What is the main purpose of this 8-K filing for Philip Morris International?

The primary purpose of this 8-K filing is to officially release Philip Morris International's consolidated financial statements for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2008, along with related reports on internal controls and the independent auditor's report. This provides investors with timely access to key financial data and assurances regarding financial reporting accuracy as the company prepares its annual report.

Why are these financial statements being filed in an 8-K and also incorporated into the 10-K?

Companies often file key financial information and audit reports via an 8-K to provide immediate disclosure to the market. This information is then also formally included as part of the more comprehensive annual filing, the 10-K, to meet regulatory requirements for annual reporting and to serve as a central, audited repository of the company's financial performance and position for the fiscal year.

PM 8-K SEC Disclosure — Feb 9, 2009

Q: What specific financial statements are included or referenced in this filing?

The filing includes consolidated balance sheets as of December 31, 2008 and 2007, and the related consolidated statements of earnings, stockholders' equity, and cash flows for the three-year period ended December 31, 2008. These will be incorporated by reference into the company's 2008 Form 10-K.

Q: What does the 'Report of Management on Internal Control over Financial Reporting' signify for investors?

This report signifies that management takes responsibility for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting. For investors, it's a crucial component in assessing the reliability of the company's financial statements and the overall governance of the company. It's typically accompanied by the auditor's opinion on the effectiveness of these controls.

Summary

This Form 8-K filing by Philip Morris International Inc. (PM) on February 9, 2009, primarily serves to provide investors with critical year-end financial information and related audit reports for the period ending December 31, 2008. It includes the company's consolidated balance sheets, statements of earnings, stockholders' equity, and cash flows for the years 2008, 2007, and 2006. The filing also incorporates by reference the Report of Management on Internal Control over Financial Reporting and the Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm's Report. These documents are essential for investors to assess the company's financial health, operational performance, and the reliability of its financial reporting. The inclusion of these statements and reports in the 8-K signals that they will also be part of the forthcoming Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year 2008.

Key Highlights

1Filing of consolidated financial statements for the years ended December 31, 2008, 2007, and 2006.
2Inclusion of the Report of Management on Internal Control over Financial Reporting.
3Incorporation of the Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm's Report on both the financial statements and internal controls.
4These financial statements and reports will be part of the company's 2008 Form 10-K Annual Report.
5Provides a comprehensive financial snapshot as of year-end 2008, crucial for assessing the company's financial position.
6Offers insights into the effectiveness of PM's internal financial controls.
7Includes a statement regarding the computation of ratios of earnings to fixed charges.

Philip Morris International Inc. 8-K Report, Corporate Update (Feb 9, 2009)

Summary

Key Highlights

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