8-KOther EventsExhibits & Filings

CATERPILLAR INC 8-K Report, Corporate Update (Sep 19, 2019)

Filed September 19, 2019For Securities:CAT

Summary

Caterpillar Inc. (CAT) announced on September 19, 2019, the completion of a significant debt offering, raising a total of $1.5 billion. This was comprised of $500 million in 2.600% Senior Notes due 2029 and $1.0 billion in 3.250% Senior Notes due 2049. The company intends to utilize the net proceeds from this issuance to fund discretionary contributions to its U.S. pension plans. This offering diversifies Caterpillar's debt maturity profile and provides necessary capital for its pension obligations. Investors should note that these new notes are unsecured and rank equally with other senior unsecured indebtedness. The specific terms of the notes, including interest rates, maturity dates, and redemption options, have been publicly disclosed. This move suggests a proactive approach by Caterpillar to manage its long-term financial commitments.

Key Highlights

  • 1Caterpillar Inc. successfully raised $1.5 billion through a public offering of Senior Notes.
  • 2The offering consisted of $500 million in 2.600% Senior Notes due September 19, 2029.
  • 3The offering also included $1.0 billion in 3.250% Senior Notes due September 19, 2049.
  • 4Net proceeds are earmarked for discretionary contributions to Caterpillar's U.S. pension plans.
  • 5The Notes are unsecured and will rank equally with the Company’s other unsecured senior indebtedness.
  • 6The offering was made under Caterpillar's effective shelf registration statement on Form S-3.
  • 7Interest on the Notes is payable semi-annually, on March 19 and September 19.

Frequently Asked Questions

Caterpillar Inc. intends to use the net proceeds from the sale of these Senior Notes to fund discretionary U.S. pension plan contributions. This indicates a strategic move to address long-term retirement benefit obligations.

The offering includes $500 million of 2.600% Senior Notes due 2029 and $1.0 billion of 3.250% Senior Notes due 2049. Both series of notes are unsecured and rank equally with other senior unsecured indebtedness. Interest is payable semi-annually.

The issuance adds $1.5 billion to Caterpillar's debt but also diversifies its debt maturity profile and secures funding for pension obligations. As unsecured senior notes, they do not alter the company's capital structure in terms of secured vs. unsecured debt, but they do increase the overall outstanding debt.

The new notes rank equally with existing unsecured senior indebtedness. This means they share the same priority in the event of bankruptcy or liquidation relative to other unsecured senior debt holders. The overall increase in debt will be a factor for credit rating agencies to consider.