8-KRegulation FD

AMERICAN EXPRESS CO 8-K Report, Regulation FD Disclosure (Oct 6, 2008)

Filed October 6, 2008For Securities:AXP

Summary

This 8-K filing by American Express Co. (AXP) on October 6, 2008, provides an update on the company's liquidity and capital resources amidst turbulent financial markets. The company has proactively increased its capital surplus by suspending its share repurchase program and is on track to meet its 2008 funding target of approximately $27 billion in term debt, having raised $23 billion by September 30, 2008. While the overall funding target was reduced from previous projections due to slower loan growth and reduced cash needs, AmEx has successfully accessed diverse funding sources, including debt issuance and asset securitizations, albeit at higher costs than in prior years. The report details upcoming debt maturities through December 2009, totaling significant amounts in the coming quarters. To bolster liquidity, American Express has substantial cash reserves, a liquidity investment portfolio, and significant undrawn committed facilities. Notably, its depository institution subsidiaries have gained access to the Federal Reserve's discount window and Term Auction Facility, providing an additional layer of contingent liquidity. The company asserts its belief that it possesses sufficient liquidity to meet all obligations and fund operations for at least the next 12 months, even if capital markets access is interrupted.

Key Highlights

  • 1AXP has suspended its share repurchase program to increase surplus capital amid market volatility.
  • 2The company is targeting $27 billion in term debt issuance for 2008, with $23 billion raised by September 30, 2008.
  • 3The 2008 funding target was reduced by $5 billion compared to prior projections, reflecting slower loan growth and reduced cash needs.
  • 4AXP has successfully accessed various funding sources, including debt and securitizations, despite higher borrowing costs.
  • 5Significant debt maturities are scheduled through December 2009, with approximately $7.8 billion due in the quarter ending June 30, 2009.
  • 6The company has substantial liquidity resources, including $12 billion in cash equivalents, a $5 billion investment portfolio, and $14 billion in undrawn credit facilities.
  • 7American Express's banking subsidiaries have gained access to the Federal Reserve's discount window and Term Auction Facility for contingent liquidity.

Frequently Asked Questions

American Express has increased its capital surplus above historical levels by suspending its share repurchase program. This action allows the company to retain more capital generated from its business operations.

The company's funding plan for 2008 targets approximately $27 billion in term debt issuance, including securitizations. As of September 30, 2008, they had raised $23 billion, or 85% of this target. This target is $5 billion lower than previously reported due to slower expected loan growth and reduced net operating cash needs.

The company has significant long-term debt and off-balance sheet debt maturities approaching. Key upcoming maturities include $3.6 billion by December 31, 2008, $3.8 billion by March 31, 2009, and a substantial $7.8 billion by June 30, 2009.

Beyond capital markets access, AXP has approximately $12 billion in cash and equivalents (excluding operational cash), a $5 billion liquidity investment portfolio, a $5 billion undrawn securitization facility, and $9 billion in undrawn committed bank credit facilities. Furthermore, its banking subsidiaries have secured access to the Federal Reserve's discount window and Term Auction Facility, providing contingent liquidity.