Summary
Corning Incorporated (GLW) filed an 8-K on May 17, 2013, to report on the interim confirmation of the Modified Third Amended Plan of Reorganization for Pittsburgh Corning Corporation (PCC), a joint venture where Corning holds a 50% stake. The court confirmed the plan on an interim basis, with a final order contingent on reviewing reconsideration motions and a potential appeals process. This development is significant as it addresses long-standing personal injury claims related to asbestos-containing products manufactured by PCC.
Key Highlights
- 1Corning's 50%-owned joint venture, Pittsburgh Corning Corporation (PCC), received interim confirmation of its Modified Third Amended Plan of Reorganization from the U.S. Bankruptcy Court.
- 2The plan aims to channel all current and future personal injury claims against Corning related to PCC's asbestos products to a trust for resolution.
- 3Corning is obligated to make a series of payments to the trust, totaling approximately $315 million over six years, starting one year after the plan becomes effective.
- 4Corning has the option to settle these payment obligations using its own shares instead of cash, though the liability is fixed in dollar value.
- 5Corning will also contribute its equity interests in PCC and Pittsburgh Corning Europe N.V. (PCE).
- 6The fair value of PCE was noted to significantly exceed its carrying value of $150 million as of April 30, 2013.
- 7Corning's estimated liability under the Amended Plan was $524 million as of April 30, 2013.
- 8Corning relinquished its claim for reimbursement from insurance carriers involved in the bankruptcy, with certain exceptions.