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

The main purpose of this 8-K filing is to publicly announce and report Caterpillar Inc.'s financial results for the fourth quarter and full fiscal year ended December 31, 2004, as detailed in an accompanying press release.

Where can I find the specific financial numbers for Q4 2004?

The specific financial results, including revenue, profit, and other key metrics for the fourth quarter ended December 31, 2004, are contained within the press release furnished as Exhibit 99.1 to this 8-K filing.

Does this filing update previous financial reports or contain forward-looking guidance?

This filing primarily reports historical financial results for the period. While the press release may contain commentary or outlook, the company has stated that this information is not deemed 'filed' and they do not assume an obligation to update it in the future. Investors should look for specific forward-looking statements within the press release itself, understanding the safe harbor provisions apply.

What does it mean that the information is 'furnished' and not 'filed'?

When information is 'furnished' rather than 'filed' under an 8-K, it generally means that while the information is made public, it is not subject to the same level of liability or regulatory scrutiny as if it were formally 'filed' with the SEC, particularly concerning Section 18 of the Exchange Act. It also means it might not automatically be incorporated into other SEC filings.

CAT 8-K: Earnings & Results & Regulation FD

Summary

Caterpillar Inc. (CAT) filed an 8-K on January 27, 2005, to report its financial results for the fourth quarter ended December 31, 2004. The filing primarily consists of a press release that details the company's operational and financial performance for the period. Investors should note that this report provides a snapshot of the company's year-end results, including key financial metrics and potentially forward-looking statements, subject to safe harbor provisions. While the specific financial figures are detailed within the furnished press release (Exhibit 99.1), the core purpose of this 8-K is to disseminate these earnings results in compliance with regulatory requirements. Investors are advised to review the accompanying press release for comprehensive details on revenue, profit, and any management commentary regarding business conditions and outlook. The filing also includes standard legal disclaimers regarding the non-filing status of the information under certain sections of the Exchange Act and a statement that the company does not assume an obligation to update future information.

Key Highlights

1Caterpillar Inc. (CAT) announced its fourth quarter and full-year 2004 financial results via an 8-K filing on January 27, 2005.
2The filing includes a press release (Exhibit 99.1) containing the detailed financial performance for the period ending December 31, 2004.
3This report serves as a regulatory disclosure mechanism to inform investors about the company's latest financial condition and results of operations.
4The information furnished is not considered 'filed' for purposes of Section 18 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, nor is it incorporated by reference into other filings.
5Caterpillar explicitly states it does not assume any obligation to update the information contained in this report in the future.
6The press release likely contains key financial metrics such as revenue, net income, and earnings per share for Q4 2004 and the full fiscal year.

CATERPILLAR INC 8-K Report, Financial Results (Jan 27, 2005)

Summary

Key Highlights

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