8-KOther EventsExhibits & Filings

GENERAL ELECTRIC CO 8-K Report, Corporate Update (Mar 31, 2021)

Filed March 31, 2021For Securities:GE

Summary

This 8-K filing from General Electric (GE) provides unaudited pro forma financial information related to the proposed combination of its GE Capital Aviation Services (GECAS) business with AerCap Holdings N.V. This transaction is a significant step in GE's deleveraging strategy. The deal involves GE receiving $23.9 billion in cash (subject to adjustments), approximately 46% ownership in the combined entity valued at $6.6 billion, and potentially $1 billion in notes or cash from AerCap. The company intends to use the proceeds to reduce its debt by approximately $30 billion.

Key Highlights

  • 1GE is combining its GECAS business with AerCap in a significant transaction valued at approximately $31.5 billion ($23.9B cash + $6.6B AerCap shares + $1B notes/cash).
  • 2The transaction is expected to result in GE reducing its leverage by approximately $30 billion using proceeds and existing cash.
  • 3GE will receive approximately 46% ownership of the combined AerCap entity, valued at $6.6 billion based on the March 29, 2021 closing share price.
  • 4GECAS historical results will be reported as discontinued operations starting in Q1 2021.
  • 5Upon completion, GE will deconsolidate GECAS from its financial statements.
  • 6GE will prospectively measure its investment in AerCap at fair value, with changes recognized in continuing operations.

Frequently Asked Questions

The primary purpose of this 8-K filing is to provide investors with unaudited pro forma financial information that illustrates the estimated financial impact of GE combining its GECAS business with AerCap. It also confirms details of the transaction and GE's planned use of proceeds.

GE expects to reduce its leverage by approximately $30 billion as a result of this transaction. This will be achieved by utilizing the cash proceeds from the sale and its existing cash sources.

GE will no longer have GECAS as part of its consolidated financial statements (it will be deconsolidated). However, GE will hold a significant stake, approximately 46% ownership, in the combined AerCap entity. This investment will be accounted for at fair value with changes recognized in GE's continuing operations.

Yes, the transaction is subject to several closing conditions, including approval from AerCap shareholders, regulatory approvals, and other customary closing conditions.