What is the primary reason for this 8-K filing?

This 8-K filing is primarily to report and respond to a single-notch credit rating downgrade for General Electric (GE) and its finance arm, GE Capital Corporation, from AAA to AA+ by Standard & Poor's.

What is the outlook for GE's credit rating following the downgrade?

Standard & Poor's has assigned a 'stable' outlook to GE's new AA+ rating, indicating that further downgrades are not immediately expected.

Where can I find GE's official statement regarding the downgrade?

GE's official statement and response to the downgrade are provided in the press release dated March 12, 2009, which is attached as Exhibit 99 to this 8-K filing and incorporated by reference.

What are the potential implications of a credit rating downgrade for GE?

A credit rating downgrade can potentially lead to higher borrowing costs for GE, as lenders may demand a greater premium for risk. It could also impact its ability to secure financing, affect its competitive positioning, and potentially influence investor sentiment and the stock price.

GE 8-K SEC Disclosure — Mar 12, 2009

Summary

This 8-K filing from General Electric (GE) on March 12, 2009, primarily announces the company's response to a single-notch credit rating downgrade by Standard & Poor's (S&P). S&P downgraded GE's and its finance subsidiary, General Electric Capital Corporation's, long-term ratings from AAA to AA+, assigning a stable outlook. The filing includes the press release issued by GE in reaction to this downgrade, which is incorporated by reference as an exhibit. Investors should pay close attention to GE's commentary within the press release regarding the implications of this downgrade on its operations, financing costs, and overall financial health, especially in the context of the prevailing economic climate.

Key Highlights

1General Electric (GE) and GE Capital Corporation's long-term credit ratings were downgraded from AAA to AA+ by Standard & Poor's.
2The downgrade carries a "stable" outlook, suggesting S&P does not anticipate further immediate downgrades.
3GE issued a press release on March 12, 2009, to address and provide context on the credit rating downgrade.
4The press release, attached as an exhibit, is the primary vehicle for GE's communication regarding this event.
5The filing serves as official notification of the rating change and GE's initial public response.

GENERAL ELECTRIC CO 8-K Report, Corporate Update (Mar 12, 2009)

Summary

Key Highlights

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