What is the main purpose of this 8-K filing?

The main purpose of this 8-K filing is to publicly announce and provide the details of Abbott Laboratories' third-quarter 2017 financial results, as published in their accompanying press release (Exhibit 99.1).

What are 'non-GAAP financial measures' and why does Abbott use them?

Non-GAAP financial measures are financial metrics that exclude certain items from their GAAP (Generally Accepted Accounting Principles) counterparts. Abbott uses them to provide investors with a clearer view of the company's ongoing operational performance by excluding items that may be unusual, unpredictable, or not reflective of core business activities, such as acquisition-related costs or restructuring charges. Management uses these measures internally to assess performance.

Where can I find the detailed financial results for Q3 2017?

The detailed financial results for Q3 2017 are located in the press release furnished as Exhibit 99.1 to this 8-K filing. Investors should refer to that document for specific revenue, earnings, and other financial figures, as well as the reconciliation between GAAP and non-GAAP measures.

Are there any significant one-time events mentioned that affect the reported results?

Yes, the filing mentions several items excluded from non-GAAP measures that could represent significant events or impacts, including expenses from acquisitions and restructuring, gains/losses from the sale of the Medical Optics business, adjustments to equity investments, and Venezuela devaluation losses. These are detailed further in the press release.

ABT 8-K: Earnings & Results

Summary

Abbott Laboratories (ABT) filed an 8-K on October 18, 2017, primarily to report its third-quarter 2017 financial results. The filing includes a press release (Exhibit 99.1) detailing these results. Investors should note that Abbott utilizes non-GAAP financial measures, which exclude certain items like acquisition and restructuring expenses, cost reduction charges, gains/losses from business sales and investments, currency devaluation, and tax benefits. The company states these measures offer better insight into ongoing operational performance as assessed by management. While the 8-K itself is largely procedural, the attached press release is the key document for understanding the company's performance during the quarter. Investors should carefully review the press release to understand the specific financial figures and the reconciliation between GAAP and non-GAAP measures to make informed investment decisions. The filing also confirms Brian B. Yoor, Executive Vice President, Finance and Chief Financial Officer, signed off on the report.

Key Highlights

1Abbott Laboratories reported its third-quarter 2017 results on October 18, 2017, via an 8-K filing.
2The primary content of the filing is the press release detailing Q3 2017 financial performance.
3The company utilizes non-GAAP financial measures, excluding specified items, to present operational results.
4Excluded items include costs related to acquisitions, restructuring, and cost reduction initiatives.
5Gains/losses from the sale of the Medical Optics business and adjustments to equity investments (e.g., Mylan) are also excluded.
6Venezuela devaluation losses and specific tax benefits are also adjusted for in non-GAAP reporting.
7Abbott's management believes these non-GAAP measures provide a clearer view of ongoing business performance.

ABBOTT LABORATORIES 8-K Report, Financial Results (Oct 18, 2017)

Summary

Key Highlights

Frequently Asked Questions