8-KMaterial AgreementsExhibits & Filings

ECOLAB INC. 8-K Report, Material Agreement (Jun 5, 2006)

Filed June 5, 2006For Securities:ECL

Summary

Ecolab Inc. (ECL) filed an 8-K on June 4, 2006, to report a significant amendment to its Multicurrency Credit Agreement, effective June 1, 2006. This amendment provides the company with enhanced financial flexibility and a longer borrowing runway. Key changes include the deletion of a specific financial covenant, an increase in the allowed lien capacity, and an extension of the agreement's term by nearly two years, from August 2009 to June 2011. Additionally, the agreement was updated with revised pricing for fees and interest rates.

Key Highlights

  • 1Ecolab Inc. entered into an Amended and Restated Multicurrency Credit Agreement on June 1, 2006.
  • 2The agreement's term has been extended to June 1, 2011, providing longer-term financing flexibility.
  • 3A financial covenant in Section 5.03 has been removed, potentially easing operational constraints.
  • 4The lien basket has been increased from $75 million to $100 million, allowing for greater secured borrowing capacity.
  • 5The amendment includes updated pricing grids for fees and interest rates, reflecting current market conditions or lender negotiations.
  • 6The filing signifies a proactive step by Ecolab to strengthen its financial structure and credit facilities.

Frequently Asked Questions

This 8-K filing reports a material definitive agreement, specifically the amendment and restatement of Ecolab's Multicurrency Credit Agreement, which enhances the company's financial flexibility and extends its credit facility.

The key changes include the deletion of a financial covenant, an increase in the lien basket to $100 million, an extension of the credit agreement's term to June 1, 2011, and adjustments to the pricing grid for fees and interest rates.

Extending the term to June 1, 2011, provides Ecolab with a longer period of financial certainty and access to capital, which can support ongoing operations, strategic investments, and debt management.

Removing a financial covenant, such as the one in Section 5.03, can provide Ecolab with greater operational and financial flexibility, potentially reducing the risk of default if certain financial metrics are not met.