What is the primary reason for the expected loss in 2000?

The expected loss from discontinued operations in 2000 is primarily due to an agreement to sell the 'Solutions' unit of Williams Communications Group, Inc. This divestiture leads to a recognition of losses associated with that segment of the business.

Does this loss affect the company's ongoing business operations?

No, the loss reported is specifically from 'discontinued operations.' This means it relates to business segments that the company intends to sell or has sold and are no longer considered part of its continuing business activities. While it impacts the overall reported earnings for 2000, it's distinct from the performance of the company's core, ongoing operations.

What is the financial impact of this sale on Williams Companies?

The company expects this sale to result in a loss from discontinued operations of approximately 76 to 86 cents per share for the full year 2000. This figure represents the estimated financial hit the company will take related to exiting this particular business unit.

When was this information made public?

The information was publicly announced via a press release dated January 29, 2001, and this 8-K filing was made on January 30, 2001.

WMB 8-K SEC Disclosure — Jan 31, 2001

Summary

Williams Companies, Inc. (WMB) filed an 8-K report on January 31, 2001, to disclose an expected loss from discontinued operations for the full year 2000. The company anticipates a loss in the range of 76 to 86 cents per share. This loss is directly linked to an agreement to sell the "Solutions" unit of its subsidiary, Williams Communications Group, Inc. This announcement signals a significant strategic divestiture and a negative impact on the company's reported earnings for the prior fiscal year. Investors should note that the loss stems from discontinued operations, meaning these segments are no longer part of the company's ongoing business, but it still affects the overall financial picture reported for 2000. The filing includes the press release detailing this information as an exhibit.

Key Highlights

1Williams Companies, Inc. expects a loss from discontinued operations for the full year 2000.
2The estimated loss per share from discontinued operations is between 76 cents and 86 cents.
3The loss is a result of an agreement to sell the 'Solutions' unit of Williams Communications Group, Inc.
4This filing is an 8-K Current Report, indicating a material event.
5The press release announcing this information, dated January 29, 2001, is filed as an exhibit.
6The event date reported is January 29, 2001, with the filing date of January 30, 2001.

WILLIAMS COMPANIES, INC. 8-K Report (Jan 31, 2001)

Summary

Key Highlights

Frequently Asked Questions