounts receivable represent significant concentrations of credit risk due to our diversified portfolio of individual customers and geographical areas. See Note 3. “Fair Value Measurements” for further discussion and for information on how we manage credit risk.

Differences may arise between estimated and actual losses, which could materially affect the provision for credit losses and, therefore, net earnings. We recorded $736, $304, and $100 of expense associated with doubtful accounts for the years ended March 31, 2023, 2022, and 2021, respectively. The increase in bad debt expense reflects the uncertainty in market and macro-economic conditions.

Inventories are stated at the lower of cost or net realizable value and are relieved to cost of products upon sale using a weighted average costing methodology. Inventories acquired in an acquisition are recorded at fair market value. Our work in process and finished goods inventories include the costs of raw materials, labor and overhead, which are estimated based on trailing twelve months of expense and standard labor hours for each product. We evaluate labor and overhead costs annually unless specific circumstances necessitate a mid-year evaluation for specific items.

We monitor inventory costs relative to selling prices and perform physical cycle count procedures on inventories throughout the year to determine if a lower of cost or net realizable value reserve is necessary. We estimate and maintain an inventory reserve as needed for such matters as excess or obsolete inventory, shrinkage, and scrap. This reserve may fluctuate as our assumptions change due to new information, discrete events, or changes in our business, such as entering new markets or discontinuing a specific product; however, once inventory is written down, a new cost basis is established that is not subsequently written back up in future fiscal years.

Property, plant and equipment are recorded at cost, less allowances for depreciation, except for assets acquired in acquisitions, which are recorded at fair value. Expenditures for major renewals and improvements that extend the life of the asset are capitalized, while expenditures for minor replacements, maintenance, and repairs are expensed as incurred.

Depreciation is calculated using the straight-line method over the assets’ estimated useful lives. Upon asset retirement or disposal, accounts are relieved of cost and accumulated depreciation, and any related gain or loss is reflected in our results of operations. In some cases, particularly with respect to business consolidation or closure activities, accelerated depreciation may be required for the revised remaining useful lives of assets designated to be abandoned in the future.

At least annually, we evaluate and adjust as necessary the estimated lives of property, plant and equipment. Any changes in estimated useful lives are recorded prospectively. Estimated useful lives of significant classes of depreciable assets are as follows:

Land is not depreciated and construction in progress is not depreciated until placed in service, at which time it is assigned a useful life consistent with the nature of the asset.

Under ASC 842, we determine whether contractual arrangements contain a lease at the inception of the arrangement. If a lease is identified in an arrangement, we recognize a right-of-use asset ("ROU") and liability on our Consolidated Balance Sheets and determine whether the lease should be classified as a finance or operating lease. We do not have any finance leases. We do not recognize assets or liabilities for leases with terms of less than 12 months, and our short-term leases are not material.

A contract is a lease or contains one when (1) the contract contains an explicitly or implicitly identified asset and (2) the customer obtains substantially all of the economic benefits from the use of that underlying asset and directs how and for what purpose the asset is used during the term of the contract in exchange for consideration. Operating lease assets and liabilities are recognized at the lease commencement date. Operating lease liabilities represent the present value of lease payments not yet paid. Operating lease assets represent our right to use an underlying asset and are based upon the operating lease liabilities adjusted for prepayments. Adjustments would also be made for accrued lease payments, initial direct costs, lease incentives, and impairment of operating lease assets, none of which are present in any of our current lease contracts. When readily determinable, the discount rate used to calculate the lease liability is the rate implicit in the lease, otherwise we use our incremental borrowing rate based on the information available at lease commencement. When we acquire a business, we retain the acquiree's classification of its leases. We evaluate the ROU assets and liabilities in accordance with ASC 842.

Our leases typically contain rent escalations over the lease term. We recognize expense for these leases on a straight-line basis over the lease term. Lease expense is recorded in cost of products, selling, general and administrative, or research and development on our Consolidated Statements of Income, depending on the nature of use of the underlying asset. Many of our leases include one or more renewal or termination options exercisable at our discretion, which are included in the determination of the lease term if we are reasonably certain to exercise the option. We have also entered into lease agreements that have variable payments related to certain indexes. Variable lease payments are recognized in the period in which those payments are incurred. All non-lease components are readily identifiable in our lease contract. We account for non-lease components separately from the lease component to which it is related.

Our goodwill and other intangible assets result from acquisitions of existing businesses. Upon acquisition, we record the fair values of separately identifiable indefinite and definite lived intangible assets using, among other sources of relevant information, independent appraisals, or actuarial or other valuations. Intangible assets affect the amount of future amortization expense and possible impairment charges we may incur.

Goodwill and indefinite lived intangible assets (certain tradenames we intend to renew and continue using indefinitely) are not subject to amortization and are tested for impairment qualitatively, and if necessary, quantitatively, at least annually during the fourth quarter of our fiscal year, or when events or changes in circumstances indicate it may be more likely than not that carrying value exceeds fair value. We perform impairment tests of goodwill at the reporting unit level and tests for other indefinite lived intangible assets at the asset level.

Intangible assets deemed to have finite lives are amortized on a straight-line basis over their useful lives, generally ranging from five to fifteen years (See Note 6. “Goodwill and Intangible Assets”). We determine the useful lives of finite intangible assets based on the specific facts and circumstances related to each asset, and we evaluate the appropriateness of assigned useful lives at least annually. Factors we consider when determining useful lives include the contractual term of any agreement related to the asset, the historical performance of the asset, our long-term strategy for using the asset, any laws or other local regulations which could impact the useful life of the asset, and economic factors such as competition or specific market conditions. Finite-lived intangible assets are tested for impairment if events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of a long-lived asset or asset group might not be recoverable.

The fair value measurements used in testing intangible asset impairments are typically based on discounted cash flow projection models, using Level 3 inputs. See “Fair Value of Financial Instruments” for a description of input levels. Significant assumptions include, among others, the weighted average cost of capital, net sales growth, and terminal growth rates. In certain cases, management uses other market information when available to estimate fair value. Impairment charges represent the excess carrying amount over estimated fair value. We do not believe our goodwill and other intangible assets are impaired as of March 31, 2023.

We conduct research and development activities for the purpose of developing new products and enhancing the functionality, effectiveness, reliability, and accuracy of existing products. Research and development costs are expensed as incurred. Research and development expense is predominantly comprised of labor costs and third-party consultants, but we may from time to time purchase in-process research and development with the intention of developing a saleable product.

Stock-based Compensation

We issue shares in the form of stock options and full-value awards as part of employee and non-employee director compensation pursuant to the Mesa Laboratories, Inc. 2014 Equity Plan (the "2014 Equity Plan") and the Mesa Laboratories, Inc. 2021 Equity Incentive Plan (the "2021 Equity Plan" or together, "the Equity Plans").

The Equity Plans are administered by the Compensation Committee of the Board of Directors, which has the authority to grant equity awards, or to delegate its authority under the plan to make grants (subject to certain legal and regulatory restrictions), including the authority to determine the individuals to whom awards will be granted, the type of awards and when the awards are to be granted, the number of shares to be covered by each award, the vesting schedule, and all other terms and conditions of the awards.

For purposes of counting the shares remaining under the 2021 Equity Plan, each share underlying a stock option or a full value award counts as one share used. For purposes of counting the shares remaining available under the 2014 Equity Plan, each share issuable pursuant to outstanding full value awards counts as five shares issued, whereas each share underlying a stock option counts as one share issued. We issue new shares of common stock upon the exercise of stock options and the vesting of time-based restricted stock units ("RSUs") and performance-based RSUs ("PSUs").

Stock options and service-based stock awards generally vest equally over a three to five year term and stock options generally expire after six to ten years. Awards granted to non-employee directors generally vest one year from the grant date. We recognize stock-based compensation expense based on the fair value of stock awards at the grant date and recognize the expense over the related service period using a straight-line vesting expense schedule. The 2021 Equity plan includes retiree provisions, which result in the acceleration of stock-based compensation for expense for retiree-eligible participants. Compensation expense related to employees eligible to retire and retain full rights to the awards is recognized over the calculated service period required to earn the award according to the plan provisions.

Expense for PSUs is recognized when it is probable that performance goals will be achieved. Performance goals are determined by the Board of Directors and may include measures such as revenues growth and profitability targets. Compensation expense on stock awards subject to performance conditions is recognized over the longer of the estimated performance goal attainment period or time vesting period. As of each reporting period, we estimate the number of PSUs expected to vest based on our current estimate of performance compared to the target metrics in the award documents, and if necessary, a cumulative-effect adjustment is recorded.

The fair value of RSUs is based on the closing price of Mesa's common stock on the award date, less the present value of expected dividends not received during the vesting period. RSUs we issue are equivalent to nonvested shares under the applicable accounting guidance.

The fair value of each granted stock option is estimated on the grant date using the Black-Scholes option valuation model. The assumptions used to calculate the fair value of granted options reflect market conditions and our historical experience. We estimate expected forfeitures using a dynamic forfeiture model based on company specific historical data when determining the amount of stock-based compensation costs to recognize each period. The expected life of options represents the estimated period of time until exercise and is based on historical experience of similar awards for similar subsets of our employee population, giving consideration to the contractual terms, vesting schedules, and expectations of future employee behavior. Expected stock price volatility is based on the historical volatility of our own stock price over the period of time commensurate with the expected life of the award. The risk-free rate is based on the United States Treasury yield curve in effect at the time of grant for the estimated life of the stock option. The dividend yield assumption is based on our anticipated cash dividend payouts.

We allocate stock-based compensation expense to cost of revenues, selling, research and development, and general and administrative expense in the Consolidated Statements of Income.

Earnings Per Share

Basic earnings per share (“EPS”) is computed by dividing net income by the weighted-average number of common shares outstanding during the reporting period. Diluted earnings per share (“diluted EPS”) is computed similarly to basic earnings per share, except it includes the effects of potential dilution that could occur if dilutive securities were exercised. Potentially dilutive securities include stock options, RSUs and PSUs (collectively “stock awards”), as well as common shares underlying the 2025 Notes. Potentially dilutive securities are excluded from the calculation of diluted EPS in the event they are subject to performance conditions that have not yet been achieved or if they would otherwise be antidilutive. Diluted EPS considers the impact of potentially dilutive securities except in periods in which there is a loss; in such cases the inclusion of the potential common shares would have an antidilutive effect. See Note 10. “Earnings per Share” for EPS calculations for the years ended March 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021.

Income Taxes

Income tax expense includes U.S., state, local and international income taxes. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognized and reflect the net tax effects of temporary differences between the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities for financial reporting purposes and the tax basis of existing assets and liabilities used for income tax purposes. The tax rate used to determine the deferred tax assets and liabilities is based on the enacted tax rate for the year and the manner in which the differences are expected to reverse. Valuation allowances are recorded to reduce deferred tax assets to the amount that will more likely than not be realized.

From time to time, we engage in transactions in which the tax consequences may be subject to uncertainty, such as acquisitions. Significant judgment is required in assessing and estimating the tax consequences of these transactions. We prepare and file tax returns based on interpretation of tax laws and regulations. In the normal course of business, our tax returns are subject to examination by various taxing authorities. Such examinations may result in future tax, interest and penalty assessments by these taxing authorities. In determining our income tax provision for financial reporting purposes, we establish a reserve for uncertain tax income positions unless we determine it is not more likely than not that such positions would be sustained upon examination, based on their technical merits.. That is, for financial reporting purposes, we only recognize tax benefits taken on the tax return that we believe are more likely than not of being sustained. There is considerable judgment involved in determining whether positions taken on the tax return are more likely than not of being sustained. We adjust our tax reserve estimates periodically because of ongoing examinations by, and settlements with, the various taxing authorities, as well as changes in tax laws, regulations and interpretations. The consolidated income tax provision of any given year includes adjustments to prior year income tax accruals that are considered appropriate and any related estimated interest. Our policy is to recognize, when applicable, interest and penalties on uncertain income tax positions as part of general administrative expense. (See Note 12. “Income Taxes”).

Acquisition Related Contingent Consideration Liabilities

Acquisition related contingent consideration liabilities consist of estimated amounts due under various acquisition agreements and may be based on revenues growth, specified profitability growth metrics, or the attainment of milestones such as patent approvals. At each reporting period, we evaluate the expected future payments and any associated discount rate to determine the fair value of the contingent consideration. We re-evaluate the fair value of contingent liabilities at each reporting period and record any necessary adjustments in other expense, net on the Consolidated Statements of Income. See Note 13. “Commitments and Contingencies” for information regarding existing contingent consideration liabilities as of March 31, 2023.

Legal Contingencies

We are party to various claims and legal proceedings that arise in the normal course of business. We record an accrual for legal contingencies when we determine it is probable we have incurred a liability and can reasonably estimate the amount of the loss (See Note 13. “Commitments and Contingencies”).

Purchase Accounting for Acquisitions

We account for all business combinations in which we obtain control over another entity using the acquisition method of accounting, which requires most assets (both tangible and intangible) and liabilities (including any applicable contingent consideration, but excluding deferred revenue, which is measured at book value) to be recorded at fair value at the date of acquisition. The excess of the purchase price over the fair value of acquired assets less liabilities is recognized as goodwill. We determine fair value using widely accepted valuation techniques, primarily discounted cash flow and market multiple analyses, which rely heavily on Level 3 inputs. These types of analyses require us to make and monitor assumptions and estimates regarding industry and economic factors, the profitability of future business strategies, discount rates and cash flow. Certain adjustments to the assessed fair values of acquired assets or liabilities made subsequent to the acquisition date but within the measurement period are recorded as adjustments to goodwill. Any adjustments subsequent to the measurement period are recorded within earnings. We expense all acquisition costs as incurred related to an acquisition in selling, general, and administrative expenses.

Results of operations of acquired companies are included in our Consolidated Financial Statements from the date of the acquisition forward. If actual results are not consistent with our assumptions and estimates, or if our assumptions and estimates change due to new information, we may be exposed to an impairment charge in the future. For the years ended March 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021, our acquisitions of businesses (net of cash acquired and including contingent consideration) totaled $6,140, $300,793, and $0, respectively.

Business Consolidation Costs

We estimate liabilities for business closure activities by gathering detailed estimates of costs and, if applicable, asset sale proceeds, for each business consolidation initiative. For a typical business consolidation initiative, we estimate costs of employee severance, impairment of property and equipment and other assets including estimating net realizable value, if necessary, accelerated depreciation, termination payments for contracts and leases, and any other qualifying costs related to the exit plan. Such charges represent our best estimates; however, they require assumptions about plans that may change over time. The estimated costs are grouped by specific projects within the overall exit plan and are monitored at each reporting period. Any subsequent changes to the original estimates are recorded in current earnings.

Risks and Uncertainties

The preparation of financial statements requires the use of estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities at the reporting date and revenues and expenses during the reporting periods. These estimates represent management's judgement about the outcome of future events. The current global business environment continues to be impacted directly and indirectly by the effects of the novel coronavirus ("COVID-19"), the conflict in Ukraine, and other factors. It is not possible to accurately predict the future impact of such events and circumstances. However, we have reviewed the estimates used in preparing the financial statements and have identified the following factors that have a reasonable possibility of being materially affected in the near term:

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Estimates regarding the future financial performance of the business used in the impairment tests for goodwill and long-lived assets acquired in a business combination; however, our impairment tests conducted during the quarter ended March 31, 2023 concluded that goodwill is not impaired;

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Estimates regarding the recoverability of deferred tax assets and estimates regarding cash needs and associated indefinite reinvestment assertions;

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Estimates regarding recoverability for customer receivables;

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Estimates of the net realizable value of inventory.

Recently Issued Accounting Pronouncements

We have reviewed all recently issued accounting pronouncements and have concluded that they are either not applicable to us or are not expected to have a significant impact on our consolidated financial statements.

Recently Adopted Accounting Pronouncements

There have been no accounting pronouncements applicable to us that we were required to adopt or that we have elected to adopt during fiscal year 2023.