Early Access

10-KPeriod: FY2011

CATERPILLAR INC Annual Report, Year Ended Dec 31, 2011

Filed February 21, 2012For Securities:CAT

Summary

Caterpillar Inc.'s 2011 10-K filing highlights a strong year with significant revenue growth, driven by increased demand for construction and mining equipment. The company completed the acquisition of Bucyrus International in July 2011, significantly expanding its Resource Industries segment and product offerings in the mining sector. Caterpillar also saw growth in its Power Systems segment, partly due to the full year inclusion of Electro-Motive Diesel and the acquisition of MWM Holding GmbH, a move signaling a focus on sustainable power alternatives. The company is actively investing in capacity expansion across various regions to meet demand and is navigating complex global economic conditions and evolving environmental regulations, particularly stricter emissions standards for its products. While the company's core machinery and power systems businesses are robust, the Financial Products segment, managed by Cat Financial, continues to play a crucial role in facilitating sales. Investors should note the company's extensive dealer network and its reliance on global economic health, commodity prices, and government spending on infrastructure. The report also details various risk factors, including sensitivity to economic downturns, commodity price volatility, global political and economic instability, and the successful integration of acquisitions like Bucyrus. Management emphasizes ongoing efforts in research and development, particularly concerning emissions compliance, and operational efficiencies through initiatives like the Caterpillar Production System.

Financial Statements
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Key Highlights

  • 1Record 2011 sales and revenues of $60.138 billion, demonstrating strong market demand.
  • 2Acquisition of Bucyrus International in July 2011 significantly bolstering the Resource Industries segment, particularly in mining equipment.
  • 3Expansion of global production capacity through new facilities and expansions in key regions like the US, Brazil, and Asia.
  • 4Increased investment in research and development ($2.3 billion in 2011), with a focus on meeting new emissions standards.
  • 5Power Systems segment growth driven by full-year Electro-Motive Diesel contribution and the acquisition of MWM Holding GmbH for alternative fuel engines.
  • 6Order backlog grew significantly to $29.8 billion by year-end 2011, reflecting strong future demand, partly boosted by the Bucyrus acquisition.
  • 7Significant global presence with 70% of consolidated sales generated outside the United States in 2011.

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