01—Abstract
Summary
Summary of the 8-K filed December 6, 2004. Cited figures are marked; the original filing is the authoritative source.
This 8-K filing from Ecolab Inc. (ECL) on December 6, 2004, primarily announces a significant administrative change: the company is switching its Stock Transfer Agent, Registrar, Dividend Paying Agent, and Rights Agent from EquiServe Trust Company, N.A. to Computershare Investor Services, LLC, effective December 6, 2004.
This change is formalized through an Amendment to the Rights Agreement. This transition is a procedural update impacting how Ecolab manages its shareholder records and dividend payments.
While not a financial performance announcement, it's important for investors to be aware of the entity responsible for maintaining their stock ownership information and facilitating related transactions. The company also adopted a new form of Common Stock certificate, approved by the NYSE, in conjunction with this agent change.
02—Key points
Key Highlights
- Ecolab Inc. appointed Computershare Investor Services, LLC as its new Stock Transfer Agent, effective December 6, 2004.
- Computershare will also serve as Registrar, Dividend Paying Agent, and Rights Agent.
- EquiServe Trust Company, N.A. was replaced as the previous agent.
- An Amendment to the Rights Agreement was executed to formalize the transition of the Rights Agent role.
- Ecolab's Board of Directors adopted a new form of Common Stock certificate.
- The new Common Stock certificate form has been approved by the New York Stock Exchange.
03—Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main purpose of this 8-K filing?
The main purpose of this filing is to inform investors that Ecolab Inc. has changed its Stock Transfer Agent, Registrar, Dividend Paying Agent, and Rights Agent from EquiServe Trust Company, N.A. to Computershare Investor Services, LLC, effective December 6, 2004.
How will this change affect my Ecolab stock or dividends?
For most shareholders, this change should be seamless. Computershare will now be responsible for maintaining shareholder records, processing stock transfers, and handling dividend payments. You should receive communication from Computershare regarding any specific actions you may need to take, but generally, your ownership and dividend rights remain unaffected. You will likely interact with Computershare for future inquiries or transactions related to your stock.
Why did Ecolab switch its transfer agent?
The filing does not explicitly state the reasons for the switch. However, companies typically change transfer agents to improve service, reduce costs, or leverage new technologies offered by a different provider.
What is a Rights Agent, and why is it mentioned?
A Rights Agent is an agent appointed to administer specific rights or obligations related to a company's securities, often in the context of dividends, preferred stock, or other specialized financial instruments. The mention here indicates that Computershare will manage these specific functions for Ecolab, replacing EquiServe in that capacity.
04—Continue