Summary
On July 14, 2010, American International Group, Inc. (AIG) announced the terms of a settlement agreement for securities fraud class actions filed in October 2004. The proposed settlement requires AIG to pay a total of $725 million, with an initial $175 million to be placed in escrow upon preliminary court approval. The remaining $550 million is contingent upon AIG successfully completing one or more common stock offerings that raise at least $550 million in net proceeds, or AIG deciding to fund this amount from other sources. This settlement represents a significant step in resolving past litigation for AIG. However, investors should note that the funding of the remaining settlement amount is subject to AIG's discretion regarding market conditions and corporate transactions. AIG is obligated to use its best efforts to effect the necessary stock offering, but the final decision rests with the company. Failure to secure the necessary funds could lead to termination of the agreement by plaintiffs, or alternative resolutions.
Key Highlights
- 1AIG has reached an agreement in principle to settle securities fraud class actions filed in 2004.
- 2The total settlement amount is $725 million.
- 3$175 million of the settlement will be paid into escrow upon preliminary court approval.
- 4The remaining $550 million is contingent on AIG completing a common stock offering with net proceeds of at least $550 million, or AIG funding it from other sources.
- 5AIG is committed to using best efforts to effect the stock offering, but the decision to proceed is at its unilateral discretion based on market conditions and corporate transactions.
- 6If the $550 million is not funded before final court approval, plaintiffs have options including terminating the agreement or acquiring AIG common stock.