8-KOther EventsExhibits & Filings

BERKSHIRE HATHAWAY INC 8-K Report, Corporate Update (Sep 17, 2012)

Filed September 17, 2012For Securities:BRK-BBRK-A

Summary

Berkshire Hathaway Inc. (BRK-B) filed an 8-K report on September 17, 2012, detailing the issuance of new senior notes by its subsidiary, Berkshire Hathaway Finance Corporation (BHFC). BHFC successfully issued $750 million in aggregate principal amount of these notes across three tranches: $325 million of 1.600% Senior Notes due 2017, $200 million of 3.000% Senior Notes due 2022, and $225 million of 4.400% Senior Notes due 2042. These notes are fully and unconditionally guaranteed by Berkshire Hathaway Inc., indicating the parent company's commitment and financial strength supporting this debt issuance. This transaction provides BHFC with additional capital through long-term debt at fixed interest rates. The proceeds from the issuance are not explicitly stated in terms of their intended use within this 8-K, but such financings are typically used for general corporate purposes, potential acquisitions, or to refinance existing debt. The issuance under a previously filed Form S-3 registration statement and the involvement of well-known underwriters like Goldman Sachs and Wells Fargo Securities suggest a standard and well-executed debt offering, reinforcing investor confidence in Berkshire Hathaway's financial management.

Key Highlights

  • 1Berkshire Hathaway Finance Corporation (BHFC) issued $750 million in aggregate principal amount of Senior Notes.
  • 2The notes are divided into three tranches: $325 million (1.600% due 2017), $200 million (3.000% due 2022), and $225 million (4.400% due 2042).
  • 3Berkshire Hathaway Inc. provides a full and unconditional guarantee for all issued notes.
  • 4The issuance occurred under a previously filed Form S-3 registration statement.
  • 5Goldman, Sachs & Co. and Wells Fargo Securities, LLC acted as underwriters for the offering.
  • 6The debt issuance strengthens BHFC's capital structure and provides fixed-rate financing.

Frequently Asked Questions

This Form 8-K filing by Berkshire Hathaway Inc. (BRK-B) announces the issuance of new senior notes by its subsidiary, Berkshire Hathaway Finance Corporation (BHFC). It provides details about the aggregate principal amount, interest rates, maturity dates, and the guarantee provided by the parent company.

Berkshire Hathaway Finance Corporation issued a total of $750 million in aggregate principal amount of Senior Notes. This consists of $325 million of 1.600% Senior Notes due 2017, $200 million of 3.000% Senior Notes due 2022, and $225 million of 4.400% Senior Notes due 2042.

The full and unconditional guarantee from Berkshire Hathaway Inc. signifies the parent company's commitment to the debt obligations of its subsidiary, BHFC. This guarantee enhances the creditworthiness of the notes, making them more attractive to investors by effectively backing them with the financial strength and reputation of Berkshire Hathaway Inc.

Investors can find more detailed information about the terms of the Notes and the Indenture by referencing the prospectus supplement dated September 5, 2012, and the base prospectus dated February 1, 2010, both filed with the SEC. Specific documents like the Underwriting Agreement and the Indenture are also listed as exhibits to this 8-K filing and are incorporated by reference from previous filings.