What is the main purpose of this 8-K filing?

This Form 8-K filing announces the full execution of two material definitive agreements related to ongoing interchange litigation involving Mastercard, Visa, and certain customer banks. It confirms that all necessary parties have signed the agreements, making them fully effective.

Who are the key parties involved in these agreements?

The key parties involved are Mastercard Incorporated, Visa Inc. (and its subsidiaries Visa U.S.A. Inc. and Visa International Service Association), and a group of MasterCard's customer banks referred to as the Defendant Banks.

Why are these agreements important for Mastercard investors?

These agreements are important because they represent a significant step towards resolving a complex and potentially costly interchange litigation. The full execution of these agreements provides greater clarity and certainty regarding Mastercard's financial exposure and the resolution of these disputes, which could impact the company's financial performance.

Where can I find the details of the agreements?

The detailed terms of the Omnibus Agreement and the MasterCard Settlement and Judgment Sharing Agreement are provided in Exhibit 99.1, which is incorporated by reference into this Form 8-K filing and was likely attached to the original Form 8-K filed on February 3, 2011.

MA 8-K: Material Agreements

Summary

Mastercard Inc. filed a Form 8-K on February 8, 2011, to report the full execution of material definitive agreements related to interchange litigation. These agreements, originally disclosed on February 3, 2011, involve Mastercard, Visa Inc., and a group of MasterCard's customer banks (referred to as Defendant Banks). The agreements are the Omnibus Agreement Regarding Interchange Litigation Judgment Sharing and Settlement Sharing, and the MasterCard Settlement and Judgment Sharing Agreement. The significance for investors lies in the resolution of ongoing litigation that could have had material financial implications. The full execution of these agreements, finalized on February 7, 2011, signifies a step towards resolving disputes concerning interchange fees. While the specific financial terms and impacts are detailed in the referenced exhibits (Exhibit 99.1), this filing indicates that all parties have now committed to the terms, providing greater certainty regarding potential liabilities and settlement arrangements stemming from this complex litigation.

Key Highlights

1Mastercard Inc. executed definitive agreements related to interchange litigation on February 3, 2011, with final signatures obtained on February 7, 2011.
2The agreements are with Visa Inc. and a group of Mastercard's customer banks (Defendant Banks).
3The agreements include an Omnibus Agreement Regarding Interchange Litigation Judgment Sharing and Settlement Sharing, and a MasterCard Settlement and Judgment Sharing Agreement.
4This filing confirms that all parties have now signed these agreements, making them fully effective.
5The resolution of these agreements is crucial for understanding potential financial liabilities and settlement outcomes related to interchange litigation.
6The full terms of the agreements are detailed in Exhibit 99.1, incorporated by reference from a previous filing.

Mastercard Inc 8-K Report, Material Agreement (Feb 8, 2011)

Summary

Key Highlights

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