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

The primary purpose of this 8-K filing is to announce Caterpillar Inc.'s declaration of its second quarter 2008 cash dividend and to provide details regarding its payment date and record date. It also serves to disclose the significant increase in the dividend amount.

How much is the new quarterly dividend and how does it compare to the previous one?

The new quarterly cash dividend is $0.42 per share. This is an increase of six cents, or approximately 17%, from the previous quarter's dividend of $0.36 per share.

When will shareholders receive this increased dividend?

The dividend will be paid on August 20, 2008, to all shareholders who are of record at the close of business on July 21, 2008.

What does the dividend increase suggest about Caterpillar's financial position?

A substantial increase in the quarterly dividend generally indicates that the company's management is confident in its current financial performance, its ability to generate consistent cash flow, and its positive future outlook. It reflects a commitment to returning capital to shareholders.

CAT 8-K: Regulation FD — Jun 11, 2008

Summary

Caterpillar Inc. (CAT) filed an 8-K on June 11, 2008, primarily to disclose a significant increase in its quarterly cash dividend. The Board of Directors declared a dividend of $0.42 per share, representing a 17% increase from the previous quarter's $0.36 dividend and an increase of six cents. This dividend is payable on August 20, 2008, to shareholders of record as of July 21, 2008. This dividend increase signals management's confidence in the company's financial health and its ability to generate strong cash flows, even amidst prevailing economic conditions. Investors should view this as a positive signal of Caterpillar's performance and future outlook, reflecting a commitment to returning value to shareholders.

Key Highlights

1Caterpillar Inc. declared a quarterly cash dividend of $0.42 per share.
2This represents a 17% increase (six cents) from the previous quarter's dividend of $0.36.
3The dividend is payable on August 20, 2008.
4Shareholders of record as of July 21, 2008, will receive the dividend.
5The announcement was made on June 11, 2008, via an 8-K filing and a press release.
6The dividend increase suggests management's confidence in the company's financial performance and cash flow generation.

CATERPILLAR INC 8-K Report, Regulation FD Disclosure (Jun 11, 2008)

Summary

Key Highlights

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