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

The main purpose of this 8-K filing is to report American Electric Power Company, Inc.'s (AEP) financial results for the period ending December 31, 2012, and to disclose information related to investor meetings held on February 15, 2013. It incorporates two press releases containing these details.

What is 'operating earnings' and why does AEP emphasize it?

AEP uses 'operating earnings' as its primary performance measurement when communicating with analysts and investors. This metric represents GAAP earnings adjusted for certain items, which management believes provides a more meaningful representation of the company's performance. AEP also uses this metric internally for performance measurement and reporting.

What are some of the key risks AEP mentioned that could affect its future results?

AEP highlighted several risk factors that could cause actual results to differ from forward-looking statements. These include the economic climate in its service territory, volatility in financial markets and interest rates, availability and cost of capital and fuel, weather conditions, regulatory and legislative changes (including environmental regulations), and changes in energy commodity prices and utility regulation.

Is the information in this filing legally 'filed' with the SEC in the same way as other reports?

No, the information in this Current Report, including the attached exhibits, is being "furnished" rather than "filed" for purposes of Section 18 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. This means it is not subject to the liabilities of that section, and it will not be automatically incorporated by reference into other SEC filings unless specifically stated.

AEP 8-K: Earnings & Results & Regulation FD

Summary

This 8-K filing from American Electric Power Company, Inc. (AEP) on February 15, 2013, primarily serves to announce the company's financial results for the period ending December 31, 2012, and to provide details regarding investor meetings scheduled for February 15, 2013. Investors should note that the company is furnishing this information and it is not deemed "filed" under Section 18 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, meaning it carries different legal implications than a formal filing. The filing incorporates by reference two press releases. Exhibit 99.1 contains the company's earnings press release detailing financial results for the fourth quarter and full year 2012. Exhibit 99.2 is a press release related to the investor meetings, indicating that management will be discussing company matters with investors. AEP emphasizes its use of "operating earnings" (GAAP earnings adjusted for certain items) as a key performance metric for communicating with investors, highlighting its importance in understanding the company's operational performance.

Key Highlights

1AEP reported its financial results for the period ending December 31, 2012, via an attached press release (Exhibit 99.1).
2The company held investor meetings on February 15, 2013, with a related press release attached (Exhibit 99.2).
3AEP utilizes "operating earnings" as its primary metric for discussing performance with analysts and investors, which adjusts GAAP earnings for specific items.
4The filing includes forward-looking statements, with AEP cautioning that actual results could differ materially due to various factors listed.
5Key risk factors identified include economic conditions, interest rate trends, capital market volatility, fuel costs, regulatory decisions, and legislative changes.
6The company is providing information that is "furnished" rather than "filed," which impacts its legal standing under Section 18 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934.

AMERICAN ELECTRIC POWER CO INC 8-K Report, Financial Results (Feb 15, 2013)

Summary

Key Highlights

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